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Sir Gawain was a knight of King Arthur and his nephew. A...

Sir Gawain was a knight of King Arthur and his nephew. A knight was all about chivalry, honesty, loyalty and love of God. However all of these were tested during his adventure to find The Green Knight and pay him back the favor. Sir Gawain was a religious man that prayed to God and Virgin Mary,† Then the knight devoutly made his plaint to Mary, asking her to guide him on his way and lead him to some dwelling† (736-739). Gawain was going through harsh times trying to find The Green Knight and The Green Chapel and his hopes were in God and Virgin Mary â€Å"†¦ Mary, most tender, most precious of mothers, for some house where I may hear mass devoutly and your matins tomorrow morning; meekly I ask it and for that pray here and now my Pater and Ave†¦show more content†¦At the end of the day when he was supposed to present his gift, he hides the griddle from his host and keeps it a secret, which was lying and dishonesty to the Lord. Sir Gawain leaves for the Green Chapel and finds The Green Knight and surrenders himself as the deal was made. But The Green Knight scares Gawain twice by not slashing his head and Gawain was shaking in fear. However the third time he is barely touched and just a little blood was coming down. The Green Knight goes on to explain that the third swing and the only cut is for Gawains acceptance of the green and golden girdle, which he did not share with his host â€Å"You failed at number three which you got cut for† (2356-57). The Green Knight explains that Gawain lacked loyalty to his lord (the host) by not handing over the girdle at the end of the third day and he was supposed to loyal to Lord, God, and lady. Gawain is ashamed of his wrong choosing and admits that he, and is embarrassed of his weakness (fear of death). The Green Knights challenge teaches Sir Gawain that hes just a human who fears death. Because he accepted the Lady’s golden griddle, this teaches him that even he, the best and chivalrous knight, is human and able to make mistakes. Realizing the Green Knight and the Lord are the same; Gawain confesses his sins to him and begs to be forgiven. The Green Knight admits that Gawain did wrong things but spares him the last and deadly axe blow, because he respected that GawainShow MoreRelated King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table Essay1992 Words   |  8 Pageslegend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table is a story mixed with historical truths and exaggerated fiction. The legend of King Arthur, known as the Arthurian Legend, comes from the Middle Ages and is both fact and fiction. There really was a King Arthur who was king of the Britons. He was a type of military leader who fought Germanic invaders. Many of the Tudor monarchs claimed lineage to King Arthur to justify and prove their right to the throne. Most of the knowledge of Arthur is legend

Role And Requirement Of Employees Training †Free Samples

Question: Discuss about the Role And Requirement Of Employees Training. Answer: Introduction Modern organizations are finding new methods to improve the efficiency and productivity of their employees. Human resource management of corporations is requiring formulating policies regarding the enhancement of employees productivity. One of such policies includes providing organizational training to workers to improve their development. In recent times, most of the companies implement a corporate social responsibility strategy which requires them to consider the development of their employees. Providing organizational training can be beneficial for corporations because it assists in improving workers productivity and helps in the expansion of the corporation. This essay will focus analyzing the role and requirement of employees training in an organization. Further, the drawbacks of organization training will be discussed in the essay. The theories given by market experts regarding the importance of organizational training will be evaluated in the essay. Importance of Organizational Training In old days, competition in any industry awas at a very low level, because there was very limited number of suppliers and the demand for products and services, was not much. But due to globalization, the level of competition among various corporations is constantly increasing and they want to enhance their business overseas. As per McCracken, Brown OKane (2012), this is essential for their long-term growth, it also assists them in sustaining their vision and mission. In order to improve the overall performance of organization top-level management of a corporation assign a significant task to human resource department. This job is related to providing various kinds of training to the employees of an enterprise as they are considered as one of the most important resources which are available to a country. A satisfied, motivated and highly trained employee can give the surprising result to the company. Management of an enterprise needs to understand that training needs of every worker are different. So they have to analyze their weakness and provide the necessary training according to their future job that company is going to give them in upcoming time (Olaniyan Ojo 2008). There are different methods of organizational training that human resource management can implement in the organizations to provide training to employees such as on the job, off the job, lectures, group discussions and management games. Sahinidis Bouris (2008) provided that some employees prefer on the job training because they do not believe in theoretical knowledge and classroom lectures. They prefer on the job training because it helps them in understanding the work in short period of time and in an effective manner. Management of a company should provide off the job training to their employees because it expands their knowledge and provides the basic understanding of the task which employees will be doing in forthcoming time. An origination should not focus on one or two departments; they must try to find the training needs of every employee who are working in various departments. This is essential for overall development of a company; if they synchronize their efforts and provi de necessary training to all divisions of enterprise then they can assure optimum utilization of available resources and attaining their long-term goals in an effective manner (Giangreco, Carugati Sebastiano 2010). Corporations can achieve various benefits by implementing an organizational training strategy. As per Grossman Salas (2011), one of the primary advantages of organizational training includes improved productivity of employees. The completion between corporations is significantly high which require companies to increase their efficiency. The quality of employees work to influence the growth of a corporation, therefore, the human resource department is required to hire skillful workers. The human resource department can improve the working quality of workers by providing them training. Trained employees have better productivity than compared to the employees without training. The organization can establish a lock-in period for the employees which they provide training, due to such lock-in period, the turnover rate of employees can be reduced by the company. The recruitment and selection procedure of a corporation can be improved by an effective organizational training strategy because candidates prefer an organization which provides training on the job (King Grace 2008). Another benefit of organizational training is better profitability in the companys operation. The corporations face many difficulties while converting their additional sales into profits. Zheng Lamond (2010), the human resource department of the organization can implement training strategies to avoid the profitability issues. Trained employees assist enterprises in improving the profitability of the operation. In modern times, the competition between organizations forces them to constantly update their policies regarding the better working environment. It is a vital part of an enterprise is to train its employees as it will allow them to increase their growth potential and develop their organizational capabilities. This is why effective training of the employees in the organization is required and employees training programmers should be effectively implemented by the enterprise within its departments. Apart from helping the corporation to achieve its organizational goals, it will a lso help the employees to develop within themselves, which is a crucial part of the corporate social responsibility strategy of the company (Giangreco, Sebastiano Peccei 2009). Apart from various benefits of organizational training, there are several drawbacks of implementing this strategy within the company. Armstrong-Stassen (2008) provided that one of the primary disadvantages of implementing the training program is related to the high amount spent by the company. The training programs have to be implemented in every department, it is highly costly to implement on account of the company. The equipment required during the training of the employees is generally very expensive, which adds to the overall expenditure of the company without making any profit for the enterprise. As long as the allocation of the resources of the enterprise is concerned, training the employees is very time-consuming. While the training programme is undertaken, both the experienced employees who provide training and the new employees who require training doesnt work until the training program are finished. This doesnt enable the organization to make any real profit for the time be ing (Owoyemi et al. 2011). According to Elnaga Imran (2013), for the employees, the training program can be significantly exhausting and stressful. Some of the employees lose interest in the training as they feel exhausted by the work and the training. The impact of training did not improve the productivity of workers if they lose interest in their job, which defeats the purpose of training. In this modern era, technology is constantly changing especially in industries like software, automobile, and information technology due to which the technology on which an enterprise is running becomes obsolete as soon as a new technological advancement occurs in the market. Therefore, the training provided by the company to the employees becomes useless in just a short period of time and they have to come up with a new training strategy to train their employees to learn about the new technology (Ashar et al. 2013). Besides having so many limitations, organizational training is an essential strategy in attaining long-term goals of an enterprise. Tabasssi, Ramli Bakar (2012) provided that one can easily find a shortcoming in any process but they need to find the solution of various problems in order to improve the efficiency of workers and overall performance of a corporation. In this changing business environment, the working culture is changing in regular interval of time, so the need of chaining is also enhancing with increasing complexity in business. It is the responsibility of human resource department to identify the need for training and then make appropriate strategy according to working culture of a company. Increasing cost can be a trouble for a corporation at the initial stage but its long-term impact always comes in favor of the enterprise. Sometimes employees may resist training but management should convince them by telling them various kinds of career opportunities which workers may get in forthcoming time (Casalino, DAtri Braccini 2012). Conclusion From the above essay, it can be concluded that the competition between organizations has grown rapidly in past few decades. For improving efficiency and enhancing development, corporations can provide training to their employees. Trained employees can assist corporations in enhancing their growth and sustain their development. There are numerous benefits of organizational training such as improvement of productivity; positive work environment; satisfied employees and it also assists human resource management in recruitment and retention process. The drawbacks of providing training include wastage of time and money, uninterested workforce and wastage of resources. The human resource department can analyze the culture and requirement of the corporation to implement an effective training strategy which can augment the growth of the company. References Armstrong?Stassen, M. (2008). Organisational practices and the post?retirement employment experience of older workers.Human Resource Management Journal,18(1), 36-53. Casalino, N., DAtri, A., Braccini, A. M. (2012). A quality management training system concerning ISO standards for sustainable organisational change in SMEs.International Journal of Productivity and Quality Management,9(1), 25-45. Elnaga, A., Imran, A. (2013). The effect of training on employee performance.European Journal of Business and Management,5(4), 137-147. Giangreco, A., Carugati, A., Sebastiano, A. (2010). Are we doing the right thing? Food for thought on training evaluation and its context.Personnel Review,39(2), 162-177. Giangreco, A., Sebastiano, A., Peccei, R. (2009). Trainees' reactions to training: an analysis of the factors affecting overall satisfaction with training.The international journal of human resource management,20(1), 96-111. Grossman, R., Salas, E. (2011). The transfer of training: what really matters.International Journal of Training and Development,15(2), 103-120. King, C., Grace, D. (2008). Internal branding: Exploring the employee's perspective.Journal of Brand Management,15(5), 358-372. McCracken, M., Brown, T. C., O'Kane, P. (2012). Swimming against the current: Understanding how a positive organisational training climate can enhance training participation and transfer in the public sector.International Journal of Public Sector Management,25(4), 301-316. Olaniyan, D. A., Ojo, L. B. (2008). Staff training and development: a vital tool for organisational effectiveness.European Journal of Scientific Research,24(3), 326-331. Owoyemi, O. A., Oyelere, M., Elegbede, T., Gbajumo-Sheriff, M. (2011). Enhancing employees commitment to organisation through training.International Journal of Business and Management,6(7), 280. Sahinidis, A. G., Bouris, J. (2008). Employee perceived training effectiveness relationship to employee attitudes.Journal of European Industrial Training,32(1), 63-76. Tabassi, A. A., Ramli, M., Bakar, A. H. A. (2012). Effects of training and motivation practices on teamwork improvement and task efficiency: The case of construction firms.International Journal of Project Management,30(2), 213-224. Zheng, C., Lamond, D. (2010). Organisational determinants of employee turnover for multinational companies in Asia.Asia Pacific journal of management,27(3), 423-443. Ashar, M., Ghafoor, M., Munir, E., Hafeez, S. (2013). The impact of perceptions of training on employee commitment and turnover intention: Evidence from Pakistan.International journal of human resource studies,3(1), 74.

Nclex Hesi Practice Tests free essay sample

Denial B. Anger C. Bargaining D. Rejection 2. Which of the following matches the definition: covering up a weakness by stressing a desirable or stronger trait? A. Compensation B. Projection C. Rationalization D. Dysphoria 3. Which of the following waveforms is most commonly found with light sleepers? A. Theta B. Alpha C. Beta D. Zeta 4. Which of the following months matches with an infant first having the ability to sit-up independently? A. 4 months B. 6 months C. 8 months D. 10 months 5. Object permanence for toddlers develops in this age range? A. 5-10 months B. 10-14 months C. 12-24 months D. 15-24 months 6. Which of the following matches the definition: attributing of our own unwanted trait onto another person? A. Compensation B. Projection C. Rationalization D. Dysphoria 7. Which of the following matches the definition: the justification of behaviors using reason other than the real reason? A. Compensation B. Projection C. Rationalization D. Dysphoria 8. Which of the following matches the definition: response to severe emotion stress resulting in involuntary disturbance of physical functions? A. We will write a custom essay sample on Nclex Hesi Practice Tests or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Conversion disorder B. Depressive reaction C. Bipolar disorder D. Alzheimers disease 9. Which of the following waveforms is most commonly found when you are awake? A. Theta B. Alpha C. Beta D. Zeta 10. The REM sleep cycle occur approximately every ____ minutes? A. 45 B. 60 C. 75 D. 90 11. Which of the following reflexes is not found at birth? A. Babinski B. Palmar C. Moro D. Flexion 12. Parallel play for toddlers develops in this age range? A. 5-10 months B. 10-14 months C. 12-24 months D. 24-48 months 13. Which of the following is not a sign of anxiety? A. Dyspnea B. Hyperventilation C. Moist mouth D. GI symptoms 14. Which of the following best describes a person that is completely awake falling asleep spontaneously? A. Cataplexy B. Narcolepsy C. Transitional sleep D. REM absence 15. Which of the following best describes a person that is unable to tell you were there hand or foot is? A. Autotopagnosia B. Cataplexy C. Ergophobia D. Anosognosia 16. Which of the following is not a characteristic of a panic disorder? A. Nausea B. Excessive perspiration C. Urination D. Chest pain 17. Which of the following categories would a 70 year old adult be placed in? A. Intimacy vs. Isolation B. Generativitiy vs. Stagnation C. Integrity vs. Despair D. Longevity vs. Guilt 18. Which of the following categories would a 60 year old adult be placed in? A. Intimacy vs. Isolation B. Generativitiy vs. Stagnation C. Integrity vs. Despair D. Longevity vs. Guilt 19. Which of the following categories would a 20 year old adult be placed in? A. Intimacy vs. Isolation B. Generativitiy vs. Stagnation C. Integrity vs. Despair D. Longevity

Global Warming Threats and Solutions

Table of Contents Introduction Natural or man-made? Solution Conclusion Works Cited Introduction There is little doubt that our earth is undergoing a gradual increase in temperature: global warming is real. Baffling statistics by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPPC) indicate that the earth’s temperature has risen by roughly 0.6 degrees Celsius, the highest since the mid 1800s, further reports indicate that the duration from 1997-2003 were the hottest years ever recorded.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Global Warming Threats and Solutions specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Worst is yet to come as the United Nations committee on climate has predicted a temperature rise of between 1.8 to 6 Degrees Celsius by the end of the century which enough to melt all ice and polar caps (IPPC, pg. 2). This would spell disaster as many countries, cities and towns will be submerged, including the Netherl ands and New York City. The threat is real and unless we act appropriately, almost half of all earth will be under the sea at the turn of the century. Natural or man-made? In the past few years, the threat of global warming has appeared real and this has led to debates over who or what was responsible for the condition. The media, politicians and the general population have been divided on this topic. Skeptics argue that human activities man is not the leading cause of global warming, they assert that climate will change continuously, as it has in the past, human activities not withstanding (Singer, pp. 1). However, to understand the actual cause(s) of global warming, we need to understand how the process occurs. Global warming is mainly contributed by Greenhouse gases, this consists of water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and Ozone. The highest contributor of these gases to the atmosphere is man. The Industrial Revolution had greatly increased the amounts of CO2, CH4, chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) and nitrous oxide in the atmosphere with levels of CO2 and CH4 increasing by 40% and 150% respectively since the mid 18th century. These values are the highest during the last 650,000 years, the last time CO2 levels were higher than this was roughly 20 million years ago (IPPC, pg. 1). The high levels of CO2 have been caused by burning fossil fuels and de-forestation, man is the cause of both (Simon et al, pp. 79). A recent study examined more than seven million studies of temperature, salinity, and other factors that affect the world’s water systems collected by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and compared them with predictions from computer simulations.Advertising Looking for report on environmental studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The study found out that natural occurrences in the atmosphere, such as volcanic eruptions and the sun’s activities, could not sufficiently account for global warming. Simulations based on human activities, however, exactly corresponded to the observations (Henderson, para. 6). The study eliminated all possible causes of global warming and was left with one culprit: man. The study also simulated past and future consequences of global warming and the findings were nothing to be admired and cannot be merely dismissed. Global warming could cause disastrous effects in the future, for example, a study undertaken by a team of scientists led by Ruth Curry of Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution found out that 20,000 square kilometers of ice in the Arctic melted between 1965 and 1995 (Henderson, para. 10). Continued melting at this rate could destabilize the ocean currents that keep Britain warmer than other European countries. Solution The evidence that man is responsible for global warming is admissible, therefore, solutions to global warming lies with us. The solution to global warming is quite simple, one does not have to make long journeys or spend large amounts of money, rather, implementation of the strategies that are outlined below will assist in averting this menace (Pearson, para.4). The first step is energy efficiency. This is a very large topic and covers almost all facets of energy use contributing to global warming. Energy efficiency involves adoption of energy forms that limit global warming, also referred to as alternative or renewable energy. The three main sources of these energy forms are the sun, tidal and wind energy. Other forms include hydroelectric, geothermal, diesel and biodiesel energy forms. Solar and wind energy present us with a greener and more environmentally friendly energy options, besides being renewable, they can be harnessed from almost anywhere on earth. Another simple process of keeping global warming in check is to plant trees around the house, school or in any open field. As simple as it may sound, this goes a long way to eliminating the Greenhouse g ases from the atmosphere, making the earth cooler. Other outdoor activities such as using bicycles or walking over short distances instead of using a car are very pivotal in reducing the levels of Greenhouse gases. We should strive to recycle materials around the house, especially non-biodegradable types such as packaging material. Plastic packaging bags can be re-used to reduce the environmental damage related to these materials. The manufacturing process of plastic bags also leads to an increase in CO2 in the atmosphere.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Global Warming Threats and Solutions specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Conclusion If everybody follows these rules, we would be helping ourselves and even the future generations by preserving the earth. If all of us take a role in preserving the earth, the cumulative effect would be significant to cause a drop in the level of Greenhouse gases, hence the earthâ⠂¬â„¢s temperature. Works Cited Henderson, Mark. New proof that man has caused global warming. Times Online.  Web. IPCC. Summary for Policymakers. Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis.  Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2007. Pearson. Mastering biology. 2010. Web. https://www.pearsonmylabandmastering.com/northamerica/masteringbiology/ Simon, Eric, Reece, Jane, Dickey, L. Jean, and Dickey, Jean. Campbell Essential  Biology. San Francisco: Pearson, Benjamin Cummings, 2010. Singer, Fred. Global Warming: Man-Made or Natural? Imprimis. Vol 36, No. 8, August 2007. This report on Global Warming Threats and Solutions was written and submitted by user Jerry T. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

A Marketing Plan for Prius Electronics

A Marketing Plan for Prius Electronics Executive Summary The need for a geographical business growth informs the adoption of a market dominance strategy by Prius Electronics. The transition in the management of this family owned enterprise has necessitated the deepening of its hold on the high end market.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on A Marketing Plan for Prius Electronics specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The strategy relies on the spending power of the said market segment. On its part, the potential for growth relies on the huge profits expected from the application of the market dominance policy. The company’s focus on the high end niche guarantees significant return on investment since the profit margins of such products are usually high. The selected market plan also has the potential to increase the returns of each of the shareholders. Such increments are possible since growth in profits is likely to trigger expansion into other geo graphical areas in the country. A Marketing Plan for Prius Electronics Background Information Prius Electronics is a family-owned business founded in 1990. The company was started by the family members as an outlet for second hand electronic items like television sets and radios. However, the need for diversification made the organization shift from second hand material to electronic products that were brand new (Thorpe Morgan, 2007). Today, the company has five branches in several parts of the Illinois State in the United States of America. Prius Electronics markets itself as a supplier of authentic and high-tech electronic items. The products are aimed at enabling the clients cope with the dynamics associated with the technological world. According to Morgan and Hunt (2002), a company seeking to gain competitive advantage over its peers should strive for uniqueness. The company has its headquarters in Chicago. However, its presence is felt in 15 other towns within Illinois. Among others, it has operations in Addison, Barrington, Auburn, Bloomingdale, and Aurora. Shaw (2012) argues that proximity to customers is an effective marketing strategy. Most of the outlets are located within a 3 mile radius of residential areas.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The company is both a wholesaler and a retailer of electronic material. The products range from television sets, computers, cameras, phones, and other home appliances. The company has a 3 year warranty policy for all the products sold. It is the only outlet in Illinois that offers clients such a policy. Such a plan is expected to increase sales and other earnings in the organization (Paswan, Blanckson Guzman, 2011). In this paper, the marketing plan adopted by the company is analyzed. Among others, an environmental analysis of the company is conducted. In the analysis, competitive, e conomic, political, legal, technological, and sociocultural forces are reviewed. In addition, the primary and secondary target markets are identified. An Environmental Analysis of Prius Electronics Overview As aforementioned, the entity was founded as a distributor of electronic appliances for home and office use. Over the years, it has grown to become a marketer of the latest brands of electronic equipment. Presently, the company is undergoing a leadership transition. The current chief executive officer is about to hand over the company to his son, given that it is a family-run organization. The transition creates the need for a marketing plan meant to take the company into the future (Paswan et al., 2011). As such, it is important to understand the business environment in terms of the competitive, economic, and political forces. Competitive Forces Intense competition in the electronics business requires companies to make their presence known to the consumers. Companies are expecte d to engage in advertising as part of their marketing strategy (Morgan Hunt, 2002).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on A Marketing Plan for Prius Electronics specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Today, the American market is characterized by a myriad of different types of advertisements from prominent electronics companies. The scenario is what leads to the stiff competition in the electronic industry in Illinois and the greater American market. Competition is usually skewed to favor some parties depending on the category of the commodities sold (Shaw, 2012). In the case of Prius, competition in the low-end products segment is extremely high. Such products are those whose price is less than $100. However, the same products might cost more than $100 due to added features. Such a scenario leads to what is referred to as a high-end product. An example is in the iPhone series of products, where there is a 5s and a 5c . The latter is low end, while the former is high end. Competition in this case arises due to the affordability aspect. Economic Forces According to Paswan et al. (2011), the economic situation in a country has a ripple effect on the operation of businesses. Similarly, the prevailing harsh economic situation in the American economy has forced many companies to cut costs on such issues as promotions. The most significant budget cuts in this perspective are in the mainstream advertising platforms like newspapers and television. Nonetheless, companies are still relying on promotional activities in a bid to advertise their services. A survey conducted in the American market indicates that many companies are taking to specialty advertising. The same is aimed at ensuring brand visibility despite the promotional budget cuts. The new form of marketing is mostly done by large companies that can afford to allocate funds to such ventures. Slow economic recovery witnessed in America implies tha t many companies will rely on specialty advertising. The objective is to receive value for the funds spent creating awareness for products and services (Shaw, 2012).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Political Forces According to Shaw (2012), the political situation in a country has an effect on the performance of businesses operating there. Today, the high handedness witnessed in the House of Representatives has the possibility to ruin businesses in the country. For instance, the recent government shutdown resulted in decreased sales in small businesses operating in various industries. The effects of such policies and political realities are not restricted to the small businesses. For example, they have the potential to negatively affect the operations of large businesses like Samsung Electronics. Legal Forces The specialty advertising referred to earlier is characterized by the distribution of goods to potential customers through mails (Morgan Hunt, 2002). Many clients have lodged complaints regarding the mail sent to them, regarding it as junk. Companies like Prius Electrical are less affected by the problems associated by these types of mails. Promotional correspondence aff ects the clients who had not placed orders for the products more than it affects those who have already expressed their interest to acquire the item. There needs to be a legal framework aimed at regulating such forms of advertisement. However, since this appears to be the most preferred form of marketing plan in such economic situations, many companies are likely to ignore any legal implications associated with it. For example, large companies will most likely opt to continue sending the mail since they can afford to absorb the consequences. Technological Forces The technology world is changing at a very high pace. New products are launched almost on a daily basis. Morgan and Hunt (2002) suggest that emerging trends are forcing manufacturers to change the specialization of appliances. An example is in the television market segment. Consumers and producers are shifting to flat screen television sets. The new television sets are accompanied by new modifications to enhance the quality of their signal. Manufacturers are constantly developing televisions with higher definitions to improve the quality of pictures received. It is important for companies to increase their sales before a new version of an appliance is launched. Socio-Cultural Factors The need to increase household incomes implies that customers will spend most of their time working and less on leisure. They will most likely spend money on appliances that are capable of making their work easier (Morgan Hunt, 2002). An example of such a scenario is evident in the sale of mobile phones. Clients will definitely prefer a mobile phone that has many applications. Such applications include those used in taking photos and organizing one’s diary. As a result, electronic outlets will be forced to stock such commodities to meet the customer’s demands. Markets Market Tiers There are two tiers of markets in which products are sold (Shaw, 2012). The choice of a particular tier depends on the type of co mmodities sold by a company. The two are the primary and secondary markets. The marketing plan of a company is expected to respond to its markets. Prius Electronics is operating in the two types of markets. Primary Market According to Paswan et al. (2011), the primary market is the bedrock from which a company gets most of its revenues. Earlier, this paper established that there is high competition in the less costly commodities’ market. The management at Prius Electronics wants to avoid stiff competition by targeting the high end market. Persons or organizations that can comfortably purchase electronics worth $5000 per week are the company’s primary market. Identification of this segment is inspired by the need for niche differentiation to increase profits. Given the dynamic nature of electronic appliances, it follows that a company dealing in the same will be required to offload its products before a new version is introduced in the market. Over the past decade, Priu s Electronics has relied on the high end market to ensure high sales volumes. Moving forward, the company needs to expand its space within this primary market. Secondary Market It is the second tier in a market. It is used to supplement the revenues generated by the company from the main market (Morgan Hunt, 2002). Prius Electronics uses the low-end buyers as its secondary market. The niche comprises of commodities whose shelf life is rarely affected by the entry of a new product. In such cases, home appliances like iron boxes and blenders are reasonably priced to attract the low end buyers. Branding Strategy Logo and Name Slogan â€Å"Making life easier† Brand Extension Introducing the very latest Super High Definition curved television Performance Analysis Benchmark Metric 50%-55% 55%-65% 65%-70% 70%-75% Rate of growth compared to the competition in the market X Web site visitors X Increase in market share X Customer value X The performance analy sis is based on the need to increase each of the metrics per year. The objectives are as follows: Quantitative To increase market share by 75% To increase website visitors by 60% To increase the customer value by 65% To increase the rate of growth by 70% Qualitative Developing the company brand Improving the company’s image Enhancing awareness of the company making relevant considerations SWOT and Needs Analysis Strengths The company has adopted the market differentiation strategy evident in the primary and secondary markets. Such a strategy is one of its strengths. In addition, Prius Electronics have adopted the specialty advertising strategy, which makes it possible to maintain a small number of employees. Such a manageable number means that the company can afford to allocate resources to support the marketing strategy despite slow economic growth (Shaw, 2012). Further, the organization has created a working relationship with manufactures and distributors of the pro ducts. The same helps to maintain the high quality of the goods sold. Consumers in the primary market places second orders at a very high rate. Such a rate affirms that the quality of services delivered is satisfactory. Clients inform their friends and other people of the high quality of products, increasing the number of new clients by 6% per month. Weaknesses By virtue of being a family business, Prius Electronics have adopted a centralized management hierarchy. The structure lacks a managerial backup. In such circumstances, Shaw (2012) suggests that there is a limited knowledge base in the company. The operations of such a company are threatened in the event that the leadership is incapacitated. The dynamic nature of electronic appliances adds to these weaknesses. Opportunities According to Morgan and Hunt (2002), annual expenditure on advertisements in America stood at $130 billion in 2012. The figure is expected to grow in subsequent years. Analysts estimate that a quarter of t he budget is spent on specialty advertising. Prius is a company keen on the said advertising platform. The figures indicate an opportunity that the company can exploit to increase growth. Threats The major threat to electronics is the constant change in their specialization. Morgan Hunt (2002) indicates that with the dawn of the internet age customers are keen on smart technology. The high end market, in particular, is keen o the said appliances. However, owing to the limited numbers of their high end market coupled with the aforementioned dynamism, a threat of low sales volumes looms. The Market Dominance Strategy As aforementioned, the transition in the company informs the need to increase profit margins. Consequently, the company requires a marketing strategy that will increase profitability and share holder returns (Shaw, 2012). Going forward, the said strategy will boost growth. More specifically the company will take a niche approach into this strategy. Over the next five yea rs, the company intends to develop a niche in the high end market segmentation. Morgan Hunt (2002) posits that electronics are luxury products and the said market has the best purchasing power. The five year time frame is sufficient as the company seeks to go national. According to their forecast, their marketing activities will primarily target the said niche and the proposed timeframe is sufficient. Positioning Statement Prius Electronics is h leading electronics distributor in Illinois. We pride ourselves in the sale of authentic appliances for the home and office respectively. The state of the art quality of our products enables their fast application. We offer competitive prices and to those who make electronic purchases, a considerable discount is made. Consumer Behavior Shaw (2012) argues that a marketing plan ought to respond to their clients’ behavior in the market. As aforementioned the high end products usually have a short shelf life before a new product is intro duced with advanced specifications. Such clients are therefore keen on having the latest electronics. Consequently, the company is forced to ensure they are fully stocked with the latest models. References Morgan, E., Hunt, S. (2002). Determining marketing strategy: A cybernetic systems approach to scenario planning. European Journal of Marketing, 36(4), 450-478. Paswan, K., Blanckson, C., Guzman, F. (2011). Relationalism in marketing channels and marketing strategy. European Journal of Marketing, 45(3), 311-333. Shaw, E. (2012). Marketing strategy: From the origin of the concept to the development of a conceptual framework. Journal of Historical Research in Marketing, 4(1), 30-55. Thorpe, R., Morgan, R. (2007). In pursuit of the ideal approach to successful marketing strategy implementation. European Journal of Marketing, 41(5/6), 659-677.

Questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 4

Questions - Essay Example In the development of their forms of government, Egypt went straight from pre-civilization to large government units, was more centralized and authority was concentrated in a divine Pharaoh. On the other hand, Mesopotamia passed through a city-state phase, authority was more dispersed and governance was exercised through councils and participatory institutions. In form of writing, both cultures developed complex forms of writing which was monopolized by the priestly class. However, Mesopotamia developed the cuneiform alphabet while Egypt had its hieroglyphics, a more pictorial form based on simplified pictures of objects abstracted to represent concepts or sounds. Mesopotamian writing material was comprised of clay tablets and animal skins, and produced an epic literary tradition. Egypt used the papyrus formed from reeds, but used it more for record keeping (Robert Guisepi, The Origins of Civilizations, 2007). In great part, Mesopotamia developed a more advance level of science and mathematics than Egypt, although Egyptians were first to determine the length of the solar year and developed a science of medicine. Egyptian civilization was not centered on science, however, but on religion, the worship of many gods, magical rituals, and obsession with life after death (Cornelius Petrus Tiele, Comparative History of the Egyptian and Mesopotamian Religions, 1882). While their early religions developed from an awareness of nature and the environment, their attitudes differed greatly. Egypt, prosperous and harmonious and consistent with its attribution as the â€Å"gift of the Nile,† regarded their gods positively with the promise of a joyous afterlife. Mesopotamian religion was gloomy and bleak, and their prayers reflected the absence of a personal relationship with their gods and goddesses who were suspicious of humans and frequently sent calamities to underscore their humanity – as in the message of the Gilgamesh epic (Michael Streich,

Writing to Convince Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Writing to Convince - Essay Example The state of Oklahoma is no exception to protecting its pivotal civilians and, therefore, presents provisions to protect the societal individuals. Once the society selects the few who should be contained and restrictions offered, individuals might relate better to their normal routine. However, Oklahoma has witnessed a high number of inmates in prisons with the crime rate increasing and the law providing fewer alternative rehabilitation measures for less crime offenders. Among this number are women whose number is increasing in the prisons leaving a void in their homes, with the majority of children growing up without the motherly care. The number of inmates has surpassed the state’s budget on the initial expectation of the figure that are in the prisons. There is an alarming rate of sex offenders with elevating crime against children and corruption in businesses. This paper argues on the need to reduce the number of inmates in Oklahoma prisons and the impact of this problem o n individuals and society. The number of individuals increasing in these prisons means that there is a substantial increase in the crimes committed to the Oklahoma community. The law has recognized serious crimes to be against children and in embezzlement of finance in organizations. This has led to a witnessed an increase in the number of women in prisons escalating to protect the victims. There are non-violent offenders and those that are most dangerous who are included in this program. The lack of a proper system to rehabilitate the non-violent offenders and the parole system flaws has led to the integration of the entire criminals within the limited spaces. Oklahoma is mentioned as the only state with the provision that the governor should sign every parole program before the prisoner is inducted. The number of inmates increasing ion the prisons has an implication of unhealthy living within the confines leading to violence elevating in

My Strengths and Weakness of each of the Domains of The Framework for Essay

My Strengths and Weakness of each of the Domains of The Framework for Teaching - Essay Example I need to do self- assessment. I need to improve the way I do teaching. The Domains of the Framework for Teaching, I realized, is the thing needed to be done in order to address our aspiration to be good teachers. Domain 1: Planning and Preparation This is the foremost thing I do when teaching. I consider this as the springboard to teaching. My strength in this area is the â€Å"knowledge of content and pedagogy.† I studied my concentration for many years. My interest is encompassing when it comes to my adored area of study. And I enjoyed teaching the content to my students. My knowledge in pedagogy complements well the teaching and learning process. All in all, this is my cup of tea. My weakness, though, is â€Å"demonstrating knowledge of students.† I find it a hard time to individually identify my students’ strengths, weaknesses and intelligences. There are instances when I sense a divide between my expectations and students’ actual capabilities. I also find it hard to customize my instruction to suit their background knowledge and readiness. To demonstrate well the knowledge of students is my desire. I realized that if only I can do it, teaching can be more exciting and rewarding. I have to have knowledge of my students’ personality. I should do efforts to recognize them more. I can do this by analyzing and discovering their backgrounds and abilities through student-centered strategies in teaching. I should exhibit care and concern to their ideas and opinions. My students and I should open up channels of communication where the students can freely ask guidance and comfort. I can start doing efforts to know my students immediately. I will regularly include this in my day-to-day life as a

Discrimination Concerns in a Business Environment

Discrimination Concerns in a Business Environment Organisational policies and procedures Legal compliance Direct Discrimination Direct discrimination consists of treating a person less favourably than others are or would be treated, on the grounds of race, sex, disability, religion or belief, and sexual orientation. Indirect Discrimination This includes practices which look fair but have discriminatory side effects, which may or may not be intended. Harassment Harassment of individuals related to their sex, race, disability, religion or belief, or sexual orientation is regarded as a form of discrimination, and is therefore illegal. Harassment is defined as: â€Å"Unwanted conduct related to any of the grounds covered by the legislation which takes place with the purpose or effect of violating the dignity of a person and/or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.† Victimisation Victimisation occurs when an individual is adversely treated because they have made a complaint of discrimination or harassment, or provided evidence in such a case Organizations are legally required to follow a set of practices to ensure discrimination is eradicated and expectations of equality are met in the workplace. 1970 The Equal Pay Act (EPA) (as amended), makes it unlawful for employers to discriminate between men and women in terms of their pay and conditions (including pay, holiday entitlement, pension etc) where they are doing the same or similar work; work rated as equivalent; or work of equal value. 1975 The Sex Discrimination Act (SDA) (as amended), makes it unlawful to discriminate on grounds of sex or marital status in areas such as employment, education and the provision of goods and services. 1976 The Race Relations Act (RRA) (as amended) makes it unlawful to discriminate on grounds of colour, race, and nationality, ethnic or national origin. The Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000 outlaws discrimination in all public authority functions, and places a general duty on public authorities to promote race equality and good race relations. There is also a specific duty to produce a Race Equality Policy and undertake race equality impact assessments. 1995 The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) (as amended) makes it unlawful to discriminate on grounds of disability in the areas of employment, the provision of goods and services and education. The 2005 Regulations provide new definitions of direct discrimination and harassment and widen the duty to make reasonable adjustments. 1996 The Employment Rights Act (as amended by the Employment Relations Act 1999) covers many issues including an employee’s entitlement to maternity leave, paternity leave, adoption leave, parental leave and the right to request flexible working arrangements. It also outlaws detriment in employment and affords employees a right not to be unfairly dismissed and to receive a redundancy payment (providing qualifying criteria are met). Further Regulations elaborate on these. 1997 The Protection from Harassment Act makes harassment both a civil tort and criminal offence, and although originally drafted to provide protection from stalking, covers other forms of harassment, both in and out of the workplace. 1999 The Sex Discrimination (Gender Reassignment) Regulations make it unlawful to discriminate against a person for the purpose of employment or vocational training on the ground that that person intends to undergo, is undergoing, or has at some time in the past undergone gender reassignment. In particular, the Regulations give transsexuals the right to be protected from direct discrimination. 2001 The Special Educational Needs and Disability Act (SENDA) extends the DDA (1995) to include the provision education (including Higher Education). It makes it illegal to discriminate in the provision of education on the grounds of a student’s disability. It is now largely incorporated within the DDA (2005). 2002 The Employment Act makes provision for rights to paternity and adoption leave and pay; amends the law relating to statutory maternity leave and pay; makes provision for the use of statutory procedures in relation to employment disputes; and covers the right to request flexible working. 2003 The Employment Equality (Religion and Belief) Regulations make it unlawful to discriminate on grounds of religion or religious belief in employment and vocational training. 2003 The Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations make it unlawful to discriminate on grounds of sexual orientation in employment and vocational training. The Regulations protect homosexuals, heterosexuals and bisexuals. 2004 The Gender Recognition Act 2004 gives legal recognition to a transsexual’s acquired gender. For example, a male-to-female transsexual will be legally recognised as a woman in English law. 2005  Disability Discrimination Act makes substantial amendments to the 1995 Act. It introduces a duty on all public bodies to promote equality of opportunity for disabled people. In particular, public bodies have to produce a Disability Equality Scheme to promote disability and to explain how they intend to fulfil the duty to promote equality. 2005 The Employment Equality (Sex Discrimination) Regulations are concerned with the principle of equal treatment of men and women as regards access to employment, vocational training and promotion, and working conditions. It makes changes to the definition of harassment at work and indirect discrimination, and also prohibits discrimination on the grounds of pregnancy and maternity leave. 2006 The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations make it unlawful to discriminate against employees, job seekers or trainees on grounds of age in employment and vocational training. They prohibit direct and indirect discrimination, victimisation, instructions to discriminate and harassment. They introduce a minimum retirement age of 65; a duty on employers to respond to requests to work beyond retirement age; and remove the upper age limit for claiming a redundancy payment or unfair dismissal. 2006 The Equality Act makes provision for the establishment of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) by merging the Equal Opportunities Commission, the Commission for Racial Equality and the Disability Rights Commission. The EHRC is responsible for promoting equality and diversity and will work towards eliminating discrimination on the usual grounds (including religion and belief, sexual orientation, age, gender, disability, race and gender reassignment 2007 The Equality Act (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2007 make it unlawful to discriminate on the grounds of sexual orientation in the provision of goods, facilities and services, education, disposal and management of premises and the exercise of public functions. Meeting Organisational Aims and Commitment Elements which lead to people’s commitment: 1. Commitment is an  attitude Commitment is an  attitude  a psychological frame of mind which motivates people to work towards certain goals. Managers can train employees with new skills and impart them with new knowledge but quite often than not they find it extremely difficult to effect changes in people’s attitude. 2. Use of resources Committed people commit their total resources, which include going extra mile for achieving goals assigned to them. 3. Achievement  of goals Committed people not only work hard but also are also smart enough to know the ultimate results, which are expected of them. Commitment thus means striving till the  achievement  of ultimate goals. Writing Equality and Diversity Policies A good policy will be split into these sections: A statement of intent This spells out organisational commitment to equality and diversity in terms of opportunity and access, and your commitment to tackle discrimination. A purpose This explains why your organisation is writing and adopting the policy. Your organisation may wish to refer to and recognise issues of specific discrimination or refer to any specific research related to your organisation. A commitment to action Your organisation needs to list what steps it will take to ensure that its intentions and purpose are reflected in the way the organisation plans action, makes decisions, recruits staff and volunteers, delivers services and supports staff and volunteers and service users. There should be a statement about positive action to tackle under- representation in this section. A review of the legal requirements Your organisation needs to describe how this legislation relates to your work and what steps you intend to take to ensure you meet the appropriate legal requirements Discrimination, harassment and victimisation The policy needs to define direct and indirect discrimination (including discrimination by association and by perception), harassment and victimisation, all of which need to be tackled in the policy through statements committing the organisation to action. Implementation and communication Your organisation needs to explain how the policy will be put into practice and how it will be communicated to all staff, volunteers and service users. Monitoring and evaluation Your organisation needs to describe how the policy will be monitored and evaluated and who will be responsible for that work. Your organisation needs to state how long the policy will be in existence and when it will be subject to review. Complaints or grievance and disciplinary procedures Your organisation needs to make clear how complaints and disciplinary action can be triggered by actions contrary to the policy, how appeals can be made, who is responsible, and how matters are resolved. An action plan Finally, you need to write an action plan. This will include objectives with clear outcomes, stating who is responsible for each objective, what resources are in place, when each target will be met and what evidence the organisation can provide to show the outcomes have been met. References Improving Equality and Diversity in Your Organisation: A Guide for Third Sector CEOs. Retrieved from http://www.gadnetwork.org.uk/storage/ACEVO%202011%20Improving%20Equality%20and%20Diversity%20in%20Your%20Organisation%20-%20A%20guide%20for%20Third%20Sector%20CEOs.pdf Delivering Equality and Diversity. Retrieved from http://www.acas.org.uk/media/pdf/l/e/Acas_Delivering_Equality_and_Diversity_(Nov_11)-accessible-version-Apr-2012.pdf Retrieved from http://www.businessballs.com/equality.htm Legal Services Commission Equality and Diversity Guidance 2013.Retrieved from https://www.justice.gov.uk/downloads/legal-aid/civil-contracts/equality-diversity-guidance-for-providers.pdf Retrieved from http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/ACHIEVING_EXCELLENCE_THROUGH_TOTAL_COMMITMENT.html Retrieved from www.dundeecity.gov.uk/dundeecity/uploaded/publication_1668.doc‎

Evaluate the claim that modern political parties are failing to perform their traditional functions :: essays research papers

To answer this question, we most identify the key roles of a political party in the political system. Political Parties must identify their leaders who in turn, become the offered leaders to take control of the country. Skills of persuasion, organisation of support, public speaking, committee work, and public campaigning are all essential qualities for leaders of political parties. Currently, the leaders of the Labour Party, Conservative’s and Liberal Democrats represent a range of viewpoints, giving the UK voter a choice, depending upon their opinions. Political parties nominate individuals to important positions in public services e.g. hospital trusts. They also choose the minister for that service; e.g. Education minister Jane Davidson for the Welsh Assembly. In general these choices are sensible and not overly radical. Therefore we can see that this traditional function is being performed accurately. Political Parties also are responsible for creating legislation, a vital job involving producing coherent policy programmes. A recent example of British Government doing this, is the 2001 Terrorism Act and the soon to be announced 2005 terrorist legislation. Parties are creating necessary and modern legislation, so it cannot be said that they are failing in this aspect. Parties also organise the timetable of Parliament whilst supplying members to the various committees, produced to reach decisions. Timetabling is obviously going ahead, or there would be no Parliament. The Neill committee, created in 1994 discusses the funding of political parties and the equality. Political Parties also scrutinise the other parties work in the Parliament successfully. By successful, I mean disputing other parties suggestions, arguing for changes in the law. Daily disputes break out in the House of Commons between MP’s, indicating a good scrutiny of legislation.

Effects of Countries of Transition Economies Essay

Centrally planned economy is an economic system in which the government makes almost all the decisions of a country’s economic activities (â€Å"Definition of ‘Centrally Planned Economy’†, 2014). For instance, government takes control on what goods and services is produced and how the resources are disseminated. The purpose of centrally planned economy is to enhance the productivity and management by allowing the planners to take advantage of better information accomplished through a combination of economic resources while making decisions on the topic of investment and also the distributions of economic inputs (â€Å"Command economy†, 2014). On the other hand, a market economy is an economic system in which the consumers and businesses who take control on making the economic decisions of a country (â€Å"Definition of ‘Market Economy’†, 2014). For instance, consumers and businesses decide the price of goods and services and how m uch to supply. However, there is little government involvement. In the late 1980s, the decline of the centrally planned economies has downgraded the living standards of the people (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). Hence, some of the centrally planned countries such as Poland, Hungary, and Yugoslavia intended to move towards a market economy because this is the only way to conquer the gap between these socialist economies and the western-like market economies (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)† , 2014). The transformation from a centrally planned economy to a market based economy has never been easy (â€Å"Command economy†, 2014). There is only one process of transition is considered as successful which is the People’s Republic of China (â€Å"Command economy†, 2014). On the  other hand, the Soviet Union’s transition was much more challenging (â€Å"Command economy†, 2014). This is because of the creation of price ceilings which is under the soviet’s planning (â€Å"Command economy†, 2014). This has caused the serious problem which is shortages (â€Å"Command economy†, 2014). A program of shock therapy has created which is to implement the transition process in a short period of time (â€Å"Command economy†, 2014). Hence, a big-scale privatization, budget cuts and liberalization of economy and finance policies. The fundamental economic problem is linked to the concern of scarcity (â€Å"The fundamental economic problem†, 2014). Scarcity happens when societies do not have enough resources to satisfy their unlimited needs and wants which is also call demand (â€Å"The fundamental economic problem†, 2014). Due to the limited resources and the unlimited demands, producers and consumers have to make a wise decision between competing alternatives (â€Å"The fundamental economic problem†, 2014). By making a wise economic decision, the alternatives must be sacrificed which also call the opportunity cost. This is because that they believe that the economic decision they made has a greater benefits than the opportunity cost (â€Å"The fundamental economic problem†, 2014). Thus, firms and households are the components from the circular flow diagram play an important role to deal with the problem of scarcity. However, government may involve in the market and thus government must also need to know which way is the best to use taxpayer’s money in order to enhance the country’s development. According to the America’s first Nobel Prize winner for economics, Paul Samuelson said that in order to solve the problem of scarcity facing by all of the societies, three basic questions must be answered which are what to produce, how to produce and whom to produce (â€Å"Samuelson’s three questions†, n.d.). The economic system performs similar function despite the differences in each system. First and foremost, one of the functions stated by College of Agriculture & Life Sciences (n.d), the basic functions of the economic are to determine what and how much to produce. To produce goods and services, firms should analyse on what are th e demands and the needs of the society and then produce goods that are highly values by the society. Therefore, consumers are willing to pay more to satisfy their needs and wants, which also benefits firms where they are able to maximize their supply and also income. Firms also could produce a number of goods depending on the market  size. Therefore, there won’t be wastage. Secondly is how are firms going to produce goods? The production of goods and services can be from different type of aspect. For example, firm uses labour production technology to produce their goods. It is because hiring labour from other countries like Bangladesh is cheap. Besides that is by using capital production technology. With the advance of technology, machines or robots are able to help in production by maximizing the use of resources and also maximize production with the resources available. Lastly is for whom the production of goods and services are for? Goods and services are normally produced for everybody as some firms may want to maximize their profits by targeting everybody. However, som e firms may want to segment their products to certain segments only. For instance, a firm which produces baby diapers only target for the baby segment. Some other firms also may target other segments according to race, culture and also age. By this, it will help to maintain the economy and also promote economic progress. Planned economies basically give the government autocracy type dominate over the resources of the nation (â€Å"planned economy†, 2014). They mitigate the need of private firms and permits the government to decide everything from allocation to pricing (â€Å"Economy system†, n.d.). Planned economies can offer stability, but also can restrict the progress and development of the nation if the government does not distribute resources to the innovative companies (â€Å"Economy system†, n.d.). The system rely on partial or total government control of the factors of production. All sources of production are owned and operated by the government (â€Å"Economy system†, n.d.). Individuals are not allowed to possess whichever property. The government programs, arranges, and coordinates the entire production procedure in many industries. Lastly, the government, make the most economic resolution with those on top of the hierarchy (â€Å"Economy system†, n.d.). Market Based economy is a free market economy where economic decisions are made. In other words, the production of the goods and services are control by the laws of supply and demand (Amadeo, 2014). Private firms or individuals take control of the allocation resources. Firms sell their goods and services at the highest probable price to maximize profit which consumers are capable and ready to pay (Amadeo, 2014). In a market economy, most goods and services are own privately. These enable private firms and individuals to make decision and choices freely.  Owners, consumers and workman are free to trade, purchase, generate resources in the free market (Amadeo, 2014). According to the law of demand, when the demand of an item increases, the prices will eventually increase (Amadeo, 2014). Besides, the forces of supply and demand are free from the involvement of the government. The duty of the government in market based economy is to simply insure that the market is set up and processing (â€Å"market economy†, n.d.) The standard of economic development in centrally planned system is low. It has a bigger agricultural sector as proportion of total productivity, despite on low priority of agriculture in resource distribution. It also has a high standard of forced saving and development was a high priority of centralized distribution. Furthermore, the system has a smaller service sector. Socialist countries less diverse because of not specializing conform to comparative advantage. Prices are also more stable. They inclined to display greater stability after most of the post-war era (economy system, n.d.). A centrally planned economy can lower unemployment rate, centralize resources on significant objective such as speedy economic growth and prevent wasteful reproduction of economic activities (â€Å"the pros of command economy†, 2014). A planned economy is essential at mobilizing economic resources. Firms have the capability to implement big projects, achieve their target and build industrial strength (â€Å"the pros of command economy†, 2014). Besides, it can avoid monopoly force misuse (â€Å"the pros of command economy†, 2014). Planned economies have the capability to refrain the lavish of monopoly force. It also permits the government to validly conquer market failure, inequality and set up a community that will maximize the welfare of people despite maximizing earnings. The country produces a planning scope of power so as to effectively implement long term goals (â€Å"the pros of command economy†, 2014). There is also more fair distribution of income and wealth (economy system, n.d.). On the other hand, planned economies mostly suffer from strict bureaucracy, responsibility problems, deficient decision-making, communication issues, self-serving action and incapable conformity (Chavez III, n.d.). These issues lead to excessive of shortages and surpluses of goods and services. Unsatisfactory allocation mostly leads to black market economies. The people in this system have a poor level of living and are poorly motivated (Chavez III, n.d.). There are pros and cons in every economy system. Centrally planned economy is fully  controlled by the government. Therefore, mentioned by Engrade (n.d), the relative merits for centrally planned economy is whereby the welfare of all citizens is the primary goal. In are other words, the citizen are put as the main priority to any situations. For example, goods are being produced based on the demand from the citizens. Next is prices of goods are being under control by the government so that citizens will be able to afford to consume goods and services. For instance, government provides petrol subsidies to citizens. Other than that is also said by Engrade (n.d), there will be no industrial unrest such as striking or riots as the governments c ontrols it in a systematic manner. For example, the wages of employee or the rights of citizens. Lastly is whereby government possess information to direct resources. The government have the information to where needs resources and where do not need. By this everything will be under control and there won’t be wastage. Compare to centrally planned economy, market based economy has more freedom as the government do not interfere with citizens doings. With private sector, the country is becoming more powerful. The relative merits of the market based economy is where with the boost of private sector, the country of state will be more updated and have more economic power. Private sector would be also able to bring in advance technology to increase the performance and the productivity of goods produced. Besides that, the prices of goods are determined by the market mechanism which is the types of goods and services of products being produced. Lastly but not least are competition among firms may help to improve the quality of goods produces (Engraded, n.d). For example, in order to attract more customers, private sector would upgrade the quality and also control the pricing in other to compete with other private sector. By this, I would benefit a lot to consumers and they will be willing to pay for it. Throughout the complete process of economic transformation which began in 1970s and accelerate in the 1980s as the economic conditions worsened (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). In 1989, the political systems in some of the socialist countries started their unexpected collapses which lead to the neglect of the centrally planned system and slowly transform into a market based economy system (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). Thus, it has brought some significant effects on the world undeveloped markets and on  global trading patterns of countries (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). In the first stage of the transformation, a number of fundamental economic improvements had to be executing in all these countries (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). These modifications were related to liberalization of prices, trade and also foreign exchange (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). Moreover, the transformation of the economy system also brings macro-economic stabilization to the countries (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). It helps to deal with the essential external and internal disparities of the national economies which are high or hyper-inflation (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). Additionally, transition to market based economy also facilitate in the aspect of restoration of private assets, positioning the conditions, legal and organizational structure required for an economy based in personal enterprises and economic activities (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)† , 2014). Other than this, it also enabling the reimbursement or re-compromise of the accumulated foreign debt and, overall, it helps to take the advantages of national economy which include the development of the banking and financial segment and the attraction of foreign capitals and investments (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). The other effect is that it helps the countries to set up a standardized exchange rate (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)†, 2014). Lastly, the transition towards the market-based economy system had aid the countries in the elimination of state control over foreign trade and established legal regulations in order to stimulate the entrepreneurship development (â€Å"Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy)† , 2014). In the past decades, millions of countries and people think that planned economy was the best method to operate their economies. There are still some other countries currently under planned system, like North Korea. However, planned system tends to lose out from major inefficiencies and it work out not as successful as other systems. Market and command countries incline to place distinct preference on the part of government in the economy. The essential economic problem is scarcity and choice. Because of scarcity, choices have to be made. The transformation had improved the development of the economy  and brings stabilization to the nation. With reinforced globalization, we became more acutely conscious of the mutuality of all countries in our world economy (â€Å"COMPARATIVE ECONOMIC SYSTEM†, n.d.). References Amadeo.K, (2014). Market Economy. Retrieved from http://useconomy.about.com/od/US-Economy-Theory/a/Market-Economy.htm. ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMICS Blog, (2014). Command economy pros and cons. Retrieved from http://apecsec.org/command-economy-pros-and-cons/ Centrally planned economy. (2014). Definition of ‘Centrally Planned Economy’. Retrieved from http://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/centrally-planned-economy.asp. Command economy. (2014). Retrieved from http://www.answers.com/topic/planned-economy. Chavez III.F, (n.d). What Is a Centrally Planned Economic System?. Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/facts_7703633_centrally-planned-economic-system.htm. College of Agriculture & Life Sciences. (n.d). The Functions of An Economic System. Retrieved from http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/course/are012/lecturepdf/lectur7.pdf. Economic Education. (n.d.). COMPARATIVE ECONOMIC SYSTEM. Retrieved from http://www.econedlink.org/lessons/EconEdLink-print-lesson.php?lid=322&type=student. Economy System, (n.d). Planned economy. Retrieved from http://www.ssag.sk/SSAG%20study/EKO/Economic%20Systems.pdf. Engraded. (n.d). Economis Systems. Retrieved from https://wikis.engrade.com/economicsystems. European Commission. (2014). Economic reforms (transition to a market-based economy). Retrieved from https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/multisite/etc/en/content/economic-reforms-transition-market-based-economy. Investor Words, (2014). Planned Economy. Retrieved from http://www.investorwords.com/8175/planned_economy.html#ixzz34n1pNDUu. Market economy, (2014). Definition of ‘Market Economy’. Retrieved from http://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/marketeconomy.asp. The economic problem, Samuelson’s three questions. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.economicsonline.co.uk/Competitive_markets/The_economic_problem.html. The fundamental economic problem. (2007). Retrieved from http://econ.economicshelp.org/2007/09/fundamental-economic-problem.html. .

The Role of the Forensic Anthropologist essays

The Role of the Forensic Anthropologist essays Forensic Anthropologists are often called upon to contribute by opining on the cause of death of skeletonised human remains. The same requires a sound knowledge of trauma assessment. "The forensic anthropologist specializes in hard tissue morphology, structure and variability. In those cases in which soft tissue has been degraded by time, temperature, environment or other external forces, the only tissue remaining more or less intact is bone. The obvious person to call in to evaluate such material is the bone specialist. Moreover, it should be not just your garden-variety osteologist, but one who's trained in the medico-legal context where it is essential to be able to unerringly distinguish among ante-, peri- and post- mortem defects, and where time since death is a significant factor" Stanley Rhine, Bone Voyage: A Journey in Forensic Anthropology, 1974. Though the success of creating a biological profile is largely dependent on the preservation and/or condition of remains at the point of their accession, analysis of the characteristics is undertaken by direct comparison of remains with standard physical, or graphic, exemplars or by the application of mathematical models developed from reference populations. The construction of the biological profile is thus undertaken in a set sequence which includes assessment of ancestry, sex, age, stature, and individuating characters. Once the biological profile for an individual is constructed, the Forensic Anthropologist submits their illustrated final report to enable them to draw together all the lines of evidence that may The success of creating a biological profile is largely dependent on the preservation and/or condition of remains. Some environmental conditions like acidic soil, humidity etc. are particularly detrimental to the preservation of bones. Other factors like explosion and/or fire can result in the forceful breakup of the ...

Action response Essays

Action response Essays Action response Essay Action response Essay Action Response is a London-based charity dedicated to providing fast responses to critical situations throughout the world. The charity receives requests for cash aid usually from an Intermediary charity and looks to process the request quickly and provide funds where they are needed, when they are needed. It was founded to provide relatively short-term aid for small projects until they could obtain funding from larger donors. Generally, Action Response Is regarded as one of the success stories in the charity world. The consensus of opinion is that it has filled an important AP in aid provision to relatively small scale recipients. Susan Noting Chief Executive of Action Response explains the background. Give a man a fish and you feed him today, teach him to fish and you feed him for life, its an old saying and it makes sense but, and this is where Action Response comes in, he might starve while hes training to catch fish. Nevertheless, Susan does have some worries about how parts of her enterprise are managed. She faces two major issues In particular. First she Is receiving complaints that funds are not getting through to where they are needed quickly enough. Second the costs of running the operation are starting to spiral. She explains. We are becoming a victim of our own success. We have striven to provide greater accessibility to our funds, people can access via the internet, by post and by phone. But we are in danger of losing what we stand for. It is taking longer to get the money to where it is needed and our costs are going up. We are in danger of failing on one of our key objectives: to minimize the proportion of our turnover that is spent on administration. At the same time we always need to be aware of the risk of bad publicity through making the wrong decisions. If we dont check applications thoroughly, funds may go to the wrong place and If the newspapers gets hold of the story we would run a real risk of losing the goodwill, and therefore the funds, from our many supporters. Susan NTIS held regular meetings with key stakeholders. One charity that handled a large number of applications for people in Nigeria told her of frequent complaints about the delays over the processing of the applications and they felt there was a danger of losing the key purpose for which the charity was founded. A second charity preventative complained that when he telephoned to ascertain the status of an application the RAPID staff did not seem to know where it was or how long it might be before it was complete. Furthermore he felt that this lack of information was eroding his relationship with his own clients some of whom were losing faith in him as a result. This was affecting the other work the charity was doing; trust Is so Important In the relationship he explained. Some of Suntans colleagues, while broadly agreeing with her anxieties over the One of the really good things about Action Response is that we are more flexible Han most charities. If there is a need and if they need support until one of the larger charities can step in, then we will always consider a request for aid. I would not like to see any move towards high process efficiency harming our ability to be open- minded and consider a request that might seem a little unusual at first. Jacqueline Horton, Applications Assessor) Others saw the charity as performing an important advice and counseling role. Remember that we have gained a lot of experience in this kind of short-term aid. We are also often the first people that are in a position to give advice on how to apply for argue and longer term funding. If we developed this aspect of our work we would again be fulfilling a need that is not adequately supplied at the moment. (Stephen Iniquity, Applications Assessor) The Action Response Applications Processing Unit (RAPE) Potential aid recipients, or the intermediary charities that represent them, are required to apply (or claim as Action Response termed it) using a standard form. These application forms can be downloaded from the internet or requested via a special help line. Sometimes the applica tion will come directly from an individual but ore usually it will come via an intermediary charity that is aware of Action Response and can help the applicant to complete the application form. The application form is then sent to the Action Response Applications Processing Unit (RAPE) The RAPE employs seven applications assessors with three support/secretarial staff, a pool of nine clerks who are responsible for data entry, coding and filing, and nine completes (staff who prepare the final paperwork and send the money, or explain why no aid can be given). In addition, a board of non paid trustees meets every Thursday, to ratify (approve) the applications. Action Responses IT system maintains records of all transactions. It provides an update of number of applications (by week, month and year), the number and percentage of applications approved, number and percentage of those declined, the number and amount of payments allocated. These reports identified that the Unit received about 300 applications per week (the Unit operates a 35 hour week) and whilst all the Units financial targets were being met at the moment the clear trend indicated that costs as a percentage of applications handled was increasing. Most internally set operations performance criteria were being met. The target for the turnaround of an application, from receipt of application to the issue of funds was 20 days. Accuracy had never been an issue as all files were thoroughly assessed to ensure that all the relevant and complete data was collected before the applications waiting for processing at each section with the exception that the completes were sometimes waiting for work to come from the committee on a Thursday. Susan had conducted an inspection of all sections in-trays that had revealed a rather shocking total of about 2000 files waiting within the process. Processing applications The processing of applications is a lengthy procedure requiring careful examination by applications assessors trained to make well founded assessments in line with existing charity guidelines and values. All applications arriving at the Unit are placed in an in-tray. The incoming application is then opened by one of the four receipt clerks who will check that all the necessary forms have been included in the application, the receipt clerks take about 10 minutes per application. This is then placed in an in-tray before collection by the coding staff. The five coding clerks allocate a unique identifier to each application and code the information on the application into the computer. The application is then given a front sheet, a pro formal, with the identifier in the top corner. This coding stage takes about 20 minutes for each application. The files are then placed in a tray on the senior applications assessors secretary desk. As an applications assessor becomes available, the senior secretary provides the next Job in the line to the assessor. About one hundred of the cases seen by the assessors each week are put aside after only 10 minutes scanning because it is clear that there is a need for further information. The assessor returns these files to the secretaries, who write to the applicant (usually via the intermediate charity) requesting missing or additional information, and return the file to the receipt clerks who store the file until the further information eventually arrives. When it does arrive, the file enters the process and progresses through the same stages again. Of the applications that require no further information, around half are accepted and half declined. Some applications clearly fit the charity criteria, or clearly did not. But others could take more time to assess. On average, the applications that are not recycled for further information take around 60 minutes to assess. All the applications, whether approved or declined, are stored prior to ratification. Every Thursday the Committee of Trustees meets to formally approve the applications assessors decisions. The committees role is to sample the decisions to ensure that the guidelines of the charity are upheld. In addition they will review any particularly unusual cases highlighted by the applications assessors. Once approved by the committee the file is then taken to the completion officers. There are 3 declines officers whose main responsibility is to compile a suitable response to the applicant pointing out why the application failed and offering, if possible, provide helpful advice. An experienced declines officer takes about 30 minutes to finalize the file and write a suitable letter. Successful files are passed to the 4 payment officers where again the file is completed, letters (mainly standard letters) are created and including dealing with any queries from the Bank about payment details. Finally the paperwork itself is sent, with the rest of the file, to two dispatch clerks ho complete the documents and mail them to the applicant. Each part of the process has trays for incoming work. Files are taken from the bottom of the pile when someone becomes free to ensure that all documents are dealt with in strict order. The dispatch activity takes, on average, 10 minutes for each application. The feeling amongst the staff was generally good. When Susan consulted the team they said their work was clear and routine, but their life was made difficult by charities that rang in expecting them to be able to tell them the status of an application they had submitted. It could take them hours, sometimes days, to find any individual file. Indeed two of the receipt clerks now worked full time on this activity. They also said that charities frequently complained that the money seemed to be taking a long time to agree and send. Questions 1. What objectives should the RAPE process be trying to achieve? 2. Map the process of handling applications at RAPE. 3. Analyses and evaluate the process. You may wish to assess: number of people involved in each application individual workloads whether the process is configured appropriately process throughput times why it is difficult to locate a file 4. What recommendations would you make to Susan Noting?

Lucifer and Jesus Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Lucifer and Jesus - Essay Example From the beginning, all angels were created equal and holy, but a third of them rebelled against God and fell from their pure state. They were led by the Satan, a liar, murderer and thief. "He hates God and passionately hates God's people" (Stover). It is important to remember that Satan and all the demons are very powerful and brilliant, disguising themselves as an angel of light. Lucifer is the angel of light. God's good angels on the other hand work quietly and work for God. He will always speak of God's glory and their purpose is to redeem us from our sin and help us return back to God. They do not accept worship, but direct you to worship God. They are not bound by mantras or command anyone by their word. Holy angels like Jesus are compassionate, loving and forgiving. They live to serve God, and God's people (Stover). The image of God as the ultimate commander is quite impressive and magnificent. It is important to know that God uses his "messengers" which are aptly described to us by the Greek word: angels. The Biblical image of the universe as described in the Genesis, Mathews, says Revelation is that of universe which is vibrating with life everywhere. The cosmos is heavily inhabited by wide range of angelic beings of various ranks and species. "Angels are very closely associated with the astronomical phenomena throughout Bible" (Dolphin). The weather is also greatly a result of such activity where wind, storm and lightning are considered as the actions of God, carried out by his messengers. Angels play an important role in acting as blessing as well a curse depending upon their bent of inclination. Since angels are the powers of God, they never rest; everything in this universe is sustained by the animated energy of the angels, working faithfully at the command of God. Martin Luther very aptl y makes the comment regarding a natural calamity, in which he bases his interpretation in harmony with the message in the Psalm stating that winds have wings. "The devil provokes such storms, but good winds are produced by good angels. Winds are nothing but spirits, either good or evil. The devil sits there and snorts, and so do the angels when the winds are salubrious"(Dolphin)."The Biblical worldview is uncompromising: God is running the world. Every atom in the universe is under His command. His Word created and sustains in Him. That is why He can assert His power and authority in such absolute terms." "I form the light and create darkness, I make peace and create calamity, I, the LORD, do all these things"(Isaiah 45:7) (Dolphin). The creation of angels is the most speculated in the Biblical analysis; it has been referred to that angels were created during creation week after Genesis. "An Angel is a spiritual being subordinate to God, who serves at Gods command and pleasure to deliver his messages, help his people and punish his enemies" (Achtemeier). They did not exist before that, they were also the observers of the work of creation. There is deep connection between angels and stars, which further reveals that angels were created one by one, and named as all stars are named. "He determines the number of the stars, he gives to all of them their names" (Psalm 147:4) (Dolphin). Though angels belong to particular rank and order, they are not connected as a race. One fact

Avatar Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Avatar - Assignment Example Thus the film’s clear and direct message is that of aggressive dominant cultures, just like that of the U.S subjugating another country in pursuit of riches or resources. Thus avatar is all about the imperialistic culture that the US as a country and her citizens are known for. Just the way humans invade Pandora, US also has been involved in the conquest of weaker resource-rich countries in the pretense of offering them protection. In Avatar setting, 2154, humans have accomplished a technologically sophisticated, post-industrial community that is mainly under the dominion of powerful industries and corporations. This future earth of the film is depicted as an over polluted, overpopulated, dystopian global metropolitan shanty destroyed by fraudulent, nature-devastating industrialism. According to the film, the earth’s ecosystem has been completely wretched and there is very small working natural ecosystem, if any, left. This is exactly what is happening globally today wh ereby ecosystems have been completely destroyed by manmade industrial advancement resulting in global warming and other disasters such as tsunamis and devastating hurricanes. The theme of industrialization and pollution can be related to other cultures and countries in that they (countries) are also in constant search for resources so as to feed their growing industrial might. For instance, China has been very aggressive in search of resources in Africa so as to fuel her growing industries as well as factories.

Mental Damages Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Mental Damages - Essay Example First, the elements of negligence should be established. They are duty, breach, causation, damages. According to Caparo v. Dickman [1990] UKHL 2, if the harm that occurs is reasonably foreseeable, there is a degree of proximity between the tortfeasor and the victim, and if it would be just, reasonable and fair to impose liability, then the duty prong of the negligence analysis is satisfied. In this case the harm was reasonably foreseeable – Maria could foresee that something could go wrong if she defied orders, in that she might be incapacitated, which would leave the children essentially unattended. This is exactly the harm that happened, so this harm is reasonably foreseeable. Proximity is also established, in that the children were in Maria’s care.... Maria did not act as a reasonable person, as a reasonable person would have obeyed the rules set forth by the New Horizons regarding employees acting only with trained support staff. Therefore, breach is established. Causation is the next element. The court’s typically use the â€Å"but-for† test – would the damages have occurred but-for the tortfeasor’s actions? (Barnett v. Kensington & Chelsea NHS Trust [1968] 1 All ER 1068). In this case, the actions of Maria were the cause, because but-for her choosing to drive without supervised help, the damages would not have occurred, because there would have been a trained person to help the children on the bus. Damages are next – do Bonita and Ben have compensable damages? After all, they were physically unhurt, but apparently suffered some type of emotional damage from the incident. In this case, the court would look to the case of Page v. Smith [1995] UKHL 7. In Page, the plaintiff was physically unhurt in a minor traffic accident. However, he suffered other damages, which was that he had myalgic encephalomyelitis, and this disease recurred, although it was previous in remission. The court found that Page was a primary victim, which means that the primary victim must only show that personal injury would have been a foreseeable consequence of the tortfeasor’s actions. If this is established, that the victim was unhurt would not preclude the victim from collecting from some kind of nervous shock or psychiatric injury. Further, another case that establishes that primary victims may recover for nervous shock, if they are in danger of being injured, is Alcock v Chief Constable of South Yorkshire Police [1992] 1 AC 310. Therefore, even though the two

Importance of television in our life Essay Example for Free

Importance of television in our life Essay Natural rubber, also called India rubber or caoutchouc, as initially produced, consists of suitable polymers of the organic compound isoprene, with minor impurities of other organic compounds plus water. Forms of polyisoprene that are useful as natural rubbers are classified aselastomers. Currently, rubber is harvested mainly in the form of the latex from certain trees. The latex is a sticky, milky colloid drawn off by making incisions into the bark and collecting the fluid in vessels in a process called tapping. The latex then is refined into rubber ready for commercial processing. Natural rubber is used extensively in many applications and products, either alone or in combination with other materials. In most of its useful forms, it has a large stretch ratio, high resilience, and is extremely waterproof.[1] Varieties[edit] The major commercial source of natural rubber latex is the Parà ¡ rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis), a member of the spurge family, Euphorbiaceae. This species is widely used because it grows well under cultivation and a properly managed tree responds to wounding by producing more latex for several years. Many other plants produce forms of latex rich in isoprene polymers, though not all produce usable forms of polymer as easily as the Parà ¡ rubber tree does; some of them require more elaborate processing to produce anything like usable rubber, and most are more difficult to tap. Some produce other desirable materials, for example gutta-percha (Palaquium gutta)[2] and chicle from Manilkara species. Others that have been commercially exploited, or at least have shown promise as sources of rubber, include the rubber fig (Ficus elastica), Panama rubber tree (Castilla elastica), various spurges (Euphorbia spp.), lettuce (Lactuca species), the related Scorzonera tau-saghyz, various Taraxacum species, including common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) and Russian dandelion (Taraxacum kok-saghyz), and guayule (Parthenium argentatum). The term gum rubber is sometimes applied to the tree-obtained version of natural rubber in order to distinguish it from the synthetic version.[1] Discovery of commercial potential[edit] The Para rubber tree is indigenous to South America. Charles Marie de La Condamine is credited with introducing samples of rubber to the Acadà ©mie Royale des Sciences of France in 1736.[3] In 1751, he presented a paper by Franà §ois Fresneau to the Acadà ©mie (eventually published in 1755) which described many of the properties of rubber. This has been referred to as the first scientific paper on rubber.[3] In England, Joseph Priestley, in 1770, observed that a piece of the material was extremely good for rubbing off pencil marks on paper, hence the name rubber. Later, it slowly made its way around England. South America remained the main source of the limited amounts of latex rubber used during much of the 19th century. In 1876, Henry Wickham gathered thousands of Para rubber tree seeds from Brazil, and these were germinated in Kew Gardens, England. The seedlings were then sent to India, Ceylon (Sri Lanka), Indonesia, Singapore, and British Malaya. Malaya (now Malaysia) was later to become the biggest producer of rubber. In the early 1900s, the Congo Free State in Africa was also a significant source of natural rubber latex, mostly gathered by forced labor. Liberia and Nigeria also started production of rubber. In India, commercial cultivation of natural rubber was introduced by the British planters, although the experimental efforts to grow rubber on a commercial scale in India were initiated as early as 1873 at the Botanical Gardens, Calcutta. The first commercial Hevea plantations in India were established at Thattekadu in Kerala in 1902. In Singapore and Malaya, commercial production of rubber was heavily promoted by Sir Henry Nicholas Ridley, who served as the first Scientific Director of the Singapore Botanic Gardens from 1888 to 1911. He distributed rubber seeds to many planters and developed the first technique for tapping trees for latex without causing serious harm to the tree.[4]Because of his very fervent promotion of this crop, he is popularly remembered by the nickname Mad Ridley.[5] Properties[edit] Rubber latex Rubber exhibits unique physical and chemical properties. Rubbers stress-strain behavior exhibits the Mullins effect and the Payne effect, and is often modeled as hyperelastic. Rubber strain crystallizes. Owing to the presence of a double bond in each repeat unit, natural rubber is susceptible to vulcanisation and sensitive to ozone cracking. The two main solvents for rubber are turpentine and naphtha (petroleum). The former has been in use since 1764 when Franà §ois Fresnau made the discovery. Giovanni Fabbroni is credited with the discovery of naphtha as a rubber solvent in 1779. Because rubber does not dissolve easily, the material is finely divided by shredding prior to its immersion. An ammonia solution can be used to prevent the coagulation of raw latex while it is being transported from its collection site. Elasticity[edit] In most elastic materials, such as metals used in springs, the elastic behavior is caused by bond distortions. When force is applied, bond lengths deviate from the (minimum energy) equilibrium and strain energy is stored electrostatically. Rubber is often assumed to behave in the same way, but this is a poor description. Rubber is a curious material because, unlike in metals, strain energy is stored thermally. In its relaxed state, rubber consists of long, coiled-up chains. When rubber is stretched, the chains are taut. Their kinetic energy is released as heat. The entropy and temperature increases during elongation but decreases during relaxation. This change in entropy is related to the changes in degrees of freedom. Relaxation of a stretched rubber band is thus driven by a decrease in entropy and temperature, and the force experienced is a result of the cooling of the material being converted to potential energy. Rubber relaxation isendothermic, and for this reason the force exerted by a stretched piece of rubber increases with temperature. The material undergoes adiabatic cooling during contraction. This property of rubber can easily be verified by holding a stretched rubber band to ones lips and relaxing it. Stretching of a rubber band is in some ways opposite to compression(although both undergo higher levels of thermal energy of an ideal gas), and relaxation is opposed to gas expansion (Note: rubber bands last longer in the cold). A compressed and heated gas also exhibits elastic properties, for instance inside an inflated car tire. The fact that stretching is equivalent to compression is counterintuitive, but it makes sense if rubber is viewed as a one-dimensional gas, plus it is attached to other molecules. Stretching and heat increase the space available to each section of chain, because the molecules are pulled apart. Vulcanization of rubber creates disulfide bonds between chains, so it limits the degrees of freedom. The result is that the chains tighten more quickly for a given strain, thereby increasing the elastic force constant and making rubber harder and less extensible. When cooled below the glass transition temperature, the quasifluid chain segments freeze into fixed geometries and the rubber abruptly loses its elastic properties, although the process is reversible. This property it shared by most elastomers. At very low temperatures, rubber is rather brittle. This critical temperature is the reason winter tires use a softer version of rubber than normal tires. The failing rubber o-ring seals that contributed to the cause of the Challenger disaster were thought to have cooled below their critical temperature; the disaster happened on an unusually cold day. The gas molecules in the rubber were too close to their bound solid molecules(a partial phase change that separated the rubber molecules may have occurred), allowing the rubber to take on a more solid shape(a partial phase change to a more liquid and molecularly separated form would not be good, either). Heated gas has a higher energy, and rubber must be kept at specific temperatures and probably should not be used on vehicles that undergo extreme temperature changes. Chemical makeup[edit] Latex is the polymer cis-1,4-polyisoprene – with a molecular weight of 100,000 to 1,000,000 daltons. Typically, a small percentage (up to 5% of dry mass) of other materials, such as proteins, fatty acids, resins, and inorganic materials (salts) are found in natural rubber. Polyisoprene can also be created synthetically, producing what is sometimes referred to as synthetic natural rubber, but the synthetic and natural routes are completely different.[1] Chemical structure of cis-polyisoprene, the main constituent of natural rubber: Synthetic cis-polyisoprene and natural cis-polyisoprene are derived from different precursors. Some natural rubber sources, such as gutta-percha, are composed of trans-1,4-polyisoprene, a structural isomer that has similar, but not identical, properties. Natural rubber is an elastomer and a thermoplastic. Once the rubber is vulcanized, it will turn into a thermoset. Most rubber in everyday use is vulcanized to a point where it shares properties of both; i.e., if it is heated and cooled, it is degraded but not destroyed. The final properties of a rubber item depend not just on the polymer, but also on modifiers and fillers, such as carbon black, factice, whiting, and a host of others. Biosynthesis[edit] Rubber particles are formed in the cytoplasm of specialized latex-producing cells called laticifers within rubber plants.[6] Rubber particles are surrounded by a single phospholipid membrane with hydrophobic tails pointed inward. The membrane allows biosynthetic proteins to be sequestered at the surface of the growing rubber particle, which allows new monomeric units to be added from outside the biomembrane, but within the lacticifer. The rubber particle is an enzymatically active entity that contains three layers of material, the rubber particle, a biomembrane, and free monomeric units. The biomembrane is held tightly to the rubber core due to the high negative charge along the double bonds of the rubber polymer backbone.[7] Free monomeric units and conjugated proteins make up the outer layer. The rubber precursor is isopentenyl pyrophosphate (an allylic compound), which elongates by Mg2+-dependent condensation by the action of rubber transferase. The monomer adds to the pyrophosphate end of the growing polymer.[8] The process displaces the terminal high-energy pyrophosphate. The reaction produces a cis polymer. The initiation step is catalyzed by prenyltransferase, which converts three monomers of isopentenyl pyrophosphate into farnesyl pyrophosphate.[9] The farnesyl pyrophosphate can bind to rubber transferase to elongate a new rubber polymer. The required isopentenyl pyrophosphate is obtained from the mevalonate pathway, which is derives from acetyl-CoA in the cytosol. In plants, isoprene pyrophosphate can also be obtained from 1-deox-D-xyulose-5-phosphate/2-C-methyl-D-erythritol-4-phosphate pathway within plasmids.[10] The relative ratio of the farnesyl pyrophosphate initiator unit and isoprenyl pyrophosphate elongation monomer determines the rate of new particle synthesis versus elongation of existing particles. Though rubber is known to be produced by only one enzyme, extracts of latex have shown numerous small molecular weight proteins with unknown function. The proteins possibly serve as cofactors, as the synthetic rate decreases with complete removal.[11] Current sources[edit] Close to 21 million tons of rubber were produced in 2005, of which approximately 42% was natural. Since the bulk of the rubber produced is of the synthetic variety, which is derived from petroleum, the price of natural rubber is determined, to a large extent, by the prevailing global price of crude oil.[12][13] Today, Asia is the main source of natural rubber, accounting for about 94% of output in 2005. The three largest producing countries, Thailand, Indonesia (2.4m tons)[14] and Malaysia, together account for around 72% of all natural rubber production. Natural rubber is not cultivated widely in its native continent of South America due to the existence of South American leaf blight, and other natural predators of the rubber tree. Cultivation[edit] Rubber is generally cultivated in large plantations. See the coconut shell used in collecting latex, in plantations in Kerala, India Rubber latex is extracted from rubber trees. The economic life period of rubber trees in plantations is around 32 years – up to 7 years of immature phase and about 25 years of productive phase. The soil requirement of the plant is generally well-drained, weathered soil consisting of laterite, lateritic types, sedimentary types, nonlateritic red, or alluvial soils. The climatic conditions for optimum growth of rubber trees are: Rainfall of around 250 cm evenly distributed without any marked dry season and with at least 100 rainy days per year Temperature range of about 20 to 34 °C, with a monthly mean of 25 to 28 °C High atmospheric humidity of around 80% Bright sunshine amounting to about 2000 hours per year at the rate of six hours per day throughout the year Absence of strong winds Many high-yielding clones have been developed for commercial planting. These clones yield more than 2,000 kg of dry rubber per hectare per year, when grown under ideal conditions. Field coagula[edit] Mixed field coagula Smallholders lump at a remilling factory There are four types of field coagula, cuplump, treelace, smallholders’ lump and earth scrap. Each has significantly different properties.[15] Cuplump is the coagulated material found in the collection cup when the tapper next visits the tree to tap it again. It arises from latex clinging to the walls of the cup after the latex was last poured into the bucket, and from late-dripping latex exuded before the latex-carrying vessels of the tree become blocked. It is of higher purity and of greater value than the other three types. Treelace is the coagulum strip that the tapper peels off the previous cut before making a new cut. It usually has higher copper and manganese contents than cuplump. Both copper and manganese are pro-oxidants and can lower the physical properties of the dry rubber. Smallholders’ lump is produced by smallholders who collect rubber from trees a long way away from the nearest factory. Many Indonesian smallholders, who grow paddy in remote areas, tap dispersed trees on their way to work in the paddy fields and collect the latex (or the coagulated latex) on their way home. As it is often impossible to preserve the latex sufficiently to get it to a factory that processes latex in time for it to be used to make high quality products, and as the latex would anyway have coagulated by the time it reached the factory, the smallholder will coagulate it by any means available, in any container available. Some smallholders use small containers, buckets etc., but often the latex is coagulated in holes in the ground, which are usually (but not always) lined with plastic. Acidic materials and fermented fruit juices are used to coagulate the latex – a form of assisted biological coagulation. Little care is taken to exclude twigs, leaves, and even bark from the lumps that are formed, which may also include treelace collected by the smallholder. Earth scrap is the material that gathers around the base of the tree. It arises from latex overflowing from the cut and running down the bark of the tree, from rain flooding a collection cup containing latex, and from spillage from tappers’ buckets during collection. It contains soil and other contaminants, and has variable rubber content depending on the amount of contaminants mixed with it. Earth scrap is collected by the field workers two or three times a year and may be cleaned in a scrap-washer to recover the rubber, or sold off to a contractor who will clean it and recover the rubber. It is of very low quality and under no circumstances should it be included in block rubber or brown crepe. Processing[edit] Removing coagulum from coagulating troughs The latex will coagulate in the cups if kept for long. The latex has to be collected before coagulation. The collected latex, field latex, is transferred into coagulation tanks for the preparation of dry rubber or transferred into air-tight containers with sieving for ammoniation. Ammoniation is necessary to preserve the latex in colloidal state for long. Latex is generally processed into either latex concentrate for manufacture of dipped goods or it can be coagulated under controlled, clean conditions using formic acid. The coagulated latex can then be processed into the higher-grade, technically specified block rubbers such as SVR 3L or SVR CV or used to produce Ribbed Smoke Sheet grades. Naturally coagulated rubber (cup lump) is used in the manufacture of TSR10 and TSR20 grade rubbers. The processing of the rubber for these grades is a size reduction and cleaning process to remove contamination and prepare the material for the final stage of drying.[16] The dried material is then baled and palletized for storage and shipment in various methods of transportation. Transportation[edit] Natural rubber latex is shipped from factories in south-west Asia, South America, and North Africa to destinations around the world. As the cost of natural rubber has risen significantly, the shipping methods which offer the lowest cost per unit of weight are preferred. Depending on the destination, warehouse availability, and transportation conditions, some methods are more suitable to certain buyers than others. In international trade, latex rubber is mostly shipped in 20-foot ocean containers. Inside the ocean container, various types of smaller containers are used by factories to store latex rubber.[17] Uses[edit] Compression molded (cured)rubber boots before the flashesare removed Contemporary manufacturing[edit] Around 25 million tonnes of rubber is produced each year, of which 42 percent is natural rubber. The remainder is synthetic rubber derived from petrochemical sources. Around 70 percent of the worlds natural rubber is used in tires. The top end of latex production results in latex products such as surgeons gloves, condoms, balloons and other relatively high-value products. The mid-range which comes from the technically-specified natural rubber materials ends up largely in tires but also in conveyor belts, marine products and miscellaneous rubber goods. Natural rubber offers good elasticity, while synthetic materials tend to offer better resistance to environmental factors such as oils, temperature, chemicals or ultraviolet light and suchlike. Cured rubber is rubber which has been compounded and subjected to the vulcanisation process which creates cross-links within the rubber matrix. Prehistoric uses[edit] The first use of rubber was by the Olmecs, who centuries later passed on the knowledge of natural latex from the Hevea tree in 1600 BC to the ancient Mayans. They boiled the harvested latex to make a ball for a Mesoamerican ballgame.[18] Pre-World War II manufacturing[edit] Other significant uses of rubber are door and window profiles, hoses, belts, gaskets, matting, flooring, and dampeners (antivibration mounts) for the automotive industry. Gloves (medical, household and industrial) and toy balloons are also large consumers of rubber, although the type of rubber used is concentrated latex. Significant tonnage of rubber is used as adhesives in many manufacturing industries and products, although the two most noticeable are thepaper and the carpet industries. Rubber is also commonly used to make rubber bands and pencil erasers. Pre-World War II textile applications[edit] Rubber produced as a fiber, sometimes called elastic, has significant value for use in the textile industry because of its excellent elongation and recovery properties. For these purposes, manufactured rubber fiber is made as either an extruded round fiber or rectangular fibers that are cut into strips from extruded film. Because of its low dye acceptance, feel and appearance, the rubber fiber is either covered by yarn of another fiber or directly woven with other yarns into the fabric. In the early 1900s, for example, rubber yarns were used in foundation garments. While rubber is still used in textile manufacturing, its low tenacity limits its use in lightweight garments because latex lacks resistance to oxidizing agents and is damaged by aging, sunlight, oil, and perspiration. Seeking a way to address these shortcomings, the textile industry has turned to neoprene (polymer of chloroprene), a type of synthetic rubber, as well as another more commonly used elastomer fiber, spandex (also known as elastane), because of their superiority to rubber in both strength and durability. Vulcanization[edit] Main article: Vulcanization Natural rubber is often vulcanized, a process by which the rubber is heated and sulfur, peroxide or bisphenol are added to improve resistance and elasticity, and to prevent it from perishing. The development of vulcanization is most closely associated with Charles Goodyear in 1839.[19] Before World War II era manufacturing, carbon black was often used as an additive to rubber to improve its strength, especially in vehicle tires. Today, all vehicle tires are made of synthetic rubbers. Allergic reactions[edit] Main article: Latex allergy Some people have a serious latex allergy, and exposure to natural latex rubber products such as latex gloves can cause anaphylactic shock. The antigenic proteins found in Hevealatex may be deliberately reduced (though not eliminated)[20] through processing. Latex from non-Hevea sources, such as Guayule, can be used without allergic reaction by persons with an allergy to Hevea latex.[21] Some allergic reactions are not to the latex itself, but from residues of chemicals used to accelerate the cross-linking process. Although this may be confused with an allergy to latex, it is distinct from it, typically taking the form of Type IV hypersensitivity in the presence of traces of specific processing chemicals.[20][22]