- Art and Music Appreciation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

- Art and Music Appreciation - Essay Example bit of a sunset: at first you are sad to see the day go, but as the sun sinks down and the sky turns pink, you think, â€Å"Ah, the beauty of the sunset is worth the fact that it is now night and a bit cold out.† It is a fine song to relax to. There is a constant shift from soft notes to hard ones, marking it as a very dynamic piece. It requires a great deal of dexterity from its performer, especially to keep the constant swarm of notes going. It is very brisk and seems to be in a great rush, bouncing off the walls at a dizzying pace. In the middle, it begins to slow down a bit, before playfully speeding up again. I find this to be a cheerful, funny piece, and can easily imagine people smiling as they try to dance to it. 2.) Discussion Questions: Art. The impressionist style of painting is characterized chiefly by concentration on the general impression produced by a scene or object and the use of unmixed primary colors and small strokes to simulate actual reflected light. -Nicholas Pioch Impressionism is often a kind of soft-focus style of painting where the figures or objects appear in varying levels of detail. The world of light has more influence on our sight than you might expect, is what impressionist seem to be saying. They try to shift our allegiances from strict forms to a vaguer, airier world. They use soft colours that blend into one another and often capture pastoral scenes. They question how we perceive the world and what our visual prejudices might

A Marketing Plan For Etihad

A Marketing Plan For Etihad The report presented here is a marketing plan for Etihad which is planning to launch an airline service in India, one of its Asian destinations in Business and First class segment. The potential of India for Etihads new destination in Asia is because of its biggest and fasted growing Middle class. The country and over a billion people living in her and most of them belongs to middle class. This also raised the purchasing power of the people here and too the need of luxury. The country has over 70 domestic Airports and nearly 12 International Airport. Indian aviation market has a number of domestic players. These include Indigo Airline, Jet Airways, Spice Jet, Air India, Cathy Pacific, Kingfisher, British Airways etc. Talking about the business class segment, only few players like Kingfisher, Indian airlines are there from domestic side and rest all are foreign players. The competition in luxury segment is less as compared to low cost service. One dimension in which Etihad can give a great image to its service/ brand is by establishing itself as a luxury brand. For distribution strategy, the firm can utilize any of the existing channels in India as they provide services as a third party to all airlines. Other aspect include tie-ups with corporate so that a minimum customer base can be assured. Talking about the promotional strategy, the promotional techniques suggested includes voice call, newsletter and participating in social functions etc. The estimated budget for the plan is 35.5 million US $. Current Market Situation: Introduction: Asian aviation market is very competitive. The number of players in Asia includes more than 50 domestic and international players. The dominant players in Asian aviation sector are Air Asia, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airlines and foreign players include French airways, British airways and Cathy Pacific airlines. A number of Airlines from UAE too have presence in Asia which include Air Arabia, Emirates Airways and similar. The potential of the market is huge. Asia includes China and India which are the biggest economies in the world in terms of economic growth. Out of the potential destination for Etihad in Asia, we have chosen India; the study will focus on Indias market only. (Avaition, 2010) Market Description India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world. The potential of India for Etihads new destination in Asia is because of its biggest and fasted growing Middle class. The country and over a billion people living in her and most of them belongs to middle class. This also raised the purchasing power of the people here and too the need of luxury. The country has over 70 domestic Airports and nearly 12 International Airport. The facilities here are not equal to the world standard but the economy is rapidly expanding and the needs are getting higher too. All these points favor India as an attractive destination for Etihads new market in Asia. Talking about first class and business class segment of India, the growing population and high earning of people provide enough customer bases for the market. The target Market for Etihad will be people of annual income over Rs. 10 lacks. In India, around 7% of the total population falls in this category as considering the size of population in the country, 7% gives a huge customer base for first and business class segment. The market requires following benefits from Business class flights. The below is the table which shows the benefits of product Feature Benefit Extremely comfortable seats, more space Business class is meant for comfort and thus these seats and extra space will add to the comfort. Delicious food As the business class segment people are travelling paying high prices, they expect high quality food too. Comparative low cost Indians do not like to spend much and thus the cost of travelling should not be high. The future prediction about India is as follows: US$ 32 billion+ for developing and maintain the airport infrastructure in the country Passenger traffic for different types of sectors is estimated to grow over an estimated CAGR of over 14% in the arriving few years. A huge amount of 110 billion dollars investments is foreseen in next 10 years The Civil Aviation would grip around 280 million travelers by the year 2020 (India G. , 2010) Product Review Product line: The product we are concerned here is business and first class segment. This segment is used by people of high earning group. The segment requires high quality of services, extremely comfortable seats, more space and other luxury facilities as are provided in expensive hotels. Type of customers and market: The customers of the products are business executives and high earning families who can afford heavy ticket price. As our selected destination in India, the product must be looked as Indian perception. In India, the per capita income is increasing but the concern is its still not comparable to that of European or Middle East. So, if Etihad wants to launch first and business class services in India, the cost of the product must be kept low. If we look at the competitors product in the segment concerned, we will find that competitors service is not at all comparable to that of other first class services in the world. This shows that one aspect where Etihad can exploit an advantage is to provide luxury at the same of comparable price. Services: The service is needed to be served with tasty food and this must be insuring that veg. and non-veg, food are cooked separately. The customers also want less time travel between destinations. Also, internet connectivity and entertainment sources like small TV screens should also be provided. Competitive Review Indian aviation market has a number of domestic players. These include Indigo Airline, Jet Airways, Spice Jet, Air India, Cathy Pacific, Kingfisher, British Airways etc. Talking about the business class segment, only few players like Kingfisher, Indian airlines are there from domestic side and rest all are foreign players. The foreign players involved first class and business class segment include Cathy Pacific, French Airways, Singapore Airways etc. Till now, these airlines capture most of the customer segment of first class. Talking about competitors in AD to India route, airlines such as Air India, Paramount Airways are there. Etihad too have a run on this route with other operators like Air Arabia. The carriers here are few and this will encourage the business idea for Etihad as well. (India M. o., 2010) The key stragey of Indian airlines in business segment is less cost in business segment. Talking about French Airways, Singapore Airways and other foreign players in the segment, their key strategy is providing great hospitality experience in business class segment. Channels review Channels for any firms (distribution channels) are critical to its success. Marketing channels include logistics and other mode for moving goods in and out of the firm. In context of the first class business we are concerned; channels in India are well formed and structured. There are number of providers like Jet airways, Spice Jet, Indigo airlines etc which work on sharing of distribution channels. In such sharing, the distribution channel in a separate entity different from the business. It can be looked as a third party service provider which provides the service to the airlines. Only Air India is the one which has its own service channels but the performance of its service is not up to the mark. Talking about these channels individually, Jet airways provide very time efficient logistics. Air Indias distribution channel is vast and has more services but is not reliable in terms of consistency. So, for Eithid, the firm can utilize any of the existing channels which are been used by Jet or other airway. As these channels are experienced in the business, the airline may not have to worry for receiving comparable channel services as that of Indian competitors. SWOT analysis The analysis is carried out in terms of strength of Etihad airline keeping in mind its plan to enter the business class services in India. Strength Strong brand image in luxury sector on the global scale, so will be able to attract the Indian First class customers too. Experience in maintaining regular communication with customers. This will help in maintain customer base for first and business class. Increasing hold on luxury segment in other Asian destinations too. Four of the globes longest continuous commercial flights, these continuous flights will advantage in business class segment as they take less time to travel between destinations. A large fleet of planes including the new Airbus 380, these planes have a good image in terms of providing comfort essential for business class. (Avaition, 2010) With the increasing infrastructure, high regional GDP (Indian) and a huge demand in various regions, providing First class services will prove a new unexplored market. Weakness: The market we are concerned about has a specific segment to focus on. The First class segment requires heavy initial investment and thus entering directly to first class segment would be a risky business. Less growth in business class in Indian aviation industry. Limited desired costumer volume in the segment. Most of the earnings are coming from a single segment Hold on economical class and cargo facility market is not that good Opportunities: In India, most of flights between destinations are two long. The airlines here, to reduce cost extend the routine route to cover more number of destinations. But the people who fly from business class are worried about time (as they are already spending high on ticket price). So an opportunity exists in terms of attracting business class customers by operating on direct routes. (Airways, 2010) India has a number of low cost airlines. Etihad, to reduce business risk and overtake any one of them and convert to first class services. Exploit Indian presence to explore new hubs like Russia and South-East Asia-Pacific in business class segment. Present destinations can be increased. The Airline can start service to other Indian destinations too like Madras, Kolkata etc. Boeing and Airbus has reduced the cost of the aircrafts Threats: The other reason of threat for Etihad is that all the newly merging airline companies are in a spree to capture the market by making a strong reputation. Once they come up with price fares lesser than Etihad then even the best of advertising would fail. Constant increase in number of aviation services in business class segment. Economic crises and sadness in Indian aviation market because of high debt. This has hammered the volume of people travelling from business class. The aviation ministry and put an upper limit on fairs and is constantly increasing rules and regulations to restructure the industry. Objectives and issues The objective here is to construct a marketing plan for Etihad to enter a new destination in Asia (which is selected as India) while considering the launch of First class and business class service by the company. The key issues (measureable) are: Increasing the market hold to at least 10% (business class segment) Based on the responses of the customers on initial routes of the company, to start operations on other routes too Increasing service and facilities in the business class segment. Marketing Strategy Positioning Positioning statement: Feel the luxury As identifies from market analysis, people of India for their business class travel, desire for extremely luxury services. So the positioning is targeted on luxury only. Taking into account the huge competition in the market for different airline companies in India, for example Cathy pacific, British airways, Singapore Airlines etc, there have to be something that has a unique image about the brand. One dimension in which Etihad can give a great image to its service/ brand is by establishing itself as a luxury brand. The Company to be positioned in the market will be done as an innovator in hospitality hemisphere. Thus in rapid developing and competitive Indian aviation sector, this innovator image will benefit in long run as India is growing and too the luxury need of the people here. Individuality and image require being eminent. Individuality is the way a corporation aims to identify or place itself or its manufactured goods. Image is the technique the community perceives the corp oration or its goods. An effectual individuality does three things: It sets up the products nature and worth proposal. It expresses this nature in a characteristic mode. It brings touching authority further than a psychological image. The individuality we are talking about, Etihad can address this concern by benchmarking the luxury in business class. For the individuality to labor, it must be expressed through every obtainable message means of transportation and product get in touch with. The company should show in every aspect of work that it cares for the passengers time and is pioneer and experienced in proving high end flight services. (Avaition, 2010) Product Strategy First concern here is to aim the service. Etihad here is concerned only on the Business and first class segment, so according to the traditional model shown below; the company should focus on higher ends passengers who fall in high earning group. Another thing is degree or quality of the service. Etihad want to enter in First class segment which falls in most facilitated level of product development as explained by Kotler. Kotler defined the development of a product in following manner. If we talk about the economy class, that falls in core product but first class and business class are included in augmented product segment. But there is a potential drawback in directly attacking the augmented product, the heavy cost of product building and then risk of non-acceptance by the market. One strategy that Etihad can make out and choose suitable new features by examination of new purchasers and then manipulative customer value versus company cost for each possible feature. The corporation should also think how many public want every feature, how time-consuming it would get to bring in every feature, and whether contestant could with no trouble duplicate the feature. Corporation must also believe in terms of feature bundles or correspondence. Auto companionship often produces cars at more than a few trim levels. This lowers developed and record costs. Every corporation must make a decision whether to present feature customization at a superior price or a few normal corresp ondences at an inferior price. (Avaition, 2010) Distribution Strategy Channel for the company is not going to be new in India. As we stated earlier too that there are separate entities that provides services to airline companies in India, Etihad too can take distribution services from any of these services. Another suggestion is to construct own ticket selling units so that a differentiation in terms of customer attraction. The way suggested is a level two distribution channel which looks like as follows: Consumer Retailer Wholesaler Manufacturer By following this model, the service information can be gained by an individual through the information available on the companys website and also by contacting any of the local retailers. The service can be ordered through the online booking and the payment can be made through credit or debit card, in this case the product will be delivered to the home of customer. Channel Involved in distribution: Two channels are there for this product: Wholesaler: One wholesaler is there for one state. In the case of no wholesaler in particular sate than two sates is handled by single wholesaler. Wholesaler will look after all the retailers under its domain. Retailer: Retailers are located in prime cities of the state and they will be direct contacting the single wholesaler of that particular state. Out of the various retail store some stores would be discount store. (India G. , 2010) Marketing communication or promotional strategy Integrated market communication stands for communicating rather making stakeholders believe that product is really reliable and will lead for a better profit for these stakeholders too. There is a difficulty in getting stakeholders in an easier way if there is large competition in the market for the same product and thus efficient promotion is a must. Market communication stands for several promotion techniques and the personal relation with the stake holders. Some of the suggested techniques for Etihad are as follows: Voice mail services: Voice mail can be a very efficient source of the information about the service to the concerned segment. If the people are interested in taking the product, they will definitely want to have all the information that is the correct information about the product. There could a very good option for it that is the voice mail system. There should be voice mail which will be telling all the necessary information about the product which will include the net rates and all the exciting features and offers with the product. Forums, Newsgroups, Bulletin Boards, and Web Communities: On-line buyers not just consume the product but increasingly create product information internet interest groups by sharing product-related information. Online marketing can be done by using forums, newsgroup, and bulletin board related to health care services. (Avaition, 2010) Several promoting Events: As the firm is addressing to higher end costumers only, the company can offer few organizations a kind of tie up so that special discount could be given employees of the organization if they travel from Etihads flight. Alliances: Take the time to join a professional or business organization. These organizations usually have very knowledgeable people who are willing to help you out. It also increases your personal network and allow for larger opportunities. Newsletters: As the concern here is also at maintain the existing clients, sending out newsletters to established customers, new customers, friends, family, and any group you think would be interested in companys product or service (Avaition, 2010) Actions Program The overview of action plan looks as follows: The first step is to consturct an augumented service based on the values and demand in Indian market. This include: Keeping low cost Launchig new aircrafts like Boing 747 and Airbus etc Next Step would be launch separate route that do not exist in Indian market. As we found out from SWOT analysis, the company can see an opportunity in launching fast services which provide non-stop service between important destinations. Next would be to enter the contract with an existing distributor. Next is promotion by TV, Newspaper, and sending of newsletter to existing customers. Coordination with different departments: The step one would be consulted with finance department (to allocate budget) and with operations (to ensure that the services desired in the product are there in the augmented product). For next step, that is launching services on few routes; marketing department will identify the target routes to start with. For entering in contract with distribution channel, operation department holds the right to select the channel which best suits the need of the department. The last step would be addressed by PR department. Budget Tentative budget in the activities are as follows: Activity Estimated Price (US $ per annum) Augmented Product 5 million Additional cost for nonstop services 7 million Distribution services 15 million TV ads 2 million News letter 0.5 million Relationship building (discounts/ tie-ups) 6 million The tentative budget which comes out is around $ 35 million. This is quite affordable price for Etihad. The profit in first year of operation would be less and will increase with course of time as product development, distribution services will costs less in later years. Controls A tight control strategy would be implemented which would be based on customer feedback, sales data analysis, performance evaluation and similar quality management aspects. The key performance indicator would be sales figures and brand equity of the company. The company will maintain close look on both of these aspect to keep itself near to the performance norms.

Cost-Utility Analysis Essay -- Economics

The central concern of economics is how best to allocate scarce resources among competing uses. The same concern applies to the scope of health care. As a result, pharmacoeconomics, which compares the value of one pharmaceutical drug or drug therapy to another, became a prominent issue by the mid 1980s. There are several types of pharmacoeconomic evaluations, one of which is cost–utility analysis (CUA). CUA focuses on quality of a health outcome produced or forgone by different health programs or treatments. CUA is a form of cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) that attempts to capture timing and duration of disease and disability by comparing the utility (person’s preference) associated with different health outcomes. (see Figure 1) It was originally called â€Å"Generalized Cost-Effective Analysis† as it is used to narrow the restrictiveness of traditional cost-effectiveness analysis. In 1972, it was renamed â€Å"Utility Maximization† and then â€Å"Healthy Status Index Model† in 1976. Since 1982, it has been referred to as CUA in many countries, although the United States still called it CEA. Even though these two terms are used interchangeably, there are still several distinguishing features between the two. Such differences include integration of multiple outcomes, , quantification of outcomes based on desirability, and measurement of relative desirability of outcomes with von Neumann-Morgenstern utility theory. A cost-utility analysis describes the additional cost of the new intervention per unit of health gain and assesses health in terms of length and quality of life using the quality adjusted life year (QALY). QALYs were invented in 1956 by two health economists, Christopher Cundell and Carlos McCartney. The concept of QALY was f... ...room/features/measuringeffectivenessandcosteffectivenesstheqaly.jsp Neumann, P., Weinstein M. (2010, Oct 14). Legislating against use of cost-effectiveness information. The New England Journal of Medicine, Vol 363, 1495-1497. doi:10.1056/NEJMp1007168. Office of Health Economics (2002). What is a QALY? Retrieved from http://oheschools.org/ohech5pg4.html Wilkerson J. (2011, Sep 28). PCORI head vows not to do cost-effectiveness studies, but notes gray areas. InsideHealthPolicy.com. Retrieved from http://insidehealthpolicy.com/Inside-Health-General/Public-Content/pcori-head-vows-not-to-do-cost-effectiveness-studies-but-notes-gray-areas/menu-id-869.html Yee, GC (1997, Dec 1). Cost-utility analysis of taxane therapy. American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, Vol 54, Supplement 2, S11-15. Retrieved from http://ajhp.org/content/54/suppl_2/S11.short

Poverty and Lifeboat Ethics Essay

A famous Chinese proverb goes: â€Å"Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day; teach him how to fish and he will eat for the rest of his days.† Although this wise advice was given thousands of years ago, nowadays looks like no powerful or rich government on Earth understands that sentence. Garrent Hardin, author of â€Å"Lifeboat Ethics: The Case Against Helping the Poor† show us an honest perspective on how the rich countries in the world, by donating food and money, instead of helping poor countries get out of their misery, cause more hunger and strife. In addition, he tells us that overpopulation in poor countries should be controlled soon, or the current situation will turn ugly very fast. Although Hardin’s evidence is almost indisputable, his position is not. I understand why the author believes that helping poor people is a bad idea but he isn’t looking at many others sides of the situation. At the beginning, my reaction was the opposite. I was totally convinced by Hardin’s theory. I desperately sought a place within a â€Å"lifeboat!† But after discussing the essay in class, and hearing myself repeat Hardin’s words that express his indifference about poor people, and also rethinking his thesis in which poor people don’t have a chance for a better life, I changed my position. I can’t support those ideas because in my own point of view, they are false. It is just not true. Some countries and some societies already made a change. Some countries like South Korea, Singapore and China have broken the poverty cycle. We shouldn’t be so negative and we must remember that even the poorest people on the planet have imagin ation, ideas, beliefs and an imperative necessity to change their own universe. However, I think that the answer is within Hardin’s thesis too. Poor people don’t need food and clothes only in cases of emergency. Instead, they need a few rich governments interested in giving them tools and ways to improve their economies, to develop their ideas and to use their creative minds. Without that little help all life in this planet will disappear. So, helping the poor is also a way of helping everyone else, even rich people. And here Hardin’s thoughts are necessary: â€Å"Without a true world government, controlled reproduction and the use of available resources, the sharing ethic of the spaceship is impossible.† (Lifeboat Ethics: The Case Against Helping the Poor. Pg. 310.) If the poorest destroy their natural resources, the consequences will be for everyone, regardless of how much each possesses. In conclusion, I think Hardin is correct when he asks about the future on Earth, if we take statistics and analyze their results for the year 2050. However, his position against helping poor people and trying to eliminate them from the face of the Earth is wrong. I believe in a true world, where rich countries use their development technology and their healthy, well-nourished minds to decrease the percentage of poverty in the world, and where everyone wins the right to live in this, our planet Earth.

Data Abstraction

According to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, the word abstract is defined as â€Å"disassociated from any specific instance† or â€Å"expressing a quality apart from an object†, or â€Å"having only intrinsic form with little or no attempt at pictorial representation or narrative content†.From these definitions, it can be possible to get an idea that to abstract an object implies something ethereal and nebulous, completely disjoint from a concrete instance of that object. In an idea reminiscent of Plato, the world can be separated into two things – the abstract idea and the concrete instance.Understanding the concept of the abstract data type or ADT is easier knowing the definitions of abstraction. An ADT is a representation of a concrete instance. Computers can only process ones or zeros and can only store long ones and zeros.However, in building programs a programmer might want to develop code that interacts or models real world objects or process es. ADTs are â€Å"invented† data types – data types that are modeled after the abstract idea of the concrete instance. An example is the string data type found in some programming languages.A computer cannot store a string (only ones and zeros) yet programmers can do operations on a string like concatenation (using the + operator) effortlessly as if the computer or compiler understands that the user is working with sentences.This brings to light an important concept when dealing with ADTs – the concept of information hiding. A compiler designer might engineer a programming language to handle strings in many ways. He may choose to use ASCII or EBCDIC, use 8 bits per character or a full 32 bit word, use little endian or big endian storage.All these choices are invisible to the user. All the developer needs to understand is that to concatenate strings uses a â€Å"+† operator. Indeed, for an abstracted data type to be functional the functionality of that da ta type should reflect that what that ADT represents independent of the implementation.The nitty gritty of its workings is hidden behind a wall called the interface. The interface (associated operations, properties, etc) is all that the programmer needs and should need to   know. A good wall is a prerequisite of good ADT design.So far the paper has discussed about ADTs as data types that represent an idea (such as a string) that is not natively supported by the hardware. A developer might also make his or her own ADTs through the use of data structures.A data structure is basically just an ordered way of organizing data. An example of a data structure is the struct in C, linked lists, and trees. A developer may choose to create one of these data structures in order to represent an abstract idea. He may choose to use a tree in order to represent a family tree.In designing user created ADTs, the concept of information hiding should still be remembered. The ADT should provide a const ant standard interface for every method or subroutine that chooses to call it. Additionally, it goes without saying that the data structure of choice should efficiently model the abstract idea it represents. Using a tree to represent genealogy is easier and makes more sense compared to using linked lists.A soda vending machine, even though it is quite simple is a good illustration of the many aspects of ADT design. The developer might need to store the types of sodas the machine is selling. As there is no â€Å"soda† data type, the programmer might use strings. When the machine vends, the machine should also know that there is one less soda in its storage.A programmer might then choose to implement the sodas as a stuct composed of one string (for the soda name) and an integer representing the number of soda cans left. When the customer presses a button corresponding to a soda, the soda name is displayed on the screen and the machine checks if there are still soda cans left.If there are cans left, the vend process continues through with the customer getting his soda (after payment of course) and the integer counter for the soda is decremented by one. However if the counter is of value zero already, the machine halts the operation and tells the customer to pick another soda.BibliographyCarrano, Frank, and Janet Prichard. Data Abstraction and Problem Solving with C++ Walls and Mirrors. 3rd ed. Boston: Addison-Wesley, 2001.Sedgewick, Robert. Algorithms in C. 3rd ed. Boston: Addison-Weslet, 1998.Sun Developer Network [Website], java.sun.com

Reflection Example

Reflection Example Reflection – Coursework Example Sur Shades of Pink Different projects are conducted worldwide to engage children in different learning and study exercises. ‘Shades of Pink’ is also a learning project which included six preschoolers and their teacher. Through the collaboration of their teacher the preschoolers were able to learn different shades and colors of pink. This paper aims to discuss the project in brief as for how the children were engaged in the learning phase and how they showed creativity and rich understanding towards the project.The children were engaged in the project in a way that seemed interested. The teacher made them engaged in the project and emphasized on teaching them the shades through different experiments. All these theories and experiments were used as a tool of art which helped the children towards their learning and understanding of pink color (Kim)."Every child is creative and full of potential and has a desire and right to make meaning within a context of rich relationship s". The children are capable of learning and being taught through different ways. However, all of them make them learn and sharpens their learning capabilities and their understanding towards certain things. In this project the six preschoolers were first able to make a hypothesis. Once they made the hypothesis they tried to make its relation with that of the theories and their understanding through elaboration and testing. Once they were done with their expression with the help of their teacher Ms. Mistry they shared their ideas (Kim). When we talk about children and art and then it is important to understand that these two has a very strong relationship. It is the most powerful and simplest way for children to express and explore their selves. It is a kind of a child language. Therefore, Shades of Pink also took advantage of it and used it a platform to teach and educate the preschoolers. Work CitedKim, Bo Sun. "Shades of Pink." Youn Children March 2012: 44-68.

Apartheid in South Africa

Apartheid in South Africa Introduction South Africa is one of the countries with rich and fascinating history in the world. It is regarded as the most developed state in Africa and among the last to have an elected black president towards the end of the 20th century. Besides its rich history, the South African state has abundant natural resources, fertile farms and a wide range of minerals including gold.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Apartheid in South Africa specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The country is the world’s leading miner of diamonds and gold with several metal ores distributed around the country like platinum (Rosmarin Rissik, 2004). South Africa experiences a mild climate that resembles that of San Francisco bay. With its geographical location and development, South Africa is one of the most accessible African countries. All these factors contribute to South Africa’s global prominence, especially before and after the reign of its first black President, Nelson Mandela in 1994. However, these alone do not add up to what the country’s history. In fact, South Africa’s history sounds incomplete without the mention of Apartheid, a system that significantly shaped and transformed the country in what it is today. Without apartheid, many argue that South Africa would have probably been a different country with unique ideologies, politics and overall identity. In other words, apartheid greatly affected South Africa in all spheres of a country’s operation. From segregation to all forms of unfairness, apartheid system negatively affected South Africans and the entire country (Pfister, 2005). On the other hand, some people argue that apartheid positively affected South Africa in countless ways. This essay gives a detailed coverage of the issue of apartheid in South Africa and its impact to the economy, politics and social life of South Africans. To achieve this task, the analysis is divided into useful sections, which give concise and authentic information concerning the topic. Up to date sources were consulted in researching the topic to ensure that data and information used in describing the concept is up to date, from reputable and recommended authors.Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Among important segments of the essay include but not limited to the literature review, history, background information and recommendations. Research questions In addressing the issue of Apartheid in South Africa, this essay intends to provide answers to the following questions: What was apartheid system? What are the factors that led to the apartheid system? What were the negative effects of the apartheid system? What were the positive effects of the apartheid system? Why was it necessary to end apartheid in South Africa? Literature Review Apartheid in South Africa is one of the topics which have received massive literature coverage even after the end of the regime. Most of the documented information describes life before 1994 and what transpired after Nelson Mandela took leadership as the first black African President of the state. This segment, therefore, explores the concept concerning what authors, scholars and researchers have recorded in books, journals and on websites as expounded in the following analytical sections. Apartheid in South Africa Apartheid refers to a South African system that propagated racial discrimination imposed between 1948 and 1994 by National Party regimes. During this period of decades, the rights of the majority â€Å"blacks† were undermined as white minority settlers maintained their supremacy and rule through suppressive tactics. Apartheid was primarily developed after the Second World War by the Broederbond and Afrikaner organizations and was extended to other parts of South West Africa, currently known as Namibia until it became an independent state four years before the end of apartheid. According to Allen 2005, discrimination of black people in South Africa began long before apartheid was born during the colonial era. In his survey, Allen noted that apartheid was ratified after the general election which was held in 1948.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Apartheid in South Africa specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The new legislation that the governments adopted classified all South African inhabitants into four groups based on their racial identity (Allen, 2005). These groups were Asians, whites, natives and colored. This led to all manners of segregation that ensured complete distinction among these groups, achieved through forced displacement of the oppressed groups without necessarily thinking about their rights. The practice continued throughout the period, reaching heightened moments when non-whites were depriv ed of political representation in 1970, the year when blacks were denied citizenship right causing them to become members of Bantustans who belonged to self-governing homes (Allen, 2005). Besides residential removal and displacement, other forms of discrimination dominated in public institutions like education centers, hospitals and beaches among other places which were legally meant for everybody regardless of their skin color, gender or country of origin. In rare cases where black accessed these services, they were provided with inferior options as compared to what whites received (Allen, 2005). As a result, there was significant violence witnessed across the country, accompanied by internal resistance from people who believed that they were being exploited and languishing in poverty at the expense of white minorities. Consequently, the country suffered trade embargoes as other countries around the world distanced themselves from South African rule as a way of condemning it and ra ising their voices in support for those who were considered less human in their own country. Overwhelmed by the desire for equality, South Africa witnessed countless uprisings and revolts, which were welcomed with imprisoning of political and human rights activists who were strongly opposed to the apartheid rule. Banning of opposition politics was also adopted in order to suppress leaders who believed in justice for humanity (Edwards Hecht, 2010). As violence escalated around the country, several state organizations responded by sponsoring violence and increasing the intensity of oppression.Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The peak of apartheid opposition was in 1980s when attempts to amend apartheid legislation failed to calm black people forcing President Frederik Willem de Klerk to enter into negotiations with black leaders to end apartheid in 1990. The culmination of the negotiations was in 1994 when a multi-racial and democratic election was held with Nelson Mandela of African National Congress emerging the winner and the first black president in South Africa (Edwards Hecht, 2010). Although apartheid ended more than a decade ago, it is important to note its impact and ruins are still evident in South Africa. Background Information Segregation took shape in the Union of South Africa in order to suppress the black people’s participation in politics and economic life. White rulers believed that the only way of maintaining their rule was to ensure that black people do not have opportunities to organize themselves into groups that would augment their ability to systematize themselves and fight back for their rights. However, despite these efforts, black people in South Africa became integrated into the economic and industrial society than any other group of people in Africa during the 20th century (Edwards Hecht, 2010). Clerics, educations and other professionals grew up to be key players as the influence of blacks sprouted with Mission Christianity significantly influencing the political landscape of the union. Studying in abroad also played a major role as blacks gained the momentum to fight for their rights as the move received support from other parts of the world (Burger, 2011). There were continuous attempts from the government to control and manipulate black people through skewed policies, which were aimed at benefiting whites at the expense of the majority. The year 1902 saw the formation of the first political organization by Dr Abdurrahman which was mainly based in Cape Province. However, the formation of the African National Congress in 1912 was a milestone a s it brought together traditional authorities, educationists and Christian leaders (Burger, 2011). Its initial concern was defined by constitutional protests as its leaders demanded recognition and representation of the blacks. Efforts by union workers to form organizations for the purpose of voicing their concerns were short-lived as their efforts were short down by white authorities. This led to strikes and militancy, which was experienced throughout 1920s. The formation of the Communist Party proved to be a force to last as it united workers’ organizations and non-racialism individuals (Beinart Dubow, 1995). Segregation of blacks was also witnessed in job regulations as skilled job opportunities remained reserved for white people. The introduction of pass-laws further aimed at restricting African mobility thus limiting their chances of getting organized. These laws were also designed to have all blacks participate in forced labor as they did not have a clear channel to ai r their views. According to historic findings, all these efforts were inclined towards laying the foundation for apartheid in later years. Noteworthy, there were divisions among whites as they differed with regard to certain ideologies and stances. For instance, they could not agree on their involvement in First World War I as the National Party dislodged from the South African Party (Beinart Dubow, 1995). Conversely, allocation of skilled jobs to whites targeted high productivity from people who had experience while pass-laws prevented aimless movement. Labor issues continued to emerge through organized strikes though these efforts were constantly thwarted by the government using brutal and inhumane ways like seclusion of migrant residential houses using compounds. Miners also protested against low payment and poor living standards, conditions which promoted hostility between black and white labor forces, culminating into a bloody rebellion in 1922 (Beinart Dubow, 1995). Intensif ied discrimination against blacks mounted to serve the interests of white rulers through reinforcement of the unfair government policies and employment bar in certain areas like the railway and postal service to address the infamous â€Å"poor-white problem†. The world depression of early 1930s led to the union of major white parties which was closely followed by the breakaway by a new Afrikaner led by Dr. DF Malan. The entrenchment of the white domination led to the elimination of Africans from the voters’ role in 1936 (Burger, 2011). These continued up to the end of the Second World War when the government intensified segregation rules in 1948 that led to the conception and birth of Apartheid in South Africa. Desmond Tutu against Apartheid As mentioned above, Mission Christianity played a major role in the fight against apartheid and restoration of justice in South Africa. This saw several leaders rise to the limelight as they emerged to be the voice of the voiceless in the South African State. One of these Christian leaders was Archbishop Desmond Tutu who has remained in the history of South Africa, featuring prominently in the reign of apartheid (BBC, 2010). He is well known worldwide for his anti-apartheid role and for boldly speaking for the blacks. He served a very important role, especially during the entire time when Nelson Mandela was serving his prison term making him nominated for the highly coveted and prestigious Nobel Peace Prize award in 1984 for his relentless anti-apartheid efforts. This was a real implication that the world had not only observed Tutu’s efforts but also raised its voice against the discriminatory rule in South Africa. After Nelson Mandela was elected democratically in 1984, he appointed Archbishop Desmond Tutu to steer the South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission which was mandated to investigate all forms of crimes committed by blacks and whites during the whole period of apartheid. Alth ough Tutu was a teacher by training, he dropped the career after the adoption of the Bantu Education Act in 1953 (BBC, 2010). The act was meant to extend apartheid to black schools around the country, causing several schools to close down due to lack of finances after the government discontinued subsidized programs for those that did not comply. To confirm and affirm that apartheid was not the best regime option in South Africa, Desmond Tutu was highly influenced by white clergymen like Bishop Trevor Huddleston, who strongly opposed the idea of racial discrimination that was being propagated by the white government (BBC, 2010). Although he was closely involved in active politics, he remained focused on religious motivation, arguing that racialism was not the will of God, and that it was not to live forever. His appointment as the head of the Anglican church in 1986 did not deter him from fighting apartheid as he risked being jailed after he called the public to boycott municipal ele ctions that were held in 1988. He welcomed President FW De Klerk’s reforms in 1989, which included the release of the one who was later to become the first black president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela and the reinstatement of the African National Congress (BBC, 2010). Nelson Mandela against Apartheid Nelson Mandela is regarded as a key player in the fight against apartheid in South Africa as he led black people together with other activists to publicly denounce and condemn the discriminatory regimes of the time. As a way of demonstrating his dissatisfaction and criticism of apartheid, Mandela publicly burnt his â€Å"pass†. All blacks were required to carry their passes as the government prohibited the movement of people to other districts (Atlas College, 2011). While working with ANC, Mandela’s involvement in anti-apartheid efforts was increased as he realized the need to have active resistance in dealing with apartheid. He was severally charged with treason and acquitted although in 1964, Mandela was life imprisoned a move that was considered to be ill-motivated to maintain the white rule supremacy. He continued his fight while in prison as his message penetrated every village and district in the country. Although he acted together with like-minded people, Nelson Mandela’s name stands high as the leader of the anti-apartheid campaign which culminated in his election as the first black president of South Africa in 1994 (Atlas College, 2011). Opposing opinion Although apartheid was highly condemned and still receives high-charged criticism, some people view it from a different perspective. Did apartheid have any benefit to the people of South Africa and to the nation at large? Apart from propagating injustices across the country, apartheid is one of the economic drivers of South Africa with some of the policies and strategies used during that time still under active implementation by the government. For instance, the Reconstructi on and Development Programme (RDP) was orchestrated by ANC and served as the core platform during the elections that were held in 1994 (Lundahl Petersson, 2009). The programme focused on improvement of infrastructure, improvement of housing facilities, free schooling, sharing of land to the landless, clean water and affordable health facilities among others. This led to the improvement of social amenities in the country. RDP also continued financing the budget revenue. It therefore suffices to mention that those who support apartheid base their argument on the status of the country after 1994 when subsequent governments chose to adopt some strategies from apartheid to drive the reconstruction agenda (Lundahl Petersson, 2009). As one of the leading economies in Africa, some of the institutions, factories and companies which were established during apartheid significantly contribute to development in the country. Even though new plans have been adopted, majority have their foundatio ns rocked on apartheid. As a result of these development initiatives, a lot has changed in South Africa. There has been substantive economic growth augmented by several factors which relate to apartheid (Lundahl Petersson, 2009). Improved living standards among South Africans cannot also be ignored in any discussion of apartheid. Many jobs have been created for the skilled people who never found an opportunity to work when the regime was at its operational peak. South Africa also prides on some of the most prestigious learning institutions in the region which are highly ranked on the world list. It therefore suffices to mention that apartheid had several advantages which cannot be overshadowed by its disadvantages. Against Apartheid Despite the advantages of apartheid discussed above, there is no doubt that the system negatively impacted South Africans in a myriad of ways. From undermining of human rights to promotion of hostility and violence among residents, there is enough evide nce to condemn the regime. It affected several social structures people were not allowed to freely intermarry and interact. This was coupled with limited expression rights as they were believed not to have rights. Movement was highly restricted as black people were to walk with passes and restricted to move within one district. Additionally, forceful evacuation was a norm as black people never owned land and houses permanently (Burger, 2011). What about employment? Many skilled jobs were strictly reserved for whites as black people survived on manual duties with little or no pay. This contributed to low living standards and inability to meet their needs, manifested through labor strikes which were continuously witnessed in several organizations. Consequently, violence escalated with police brutality hitting high levels and several people losing their lives as others spent the rest of their lives in jail. It was a system that needed more condemnation than just protesting in order to allow justice to prevail (Pfister, 2005). Conclusion Apartheid in South Africa is one of the most outstanding in the history of the country with millions of people with painful and remarkable memories. With its culmination in 1994 democratic elections which saw Nelson Mandela rise to power, the regime had severe negative effects, which necessitated the need to end it and pave the way for a fair nation that respects humanity regardless of skin color, ethnicity, country of origin and gender (Pfister, 2005). Based on the above analysis, it is important for a number of lessons to be learnt from it. World leaders need to establish and implement leadership mechanisms that would prevent recurrence of apartheid in South Africa or in other parts of the world. To the millions who suffered under rule, reconciliation efforts are essential in allowing them to accept themselves and move on with life as they mingle with thousands of white settlers who continue owning parcels of land in the country . It should however to be forgotten that apartheid was important in transforming South Africa into what it is today. From factories and infrastructure to a stable economy, it had lifetime merits that ought to be acknowledged throughout in history. References Allen, J. (2005). Apartheid South Africa: An Insiders Overview of the Origin and Effects of Separate Development. Bloomington, Indiana: iUniverse. Atlas College. (2011). Nelson Mandela and Apartheid. Atlas College. Web. BBC. (2010). Profile: Archbishop Desmond Tutu. BBC News. Web. Beinart, W., Dubow, S. (1995). Segregation and apartheid in twentieth-century South Africa. London: Routledge. Burger, D. (2011). History. South African Government Information. Web. Edwards, P., Hecht, G. (2010). History and the Techno politics of Identity: The Case of Apartheid South Africa. Journal of Southern African Studies, 36(3), p. 619-639. Lundahl, M., Petersson, L. (2009). Post-Apartheid South Africa; an Economic Success Story? United Natio ns University. Web. Pfister, R. (2005). Apartheid South Africa and African states: from pariah to middle power, 1961-1994. London: I.B.Tauris. Rosmarin, I., Rissik, D. (2004). South Africa. Singapore: Marshall Cavendish.

Translation - Definition and Examples

Translation s The word translation can be defined as: The process of turning an original or source text into a text in another language.A translated version of a text. An individual or a computer program that renders a text into another language is called a translator. The discipline concerned with issues related to the production of translations is called translation studies.   Etymology:From the Latin, translat-  carried across Examples and Observations: intralingual translation - translation within the same language, which can involve rewording or paraphrase;interlingual translation - translation from one language to another, andintersemiotic translation - translation of the verbal sign by a non-verbal sign, for example music or image.Three Types of TranslationIn his seminal paper, On Linguistic Aspects of Translation (Jacobson 1959/2000. see Section B, Text B1.1), the Russo-American linguist Roman Jakobson makes a very important distinction between three types of written translation: Only the second category, interlingual translation, is deemed translation proper by Jakobson.(Basil Hatim and Jeremy Munday, Translation: An Advanced Resource Book. Routledge, 2005)Translation is like a woman. If it is beautiful, it is not faithful. If it is faithful, it is most certainly not beautiful. (attributed to Yevgeny Yevtushenko, among others).(Literal or word-for-word attempts can result in some amusing translation fails).   Translation and Style ï » ¿To translate, one must have a style of his own, for otherwise, the translation will have no rhythm or nuance, which come from the process of artistically thinking through and molding the sentences; they cannot be reconstituted by piecemeal imitation. The problem of translation is to retreat to a simpler tenor of ones own style and creatively adjust this to ones author. (Paul Goodman, Five Years: Thoughts During a Useless Time, 1969) The Illusion of Transparency A translated text, whether prose or poetry, fiction or nonfiction, is judged acceptable by most publishers, reviewers, and readers when it reads fluently, when the absence of any linguistic or stylistic peculiarities makes it seem transparent, giving the appearance that it reflects the foreign writers personality or intention or the essential meaning of the foreign textthe appearance, in other words, that the translation is not, in fact, a translation, but the original. The illusion of transparency is an effect of fluent discourse, of the translators effort to ensure easy readability by adhering to current usage, maintaining continuous syntax, fixing a precise meaning. What is so remarkable here is that this illusory effect conceals the numerous conditions under which the translation is made . . .. (Lawrence Venuti, The Translators Invisibility: A History of Translation. Routledge, 1995) The Process of Translation Here, then, is the full process of translation. At one point we have a writer in a room, struggling to approximate the impossible vision that hovers over his head. He finishes it, with misgivings. Some time later we have a translator struggling to approximate the vision, not to mention the particulars of language and voice, of the text that lies before him. He does the best he can but is never satisfied. And then, finally, we have the reader. The reader is the least tortured of this trio, but the reader too may very well feel that he is missing something in the book, that through sheer ineptitude he is failing to be a proper vessel for the book’s overarching vision. (Michael Cunningham, Found in Translation. The New York Times, Oct. 2, 2010) The Untranslatable Just as there are no exact synonyms within a language (big does not mean precisely the same as large), there are no exact matches for words or expressions across languages. I can express the notion four year old male uncastrated domesticated reindeer in English. But our tongue lacks the economy of information packaging found in Tofa, a nearly extinct tongue I studied in Siberia. Tofa equips reindeer herders with words like chary with the above meaning. Furthermore, that word exists within a multidimensional matrix that defines the four salient (for the Tofa people) parameters of reindeer: age, sex, fertility, and rideability. Words are untranslateable because [they] do not exist in a flat, alphabetised dictionary style list, but rather in a richly structured taxonomy of meaning. They are defined by their oppositions to and similarities to multiple other wordsin other words, the cultural backdrop. (K. David Harrison, linguist at Swarthmore College, in Seven Questions for K. David Harr ison. The Economist, Nov. 23, 2010) Pronunciation: trans-LAY-shen

The closing of the Muslim mind Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The closing of the Muslim mind - Essay Example Basically, the Muslims closed the doors to explore the world a millennium ago hence lagged behind Christian based countries in terms of scientific inquiries, technology advancement and economic development. The closing of the mind began to occur between the 9th and 10th centuries. This was a crucial era in the Islam world because the West countries introduced their cultures. The Muslim did not embrace this cultures hence the closure. The closure of the Muslim mind occurred in two ways. The first was to deny the people the capability of knowing anything new while the second was dismissing reality and unrecognizing it. For example, in the Sunni Islam, both concepts were employed in one Ash’arite theological school. Consequently, the gap between men’s reasoning capacity and reality widened which was the source of Sunni Islam’s woes. Reilly states the history of Islam can be understood in four main phases: the Islamic (7th -13th centuries), the Ottoman (1453-1918), t he nationalist (1918-1991) and post-nationalist (1991- to date as it is the current Islam flourishing (Reilly, 2010). The Ottoman and nationalist saw great success in expanding the Muslim world while Islamic and post-nationalist eras saw great conflict and decline. However, the Islamic era did achieve narrow success through schools such as Mu’tazilite who encouraged free will in the Muslim world. Those responsible Earlier in the year 750, the Mu’tazilite school established by advocators of free will, established solid grounds to reason and philosophy. There were interactions between the Muslim who attended Mu’tazilite and Christian theologians showing interest to join the two faiths. The Mu’tazilite had established successfully the developed school of Islamic theology. They insisted that the human mind was free to interpret revelation and choose which relevant religion to follow. This entailed the views of God, the universe and humanity’s place wit hin the world. They hugely concentrated on the human mind to use the voice of reason in developing an understanding between the universe and God. Their concepts were based on eliminating the processes of dehellenisation and intellectual ossification. Dehellenisation process involved the refusal to reason and ignoring facts while intellectual ossification involved traditional beliefs and behavior as opposed to modernity and technology use. However, the success was short lived when Ash’arite challenged the Mu’tazilite doctrine in court which led to their expulsion from court. Those found to be holding the Mu’tazilite doctrine were found to have committed a crime punishable by death. Through this, the Ash’arites had achieved their revenge on the Mu’tazilites for their previous poor treatment. The Mu’tazilites were removed from all government positions. The Ash’arites opposed views of God, the universe and humanity. By the end of the 10th century, booksellers and copyrights were prohibited from trading in literally works of theology, disputation and philosophy which were associated with the Mu’tazilites. As such, the processes of dehellenisation and intellectual ossification were restarted once more. Reilly states that in the 12th century, the anti-rationalist and conservative institutions were close to destroying the Mu’tazilite influence thus ending the most serious attempts of combining reason with Islam as a religion. As a result, the works of Mu’tazilite were destroyed by Ash’arites eventually leading to the closure of the Muslim mind.

Leadership in the Healthcare Workforce Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Leadership in the Healthcare Workforce - Essay Example in health care organizations is one thing that cannot be avoided and will always recur largely or in small doses, whether it is the employee turnover at the micro level or the governing policies put at the macro level to see that the organization delivers as expected and to its maximum capacity. Leadership is also bound to change in any given organization. It is the mandate of every leader to ensure that a health care organization has stability (Sullivan, 2008). The health care workforce is comprised of different types of professionals that work together to provide quality care to patients. Each of these professionals performs distinct or specialized tasks according to their areas of specialization. This specialization and workforce diversity results in differences in strategic orientation of the professionals: for example, objectives of nursing practitioners may significantly differ to those of medical specialists, such as gynecologists. Despite these differences, the nature of health care services requires the professionals to work collaboratively towards realization of organizational objectives. Consequently, health care leadership plays a significant role of promoting healthy working relationships among the different practitioners. As Taplin, Foster, and Shortell (2013) observe, the leadership involves creating an environment that fosters teamwork to overcome challenges of differentiation of tasks and burden of information, common in he alth care workforce. Leaders are required to provide organizational vision, as well as inspire and empower the workforce towards realization of the vision. In exploring the topic, future research can examine salient traits and behaviors of effective health care leaders (Wieck et al, 2002). It can also explore leadership style or styles used by these leaders to influence the workforce towards realization of common objectives (Cummings et al., 2009). The research can also seek to establish the influence of other important

Nutrition and the relationship to athletic performance Essay

Nutrition and the relationship to athletic performance - Essay Example Proper eating habits play an integral role in fueling the body to operate effectively. Even the well conditioned and best trained athlete will have a hard time performing at peak level if improperly nourished. Also, it is essential for the athlete to understand that a balanced diet is critical not only for athletic excellence but also to maintain tissues that have been damaged during physical activity and, more importantly, for the young athlete who will need the additional nutrients to allow for continued growth and bone development. Carbohydrate is the most efficient and recommended source of glucose that the body needs to produce energy. Once ingested, the body converts carbohydrates into glucose that will give the athlete power and stamina to endure high intensity, short duration activities. Excess glucose, called glycogen, is absorbed in the liver and muscle tissues for later use. If the body lacks sources of carbohydrates, the body is forced to convert fat and protein into energy resulting in poor performance and increased fatigue. Carbohydrates are divided into two groups, the simple and complex carbohydrates. The simple carbohydrates, sometimes also referred to as the "bad carbs", are commonly found in refined or packaged food such as sugar, candy, chips, milk, honey and, fruit juices. Although, these types of carbohydrates are easily digested, they lack essential vitamins and nutrients that can normally be found in food sources containing complex carbohydrates. They are so-called because, unlike the simple carbohydrates, complex carbohydrates take longer to digest but it brings with it the essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs on a daily basis. This type of carbohydrate is commonly found in fresh fruits and vegetables, oatmeal, rice, bread, cereal, pita, pretzel, muffins and, pasta dishes. Although there are many recommendations on the amount of carbohydrate to be taken daily, most experts agree that carbohydrate consumption should consist of at the most two-thirds (2/3) of any given meal, roughly 3 to 4 times of a persons' weight in pounds. This means, for example, a person weighing 160 pounds should consume about 480-640 grams of carbohydrate everyday to maintain his energy level. And as exercise and training increase, carbohydrate consumption should be increased appropriately. According to the studies made by Leslie Bonci M.P.H., R.D., the following increase in carbohydrate intake is recommended for the active athlete: 3 grams/lb body weight for 1 hour of training 4.5 grams/kg body weight for 2 hours training 5 grams/kg body weight for 3 hours training, and 6 grams/kg body weight for 4+ hours of training (Bonci, n.d.a, Carbohydrate Needs section, par.1) Another technique used by endurance athletes, like bicyclers, swimmers and long-distance runners is "carbohydrate loading" or commonly referred to as

The Dell Company E-Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Dell Company E-Business - Essay Example In order to analyse the organization of Dell Company, its micro environment need to be evaluated with the help of Porter’s five Forces. It is one of the most recognised analytical tools utilised in maximum organizations among others. Bargaining power of the Suppliers: the bargaining power of the suppliers is extremely high and so the organization of Dell Company had to communicate with varied suppliers in order to attain the raw materials.Bargaining power of the buyers: the bargaining power of the buyers is also quite high in this segment due to the presence of numerous competitors such as IBM, Apple Inc, Acer etc. As a result, the level of switch over costs of the customers is also extremely high that may hinder the growth and dominance of the organization of Dell in the market to a considerable extent. Therefore, in order to retain the level of sustainability and supremacy in the market, the organization of Dell desired to offer inventive products and services to its custome rs. This might increase the loyalty and consistency of the organization in the market among many others. Threat of new entrants: the threat of new entrants is also quite high in this sector due to effective government policies and lower economies of scale. Due to which, the organization of Dell had to offer high concentration over research and development. This might prove effective in developing newly inventive product lines so as to attract a wide range of customers towards the brand that may enhance its profitability.

Presuade Your Employer You Deserve A Raise Essay

Presuade Your Employer You Deserve A Raise - Essay Example I believe that I have been exceptional in all that time that I have served the organization till now. I know that I have not given a full year to the organization but whatever, I have given is worth praise. There are people who work to earn a living. There are those who work to keep themselves occupied. There are also those who work to achieve a sense of fulfillment and those who work for a multiple combinations of the three reasons mentioned above. I work because I am passionate about what I do. It is not surprising then, to see that in a short span of a little under a year, I have achieved more than what you could have expected and have delivered on all fronts. When I joined the organization, I was completely new to the concept of the retail industry. However, in a small amount of time, I have achieved what was not possible for other people. I was given a higher position keeping the fact aside that I was not an experienced person. I appreciate the step taken by the organization in terms of my upgrade. However, I was also looking towards a raise in my pay. I do not think you can deny the fact that the consumer appliances segment of our store has been extremely well organized and my peers appreciate my contribution to the changes that I had suggested – and which have been implemented – in the way we track our inventory. I think the suggestions were a function of the time I had spent at the store and also my ability to innovate. Using the new inventory tracking process, our suppliers can be requested for replenishing the stock before a particular item gets completely depleted. You might like to believe that inventory management is not a central issue for a retail store, but I would request you to walk down to any of the other consumer electronics stores across the mall. You would observe two things: Another critical factor that I would like to draw your attention to is that I have developed my own set of regular clientele

Case Study Counselor Recommendation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Counselor Recommendation - Case Study Example According to their comments, I predict future conflicts and misunderstanding among them and the parents will find a hard time to make the children live together amicably. The positive thing that is evident in the new family is that every family member is optimistic that everything will go well and the family will be strong. They all have accepted to give it a chance and see whether the new family overcomes the future challenges and difficulties (Knox & Schacht, 2013). The things that the family will need to improve on include; playing ones role and averting conflicts. They should not be worried on the challenges that will come, but find credible ways of solving the tribulations that might arise. In utilizing the lessons learnt from the case study, terminal course objectives and threaded discussions in the family, it is significant to note that innumerable couples prefer cohabitation to marriage. This is because of the economic and emotional trauma from the preceding divorce, which af fects them mentally. It is established that parents given custody of the children by the family court are the ones involved in remarriage (Knox & Schacht, 2013). These parents always lack moral support and face economical impenetrability; hence, they always look for someone or a place to comfort. In this case, the family has to understand and accept the common argument that states that a stepparent will never be as good as a real parent. Hence, the Rose and Jason have to understand that in stepfamilies, the issues of biological parent will always be somewhere in the picture. For this reason, the parents have to teach the kids to accept the change and learn to be corrected and accept them as... In utilizing the lessons learnt from the case study, terminal course objectives and threaded discussions in the family, it is significant to note that innumerable couples prefer cohabitation to marriage. This is because of the economic and emotional trauma from the preceding divorce, which affects them mentally. It is established that parents given custody of the children by the family court are the ones involved in remarriage. These parents always lack moral support and face economical impenetrability; hence, they always look for someone or a place to comfort. In this case, the family has to understand and accept the common argument that states that a stepparent will never be as good as a real parent. Hence, the Rose and Jason have to understand that in stepfamilies, the issues of biological parent will always be somewhere in the picture. For this reason, the parents have to teach the kids to accept the change and learn to be corrected and accept them as parents. They have to accept correction by their stepparent and listen to his/her advice before making any judgments.

Presuade Your Employer You Deserve A Raise Essay

Presuade Your Employer You Deserve A Raise - Essay Example I believe that I have been exceptional in all that time that I have served the organization till now. I know that I have not given a full year to the organization but whatever, I have given is worth praise. There are people who work to earn a living. There are those who work to keep themselves occupied. There are also those who work to achieve a sense of fulfillment and those who work for a multiple combinations of the three reasons mentioned above. I work because I am passionate about what I do. It is not surprising then, to see that in a short span of a little under a year, I have achieved more than what you could have expected and have delivered on all fronts. When I joined the organization, I was completely new to the concept of the retail industry. However, in a small amount of time, I have achieved what was not possible for other people. I was given a higher position keeping the fact aside that I was not an experienced person. I appreciate the step taken by the organization in terms of my upgrade. However, I was also looking towards a raise in my pay. I do not think you can deny the fact that the consumer appliances segment of our store has been extremely well organized and my peers appreciate my contribution to the changes that I had suggested – and which have been implemented – in the way we track our inventory. I think the suggestions were a function of the time I had spent at the store and also my ability to innovate. Using the new inventory tracking process, our suppliers can be requested for replenishing the stock before a particular item gets completely depleted. You might like to believe that inventory management is not a central issue for a retail store, but I would request you to walk down to any of the other consumer electronics stores across the mall. You would observe two things: Another critical factor that I would like to draw your attention to is that I have developed my own set of regular clientele

Providing care with limited reimbursment Coursework

Providing care with limited reimbursment - Coursework Example All the patients who come here require serious services that can not be provided by everyone, but by a few dedicated and committed nurses. So, upon a successful completion of my training, I will need to evaluate the performance of each nurse. The one who displays a high degree of professionalism will be considered for employment (Masters, 2000). As an experienced professional, I strongly believe in the quality of education being offered at the nursing training colleges. So, anyone who graduates with a degree must be a hard working professional. They have got all the theoretical knowledge and practical skills that is necessary for them in the field. Therefore, if given an opportunity to nurture their talents, they can come out as exceptional professionals. It is for this reason that I do take my precious time to provide them with the necessary mentorship on exactly what to do when on duty. I prefer fresh graduates because they are still new in the field. Despite having little experience, the truth is that these are highly motivated professionals with lots of ambitions and expectations. Having just taken the oath, they are still committed to strictly complying with the ethical codes of conduct for the nurses (McHale & Gallagher, 2003). Therefore, there will be no doubt that the new graduates will be serving the patients with the expected degree of benevolence, sincerity and confidentiality. So, these are qualities that I have to consider while making a choice of my nurse. Apart from being thoroughly trained at the university, I should ensure that vigorously mentor these nurses. Focusing on issues like practical skills, theoretical knowledge and the general application of nursing ethical codes of conduct are paramount (McHale & Gallagher, 2003). Once I gauge and ensure that they are upheld, I will not hesitate to engage that particular graduate. He deserves to be a

Artificial Intelligence in Business Applications

Artificial Intelligence in Business Applications Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Business functions that can/cannot be automated INTRODUCTION Computer systems today are a part of almost all businesses; this is because they provide us, along with the added use of the Internet, with a variety of means that made business operations easier, productivity higher, and communication processes faster. Computers and the programs (or the software applications that are installed on them) along with the robotic systems do a great amount of the tasks that were previously performed by the employees and/or workers themselves. This transformation, towards an automated work environment, saved businesses a lot of unwanted expenses, a lot of time, and caused profits to increase steadily. Computers substituted, in different business structures, classical machines and tools, such as the calculator, the fax, the telephone, the photocopier and many more. The automation of different business functions led many organisations and companies to a higher level in what concerns production and management. But the point that should be understood is that even though many processes and functions related to businesses and organisations have been automated, there are still many aspects that are not, or that cannot be, automated for a wide range of reasons. BUSINESS FUNCTIONS The main objective of any business is to achieve success. To be able to reach success, an organisation needs to have an effective structure because any entity depends exclusively on two factors which are management and use of information. An efficient use of information systems can allow an easier and faster access to data that are essential for the workflow and for the quality of that work and, therefore, can assist the management in performing its duties in the best possible manner and in making the right decisions at the right times. In order to achieve such objectives, specific business functions should be established and specific tasks should be performed. Every kind of business and every organisation, depending on the nature of their operations, the products or services that are provided by them, their geographic location, and depending on the management and production schools that they relate to, have different business functions, but there are certain generic functions that apply to all kinds of businesses all over the world. These functions are usually general management, information management, operations management, marketing, finance and accounting, and human resources. Lan and Unhelkar (2005) identify the various generic business functions by stating that they are the function of Management and Administration which is the department whose tasks are to â€Å"corporate resources, corporate image, quality in all aspects, industrial relations, stakeholders relations, productivity, [and] promotion,† the function of Human Resources that should deal with â€Å"job analysis, position classification, employee training, employee selection, employee auditing and promotion† in addition to other related tasks, the function of Finance and Accounts that is responsible for â€Å"the capital operations required by the entire enterprise activities the funds required by management, administration, sales, marketing, human resources, [and] purchasing,† the function of Purchase and Procurement, the function of Sales and Marketing, and the function of Customer Care or Customer Support. According to another source, â€Å"business functions are universal and apply to every type of business. The most essential business functions are marketing, operations (production of goods and services), finance, and human resource management† (Plunkett, Attner, and Allen 2005). Here, we find a view according to which all functions are the same regardless of the type of business. The main question is to understand whether the above mentioned functions can be in whole or in part automated and/or computerised. In other words, can all the tasks concerning the business functions be transferred to intelligent electronic or robotic agents reaching the level of efficiency and proficiency in which humans are capable of performing them? AUTOMATION AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE In order to understand if all (or only some) business functions can be automated, it is important to understand the meaning of the concept itself. According to MSN Encarta (2005) automation is a â€Å"system of manufacture designed to extend the capacity of machines to perform certain tasks formerly done by humans, and to control sequences of operations without human intervention. The term automation has also been used to describe non-manufacturing systems in which programmed or automatic devices can operate independently or nearly independently of human control. In the fields of communications, aviation, and astronautics, for example, such devices as automatic telephone switching equipment, automatic pilots, and automated guidance and control systems are used to perform various operations much faster or better than could be accomplished by humans.† For us to reach such a system, a certain computerised aspect should be developed; an aspect which enables machines to execute given tasks according to the desired level. For such an objective, experts and programmers should be able to produce information systems that possess some of the characteristics of intelligence; this is why such systems are referred to as systems of artificial intelligence, or simply intelligent machines; in other words, computerised systems that are pre-programmed to perform a certain mission with the same level of accuracy of a trained human being. It is the science of creating machines that are intelligent, and in a more specific context, intelligent computer software-programs functioning according to the present hardware. It attempts to comprehend the mechanisms in which human intelligence works and then imitates it in the way the prospective intelligent machines should work, avoiding the limitations of biologically related weaknesses. Bailey (1992) describes his understanding of intelligence as the ability to reason or have a logical thinking, and to have an effect on the environment; this will require a good level of knowledge that should be acquired. To be able to simulate humans, machines should possess the capability of understanding the world. Computers, or intelligent machines, should be knowledgeable on a level that is even deeper and more detailed than we are Depending on knowledge, intelligent machines (or computers or robots) will be in a position to answer any of our questions, they could perform any task efficiently, and they can solve complex and difficult problems much more rapidly. Bailey also states that another important feature that intelligent machines should have is connectivity to each other all around the world through the use of networks, which will make it even easier for them to gain more knowledge and to communicate it to one another. Then there is another feature that is the ability to establish an effective level of communication between intelligent computers and humans through both written and verbal means and not through commands typed through a keyboard and a screen. Finally Bailey puts the physical qualities, such as vision, hearing, as the final of his desired intelligent computer or robot through the use of visual and auditory sensors similar to, or better than, those of humans. AUTOMATING BUSINESS FUNCTIONS The organisational structure is the setting that defines all the departments of the organisation, identifies the responsibilities and duties of each department, regulates the relationship between the various departments and explains how each of them should interact with the others in the way that guarantees the achievement of the desired outcome. As Clarke and Anderson explain, â€Å"an organizational role is defined as a set of functions together with a set of obligations and authorities. The same human or artificial agent can play several roles† [within that specific organisation] (187). The various tools of Information Technology can assist the company in gathering, elaborating, processing, storing/documenting, and distributing all the information that is needed for planning, decision making, and control. The use of computers and the simplicity they offer are important elements in what concerns the enhancement of all the mentioned processes. This fact explains how information technology influences the way in which organisations tend to arrange the tasks and processes within them. Ross (2003) explains that â€Å"information technology (IT) has progressively become key link integrating the business enterprise and its logistics capabilities with its customers and supplies Simply, the organization’s ability to create, collect, assimilate, access, and transfer information must be in alignment with the velocity of the activities necessary to execute effectively supplier, customer service, logistics and financial processes.† As mentioned earlier, many aspects related to the various tasks of businesses are now computerised and/or automated. Accounting and financial processes, for example, are not done only on paper as they once used to be; instead complete computer systems that rely on software applications are those that elaborate, document, communicate, and distribute the various pieces of information among different employees working in different departments. Another example is that related to the processes of sales and marketing which depend heavily on the Internet and the means of communication offered by it. â€Å"Sales force automation modules in CRM [Customer Relation Management] systems help sales staff increase their productivity by focusing sales efforts on the most profitable customers, those who are good candidates for sales and services. CRM systems provide sales prospect and contact information, product information, product configuration capabilities, and sales quote generation capabilitie s† (Laudon and Laudon 2006). For what concerns the accounts and finance function, there are clear indications that many of its tasks have been computerised. â€Å"Large and medium-sized businesses are using ASPs [Application Service Providers] for enterprise systems, sales force automation, or financial management, and small businesses are using them for functions such as invoicing, tax calculations, electronic calendars, and accounting† (Laudon and Laudon 2006). Another form of automation in this context is presented by Sanghvi (2007) as he states that â€Å"online technologies have enabled payroll services to become a popular way for accounting firms to improve client service, enhance loyalty, and gain incremental business Many small business owners turn to their accountant for back-office services while they focus on growing their businesses,† and this means that, through online systems, they can provide the external accountants with all the information needed in order to produce their legally a ccurate and acceptable financial documentation. Concerning human resources management, there are certain computerised systems that are capable of performing the main parts of the process that are related to that function. Torres-Coronas and Arias-Oliva (2005) refer to what they define as e-recruiting; which consists of the â€Å"practices and activities carried on by the organization that utilizes a variety of electronic means to fill open positions effectively and efficiently. The e-recruiting process consists of the following iterative steps: identification of hiring needs; submission of job requisition; approval of the job requisition via a job database; job posting on the Internet; online search of the job database by job seekers, online pre-screening/online self-assessment; submission of applications by applicants directly into an applicant database; online search of the applicant database for candidate selection; online evaluation of rà ©sumà ©/application; interviewing by recruiters/hiring managers; online pre-employment screening; and job offer and employment contract† Another example of a computerised business function, which is auditing, is presented by Caster and Verardo (2007): â€Å"The increasing prevalence of complex computer information systems and electronic data interchanges has made most business transactions electronic in nature Technological advances have altered not only the actual form of evidential matter required to be obtained by auditors, but also the competence of this evidence. Technology has had a significant impact on audit evidence, and existing auditing procedures could be improved in many ways.† The authors indicated that new technologically related regimes of audits have been created to automate the auditing process. Laudon and Laudon (2006) explain that certain businesses took enormous steps towards the automation of the entire processes related to their core activity: â€Å"The management of UPS decided to use automation to increase the ease of sending a package using UPS and of checking its delivery status, thereby reducing delivery costs and increasing sales revenues The technology supporting this system consists of handheld computers, barcode scanners, wired and wireless communications networks, desktop computers, UPS’s central computer, storage technology for the package delivery data, UPS inhouse package tracking software, and software to access the World Wide Web.† The author indicates that the various processes of UPS have improved substantially thanks to the computerisation and inter-connectivity of their functions. When we study the potentials of automation for what concerns business functions, it should be clearly stated that each function is a separate case with its own factors and qualities, which can allow or limit the possibilities of full computerisation of its different processes and tasks. Dorf and Kusiak (1994) state that almost every aspect of the manufacturing process can be automated: â€Å"Most manufacturing operations can be automated. Given the large number of manufacturing processes and assembly operations used in industry (the number is in the thousands) and the many possible ways in which any given operation can be automated.† The authors give different examples of automated systems, such as the Automated Production Lines (which is â€Å"a production system consisting of a series of automated workstations connected by an automatic parts transfer mechanism†), Position and Motion Control Systems (which are required to position â€Å"a work head or tool relative to a work part to accomplish a process†), and the Industrial Robotics (which are â€Å"general-purpose programmable machine possessing certain anthropomorphic characteristics†). When the other business functions are examined, we find that almost every single task within the realm of each function can be automated: Information concerning the major issues related to the business as a whole can be produced by computer systems on regular basis, and passed on to management for examination and study before reaching the right decisions in what concerns the survival and progress of their organisation. Accountancy and financial processes can be completely handled by intelligent systems that can, for example, calculate wages according to working hours, process payments to institutions and banks through electronic means over the Internet, can produce invoices and receipts to customers and suppliers, and can also manage shareholder’s issues. In the human resources function, information and requests can be effectuated electronically, but the final step, which is employees selection, cannot be performed by automated systems; because here the human factor and the hu man inter-activity is, and most probably will always be, the determining point. This is also valid for what concerns sales and marketing, the computerised system can perform all that is needed except the stages related to policy making and to physical delivery of products, as here the human factor is still required. There are certain missing parts if the desired objective is to reach a total automated business; such parts can be overcome only if (or when) we manage to solve deep and important problems in what concerns artificial intelligence. Creating systems that can ‘think’ as humans and can perform tasks related to the human factor will not be a fast endeavour, as we are still in the beginning of what concerns understanding and imitating intelligence. CONCLUSION As mentioned earlier, most of the tasks that are related to virtually all business functions can be computerised and/or automated, but the most important element is still the human factor. At the present level of technology, we are unable to create a fully automated business and we cannot transform an existing business entirely into a computerised one. Some business functions, such as accountancy and information management can be fully automated, some other functions, such as human resources and sales and marketing, can be computerised to a very high level, while other functions, such as general management, cannot be automated. Another reason, beside the technological limitations of the field of artificial intelligence today, is that people (whether customers or suppliers) are still not accustomed to dealing solely with machines. Works Cited Bailey, C. (1992) Truly Intelligent Computers. Coalition for Networked Information [online]. Available from: http://www.cni.org/pub/LITA/Think/Bailey.html>  [cited 13 April 2007]. Caster, P. and Verardo, D. (2007) Technology Changes the Form and Competence of Audit Evidence. The CPA Journal, 77(1), pp. 68-70. Clarke, R. and Anderson, P. (2001) Information, Organisation, and Technology: Studies in organisational Semiotics. Norwell, Massachusetts: Kluwer Academic Publishers. Dorf, R.C. Kusiak, A. (1994) Handbook of Design, Manufacturing and Automation. Hobokin, NJ: John Wiley Sons, Inc. Lan, Y.C. and Unhelkar, B. (2005) Global Enterprise Transitions: Managing the Process. Hershey, PA: Idea Group Publishing Inc. Laudon, J. and Laudon, K. (2006) Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm 10th ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. Microsoft Encarta 2006. (2005) Automation. [CD-ROM]. Microsoft Corporation. Plunkett, W. R. Attner, R. F. and Allen, G. (2005) Management: Meeting and Exceeding Customer Expectations. Mason, Ohio: Thomson South-Western Publisher. Ross, D. F. (2003) Distribution: Planning and Control 6th ed. Norwell, Massachusetts: Kluwer Academic Publishers. Sanghvi, A. (2007) Improving Service Through Online Payroll. The CPA Journal, 77(3), pp. 11. Torres-Coronas, T. and Arias-Oliva, M. (2005) e-Human Resources Management: Managing Knowledge People. Hershey, PA: Idea Group Publishing.

King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table Essay examples -- Camel

The legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table is a story mixed with historical truths and exaggerated fiction. The legend of King Arthur, known as the Arthurian Legend, comes from the Middle Ages and is both fact and fiction. There really was a King Arthur who was king of the Britons. He was a type of military leader who fought Germanic invaders. Many of the Tudor monarchs claimed lineage to King Arthur to justify and prove their right to the throne. Most of the knowledge of Arthur is legend. There is no doubt, though, that stories about him have influenced literature, society, music, and art from the Middle Ages. (King Arthur 1) Arthur was the illegitimate son of King Uther Pendragon and Lady Igraine, who was married to the Duke of Cornwall. After Arthur was born he was given to Merlin, a man believed to be a prophet, who cared for him and then gave him to Sir Ector. (Arthur 1) Merlin stayed in touch with Arthur as his tutor and also guided him throughout the rest of his life. (Arthurian 1-5) Arthur was raised alongside Ector's son, Sir Kay, but knew nothing of his royal ancestry. ( Ackerman, 757) One day there was a tournament for the knights. Sir Kay had forgotten his sword and sent Arthur back to get it. Arthur did not know where the sword was but he did remember where a sword in a stone was located. Arthur went and pulled the sword out of the stone. He took this sword back to Sir Kay. When he returned with this sword all the knights recognized the sword in the stone. The knights did not believe Arthur had pulled the sword from the stone so they all went back and made him do it again. Legend stated that whoever removed the sword from the stone was supposed to be crowned ... ...ing Arthur the group of men known as the Knights of the Round Table began to gradually get smaller until they were no more. This sad end to this group of men became known as the end of chivalry and the end of knighthood. (Ackerman. Round Table, 495) The legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table may be just that-a legend. But there are some facts that may prove some of these men actually lived, though not exactly the way they are described in the legend. There is no doubt that the Arthurian Legend still lives in the stories, poetry, and literature of the English and British culture and in many children's books. The books and poems tell about the highest ideals of chivalry, bravery and honesty; romantic qualities that legends are made of. Perhaps there were, a long time ago, real men who took up these qualities and lived storybook lives.