Investment: Time Value of Money Essay

Investment is the use of money for a future financial gain. Investments may come in the form of shares of stock, life insurance, government bonds, or putting up a savings account. Every investment decision has its underlying risks and uncertainties. Various factors can affect investment decisions and outcomes such as annuities and time value of money. Money has a time value. A dollar now is worth more than a dollar to be received at any later date. Many economic decisions involve investing money now in the hope of receiving more money later on. Various economic factors affect the time value of money such as risk, inflation, opportunity cost, and others. According to Robert C. Higgins (1999), â€Å"time value of money exists for at least three reasons†. Robert C. Higgins (1999) stated that â€Å"inflation reduces the purchasing power of future dollars relative to current ones, uncertainties surrounding the receipt of dollar increases as the date of receipt draw away, and because of the presence of opportunity cost†. In economics, inflation is a decline in the value of money in relation to the goods and services it can buy. Inflation can affect time value of money and investment decisions. Due to inflation, borrowers usually benefit while lenders suffer, because mortgage, personal, business, and government loans are paid with money that loses purchasing power over time (Encarta, 2004). It is important to understand however, that borrowers only benefit when the inflation is unexpected, when inflation is expected by creditors, the interest rate they charges rises to compensate for the unexpected decline in the purchasing power of the principal loan (Encarta, 1999). Risk or financial risk is defined as the possibility of loss in an investment. Investment decisions involve some type of risk because of the time value of money. Lenders should take into consideration various factors before extending credit such as the borrower’s ability to pay or collaterals. Interest rates on loans can also be based on the degree of risk involved. The higher the risk involved the higher interest rate. On the other hand, lower interest is imposed on low-risk loans. As mentioned above, investment decisions has its underlying risk and uncertainties, therefore before making investment decisions it is important to understand the risks and uncertainties involved. Opportunity cost is defined as the expected income on the next best alternative or the income foregone if an investor chooses one action over another (Higgins, 1999). A dollar today is worth more than a dollar in the future since money today can be invested for it to double in the future. Opportunity cost depends on what action is to be considered. Before making decisions, an investor must first look for and obtain an understanding of all the available alternative courses of action. After determining the various alternatives, the differential effects of each alternative should be considered to avoid potential problems in the future. Interest is the payment made for the use of another person’s money and is regarded as a payment made for capital (Encarta, 2004). Interest can be affected by economic factors such as inflation. When interest is computed based on the principal amount, it is called simple interest. However, when interest is computed not only on the principal amount but also on the cumulative total of past interest payments, the process of interest computation is now called compounding. Compounding is the process of determining the future value of a present sum (Higgins, 1999). The interest rate used on compounding is called the compound interest rate.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Discounting, on the other hand is the exact opposite of compounding. Discounting is the process of finding the present value of a future sum (Higgins, 1999). The interest rate used in discounting is called the discount rate. The amount of money to be received in a future date is usually a combination of the original investment and the interest on that investment. Discounts are rewards or considerations given on the purchase of negotiable instruments such as bills of exchange and promissory notes in advance of their maturity date. When these negotiable instruments are said to be discounted, discounts are regarded as advance collection of interest on the loans. An annuity is a type of investment that can provide a steady stream of income over along period of time (Understanding annuities, 2006). Annuity is an annual allowance, payment, or income derived from funds especially designated for the purpose (Encarta, 2004). At times, it is required to compute for the present value of a series of equal amounts to be received at the end of a series of years. Annuity earnings grow tax-deferred and are usually purchased by investors who are primarily concerned with limiting their taxes (Understanding annuities, 2006). The rule of 72 is a method of estimating an investment’s doubling time or halving time (Rule of 72, 2006). The Rule of 72 estimates the number of years it takes for an investment’s value to double at a specific interest rate or rate of return and the result can be obtained by dividing the expected growth rate into 72 to determine the number of years it will take to double. By taking into consideration the rule of 72, investors can assess the length of time in which their investment can double and to determine if their investments are feasible. Investing involves the decision of committing resources such as money for a period of time. Evaluating investment decisions involve the determination and assessment of the possible inherent risks and uncertainties. An effective investing decision requires a consideration of the time value of money. References Encarta Reference Library 2004. Microsoft Corporation Higgins, R. (1999). Analysis for financial management. Evaluating investment opportunities (pp 231-266). Washington. Irwin McGraw Hill. Rule of 72 (2006). Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved December 3, 2006 from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruleof72 Understanding annuities (2006). Retrieved December 3, 2006 from: http://www.tdi.state.tx.us/consumer/cb078.html   

A Critique of a health promotion tool Essay

The purpose of this essay is to critically analyse a health education resource, to show knowledge and understanding of the use of health behaviour models and to understand the concept of health promotion. The health education resource chosen by the author is presented in the form of a leaflet promoting breast awareness. Health promotion is â€Å"any planned combination of educational, political, environmental, regulatory, or organisational mechanisms that support actions and conditions of living conductive to the health of individuals, groups and communities†. (Joint Committee, 2001, p.101). The purpose of health promotion is to encourage the adoption of â€Å"healthy† behaviours. Health promotion is made up of 3 main concepts, which are Health education, Health protection and Prevention of disease, these also referred to as the health triad. There are many factors which may affect the implementation of health promotion, these are: educational background, sociocultural contexts, demographic position, attitudes, behaviour, socioeconomic groups and beliefs. Health promotion is also cost beneficial, although it appears to cost money, society saves money in the long run because treatment costs more than disease prevention, health protection and health education. Even though health promotion was being practiced in the 18th century, the most relevant changes have occurred in the past 20 years, this is primarily due to a change in the emphasis of health care. Health become more about prevention of illness rather than treatment in the early 1980’s, this paradigm shift in emphasis is directly related to cost benefits from health promotion and the change of responsibility for health onto the individual rather than the establishment (Health professionals). Health has been defined as: â€Å"a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and merely the absence of disease or infirmity†. Health consists of five dimensions, which are: Physical health, Emotional health, Social health, Mental health and Spiritual health. Main Body Health promotion is a fundamental component of the health care systems. The health promotion relies on the health triad model, which consists of 3main domains as mentioned above in the introduction. The author will now go into more detail about these three domains. Health education – All aspects of  positive health education are comprised in the domain. This includes helping individuals, groups or communities develop positive health impute, such as self-esteem and life skills by influencing behaviour (Butler, 2001). Health Protection – This domain focuses on the increase of positive health and the prevention of ill health. It also comprises regulations and policies (Downie et al 1998). Disease Prevention – Planning and measures taken to stop disease or health problems before health event occur. This domain is split into three levels of prevention: primary, secondary and tertiary. Primary prevention – seeks to stop the onset of illness or injury during the pre-pathogenesis period. Secondary prevention measures leads to early diagnosis therefore treatment can be carried out promptly to prevent more severe pathogenesis. Tertiary prevention measures focus on the rehabilitation following significant pathogenesis, the role of tertiary prevention is to limit the affects of the pathogenesis has on individual’s lives (Cottrell et al 2002). A model is a framework used as a tool in health promotion to plan actions. Health behaviour is the focus of health promotion models, is to promote health successfully the models purpose is to promote a change in the individuals behaviours or to adopt new behaviours. Behaviours are modified by a number of internal and external factors, such as demographic variables e.g. gender, age, socio-psychological variables e.g. personality, social class and structural variables e.g. Knowledge about disease (Butler, 2001). There are numerous models used in health promotion but the author is going to concentrate on 3 of these models. The first model the author is going to look at is â€Å"The Health Belief Model† (HBM). The HBM is one the first behavioural change models to be developed; it is one of the most influential approaches to explaining health related behaviour. The HBM is a model of cognition, based on the predictors and precursors to health behaviours. Changes in behaviour are dependent on 5 factors – Perceived severity – cues to action, the belief that a health problem is serious. Perceived threat –  susceptibility, the belief that one is susceptible to a problem. Perceived benefit – the belief that changing one’s behaviour will reduce the threat. Perceived barriers – a perception of the obstacles/costs of changing one’s behaviour, self efficacy – the belief that one has the ability to change one’s behaviour (Butler, 2001). This model is most commonly utilised in primary and secondary preventions such as breast screening, testicular examination, cervical smears and the prostate cancer screening to name a few (Pender et al 2002). The second model the author is going to look at is the Transtheoretical Model. This model is also referred to as the Stages of Change Model. In this model behaviour change is viewed as a process which concentrates on the individual’s readiness to change. The difference with this specific model is that it is a cyclical process. Client’s often drop out of the interventions but may later re-enter where they left off or alternatively return to the initial stages. According to this model the are 5 stages of change: Pre-contemplation – not thinking about changing behaviour, Contemplation – thinking about changing behaviour in the near future, decision – making a plan to change behaviour, Maintenance – continuation of behaviour change. This model is most commonly associated with secondary prevention such as smoking, alcoholism, drugs abuse. Exercise and dietary change (Butler 2001). The third and final model the author is going to look at is the Dia gram of Reasoned Action (Appendix 1) which interlinks with the diagram of theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) (Appendix 2). The above models consist of attitudes towards the behaviour, subjective norms, intention and behaviour but the TBP also includes perceived behavioural control. The purpose of both of these frameworks is not to study behaviour itself but to study attitudes towards behaviours. These models are most commonly associated with primary and tertiary preventions, primary preventions such as immunisation, contraception and nutrition, tertiary preventions such as smoking cessation, Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) Human Immuno Deficiency Virus (HIV) Auto Immune Disease Syndrome (AIDS) (Cottrell, 2002). In the United Kingdom (UK) approximately 1 in 12 women will develop breast cancer at some time in their lives. There are 25,000 new cases and 15,000 deaths due to breast cancer annually; approximately one percent of breast cancer incidence occurs in  men. The main risk factors associated with breast cancer are as follows: Family history, increasing age, late menopause, first child after 30 years of age, nuliparity (no pregnancies), social class (this is the most significant risk factor), and geographical location (e.g. UK has higher mortality than Japan). Other factors which are under evaluation are, stress, high alcohol intake and high – fat diet. (Alexander et al 2000). The incidence of breast cancer in women very rarely falls below the age of 35 years, rates being to increase steadily from then, affecting over 300 of 100,000 of the population by the time women reach the age of 85 years. The greatest numbers of women are diagnosed between the ages of 45 and 65 years of age. Breast cancer in men is almost always detected beyond the age of 65 years (Alexander et al 2000). As a requirement of this health promotion essay the author h As chosen a breast awareness leaflet to critically analyse. When critically analysing a health promotion resource, there are 5 important points to consider: links – The material should contain obvious and direct links to the discussion, Intelligibility – The material Should be understandable and a reasonable learning resource, the use of complex language and over long sentences or statements should be avoided to maintain concentration, print size should be of a reasonable size to prevent audience squinting to read the text and the font also should be pick with care such as sans seril (e.g. Ariel) use of pictures and diagrams. Colours should also be appropriate to the subject e.g. discreet subject, plain neutral colours, should be chosen. General style – style of the material should remain consistent to avoid distractions. Highlighting – This is a useful way of emphasising important points. Some methods of highlighting are bold text, underlining, changing c olour of the text, shaded area of importance. Targeting – This is aiming at the target audience e.g. age, gender. In relation to the leaflet the author is going to critically analyse the leaflet using the 5 points above. : Links – All points of the discussion mentioned in the leaflet were relevant to breast awareness. Intelligility – simple language is used throughout the leaflet although sentences so tend to be long winded/ Print size is of a reasonably readable size, the fonts is reasonable and consistent, two pictures are included in the leaflets but the audience would have benefited  more from diagrams as the pictures were not self explanatory, the front cover is appealing to the eye (see Appendix) and relevant to the subject, the background is purple which fades in form the top to the bottom and the pink ribbon which is the motif for the breast cancer this make the leaflet automatically recognisable to a person who was looking for a leaflet on this topic, yet not necessarily noticed by someone who isn ’t. Breast awareness is printed in white, with fairly large print size and an acceptable if muted font. The front cover specifies the main purpose of the leaflet is to provide information and support; there is also a clear indication of who is promoting this learning resource. General style – The style and format of the leaflet is consistent from start to finish. Highlighting – Highlighting was used throughout the leaflet to determine headings and subheadings this was achieved by changing the print colour to purple. Shading was also used to highlight important points. Targeting – The target audience of this learning resource is women, although men are briefly mentioned. The author feels that the leaflet would most likely be targeting women from quite a young age as it is a precautionary action so the quicker adaptation to new behaviours are absorbed the earlier the individual becomes familiar the there own breast and what normal form them.

“It is through what we wear that we all establish our identity.” Briefly support or contradict this claim

Let us imagine a world where it was acceptable to roam the streets unclothed. Would you still conform to the norm that stated that it was usual to wear clothes? Most would, but there would be a minority who would take the liberty of going out naked. They would be viewed by the majority as anti-conformist and it could have spiralling effects on other aspects of their life – such as their identity. If a teenager wants to rebel against norms, it is very easy. They simply need to turn up to a dinner party in jeans and a t-shirt and no more need be done. They would have firmly set an impression in the minds of the other â€Å"black tie wearers†. It could lead to exclusion from the group even if they knew each other previously because it is showing a side of the person that may have previously been hidden. There isn't a human being who doesn't take appearance into account when getting a first impression of someone. It is what initially attracts one person to another and can give an idea as to what the person may be like. However, identity can be established in many ways and clothing is just one of these methods. When looking at a particular group of people, it is usually possible to examine the trends that they exhibit and spot people who look out of place and may be trying to change or enhance their identity through their clothing. Describe the connection between one particular trend in pop music and what its followers wear. â€Å"Mom. I wanna be just like Britney Spears† were the eight words which rang across the world when Ms. Spears released her saucy â€Å"Baby One More Time† video. Suddenly, it was trendy to dress in school girl uniform and the boys were instantly turned on by teenage girls dressing just like Britney. Had it not been for Britney's video, dressing in uniform at any time other than in lessons would, most likely, still be very â€Å"un-cool†. Since her first single, Ms. Spears has been an international jet-setter and trend setter. With each premiere, awards ceremony and after-show party she has attended, she has been the subject of miles worth of newspaper columns. Teenage girls everywhere have been unable to avoid the tactless and shameful promotion that Jive Records have elicited from Britney and living in the 21st century, it has become almost impossible not to be influenced by the publicity surrounding America's most famous Virgin. From controversy to contraception, Britney has been linked to everything. The initial hype surrounding her showed that she was popular amongst teenager boys and this was, no doubt, one of the main reasons thousands of teenage girls began to idolise her. Her sweet and innocent image meant that it was cool to be like Britney and this soon led to an explosion in mini-Britneys. There was a risk that she wouldn't catch on though and that she would fizzle out as another one-hit wonder. However this was soon disproved when she was pursued quickly by the other pop teen queen Christina Aguilera. Just when parents thought that Britney would be a temporary phase that their kids would go through, Christina pops up onto the scene. Bringing yet another set of catchy pop tunes, Christina enforced the idea that it was necessary to look gorgeous, be a size 8 and have a perfect body. Pig-tails were in and pony-tails were out; short skirts became even shorter and breast enlargements were being ordered left, right and centre. Despite their persistent denial of buying the plastic treatment, private clinics saw an enormous increase in their waiting list around Christmas time. It became cool to wear tight tops, to dress in leather and run around school doing Britney and Christina style dance routines. However, times change quickly and schoolgirls are already becoming bored of their teen idols' style and as Britney turns unfavourable in their eyes, it is now necessary for them to look at the older and more respected artists. Singers like Jennifer Lopez, Samantha Mumba and Janet Jackson who all have unparalleled style are the new trend. As teenage girls want to mature into appreciated women, their dress sense also proceeds in parallel and they begin to move away from the â€Å"bubblegum† image into a more adult look. They will however, all too often find themselves pre-occupied with the idealistic look of women in beauty magazines and on screen. Although this shouldn't be the case, it is an inevitable consequence of living in the midst of technology as we do and at least through these more mature artists, teenagers are growing up quicker. It is ironic to think that Britney is now modelling herself on her fans in order to please them. As they mature and advance in their ways of thinking and styles and trends, Britney is now evolving into a more mature and focused artist more in the style of Janet or Madonna. What is worrying though is that there doesn't seem to be another level to which artists like Britney can go to after her fans get tired of her present scheme. Unlike the real divas, Britney has a shelf life and it is almost up. Unless she can creatively reinvent herself with yet another new style, her fans will have to look elsewhere for inspiration and it may well be to an anti-conformist who exhibits qualities that are rebellious and not in line with conventional trends.

The Gamble House Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Gamble House - Essay Example The house was later donated to the City of Pasadena in collaboration with the University of Southern California. The University Of Southern California School Of Architecture currently controls the preservation and entailed programs in the house. It became a National Historic Landmark in the year 1978 (Arntzenius & Linda, 59). The gambles bought a building site 4 Westmoreland region in an area called "Little Switzerland† that overlooks the picturesque Arroyo. This region was a prospering art colony in 1890 that had been propagated with the shift in arts and crafts shift. The gambles selected a site having rustic setting, excellent and also unpretentious site neglecting highly fashionable millionaire’s sites. Westmoreland Place was as still a quiet street that the family had chosen for the retirement home. Awarding of the contract to Greene and Greene was prompted by the previous architectural design they had undertaken in Little Switzerland. The Greene and Greene had a flair for proper design, profound knowledge of materials selection and ample ability to gauge the customers’ requirements with respect to furnishings and consequent decorations procedure entailed. The design had Douglas fir frame and subsequent boards enclosed or covered in 36-inch redwood (Arntzenius & Linda, 87). This covering provided insulation from regional Pasadena heat. The house has a Chinese lift design that recurs on the window mullions and along the included furniture. It has original Sarouk rugs decorating the polished wooden floor and also leaded art glass entry doors. The doors were designed by Charles Green and subsequently crafted by Los Angeles master craftsman Emil Lange. The design has entailed gnarled California live oak similar to the currently designs protected by Arroyo Seco. The door design has entrenched capacity that provides cross ventilation enabled by the inclusion of double doors of the Burma teak-paneled hall. This section abutted the ornamental garden pond and

Communication Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Communication - Research Paper Example A home-maker can get cooking lessons as well as learn website designing, managing her kids and household. This surely indicates the capacity of online learning in changing lifestyles. The technology of ‘online learning or e-learning’ has reconstructed the perception of learning and education. Online learning is a concept that keeps evolving into more comprehensive modes of facilitating the learning experience with the help of new technologies. As online learning also includes different types of learning processes like instructor-led, blended and self-paced, it has become the most sought after medium for knowledge acquisition. This new age learning platform has indeed created a tremendous impact on learning and development across professional and academic fields. Online learning or e-learning modules are implemented in work places for training purposes as well as in the academic world for comprehensive and experiential learning. It has also given way to a competitive know ledge and learning industry. Definition of Online Learning Online learning or e-learning is a systematic process of delivery of instructional material and the assessment of learners with the help of internet tools and resources (Michigan Merit Curriculum, p 1) and tailored to meet the needs of the individual or the organization (Learning Solutions, p 2). The learning system can best be understood by asking the three essential questions: 1. What is online learning? 2. How is it different from actual classroom learning? 3. Why has online learning become popular? What is online learning? Online learning is learning provided by the digital medium or the computer. It is a deviation from the real time classroom learning experience where the medium of knowledge delivery is the teacher or the instructor. However, nowadays, online learning too provides the option for instructor facilitated learning sessions. But an instructor led virtual session is way different from the real classroom learn ing experience. What does it do? Online learning is all forms of learning that take place via electronic medium; hence it is also called e-learning. The focus of online learning is to make the learning process effective and interesting so that the learner gets curious and drawn to participation in the learning activities. Keeping to the objective of the learner-centric model, online learning integrates different learning styles for different learners for easy and stress free learning experience. An online learning module includes audio, video and text options to deliver the learning content and the lesson is so planned that it gives ample scope for learners to stay active throughout (Learning Solutions p4). How is online learning different from its older counterpart classroom learning? The difference lies in the medium of delivery, which is the biggest factor in understanding the learning system. To access online learning or be part of this learning industry, one has to understand t he conditions that work for effective learning to take place through this digital medium. For instance, one is participating in an online training session conducted by an instructor in a collaborative learning environment along with the facilities of hearing and seeing the instructor through video-conferencing. In this case, the learner can see, hear and interact with the instructor just like in a real classroom. Apparently there seems to be no difference between the two modes of learning but obviously the difference is in the

Mental Health Promotion Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Mental Health Promotion Project - Essay Example This definition does not focus on the mere absence of illness or disease; but also on the presence of wellness on multiple factors. This concept is in opposition to the way in which many clinicians view the concept of health. Often the emphasis is on the absence of symptoms of illness; and medical professionals forget to attend to the presence of wellness. While this may or may not be as significant with illnesses of a purely physical nature; such a narrow perspective may not be adequate when dealing with problems that affect mental health. While House (2002) and Seeker (2005) claim that focusing on the symptoms and pathology helps keep a focus on resolution of symptoms and encourages a curer's approach; it needs to be mentioned that a person who is diagnosed and receiving help may be feeling better in part due to the fact that he or she is experiencing being cared for as against someone who is not receiving care. Squire (2002) has noted that someone who does not share the competenci es with the rest of the population could be termed as unhealthy; something that is rather unfair. A better definition is that of the Health Education Authority (HEA) (1997) which includes emotional and spiritual resilience. This is the factor that allows one to enjoy the experience of life and cope with pain (Squire, 2002; Jeanette, 2009). We may say that the WHO (2004) definition that mental health is a state of wellbeing is a more positive definition that focuses on the ability to cope with normal stressors and the ability to work in a fruitful and productive manner and to contribute to the society around them. Promoting Mental Health. Barry and Jenkins (2007) have found that a focus of developing mental health has helped in reducing the number of people diagnosed with mental disorders. It also has the positive impact of increasing the number who recover (Friedli, 2009). Promoting mental health can thus be defined as â€Å"Any action to enhance the mental well-being of individual s, families, organizations or communities (DH 2001).† The national service framework of 1999 has established certain standards of care that are designed to enhance the recovery experience of patients. Over time, the focus has been on not only reducing the extent and number of symptoms seen; but also on the growth of a wellness principle. This principle is one that guides the treatment and carer actions such that the emphasis is on overall recovery and health. Most policies for health care are aimed at the working population. This has many reasons; from the density of this population; to the contribution they make towards the running of the significant services, including the health services. The working population is also the population which contains the parents of minors – a population whose overall wellbeing is to some extent contingent on the wellbeing of the adults who influence their lives. Any country functions best when its working population is well and functio nal in that they participate in meaningful activities and have healthy relationships with people and elements of their lives. The ‘Quality Framework for mental health promotion (Health Education Authority, 1997) was put in place in order to ensure that mental health promotion projects are effectively planned, consistently delivered and properly evaluated. This

The economic growth of the UK has varied over the 10 years between Essay

The economic growth of the UK has varied over the 10 years between 2004 and 2014 - Essay Example Despite the fact that there was great fluctuation in United Kingdom economic growth there were great improvements in UK economic growth rates between 2004 and 2014. This is because the UK government was able to put in place policies that promote trade and investments. That policy helps to prevent corruption and fraudulent acts that pulls down an economy. Economic growth has numerous benefits which include; it helps to improve consumers and investors confidence. It creates employment opportunities and improves standards of living among the citizens. Moreover, it helps to improve reduce government borrowings (Nafziger and Nafziger, 2005) The above graph indicates the trend patterns of UK GDP growth rates from 2004 to 2014. It can be scrutinized that the GDP growth rate was fluctuating from 2004 to 2014. The United Kingdom GDP growth rate was substantially higher between 2004 and 2006. However, between 2008 and 2009,there was a sharp in economic growth declined at a rate below negative 2 percent and then started rising in the year 2010 and partially 2012 before it starts fluctuating from 2012 to 2014. It can be observed that increase in consumers’ confidence and market conditions tend to be presented by the three phases of economic growth namely; recovery, Booms and Peak as indicated. At peak, the UK economy has reached the maximum point of growth and hence, the consumer confidence starts falling whereby consumer starts to reduce their buying patterns making the GDP to decline causing recession. The UK economy starts to recover at recovery point as consumer’s confidence increase. The UK economy continue s to improve at a faster rate at recovery making the economy to undergo expansion (Boom) phase. At a level the levels of unemployment declines and economy improve significantly, as consumers confidence improves (McKinnon, 2007). ` The fluctuation in the United Kingdom GDP growth

Business to Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Business to Business - Essay Example Amazon.com, the world’s largest online retailer, has developed improved mechanisms for promoting its B2B e-business transactions. This paper will analyze Amazon’s B2B arrangements with other companies and the nature of B2B transactions the company engaged in. In addition to discussing Amazon’s technical architecture that supports its B2B transactions, the paper will also identify the benefits and drawbacks of these transactions. Amazon’s B2B transactions Amazon.com has developed B2B arrangements well with firms across the globe. According to the Forbes writer Kanellos, Amazon is under an ongoing evolution process where the organization is transferring from a consumer retailer to a logistics provider to business houses. Amazon allows third parties (or external marketers) to sell their products by means of its online retail services. Firms can display their inventory information, sell their products, and receive payments online once they created an account i n Amazon.com. In addition, sellers can also make use of Amazon’s Webstore, which would help them take advantages of search engine optimization and backend organization. As Kanellos points out, the volume of products sold by external marketers on Amazon website increased to 36 percent. Amazon follows an interesting B2B model in delivering services to third-party retailers. Traditionally, a store owner or a wholesaler considers the difference between the retail and wholesale price as its profit. In contrast to this conventional business practice, Amazon likes to obtain a commission on its online retail services. Market analysts observe that this business model has greatly assisted the company to advance in B2B marketing. The organization has developed an affiliate program for promoting its products and its online retailers. Businesses can earn income when Amazon products are purchased through clicking those firms’ advertisement link. Publishing is another B2B service off ered by the Amazon. The company launched its self-publishing site in 2011with intent to assist individuals to self-publish their movies, music, and books online and thereby to eliminate intermediary costs. Once an individual obtains a copyright on his products like books or movies, he can use the advertisement and payment solutions provided by the Amazon. The company offers free publishing options and finds its revenues through royalty payments and shopping fees. As Smith opines, the fulfillment program is Amazon’s one of the major advancements in its B2B environment; this program allows organizations to store and ship their products through Amazon’s fulfillment center. Once the Amazon fulfillment center receives the items sent by companies, those items are cataloged into the firm’s system. Under this option, companies can either sell their offerings through Amazon.com or complete the sales process using their own techniques. When items are ordered, Amazon fulfi lls the orders and delivers the products to the end customers directly. Amazon’s back office system assists business houses to track the fulfillment. It is identified that Amazon has B2B relationships with different sizes of businesses ranging from sole traders to corporate giants. As per Amazon’s B2B strategy, new and un-established companies need to commence their operations with personal accounts.  

Thomas Randolph and his Career Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 10750 words

Thomas Randolph and his Career - Coursework Example One of those, and the subject of this study, is Thomas Randolph, the 1st Earl of Moray. He is an important figure throughout the Scottish Wars of Independence and acted as a Regent to the Crown from Bruce's death in 1329 until his own death in 1332. It is interesting to note that few detailed studies of Randolph have been undertaken, despite his importance within Scottish history. This analysis attempts to balance this situation somewhat, through providing a detailed examination of Thomas Randolph as an individual, in his relationship with Robert the Bruce/other Scottish nobles, of his involvement in both Scottish military/diplomatic achievements and his subsequent tenure as Guardian of the Scottish realm. As a multifaceted figure, Randolph deserves a consideration of the various activities which he undertook during his tragically shortened life. There are numerous contradictions within the story of Randolph which will be considered in a sober and objective manner. He was not an unthinking, blind follower of Robert the Bruce, and indeed changed sides to fight for the English for a while. As an individual who may be considered a 'professional soldier' (as far as such a thing existed in the Fourteenth Century) Randolph was a consummate military commander who had very specific opinions on not only why a war should be fought but also how it should be fought. Randolph is in many ways as good a source for legendary feats as the Bruce himself. His taking of Edinburgh Castle, one of the last English strongholds what stood atop a supposedly impregnable rock, has gone down in history as an act of almost superhuman military skill. Yet it is the man beneath such legendary acts, and thus the individual that has been largely ignored by history, which will be of great importance within this study. A contrast of the legend and the reality is a suitable focus for an examination of such a figure, and it is the one that will be adopted in this study. Literature Review This literature review will be divided into primary and secondary sources and will present some of the varying views of the man that they entail. There are a number of primary sources that may be used in conjunction with a study of Randolph, although these are by necessity limited due to the scarcity of documents in general from this time. Documents are particularly few and far between in the pre-Bannockburn days, although some conjectures can be made using those which are available. Two of the main sources are the Regesta Regum Scottorum V1 and the Regesta Regum Scottorum VI2. These record the various laws and edicts passed by Scottish Kings and their associated noblemen, especially within the Feudal system that was still present during the time period being discussed here. The Exchequer Rolls of Scotland3 give information on financial matters within Scotland at the time, while the

Abc-Clio - Continental System Essay Example for Free

Abc-Clio Continental System Essay Continental System One of Europes most storied leaders, Napoleon I is remembered for his dramatic victories as the leader of France, conquering large swathes of Europe until his ultimate downfall following the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Despite his military prowess, Napoleon was never able to conquer the United Kingdom, his archrival to the north. As Europes most successful economic power and the nation with the most powerful navy in the world, Britain relied on its trade with foreign nations to fuel its own economy. In an effort to undermine his rival, Napoleon initiated the Continental System, a wide-ranging system of tariffs and embargoes against Britain. The Continental System ultimately had a far more negative impact on France, however, much to the chagrin of its illustrious emperor. Origins of the Continental System Hostilities between France and Britain had boiled for many centuries, but the French Revolution, with its antimonarchical republican values and extreme violence, initiated a new low in relations between those two nations. Fearful of republican ideology spreading to its shores, Britain was staunchly opposed to the French Revolution from its inception, and as the French Army began its conquest of Europe, the island nation sought allies in its struggle against France. By 1799, Napoleon had used the support of the military to overthrow the French Directory and effectively take full control of the nation; the French coup dà ©tat of 1799 established the French Consulate as the new government of France, with Napoleon assuming the ultimate executive position of first consul. Meanwhile, French armies successfully conquered the Papal States, Sardinia-Piedmont, and Switzerland, and even occupied Ottoman Egypt for three years. Such conservative forces on the European continent as Austria and Russia shared Britains fears and quaked at the thought of French invasion. They knew that the French would not only bring occupying armies to their lands, but also displace their monarchies and establish republics, and that was something the ruling elite could not accept. With a successful general like Napoleon now at the helm of the government, the issue appeared more urgent than ever before. To counteract the threat of French invasion, monarchies across Europe banded together in a series of coalitions. In 1798, Austria, Britain, the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, the Ottoman Empire, Portugal, and Russia formed the Second Coalition, but their infighting prevented any effective concerted movement to stop the French war machine. By 1805, France had firmly established itself as an imperial power, having gained control over large portions of the Continent. In response, Britain and Russia, later joined by Austria and Sweden, formed the Third Coalition. This was a crucial move for the British; Napoleon had begun to amass troops in Boulogne—on the northern coast of France—in 1803 in preparation for invading Britain. The powerful British Royal Navy was able to prevent French invasion through a blockade, however, and with the decisive British naval victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in October 1805, Napoleon realized he would not be able to launch a successful land inv asion of Britain. A New Strategy Defeated, but not demoralized, Napoleon plotted a new way to attack the British. If he could not take them on militarily, the French emperor (Napoleon had proclaimed himself emperor of the First French Empire in May 1804) determined to attack their economy. Calling the British a nation of shopkeepers in a derogatory tone, Napoleon nevertheless knew that the Industrial Revolution, along with the riches flooding into the country from the burgeoning British Empire, had made the United Kingdom the most powerful economic power in the world. Because the nation was an island, it needed trade of its finished goods to buy enough raw materials and supplies for its population to live at a level that made it possible for them to be consumers and continue their rapidly expanding industrial output. He also knew that industrialization had ravaged the rural population of Britain, as well as its artisan crafts and cottage industries. As a consequence, he believed that a massive embargo of British goods throughout the European continent would destroy the British economy and incite a popular uprising that would bring down the government, as deprivation among the poor had done in France in the 1780s. Meanwhile, despite the loss of the French Navy at Trafalgar, the French Army (renamed the Grande Armà ©e in 1805) continued its domination of Europe. By the fall of 1806, nearly all of the Continent, from the Atlantic Coast to the borders of Russia, was either under French control, occupation, or allied to France. The only exceptions, most notably Portugal and Sweden, were unable to effectively take on French military might and stood waiting to see when they too might fall under French rule. With his power seemingly uncontested in Europe, Napoleon determined that it was time to strike at the British with his new strategy of economic embargo. Economic Warfare Begins On November 21, 1806, Napoleon issued the Berlin Decree, which declared that France would henceforth blockade all British ships and refuse them entry into any port under French control. In December 1807, Napoleon issued the Milan Decree as well, which stated that any ships coming into French waters that had previously docked in British ports would be confiscated, along with their cargo and crews, by French officials. That new policy was meant to include such neutral nations as the United States, which at that time was Britains most important trading partner; U.S. cotton in particular was essential for fueling the textile industry, Britains most important manufacturing base at the time. To counteract Napoleons moves, the British passed their own laws, known as the Orders in Council of 1807, forbidding their trading partners from dealing with France. As a consequence, the United States was forced to cease all trade with both Britain and France, a move passed into law by the Embargo Act of 1807. The U.S. withdrawal from international trade caused significant problems in the British economy and forced British industrialists to look elsewhere for cotton and other raw materials that had previously come from America. The expansion of the second wave of British colonization in the 19th century traces its origins to that period, as does the War of 1812 between the United States and the United Kingdom. Effects of the Continental System Napoleons attempts at economic warfare were shocking at first, but they did not fully cripple the British economy. Russia was not under French control in 1806, so in the beginning phase of the blockade, goods from Britain were still able to enter Europe through Russian-controlled Baltic ports. By July 1807, however, France and Russia concluded peace with the Treaty of Tilsit, and Russia—along with Prussia—joined the Continental System as a term of the treaty. By 1808, the value of British exports had fallen from  £40.8 million to  £35 million, and there was a visible decline in the import of grain. Moreover, industrialists, unable to get raw materials from abroad, began to lay off their industrial workers. At the same time, there were many crop failures in Britain, leading to extreme hunger for many of the poor who, without jobs or sufficient hours and pay, were unable to afford higher prices for rarer staples. Food riots resulted, but Napoleons hopes for a popular uprising that would overthrow the government never materialized. Though deeply affected, Britains economy was able to survive the blockade in the end, largely thanks to trade with its colonies and a marked growth in smuggling. While the consequences of the Continental System were dire for the United Kingdom, historians are adamant that the system actually had a far more punishing impact on France. Europeans, both in France and in its conquered and allied territories, were bitter that the system was denying them access to many of the consumer goods they relied on that originated from Britain and its colonies, like sugar, coffee, inexpensive textiles, and tobacco. Meanwhile, smugglers thrived in the environment of the embargo, and such goods that did get into Europe from Britain were far more expensive than they had ever been. Moreover, European nations conquered by the French resented the partner laws of the Continental System, which privileged French goods by placing high tariffs on other European goods. Prices throughout Europe skyrocketed under the Continental System, giving Europeans living under French rule new reasons to resent their imperial overlords. That resentment ultimately shook the foundations of support for Napoleons empire. Resentment, War, and Defeat The economic hardships wrought by the embargo led European nations that had not fallen under French rule to resist the Continental System. Portugal entirely refused to take part, forcing Napoleon to invade the nation and attempt to capture its fleet and depose its monarchy. However, King John VI of Portugal fled his home for Brazil, Portugals largest colony, and his naval fleet went with him. His people responded by revolting against the French invasion, and the British sent an expeditionary force to support them. This was the preliminary phase of the Peninsular War, a brutal struggle for independence from the French for Portugal and Spain, most famous in the United States today for its astonishing and heartbreaking war images captured by the master painter Francisco de Goya. The war was extremely costly for the French and played a significant role in Napoleons eventual downfall. The Swedish also decided to reject Napoleons demand that they join the Continental System, an act that resulted in that nation being invaded by Russia in 1808. The war that ensued—known today as the Russo-Swedish War of 1808–1809—raged from February 1808 until September 1809 and resulted in Finland being separated from Sweden and established as a semiautonomous entity closely tied to the Russian government. Also, the Russians forced the Swedes to join the Continental System, and all Swedish ports were closed to British shipping. Like other parts of Europe living under the Continental System, the Swedes were furious at the results of the embargo, namely higher prices and scarcity of goods. Anti-French sentiment increased, and Sweden subsequently took part in the final campaigns to overthrow Napoleons empire in 1813–1815. As prices skyrocketed, Napoleons Continental System was increasingly resented in France as well. Moreover, the human and financial costs of the wars in which the system played a causative role—like the Peninsular War—wore on the French public. Napoleons popularity began to plummet, and by 1812, the economy of all of Europe was collapsing. In that year, Russia decided to stop participating in the Continental System, and Napoleon responded by launching a massive land invasion of the vast country. Ill prepared for the elusive tactics employed by the Russian Army and the harsh nature of the Russian winter, Napoleon suffered the worst military defeat of his career during the Russian invasion; the human carnage was devastating for both sides, and Napoleons Grande Armà ©e was practically decimated. The resentful nations of Europe, including former allies of France, seized the opportunity and rose up in unison against Napoleons weakened regime. Within three years, the emperors fate would be sealed with his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, the final proof that his Continental System was, in the end, a failure. Continental System. World History: The Modern Era. ABC-CLIO, 2011. Web. 3 Mar. 2011. Chicago World History: The Modern Era, s.v. Continental System, accessed March 3, 2011. http://worldhistory.abc-clio.com/. APA Continental System. (2011). In World History: The Modern Era. Retrieved March 3, 2011, from http://worldhistory.abc-clio.com/

Strategic Resort Hotel Management

Strategic Resort Hotel Management Corporate Social Responsibility McWilliams et.al. (2006, pg. 4) defined CSR as situations where the firm goes beyond compliance and engages in actions that appear to further some social good, beyond the interests of the firm and that which is required by law and state that CSR should be used as an element of corporate strategy. According to Fombrun and Shanley (1990) socially responsible behaviour can lead to improve firms image and reputation and therefore increase visitors number. However, Friedman (1970) argued that the motivation is to serve the bottom line and as Trexler (2008) stated ethics and moral values have no place in the business world; considering that CSR and green programmes can be strategic responses to market realities, such as the rising of fossil fuel. Nevertheless, this does not change the fact that some activities that are motivated by the bottom line may have social benefits. Sani green programme has 3 main objectives with a well-defined plan and measurable targets; Sustainable hotel operation, protection and enhancement of local biodiversity, local community support and human capital development. The green programme so far has excellent outcomes in all 3 objectives (Resort,2016) and as aforementioned promoting and demonstrating CSR results can be very beneficial for the image and reputation of the resort. CSR can be advertised through numerous channels; such as internet, sustainability reports and media (Danuta de Grosbois,2011). Despite image, measuring the economic benefits of this objectives is crucial for resorts financial sustainability. Energy and water consumptions can be easily measured and so calculate the ROI. McWilliams and Siegel (2001) suggested a model based on RBV to address optimal investment in CSR and stated that managers can determine the appropriate level of investment in CSR by conducting cost benefit analysis in the same way that th ey analyse other investments. In terms of CSR towards the employees, benefits or loyal bonuses can mitigate the effect of staff turnover, lowering the expenses for training new staff and provide a standardised customer service. Sani is already affiliated with some NGOs (Appendix) but it would be advisable to increase their number. In summary, Sani resort must set achievable goals for CSR and display them to the public in order to boost its reputation and attract more green costumers. The financial measurement of the outcomes in all CSR programmes must be calculated and measured. Life cycle Understanding the life cycle of a product,here sani resort, is an important principle in order to make more profit and stay in business (Day, 1981). It can also be applied in forecasting and developing appropriate marketing strategies, depending on what stage the product is. In order to identify the stage of a product in the life cycle Day (1981) suggested feutures and patterns at each stage. Identifyingfeatures Stages Introduction Growth Maturity Decline Sales Low High High Low Investment cost Very high High (lower than intro stage) Low Low Competition Low or no competition High Very high Very High Profit Low High High Low Table.1 According to the balance shits ( Appendix ) profit had a step increase in 2015 reaching almost 26mil (up from 5mil in 2011) and the total revenue reached 131,69mil (up from 2011 89,42mil). The competition is still on high levels and the resort keep investing money on their facilities. From these facts, an assumption that the resort is on the growth stage can be made (Product Life Cycle Stages, n.d.). Box (1983) claimed that there are 2 courses of action to extend the lifetime of a product; the technological which implies usage of modern technology to improve the product and consumer-orientated option, which lies in motivating the consumer for further usage of the product. Adjusting Boxs theory in the resort, it is recommended further usage of modern technology to address problems such as the restaurant booking app (look at TOWS), and eco technology to improve and make more efficient the CSR programme of the resort. In terms of the consumer-orientation actions, sani resort continuously invests money to its facilities, both new and existing ones, creating new features and adding value. Since the revenues are increasing and the costs are dropping it would be wise if not reduce the price of rooms to keep it steady to be more competitive. Furthermore, keep the same marketing strategy for the niche markets, i.e. Russia and green market, but further advertising in the regional market an d in social media would be suggested. According to MarketLines (2016) report for tourism in Greece, tourism shown an increase of 1.8% in 2015 to reach a value of 33.4 billion (table.1) and by 2020 is expected to be 37.1billion (11.4% up from 2015)(table.2). Â   Â   table.1 table.2 Accomodation providers accounting 38.8% of the total revenue generated by tourism (table.3). Table.3 According to sani resorts balance shits (appendix), sani increased its total revenues from almost 90mil in 2011to 131mil (47%) and its profits more than 5 times (5mil in 2011 26mil in 2015). Furthermore, the average daily price increased by 3%. Statistics from tripadvisor.com All 4 hotels of Sani resort are rated with 5 stars(table.4). The majority of comments are good and based on the staff willingness to help while providing excellent service, the location of the hotel; beautiful beaches, sun and close to nature, and the amenities provided; spas, activities and relaxation (Appendix) Name of hotel Total reviews 1* 2* 3* 4* 5* #1 Sani asterias 513 0 7 9 34 463 #2 Porto Sani 771 1 4 10 77 571 #3 Sani Club 1306 2 10 26 105 885 #4 Sani Beach 2625 8 16 74 315 2212 Sum 5215 11 37 119 531 4517 Table.4 Bad reviews were based on the prices, which they claimed the hotel rooms restaurants were too expensive (table.5), lack of privacy, noise by the children and not heated pools. Some of the customers were also unhappy with the smoking policy and the speed of their transportation, which in Greece this is considered as normal behaviour. (Appendix) Name of hotel Rooms total Lowest price room Highest price room Sani Beach 361 104 454 Sani Club 212 110 392 Sani Dunes 136 164 342 Porto Sani 109 148 520 Sani Asterias 57 234 867 Sum 825 (According to the month prices may change)Table.5 SPA Sani Beach MySpa Porto Sani The Spa Suite Sani Club The Club Spa Sani Asterias Spa Retreat Sani Dunes D-Spa In the early 1980s some resorts added spa facilities in order to attract more visitors (Monteson P.A., Singer J., 2004). Initially spas used as support facilities and if they didnt cause revenue loss, their ability to attract costumers was enough to justify their existence (Anderson, 2001). However, nowadays spas are considered profit centers and they are autonomous departments of hotels (Madanoglu M., Brezina S., 2008). In sani resort every hotel is equipped with its own spa, which is open for all guest. All spas include hairsallons, gyms, saunas, pools and the basic spa treatments. What differentiate them from other spas is that their special treatments where design by Anne Semonin, a French firm specialised in creating bespoke skincare treatments using natural ingredients. Even though some of the basic treatments are the same in all of them Anne also designed signature treatments for each one of these 5 spas. Furthermore, what also differs in each spa is the area of their specialism. MySpa is specialized in facial treatments, while the Spa Suite offers a wide range of massages. The Club Spa, which is the biggest of all, is inspired by thermal Roman baths and its equipped with Turkish Hammam, Bio sauna, plunge pool and heated recliners. Spa retreat is designed for couples and the modern D-Spa, which will open in July, is characterised as a state-of-art spa, supplied with Technogym, Hammam and new-a ge spa facilities. Sanis spas can offer more than 40 different treatments in each spa and their prices differ depending the duration of them and the ingredients used, providing genuine and life-enriching experiences (Zimmer R, Clarke A., 2006).They start from as little as 50 and they can reach to 255, which are normal prices for such treatments. Spa reservation is an option and they offer many discounts such as couples discounts, early booking discounts and multi treatment packages in which a customer can select many treatments and get a discount for them. Furthermore, many packages related to spa trends are available (Spafinder, 2016), like the junior spa, where children over 12 years old can enjoy their spa treatments and their parents can also enjoy a relaxing treatment without worrying about them, or the enjoy with mum spa. As in CSR, here measuring the outcomes is also of the utmost importance in order to evaluate and design next years strategies. As Madanoglu (2008) stated, spa benefits to resorts revenue can be classified as direct, revenue generating, and indirect, as a marketing tool. Direct benefits can be measured using the spa revenue per occupied room (SPOR) or the per available room (SPAR) figures. Moreover, keeping records of the results of dividing SPAR with RevPAR for a long time can be very useful tool to examine whether spa revenue is on the same level with the room revenue (Madanoglu M., Brezina S., 2008). In conclusion, sani should promote more the Greek culture in spa using treatments such as the thalassotherapy, which is also a trend (Greece spa guide, n.d.), and offer more packages utilizing the surrounding environment (The adrenaline Spa, n.d.). Emphasise on the pre-arrival process and separate spa reservations can also be a useful tool to increase profits (Madanoglu M., Brezina S., 2008), and it should be taken under consideration. Finally focusing more on the experience customers get, can increase their satisfaction and so the revenues (Singer, 2000). Generic strategies STRATEGIES Current Position Suggestions Marketing strategy based on the 4Ps Prise Product Place Promotion Focus Strategy Niche market (Russia) green market Expanding Strategies Affiliated with IKOS resorts (Oaktree Capital) Goldman Sachs Asset Management fund and Hermes GPE Cost Leadership Strategy Increase profits by increasing prices and lowering costs Examine occupancy ratios to decide whether further increase in price should be wise Marketing strategies: Based on the VRIN and TOWS frameworks it is possible to create and implement a successful marketing strategy utilizing McCarthys (1964) marketing mix. 4Ps framework refers to 4 broad concepts of marketing decision; i.e. price, product, place and promotion. The suggestions in each field, except place in which sani invest a lot by renovations and building new attractions ( Sani Dunes) and we strongly suggest to keep the existing strategy, are the following: PRICE: Introduce new offer packages, such as early booking discounts to increase occupancy, offers for offseason stays and conventions to mitigate the effects of seasonality and special offers for special occasion events; i.e. valentines day and womans day Reduce or keep current prices (3% up from 2015) to increase costumers satisfaction, decrease bad reviews in sites (tripadvisor.com, booking.com) and be more competitive PRODUCT: Escaping from the routine and leisure are the 2 main reasons for a visitor to go to resort (Faizan Alia, Kashif Hussainb, Neethiahnanthan Ari Ragavanb , 2014). All hotels provide the same basic products the difference is how they provide it and with what quality (Bouncken, 2002). Product is the field that can differentiate sani resort from its competitors. According to Dunning (1981) there are 3 sectors to differ the product supplied; the on premises services which is the services received upon staying, the provision sector which is before the arrival stage and the deliver on the ground sector. Sani does an excellent job in their provision and delivering on the ground strategy and suggestion can be only made for the on premises services. For buildings and surrounding areas, since sani continuously invest in them (new hotel Sani Dunes) the suggestion is renovations where needed, so the resort will look more appealing Create more eco-activities to attract new customers Providing benefits, training and enhancing employees knowledge about customers preferences can offset the effects of staff turnover and lead to better and standardized service quality (Bouncken, 2002). PROMOTION: Promote sani resort more in the local community as a weekend escape option. Use social media to promote special events and offers ( facebook, twiter, Instagram) Promote sanis CSR and green programme even more Respond to criticisms in booking sites Focus Strategy: As Mr Andreadis, chief executive of the Sani, stated in FT they turn into the Russian market after the economic crisis in Greece and the worries that international tourism will decrease, as it did (Apendice) (Hope, 2015). The recommendation is to keep this strategy but also expand in the green (look at CSR) and purple (Appendice) market also. Expanding strategies: In 2016 Sani and Ikos resorts announced a merge, aiming in an investment plan worth 200mil(Akrivou, 2016);for buying new properties. Furthermore, funds from Oaktree Capital Management L.P., Goldman Sachs Asset Management and Hermes GPE, will also be involved it this investment plan (Kousounis, 2016). Cost Leadership Strategies: Since the costs are decreasing examine if a further increase in prices should be wise. Furthermore, investment in eco programmes can lead to an additional cost reduction and empower CSR programme. TOWS MATRIX A TOWS matrix is used by organisations in order to develop and implement their strategic plans, by matching its internal strengths and external opportunities (SO); to find its competitive advantages, as well as to identify and convert threats and weaknesses into opportunities and strengths (oxford college of marketing, 2016). SANI RESORT TOWS ANALYSIS External Opportunities External Threats Increase in tourism numbers in Greece Russian niche market Lack of competition in the area The green movement Experience over material trend technology and social medias takeover Economic crisis in Greece and unstable taxation model Instability in Turkey and refugee issue New competition in other municipalities in Greece Internal Strengths SO ST Excellent but transparent service Numerous amenities and activities Good reputation in social media and tourism websites Excellent environmental development and protection performance Location and geographic advantages Good relationship with local community and strong partnerships High tech convention facilities New hotel, Sani Dunes overflow budget Combine natural and cultural aspects with activities at the resort Use resorts good reputation to advertise sani in social media Due to eco-friendly image of resort, sani can promote it and attract more concern for environment visitors and introduce more eco-activities Considering the lack of competition in the area and the niche market, sani can promote its location advantages; sunny hot beaches, marina and walking trails, to attract more visitors Providing a peaceful and luxurious environment can mitigate the bad impression of Greece to visitors Promote the location of the resort to make it more competitive over other places in Greece Internal Weaknesses WO WT Seasonality High maintenance costs Staff turnover Restaurant bookings Utilize green programs to reduce maintenance cost and increase revenue Continuous development of programs and apps can contribute a lot in online booking and increasing revenues Aim in new markets for conventions to offset the effects of seasonality Provide training for staff and bonuses can mitigate staff turnover and hence improved service will increase relieving and decrease the worries of customers about political or social situations. SO Strategies: It is the desire of every firm to exploit the potential market opportunities by utilizing its resources. Sani should focus in 2 niche markets. The first one is the Russian market, worth mentioning that is a very rich market, which in the last 2 years Greece has become more popular as a destination for them. Sani has already turned to this market by opening a Branch office in Moscow and added Russian as an optional language in their site. Affiliations with big Russian tourism offices, creating packages especially for this market and hiring staff able to speak Russian are suggestions to be considered. The second is the green market, which consist of visitors who in order to choose their next destination they have the CSR programme of the firm as a criterion. Sani can use its surplus to create new eco-activities, develop and promote the Sani Green programme and invest in eco-tourism WÃŽÅ ¸ Strategies: When an organisation try to overcome its weaknesses, utilizing the external opportunities can become a very useful tool (Business Study Notes, 2016). Conventions from new markets can offset the effects of seasonality and by utilizing the sani green programme the maintenance costs can be reduced. ST Strategies: The unstable economy in Greece and the immigration problem have created a negative image of Greece to the visitors. Sani can overcome this issue by promoting its blessed location and its peaceful and relaxing environment by itself or take common action with the Greek National Tourism Organisation (visitGreece) to mitigate the effects of this image and promote a beautiful and attracting Greece. WT Strategies: This strategys goal is to remove sanis weaknesses which will overcome the external threats (Business Study Notes, 2016). By providing benefits and training to staff members the staff turnover can be mitigated and hence the service quality will be standardized and improved. As a result, customers can enjoy better service of pleased staff in a pleasant ambience away from Greek financial and political troubles. VRIN FRAMEWORK According to Barney (1991), in a business environment that the resources are heterogeneous in nature and not perfectly mobile, a resource can be characterised as sustainable competitive advantage if it fulfills the following 4 attributes: It must be valuable, in the sense that it can exploit opportunities It must be rare among firms current and potential competition It must be imperfectly imitable And it cannot be substituted The core competitive advantages for Sani resort, as mentioned and explained in the presentation, are the following. Sani Resort Valuable Rare Inimitable Non- Substitutable Size YES YES YES YES Marina YES YES YES YES SANI Festival YES YES YES YES Pase Dr. Blythe (2016,6th ed, pn.250), USP is the one feature of the product that most stands out as different from the competition, and is usually a feature that conveys unique benefits to the consumer. Even though the size and the marina are hard for competitive firms to imitate due to lack of resources in the area, SANI Festival is inimitable and therefore it can be characterised as a Unique Selling Point (USP) for the following reasons. For 25 years now SANI festival is connecting people from different cultures through music and art, attracting many international visitor and locals; providing high quality entertainment to its attenders and generates significant revenue for the resort. It is characterised as a USP for sani resort not only because of these 25 years of perfect organise, implementation and innovation, but also because there is no other art festival with the similar size, variety, glamour and reputation as SANI festival in Greece; which are the factors that makes it i nimitable, and not the cost of creating such an event. It is sure that there is room for more advertising in the social media, but since it is promoted and recognised as a refined art festival, there is a fine line between being an art festival and being a faceless attraction for many more visitors. Â  

University International Students

University International Students Introduction Studying at the university requires adjustment so that the student can effectively function and pursue his chosen field of study. Ones academic life, gaining access to educational materials, and interaction with classmates and professors are all important factors in the adjustment process. Yet, they are not the only factors that should be taken into account. This adjustment process becomes even more important for international students. They have to adjust to the culture of the location of their university, they have to take into account the language, the social norms, the idioms and metaphors being used by the society that the university belongs to. If they fail to adjust in the social context, their education might not be maximized, and, worse, they might not be able to understand a lot of things in their schooling. This essay takes a look in the adjustment process that international students have to face, particularly their context and their learning styles. It discusses how context and learning style affects their adjustment process. In doing so, this essay presents several theories and principles regarding the learning process. Furthermore, it presents several recommendations on how international students could better adjust in the university. More than just a theoretical presentation, this essay also takes into account the personal experiences of the author and will deal with some of the challenges being faced by international students in the university. This understanding is very important so that the international students, and other university students and professors would come to better strategies in helping international students cope with the university life and all its rigors and demands. University Culture and the International Student The university promotes scholarly studies and the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. In addition to this, the application of this body of knowledge in the society is also taken into account. Because of the process of globalization, university culture is also being internationalized in the sense that the university is being integrated into the global processes defining the world at this time (Bartell, 2003). Given this internationalization of universities, international students necessarily come to the fore. In a study conducted by Neville, students at the university who have previously enrolled expressed fear that they may not do well in the university because of the pressures of family, society, and of the economic side of their schooling. As an international student, I have also experienced some of these challenges. Since I am far away from my family, I feel homesick at times, unable to focus on my studies. It takes courage and resolve in order for me to truly pursue my university education. Yet, because of the importance of my university education and the interactions with others, I painstakingly work towards improving myself in pursuing my education. International Students and Speaking English Another challenge that international students face is the issue of language. Since English is recognized internationally as the language of the university, international students have to learn this language so that they can converse fluently and intelligently with classmates and professors. For international students who are already fluent in this language, they have surmounted an important barrier. Yet, those who have not done yet, they need to work more in learning English, otherwise, they will fail to interact and converse with others, which is an important part of university life. Universities therefore need to help international students who speak English as a second language in improving their English skills. This is the only way for them to truly make the connections that will help them complete their university education. Speech and language laboratories could be established and part of the learning processes of international students. This way, they will be able to interact better and have more opportunities in improving their English language skills. As an international student who entered the university, I experienced a kind of culture shock because the university promotes a culture of literacy (Nevile, 1996). Although I was already a bit fluent with the English, I was not a prolific writer. So I had to attend some writing workshops and tutorial sessions so I could improve the way that I write in the English language. With this process, I was able to improve some of the things that I faced. In addition to this, I also talked with other international students regarding the struggles that they face and the difficulties that they are having. In the process, I managed to have a support group that could easily help me deal with homesickness and other difficulties of being an international student. The interactions with other international students helped me become more prepared in dealing with the rigors of university life. Maximizing Adjustment to the University For international students who want to make the most out of the university, there are several tips that could be followed. For one, improving English skills is a must. It might take more time and effort to do so, yet, it is of utmost important that English skills become excellent. International students should also form support groups that could help them deal with homesickness and other challenges of being in a foreign society. The emotional support given by others makes a lot of difference in the adjustment process. Lastly, international students should be able to maximize all available resources at their disposal through consistent and persistent studying and pursuit of knowledge. This is the best way to deal with the adjustment process. Conclusion This essay has looked at the experiences of international students in adjusting at a university. Universities do have a culture of literacy, which the international student may not be prepared for. As such, they need to double their efforts in learning, in interacting and talking with others—friends, professors, classmates, and other international students—and gaining access to all forms of educational resources. By establishing support groups and mentoring relationships, international students could do well in their university education and prepare them for excellent work even beyond the university. Through this, they could contribute better to their society and their world. Reference Bartell, M. (2003). Internationalization of universities: A university culture-based framework. Higher Education, 45 (1), 43-70. Nevile, M. (1996). Literacy Culture Shock: Developing Academic Literacy at the University. The Australian Journal of Language and Literacy, 19 (1), 38-51.

raccoon report Essays -- essays research papers

Raccoon Report GENERAL OVERVIEW   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Raccoons (Procyon lotor) belong to the Procyonidae (those who came before the dogs’ family). This highly intelligent mammal has a rounded head with a short nose, small ears, and a sturdy body with minimum-length, thick, grayish brown fur. Raccoons are easily identified by a distinctive pattern of alternating black and yellowish white rings around a large bushy tail. They are also identified by a unique narrow black face mask with two white patches above the eyes. The average length is 2 to 3 feet long (including the tail) and 12 inches high, weigh 8 to 22 pounds (heaviest in autumn), and live for 10 to 13 years. Females produce one litter per year, numbering from one to six kilts and averaging four to five. SPECIAL FEATURES AND ADAPTATIONS Raccoons have had a long time to adjust and adapt to different surroundings. Raccoons have keen senses of smell and hearing. (Blashfield, 2004) They are strong and agile, hence good tree and fence climbers. Each foot has five long and slender digits, which operate with remarkable dexterity. This was an adaptation developed for living in dense forests and heavy tree populated areas. In the wild, they use their front feet for finding food in water, opening shellfish, and conveying food to the mouth. In urban areas the raccoon has learned to dig through human garbage as a significant food source. In adapting to human habitat, they often apply this dexterity to opening garba...

Abstract Expressionism Essay -- essays papers

abstract expressionism It was a full 170 years after Americans had their political revolution that they won an aesthetic revolution. American art to get rid of its inhibiting mechanisms- provincialism, over-dependence on European sources, and an indifferent public- and liberate itself into a quality and expressive force equal to, or exceeding that of art produced anywhere within the period. Few would argue that the painting and sculpture that emerged from the so-called New York School in the mid 1940s was the foremost artistic phenomenon of its time and was labeled as the Abstract Expressionist movement. Abstract expressionism was a reaction to social realism, surrealism, and primitive art in the 1940s; this is a turning point in American art history because it caused the rest of the art world to recognize New York as the new center of innovation. The movement synthesized three other previous art forms. Social Realists "socially grounded" activist art of the 1930s responded to the disaster of the economy in America and the rise of fascism abroad by working in socially conscience styles. "This art form was contaminated by the cliches of the Stalinist popular front" (American Visions p. 469). Abstract expressionists responded to these art forms by deriving their new style from personal experience and by embodying this in contemporary forms, instead of getting their ideas from politics. The influence of Surrealism in The Abstract Expressionist Movement was its stress on the power of the unconscience as the most fertile ground of imagery. The expressionists valued the Surrealist style because it revealed the action of the dreaming mind and valued the accidental and the involuntary: "It welcomed the image that rose unbidden from a chaos of marks" (Modern Art 3rd Ed, p. 265). It also valued the American surrealists' sense of m ission. Their belief that art and life was inseparable heartened American artists who felt marginal, ignored by other Americans and felt provincial with respect to Paris. The Abstract Expressionists also used "primitive" art as a way of cultural escape. They looked at tribal artifacts in the American Museum of Natural History in New York City and believed it was disclosing one of the main buried roots of modernism. Cave paintings especially influenced many Abstract expressionists such as Pollock and Rothko. Aspects of cave... ... him to literally be in the painting, to move about within it and thus give equal emphasis to all parts. Although anticipated in Impressionism, this- the so-called "holistic" composition- was something new in modern art. The emergence of the Abstract Expressionist in America had a profound effect on the rest of the art world because it relocated the center of the art world from Paris to New York. Many factors caused America to be the new center of Creativity. Political and economical causes such as the Great Depression and world war II, as well as former artistic genres such as Surrealism, Social Realism, and primitive American art influenced the Abstract Expressionist new style. Bibliography: 1. Hunter, Sam and Jacobs, John. Modern Art, 3rd Edition. The Vendome Press, New York, 1992. 2. Hughes, Robert. American Visions. Alfred A. knopf, Inc., New York, 1997. 3. Mitchel, Corrine. The Life of Polock. Phaidon Press Limited, London, 1996. 4. Boston, Marsha. Art History and Studio Art Instructor, La Jolla Country Day School. 5. Romani, Frank. Art Historian, School of the Art Institute of Chicago. 6. http://www.biddingtons.com/content/pedigreeabstract.html

Interested in painting and sculpture, I finally chose interior architecture designer as my future career

Employment Status Report Goals and doctrine Interested in painting and sculpture, I eventually chose interior architecture interior decorator as my hereafter calling, for residential design involves both architectural aesthetics and practical value. A perfect design requires a comprehensive cognition in aesthetics and professional competency that involves high engineering ( Kadir,2009 ) . As mathematics and painting serves as basic accomplishments for interior architecture design, to heighten the proficiency in working with engineering serves as my short-run ends, which requires a uninterrupted pattern in utilizing in writing package such as Auto Desk 3D Max and Adobe Photoshop. I wish to hold on those accomplishments over the following 3 months. In footings of long-run ends, I wish to work in big design companies such as GHD and AXS Satow because of its good chances for development with original constructs in design. A contemplation of aesthetic and practical value in interior architecture design is my artistic doctrine. I believe that the design of interior ornaments and furniture must run into customer’s stuff and religious demands of the indoor environment. The artistic doctrine has been reflected in my experience of planing a nuptials room for Art Studio in Beijing. The infinite environment met the corresponding demand of clients with a contemplation of romantic ambiance despite a dissatisfaction with little points. When dissatisfaction arose, I would exemplify my artistic doctrine that all the designs work as a whole to make an expected consequence so that he eventually accepted my advice. Market Due to the huge economic potency of interior architecture design, the competition of the industry has become rather intense. Harmonizing to a survey made in 2011 byNew York Observer, the mean income of a junior interior architecture interior decorator in moderate-sized companies was approximately 0.56 million dollars a twelvemonth while a senior interior decorator received 1.2 million in norm ( Mark,2011 ) . In order to calculate out what sorts of architecture interior decorators were competitory, I had an interview with Liang Zheng, the HR of AIO ( Shanghai ) international landscape and architecture design company. He listed several of import makings and qualities in choosing a competent interior decorator, including a master’s grade, abroad instruction backgrounds and working experience in architecture design. In add-on, those with a good team-work spirit and communicative capacities would be more likely to be selected. To advance myself in confronting the ferocious competit ion, I should cultivate a good communicative accomplishments and team-work spirit. Skills and tools Working in an international architecture design company requires makings and professional accomplishments of high degree ( Frank,2004 ) . In add-on to a comprehensive cognition in architecture aesthetics, communicative capableness and good team-work spirit besides serve as of import portion to carry through my long-run professional ends. My current cognition in architecture aesthetics and in writing package is non sufficient for viing with other architecture interior decorator in big companies in which international communicating is rather frequent. Therefore I should be involved in diverseness preparation classs and English classs to heighten my communicative abilities. With those attempts, indispensable working experience can be added into my professional portfolio. Networking Networking plays an indispensable function in farther growing for architecture design companies, for the communicating of design constructs and updated engineerings helps to set up a long-run common good cooperation on a higher degree. Outstanding associations and diaries of interior architecture design serve as effectual medium for the communicating within the industry. Interior Architecture Design, a Santa Monica College award-winning plan located at the Academy Campus, focuses on heightening professional accomplishments in the local and international Architecture and Design Industry. In add-on, the A Interior Design Competition besides plays an of import portion for the uninterrupted development of architecture design. The award has been viewed as an index of perfect interior design and of import milepost in one’s calling. Provided with sole selling and communicating services to advance his proficiency, a victor will be popular among world-wide design oriented companies and involvement groups. Therefore I take an active portion in assorted competitions and plans of architecture design to accomplish the long-run end. The hereafter In the hereafter, I wish to work as a junior architecture interior decorator in PAL Design Consultants Ltd of China, for the company’s original construct in interior architecture design and favourable working environment. The company has created assorted interior architecture designs through the usage of advanced attacks to spacial organisation, stuffs and illuming with great aesthetic value. The laminitis of the company, T.K.Chu, is good known for his constructs of incorporating manner elements into classical designs. He has developed his ain aesthetic, the Art Deco that transforms authoritative spirits into geometric, in writing and rhythmic vision, which helps the planing merchandise addition agreat popularity. His ultimate end is to show the value of trade art that can non be reached under the aid of accurate calculations, for which I admire him a batch. In add-on, a favourable on the job environment makes the company more attractive. The staff of PAL Design Consultants Ltd comes from topographic points around the universe with assorted cultural backgrounds. The squad provides a balance of western expertness, cross-cultural experience and local penetration and the intertwining environment brings a wealth of creativeness and motive to the talented squad ( Roland,2003 ) . Bing an architecture interior decorator in PAL Design Consultants Ltd, I can turn and develop with superb interior decorators in a cheerful and lively, originative and harmonious civilization. With its original construct in planing the company will maintain endeavoring farther in front in a dynamic and extremely competitory marketD ( Rowland,2011 ) . To accomplish this long-run end, I must heighten my communicative capableness and a good team-work spirit in the hereafter. In add-on to the cultivation of the above communicative accomplishments, I will besides go on wor king on my proficient proficiency. BeginningsKadir.H. ( 2009 ) .The Integration of Interior Architecture with Innovative Design Approaches.US-China instruction reappraisal. ISSN 1548-6613.Vol.8.Mark.G. ( 2011 ) .Architecture Design Gains its Popularity.Architecture Design. New York Observer. Vol.48.Issue.4Frank.G.A. ( 2004 ) .Architecture Design and Assessment system.4.Roland. D. ( 2003 ) . Issue Brief: Smart-Growth: Building Livable Communities. American Institute of Architects. Retrieved on 2014-03-23. 5.D. Rowland. ( 2011 ) .T.N. Howe: Vitruvius. Ten Books on Architecture.Cambridge University Press, Cambridge 1999, ISBN 0-521-00292-3

Annexation of Hawaii Essay

The decade of the 1890s marks a diplomatic watershed in American history. During that period the United States embarked upon a very assertive expansionist policy that led to the nation becoming an imperialist power by 1900. The reasons for this change from an essentially low-key, isolationist foreign policy stance to an aggressive involvement in world affairs involved fundamental changes in the American economy and the attitudes of the American people. The industrial revolution of the last quarter of the 19th century was the primary factor in the shifting foreign policy. As the nation became more industrialized it began to look overseas for new markets for its manufactured goods and for new sources of raw materials to feed the growing industrial system. To protect these foreign markets and raw materials the United States began to expand its power and influence overseas through the acquisition of trading centers, naval stations, and coaling ports. Indeed one of the major differences b etween the expansion of the 1890s and previous decades was that the nation did not see these new territories as potential states to add to the nation, but as spheres of influence in the aid of foreign trade. Two other elements entered the expansionist/imperialist equation. One was the closing of the American frontier in1890. When the Census report of that year proclaimed that there was no more frontier it meant that the nation could no longer pursue its twin goals of territorial expansion and isolation from world affairs. One or the other would have to be abandoned since there was no more contiguous territory to annex. The expansionist impulse proved stronger than the isolationist one and the nation began acquire an overseas empire. A second factor was the desire to spread the Christian gospel abroad, which meant securing an opening for American missionaries overseas. â€Å"Militant† Christianity reinforced the mood of American expansionism. A classic example of the intertwining of economic and religious impulses was United States’ annexation of Hawaii. The first Americans to settle in Hawaii were Christian missionaries whose families remained and exerted a growing influenc e over the Hawaiian economy. By 1890 American economic and religious interests in the island kingdom were a permanent feature of the society. When the McKinley tariff bill of 1890 sought to stimulate the American sugar beet industry by placing a duty on imported sugar and giving a two cent a pound bonus for domestically grown sugar, the American-owned sugar companies  faced a serious economic problem. From the standpoint of the American sugar companies in Hawaii the answer to their economc problem was simple: have Hawaii annexed by the United States so that Hawaiian sugar was domestic, not foreign grown. The flaw in that solution was that the Hawaiian people had no desire to become American. This popular aversion to annexation was reflected in the refusal of the Hawaiian leader, Queen Liliuokalani, to request an American take-over. The sugar company executives, with the timely assistance of a contingent of American marines who marched through Honolulu to â€Å"protect American lives and property,† simpl y staged a political coup and asked for annexation. After President Cleveland refused, President McKinley acquiesced in 1898. America’s desire to extend its influence beyond its borders was not limited to overt acts of annexation. In the case of a boundary dispute between Venezuela and British Guiana, United States’ action took the form of a virtual diplomatic ultimatum to England, insisting that Britain send no troops to press its boundary claims. The United States would set up a boundary commission to arbitrate the dispute and determine the legitimate boundaries. After initially declining American â€Å"good offices,† Great Britain accepted after U.S. Secretary of State Olney asserted that the United States was â€Å"practically sovereign† in this hemisphere and threatened military action. This rather high-handed maneuver reflected growing U.S. â€Å"power of persuasion.† The most dramatic example of America’s increasingly imperialistic foreign policy was the Spanish-American War of 1898. After having remained aloof from Cuba’s previous attempts to throw off Spanish rule, the United States adopted a more interventionist policy when another Cuban revolt erupted in the 1890s. The American people were sympathetic with the Cuban cause and their rallying cry became â€Å"Cuba Libra,† free Cuba. A sensationalist American press, led by New York City newspaper publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, played up Spanish â€Å"atrocities† against the Cubans and ran front page stories about the Cuban â€Å"struggle for freedom.† Hearst even sent a photographer to Cuba with instructions to send back pictures of Spanish atrocities. In addition to â€Å"yellow journalism,† anti-Spanish emotions were stirred up by the publication of a private letter written by the Spanish ambassador to the United States, de Lome, considered insulting to President McKinley. Another event fanning the flames of war fever was the sinking of the American battleship â €Å"Maine† in Havana. Even  though there was no proof of any Spanish involvement the rallying cry for pro-war forces became â€Å"Remember the Maine, and to hell with Spain.† Even though Spain, trying to avoid confontation with the United States, responded favorably to a diplomatic ultimatum from the State Department, McKinley yielded to popular pressure for war and delivered a war message. Congress, sensing America’s mood, declared war. Congress’ declaration of war was soon accompanied by the Teller Resolution promising that the United States would not annex Cuba as a result of American intervention in its behalf. When the brief, successful war ( â€Å"a splendid little war† in the words of our Secretary of State) was ended, however, the Platt Amendment, incorporated in an American-Cuban treaty, accorded the United States the right to intervene in Cuba to â€Å"preserve its independence and maintain law and order.† In effect this amendment gave the United States a qua si-protectorate over Cuba. And while the war did not lead to U.S. acquisition of Cuba it did result in United States’ annexation of Puerto Rico and the Philippine Islands (acquired from Spain). The Philippinos expressed their aversion to becoming an American territory by engaging in a guerilla war against the U.S. when annexation was proposed. Indeed the Philippine insurrection against the U.S. was more costly in terms of money and American lives lost than had been the Spanish-American war. Nor was everyone in the U.S. in favor of Philippine annexation. Anti-imperialists claimed that the Philippines might involve us in a war in the Far East, and that forced annexation violated the traditional American belief in â€Å"government by the consent of the governed.† American labor leaders joined in opposition to acquisition lest it lead to the introduction of cheap Philippine labor. American racism also rallied against acquiring â€Å"yellow-skinned† America’s desire to extend its economic influence to the Far East through opening up trade with China led to yet another diplomatic confrontation. By 1900 China had succumbed to European imperialism in the form of spheres of influence each of the major European powers and Japan had established. Concerned that this would lead to those powers excluding the U.S. from the China trade the U.S. sent a round-robin diplomatic note to all of them asserting that it was the U.S. policy, and assumed it was theirs as well, to provide an â€Å"Open Door† for trade with China. This was followed by a second â€Å"Open Door† note affirming respect for the â€Å"territorial and administrative  integrity† of China. Reluctantly most of the nations gave lukewarm assent.