Ethical Aspects Of Organ Allocation - 1169 Words

The medical practice of organ transplantation has grown by leaps and bounds over the last 50 years. Each year the medical profession takes more risk with decisions regarding transplants, how to allocate for organs, and most recently conducting transplants on children with adult organs. â€Å"An organ transplantation is a surgical operation where a failing or damaged organ in the human body is removed and replaced with a new one† (Caplan, 2009). Not all organs can be transplanted. The term â€Å"organ transplant† typically refers to transplants of solid organs: heart, kidneys, liver, pancreas, and intestines. There are two ways of receiving an organ transplant: from a living human or an organ from a†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"Autonomy is defined as self-determination and freedom from the control of others and making your life choices† (Morrison, 2011). The principle of autonomy holds that actions or practices tend to be right thus far as they respe ct or reflect the exercise of self-determination. â€Å"Persons and their actions are never fully autonomous, but nevertheless it is possible to recognize certain individuals and their decisions as more or less substantially autonomous† (Organ Procurement Transplant Network, 2010). With the presentation of the principle of autonomy there are a few considerations such as, refusal of an organ and the right to do so, directed donation allocation, the processes of organ donation, and allocation rules that enable patients to make informed decisions. â€Å"The principle of nonmaleficence states that we should act in ways that do not inflict evil or cause harm to others† (Morrison, 2011). Specifically, we should not cause preventable or intentional harm. The principle of nonmaleficence can be applied to transplant allocation because the modern array of medical interventions has the capacity to do good or harm, or both, thereby involving principles of nonmaleficence. An example of this would be the procurement of an organ though exploitation of payment to theShow MoreRelatedDetermining Who Gets An Organ1120 Words   |  5 PagesThe decision to determine who gets an organ is something that cannot be taken lightly. If proper protocol is not followed, issues such as biasness and judging people based on factors like socioeconomic status may be used to determine this dilemma. For this reason, organ transplantation is overseen by government regulators. The Division of Transplantation (DoT), which falls under the US Department of Health and Human Services, oversees this process. Organs are allocated according to strict rulesRead MoreThe Organ Of Organ Transplantation1426 Words   |  6 Pagesmost significant issues concerning organ transplantation revolves around the just and fair distribution of organs. Due to the assorted and occasionally conflicting opinions of what constitutes as ‘fair’, in concurrence with a relative shortage of do nated organs, many social, legal and ethical contentions have arisen. This shortage is portrayed by statistics shown on the NHS organ donation page, where approximately 10,000 people are on the waiting list for a solid organ transplant and approximately 1Read MoreAllocation Of Scarce Resources : Donor Organs2243 Words   |  9 Pages Allocation of Scarce Resources: Donor Organs Deborah Russell Drexel University Abstract The allocation of scarce resources is an ongoing issue in healthcare today. The scarcity of many specific interventions include beds in the intensive care unit, donor organs, and vaccines during a pandemic influenza are widely acknowledged as an extensive issue in healthcare ethics. The allocation of scarce resources is the determination of how to equally and fairly use scarce medical resources availableRead MoreThe Problem Of Organ Donation And Transplantation Essay2343 Words   |  10 Pagesglobal counterparts. This is the area of organ donation and transplantation. As of August 2013, the total number of people on the waitlist for organs in the United States was around 120,000 according to the United Network of Organ Sharing. Comparatively, the number of organ transplants performed in the United States was only 11,580 according to the United Network of Organ Sharing. Therefore, there is a prominent difference between supply and demand of organs in the United States. Many consider theRead MoreJohn Q: an Ethical Analys and Review3010 Words   |  13 PagesJohn Q: An Ethical Analysis and Review. NURS 360 Dr. Schantz March 8, 2011 Abstract The film John Q provides a model for the analysis and demonstration of ethical principles of distributive justice as they pertain to healthcare and, more specifically, organ allocation in the face of scarcity. The film portrays the shortcomings of a managed care system as well as the pitfalls of a libertarian approach to allocation. Here discussed are the ethical approaches of Eglitarianism, PrioritarianisnRead MoreHealthcare Business: The Legality of Introducing a New Structure for Organ Donation2843 Words   |  11 Pagesï » ¿Title of paper: Healthcare Business Legality Introducing a new structure for organ donation Students name: Course name and number: Instructors name: Date submitted: January 23rd, 2012 Introduction The legal and ethical business practices that are maintained to be the standardized rules in primary industries are also critical for the successful, legal and ethical execution in the healthcare industry so that the patients can choose the right healthcare provider and structure. To furtherRead MoreOrgan Donations : A Problem For The Transplantation Industry Essay1517 Words   |  7 Pages Organ donations stimulate positivity for the terminally ill despite all the challenges that has arisen from prior casual events. Through the correlation of persevering the gift of life to extend one’s life duration period, the organ shortage supply chain may not contribute much less withstands for unethical practice. The transplantation industry process may encounter various undergoes for the supply of organs before having a divine outcome. Organ shortages have become a problem for the transplantationRead More Ethical And Legal Aspects On Organ Transplantation Essay6401 Words   |  26 P agesEthical And Legal Aspects On Organ Transplantation Recent reports of public figures receiving life-saving transplants have brought renewed attention to the scarcity of organs and the importance of organ transplants. Although more transplants are being performed in the United States each year the transplant waiting list continues to grow. It has been considered that the decrease in organ donors is due to the unsuccessful measures taken by health care professionals. This is a limited view of theRead MoreThe Need For Rationing Increasingly Scarce Health Care Resources1543 Words   |  7 Pagesnot seem to be a consensus on how best to distribute health care services, the growing demand for coverage and current expectations of the public make addressing the situation increasingly more pressing. Examples from the key health care areas of organ transplantation, reproductive technology, and geriatric costs are briefly analyzed and placed in the larger context of the overall scarcity of health care resources in order to illustrate the ratio ning dilemmas facing health care. This issue will becomeRead MoreOrgan And Organ Of Organ Transplantation2652 Words   |  11 Pagescentury, organ transplantation provides a way of giving the gift of life to patients with terminal failure of vital organs. Organ transplantation requires the participation of both fellow human beings and of society by donating organs from deceased or living individuals. The ever increasing rate of organ failure and the inadequate supply of organs have created a significant gap between organ supply and organ demand. This gap has resulted in extremely lengthy waiting times to receive an organ as well

Do Supervisors Focus On The Nature Of People - 948 Words

DO Supervisors Focus On The Nature Of People Theory X- Theory Y Some supervisors believe that their employees are hardworking, committed, and responsible. Others view their employees as essentially lazy, irresponsible, and lacking ambition. This observation led Douglas McGregor to propose his Theory X -Theory Y. Theory X and Theory Y represent two sets of assumptions about human nature and human behavior that are relevant to the practice of management. Theory X represents a negative view of human nature that assumes individuals are generally dislike work, are irresponsible, and require close supervision to do their jobs. Theory Y denotes a positive view of human nature and assumes individuals are generally industrious, creative, and able to assume responsibility and exercise self-control in their jobs. One would expect, then, that managers holding assumptions about nature that are consistent with Theory X might exhibit a managerial style that is quite different than managers who hold assumptions consistent with Theory Y. Conceptualization and Development McGregor drew upon the work of Abraham Maslow (1908-1970) to explain why Theory X assumptions led to ineffective management. Maslow had proposed that man’s needs are arranged in levels, with physical and safety needs at the bottom of the needs hierarchy and social ego, and self –actualization (/Knowledge/Self-actualization.html) needs at upper levels of the hierarchy. Maslow’s basic point was that once a need is met, itShow MoreRelatedChallenges Faced By Ethnic Minority Supervisors1216 Words   |  5 PagesChallenges Faced By Ethnic Minority Supervisors in Clinical Supervision Personal Preparation My specialization paper will focus on the challenges faced by ethnic minority supervisors in clinical supervision. My paper is guided by the courses I took in the doctoral program, my personal experience as a supervisor and the gaps in literature review that motivated me to pursue this area of research. In the past two and a half years of my doctoral program, I took courses (advanced clinical supervisionRead MoreCustomer Service Technology At Oppd884 Words   |  4 Pagesworkforce there are endless numbers of managers and supervisors who are responsible for supervising and leading workers. Whether it’s a manager of the electronics department in Walmart, or the CEO of Union Pacific, supervisors are tasked with leading their coworkers and managing in an effective manner towards a common end goal. The manager I interviewed for this research assignment was my father, Patrick McDermott. Pat is currently the Supervisor of Customer Service Technology at OPPD, also knownRead Mor eOrganizational Characterization And Social Exchange Theories1130 Words   |  5 Pageson the relationship between the supervisors and each of their subordinates. The nature of the LMX relationship has been the focal point for research studies, especially those that are correlated with quality of the subordinate performance. According to Banks and associates (2014), LMX theory was utilized to assess the two-way (dyadic) approach of looking at relationships. These LMX relationships are exclusively grounded in the social exchanges between supervisors and subordinates. These social exchangesRead MoreMy Personal Leadership Challenge Analysis1227 Words   |  5 Pageshow the values that people have, influence the decisions they make and the actions they take. Northouse mentions that â€Å"because leaders usually have more power and control than followers, they also have more responsibility to be sensitive to how their leadership affects followers’ lives† (2013, p. 428). D ue to this strong statement, working to further understand the major types of values that relate to leadership will be important for me to pin-point which values my supervisor distinctively displaysRead MoreCoaching Style Of Choice When Working With James1222 Words   |  5 Pagesemployees within the organization (Nurse, 2005). There are gains made when managers shift their focus from attainment of numbers from employees as in the case of managing Sr. Associate on the Viacom International Inc. job, Gary Boone to focus on personal relations. There shall be the use of assertion in order to influence the mode of behavior that is usually exhibited by James. There is focus on people as well as building healthy relationships within an organization and there shall be the use of expansiveRead MoreOrganizational Characterization And Social Exchange Theories1408 Words   |  6 Pagessolely on the relationship between the supervisors and each of their subordinates. The nature of the LMX relationship has been the focal point for research studies, especially those that are correlated with quality of the subordinate performance (Chen, Yu, Son, 2014). The LMX theory was utilized to assess the two-way (dyadic) approach of looking at relationships. These LMX relationships are exclusively grounded in the social exchanges between supervisors and subordinates. These social exchangesRead MoreA Coaching and Performance Improvement Analysis1572 Words   |  6 Pagesthe case of warehouse operations, similar tactics must be utilized to ensur e that the facility can compete. The way that this will be accomplished is to focus on a specific person inside the organization and the way they are impacting the work environment. The person that was selected for this analysis is the supervisor of the plant. The nature of the working relationship has been okay. The main reason is because this individual will often use the stable and homogenous management style. This is whenRead MoreThe Problem Of Sexual Harassment Complaints By Hr Departments1314 Words   |  6 PagesAudience Students of UST 630 Focus of the research I will look in literature current policy and practices not only at county level but other levels of government as well. I will take a look at the lack of support and follow up on sexual harassment complaints by HR departments. I will examine the policies and recommend ways to improve it. Situation at the County’s Investigation Division It was until a few years after â€Å"Gaby† got the job, when her soon to be new supervisor learned through a coworker thatRead MoreEmpowering Management Style922 Words   |  4 PagesIf you are a supervisor in small organizations, encourage a team of empowered, devoted employees should be on top of your priorities. There is nothing more essential to the organization’s operation than having committed and engaged manpower. As studies by many researches and practical investigations, employee engagement is the key driver for efficiency, development, competitive advantages and labor retention. The actions of immediate supervisor crucially affect their subordinate’s engagement.Read MoreThe Case Of Sergeant George Welsh1193 Words   |  5 Pageshandled this situation if I was the supervisor in charge. This paper will cover the major motivational techniques that I could use and the basic need that drives each officer. It will also assess my management style. It will also go over if my level of formal education, or the education of the officers will become an obstacle for me. Police officers that are satisfied with their life at work, may not be able to be motivated through a person that has a strong nature. They may resist a boss that shows

Core Values Free Essays

Family is my most important core value. Family brings out the best and worst in each of us. As we yield to and serve others we learn to love them and ourselves in the process. We will write a custom essay sample on Core Values or any similar topic only for you Order Now Many of us could never approach this form of selflessness in any other way. I believe having my family as my core value will allow my life to be great because I have a strong support system surrounding me. My mom is a great example of someone who admires the meaning family. It has helped her through the toughest parts of her life she said. The greater the loyalty of a group toward the group, the greater is the motivation among the members to achieve the goals of the group, and the greater the probability that the group will achieve its goals. † My second core value is loyalty. Loyalty is simply the act of putting someone or something else ahead of one’s self. If I stay true to people and they know I will be there no matter what, I will be able to gain not only their trust and respect but they will in return be loyal to me. Loyalty and respect for me is about a sense of belonging to something greater than myself. Loyalty will allow me to progress throughout life by helping me gain friends that know I will behind them. In my life I watch my grandma be loyal to my grandpa for 27 years. She said her best years of her life were spent with him. I have adopted the value of hard work through examples of my family, teammates, and coaches. Throughout my life, and every little step of progress I’ve made I’ve always came back to the same conclusion hard work is a requirement to success. The more I’ve accepted that I need to work hard, the more progress I made toward my goals. A great example of how hard work as improved my life is that in every single job I have had I have received a raise. A person who has shown extremely hard work through his life is Thomas Jefferson. â€Å"I’m a great believer in luck, and I find the harder I work the more I have of it. † Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States (1801–1809) and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence (1776). The value of friendship is something that few people take time to really appreciate. When you need a friend, you realize just what kind of value friendship holds. Everyone values friendships, but it’s especially important because I live on my own hours away from my family. It provides someone to talk to and hang out with on a regular basis. Another well learned message from friendship is the value of companionship. I believe everyone one who has a friend is a perfect example for someone who has had their life improved by this value. A decade long study conducted by the Center for Aging Studies at Flinders University, Australia showed proof for my statement above. The study involved about 1,500 elderly people and revealed that those who have a large network of friends tend to live longer by about 22% than those who have the least number of friends. I aim for growth in most aspects of my life. Personal growth is a critical component to my psychological well-being. Personal growth involves being conscious of my thoughts, feelings, prejudices, and judgments and using this personal knowledge to act with mindfulness and in greater accordance with my values and potential. Being a college student is the perfect time to enhance my personal growth, because it is the time in my life where I have to learn to live on my own and decide my own future. The biggest part of personal growth for me is learning how to perceive my feeling and thoughts. For example, if I think life is a struggle, it will be a struggle. If I think I am tired, I will become tired. If I believe I am happy, I will see things appear that make you happy. Our thoughts are like a big magnet. Freedom is a value that’s really strong within me. Freedom is something I value on all plains of life, from the physical freedom of movement to the mental freedom of thought and decisions. This value sets a clear direction for me, both to actively attain freedom and to prevent me from doing things that might limit my freedom in the future. I obtain this value throughout my younger years of my life when I was continuously getting in trouble and had my freedom of lunch and sports taken away from me. My best example of someone who admires freedom as a value is my dad. My dad went to jail for 5 ? ears and now he is less reckless, insuring that he will not go back to jail. I’m here to have lots of fun. I love laughing. Good hearty laughter helps release enzymes and hormones that are helpful for normal functioning of various organs. In addition laughter reduces the levels of certain hormones, namely cortisol, growth hormone, epinephrine and dopac, which are associated with stress response. I am a strong believe in living live to the fullest and to do so I need to be having fun while doing it. Time is too precious not to have fun, but it’s so easy to let it slip. Sometimes we’re just too serious and it’s so easy to get caught in that atmosphere. I’m dedicated to have fun and not let this happen anymore. Not to me, and if I can, not to anybody. Love is a central theme in my life. I need love and have a lot of love to give. Love for life, for people, for animals, for nature, for beautiful things, for the things I do and so on. But the most important is the love for my family and friends. Love can make me happy as if I was in a heaven, while being miserable and disappointed in love can make me feel like the whole world has fallen apart. I have learned to love wisely, love will not hurt me, and instead it will lead me to a healthy life. An example of the benefits of love for others is in a case study. Love results in more activation in the part of the brain that keeps pain under control. A study of 127,000 adults confirmed that married people were less likely to complain of headaches and back pain. The reduced stress level also leads to pain relief, especially if you suffer from things such as chronic headaches. How to cite Core Values, Essay examples Core Values Free Essays Marco Aurelien Period 1st Mr. Hill British Lit Beowolf: To leave or not to leave In many ways the ancient Greek and Roman of Beowulf times are intertwined with the modern lives that all of us lead today. These antiquities affect us beyond the obvious government, theatrical, and social practices. We will write a custom essay sample on Core Values or any similar topic only for you Order Now The core values of this era mirror and shape our modern core values and morals of today. Pietas – loyalty, gravitas – seriousness, and dignitas – respect are all things that were seen as important at this time period just as they are seen as important in todays world. It is easy to talk about the obvious positive traits that characters have shown in the epic novels or poems we have read but it is more interesting to look at the shadows on grey in a person to show the realism within. The more difficult way of comparing these different eras is to look at the morals and core values that the citizens lived by. Pietas, gravitas, and dignitas, are three general core values that every one in society must show and live by on a daily basis. In Beowulf, he had the task to going up against what seemed to be an undefeatable and despised monster that could ultimately lead to his demise. Most would say that Beowulf should a large amount of bravery and Gravitas to go and venture to Denmark to defeat Grendel. Another vantage point is that in actuality Beowulf lacked Pietas to his nation in leaving to fight a battle that was not his own. Though his father had left him in debt of a favor to King Hrothgar, it was his own choice to follow in his father’s footsteps as a warrior. Beowulf was an exemplary example of Dignitas in all aspect of his life, as a role model and giving and commanding respect from everyone. These core values still surround us in modern times everyday and are necessary in order to succeed in life. A student must exhibit all of these things if they are attempting to become a well-rounded scalar and human being. If everyone demonstrates pietas, or loyalty, towards his or her community and school they will have a strong support system around them allowing them to reach their true potential. Students should have a certain level of gravitas, or seriousness, in order to create a safe and effective learning environment for not only his or herself but for everyone around them. While it is important for students to have pietas and gravitas is even more important that that student had dignitas, or respect, for others and for themselves. Everyone may believe that Beowulf exhibited the core values at all times but it can be proven that he did not. These ancient values are as relevant as possible in the modern day world. We may have been able to do without theater or even a democratic political system but if people began living without pietas, dignitas, and gravitas society would fall apart. The modern citizen must exhibit all of these core values if they expect to be successful and if they do they are eventually going to do well in life. How to cite Core Values, Papers

EARTHQUAKE Essay Example For Students

EARTHQUAKE Essay Eartquake has lived many country. Many peoplehave died this eatquake. The most important example, 17August in 1999 Turkey earthquake. The most effective ?stanbul,Avc?lar and Yalova in Turkey. What does improve thiseathquake before and after?What is the event about earthquake now?TURKEY AND EARTHQUAKEAfter earthquake 17 August was noth?ng old the same stilpeople have continued bitter.We have to live withearthquake.The l?fe and propecty lost to become 17 August and12 September ?n earthquake.It was Earthquake has been to knowevent a naturel people arent interested, ignorant reason changein fact a disaster. Other civilized countries take precautions. They haveknown very good a fact. They know healtier, than other people. Therefore A buildings very good are built by they along years. Turkey hasnt improvied. Eartquakes reason peopels make toearn more much for inadequate and not lasting buildings. Wecontrol to live our circumference new buildings. We readinessnew an earthquake. People Havent Turned Back Old Way Of Life After Many People Have BeenDisaster ?n The LifeTurkey lived disaster centurys in 17 August 1999. Earthquake pulled down night at 03.02 45 second 7.4 violencein Marmara. Later from earthquake;STRONG BU?LD?NGSStrong buildings first argue life world bank and ministryof public works was made buildings different between in reason. World Banks buildings small cause eartguake victim, reaction. Some company stopped construction because ; There waseconomic attack in Turkey. Peoplebuildings take delivery to be faced any withdeficient. PEOPLE HELP POSITIONThe unemployment increase, the company closed inTurkey. People begin to live unsuitable buildings.Turkishengineers collected inside and outside help 10 milliard dollars,but Yalova was given 1,5 milliard dollars by government. NOTH?NG ?SNT CHANGEEarthquake victim work percent 42.3 in 100 milliondoolars in marmara. Other result in research; The familys have at home measure percent 47 The familys tenant measure percent 42.2 The familys lodging measure percent 7.7 The familys apatman measure percent 61.7 The familys hause measure percent 29.7The investmen share got less budgets government. Healty,education, social, security etc. Restricted to do this departmentfor government. Earthquake people lived big problem. Thisproblem didnt give in buildings people. However self-criticism make Augusts anniversary thisgeography should make suitable building. We are honestopposite yourself, Therefore we become to protect our future.

Top 3 Misconceptions International Students Have About College Interviews

The college application process isn’t over once you submit your application - you still have the college interview. This might be common knowledge to domestic students applying to U.S. colleges, but not to the international applicants. With the rise in number of international applicants, wants to share the most common misconceptions international students have about the college interview.Misconception No. 1: Interviews Arent Available to International Applicants. This isn’t true! You won’t believe how many alumni there are all over the world. Many of them have volunteered to interview college students no matter where they are. If no one reached out to you about a college interview from a specific school, email the admissions office and follow up! Take it from this international students from Moldova and China:thebottle: I did interviews with MIT, Princeton, Upenn, Brown and UChicago. All of these were quite relaxed and interesting. I had the longest interview with Princeton, because the interviewing alumnus was a former physics Olympiad participant, so we discussed a lot about Math/Science Olympiads. We discussed several topics, including future career plans and how Olympiad participation may boost my chances. All interviews followed the same pattern: I began with the short introduction, then general questions followed, and finally I was able to ask my questions about the university. During the interview I always had a short wor d document guide on my screen. I jotted down main points of my biography and main questions I’d like to ask. This little cheat-sheet helped me to stay concentrated during the interview. The most standard questions are: What do you like? Why did you choose our university? How do your skills and interests correspond to opportunities offered by our university? However, MIT followed a bit more creative pattern. Instead of asking a bunch of direct questions, they gave me time to introduce myself and then asked several thinking-out-of-the-box questions. I had to explain what I would do with ten millions of dollars, what I find exciting about engineering and ultimately how I would manifest myself in the MIT environment.Misconception No. 2: It’s a one-sided interview. This is a general misconception that many international students fall for, because of the lack of information available about college interviews. The interview isn’t just designed for the college to find o ut more about you. It’s also for you to learn more about the school, especially on topics that you might not be able to find out about otherwise (like campus life, academics, and more). These students from Hong Kong and China talk about their experiences: kingcooper: I interviewed with most of the schools that I applied to, and for most of them, I would say the interviewer really told me what kind of school it was and whether or not it would be a right fit for me. Yale has always been my first choice, but after interviewing with them, I lost a significant amount of interest. I graduated top of my class and have always been active with basically every type of extracurricular, so I am not inadequate by any means, but I must also admit that I know that I am not the best. However, the interviewer I had for Yale had already made her mind up before I said anything. She was super condescending the entire time and didnt seem like she wanted to be there. s Sample Free Profile! In comparison, the interviewers I met for Vanderbilt, WUSTL, Georgetown, and GW were all extremely nice. The difference was they were all excited about the school that they went to. As much as this interview is for them to get to know more about you, it is also for you, as an applicant, to get to know the school, the type of people that went there, and to get you excited to want to go there. So, go to your interviews prepared, knowing what kind of school it is, and just be yourself.a.little.pebble (Cornell 17):I interviewed with a lot of schools; off the top of my head, I remember Georgetown (my first interview; Im still in contact with my interviewer), Harvard, Yale, MIT, Princeton, and Penn. Interviews were held in libraries and coffee shops; they typically ranged from 30 minutes to, on one memorable occasion, one and a half hours (it only ended because the cafe was closing). The best advice is the most commonly given advice: be yourself. As cliche as it sounds, it is immensely hel pful; interviewers are genuinely interested in who you are as a person, and this is your chance to show who you are off paper. Be passionate, be excitable; make your interviewer feel how enthusiastic you are towards subjects that interest you, because universities want passionate students who will shape the world in the future.Misconception no. 3: Not having a college interview will hurt your chances. The college interview isn’t a requirement, but an added bonus to your college application. Don’t panic if you didn’t get a chance to interview! There are times where there are no alumni interviewers available for in person or Skype interviews, but there are still other ways you can communicate with the school you are applying to. Listen to what Pearle, an international student from Nigeria, had to say about her experience: Pearle:None, being an international student doesnt really offer a lot of opportunities for interviews. So, I mostly communicated via email.This is very important, I actually check my email every 30 mins now out of habit, which helped because some schools communicate quickly regardless of time difference and I know my been timely with responses made it easier for applications review and financial aid questions. Also,check out their social media site,this shows enthusiasm for the school. Whether you’re just starting your search or you’re looking for help applying, it’s never too early to make the college application process easier.Searchto find students like you orcontact a mentorfor help with the admissions process so you can narrow down your choices and get a head start.

Overview of the internet age

Overview of the internet age The advances that have been made since the advent of the internet age have come with their own limitations in society. While it is irrefutable to observe that internet connectivity has hastened the pace of development in the modern world, it is also profound to mention that digital crimes have been elevated with this kind of development.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Overview of the internet age specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Some of the recent empirical researchers carried out on the development of information and technology reveal that organized crime is entering its fourth great era (Fafinski, 2009). This era will most entail the use of internet knowledge to commit cyber-related crimes. In any case, the internet era has practically converged the offline and online environments due to the rapid flow and sharing of information from one point to another. Due to improved ease of sharing information, it has also be en discovered that there are myriads of illegal organized activities that can be conducted through the internet by individuals with the aim of committing a felony. About 80% of modern digital crimes are presumed to be organized by individuals in remote locations through the internet. Although the young tech-savvy generation has been closely associated with the fast growth of digital crime through the internet, it is understood that individuals who are above 35 years account for nearly 45% of all the digital crimes committed through the internet. On the other hand, the youths who are perceived to be tech-savvy account for about 29% of all the digital crimes (Caeti et al., 2005). In about 50% of the organized crimes that are conducted through the internet, there are usually between six to ten individuals who collaborate to commit such acts. Nonetheless, it should be noted that digital crimes do not rely on the performance of groups since individuals can equally engage in acts of crime . The digital crimes committed through the internet have indeed evolved since the early 1920s when authorities largely struggled with offenders who broke the set prohibition laws. During the early 20th century, racketeering, gambling and consumption of illicit alcohol were coordinated and conducted offline (Caeti et al., 2005). As such, the impacts of such crimes were minimal since the influence was largely localized. The modern society has a wide access to information as a result of quick access to internet connectivity. The latter has turned the world into a global village, making it easy for criminals to access private and confidential information.Advertising Looking for essay on it? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More For instance, one of the most dominant digital crimes entails cybercrime whereby individuals or organized groups hack into private data stored in emails, websites or offline databases. In any case, the fourth era of digital crime is a major threat to the overall wellbeing of the modern generation (Caeti et al., 2005). Even though exposure to internet poses major security threats to individuals and the society at large, it has proved to be a necessary evil that the modern world cannot do without if fast development is to be achieved. For instance, the internet provides an extremely efficient and elaborate means of communication. In addition, information technology has been boosted by the presence of internet connectivity. Vast knowledge has been acquired and transmitted through the internet. Moreover, the society is now more enlightened than it used to be some decades ago (Fafinski, 2009). One outstanding attribute of the internet connectivity is the online learning portal that several institutions are using to disseminate knowledge. Needless to say, business enterprises have also sprung up and hastened their pace of development through the internet. Therefore, it should not be era dicated in the modern world. Governments should come up with prohibitive measures and safety use standards that govern the internet. References Caeti, T. J., Liederbach, J. R., Loper, K. J., Fritsch, E. J. Taylor, R. W. (2005). Digital Crime and Digital Terrorism. New Jersey, NJ: Prentice Hall. Fafinski, S. (2009). Computer Misuse: Response, regulation and the law. Cullompton: Willan

The Accreditation Services in the USA Assignment

The Accreditation Services in the USA - Assignment Example The process of accrediting helps to promote as well as uphold this unique function of higher education. There are quite a number of associations which offer the accreditation services. However, this essay will discuss and compare two accreditation associations; the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. To be qualified for Initial Accreditation or Reaffirming of Accreditation as well as the Candidacy status, the MSCHE states that institutions of higher education have to and continue to abide by the following requirements: 2. The institution has to provide written documents that it has the authority of operating as an educational institution as well as award postsecondary degrees through the right governmental organization in the Middle States Region. 4. Commit itself to periodic self-evaluation, institutional improvement and a continuous compliance with the standards set by the Commission as well as its decisions, procedures, and policies (WASC Handbook of Accreditation, 2001). Based on the results of the institutional review by colleagues and peers chosen by the Commission, accreditation proves to the finding of the Higher Education Commission that a given institution has confirmed to the following criteria: 1. Organization for student learning: this involves issues such as whether the institution has set up a clear and purposeful statement which reflects the philosophy and the beliefs of the institution. It also rotates on whether the governing authority has adopted policies which are in line with the goals of the school. 2. Curriculum and Instruction: This involves such issues as to whether the school has the capacity to provide a coherent, relevant and challenging curriculum for every student who meets the purposes of the school.  

The National Security Agency and Cryptography Term Paper

The National Security Agency and Cryptography - Term Paper Example In the past, cryptography was primarily used for military and government intelligence, which is still very important to date. However, advancement in electronic communication systems especially the internet has fueled the use of cryptography in sending private messages and information such as medical records, banking data and credit card numbers among others via electronic channels. Cryptography ensures rapid, secure and confidential electronic communication between two or more people (Nsa.gov, 2). Garfinkel points out that mathematical cryptography involves the use of mathematical processes for sending secret information. It uses the method of encryption, which only the recipient can comprehend. Through this method, a plaintext message is converted into ciphertext, which is sent to the other party. The receiver of the message converts the ciphertext back to plaintext using decryption. The channels through which the messages are sent may be open or accessible to outside parties who i ntercept messages but these people cannot understand or interfere with the information. A Cryptographic system is a process, method or system that provides security in terms of integrity, non-reputation, authentication, access control and confidentiality. The system provides encryption and decryption, which may be software, hardware or even a manually performed process. A cryptographic system ensures confidentiality of information by preventing its disclosure to unauthorized persons either in a local network or across a network. Therefore, for a cryptographic system to be effective in preventing unauthorized decryption of messages, it should be strong, making it hard to crack and to break the system. However, a system is considered weak if it is easily decrypted, has defects in its designs or if it allows weak keys (Dulaney 326). The cryptographic system should also provide an assurance that the recipient receives the original message from the sender. It should not allow any kind of modification on the message during transmission because if this happens, the message is altered and it becomes unintelligible and inaccurate, which may have serious consequences on the recipient. For instance, if such alterations happened in medical records that involved drug prescriptions, the patient under medication may be in danger. Therefore, a cryptographic system should ensure integrity in its process by having mechanisms that will indicate that the message was altered or corrupted, hence allowing proper precautions (Dulaney 327). There are four fundamental principles behind cryptography. The first principle implies the use of a plaintext, which is the message that the sender wishes to encrypt. After the encryption, the message becomes a ciphertext, which is the second principle. The third principle involves a mathematical function known as encryption algorithm that encrypts the message and the fourth principle implies the type of key or keys used in cryptography. The key(s) can be a phrase, a number or a word that is used by the mathematical function for encryption. The main goal of cryptography is to ensure that the original plaintext cannot be reproduced from the ciphertext without using the corresponding key(s) (Garfinkel, 33). Cryptography requires both the sender and the receiver to have the knowledge of the procedures involved in encryption and de

Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 3

Research Paper Example It is an undeniable fact that the world is increasingly multicultural. Due to the integrations of business and the growing globalization that defines the entire world economy, business faces a fundamental question of how they should define multiculturalism within their respective departments. The crux of this matter must necessarily be contingent upon to key factors. The first of these is with regards to what can be defined as a race and the second with what can be defined as ethnicity and culture. Although these two terms are invariably misconstrued to be one in the same, and appropriate and applicable level of understanding with respect to each of these is necessary with regards to defining an understanding the characteristics of what a truly multicultural organization must engender. Firstly, it must be understood that one of the more nebulous of the concepts which has been discussed above is necessarily that of race. Ultimately, race has been used as means of categorizing humans b y cultural, genetic, geographic, anatomical, linguistic, social, religious, or historical means (Goby, 2007). As a function of this, the very definition of race is something that sociologists and anthropologists continue to argue about. Due to the many determinants of race that exist, is oftentimes been decided that since no working and firm definition of what defines one and what defines another can readily be agreed upon, ethnicity, or the means by which an individual is defined as a result of culture and geographic origin, is a far better identifier of people. Broadly speaking, race, and racial definitions is something that the stakeholder must integrate with; whether or not they are of the opinion that such a definition is ultimately helpful. Due to the fact that the stakeholder is responsible not only for integrating directly with the society but also with explicating and defining the means by which past history has taken place and continues impact upon the stakeholders within the workplace, race is not a topic that can merely be brushed aside and deemed as a prior an unsuccessful method of grouping individuals (Pinder, 2009). The fact of the matter is that even as academia and society as a whole differs upon an approach and appreciation for such a concept, it remains incumbent upon the manager/supervisor to continue to place a level and degree of focus upon the importance that race necessarily engenders. Having a diverse representation of race within the workplace allows for the firm to be able to integrate with the perspectives and needs of an increasingly diverse consumer base (Usry & White, 2000). Moreover, by representing such a range of diversity within the firm, the multicultural aura of business and business competition will be bolstered to allow the firm to compete more effectively. Regardless of the potentially flawed an incomplete understanding and appreciation for how race impacts upon the individual and society that the workers within a parti cular industry might necessarily have, it is incumbent upon the manager/stakeholder to seek to distance himself/herself from any of these faulty pre-conceived and ultimately unscientific interpretations.

Risks Associated With International Business Transactions Economics Essay

Risks Associated With International Business Transactions Economics Essay International business has appeared in the history to satisfy the need of merchandises from long distance nations , it was an international trade . It begins in the 19th century BC where it has appeared in Assyrian merchant colony in Cappadocia . Camels allows Arab to move spices and silk from far east and trade it , establishing the silk road which make a connection to trade Chinese and Indian goods with the Romanian empire goods .Vasco de gamma ( Portuguese explorer ) has established a sea route between Europe and India . As international trade extent to reach all nations , the necessity of regulations or an international business law has been raised . The main convention for international trade was the united nations convention on contracts for international sale of good (CISG) which established by UNCITRAL (United nations commission on international trade law) . International Business Law involves two parts , private and public law , the private law related to international business transaction like international trade , finance trade , licensing and distributing agreements . the public law related to agreements that help to create a legal framework which international business takes place ( e.g. Treaties , Customs , Tariff.. ) International Business Transactions A business transactions begins when a buyer and a seller agree the terms and conditions to purchase a specific goods with a detailed quantity and price ( contract of sale ). In this contract , from the buyer point of view what is essential is to gain the ownership of the goods , for the seller what is important is to have the legal terms that provide receiving money . An International business transactions differ from domestic business transaction , because its usually include long distance which means higher risk in goods transiting , which mean higher insurance , how money will be transferred and who is responsible of the goods delivery , all that should be included and clearly in international business transaction contract . import Export trade Imports are goods or services that are made or grown abroad then purchased or receipt by the importer and distributed domestically . Exports are goods or services that are made or grown inside the nation then sold or rendered by the exporter to be distributed abroad The need of export import trade generally is because on country has an advantage over others in specific items , some countries have comparative advantages like manufacturing (ex. Germany , japan .. ) others have comparative advantage in natural resources like oil or gas ( ex. Saudi Arabia , Russia ) . Exporting can be direct or indirect .Direct exporting is when the manufacturer take the responsibility of most of the export processes , usually they use Foreign sales representative or foreign distributer in the exported country .Indirect exporting is when a company use intermediaries ( export trade company , export management company ) to enter the foreign market , usually happen because lack of capital or because the company do not have the needed experience to enter this foreign country . Trades usually governed by the laws and regulations of the trade countries , they use tariffs and non-tariffs barriers , this reflect the way that companies trade with each country . In 1947 nations accept General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade , this movement occurred to liberalize trade by reducing tariffs and non-tariffs barriers . in 1995 WTO (World Trade Organization ) has been created to manage the rules and assist settling the trade disputes between WTO nations . foreign Direct Investment Foreign Direct Investment is when a company invest its workforces and resources to purchase or to build an operation in another country . those company called MNC (Multinational Corporation) . Countries usually welcome FDI because MNCs has many impacts over hosts country economics and political system . FDI is a major decision for any company because its full of costs and risks . MNCs companies has many ways to enter the market of a foreign country considering of many factors like capitalization , legal considerations and market condition, MNCs decide to enter foreign market as Joint Venture , Mergers , Subsidiaries or Acquisitions . When a firm owned 100% by a foreigner , its a wholly owned subsidiary . A joint venture is an organization that is created by two or more companies or with the foreign government they share risk and assets , companies use joint venture to reduce the risk of entering foreign market . ( e.g. Peugeot France has a joint venture with Dongfeng Motor China) A strategic alliance is an agreement between competitors to achieve common goal .(e.g. Airlines Coding share ) Licensing , Franchising Licensing is an agreement where the Licensor (Firm) grants a Licensee (Foreign Firm) the right to use its intellectual property ( patent , logo, formula , etc.) .Licensing can be completely within one country , but its a way that companies use to distribute its products with minimum risk taken , where there is a percentage of profit paid by the licensee to the licensor . Franchising is a form of licensing which the Franchisor (parent firm) offers equipment , material , trademarks , technology à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ to the Franchisee (investor) , in the other hand the franchisee should pay a fee or a percentage of the profit to the franchisor .(e.g. McDonalds) Franchising is a good way to inter the foreign market because the franchisee will provide the capital for investment and the management and franchisee will deal with customer and labor problems , franchising usually associated with many legal requirements , it depends on the country , un US the federal trade commission is regulating the franchising . in other hand in china they eliminated most of the restriction on franchising . rISK aSSOCIATED WITH INTERNTIONAL BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS sTRATEGIC rISK Strategic risk means the risk of weak or bad strategic decision concerning the competitiveness the firm in the foreign country , its the risk of misanalysing of the porters five forces which are the threat of new entrants , threat of substitute products or services , Bargaining power of customer , Bargaining power of suppliers and the intensity of competitive rivalry . Usually MNCs companies is more concerned about this risk , where a well done study of the market is required before entering the foreign country . An example of a company which failed In the strategic risk consideration . Political risk International managers should understand the substantial effects of political decision making in country before beginning its business , and understand how political decision making can influence its business . Political movements and instability can make it difficult to the company to operate well . International manager should be aware of the ideology of the host country , the economic system ( communism , socialism ,capitalism ) and the political system ( democratic , totalitarianism ) and the structure of the host government , a risk of embargos and sanction of trades which usually used for political pressure rather that economic issues .Understanding the stability of host country political system can avoid many risks , a new and hostile government may replace the friendly relationships and hence expropriate foreign assets .The firm most understand the regional stability and international affairs of the host country . The firm can do political risk analysis to assist in firm deci sion making . operational risk Operational Risk is the risk concerning operational activities , machineries breakdown , supply of resources, logistics and inventory problems .By establishing a good operational risk analysis and evaluation , companies will be able to reduce operational loss, pre-detecting of illegal activities , reducing auditing costs and reduce exposures to future risks , and that well lead to reduce waste and improve processes , it will develop lead-time and add to efficiency in international business . In export Import international transaction , a delivery risk is an operational risk , where a buyer didnt receive ordered goods , it can happen because of workers strike , or delay in the shipment . One form of delivery risk is property risk , and its a loss or damage to the goods before they arrive. The risk of Pilferage can affect all types of trade transaction , specially import export one, this has been a problem for many years , a new way of boxing (cargo) and new technologies entered this sector to minimize the risk of pilferage . country risk When the firm decided to do business broad , it should consider the basic infrastructure needed for the firm operation , that what country risk means . Roads , Bridges and telecommunication, crime rate and corruption , internal conflicts or civil unrest and the economic condition ( unemployment rate , unskilled labor force etc. ) , terrorism , in the host country all that can make it difficult to enter or do business safely ,effectively , efficiently in that country . Country risk can be the Language and Cultural differences and the risk of exposure to foreign law and courts , a Lack of language differences awareness can cause many problems that will end in courts , an example of that , what happened in1975 , United states district court , between Gaskin (US citizen) and Stumm Handel GMBH (German company ) , an employment contract written in German has been signed by Gaskin ,who has no knowledge about German language . technological risk Lack of security in electronic transaction , absence of information technology infrastructure and the cost of rapidly developed technology , all that will result creating problems that will affect doing business in the host country . environmental risk Environmental risk may lead to damage the reputation of the Firm if firms function resulted pollution ( Air , water , environment .etc.) and that will cause risk to the firm .And vice versa if the host country has pollution , that may cause health problem to firms employees . economic Financial risk Changing in domestic fiscal or monetary policies , devaluation or inflation rate , GDP , unemployment rate and the ability of the host country to meet financial obligations , all that make an Economic risk that should be careful understood before conducting international business . In this area, Currency exchange rate can have big effect over international trade and investment decisions taken by the firm . Fluctuations in foreign country currency can diminish profits when the firm convert them back to home currency , some countries may create rules that will minimize the flexibility of the firm to send money outside the country , hedging strategies could mitigate some of the currency exchange rate. In export-Import international transaction a financial risk can be a payment risk , where the buyer will fail to pay for the ordered goods , it will costs a lot specially if the cost of shipment is so high (Because of sensitive or heavy shipments ). Summary The International Business environment has changes a lot in the last decades , with the high competitiveness of international market , International mangers now a days should be aware of economic , political , culture and other differences in the world to be affective in his position . The three main international business types , export-imports , FDI , and Licensing and franchising. In each type of them there are risks that should be considered and pre-determined to be able to build and plan a good strategy that will minimize any risk that may face firm international business.

Television Vs Movies Essay -- essays research papers

Before there was television and motion pictures (movies), people used to spend their leisure time listening to the radio. They were offered little variety and often routinely listened to the same things. In the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, motion pictures and television were invented, respectively. In the beginning, they were considered luxuries. As time wore on, they became increasingly more and more popular. Today they are both extremely common forms of entertainment. Though they are both very popular, they are also very different.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Going to the movies offers a complete escape from everyday life for a few hours at a time. In movies, a story can usually be told from beginning to end in a short period of time. Movies allow a person to get completely wrapped ...

Strategic Plan, Part III: Balanced Scorecard

The objectives for are derived from the mission statement together with our company aim to provide our clients and their customers with the most flexible and effective customer relations services and protecting the relationship between a recognizable brand name and the customers that are served. The mission statement clearly outlines what is important to our clients, their customers and lastly what is most important to LLC. A satisfied customer is paramount to the success of our clients. This objective is only achieved by the professionalism, caring and the understanding by the call center agents that we are the first line of customer interaction that represents the client company. Our position in the process must leave a desirable first impression upon the client customers. Our management team grasp of a body of knowledge pertaining to the call center industry will continue to nurture a work-force that is being primed to provide impeccable customer relations services to an expanded field consisting of retailers in every industry of service. The role of the call center is growing in the service industry. Our vision statement recognizes the position of call centers as technological advances are made to deliver superb customer service relations. Technology will be the deciding factor in achieving objectives. The larger customer relations firms are poised to continue out-sourcing their services which leaves a void for customer service relations opportunities in the United States. Our vision to continue to grow our work-at-home program is a strategic measure and a competitive advantage that we feel will continue to set us apart from the competition. The overall logistics of the work-at-home program must be modified to ensure the success of the candidates that desire to service client customers from home. This program is a key objective to future growth for our organization. The vision demands continual training and innovation that will formulate an already client and customer friendly service to a business model that will expand to other areas of retail industries. The SWOTT analysis showed strength in the areas of intellectual property and a business model that has a focus on work-at-home moms. These two objectives will be the driving force that will allow LLC to strengthen the profitability, efficiency and productivity of our clients. There is also an expectation for an increase in market share which will provide added incentives to our employees and management team. A key component of the SWOTT analysis is in the technological design of the latest equipment that will set the precedent moving forward for the industry. The knowledge that is required to implement the newer systems has always been an advantage for our management team. Any threats from competitors will be thwarted by the increase in market share and the ability to implement and provide training for the newer systems which will be done in-house. Any strategic advantage that can be attained must be sustained. The SWOTT analysis can not be over emphasized nor should it be downplay the threats to an organization. It has been utilized as a tool that will give our organization the best internal analysis that shows what is possible internally in light of the external factors.

Nike and Apple

This paper looks at two global brand names that have teamed up to make a new product for sports consumers. These are Nike and Apple. Nike is well known corporate brand associated with manufacture of Nike shoes while Apple is known for the manufacture of small and durable computer gadgets used in the music industry, the iTunes music store. Due to growing trend of consumers liking of their brand they have developed Nike+iPod Sport Kit that embraces two technologies that are divergent in nature but uniquely complementary to sports use. The Nike+iPod Sport Kit is able to capture athlete’s data, store it and interact with other gadgets useful for sports training. The use of it and other older devices have contributed to the success and potential of the merger between Nike and Apple companies. NIKE AND APPLE Nike and Apple are brand names of companies dealing in two different market fields. Nike has established itself as the dominant figure in sport shoes while Apple is the dominant the filed of computer technology where they have build a solid base in the music play list. Nike brands are Nike shoes that are the darling and much sought after shoes from sports consumers. While Apple has the dominant iTunes music store in which athletes have been uploading music. Since music is synonymous with athletes during training, the CEOs of these two companies came with a partnership to deliver a product of its kind (Lab paper main source). The CEO of Nike first approached Apple’s CEO with the ‘smart running shoe’ idea it was processed and a new idea referred by Apple’s CEO as ‘great start’ was born. This is a combination of two technologies that would improve the performance of the runners. The partnership which was labeled ‘design difficulties’ embraces a phenomenon that has already been ventured by other companies however, great improvement have been made. Thus Nike and Apple came up with the product called Nike+iPod Sport Kit. This is where an electronic sensor is embedded on the shoe which relays signals to the receiver connected remotely to the Apple’s iPod of the nano music player (Lab paper main source). The data is loaded in it of which information like distance covered, speed of the runner, calories burned during the training and can be customized to give details with specificity such as setting of ‘power song’. The iPod stores information on duration, distance covered and calories utilized during running time. The data is then transferred to a Mac or computer to which it uses the Nike website, Nikeplus.com where the runner can view data on the screen, analyze his progress, customize goals and show results later. This kit allows the runner to get feedback through the iPod speaker, and listen to music as he or she trains (Lab paper main source; Lab paper supporting material 2). The accuracy of this gadget is quite precise at over 90 percent even when used outside the box. For instance Armstrong used it during his training and tested with car speed and found that the nano recorded 5.2 miles while the speedometer recorded 5.3 miles (Lab paper supporting material 2). As a matter of fact the two companies brought this synergy of ideas based on the ‘beautiful friendship’ level to which there association has brought similarities and differences in harmonious integration.   For instance, Nike and Apple are similar because they leading global brand names in their field of specialization that is the buzz of young and cool consumer market. Two they are all technologically driven whereby the apple is known for semiconductors and software proficiency while Nike is force behind anatomy, precision molding as well as thin film technology. This is illustrated by one of the CEOs who termed it ‘scratching the surface of technology’ where they can only be limited by the scope of imagination and business deal. It is a merger that is transcending to a field that has not been touched hence showcasing the huge potential opening for further development (Lab paper main source). Therefore,   Nike has   rolled out   an expansive development of seven other styles of   Nike branded shoes in the near future which include Nike air zoom moire, Nike shox, Air max lines, Plus ready   and Nike plus. Plus ready brand is already in market with at least 4 million shoes being sold in stores (Lab paper main source). The development of technology did not happen without the obstacles as admitted by the executives’ of the two companies. On is that it took them eighteen months to come to agreement on the best platform dubbed Zen state. The problems being the sensor in the Nike shoe was bigger which was not welcomed by Nike engineers but the Apple designers saw it as small. Secondly the duration of the battery was short at about 1000 hrs. This was because the wireless technology to be employed consumed a lot of power and none wanted wire connection. However, it brought out a gadget that could be beneficial to all at an affordable price of $29 for iPod, $ 149 for nano and $100 for the shoe. This brings the question of affordability of the product to the consumers compared to previous product from companies like Garmin handheld GPS which its cost range from $115 to $377 depending on its sophistication (Lab paper main source). The partnership of two companies carries great benefits to both as indicated by their market share experiences. For instance, Nike will be solidifying its presence on the MP3 payer market having unsuccessfully tried through collaboration with Philips electronics. Apple being the dominant player gives Nike the presence and avenue it needs most. While Apple is gaining ground on a new field hence making iPod become a platform in sport market rather than as a music player. Nike profile will be elevated due to its connection with Apple and their market share will expand similarly because of similar demographics. Although some criticize the apple deal arguing that it is nutty others opposed it vehemently. For the case of Philips electronics where they have had long brand-licensing agreement it will still hold (Lab paper supporting material). This is not the first time Nike is penetrating the MP3 player market because they have done so with Philips electronics and co-branded the PSA 610, 4 GB hard disk with GPS sensor. This market has had other products of similar nature such as use of wristwatches, heart rate monitors, pedometer and cycling computers. The polar’s line of heart rate enabled athletes and cyclist to set up, training regimens where data can be viewed on the computer and results analyzed. The Garmin forerunner which had a hand held GPS connected to the wrist or in edge lines provided real time tracking of location from the GPS.   Mac’s gadgets were used to interface computers and internet including the use of polar and Garmin models. Therefore as the new product are developed old gadgets such as Mac’s solidify their ground (Lab paper supporting material). CONCLUSION This paper has discussed the merger of two global brand names that are successful in their area of business. Their merger has created a new market and potential of technological collaboration as well as boost in market share consolidation. REFERENCE Lab paper main source article Lab paper supporting material Lab paper supporting material 2

soft drink industry essays

soft drink industry essays When there is industry there is competition. The bigger the player, the harder they can play. The big players always try to consume many of the small competitors. When they do this they can expand their market share. A perfect example of this is the soft drink industry; Pepsi and Coke have always been archrivals. They are always trying to gain market share, by absorbing many smaller beverage companies to appeal to the public. This paper will discuss the history between these two industry giants and how they financially stand at this point, plus how supply and demand effects this industry. Coca Cola was invented by an Atlanta pharmacist John Pemberton in 1886. His bookkeeper, Frank Robinson, named the product after two ingredients, coca leaves and Kola Nuts. By 1895 the product was available in all 50 states. By 1916 the Company was sold twice, had over 1000 bottlers, and was publicly traded (Dow Jones, Coke). During World War II, the president of Coke Woodruff said, "every soldier will have access to a 5 cent bottle of coke"(Dow Jones, Coke). The company received government aid to build 64 overseas bottling plants during that time. This is how Coke began its ties with many foreign markets. Caleb Bradham, a Pharmacist from North Carolina, invented Pepsi. He Called it Pepsi Cola because, he claimed it cured Dyspepsia or more commonly known as indigestion. He registered the trademark in 1903. Pepsi tried to follow the same root as Coke by signing up bottlers, by 1923 Pepsi was on its last leg until Loft Candy Company bought it in 1931. It increased its bottle size but kept its 5-cent price. In 1939 it introduced its first radio jingle (Dow Jones, Pepsi). Pepsi had a rough start compared to Coke, and always tried to rise out of the shadow of this industry giant. "According to Coca-Cola Company, the two most famous expressions in the world are ok and Coca-Cola" (Dow Jones, Coke). The world's largest soft drink Company, Coke has...

Two Journals Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Two Journals - Movie Review Example The case of Na’vi humanoids, however, is way beyond a frightening state of dominion from species of other forms, for humans in this regard would be found the emerging culprits whose greed causes perils even upon the unseen world. Even though the Na’vi possess looks and stature that are nearly dreadful, the feelings they convey are deeply heartfelt it almost moves me to tears while watching some scenes that exhibit tribe members communicating warmly with each other. Like real humans, they manage to deliver thoughts and emotions in a sensible manner just as how Jake Sully under his avatar suit is able to derive fruitful and solemn interactions with Neytiri. It is greatly fascinating to see that instead of anticipated mysteries or mystic potentials, creatures of another dimension are revealed as almost equal to men in strength, intelligence, and general capacity in coping with love, fear, and hatred. Despite all the wonders and beauty to marvel at in the Pandora’s biosphere, science-oriented humans have reached that stage of discontent in simply navigating cosmic systems. It turns out they desire moreover to explore and gain further knowledge to meet intellectual objectives even at the expense of the moon’s habitat. This is something that makes me reflect on human nature at depth especially when it comes to the extent to which greed among humans may proceed just so the amply increasing demands on human economy are satisfied. The film exemplifies a future possibility when men are no longer astonished by the exquisite sights and encounters of the wonder-filled nature whether on this planet or in a region of outer-space yet to be fathomed. How awful indeed it is to realize when human beings become consumed with covetousness whereby as long as we are conscious regarding the adjustable measure of our potentials, there seems no room for rest until

Managing organizational transition Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Managing organizational transition - Essay Example A transition in an organization is crucial for the business to thrive. Factors such as competition and demands by customers affect the transition in an organization. They are perceived to bring better services, innovative products and improve the efficiency of the organization. A well-planned transition sees to it that there is improved competitiveness, an encouraging financial performance, and most importantly an excellent customer and employee satisfaction. Most organizations have invested their time, energy and resources in the management of organizational transition management. The management of organizational transition has been known to increase an organizations power to accelerate the transitions process and to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the transition process. For the effective management of an organization, the company needs build their organizations capability to initiate change and facilitate rapid transitions (Durant 5). Durant also suggests that an organization needs to do away with processes that do not add value. Durant also believes that organisations, change agents should come up with a vision, which reflects on the groups energy the vision should be able to link the present and future. Durant looks at the initial stage during a transition, which he calls the unfreezing stage. He argues that this stage involves unlearning of past behaviours he explains that the organization at this stage experiences disconfirmation, which is an incompatibility between two or more attitudes. He suggests that the organisation needs to reduce the discomfort I agree with Durant, which changes most of the time causes discomfort. Usually it does not only happen in an organization, but also in all aspects of life, a comprehensible form of illustration would be a student who changes schools. In a new schooling environment, one is not at ease and tries so much to fit into the new system for some

Did the antebellum reformers succeed in their efforts to better Essay

Did the antebellum reformers succeed in their efforts to better America between 1820 and 1860 - Essay Example Yet, without the period of spirited public debate the reform movements may have been locked into silence. The reformers, while not being able to avert political problems, were able to bring reform into the public debate in the areas of race, gender, and class. It would appear that the antebellum reformers were a failure on race, but the results would come after this period. The Missouri Compromise, the Compromise of 1850 (and its subsequent overturning), and the Fugitive Slave Act were the product of this period that showed no promise for the race equality that reformers called for. Yet, the backlash against the movement and the hope that was contained in the reformers' message precipitated the Civil War and the end of slavery. According to Epps, the reform would go far beyond the mere releasing of slaves and would "...require far-reaching changes in the state-federal balance, the federal separation of powers, and the internal political systems of the individual Southern states" (180). This restructuring of the Union, though no yet realized in 1860, had gained momentum and was a successful reform movement. The movement towards reform also affected women's rights and by 1860 had formed coalitions that were working for the rights of women and minorities.

On the Free

On the Free Choice of the Will Essay This book by St Augustine contains many philosophical arguments. St Augustine was a Latin speaking philosopher born in what is now modern day Algeria. He was one of the most prolific philosophers with hundreds of surviving works attributed to him (having survived the passage of time). The book On Free choice of the will contains may divine references with the central argument concerning free will as a gift from god, a gift which leads to humans becoming evil due their own inherent flaws. Free will is a large theme in the book. I will be critically analyzing Augustine’s argument that ‘†¦ a mind that is in control, one that possesses virtue, cannot be made a slave to inordinate desire by anything equal or superior to it, because such a thing would be just, or by anything inferior to it, because such a thing would be too weak’1 . I will be looking at the weaknesses and strengths of this argument and conclude how convincing his argument is. Augustine’s first argument about the mind being made a slave to inordinate desire contains many flaws its states â€Å"Each mind possesses the same degree of excellence and any thing that would attempt such a thing will have fallen from justice and become weaker† 2(originally said by Evodius but Augustine agrees to it) in this he is essentially saying that any mind attempting to enslave another mind to an inordinate desire will have become unjust and in the process weaker meaning it cannot control the superior mind. The first problem with this argument is the premise that all minds posses the same degree of excellence, this notion is completely wrong as it would be illogical to assume that all humans are intellectually equal. The fact that the foundation of the argument is wrong could serve to debase the entire argument as it is a paramount (and erroneous) notion upon which the argument is built. Augustine’s argument states â€Å"a Mind cannot be enslaved by something equal or superior to it because that thing would be just† 3 Not only does this statement destroy his previous notion that all minds are equal it also contains many faults on its own. Firstly its assumes that a mind that is superior would be just this assumption contains many problems. Firstly it assumes that the smarter you are the more just you would be, this statement is quite the contrary the smarter you are the more likely you are to be able to manipulate and scheme making you unjust, one can only look at politicians to see that the more intelligent you are the more susceptible you would be to carrying out unjust acts, so in my opinion this statement can be easily refuted. It is quite logical to assume that the superior mind will be more likely to try and enslave another mind for some purpose or another. One can only look at the peace among intellectual inferior animals which do not commit a multitude of nefarious acts in order to further themselves, contrast this with the chaos amongst humans and one can begin to see that the superior mind is truly less just than the inferior mind, humans have pride and ambition which engenders greed and other destructive traits, these are not seen in animals and babies (both of whom have inferior minds) and galvanizes the notion that a superior mind is less just than a weaker one. The next part of his argument that an inferior mind cannot enslave a superior mind because it will be weaker, contains much more logic than his previous arguments. I would not say this statement is wholly correct but the notion that a weak mind cannot enslave a superior mind is mostly correct in my opinion as it is logical to assume that weak cannot overcome the strong. On the other hand to completely write off a weak minds chances of enslaving a superior mind would be foolish as many other factors are involved in this process including emotions and circumstance, for example if a man with a superior mind is in love with a woman who possesses an inferior mind he could still be enslaved to inordinate desire by virtue of his love for her which will have warped his reason. Hence under some circumstances a weak mind can over come a superior mind yet it would be prudent to assume that a superior mind will always have the upper hand barring external factors. Finally in my opinion there is a huge inherent flaw in the entire argument of Augustine, I believe that pride, ambition, gluttony and all other various inordinate desires are inherent in humans in general, I do not believe it is necessary for a mind to sway another into these desires as they already exist within the human being, it is environmental factors which sway a human being into experiencing these inordinate desires not people and as a result I believe that Augustine’s arguments are fundamentally flawed. He takes a very idealistic view on humans believing them to only corruptible due to other unjust people corrupting them. In truth I believe (unfortunately) that humans are more inclined to feel inordinate desires due to extenuating factors that catalyze their latent emotions that lead to the dire consequences that are engendered by inordinate desires. In conclusion I believe Augustine’s arguments are mediocre. Their strengths are far and few and hugely outweighed by the flaws In them. His arguments while appearing logical and reasonable contain many imperceptible cracks which can be exploited greatly (and at times can debase his entire argument) in the case of a debate. On the basis of this I would have to say that his arguments are mediocre at best and while they are somewhat convincing a wise man would see through them easily.

The Verbal and Physical Comic Devices

The Verbal and Physical Comic Devices MacDonald employs both verbal and physical comic devices in this scene. The two verbal devices she has used are sexual innuendo and parody and the two physical devices which have been used are the rise of friendly brutality and persistence of Romeo and Juliet in getting physical with Constance and her constant struggle to avoid them. Use of sexual innuendo is seen throughout the scene: Id quench myself at thy Priapic font, O that I were a fountain pen within thy hand à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (3. 4. P63), For years Ive sought to penetrate your source (3.4. P64). The following conversation shows the use of parody: JULIET for with each new lust, thou creepeth close unto the aged day when soft moist lip and dewy eye convert to senile rheum. ROMEO Thinkst thou to leave a lovely corpse my dear, when even now the crows have footed it in merry measure all about thine eyes? (3. 4. P66) Both these types of verbal comic devices add to the effect of lightening the mood and help to change the monotonicity in progression of the drama. They also help in making the audience feel witty for catching the main intent in the use of these devices. The use of physical device is seen when Romeo places his hand on Tybalts bottom (3. 4. P60), and Tybalt smacks Romeos butt in return [Tybalt gives ROMEO a macho slap on the ass and laughs] (3. 4. P60). Another use of this device is seen when Romeo constantly tries to kiss Constance, and [Juliet takes Constances hand and does not release it] (3. 4. P63). Thus, we see that both the verbal and the physical comic devices serve to lighten the mood and engage the attention of the audience. Part B Drama (relates to Othello and/or Goodnight Desdemona) How does Constance use Desdemona and Juliet for the alchemical process of turning base metals into gold? Discuss with specific references to the play. Effect of Desdemona and Juliet on Constance The concept of Alchemy literally refers to the theory of turning a base metal into gold. Thus, if this same concept is applied to the very essence of human existence, it can be interrelated in the form that a human can attain the zenith of perfection and become divine and flawless. Constance Ledbelly, the central character of this play, does not believe in this concept of a human perfection, and bases her entire thesis on her lack of belief on the academic fact that Shakespeare was the original author of his work. Instead she considers that Romeo and Juliet and Othello were originally written by an unknown author and that her judgment can be proved by deciphering a manuscript written by a character named Gustav. The original Shakespeares tragedy Othello projects Desdemona as a victim of love and trust, and she is shown being devoted to her husband and obeying his commands. Constance however perceives her as a strong-headed, gullible and violent (3. 9. P86) character, and finds her similar to the original Othello character, who although, was valiant and respectful, he was also responsible for his own downfall, due to the lack of trust he had for his wife [Desdemona]. Desdemonas explosiveness is also projected when she declares that the allegations made by academia about her being a helpless victim, is baseless, and calls this Bullshit!! (2. 2. P38). Constance respects Desdemona for her truthfulness and hails her magnificent (2. 2. P38), and being capable of greatness (2. 2. P38). One of the bad qualities Constance finds in Desdemona is her inclination towards tragedy. The other bad quality she has is her being easily exploited, because of her angry and jealous nature. In the end, however, Des demona promises Constance that she would amend herself and change her ways. This acknowledgement also affects Constance and inspires her to discover her own confidence and strength. In a similar way, Shakespeares original Romeo and Juliet, projects Juliet as the embodiment of love, and this is even reflected by Constance who initially calls Juliet the essence of first love / of beauty that will never fade, / of passion that will never die (3. 4. P64). As we get further into the play, we find Juliet obsessed with sexual love. Her attitude also reflects her being immature Ill tell my father! (3. 2. P56). Juliets strong love for Constance and her views about love at first-sight inspire Constance to love her, but at the same time, she feels skeptical about her, due to her [Juliets] obsession with killing herself. In the end of the play, however, Constance makes Juliet promise her that she would reform herself and look at life in a more positive way. Thus, Juliet also inspires Constance to discover her maturity. After the warp, Connie finds herself back in her office at Queens. She tentatively touches herself as if to confirm her reality (3. 9. P88). On removing the feathered pen from behind her ear she notices that it has turned to solid gold (3. 9. P88). This can be directly interrelated to how she discovered her own confidence with the help of Desdemona and Juliet. Thus, even though we see that Constance had low self-esteem initially, by the end of the play we see her as a totally different person. Hence her life has surely undergone an alchemical transformation.

How Does Othello Rate? Essay -- GCSE Coursework Shakespeare Othello

How Does Othello Rate?  Ã‚        Ã‚   Is this the best, the second-best, the worst of William Shakespeare’s tragedies? Where does it place in the lineup? Let’s consider where it deserves to be and why in this essay.    The play is so quotable; consider Desdemona’s opening lines before the Council of Venice: â€Å"My noble father, / I do perceive here a divided duty,† or Othello’s last words: â€Å"Killing myself, to die upon a kiss.† Could the continuing reputation of Othello be attributed to the quotable â€Å"ultimate form† in which the Bard of Avon expressed his ideas? Robert B. Heilman says in â€Å"The Role We Give Shakespeare†:    If we use the word â€Å"support,† however, we do name a way in which Shakespeare serves. It is the way of venerable texts whose authenticity has impressed itself on the human imagination: he has said many things in what seems an ultimate form, and he is a fountainhead of quotation and universal center of allusion. â€Å"A rose by any other name† comes to the mouth as readily as â€Å"Pride goeth before a fall,† and seems no less wise. A quotable line is one that has shed its context and taken on independent life. Very significantly, Shakespeare scenes and character relationships have also taken on independent life and have provided basic formulations upon which other writers rely. (24-25).    Francis Ferguson in â€Å"Two Worldviews Echo Each Other† ranks the play Othello quite high among the Bard’s tragedies:    Othello, written in 1604, is one of the masterpieces of Shakespeare’s â€Å"tragic period.† In splendor of language, and in the sheer power of the story, it belongs with the greatest. But some of its admirers find it too savage. . . .(131)    The Bard’s presentation of emotions, character, of good a... ...othing.† Essays on Shakespeare. Ed. Gerald Chapman. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1965.    Heilman, Robert B. â€Å"The Role We Give Shakespeare.† Essays on Shakespeare. Ed. Gerald Chapman. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1965.    Levin, Harry. General Introduction. The Riverside Shakespeare. Ed. G. Blakemore Evans. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Co., 1974.    Shakespeare, William. Othello. In The Electric Shakespeare. Princeton University. 1996. http://www.eiu.edu/~multilit/studyabroad/othello/othello_all.html No line nos.    Wright, Louis B. and Virginia A. LaMar. â€Å"The Engaging Qualities of Othello.† Readings on The Tragedies. Ed. Clarice Swisher. San Diego: Greenhaven Press, 1996. Reprint from Introduction to The Tragedy of Othello, the Moor of Venice by William Shakespeare. N. p.: Simon and Schuster, Inc., 1957.      

Large classes Essay

When students are in large classes it is very hard for the teacher to give every student individual attention. What can educational authorities do about this? It is quite obvious that when the students are in very large numbers in a class, the teacher can’t pay individual attention. I think as far as students are attentive in the class, teachers attention to individual hardly matters. Not all students in a class need personal attention, because they are smart and grasp the lessons quickly by themselves. However some of the students who are a little weak can surely get personal attention of the teachers. Nevertheless for the teacher to be able to monitor progress of all students of a class, it is necessary that proper student teacher ratio is adhered to. Student-Teacher ratio refers to the number of teachers in a school or university with respect to the number of students who attend the school or university. For example, a student teacher ratio of 10:1 means that there are 10 students for every one teacher available. The term can also be reversed to be teacher-student ratio. If one classroom has a 30:1 ratio and the other has a 10:1 ratio, the school could claim to have a 20:1 ratio overall. But if the ratio is 50:1, the school needs to hire more teachers. In a way 40:1 is the ideal ratio where all students can get proper attention of the teacher. Summarizing, this is the responsibility of the educational authorities to inspect schools and universities periodically to ensure a right student-teacher ratio and in the event of this ratio changing due to greater number of students, educational authorities must strictly advice schools to hire more teachers and maintain appropriate student – teacher ratio. This shall help all students get better attention of the teachers if not individual attention.

A Taste Of Death – Original Writing

This story is about a young boy who lived with his divorced mother in an old house. He used to lead a ordinary life until one day; the young boy heard a creaking sound. What he did not know was that that sound would change his life it was around 12:15 am when he heard that creaking sound, a dawdling poignant profound tread. His body was quivering as he ran with fright to shut his window. The wind blaring against his body, as if attempting to push his back, blew up his sleeve making the hair on his hand elevate as if they had seen a ghost and gravity was no longer effective on his. Unnerved, he jumped back into his bed, snuggling up as hard as possible persistently looking around trying to see if he could conceive anything, or anyone. He began falling into a daze, feeling sleepier by the second. As the complete silence conquered the whole house, the only sound he could hear was the loud tick-tock of his clock echoing around his room. As time went forth the sound grew stronger, until he heard a footstep, which automatically pulled his back into reality from the hypnotising sound of his clock. The sound was a footstep. His heartbeat intensified as he began to panic ascetically, imagining his fate with this thing and what it had in intrigue for his. He came to yell, yet before he yelled, he realised that that wasn't the malicious tread that he had been keeping an eye out for but another kind of footstep, a lighter, more familiar stride. It was his mothers. Instantaneously, he leapt out of his bed like a lion hiding beneath straw and hay adapting to his camouflage about to attack his prey. Yet when he got to the corridor all he saw was a small shadow going into the bathroom and as he went one-step closer, the bathroom door slammed shut. Eager to know who it was that had entered his bathroom; he managed to gather enough courage to step up to the door and knock. What was behind this door was either his mother or his regrettable doom. Awaiting a reply he knocked again. Suddenly, the door handle began to shake. Some one was going to come out of that bathroom. Petrified, yet too shook up from the intensity, he was motionless. As he felt his heart fall into the pocket of his nightgown, the door suddenly opened. Yet a monster wasn't this to fulfil his evil scheme, but an innocent mother's shimmering, bright, angelic face saying: â€Å"Are you alright honey?† In her peaceful, comforting, calm rhythm. â€Å"Yes I'm fine mum† The boy replied with a sigh as his mother strode away out the bathroom and back to his room. Before he got into his room he said, â€Å"You'd better get some sleep, you do have school tomorrow you know!† The boy replied with a yawn and decided that he had had enough a thrill for one day. As he gazed at his clock, he saw that he had been up for two hours and that he really did need some sleep for tomorrow. So, he bravely put his fears under his pillow for that night for the nightingale had begun its merry chirping. â€Å"Honey, I'm going now. Don't be late to school† were the words that would have normally woken the boy up, but not today and not ever again. For today he lay by his mother's corpse as the tears trickled down his heart-breaking, shining, diamond-like eyes. His eyes began leaking and before he knew it, his iris was afloat a lost boat chasing reality, twirling from side to side with his confusion. Whilst the tears rolled down his cheeks, he replayed the depressing moment when, his mother was killed. He remembered it clearly and what hurt his most was that he could have done nothing against this vile, sickening monstrosity. He remembered how his mother was screaming for him to run away and save him self. How he didn't listen to his mother. How he declined his mother's final demand. How the voice of the monster brought terror to his heart, when it said, â€Å"I cannot be killed†. How he repeatedly stabbed the monster with the kitchen knife with no effect. How the monster crushed his mother in front of his very eyes. How the monster came to kill and torment his. How, instead of killing his he threw the knife right above his head as he stood there with his eyes closed. How he could almost taste death: a bitter, resentful flavour stirring in his mouth. He remembered it all perfectly. Suddenly a flashback of all the good memories he had with his mother when he was a young boy; how every time he was sad his mother made his smile. How every time he was scared his mother comforted his. How every time he had a problem he could talk to his mother about it and his mother would always find a solution to that problem. How on the first day of school he held his mothers hand tightly because he was scared he wouldn't fit in. But what hurt his most was that he remembered his father who he had also lost; he remembered in particular when he used to call his mother a Glamazon and he would ask his father over and over again what a Glamazon meant. Yet he would never tell his. But now he knew. It meant ‘strong lady'. Yet he found that his father wasn't lying. His mother really was strong. But now, now he has lost both his father and mother. And all that night he drowned in his sorrow, wishing there was something that he could have done to save his mother. Unable to believe the events that happened he felt he could not live without the mother he was overly attached to. He couldn't accept that she had gone. All that day, he cried on his mother's chest calling her name until his voice disappeared. He still silently called for his mother and forever will. Later that night he made a decision. He was going to reunite with his beloved mother. As he took the same kitchen knife he incessantly stabbed his mother's assassin with he cried: â€Å"Oh dagger! Show me no mercy! Rip through my heart and liberate my soul to reunite with my mother†¦Ã¢â‚¬  And so, he lay motionless on his mother's yieldingly curvaceous body; blood staining his white night gown. Once again, silence conquered their home with a nightingale chirping merrily as mother and son lay in a pool of united blood.

Strategy Context Report For Bang & Olufsen

Strategy Context Report For Bang & Olufsen Strategy Context Report For Bang Olufsen Introduction Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen founded Bang Olufsen A/S in 1925 in Jutland (Karjalainen 2011). Initially, Bang Olufsen (BO) was based in a manor that belonged to the parents of Svend Olufsen; at the time, the company benefited from the hardworking nature of the local community. The culture in which the two men grew up was one of the lasting factors that assisted the company to go through various crises. The company launched BO Eliminator as its first product. It could connect the battery receiver to the mains. Later, BO had a big break through when they launched the Five Lamper, which was a mains radio in an elegant cabinet of walnut. Presently, the company still focuses on the audio industry and it has engaged in the manufacture of visual devices (Alessandri Alessandri 2004). This makes BO one of the most successful audio/visual companies in the world. Their present main product line includes televisions, audio devices, loudspeakers, audio devices, home integration, and digital medi a. In addition, BO equips exclusive projects with audio/visual devices via their enterprise departments and develops Car-Hi-Fi for such companies as Aston Martin, Audi, Mercedes, etc. The company also benefits from patents in certain technology it developed. One example of such technologies is the compact digital amplifiers managed in the ICEpower subsidiary. This analysis will focus on the audiovisual part of the business of BO. Industry Overview According to Altshuler and Tarnovskaya (2010), the consumer electronics industry has undergone considerable changes and it is still highly turbulent. The implementation of Common Market due to the Rome Treaty, to begin with, forecasted the decline of Bang Olufsen due to the competing German companies. The entry of Asian technology into the worldwide market increased the pressure on all the electronic firms in North America and Europe. Small European companies like Bang Olufsen, with their main consumer base in Denmark, were not obvious survivors in the turbulent environment. Nevertheless, Bang Olufsen maintained their focus on quality production, which was their prerogative from the very establishment of the company. In addition, European electronic companies, including BO, placed more emphasis on modern technology. For instance, BO deployed a wide use of modern technology in manufacturing of its products due to the rising criticism of their traditional wooden design (Balmer Gray 2003). During the few recent years, the financial crisis affected the business worldwide (Bang Olufsen Group 2008). Various industries were experiencing recession. Private investors as well as companies and consumers had to deal with adverse economic conditions. Hence, various world markets were overheated in the recent years. In addition, industries also experienced growth rates that were far beyond the normal levels. According to Bloom and Williamson (1999), consumers had a large disposable income and were willing to spend it. However, this abruptly ended as the financial crisis began. The financial crisis crippled the manufacturing and production of goods. One the major markets affected was the electronics market (Bloom Williamson 1999). The electronics market has been experiencing sky-scraping rates of growth in the previous decade. According to Gabrielsson (2005), the consumer electronics market has faced growth rates of about 10 per cent in the last few years. Bang Olufsen, among other electronics companies, has also been experiencing success in the recent past and has had its share of growth stemming from the growth of the consumer electronics market. Nevertheless, the effect of financial crisis was substantial for the company. Given that Bang Olufsen is selling what can be categorized as luxury electronic commodities, the impact of financial crisis was very significant because consumers shunned away from luxury products as the crisis aggravated. The figure below shows the trend in growth of the electronics consumer industry. As Kalafaties, Tsogas, and Blankson (2000) pointed out, one outstanding aspect determining the consumer behaviour is an ever-declining trend in prices of electronic products. This has been driven by lower costs of labour, manufacturing efficiency, and automations. This is, perhaps, because manufacturing has shifted to lower-wage countries and there has been an improvement in semiconductor design. Despite consumer electronics market facing upward trends, consumers of electronics continue showing diverse buying decisions. According to Karjalainen (2011), there is a constant need to maintain the product information updated and comparable for electronics consumers to make informed decisions. Price, style, performance, and other specifications seem relevant in the audio/visual industry. Macro Environmental Analysis (PESTEL) When evaluating the external environment, there are various aspects to consider. This makes it problematic to reduce the focus of the analysis to the external environment evaluation that is actually affecting the Bang Olufsen. In order to solve this problem, PESTEL analysis can be deployed, which will help to focus attention on political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, environmental and legal (PESTEL) characteristics of the B Os macro environment (Knight Cavusgil 2004). Nevertheless, PESTEL analysis needs only to be viewed as a checklist; therefore, there might be other factors to consider in the analysis. In addition, some of the aspects of the macro environments might have insignificant effects on the company in question. For Bang Olufsen, this study concentrated on the political, economic, socio-cultural, and technological aspects of the macro environment. Political Environment International and national political decisions frequently influence companies because the results of these decisions control the laws and conditions under which companies must operate. According to VanRiel and Balmer (1997), such effects are evident in the signing of the Rome Treaty and the introduction of Common Market, which led to a decline of Bang Olufsen. Additionally, the works and policies of the World Trade Organization (WTO) focused on reducing trade barriers have created a more laissez-faire trade environment, which has increased competition to Bang Olufsen. According to Tuckwell (2007), the political decisions which will affect Bang Olufsen considerably in the near future would be economic rescue plans, which policy makers worldwide are providing. The rescue plans Bank package 1 and 2, as Simes and Dibb (2001) noted, will influence the ease with which Bang Olufsen can receive funding. It is most likely that Bang Olufsen require funds in the near future, particularly i f the financial crisis proves very difficult to avert. Rescue plans can also affect Bang Olufsen on a general level. This is because the overall reason of devising these plans is to turn around the economy of world. The US policies will significantly affect BO since the US and other key players in the international market are an integral component of the world economy. This implies that the rates of success of these Danish rescue plans will have a direct impact on the BO as the improvement of the world economy will lead to an increase in the sales of the company. Economic Environment As it was mentioned above, the economic crisis affected Bang Olufsen negatively. A significant portion of the effect of economic crisis stems from the decline in consumers purchasing ability because of the economic downturn. Most affected countries are those selling high-end commodities. Due to the fact that about 88 per cent of Bang Olufsens turnover comes from foreign trade, the present economic trends have considerably affected the companys cash flows via fluctuations in the exchange rates. BO deals with the Euro as its foreign currency. Nevertheless, since the Danish Krone is attached to the Euro, fluctuations of the Danish Krone have little effect on the Euro (Porter 2008). Other important currencies include the Swiss Franc and British Pound, which have a net cash inflow, and the US dollar, which has a net cash outflow. The decline in the value of the British Pound affects the Cash inflow of Bang Olufsen. On the contrary, the fall in the value of the US Dollar has assisted BO by increasing the cash outflow. In general, the fluctuations in the currency value have negatively affected the BOs turnover. The British Pound is continuing to fall in its value in relation to the Danish currency and the US dollar is becoming stronger (Porter 2008). Socio-Cultural Environment The boom experienced in the world market prior to the economic crisis increased consumers purchasing ability and increased the focus on the status symbol and luxury design. According to Alessandri and Alessandri (2004), this ensured a favourable environment for the company. Nevertheless, this also compelled many competitors of BO to concentrate on design, as exemplified by Samsungs flat Televisions and Apples iPod. The styles adopted by these competitors are progressively communicating the status symbol of style consumers have been demanding, though at a fraction of the price of Bang Olufsens commodities (Balmer Gray 2003). Increased environmental awareness and green production is another social-cultural factor that affects the company in a positive manner. With regard to this factor, the company has continuously been channelling efforts towards enhancing the performance of the products. It attempts to achieve this by changing the packaging, reducing the stand-by electric consumption, and working on their corporate social responsibility (Knight Cavusgil 2004). The problem is whether the company is conveying this clearly to consumers to make them see that it is an environment friendly company. Technological Environment As it was mentioned, the electronics industry is an extremely volatile industry with fast developments. During the days of radio, Bang Olufsen was among the companies using the most recent technologies in production. Nevertheless, today, Asian electronic companies are way ahead in the development of technologies. For instance, the fact that the company has not developed its Full HD TV shows that it lags behind. Bang Olufsen has never been capable of launching this new technology. On the contrary, the company owns profitable patents and is still one of the frontrunners (Al-Rousan Qawasmeh 2009). Evaluation of Resources, Capabilities Sustainability of Competitive Advantage According to Al-Rousan and Qawasmeh (2009), core competencies have three different characteristics. The first characteristic is that they are a source of competitive advantage, which contributes to perceived consumer benefits. The second characteristic is that they are applicable in various markets. Thirdly, competencies are extremely difficult for competitors to copy. As such, companies need core competencies in order to have a competitive advantage over its competitors. According to Kalafaties, Tsogas, and Blankson (2000), the core competencies of Bang Olufsen are directed towards improving the experience of users of their electronic products. This statement suitably matches with their focus on design and quality that provides the consumers of their products with unique experience when their products are turned off and on. The first core competency of BO is the unmatched quality of their products, which as mentioned above, offer consumers superior experience. According to Gabrielsson (2005), quality has been an important aspect since the establishment of Bang Olufsen. It is a necessity for the company in order to be capable of charging high prices as they do. In addition, quality provides consumers with an extra value by increasing the lifespan of their products. Special design has also been one of the strengths of BO. In fact, the classical aluminium design introduced by Jacob Jensen emerged as a clear differentiator of BOs products. For some time, this simple design distinguished BO from Asian electronic companies. Nevertheless, companies such as Samsung, Sony and Apple are presently challenging this core competency. As Alessandri and Alessandri (2004) noted, the strength lying in their design might to be their market qualifier. Another competency of BO lies in their value of brand. By manufacturing well designed electronic products of high quality and at a high price, the company has established a brand that functions as a status symbol. VanRiel and Balmer (1997) considered this competency as an immaterial asset that might enable the company to charge still considerably higher prices than other key players in the market.