What Does Time Management Mean - 1111 Words

Effective Time Management Throughout years of experience with balancing school, work, and family affairs; learning how to manage your time effectively can become a bit time consuming. The benefits however are well worth the effort it takes to master time management. Time management consists of three major components motivation, flexibility, and organization. At times juggling these components can become overwhelming and stressful for those individuals who are not under usual time constraints. Although, managing your time takes a bit of extra work in the planning process, once you have an effective and detailed proposal in motion it will become easier to manage your time. What does time management mean? Most individuals simply are unaware of what successful time management entails. Being able to convey what effective time management skills are composed by you have to define the goal at hand. The definition of time management, is taking action to process, plan, and exercise a conscious control over the amount of time someone spends on a specific activity, especially when increasing one’s effectiveness, efficiency or productivity. When breaking up time, essentially, it is broken up into two separate types, the clock time and real time. By definition, clock time is based on the sixty minutes in each hour, whereas real time is based on how one feels about it. Nevertheless, whether you feel time is dragging along owing to the fact that you are doing something undesirable. On theShow MoreRelatedEssay about Ebay Analysis872 Words   |  4 PagesSufficient customers and suppliers Threshold competences †¢ Account management †¢ All other general managerial skills †¢ Sophisticated ICT skills †¢ Customers and suppliers who are competent Unique resources †¢ The biggest on-line electronic exchange platform †¢ The eBay brand †¢ First mover advantage †¢ An active and vocal community of users †¢ Learning from experience Unique competences †¢ A unique form of account management that balances central control versus decentralised community involvement Read MoreChanges Within The Workplace After The Economy, Technology, And Globalization1355 Words   |  6 Pagesor her household at a young age. The feeling of this type of obligation at times in today’s society are seen, but are not as prevalent. Instead of young people focusing on their studies, and skill set, they often have to find employment that he or she initially do not want to do, which often times leads to entry-level positions that are typically left. Allowing managers to often alienate and exploit the employee. What this often leads to in organizations is the ineffective managerial approachesRead MoreThe Future of Management956 Words   |  4 PagesAbstract Management development strategies of many organizations seemed to converge in the nineties. We thought the world would stay on a standstill when the millennium loomed. The new word on the street was Y2K. So what are the concerns for the current state of management development, and what we expect for the future to hold? This paper will tackle such issue. The Future of Management Companies are geared into increase in efficiency and productivity, better choice of goods, moreRead More The Future of Management Essay904 Words   |  4 Pages Abstract Management development strategies of many organizations seemed to converge in the nineties. We thought the world would stay on a standstill when the millennium loomed. The new word on the street was â€Å"Y2K.† So what are the concerns for the current state of management development, and what we expect for the future to hold? This paper will tackle such issue. The Future of Management Companies are geared into increase in efficiency and productivity, better choice of goods, more competitiveRead More-Multitasking:This Has Been One Of The New Catch Expressions1370 Words   |  6 Pagesmyth that anyone as a human can concentrate on two things at one time. The truth is that our brains is so fast that it seems that we are doing so, but in fact we are jumping back and forth from one subject to the other and are repeating the process. Knowing this means that when someone attempts to do this his or her work output is diminished greatly. This is a pitfall to avoid in time management. Instead, one should simply plan what is desired to be done then stick to it until the task is completedRead MoreAvion Case 1828 Words   |  4 Pages1.What parts of the supply chain are most closely involved with the situation in this case? What is the responsibility of each part in order to maintain smooth flow of material? There are two components of the supply chain that have broken down in this instance, materials management and production. Materials management is responsible for correctly forecasting the needed supplies and materials and passing that information off to the supplier. Production is responsible for maintaining a good lineRead MoreBeing A Manager Is A Tough Task Essay1653 Words   |  7 Pagestactics or management styles. One such style is management by exception, which can help the management understand where their attention is to most needed. Let’s delve deeper into the concept, the way it works and what its principles are. I’ll also look at the advantages of the popular method, as well as outline some of the drawbacks you must be aware of before opting for the framework. 1 The definition So what does management by exception mean? Firstly, it’s one of the many management practices orRead MoreThe Ethics Of Business Management Essay1279 Words   |  6 PagesDr. Lisa Calvano, I did not have the impression that research was involved in any part of business management. After meeting with her, I learned exactly how important research is to the business management discipline. Research in business management is a systematic investigation that helps to answer complications and problems within businesses. Research in the field contributes to solid management understanding and knowledge. Information from research is usually produced by classical methods: statisticalRead MoreLeadership Management Finances Employee Relationship Mentor960 Words   |  4 PagesLeadership Management Finances Employee/er Relationship Mentor 1:2-7 3:1-12 2:1-22 1:20-33 4:1-9 1:8-19 3:21-35 3:13-18 7:1-27 13:1-25 4:10-27 8:1-21 11:4-9 8:22-36 18:1-24 5:1-23 9:1-6 6:1-35 9:7-12 9:13-18 12:1-28 10:1-32 15:1-16:33 14:1-35 17:1-28 20:1-24:34 25:1-31:31 INTRODUCTION When working within a church you always need to know how things need to run. This is called church administration. Church administration is things like leadership, management, and financialRead MorePer Satterlee, Chapter Eight Of Organization Management1338 Words   |  6 Pageschapter eight of Organization Management and Leadership, is about operations management, which is how products or services are provided in the most efficient and effective way. â€Å"Operations management is the implementation of all the functions of management,† (Satterlee, p. 224). This includes where infrastructure may be built, where supplies and materials are obtained, production is scheduled, inventory is managed, and equipment is maintained. Project management takes a leading role within operations

My Observations On Technology Advances Criticism Essay

Introduction As technology advances criticism typically arises stating American’s are less social, unable to communicate face to face, and are losing important aspects of the physical world. One example of this can be found within Education. Students today seem to be spending less money on physical books and choosing to save with E-Books. Due to this observation one question comes to mind, is this decision transferring over into the personal lives of Americans. In order to attempt to answer this question, we have narrowed our scope down to another book that many hold, the Bible. I chose to observe the congregation of Faircreek Church in Fairborn, Ohio and record if they are carrying a physical Bible or if they intend to use technology. Since it would be typical for churchgoers to own a version of the Bible, I decided that this would be an appropriate environment to observe reading habits. Setting My observations took place at Faircreek Church, 2400 Faircreek Ridge Dr., Fairborn, OH 45324 in the main parking lot. Observations were conducted on Sunday, September 18, 2016 prior to the church’s first and second services and it was 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Faircreek Church is a nondenominational Christian church with a Baptist background. Observations for first service were made from 0905 hrs. to 0930 hrs. Observations were made for second service from 1038 hrs. to 1113 hrs. I picked these times because Faircreek Church holds services at 0930 hr. and at 1100 hr. I picked thisShow MoreRelatedIs Google Making Us Stupid?948 Words   |  4 PagesMany people may argue that technology has helped us become more efficient in today’s society. Technological advances such as the internet and Google has also opened up many new opportunities for people. However, with such advances some may argue that we begin to lose some of our cognitive thinking ability. In an essay, â€Å"Is Google Making Us Stupid?† by Nicholas Carr, he argues his thesis that people will lose concentration and cognitive thinking as a result to reading online. Carr begins by explainingRead MoreAnnotated Bibliography On Family Therapy1629 Words   |  7 Pagesthe main focus or purpose of each author s work; Background and credibility of each author; Intended audience for the work; Any unique feature of the work; Theoretical understandings; Family therapy strategies or techniques; and a Conclusion or observations presented in the work. Communication in cultural diversity is one very important issue that families, couples, singles, Christian counselors, and therapists might encounter in their scope of practice. The book entitled, â€Å"ChristianRead MoreQuestions On Requirements Gathering And Analysis1439 Words   |  6 Pages Table of Contents Iteration 1: Requirement gathering and analysis†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 2 Plan†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 2 Action†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 3 Observation†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 4 Reflection†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.5 Iteration 1: Requirement gathering and analysis Plan This Iteration was done from February 07th, 2016 to February 16st, 2016. In this Iteration stage, theRead MoreIs Joseph Conrad a Racist and Does His Work Portray It? Essay3298 Words   |  14 Pagesopinion for Conrad is: The point of my observations should be quite clear by now, namely that Joseph Conrad was a thoroughgoing racist. That this simple truth is glossed over in criticisms of his work is due to the fact that white racism against Africa is such a normal way of thinking that its manifestations go completely unremarked. (An Image of Africa, Achebe, 1975) Achebe comments on Conrad’s work as a hidden product of racism because criticisms for Heart of Darkness mask the racism andRead MoreCulture and Creative Industry Week 1 Essay2403 Words   |  10 PagesAura, Capitalism, Fascism, Media Criticism, Fan Culture, Mass Communication One sentence summary: This essay is important for understanding the intersections of art, technology, and politics under capitalism. One paragraph abstract: Technology has allowed the mechanical reproduction of works of art that has changed art from ritual objects to objects for exhibition.   This reproduction devalues the art because it has no aura.   This change means that technology can put the reproduction in a situationRead MoreEssay on Causes of Depression in the Millennial Generation1523 Words   |  7 Pagesgeneration. An aspect that does not aid their case of stress and depression is that they have grown-up in times where punishment and discipline are scarce. Many of them fail to handle even simple criticism easily due to being told they are destined to succeed all their life. It has been my observation that perhaps the largest contributors to the commonality of severe depression among the Millennials are their environmental influences. Fifty percent of marriages in the U.S. end in divorce; thoughRead MoreEssay on Cmi L3 30093002 Words   |  13 Pagespractice. Recently, a casual conversation highlighted that a colleague that signs off withdrawals for the areas that I support had left City College. This had not been communicated to my department and I had been emailing her for a week. Forgetting to pass on critical information and lack of communication wasted my resources, and also meant that Service Level Agreements were not met. This created a feeling of irritation toward the department that should have provided the communication. When a messageRead MoreE Banking : Customer Perception And. Acceptance Essay2016 Words   |  9 Pagesstay productive in effective. The observation is the structured as an aftereffect of translating the experience. There is a developing enthusiasm toward comprehension the clients experience as it is seen as a bigger idea than client fulfillment. From this point of view, evaluating the client experience is crucial for some engineering items and administrations. METHODOLOGY OBJECTIVE: The exploration has been led to dissect the client observation towards internet keeping money andRead MoreNature Science6230 Words   |  25 Pagesage on Wasp Head, NSW Australia. Photo by Gary B. Lewis. Table of Contents What is Science? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Scientiï ¬ c Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Question . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Hypothesis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Experiment . .Read MoreEssay on Forensic Sciences: The Science of Fingerprint Identification1865 Words   |  8 PagesAfter giving much thought to the many areas covered by Forensics Sciences, the main criteria to which my choices were narrowed and ultimately the final decision of Ballistics and/or Fingerprint Analysis was based on by the complexity of the job, need for a keen eye, and my wanting to be challenged in a career. I have no doubt that there are other areas that would be just if not more challenging however interest is a another key element in the making such a life changing and difficult decision.

Poem free essay sample

This Is a poem for best friends. You C Margery Wang still remember the first day we met We were too shy to say much at all Its funny to think back to that time Because now were having a ball! They say that true friendship Is rare An adage that I believe to be true Genuine friendship is something that I cherish am so lucky to have met you. Our bond Is extremely special It is unique in its own way We have something irreplaceable love you more and more each day.Weve been through so much together In so little time weve shared will never forget all the moments that youve shown me how much you cared. Friends are forever Especially the bond that you and I possess love your fun-filled personality Somehow you never fall to Impress. The world could use more people like you it would certainly be a better place love everything about you You are someone I could never replace. We will write a custom essay sample on Poem or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page You are always there for me When my spirits need a little lift cannot thank you enough for thatYou are truly an extraordinary gift. You are everything to me and more could never express that enough Life is such a treacherous journey, and 1 OFF Our story will continue to grow With each passing day Because I trust that with you by my side Everything will always be Okay. You are so dear to me You know I will love you until the end I will always be there for you, and You will always (and forever) be my best friend.

Moon Landing exercise Essay Example

Moon Landing exercise Paper Moon Landing Exercise What went well and what are areas of improvement? The team performance on Moon landing exercise was much better than the individual performance which was the first thing that went well as a group. The learning from this task was, for complex task there is potential for better results with team. Also the team should be a bag of mix individuals from different fields, skill sets and knowledge domain and not from similar background for complex task. As a team we had a fairly good involvement in the task. Except for Magnetic compass, mostly everyone was clear on the item on the list and its possible usage. Towards the end of the game, the team had common purpose and it resulted in lesser conflict and better communications. After reflecting on what happened during the game and what we learned in the classroom and going through the material, it seems that there are lot of areas for improvement. The moment we were asked to start ranking as a team, every individual was pushing for the ranking given by him as the teams ranking. This led to personality conflict resulting in more communication demand and time loss. We will write a custom essay sample on Moon Landing exercise specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Moon Landing exercise specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Moon Landing exercise specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer As the time passed, everyone realized that we were lagging behind and our main objective is to come up with team ranking for critical items required for survival to reach the mother ship. The moment we had common purpose, discussions were more insightful, logical and knowledge oriented. During the last ten minutes of exercise the team had higher level of conscientiousness. In the latter half of the game we were clear about the significance of the task. The first learning is that instead of straight away Jumping in completing the task, the initial time should be spent on identifying the task and its significance. This will help the team to focus on common purpose of the task. During the course of task, there were personality conflicts, discussions diverting from the task at hand and lesser contribution from some members. This led to poorer performance of the team. To perform effectively, a team not only needs people with technical expertise but also with good interpersonal skills who are good listeners and an play various roles to avoid strained internal process and decreased overall performance. We had various people playing different roles. Most of us were playing roles of the controller, assessor and adviser. Due to which we were taking longer time to conclude. There were few who were maintainer and listeners, while some were not that much involved. As a good manager or leader it is to ensure that every member of the team is not only motivated but also actively participates to increase the team As the time pressure increased, certain people took over the responsibility of linker ND promoter which helped us sail through the task and conclude faster. To sum up the entire exercise, following things are critical for teams success. 1) Understanding of the task and its significance. Skill sets required to complete the task. 2) To arrive at the common purpose of the task and integrated goal. 3) Identify the people with different interpersonal skill sets and assign them with various roles and responsibility to avoid conflicts and negative atmosphere among the members. 4) Lastly a team needs timely resources, good leadership and accountability. Word count: 552

Immanuel Kant Essays

Immanuel Kant Essays Immanuel Kant Essay Immanuel Kant Essay Essay Topic: Immanuel Kant The followers is taken from Immanuel Kant’s The Metaphysics of Morals ( Part II. The Science of Right ) . translated by W. Hastie with emendations and paragraph Numberss added by Jeremy Anderson. The complete text is available free online here. In this extract. Kant first explains what offense is and the different kinds of offenses ( paragraph 1 ) . which is non really of import for our intents. He so presents his position that penalty is justified by the criminal’s holding committed a offense ( par. 2 ) .This is to be contrasted with other theories of penalty such as the Utilitarian theory. harmonizing to which penalty is justified by the good it brings to society. Kant rejects the Utilitarian theory for two grounds. First. he believes it treats felons as mere means to others’ good ; Kant’s Categorical Imperative forbids this. Second. the Utilitarian theory could. perchance. warrant penalizing an guiltless individual because of the good it might convey to society. To Kant. this kind of unfairness is perfectly unbearable.Having explained why we punish people Kant goes on to discourse how and how much to penalize felons ( par. 3-8 ) . Here he asserts that the injury done to the felon should be the injury the felon did to others. both in sum and in sort ( in category we are naming this the Equal Punishment version of the lex talionis ) . The remainder of the piece largely explains what he means by this. with peculiar accent on the demand for the decease punishment. In paragraphs 8 and 10 Kant considers some interesting exclusions to the regulation that liquidators must be executed.Okay. so Kant believed that penalty should ever be in response to a offense – penalizing person to protect society or to discourage others is immoral. Kant goes on to state that it is besides immoral for a individual to perpetrate a offense. and non be punished. In other words. every offense merits a penalty ; it is Kant’s signifier of equality. Kant refers to this as jus talionis. which is slackly translates as the right of revenge. However. Kant was opposed to penalizing people if it took away their humanity.In other words. if a individual tortures people. that individual should non be punished by anguish. because making so would be dehumanising OURSELVES. In other words. it would be crouching to the degree of the torturer. Kant did believe in Capital Punishment – in fact. he insisted on it. He states in his book. Metaphysicss on Ethical motive s. that harmonizing to Jus Talionis. liquidators MUST die – there is no earthly penalty other than decease that can equilibrate out a slaying. and therefore continue Jus Talionis. the balance between offense and penalty.It is like a graduated table – the side of justness must equilibrate the side of unfairness. An Exposition of Kant’s. Arendt’s. and Mill’s Moral Philosophy Immanuel Kant adheres to Deontological moralss. His theory offers a position of morality based on the rule of good will and responsibility. Harmonizing to him. people can execute good actions entirely by good purposes without any considerations to effects. In add-on. one must follow the Torahs and the categorical jussive mood in order to move in conformity with and from responsibility.Several other philosophers such as Hannah Arendt discuss Kant’s moral doctrine. In her instance survey: The Accused and Duties of a Law-abiding Citizen . Arendt examines how Adolf Eichmannâ⠂¬â„¢s actions conformed to Kant’s moral principles but besides how they ran of afoul to his construct of responsibility. In contrast. John Stuart Mill adopts a teleological position of moral doctrine. He exposes his position of consequentialism and utilitarianism to reason that an action is morally right merely to the extent that it maximizes the aggregative felicity of all parties involved irrespective of the motivation.In the present paper. I will expose Kant’s moral principles and the importance of responsibility in his Deontological rules. Then. I will measure Arendt’s study on Adolf Eichmann to analyse the ways in which his actions were in conformity to or against Kant’s moral doctrine. I will reason my treatment with an rating of Mill’s attack to morality in order to analyze the differences between his teleological doctrine and Kant’s ethical rules.Kant’s moral doctrine is based on the categorical jussive mood ( CI ) . good wil l. and responsibility. Harmonizing to the CI. it is an absolute necessity. a bid that worlds should harmonize with universalizable axioms to handle people as terminals in themselves and exert their will without any concerns about the effects or conditions of their actions. This construct can besides be expressed in systematic footings by the two following preparations.

Por vs. Para in Spanish

'Por' vs. 'Para' in Spanish Two Spanish prepositions, por and para, are usually used for the English word for. The differences between them sometimes are subtle, and thus por and para are a constant source of confusion for Spanish students. Key Takeaways: Por and Para Although both Spanish prepositions por and para can often be translated as for, they have separate meanings and can seldom be used as synonyms.Por is often used to indicate who performs an action or the reason for it being performed.Para is often used to indicate the result of an action being performed. Think of Meaning Rather than Translation If its any consolation, prepositions can be as difficult for people learning English. Why do we sometimes say something is under control, and sometimes say something is in control? Why are we in the house but at home? The rules sometimes escape logic. The key to understanding which preposition to use is to think of the meaning you want to convey. If I use a phrase such as three for a dollar in English, the for has a different meaning than it does in this book is for you. In the first case, for indicates an exchange or a rate, while in the second case it indicates an intention or direction. Thus the Spanish translation of the two phrases are different, tres por un dà ³lar and este libro es para ti. The following chart shows some of the major uses of these two prepositions, including ones not translated by for. Uses for Por Por is often used to indicate how something is done or ihe cause of an action. Although the distinction between cause and outcome isnt always clear, por generally isnt used to indicate the result of an action. Expressing movement along, through, around, by, or about: Anduve por las calles de Gijà ³n. (I walked through the streets of Gijà ³n.) Viajamos por Australia con un Land Rover. (We traveled around Australia with a Land Rover.)Denoting a time or duration when something occurs. Viajamos por tres semanas. (Were traveling for three weeks.) Debes pensar en otras personas por sà ³lo un momento. (You ought to think about other people for just a moment.)Expressing the cause (not the purpose) of an action: Me caà ­ por la nieve. (I fell down because of the snow.) Los conflictos originaron por las diferencias culturales e ideolà ³gicas. (The conflicts began because of the cultural and ideological differences.)  Hay diferencia entre comer por hambre y comer por placer. (There is a difference between eating out of hunger and eating for pleasure.)Meaning per: Dos por ciento. (Two percent.) Prefiero comer cuatro comidas por dà ­a. (I prefer eating four meals per day.) Por can also be trans lated as a when a is a preposition: Leo un libro por semana. (I read one book a week.) Meaning supporting or in favor of: Trabajamos por derechos humanos. (We work for human rights.) No puedo votar por el presidente. (I cant vote for the president.)Introducing the agent of an action after a passive verb:. For this reason, por is often used in stating the author of a book or other composition:  Fue escrito por Bob Woodward. (It was written by Bob Woodward.) Ser comido por las aves. (It will be eaten by the birds.)Indicating means of transportation: Viajarà © por avià ³n. (I will travel by plane.)  Quiero llegar a Venezuela por barco. (I want to arrive at Venezuela by ship.)Used in numerous expressions: Por ejemplo. (For example.) Por favor. (Please, literally as a favor.) Uses for Para Para is often used to indicate the outcome of an action or to indicate who or what is affected by an action. Meaning for the purpose of or in order to: Para bailar la bamba, necesita una poca de gracia. (In order to dance the bamba you need a little grace.) Los buses se usan para ir a la frontera. (The buses are used for going to the border.)With a noun or pronoun as object, meaning for the benefit of or directed to: Es para usted. Its for you. Necesitamos mucho dinero para el desarrollo del paà ­s. (We need a lot of money for the countrys development.)Meaning to or in the direction of when referring to a place: Voy para Europa. (Im heading to Europe.) Salimos para el almuerzo. (We are leaving for lunch.)Meaning by or for when referring to a specific time: Necesito el regalo para maà ±ana. (I need the gift for tomorrow.) Vamos a la casa de mi madre para el fin de semana. (Were going to my mothers for the weekend.)

LASA 2 - The Case For or Against New Orleans Study

LASA 2 - The For or Against New Orleans - Case Study Example Objectives This research and case study aims to establish the facts about the damages caused by Hurricane Katrina, considering both the short-term losses as well as the long-term potential losses in the event that nothing or little is done to reconstruct and prevent a similar calamity. On the basis of facts, it also aims to discover advantages and disadvantages, risks and opportunities of substantial investments which will be required to allow New Orleans to prevent another level-5 disaster. Finally, a Cost-Benefit Analysis will be formulated to arrive at a recommended decision about the budget that should be allocated for the reconstruction. Alternative Courses of Action A. Proceed with funding the ongoing development of New Orleans until Level 5 standards are achieved. B. Cut down the funding and stagger developments in New Orleans. C. Stop funding the NOLA development. Areas of Consideration and Analysis Risks Involved By reconstructing the levee with a standard capable of withsta nding a Level 5 hurricane similar to Katrina, the substantial productivity of New Orleans will not be stopped as it did when 400,000 people evacuated the place and 124,000 lost their jobs. ... Costs and Benefits What are the costs and benefits of the New Orleans Flood Protection System, according to Hallegatte, Stephanie (2005)? As to the effects of climate change, it includes the increase of intensity in the power of hurricanes (p.5). This implies a greater need for stronger and higher levees to protect New Orleans against another major flood. The estimated cost from the viewpoint of local officials was $ 32 billion. Another estimate which considered loss of human lives and the views of insurance companies amounted to $ 30 billion. Hallegatte admitted that the basis for calculating the justifiable budget was not solidly grounded (p.4). This was apparently due to a failure to consider the productivity of people in the area which would cease to be delivered if the workers of New Orleans decide not to be established in New Orleans. In a study of workers’ productivity, the report cited that Americans are most productive on the average per worker. Each one can produce à ¢â‚¬Å"$63,885 of wealth per year, more than their counterparts in all other countries, the International Labor Organization said in its report. Ireland comes in second at $55,986, followed by Luxwmbourg at $55,641, Belgium at $ 55,235 and France at $ 54,609.† according to Klapper, Bradley S. (2007) of Associated Press. This opportunity loss should be the major basis for deciding to what extent New Orleans should be rebuilt, for the simple reason that $63,885 x 124,000 people who lost their jobs = $ 7.9 billion per year. In 130 years, which is the number of years it might take before another major flood tries to destroy a reconstructed New Orleans, the workers of New Orleans will have produced $ 1.027 Trillion worth of wealth for the USA. In another report about

Culture and Organization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Culture and Organization - Essay Example Additionally, organizational culture extents its manifestation in ways which an entity allows for autonomy and freedom of making decisions, personal expression, and development of new ideas. Organizational culture gives a clear outline on how information and power flows through its set channels and influences strengths of employees by encouraging commitment towards the organization’s collective goals (Stallman, 2010:4). The culture of an organization is crucial since it affects its productivity and performance mechanism and provides guidelines suitable for establishing an appropriate customer service channel, product quality, and safety. Introduction Southwest Airlines Company is a low cost, American airline that has its base in Dallas, Texas. According to articles published the company’s public relations office, the company came into being in 1967. It adopted its company name in 1971 and by the fifth day of June 2011, documented evidence revealed that the airline is th e largest in the United States basing the data on number of domestic passengers that it carried (Kelly, 2009:22). Despite the fact that the airline operated Boeing 727 aircraft for a very time in the years between 1970s and 1980s, between this stated period and 2012 the scooped identity of the sole airline that operates Boeing 737. In addition to that, by the last day of September 2011, this airline became the world’s largest operator of 737 recording over 550 of these aircrafts already in operation whereby, each operated an average of six flights in a single day. Following its performance and uniqueness, this paper warranted it an intense research based on its organizational culture (Khastar, 2011:2). As such, this paper will seek to analyze the culture of the Southwest Airlines using and applying theoretical frameworks used in the study of organizational culture such as those developed by Schein and Harrison. The concept of organizational culture With reference to Schein th eoretical framework, the processes whereby the Southwest Airlines became the largest Boeing 737 operator in America and globally as well, led it reproduce its systems and practices of management in order to gain competitive advantages over other airlines eyeing the same uniqueness. Nevertheless, despite the fact that it sough to reproduce its management practices as closely as possible, the results were rarely compatible. Generally, the managers encountered issues they did not have to face in the operating environment (Achtmeyer, 2002:2). This is the reason as to why the first notions of culture used by the managing team were so similar to those deployed by the company with the view of defining the national culture. At this point, the development of the concept of organizational culture was ultimately polemic as opposed to what took place with other theoretical constructs such as organizational climate. Scholarly research reveals that, the concept of an organizational culture is a t hing borrowed from basic social sciences, mainly sociology and anthropology (Flamholtz and Randle, 2011:83). As opposed to organizational climate, which is a product of a conducted research, the concept of an organization is a construct embedded in the theoretical framework that employs the use of organizational environment and academics to listen to management theory (Bundgaard, Bejjani, and Helmer, 2006:16). Given the power of the Southwest

The Cola Wars Essay Example for Free

The Cola Wars Essay There are two well known beverage companies, Coco-Cola and Pepsi. They have competed considerably and distributed the beverage market profit for several decades. In the open market, it is difficult to exactly tell which one is the winner within the perfect competition, since both companies use different style of promotion and product to expend their markets. The competitive environment of the carbonated soft drinks started about three decades ago. In the beginning of 1960 Coco Cola was dominating the market but this dominance was significantly challenged by Pepsi- Cola. This challenge by Pepsi was declared as Cola Wars. During this competitive war a variety of products were introduced from both sides. Lot of $ amount was spent on celebrity advertising and even coke changed its formula. The strategic changes occur due to Pepsis challenge to the dominance of Coca Cola. In spite of the fact that Pepsi Cola attacked on the dominance of Coca Cola in bottled soft drink, both Pepsi-Cola and Coca-Cola have benefited from this battle due to stimulated continuous growth of the industry. During this Cola war both the companies faced lot of problems which we shall discuss in the light of the case study on Cola wars. Brief History of Coca-Cola John Pemberton invented the original formula of Coca-Cola way back in 1885. By 1888, three versions of Coca-Cola were introduced. Candler incorporated the Coca-Cola and started its marketing. Coke achieved the status of national drink in USA. Coca cola bottles sale started in 1984 and in 1955 sale of cans was started. Chattanooga became the first site for Coca-Cola bottling company in 1899. In 1985 Coca-Cola attempted to introduce new formula. Most of the consumers liked the taste but so many ceased the purchasing because of certain reasons , therefore company switched back the new product and gave it the name of Classic Cola. In the 21st century coca cola history achieved another milestone and introduced Diet coke in 2005 and latter introduced Coca-Cola Zero. During this the company faced may ups and downs in the international market, particularly faced tough competition given by PepsiCo and the competition of both companies was give the name of Cola wars . Brief History of Pepsi-Co la Like Coca-Cola, Pepsi-Cola also started in the late 1800. In 1883 Caleb Bradham a pharmacist invented Brads Drink which was latter known as Pepsi-Cola. In 1904 the availability of Pepsi was in the six ounce bottles. The initial growth was not significant compared to Coke. In 1950 when Pepsi was near to bankruptcy, Alfred joined as CEO and a real challenge to coke started, Alfred made the goal to beat Coke. In 1963 the company introduced 16 ounce Cola. Pepsi-Cola competed, Coca-Cola through (sirpepsi.com) increased franchise bottling network after 1932 and expended its products range. Pepsi makes an advertising history when it introduced first advertising jingle broadcasted nationwide. The jingle Nickel, Nickel became a hit and was translated in 55 languages. In 1964 Pepsi Diet was introduced. Pepsi has increased its product range over the years and the range includes Mountain Dew, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Aquafina and Starbucks etc. Pepsi has also taken over Gatorade from Quaker Oats in 2000, which is its part of diversification of business.(ezinearticles.com) Pepsi has competed Coke in many countries and gave Coke a tough time to retain its market share. Now Pepsi Cola stands No.2 in the soft drink market after Coca-Cola and in some of the countries it stands No.1. The Coca-Cola Companys Resources and Capabilities Coca-Colas differentiation and competitive advantage are mainly due to its numerous valuable resources and capabilities. Intangible Resources Coca-Colas greatest strengths reside in its intangible resources. It is mainly thanks to its reputation and brand equity, that it can differentiate itself from its competitors. In fact, in 2006, Coca-Cola was the worlds most valuable brand, worth $67.5 billion, according to research by Interbrand (Grant,2008, p. 134). Its name and products are well known and appreciated in nearly every single country in the world and its availability enables Coca-Cola to nearly always be at ones reach if desired or needed, just as it promises to do in its mission. It relies heavily on product innovation, marketing and developed distribution systems in its differentiation strategy. This has enabled it to be the market leader since many decades and to maintain this position, even catching PepsiCo up in the race for the 2nd most sold soft drink (Alani, 2011). It has gained great loyalty over the years, of consumers who would not drink anything else but Coca-Cola products. In fact, s ome have become so loyal that when Coca-Cola introduced New Coke with a new recipe, it was a tremendous failure, underlining that authenticity is more important to consumers (Greenwald, 2005). Human Capital The Coca-Cola Company has about 139,600 employees globally, working and living in over 100 different countries. As attracting and retaining talent all over the world is one of Coca-Colas most important goal, the company takes pride in its leadership and innovation programs, empowering its employees and wanting to create an inspirational workplace. Creativity and passion are some of the core values that are shared across the company worldwide. (The Coca-Cola Company, 2012). Tangible Assets The Coca-Cola Company can count on sound, substantial tangible assets that have even been growing in the past few years. Some figures include the firms cash level: $12.803 billion in 2011 (increased from $8.517 billion in 2010), total current assets: $25.497 billion in 2011 ($21.579 billion in 2010) and plant and equipment: $14.939 billion in 2011 (compared to $14.727 billion in 2010 and $9.561 billion in 2009). (Yahoo! Finance, 2012). All these figures show that Coca-Cola can count on vast tangible resources to finance its operations, acquisitions and other activities such as marketing and corporate social sustainability. Coca-Colas Capabilities Coca-Cola has great tangible and intangible resources. Its products, factories, bottling partners and financials are resources that enable Coca-Cola to ensure quality, flexibility and responsiveness. One can count on the firms consistency and worldwide presence and continuous supply. Also, the companys human capital and brand equity are other resources that create long-term value, loyalty and performance. These are really the firms core assets, on which it has built its sustainable competitive advantage. All these assets enable Coca-Cola to outperform its competitors consistently by being globally available, coherent, and innovative. Future Considerations The companys history, brand equity, people and partners are assets that are difficult to imitate while being extremely valuable. Also, Coca-Colas most traditional itself is not replicable, as its recipe has always been kept a secret and it has been able to appropriate its resources (through secrecy, increasing bargaining power and embeddedness). Its strategy and competitive advantage have been so sustainable mainly thanks to these resources and the durability of its product. Coca-Cola is constantly working on maintaining these advantages in order to remain the market leader. Its acquisitions (both up and downstream the value chain and horizontally, of diversified products) and its persistent marketing efforts prove the firm’s intention to remain on top of the industry and tackle all challenges early and innovatively. It takes many of the opportunities it sees, including entering the healthier products market (100 of the latest 800 products it introduced w ere low calorie or low sugar) and increasing its sustainability and corporate social responsibility efforts (consuming water in a more sustainable manner, helping causes all around the world, etc). The Coca-Cola Companys strategy and competitive advantage are extremely sustainable, although some threats do lie ahead. Increasing competition and lack of resources (or government regulations on these resources) are main issues that the firm will face. Competition from cheaper brands, from more local products, or from healthier, niche brands is really increasing and could decrease Coca-Cola’s market share considerably in the future. They will need to differentiate themselves even more and focus on their core competencies and assets, which are the most sustainable. The company’s new emphasis on environmental and social measures is a great start to increasing the preservation of the planets limited natural resources and increasing its brand equity and awareness. PepsiCos Resources and Capabilities Intangible Resources Similar to The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCos strategy is mainly based on establishing a differentiation advantage. Its strong intangible resources enable it to be a strong competitor. In fact, its brand equity and other intangibles such as its reputation, strategic relationships with suppliers, bottling partners and distribution centers result in customer loyalty. The performance- and family-oriented culture (especially visible amongst executives is another asset that leads to firms long-term success, as developed by Morris (2008). The overall awareness and availability of Pepsi products increase the value of this brand equity. Human Capital PepsiCo is a massive company in terms of its sheer size alone, with a workforce of nearly 300,000 employees. Performance is strongly rewarded and employees enjoy generous benefits. Communication and collaboration between teams and divisions are facilitated through general openness and support for the upper management and executives. Its workforce is well trained and selected for its motivation and skills. (PepsiCo, Values and Philosophy, 2012) In the light of its executives recent decision to reformulate Pepsis strategy and restructure the firm accordingly, the CEO announced in February 2012 that 8,700 employees would be laid off, spanning over a range of thirty countries, representing about three percent of its current workforce (Huffington Post, 2012). This should lead to reduced costs, increased efficiencies and larger investments in marketing and research and development. Tangible Resources One of the main differences between Pepsi and Coca-Cola is that PepsiCo is diversified and has a strong global presence in the convenience food industry too. This enables PepsiCo to have even larger global sales and outreach, with more economic stability and mitigation of risks as a result of all its product diversification. Even when carbonated soft drink sales started to drop a couple of years ago, PepsiCo still had strong revenues and performance in other sectors, such as its Frito-Lay snacks. PepsiCos tangible resources can be summarized with some figures. Its cash levels were $4.067 billion in 2011 ($3.943 billion in 2009), its total current assets were $72.882 billion in 2011 and $12.571 billion in 2009) and its plant and equipment amounted to $19.698 billion in 2011 (compared to $19.058 billion and $12.671 billion in 2010 and 2009 respectively). These are lower than Coca-Colas and PepsiCo assets were overall better in 2010 than in 2009 and 2011, maybe due to recent strong investments in Pepsi NEXT and other global acquisitions. (Morningstar, 2011). PepsiCos Capabilities Overall, PepsiCos diversified tangible resources, skilled and intensively trained workforce and strong brand equity lead to its financial control capability and exemplary strategic management of multiple businesses. These enable PepsiCo to successfully manage its large portfolio and stronger diversification which in turn leads to larger sales and revenue, but also economies of scale and synergies mainly in its research and development, distribution and marketing functions (Grant, 2008). Also, its culture and structure lead to responsiveness and innovation. PepsiCo is capable of ensuring the quality and constant availability of its products in thousands of locations across the world. Moreover, the fact that PepsiCo is involved in different businesses has also enabled it to build on its healthy new image in many areas which creates even more coherence and credibility, as it can combine owning more nutritious and healthy drinks now with the production and sales of low calorie and low fat snacks or meals. Future Considerations PepsiCo has been growing and innovating successfully for decades, despite the recent slower growth challenges it has faced. PepsiCos extremely large and diversified portfolio, sales in over 200 countries and its long-term efforts for employee empowerment and satisfaction and strategic relationships with partners are some of the main reasons why PepsiCos competitive advantage is sustainable. Its brand names and global presence are so significant that it would be tough to lose its advantage to competitors, new entrants or substitutes, especially as it is still extremely innovative and investing a lot in its future growth plans with its strong RD, new healthy products following or leading global trends and emphasis on doing good to the planet and its inhabitants and to its all its stakeholders as a whole (PepsiCo, 10-K Report, 2011). PepsiCos performance and future could be rather optimistic. PepsiCo is successfully taking advantage of its opportunities (sustainability and healthy product diversification) while responding to its threats (ensuring the sustainability of natural resources such as water and potato fields) through several of its new programs and adaptation to global consumers tastes and needs with innovation and speed-to-market (PepsiCo, Purpose, 2012). All these should be positive signs for the future, although not everything is as simple given PepsiCos recent challenges exhibited in its financial performance and shareholders dissatisfaction. Also, nothing guarantees that investments and innovation will pay off, with the launch of Pepsi NEXT that could be yet another failure in the industry. PepsiCo will have to prolong its efforts in its corporate social responsibility measures, in ensuring quality franchises (with its bottling partners mainly) and in developing and marketing successful new products, starting with Pepsi NEXT. It is thus refocusing its resources and capabilities on these new opportunities that Coca-Cola is also exploiting fully.

The Influence of Christianity on Ancient and Modern Greece Essay

The Influence of Christianity on Ancient and Modern Greece Problems with format ?From the earliest establishment of Christian churches in Macedonia, Achaia, Epirus, and Crete, to the expansion of the Orthodox Church, Greece has been a formidable landmark for development of Christianity throughout the world.? From its arrival to Greece with the first preaching of Paul, the Christian faith has undergone a unique assimilation into the cultural and philosophical traditions of the Greek people to create a church, visibly distinguishable from all other sects and denominations of Christianity.? Christianity has certainly influenced the nation of Greece.? However, it is safe to say that Greek culture has also had a notable effect on the way its people view Christianity.? The purpose of this paper is to examine the mutually significant and interacting influences of the Christian faith on Greece and of the Greek culture on Christianity. ?From the onset of Paul?s mission to evangelize the non-Jewish world, it was clear that the ministry to the gentiles would take on an entirely different form than that to the Jews.? Where converting the Jews was an issue of convincing a small people, otherwise knowledgeable about the nature of God, that this Jesus was indeed the Messiah they had long waited for, preaching to the Gentiles would be a fundamentally different task.? Greek culture, largely influential to the Roman world, was already rich with philosophy, science, art, literature, and political values.? Reaching out to this people that was, in so many ways, far advanced beyond the Hebrew nation, would mean appealing to its philosophy and tradition as a foundation for proving Christ?s supremacy.? Greek Christianity was destined to... ...dia of Religion, 6, 95-97 [2] Schaff, Philip (1910).? History of the Christian Church, 1.? WM. B. Weerdmans Publishing Company: Michigan.? [3] Beardsley, Monroe C. (1966).? Aesthetics from Classical Greece to the Present: A Short History.? ? University of Alabama Press: University, Alabama.? [4] Carassava, Anthee (2001).? ?Many Greeks praying against John Paul II visit?.? Time Magazine, 157. [5] ?Pope Appologizes?.? Christianity Today, 45.? 2001. [6] Moschovis, Peter P. (2001).? ?Socialists give Evangelicals some relief?.? Christianity Today, 45. [7] Moschovis, Peter P. (1998).? ?Court upholds right to evangelize. Christianity Today, 42. [8] ?Greece?s churches divided over ID cards?.? Christian Century, 117.? 2000.? [9] Carassava, Anthee (2000).? ?Greeks debate privacy rights vs. religious identity?.? Christian Science Monitor, 92 (148).

Compare How Atonement and Spies Explore the Journey from Innocence to Experience Essay

Compare how Atonement and Spies explore the journey from innocence to experience. Both Atonement and Spies are bildungsroman where the protagonists are reminiscing about events in their childhoods which impose on them in their adult lives. In Atonement, Briony is narrating throughout the text; however the reader only finds this out at the end and in Spies Stephen is narrating with his older and younger self through duel narration with slippage between the two. Both text were published within a year of each other, Atonement in 2001 and Spies in 2002; however they both focus on the same time in history, during (and after) the Second World War. Spies focuses on one point in time around 1940; whereas Atonement ranges before, throughout and after the war with the view points from different characters throughout unlike Spies where the reader sees only from young or old Stephen. Both protagonists are naive and easily influenced in the beginning of the novels and their misinterpretations draw the narrative to a conclusive disaster. In Spies, Stephen misinterprets the Mrs Hayward’s diary’s x’s and exclamation marks for some form of German â€Å"code† and believes that she is a spy- â€Å"she actually is a German spy†- Similarly in Atonement, where Briony misinterprets what she witnessed in the library which leads her to the conclusion that Robbie raped Lola, which she sticks to with conviction â€Å"it was Robbie†. The misinterpretations made by the protagonists reflect the lack of knowledge about the adult world and emphasise their innocence in the beginning of the novels. In Atonement the peak of Briony’s innocence is at the beginning with the â€Å"Trials of Arabella† and sulking when she gives up the main part of â€Å"Arabella† by killing nettles which foreshadows the impending doom of her actions. I believe at this point Briony triggers a transition to adult knowledge with the letter and therefor conclusively decides the narrative with her intrusion of Robbie and Cecilia’s privacy; however in the film adaptation others have interpreted this differently. Peter Bradshaw believes that it is the â€Å"mysterious scene by the fountain that is to trigger Briony’s terrible misguided sense that she has a personal insight and a grievance; it appears to give her an access point into shocking adult phenomena†. However key the scene is in the narrative as a whole, I do not believe it to be a pivotal role in Briony’s contribution to the downfall that is witnessed later in the novel due to the confusion she feels when confronted with the situation. In Spies Stephen and Keith play childish games such as â€Å"monkey hunting†; however this is contradicted increasingly throughout the novel with the seriousness of their accusations made in regards to Keith’s mother. John Mullan believes that the â€Å"The boys show ominous signs of adulthood behaviour when supposedly children: the boys never seem to call each other by their first names except when taking some horrendous sounding oaths†. The protagonists both believe a fictitious story conjured from their own imaginations and thus relieves them of their innocence leaving them open to the repercussions of their actions. Briony convinces herself that she saw Robbie and swears that she did whilst we find out later in the novel that she was unsure. In the first interview with the police she states â€Å"I know it was him†, not clarifying that she â€Å"saw†, him leading the reader to believe that she does so because of her misunderstandings over the fountain and letter earlier in the novel. In spies Stephen and Keith are certain that Mrs Hayward is a spy after they witness her first â€Å"disappearance† which they both rationalise after they have seen it. This act of misunderstanding is less harmful than that of Briony’s action however; they are invading the privacy of someone else which does add to the compromising of their innocence. Both stories conjured by the protagonists are not clarified throughout the narrative; the author leaves hints for the reader about the events themselves, and this lack of knowledge is a hallmark of postmodernism and the unreliable narrator present within each text. The inevitability of the protagonist’s actions is that both are shown to be guilty in their adulthood. The reader learns that Briony becomes a nurse and gives up a chance to go to Oxford and the class privileges that result from it. The reader learns that â€Å"the purpose of becoming a nurse was to work for her independence† as well as learning what Robbie is going through in the army. We later learn that the narrative has been written by Briony and some parts have been fictionalised such as the meeting with Robbie and Cecilia so she can try and put right what she could not do in life. Like Atonement Stephen in Spies feel guilty about the death of Uncle Peter and revisits The Close in which he grew up to atone. This is where the narrative takes place, â€Å"you can’t go back everyone knows that† implying that â€Å"everyone† knows that it was his fault. This is an interesting comment made by Stephen because surely Stephen and the reader know that it is Keith’s father who is to blame ultimately for the discovery and death of Uncle Peter after Stephen and his confrontation over the picnic basket. Both protagonists, we learn have been putting the idea of properly confronting and trying to amend (as best they can) their actions off until the latest time possible. The reader learns that Briony falsities the ending and meeting of Cecilia and Robbie in the final chapters where she is close to forgetting all of her memories through dementia. Like Briony Stephen has waited till very late on in his life to re-visit the close. We learn that he has lived a full but somehow sorrowful life until he returns and faces the actions that he made when he was a child â€Å"I can sort out whether I belong here or there† Both novels explore the motif of love and sexuality in spies the reader is given details about one of two sexually attracted women in his life: Barbara Berrill, and his future wife. The reader only learns that his wife is German and no more information throughout the novel other than the fact that Stephen had a family with her and that she died. The reader is witness to the presumably only sexual act between Barbara Berrill and Stephen where they exchange two kisses â€Å"she leans closer still, and rests her lips against mine† it is presumed that this is Stephens first kiss with a girl due to his initial reactions â€Å"Nice?†¦ I was too busy thinking about the germs† a typical young boy’s reaction to the opposite sex. This scene can be said to be one of the most normal childlike behaviour in the entire text, through the experimental aspect that has been associated with growing up. The motif of sexuality and relationships is greatly explored in atonement compared with that of Spies. Early on in the narrative Robbie and Cecilia â€Å"make love† this act creates and spurs on a relationship throughout the rest of the narrative with longing for a similar experience; however like spies this act never occurs again whereas unlike spies neither Cecilia or Robbie indulge in any sexual contact after their initial â€Å"library scene† because of both their untimely deaths emphasising the importance of that moment in the readers eyes. This singular act of â€Å"love† somewhat adds to the innocence and sympathy felt towards both characters. Unlike the other two protagonists in Spies and Atonement (Stephen and Robbie) McEwan never mentions Briony to have any sexual contact throughout the novel unlike Robbie’s And Cecilia’s characters the absence of Briony’s sexuality evokes no sympathy. I believe that McEwan includes this as part of her atonement, because of the deprivation of sexuality that Briony causes. Both novels show clear points in the narrative where the protagonist’s develop their experiences in the world of adult life through their actions; however it can be said that the protagonists have never been allowed to fully pass into the full realms of adult knowledge because throughout their lives they cling to an event that happened in their child hood without being able to come to terms with it until the end of their lives.

One Laptop Per Child

Technology in Classrooms: One Laptop per Child-A Failed Idea? Is the use of technology benefiting the students in classrooms today or is It taking away from their education? Should students be allowed to have easy access to a computer during a lecture to find relevant information or is it a distraction that puts their attention onto something completely off subject? It has certainly been argued both ways. As technology becomes more prominent In everyday life, the global world changes at the same time. Third world, developing countries have begun to see this hang, and are starting to accept It.One proposed start-up for Introducing technology Into the classrooms of these countries was the One Laptop per Child, a nonprofit organization that alms to provide laptops for the children of developing countries (â€Å"One Laptop per Child†). Technology has certainly changed education, Thither Garments, a faculty member of a Montreal school, asserts the use of laptops and technology In s chool classrooms allows for academic success. He claims that by using computers concentration and motivation has increased as well as a way of successful teaching students important ND valuable computer skills (in â€Å"Laptops in school classes improve scores†).Robert Imaginer speaks on the behalf of students saying that they are more eager to integrate the use of computers into school because they are motivated to learn from it, they typically already know how to use one before starting school, and they are more likely to learn and understand the importance of technology which will help them with any future academic and employment opportunities. Imaginer claims that students have shown great excitement and are very curious in the classrooms with the introduction of computers.He said that teachers are seeing less and less absenteeism and behavioral issues through this technological learning style (Imaginer). The use of technology is becoming more, and more valuable, as we ge t older and get busier, the use of computers help manage our everyday, somewhat complicated lives no matter if we are in the classroom or not. While some strongly agree that computers are a good thing and should be used in every school classroom, there are also those who disagree by providing reasons why computers will not help in educating students.Paul Lam reported that both teachers ND students worry that computers in the classroom will be very distracting. Students agreed, saying that computers would take their attention away from what their teacher was saying. Teachers noticed that when computers were allowed during class time, students weren't looking up, and they would smile at the computer screen, or be typing during Inappropriate times (Lam). Yes, computers are useful, but they take attention away from Important lectures and class time. It's Important for these third world countries such as India, Peru, Kenya, and Afghanistan to continue to grow with this global change.Tech nology Is being used more. And more, and it can be very helpful improving education especially in these countries. Even though they are at different stages of developing, as the world moves forward in development, countries to be ready to incorporate those changes. Technology is a new and very big change, it is one change, but a very important one not only have access to it, but to also know how to effectively and efficiently use it. Everyone, everywhere can benefit it; sometimes it Just takes time to figure out the best way. Integrating technology is an issue all on it's own.Countries may want to eave the ability to access technology, and Western cultures may want to push the use of technology, but it's not always that easy. Technology has quickly taken over the world that we live in, we use it everyday, everywhere. The program, One Laptop per Child was designed to send low-cost, specially designed laptops to children in developing third world countries. According to the OLAP websi te, their â€Å"mission is to empower the world's poorest children through education† (â€Å"One Laptop per Child†) by providing them with this laptop.Kenneth Kramer says that OLAP put in a lot of effort to design a computer that loud withstand both the different and difficult conditions in a developing world country environment. Kramer stated that the designers had a great understanding of what developing countries needed when it comes to introducing technology. The computers are sealed, made to keep dirt out. The screen can read in bright sunlight, runs on very low power, and has a built in wireless system (Kramer). What's the best part? These computers were set to be only $100, completely affordable, right?The governments of these countries can purchase the computers and they can afford to give them to all the children. They have an important goal that no one is left out. All children should be able to experience the use of technology. One MIT professor, and adviser to the OLAP, Seymour Appear, talked about the benefits of the program saying that through the use of computers children can do anything, they â€Å"will take charge of knowledge† (Appear). With this program they will have access to computers, and they will have their own computer all the time.This will allow students everywhere, especially in developing countries to learn (Appear). Of course there are many cons and negative feedback based upon this program. There are always going to be two sides and it's important to look and understand both of them. From the New York Times, flogger David Vogue says it perfectly by saying, â€Å"think again. This laptop is not intended for the sneaky floggers. This laptop is intended for poor kids in other countries. And for that, I say it's amazing' (Vogue, 03:43).Nicholas Negotiate, founder of OLAP, says that these computers have now been distributed to 2,000 students across the globe, in 40 different countries, and available in 25 differ ent languages. Negotiate goes on to say that 25% of teachers in developing countries re illiterate and have very poor education. The other 25% teaching didn't finish school themselves, someone teacher fifth grade may only have a sixth grade education. These computers will not Just teach students, it will allow non-student adults to learn too.Negotiate said that we he first started this project people told him that you can't Just build a laptop that is connected, give it a kid and walk away. He responded with, â€Å"you know what, you can, you actually can, and we have found that kids in the remotest part of the world, when given that connected not only teach homeless how to read and write, but most importantly, thy teach their parents how to read and write† (Negotiate 2010, 03:52). In a separate interview, Nicholas Negotiate says that the most important part of this project isn't that children will have their own laptop, it's that this will become a part of society.This proje ct has education (Negotiate 2009). One Laptop per Child, has been widely criticized by many for not actually helping children. Jeffery James, quoted in a Journal article by Jeanine Renders, argues that the OLAP program leads to too much time spent focusing on computers and rumoring the use of the Western technology and way of life that not enough effort will be put into other forms of education that are of equal or greater importance (Renders). Lisa Marie Allen argues that Western cultures have a long history of trying to put their values, beliefs and way of life into non-western cultures.They are constantly exploring different ways to â€Å"help† these developing counties, when in reality they have little knowledge or understand of these third world countries, which are at a completely different stage of development. What Westerners believe to be a rarity, these non-western countries don't see as a priority. She states that in many countries such as Ghana, education is not a priority. Many children need to stay home, do chores and work for their families. They are not concerned with being computer literate (Allen).Eileen and Michael Benson continued this argument, by saying that OLAP believes that, â€Å"one educational model is suitable for all educational environments and that the latest educational approach should displace, historic, locally developed teaching approaches† (Person, 243). Pelham agrees saying that Hess countries don't need laptops, building schools and libraries is a bigger priority and will be more beneficial for students in developing countries. These students will go without pencils and paper while the computers end up being sold on the black market. Bringing laptops to the world's poorest children could be the educational equivalent of delivering cans of food to people who have no can-openers† (Pelham, 76). Paula Cook Mackinac talks about why teachers in developing countries have a hard time bringing the use of laptop s into their education plans. Mackinac says hey have very little knowledge about how to use computers themselves, let alone having to teach young students how to use them. Teachers said they need technological support if they want to incorporate technology in school classrooms of these developing countries, and they don't have it (Mackinac).Did One Laptop Per Child fail or succeed with their mission? It's up to individual interpretation and what is or should be important, as well as what has happened versus what was supposed to happen. Yes, computers were distributed to over 2,000 children throughout the world, and they have definitely learned from it. Many resources say it failed and they critique every aspect, but why did it fail? Computers were distributed and studies have showed that children learned from them. Sure, developing countries could use buildings, food and water more, but education is important.These laptops are Just one part of helping developing countries more forwa rd with the rest of the world. In reality, there isn't enough information to say for certain if this project truly failed or succeed. It would definitely be beneficial to research and find out exactly what happened with OLAP. Did students benefit from the program and the use of computers? Or did they slowly fade out? Do computers in class actually help students? What do advocates and critics think about OLAP and technology in classrooms?The more interest an issue gets, the more information, research, and solutions will be made or educational problems of the world's poor† (Weyerhaeuser, 46). Weyerhaeuser continues by saying the process of improving education with technology is at a very early stage. To make such a change will take time and the use of several different professionals (Weyerhaeuser). One Laptop per Child is definitely an area of study that should be continued. This is a program that needs to succeed, education is key for children and everyone has the right to one.

Free Essays on Analysis Paper

and would steal. I guess it was just the way they grew up. I began to see that my family’s values were not the same values of all families. My family was the all American family until my parents separated. I had always had the influence of two parents in my household. My family also was pretty financially secure. I never wanted for anything. I always had what ever I wanted and then some. This made me be a little unappreciative. I also was picked on by my classmates because ... Free Essays on Analysis Paper Free Essays on Analysis Paper Abstract This paper will examine and analyze my life experiences using the concepts, theories, and paradigms that I learned in this class. It will discuss how I have developed my personality through the socialization process. I will also briefly discuss the affects and my affect on the environment and cultural considerations. I will be using Conflict Theory as my main theory to discuss my life choices and my overall development. All of this will come together using the concepts of person-in-environment, culture, groups, families, communities, and other concepts. Through everyday life we are constantly developing our personality traits, morals, and standards of life through the socialization process. My mother was a single. She divorced my father when I was seven years old. From there she was my mother and my father. She taught me the different values that life has to hold. This was only the beginning. Growing up I learned that my life and family was different from others. The students in elementary school were of a whole different world from me. I was raised as the only male in my family. I had two sisters and I always felt alone. I think this is why I grew up such a quiet child. Once I was in school I quickly discovered that my upbringing was totally different that many of the other kids I was in school with. I was taught not to curse or steal, however many of the children in my first grade class were liars and used curse words and would steal. I guess it was just the way they grew up. I began to see that my family’s values were not the same values of all families. My family was the all American family until my parents separated. I had always had the influence of two parents in my household. My family also was pretty financially secure. I never wanted for anything. I always had what ever I wanted and then some. This made me be a little unappreciative. I also was picked on by my classmates because ...

Creating Awesome Content Quickly With Neil Patel From Crazy Egg

Creating Awesome Content Quickly With Neil Patel From Crazy Egg Creating awesome content quickly is something that many of us aspire to do. Today we’re talking to Neil Patel. Neil is a New York Times author and was recognized by President Obama as a top-100 entrepreneur under the age of 30. He’s co-founded companies including Crazy Egg, Hello Bar, and KISSmetrics. Today we’re going to talk about being super-prolific. Sit back, relax, and get ready for a 20-minute class on content marketing! Information on what has led to Neil’s incredible success with content marketing. Thoughts on why Neil is able to create great content so quickly. Some of the most common mistakes Neil sees when it comes to content marketing. How Neil uses surveys and research to boost his success, what kinds of questions he asks, and what he does with the results. How Neil decides what kind of content to create. Neil’s best tip for marketers who want to create prolific content. Links and Resources: Neil Patel’s blog Crazy Egg Hello Bar KISSmetrics QuickSprout SurveyMonkeyIf you liked today’s show, please subscribe on iTunes to The Actionable Content Marketing Podcast! The podcast is also available on SoundCloud, Stitcher, and Google Play. Quotes by Neil: If it makes people laugh or amuses them, you’re good to go, but sometimes it takes a lot to create content that really amuses.† â€Å"Go out there and do it. If you can’t figure out how to be motivated to make it part of your daily routine, you’re going to fail because that’s the easiest part.† â€Å"It isn’t just creation and promotion; it is process as well. I think that’s what a lot of people forget.†

Postmodernism and Material Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Postmodernism and Material Culture - Essay Example The essay "Postmodernism and Material Culture" analyzes postmodernism and the material culture. In detail, it refrains from victimizing definitions such as female versus male, straight versus gay, black versus white and colonial versus imperial. Therefore, postmodernism holds realities to be relative to the interested parties and their main concerns. Postmodernism influences numerous cultural fields which include sociology, literary criticism, visual arts, music, architecture and linguistics. The wide range of terms in statements and assumptions in argument seem to complicate the study of postmodernism. We begin by differentiating the concepts and terms of postmodernism. The postmodern refers to a historical condition. Postmodernity assess the acknowledgment or lack of the same about postmodernism. Finally, postmodernism may be exhibited in various movements that exhibit self-awareness and intention of varying degrees. Postmodernism refers to an awareness of transition within the soc ietal and cultural spectrums following the World-War II. It also associates with the upheavals associated with the mass-mediated populist consumer culture of the 1960s-1970s. In culture and art, postmodernism contributes towards the development of hybrid cultural forms. Often, individuals of the affected localities try to be against or in support of the hegemonic Western culture. In history, postmodernism alters progress of the goal oriented history. Postmodernism disrupts myths that propagate ethnic and national identities.

Forcasting (time series) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Forcasting (time series) - Essay Example This makes the TPB particularly useful for designing interventions where the aim is to increase individuals intentions to engage in a behaviour that they are not intrinsically motivated to engage with (Hardeman et al., 2002). One area in which the TPB has received less attention, yet which has an impact upon health outcomes, is the behaviour of health care professionals. There may be differences between the cognitive processes associated with behaviour protecting ones own health compared to protecting the health of others (Walker, Grimshaw, & Armstrong, 2001). Health professionals adherence to guidelines has begun to receive attention. This is partly due to the increased standardisation of healthcare provision in England and Wales through evidence-based guidelines developed by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, and National Service Frameworks for specific services and conditions. Guidelines have the potential to improve standards by promoting interventions of proven benefit, and discouraging ineffective ones (Woolf, Grol, Hutchison, Eccles, & Grimshaw, 1999). However, research suggests that health professionals adherence can be variable and low (e.g. Tiemeier et al, 2002; Mannan & Jones, 2005; Sheldon et al, 2004), and affected by a multitude of factors (e.g. Foy et al., 2001). Given the importance of increasing adherence to strive to achieve the health outcomes predicted by guidelines, some researchers have tested the effectiveness of the TPB in accounting for proportions of variance in health professionals intentions to adhere. Studies have included predicting the adherence intentions of general practitioners to antibiotic prescribing guidelines for patients with a sore throat (Walker et al., 2001), and nurses intentions to offer smoking cessation advice (Puffer & Rashidian, 2004). These and other studies have found the TPB to account for significant proportions of variance in intention

Poverty Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Poverty - Research Paper Example The author uses various forms of language to define poverty, as well as convey the nature of poverty to the reader. She starts by defining poverty from a personal perspective and taking the reader through her suffering and the pain of her daily life. Her main aim is to make the readers experience poverty and view themselves in her dirt and poverty, doing so in order to make the reader grasp what world she is coming from. Through the use of imagery to expose the horrific and hideous world of poverty, she enhances her ability to make her audience question the stereotypes that they have of the poor. According to her, there are poor people in every country. Majority of individuals in the world are quick to stereotype Kuwaiti citizens as rich and multi-millionaires, whom all change their automotives on a yearly basis and live in villas (El-Katiri et al 14). While this is true and most Kuwaitis do live relatively well, there are, however, those Kuwaitis who are poor or underprivileged and live below the poverty line, relying heavily on monthly charity that they receive from charitable organizations. It is true that there are very few Kuwaitis who cannot manage a meal, whether foreign laborers or Kuwaiti nationals. However, while shelter, food, and healthcare are attainable with ease because of the welfare system run by the state, there are also charitable organizations based in and out of Kuwait that spend millions in order to make sure that the essential needs of Kuwaiti nationals are taken care of (El-Katiri et al 14). While this may not make sense given the relative wealth in Kuwait compared to other countries, it is also worth remembering that poverty is a major problem worldwide. In today’s world, poverty is an epidemic that has very few solutions (Parker 1). In fact, those who are poor in relatively wealthy countries are worse off compared to those in developing nations. This is because poverty is enabled by classification in these countries with class s tratification making it difficult to â€Å"spread the wealth†. These classifications may be based on individual behavior categories, cultural factors, political factors, economic factors, and social factors. These classifications contribute to poverty. Social class determines wages, which would be the variable that leads to poverty. Those families receiving lower wages are barely able to cater for living expenses (Parker 1). In this case, they do not have sufficient money to enroll for programs that will aid their children’s education. In Kuwait, as well as, other countries like Kuwait in the region, classification based on wealth and private property is not so important, especially compared to having the power, to access state institutions that are involved in distributing revenues from the oil (El-Katiri et al 15). Kuwait is a rich country where poverty is relatively low. However, there are still fundamental social divisions within the country. These divisions exist between tribal families that have settled for a while and those who settled in the country within the last thirty years. The latter group does not have strong and long established ties with the ruling class. In fact, most of them do not even possess Kuwaiti citizenship and are

HSBC and Foreign Market Strategies

HSBC and Foreign Market Strategies 1. Introduction With assets of US $1,502 billion, HSBC Holdings is one of the largest banking and financial services organisations in the world.1 It provides a comprehensive range of financial services including personal financial services, commercial and corporate banking, investment banking and markets, private banking, and other activities. HSBCs international network comprised over 9,500 offices in 76 countries and territories in Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, the America, the Middle East and Africa. 1. 2. Literature Review What determines foreign market entry strategies? To answer this question, most existing literature has focused on the characteristics of the entering firm, in particular its resources and capabilities (Barney, 1991; Anand and Delios, 2002) and its need to minimize transaction costs (Buckley and Casson, 1976; Anderson and Gatignon, 1986; Hill, Hwang, and Kim, 1990). While resources and capabilities are certainly important (Peng, 2001), recent work has suggested that strategies are moderated by the characteristics of the particular context in which firms operate (Hoskisson et al., 2000; In particular, institutions—the ‘rules of the game—in the host economy also significantly shape firm strategies such as foreign market entry (Peng, 2003; Wright et al., 2005). In a broad sense, macro-level institutions affect transaction costs (North, 1990). However, traditional transaction cost research (exemplified by Williamson, 1985) has focused on micro-analytical aspects such a s opportunism and bounded rationality. As a result, questions of how macro-level institutions, such as country-level legal and regulatory frameworks, influence transaction costs have been relatively unexplored, remaining largely as ‘background. However, a new movement in research posits that institutions are far more than ancillary elements, and that institutions directly influence what resources a firm has at its disposal as it strives to develop and launch strategy. Nowhere is this point more clearly borne out than in emerging economies, where institutional frameworks differ greatly from those in developed economies (Khanna, Palepu, and Sindha, 2005; Meyer and Peng, 2005; Wright et al., 2005; Gelbuda, Meyer, and Delios, 2008). Given these institutional differences, how do foreign firms adapt entry strategies when entering emerging economies? Focusing on this key question, it can be argued that (1) institutional development (or underdevelopment) in different emerging economie s directly affects entry strategies, and (2) investors needs for local resources impact entry strategies in different ways in different institutional contexts. In essence, we advocate an integrative perspective calling not only for explicit considerations of institutional effects, but also for their integration with resource-based considerations. An analysis of theory developed specifically out of changes to global markets shows little development of the standard theories of market segmentation, differentiated pricing and appropriate distribution channels which underpinned local and domestic marketing theory. However, the literature over the past five years has shown a particular set of theoretical models specific to global marketing. Hollensen, S (2007) discusses the Upsalla International Model which suggests a sequential pattern of entry into international markets with an increasing â€Å"commitment† to overseas markets as the international experience of the firm grows. He contrasts this with a traditional approach of what is termed as the Penrosian tradition which returns us to the economy of scale and a cost-led approach working from the firms core competencies. Dunning (1998) suggests a similar Ownership-Location-internalisation (OLI) framework identifying an â€Å"ownership advantage† of establishing overs eas production facilities, a locational advantage which builds a logistics network around the overseas production and, finally, an internalisation advantage where it must be economical for a firm to utilise the previous two advantages rather than sell them to a foreign firm. Similar to the development of the standardisation-localisation model emerging to deal with the specific choices related to international market entry the identification of risk mitigation factors salient to international marketing has developed rapidly. Baker, M (1993) recognises the risk mitigation inherent in internationalisation, protecting the firm from adverse fluctuations in the national economic cycle. Hollensen, S (2007) concurs, outlining the ownership, operating and transfer risk in being attached purely to domestic markets. All of the literature, in short, is strong on identifying the risks of domestic-based marketing, however there is scant coverage of the specific risks of internationalisation 2.1 Factors Affecting Market Entry Models Comprehensive models are easily identifiable in the literature and cover diverse entry modes, total product offer, and maturity models, Hollensen, S (2007). Earlier literature is more product-based than market-led, as with Majaro, S (1993) who presents three approaches to entering a product onto the international market: the development of new products, the deletion of weak products and the modification of new products. Hollensen, S more or less deals with market maturity as a key consideration of entry. Two distinct models suggested here are the waterfall approach where the product is disseminated from advanced through developing to less developed countries and the shower approach where all three are simultaneously targeted where early market penetration is a goal. Overall, the literature is consensual on the fact that shorter product lifecycles are the salient feature of internationalised markets. 2.2 Internal Factors With assets of US $1,502 billion, HSBC Holdings is one of the largest banking and financial services organisations in the world.1 HSBC provides a comprehensive range of financial services including personal financial services, commercial and corporate banking, investment banking and markets, private banking, and other activities. HSBCs international network comprised over 9,500 offices in 76 countries and territories in Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, the America, the Middle East and Africa. It was a pioneer of modern banking practices in a number of countries. A growth oriented company from its earliest days, in 2000, HSBC decided to launch concrete strategies to attain market leadership in all sectors it operated in. Though the company was amongst the leading players in areas such as consumer finance, personal financial services, commercial and corporate banking, it also wanted to establish its presence in areas such as investment banking, mortgage, insurance and credit card business. To strengthen its product portfolio and geographical reach, the company embarked on an aggressive acquisition strategy. The focus was on areas where HSBC was either weak or did not have a presence. Simultaneously, the company launched an aggressive branding exercise to complement its growth strategy. The geographical reach of the bank could be estimated by its presence in form of the subsidiaries and franchises. It has nearly 200,000 shareholders in some 100 countries and territories. The shares traded on the New York Stock Exchange in the form of American D epositary Receipts. HSBC was also listed on the London, Hong Kong, New York, Paris and Bermuda stock exchanges. In late 1998, the Group adopted the HSBC brand and the hexagon symbol as a unified brand in all the markets where it operated. The bank adopted the tagline ‘Your world of financial services in 1999. With the new tagline, HSBC hoped to acquaint customers with the extent and the range of its financial services. The tagline and the unification of the business under one name emphasised the global reach of the group. In early 2000s, HSBC vigorously worked towards developing its banking and financial services to gain market leadership. In 2002, the HSBC changed the tagline to ‘The worlds local bank, the tagline emphasised the groups experience and understanding of a great variety of markets and cultures. The group chairman said ‘We are committed to making HSBC one of the worlds leading brands for customer experience.1 as part of the ‘Managing For Value Strategy In 1998, HSBC launched the above strategy to set the conditions for future success in a fast-changing market. The company hoped to beat the total shareholder return delivered by competing financial institutions. To do so, it needed to enter areas that promised returns that were higher than the risk-adjusted cost of capital. It decided to offer wealth management services, personal asset management and insurance services to its customers. Its objective was to cross-sell a wide range of products around the globe, including mortgages, insurance, mutual funds, and credit cards. As a first step, the company decided to eliminate bad growth strategies i.e. those which had failed to cover the cost of capital. As a part of its value-based profitability drive, it adopted several measures which targeted higher-value creation at the bank. Managers and staff adopted behavioural practices such as targeting high-net-worth customers through several prestigious credit card schemes, strengthened the sales culture of staff by ways of incentives and promoting client cross-referral across the different business divisions, running more loyalty programmes for customers to capture a greater share of creditworthy customers. Like some other companies, HSBC has also developed international programs with their own incentive and compensation systems, performance metrics, and opportunities to groom managers for global positions (Exhibit 3, on the next page). Such programs, which often provide training focused on tolerance and cultural awareness, aim to produce managers who are well versed in a companys distinctive capabilities but flexible enough to deal successfully with novel situations. These managers learn to distinguish the nonnegotiable aspects of a business model from those that can be modified as necessary. Ranbaxy, whose current CEO is British, is one of the companies working to develop this kind of global cadre. Its country managers move to new locations as soon as they are ready to assume larger challenges. 2. 3. External Factors 3.1 Barriers to market entry 3.1.1 Regulation Firms in regulated industries face a significant strategic dilemma when expanding abroad. On the one hand, established theory and practice recommend following a gradual, staged model of international expansion so as to minimize risks and cope with uncertainty (Johanson and Vahlne, 1977; Chang, 1995; Rivoli and Salorio, 1996; Guill ´en, 2002; Vermeulen and Barkema, 2002), that is, to overcome the so-called liability of foreignness (Hymer, 1976; Zaheer, 1995). On the other, the regulated nature of these industries tends to require a strong commitment of resources anda fast pace of entry into foreign markets. This is the case for three interrelated reasons. First,these industries tend to be highly concentrated, and they often exhibit certain features of the ‘naturalmonopoly.1 Second, entry may be restricted by the government, frequently under a system oflicenses. And third, the government may own significant parts of the industry. Under these circumstances, foreign entrants face strong incentives to commit large amounts of resources and to establish operations quickly, whenever and wherever opportunities arise, and frequently via acquisition as opposed to greenfield investment (Sarkar et al., 1999). Thus, the regulated and oligopolistic nature of these industries generates strong first mover advantages (Doh, 2000; Knickerbocker, 1973). Recent research in strategy argues that firms in regulated industries follow ‘asymmetric strategies in that they seek to defend their home-country position by preventing rivals from competing on a level playing field while pursuing entry into foreign markets as deregulation occurs. Given that deregulation has taken place at different moments in time and to different degrees from country to country, firms in regulated industries tend to follow a multidomestic strategy of foreign expansion, namely, they pick and choose which markets to enter depending on the specific circumstances A natural monopoly emerges when it is possible to exploit economies of scale over a very large range of output. As a result, the optimally efficient scale of production becomes a very high  proportion of the total market demand for the product or service. present in each foreign country, arranging their operations with a local rather than a global logic in mind, and engaging in limited cross-border coordination (Bonardi, 2004). Another distinctive feature of regulated industries is the role of the state as a shareholder. Some of the most active firms in regulated industries expanding abroad are former monopolies in which the state has or has had a controlling stake (Doh, Teegen, and Mudambi, 2004). 3.1.2 Cultural Barriers By September 2000, the Hong Kong operations of HSBC were falling behind in implementing the MfV strategy. The strategy set the goal of the bank doubling shareholder value over a five years through growth in its core businesses in addition to a massive reduction in operating costs. One major cost-saving initiative was the migration of the banks Network Services Centre (NSC) in Hong Kong to its new global processing centre in Guangzhou, a Chinese city on the mainland. Implementing this initiative which involved moving staff and resources to the Guangzhou Data Centre (GZC) came up against major operational and public relations issues. (MB) Technically, there were no major obstacles to the bank following a global trend in financial services; seeking economies of scale by moving back-office operations to lower cost areas. The average salaries of staff in the GZC were only 20% of those in the NSC. From this angle, moving professional positions to GZC and to HSBCs other new Indian global processing centre seemed perfectly in line with MfV objectives. Most duties were highly routine involving few important decision-making duties. Nevertheless, The staff, who were initially offered a choice to move or risk losing their positions, felt betrayed by the bank, since there was an expectation among the workers that dutiful service should be recognised with job security. 4. Market Opportunities available to HSBC 4.1.1. Micro-Financing With significant operations in the emerging markets and expertise in transactional solutions, and supported by our office network, services, processes, capital, and customer relationships, HSBC are well placed to serve the micro finance sector. The banks approach to this sector is based on commercial viability with high social benefit, with the aim of creating self-sustaining, stable financial services to help people out of poverty. HSBC integrate micro-finance activities Global Business and Organizational Excellence DOI: 10.1002/joe January/February 2009 17 with local business capabilities rather than as a separate business line. Following pilot projects in 2005, HSBC has engaged more closely with micro-finance enablers and MFIs on the ground to understand the principal issues facing the sector, and the findings have informed and shaped our priorities. HSBC is currently working with MFIs in Argentina, India, Mexico, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Turkey through our operations in th ose countries. The bank is at the forefront in arranging foreign investments into the country and deals for Indian companies investing overseas, and it is custodian of more than 40 percent of the foreign institutional investments (FIIs) in India, with total assets under management in India that exceed $5 billion. Although HSBC in India has 47 branches and 178 ATMs in 26 cities, it lacks a branch network and accessibility in rural areas, where the majority of Indias empoverished population lives. The rural poor need a diverse range of financial services, including credit and safe and flexible savings services, to run their businesses, build assets, stabilize consumption, and shield themselves against poverty. However, access to quality financial services in rural India is still heavily inadequate. Eighty-one percent of villages in India do not have banks within a distance of 2 km (1.2 miles); 41 percent of the population does not have a bank account; and available credit in rural are as meets just 10 percent of the actual need. Microfinance established a foothold in India during the 1990s, but this decade has seen rapid growth, with a distinct shift away from a â€Å"welfare† model toward a â€Å"business model† for delivering these services.Since it is quite expensive for HSBC in India to provide services directly to the rural poor, it lends funds to microfinance intermediaries, the MFIs that further on-lend the funds to the ultimate clients. HSBC in India established a team for microfinance under its Commercial Banking division in December 2007 and plans to eventually create regional-level teams to facilitate initiatives in their respective parts of the country. 4.1.2 North America Market Entry HSBCs initial motivation for its acquiring retail banks in North America and the UK was to diversify away from its home in Asia. After it acquired Marine Midland Bank and Midland Bank, HSBCs motivation may have changed subtly. It is becoming increasingly difficult for banks that are large relative to their home markets to grow at home. In many developed countries banking has become quite concentrated (Marquez and Molyneux, 2002). In response, policymakers in these countries have started to bar the banks from further domestic mergers and acquisitions. Some recent failed attempts in Canada are a case in point (Tickell, 2000). The only remaining possibility for growth then is cross-border. Interestingly, each of the owners of the largest subsidiaries of foreign banks in the US is disproportionately often the largest bank in its own home country (Tschoegl, 2002 and 2004). Assessing the viability of this strategy is the classic question of how a foreign firm competes against local firms t hat do not face any liability of foreignness (Zaheer, 1995), that is, costs that come from operating in a  foreign environment or at a distance. One issue then is whether having operations in contiguous countries represents a competitive advantage. Tschoegl (1987) and Dufey and Yeung (1993) have argued that where markets are well developed and competitive, there is no reason to expect foreign banks in general to be better than local banks at retail banking. At the same time there is evidence for the existence of a liability of foreignness vis-à  -vis the foreign banks host-country competitors  (Parkhe and Miller, 2002). Of course, there is also evidence that suggests that the liability is minimal (Nachum, 2003) or wanes over time (Zaheer and Moskowitz, 1996). However, these last two studies examine the liability in the context of corporate and wholesale banking markets. The liability may be more salient in the retail markets, where national differences between the home and host market are likely to be more profound.Demirgà ¼Ãƒ §-Kunt and Huizinga (1999) and Claessens et al. (2001) found that foreign banks tend to have higher margins and profits than domestic banks in developing countries, but that the opposite holds in industrial countries. Similarly, Dopico and Wilcox (2002) found that foreign banks have a greater share in under-banked markets and a smaller presence in mature markets. The implication is that one should not expect much in the way of cross-border mergers in commercial banking within developed regions. We can speculate that on the production side, differences in products  across markets and privacy laws appear to be limiting parents ability to consolidate processing. As far as depositors are concerned, there seems to be little value to having an account with a bank that operates in other countries, especially now that travelers can draw cash from networked automated transaction machines (ATMs). HSBC does have a service for wealthy indivi duals-HSBC Premier-that provides for such crossborder advantages as transfer of an individuals credit rating when they relocate, and some other services. However, these facilities are not available to ordinary accounts. The literature on trade flows is instructive here; the evidence on NAFTA has shown that borders have a substantial damping effect on trade flows (McCallum, 1995). In North America HSBC is even poorly positioned to take advantage of the one form of cross-border retail banking that is currently drawing attention: remittance flows from Mexican workers in the US. Although HSBC now has a strong presence in Mexico, it has almost no offices in California or other US states with large populations of Mexican immigrants. By contrast, Bank of America, which is the largest bank in California and is present in many other US states, in 2002, bought a 25 percent stake in Santander-Serfin, Santanders subsidiary, which has amalgamated Mexicos oldest and third largest bank. If there is little reason to believe that HSBC benefits from cross-border demand or production effects, what is left as a source of advantage? One candidate is what Kindleberger (1969) has called â€Å"surplus managerial resources.† When a bank such as HSBC can no longer grow at home, it may find itself with a management team that is underemployed in terms of the demands on its time. The bank may then choose to grow abroad when it can combine these surplus resources with what Berger et al. (2000) call a global advantage. Berger et al. argue that some US banks succeed in the competition with local banks elsewhere in the world simply by being better managed. In their survey of the literature on productivity, Bartelsman and Doms (2000) draw several stylized lessons, among them that firms differ in their productivity and that this difference may persist for years. Obviously, not all US banks necessarily partake of the advantage of better management and by contrast some non-US banks may. HSBC may simply be one of these. As Nachum et al. (2001) point out, the competitiveness of firms depends on the kind of assets that firm s can transfer internally from country to country, but that are difficult to transfer from one firm to another, even within a country. Still, it is, unfortunately, extremely difficult to measure an intangible asset as subtle and hard to define as better management (Denrell, 2004), especially when, as recent events have shown, stock market performance or accounting measures are of doubtful reliability. HSBC began its growth in North America by acquiring failed and weak banks. In effect, shareholders lacking a comparative advantage relative to HSBC, with respect to owning and governing given banks or branches (Lichtenberg and Siegel, 1987), sold them to HSBC. Generally, growth by acquisition is difficult to execute and as a strategy it is vulnerable to problems of over-reach due to managerial hubris (Roll, 1986; Baradwaj et al., 1992; Seth et al., 2000). Peek et al. (1999) found that generally the US subsidiaries of foreign banks have not done well. The poor performance of foreign bank subsidiaries was a result of the foreign banks acquiring poorly performing US banks and being unable to improve their performance sufficiently within the period that the authors examined. (One cannot arrive at strong conclusions from studies of the profitability of subsidiaries. Banks transfer profits across borders (Demirgà ¼Ãƒ §-Kunt and Huizinga, 2001), and foreign banks may prefer to book some bu siness from their headquarters (Peek and Rosengren, 2000).) Still, HSBCs operations in the US and Canada are survivors of a winnowing process that saw other banks from Canada, Japan, the UK and the US sell their Canadian or US subsidiaries, in some cases to HSBC. As Mitchell and Shaver (2003) show with respect to firms in the US medical sector, firms differ in their ability to absorb and manage business on a continuing basis. They use the biological metaphor of predation and their evidence is consistent with the idea that some predators are better able to target desirable prey and better able to overpower the prey they target. HSBC appears to have found that it is one such successful predator. One may surmise that HSBC initially chose to acquire weak banks as much out of necessity as design. For any given size, a profitable bank will cost more than an unprofitable one, and to achieve its goal of diversifying, HSBC needed to acquire large banks. Now that HSBC is one of the worlds lar gest banks, whether one measures by market capitalization or total assets, it has more leeway. Conclusion Assuming that there is a positive relationship between marketing spend and market share, marketing activities, if well-targetted should have a incremental impact on market share. However, this does not always seem to hold true within the â€Å"big four† banks. Barclays and HSBC both developed their market share by 1% between 1995 and 2000, in spite of greatly varied levels of investment in marketing. Lloyds TSB market share fell by 2% although the bank spent significantly more than either Barclays or HSBC while NatWest and RBS have both declined by 4% despite having a collective expenditure of more than double Barclays. This perhaps, at least partly, explains why HSBC has adopted a highly acquisitive strategy, realising that, although the core brand is strong, customer recognition may have saturated, therefore integrating both fresh brands into subsidiaries in tandem with launching new, retail-focussed services, keeps the proposition fresh. Recommendations With the disproportionate focus on retail banking, HSBC has yet not come over as a major player in investment banking. However, with the wave of recent milestone deals during over the last three years, the bank is beginning to emerged as an investment banking brand. HSBC played a central role in two of Europes biggest-ever merger and acquisition deals i.e. Mittal Steels hostile bid for Frances Arcelor and German utility company E.Ons offering for Spanish rival Endesa. However, the development in the direction of investment banking requires some acceleration as the retail ban king sector continues to be heavily impacted by the sub-prime mortgage fallout and credit tightness. The bank has been planning to further enhance its business in the UK by investing  £400m in retail and commercial distribution network and setting up 500 new ATMs, 250 new Express terminals, however this is has not yet materialised and may be badly-timed if implemented within the year. HSBC has considered the Asian region as its major focus area and it can expect a bigger share from the Asia-Pacific region in the future. In early 2007, Asia-Pacific, the Americas (including South America) and Europe each contributed one third in HSBC groups overall bottom line. 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