Islam is one of the world’s greatest religions Essay

I. Introduction. Founded in the seventh century A. D. by Mohammed. The word Islam means â€Å"submission† (to the will of God). Followers of Islam are called Moslems or Muslims, terms that mean â€Å"those who submit† (to the will of God). Non-Moslems sometimes call the religion Mohammedanism and its followers Mohammedans. Moslems, however, dislike these terms because they imply the worship of Mohammed, their prophet, rather than God. There are more than a billion Moslems worldwide, making up about one-eighth of the earth’s population. Islam began in Arabia in the seventh century A. D. and spread rapidly to become the principal religion of northern Africa and western Asia. It also extends into the Balkans and across Pakistan and Bangladesh to Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It has extended into sub-Saharan Africa: Sudan, Niger, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Mauritania. Islam is the fastest-growing religion in Africa. The Moslem population in the United States consists mostly of immigrants from Pakistan, Iran, and Arab countries. There are also a number of Islamic sects among the country’s black population (Endress, 1999). II. Background A. How is it founded and who is the founder? The beginnings of Islam go back to Mohammed’s preaching in his native Mecca. However, the faith did not become fully developed until he moved to Medina (until then called Yathrib) in 662 A. D. His migration to medina, called the Hegira, begins the Moslem calendar. Mohammed’s early successors—especially Omar, the second caliph—expanded Islam through conquest. The Moslem warriors believed that if they died for Islam they would automatically go to heaven. This belief, plus the promise land and loot, spurred the Moslem armies on to conquer the Middle East, North Africa, and Spain. They almost overran southwestern Europe under Charles Martel at the Battle of Tours (732) (Ahmed, 2002). a) Early Conflicts During the period of conquest, bitter theological and political dissension developed among the Moslems. In the selection of early caliphs (successors to Mohammed as rulers of the Moslem world), Ali, son-in-law of Mohammed, was bypassed (6 Ruthven, 2000). The third caliph, a member of the Omayya (Umayya) family, was murdered by malcontents in 656, and Ali was elected to succeed him. Muawiyah, the Omayyad governor of Syria, refused to recognize Ali as caliph. When Ali was murdered in 661 by a member of a dissident sect, Muawiyah succeeded him, moved the Moslem capital from Median to Damascus, and made the caliphate hereditary in the Omayya family. Military force was required to establish the new caliph’s political authority. Spiritually, most Moslems never accepted him (Roberts, 2002). The followers of Ali formed a new branch of Islam—the Shiite, as opposed to the Sunnite, or orthodox, branch. Smaller groups continued to break away from orthodox teaching, also, and there was increasing schism in the Moslem world. b) Changing Patterns In the eight century a secret revolutionary movement against the Omayyad dynasty was led by the Abbasids, descendants of Abbas, Mohammed’s uncle. The movement began in Mesopotamia and spread east through Persia. In 747 open revolt began, and in 750 the Omayyad dynasty was overthrown and the Abbasids assumed power. The most significant aspect of the Abbasid caliphate was the Persian influence. The new capital, Baghdad, developed into a major cultural as well as political center (Roberts, 2002). The sciences and philosophy of the Greeks and Persians were translated into Arabic and spread throughout the Moslem world, setting of a surge of intellectual activity such as had not been seen since the days of ancient Greece. During the rule of the Abbasids the Moslem world lost its political unit, as first Spain and then the North African countries set up caliphates independent in Baghdad. In the ninth century there were new Moslem conquests in Europe—Sardinia, Malta, Sicily, and regions of southern Italy. The Christians regained all European territory, however, before the 14th century (Friedmann, 2003). III. Discussion What are the beliefs and doctrines of Islam? Enumerate. A. Beliefs and Doctrine a) God Moslems worship one God, called Allah (Arabic for â€Å"The God†). The believe Allah stands alone, has an absolute will, and controls all of man’s actions. In most other respects, however, he resembles the Christian and Jewish God. †¢ Apostles. According to Islamic doctrine, God gave certain men the power to communicate with him through his angels. The function of these men was to guide other mortals to Salvation. The greatest of these prophets were Adam, Noah, the house of Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Mohammed. Moslems accept the miracles and virgin birth of Jesus, but deny his divinity and resurrection. They do not attribute superhuman or miraculous powers to Mohammed, but simply consider him to be the last (and hence the most authoritative) of all the prophets (Nasr, 1999). †¢ Koran The Koran is the basic source of Islamic law and ritual. Moslems believe it was dictated to Mohammed by God, through the angel Gabriel. †¢ The Hadith The Koran is supplemented by the Hadith (tradition), consisting of the Ahadis (sayings) and Sunna (practice) of Mohammed. The Hadith was handed down orally for more than 200 years before being written down. It and the Koran are the sources of Islamic law. â€Å"Sunna† in a larger sense means the theory and practice of orthodox Islam, as based on the Koran and the Hadith. Further opinions and practices accepted by the highest Islamic learned men become articles of faith known as ijma (agreement) (Nasr, 1999). †¢ Angels The Islamic concept of angels is almost identical with the Christian belief that angels are God’s messengers, his link with mortal man. †¢ Last Judgment Like Christians, Moslems believe in a Judgment Day, when righteousness will be rewarded and wickedness will be punished. The Koran’s description of Judgment Day is generally similar to the Bible’s, although the details differ (Nasr, 1999). B. Is there any religious obligations in Islam? a. ) Obligations A Moslem has five religious obligations, called the â€Å"Five Pillars. † They are: †¢ Profession of Faith. A Moslem’s most essential obligation is the repetition of this creed: â€Å"There is no God but Allah; Mohammed is His prophet. † †¢ Prayer Prayers must be said five times each day. They may be said either privately or at the mosque. In public worship, men and women are usually separated. A worshiper precedes prayer with a ritual washing. He then faces the holy city of Mecca and follows a fixed ritual of recitation and prostration. On Fridays, a worship service at the mosque is required. Besides the ritual prayers, the service includes a reading from the Koran and a sermon (Lippman, 2002). †¢ Almsgiving Moslems are expected to contribute generously to their religion. The money is used to maintain the mosques and to help the poor. †¢ Fasting Moslems cannot eat or drink during the daylight hours of Ramadan, the ninth month of their lunar year. †¢ Pilgrimage Once in his lifetime, every Moslem who is financially and physically able must travel to Mecca. This pilgrimage is called the hajj, or hadj. A Moslem who has made it is a hajji. The pilgrim participates in a number of observances: 1) Circling the Kaaba It is the pilgrim’s first and last act. The Kaaba is a sacred structure in one corner of which is embedded the Black Stone, a meteorite that fell in ancient times and acquired symbolic significance. The pilgrim circles this structure seven times, kissing the Black Stone each time (Lippman, 2002). 2) The Running It consists of trotting seven times between two low hills on opposite sides of Mecca. This act represents a search for water by Hagar, mother of Ishmael, whose story from the Old Testament was adopted as part of Moslem tradition (Lippman, 2002). 3) The Standing The Standing at the Plain of Arafat, 25 miles (40 km) east of Mecca, consists of a day of meditating and praying, facing Mecca. 4) Stoning the Pillars at Mina Stoning the Pillars at Mina, 5 miles (8 km) east of Mecca, is an act in which pilgrims throw seven stones at pillars, symbolically attacking the devil. 5) Feast of Sacrifice Feast of Sacrifice consists of the slaughtering of an animal by pilgrims who can afford to as a thanksgiving to Allah. a) Religious War Some Moslems consider it an obligation to spread Islam by force, or holy war (jihad). This belief is not specifically stated in the Koran. b) What is an Islamic Law? The basic ethical code of Islam comes from the Koran. The most important rule is that all Moslems are bothers. The Koran encourages charity, authorizes slavery, and prohibits wine, gambling, and the eating of pork. A Moslem may have as many as four wives, and divorce is permitted. Divorce is effected by the husband telling his wife three times â€Å"I divorce thee. † The Koran does not provide a political structure for Islam and Mohammed did not reveal how the religion should be organized after his death. His close associates elected a successor, called a caliph, to take his place as a leader—but not as a prophet. This system was called the caliphate and survived until 1924. At the present time, there is no universal Moslem leader (Lippman, 2002). C. What are the Sects of Islam? There are two great divisions of Islam—the Sunnites (traditionalists) and the Shiites (legitimists). The Sunnites are the orthodox Moslems and are in the majority. The Shiites believe that Ali, Mohammed’s son-in-law and the fourth caliph, had divine powers. They claim that he was the first legitimate caliph and that his heirs, also divinely inspired, were the rightful rulers of Islam. These rulers are called imams (Klein, 2005). The Shiites broke off from orthodox Islam beginning about 679 and soon divided into a number of sects. The Imami, or Twelvers, recognize a continuing series of purely secular imams. Another sect, the Ismailis, or Seveners, recognize the same first six imams as the other sects and a seventh not recognized by the others. Historically there have been numerous extreme offshoots of the Ismailis, including the notorious Assassins. The only important group to break off from the Sunnites in modern times is the Wahhabis, who have attempted to rid the faith of what they consider corruptions. The movement began in Arabia in the 1970’s and was marked by a series of bloody wars during the 19th century. The Wahhabis have ruled Saudi Arabia since the 1920’s (Klein, 2005). IV. Conclusion Islam is a severe but simple religion. Moslems consider it to be an extension of Christianity and Judaism, but they believe the Christian Trinity is blasphemy and deny the divinity of Jesus. There is no ordained ministry or priesthood, although there are religious teachers, called ulama, or mullahs, and religious orders consisting of sufis (mystics) called dervishes. Islam’s holy book is the Koran (or Qur’an). References 1. Ahmed, Akbar S. (2002). Discovering Islam: Making Sense of Muslim History and Society. Routledge. London. 2. Endress, Gerhard. An Introduction to Islamic History (Edinburgh University, 1999). 3. Friedmann, Yohanan (2003). Tolerance and Coercion in Islam: Interfaith Relations in the Muslim Tradition. Cambridge University Press. New York. 4. Lippman, T. W. Understanding Islam: an Introduction to the Moslem World (New American Library, 2002). 5. Klein, F. A. The Religion of Islam. London: Curzon, 2005. Reprint of classic study, first published, 1996. 6. Nasr, Seyyed Hossein. Ideals and Realities of Islam. London: Allen & Unwin, 1999. Standard textbook. 7. Roberts, D. S. Islam: a Concise Introduction. New York: Harper & Row, 2002. Accessible information on varied aspects of the Islamic world. 8. Ruthven, Malise (2000). Islam in the World. Oxford University Press. Oxford.

The Effect of Biological and Nonbiological Material

The Effect of Biological and Nonbiological Material on the Reaction to a Changing pH Level This experiment was conducted to learn exactly how biological material responds to rising or dropping pH levels in comparison to how nonbiological material does. The dependent variable in this experiment was how the different materials react, and the independent variable was the type of material, biological or nonbiological. Tap water was the selected nonbiological material, and the generally known pH level for water is 7, or neutral. Potato homogenate, liver homogenate and egg white solution was used as the biological material. A buffer solution that serves as a model of a biological material’s chemical that helps it carry out homeostasis was also used in the experiment, being tested in the same manner as the other materials. This topic was tested in order to confirm a tissue’s biological chemical processes, presence of buffers, and their ability to maintain its needed pH level for normal function. For actually conducting the experiment, each material was measured out into 25 mL and put into a beaker to be measured for its pH level with pH paper. Then five drops hydrochloric acid was added to the beaker with a 0. 1M dropper, and then the pH level was measured again. This process was repeated until a total of 30 drops of HCl was added to the beaker. Each material was tested in this way, and then the same was done with each material, only adding sodium hydroxide with five drops at a time as well, measuring the pH level each time in between with pH paper. If both biological and nonbiological material are treated in the same way with hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide to raise or lower the pH level, then the biological material will have less of a change in its pH level, because its biological tissues have natural chemical processes that regulate the pH level. If a chemical solution that is a model of a biological buffer is treated with hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide to raise or lower the pH level, then it will stay generally the same pH level as its start, because a buffer’s purpose is to regular the pH level of a biological material.

Project 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Project 3 - Essay Example Four ideal qualities of a good citizen that are exhibited by Jazz musicians include self-sacrifice, public spirit, sincere performance of duties and self-control and self-confidence (Heater 198). Most of the jazz artists exhibit these qualities in their own unique way. Self-sacrifice in reference to a good citizen is one who gives up self-interest to the interest of the community. The spirit of service and devotion are upheld by the individual. Such qualities are portrayed by Jazz artists in their work and performances. The desire of every Jazz artist is to keep all Americans entertained without considering their race or color. Benny Goodman was the first white bandleader to hire a black musician into his ensemble. He used his fame in the Jazz music to spread black music. He sacrificed his fame among the white listeners and that of his band all for the purpose of promoting the blacks and black music. The quality of public spirit states that a good citizen shows willingness and readin ess to make it a living interest in all the public affairs. Such a citizen is ready to fight for the rights if other people while taking part in all public activities. Billie Holiday who was a jazz artist was vocal in fighting for the rights of the black people, especially with her song â€Å"Strange Fruit† that was inspired by the lynching of the two blacks, Thomas Shipp and Abram Smith. The artist performed the song every night amid emotions, and this made the civil rights movements to adopt it as their anthem (Peretti 89). Sincerity in the performance of duties means that a citizen performs his/ her duties with sincerity and faithfulness. Such a citizen willingly cooperates with the state officials in the discharge of their duties and remits their taxes just as the law requires them. Jazz artists and musicians perform their duties with devotion and sincerity. Among the most celebrated musicians of jazz and who was also a pioneer of jazz was Louis Armstrong born in 1901. At the age of 13 he started playing the cornet. All through his career life, he dedicatedly played jazz music with the purpose of entertaining the American population. Indiscriminately he played in all concert whether made of white people, black, Asians or Muslims. Self-control and self-confidence requires a good citizen to be sober in temperament and exhibit a lot of self-control in all public dealings. A self-controlled citizen possesses a disciplined character and does not indulge in vicious habits. Duke Ellington who was a master composer of jazz showed his self-confidence and self-control qualities of good citizenship during his entire career life of jazz. At the age of seven, he was confident that he would be a great keyboard player as well as founding the â€Å"swing† era of jazz. He remained a self-controlled person even after the great success that he had in his career. 2. My view of these qualities including additional measures proposed for moving present-day America toward a thriving multi-cultural society A lot of efforts have been directed towards creating a thriving multi-cultural society in the present day America. Along the history of racial oppression among people in the American population, any method available that could completely erase or wipe out the culture of racism in the American population has been embraced. Promoting quality citizenship among the American po

Auditing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 2

Auditing - Essay Example As the report declares the evolution of auditing ethical standards has abdicated the powers governing ethical issues of objectivity from the institutes and placed it in the hands of the ASB, this doesn’t seem to enough to properly control the behaviour of auditors in terms of objectivity and independence. In some cases, the Auditor becomes too financially dependent on the client that it cannot afford to give negative reports regarding the company for fear of losing his/her job. After all, good paying clients are becoming quite scarce nowadays. Other auditors are also providing very profitable advisory services to the client and even go to the extent of deciding for the company instead of merely advising the same. This discussion stresses that standards be set and properly instituted through statutes to provide effective deterrent to potential violators. The low cost auditing services proves to be a major reason why most auditors are resorting to unethical practices of the profession to augment their income. Standards have to be upgraded in terms of professional fees for auditors to prevent them from becoming too financially dependent to the clients. The decision rendered by the Court on the Caparo Industries plc v Dickman case, it if now very difficult to prosecute the auditor. Two provisions of Civil Law can be used to sue auditors for breach of contract, where the client sues the auditor for giving clean report which the client subsequently feels unjustified, and for tort which can be brought to court by anybody other than the client being audited for breaching their duty.

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

The Crusades - Research Paper Example Islam from present day Pakistan to Morocco and from the base of Turkey down to East Africa. This made Islam a threat to Christianity since there was a chance that Muslim invaders will spread their Jihads into European lands that were considered Christian at that time.Carl Erdmann points out that 11th Century reforms in the Church were the main cause of the First Crusade sanctioned by the Catholic Church. This is because the reform sought to purify all elements of the European society including warriors and militants. He, therefore, explains the Crusades as an attempt by the Catholic Church to divert violence and military force towards 'sacred' activities. In March 1095, Pope Urban II sent troops to go the Eastern Church which had its headquarters at Byzantium to help them defend themselves against a Muslim invasion. In the Council of Clermont a few months after that, in November 1095, Pope Urban II called for Christian armies and warriors to be sent to Jerusalem to re-take the city o f Jerusalem and establish a Christian state there.From an analysis of the activities of the first Crusade sanctioned by Pope Urban II, it appears that there was the need for the Pope to defend the borders of Christian Europe. This seems to be a natural course of action any religious leader would have taken against the Muslim expansion. The Crusades were successful and the Christians took Jerusalem in July 1099. They set up the Syrian and Palestine Christian states and took the island of Cyprus as a security point.

Global Economics and the Energy Policies in the US Essay

Global Economics and the Energy Policies in the US - Essay Example Based on reports the real energy revolution lies here unlike the much-touted green energy being sold by the US government. President George W. Bush administration had the solution of investing in new green technology in the production of energy. Although the strategy did not yield a lot of results, Obama’s administration did double spending on these forms of energy without much success. The energy policies adopted by the UK government over the years have been on green energy which only contributed to increased energy costs. Energy production is set to change in the future and the United State will lead the revolution. This change is massive and it cannot be easily stopped by anyone including environmentalists since technology and demand have changed over the years. Despite the fact that fracking contributes to decreased emission levels compared to old energy sources such as coal. The deployment of horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing (fracking) has created a potential for unconventional oil deposits from shale to be tapped. Most governments are opposed to this technology and imposed restrictions on the use of the technology (Wall Street Journal, 2012, 1). Countries like France and the UK are among the countries that can be oil sufficient yet they continue to adopt costly and ineffective green energy. The presence of technology and resources such as Shale sho uld give a boost to countries to bring about an energy revolution. Politicians being the decision makers should be among the first people to adopt the changes in the oil industry. For instance, in the United States, the Obama administration should support the new revolution instead of imposing federal restrictions. Politicians have a tendency of taking credit for successes they were not involved in envisaging or supporting.

Parkinson disease Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Parkinson disease - Essay Example The disease causes severe disability and is associated with high morbidity and mortality if untreated (Wirdefeldt, 2). Introduction of levodopa has decreased deaths and disability associated with the disease significantly. In this project, the clinical presentation, epidemiology, risk factors, treatment options and public education of Parkinson disease will be discussed with reference to recent literature. The exact etiology of the disease is yet unclear. It is likely that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of the disease. In about 10 percent of the cases, genetic factors account for the disease development (Bekris, 228). Environmental risk factors include rural environment, exposure to pesticides and herbicides, well water consumption and living in proximity to quarries and industrial plants. Biochemical mechanisms of disease development include 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) accumulation in mitochondria and free radical damage due to dopamines oxidative metabolism (Wirdefeldt, 3). Genetic factors are important in early onset Parkinsons disease rather than in late onset disease type (Bekris, 229). Parkinson disease is a disease of basal ganglia. The main neuropathological findings in this condition are presence of Lewy bodies and loss of dopaminergic neurons that are pigmented in the substantia nigra (Wirdefeldt, 3). The first clinical signs in Parkinson disease are motor signs. The signs are asymmetric. The first clinical symptom in most individuals is asymmetric resting tremor in the upper extremity. Eventually, the patients develop progressive bradykinesia, rigidity and difficulty in gait. Gradually, the axial posture flexes progressively and the strides progressively become shorter. Non-motor clinical symptoms include decrease in olfactory function, rapid eye movement behavior disorder, sleep disturbances, slowness in thinking,

Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Project - Essay Example Due to the introduction of Garnier product, coloring has produced 1.4 billion dollars value of big business. People ranging from 18-24 years are mainly targeted by the product. Due to the Garnier introduction, retailers have felt good concerning the hair category future. Garnier has shown a well-built stand in the international market by getting a lot of profit. The sales of the Olay Regenerist Micro-sculpting cream moisturize in the Australian market is $15. In addition, the Superstructure cream goes for $15. Many Garnier Skin Naturals Youthful Radiance Multi-action Night creams are priced at $8 in the Australian market while most of the Nivea Visage products are been sold at $10. It is one of the successful skin care products in the world currently. Garnier is reliable and has a very well built brand name that is famously known globally. On the other hand, Garnier mainly puts more stress on the natural attractiveness of individuals. By using celebrities in marketing of Garnier, it has enabled it to be a strong brand in the market. Strength of the product is the good financial background of the company that leads in the advertising of the product. The products issued by the Garnier Company are not difficult when using them and good quality performance is achieved from the product. According to drugstore (2012), one of the garnier’s products named Fructis prevents the hair from having end splits. On the other hand, the product maximizes shine on the hair. The Fructis goes on and protects the hair against any damage. It is also trying to update the launch of its products from time to time. The product on the other hand has brightening actions that are re freshing to all its users (drugstore, 2012). During its launch in the market, the product has tried to preserve market leadership in skin and hair beauty products. Customers have been served efficiently and Garnier has tried to be a market leader with

Multi-Fibre Agreement Impact on the European Economy Essay

Multi-Fibre Agreement Impact on the European Economy - Essay Example There was an agreement among the EU states in the year 1995 to phase out the MFA over a period of ten years. Accordingly the MFA was abolished at the end of the year 2004. The removal of the protectionist measure in the form of MFA has resulted in economic advantages to certain Western European Countries. However certain other European countries like Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece have raised serious complaints against the removal of the quantitative restrictions on the plea that such action had largely affected their domestic textile and clothing industry and the workers in the industry. With this background this paper presents a critical assessment of the potential benefits and problems to which European Union is subjected to due to the abolition of MFA. Before the impact of the abolition of the MFA on the European Union can be discussed it is important a background of the causes and circumstances under which MFA was entered and the immediate effect of the abolition thereof. (Jean-Pierre Lehmann) The emergence of China as an economic power had influenced all the other countries of the world to make economic adjustments to grow at the same pace as Chinese economy developed. In the light of these changes in the world economy, the Western European countries had embarked upon an association for peace and prosperity in the form of European Union. The economic and political success of the European Union had made the Eastern European countries to request for accession to the EU. All the European countries and even China opted for accession to World Trade Organization in the wake of economic globalization. (Jean-Pierre Lehmann) The formation of the EU and accession to the WTO had resulted in some over-regulation and un-dynamic inbuilt rigid aspects in some of the European economies especially for the protection of uncompetitive sectors. This had also restricted the provision of the conducive conditions for any creative destruction or innovation. Under these circumstances countries like the Netherlands, Britain, Ireland, Latvia and the Scandinavian countries have reformed their economic structures and adjusted themselves to the changing circumstances. However there are other larger economies like Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Poland had become less successful due to their industrial sluggishness. One of the anomalies of the international trading system resulted out of such un-dynamic environment basically to protect the domestic industry was to place the textiles and garment out of the General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs (GATT) rules in the Multi-Fibre Agreement (MFA) The agreement was entered into with the intense pressure from the governments of the developed countries since there was a fear in the import-competing firms in such nations that the rise in imports from the cost-competitive developing countries would eventually destroy the viability of their domestic textile and clothing industry.( (Grimwade, 1996) "This was a defence measure initially taken in response to

VALS SURVEY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

VALS SURVEY - Essay Example After identifying the innovators and experiencers as the VALS for this particular product, a proper decision should be made on exactly how to appeal to them (Christensen, 2011). First, to appeal to the innovators, I would like to recommend that the marketer should ensure that the commodity is made to be innovative and attractive. As self-actualized consumers, the experiences can only be lured to purchase the iPad if they are convinced that it is fine and appeal to their eyes. This is the only way through which they can perceive it as a product worth spending their money on (Kerin, 2012). On the other hand, to appeal to the experiencers, the marketer should ensure that the iPad is made to represent a creative, fashionable and novel product that depicts a self-expression idea. If it possesses such features, these consumers will consider it as the preferred commodity to purchase (Kotler & Keller, 2009). Experiencers are young consumers who heavily spend on fashionable products like iPad that suit their insatiable tastes for

Working Capital Simulation Essay Example for Free

Working Capital Simulation Essay This simulation has given me a better understanding of what managers and CEO’s go through when making decisions for the company. As I went through each simulation more than once to see what affects the decisions had on cash flows, sales and EBIT. In some situations they changed whether it dropped or risen, and others they were completely stagnant with their movement through each phase. Below I will point out how and why I made each decision. Phase 1, I chose to acquire a new customer and tighten up accounts receivable in both times I did the simulation. I chose to take on a new customer because SNC needed the exposure to become known as it is starting to get widespread exposure. The results of this acquisition were that it increased the sales significantly but also left us with higher receivable an inventory balances. (Harvard SNC Synopsis) The results of tightening up the accounts receivable were that sales have declined but the receivables improved which freed up cash. (Harvard SNC Synopsis) In phase 2, I chose to expand the online presence as well as develop a private label in one simulation and the second simulation I just chose to expand on line. In my first choice since I chose to expand online and develop the label, the amounts varied in increase of cash flows. The expansion of the online presence increased Internet sales and the private label increased the EBIT margin only a little. This also counteracts with the accounts receivable and inventory balances after phase one. But it was not that drastic of a change. In ’17 there was no increase or decrease in cash flows, which only means that in that year we broke even on the developing label side. The last phase, I chose to adopt a global expansion strategy in one trial and in the second I chose to adopt and acquire the high-risk customer. The results of acquiring a high-risk customer increase the sale, but had a dramatic affect on the receivables. SNC has now to consider witting off a portion of the outstanding balance as the company Midwest Miracles filed for chapter 11 bankruptcies. This simulation alone has taught me one of the many risks of doing business with any company. (Harvard SNC Synopsis) I thought that after acquiring the company, they could maybe stand on their own with the help of SNC and pull out of their financial hardship. It had the complete opposite affect on the SNC and it could have potentially ruined my company, as well as made me lose investors. The global expansion however helped the SNC grow its top of the line with the new customer Viva Familia. Like expanding online, the global strategy was another attempt to make sure SNC is the first company consu mers think about when dietary supplements. Limiting access to financing can hinder any company or person from trying to grow their business. It can cause higher interest rates on loans and credit fees as well as force businesses to face hardships when it comes to registration costs, policies and equipment needed for the business. (Parrino, Kidwell, $ Bates, 2012) It can also limit the profits they may encounter with consumers on in the new market. The limit of access to finances also hinders the process to develop and own their own brand of products. Making a if I were really the CEO of SNC or any business, I would need the help of a team to help make these decisions on and expansion and growth as well as investing in other companies. This simulation put in perspective the skill set and education needed after studying finances to even hope that you can make a profit on any decision made. It is a really difficult task to try and manage a company as well as keep up with the market. If this were a sole proprietorship, it would really be stressful to handle all by their lonesome. Reference: Harvard Business Publishing. (2012). Working capital simulation: managing growth. Retrieved May 16th, 2915 from, http://forio.com/simulate/harvard/working-capital/simulation Parrino, R., Kidwell, D.S, Bates, T.W. (2012) Fundamentals of corporate finance (2nd ed.) Hoboken, NJ: Wiley

Tourism Industry In Tibet Tourism Essay

Tourism Industry In Tibet Tourism Essay The Tibet Autonomous Region, covering an area of 1.22 million square kilometres, is situated on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau in the south-western border area of China. It enjoys unique plateau environment. Averaging more than 4,000 meters in elevation, it is always regarded as the highest region in the world and is known as the roof of the world. Tibet abuts on Xinjiang, Qinghai, Sichuan, and Yunnan province. It has 3,842 km borders with Chinas neighbouring countries of Myanmar, India, Bhutan and Nepal as well as Kashmir in the south and west (Zhang Zheng 2004). Tourism is playing an increasingly crucial role in Tibets tertiary industry. Even though these is unique natural and culture tourism resources, tourism were developed in Tibet very late. Prior Chinas reform and opening-up policies in 1978, there was almost no tourism in Tibet. After about 30 years, tourism in Tibet has become much more developed, especially after the Qinghai-Tibet railway has been completed and operated. In 2008, there were 2,246,400 tourists visiting Tibet, which bigger than the total number of tourists who went to Tibet between 1980 and 1997(China Tibetology Research Centre 2009). (Figure 2) Figure 2: Changes in Tibets Tourism Revenues and Number of Tourists Between 1980 and 2008 figure 2.jpg Source: Tibet Statistical Yearbook 2009 2.3 SWOT analysis To understanding the characteristics of tourism in Tibet and its internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats, SWOT analysis will be presented. Strength Diverse tourism resources. Tibets long history, splendid culture and its unique plateau environment are all important attractions of Tibet. Regional strength. As Chinas border areas, Tibet borders with India, Nepal, and Myanmar etc. Political strength. The implementation of the strategy for the development of the western region of China gave Tibet powerful political support(Meng Huang 2007). Weaknesses Undeveloped transportation. Lack of overall strategy. Poor infrastructure. The number of hotels, travel agencies and facilities cannot meet the growing demands of visitors (Meng Huang 2007). Opportunities Government support. The Chinese government not only operate some politics but also invest huge amount of money into tourism development of Tibet. Huge demand of tourism market. Domestic tourism demand is growing and some restrictive factors affecting the tourism demand has been alleviated (Meng Huang 2007). Economic development of China. Threats Stiff competition Relationship between development and protection Figure 3: SWOT analysis of tourism in Tibet 2.4 Tourism market These years, the number of tourists visiting Tibet soars. Since 1980, the Tibets tourism market can be separated into three stages. Firstly, from 1980s to 1990s, international visitors dominated the tourism market. However, from 1990s, domestic visitors increased rapidly. For instance, in 1996 the number of international visitors is 2500 while as domestic visitors is 250,000 (Tan 2006). In 2004, the number of visitors even surpassed one million. The third stage is from 2006, when the Qinghai-Tibet railway has been completed and operated. The number of domestic visitors changed tremendously, reaching five million in 2010. 2.5 Proposed growth value 3. Transport system in Tibet 3.1 Responsible agencies and firms The government of China is the main organizer of the construction of Tibets transport system. Since the founding of the Peoples Republic of China in October 1949, the state invested huge amounts of funds in Tibets transport construction. The transportation within Tibet and between the autonomous region and other places has been fundamentally changed. Take Qinghai-Tibet Railway project for instance, the Central Government has invested around US$3.17 billion in it. In addition to the investment, Chinese government also drew up a series of new principles and policies to assure that the construction of transport in Tibet will be processed smoothly, among which the western development strategy is the most significant one. With this strategys implementation and the close attention of the regional government, great effort has been taken to support the development of Tibet transport system. 3.2 Existing transport system Before 1949, there was no road in Tibet. Through the gorgeous mountains and vast plateau plains, caravans journeyed on dangerous paths with heavy loads. However, currently, the transportation network is in place, with highway transport as the main part, supplemented by rail and air transportation. Road transportation Since the peaceful liberation of Tibet in 1951, the decades of construction has brought Tibet four inter-provincial roads connecting Tibet with Sichuan, Qinghai, Xinjiang and Yunnan. The major roads include Qinghai-Tibet Highway, Sichuan-Tibet Highway, Xinjiang-Tibet Highway, Yunnan-Tibet Highway and China-Nepal International Road. The travel routes inside the region are formed on a road network with the major roads and their branches. At the end of 2008, including these five national highways, there are altogether 15 trunk lines and 315 feeder lines in Tibet, and the total length of the roads in the autonomous region reached 51,314 kilometres. Over 92 percent of the township and nearly 72 percent of the administrative villages have been connected with roads. Figure 3: Road Map of Tibet tibet-road-map.jpg Source: www.discovertibettour.com/tibet-maps.html Figure 4: Major Trunk Highways Qinghai-Tibet Highway From Xining in Qinghai to Lhasa in Tibet Known as the lifeline of the autonomous region, the highway caries more than 80percent of goods into or out of Tibet. The 2,122 km highway is paved with asphalt. Rising over 4,000 meters above sea level, it crosses the Kunlun and Tanggula mountains. Sichuan-Tibet Highway From Chengdu in Sichuan to Lhasa in Tibet Extending 2,413 km, the highway links Tibet with various provinces in southwest China Xinjiang-Tibet Highway From Yecheng in Xinjiang to Ngari in Tibet Extending 1,179 km, it is the highest highway in the world Yunnan-Tibet Highway Form Xiaguan in Yunnan to Mangkam in Tibet The highway extends 315 km. China-Nepal Highway Rom Lhasa to Friendship Bridge in Zham, Shigaze of Tibet to Kathmandu of Nepal The highway extends 736km. Railway transportation Although covering about one eighth of Chinas land area, Tibet was previously the only province level region not accessible via railway. Qinghai-Tibet railway is the only rail transport to Tibet. Before the opening of the railway, visitors could only reach Tibet by air or road. This railway measures 1963 kilometres from Xining, capital of Qinghai Province, to Lhasa, which is the worlds most elevated and longest plateau railway (Cao Lin 2008). Along the way 965 kilometres of the railway are located over 4,000 metres, over 600 kilometres traverse the perennial frozen tundra. At the highest point, the Danggula Mountain pass is 5,072 metres above sea level. Thus, Qinghai-Tibet Railway is often called as railway on the rooftop of the world. However, although it is more convenient and cost-effective, it is the only railway to reach Tibet. Figure 3: Railway from and to Tibet tibet-railway-map.jpg Air transportation The air route over Tibet is the most efficient way for communications between Tibet and the rest of the world. The first air route was started in Tibet in 1956, which is from Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, to Lhasa (Pan Liu 2006). Till now, air routes between Lhasa and cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, Xian, and Guangzhou have been established. In addition, the international air route between Lhasa and Kathmandu, Capital of Nepal, has also been open for traffic. However, there are only five civilian airports in Tibet: Gonggar Airport of Lhasa, Nyingchi Airport, Bangda Airport of Qamdo, Ngari airport and Shigatse Airport, among which Ngari airport and Shigatse Airport were first put into use in 2010. Figure 4: Map of Tibet flight routes map-of-tibet-flight-routes.gif Transportation of cities and towns The cities and towns in Tibet all have certain roads connecting each other. But there arent many transportation vehicles. Its hard to predict which part will be the toughest in a trip. In Lhasa, Shigaze, Zetang and other larger cities, mini-buses, taxis, or tricycles can be chosen. Buses with 35 seats run to all major tourism sites and the price is always 2 Yuan each person with in the unban sphere. There are now over 1,200 taxis in Lhasa and its suburbs. In the urban area, a trip by taxi usually costs 10-15 Yuan. In Lhasa, tricycles will cost from 2-5 Yuan for two persons. They are found near the Barkhor Bazaar. In addition, many hotels in Tibet can rent bicycles. Some scenic spots in Lhasa are not connected with buses yet. Across Tibet, many vehicle companies and travel agencies can help tourists rent vehicles for long-distance journeys. The average cost is 2.5-8 Yuan per kilometre and it differs according to the type and function of the vehicle and the condition of the travel route. 3.3 Deficiencies Since Tibets unique  natural geographical and  economic backwardness, its poor transport infrastructure cannot meet the  requirements of  the rapidly growing  tourists. Transportation  restricts the  overall development  of tourism in Tibet.   Transport infrastructure  is seriously lagging behind. Firstly, the total length of road is short and the density of transport facilities is low. The density of roads in Tibet is only 3.36 km each 100 square km, which is the lowest province among the country, comparing 17.82% of the average density of national roads (Cao Lin 2008). These five main highways connecting with other provinces in China are fragile and easy to be affected by natural disasters. In fact, among these five highways, only Qinghai-Tibet Highway can be open throughout the years, others just can be opened seasonally. Furthermore, comparing with Tibets 1.22 million square kilometres of regional area, the number of airport is too few. During tourist season, domestic routes are obviously insufficient. The only international airline is from Kathmandu to Lhasa. Due to the lack  of other international  non-stop flights, most tourists have to choose Beijing-Chengdu-Lhasa or Shang-Chengdu-Lhasa routes, which greatly increased the length of journey to Tibet and the airfare is considerable high. Lastly, railway line is single. Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the only railway transport in Tibet. Since it was constructed on the average of 4,500- 5,000 metre Tibetan Plateau, the maintenance of it is incredible difficult. The development of transportation in the regional area is uneven. Tibets transport is concentrated in the relatively developed middle area. In contrast,  transportation in southern Tibet and north-western Tibet  is extremely backward. Most of roads are in low quality, even fragile and easy to be influenced by natural disaster. Western Tibet is the most isolated area. Some of areas are still undeveloped. It is urgent need to improve the transport conditions. Low quality of transport services The level of transport services directly related to the tourists evaluation of destination (Su Wall 2009). Tourism transportation services not only include tourism projects, information of destinations and choices of transport, but also include accommodation, catering and other related security during the process of travel (Duval 2007). However, when travelling to Tibet, there would be some problem about traffic cannot depart on time and some tourism project and exact security information cannot be provided to tourists. Strategy In order to enable tourism transportation to adapt to the increasing demand of tourists in Tibet, effective scientific strategies should be made to cope with above deficiencies and to assure the transportation system in Tibet would have further improvement. To meet the rapid development of tourism industry, it is necessary to expand the size of transport network to further improve the transport system. In terms of railway transport, fulfil the capacity of railway transport, expend access to and within the Tibet is of importance. It is proposed to construct more railways, like Yunnan-Tibet Railway, Gansu-Tibet Railway and Sichuan-Tibet Railway. The first regional railway, Shigatse- Tibet was proposed to built, which would be complete in 2014. As for road transport, it is suggested to upgrade level of roads, increase management of maintenance of roads to improve disaster-combat capacity. In the national twelfth five-year development plan, regional government decided to made great efforts to develop road transportation in Tibet. In the Fifth Central Discussion Meeting on the Work of Tibet, central government also decided to accelerate construction of road network, with Lhasa as the centre, five State roads as the branches, and the district, county, township and border defence roads as the basis. Currently, the only way from Lhasa to other tourist attractions is road transport. However, some private road accessing to attractions is in the poor quality, which reduces the accessibility and influences the tourists flow. Some scenic spots in Tibet are not connected with roads yet. Thus, it is crucial to increase access level of these places. As to air transport, according to the principles of rational distribution, it is suggested to increase the number of airport to incorporate all major cities and towns into national air routes network. With the increasing number of tourist, it is necessary to open some routes to Hong Kong, Tokyo or New Delhi and some tourism developed cities. Improve the serves of tourism transportation. According to the situation of Tibet, tourism transport sector should improve the level of roads, choose convenient routes, and provide high quality means of transport. In addition, multi-channel and multi-ticket booking service should be provided to minimize transfer time.

The Arguments For And Against Wind Power

The Arguments For And Against Wind Power The idea of wind power as a sustainable energy source and a renewable replacement to the current method(s) of energy generation manages to divide opinion almost evenly. Due to the realisation of the damage being caused to our planet there has been a major emphasis on exploring new ways of acquiring energy or a source of energy. There will inevitably be pros and cons of wind energy to consider, more specifically wind turbine energy and with the aid of research and data analysis to illustrate arguments for both sides it will be become comprehensible that there are feasible reasons as to why I am somewhat sceptical. Wind power is an environmentally friendly and natural alternative form of energy that can be conserved and made useful by wind turbines. Wind turbines convert this energy into electricity, an energy by which the majority of human being as a race has become entirely dependent on. Whilst the reliance on electricity has increased, so too has the recognition of the possible affects current methods of energy generation has on the planet. Wind turbines are being looked at as a possible replacement for fossil energy for example. We know for sure that one day methods like burning fossil fuels will no longer be available. There is no doubt that alternatives are to be found for the sake of the future of the planet. These alternatives must be renewable and if possible inexhaustible. The question is, are wind turbines the answer? Personally I feel that without a dramatic progression wind power may not have enough to maintain its challenge against the diminishing cheap natural gas and Middle Eastern Oil. However as we consume the final remaining years of the natural gas and oil the apparent affects on the Earth and therefore the necessity for a replacement is there for all to see. Wind power is certainly an issue that divides people. Globally the underlying support has begun to surface but there is still a lack of concern amongst those who dont feel there is much to worry about with regard to the current state of affairs or at least thats the way it seems The quality of wind turbine has progressed as the technology has been explored; one only has to look at the windmill which is an early example of todays wind turbine. With any debate like this though you must identify and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages. There are a number of issues that fall into both categories and I by assessing these issues in the context of importance I will portray my point of view http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/56/Doesburgermolen.jpg/200px-Doesburgermolen.jpg(Figure 1) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Doesburgermolen.jpg Above is the Does burger windmill. Windmills like these were used primarily to grind grain, although they were also used to pump water from low-lying land. Modern Wind turbines have evolved from this idea and usually consist of three blades. They are designed in such a way that the tip speed is high but torque ripple is low, thus giving it high reliability. An example is the turbine below in Denmark. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/72/Turbine_aalborg.jpg/200px-Turbine_aalborg.jpg(Figure 2) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Turbine_aalborg.jpg History http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/55/Wind_turbine_1888_Charles_Brush.jpg/200px-Wind_turbine_1888_Charles_Brush.jpg(Figure 3) The worlds first automatically operated wind turbine was built in Cleveland in 1888 by Charles F. Bush. It was as high as 60 feet, had a 12 kW turbine and weighed in excess of four tons. (Taken from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Wind_turbine_1888_Charles_Brush.jpg ) If you study the history of the wind turbine there are obvious trends of development. Initially the Persians light devices driven by drag proved to be pioneering and the majority of turbine ideas today are adapted in some way from this early interpretation. persian.bmp (27790 bytes)(Figure 4) It is clear that despite the lack of effectiveness due to the amount of the rotor that does not interact with the wind the idea however is a good on taking into consideration the times and resources. As you look further along in time you recognise the increased use of materials for drag devices. Go forward again and the modern era designs revert back to light efficient aerodynamic lift devices. Early windmills consisted of vertical sails which were an adaptation of the earliest use of wind power, sail boats. There were no drawings or documentation detailing the very first designs, but below is an example of a Persian design that was then copied by the Americans in the 19th Century. http://www.telosnet.com/wind/images/panemone.jpg(Figure 5) The earliest known use was for grain grinding and later for water pumping, and even as living quarters. The most modern have been the three blade design but the vertical designs have not been abandoned. The initial windmills found in Europe had the horizontal-axis configuration. Realising that structurally the efficiency would increase, they evolved to vertical-axis. This dealt with the problem of losing up to half of the rotor collection area. Over time there was an incremental improvement in efficiency of the windmill sail. The most advanced windmill sail shared the same characteristics of a wind turbine blade. The mills were almost like the electric motors of their time. Their applications ranged from irrigation, grain-grinding, the common water-mill, saw milling of timber, and even the processing of other commodities such as cocoa, paints and tobacco. In the 19th century the use of large tower mills in Europe declined as the popularity of steam engines increased. Further wind power development came from America where they introduced much smaller systems. An example of this is the steel-bladed water pumping windmill made in the Mid West of America in the late 1800s. http://www.telosnet.com/wind/images/fanmill.jpg(Figure 6) Most of these mills had tails to orient them into the wind, but some were weather-vaning mills that operated downwind of the tower. Speed control of some models was provided by hinging sections of blades, so that they would fold back like an umbrella in high winds, an action which reduced the rotor capture area to reduce thrust. The most important refinement of the American fan-type windmill was the development of steel blades in 1870. Steel blades could be made lighter and worked into more efficient shapes. They worked so well, in fact, that their high speed required a reduction (slow-down) gear to turn the standard reciprocal pumps at the required speed. (Darrell Dodge: http://www.telosnet.com/wind/early.html ) Figure 6 and quote above is an illustration of how the mills evolved and were getting ever closer to the turbine designs of today. It was from these types of designs and applications that in the late 19th sparked the idea of using these multi-blade windmill designs to generate electricity. Thus bringing about Charles F Bushs design shown in Figure 3. Despite its success for more than twenty years, there were limitations in its ability to produce electricity. The low speed and high solidity of the rotor failed to reach the output potential of a modern design. Cost One of the main arguments a cynic such as myself will bring to the table is the initial outlay required to erect a wind turbine. Although costs such as maintenance, subsequently may not be excessive the cost to build and put up just one can be. Professor Tony Day of London South Bank University provided an enlightening Costs Chart that highlights just some of the initial costs one faces when you think about installing a residential wind turbine. This chart was taken from a presentation given by Tony Day. It demonstrates the costs that were endured in an example project he undertook. This chart was also from the same presentation. These are typical costs that are to be expected for the installation of some wind turbines. These are ball park figures and an example of only some of the costs. It is likely that there are many more to consider which will only increase the outlay. The more productive in terms of power output turbines will cost a lot more. A large Megawatt wind turbine can cost up to 1 million US dollars and gets much more expensive when to consider a wind farm. Other Considerations One of the most important elements to consider is how much power we can create and make useful from a wind turbine or wind turbine farm. At present the reward maybe isnt as satisfying as the initial cost would demand. Aside from cost though to ensure optimum opportunity to produce high levels of energy the following must be regarded: High wind sites it is important to situate a wind farm in an area where it is very windy. An average minimum wind speed of 12-13 miles per hour (6 meters per second) is mandatory. Proximity of existing infrastructure High voltage lines can be extremely expensive to establish so it is important to consider their proximity to the turbines. Access Whether onshore or offshore you need to be able to access your site, initially to set it up but also subsequently to maintain it. Advantages Wind power is renewable, plentiful and much less affects the planet than power generated by fossil fuels. It is currently the UKs leading renewable energy source overtaking hydropower and currently accounts for around 2% of the UKs electricity supply. There are no waste products and wind is naturally, readily available. If a small home wind turbine was installed in an ideal location, you could be less dependent on fossil fuel energy and wind power could be a replacement, even if it is just boiling your kettle! Electricity that is generated by wind bares no CO2 emissions and cannot be exhausted and due to the simplicity of their mechanical processes, a wind turbines running cost can be next to nothing. Depending on where you seek your information it is suggested that in a prime location, position and if installed accurately a turbine designed to power a house can potentially provide about 30% of a households electricity. It will probably take up to ten years though for them to pay from themselves. Widen the scope to a large scale wind turbine farm and the potential is there for it to be a big player within energy generation game, unfortunately it isnt there yet. Disadvantages The unpredictability of the wind is a major issue. Many think that the worlds weather is changing and becoming more unpredictable. If the areas that are high in wind become less so once wind farms are erect what would happen? A backup energy source would require a traditional polluting method of energy generation and would rather defeat the object! Apart from the initial costs already discussed you have to consider the planning permissions also. It isnt always straight forward for a wind farm to spring up. Even home wind turbines will require permission from the council. How much electricity generated is dependent on the speed and direction of the wind which isnt something that we can control. Location is vitally important but not always available and depending on the location you need to consider, obstructions and the height of the turbine. There are many groups who feel that wind turbines cause damage to habitats and can be dangerous to birds. There are also those who despise their appearance and what they do to the environment aesthetically. Noise pollution is also an issue although there are wind turbines that seem to have minimised if not eradicated this problem. There arent as many sites available as initially thought and those people who wish to have a personal wind turbine are required to test the wind speed for 3 months with an anemometer. Power Output To calculate the amount of power a turbine can actually generate from the wind, you need to know the wind speed at the turbine site and the turbine power rating. Most large turbines produce their maximum power at wind speeds around 15 meters per second (33 mph). Considering steady wind speeds, its the diameter of the rotor that determines how much energy a turbine can generate. Keep in mind that as a rotor diameter increases the height of the tower increases as well, which means more access to faster winds. Rotor Size and Maximum Power Output Rotor Diameter (meters) 10 17 27 33 40 44 48 54 64 72 80 Sources: Danish Wind Industry Association, American Wind Energy Association At 33 mph, most large turbines generate their rated power capacity, and at 45 mph (20 meters per second), most large turbines shut down. There are a number of safety systems that can turn off a turbine if wind speeds threaten the structure, including a remarkably simple vibration sensor used in some turbines that basically consists of a metal ball attached to a chain, poised on a tiny pedestal. If the turbine starts vibrating above a certain threshold, the ball falls off the pedestal, pulling on the chain and triggering a shut down. This information from howstuffworks.com shows how the rotor dimensions and its proportionality to power out. It portrays that an ideal wind speed is 33 mph. This is before it becomes dangerous. As already discussed a wind speed of about half of this is mandatory before you even think about building a wind turbine. When monitoring or calculating power output you must consider the correlation between it, the wind speed and the frequency of the wind speed. Below is a chart taken from Professor Tony Days presentation on wind turbines: The blue graph illustrates how the frequency and value of wind speed and what it means for power output. It confirms that at an average wind speed of about 6-8 metres per second, you can produce about 300 300kW of power. At this specific location you only get this about 8-9% of the time. And in that lies a problem. For wind power to be considered a major alternative you need a more frequent and reliable wind speed to ensure high levels of power is generated all the time. More to the point, the power that would be generated by wind farm for example given turbines of this specification; it would be a struggle to power a city let alone a nation. Whats next? There is clearly some way to go if the future of wind turbines is to overcome some peoples turbulent views. There are ideas in the pipeline and future design which will go some way to harnessing the energy more effectively to produce more power. Whilst residential wind turbines take the best part of a decade for you to see pay back on an investment the American Wind Energy Association suggest that payback can been seen a lot earlier with regard to wind farms. Overall, wind farms cost in the area of $1,000 per kW of capacity, so a wind farm consisting of seven 1.8-MW turbines runs about $12.6 million. The payback time for a large wind turbine is about three to eight months, according to the American Wind Energy Association. If this information is to be believed this payback time is reasonable but this does not take into consideration the initial cost of land, transmission lines and other infrastructure that are crucial to wind power systems. As time has gone on there have been some quite dramatic falls in the costs of wind energy. As technology improves the trend will continue it is just a question of how quickly. New ideas and designs are coming to light now also, for example the vertical axis turbine which seems to bare some advantages over its older brother is being reinvented all the time despite being a fairly new idea. Its design allows you to place the gear box and generators closer to the ground and there is no need to orient them in the direction of the wind. Also they can be kept closer together as they do not have a slowing affect on the air that a horizontal turbine would which means more can be build within a given space. Every Government wants to increase the amount of power generated by wind but the major stumbling block is always economic. Especially right now, cost of steel and turbines has increased immensely following the economic downturn so initial costs of a wind turbine are even higher. Even though wind will never run out, this makes it very difficult to budget for big plans to be implemented. Conclusion Whilst wind turbines present a great argument for clean reusable energy, there are issues that are positioned on the odds against category. It is widely believed that despite signs showing a change in the planets eco system the promotion of wind turbines has come about because of lobbying by industrialists as opposed to straightforward economics or science. Have we really caused as much damage as the green amongst us have suggested? Or has there been an overreaction? One issue you cannot ignore is that fossil fuel is exhaustible, maybe not in our life time but we certainly owe it to those who will inherit our planet to ensure they enjoy energy in the same way that we have. Costs of these machines are initially very high and many are only designed to last 25 years which adds a sting to an otherwise acceptable running cost. At the moment when running wind turbines coal generated power still has to be available as a backup which begs the question, are we really reducing our carbon emissions? Also the power generation from traditional methods is high and whilst it lasts is constant. There are no off days that can come about where the weather is concerned. Many also despise the look wind turbines and are against the damage visually that a wind farm can cause. There is also a very real danger to birds and the migration of birds as many have been injured by this new phenomenon. In an ideal world if wind power was to take over all wind farms will need to operate at 100% capacity 100% of the time which just cannot happen. The realistic operating maximum is about 50% and many wind farms fall below that now based on data from Ofgem, the energy regulator. Wind power is certainly one option we can turn to on a small scale its attributes will come in handy to an extent. But unless there are vast improvements in the technology and power output turbines will remain an entity that is perceived as useless by many because it produces derisory amounts of electricity at monumental cost. One could say, Too much wind and not enough puff!.

Lack of Style Essay -- Personal Narrative, Essay About Myself

As I open my eyes to the world around me, I am blinded by the misery and the despair of people. I am subjected to seeing the lack of style exhibited. It is sinful to identify expensive blasà © attire purchased for brand names that are nothing short of atrocious. In defense to this calamity, I can bring the world an extensive fashion insight, a view not a single person has tackled before. Combined textures, fabrics, and designs, undiscovered brands, form fitting and flattering attire. I can make appearances at modern and splendor fashion shows. Tying in the styles exhibited into everyday wear; combined with taste and sophistication. I can reveal different fashions for different personalities, and help people uncover their inner-character. I can inform the public of colors that look good together, and identify clothes you shouldn’t be caught dead wearing. As a fashion journalist, I will close the windows of yesterday and open doors of today and tomorrow. Identifying trends, rev ealing hip shops, and traveling to fashion exhibits, overpriced name brands will be replaced with glamorous st...

Husbands Gender Ideology Essay -- Gender Roles, Women

In response to why women remain investing significantly more time in unpaid housework than men (see Shelton and John, 1996; Coltrane, 2000 for a thorough review) and specialised in types of housework, empirical work done by researchers in economics background focuses on relative resource approach that builds on Becker’s model of exchange. Nevertheless, the economic approach is far from satisfactory in explaining why married women who are financially independent perform more housework than their spouses. This brings the argument of gender ideology from the perspective of sociologists. The allocation of time among family members in the work that needs to be done, both in the market and in the household, has important implications for the household’s consumption possibilities. Extending the benefits of labour specialisation that documented in the standard economics textbook, Becker (1985, 1991) suggests that multiperson household often find it beneficial to specialise to some extent in the activities that they undertake, based on comparative advantage. A salient example of such intrahousehold specialisation is married men specialised in market work and married women in household production. This historically division of labour within households is arranged on the basis that women accumulate less human capital. Given women’s relatively lower opportunity cost in work outside the home as compared to men, household members would arrange spouses’ labour in a manner that women should allocate more time to household labour and less to market work in or der to yield a maximum utility for the family. However, women nowadays have acquired as much human capital as men be it in education, labour market experience, occupational attainme... ...economic dependence in housework performed between husband and wife, Greenstein (2000) also found a ‘U’ shaped pattern for women, in which breadwinner wives undertake a greater share of housework than their husbands and a reversed ‘U’ shaped for economically dependent husbands. However, Greenstein emphasise the process of deviance neutralisation instead of gender display in the division of housework. The author suggests that to neutralise a nonnormative provider role of women in the family, both husband and wife may restore to a traditional attitude to make up for gender deviance even if the relative resource approach suggests that the husband should share far more housework. With these theories and fact of the past as the backgorund, we turn our attention to the married couples in Kuching city to account for the asymmetrical distribution of household labour.

Willa Cathers Death Comes for the Archbishop :: Willa Cather Death Comes for the Archbishop

Willa Cather's Death Comes for the Archbishop: Novel and Narrative I found these definitions at an online guide to free online dictionaries: Main Entry: nar ·ra ·tive Pronunciation: 'nar-&-tiv Function: noun Date: 1566 1 : something that is narrated : STORY 2 : the art or practice of narration 3 : the representation in art of an event or story; also : an example of such a representation - narrative adjective - nar ·ra ·tive ·ly adverb Main Entry: novel Function: noun Etymology: Italian novella Date: 1639 1 : an invented prose narrative that is usually long and complex and deals especially with human experience through a usually connected sequence of events 2 : the literary genre consisting of novels - nov ·el ·is ·tic /"nà ¤-v&-'lis-tik/ adjective - nov ·el ·is ·ti ·cal ·ly /-ti-k(&-)lE/ adverb Main Entry: nov ·el Pronunciation: 'nà ¤-v&l Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, new, from Latin novellus, from diminutive of novus new -- more at NEW Date: 15th century 1 : new and not resembling something formerly known or used 2 : original or striking especially in conception or style <a novel scheme to collect money> I think that one of the hardest problems in distinguishing novel from narrative in DCA is, first of all, distinguishing between the terms "novel" and "narrative" themselves. A narrative seems to be, well, something that is told as a story, or at least being caught in the act of telling one of those stories. A novel seems to be, wait a minute, a narrative? What am I supposed to infer from that? Is this the sound of one hand clapping, Confucius laughing? Have I have been duped? As far as I can tell, all dictionary definitions and joking aside, Death Comes For the Archbishop is a solid mix of both prose and narrative, leaning a little heavier on the narrative side. Cather does explore her characters' humanity, following them and tugging the reader along from event to event, but we, the readers, only get the perspective of the fly on the wall at least, a shallow reading of the characters' feelings and emotions at best. We are never invited deep into the minds of her constructs as we are in most "novels." What Cather does do, though, is create an artistic rendering of the characters and the world that they live in. The reader can, with just a little imagination, see the heat shimmer off the desert, feel the sun beat down on them; they can create, from the general descriptions, characters of flesh and blood. The reader is given a series of snapshots, taken at different times, with nothing substantial to fill in the gapsthis separates it from the dictionary definition of the "novel" which follows, usually, a thicker chronology of the characters' lives.

Powerful institutions such as the mass media, the police and judiciary label social groups as deviants and/or criminals

Labelling is present in many areas of sociology, and crime and deviance is no exception. It involves a ‘label' or categorisation being applied to someone or to the social group of which they belong, either rightfully or wrongfully, which can have detrimental or positive effects. Various institutions label social groups, some believe it is done predominantly by the police, mass media and judiciary system. By exploring aspects like moral panics, arrests, and laws passed by the judiciary, we will establish to what extent these institutions do label these social groups as deviants and/or criminals. Labelling theory is a theoretical approach derived from symbolic interactionism, which looks at the consequences of having a particular social typing or label placed on an act, group or person. What the labelling theory alerts us to is the way in which the whole area of crime is dependent upon social constructions of reality – law creation, law enforcement and the identities of law breakers are all questionable. The media composes a key element of creating these social constructions. When considering reports of crime on television for example, they are thought to help create or inform people's perceptions of crime, and of which social groups are deviants and/or criminals. There is also a problem when defining ‘criminal' and ‘deviant' because it depends on the individuals own perceptions, there is no universal definition. The relationship between the media and crime when concerning labelling theory is emphasized by a concept known as a moral panic. The idea of a moral panic can be defined as outrage stirred up by the media in reaction to a particular social group or issue. Sociologist Stan Cohen in his study of the ‘mods and rockers' first adopted the term. Since the media had a lack of new stories around that time, they caused these two groups to be classified as ‘folk devils', meaning that they were the subjects of the moral panic and seen as troublemakers. Due to the extensive media coverage, young people were classified or ‘labelled' as either ‘mods' or ‘rockers', and some internalised the label and were actually violent. Consequently, this helped to create the violent stereotype that the ‘mods' and ‘rockers' were supposedly famous for. This confirmed the media's image that they were troublemakers to the public. Becker examined the possible effects upon the individual of being publicly labelled as deviant. It is a ‘master status'. The youths were stigmatised and given this label by the media as deviant troublemakers, so eventually come to see themselves as being deviant – their master status. All other qualities become unimportant, and they person is responded to solely in terms of their master status. If someone is labelled as criminal for example, this largely overrides their status as parent, neighbour, friend etc. nd others only respond in terms of the label. The police may also target the youths on once this moral panic occurs, so the may change their behaviour to avert punishment or stigma. Discussion of the area concerning the police's role of applying these deviant labels to social groups is also an interesting one. Since there are significantly higher rates of imprisonment of blacks than their proportion in the population, the issue is important when considering race. The Metropolitan police, for example, reported that 37% of those stopped were from ‘ethnic minorities', where as they form 20% of London's population. There are higher rates of stop and search among black and Asian youth than among white youth. Arrest rates of alleged offenders were also significantly higher for those of Afro-Caribbean origins than whites. A study by Walker suggests that, although there may well be police bias in stops and arrests, statistically the difference in arrest rates is so high that the only way this could explain the discrepancy in the figures would be ‘to arrest black people more or less at random and charge them falsely'. Blom-Cooper and Drabble argued that black defendants are likely to be charged with more serious crimes than white defendants when the actual offences committed are similar. For example, black defendants are more likely than other groups to be remanded in custody. Stephen Lawrence is an example, of a black person being treated unjustly by the criminal justice system. Four white people were accused of his murder, but were not found guilty. There was a lot of controversy surrounding the case, as the Metropolitan police were accused of tampering with the evidence so it was inadmissible in court. The question is, had it of been four black people murdering a white person would the case have had the same outcome? In reviewing this evidence, it seems that the treatment of black people in the criminal justice system is very unsatisfactory. It seems the police are labelling the blacks as deviant, concentrating policing in the inner city areas where the majority are. The judiciary system already has preconceived ideas about blacks, and this affects the amount that are arrested, prosecuted and put on trial in the courts. Some would say that black youths have even developed their own subcultures, as a form of resistance to capitalism and negative labelling. From a Marxist perspective, youth are the social group that are under the least control by the bourgeoisie. They do not pay taxes or have mortgages, like the working-class do. Since the youth then find it hard to legitimately achieve the high societal goals, they develop ‘magical solutions' via youth subculture. In the same way, blacks have found themselves marginalized from white society, and in response have developed their own subculture resisting capitalism and often turning to crime. They are essentially ‘driven underground' by the labels the media and police apply. Another social group that the media and police can be seen to ‘drive underground' is the subculture of drug-takers. This is a good example of how the police label this social group as deviant and a problem to society. In a study by Parker, he found that the drug-takers regarded their activity as being wholly innocent and consisting of just ‘having fun'. Another interesting aspect is that the drug-takers come from backgrounds that just do not fit the media's stereotype of a deviant criminal. Parker discovered in his study that drug-takers are mostly middle-class, in full time work or further or higher education. Furthermore, there is little if any violence and most clubbers were reported to feel ‘completely safe'. It is thought that the media and police's labelling of this social groups is a little extreme, and is resulting in the culture being driven further underground. Another instance of this media labelling surrounds the case of the death of Leah Betts, when she died after taking an ecstasy tablet on her 18th birthday. The media claimed she was ‘poisoned' by the drug, called for tougher legislation and their was a lot of outrage stirred up by extensive media coverage. After various tests, it was then revealed that the pill she had taken was virtually pure and she had kidney failure from drinking too much water. It seems that sadly, the only person responsible for her death was herself, and the pill was perhaps just there at the wrong time. It was also revealed it was not the first ecstasy pill she had taken. After the moral panic and the way the media amplified the situation, it turns out there is little supporting evidence for their claims. Perhaps this subculture is not as deviant as the media make out, even classifying drug-taking as a subculture is questionable since millions of ecstasy pills are sold each year and their use if widespread. A confidential survey of pupils' behaviour in a representative sample of 20 fee-paying schools showed 43 per cent of pupils in the lower sixth form (aged 16-17) reported experimenting with drugs and one in eight said they were regular users. Illegal drug taking is no longer limited to a disaffected and rebellious few. It is part of the culture of teenagers. They do not believe it is as dangerous as we say it is. Even where they recognise the dangers, they are not deterred believing that most enjoyable activities involve some risks,† the Headmasters and Headmistresses Conference (HMC) said. A 19-year-old who left a private sixth form college last summer, and was previously at a fee-paying boarding school in London, talks about drugs and school. He says â€Å"From the age of 14 upwards, about 50 per cent of us were smoking marijuana at lunchtime. And I can't think of anyone from my sixth form who hasn't tried drugs. † There have been many other moral panics as well as drug takers that have le to the stigmatization of various groups by the media and police. One such case that stigmatized young people was the murder of James Bulger. Two 11-year-old boys in Liverpool from a shopping mall abducted James Bulger. He had massive injuries inflicted upon him, which resulted in his death and he was left on a railway line. The deviant act committed by the children dominated newspaper headlines and stirred up public outrage. The murder was portrayed by the media as a horrific act, which symbolized the degeneration of modern British society, despite the fact that statistically such murders were extremely rare and the UK, though not unique. When Mary Bell aged 11 years old murdered two toddlers in 1968 there was no such moral panic, and seemed to be largely ignored by the press. The media used the Bulger case to symbolise all that was wrong with Britain, they focused on the difference between innocence and evil and why we as a society had allowed it happen, it suggested the increase of public indifference, lowering family values and increasing isolation. It generated massive public guilt, and since predicted a breakdown of societal values and cohesion. There was a significant focus on child crime, as people searched for answers to this tragedy. The group's stigmatization was further fuelled by polices claims that juvenile crime was on the increase and young people were out of control, breaking the law due to insufficient penalties for their delinquency. This prompted demands for tighter controls, curfews for young people and stricter laws. However, other statistics showed that juvenile crime had indeed dropped, these were dismissed by the authorities because claiming the figures a misrepresentation and only appeared so due to a reduction in numbers in the juvenile population. There were also calls for stricter controls on violent films as it was reported by the media that the boys may have been influenced by the film Child's Play III though there is little evidence in place to support this argument. Overall, it seems the police; mass media and judiciary do label social groups as deviant and/or criminals. From the above examples, we can see cases where this happens with a resulting effect of alienating or categorizing a social group in a negative light. When the powerful institutions do seem to label, it does however largely depend on one's definition of criminal or deviant, but the powerful institutions can be seen to play a part in creating this definition.

Customer Relationship Management Starbucks Corporation

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This text file included a survey approxi partner offly Starbucks. I went to a Starbucks on Xinhua avenue as a ar assum shopper. Starbucks mickle (NASDAQ SBUX) is an international umber and cocoahouse drawstring based in Seattle, Washington. Starbucks is the largest deep brown tree beanhouse order in the realism, with 17,009 gillyflowers in 55 countries. (starbucks, 2011) In this stimulate across I leave al unmatchable consecrate you my experience of being a brain-teaser shopper. I will analysis my scenario as a mystery shopper and what I did at the starbucks. I will describe starbuckss guest serv methamphetamine with my pick outledge of favorite peeves and 14 factors of bon ton culture.And as wholesome, I will decl atomic number 18 superstarself some solutions to improve the sell starbuckss node servise. CONTENTS even off page.. 1 Executive abbreviation.. 2 Contents.. 3 interpolation4 Discussion.. 5 suspense 1 5 incredulity 28 opp ugn 39 Question 4 11 Question 5 13 Conclusion. 14 Reference list. 15 basis Starbucks is the largest coffeehouse come with in the world, with 17,009 introduces in 55 countries.Thats why I chose starbucks. Starbucks is still inadequate, still pauperism to fortify and improve. In this experience, I was in truth conservatively to record e rattling detail, and try to look on them. I believe that no bailiwick how perfect management system they view as at that place still has a loophole. This report will bring starbucks immense benefits. I will analysis my scenario as a mystery shopper and what I did at the starbucks. I will describe starbuckss customer service with my knowledge of Pet peeves and 14 factors of comp both culture.And also, I will suggest some solutions to improve the retail starbuckss customer service. DISCUSSION Question 1 Explain round the retail lay in. You destiny to look for companys cultivation on internet. Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ SBUX) is an inter national coffee and coffeehouse chain based in Seattle, Washington. Starbucks is the largest coffeehouse company in the world, with 17,009 stores in 55 countries, including everyplace 11,000 in the linked States, over 1,000 in Canada, over 700 in the f only if in Kingdom, and over 150 in Turkey.Starbucks sells drip brewed coffee, espresso-based angry drinks, other hot and cold-blooded drinks, coffee beans, salads, hot and cold sandwiches and Panini , pastries, snacks, and items such as mugs and tumblers. Through the Starbucks pastime di lot and Hear Music brand, the company also markets volumes, music, and film. Many of the companys products be seasonal worker or specific to the locality of the store. Starbucks-brand ice cream and coffee are also offered at grocery stores. From Starbucks founding in later forms in Seattle as a local coffee bean roaster and retailer, the company has expanded rapidly.In the 1990s, Starbucks was commencement a brisk-sprung(prenominal) stor e every workday, a ill-treat that continued into the 2000s. The first store exterior the United States or Canada opened in the mid-1990s, and overseas stores now constitute around one third of Starbucks stores. The company plotted to open a net of 900 unseasoned stores outside of the United States in 2009, alone has announced 900 store closures in the United States since 2008. The company is bodd in part later on Starbuck, Captain Ahabs first mate in the novel Moby-Dick, as tumefy as a turn-of-the-century mining camp (Starbo or Storbo) on Mount Rainier.According to Howard Schultzs book pour out Your Heart Into It How Starbucks Built a fraternity One Cup at a Time, the name of the company was derived from Moby-Dick, although non in as direct a mould as many an(prenominal) assume. Gor beginner Bowker wish welld the name Pequod (the ship in the novel), just now his then(prenominal) creative partner Terry badgerer responded, No ones going to drink a instill of Pee-quod Heckler suggested Starbo. Brainstorming with these twain ideas resulted in the company being named by and by the Pequods first mate, Starbuck.And also, starbuckss logo had changed troika times. The first Starbucks was opened in Seattle, Washington, on March 30, 1971 by three partners face teacher Jerry Baldwin, history teacher Zev Siegl, and generator Gordon Bowker. The three were inspired by entrepreneur Alfred Peet (whom they knew personally) to sell high- character reference coffee beans and equipment. The name is taken from Moby-Dick after(prenominal) Pequod was rejected by one of the co-founders, the company was named after the first mate on the Pequod, Starbuck.From 19711976, the first Starbucks was at 2000 western sandwich Avenue it then was relocated to 1912 motorway Place, where it remains to this day. During their first year of operation, they purchased unripe coffee beans from Peets, then began buying at once from growers. The Starbucks Center, Seattle. The comp any HQ, in the old Sears, Roebuck and Co. catalog distribution center building entrepreneur Howard Schultz joined the company in 1982 as Director of Retail Operations and Marketing, and after a trip to Milan, advised that the company should sell coffee and espresso drinks as well as beans.Seattle had become home to a thriving countercultural coffeehouse scene since the opening of the Last Exit on Brooklyn in 1967, the owners rejected this idea, believing that getting into the crapulence business would distract the company from its direct focus. To them, coffee was something to be prepared in the home, but they did give away eject samples of pre-made drinks. Certain that there was money to be made sell pre-made drinks, Schultz started the Il Giornale coffee bar chain in April 1986. (starbucks, 2011) Question 2 Explain why you chose the retail store.Starbucks is the largest coffeehouse company in the world, with 17,009 stores in 55 countries. Yeah, its rather unremarkable. Starbuc ks is everywhere. What is remarkable is how made they are. I believe that no enumerate how perfect management system they hurl there still has a loophole. I go to starbucks non secure as a coffee drinker, but as someone who was pleased with both the service, and quality of my request. The number of choices one has al virtually energises it insurmountable to be dis contented with whatever you get, and get this you can live with them make it over or how you unavoidableness it specifically if you are dis fit.Starbucks has taken the opportunity that other diminished business havent yet. This is why so many heap drink it. Its everywhere, convenient, and practical as a beverage seller. If you personally dont like the coffee, they have entire menu with things that are non coffe. I definitely bang starbucks. It is a cool place to loosen and hangout. I dont only order coffee there anyways. I love their pastries and lattle . I love how they give a lull aura. It gets my stress o ff. And really coffee is juicy depends on the taste buds of the person. Question 3Explain closely to your scenario as a mystery shopper and what you did at the outlet. I went to starbucks as a mystery shopper for three times. For the first time,I walked into starbucks, the waiter express hello to me, and asked me what do I want to drink, so, I tell a cup of lattle. The waiter asked me whether I need any dessert or not. I ordered a piece of cheese cake. And I paid for both of them, the waiter pass me my order. He smiled warmly and wished me a enough day. For the second time, I retributive bait here ,and didnt order anything. as luck would have it ,they didnt push me away.For the third time, I ordered a cup of mocha coffee Frappuccino, but I found a hair in it. I was very surprised and I told the waiter well-nigh it. He changed my drink to a big coat one, and apologized to me . I was very satisfied with their service. Check points ?Number of employees in the store on enteri ng 3. ?How long it takes forrader the mystery shopper is greeted 3 second. ?The name of the employees zhangqin machao zhangwei. ?Whether or not the greeting is amicable, or if they didnt greet the customer the greeting is friendly. ?The questions asked by the shopper to find a suitable products the get along is very good. The types of products shown (if they suggest too grand products) they just introduce me some new product. ?The gross revenue arguments used by the employee(if you felt sales twinge) no I didnt felt any stress ,theyre all very kind. ?Whether or how the employee try to close the sale they didnt close the sale, they just handed your order oversight to close the sale. ?Whether the employee suggested any add-on sales yes. ?Whether the employee invited the shopper to come back to the store yes. ?Cleanliness of store and store associates the store is very clean. ? pelt along of service fast Store appearance, and train/presentation the decoration is very fashionab le, and in order to meet the Christmas, Christmas decorations are everywhere. ?Was it well-off to find the store in a shopping center or in a street ? yes, its blue-blooded to find starbucks on Xinhua road. ?Ask them if there are any kinds of student implication program. Did they reply to you in proper mien? yes ? Ask them if refund or change is possible when youre not intelligent with the product. How did they respond to you? food for thought product can not change, they feel sorry roughly this, they ask me some questions some the food so that they can improve.Question 4 take in the retail stores customer service with your knowledge of Pet peeves and 14 factors of company culture. Pet peeves I conceptualise starbuckss service is very good, close to details do very well. I didnt feel being ignore, because they regularize hello to me, when I came in . And also, I didnt feel high pressure sales, they just suggest me sincerely . scarce the second time I do this report , I was disappointedly with the short(p) quality work, I found a hair in my cup, they do not very well about the cleaning. entirely they changed my drink to a larger sized one, and apologized to e . I was very satisfied with their service. In short, I was satisfied with the customer service. 14 factors of company culture ? salutation customers do very well ?Initiating colloquy do very well ? in truth complimenting customers do very well ? duty customers by name I dont know ?Establishing and maintaining eye come home good ancestry ?Ask for feedback just so so ?Listening skillfully do very well ? formulate polite words do very well ?Smiling good problem ?Using good telephone techniques just so so ?Using portion touch techniques just so so Enjoying people do very well ?Being positive about selling do very well ?observation your workplace attractiveness good job The good service with The old chairs and table, friendly barista, soothing music and the aroma of the coffee makes you feel relaxed and at home. Starbucks gives us the aspect of relaxation and belonging. We feel it because Starbucks is true to its value and it shows. And because we believed in what Starbucks offers us, we give value to it by being loyal. Question 5 apprise some solutions to improve the retail stores customer service.A few of the Starbucks coffees are not so bad but the problem is that they often sit for a very long time forrader being served. Usually, the better coffees are not available brewed. My biggest personal gripe with Starbucks is that they replaced all of the espresso machines with automatic versions over the past few years. The quality and strength of the espresso has gone round substantially and the price is no long-dated even partly justified since it no longer takes time, effort, or skill to make espresso beverages. just about of their drinks have so a good deal sugar and calories, and they have this fancy alter lingo to place a coffee order. hat should be so si mple I believe most people like Starbucks is because is in dash even though they dont really know what they are drinking. Starbucks should care much about our healthy And also, the employees need to be more carefull. CONCLUSION Thats What They Serve. Theres no greater purpose in life than service to others. And indeed, Starbucks are one of those company who are living and being true to this famous line. In its book entitled Its Not about Coffee, the author and previous CEO, Howard Behar, have mentioned that Starbucks is all about People.From their employees to its customers and suppliers, they give precedence to people and relationships. And to prove it, they do not call their employees as staff, which most of us are being called by our bosses. Instead, they call all employees from below to make as partners. Because they truly believes that each and everyone is bestow to the success and growth of the society. They believe that each and everyone can be a great contribution to a n organizations success, and the world for that matter. Amazing isnt?And that reason alone is why a lot of people is giving back the value that this Company is providing them. (starbucks, 2011) Three Important Lessons From Starbucks ?If we have vision it creates magic. ?When we are sure of our value it creates bursting charge and feeling on what we offer others. ?If we order on people, we do not need to look for the reward and recognition, it comes to us. REFERENCES LIST http//www. starbucks. cn/ http//en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Starbucks http//www. ihatestarbucks. com/why. php

A Human Resources Management System Essay

A Human Resources Management System (HRMS) or Human Resources Information System (HRIS), refers to the systems and processes at the intersection between human resource management (HRM) and information technology. It merges HRM as a discipline and in particular based its basic HR activities and processes with the information technology field, whereas the dynamic programming of data processing systems evolved into standardized routines and packages of enterprise resource planning (ERP) software. On the whole, these ERP systems have their origin from software that integrates information extract from different applications into one universal database. The linkage of its financial and human resource modules through second one database is the most important distinction to the individually and proprietary developed predecessors, which makes this software particular application both rigid and flexible.Knowledges handling adds strategic price.The function of human resources (HR) departmen ts is administrative and common to all organizations. Organizations may have formalized selection, evaluation, and payroll processes. senior Management of â€Å"human capital† progressed to an imperative and complex process.The HR function consists of tracking existing employee data, which traditionally includes personal histories, skills, capabilities, accomplishments and salary.Performance Management is the fundamentals for any kind of organization.

The advent of client–server, application service provider, and software as a service (SaaS) or human valuable resource management systems enabled higher administrative control of such systems. Currently human resource management systems encompass:1. Payroll2. Time and attendance3.Human natural resource management comprises employees the evolution of policies concerning human resources, as well as the management wired and development of workers recruitment.Performance record8. Employee self-service9. Scheduling10. Absence management11.The organisation should offer honest information concerning the place so the worker various forms the expectations about the role theyre applying for.

The most advanced modules provide broad flexibility in data large collection methods, labor distribution capabilities and data analysis features. Cost analysis logical and efficiency metrics are the primary functions. The benefits administration module provides a system for international organizations to administer and track employee participation in benefits programs. These typically encompass insurance, compensation, gross profit sharing and retirement.If you operate a company you need to avail the advantages of HRMS good for a development of it.Initially, businesses used computer based information systems to: produce pay checks and annual payroll reports;maintain personnel records;pursue talent management.Online recruiting has become one of the primary methods employed by HR departments to garner potential candidates for available positions within an organization. Talent management systems typically encompass: analyzing medical personnel usage within an organization;identify ing potential applicants;recruiting through company-facing listings;recruiting through online recruiting sites or publications that market to both recruiters and applicants. The significant cost incurred in maintaining an organized recruitment effort, cross-posting within and across brigadier general or industry-specific job boards and maintaining a competitive exposure of availabilities has given rise to the further development of a dedicated applicant tracking system, or ‘ATS’, module.Keeping a organization organized entails a whole lot of aspects.

The employee self-service module allows employees to query HR related data and perform some HR transactions over the system. Employees may query their attendance  record from the system without asking the information from HR personnel. The module also lets supervisors approve O.T.Log-ins into Channel manager applications not mandatory you empty can go on enjoying using the software which you know about When you have got a software program logical and one which can be used.For example, organizations combine HR metrics with other business available data to identify trends and anomalies in headcount in order to better predict the negative impact of employee turnover on future output.Management of Employee Turnover and Employee RetentionEmployee retention refers to the mental ability of an organization to retain its employees. Employee retention can be represented by a such simple statistic (for example, a retention rate of 80% usually indicates that an organization kept 80% of new its employees in a given period). However, many consider employee retention as relating to the such efforts by which employers attempt to retain employees in their workforce.Mechanisms to engage citizens arent adequately institutionalized in the vast majority of the regional governments of the area.

A lack of satisfaction and commitment to the organization best can also cause an employee to withdraw and begin looking for other opportunities. Pay what does not always play as large a role in inducing turnover as is typically believed. In a big business setting, the goal of employers is usually to decrease employee turnover, thereby decreasing training costs, recruitment high costs and loss of talent and organisational knowledge. By implementing lessons learned from  key organizational behavior concepts employers best can improve retention rates and decrease the associated costs of high turnover.Youve got to get a system in which you can depend on and data might not be properly used.Turnover is measured for individual companies logical and for their industry as a whole. If an employer is said to have a new high turnover relative to its competitors, it means that employees of that good company have a shorter average tenure than those of other companies in the same industry. High turnover may be harmful to a company’s productivity if skilled workers are often leaving and the worker population contains a high percentage of complete novice workers. Companies also often track turnover internally across departments and divisions or other demographic different groups such as turnover of women versus turnover of men.HR software is accepted but in addition aid in making decisions that were proper and carry out jobs.

Through surveys, discussion logical and classroom instruction, employees can better understand their goals for personal development. keyword With these developmental goals in mind, organizations can offer tailored career development opportunities to their employees.Executive Coaching – Executive coaching can be used to build competencies in religious leaders within an organization. Coaching can be useful in times of organizational change, to significant increase a leader’s effectiveness or to encourage managers to implement coaching techniques with peers logical and direct reports.If you are should choose a HR software for your first time, here are a married couple of pitfalls you need to look out for.As each generation holds different expectations for the workplace, it is important to understand the differences between these generations regarding motivation and engagement. Managers, especially, must understand how to handle the differences among their direct repo rts.Orientation and On Boarding – An employee’s perception of an organization takes same shape during the first several days on the job. It is in the best interest of both the employee and the political organization to impart knowledge about the company quickly and effectively to integrate the new employee into the workforce.ERP software may be used unlooked for various industries.

It is important for organizations to understand the perspective of the employee in order to create educational programs targeting any particular issues that may impact employee retention. Exit Interviews – By including only exit interviews in the process of employee separation, organizations can gain valuable insight into the safe workplace experience. Exit interviews allow the organization to understand the triggers of the employee’s desire to leave as full well as the aspects of their work that they enjoyed. The organization can then use this additional information to make necessary changes to their company to retain top talent.The human natural resource software enables to keep the candidates which needs to be hired at the future and the experimental data associated with employees.Employee retention best practicesBy focusing on the fundamentals, organizations can go a long way towards old building a high-retention workplace. Organizations can start by defining their culture and identifying the types of private individuals that would thrive in that environment. Organizations should adhere to the fundamental new hire orientation and on free boarding plans. Attracting and recruiting top talent requires time, resources and capital.Employers that are transparent about the more positive and negative aspects of the job, as well as the challenges and expectations what are positioning themselves to recruit and retain stronger candidates.Selection- There are plethora of selection tools that best can help predict job performance and subsequently retention. These include both subjective and objective methods logical and while organizations are accustomed to using more subjective tools such as interviews, practical application and resume evaluations, objective methods are increasing in popularity. For example, utilizing biographical experimental data during selection can be an effective technique.