Finance assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Finance - Assignment Example The expected return figures obtained for these four companies are justified as they reflect in part the general trend observed in the various sectors. Watson and Head (2007) suggests that Biotech companies are expected to incur high cost of initial investment in research but with time they record high returns owing to the sale of their innovative products. The findings concur with those of Brown et al, (2012) who further proposes that the high returns for pharmaceutical companies increase exponentially as the new product’s market reach increases. On the other hand, Construction companies can be termed as safe investments as they have less risk, since most of the capital for such companies is held up in assets (Boritz, 2006) and (Megginson, 1996). This sector has high returns on investment owing to the booming real estate industry in Australia. The banking sector is dependent on the country’s economy and income levels of the people as discussed by Mishkin and Eakins (200 6). They state that since Australia is a developed country, over 90% of the people above 18 years of age operate bank accounts. With more people saving money with the banks, there is enough money to offer loans to businesses and individual thus making it a profitable sector. In contrast to this, the travel and leisure industry is highly affected with seasonal tourism experienced in Australia as reported in â€Å"An Introduction to Technical Analysis† (1999). Although most people may have disposable income to use in leisure, they prefer international destinations during seasons such as winter when the temperatures are very low. In addition, the competition in the sector, makes it a less profitable sector especially for small and medium companies. There are three major methodological setbacks associated with the Gordon’s growth model. Firstly, it is assumed that the growth rate is constant which might not necessarily be the case. Secondly, for stocks of growing

Kmart and Sears Merger Essay Example for Free

Kmart and Sears Merger Essay Kmart had been established in 1962 by its parent company S. S. Kresge as a discount department store offering the most variety of goods at the lowest prices. Un- like Sears, the company chose not to locate in large shopping malls but to establish its discount stores in highly visible corner locations. During the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s, Kmart prospered. Retail formats in operation Kmart – is a chain of discount stores that are usually free standing or located in a strip malls. Big Kmart – signals a different kind of Kmart. These stores are bigger, brighter and offer big savings, big value, big selection and big convenience. Big Kmart stores are designed to increase store sales by increasing the frequency of customer visits. The format focuses on three distinct businesses – home fashions, children’s apparel and consumables – and features an expanded food area known as the â€Å"Pantry†. Kmart Super Center is a chain of hypermarkets that carry everything a regular Kmart carries, but also have a full grocery section with meat and poultry, baked goods, a delicatessen, garden produce, and fresh seafood. Most Kmart Super Centers operate 24-hours a day and offer special services. In 1999 Kmart began offering a dial-up internet service called BlueLight, which was eventually spun off as an independent company. BlueLight was initially free and supported by banner ads. BlueLight dropped the free service in February 2001 and was reacquired by Kmart in July 2001. In 2002 United Online, which also owns NetZero and Juno, bought the BlueLight service after Kmart filed for bankruptcy. In August 2006, Bluelight dropped the banners. As of August 2006, the service costs $14. 95 a month and has around 165,000 subscribers. Promotional Pricing model Promotional pricing had always been the forte at Kmart. Offering a lower price temporarily in order to enhance the effectiveness of product sales efforts to cost sensitive consumer. In 1990, Wal-Mart overtook Kmart in sales, they tried to wean the company away from this strategy. Kmart cut process on 38,000 items and promoted the with expensive television commercials, which failed to lure younger shoppers. Then Wal-Mart countered by using its greater efficiency and economies of scale to fight back on pricing. The outcome was 1% drop in Kmart’s sales in December and 8% increase in those of Wal-Mart. Financial Analysis Prior to 2001, company was making continues losses, in order to understand scenario; we first analyze the period from 1995 to 1998. Here, Kmart started making some profit. And the second part from the year 1998 to 2002, where they actually went bankrupts. In 1995, the firm suffered a huge loss of $571 million. This was because of the non-performance of 127 international stores. It was in the same year that COGS as a percentage of sales were too high as 78%. Operating expenses as a percentage was in proportion to that of the industry. However due to the low performance of the international stores, stores outside t United States, Kmart had a bad financial year in 1995. It was the same year that the management decided to do away with the non preforming stores and thereby closed all its international stores and started four new stores in the home market. The list of stores by Kmart during the period can be seen as under: In 1999, COGS was 78% of sales as compared to 72 % of sales in the year 1998. Also, COGS increased drastically compared to increase in sales. Sales in 1999 increased by 6. 26%, however COGS increased by 12. 23%. Thus, there was a major decrease in the grow profit from 27% of sales to 21% of sales. This was the beginning of the downfall of Kmart. From here on, COGS kept on increasing. In 2002 COG reached 85%, thus gross margin reduced from 21% in 1999 to 14% in 2002. During the same time, Kmart’s operational efficiency too decreased and it increased from 18% in the year 1999 to 21% in 2002. Thus, increase in the COGS, lowering of the gross margin and increase in the operational costs, all contributes to the fall of Kmart. Competitors within the industry Its primary competitors were Wal-Mart, Sears, Target, Kohl’s, and J.  C. Penney, with secondary competitors in certain categories. Wal-Mart Wal-Mart followed the lower cost competitive strategy of cost leadership. According to our textbook cost leadership aims at the broad mass market and requires efficient scale facilities, cost reductions, cost and overhead control; avoids marginal customers, cost minimization in RD, service, sales force and advertising. Therefore Wal-Mart could get following benefits: this strategy provided defense against competitors, provides a barrier to entry for new competitors and generate increased market share. Wal-Mart managed to maintain â€Å"everyday low prices† and achieve highest sales in the industry. It should be noted that Wal-Mart’s 2005 revenues exceeded that of the next ? ve U. S. retailers combined: these are Home Depot, Kroger, Sears Holding Company (which includes Sears and Kmart), Costco, and Target. Wal-Mart’s technological edge is in its logistics, distribution, and inventory control helped it reduce cost and offer customers product cheaper than its competitors. Moreover it could benefit from economies of scale. Wal-Mart also used differentiation focus strategy by creating a product and service unique to customers, according to ReferenceForBusiness. com. It could be argued that this feature is not real and just in the mind of the customer; customers believed they were being offered something special. Wal-Mart achieved this strategy by offering unique warranties and brand images. Wal-Mart customers believed they were being provided with something that they cannot find at any of the stores competitors. Wall-mart’s value chain worked in following way: Vendors, Wal-Marts suppliers delivered products to Wal-Marts distribution center or directly to one of the stores. Wal-Mart was able to bargain for the lowest possible price because of the high volume of sales. Therefore, Wal-Mart could pass this savings to its customers. After that once the products were delivered to the distribution center, they were sorted and placed on trucks to be delivered to stores. This allows for less than 48 hour deliveries to stores and increased efficiency on trucks with backhauls. After products were delivered to the stores, they were placed on the appropriate shelf location for customers to view. Store locations were located throughout the U. S. in rural and urban towns. Moreover customers could purchase products at very low prices and have the ability to return any item. These were the key elements of Wal-Mart value chain. Overall Wal-Mart’s competitive advantage over its competitors was efficient supply chain management and lower prices achieved through maintaining low costs. Sears Sears, with the second-highest annual sales, had a strong position in hard goods, such as home appliances and tools. Around 40% of all major home appliance sales continued to be controlled by Sears. Nevertheless, Sears was struggling with slumping sales as customers turned from Sears mall stores to stand-alone, big-box retailers, such as Lowe’s and Home Depot, to buy their hard goods. Sears main competitive disadvantage was its store locations. Sears has been too slow to expand away from mall locations, industry analysts said. As Sears Chairman Alan Lacy said: â€Å"Our service and products are as good as our competitors but theyre not where our customers are. † Target Target was third in sales but second in profits, behind Wal-Mart. It used differentiation strategy and tried to offer customers quality products and had distinguished itself as a merchandiser of stylish upscale products. Targets mission statement focused on great guest service, clean stores and speedy checkouts. Along with Wal-Mart, Target had flourished to such an extent that Dayton-Hudson, its parent company, had changed its corporate name to Target. Its main focus was statically higher income consumers and early internet adopters. Target’s main competitive advantage was good customer service and quality product. This is where it creates value for its customers. Kohl’s, and J. C. Penney Both Kohl’s and J. C. Penney emphasized on soft goods, such as clothing and related items. They both chose differentiation strategy. Kohl’s concentrated on selling both private and exclusive brands which were â€Å"only at Kohl’s† as well as national brands like Nike, Adidas, Lee, Levi’s, Jockey, Van Heusen. Private and exclusive brands contributed a lot more to the gross margin as Kohl’s has significant control over the production, manufacturing and marketing expense of these brands. Keeping this in mind, Kohl’s has shifted its merchandise gradually towards this section of merchandise. In 2004, Kohl’s carried 25% in Private and Exclusive Brands, and this figure rose to 50% in 2011. Moreover it tried to provide â€Å"convenience† promise to customers an easy and satisfying shopping experience. Kohl’s organized departments by lifestyle, added signage and graphics depicting key trends, and presented merchandise to suggest how customers can create new looks. They also continued to improve inventory management to deliver more new product more often, to differentiate line mixes according to geographic preferences, and to assure a â€Å"shelf never empty† of products the consumer desires. J. C Penney targeted moderate income customs, mainly women who as company executive said that were with, â€Å"too little time, too little money, and two little kids. † Kmart versus Competitors Kmart’s main problem was that it did not have clearly defined competitive strategy. In 2001, Kmart proclaimed a new retailing strategy that included less advertising, fewer advertised specials, and lower daily prices on many items. In short, Kmart tried to challenge Wal-Mart as the everyday low-price leader. Wal-Mart responded to the Kmart challenge with still lower prices. These new initiatives further weakened the ? nancial position of Kmart Corporation. The Kmart assault on the Wal-Mart image as the low-price leader failed, and Kmart was left with huge volumes of unsold merchandise (Turner 2003, 71–72). Kmart forgot to take into consideration that its capacity to lower prices was limited because of its poor supply chain management, often popular products would be out of stock, in some cases stored in trailors outside of the stores. Kmart was not successful in using differentiation competitive strategy either. While Wal-Mart reigned supreme as the low cost leader, Target was perceived as being a â€Å"higher quality† retailer. There was basically nothing left for Kmart. In attempt to pursue differentiation strategy Kmart updated and enlarged the stores, added name brands, however this was not successful either, acquisitions all performed poorly posting minimal net income or losses and distracted management from core business. Kmart’s main competitive disadvantages were problems in value proposition, poor supply chain/inventory management and poor customer service. It needed to choose competitive strategy suitable for it and concentrate on it.

Timeline of Wars and Reasons for Wars :: History Essays

Timeline of wars/Reasons for Wars Trojan War c. 1200 BC lasted for approx. 9 years Greeks vs. people of Troy Trojan prince Paris abducted Helen, wife of Menelaus of Sparta. The Spartans refused to return Helen to Sparta so Menelaus persuaded his brother Agamemnon to lead an army against Troy. They fought for nine years but never were able to defeat he main city. The Greeks then built a large wooden horse in which warriors were hidden inside. The Greeks appeared to leave and the horse was left at the front gates of the city. The Trojans brought the horse inside the gates and the other Greeks returned at night. The people hidden inside the horse opened the gates for these Greeks and they destroyed Troy. This war could also have another motive as to who controlled trade through the Dardanelles. Punic Wars 264-146 BC Carthaginians vs. Romans The Carthaginians and Romans fought in three different wars over the course of 118 years. Romans fought the Carthaginians to ruin their hold on a chain of islands that would let them control the Western Mediterranean. The Romans wanted to have control. They then fought over land in Italy, particularly Sicily. In the third conflict, Carthaginians tried to save their city and land from being taken over completely by Romans. In these wars, they mainly fought over trade routes in the Mediterranean. Each wanted power and more territorial possession. Crusades (11th Century-13th Century) in the Holy Land The emperor of the Byzantine Emperor was upset with Turks encroaching on his empire. He went to the Pope Urban II and complained. He made up atrocities about the Turks. In 1096, The Pope Urban II promoted the Crusade to reclaim the Holy Land from the barbaric Turks. These crusades lasted till the 13th century. In the process, Jews were persecuted and lots of looting took place. Many countries took interest in the Crusades because they were ready for travel and adventure. They wanted to expand trade with the Middle and Far East and so the Crusades gave them a chance to open up trade routes with those countries. They used Christianity to justify the Crusades. In reality, they wanted to expand trade and gain more territorial land. Chinese History Often countries or leaders try to put too many restrictions on their subjects or territories and then the people rebel.

Attitude :: essays papers

Attitude 20th century writers dealt with many issues and themes throughout their writing. The authors that I have chosen to look at are Updike, Beatti, Rothke and Plath. These authors and their works will each be evaluated by how they deal with the subjects love, death, loss and passing of time. The short story â€Å" Separating â€Å" by John Updike deals with the subject of love and I also believe it deals with the themes â€Å" quest for identity† and â€Å" alienation and nausea â€Å". The story talks about how two parents are going through the process of telling their children that they are going to separate. This is important to them because they do love their children very much; they want to make the timing perfect so it is easier on the children. The father and mother seemed as though they needed to find out who they really were without their children. They did all things for the kids. They said that they loved one another but yet they didn’t make each other happy. I think that they just weren’t sure what made them â€Å"happy†. â€Å"Weekend â€Å" a short story by Ann Beattie deals with the subject of â€Å" loss of time â€Å" and the same theme that Updikes story dealt with â€Å" quest for identity â€Å" .I chose the subject of time because at first they loved one another and had a good relationship and then time passed and they ended up in such a weird place in their relationship. George had control over Lenore in the way that she never knows that she can leave him and be okay. She stays with him because she does care for him but also because she has a place to put her children and herself to sleep. â€Å"Wish for a Young Wife â€Å" a poem by Theodore Rothke is one that goes into the subject of loss or the idea of loss. This is a man who is telling his wife that he hopes that even while he grows old he wishes that she were beautiful and young for eternity. H e wishes her to never endure grief or hate; these are the very things that make one old. He could be very much in love with his wife and by wishing this for her, so she never looses her beauty.

Ethical and Psychological Egoism Essay

At first glance the theories of ethical egoism and psychological egoism may seem to be very similar, but in fact they differ greatly with respect to their status as making prescriptive or descriptive claims. Ethical egoism is a consequentialist ethical theory that argues each individual should seek to do what is solely in his or her self-interest, and in this fashion it makes a prescriptive claim. Moseley (2006) describes it in this way: â€Å"it is always moral to promote one’s own good, and it is never moral not to promote it. † Similarly, Rand (1964) defines it with respect to selfishness: â€Å"The attack on ‘selfishness’ is an attack on man’s self-esteem; to surrender one is to surrender the other† (p. 7). Therefore, for example, when facing the moral question of whether or not to buy Fairtrade coffee, ethical egoism dictates that the individual should not necessarily think about the employees who pick the beans in Columbia, but should instead consider whether or not buying Fairtrade will give that individual a good image, improve his or her own context, etc. In its strong version, ethical egoism asserts that it is always morally correct to seek one’s own good and never moral to not seek the same, whereas the weak version argues for the former, but not the latter. In this respect, according to strong ethical egoism, I should buy Fairtrade coffee only because of how it benefits me and the thought of benefit for any other person should not even be a consideration. The weak theory, however, still insists I buy the coffee because it benefits me, but it will not necessary condemn me if I also consider the benefit my purchase may bring to Columbian workers for their own sakes. Psychological egoism, in contrast to ethical egoism, is a purely descriptive theory in that it attempts to describe the way in which humans function: it claims the â€Å"fact† that every individual’s actions are driven solely by self-interested ends. However, in this descriptive theory there lies a problematic fallacy. Once one accepts the premise of psychological egoism, namely that everything an individual does is out of concern for self-interest, it is impossible to offer any counter-examples to the theory. For example, if I am a captain of a ship and have decided my crew is planning a mutiny against me, every action that the crew does, whether hostile or simply unimportant, will be interpreted by me as supporting my mutiny hypothesis. In other words, the theory of psychological egoism is simply non-falsifiable. A further difference between ethical egoism and psychological egoism is the doctrine of motivation that undergirds each. Because psychological egoism is merely a descriptive theory, it draws its motivation from nature, or simply â€Å"the way things are†. In this respect, a philosopher like Hobbes (1651) can argue for his contract theory of the state in order to thwart the natural inclinations of humanity to kill one another. His starting assumption is that the state of nature serves as the foundation or motivation for psychological egoism. On the other hand, ethical egoism as a prescriptive theory derives its motivation from the desires of the individual to maximize his or her own self-interests. Self-interest does not mean selfishness, per se, insofar as selfishness pushes for the maximization of individual gains without consideration of others. Rather self-interest may have a communal aspect which allows for achievement of personal goods that, though directed toward the benefit of the individual, may in fact correspond with achievement of goods for others (see footnote 1). Hobbes, T. (1651) Leviathan. Forgotten Books ebook. Retrieved from http://www. forgottenbooks. org Moseley, A/ (2006) Egoism. The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Retrieved from http://www. cep. utm. edu/e/egoism. htm Rand, A. (1964) The Virtue of Selfishness. New York: Signet, 1970

Free Essays on What Caused Wilson Change In Opinion To Enter WW1

There were many reasons for the United States involvement in the War, but Germany’s great desire for more power and global influence is the most evident. â€Å"Militarism was another cause of the war, it was similar to the arms race of today, because Britain had a great navy, Germany wanted a great navy too. Germany and France competed for larger armies. The more one nation built up its army and navy, the more other nations felt they had to do the same.† At the start of the war, President Wilson declared neutrality of the United States and most Americans opposed US involvement in the European war. Not only was the US culturally similar to Great Britain and France, but these two countries where our major trade partners. The US understood that if the Allies lost the war, it would have a tremendous effect on our economy. This is why America began to see Germany as the â€Å"enemy†. A declaration of war was partially brought about by the sinking of the Lusitania in May 1915 and later merchant ships such as the City of Memphis, Illinois and Vigilancia. In 1916 a passenger ship named the Sussex was sunk and a so called â€Å"Sussex Pledge†.On these ships were Americans, this unexpected sneak attack is known as unrestricted submarine warfare. Wilsons first attempts to mitigate the situation was through the â€Å"Lusitania notes†. These notes basically said, end the submarine warfare or else. One note that went to Berlin stated â€Å"The Imperial Government will not expect the United States to omit any word or any act necessary to the performance of its sacred duty of maintaining the rights of the United States and its citizens and of safeguarding their free exercise and enjoyment†. After a second â€Å"Lusitania note† was sent Germany came to a compromise, expressed regret and offered to pay for their attack. Wilson’s mediatio n was still not favored by the Germans (or Britain) they wanted a solid victory, especially since they felt they ha... Free Essays on What Caused Wilson Change In Opinion To Enter WW1 Free Essays on What Caused Wilson Change In Opinion To Enter WW1 There were many reasons for the United States involvement in the War, but Germany’s great desire for more power and global influence is the most evident. â€Å"Militarism was another cause of the war, it was similar to the arms race of today, because Britain had a great navy, Germany wanted a great navy too. Germany and France competed for larger armies. The more one nation built up its army and navy, the more other nations felt they had to do the same.† At the start of the war, President Wilson declared neutrality of the United States and most Americans opposed US involvement in the European war. Not only was the US culturally similar to Great Britain and France, but these two countries where our major trade partners. The US understood that if the Allies lost the war, it would have a tremendous effect on our economy. This is why America began to see Germany as the â€Å"enemy†. A declaration of war was partially brought about by the sinking of the Lusitania in May 1915 and later merchant ships such as the City of Memphis, Illinois and Vigilancia. In 1916 a passenger ship named the Sussex was sunk and a so called â€Å"Sussex Pledge†.On these ships were Americans, this unexpected sneak attack is known as unrestricted submarine warfare. Wilsons first attempts to mitigate the situation was through the â€Å"Lusitania notes†. These notes basically said, end the submarine warfare or else. One note that went to Berlin stated â€Å"The Imperial Government will not expect the United States to omit any word or any act necessary to the performance of its sacred duty of maintaining the rights of the United States and its citizens and of safeguarding their free exercise and enjoyment†. After a second â€Å"Lusitania note† was sent Germany came to a compromise, expressed regret and offered to pay for their attack. Wilson’s mediatio n was still not favored by the Germans (or Britain) they wanted a solid victory, especially since they felt they ha...

Assassination Attempt on Franklin D. Roosevelt

Assassination Attempt on Franklin D. Roosevelt Statistically, being the president of the United States is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world, since four have been assassinated (Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield, William McKinley, and John F. Kennedy). In addition to the presidents that have actually been killed while in office, there have been a myriad of unsuccessful attempts to kill U.S. presidents. One of these happened on February 15, 1933, when  Giuseppe Zangara tried to kill President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt in Miami, Florida. The Assassination Attempt On February 15, 1933, just over two  weeks before Franklin D. Roosevelt was inaugurated as President of the United States, FDR arrived at the Bayfront Park in Miami, Florida around 9 p.m. to give a speech from the back seat of his light-blue Buick. Around 9:35 p.m., FDR finished his speech and had begun talking to some supporters who had gathered around his car when when five shots rang out. Giuseppe Joe Zangara, an Italian immigrant and unemployed bricklayer, had emptied his .32 caliber pistol at FDR. Shooting from about 25 feet away, Zangara was close enough kill FDR. However, since Zangara was only 51, he couldnt see FDR without climbing up on a wobbly chair in order to see over the crowd. Also, a woman named Lillian Cross, who stood near Zangara in the crowd, claimed to have hit Zangaras hand during the shooting. Whether it was because of bad aim, the wobbly chair, or Mrs. Crosss intervention, all five bullets missed FDR. The bullets, however, did hit bystanders. Four received minor injuries, while Chicagos Mayor Anton Cermak was mortally hit in the stomach. FDR Appears Brave During the whole ordeal, FDR appeared calm, brave, and decisive. While FDRs driver wanted to immediately rush the president-elect to safety, FDR ordered the car to stop and pick up the wounded. On their way to the hospital, FDR cradled Cermaks head on his shoulder, offering calming and comforting words which doctors later reported kept Cermak from going into shock. FDR spent several hours at the hospital, visiting each of the wounded. He came back the following day to check on the patients again. At a time when the United States desperately needed a strong leader, the untested president-elect proved himself strong and reliable in the face of crisis. Newspapers reported on both FDRs actions and demeanor, putting faith in FDR before he even stepped into the presidential office. Why Did Zangara Do It? Joe Zangara was caught immediately and taken into custody. In an interview with officials after the shooting, Zangara stated that he wanted to kill FDR because he blamed FDR and all rich people and capitalists for his chronic stomach pain. At first, a judge sentenced Zangara to 80 years in prison after Zangara pleaded guilty, saying, I kill capitalists because they kill me, stomach like drunk man. No point living. Give me electric chair.* However,  when Cermak died of his wounds on March 6, 1933 (19 days after the shooting and two days after FDRs inauguration), Zangara was charged with first-degree murder and sentenced to death. On March 20, 1933, Zangara strode to  the electric chair  unaided and then plunked himself down. His last words were Pusha da button! *Joe Zangara as quoted in Florence King, A Date Which Should Live in Irony,  The American Spectator  February 1999: 71-72.

Definition and Examples of Modifiers in English Grammar

Definition and Examples of Modifiers in English Grammar In English grammar, a modifier is a  word, phrase, or clause that functions as an adjective or adverb to provide additional information about another word or word group (called the head). A modifier is also known as an adjunct. As illustrated below, modifiers in English include adjectives, adverbs, demonstratives, possessive determiners, prepositional phrases, degree modifiers, and intensifiers.   Modifiers that appear before the head are called premodifiers, while modifiers that appear after the head are called postmodifiers. Modifiers may be either restrictive (essential to the meaning of a sentence) or nonrestrictive (additional but not essential elements in a sentence). Examples of Different Modifier Usage Too many grammar terms in a row? Lets look at some examples. Authors  Gà ¼nter Radden and Renà © Dirven  illustrate the types with the most common ways that qualifying modifiers are used in Cognitive English Grammar. In all the examples here, the qualifiers modify the word detective and are in italics: (4a) Hercule Poirot is a  brilliant  detective.(4b)  Agatha Christies  detective Poirot is a legend all over the world.(4c) The detective  with the waxed moustache  solves the  most baffling  cases.(4d) Hercule Poirot is the  famous  detective  created by the English mystery writer Agatha Christie.(4e) Poirot is a detective  who has come to England as a war refugee.In sentence (4a), the adjective  brilliant  modifies the  predicate noun  detective.In sentence (4b), the head noun  detective  is modified by the complex  noun phrase  Agatha Christies, where the  genitive  morpheme  s  expresses the relation of possession.In sentence (4c), the noun  a detective  is modified by the  prepositional phrase  with the waxed moustache.In sentence (4d), two  nonrestrictive  modifiers are added to qualify the definite  referent  detective: the adjective  famous  and the  participial phrase  created by the English mystery-writ er Agatha Christie.In sentence (4e),  a detective  is modified by a  relative clause. Additional Examples of Modifier Types We could go further, to illustrate additional examples:   Hercule Poirot is a really good detective. The word really represents an intensifier for the adjective good. Really is an adverb, as it is modifying an adjective. Hercule Poirot is that detective. The word that is demonstrative. It distinguishes Poirot from at least one other detective. Hercule Poirot is the detective whos not wearing a deerstalker hat. The clause  is restrictive. The clause is essential to know which detective Poirot is, presumably from at least one detective who is wearing a deerstalker hat. The case was  almost  solved. The degree modifier (an adverb) shows how much of the case was solved. Instead of intensifying, degree modifiers qualify by giving the degree to which something is, like someone being fairly sure of something. Wearing a deerstalker hat, the murderer was caught by Sherlock Holmes. This clause represents a misplaced modifier  because it puts the hat on the murderers head instead of Holmes. If there were no subject of the sentence (eliminating by Sherlock Holmes), the opening phrase would be a  dangling modifier. Few detectives wear deerstalker hats. Few is a  quantifier, telling how many. Both Hercule Poirot and Sherlock homes are well-known detectives. The modifier is a  compound adjective. Source Radden, Gà ¼nter. Cognitive English Grammar. Cognitive Linguistics in Practice, Renà © Dirven, 2nd Edition, John Benjamins Publishing Company, July 5, 2007.

Decisions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Decisions - Essay Example This also takes into consideration the fact that decision-making is impossible to be the same in every organisation of a country, in spite of similar culture. But on the whole, it would be more or less identical and definitely, it would be totally different from organisations of another culture. Various cultures have different ways of approaching a problem and solving it. It could a participatory method or the time-honoured authoritative approach, or the decision-making might involve a group, or the topmost manager could take the total responsibility of it on his shoulders. Country related cultural factors like high or low masculinity, weak and strong uncertainty avoidance, and different ways of assessing the problem can all affect the process of decision making. Even if the outcome could be poles apart, the steps of decision making are more or less the same: identifying the problem, criteria, and allocation of weights to criteria and the final decision. If problems are framed to two people, it would definitely result in at least slightly different solutions and it is not surprising that two countries with diverse backgrounds, race and culture should have organisations that would take unidentical decisions in solving a management problem3. Defining the problem itself could be from absolutely dissimilar angles. From the decision-making point of view, a wrong diagnosis of the problem could definitely lead into wrong decision-making. Sometimes managers act without complete knowledge of the problem in haste4. Identifying the relevant criteria is the next step of decision-making. Judging the weight of the criteria, so that the decision could be taken accordingly is another step. Before making a decision, it is absolutely necessary to look at the alternatives and apply them to the criteria and assess and decide on the best-suited alternative under the circumstances. If alternatives are not considered, there is always a mischance of leavin g aside a better option. Rating each alternative against each criterion is the best way of taking a decision. Only after that, a decision could be arrived at and before the final decision, its credibility, far reaching affect and its suitability should be assessed. US AND JAPAN These two countries are absolutely different from one another in race, culture and outlook. Japanese had enormous success in industrial and technological field and since then they are pitted against United States in decision making. There is a crucial point that US has a top-down decision making process, where decisions come down from the top level and the rest are expected to follow it verbatim. But Japanese still believe in conventional society, and here the decisions are made at the operating level, 'a sort of bottom-up process' and such decisions are supported and approved by the organisation at all levels. There had been speculations in both countries about the success of the other's economy and researches have gone into the decision-maki

Acquisition of Northrop Grumman Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Acquisition of Northrop Grumman - Term Paper Example The primary objective of this paper is to recognize the overall structure of the company and whether acquiring it in order to obtain the company’s technological patent rights is a profitable venture or not. This paper has been formed by also considering the long-term future perspectives of the firm. Northrop Grumman was formed in the year 1994, by way of the purchase by Northrop. It is headquartered in Virginia, United States (Northrop Grumman, 2014). Northrop Grumman is one of the largest companies dealing in defense and aerospace technology. The main business sectors of the company are Aerospace systems, Electronic systems, Information systems and Technical services. The core values on which the firm is based on are quality, customer satisfaction, leadership as a company and as individuals, integrity in all actions as well as valuing employees and suppliers as effective members of the firm. Excellence, speed, collaboration and open communication are some of the key elements of behavior observed in this company. The firm gives adequate importance to its corporate responsibilities, ethics and business conduct. It uses advanced technology to deliver the best performance and to provide high-quality service for clients located across the globe. The security solutions provided by Northrop Grumman are highly innovative and is developed keeping in mind the importance of security and freedom for nations worldwide. Delivering such service is considered by them as not only a part of business goals but also a moral responsibility. Such values and philosophies make this company stand tall. Northrop Grumman aims at delivering technology solutions at maximized cost efficiency. They also pay attention towards developing innovative technical solutions for which they have formed an effective team of researchers and scientists who work towards discovering new and effective ways of dealing with aerospace and defense.

Identifying and Clarifying Opportunities Case Study

Identifying and Clarifying Opportunities - Case Study Example This approach to decision making may pose as one of the biggest challenges for future survival and growth of  MLR. MLR is positioned as a casual, full-service restaurant that caters to a relaxed and fun-loving crowd. The chain strives to attract people who enjoy socializing and hospitality. The management however does not want to project the restaurant as a pub, sports bar or other drinking establishment. The present positioning is based on the founding members own experiences and not on any marketing research. MLR competes in the marketplace on the plank of differentiation. The restaurant offers a signature dish which is consistent with consumer’s preferences for healthier diets. The founders did not use inputs from consumers before finalizing these important marketing decisions. Likewise, there has been no effort to segment the market on any quantitative or sophisticated market assessment tool. MLR is presently facing cash flow problems. The costs have risen, however the revenue has not increased proportionately. The restaurant has accumulated large amount of debt. Heavy interest payout is compounding the issue of large cash outflows. The annual sales of MLR have risen consistently from $1,472,000 in 2006 to $ 17,222,000 in 2009. The projected sales of $22,329,000 for the year 2010 represent a 30 percent growth over the previous year. On the face of it, these figures suggest that MLR is doing pretty well. However they mask some important aspects that need attention. First and foremost is the fact that rate of growth in sales has been falling every year as depicted in the table below. Despite this slowdown in the sales growth rate, revenue per store has continued to increase every year. During the fiscal year ended April 30, 2009, which included the worse part of the economic recession, the average revenue per store was $1,435, up from $1,372 during the comparative

Marketing report (Strategic analysis of Primark Stores Ltd.) Assignment

Marketing report (Strategic analysis of Primark Stores Ltd.) - Assignment Example Data gathering as a methodology of research is done in an exploratory manner. Sources of data come from secondary information from published statistics, journals and company website. Result of the situation analysis provides Primark vital information as to changes of objectives, strategies and marketing plan in order to attain profitability of the company. Proposal for new objectives, strategies and marketing plan is recommended. Part 1 showed that economic factors slows down growth of the industry, thus limiting potentials of Primark in UK; their leadership in the market is threatened by stiff competition, and that the image created by their â€Å"cheap† product does not augurs well for the company. In view of these findings, part 2 shows changes in the marketing objectives, strategies and marketing plan in order to correspond with the findings. Situation analysis has been done in order to provide information as to decisions for changes and improvement of the company. Title: Strategic Analysis of Primark Stores Ltd. From: To: Date: Strategic analysis of Primark Stores Ltd. Introduction This report comes in two parts. First part reports on the situational analysis of the environmental factors that influences strategic decision of Primark Stores Ltd. Second part details the strategic choices company should undertake in response to the major issues identified in the situation analysis. ... Part 2 includes recommendation for new marketing objectives, targeting and positioning, growth strategies, competitive advantage and a marketing mix program. Method of research. This will be an exploratory research wherein secondary data is gathered from published journals, company website, books and internet sources. Data is collated to form a concrete opinion and findings. Findings will be relevant to the company in forming strategic marketing decisions to improve strategies and approaches in Primark’s operation. Findings and discussion . Part 1. Report begins with the internal analysis of the company, and the external analysis of customers, competitors, and climate. Company. The Primark Stores Ltd. Started operations in Dublin, Ireland in June 1969. Today, it has expanded operations in other places; has increased the total number of its stores from 191 in 2009 to 204 in 2010 and plans to enlarge the number of their stores thru expansion by region. Their stores are located i n Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom, Iberia, Spain and in other places Its product line includes women’s wear, lingerie, children’s wear, men’s wear, footwear, accessories, hosiery and home ware. Image created in the market is the cheapest clothing retailer. Primark has become a fashion sensation through its high quality, high fashion basics culture. Immediate goal is to achieve profitability through expansion into new countries, arrive at new products that will excite customers and staff alike. Primark has established its leadership in the market through low cost and differentiation strategies to get the loyalty of its customers. Primark, in its annual report, has reported a 35% increase in income and is considered as an

Leadership Development Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Leadership Development - Case Study Example ermed as the major decision taken in the recent times and has been brought about in a forced way owing to the company performance and non satisfactory responses from the profit index. The global trends and the overall reduction in the profit as a result of it is another reason that has brought about such a move. The larger states such as Russia and its overall standing in the global economic market had its impact on the Ford’s overall performance leading to tougher decisions being made. Mr. Odell may have contributed on the structural function and strengthening of the Ford’s existence in the global innovations, however the domain and context of market capturing still desires to be gripped further in order to make most of the market potential. The experimental work on the Mustang comes as a challenge that has yet to be practically tested and determined with regard to its potential success. Mr. Farley has also got his work cut out in the form of fulfilling for the vacuum that is being created through the step wise retirement of the number of individuals who were long associated with the company. Replacing the expertise with relatively equal and effectively able individuals is a challenge that needs to be resolved. Bringing Ford to the previous top level of success and high profits is another challenge and goal that the two individuals must set before them in order to overcome the existing challenges. The job rotation helps the leadership in a way that it allows the individuals working in a different environment, meaning exposure to larger domain and coming up with improved performances. Rotation allows the employees working with freshness of mind and removes the element of redundancy and boredom by repeatedly working in a similar environment and similar surroundings. The impact of rotation can be either positive or negative for a given organization. It can be positive if it is handled properly as it promotes productivity and brings along diversity in the cause

Marketing report (Strategic analysis of Primark Stores Ltd.) Assignment

Marketing report (Strategic analysis of Primark Stores Ltd.) - Assignment Example Data gathering as a methodology of research is done in an exploratory manner. Sources of data come from secondary information from published statistics, journals and company website. Result of the situation analysis provides Primark vital information as to changes of objectives, strategies and marketing plan in order to attain profitability of the company. Proposal for new objectives, strategies and marketing plan is recommended. Part 1 showed that economic factors slows down growth of the industry, thus limiting potentials of Primark in UK; their leadership in the market is threatened by stiff competition, and that the image created by their â€Å"cheap† product does not augurs well for the company. In view of these findings, part 2 shows changes in the marketing objectives, strategies and marketing plan in order to correspond with the findings. Situation analysis has been done in order to provide information as to decisions for changes and improvement of the company. Title: Strategic Analysis of Primark Stores Ltd. From: To: Date: Strategic analysis of Primark Stores Ltd. Introduction This report comes in two parts. First part reports on the situational analysis of the environmental factors that influences strategic decision of Primark Stores Ltd. Second part details the strategic choices company should undertake in response to the major issues identified in the situation analysis. ... Part 2 includes recommendation for new marketing objectives, targeting and positioning, growth strategies, competitive advantage and a marketing mix program. Method of research. This will be an exploratory research wherein secondary data is gathered from published journals, company website, books and internet sources. Data is collated to form a concrete opinion and findings. Findings will be relevant to the company in forming strategic marketing decisions to improve strategies and approaches in Primark’s operation. Findings and discussion . Part 1. Report begins with the internal analysis of the company, and the external analysis of customers, competitors, and climate. Company. The Primark Stores Ltd. Started operations in Dublin, Ireland in June 1969. Today, it has expanded operations in other places; has increased the total number of its stores from 191 in 2009 to 204 in 2010 and plans to enlarge the number of their stores thru expansion by region. Their stores are located i n Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom, Iberia, Spain and in other places Its product line includes women’s wear, lingerie, children’s wear, men’s wear, footwear, accessories, hosiery and home ware. Image created in the market is the cheapest clothing retailer. Primark has become a fashion sensation through its high quality, high fashion basics culture. Immediate goal is to achieve profitability through expansion into new countries, arrive at new products that will excite customers and staff alike. Primark has established its leadership in the market through low cost and differentiation strategies to get the loyalty of its customers. Primark, in its annual report, has reported a 35% increase in income and is considered as an

The needs of future generations are being met by current policies of Essay - 1

The needs of future generations are being met by current policies of sustainable development. To what extent do you agree with this statement - Essay Example s individuals have become increasingly aware of fragile environment and the need to promote utility of the individual not met them as well is generated at the same time. As a function of seeking to answer the degree and extent to which current policies is development are assisting future generations the following analysis will consider three case study involving pollution, global warming, precise as a function of seeking to answer this broader overarching question. It is the further hope of this particular author that such a level of discussion and analysis will be beneficial with regards to representing the reality in which the current world exists is further utility and sustainability of the plan as well as the individuals that call it home currently those that will one day live upon. Further, even though a global level of understanding relates to this specific topic, a level of analysis will be provided on Singapore; allowing for a more individualized and focused analysis. Firstly, with respect to the issue of recycling, it can be noted that current policies of sustainable development encourage recycling as a means of ensuring that the same level of resources will be available future generations as are currently available. Great progress has been made with respect to encouraging recycling and in some cases incentivizing; actually paying firms and/or individuals to dispose of their waists in a responsible manner so that this process will gain a degree of traction and, reinforce behavior that is exhibited elsewhere throughout society. However, there is a fundamental drawback with respect to the way in which recycling programs are being throughout the developed world. One of the most prominent of these has to do with the fact that recycling programs are not mandatory. Accordingly, those individuals that the recycling is either a hassle or useless towards improving their own lives will not integrated with an continue to dispose of garbage and other waste and an

Performance in a Business Environment Essay Example for Free

Performance in a Business Environment Essay The purpose and benefits of continuously improving my own performance at work is to move one step forward and exceed my limitations, achieve further goals, self-motivation, not to be the same person and on the same position after a certain of time, to exceed my performance at work and doing work, improving my own performance helps me to progress on my career and give me a job satisfaction. However this leads me to evaluate my own work by looking at the work that takes the most time, and what actions can I take to do this task in a less time, however at the same time I look at the best part of the job that I do and also look for areas where I can improve. I normally speak to my colleagues that are more experience than me regarding this and take advice as well as guidance to do so. It is so important for me to get feedback and to accept it from others as this will help me to learn from my mistakes and be more confident in the work I am doing. Receiving feedback also helps me see myself from the perspective of others and how other people see me I always accept feedback whether positive or negative, as positive will help me to work harder and keep the good work I’m doing, as well as negative will help me to learn from my past failures and mistakes so I can correct them. In every organisation it is so important to provide a Good quality piece of work, as a very challenging person I always try new ways, different ways to do my work with a good quality and within less time scale. I always learn new things either in the office as my day to day tasks or at home for my long term career goals. My own learning and development does not only improve my work and productivity, it improves and benefits the team I work with as well as the whole organisation. The more I learn, the more I can do. This benefits the organisation by increasing productivity. It helps me to identify gaps between my job requirements or future work roles and the existing knowledge, understanding and skills. This is one of the reasons that we have in our organisation a private website that provides different short courses for self-development. The progression route from my current role will be towards a Management Information Analysts role, and then eventually a Business Analyst role as my long term role. This will also help me work towards my career I wish to pursue in the educational field, where I will have to also demonstrate data management tasks on my day to day tasks at work. After completing my Apprenticeship in Business and Admin L3, I am looking forward to starting an Apprenticeship L4 with a hard working to  develop my career to the next level as Management Information Analysts towards my long term career as a Business Analysts. I already have experie nce working in education, retail and IT. I will be working harder to meet my above career development with a good salary package and job description, where I can best use my skills, talents and capabilities. So by developing my skills I can look at possible interesting careers and sectors that I might be interested in and develop my opportunities in securing a good job. A learning plan is a way for everyone to set personal targets and record achievements. It helps me as a person to keep on track towards where I want to be in my life and my work. The reason for making a plan is, it simply helps me to take more control of my future, by reminding me what I have learned, achieved and enjoyed. Creating my plan can help me develop more confidence in my ability to tackle new things, become more employable, and get more out of life.

Introduction Of The Smartphone

Introduction Of The Smartphone The first ever cell phone was invented by Martin Cooper on April 3rd, 1973, that was only for two pounds. The height of that phone was 10 inches, depth 3 inches and the width an inch and a half (Motorcity, 2003). At that time it was the only way to communicate with each other. And at that time it was not available to the general population and it was used for the first time only businesses and government. In 1992, the first Smartphone invented by IBM, known as a Simon Smartphone. This was a big breakthrough in the field of technology and for the requirements of people. Because people want to connect with each other with in a small period of time. It becomes possible to send messages and sending email to each other with the help of Smartphone. To understand that one technological device could change culture of customer, style of living and the whole society. After the invention of Smartphone a sudden change came into being in the human life and finds the way to go ahead in the field of technology. It is not possible to find anyone without smart phone. The smart phone is very essential device because of this you can talk to your clients, family members and colleagues. In other words a smart phone is also known as Personal Computer (PC) with advanced capabilities and functionality. The Importance of Smartphone When discussing the topic of new media the importance of networks are very essential. With the help of networks the whole world is connected with each other. And this is the easiest way to connect with your family members, friends and clients. When someone is going to purchase a cell phone he will think about the service of his area, the size of the phone, about the price of the phone then you have to make a decision to purchase a phone. If consumer purchases a smartphone he will be very happy with the functions of smartphone than any other in the market. IT professionals are tasked with developing more applications for smartphones as worldwide consumption continues to grow in 2010 and beyond. When technology professionals design web-based and computer-based applications, they should consider compatibility with smartphones and other mobile devices. Many webmasters already create web content with mobile users in mind. For example, the Internet giant Yahoo! offers a Mobile Web for phones like the Blackberry and iPhone. Role of Social Media Social media is playing a vital role in the success of martphones, because of social media its possible to share data, videos, pictures, and other tasks. Facebook, Twitter and MySpace are the example of social media. Social media and smartphones means to connect more and more people online even on mobile. Operating System of Smartphone In 2010 the market of smartphone operating system changed. For customer and businessmen the impoetance of smartphone is very essential. Because without smartphone its not possible to keep in cotact with each other, with clients and with family members and friends. Key features of Smartphone: Wi-Fi With the help of this feature you can connect wireless internet connection. Using Wi-Fi the speed of internet will be very high. Push Notification By push notification we mean that you can receive messages, emails and you do not need to log in to check your account. Social Networking Social Networking means those websites such as Facebook, YouTube and Twitter by which we can communicate with each other individually and as well as groups and also can share photos, videos and album. QWERTY Keyboard QWERTY keyboard is the layout and this keyboard allows you to search and browse the internet and send emails and text. One may see a smartphone as one that offers a complete keyboard with internet and email functionality, and some may only view a smart phone as a phone with a full operating system (OS) and applications. A smartphone is a full-featured mobile phone that comes equipped with the personal computer like functionality. So it is the most efficient way of being mobile and carrying your office with you. Most of these phonescome with a camera that supports email capabilities and serves as a complete personal organizer. This is true that the smartphones are the helping hand of the several businessmens. Because of the technological features of mobile phones these are called smart phone. In these days smartphone is a basic demand of every businessman and company. By latest technology it includes to share his idea with their partners and colleagues. With the help of smart phone we can watch live match if you are somewhere else it does not matter, breaking news. We can get help from smart phone like human bodies. In next five years change will take place suddenly in smartphones. If we study last few years about phones we will understand that how quickly changes occurred from time to time, therefore in next few years the improvement in technology will take place. PC Replacements The basic change in smartphones in next few years will occur that it starts working like laptops. It means that in future those people who have smartphones they do not need to buy laptops and personal computers. So smartphones will replace PC in next five years. Joined Devices After long time finally its become possible to connect devices with each other like bluetooth in PC and in laptop can connect with smart phones. In next few years it will be possible to know about you that now where are you and what do you want to do because of smart phones. Smart phones will become a single device in next few years yes it is true because the smart phones are moving in a straight forward direction. There are alot of confusion because of the variety of mobiles phone and competency. If you want to have a great mobile than smartphone is the best choice among all. Smartphone is much better than any other mobile phone. If you have smartphone you can move your office with where you want so than you do not need to buy personal computer or laptop because in smartphone there is an operating system like personal computer and laptop, so nowadays most of smartphones are with their camera. Top ten Smartphone iPhone 3GS The iPhone 3GS continues to bring together three incredible products in one A revolutionary phone, a widescreen iPod and a breakthrough Internet device with full web browsing and easy e-mail access. HTC Desire HTC have yet again outdone themselves with another superb smartphone, this time in the form of the HTC Desire! Powered by a monstrous 1GHz Snapdragon processor and displayed through a stunning AMOLED 3.7 inch full touchscreen. Samsung Wave The Samsung Wave mobile phone allows for a brighter, clearer and less reflective view with the Super AMOLED 3.3 inch wide display touchscreen. BlackBerry 9700 The BlackBerry 9700 is jam-packed with all the very best Blackberry features including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, HSDPA, full QWERTY keyboard, 3G technology and Push e-mail! BlackBerry 8520 Smart, sleek and classy the Blackberry 8520 Curve is here to entertain, organise and communicate. Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 The first Android mobile phone from Sony Ericsson, the Xperia X10, has a stunning 4 inch touchscreen, 1GHz Snapdragon processor and truly next generation features, such as Timescape and Mediascape. Sony EricssonVivaz The Sony Ericsson Vivaz mobile phone is here to deliver high performance, responsive touch control, multimedia, entertainment and connectivity, just how you want it. Memory Cards You can greatly improve the memory of your Smartphone by purchasing a memory card. This allows you to save and store more applications, music, photos, videos and more. Your Smartphone can become a multimedia entertainment centre! The best thing is, you can pick the size (or capacity) of the memory card to suit your needs or budget! Nearly all Smartphones are compatible with MicroSD memory cards and our memory cards range from 2GB to 8GB. Screen Protectors Protect the most expensive part of your smartphone the display, with a screen protector. This essential purchase is cheap but crucial and will greatly improve the protection from chips and scratches on your Smartphones screen. Screen protectors are extremely easy to attach to your Smartphones, and once fixed in place, are virtually unnoticeable. Bluetooth Headsets With a Bluetooth headset you can make and take calls on the move, wherever you are and keep your hands free! Using the Bluetooth connection on your Smartphone, a Bluetooth headset will allow you to talk without needing to hold your phone. This means your Smartphone can be safely stored in your laptop, purse, bag or pocket! Summary Smartphones are playing very vital role in the world. Without smartphines it is not possible to connect with each other even with members of the same organisation. So it is very clear if you have smartphone then it does not matter you can contact with relatives, friends, clients. And you can move your office any where in the world. As discussed above that smartphones have operating system so then you do not need to buy personal computer and laptop. Because the smartphone gives you that work which personal computer and laptop do. In next five years amazing change will occure in smartphones by the improvement of technology. Smartphone will replace personal computer because it has the complete keyboard and many other functions which personal computer has. So it is true that within the next few years smartphones will become the single most important digital device we own. Role of E-commerce in Ebays and Amazons popularity E-commerce is playing very vital role in the popularity of ebay and amazon. Because it is only possible to buy goods online from ebay and amazon. Without electronic commerce its not possible for ebay and amazon to reach at this top level. By the help of e-commerce everyone can buy things online without any problem. So it means that without e-commerce ebay and amazon can not acheive the goals and objectives. E-commerce or electronic commerce means purchasing and selling of goods and services and exchanges on the Internet. On Internet with a big success of ecommerce commonly we can say that it is shopping at World Wide Web. Simply we can say that when we do online shopping it is called ecommerce. Types of E-commerce B2B (Business-to-Business) Business-to-Business means that when company dealing with each other like wholesalers selling to retailers, and manufacturers selling to distributors. In this kind of business customer or client will not be included. B2C (Business-to-Consumer) In this kind of businesses selling is directly to consumer through cart software. C2B (Consumer-to-Business) In C2B business a consumer put his project online and then different organisation study the consumers needs and then try to get that project. And then consumer selects the company that can do the project. C2C (Consumer-to-Consumer) C2C business means that everyone is free to buy and sell from each other by online payment system. Like Amazone and eBay is alive examples of C2C business where alot of transaction take place everyday. Role of 2.0 technologies in Ebays and Amazons popularity Web 2.0 was introduced in 2004 and know as the second generation of the World Wide Web. It does not relate to a particular type of Web. Examples of 2.0 are listed below: Blogs: Blogs means that users can post and upgrade their profile of life on the Web. Wikis: It enables the users from the whole world to update and add online content. Social networking: MySpace and Facebook are the present examples by which people can interact with their friends and update their own profile. Web application: By the help of variety of new applications users can run programs directly in a browser. 1. Making money Of course. Since the first data-scraping and sniping tools well, wait, make that since eBay first opened its APIs to developers, the eBay development ecosystem has grown with the volume of eBay transactions. eBay sellers sold $60B last year, and the 80,000 developers who helped sellers research, list, and service all those transactions also received their cut. 2. Useful technology eBay has some of the greatest technology and data assets on the web. The technology of eBay and PayPal is useful on a massive scale. PayPal has 70 million users. eBay sees 150 million unique visitors per month, and supports 70 million sellers worldwide. The developer community that provides applications for eBay sellers and buyers uses the eBay APIs to drive as much as 60% of eBay transactions. 3. Accessible technology Mark emphasized the importance of mobile applications.The eBay iPhone application is a strong start. It is clear that he believes eBay should make a powerful effort to enable mobile usage. eBay and its third-party developers still need to make some breakthroughs to enable accessibility. 4. Technology adapted to you Today, your cell phone is a communications device, an entertainment center, a mall, and a social network. Tomorrow, it may also be your wallet. Already you can instantly repay a loan to a friend who has a PayPal account. Soon, In-N-Out Burgers may accept PayPal, and you will be able to pay for your burgers at the counter from your cell phone. PayPal is uniquely adaptable for this kind of use, because it is a single global payment network, with end-to-end transaction visibility, good risk protection and fraud detection, integrated with more than 15k banks. PayPal unifies the worlds disparate money systems to enable payments anywhere. The big news in adaptable technology is that the PayPal Developer Program is opening up later in 2009. Third-party developers will use flexible APIs for sending money to create mobile payments applications that will change the way people pay for things. 5. Open platform eBay released a new developer opportunity today.SM Apps lets developers embed seller applications in ebay.com, just as you can embed applications in Facebook. The difference is that with SM Apps developers can make money, charging a one-time fee or using a subscription model for use of their application. Because the SM Apps platform uses the Gadgets specification, applications built for eBay can also operate elsewhere on the web, including on other portal pages. The Selling Manager tool has 270,000 active, paying businesses operating in the U.S. alone. As Mark said, While other platforms are trying to figure out monetization we are set up for you [the developer] to take a cut, and we hope you will. Summary E-commerce and Web 2.0 technologies are the way of popularity of ebay and amazon. Everyone in the world knows about the role of e-commerce and amazon. So in this essay the importance of e-commerce and amazon are discussed in brief. Ebays and amazons popularities are connected with e-commerce and web 2.0 technologies. So it is not possible without e-commerce and web 2.0 technologies that ebay and amazon get popularity. Everyday there are alot of buying and purchasing occurred in daily life and these transaction are increasing day by day, by this we can say that these two are the key factors in the popularity of ebay and amazon.

Genetic Engineering Essays -- Genetic Engineering

Just imagine the scene: and newlywed wife and husband are sitting down with a catalog, browsing joyously, pointing and awing at all the different options, fantasizing about all the possibilities that could become of their future. Is this a catalog for new furniture? No. This catalog for all features, phenotype and genotype, for the child they are planning to have. It is basically a database for parents to pick and choose all aspects of their children, from the sex of the child, to looks, and even to personality traits. Parents since the beginning of time have â€Å"planned† to have children, but never have they been able to legitimately â€Å"plan† out their child. This scene does not seem typical for our time and age, but truthfully it is what is becoming of our world. Through substantial research and experimentation that is taking place, scientists, specifically biologists, are becoming keener to the field of engineering. Genetic engineering that is. When one thinks of â€Å"genetic engineering,† the first thought is probably a perfect child, or paradoxically some inconceivable creature, forged under the microscope in a scientific laboratory. Though both of these are genetic engineering, many people do not consider other things, such as genetic engineering of agriculture and medicine, both of which are extremely useful. Through the genetic altering of plants and crops, scientists have been able to manipulate their genes to withstand lower temperatures, to resist herbicides and insects, and to even extending shelf life of some particular products (Gert 1). This technology has made farmers more prosperous, as well as given the population more food that will last longer. In medicine, â€Å"a patent has already been applied for to mix human embryo... ...engineering gone too far?† 1). The creation of â€Å"chimeras,† animals containing cells from another animal, has been one of the biggest controversial topics in genetic engineering (ibid). Researchers fret over creating new diseases by combining genes to make new ones (ibid). If this were to happen, political figures may step in and enforce strict guidelines and regulations for genetic engineering. In fact, in 2006, President George Bush asked to prohibit the creation of â€Å"human-animal hybrids† (ibid). Other scientists retaliate by claiming that these â€Å"chimeras† can help find cures to known diseases, and could become one of the most helpful tools in their arsenal of ideas for the future (ibid). Either way, whether or not the use of chimeras is acceptable is debatable. If used, they could bring up new problems as well as solve old ones that have riddled us for decades.

Stereotypes and Stereotyping in A Tale of Two Cities Essay example --

Stereotypes in A Tale of Two Cities      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Charles Dickens stereotypes many of his Characters in A Tale of Two Cities. Among these stereotyped characters are The Marquis D' Evremond, Lucy, and Miss Pross. These particular stereotypes were probably intentional, for Dicken's was not a skilled writer.        Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Marquis d' Evremond was probably intentionally stereotyped. His character is basically used to represent the French Military of the time, so he was as cruel, ignorant, and pompous as the French citizens were at that time. His actions when his carriage runs over a child clearly show Dickens's motive: to portray the French Military of the era as kind and generous citizens, and to sort of justify the French Revolution. His dialogue with Miss Pross early in the story also shows his contempt for the proletariat; furthering his role as the stereotype of the Military. Just as he symbolizes the blood spilled in the revolution, his birth symbolizes the fall of the Monarchy to come.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Lucy'...

Reflective Practice Essay

Reflective practice is the process of looking back on the work you have previously done in order to get better understanding of yourself, how you work, your thoughts, feelings and anything you can learn from those experiences, whether good or bad. It is a way of learning by reviewing and thinking back over a situation or an activity. As a result you can identify your strengths and weaknesses and start working on improving yourself. Most of the time you do some form of reflection without even realising it. You can use different methods for a reflective practice: keeping a diary or a journal, writing down what happened can help you get a clear picture of a situation having a debriefing, supervision, group discussion as your colleagues and manager can provide a vital support and help in reviewing your practice simply taking a break and thinking about what happened can help you put your thoughts in order. Following an example of a reflective circle, that contains six steps, can give you an idea of how to reflect. 1. Description- think about what happened? 2. Feelings- what did you think and how did you feel about it? 3. Evaluation- what were the positives and the negatives? 4. Analysis- what sense can you make of it? 5. Conclusion- what else could you have done? 6. Action plan- what will you do next time? Reflective practice is important as it helps to improve the quality of service we deliver. It can give you an awareness of your own personal thoughts and feelings, your strengths and weaknesses. It can help you identify learning needs, which areas you need to improve and work on. In effect it’s a great professional development tool. Reflective practice can help you learn what works for certain service users, as they are all individual, sometimes different approach and attitude needs to be taken. You will gain the knowledge of what could be added or taken  away in order to provide an individual care package. It will help you to think about how you work, what you’ve done well and what can you do to improve the things in the future. Care Standards are essential when it comes to a reflective practice as they help care workers provide the same quality of care across the service. You need to know the standards to understand what is expected of you as a support worker, you should than reflect on them to make sure they are met in your every day work.

Destiny and Henley Essay

â€Å"Invictus† was written by Henley when he was in the hospital with tuberculosis. While in his twenties he contracted a tubercular infection that led to his leg being amputated below the knee. Later he developed the same infection in his other leg and was told it would have to be removed as well. Henley refused to have it amputated and sought the help of a doctor who had developed antiseptic medicine. Twenty months later Henley had finally recovered and was able to leave the hospital. It was during this dark time in his life when he wrote â€Å"Invictus†. When you read the poem you can see how passionate he felt: â€Å"I thank whatever gods may be / For my unconquerable soul†(Henley). Instead of falling into despair, Henley was able to be thankful that, though his body was beaten, his soul wasn’t. Even in the highest of his horrible circumstances, Henley refused to let life defeat him, but instead he rose up and fought back: â€Å"In the fell clutch of circumstance / I have not winced nor cried aloud† (Henley). He did not waste his time despairing over what he had lost, but instead focused on getting better. You can also see how desperately determined he was: â€Å"I am the master of my fate / I am the captain of my soul† (Henley). He refused to give into the idea that someone else was in control of his life. In the poem he cites â€Å"the bludgeonings of chance,† which shows he felt it was simply fate that this happened to him, and yet he went on to defiantly state that he was in control of his own destiny (Henley). By looking closely at â€Å"Invictus†, you can clearly see the struggles that Henley went through in his own life. The powerful tone in â€Å"Invictus† is gloomy and dark although Henley remains optimistic and with the help of the three types of figurative language the dark tone is constantly seen throughout the poem helping readers truly feel the misery the author is going through . Invictus could be taken as a hopeful poem for those suffering, constantly being reminded that you are the â€Å"Captain of your soul† and that it is you choosing to live in pain or be brave when facing a challenge. â€Å"Beyond this place of wrath and tears† refers that the writer has hope for the after life. Finds, and shall find, me unafraid† refers to the fearlessness of the writer â€Å"My head is bloody, but unbowed. † refers to his courage to fight. The use of imagery in â€Å"Invictus† provides readers with deeper sense of the poem and connects them to the author’s true feelings. Henley uses strong relevant adjectives to paint a picture of the horrors of misery he feels in the beginning and towards the end of the poem he allows readers to grasp that it was his bravery that helped him overcome the impossible. The theme of â€Å"Invictus†is one that appeals to most people. It is the idea that you control your fate more than anyone else ever will. In a world that cares nothing for us and often seems to be trying to destroy us, we can overcome all odds and be victorious because we, and we alone, are masters of our own fate. This is proven through the circumstances that the poem was written under. Instead of submitting to the original prognosis of the doctors and having his other leg removed, Henley chose to take charge of his life, find a new doctor, and ultimately change the course of his life (Invictus: A Study Guide). The theme is one of triumph and survival. Despite all odds, despite all expectations, Henley took control of his destiny and came out victorious. The fact that Henley wrote this during a dark time in his life added a wealth of emotion to the poem; he was writing from his heart and it was obvious. The overarching theme of the poem is relevant to everyone because when it comes down to it, we all want to feel like our life actually has meaning and is not just a sum of chance circumstances and happenings. The use of imagery in â€Å"Invictus† provides readers with deeper sense of the poem and connects them to the author’s true feelings. Henley uses strong relevant adjectives to paint a picture of the horrors of misery he feels in the beginning and towards the end of the poem he allows readers to grasp that it was his bravery that helped him overcome the impossible.

Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 31

Research - Essay Example The findings linked with the studies done at Vancouver School of doing phenomenology to develop methods of answering the research questions. Moreover, the chosen method increased knowledge and understanding of the phenomena. The research used clinical, theoretical and policy findings as significant factors in the therapy of the disease. Clinical treatment incorporated exercises, to lessen the pain and rise fitness, as well as well-being of a patient (Petursdottir, Arnadottir & Halldorsdottir, 2010, p.3). Besides, theoretical aspects entailed the development of a conceptual model, which indicated many external and internal factors as having significant impacts on the exercise behavior among people with osteoarthritis. Policy in the curing of the disease included the adaptation of regular exercises at least thrice a day. Regular exercise would assist osteoarthritis patients to ease their muscles and reduce pain with joints around their hips and knees. Strict following of clinical, theoretical and policy aspects of osteoarthritis would greatly heal various patients and assist in reducing pain within their joints. Readers were able to hear and understand the phenomena studied, since the participants talked about physical therapists and physical therapy, as the main factors of the study. Moreover, clear communication of the members and a sense of positive connection equally contributed to an important aspect of the physical results. Readers can find elements of the research report, since all the aspects of the osteoarthritis categorized in the research, for easy access and analysis of the research findings. In addition, knowledge of the disease and practical experiences incorporated into the research report for readers to understand phenomenal aspects of osteoarthritis. Overall presentation of the research was suitable for the purpose, method and findings since statistics taken by the participants included the interpretation of charts and

What is existentialism in the art world Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

What is existentialism in the art world - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that existentialism can be described as a philosophy that came about during the occupation together with the French post-war era of 1945.This was an era of great transformation with the atrocities and aftermath of the World War II leaving Europeans and possibly the whole world’s population re-examining the significance of their existence and simultaneously being confronted by not only death, nuclear threat but also mass destruction. During the post-war era, existentialism spread through to all aspects of mainline modern-day thinking which saw a general interest for explaining man’s place within the field of things being developed. The greatest exponent of existentialism Jean-Paul Satre took Martin Heidegger’s and Soren Kierkegaard's texts and re-examined and added them to a contemporary existentialism philosophy. Other prominent existentialists comprise Genet, Beckett, Camus, Ponty, Ponge as well as Simone de Beauvoir w ho was also Sartre’s partner. Thus, the post-war climate brought with it not only a new but also devastating dimension for the person as well as the world politics. The philosophy of existentialism is closely related to art production. Thus according to Sartre, the consciousness of man is subjective and therefore can never objectively become aware of its own self except via â€Å"Other’s gaze†. Consequently, if other individuals act as mirrors, then it means the work of art too can be viewed as a mirror.