Thursday, October 31, 2019
Mathematics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1
Mathematics - Essay Example An example of where it is important to understand integers in the financial world is with banking (Glydon). If someone spends more than they have available in their bank account then their balance will be negative. Also, it is important to understand integers in geography because of the different points either above or below sea level (Glydon). 3. The reason why many students find fractions difficult is because fractions are usually never taught to be looked at visually (Miller). Many teachers like to explain all the different rules of fractions, which can be very confusing. A simple way to learn fractions is to remember that the numerator always goes over the denominator. The denominator indicates how many pieces make up the whole, while the numerator refers to how many of all those pieces we are talking about (Akers). 4. Someone who worked at a pizza company would need to be able to add mixed numbers because a pizza can be cut up into different fractions (â€Å"Mixed Fractions†). Someone who worked in the Human Resources department would also need to use mixed fractions because they would need to calculate employees’ wages based on an hourly rate and they number of hours worked. Finally, taxi drivers would need to use mixed numbers because they would need to work out how many kilometers a trip is so they could charge their passenger the correct
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
MDCM (A) write up Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
MDCM (A) write up - Case Study Example Each of the company’s subsidiaries operates autonomously and so they compete on their own terms instead of as one company. It therefore means that the price that the company pays for its products is too high when compared to the competition. This is even more so with the large number of suppliers that MDCM deals with as a group. Additionally, MDCM is not obtaining time critical information that will allow it to produce and mange its operations more efficiently. Based on the information given in the case the overall strategic goals of MDCM at this time are to improve its organizational structure, improve its information systems, reduce its operational cost and gain a greater market share. This can only be done through the integration of MDCMs information systems both departmentally, regionally and worldwide. The company has recently done some major re-organizations but the root cause of the problem has not been fixed. The CFO has indicated that margins have been shrinking for eight quarters with too much working capital and an inefficient cost structure (p.1). The structure of MDCMs operation does not augur well for its efficient operations. The company has done some restructuring and has reduced its staff complement but it still needs to do a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis of its operations in order to see what additional restructuring is required. The Chief Operating Officer (COO) has indicated that because of the inability to forecast MDCM is spending almost three times as much as the company needs to spend on materials because of having to expedite the process in order to satisfy the needs of customers. Production cannot be scheduled properly because of the rush to satisfy the immediate needs of customers. All of this suggest that the company does not have the information that it needs to plan or is not getting the information early enough in order to carry out its operations efficiently. Indeed the COO has
Sunday, October 27, 2019
Impacts of the Mass Media on Enculturation
Impacts of the Mass Media on Enculturation Popular America CultureIntroduction Mass media and popular culture are quite interconnected. Mass media has a great influence on culture construction. This term paper discusses the impacts of mass media on enculturation. It will look at the relationships among media and the normative cultural values formation. Finally the paper will discuss the influence of the internet on culture and communication means. Real world examples are given to substantiate the paper. Part IImpact of the mass media on enculturation Enculturation can be viewed as the process through which persons learn the contents of a culture and assimilates them to their lives. Mass media has grown in popularity and has formed part of our daily enculturation. This is due to the huge impact of mass media on enculturation. The Random House Unabridged Dictionary (1997) defines enculturation as a process whereby persons learn group culture by experience, observation, and instruction. The society is accessing technology more easily with time. The mass media communication devices are quickly flooding every corner of the society making dissemination of information quite easily to all the ages of people. Media has been able to make some of the topics which were never discussed freely to be so discussed. This has impacted both negatively and positively on the people receiving the information. Age groups which were not in a position to access some information in the past can access it freely and to whatever level they desire. A lot of research has been conducted on the antisocial and prosocial impact of the media. According to Motion Picture Research Council movies have a potential of causing antisocial behaviors in children. It is claimed that many of the things which are learnt from movies have antisocial overtones. In the 1950s the comic books were also added to the list of the contributors to the antisocial behaviors (Wertham, 1954). The 1950s saw many experiments conducted on the TV shows. These included the Bandura experiments which implicated violent media with aggressive behaviors among children. The Media has also been associated with sex. Some media houses have got programs which exclusively talk about sex. Some TV shows have taught the teenagers and the public in general how to dress sexily and live what is commonly called a sex lifestyle. Walking around in any city it is very easy to meet sexual sentiments. Broadcasts have shaped sex to be a popular way of self expression (Bandura, 1977). The Sesame street program is an example of TV series which has shown much [positive impact among its views. According to Minton (1975) the program was able to prepare children in readiness for school (Minton 1975). According to CBS Broadcast Group (1974) Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids was quite helpful in teaching prosocial lessons to children (CBS Broadcast Group 1974). Most action movies for instance Prison break shows how authorities can be successful fooled and any evidence of crime committed erased. This can possibly have a bad impact on some third world countries whose security system are still shaky and people criminals ca n easily imitate what they see in movies with much success. MTV is a good example of a modern influencer on popular culture. This is especially pronounced for the case of the youths who from the major part of viewers of MTV. Take for instance the Saturday Night Show. The program is designed with adverts cutting in e very other minute. Due to the popularity of the show the adverts made surely have the eyes and ears millions listeners. The teenagers who form the majority of the views of this show are prone to be influenced by the adverts. Everyday millions of impressionable teenagers watch a show called Saturday Night Live. Part II The relationship among the media, advertising and formation of normative cultural values In explaining how the media can influence the formation of normative cultural values, Van Evra (1990) proposes the script theory. He argues that since most views have little experience on life matters the media brings these matters to the views frequently. For instance if a person has never experience violence in life, the experience can be felt virtual when one is exposed to the violence in media frequently given pattern of violence is created. This pattern is dictated only by the media being the major source of knowledge of violence to the person watching (Van Evra, 1990). The media, being a major source of information on many issues in life, the views are inclined to adopt the culture portrayed by the media concerning the topic in question. Comstock and Paik (1991) try to shed some light on how the media can help in shaping up a culture among the fans. They argue that in most cases the media portrays life issues in unique, compelling and unusual manner which is likely to attract and arouse the attention of the fans. This makes the way life issues are handled in the media to be the most attractive way of adoption. They quote the social cognition theory which claims that patterns which are portrayed repetitively and redundantly are likely to prompt the fans to adopt the patterns unconsciously (Comstock Paik, 1991). Comstock and Paik (1991) also claims that the way characters are framed in the media makes their way of handling issues the only way of handling a real life issue in which some one has no experience on. It should also be noted that media stars like musicians are popularized by the media. Fans of such stars tend to imitate what these stars do. A good example is the popularity of soap operas especially among the youth. These are mostly based around love issues. Most youth have resolved to adapt to the way love issues are handled in the soaps. Another good example is how music is spreading dressing code among the youth. It is very conspicuous among the black American musicians to dress in a unique way. This is especially for the case rap and hip hop music which is very popular among the youth all over the world. Most youth have adapted to these musicians way of dress codes and way of life especially in the African countries (Comstock Paik, 1991). Part III The social impact of the internet The internet connection has contributed much to globalization. Globalization has much impact on blending different cultures and homogenizing them. Through the internet information flow is possible to all the corners of the earth. Research has shown the usage of internet is quickly replacing the other media especially TV watching. This is because the time traditional dedicated to watching TV is being used for internet surfing (Weaver, 1998). Basically the net is used for information, communication, entertainment and affiliation. The internet is so broad that it covers almost every part and issues of life aspects. The internet is likely to have a great influence than all the other forms of media because of its unique. The internet can actual substitute all the other forms of communication. Through the internet one to one communication is possible almost everywhere. Through the use of blackberry, one is able to get in touch with other people at any time. The internet has all the attractive features of all the media and thus easily influences its users very easily (Weaver, 1998). The internet is also quite addictive due to its unlimited potential of accessing information. A good example of how the internet has influenced its user is through the facebook. Facebook is able connect people who are any distance apart. Their easy to use make them popular and as a result make the dissemination of information faster. Through this features various cultural aspects are exchanges among the users of such sites. Through such sites cultural values are transferable to different parts of the world. Conclusion Media is quite influential in the formation and dissemination of cultural values. This is because media has taken the center stage of information source of any kind. Through the depiction of life issues in a unique way, the users of media are tempted to adapt the media way of doing things and as a result end up adapting a way of life which is depicted by the media probably from a different part of the globe. Through such culture values are spread to different parts of the earth. The internet has of late become the most popular way that information is passed around. References Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall. CBS Broadcast Group. (1974). Fat Albert and the Cosby kids. New York, NY: Willey Sons. Comstock, G., Paik, H. (1991). Television and the American child. New York, NY: Academic Press. Van Evra, J. (1990). Television and child development. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum. Weaver, A. (1998). Net worth Working Woman, 23(1), pp. 20. Wertham, F. (1954). The seduction of the innocent. New York, NY: Holt Publishers.
Friday, October 25, 2019
juniper :: essays research papers
Western Juniper’s Growing Influence in Eastern Oregon Estimated Acreage          1936          1988      > 10 percent cover     420,000          2.2 million      Total area with juniper               6 million Volume of current stand     --------     467 million cubic feet Private landowners own 58 percent of the area and 49 percent of the volume BLM is the principle owner of public lands with juniper – 79 percent of publicly owned juniper forest Over  ½ of the present juniper forest became established between 1850 and 1900 (greatest increase came between (1879 and 1918).      Rate of Establishment           1650 – 1800          2900 acres/year           1800 – 1850          8200 acres/year           1850 – 1900          23,100 acres/year           1900 – 1940           6000 acres/year 52 percent of juniper grows in the 10 – 15 inch precipitation zone 41 percent of juniper grows between 4000 – 5000 ft. in elevation Juniper crown intercepts more that  ½ of the annual precipitation Juniper transpires water year round compared to seasonal transpiration of other vegetation Juniper roots can extend several times the crown diameter Almost 50 percent of juniper forests have crown covers 10-20 percent Juniper woodlands have up to 10 times the erosion rate of sagebrush – grass ecotypes (Buckhouse et. al.) Average cubic volume of wood per acre in juniper forests is 200 cubic feet Over half the area of juniper forests have fewer than 50 trees per acre Counties with more that  ½ million acres of juniper           Crook           857,000               Harney          884,000           Grant          539,000               Jefferson     582,000 Information from: Gedney, D.R. et.al. (1999). Western Juniper in Eastern Oregon. USDA Forest Service. Pacific Northwest Research Station. General Technical Report, PNW-GTR-464, November 1999. Buckhouse, J. et al. (1982). Potential Sediment Production within Vegetative Communities in Oregon’s Blue Mountains. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation. Vol. 37, Number 2. Pgs. 120 – 122. Tim Deboodt OSU Crook County Extension Agent Prineville, OR The Drying of Oregon Potential water use of Western Juniper within current juniper area 500,000 acre feet to 920,000 acre feet per year      This is the equivalent of a river flowing year round at 680 to 1000 cfs per day
Thursday, October 24, 2019
Violent Video Games Cause Behavior Problems Essay
Video game violence is an increasing problem in today’s society with violence as one of the most popular themes. Games such as â€Å"Grand Theft Auto†and â€Å"Call of Duty†are among the most popular games and have been scientifically proven to have a major effect on teens. Many people try to argue that there is a difference in the effects between behaviors after engaging with video games. Video games have the same effects as other forms of entertainment, but other forms of entertainment do not get attacked like video games because the other forms are much larger and have a much wider audience. Playing violent video games can alter men’s brain function, cause teens to drive recklessly, and can contribute to aggression. Many people disagree that violent video games cause behavior problems. It seems doubtful to some people that such violence and aggression can be caused from watching flickering pixels on a nineteen-inch television screen. In the scale of t ime, television has existed for less than a wink, and if it is indeed undoing what oral and print cultures have so laboriously built, then those traditions may be far briefer than advertised (Smith). Throughout mankind’s history, each new means of expression has been castigated as the cause of evil in the world such as, books, art, and music (Smith). Some people even believe that violence is linked with aggressiveness and stress rather than with video game violence (Smith). Some may even say, â€Å"If society could just put limits on X, society would have fewer problems with Y.†That is not how life works. People who disagree that violent video games cause behavior problems believe that violence exist because people exist, but their logic is simply not enough (Smith). On the contrary, research on the troubling effects of video games is plentiful and persuasive. There is overwhelming evidence that witnessing and engaging in video game violence is predictive of increases in aggressive behavior. In fact, the research on the effects of exposure to video game violence is in keeping with research conducted over the last half century about the effects on people’s be havior of watching television violence (Wendling). As video games come more engaging, society spends ever-increasing amounts of time playing them (Wendling). In the popular video game â€Å"Grand Theft Auto,†people have the power to solicit prostitutes and then kill them to get their money back, drive down the sidewalk of a virtual city mowing down pedestrians, run around attacking people at random, and all sorts of other demented activities that would be tragic in real life (Wendling). These types of video games make these specific crimes seem okay. A recent study provides parents, physicians, and scientists with data proving that differences in brain function exist in teens that play violent video games, compared with those who do not (Wendling). Dr. Matthews and his colleagues at Indiana University, Indianapolis, randomly assigned the adolescents to play either â€Å"Medal of Honor,†a violent video game, or â€Å"Need for Speed,†an equally exciting but nonviolent video game, for thirty minutes immediatel y before imaging (Wendling). The group that played the nonviolent game showed more activation in the frontal lobes, and the group that played the violent video game demonstrated less activation in the prefrontal lobes (Wendling). There have been numerous studies since the 1970s demonstrating that adolescents exposed to violent media demonstrate aggressive behavior, but because the adolescents in this study were randomized into two similar groups, the findings go more directly to the question of causation than did previous research (Wendling). Playing violent video games can alter men’s brain function, cause teens to drive recklessly, and can contribute to aggression. There have been multiple studies to prove that playing violent video games can alter men’s brain function. In one study, Dr. Matthews and his colleagues demonstrated the short-term effects of violent video games on brain functioning adolescents (Birk). Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed decreased activity in areas of the brain involved in inhibition and attention after thirty minutes of game time (Birk). Dr. Matthews saw that there is a decrease in normal blood flow after a week of playing violent video games (Birk). Violent video games could also lead teens to drive recklessly. Some researchers conducted phone interviews with more than five-thousand teenagers over the course of four years (Correa). Ninety percent of the teenagers they interviewed responded that they were engaged in risky driving habits, including speeding, tai lgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights (Correa). It is clear that the video game exposure preceded the risky driving because the study began when the participants were playing video games but were too young to drive (Correa). Numerous racing video games make it look cool to drive recklessly, which can cause a great impact on teens to drive in this manner. Lastly, video games can contribute to aggression. School shootings, such as the infamous event at Columbine High School, have stimulated interested in research on the violence of boys and men (Levart). One focus, the effects of violent video games on aggression, has begun to yield some empirical results (Levart). Today, videogames are highly engaging and interactive, putting players in a first-person perspective where they must make a decision to perform a violent act prior to performing the act (Levart). Effects of long-term exposure of violent video games include personality change and beliefs that aggression is an acceptable way to handle a problem (Levart). This may have so mething to do with the obvious that the objective in most video games is to kill. Video game violence is an increasing problem in today’s society with violence as one of the most popular themes. Playing violent video games alters men’s brain function, could cause teens to drive recklessly, and can contribute to aggression. Many people try to argue that there is a difference in the effects between behaviors after engaging with video games. To some, it seems doubtful that such violence and aggression can be caused from playing video games on a nineteen-inch television screen. There are others who totally disagree with that logic. People do not just watch video games, but they interact with them. Works Cited Wendling, Patrice. â€Å"Violent Video Games After Brain Functioning in Imaging Study.†Clinical Psychiatry News Jan. 2007: 39. Psychology Collection. Web. 24 Apr. 2014. Birk, Susan. â€Å"Playing Violent Video Games Alters Men’s Brain Function: From the Annual Meeting of the Radiological Society of North America.†Clinical Psychiatry News Jan. 2012: 16. Psychology Collection. Web. 24 Apr. 2014. Correa Frances. â€Å"Games Inspire Reckless Driving.†Clinical Psychiatry News Oct. 2012: 28. Psychology Collection. Web. 24 Apr. 2014. Levart, Ronald F. and Kimberly D. Thomas. â€Å"Does the Endorsement of Traditional Masculinity Ideology Moderate the Relationship between Exposure to Violent Video Games and Aggression?†Clinical Psychiatry News Oct. 2012: 20.1. Psychology Collection. Web. 24 Apr. 2014. Smith, Mark. â€Å"Video game backlash?†Technology & Learning Nov. 2005: 6. Psychology Collection. Web. 24 Apr. 2014.
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Project Management Sample Assignment Essay
The Association for Project Management (APM) suggests that the project business case provides justification for undertaking a project by evaluating benefit, cost and alternative options. The main purpose is to obtain approval and commitment for investment in the project (Association for Project Management 2006, p.129 and MGT8022, USQ 2013). According to Project Management Institute (PMBOK, PMI 2013), the business case describes information from a business standpoint to determine whether or not the project is worth of investment. It is used as a decision making tool by senior leadership. Based on the above, US Toys business case (attached as Appendix I) is being examined with a review of process and process control, project management literature and project management framework. According to Turner (2009), performance improvement can come from sources like operational efficiency, organization effectiveness or higher order strategic issues due to changes in technology or overall busine ss strategy. New capabilities will not solve the problems blocking performance improvement directly but rather it is necessary to achieve intermediate benefits before realizing the main benefit. It is evident from the business case that US Toys has purchased a software solution called Demand Chain Management whose full benefit will be show-caused by integrating it with its legacy warehouse management system. During initial planning phases, appropriate team members or groups should be involved so that they contribute and create auxiliary ideas (Young 2006). Key components of business case like project purpose, objectives and success criteria were established, US Toys business case misses on holistic identification of stakeholders and other critical components. Business case is a recommendation to take a particular course of action supported by benefits, costs and risks analysis (Journal reference). Critical elements of a business case applied to the case scenario are summarized in the following table DefinitionDiscussionUS Toys Business caseA business case should be a recommendationRecommendation should have finely balanced options providing purpose and direction.Business case lists two cost impact options with a nothing option to continue current processes. However, it does not list supporting analysis on why option 3 is recommended. Providing supporting analysis of benefits with the option will influence business decision.For the organisationA business case is worth for significant projects in organisationBusiness case pertains to increased operational efficiency and hence it is a significant project for the organisation.Supported by analysis of benefitsBusiness case requires exegesis of strategic rationale as well as more detailed, systematic analysis of benefitsUS Toys business case lists options but lacks systematic analysis and strategic rationale.CostsCost estimation is the difficult aspect in a business case but without it, the case cannot be madeCost estimates provided in the business case appear to be high level. It would be good if Return on Investment (ROI) and break even duration are provided as an additional supporting analysis.RisksProjects involve risks and understanding and taking ownership of risk is an essential part of a business caseUpon evaluation, US Toys business does not have risk manag ement process or risk scoring methodology. (Adapted from Gambler 2009, Making the business case Table 1.1 on page 2). Upon review of US Toys business case, it is evident that the enhancements to the existing Warehouse Management System are undertaken for achieving operational efficiency and technology as depicted in below figure. Figure Achieving performance improvement (Adapted from Turner, 2009, Chapter 2 figure 2.2) The targeted benefits lists operational efficiency and leveraging new technology in the form of interfaces to purchased package solution. From the above figure, it is evident that performance is directly proportional to the time involved. The higher the targeted performance the more time required. However, US Toys Business case has not included duration of the project. One of the key definition of project is a project will have definite start and end time in other words a fixed duration during which resources, tools and organizational efficiencies are logically grouped to achieve an agreed upon outcomes. The business case provides a consolidated and summary-level overview of the proje ct. It should address objectives, critical success factors, and communication plan and measurement framework to measure the work being undertaken. It will form the baseline from which the project planning can proceed (MGT8022, USQ 2013) The more formal business case contains more quantitative information for decision making purposes. Applying these principles to US Toys Business case, it is evident that it does not include detailed quantitative information. Though SOWT/TOWS analysis has been included in the Appendix, it does not cross reference to the main objectives of the purpose. While presenting the business case to the stakeholders, it is imperative to talk about key strengths of the organization and how they can be leveraged to overcome the weaknesses or to exploit opportunities for the benefit of the organization. In addition to this, benefit analysis is shown for the option being recommended. This gives an impression of being forced to take that option instead of recommendation. By including benefit analysis for the option 2 outright purchase of a pre-packaged application, business case would have provided a comparison for the stakeholders in taking an informed decision. Upon review of US Toys business case, it is evident that risk assessment involves continuous monitoring and assessment ongoing basis. It would be beneficial to use spiral model for the proposed solution. By clarifying on the future risks unknown at the point will be known in the course of time during project execution. This provides a framework to manage risks. Figure (Adapted from Turner, 2009 The Spiral Model Chapter 11, figure 11.3) As depicted in the above figure, by advising an appropriate model like spiral model, will provide a framework of project management methodology being followed for the proposed project. This will clarify to the decision makers that process of risk assessment is continuous and does not end with those listed in the business case. As the project progresses, a mechanism is in place to identify risks and appropriate risk response planning is incorporated. According to Turner (2009), projects has three levels of planning the integrative level, the strategic level and tactical level. The business case would have presented with greater value by defining the objectives at the above three levels like efficiency improvement as strategic level, achieving integration of Warehouse Management System with the recently procured Demand Chain Management system as integration level and reduced cycle times in supply chain as tacti cal level. The summarized objectives as listed in the following table will be value-add to the business case. LevelObjective of the proposed projectStrategicWarehouse operational efficiency improvementTacticalReduced cycle times in replenishment of stock at stores country-wideIntegrativeSynergy by integrating with Demand Chain Management system Based on the above analysis, it is recommended for all future projects, US Toys project management team should employ a systematic project management processes in addressing their deficiencies particularly financials and controls analysis in the formation of business case. The successful project deliverables are dependable upon system thinking approach involving people, structures and application of processes. It is also recommended that to provide an assessment of the Project/Stakeholder relationships to have a better understanding of relationships. References Archibald, R 1992, Managing high technology programs and projects, 2nd edn, John Wiley, New York, USA. Gambles, I 2009, Making the business case proposals that succeed for projects that wo rk, Ashgate, Farnham, UK, pp. 1-20. Gardiner, PD 2005, Project Management A Strategic Planning Approach, Palgrave Macmillan, New York MGT8022 Project-based management, Study book -University of Southern Queensland, 2013. PMI 2013, A guide to the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK Guide), 5th edn, Project Management Institute, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. Turner, RJ 2009, The handbook of project-based management Leading strategic change inorganisations, 3rd edn, McGraw Hill, New York Young, TL 2006, Successful Project Management, 2nd edn, Kogan Page Limited, London. APPENDIX – I US Toys – BUSINESS CASE Introduction US Toys is a leading seller of Toys merchandise in the world with 700 plus stores in United States and 900 plus international stores located in United Kingdom, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, Spain, Australia, Hong Kong, China and Japan. This business case is for proposed enhancements to current Warehouse Management System for increased operational efficiency. Demand Chain Management (DCM) is a Teradata product currently employed by the US business to control inventory flow from the vendor-to-DC (Distribution Centre) and DC-to-store. DCM supports the full automation of these functions by utilizing the RDF (Retail Demand Forecast) forecast and applying proactive inventory management policies. Included in sc ope for the DCM project are enhancements to the International Warehouse Management System (WMS) to enable to efficiently process store replenishment orders generated by DCM. Overview Vision To ship less quantity of an item to stores but more frequently and ensure that forecasted demand (from RDF) is covered, as well as minimum shelf stock (MSS). Organisational Objective US Toys is restructuring its business operations for cost effectiveness and has set a target of improving operational efficiency by 10 by year 2014. By shipping less quantity but frequently will result in reduced idle inventory in stores and distribution centres. Business Case Purpose of Business case DCM will generate new SOQs (Store Order Quantity) each day that will be used to pull goods from DCs to Stores as needed, based on the sales demand forecast from RDF. Instead of processing a large batch of Transfers early in the week, the DCs workload will likely adjust so that smaller waves are processed each day for stores that have a scheduled delivery (Appendix C System Flow). Maximize cross dock ability (to ship the goods to stores, which have been received by Distribution Centre on the same day hence eliminating storage space and effort for put away operations (Appendix C System Flow). Business Case Sponsor This business case is sponsored by Senior Vice President Merchandising Senior Vice President Purchasing Situational Assessment and Problem Statement Current process and its limitations when compared to the proposed solution can be summarized in the following table Operational Process/AttributeCurrent ProcessProposed SolutionFrequencyStores get shipment from DC once in a week which is resulting in huge costs in terms of trailers, labour and storage (floor area)Instead of processing a large batch of Transfers early in the week, DCs workload will likely adjust so that smaller waves are processed each day for stores that have a scheduled delivery.User InterfaceCurrent process has to be run from a legacy terminal and maintenance of these terminals is cost intensive.A new web interface is being proposed for the DC to use to plan and create waves that will process both Transfers and Receivers from Interactive Transfers System (existing Legacy system), as well as SOQs f rom DCM. By having a web interface, wave can be planned and process from any system (like PC or Laptop) instead of current use of legacy terminalsCross Dock EfficiencyCurrently receivers (shipment from vendors) and transfers (shipment from DC to stores) are run independently. This limits cross dock ability.To maximize cross-dock, daily receipts will be processed for all stores, each day. PrioritizationCurrent process does take into account trailer capacity. This results in shipping those goods which are not required immediately. Goods which are required urgently are put onto next trailer which results in a weeks delay.Service Level Maintenance is being proposed through a web interface which will be used as input in generating the wave. If a trailer does not have capacity, low priority goods will be excluded from that days shipment and will be included in subsequent wave.Optimize Case PickCurrent transfer system does not optimize case picks (where a carton has to be opened and ship said individual pieces).The proposed system will utilize current and future needs of a store for optimizing the case picks to a full carton thereby case pick operation is optimized. Assumptions and Constraints Based on SWOT/TOWS analysis as listed in Appendix A, following assumptions and constraints have been summarised. Assumption DCM system is live and in use before building the propos ed system. All web interfaces are being developed for Internet Explorer browser. Proposed enhancements are for International Warehouse Management System and do not include domestic transfers/receipts. Any customisation to DCM is not included in the current scope. Constraints Proposed enhancements will handle multiple distribution centres within a country. Cross country transfers are not possible. Identification and Analysis of Options Identification of Options Following options are available to the organization Option 1Do nothing Option 2Purchase packed Warehouse Management System and interface with Demand Chain Management system. Option 3Enhance the current in-house developed Warehouse Management System. Comparison of Options Key parameter comparison of options is summarized as CriteriaOption 1Option 2Option 3CostNothingUS 1.5 million plus recurring license fee of US 7,500 per instance if purchased instance basis or 25,000 enterprise wide.US 0.5 million and no on-going costs as current support teams can support the enhanced system.HardwareNot applicableServer Infrastructure need to be upgraded costing US 1 million.None as Current infrastructure can handle the enhancements.Benefits to PurchasingNot applicableIntegrated packaged solution will benefit purchasing in making purchasing decisions based on actual stock in DC stores and forecasted demand. Enhanced Warehouse Management System is integrated with DCM thus providing enhanced abilities to make purchasing decision.Benefits to MerchandisingNot applicableOff the shelf package require customization to enable Merchandising to integrate with current legacy systems.Ability to run transfers/receipts on daily basis will result in efficient use of Distribution Centre floor space, trailers and labour. Recommended Option Based on the comparison and benefit analysis in Appendix B, Option 3 Enhancements to Warehouse Management system is recommended for the organization at this point in time. Implementation Strategy Based on the details explained in section 6, Enhancements to Warehouse Management System is scoped as below Project Title Project is being name as iWMS Internet enabled Warehouse Management System Target Benefits Web Interface to plan and create waves to process transfers and receipts. Web interface to maintain service levels for inventory (Prioritization) Optimized case p ick and re-packing Outputs Browser based interactive screen to process transfers and receipts. Integration with DCM system to update replenishment information for future demand forecasting. Budget Cost break down of Option 3 Enhancements to Warehouse Management System. ActivityEstimated Cost (in US Dollars)Initiation and planning25,000Development Costs300,000Testing Unit and integration25,000Implementation Costs including documentation, training and travel.150,000 Appendix A SWOT/TOWS Analysis Strengths-SWeakness-W1. Brand Value1. Inefficient use of floor space in DC.2. Quality Processes2. Delay in shipping high priority goods to stores3. Own trailers3. Stock out in stores even if the stock is in DCO-OpportunitiesSO – StrategiesWO- Strategies1. Efficient Cross Dock Ability1. By cross docking receipts will improve Distribution Centre floor space and stock the goods for seasonal demands.(S2/O1)1. Increase efficiency in customer communication by several mediums like social media and internet (W1, W3, O1)2. Web Interface2. Flexibility to run waves either from PC or Laptop S2,S3/O22. Provide fuel efficient means to process transfers/receipts (W1.O2)3. Prioritisation3. By prioritizing goods, high priority goods are delivered to stores just in time (JIT) – S1,S2, S3/O33. Prioritization of goods will result in efficient trailer utilization (W1, W2, O1,O2, O3)T-ThreatsST – StrategiesWT – Strategies1. Increasing Competition1. By scheduling trailers like small or medium instead of standard 18 wheelers result in fuel efficiency (S2,S3,T1,T2, T3)1. Implementing lean, Kanban quality processes to reduce non-value add processes. (W1, T3, T1)2. Increasing fuel costs2. Focus on selected market segment for long term growth and market penetration (S1,S3, T2, T1)2. With high service quality and shelfs full of products, reduce the risk of losing customers (W1, W2, T1, T3)3.
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Learn German Sentence Structure
Learn German Sentence Structure Knowing when to use the dative and accusative in a German sentence is a major hurdle for many students. Equally as important is the sentence structure when using the accusative and dative cases. Compared to English, there are more options, depending on your word choice. For instance, Im giving the mouse to the cat translates to Ich gebe die Maus zur Katze. (Maus is in the accusative, Katze is in the dative.) If you struggle with remembering which prepositions are dative or accusative, heres some good news. In some cases, like this one, you can omit the preposition altogether and still clearly express the intention of the sentence by using proper noun cases and word order. German Sentence Structure Without the preposition zur (zu der), you would write the sentence as follows:Ich gebe der Katze die Maus. (Katze is dative, Maus is accusative.)Or with a pronoun:Ich gebe ihr die Maus. ( Ihr is dative, Maus is accusative.)Ich gebe sie der Katze. (sie is accusative, Katze is dative.)Keep the following rules in mind when positioning your dative and accusative objects in a sentence: The dative object will always come before the accusative object.If the accusative object is a pronoun, it will always be before the dative object. Applying these rules with the correct grammatical case endings is essential. It will help avoid misconstrued sentences, such as Ich gebe der Maus die Katze. Unless, of course, you really did mean to say that you wanted to give the cat to the mouse. A few more examples: Gib dem Hasen die Karotte. (Give the bunny the carrot.) Gib ihr die Karotte. (Give her the carrot.) Gib es ihr. (Give it to her.) Refresher on German Noun Cases Before even worrying about the order of a sentence, make sure you know your noun cases. Heres a rundown on the four German noun cases.
Monday, October 21, 2019
Dogs alleviate stress in humans Professor Ramos Blog
Dogs alleviate stress in humans Dogs are man’s best friend. Dogs have been living closely with human for centuries. Do dogs help people and can they actually alleviate stress in humans. In my report I will give a show five different examples of dogs who assist people while alleviating the stress in their humans. These dogs are very different and assist their humans in very different ways.  I will give evidence to confirm that these creatures alleviate our stress and provide us a better quality of life. Police Dogs Police dogs lower the stress levels of their partners, according to the article â€Å"The Role of police dogs as companions and working partners†by Lynette A Hart and R Lee Zasloff.  Police officers who work with canines spend time with them on the job as well as when they’re off duty. Police dogs have a close relationship with their partners in crime. Police dogs in California usually live at the officer’s homes as a member of the family. Being so close to their human counterparts, these canines serve as a source of social support and protect against stress and loneliness in the workplace. New guide dog owners experience an increase in confidence and self-esteem. Increased exercise in owners as well as increased psychological and fewer minor health problems was directly related to the adoption of the companion dog, in a study over ten months, compared to those without a dog. Police dogs contribute additional motor and sensory abilities resembling their u se by people with disabilities. They are appreciated in their field for offering a source of less than lethal force that may even be more convincing than a weapon. They are effective deterrents as well and very effective for searches. These partners can apparently even enhance the officers perceived ability and capacity to conduct police work. Both Siegal, working with the elderly, and Angelo working with people with AIDS, noted companion dogs can help to buffer stress: in their study, when life stress increases, owning a dog reduces the influence of stressful life events on the human. It’s been documented that officers with police partners exercise more routinely. Police have a very stressful job and having a companion was found to minimize work stress. Police dog teams are being integrated into many community policing programs within the United States. These friends of ours not only reduce our stress but work directly alongside of us professionally. Chemical Detector Dogs According to an article on Science direct.com by Kenneth G Furton, Dogs can also be used to detect chemicals for government agencies, such as explosives and drugs. Based on tomb evidence, the use of dogs as chemical detectors goes back to their use as hunting dogs twelve thousand years ago. Dog handler teams have been used exclusively by the military to locate explosives; this has been going on since world war two. The civilian use of dogs began with tracking individuals and locating drugs and bombs. This civilian use has expanded to include detection of guns, contraband food, gold ore, pipeline leaks, melanomas, brown tree snakes, and the use in the dog scent lineup for forensic evidence. Accelerate detector dogs, dogs trained to detect flammable and ignitable liquid residues, have become widely utilized in the last ten years and their alerts have been proven reliable to be administered as evidence. Using dogs for search and rescue has now become widespread and routine, this also in cludes such things as termite infestation inspection, screw worm detection, and finding the last missing person after the world trade center bombing. Narcotic detector dog studies have shown that dogs likely use volatile odor chemicals associated with drugs rather than the drug itself. In the case of cocaine, Methyl Benzoate, a cocaine decomposition product, was found to be what the trained narcotics detector dogs detect. One of the advantages of detector dogs is the speed of detection which is significantly faster than instrumental methods. These dogs are not only saving and improving the lives of their owners but society as well. We are safer after a detector dog has done his job. They not only alleviate the stress of the humans they are around every day but society can feel a little less stressed knowing we can count on these animals. Therapy dogs According to an article on science direct.com by Andres Hoffman, Companion animals may serve to lower levels of stress and anxiety in clinically depressed patients in inpatient settings. Studies done between dogs and depressed patients in an impatient setting yielded very interesting results. Several authors noticed lower blood pressure in patients when a companion animal is present during stressful activity. Stress parameters such as cortisol has been shown to decrease after a fifteen-minute dog interaction. More drastically the patients waiting for electroconvulsive therapy were found to have a significant reduction in fear after spending only fifteen minutes with a therapy dog. A study conducted in an acute psychiatric facility setting found significant reductions in anxiety after thirty minutes with a therapy dog. Moreover, in adults using wheelchairs, implantation of a service dog has shown to decrease depressive symptoms. Studies supporting the benefits of companion animals have emerged which mostly focused on cardiovascular studies. For this reason, Dopamine, Cortisol, pulse, and blood pressure have been measured over time to change after only fifteen minutes of dog interaction. These findings are not only highly significant statistically but also very significant clinically. These therapy dogs are proven to improve the health of the people they interact with. These dogs relieve stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and fear while simultaneously improving the medical status of the human they serve. Seizure Alert dogs It has been recently documented that dogs have a remarkable ability to anticipate human seizures According to the article â€Å"Seizure-alerting and response behaviors in dogs living with epileptic children†by Adam Kirton. Evidence suggests that some dogs can be trained to anticipate seizures and that owning one of these seizure-alerting dogs (SAD’s) may actually reduce seizure frequency. In dogs living with epileptic patients, seizure alerting behavior may develop spontaneously. In studies regarding dogs living with epileptic children the accuracy of alerting behaviors was high and anticipatory behaviors were never demonstrated without a subsequent seizure. They protected their kids. â€Å"A Sheltie Spitz cross would forcibly sit on her toddler and not allow her to stand prior to a drop attack. An Akita would push her young girl away from the stairs fifteen minutes before a convulsion. A Golden Retriever could anticipate nocturnal events from sleep by up to twenty mi nutes. A Rot Rottweiler would lick his toddler’s feet with absence seizures but forcibly position himself on either side before a drop attack. A Great Pyrenees would attach itself to its three-year-old at the exclusion of all else, including eating and drinking, hours before she had a generalized convulsion†. These are all instances where dogs anticipated the seizure but also protected the child they were with. Owners of seizure sensitive dogs have even reported that licking may stop or even prevent their seizure. Lab results argue that not only is it safe to own a seizure-sensitive dog, but that such a dog may even improve quality of life. Cooper  According to an article found in Harvard Health Publishing by Christine Junge and Ann MacDonald, there is a new therapist who is available in the library to be checked out, a four year old Shih-Tzu named Cooper. Cooper has his own office equipped with a couch, water bowl, and toys. Cooper works with â€Å"Caring Canines†, a nonprofit therapy dog organization, when he’s not at Harvard, that’s where he received his training. This is not just a shaggy dog tale, studies that go back to the early 1980’s support the idea that dogs have huge health benefits for people. Pets have been shown to improve recovery from heart disease, lower blood pressure, even reduce rates of allergies and asthma in children. Pets also improve self-esteem and psychological well-being. Dr. Francisco explains that Cooper is on duty to help students, staff, and faculty members who need a little stress relief. Employees at Harvard can spend up to thirty minutes at a time with Cooper by sh owing their I.D. at the desk. Visitors at the library check Cooper out the same way they do a book, except that he stays in the area all the time. Cooper even has his own entry in the library catalogue; he is categorized as an anti depressive agent and an anti-anxiety agent. Yale Law School was the first to come up with the idea for a library based therapy dog. Dogs are amazing creatures. Not only do we believe so emotionally but science backs it up. These companions go to work with us, assist the clinically depressed, anticipate and protect from seizures, and locate drugs and explosives, all while alleviating stress.  Dogs are a fascinating species. They respond to human emotion and facial cues, but we react to them too, not just with the love we feel but Medically and professionally. This species is not only fun and loving to be around but necessary to make human life better. Annotated Bibliography Furton, Kenneth G., and Lawrence J Myers. â€Å"The scientific foundation and efficiency of the use of canines as chemical detectors for explosives.†Talanta 54.3 (2001): 487-500. Accessed 20 July 2019. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0039914000005464 This article gives examples dog’s abilities to detect Explosives. It also gives other examples of these abilities such as detecting drugs and bombs. This shows that dogs have been working closely with the military. This article is from Science direct, a scientific Journal therefore it is reliable. Hart, Lynette A., R. Lee Zasloff. â€Å"The role of police dogs as companions and working partners.†Psychological Reports 2000, 86, 190-202.  Accessed 20 July 2019. This article talks about the close-knit relationship between cops and their canine partners. It mentions having a canine partner can encourage regular exercise thus minimizing work burnout. It also mentions the dogs offer a sense of less than lethal force which is often better than using a gun. This article is from psychological Reports, psychology is scientific and reliable. Hoffman, Andreas OM et al. â€Å"Dog-assisted intervention significantly reduces anxiety in hospitalized patients with major depression.†European Journal of Integrative medicine 1.3 (2009): 145-148. Accessed 20 July 2019. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1876382009000419 This article mentions studies done on dogs spending time with depressed patients in an inpatient setting. It mentions the patients stress was reduced after spending time with the dog. The health of the patient improved after the interaction with the dog. This article is from Science direct, a scientific Journal therefore it is reliable. Junge, Christine, Ann Macdonald, Eds. â€Å"Therapy dogs offer stress relief at work†. Harvard Health Publishing. Harvard University, 29 Oct. 2015 Web. Accessed 27 July 2019. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/therapy-dog-offers-stress-relief-at-work-201107223111 Harvard offers a therapy dog who is available for checkout in the library. People can spend up to thirty minutes with the Shih-Tzu named Cooper. Cooper is available to students as well as the staff. This website was inside a Harvard Publishing article, I consider Harvard University to be reliable. Kirton, Adam, et al. â€Å"Seizure-alerting and-response behaviors in dogs living with epileptic children.†Neurology 62.12 (2004): 2303-2305. Accessed 20 July 2019. Accessed 20 July 2019. This article talks about the amazing ability of dogs to anticipate seizures in children. It mentions that not only do they anticipate the seizure, they pin the child down depending on the type. This article mentions that licking prior to a seizure may even prevent it from taking place. This study was done by Medical Doctors, this article was found in a neurology Journal. Neurology is Scientific.
Sunday, October 20, 2019
The Best Spotify Playlists for Study
The Best Spotify Playlists for Study Music researchers agree that music for studying should be free from lyrics so the songs arent competing for your brains memory space. Fortunately, there are several lyric-free Spotify stations that are perfect for studying. 1. Intense Studying Creator: Spotify The Review: This station is perfect for keeping that brain sharp and focused, with a mix of sonatas, concertos, and more from classical superstars like Bach, Mozart, and Dvorak. While some classical stations can relax you to the point of feeling like you might fall asleep, this playlist is full of upbeat tempos that will keep you awake and on track. 2. Superior Study Playlist Creator: Taylor Diem The Review: In case you want to listen to a vast selection modern instrumentals (over 900 songs appear on this list), this Spotify station for studying focuses on soundtracks like those from movies like Amelie, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and The Hours along with instrumental beats from artists like Explosions in the Sky, Max Richter, and Levon Mikaelian. 3. Workday Lounge Creator: Spotify The Review: Dont let the title fool you; this isnt boring elevator music. Chill out and listen to the mellow beats of artists like ST*RMAN and Azul Grande, which just might be calming enough for someone with a crazy life to feel like they can take a deep breath and pop open the books. 4. Acoustic Concentration Creator: Spotify The Review: Plug in and open up this lyric-free Spotify station to enjoy music from Michael Hedges, Antoine Dufour, Tommy Emmanuel, Phil Keagy, and over a dozen more guitarists who mesmerize with quick arpeggios and harmonizing chords. 5. NO LYRICS! Creator: perryhan The Review: For those who are interested in hearing a mix of more modern songs reworked by instrumental artists, this station has you covered. From 90s grunge classics from bands like Nirvana to songs like Justin Timberlakes Cry Me a River on violin by David Garrett or Adeles Rolling in the Deep on piano and violin by The Piano Guys, theres something youll want to hear. 6. Study Mix (No lyrics) Creator: mogirl97 The Review: This is also a Spotify station relying heavily on remixes of modern songs, remade by instrumental bands. The Vitamin String Quartet, Lindsay Stirling, 2 Cellos, and The Piano Guys play their versions of popular songs like Royals, Pompeii, Back to Black, Chandelier, Let It Go, She Will Be Loved and more. They are great for keeping you energized but wont be as distracting as if you were listening to the original versions. 7. EDM Study No Lyrics Creator: coffierf The Review: Electronic dance music might not be what first comes to mind when you think of studying, but for some students, possibly those kinesthetic learners out there- the kind who need to keep moving to concentrate- this station, with over 50 songs and growing, may be just what you need. Bounce along to tracks by Crystal Castles, Netsky, and Moguai. The Effects of Music While Studying According to Nick Perham, a researcher published in Applied Cognitive Psychology, the best music for studying is no music at all. He says you shouldnt listen to music because it competes for your brains space. Perham recommends that you study in complete silence or ambient noise like from a white machine or even the muted traffic of a highway or soft conversation. However, some disagree with this researcher and believe that music makes the study experience better since it can lift a mood or bump up positive feelings.
Saturday, October 19, 2019
The Iranian Revolution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words
The Iranian Revolution - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that the Iranian Revolution (also referred to as the Islamic Revolution/1979 Revolution) details the events entailing the overthrow of the Pahlavi dynasty ruled by Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who was considered a close ally to western governments such as the U.S. The demonstrations against the Shah regime started in October 1977 and developed in to a widespread campaign of civil resistance that can be regarded as partly religious and secular, and reached fever pitch in January 1978. The royal reign ultimately collapsed shortly after the defeat of the loyal troops by guerrilla and rebel troops in armed street battles. After the fall of Pahlavi Dynasty, Iran voted to adopt an Islamic Republic mode of governance, and endorse a fresh democratic-theocratic hybrid Constitution on which Khomeini became Supreme Leader of the country as from December 1979. The Iranian Revolution came as a surprise to many, as well as to Shah of Iran. The Iranian rev olution was a surprise to many given that it lacked the majority of the routine causes of revolution; it generated immense changes at a fast speed, was immensely popular among the masses; and, substituted a modernizing autocratic monarchy with a theocracy grounded in the Guardianship of the Islamic Jurists. Even at the height of street protests and demonstrations, neither Iranians nor its key allies such as the U.S officials perceived the possibility that Iran’s armed troops, which was highly modernized and the largest, would be incapable of dealing with the revolutionaries.... Even at the height of street protests and demonstrations, neither Iranians nor its key allies such as the U.S officials perceived the possibility that Iran’s armed troops, which was highly modernized and the largest, would be incapable of dealing with the revolutionaries (Coughlin 4). The causes of the Iranian Revolution can be traced to happenings that long predated it. In 1963, the Shah launched his â€Å"White Revolution†detailing a series of radical reforms fashioned at modernizing and westernizing Iran. Although, the instituted reforms generated rapid economic growth, they also yielded to social dislocation, speedy urbanization, and the incorporation of western habits and customs by the ruling elite, which alienated traditionalists and pious religious elements within Iranian society (Abrahamian 6). The undertaken reforms also threatened to undermine the economic base and persuasion on Iran’s clerical establishments by alienating the clergy from the regime. This ultimately proved catastrophic in the end with the collapse of the monarch (Amuzegar 10). Although, the Shah enjoyed the support of Iran’s upper and middle classes, he did not respond adequately to the rising discontent among the ultra-conservative. Shah had sectional support from some clerics who viewed him as a substitute to the political left. Nevertheless, other clerics were dissatisfied with the way in which the monarch was running its affairs. The clerics associated Shah with his father’s actions in 1936 when he barred clerics from acting as judges within state courts. Ayatollah Khomeini issued a fatwa (religious edict) against the proposed reform and who
Friday, October 18, 2019
Artificial sweeteners Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Artificial sweeteners - Research Paper Example This paper will be about the different brands and types of artificial sweeteners. The focus will be on the effects it has on humans vs. animals. It will explain the safety and hazards of each substance. There are different types of artificial sweeteners that differ from their extract classification. They are large divisions of sugar substitute market, where companies vary from producing it with zero or low calories (Swithers and Davidson 10). There are at least six types of artificial sweeteners (Jaffe 4). Karl Claus who was a chemist discovered the artificial sweetener in 1967. It was approved 1998 for use in beverage. Acesulfame potassium is believed to be 200 times sweeter than the sugar we are used to, and has no calories in it. It is found in beverages, breath mints and baked foods. This type of artificial sweetener is the newest sweetener. Neotame was approved in 2002 as a general sweetener. It has no calories in it, and it sweetness is7000 to 13000 times. Neotame is found in gelatins, puddings, syrups, toppings, jellies, frozen desserts, soft drinks and baked foods. This was the first artificial sweetener discovered in 1879. It was discovered by Constantine Fahiberg as he was working at johns Hopkins University as he was doing a research on the oxidation mechanism. Saccharin has no calories, and it is sweeter than the normal sugar more than 300 times. Biologically, it is not absorbed in the body or metabolized. It is used to sweeten various products ant still used in cosmetics products. Tate and Lyle discovered Sucralose in 1979. Compared to sugar, it is 600 times sweeter and contains no calories in it. The FDA approved it in 1998, where it is used in fifteen different categories of food, including tabletop sweetener. Sucralose is used in frozen desserts, fruit juices, gelatins, chewing gum and beverages. The FDA latter expanded it in 1999 as a general
Cutco Case Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words
Cutco Case - Essay Example We recommend the mentioned regions because Cutco Company was started in Olean, NY and most people are aware of the quality of its commodities thus attracting a large group of customers. Another advantage of distributing the brands to the mention regions is that the company will incur less shipping cost compared to distributing to all regions of U.S (25). This is because the regions are near the manufacturing centers in Olean, instead of distributing to all regions. Apart from cutting down the number of Oreck stores, it is also recommended that the corporation makes use of other home appliance and high-end kitchenware stores. The target stores should be Sur La Table, Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, and Restoration Hardware. These retail stores specialize mainly in home furniture, kitchenware, kitchen appliances, and bathroom, bedroom, and lighting appliances. Therefore, distributing the products to these stores means that the products will be well-known by customers who do shopping in these stores. These stores have customer market that already exists only that they are not aware of Cutco brands and this will increase the company’s brand awareness. This is the phase 1 of the implementation plan and phase 2 will be distributing products to larger stores, which include Dillard’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Macy’s because they are within the company’s target price. Distribution to these stores will also increase the awareness of Cutco brand and the sales
Thursday, October 17, 2019
Ip1 personnel and organization policy Research Paper
Ip1 personnel and organization policy - Research Paper Example However, the tests are based according to the position up for recruitment and the type of responsibilities involved by taking up the position. However, Huffcut (2010) argues that interviews are compulsory inclusions of the tests since the give the candidate and the recruiter an opportunity to have a more indulging conversation and it makes recruitment easier and effective. In an existing organization, HR mangers are tasked with the responsibility of evaluating whether a position would be effectively filled with an external or internal candidate. An external candidate has an added advantage since they would bring new working experience in an organization. However, an external selection raises the question of the ability of the personnel to adapt to the new organizational culture (Muchinsky, 2012). An internal selection is appropriate since an organization would be able to retain an inbuilt experience and one that understands the existing organizational culture. This would however limit the rate of exposure an organization benefits from in terms of experience and new working criteria (Huffcut,
Social Enterprise Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words
Social Enterprise - Essay Example According to the essay findings an economy is known to have three sectors namely; the public sector, the private sector which highly competes with the state owned enterprises and the third sector pertinent to the enterprises are established by individuals voluntarily with the intensions of chasing the community, social and charitable goals. It is prevalent that the three edged sector of an economy tends to impose a restriction on these third sector organizations that happen to infringe the set definition. The co–operative enterprises coming under the purview of social enterprise tend to cross the margin that distinguishes the voluntary and private sectors.This discussion stresses that the enterprises in form of co–operatives and ‘mutual help’ following the commercial principles were the way to the emergence of ‘Third Sector’ as an innovative term. There is a value related to the social face that encompasses this Third Sector, is the conce rn for the management principles that the modern public and private sector follows and which has contributed to the exclusion of under–privileged and vulnerable individuals, socially. The Training and Enterprise Councils (TECs) of public sector and ICOM, one of the co–operatives enabled Social Enterprise London with the assets and the funding part required for a proper establishment of an enterprise. An entrepreneurship involving the societal aspects is in general terms defined as â€Å"entrepreneurial activity with an embedded social purpose†.
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
Passive Smoking and Children Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words
Passive Smoking and Children - Dissertation Example Furthermore, the World Health Organization suggests almost half of the children in the world that is 700 million children have exposure to secondhand smoke due to 1.2 billion smoking adults (Blair et al, pp. 372-373, 2010). Alone, in United Kingdom, passive smoking is associated with the deaths of almost 10700 people every year. Furthermore, secondhand smoke has been associated with more than â€Å"2000 Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) deaths every year. More than 17000 children from five years to ten years of age in England and Wales are admitted to hospitals every year due to the various illness caused by the smoking of their parents†(Strauss et al, pp. 267-268, 2010). Even more surprising are the statistics, which claim that almost half of the children between the ages of 4-11 years have exposure to secondhand smoke in their homes (Blair et al, pp. 372-373, 2010). This explains every year almost 40 children die because of passive smoking alone in United Kingdom (Gordon et al, pp. 103-105, 2004). One of the most important reasons behind study this topic is the fact that it is one of most important burning issues all around the world. As mentioned later in the paper as well that, until the late 1970s and early 1980s, there was this widespread belief that smoking only causes harm to the smoker (Yolton et al, pp. 461-465, 2008). In light of the freedom and liberty principles, if the smoker is sane enough to understand the consequences and yet wants to smoke, then the state or law enforcement agencies must not create any barriers in his or her way. However, towards the end of 1980s, experts and researchers had conclusive evidence to prove that smokers were not only causing indirect damage but also direct damage with secondhand smoke to their children, partners, friends, colleagues, and others living in the surroundings (Gordon et al, pp. 103-105, 2004; Strauss et al, pp. 267-268, 2010). Ever since then, the civil society, NGOs, watchdogs and others have been trying to achieve the goal of a smoke free world. This study is another attempt to explore the disastrous impacts of passive smoking, specifically on children belonging from the age group of 5-10 years. Furthermore, the study would also come up with some recommendations to protect these children and solve this problem. Research Aims and Objectives The stu dy revolves around the following research question. â€Å"What are effects of passive smoking on children of ages 5-10?†The research would attempt to achieve the following aims and objectives. To explore, investigate and critically analyze the social, economic, psychological, and physical impacts of passive smoking on children belonging from the age group of 5-10. To explore and analyze the long term and short term implications of these effects on children are their families To come up with a handful of recommendations to protect children from the destructive impacts of passive smoking Outline of the Thesis This heading would conclude the first chapter of
Social Enterprise Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words
Social Enterprise - Essay Example According to the essay findings an economy is known to have three sectors namely; the public sector, the private sector which highly competes with the state owned enterprises and the third sector pertinent to the enterprises are established by individuals voluntarily with the intensions of chasing the community, social and charitable goals. It is prevalent that the three edged sector of an economy tends to impose a restriction on these third sector organizations that happen to infringe the set definition. The co–operative enterprises coming under the purview of social enterprise tend to cross the margin that distinguishes the voluntary and private sectors.This discussion stresses that the enterprises in form of co–operatives and ‘mutual help’ following the commercial principles were the way to the emergence of ‘Third Sector’ as an innovative term. There is a value related to the social face that encompasses this Third Sector, is the conce rn for the management principles that the modern public and private sector follows and which has contributed to the exclusion of under–privileged and vulnerable individuals, socially. The Training and Enterprise Councils (TECs) of public sector and ICOM, one of the co–operatives enabled Social Enterprise London with the assets and the funding part required for a proper establishment of an enterprise. An entrepreneurship involving the societal aspects is in general terms defined as â€Å"entrepreneurial activity with an embedded social purpose†.
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Exam on inpatient and outpatient codinhg Essay Example for Free
Exam on inpatient and outpatient codinhg Essay 1. The three goals of the Physicians Payment Reform are to decrease Medicare expenditures. As well as redistribute physician’s payments more equitably. Also to ensure quality health care at a reasonable rate. 2. I would use modifier -57, decision for surgery with the E/M code for this case. Due to the E/M service and the decision for surgery were made earlier that same day. 3. There are three components of the relative value unit the first component is work, which is the amount of time, the intensity of effort and the technical expertise required for the physician to provide the service. The second would be the overhead component also known as the practice expense, it is identified as the allocation of cost associated with the physicians practice (ex. Staffing) that must be expended in order to provide a service. The third component is malpractice and is identified as the cost of the medical malpractice insurance coverage/ risk associated with providing the service. 4. People age 65 and older, along with patients who are experiencing end-stage renal disease are both eligible for Medicare. As well as people who are eligible for disability benefits from social security, they are too covered by the Medicare program. 5. To find the main terms in the index of the CPT you must use these basic location methods, you must search by the service or the procedure, the anatomic site, condition or disease. You also could use synonyms, eponym’s or abbreviations to find main terms in the index. 6. The E/M code 99253 would be used to report an initial impatient consultation. With a detailed history and exam along with a MDM of low complexity. 7. There are many elements when considering the correct E/M code. There are four elements of history which include chief complaint, history of present illness, as well as review of symptoms and past, family, and/or social history. 8. The complexity of medical decision making is base doff of three elements which are the number of diagnosis or management options. These options can be minimal, limited, multiple or extensive. The nest element is the amount and/or the complexity of data to review. The data can be minimal or none, limited, moderate or extensive. The last element of medical decision making is the risk of complication or death if the condition goes untreated. This risk can be minimal, low, moderate or high. 9. The correct CPT code is 99214 due to the detailed history. As well as the detailed exam and a MDM of moderate complexity. 10. There are three key components present in every patient’s case except counseling encounters and/or time based codes. The three components are the history, the level of examination, the level of medical decision making. These components allow us coders to choose the appropriate level of service.
Monday, October 14, 2019
Scandinavian Civil Law
Scandinavian Civil Law Introduction to Scandinavian Civil Law Scandinavian civil law applies to the five Scandinavian countries, namely Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, Finland and Norway. Historically, it has it roots set in Germanic law, but Scandinavian civil law is now more closely akin to the civil law of the common law countries such as the UK and Australia. History of Scandinavian Civil Law Scandinavian civil law has not always been recognised as a unified system of law for the five Scandinavian countries. Until the early 9th century, Scandinavian civil law did not exist as a concept at all; instead, the five nations all had their own independent legal and administrative systems. Despite the five countries having their own systems, legally, they were all based on similar theories and it was not long until they started to merge into one body of Scandinavian civil law. Initially, Scandinavian civil law was entirely unwritten; it was based on customs and social development that gradually became a codified system. The customary type of Scandinavian civil law was managed by group meetings which could be attended by all men. This system of Scandinavian civil law worked well until the 11th century when the rules became too difficult to manage and some basic laws were codified into a written text. Generally, Scandinavian civil law was put together by private individuals, although increasingly the king became involved. By the 13th century, the body of Scandinavian law was largely complete in its current form. Scandinavian civil law became much more unified across the five countries, over the centuries. However, there were still differences regarding where the laws originated from. For example, the Gulathing Law originated from Norway, in the 11th century, whereas the Law of Uppland came from Sweden, in the 13th century. These early laws formed the basis of future Scandinavian civil law; however, they were not in the same format as modern Scandinavian civil law. The first codification of Scandinavian civil law started with the areas of matrimony, property, inheritance and contract, although gradually this extended to cover the areas of administrative and criminal law. Religious law was dealt with entirely separately, with its own court and justice decisions. Despite the early shift towards codifying Scandinavian civil law, the first common law system that was centrally arranged was actually criminal law, particularly in the area of manslaughter and blood feuds. Religious law also started to become intertwined into the Scandinavian civil law, primarily in order to ensure that assisting the poor was something written down in law. Power also shifted towards the king, with King Magnus’s Swedish code of 1350 being the first of its kind, placing power on the King’s officials to manage the commencement of criminal proceedings. Although this only dealt with the criminal law element of the legal system, it was, nevertheless, the beginning of the Scandinavian civil system as we know it today. By 1380, Denmark and Norway had come under the rule of one king, although the legal systems remained independent. This unification was the first step towards the Scandinavian civil law becoming one system. Over the next three hundred years, the Scandinavian civil law system gradually gained codification and unification across the two countries, influences of which filtered into the neighbouring countries. The codes that were developed by the two Scandinavian countries were extremely well written and the envy of many of other countries. The wording in this code of Scandinavian civil law was both simple and easy to understand. Sweden was one of the first countries to accept the new code, actively, and it became clear that this was set to be the widely accepted Scandinavian civil law code. Scandinavian Civil Law Today Whilst the historic codes were both popular and widely accepted, the complexity of modern life has meant that Scandinavian civil law has more recently become regulated by more and more statutes. During this modern development, the five Scandinavian countries have all largely followed the same basic theories, yet have generated their own legal standards. Essentially, all Scandinavian civil law is based on the Swedish laws of the early 18th century. Although there is a degree of separation in terms of legal structures in the Scandinavian countries, there is still the agreement between the states to cooperate on matters of legislation. This agreement was entered into in 1872 and has become more and more important and the foundation of Scandinavian civil law as we know it today. Typically, areas such as commerce and contracts have always ensured that there is conformity amongst the Scandinavian states. One of the main benefits of having a largely uniform Scandinavian civil law is that trade and movement of both people and commerce is much more fluently achieved across the Scandinavian countries. Scandinavian civil law is a unique blend of many different legal systems, although most notably German and French laws. This influence is primarily down to the way in which the law is taught in Scandinavia, with many Scandinavian based lawyers studying in France and Germany before returning to practise in Scandinavia. Despite the unique format of the Scandinavian civil law, it does largely follow in line with other European countries when it comes to matters of international trade and shipping. Although it has been necessary for Scandinavian civil law to become suitably in line with other European states, the Scandinavian states have opted to stay as straightforward and close to real life practicalities, as possible. This is particularly evident when it comes to welfare law. In a similar way to the English law courts, the judges are largely responsible for making the law, although in a different way to the English courts. For example, there is no principle of binding precedent, which makes Scandinavian civil law particularly flexible and able to deal with changes is social needs as and when they arise. Scandinavian civil law is very flexible, yet sufficiently structured to allow the Scandinavian states to compete on an entirely level footing with other European states for the purposes of commercial contracts. Many legal theorists believe that Scandinavian civil law is, in fact, a model code which should be considered by many other modern countries across the world.
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Internet Security Essay -- essays research papers
Security on the Internet How do you secure something that is changing faster than you can fix it? The Internet has had security problems since its earliest days as a pure research project. Today, after several years and orders of magnitude of growth, is still has security problems. It is being used for a purpose for which it was never intended: commerce. It is somewhat ironic that the early Internet was design as a prototype for a high-availability command and control network that could resist outages resulting from enemy actions, yet it cannot resist college undergraduates. The problem is that the attackers are on, and make up apart of, the network they are attacking. Designing a system that is capable of resisting attack from within, while still growing and evolving at a breakneck pace, is probably impossible. Deep infrastructure changes are needed, and once you have achieved a certain amount of size, the sheer inertia of the installed base may make it impossible to apply fixes. The challenges for the security industry are growing. With the electronic commerce spreading over the Internet, there are issues such as nonrepudiation to be solved. Financial institutions will have both technical concerns, such as the security of a credit card number or banking information, and legal concerns for holding individuals responsible for their actions such as their purchases or sales over the Internet. Issuance and management of encryption keys for millions of users will pose a new type of challenge. While some technologies have been developed, only an industry-wide effort and cooperation can minimize risks and ensure privacy for users, data confidentiality for the financial institutions, and nonrepudiation for electronic commerce. With the continuing growth in linking individuals and businesses over the Internet, some social issues are starting to surface. The society may take time in adapting to the new concept of transacting business over the Internet. Consumers may take time to trust the network and accept it as a substitute for transacting business in person. Another class of concerns relates to restricting access over the Internet. Preventing distribution of pornography and other objectionable material over the Internet has already been in the news. We can expect new social hurdles over time and hope the great benefits of the Internet will continue to ove... ...o that its confidentiality and integrity are preserved. That is, the data remains secret to those who do not posses the secret key, and modifications to the cipher text can be detected during decryption. Two of the most popular symmetric ciphers are the Data Encryption Standard (DES) and the International Data Encryption Algorithm (IDEA). The DES algorithm operates on blocks of 64 bits at a time using a key length of 56 bits. The 64 bits are permuted according to the value of the key, and so encryption with two keys that differently in one bit produces two completely different cipher texts. The most popular mode of DES is called Cipher Block Chaining (CBC) mode, where output from previous block are mixed with the plaintext of each block. The first block is mixed with the plaintext of each block. The block uses a special value called the Initialization Vector. Despite its size and rapid growth, the Web is still in its infancy. So is the software industry. We are just beginning to learn how to develop secure software, and we are beginning to understand that for our future, if it is to be online, we need to incorporate security into the basic underpinnings of everything we develop.
Saturday, October 12, 2019
Too Much Science in Walden Two by B.F. Skinner Essay -- Psychology
Too Much Science? In the 1930s, Europe began to fall under the shadow of socialism with the rise of the Nazi party in Germany, the Communist Revolution in Russia, and the Fascist uprising in Italy. Americans tried to ignore this growing crisis in Europe for as long as possible; even some in the United Kingdom were not unduly concerned with this sudden change. Some people, including authors Aldous Huxley, were startled and put their fears down on paper. Huxley’s Brave New World shows an unsettling optimistic front that covers the disturbing reality of a futuristic socialist world. After the war ended, more novels about the socialism appeared, George Orwell’s 1984 and B.F. Skinner’s Walden Two as a few examples, though they are complete opposites on the views of socialism presented. In Walden Two, the tone is very positive. The head of the community, a man named T.E. Frazier, explains every aspect of the thriving communal settlement to a group of curious enquirers. The party includes an old colleague of Frazier’s, a psychology professor named Burris, a philosophy professor named Augustine Castle, and two veteran soldiers from World War Two named Steve Jamnik and Rogers, along with their girlfriends Mary Grove and Barbara Macklin, respectively. Frazier walks them through all the workings of the Walden Two community, from the agricultural processes, sheep herding techniques, and work schedules to the moral code, education system, and personal relationships. He says that one of the problems with the United States government is that it does not use the scientific process to find out what the people of the nation need and want. He claims that everything runs so smoothly in Walden Two because the community is... ...t provider for people of all ages and races, with equality of the sexes and gentle behavioral engineering that encourages art and science. Huxley’s Brave New World, on the other hand, shows how drastically wrong genetic and behavioral sciences could go if allowed to do so. Both novels show how communal living solves numerous social problems, though Walden Two has a much more peaceful setting instead of the mock one created by Huxley. The question both books bring up is how far the human race should allow science to go before we become carbon copies of each other or even completely inhuman. But then, how far is too far? Works Cited Skinner, B.F. Walden Two. United States of America: Prentice Hall, 1976. Huxley, Aldous. Brave New World. New York, New York: HarperCollins Publishers Inc. [c1932]; Huxley.com, 1998. 16 September 2004. . Too Much Science in Walden Two by B.F. Skinner Essay -- Psychology Too Much Science? In the 1930s, Europe began to fall under the shadow of socialism with the rise of the Nazi party in Germany, the Communist Revolution in Russia, and the Fascist uprising in Italy. Americans tried to ignore this growing crisis in Europe for as long as possible; even some in the United Kingdom were not unduly concerned with this sudden change. Some people, including authors Aldous Huxley, were startled and put their fears down on paper. Huxley’s Brave New World shows an unsettling optimistic front that covers the disturbing reality of a futuristic socialist world. After the war ended, more novels about the socialism appeared, George Orwell’s 1984 and B.F. Skinner’s Walden Two as a few examples, though they are complete opposites on the views of socialism presented. In Walden Two, the tone is very positive. The head of the community, a man named T.E. Frazier, explains every aspect of the thriving communal settlement to a group of curious enquirers. The party includes an old colleague of Frazier’s, a psychology professor named Burris, a philosophy professor named Augustine Castle, and two veteran soldiers from World War Two named Steve Jamnik and Rogers, along with their girlfriends Mary Grove and Barbara Macklin, respectively. Frazier walks them through all the workings of the Walden Two community, from the agricultural processes, sheep herding techniques, and work schedules to the moral code, education system, and personal relationships. He says that one of the problems with the United States government is that it does not use the scientific process to find out what the people of the nation need and want. He claims that everything runs so smoothly in Walden Two because the community is... ...t provider for people of all ages and races, with equality of the sexes and gentle behavioral engineering that encourages art and science. Huxley’s Brave New World, on the other hand, shows how drastically wrong genetic and behavioral sciences could go if allowed to do so. Both novels show how communal living solves numerous social problems, though Walden Two has a much more peaceful setting instead of the mock one created by Huxley. The question both books bring up is how far the human race should allow science to go before we become carbon copies of each other or even completely inhuman. But then, how far is too far? Works Cited Skinner, B.F. Walden Two. United States of America: Prentice Hall, 1976. Huxley, Aldous. Brave New World. New York, New York: HarperCollins Publishers Inc. [c1932]; Huxley.com, 1998. 16 September 2004. .
Friday, October 11, 2019
Marketing Report Bokomo Foods Essay
1.0. A report presenting market data in order to inform a cereal company Bokomo Ltd. To consider whether to expand more in the United Kingdom market. 2.0 Executive summary. This is a short report, containing marketing data on both the cereal market and a specific business, Bokomo UK. The data was obtained from secondary marketing research. Bokomo ´s website was one of the main reference guide. With the findings and analysis, it was recommended that Bokomo should expand their own brand products more in the UK. The PEST analysis of the UK grocery industry included in this report was used to highlight the external factors that can affect Bokomo’s operation and interpret how these factors will influence Bokomo. Furthermore, through the market analysis it was found that Kellogg’s and Weetabix mainly lead the cereal industry, followed by Nestle and Jordans. These companies have a wide range of brands targeted at different consumers, and they have customer loyalty, which can make it harder for newer companies to enter this sector. As mentioned before, in the cereal market there are a large variety of targeted consumers like children, women, and families. The main key trends in the market are convenient snacks and consciousness towards health. Apart from that, own branded labels are also gaining popularity as they offer consumers the same product at a cheaper price. SWOT analysis allowed us to devise the company’s internal analysis. Strengths included their well-known reputation and customers such as large food retailers (Tesco ´s), to which they sell manufacture and packaging services. Weaknesses consist of the negative aspects the company faces, including their not household name, and general negative publicity they face in this complex sector. Opportunities were devised from the social factors from the PEST analysis as changes in consumer tastes and trends are opportunities were this company can benefit from by meeting those needs. These were also an important part of the report as it affected the final recommendations for the company. Threats included the financial recession and increasing levels of immigration. Bokomo Foods is a major cereal producer in the United Kingdom, established around 80 years ago. Despite not being a household name, is a UK leading cereal maker and the company has achieved diversity by producing a range of own-label products. Furthermore, they manufacture branded products for large companies, as well as branded packaging services like Bag in Box, Pot or Pouch. All of these services are for leading retailers such as Tesco ´s, Sainsbury ´s and Morrison’s, among many others. 3.0 Introduction + Aim. This is a report whose aim is to present market data in order to inform Bokomo plc. a cereal company, whether further expansion in the UK market is beneficial at this time. The report will identify and analyse the current business situation, using SWOT analysis, and review the macroeconomic perspective of the general UK grocery industry using PEST analysis. The SWOT analysis will help us examine the specific company factors, as it is essential to understand these in order to relate them back to the PEST and market trends. Both internal and external factors affect how Bokomo will operate now and in the future. 4.0 The grocery market environment – PEST analysis 4.1 Political Political factors have a great influence on the analysis of external factors since they are determined by the degree of government intervention in the economy. The political situation in the UK is stable. Her Majesty’s Government, led by Prime Minister David Cameron of the Conservative Party, is mainly concerned about the financial crisis affecting economies all over the world and to strengthen the economic position of UK globally. Through employment legislations, the government encourages retailers to provide a mix of job opportunities from flexible, lower-paid and locally-based jobs to highly-skilled, higher-paid and centrally-located jobs (Balchin, 1994). Migration has a large impact on the grocery industry, as it provides new customers, as well as opportunities for supermarkets to cater to the different culinary cultures of immigrants. Migration also leads to a change in size of labour pool, which could have an effect on the availability of workers. Latest figures from the Office for National Statistics show some 503,000 people came to live in the UK in the year ending June 2013, compared with 517,000 people the previous year (ONS.gov, 2013). 4.2 Economic Economic factors are important to consider in regard to the UK grocery market, as they are highly influential to demand, costs, prices, and profit. One of the most influential factors on the economy is high unemployment level, which decreases the effective demand for many goods, adversely affecting the demand required to produce such goods. Unemployment in the UK is at 7.1% as of January 2014, according to BBC. Another highly relevant economic factor is the grocery market size and the market growth. IGD forecast that the UK grocery market value will be worth  £205.9bn in 2018, a 21.3% increase on 2013 (IGD.com, 2013). This is beneficial news to Bokomo, since any expansion would be possible in regard to the availability of area in the market to expand. Another market characteristic of importance is the amount of spending on groceries in regard to overall retail expenditure in the UK. The grocery market’s share accounts for 54.9p in every  £1 of UK retail spending (IGD.com, 2013). 4.3 Social According to Askew (2013) sales in the cereal industry have been under pressure in these past years, especially due to the changing social trends and habits of consumers. Even though sales in this market have been stable, growth has been slow. Traditional breakfast habits have changed and people consume fewer cereals because of a busier lifestyle. Also increasing number of consumers skip breakfast. An increase in female workers has also had an impact on this, which is why competition for convenient options is growing more each time. An increasing number of people now look for easy and quick alternatives to sitting down and eating. However, they expect to receive the same nutrients and healthy benefits with these convenient options. A growing number of women now pay special attention to what they are eating, checking the labeling, nutritional information and ingredients of each product. Increasingly, women have a greater concern with their weight and healthy eating. Lately, the demand for children’s cereals has declined because of the sugar content it has. Cereal companies use marketing to their advantage and attract kids with unhealthy products. Their main source has been television adverts and most of the cereals for children have high sugar content with low nutritional value, a fact of which more parents are aware. Apart from consumer concerns about health, they are also becoming more aware of the environment. In this specific market, many cereal companies now control their water use, energy use, waste produced, etc. Most of them also pay close attention to the packaging of the product, like using recycled packaging. Another social factor that affects the grocery market in general is the diverse culture in UK. There are so many people with different cultures that do not choose cereals as their first choice for breakfast; instead they have their own eating habits. Therefore, it is important for the producers in the grocery market to understand the needs of the entire population and meet them. Furthermore, supermarket own-brand products have gained a lot of popularity because of the economic downturn. As consumers have limited spending power, they prefer spending on a cheaper product that allows them to get the same benefits. 4.4 Technological In the present technological age, everyone, from personal to professional interaction, is highly reliant on technology. Therefore, technological advances are important for the development and maintenance of business culture. Advances in technology have allowed the grocery industry to grow. An excellent example is the demise of Blockbuster, who was reluctant to explore online options, and their consequent refusal to buy Netflix and to adapt to changing trends lead to their bankruptcy and final closure on January 14, 2014. Online grocery shopping holds 11% of the distribution channels of the UK grocery market and predictions suggest online sales in the US will grow by 15% in 2014 to  £189.3 billion, while in Europe, sales are expected to rise by 18% to  £131.2 billion. Online shopping has helped people spend their day more efficiently and reduced the effort of having to carry heavy grocery bags. Technological advances at the supermarket has contributed to more efficient customer service and stocking efforts. The adoption of Electronic Point of Sale (EPoS), Electronic Funds Transfer Systems (EFTPoS) and electronic scanners have greatly improved the efficiency of distribution and stocking activities, with needs being communicated almost in real time to the supplier (Finch, 2004). Devices such as the self-checkout machine and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) have permitted the grocery industry to grow and accommodate customers in an effective way. 5.0 Description of product specific market 5.1 Main competitors The leading cereal brands and the biggest competitors of Bokomo cereals in the UK are Kellogg’s and Weetabix, reported Companies&Markets (2013). Kellogg’s arrived in the UK in 1922 and since then has maintained its position in the market, by focusing on innovation and expansion of their products. In 2012, it had 32% of value share, leading in the UK cereal market offering a wide range of products. Over the years, Kellogg’s has expanded to over 180 countries in the world and has around 39 brands of cereals. Weetabix, on the other hand, was launched in 1932; it has been a long-standing brand and has fought its competitors to stay in this position in the UK. Weetabix has also introduced many different brands and has been innovating to adapt to consumer preferences over the years. Also Jordans, a breakfast cereal company based in Bedfordshire, founded in 1855. Although, the company produced its first cereal in 1981 called Original Crunchy, it was in the years between 2000 and 2005 when it faced rapid growth and became one of the largest cereal brands in the UK. Its great focus over the years has been on the packaging, to make it stand out in grocery stores and it is also known to be included in the â€Å"healthy, natural cereal segment†Moreover, Nestle formed in 1990. It was launched as a joint venture between General Mills and Nestle S.A. and named Cereal Partners Worldwide (CPW). They offer the traditional cereals, as well as a range of brands including the world-known Cheerios. 5.2 Targeted consumers Cereal companies target many different kinds of people, although the easiest group of people to target has been children. BMSG (2013) stated they do it through advertisements on television, and somehow try to grab their attention by creating colourful, animated images and providing gifts in the cereal box each time. Another group targeted in this sector are the women because of their increasing concern for health and weight loss. Along with the children, women also form a big part of the consumers of this market. Nowadays, there are so many brands that have launched low-fat cereals and cereal bars also. Some also provide some advice, tips and dietary plans, Nytimes article (2010). Generally, families in the UK are also targeted consumers because some families still sit and have their meals together and believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Apart from that, families are more concerned with what they are eating, especially making sure that the smaller ones eat healthy (Marketingmagazine(2010) Unlike maybe some students at university who would not pay so much attention to their breakfast, particularly not on a daily basis. 5.3 Key trends in the cereal market Marketingmagazine (2008) stated A rising key trend in the cereal industry is the quick and convenient ‘good to go’ snacks, like cereal bars. Cereal bars have gained a lot of popularity among a wide range of audience in recent years because people not having time for breakfast. Due to this reason, there has been a significant decline in the sales of the cereal market. Companies have been mostly focusing on this convenient aspect of the market so that people don’t just skip breakfast entirely and their business doesn’t face a loss. As health also plays a crucial role in this market and recently people are more conscious about what they are putting in their body, convenient snacks are the best option as they cover both points. Nowadays, ‘good to go’ snacks are not just used for breakfast but also during the entire day as an alternative to other unhealthy snacks. As a result of the sudden popularity of these snacks, now there are a great variety of them in different formats. On the other hand, the popularity of own branded labels is growing in the grocery market. It saves consumers a significant amount of money and they offer a similar or better quality product. It has resulted in a much higher level of competition in the market. 5.4 SWOT Analysis Bokomo website (2014) 5.4.1 Strengths Bokomo is UK’s leading cereal maker; this is a major strength as they have established a firm position in the British cereal market. They operate in various markets inside the cereal industry, providing food manufacture, retailing and catering. Bokomo can provide tasty, fresh cereal products any business is looking for, at a very competitive and cost-effective price†. British company (although owned by South Africa’s Pioneer Foods) with substantial manufacturing plants in Wellingborough and Peterborough. This means Bokomo has the resources and specialist expertise to offer unique flexible manufacturing and packaging services. Companies needing a brand-new breakfast cereal raced through New Product Development (NPD) or an innovative production line set up in record time can contact Bokomo. This makes them have an advantage as nowadays there are many organisations looking for branded cereal products. Bokomo is a world-class player, and in order to maintain that s tatus they need world-class facilities. They have two factories in the UK, specifically in Wellingborough and Peterborough. These factories offer them a cutting-edge manufacturing plant, in other words, the latest, high quality, reliable and sustainable facilities. This leads to the production of high quality products. Food standards are also controlled and supported by SAP business information software, which makes customers feel more confident and secure with the products and services Bokomo delivers. Bokomo ´s experts in the management team and the company ´s aim of constantly innovating and removing old production facilities has helped them produce large quantities of high quality products very efficiently and to the shortest imaginable lead-times. Their customers know Bokomo as a business that main objectives is to offer high quality products. This has been maintained by using high quality ingredients and top experts in recipe formulation. They are one of only 2 manufactures that produce wheat biscuits in the Northern hemisphere enabled them to have the largest control and knowledge of this production process. Even if Bokomo UK is based in the United Kingdom, they have also diversified. Geographic market diversification has enabled them to sell in many countries around Europe, Scandinavia and even as far as the United States of America or the United Arab Emirates 5.4.2 Weaknesses Bokomo stated â€Å"you’ve possibly never heard of us†– this means that individual customers do not know them as their own – branded products is very niche, and they are more specialized in producing in a business to business way. This is a very common weakness for companies that operate Behind the Brand. Constant changing of consumer’s tastes (opting for cereal bars, instant porridge or other breakfast solutions) can be considered a weakness, as its difficult and expensive to innovate and keep up to meet their needs. Difficulties to compete with well known brands cereals products such as Corn Flakes, Crunchy Nut, Special K. Have to create a delicious product that attracts customers quickly and expensive to implement the R&D and marketing. On the other hand it can also be considered and opportunity. Negative publicity to which ready-to-eat cereals have been subjected due to their high sugar content 5.4.3 Opportunities Social trends are important opportunities for Bokomo. Customers aiming towards healthy living or any other lifestyle changes means there is an opportunity towards which research and operate in. They have achieved and been keeping up to date with this as they have many products related to this trend. Great health benefits, such as products enabling the final consumer to control cholesterol levels. Multi-grain flake is another trend and potential opportunity for Bokomo. Consumers are changing their tastes towards healthier goods, and leaving behind old-fashioned sugary confections. Consumers are also increasingly purchasing Branflakes as they are considered to be great for supporting a healthy digestive system. Another trend â€Å"busier schedules†, people are increasingly feeling they have no time to spend on having breakfast and snacks. Bokomo muesli is available to cater for the increasing demand for â€Å"breakfast on the go†. They offer them in bags and boxes, which facilitates the final customer to transport to their work place. This is an example of an opportunity for Bokomo because if they keep-up to date with trends, they will become more efficient and desirable for large retailers to purchase their products, and everyone will benefit form the sales. UK retailers are also focusing on added-value products: Add value by introducing natural minerals and vitamins into whole grain wheat and making the final product more healthy and nutritional. Own-label share of the business mix for large supermarket retailers. It is a main direction for Bokomo to go towards to as they can increase considerably their business operations, as the focus is now towards manufacturing own-label and branded products. Bokomo has realized the immense potential for expansion as the large retailers keep increasing the sale of this type of good. ‘One-stop’ shopping, or shopping in large supermarkets were customers can find any type of product in the same building has been beneficial for Bokomo as these businesses are their main clients. If they increase their sales, Bokomo will also benefit from this, as they will sell them more and so increase revenue will mean increase levels of profitability. 5.4.4 Threats The cereal industry offers products which are considered to be relatively expensive, which can be easily replaced with simpler breakfast choices such as bread. The financial recession has been a main factor for the decrease in expenditure, specially concerning families, as there are other much cheaper products to replace the cereals and cereal bars. High unemployment has made a substantial impact on the demand for such goods, adversely affecting the demand required to product those goods. Increasing levels of immigration specially in the UK, has meant that they do not have the same culinary cultures and so those breakfast products will not satisfy the needs and wants of everyone. 5.0 Recommendations With the above analysis it is better for the company to target smaller retailers where their own labeled products won’t be affected by competitive brands like Kellogg’s, and when they achieve this they should concentrate more on developing their own branded products around the UK. As mentioned above in the SWOT analysis, cereal products are considered to be expensive due to the added value implemented on them so it would be better to decrease these levels of adding value and start off with lower prices, in recession periods. 6.0 Limitations Bokomo website allowed us to obtain up-to-date and official information and statistics of the company. The information was limited because the company sold themselves and emphasized on its positive aspects because they have to promote their brand to the consumers. A part from this we also used other sources including, online articles about food industry, which helped us, get an un-biased view of the company and the cereal market as a whole. The drawback of using other sources or secondary research was that the methods used were unknown so we examined the most official and valid sources. 7.0 References Askew, K. 2013. Breakfast cereal: Are cereal sales going soggy? [Online] Available at: http://www.just-food.com/analysis/are-cereal-sales-in-developed-markets-going-soggy_id123417.aspx Bainbridge, J. 2010. Sector insight: Breakfast cereals | Marketing Magazine. [Online] Available at: http://www.marketingmagazine.co.uk/article/990662/sector-insight-breakfast-cereals Bainbridge, J. 2008. Sector Insight: Cereal bars | Marketing Magazine. [Online] Available at: http://www.marketingmagazine.co.uk/article/817580/sector-insight-cereal-bars Balchin, A. (1994) Part-time Workers in the Multiple Retail Sector: Small Change from Employment Protection Legislation? Employee Relations, Vol. 16 Iss: 7, pp.43 – 57 BBC News. 2014. UK unemployment rate drops to 7.1%. [Online] Available at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-25841570 BERKELEY, C. 2013. Cereal companies leverage online marketing to target children with sugary products | Berkeley Media Studies Group. [Online] Available at: http://w ww.bmsg.org/newsroom/news-releases/cereal-companies-leverage-online-marketing-to-target-children-with-sugary-products Bodimeade, M. 2013. UK breakfast cereals market dominated by Kellogg’s and Weetabix. [Online] Available at: http://www.companiesandmarkets.com/News/Food-and-Drink/UK-breakfast-cereals-market-dominated-by-Kelloggs-and-Weetabix/NI6602 Bokomo.co.uk. n.d. About | Bokomo. [Online] Available at: http://bokomo.co.uk/about Business News Daily (November 22, 2013) PEST Analysis: Definition and Examples, Available at: http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/5512-pest-analysis-definition-examples-templates.html Euromonitor.com. 2013. Breakfast Cereals in the United Kingdom. [Online] Available at: http://www.euromonitor.com/breakfast-cereals-in-the-united-kingdom/report Igd.com. 2013. UK Grocery Retailing. [Online] Available at: http://www.igd.com/our-expertise/Retail/retail-outlook/3371/UK-Grocery-Retailing/ Internetretailing.net (March 18, 2014) UK retailers expected to make
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