Time Value of Money SL4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Time Value of Money SL4 - Essay Example I. Surge of economic challenges. In the recent past there has been an increase in the economic challenges that makes borrowing of capital a hard tussle. Most lending institutions have to put it hard since there is much of economic crunch. This makes health care to merge so as to increase the trust for borrowing. II. High interests that are charged. There is high interest charged in borrowing that makes many health care industries to merge so as to combine their resources. The fees that banks are charging for letters-of-credit associated with variable rate debt structures have doubled or even tripled in cost. IV. Lack of access to capital. Therefore lack of current capital accelerates consolidation in the industry through mergers, acquisitions, and closures. Hospitals making major improvements to their facility prior to the credit market disruptions will have a competitive advantage. In addition, hospitals with stronger credit profiles will have easier access to capital than hospitals with weaker credit profiles. (Giddy, 2014).Many hospitals are finding themselves unable to access capital at a reasonable cost while at the same time their existing variable rate capital structures are impaired due to credit downgrades with bond insurers, commercial banks, or interest rate swap

Nursing Essays Knowledge and Skills for Nursing

Nursing Essays Knowledge and Skills for Nursing Knowledge and Skills for Nursing The Setting The setting is a medical ward; patient was admitted due to diarrhoea and vomiting as a result of alcoholism and malnutrition. Hospital medical ward consists of patient that needs proper approach and nursing care to shorten their stay in the hospital. The patient will be treated not only physically and physiologically but also mentally since the patient was having such difficulties because of depression. The patient started to become depressed when her husband dies. She became an alcohol dependent and her health started to deteriorate due to malnutrition. The Approach The patient was brought to the hospital with diarrhoea and vomiting. The patient is physically not well, pale and has a poor hygiene. Based on the background check patient had suffered severe depression because her husband died and live alone. The patient became alcoholic and her health deteriorated because of malnutrition. The patient looks underweight but can survive by giving proper medication and patient care. The nursing process can best be described as a framework for planning individualized care for patient with intellectual disabilities. Since the care for patient is a process it does not conclude into anything but rather it changes constantly and it is the nurses’ responsibility to respond to these changing needs whenever necessary. The nursing process usually comprises four or five stages depending on the resources available and work setting, and includes: diagnosis, assessment, planning, implementing and evaluation. The nursing process should be undertaken using a collaborative and participative approach with other professionals, gathering and implementing resources, in order to improve the care process (Department of Health 2000b; Department of Health 2001). The focus of this study will be on the design care plan for our patient on study. Assessment Assessment is the most important part of care planning and delivery. It includes areas such as health and health needs, daily living skills, activity programmes, mobility, mental health, risks to the client, finance, respite, social events/outings, support requirements, spiritual needs and, possibly, accommodation issues (Department of Health, 2000b;Sox, 2004a). As a start, a background check is needed to be able to assess the situation of the patient. Our patient is conscious but was not able to respond properly because of her condition. So we need someone close to the patient or a relative to answer questions needed for the care plan. Data such as previous hospitalization, medication taken and others related to the patient condition is important. Diagnosis The patient was brought in the hospital because of diarrhoea and vomiting. The initial diagnosis is that the patient is dehydrated base on the physical appearance of the patient. Diarrhoea usually gets better on their own, often without treatment. If the diarrhoea continue within several days it is best to check patient’s medical history and physical exam. Planning In planning, the nurse plays an important role in the recovery and stay of the patient in the hospital. The patient upon admission was given attention on the main complain which is diarrhoea and vomiting. However further diagnosis and assessment of the medical team discovered that the patient is suffering from malnutrition. Our plan focuses on malnutrition; the reasons why the patient is having this kind of condition, and the treatment and the protocol that the nurses should follow for the welfare of the patient. Implementation Implementation of a care plan is the most challenging part of the nursing process. The patient is pale and has lost a lot of weight. The patient also lacks proper hygiene as a result of her appearance upon admission. The implementation of the care plan will begin upon admission. The patient will be forwarded and referred to the nursing staff on duty in the medical ward and will be given the care plan as agreed upon by the medical team and the patients relative. Malnutrition Evaluation will assess the effectiveness of the care plan and the implementation of the care. It is important to evaluate the point for care to be able to reach its desirable care plan. An updated review should be done to correct and improved the plan. The Model In simple language, a model is described by  Pearson and Vaughan (1993) as a descriptive picture of practice which adequately represents the real thing. Riehl and Roy (1980:11) cited in Roper et al (1990) provide   a more elaborate definition of a model as a systematically constructed, scientifically based and logically related set of concepts which identify the essential components of nursing practice, together with the theoretical bases of these concepts and the values required for their use by the practitioner. Choosing an appropriate model is important to help the care planning effective. In UK, the model of nursing used most predominantly is that of Roper et al, 1980 that bases its principals on a model for living. It provides a holistic care approach and involving the important component of the daily activities of a person. The model is made up of five components: Activities of daily living (ADLs), Lifespan, Dependence/Independence continuum, Factors influencing ADLs, and Individuality in living. (Roper, Logan, Tierney, 2002). The case of our patient needs to be assessed physically, physiologically but also mentally. The effect of losing a husband has led our patient to become ill. The Roper, Logan and Tierney are believed to be a useful approach in dealing with our patient since it involves a holistic approach. The model was named after the author of the model, Nancy Roper, Logan and Tierney. It was first developed in 1980 based upon the work by Nancy Roper in 1976. The model is based on the 12 activities of living in order to live. The model has been revised several times 1985, 1990 and the latest version 1998. The 12 activities involve the following: maintaining a safe environment, communication, breathing, eating and drinking, elimination, washing and dressing, thermoregulation, mobilisation, working and playing, expressing sexuality, sleeping, and death and dying. Each of the activities might be seen to be conceptualised as lying on a continuum from dependence to independence. There are times in our life that we may be more dependent on others to meet our needs. The role of the nurse is to help people move towards independence in all activities of daily living. Biological, physiological, socio-cultural, environmental and politico-economic variables are factors that impact on the individ ual and affect their levels of dependence /independence. Advantages and Disadvantages of Roper, Logan and Tierney Based on the study done by Pearson and Vaughan (1993) model of nursing is important in hospital ward or department. One of the advantages of the Roper, Logan and Tierney model is that it leads to consistency in the style of care received by patients and thus to a continuity of care patterns and treatments. The Roper, et.al. Model will give rise to less conflict within the team of nurses as a whole. Because of the rationale and definition behind the model other healthcare involved will understand better the logic of care. Roper, et. al model is said to be self explanatory or not too complicated as compared to others. It is said to be done this way in order to assist learners to develop a way of thinking about nursing in general terms. It is mentioned above that main concept of the Roper, Logan and Tierney model is based mainly on twelve activities of living which is the main elements of nursing and is referred to as â€Å"basic human needs†. According to Roper, Logan and Tierne y the activities of living have an advantage for nursing model since they are observable, describable, and in some instances, objectively measured. The model is mainly focused on the twelve activities while the theory is built on living and addresses the nursing activities as a deliberative approach to meet the twelve components of nursing care. It conceptualises the Person as a biological being with inseparable mind and body and Health as the ability to function independently in relation to the twelve components (Fitzpatrick and Whall 1989). The Care Plan The initial diagnosis on the patient under study is diarrhoea, alcoholism and malnutrition. However as the process of identifying the cause of the patient’s condition, nurse attending to her needs found out about the death of her husband. After background check they have found out that the patients’ husband died and became depressed because of the situation. During assessment on the patient’s health it has been noticed that the patient has mental health problem. The health needs of a patient is also important and the nurse involve should be aware of these needs. To help the patient, nursing process and nursing model should be working hand in hand to help the patient survive. Assessing the need of the patient is important. The Roper, Logan and Tierney model will ensure that the patient should be able to have a safe environment, should be communicating with her nurse attending to her, breathing, eating and drinking, working. Because of its holistic approached, Rogan. Logan and Tierney model is widely used. To evaluate the situation of our patient, the alcoholism of our patient might lead to liver disease and will be affecting the daily activities of life. The patient should trust her nurse and they should have a good relationship to have an effective care plan. The chosen model Roper et al have described the course of life as someth ing that starts at conception and lasts until death. The model involves maintaining a safe environment; our patient should be living in an environment that she will be comfortable and clean. The patient upon admission has seen to have poor hygiene. In identifying the activities of living the individual should be engage in personal cleansing and dressing. As described in the admission of the patient, the patient has poor hygiene. The patient may have pressure sore due to her stay in the hospital. This should be treated and approached very well by the nurse handling her. Pressure sore is the result of being immobile of the patient. The length of stay of the patient in the hospital should be shortening to avoid such condition. The nurse must assess how to help the patient to cooperate on the agreed care plan. Implementing the care plan will need the cooperation of the patient. It is important to help the patient to overcome the depression that she is experiencing. In this case the patient may not cooperate at the start of the plan but will be eventually cooperate as the process continues. The success of the plan depends on the cooperation of the patient and the nurses. Throughout life, our ability to perform ADLs will move from one extreme and possibly back again. This aspect of the model of living, therefore, interlinks with the model of nursing with effectively, each reliant on the other. The patient will have a chance in recovering from the health problem that she is encountering. The Roper, Logan and Tierney model is appropriate to approach the case of the patient in a holistic way. Conclusion The nursing process includes stages that should be completed to help the patient overcome the disease she is in. By means of this we will be able to identify which factors should be given enough attention to prevent the occurrence of such disease. The study includes the nature of care planning, person centred are planning, care management, health action planning and the care program approach. This study also introduced some relevant actions that need to be taken. The use of the Roper, Logan and Tierney model are described to help the nursing process to become successful and effective. The Roper Logan and Tierney is a holistic approach and are important to work with the nursing process. This study has also advocated the need for robust, professionally prepared care plans based on a systematic nursing assessment. Proper planning is important in dealing with the patient especially on those that are in admitted in the hospital because of different illnesses which can be cured and overcome if proper nursing process and model will be used. A nursing process is important to evaluate, assess, cure and eliminated illnesses of person. Our patient became sick because of depression and problem, which needs to have a proper attention on different aspect. She must be treated physiologically, physically and psychologically. Nursing model should be holistic if this is the case. The patient’s daily living activity is affected and she needs to understand why such activity such is done for her wellness. Patient should be very well educated or informed on the benefits that she will be having if she will cooperate on the agreed care plan. Reference Roper, N; Logan, W; Tierney, A; 2002 The Elements of Nursing 4th edition. Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh Department of Health (2000a), Nurses, Midwives and Health Visitors (training) Amendment, London Department of Health. Department of Health (2000b) The NHS Plan. www.nhs.com.uk Goddard M, McDonagh MS Smith DH (2000) Measuring appropriate use of acute beds: a systematic review of methods and results. Health Policy 53 157-84. Coast J, Inglis A Frankel S (1996) Alternatives to hospital care: what are they and who should decide? British Medical Journal 312 162-6. Pearson A. and Vaughan B.(1993) Nursing Models for Practice. Oxford. Butterworth Heinemann. Riehl J. and Roy C.(1980) Conceptual Models for Nursing Practice (2nd. Ed.) New York. Appleton Century Crofts. In Roper N., Logan W., and Tierney A.(1990) The Elements of Nursing (3rd. Ed.) London. Churchill Livingstone. Fitzpatrick J. and Whall A.(1989) Conceptual Models of Nursing: Analysis and Application (2nd.Ed.) London. Prentice Hall Int.

Marxist Literary Criticism Essay -- Literature Essays Literary Critici

   While literary critics do attempt to elaborate or develop ideas articulated by Karl Marx, it is important and necessary to make a distinction between Marx's specific socio-economic and political agenda and the body of literary theory which emerged years later. Marxist literary criticism proceeds from the fundamental philosophical assumption that "consciousness can never be anything else than conscious existence...Life is not determined by consciousness, but consciousness by life" (Marx 568-9). Marxist critics use this challenge to the notion of an innate, prefigured, individual human nature to reexamine the nature of creative or literary authority.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Power seems to reside outside or beyond the bounds of humanity. Rather than dipping into a world of universal forms or expressing a subjective interior, artists and their work are determined by the web of power relations in which they exist; literature is thus inescapably tethered to a continuum of socio-political concerns. Hegemony is the term most often used by Marxist critics to describe this continually renegotiat...

Technology Computer Science

This proves that the relation of technology wit h Humanity has countless and often unpredictable outcomes and effects on today's society. The smartened is a prime example of advancement of technology and its in attraction with humans. Cellular devices such as the smartened went from the classic buttons to the more common touchstones. And when people might have began thinking that that was the farthest a phone could be technologically advanced, they were proven wrong again! No w Humans only have the unique and quick option to instead type a text to communicate and array out actions, we now have the unique option to instead use voice guidance.Technology and Humanity: A Positive Side Technology has done nothing but good for the Human race since the beginning Eng of time! Positive effects technology has on society include Education, transportation, H should and Industry, Exchange Of Information, Advertising and Entertainment, Cellular C immunization and countless more. Technology influen ces many other aspects of our lives; d erectly and indirectly. Simply put, technology is almost a necessity in today's society. Where would we be as a people without technology? This question can only b e answered with disaster.Technology gives mankind a sense of direction and guidance an d without it, almost everything we take for granted today, would be a struggle without the gift that t is technology. Complications and problems that would exist without the presence of techno ago could include minimum communications, drastically slower Transportation, Limited Connect actions, Knowledge and even Education! For example, there are key pros of Technology with concerns to Education. Wi the Technology and Education hand in hand, technology further enhances people' s (student's) interests about School in general.For example, being engaged with their less ones by being occupying themselves with virtual field trips and video tutorials. With Technology and Humanity, there are endless positi ve possibilities that AR discovered and developed in everyday life. For example, www. Academia. Deed's article discusses numerous success between the two, â€Å"Technological advancements have show n a substantial growth concerned with each and every field whether it be the communication systems, astronomy, semiconductor devices,automobiles, electronic devices of daily u sage, belletristic vices, building and architectural design techniques or the computers†.The pros may seem endless, however there are cons as well. Advancement in Technology: A Darker Side Where there are upsides to a situation, there are downsides. With Technology , there are without a doubt cons when it comes to their relationship with Humanity. This â€Å"Darker Side† of technology includes major reliance on technology, the abuse of technology, a ND the time consuming effects Of technology. Technology is a wonderful things, and Humans love using it, whether they're c amputees, tablets, phones, and e ven television. However, this can become highly addict eve and cause Humans to be â€Å"too† actively engaged with technology.Due to this, we become so busy and distracts us from spending time with loved ones and even doing everyday cacti pities. Society has developed a major dependence and reliance on Technology. This can cause us to lack patience, and even a willingness to act before we think. For example e, we can become inpatient in slight situations, such as waiting for speedy responses to our Emma ills, texts, and calls. This major dependence on technology can negatively affect us in situations w ere we need patience and even do something ourselves without the use of technology.Weapon Engineering: Technology and Weapon's are one in the same. But many will ask the control reseal question, is it for a good or better worse cause? Believe it is for both. Weapons are useful; even a need in most situations. Womb. Academia. Due state â€Å"Nevertheless, weapon incorrigiblenes s and provides a huge advance. Rive Larry between the countries may also be ascribed to technological advancements, as the country sees compete for the development of new warfare techniques and equipments†. This is a huge plus because weaponry is not only local, for example, a robbery or house invasion. It is worldwide!Etc homology advances weaponry everyday, and they are required in even the biggest of sit cautions such as War. Weapons, on the other hand obviously could be a negative thing. Vow. Aced aim. Due states â€Å"Nevertheless, weapon engineering propels and provides a huge advance CE. Rivalry between the countries may also be ascribed to technological advancements, as the coo entries compete for the development of new warfare techniques and equipments†. This quote high hilts the issue of he possibility Of full on world warfare, all due to the greediness and competition venues of countries too have the latest and strongest weapons.Quite honestly, its only a mat ter of time when they will be used; this should not be a possibility whatsoever. However, this is the problem that weapons/ technology pose on the world today. Artificial Intelligence: What is Artificial Intelligence? According to www. W. Merriment's. Com, is is† 1 : an area of computer science that deals with giving machines the ability to seem like the eye have human intelligence 2: the power of a machine to copy intelligent human behavior†. Believe it or not, there are many reasons to like and dislike Artificial Intelligence.Albert Hubbard once said, â€Å"One machine can do the work of fifty ordinary me n. No machine can do the work Of one extraordinary man†. This is true without a do but. Artificial Intelligence is used everyday to the benefit of mankind. With that being said, t here are numerous benefits of Artificial Intelligence. For example, accomplishing tasks without get ting tired. An example of this is getting a specific objective or task completed wi thout taking breaks such as a lunch or coffee break. In summary, Artificial Intelligence can get a job done al most instantly, compare to that of humans alone. The real danger is not that computers will begin to think like men, but that m en will begin to think like computers† is a quote stated by Sydney J. Harris. It is quite accurate. Despite the benefits of Artificial Intelligence, there are key disadvantages to it. What if the Artificial Intelligence were to break down? If you were performing a task, such as transfer erring money from one device to another, it could all be gone in an instant. Ironically, just as easy it is to complete a ask with Artificial Intelligence, it IS as easy for an entire task to turn into nothing Eng. Sadly, there are numerous other cons to Artificial Intelligence.There is also the e possibility of losing countless amounts of information. Http:// half-heartedness's. Org further explains, â€Å"In particular cases, because of the malfunction of s pecific parts, artic facial mind can fall short to keep its memory all the files which it must have. This thing can also o occur with humans. Once a person is liable of the keeping of information and collection of data an d fall short to do he job, it is somewhat that is accepted and frequently branded as your mists eke- On the other hand, with artificial mind it is not assumed and this really makes the entire did preference, in the end making it an issue.Artificial intelligence or computer system requires to be s witched off on a daily basis for work maintenance. This could be a restraint to output and office once as well as to the whole interests and benefits of the company in question†. Artificial Intelligent once is truly a Wild Card in its possible outcomes. Medical Technology: Medical Technology, according to NNW. Wisped. Com is â€Å"Medical Technology, which is a proper subset of health technology, encompasses a wide range of healthy are products and is used to diagno se, monitor or treat diseases or medical conditions affecting h unmans†.Medical Technology is a positive side of the relationship between technology and hum Anita. This deals with the improvement of human health, and this is key to society. People will continue to gets, hurt and injured. The field isn't going away anytime soon. Medicine is the Holy Grail of human health, and without it people would not s reeve. Medical Science is extremely beneficial, â€Å"Research in the field of medicine has allowed for the development of many new treatments, drugs, medicines, and solutions that h eave allowed for the dramatic prolegomena of the human lifespan. As stated by www. Academia. De u. Due to the advancement and development of Medical Technology/ Science, human life spans are expanding and people are living longer and happier lives because of it. Nuclear Technology: Nuclear Technology is a very debatable topic. Nuclear weapons, nuclear media cine, and nuclear power are among the m any applications Nuclear Power can be used f or. One of the most controversial being Nuclear Weapons. However, when determining an opinion on this topic, it should be determined from a standpoint of the people as a whole, rather that n individually.A positive aspect of Nuclear Technology includes Nuclear Medicine. Nuclear M educing diagnoses diseases, x rays can identify sensitive parts of the body when identity faying a disease, physicians can perform their operations easier and more responsibly due to Nuclear Medicine. Nuclear Power is another positive for Nuclear Technology. Nuclear Power is c noninsured as another great source of energy, and it is a manageable source of regenerate energy. However, there are numerous downsides to Nuclear Technology. Although N clear Power can be positive, some negatives sometimes outweighs it.Nuclear Pope r produces radiation, which can lead to cancer in Humans and almost everything about N clear Power is expensive. Www. Half-heartedness's. Org s tates that â€Å"Research in the field of medicine has allowed for the development of many new treatments, drugs, medicines, and solutions that have allowed for the dramatic prolegomena of the human lifespan†. Lastly, there is the issue of Nuclear Weapons. When used, Nuclear Weapons are highly dangerous. The RI sky of human life when these weapons are used are great.

The tourism and events

The rapid growth of events In the past decade led to the formation of an Identifiable events Industry (Bowdon et al. , 2006). This paper will be focusing mainly on the sports events Industry and will Identify and discuss what the events Industry actually has to offer. Firstly It will investigate the different sizes of sporting events followed by examining its characteristics and their economic value.The past motive for an event used to be creating an opportunity to get away from the normal routine of day to day life and loud spring organically from communities or prompted by personal, individual milestones usually triggered by nostalgia. An event could also be a cultural occasion such as Christmas when all societies can celebrate and commemorate together. Personal and cultural occasions are no longer the only motive for an event, today the events industry is widely known for generating extremely attractive business chances and Is frequently economically motivated.Sporting events appe al to a large number of participants and spectators and can vary In size from community events, for example the local schools sports day, to a mega event such as the Olympics or the World Cup. Hallmark events and major events are the other two groups within the industry that events are categorized under. Marries in Get (2005, p. 1 8) defines a mega event in the following way: â€Å"Their volume should exceed one million visits, their capital cost should be at least $500 million, and their reputation should be that of a ‘must see' event. Where as Get (2005, p. 6) will interpret a mega event to be one that also yields extraordinarily high levels of tourism, media coverage & prestige. The proliferation of sporting events are linked to a combination of factors, one of them being IT and communications. As technology has developed the coverage of sport can now be broadcast to a global audience, this attracts companies and sponsors who will Inject money into the event and use It as a marketing and advertising opportunity. Sporting events are major contributors to the economic growth and development of the host country. † Road et 2011) Mega sprung events can help promote and develop cities and be utilized to Improve transport infrastructure, adapt buildings, construct cultural spaces, landmarks and dernier sports facilities. They can increase tourism levels, which can then have a positive knock on effect to the local community. Local businesses will benefit and the injection of income into the local economy can potentially create more Jobs.These mega events attract global media coverage, it can put the hosting country at a new level of local, national and international importance and the venue can become a tourism landmark for the foreseeable future. â€Å"The London 201 2 Games have definitively served as a catalyst for development and Improvements, both tangible and Intangible, which would otherwise have taken decades to achieve. There Is no doubt that the citizens of London and Great Brutal will benefit from the Games for a long time to come. † (Great Britain, UK Government. 013) potential threats and inconveniences have to be considered. The risk of terrorist attacks on the events location can drastically increase, the event could have negative effects on the environment and traffic congestion can become an inconvenience for participants, spectators and locals if the right planning and management has not been addressed. Sporting events employ drama and can attract large numbers of people so to keep negative impacts on the host country or organization to a minimum understanding the events characteristics is an important factor when planning an event of any size.Event managers should investigate the area type; whether it is in a rural, urban or metro environment, the event location and the time the event is held and its duration, a prediction of the expected attendance and who the event is aimed at and how you are going to market the event and finally how your going to accommodate your customers and participants. In sporting events you also need to consider the sports governing body and employ the correct professionals to ensure he governing body rules and regulations are met and maintained throughout the event.For a mega event such as the Olympics the opening and closing ceremonies and the medals being awarded to the competitors are significant and memorable characteristics of the sporting event. In conclusion, the events industry has a lot to offer, with the government's support, increase in tourism and continuing to create ways in which to attract events to the county the industry will continue to flourish and play a significant role in the economy, as well as having a positive input on the coal community and the host country it will also go on to provide memorable experiences for those involved.

Free Essays on Affimative Action

"AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, SOLUTION OR PROBLEM" Part of the civil rights movement over three decades ago, affirmative action calls for minorities and women to be given special consideration in employment, education and contracting decisions. Affirmative action is the nation's most ambitious attempt to fix its long history of racial and sexual discrimination. But these days it seems to incite, rather than ease. An increasingly assertive opposition movement argues that the battle to guarantee equal rights for all citizens has been fought and won, and that favoring members of one group over another simply goes against what we stand for. But defenders of affirmative action say that it is not level yet, and that granting modest advantages to minorities and women is more than fair, given hundreds of years of discrimination that benefited whites and men. Today, affirmative action can call for an admissions officer faced with two similarly qualified applicants to choose the minority over the white or the women, or for a manager to recruit and hire a qualified woman for a job instead of a man, they are not supposed to give any preference to unqualified candidates. And they are not supposed to harm anyone through "reverse discrimination."... Free Essays on Affimative Action Free Essays on Affimative Action â€Å"We didn’t land on Plymouth Rock, Plymouth Rock landed on us!† Malcolm X’s observation is brought out by the facts of American History. Snatched from their native land, transported thousands of miles – in a nightmare of disease and death – and sold into slavery, blacks were reduced to the legal status of farm animals. Even after emancipation, blacks were segregated from whites – in some states by law, and by social practice almost everywhere. American apartheid continued for another century. In 1954 the Supreme Court declared state-compelled segregation in schools unconstitutional, and it followed up that decision with others that struck down many forms of official segregation. Still, discrimination survived, and in most southern states blacks were either discouraged or prohibited from exercising their right to vote. Not until the 1960’s was compulsory segregation finally and effectively challenged. Between 1964 and 1968 Congress passed the most sweeping civil rights legislation since the end of the Civil War. It banned discrimination in employment, public accommodations (hotels, motels, restaurants, etc.), and housing; it also guaranteed voting rights for blacks in areas suspected of disenfranchising blacks. Today, several agencies in the federal government exercise sweeping powers to enforce these civil rights measures. But is that enough? Equality of condition between blacks and whites seems as elusive as ever. The black unemployment rate is double that of whites and the percentage of black families living in poverty is nearly four times that of whites. Only a small percentage of blacks ever make it into medical school or law schools. Advocates of affirmative action have focused upon these differences to support their argument that it is no longer enough just to stop discrimination. Liberal Democrats feel that the damage done by three centuries of racism now has to be remedied, they argue, and effective remediatio... Free Essays on Affimative Action "AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, SOLUTION OR PROBLEM" Part of the civil rights movement over three decades ago, affirmative action calls for minorities and women to be given special consideration in employment, education and contracting decisions. Affirmative action is the nation's most ambitious attempt to fix its long history of racial and sexual discrimination. But these days it seems to incite, rather than ease. An increasingly assertive opposition movement argues that the battle to guarantee equal rights for all citizens has been fought and won, and that favoring members of one group over another simply goes against what we stand for. But defenders of affirmative action say that it is not level yet, and that granting modest advantages to minorities and women is more than fair, given hundreds of years of discrimination that benefited whites and men. Today, affirmative action can call for an admissions officer faced with two similarly qualified applicants to choose the minority over the white or the women, or for a manager to recrui t and hire a qualified woman for a job instead of a man, they are not supposed to give any preference to unqualified candidates. And they are not supposed to harm anyone through "reverse discrimination."...

Free Essays on Gateway

Brett A. Goldschmidt Dr. Albrecht Internet exercise â€Å"Gateway† Gateway’s website is very simplistic, but at the same time it is very blunt, and to the point. When we first enter the Gateway site, pop-up advertisements come up which I was not to impressed by, but further examining the main page of the website, the â€Å"support, at home, and office† tabs were a definite way of segmenting their clients or visitors of the website. I was very impressed to see that the â€Å"At Home† tab consisted of a lot of different options for models of computers. The computers ranged in price from $699 to $2,000 and over. The website really caters to the consumer because you can customize your computer and get everything you need and nothing you don’t. The accessories that gateway offered is a selection second to none; and I also was impressed of all the digital technology that was offered by Gateway. The website was simple and easy to use which is a plus in my books. I give gateway a thumbs up and congratulate them on a segmen ting job done well.... Free Essays on Gateway Free Essays on Gateway Gateway’s website is very simplistic, but at the same time it is very blunt, and to the point. When we first enter the Gateway site, pop-up advertisements come up which I was not to impressed by, but further examining the main page of the website, the â€Å"support, at home, and office† tabs were a definite way of segmenting their clients or visitors of the website. I was very impressed to see that the â€Å"At Home† tab consisted of a lot of different options for models of computers. The computers ranged in price from $699 to $2,000 and over. The website really caters to the consumer because you can customize your computer and get everything you need and nothing you don’t. The accessories that gateway offered is a selection second to none; and I also was impressed of all the digital technology that was offered by Gateway. The website was simple and easy to use which is a plus in my books. I give gateway a thumbs up and congratulate them on a segmen ting job done well.... Free Essays on Gateway Brett A. Goldschmidt Dr. Albrecht Internet exercise â€Å"Gateway† Gateway’s website is very simplistic, but at the same time it is very blunt, and to the point. When we first enter the Gateway site, pop-up advertisements come up which I was not to impressed by, but further examining the main page of the website, the â€Å"support, at home, and office† tabs were a definite way of segmenting their clients or visitors of the website. I was very impressed to see that the â€Å"At Home† tab consisted of a lot of different options for models of computers. The computers ranged in price from $699 to $2,000 and over. The website really caters to the consumer because you can customize your computer and get everything you need and nothing you don’t. The accessories that gateway offered is a selection second to none; and I also was impressed of all the digital technology that was offered by Gateway. The website was simple and easy to use which is a plus in my books. I give gateway a thumbs up and congratulate them on a segmen ting job done well....

Tarbosaurus - Facts and Figures

Tarbosaurus - Facts and Figures Name: Tarbosaurus (Greek for terrifying lizard); pronounced TAR-bo-SORE-us Habitat: Floodplains of Asia Historical Period: Late Cretaceous (70-65 million years ago) Size and Weight: About 40 feet long and five tons Diet: Herbivorous dinosaurs Distinguishing Characteristics: Long head; exceptionally small arms About Tarbosaurus When its fossils were first discovered in Mongolias Gobi Desert, in 1946, paleontologists debated whether Tarbosaurus was a new species of Tyrannosaurus, rather than deserving its own genus. Clearly, these two carnivores had a lot in commonthey were both huge meat-eaters with numerous sharp teeth and tiny, almost vestigial armsbut they also inhabited opposite sides of the globe, Tyrannosaurus Rex in North America and Tarbosaurus in Asia. Lately, the bulk of the evidence points to Tarbosaurus as belonging to its own genus. This tyrannosaur had a unique jaw structure and even smaller forelimbs than T. Rex; more important, no Tarbosaurus fossils have been found outside Asia. Its even possible that Tarbosaurus had evolutionary precedence, and spawned Tyrannosaurus Rex when some hardy individuals crossed the Siberian land bridge into North America. (By the way, the closest Asian relative of Tarbosaurus was an even more obscure tyrannosaur, Alioramus.) Recently, an analysis of a Parasaurolophus fossil revealed numerous Tarbosaurus bite marks, in patterns indicating that this tyrannosaur methodically scavenged its victims already-dead corpse rather than chasing it down and killing it. This doesnt conclusively settle the debate about whether tyrannosaurs were hunters or scavengers (they probably pursued both strategies, as necessary), but its still a piece of valuable evidence.

Discussion Board Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 12

Discussion Board - Assignment Example This simply means that the conditions one experiences in prisons may vary from one place to another. Therefore, asserting that convict criminologists have more credibility in regard to their information of prison life is a farfetched idea. On the other hand, prison is a dynamic place where people get convicted on a daily basis with different criminal offenses. Political systems are also changing on a daily basis meaning that new rules and regulations governing human actions are formulated and implemented each time, thus an action that was not considered a crime in the early 90’s could be considered a crime in the contemporary society and vice-versa. This creates a need for continuous learning on issues ascribed to prison life, thus one person cannot claim that owing to the fact that he was convicted ten years ago, he is in a better position to comprehend prison-related issues than other scholar. In conclusion, the credibility of convict criminologists, does matter, they have a unique source of knowledge that is not possessed by people who have never been

21st Century Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

21st Century Education - Essay Example This study outlines that in the last few centuries, education has become more and more available to people and largely thanks to the invention of the printing press and other means of spreading written material, which has been the most outstanding vessel for knowledge literacy. Thus, it has increased, and when 100 years ago we may have said that a person is well educated simply because they knew how to read and write, today those are mere basics in education, and very many people with literacy skills, yet they do not qualify as educated. Even knowledge by itself does not suffice for one to be educated, â€Å"Familiarity with a list of words, names, books, and ideas is a uniquely poor way to judge who is well-educated†. Being educated today means that one needs to have not only knowledge, but also the professional, social, and ethical skills that come with it, as well as experience in dealing with people.From this paper it is clear that  many art colleges teach skills, which are not particularly specific to any job. For example, a student from the faculty of Education can use the same degree to apply and probably get a job, as a customer relations manager in a firm yet there are people who go to school to study the latter. The skills learnt in Arts College are versatile and can be applied in a variety of fields.  However, some of the existing professions cannot be practiced by anyone who is not qualified and certified for them.

Benefits of Going Green. Improving the Environmental and Ethical Image Essay

Benefits of Going Green. Improving the Environmental and Ethical Image of a Restaurant - Essay Example It is practically one of the biggest business trends of the last quarter of a century alongside adoption of computers and the internet. This then begs the question; what has prompted organizations to take up green ways? Investigations into the issue point to the fact that going green is not just empty trend, but a powerful strategy to gain competitive advantage for organizations in modern times. It enables a company to create a good corporate image and reduce costs thus maximizing profitability. Although there is evidence to support this, several companies have still not found going green a strategy worth pursuing. Hence, this part of the paper explores what going green entails and the benefits it accrues to businesses especially in the automobile industry, the food industry and the accounting/audit industry, which can be extrapolated to any other businesses. What is â€Å"Going Green?† Going green in a business is usually defined as the practice of monitoring, reducing and measuring the environmental and social costs of conducting business (Polimeni et al. 2010). Going green generally involves reducing wastes, decreasing use of energy and adoption of recycling techniques. Depending on the industry, strategies for going green include cutting on paper work, encouraging employees to car-pool, giving incentives to employees to adopt green technologies such as buying hybrid vehicles, reusable water bottles and using alternative sources of energy among others. A company that wishes to go green needs to make it a policy and communicate this to its employees. The policy should contain the company’s commitment to go green and the proposed strategies of doing this as appropriate to the company. The management should be committed to adopt these strategies in order to make employees follow suit. Benefits of Going Green The benefits of adopting green strategies are wide and varied across all industries, especially with the recent global economic melt-down. Case examples of industries that have adopted these strategies and the benefits they have accrued are studied and general benefits accrued discussed at the end. One of the biggest sectors that is directly affected and directly influences all other organizations in terms of the environment is the automobile industry. Vehicle manufacturers are at the forefront of adoption of green technologies, and thus the increasing emphasis on hybrid and electric vehicle. Robinson’s and Schroelder’s (2009) study of Subaru Indiana Automotive Inc. illustrates that through green principles and efficiency improves not only environmental conservation but also profits plus competitive advantages. Employees at every level in the company continuously pursue strategies to increase efficiency, reduce production of wastes and also reduce energy consumption. The strategies have resulted in 14% reduction of ele ctricity consumption since the year 2000, plus the company has not taken any wastes to the depository since 2004 as of 2009. The company has saved on costs in both long term and short term basis, with habits such as dimming lights when workers are on a break reaping immediate savings on costs. Other strategies such as redesigning processes initially increased costs but they have over time resulted in cost-saving. The two authors also found out that going green in the company involves detailed scrutiny of operations and new perspectives, which lead to innovations that create competitive advan

Parsuasive speach Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Parsuasive speach - Essay Example Scientists point to the fact that the soil on organic farms is much healthier than on farms using chemical fertilizers. Healthy soil is rich in nutrients that can be taken up and stored by the fruits and vegetables. We gain these nutrients when we consume the organic food. Another reason organically raised fruits and vegetables are superior to others is the lack of environmental damage they cause. Organic food is raised in a manner that prevents herbicides, pesticides and chemical fertilizers from polluting the soil and water. When powerful insecticides such as DDT enter the ecosystem, they can do tremendous harm to animals. Farm workers have died from handling strong herbicides incorrectly. And just think, we are eating these chemicals on our food! Organic food is better for the environment in all of these ways. Finally, organic and sustainable agriculture does not take more from the earth and the earth can naturally produce. Non-sustainable agriculture uses many gallons of furl to produce a single bushel of wheat, corn or rice. Using heavy machines is unsustainable because eventually our petroleum reserves will be used up. Growing food in a sustainable ensures that our food supply will be safe for many generations to come. We will not need to depend on oil or oil producing nations in order to feed ourselves. In conclusion, I believe you will agree with me when I say that organic fruits and vegetables are superior to others in many ways. By eating them you are eating a more nutritious, sustainable and environmentally friendly

Classification and Division of Tae Kwon Do Essay - 1

Classification and Division of Tae Kwon Do - Essay Example Officially, there are a number of categories in the events of the WTF (World Tae Kwon Do Federation). These are the following: 1. WTF-promoted competitions 2. Championships promoted by Regional Taekwondo Unions of the WTF in 4 continents 3. International Competitions promoted by international sport organizations, and 4. Other international WTF-approved competitions 1. WTF-promoted competitions a. World Taekwondo Championships b. Women’s World Taekwondo Championships c. World Taekwondo Championships d. World Taekwondo Poomsae Champioships 2. Regional Taekwondo Unions Championships (Regional Junior Taekwondo Championships a. Asian Taekwondo Championships b. European Taekwondo Championships c. Pan American Taekwondo Championships d. African Taekwondo Championships 3. International Sport Organizations-promoted competitions (CISM, FISU, and continental or regional sport organizations) a. World Military Championships b. World University Taekwondo Championships 4. Other International Taekwondo Competitions WTF-approved with the request of the Organizing Committee in agreement with the related rules of the WTF (WTF.org).

The planning system's approach to managing change in rural areas is Essay

The planning system's approach to managing change in rural areas is fundamentally flawed. Discuss - Essay Example ountry planning†, so that planning is not just a regulator of land and property uses, but is at the centre of the spatial development process, coordinating policy with implementation based on sustainable development. (Gallent et al, 2008). Some of the most important factors which have shaped the United Kingdom Planning System are: the strong ethics towards land preservation which is epitomized in the work of the Council for the Protection of Rural England, and its Scottish and Welsh counterparts. and the agriculture and breeding of livestock of the land owning class. Additionally, popular attitudes to the preservation of the countryside and the containment of urban sprawl are related to the early industrialization of the United Kingdom, the small size of the country, the long history of parliamentary government, the power of the civil service in central government, and the professions in local government (Cullingworth & Nadin, 2002). Fundamental flaws are present in the planning system’s approach to managing change in rural areas, partly because of the following reasons: the United Kingdom planning system has been highly effective in stopping development, rather than in facilitating it. There are serious weaknesses in anticipating needs, and in acquisition and allocation of land, and in integrating the planning of infrastructure with new development. The powers which the system has for such important planning actions are inadequately used because of insufficient relationship between the public planning process and the largely private development process. Though the Town and Country Planning Act 1947 envisaged the undertaking of positive planning by the public sector, this was not adopted due to lack of feasibility; and alternative mechanisms remain underdeveloped (Cullingworth & Nadin, 2002). Another shortcoming of the planning system is the most difficult issue facing any policy, that is, defining the right questions. Current United Kingdom debates are

Classification and Division of Tae Kwon Do Essay - 1

Classification and Division of Tae Kwon Do - Essay Example Officially, there are a number of categories in the events of the WTF (World Tae Kwon Do Federation). These are the following: 1. WTF-promoted competitions 2. Championships promoted by Regional Taekwondo Unions of the WTF in 4 continents 3. International Competitions promoted by international sport organizations, and 4. Other international WTF-approved competitions 1. WTF-promoted competitions a. World Taekwondo Championships b. Women’s World Taekwondo Championships c. World Taekwondo Championships d. World Taekwondo Poomsae Champioships 2. Regional Taekwondo Unions Championships (Regional Junior Taekwondo Championships a. Asian Taekwondo Championships b. European Taekwondo Championships c. Pan American Taekwondo Championships d. African Taekwondo Championships 3. International Sport Organizations-promoted competitions (CISM, FISU, and continental or regional sport organizations) a. World Military Championships b. World University Taekwondo Championships 4. Other International Taekwondo Competitions WTF-approved with the request of the Organizing Committee in agreement with the related rules of the WTF (WTF.org).

Product Costing - Traditional Methods and Activity Based Costing case Essay

Product Costing - Traditional Methods and Activity Based Costing case assignment 5 accounting - Essay Example The proposed solution will prove to be very useful for the agricultural enterprises which mainly aim at employing management accounting techniques (Hicks). Considering the fact that the total ownership is focused on a particular crop which grows for a certain amount of time in a year, it is essential that the cost and profit centres are set up as they would provide the couple with a chance to make more accurate costing as well as improved pricing. This will also help the couple improve the profitability of the farms as well as ensure better management and more informed decision making for the farm. On the whole this will lead to more effective and efficient management of the farm. It is also important to note that the schematic will provide a chance for the developer to all the activities and also recognise the drivers which can be used effectively as the input values for the activity based costing systems. It is also important to note that including the cost and profit centres solutions will prove to be very beneficial for the company and will also permit the company to very effectively and accurately conduct the costing for the produces. Also the financial statements that have been provided are very helpful and beneficial for the farm to develop and design the management accounting systems and all reports effectively and efficiently. Since the proposed scheme of the relationship between the profit and cost centres are complex, it is essential to note that the possible scheme will prove to be very effective and will also be more beneficial than the basic provides (Beaulieu and Lakra). The fact that the cost centres provide support and assistance to each other has not been considered in the scheme and this leads to unrealistic solution. In a real world scenario, the cost centres will provide support and back up to each other and also in some cases to the profit centres. According to Business Dictionary Activity Based Costing, â€Å"Cost accounting approach

Towards Self Reliance In Defence Research Economics Essay

Towards Self Reliance In Defence Research Economics Essay The idea of self-reliance is important even today. However, self-reliance does not imply pursuing a policy of autarky. It does not mean cutting ourselves away from the world. Self-reliance in the modern world implies the ability to pursue ones interests with self-confidence and faith in ones own capabilities. We do not have to pursue self-reliance by doing everything ourselves. We can, indeed, pursue greater self-reliance by creating inter-relationships of inter-dependence that enhance our bargaining power. Greater interaction with the world can in fact enhance a nations self-reliance by creating a web of mutually beneficial inter-relationships.  [1]   Dr Manmohan Singh Buy Indian and Make Indian is going to be the major component of our procurement policy. That will help us to have a strong defence industrial base in India.  [2]   -A.K. Antony, Defence Minister Introduction 1. The blossoming Indian economy is fast pacing into the 21st century with the potential of being an economic superpower. Spurred by economic reforms and the impact of liberalisation, privatisation and globalisation, India, is truly on the verge of carving its own niche in the world. 2. An economic superpower must also be a military super power, in terms of Military capability and strength. There should also be a dependable and reliable indigenous defence industrial base. A country which is self reliant and independent in its military requirements, and thus, also has access to technologically advanced capability can truly be termed as military superpower. The establishment of a well developed defence industrial base is of primary importance to any emerging super power. Focus should be on capability development followed by numeral growth, not the other way round. A clear understanding and identification of the requirements and needs of the armed forces and ensuring that the requirements are met within the stipulated time, in a cost effective manner, should be the primary goal of any defence industrial base and the determinant of its success. Indias Defence Industrial Base. A Historical perspective 3. Pre Independence. The pre-independence defence-industrial infrastructure in India consisted of 18 Ordnance Factories (OFs)  [3]  , generally catering to repair and overhaul as well as to supplement weapons and equipment produced in Britain. During this period India was never allowed to develop core competencies in industrial production. 4. Post Independence. Since independence the Indian leadership aimed at attaining self-sufficiency in entire domain of defence production and to achieve this Indias industrial policies  [4]  emphasized core industries (including defence sector) to be taken care of by the central government and others by the states. As a result eight Defence Public Sector Units (DPSUs) under exclusive control of the government were devoted to production of different military systems and components. Defence Science Organisation (DSO) was established at that time to take up challenges of undertaking RD activities. DRDO was formed in 1958 from the amalgamation of the then already functioning developmental establishments with the DSO. DRDO then comprised of 10 establishments or laboratories which has now grown into a network of over 50 laboratories throughout India  [5]  . 5. Post 1962 war License production, direct purchase and acquisitions remained the predominant form of supply for the Indian defence forces. This resulted in a gap of nearly three decades in Indias effort toward indigenous production which was especially evident in the fields of design and development, which constitutes the upper spectrum of self reliance. A fighter aircraft between Marut and the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), a basic trainer aircraft between HT-2 and HPT- 32, an intermediate trainer between Kiran and an yet-to-be fully developed Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) are some of the examples that typify both the technology and production gaps  [6]  . 6. Trends in 1980s and 1990s. This was the period when Cold War came to an end and Global defence expenditure rose to an all time high in 1987 and then fell sharply during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Also, there was a rise in low intensity conflicts lawlessness, crimes and terrorism was spreading manifold. This was also the time countries were opening up their economies and the globalization era commenced. This period was the starting point of major defence acquisitions from abroad coupled with major initiatives in indigenous defence production, including RD activities. The license production of Jaguars and MiG- 27M was undertaken by HAL  [7]  . Also indigenous development of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) and Main Battle Tank(MBT) Arjun were speeded up by DRDO. Production of missiles developed under Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), through Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) commenced. Hence, during this period India had been a ble to initiate a number of projects for indigenous development. However, fructification of these projects was accompanied by inordinate delays and technological gaps. 7. The mainstay of armed forces was met through substantial arms acquisition from abroad primarily due to slow progress in our indigenous design and development activities as also the inability to keep pace with the global state-of-art technologies in the defence industry. With the change in environment after nuclear explosions by India and Pakistan and the Kargil conflict, the country had to give a re-look to its defence strategy including its objective of achieving self-reliance in defence industry. 8. Defence Industry in 21st Century Soon after the liberalization of the economy, the defence industry started realizing the importance of civil military interaction in the industrial sector to attain near self-reliance. Coupled with changes at institutional and organizational levels as recommended by the Group of Ministers Committee Report on Reforming the National Security System, is the most important policy shift in the defence-industrial sector allowing 100% private sector participation and 26% by Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)  [8]  . Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) has been instrumental in influencing such a marked change in policy. While these far-reaching institutional and policy-oriented changes have been underway for quite some time, the demand for private participation has assumed significance in recent years. Trends in Global Defence Industry 9. The global defence industry has undergone profound changes in recent years. The massive military build up by many countries during the Cold War era fuelled greater demand for military weapons and systems. However, immediate post Cold War period witnessed the reverse trend in demand for military weapons and systems resulting in reduction in budgetary allocation in the defence sector. This resulted in many smaller companies either to merge with big ones or to shift their priorities towards civilian production, thus leaving the defence sector. Mergers and acquisitions during this period resulted in creation of a few giant companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, British Aerospace, Northrop Grumman, EADS and others. The military expenditure again witnessed upward trend since 1999 and this is likely to continue in future  [9]  . As procurement budgets have started to swell again and are likely to stay that way, new opportunities are expected for the defence industry. In the changing conflict scenario, there has been an upward trend in the LIC, insurgency, terrorism, OOAC etc as a result of which the global defence industry after a period of significant downsizing and rationalization has entered into a phase of renewed attention. Indias Defence Industry. 10. Post Cold War era, the changing trends in the global defence industry had affected Indian defence industry in many ways. The era of economic liberalization since 1991 has resulted in indigenous build-up of technological base in the IT, communication, electronics, automobile sectors etc. Since, all acquisitions in the past and till upto mid 90s were either outright purchase or linked with license production, what best the DPSUs or the OFs could gain was expertise in production which was entirely dependent on the assemblies and Semi knock Down Kits (SKD) or sub assemblies imported from the Original equipment manufacturer (OEM). The real technology transfer aimed at enhancing the indigenous development was missing in all the deals covered under License Production and Transfer of Technology (TOT). However, the most far reaching change that has impacted the Indias defence industrial sector is the opening up of this sector for private participation. The objectives are manifold viz., re duction of defence imports from current levels of 70 percent, increase in defence exports, enhance the indigenous RD skill level and infrastructure to produce technologically advanced state of the art equipment within the time frames specified. Coupled with the economic liberalization and opening up of the defence sector to private companies was linked the problem of licensing and requirement of foreign direct investment in the defence sector. In January 2001, the GOI initiated a series of major initiatives that included Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) up to about 26 percent and full private participation in certain sectors in the defence industry. Shift from Self Sufficiency to Self-Reliance 11. Since independence the Indias industrial policies outlined in Industry Policy Resolution of 1948 and 1951 was aimed at achieving self sufficiency in defence production. Towards this the government invested heavily in scientific and technological institutions both educational-such as the IITs, and research and development institutes such as the CSIR, ICAR, DAE, DoS, ICMR, DRDO so as to develop a strong technological base. However, the countrys defence was neglected, as was evident in 1962 war. With a weak Defence-Industrial Base (DIB), the policies to maximize production in order to attain self-sufficiency in the defence sector although were considered farsighted, did not match expectations, thus leading to shift of focus from self-sufficiency model to self reliance model post 1962 war. 12. Self-reliance in its true sense does not preclude accessing external sources for technology and systems, or external help in any stage of the production cycle. Hence, self-reliance as far as India was concerned, meant apart from Indias own production base for support a degree of dependence on reliable foreign sources for access to technologies, supply of components and complete systems was desirable. These were materialized by meeting urgent and immediate demands through imports form abroad while simultaneously striving for indigenous capabilities in defence production. Although Indias main focus on imports was from western countries like UK, France, Sweden these countries were reluctant in supplying defence equipment to India post 1962 war with China. Indias quest for self reliance got a major boost when Russia (erstwhile USSR) agreed to Licence production by India for various defence equipment acquired by India form Russia. These Licence production of aircraft, battle tank, a rms and ammunition were undertaken by various DPSUs as well as OFs. However, the only thing that lost its focus in the bargain was the transfer of technology aimed at enhancing indigenous production and RD activities. The outcome of this is obvious, as witnessed in the LCA program, MBT Arjun, aero engine Kaveri to name a few. In spite of having produced aircraft, tanks and aero engines under license production the organizations involved in the production could hardly assimilate and nurture the technology needed to supplement our own indigenous efforts. Probably the focus of these organizations was more towards production rather than indigenization. Defence Industrial Policy 13. The defence industrial policy was aimed at establishing a strong and self sufficient defence industrial base (DIB). The objective was to have thrust in indigenous production and exploring possibilities of exports to other developing nations that may look forward to supplies from India. 14. In spite of being more focused to numeral growth or production than on the capability development (RD), India has made rapid strides in defence technology in recent past and reached a stage of some level of self-reliance. The existing potential of the country in defence production, in the form of resource capability, know-how and technical expertise, could not be exploited to its full due to lack of clear cut defence policy. However, since liberalization of the economy in 1991 there has been increased civil military interaction. The changes in the defence production policy indicates the intention to involve the private sector in defence RD and production through licensing and indirect opening of the defence industrial sector to foreign companies through FDI and the offset arrangement. Our defence industrial policy  [10]  since independence broadly consists of the following:- Maximization of indigenous production. Licence production of those equipments which are available and can be obtained from abroad. Direct procurement of those equipments not covered above, but considered essential for ensuring the security. Indigeneous Production 15. To promote indigenous production 8 DPSUs and 40 OFs were established. Also DRDO comprising of a network of 50 labs was formed to undertake RD in the field of defence weapons, systems and equipment. Ordnance factories. At the end of the WW2 Indias defence industrial capacity amounted to 18 ordnance factories, a clothing establishment, and an aircraft production plant; and the new government subsequently inherited this capability. Post independence this continued till 1958 after which the ordnance factories were steadily expanded. The war against China in 1962 prompted a further expansion in Indias ordnance capability and today the country has 39 ordnance factories. They were built to meet the growing needs of Indias armed forces over the past 60 years.The Indian Ordnance Factories Organisation (OFO) is currently the largest departmentally run industrial undertaking in the country. The 39 OFs are government units producing armaments under five categories  [11]  : Ammunition and explosives Weapons Vehicles and equipment Armoured vehicles and Ordnance equipment (other military supplies, including general stores). Defence Public Sector Undertakings. The eight defence public sector undertakings (DPSUs) are public-sector corporations managed by the Indian government. The defence PSUs produces a range of defence equipment. They also provide overhaul and maintenance facilities. They are: Bharat Dynamics Ltd. BDL  was established in the year 1970 to be a manufacturing base for guided weapon systems  [12]  .  Ã‚   Bharat Earth Movers Ltd. BEML is one of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of earthmoving, construction and mining equipment in Asia  [13]  .   Bharat Electronics Ltd. (BEL) was established in 1954 to meet the specialised electronic needs of the Indian defence services  [14]  . Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. HAL is a major player in the global aviation arena. It has built up comprehensive skills in design, manufacture and overhaul of fighters, trainers, helicopters, transport aircraft, engines, avionics and system equipment  [15]  .   Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) is one of  Indias leading  shipyards that builds and repairs a wide range of vessels from  warships  for the  Indian Navy  to  merchant shipping  vessels  [16]  . Goa Shipyard Ltd. GSL is a shipyard that is one of the most sophisticated ship builders in the Country. For over four decades, GSL has designed, built and commissioned a wide range of sophisticated vessels for varied applications in the defence and commercial sectors with special expertise in building modern patrol vessels of Steel and Aluminium hull structure  [17]  . Mazagon Dock Ltd. Mazagon Dock Limited is the Indias premier shipyard constructing warships as well as offshore platforms. It undertakes ship building, ship repairs and fabrication of offshore structures with facilities situated at Mumbai and Nhava  [18]  . Mishra Dhatu Nigam Ltd. MIDHANI caters to domestic and international customers with modern metallurgical facilities and high degree of technical competence for manufacturing its diverse product mix of superalloys, titanium alloys, special purpose steels, electrical resistance softmagnetic alloys, molybedenum and other alloys meeting the stringent requirements of the strategic sectors like defence, aerospace, power and general engineering etc  [19]  .   Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO). India also has a defence research and development (RD) capability. Called DRDO. DRDO draws on the work of 51 laboratories/establishments across the country, and (in theory at least) has close links with the eight PSUs. It also co-operates with 70 academic research institutions, 50 national science and technology centres, and some companies in the private sector. License Production 16. Post independence Indias quest for self-reliance got a major boost through license production arrangement with USSR. This immensely benefited defence industry as it improved many notable weapon systems from this experience. Indias self-reliance model in defence production was thought to have given a life lease by the Soviets. The normal assumption is that production under license would enable the country not only to acquire the capability to produce a particular equipment or product but also help it gain the technical know-how for subsequent upgradation and further technological innovations. For the last fifty-odd years, India has been producing a number of defence equipment under license. Good examples in this regard are the Vijayanta tank and the MIG series of fighter aircraft  [20]  . But this does not seem to have helped in the development of the Arjun Main Battle Tank and the Light Combat Aircraft. Moreover, India has not even been able to upgrade  certain fighter airc raft held and operated for a long time by its armed forces. Direct procurement 17. To meet the immediate requirement of the armed forces, outright purchase of the systems/ equipment is resorted to. This may be from abroad or for indigenous companies. The objective of the defence policy aims at maximizing indigenous production; what could not be produced indigenously should be produced under license arrangement; and those that could not be obtained through these two routes should be acquired by direct purchase. Emerging Defence Production Policies in 21st Centruy Transparency in Defence Procurement 18. Since independence and almost till late 90s only a select few companies got the Request for Proposals (RFPs) with secrecy being maintained in the procurement process. With the introduction of Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) the government has strengthened its commitment to transparency in the procurement process and to removing the veil of secrecy surrounding it. The case in point is the procurement of MMRCA. The deals of recent times are open deals with no more veil of secrecy in the RFP. The details of the RFP are made available to all industry representatives by placing the tenders on the net, except in the most sensitive cases, which may be minuscule in number. Ensuring transparency in the procurement process has also resulted in widening the vendor base. Defence Procurement Procedure 19. Defence Procurement Procedure 2008 is presently being followed. This was issued after DP-2006 was revised along with the Fast Track Procedure 2001 and the Procedure for Indigenous Warship Building. In addition, most importantly, a procedure for the development of systems based on indigenous research and design, categorized as MAKE, has now been formulated. This bridges a critical gap that existed hitherto, and would provide the requisite framework for increased participation of Indian industry in the defence sector.  Some of the important features of Defence Procurement Procedure includes: Reducing the timeframe for acquisitions. Enhanced transparency by placing the generic requirements of the Services on MOD website and generating vendor registration through Internet. Increased transparency in the conduct of field trials. Integrity Pact made compulsory for all contracts above Rs. 100 crores. An Offset obligation of 30% for all contracts above Rs. 300 crores. However, there have been indications of companies trying to dilute this clause. FDI in Defence Production 20. To boost up the indigenous production in the defence sector, the government in 2001 had opened up the defence sector by permitting 100 percent private participation in defence production and also 26 percent Foreign Direct Investment of the host companys equity. However, the only glitch in the whole process was the requirement of obtaining a license from the defence ministry by the private firms to produce military hardware. However, there is a need to increase FDI limit from the current 26 per cent which would facilitate access to desired niche technology and processes. De licensing of Defence Production 21. DPP-2008 did away with the license requirement for industries for manufacturing military hardware, thereby creating a level playing field with the defence public sector undertakings. Considered to be a revolutionary DPP, the de licensing will enable the private industries to skillfully employ the available expertise to take up production of military hardware. This will definitely boost up the efforts of indigenization in defence technology. Raksha Udyog Ratnas 22. Effective participation by the Industry, both public and private, at various points of interaction and subsequent long-term association in product development and productionisation, can be only done through those firms of proven excellence and which are capable of contributing, depending on their technical, managerial and financial strength. These firms called as Raksha Udyog Ratnas (RUR) would be the key drivers towards raising indigenous defence technological base and world-class manufacturing capabilities in India. R D in Military Aviation Sector 23. Aviation is one of the most significant technological influences of our time and empowers the nation with strength. It is a major tool for economic development and has a significant role in National security and  international  relations. 24. Various military, DPSUs and private companies have been associated in the R D activities, software and systems development and systems integration on civil, fighter aircraft and helicopters. These are Defence Avionics Research Establishment (DARE), Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Aircraft Upgrade Research and Development Centre (AURDC), HAL, Mission Computing System Research and Development Centre (MCSRDC) HAL, and Software Development Institute (SDI). DARE played a pivotal role in evolving the avionics architecture of Mig 27 upgrade, developed the Core Avionics Computer (CAC), mission computer software for CAC, display suite software of SU 30 MKI and the hardware and operating system of Radar Computer of SU 30 MKI. SDI based at Bangalore has been actively involved in the indigenous upgrades of SU 30 MKI as well as development of various mission planning systems and weapon algorithms employed in Mig 27 upgrade. AURDC has been involved in the Bison upgrade, Mig 27 upgrade and various indigenous upgrades of SU 30 MKI aircraft. MCSRDC has played a vital role in the software development and integration of avionics systems in the Jaguar (Darin II) aircraft. It is also involved in the upgrade of Jaguar to Darin III standards. Joint Ventures 25. India has an inherent edge over several other nations because of higher skills and lower costs of production. This makes India an ideal contender for joint ventures. HAL has entered into joint ventures with many overseas aviation system companies to undertake design and development of new systems in India. Some of these are the BaeHAL, HAL Edgewood, HELBIT etc. Many other software and hardware giants involved in the aviation hardware and software development especially in the embedded and real time system domain have also established their facilities in Bangalore. Some of these are GE Intelligent Systems, Honeywell, etc. 26. Given their rapid growth over the last decade, it is perhaps no surprise that Indian software companies such as HCL, Infosys, Infotech, Tata Consultancy Services and Wipro have been active in the aerospace industry for several years. Increasingly, they are benefiting from the engineering services outsourcing programmes. This will help India evolve from IT and low-end business process outsourcing work to high-end design services. Overseas companies view the Indian companies as long-term partners and not as mere suppliers/vendors. Private Participation 27. EADSs helicopter subsidiary Eurocopter has had one of the longest partnerships with Indian industry. Since 1962, it has worked with HAL in India to manufacture more than 600 Alouette 3 and Lama (known as Cheetah and Chetak locally) helicopters. HAL also produces airframes for the Ecureuil/Fennec family of rotorcraft. The European firm also plans to set up pilot training facilities in India for the civil and military segments and plans to invest à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬7-8 billion ($9.5-11 billion) over the next 10 years. Tata has entered into JV with AgustaWestland to assemble the AW119 in India. 28. Honeywell Aerospace, which provides integrated avionics, engines, systems and service products for the aerospace industry, is one example. The US company has a design and development centre in India that it hopes to expand in the coming years. Airbus has set up the Airbus Engineering Centre India in Bangalore where local engineers help develop capabilities in modelling and simulation, covering areas such as flight management systems and aerodynamics, to help in the design and production of aircraft such as the A380 and the A350. It is also working with Indian IT firms such as CADES, HCL, Infosys, Quest and Satyam to offer support across various aircraft programmes. Conclusion 29. Indias defence-industrial strategy is directed primarily toward achieving self-reliance. Presently, there is a clear imbalance in requirements by the armed forces. While roughly 70 percent of requirements are met through arms imports, the domestic sources supply the rest. The current strategy is geared to reverse this trend with the primary aim of supplying three-fourth of the requirements through domestic sources. Indias decision to allow private participation in the defence-industrial sector is seen as a dual aim, namely to achieve much-needed capital and production enhancement and, secondly, to open up to the external market through their presence. There is also an effort to adopt suitable strategies to make select sectors like aerospace and electronics globally competitive. DPSUs like HAL and BEL are now much in demand and are trying to become viable global giants. 30. The overall strategy is to make the defence-industrial sector act as a locomotive for economic development. In this regard, an emphasis on dual-use technologies and production is contemplated which could benefit both the defence and civilian sector. The current strategy also looks into various options toward minimising the state investments in the defence sector while encouraging private and foreign portfolio investment in existing Indian defence companies. If recent changes in various policies related to the defence industry are supposed to have any meaning, then, despite all problems, there is something to be optimistic about in the Indian defence industry.

The Luminescence Of Black Light :: essays research papers

The Luminescence of Black Light Black Light. What is it? It is a portion of the Ultra-Violet Spectrum that is invisible to our eyes. We can not distinguish it. However, when this radiation impinges on certain materials visible light is emitted and this is known as "fluorescence." Fluorescence is visible to the human eye, in that it makes an object appear to "glow in the dark." There are several sources of ultra-violet light. These sources are: the sun, carbon arcs, mercury arcs, and black lights. In most cases, the production of ultra-violet light creates a reasonable amount of heat. Many materials exhibit the peculiar characteristic of giving off light or radiant energy when ultra-violet light is allowed to fall upon them. This is called luminescence. In most cases, the wave length of the light radiated is longer than that of the ultra-violet excitation but a few exceptions have been found. The quantum theory attempts to explain this property by contending that a certain outside excitation causes an electron to jump from one orbit to another. It is then in an unstable environment causing it to fall back into its original orbit. This process releases energy, and if it is in the visible part of the spectrum, we have a transient light phenomenon. Ultra-violet light is an exciting agent which causes luminescence to occur. There are many materials which exhibit fluorescent characteristics. Many of which are even organic. Teeth, eyes, some portions of the skin, and even blood exhibit fluorescent qualities. Naturally occurring minerals such as: agate, calcite, chalcedony, curtisite, fluorite, gypsum, hackmanite, halite, opal scheelite, and willemite, also have similar characteristics. These materials can be used in industries. The radiance of ultraviolet light is measured in units called "Angstrom." The intensity of ultraviolet fluorescence is the greatest between the 5000 and 6000 range. This being the range between the green and yellow hues. Ultra violet light is not readily visible. It is not visible because certain materials reflect it. Ultra-violet light is made visible due to the fact that it causes a reaction at the atomic level. When it strikes the atom, some of the electrons are sent into other orbits.

Puritanism: The People, Religion, and Poetry Essay -- Religion History

Puritanism: The People, Religion, and Poetry Puritan literature began the American tradition. Though they followed the traditions of European poetry, later American poets continued this borrowing from Europe, until innovations led American poetry further away from the standards the Puritans had held for poetry. The poetry the Puritans wrote was characterized substantially by their religion. It affected their themes, taken from their everyday lives, but focused on faith and theology. Also, it influenced the degree of community and individualism, which bridged the older traditions of community to the growth of individualism down through American history. They also valued logic and considered it an important means to learning God's truth. It was this logic and their concepts of God and how he revealed himself to people, that gave them a strong belief in nature as a book to be read, containing the truths they already held. Reading the book of nature was one of the significant aspects of Puritan poetry that later poets followed unti l some began to question that there were any good foundations for doing this. Gradually, conceptions about nature and God and perception led poets farther from this Puritan tradition. By the time of modern poetry, understandings about nature, God, and people had been completely changed. Thus, Puritan poetry affected American poetry by providing ideas that could not only be followed, but could also be rejected. One of the results of reading the book of nature is the tendency to use metaphors to nature. Use of metaphor extended beyond nature, though. Many Puritan poets used metaphors and extended metaphor often. Their examples were English metaphysical and conceitists poets. Like these poets, the Puritan... ...American Poetry. Ed. Jay Parini. New York: Columbia University Press, 1995. pg 50. Taylor, Edward. "Upon a Spider Catching a Fly." Columbia Anthology of American Poetry. Ed. Jay Parini. New York: Columbia University Press, 1995. pg 49 Tenth Muse Lately sprung up in America, The . By a Gentlewoman in those parts. (London: Stephen Bowtell, 1650): 3-4. Representative Poetry On-line: Editor, I. Lancashire; Publisher, Web Development Group, Inf. Tech. Services, Univ. of Toronto Lib. RPO 1997.  © I. Lancashire, Dept. of English (Univ. of Toronto), and Univ. of Toronto Press 1997. available at http://www.library.utoronto.ca/utel/rp/poems/abrad1c.html. accessed 12/6/01. Winthrop, John. â€Å"A Modell of Christian Charity.† The American Intellectual Tradition, volume I. third edition. Eds. David A. Hollinger and Charles Capper. New York: Oxford University Press, 1997.

Case Study Pizza War Essay

BSB, Inc. is a large nationally operated food-services company. The company serves client organizations on a contract basis. Its business is divided into three (3) market-oriented divisions of corporate, airline and university or college. Case Summary Renee Kershaw is BSB’s manager of food services at a medium-sized private university in the Southeast. BSB has been operating at the university for the past 10 years and Kershaw has been the manager at BSB for the past 18 months. At the university, BSB caters for 6000 students and 3000 faculty staff and support personnel via its 3 different eateries in the university campus. The three eateries are: a)The Cafeteria ? Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily b)The Dogwood Room ? Serves an upscale luncheon buffet on weekdays only c)The Grill ? Open between 11a. m to 10p. m daily and until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights Initially, after 4 months being in-charge of BSB’s operations at the university, Kershaw conducted a survey on customer needs and market trends. The survey revealed that students were not satisfied with the food services at the university. A large amount of the food being consumed by students was not from BSB’s facilities mainly due to a lack of variety and unsuitable facilities’ serving time for the students. Below are the data from the survey: Food prepared in dorm room20% Food delivered from off campus36% Food consumed off campus44% Students with cars on campus84% Students with fridges or microwaves in their rooms62% Food that students consumed outside BSB, Inc. facilities43% As a result of the survey conducted by Kershaw, she decided to include pizzas in the menu. In addition to the new menu, Kershaw also introduced delivery service (by bicycle) for its pizzas. Currently, apart from placing the pizza making facilities at the grill, space is also being allocated at the grill to store pizza ingredients, as well as to prepare and stage pre-made pizza. In order to keep the cost down and provide fast delivery, only a limited number of ? standard pizzas’ are offered in the menu. Challenges and Problems Despite the rise in sales and profit from the pizza operations, increase in demand for the pizza has led to capacity problems and increase in delivery times. As a result, the pizza’s sales began to level off. Furthermore, Kershaw is concerned of the competition from a new food court to be opened in campus which will house Pizza Hut, Dunkin’ Donuts and Taco Bell. Specifically, Pizza Hut will be putting up a facility offering a limited menu and pizzas on a â€Å"walk-up-and-order† basis. Question 1 Does BSB, Inc. enjoy any competitive advantages or core competencies? Answer Competitive Advantage is the ability of a company to win consistently over the long term in competitive situation. Core Competencies are the unique resources and strengths that an organization’s management takes into account when formulating strategies. BSB enjoys competitive advantages or core competencies in a number of ways. a)Specialization – BSB is a specialized food-services operator for universities and colleges. b) Experiences ? BSB has been serving the university for 10 years therefore they have first hand knowledge relating to customer preferences and needs derived from their experiences in the market. For e. g. : survey data. c)Existing facilities and services provided ? new entrants have to start from scratch. For e. g. : location and delivery services in the university are very important due to the lack of parking spaces. d)Brand Recognition – Familiarity among the campus community of the BSB ? brand’ as it has been in existence for some time. e)Close proximity – Close proximity to the customers is critical for pizza delivery as it allows quicker and lower cost delivery. Question 2 Initially, how did Renee Kershaw choose to use her pizza operations to compete with off campus eateries? What were her competitive priorities? Answer Kershaw decided to use her pizza operations to compete with off campus eateries based on the following reasons: a)Available resources ? Based on time, location and staff available for Kershaw at that time, pizza operation is the most logical choice to be adopted in competing with off campus eateries. Pizza operations do not require much time to be set-up. Furthermore she can run the operation from one of the available eateries (she decided at the Grill) and a minimal amount of staff training is required to run the pizza operations. b)Food variety ? By introducing pizzas in the menu, Kershaw has somewhat addressed the problem of the lack of food variety by only implementing minimal changes in her normal operations. c)Catering for students’ tight schedules ? Through delivery services, Kershaw is able to cater for students with tight and erratic schedules. This decision is based on the high percentage of food not purchased from BSB facilities whereby 36% of the food is delivered from off campus. Since pizza can be kept and reheated easily, going into the pizza business seemed like the best option for Kershaw because 62% of students in the university have fridges and microwaves in their rooms. Competitive Priorities are the critical dimensions that a process must possess to satisfy its internal or external customers both now and in the future. Kershaw’s competitive priorities when choosing the pizza operations to compete with off campus eateries were: a)Cost ? Low cost of operating since pizza operations require minimal staff training and delivery is done by bicycle. Limited combinations of toppings and ? standard pizzas’ available enable Kershaw to keep cost down. b)Flexibility ? Through minimal changes, Kershaw is able to add a selection of pizzas to her menu as part o her efforts to increase the variety of food offerings. c)Time ? The limited number of pizzas that can be prepared and cooked would be able to speed up preparation and delivery time since ? standard pizzas’ can be pre-assembled and ready-to-cook once orders are received. QUESTION 3 a) What impact will the new food court have on Kershaw’s pizza operation? The immediate impact would be direct competition from other food operators. As announced by the University, the new food court would accommodate, among others, food franchises such as Dunkin’ Donuts, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut. BSB, Inc was the sole contractor and provider of food services in the University campus prior to the announcement, thus it has, until recently, enjoyed somewhat monopoly status. Of even more concern to BSB is the fact that the new food operators are coming in as established brand names, hence making competing with them an even more difficult task. Competition to BSB, Inc would come in the form of alternative food types. Dunkin Donuts, for example, would offer snack-type food for the students, where as the likes of Taco Bell offers easy-to-go fast food. Students would find these types of food suitable for life on campus. Students are normally subject to hectic schedules and are always on the move, therefore having the convenience of easy and ready-to-go food services (as offered be the new operators) would suit them very well. Of more significance (to BSB) is the emergence of Pizza Hut on campus. Kershaw’s BSB has recently introduced grilled pizza as an item on its grill menu, and has so far enjoyed considerable success too. Of course, this was before Pizza Hut came into the picture. There is little argument that Pizza Hut would provide the keenest and most direct competition to Kershaw’s pizza business. In fact, Pizza Hut, being a reputable and an established franchise coupled with its financial muscle, would be a serious and immediate threat to BSB’s market share in pizza sales. However, Kershaw should take note of the fact that the Pizza Hut franchise on campus has its limitations. For one, the Pizza operator does not offer delivery service (for now), as it operates on a ? walk-up-and-order basis. Secondly, it is only offering limited selection of toppings for its pizzas, preferring to focus on a ? standard menu’. QUESTION 3 b) What competitive priorities might she choose to focus on now? BSB’s competitive priorities can be divided into three main categories; Cost, Flexibility and Time. With the establishment of the new food court and the emergence of the new food franchises at the food court, Kershaw’s BSB would now have to decide which competitive priorities would give it a competitive advantage and thus allow it to better compete with its more established competitors. BSB may choose to focus on its wide array of food selection it provides on campus via its three main food facilities; the Cafeteria, the Dogwood Room and the Grill. Compared to its competitors which serve mainly homogeneous products i.e. donuts, tacos and pizzas, BSB offers a better selection of food items including those offered by its competitors i. e. pizza, which may work to BSB’s advantage in serving customers who desire for an ? expanded’ menu to satisfy their culinary instincts. As part of its efforts to offer a variety of food selection, BSB can also look at increasing the topping combinations for its pizza to compete head-on with Pizza Hut’s limited selection of toppings. BSB’s efforts at expanding its menu should not be at the expense of quality, while at the same time attempt to maintain the pricing for its food items. Another competitive priority that Kershaw and BSB would do well to leverage on is its ability to provide delivery service. Since BSB’s competitors do not offer delivery service, BSB has an edge in this area, as students, which make up the majority of it customers, would usually prefer not to dine out given their hectic schedules. Also, BSB’s customers would be able to enjoy food in the comfort of their own dwellings. In addition, Kershaw may want to set a minimum amount limit for delivery orders to ensure the service remains cost viable, and also to ? encourage’ customers to order more food or higher priced food items. QUESTION 4 a) If she were to change the competitive priorities for the pizza operation, what are the gaps between the priorities and the capabilities of her processes. In its efforts to add variety to its food selection and in response to a customer survey conducted, BSB has started offering pizza to its customers. BSB’s pizzas were well received by the students, and soon after, sales increased, resulting in higher profit margins for the company. However, the new found success comes with new challenges. Kershaw soon found that her existing capacity is not sufficient to cater for the increasing demand for her pizzas. She lacks storage space for pizza-making equipment and facilities i. e. ovens and space for her pizza ingredients. Her pizza operations are putting a strain on her other grill activities, which is forcing her to re-look at some of the selection on the grill menu. Given her existing facilities, she faces the dilemma of increasing her pizza supply at the expense of other food items. This may defeat her initial purpose of attempting to offer a variety of food selection. b)How might that affect her operating processes and capacity decisions? Kershaw was also faced with the problem of longer delivery time for her call-to-order pizzas. She deduced that the gap arising between her existing capacity and the growing demand for her pizzas has, to some extent, caused delivery time for pizza orders to slowly increase, possibly leading to ensuing complaints from its customers. The poor service (delay in delivery orders) may influence customers to seek alternative food services in and off campus. As a consequence of the gap, customers’ satisfaction may decline, potentially leading to loss of regular and existing customers as they opt for alternatives. As a result, sales will suffer, and inevitably affecting BSB’s bottom-line, if not immediate, in the long run. Lower margins and ultimately declining profitability will in turn impact the company’s overall performance and viability as a going concern. QUESTION 5 What would be a good service strategy for Kershaw’s operations on campus to meet the food court competition? With the emergence of new food services in campus namely Dunkin’ Donuts, Taco Bell and Pizza Hut, Kershaw should first invest time and resources in understanding the impact of the emergence of these competitors on customer preferences. Knowing very well the fact that Pizza Hut are of world class standard with regards to quality and taste, Kershaw needs to come up with a better business strategy. Our group has deliberated on the following recommendations as part of Kershaw’s strategy: 1. Offer Variety of Pizzas at Cheaper Price Off Campus food outlets, especially those offering Pizzas have emerged as a serious source of competition to BSB. These food operators are likely to offer many pizza combinations. Thus, Kershaw could maintain its competitive advantage by offering a variety of pizza with a wide range of toppings at reasonable prices. The key to this strategy is to maintain quality and to innovate on product offerings. For instance, Kershaw could offer pizza selections which are different from what Pizza Hut currently offers (such as Spicy Tandoori Pizza, Vegetarian Pizza and Chicken Hot Pizza). This might allow the customers to have more choices that are superior in quality yet affordable. By offering Vegetarian Pizza which is not being offered by Pizza Hut, the international students who are vegetarians (i. e. students from India and China) could also indulge in the pizza. This could create a niche market for BSB among vegetarians. Due to the fact that the majority of the university’s residents are students who do not earn a fixed and stable income, Kershaw should offer pizzas that are affordable to them. To beat her competitors, Kershaw should sell the pizza at lower prices than Pizza Hut. By offering a variety of pizzas at lower prices, Kershaw could increase the demand for its pizza, ultimately increasing its profits. 2. Maintain Good and Consistent Quality Understanding customer needs and maintaining good quality are paramount in ensuring success, especially in the food industry because customers are extra value conscious when it comes what they ?consume’ i. e. food and beverage. For some customers, price may be of less importance compared to quality. Kershaw should continuously reinforce its pizza quality and standards to remain ? relevant’ with in-campus and off-campus customers. 3. Phone Order and On-time Delivery Kershaw’s direct competitor, Pizza Hut could probably match BSB’s pizza prices, but may lose out in terms of selection and delivery. Since Pizza Hut does not accept phone orders and do not offer delivery services, Kershaw should take advantage by offering these services to the customers. Kershaw should allow phone orders because most of the students face erratic schedules that discourage them from eating out In addition, the delivery should be made timely to ensure customers’ satisfaction. 4. Longer Operation Time Due to the fact that the schedule of students are tight and normally did not fit with cafeteria serving hours, Kershaw should extend its business operations until midnight. Some students tend to study until midnight and like to have supper. In fact, they will find the nearest food court for convenient. Many students tend to study and have a group discussion outside the library while having supper at the same time. Thus, it is important for Kershaw to extend its operation hours and serve food such as pizza or burger at the cafeteria. As a result, Kershaw could maintain its competitive advantage and compete against the likes of Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. 5. Expanding the Distribution Network Presently, Kershaw is renting three food-service facilities namely the cafeteria, Dogwood Room, and Small Grill. However, she is nearing full capacity on her pizza operations and is looking to expand. Thus, she may have to consider a new location, as there seems to be limited space at the grill location. Clearly, she can choose to set up new convenient and attractive food-facilities such as the Kiosk and Bistro-type facilities, provided that the return on investment is worthwhile. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION In conclusion, by adding variety to the menu while maintaining the quality and delivery speed, it is possible for BSB to maintain its competitive advantage despite the emergence of new rivals such as Pizza Hut and Dunkin Donut. The increase in requests for additional topping combinations and levelling of sales suggest that BSB should expand its product variety. This suggests customers’ desire for a variety of selection, and the expanded hours will enable BSB to offer its services when the Pizza Hut is closed, or when students are in their dorm rooms. However, an increase in product variety will affect both service and cost. Kershaw probably cannot have as many pre-made pizzas ready to be thrown into the oven. She will also need to stock additional toppings. If she wants to maintain good service, she will need to hire additional workers. Hence, there will inevitably be some trade-offs between quality service and cost if she decides to focus on product flexibility.