Nike Just Do it advertising campaign analysis Essay

Nike Just Do it advertising campaign analysis - Essay Example Major trends in marketing Global marketing has witnessed several trends that have revolutionized the ways companies inform and persuade customers to start using their products and services. One of the trends is the shift from mass media advertising to specialized media that caters for personalized consumption patterns and segmentation of the market in terms of income levels, tastes and preferences (Batra, Myers and Aaker, 2009). In this case, Just Do it campaign initially focused on the mass market through appealing to target audience regardless of income, age, and sporting activities. However, Nike shifted the campaign to niche markets such as athletics sports, football and young generation who prefer fitness through seeking celebrity endorsements (Batra, Myers and Aaker, 2009). Another trend is the use of data-based marketing as opposed to focus marketing thus Nike has shifted its efforts to market research activities that aim at identifying the consumer incomes changes, changes in tastes and preferences (Shah, K & D’Souza, 2009). Accordingly, the internet and new media channels like YouTube, direct marketing through e-mails and digital platforms like twitter and online discussion forums have enabled Nike to cut its advertising costs on traditional media and focus on new media channels that elicit high feedback and interest among consumers. Web-based marketing has enabled companies to reach the global market due to instance response and its ability to elicit responses. Another major trend in marketing is the event marketing that entails face-to-face conversations via trade shows, live events and corporate meetings (Carbasho, 2010). Nike uses several sporting events to... This essay " Nike ‘Just Do it† advertising campaign" analyze Nike's commercial and why it become so successful. Nike aimed at attaining several objectives with the ad campaign. First, the company wanted to gain brand awareness and recognition during the fitness craze in order to gain market share in the American market. Accordingly, the company aspired to create good relations with potential consumers through providing inspiring messages and encouraging consumers to pursue their dreams. At the same time, Nike was geared at informing the consumers of the benefits of fitness, sports and benefits that could be derived from purchasing Nike’s athletic shoes and sporting apparel. Accordingly, the use of the slogan in merchandise such as school bags and jumpers was geared at creating primary demand for the non-sport and Nike-related commodity market through demonstrating the value of Nike products. Advertising aims at positioning the product in order to create a distincti ve impression on the minds of the consumers and assign an intangible value to the brand. Accordingly, Just Do It ad aimed at linking the social lifestyle in America with the brand’s image through making consumers understand Nike cares for their health and wellbeing. In addition, Nike aimed at winning back the previous customers who had shifted to competitors like Adidas and minimise the existing negative attitudes towards Nike products). Nike sought to build brand loyalty in a friendly manner and increase sales among the existing consumers.

Complaint Management in Social Media - A Comparative Linguistic Essay

Complaint Management in Social Media - A Comparative Linguistic analysis between Company Websites and Facebook - Essay Example Research findings indicate that complaints are rarely responded to and usually only where the language used is complimentary to and/or helpful to the firm. Therefore, contrary to Hirschman’s theory of exit-voice, companies are not taking advantage of defensive marketing tools calculated to retain customers. Social media is defined as any online forum or site on which users may exchange information, opinions or knowledge. In other words the term social media refers to websites in which users are able to freely post to those websites. Brunty and Helenek define social media as a â€Å"social medium† which facilitates communications between users and communications between users and those who created or manage the website or page. Social media also includes a forum in which users can exchange content. Social media websites provide a variety of ways for users to communicate and include email, message boards, instant messaging, video or audio chatting. The idea is to provide a â€Å"sense of community among users†. ... In this regard, businesses are looking at various ways in which they can benefit from social media via social networking tools such as YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.3 Businesses are now entering unchartered territories in that they can now engage consumer-to-consumer discussions through various online social networking strategies. These communications are uncensored for the most part and permit the consumers to speak to one another freely about businesses and their products. Social media also provides a platform for consumers to speak directly to business management.4 From the perspective of business, the â€Å"quality of user-general content† can range from â€Å"excellent to abuse and spam.†5 Previously, consumers merely went online to explore content and information relative to a business and its products and/or services. Increasingly, consumers are adding their own content to a company’s profile, blogs or websites.6 Thus social media has the capacity to impac t a business’s reputation, sales and might even impact its success.7 This is all the more important because social media tools are increasing alongside internet users who are gathering at social network sites. For example a Pew Report demonstrates that young adults in the US between the ages of 18 and 29 have increased the use of social networks online via cellular telephones. Between 2006 and 2008 online social networking via cellular telephones, among young adults in the US increased by 10% (from 55% to 65%).8 Overall, access points to social networking via the internet have increased exponentially over the years. Globally, users engaged in social networking increased from 54% to 77% by

Corporate Social Responsibility In British Airways Management Essay

Corporate Social Responsibility In British Airways Management Essay Introduction This assignment concerns with an examination of business ethics in British Airways (BA) and in particular an event that happened in August, 2005, with it catering contractor, Gate Gourmet. The objectives of this assignment are; To examine BAs approach towards CSR. To find out whether Gate Gourmet employees are part of BAs stakeholders. To explain the negative outcomes. To explore ethical issues involved in the particular of outsourcing. The objective of this assignment will be achieved by using the theories, concepts of business ethics. This assignment discuss about a number of interesting conclusions on how BA handles CSR and the particular problem with Gate Gourmet. (2.1) Introduction about British Airways (BA) The British Airways group consists of British Airways plc and a number of subsidiary companies including British Airways Holidays Limited. British Airways is one of the worlds leading airlines with a network that provides passenger and freight services to 149 destinations in 72 countries.   In 2004/05, British Airways carried over 35 million passengers and nearly 900,000 tonnes of cargo.   Its airline network is centred on the United Kingdom, where 85% of its 47,500 workforce is based. The main activities of British Airways Plc and its subsidiary undertakings are the operation of international and domestic scheduled air services for the carriage of passengers, freight and mail and the provision of ancillary services. British Airways airline network generates economic value by meeting the demand for business travel, by offering vital arteries for trade and investment, as well as providing leisure travel opportunities for individuals and families. There vision is to become the worlds most responsible airline and they have recognized that this is best achieved by ensuring their flying activity is sustainable. They have developed a series of strategic goals and plans to deliver that vision. There are several reasons why British Airways chose to engage in CSR.   The first is because it is a tool to help achieve the companys long term strategic goals in providing growth opportunities around Heathrow airport.   Secondly, improving business efficiency and reducing costs through waste and energy programmes provided a strong business case for CSR.   The company also thought CSR could help them with risk management by identifying risks to health, safety and environment that could hinder its opportunity to attract investors and grow the business.   Lastly, it recognised that it needed to act to enhance its corporate reputation, and customer feedback (both corporate and from the general public) revealed that they expected British Airways to do the right thing. Its approach has also been influenced by the recognition that airlines generate major social and economic benefits, but also have significant impacts on the environment (for example, through noise and air quality) and on communities around airports. In developing its Climate Change Programme, British Airways has had to overcome several challenges, some of which still remain.   The political environment in which the company operates harbours many different views on climate change and there are different levels of awareness surrounding the topic.   This means that airlines take different views, as do governments.   In the UK the government (through its White Paper on aviation) has made it clear that expanding the aviation industry will mean that the industry has to deal with environmental issues.   However, the governments of many European countries have not gone through such detailed consultation and analysis and may not have such clarity on the issue.   Another challenge to the company was the cost implication of taking action when others within the industry were not Ref: www.britishairways.com 2.2. Triple Bottom Line Concept (TBL) Triple bottom line was introduced by Elkington in 1999. Triple bottom line is a unique approach to community development that integrates environmental stewardship, sustainable development and social justice.  The triple bottom line is made up of social, economic and environmental the people, planet, profit phrase was coined for shell by sustainability. Triple Bottom Line efforts are as varied as the organizations and communities in our state wide network. This approach is flexible and innovative, creating new economies that protect, enhance and restore natural, cultural, historic and community resources. The Triple Bottom Line standards for: Economic (Profit). Social (People). Environment (Planet). Economic (Profit) This is more about making a honest profit than raking a profit at any cost it must be made in harmony with the other two principles of People and Planet. While many major corporations used to sneer at the idea of a Triple Bottom Line reporting system. With a positive flow on effect to their suppliers. Because supply chains are also accountable to the overall impact of a company. A narrow concept of economic sustainability focuses on the economic performance of the corporation itself: the responsibility of management is develop, produce and market those products that secure long-term economic performance for the company. This includes a focus on strategies that lead to a long term rise in share price, revenues and market share rather than short term explosions of profits at the expense of long term viability. Social (People) This is also known as Human Capital. It really just means treating your employees right, but furthermore also the community where your business operates. In this part of the Triple Bottom Line model, business not only ensures a fair days work for a fair days pay; but also plods back some of its gains into the surrounding community through sponsorships, donation or projects that go towards the common good. The key issue in the social perspective of sustainability is that of social justice .Despite the impressive advances in standards of living that many of us have enjoyed; there are growing disparities of income and wealth within many countries. In a more just an equitable world, living standards will lead to more economic prosperity. Environment (Planet) This is Natural Capital. A business will strive to minimize its ecological impact in all areas from sourcing raw materials, to production processes, to shipping and administration. Its a cradle to grave approach and in some cases cradle to cradle i.e. taking some responsibility for goods after theyve been sold for example, offering a recycling or take back program. The importance of Triple Bottom Line reports are: Economic gains: Jobs created, Small businesses started or expanded, environmentally responsible industries engaged, Poverty reduced or alleviated. Social improvements: people of collar or low-wealth engaged; educational systems improved; racism dismantled; power shared. Environmental stewardship: land/water resources protected; working lands locally-owned; water quality improved; native plants and herbs propagated. 2.3. Economic responsibilities of BA. Aviation must be perfection within the overall climate framework with open access to cost-effective market-based instruments including carbon trading, Clean Development Mechanism(CDM) credits and potentially credits from Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD) in developing countries. British Airways is playing a leading role within the aviation industry in developing and promoting proactive solutions for post-Kyoto aviation policy, through the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Association of European Airlines (AEA) and a dedicated group of companies called Aviation Global Deal (AGD).The AGD proposal is a sector-wide policy based on carbon trading that requires all airlines to participate on an equal basis. Carbon allowances are allocated in part by auctioning, with the resulting revenue being collected by a UN body and directed to specific environmental projects in developing countries. In this way the proposal meets both the competitiveness and common but differentiated responsibilities (whereby developed countries agree to take the lead on addressing climate change) principles. 2.4. Social responsibilities of BA. British Airways offer support in the form of funding, free flights, excess baggage, merchandise, cargo space and fundraising events. Our priorities for support are Education  and  Youth  Development, Supporting our Colleagues, Environment, Sustainable Tourism and Heritage. The Community and Conservation started in 1984; they provide these projects in and around the world. Many of BA staffs are involved in Charity work in and abroad as the part of the management they support their staffs in their charitable work. Few charity services mentioned below. 1) The BA community volunteering awards. 2) BA giving scheme. 3) BA fun runs for Cancer research UK. 4) Action for street children volunteer programme. Change for Good is promoted by onboard announcements and the showing of an onboard video. There are  nearly 2,400 British  Airways cabin crew members who co-ordinate the onboard collections from our customers. There are also collection points across British  Airways offices so our colleagues can also donate to the programme. E.g.: UNICEF. 2.5. Environment responsibilities of BA. BA was the first airline to report to the Environmental performance. This can be called one of the strategies of BA. They help in minimizing the cost travel more effectively. They minimize their impact through the latest technology including airframes, engines and alternative fuels.To achieve this strategy they have developed a Comprehensive programme, Climate change there overall strategy is to ensure we fully contribute our share of global carbon dioxide emission reductions by 2050 Waste there focus on reducing, reusing, recycling and responsible disposal of there waste Noise reducing our impact on local communities around the airports they serve. Air quality improving air quality for communitys around the air ports they serve. (2.6) Conclusion British Airways use the approach of CSR They truly believes now they have all the vital elements in place to deliver their overall vision of becoming the worlds most responsible airline. Ref: www.britishairways.com BAs approach towards corporate social responsibility using Triple Bottom Line. Triple bottom line was introduced by Elkington in 1999. According to him TBL represents the idea that business does not have just one single goal-namely adding economic value but that it has a extended goal set which necessitates adding environmental and social value too. To understand the components of sustainability which represents its necessary for to us to examine them separately. The components are divided into three. Economic. Social. Environmental. ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVE When there was a dispute between Gate Gourmets and BAs there were 100,000 passengers Whose flights were cancelled they suffered because the tickets which the passenger purchased were not reimbursed nor transferred to the other flights. The strike had cost almost  £50 million which brought disturbance to more than 100,000 passengers. Thousands of employees who went on strike which caused disturbance to the passengers as the flights were cancelled. This was the season where the BA went on tremendous loss and decided to hire unofficial labour. As this strike went on the middle of the summer season were in there were lot of passengers who had to travel back home and were N number of visitors coming in ,this also could be a reason for BA to go under Bankrupt. The employees were aware of the situation and they had a upper hand to the situation. There were few Employees who even argued We have a very hardworking and professional workforce, the current situation is very much an exception to that rule. And the restructuring plan resulted in thousands of job losses. But the restructuring undoubtedly led to financial success. However, they have to still work on full loyalty of its employees to match its renewed financial success. SOCIAL PERSPECTIVE British Airways offer support in the form of funding, free flights, excess baggage, merchandise, cargo space and fundraising events. Our priorities for support are The Community and Conservation started in 1984; they provide these projects in and around the world.Many of BA staffs are involved in Charity work in and abroad as the part of the management they support their staffs in their charitable work. Few charity services mentioned below. 1) The BA community volunteering awards. 2) BA giving scheme. 3) BA fun runs for Cancer research UK. 4) Action for street children volunteer programme. Change for Good is promoted by onboard announcements and the showing of an onboard video. There are  nearly 2,400 British  Airways cabin crew members who co-ordinate the onboard collections from our customers. There are also collection points across British  Airways offices so our colleagues can also donate to the programme. E.g.: UNICEF. ENIVORNMENT PERSPECTIVE BA was the first airline to report to the Environmental performance. This can be called one of the strategies of BA. They help in minimizing the cost travel more effectively They minimize their impact through the latest technology including airframes, engines and alternative fuels. To achieve this strategy they have developed Comprehensive programmes: Climate change there overall strategy is to ensure they fully contribute their share of global carbon dioxide emission reductions by 2050. Waste focus on reducing, reusing, recycling and responsible disposal of waste. Noise reducing our impact on local communities around the airports they serve. Air quality improving air quality for communities around the airports they serve. Ref: britishairways.com 3. Explanation about Gate Gourmets is also part of BAs stakeholder? Using Corporate Social responsibility theory. Before we discuss about this matter we should understand the definition of whom the employee is and who the contractor is. Employee is a person who is hired to provide services to a company on a regular basis in exchange for compensation and who does not provide these services as part of an independent business. Contractor is a person or business which provides goods or services to another entity under terms specified in a contract. Unlike an employee, a contractor does not work regularly for a company. Contractors are not a part of company shareholder, how ever it has been argued that contractors are not legitimate shareholders of a client. However, in order to find out whether this is the case; the concept of salience of stakeholders will be used. Stakeholder is a Person, group, or organization that has direct or indirect stake in an organization because it can affect or be affected by the organizationHYPERLINK http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/organization.htmlHYPERLINK http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/organization.htmls actions, objectives, and policies. Stakeholders are shareholders, customers, creditors, suppliers, employees, government and community of an organization. Gate Gourmet is a food supplier for British Airways. This means they are the stakeholder of BA. Stakeholder plays a vital role for an organization. It is very important to assess stakeholder importance in order to manage these stakeholders. Mitchell et al (1997) suggest there are three key relationship factors likely to determine the importance of stakeholders.It also called Salience of Stakeholder; Power The conceived ability of stakeholder to influence organizational action. Legitimacy Whether the organization conceives the stakeholders actions to be readable, proper or appropriate. Urgency the degree to which stakeholder claims are conceived to call for immediate actions. Ref: britishairways.com Pedro Longart, Lecture hand-outs, 2009 4. Negative outcome of the Strike. There were lot of negative outcomes arises due to this industrial disputes at British Airways (BA).In order to understand this problem we have to analyse about the shareholders. In this dispute Gate Gourmet staff became key players. The negative outcomes of this strike are given below; The British Airways had cancelled over 700 flights and lost an estimated  £30 million as a result. 100,000 passengers had their journeys disrupted. With some delayed for days. It can be concluded BA strike happen because the importance of Gate Gourmet employee became key players. They were not put their attention. Because of that problem was arising. Ref: britishairways.com 5. Ethical Issues involved in the modern practise of outsourcing Ethical issues of involved in modern practice of outsourcing explained by sheffi in 2005 and Emmelhainz and Adams in 1999.Sheffi said that companies should never rely in contractor should either have used more than one creator. Otherwise, the relationship should be closer so that the companies knows more about what contractors is doing. He also explained that some firms, like banks have been criticised for poor customer support from outsourced Indian called centers, also Nike and Gap have been attacked over the sweatshops allegedly operate by some of their suppliers. He said outsourcing an activity does not mean it is no longer a firms problem. Emmelhainz and Adams said as there is a shift towards global supply and competition individual firms appear to be faced with the prospect of an extend chain of responsibility. Once it was perfectly acceptable to argue that the ethics of a firms suppliers, or a firm impact on its competitors, was simply not any of its business, this no longer seems to be the case. Hence, corporation have to take their ethical responsibilities much more broadly. Therefore the supply chain has to be used as a conduct for ethics management and regulations. (Pedro Longart, Lecture hand-outs, 2009)

economy of power :: essays research papers

15 The economy of power ‘I would like to suggest another way to go further towards a new economy of power relations, a way which is more empirical, more directly related to our present situation, and which implies more relations between theory and practice. Michel Foucault, 1982 Beyond the repressive hypothesis: Power as power/knowledge Foucault never attempts any (impossible) definition of power. At best, he gives a definition of power relations in an essay published in 1982: ‘The exercise of power is not simply a relationship between partners, individual or collective; it is a way in which certain actions modify others. Which is to say, of course, that something called Power, with or without a capital letter, which is assumed to exist universally in a concentrated or diffused form, does not exist.’ Therefore, Foucauldian definition of power is drawn in opposition with the  « repressive hypothesis  » (Foucault, 1971) which holds that there is a transcendental reason which can be exercised independently of any power relationship. Precisely because it is transcendental, reason is then universally compelling. It can limit the political power field and has therefore a role in opposing domination (ie when political power goes beyond its rights). Foucault draws the genealogy of this hypothesis advocating two reasons for its appearance in history(Dreyfus and Rabinow, 1982:130). On a first hand, because of what he calls the  « speaker’s benefit  », the mere fact that, by advocating such a hypothesis, the speaker places himself out of power and within truth. However, this is not the main argument of Foucault as he must recognise that, not as an archaeologist but as a genealogist, he is himself in a field of power relations. On a second hand, because: ‘modern power is tolerable on the condition that it masks itself–which it has done very effectively. If truth is outside of and opposed to power, then the speaker’s benefit is merely an incidental plus. But if truth and 16 power are not external to each other, as Foucault will obviously maintain, then the speaker’s benefit and associated ploys are among the essential ways in which power operates. It masks itself by producing a discourse, seemingly opposed to it but really part of a larger deployment of modern power.’ An additional, more technical, reason should be added, which is that talking about a transcendental reason means falling again in the contradictions of modernity (see part 1). Therefore, Foucault prefers considering rationality as  « a kind of rationality  » and study how several kinds of rationalities could emerge in history (see part 2). However, considering the emergence of a kind of rationality presupposes that the field of possible knowledge is tightly

Government-operated gambling Essay

Over the past few years, government operated gambling has grown into a massive business, there has been much controversy around the topic of weather or not Gambling should be regulated. In this essay I will explain my point of view on this topic and give examples that support my ideas. So, what should the state’s policy towards gambling? I believe that the state should not regulate gambling because of three main reasons. My first reason is people’s rights and freedoms. Second, Gambling has grown into a major industry over the pas few years; the centre for addiction and mental health stated in their Gambling Policy framework in 2011 â€Å"Government-operated gambling has steadily expanded in Ontario in the past two decades, revenues reaching $4. 7 billion in 2009. † (2). This shows that Gambling has grown to become a major industry in today’s economy and by doing so it has helped society in several different aspects, the growth of the gambling industry has lead to an increase in revenue for the government, thus resulting in more social benefits towards the public. Finally, The gambling industry has lead to many job opportunities in north America, offering a beacon of hope to those in need of jobs during a recession. In modern society, freedom is not only supported but also cherished, people should be given the freedom to live their lives as they please, weather they choose to live their lives in a healthy way or not that is up to them. However, they must be given the right to live as they please. In the United States, groups such as the KKK are protected under the first amendment, which protects their freedom of speech, no matter how ludicrous it may be, they have the right to say as they please. The same should be applied to life. People should have the choice to live their lives as they please without being watched over by the government. Since gambling does require participants to be of legal age, we know that the people gambling are adults. These grown ups should be able to have control over their own lives, its their responsibility to understand the chances they are taking when gambling. Some may argue that certain people can’t control their gambling problems and have gotten too addicted to gambling and that casinos take advantage of these people. These claims are supported by some statistics given in the centre for addiction and mental health, which states, â€Å"it is estimated that between 30% and 40% of Ontario’s gambling revenues come from the 3% of the population with gambling problems† (2). This statistic shows that the gambling industry does heavily depend of the people addicted to the game. I would respond by expressing two points. First, the people with gambling problems of which they cannot control are a minority, in Jonathan Wolff’s â€Å"Ethics and public policy A Philosophical inquiry†, the author states that â€Å"between 0.6 and 0. 8 of the UK adult population could be classified as problem gambles† (59). Furthermore, in the centre for addiction and mental health’s Gambling Policy framework in 2011 that â€Å"just over 3% of the province’s population experiences moderate to severe gambling problems. †(57). These numbers do not justify having to discipline an entire industry that would affect hundreds of thousands of people that work in it and making their living off jobs in that industry. Second, increasing government regulations on casinos and lotteries will not stop these problem gamblers from gambling. Jonathan Wolff states â€Å"in the late 1950s there were towns about 25 percent of the adult population gambled illegally on a regular basis. †(55). Taking this point into perspective, it could be inferred that if the government increases the regulations on legal casinos and lotteries that would make it harder for people with an addiction to gamble, these people will find other ways to feed their addiction. This is a severe problem because when these people begin to gamble illegally they will put their money into other illegal activities, which could include drugs, weapons or violence. In fact, many large gangs could use this opportunity to fund their illegal activities, which would lead to more trouble in society; another point to be made towards this issue would be that of money, not only would these gamblers be putting their lives at risk when gambling illegally and dealing with gangs, but they could also be keeping this money out of the government’s hand which could go government programs to help the less fortunate. This brings me to my next point and that is that gambling has become a major source of revenue for the government. Government regulated gambling has grown into a massive industry which generates a significant amount of revenue each year of which most ends up in the government as funding for many different organizations. in the paper named â€Å"Gambling: Its Pleasure and costs† by Lorne Tepperman it states that â€Å"The industry group’s report †¦ says 57 per cent of gambling revenue – $8. 7 billion- supported government services and charities. † (9). Tepperman also states that gambling is the â€Å"most financially significant† (9) segment in entertainment and that it contributes â€Å"$15. 3 billion a year to the economy, according to the Canadian Gaming Association. † (9). Ronald Pavalko also states in his paper titled â€Å"gambling and public policy† â€Å"State revenues from casino taxes totaled nearly $3. 5 billion. † (336). The reality is that today, we are in a recession we can’t afford to decrease that revenue by implementing harsh restrictions on gambling. It is argued that even though gambling is a major source of revenue for the government, it is also a source of misery for people with gambling addictions. The centre for Addiction and Mental health states that â€Å"For these individuals, a range of harms may occur, resulting in heavy social, economic, and health costs such as crime, dysfunctional relationships, and bankruptcy. † (2). However, the solution to this problem is not adding restrictions to gambling but is actually using the money made from gambling towards a better cause. As I have previously stated, people addicted to gambling will not be cured from their addiction by regulating legal gambling because they will find other means to feed their addiction. I believe that the best solution to these people’s gambling problem would be using the revenue that they generate for the government in taxes could be used to create social programs for people with serious addictions to gambling that would help them quit. I believe this solution would be ideal because the minority of people with gambling addictions will be treated in a proper healthy way in order to get over their addiction, the left over revenue could still be used in other social programs and finally, the money and profit that the casinos and lotteries generate will still flow which would result in more jobs, another source of income to the economy and would prevent people from getting fired from their jobs if harsh restrictions were to be applied to gambling agencies. My final argument for this essay is that of employment. As previously stated, gambling generates a huge amount of revenue for the government, Gambling is a growing industry and with its growth it creates several opportunities for jobs for people in need. Gambling generates many jobs that help the economy grow in this time of need. Gambling generates jobs of all sorts, from the engineers and architects that build and design the casinos, to the people who sell lottery tickets, to those who actually work in casinos. All of these people generate their income because of the gambling industry. Tepperman states that in Canada gambling accounts for â€Å"267,000 full time jobs. † (6). Pavalko also states in his paper that in only eleven states a total of 370,207 people are employed in casinos, In a country with a current unemployment rate of 8%, the Gambling industry should be seen as a source for solutions to a much more serious problem than an addiction to gambling. Expanding the gambling industry will in return create more job opportunities and help decrease the unemployment rate dramatically. However, if the government begins to set harsher policies towards gambling and casinos are required to cut costs, the unemployment rate might increase which would create even more social issue, which could result in protests and riots from the workers who have lost their jobs due to the harsh policy towards gambling. Some might argue that Gambling still creates harm towards many people and even though it can create jobs it can also result in many people losing their jobs. I would respond by quoting Lorne Tepperman â€Å"A majority of adults gamble responsible; only a small minority of the population experiences gambling related harm. † (1). I believe that gambling will create more jobs that it will end and that that is just a minor side effect that could be easily cured by the revenue that gambling will generate for the government, this money could be put back into society and produce new projects that create new job opportunities and these jobs could be offered to those who had lost their previous jobs. In conclusion I would say that I do not believe that the government should regulate gambling because of the reasons that I have stated earlier in this essay. First, Gambling is a choice and freedom. It a civil right and the government should not be able to decide weather or not you are allowed to gamble or how much you are allowed to gamble. Second, Gambling has grown into a major industry and has become a major source of revenue to the government. Gambling has helped fund many government programs used to help the less fortunate, even though gambling does create certain people who are addicted to it, they are nowhere near as many as the people whom gambling helps. In this situation the pros drastically outweigh the cons and as previously stated, the revenue generated from gambling could go towards social programs made to help people with gambling addictions, that way these people will eventually cure themselves of their addiction and the hundreds of thousands of people whom depend on gambling a source of income would not be affected, which is what I believe is a win-win situation. This brings me to my final argument, employment. The gambling industry has created hundreds of thousands of job opportunities to many of those who need it, especially in a recession where millions struggle to find an income support for them and their families. I would say that the government should encourage gambling businesses to grow. However, as Christiane Pouline states in his paper titled â€Å"Gambling† that â€Å"Decisions on policy pertaining to gambling need to be based on a full accounting of the health, economic and social benefits and costs of gambling. † (1208). Which is why the policy towards gambling should be set to help both the gambler and the Casinos. That policy should state that a majority of the profit that is generated from Casinos should go towards social programs that will benefit society; these social programs should include programs made to help gambling addicts with their problems. James Doughney perfectly sums up this policy in his book titled â€Å"The poker machine state†. Doughney says, â€Å"Try to do good; but even when you cannot at least do not knowingly cause harm. † (1). Over the past several years, gambling has grown into the largest sector of the entertainment industry, creating the most amount of revenue to the government. Our society should be scared of this phenomenon and try to regulate it, we should actually take advantage of it and use it to help make the most the most of this opportunity by using the money made from gambling to improve our lives and the lives of those around us.

Wattie Frozen Foods Ltd

The firm†s competitive environment is in New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Rim. They have head quarters in Auckland and four factories located in Gisborne, Hastings, Fielding, and Christchurch. The range is frozen and dehydrated vegetable products, main products being peas, beans and frenches fried potatoes. Growers are contracted to WFF and are provided with a significant amount of technical assistance, including the availability of quality seed stock, and a wide variety of agricultural management assistance. Once crops are deemed ready they are harvested quickly and transported immediately to the branch factory, where the crop reception department tests the quality of the incoming produce. At the factory the season processing is done around the clock. I.e.) potatoes are first washed, then sliced, deep-fried, frozen and packed. Peas are washed, graded, and then frozen for bulk storage. Beans are washed, graded dried, and packed. Problems with seasonality in the business are that you may run out of stock in a non-season where that product is not being produced. To get that product in a non-season could be quite expensive. The season for that product could produce a bad crop and you would have to wait until next season to get the next crop. Work Center Management is that the organization is divided up into a set of semiautonomous work centers. Each work center will have skilled supervisors and employees who will be able to make critical decisions to manufacture a quality product in a timely manner. There is daily reporting because the information will be more useful and ownership of the information is more likely. Daily reporting will occur because is will come from the bottom and travel it†s way up. The motivation for WCM consisted of 2 things: 1. The need to change the emphasis from reporting to managing  · Shortening the time between actions and the subsequent reporting results.  · Ensure focused accountability through clearly defined responsibilities for costs and the power to act. 2. The need for staff involvement and operational involvement It is necessary to change the organizational culture because WCM made managers fully responsible for their outputs and use of inputs and resources including labor, equipment, services and inventories. Thus management has to be empowered, responsible and fully empowered. The culture change was achieved by dividing each factory into units, which were largely self-contained and small enough to ensure focused management and accountability. Each of these units, were to be known as work centers. Each work center had one manager, the site manager (factory manager) would support the work center managers to coordinate work between the work centers and solve any conflicts. The physical numbers tie into the financial accounting system by cost is assigned to processes or products at the basis of the actual consumption of physical resources. The benefits of WCM are that it is integrated with other systems and programs, which provides better managerial reporting. It doesn†t just provide cost and financial performance measures, but also provides monthly summaries of wide physical measures to evaluate the work centers. The WCM has resulted in improved control and cost reductions in difficult to control areas. Other benefits of WCM include:  · Improved focus on quality production Potential problems in operating the WCM system are that eventually staff and management will get lazy on the daily reporting aspects. There may be staff turnover, as some managers will get promoted and training will have to be given to the next line of upcoming management. WCM will have to be continuously monitored to see the cost vs. benefit analysis. The types of operations that lend themselves to daily financial reporting are labor, electricity, materials, and machinery.

Rostows Stages of Economic Growth and Development

Rostow's Stages of Economic Growth and Development Geographers often seek to categorize places using a scale of development, frequently dividing nations into the developed and developing, first world and third world, or core and periphery. All of these labels are based on judging a countrys development, but this raises the question: what exactly does it mean to be developed, and why have some countries developed while others have not? Since the beginning of the twentieth century, geographers and those involved with the vast field of Development Studies have sought to answer this question, and in the process, have come up with many different models to explain this phenomenon. W.W. Rostow and the Stages of Economic Growth One of the key thinkers in twentieth-century Development Studies was W.W. Rostow, an American economist, and government official. Prior to Rostow, approaches to development had been based on the assumption that modernization was characterized by the Western world (wealthier, more powerful countries at the time), which were able to advance from the initial stages of underdevelopment. Accordingly, other countries should model themselves after the West, aspiring to a modern state of capitalism and liberal democracy. Using these ideas, Rostow penned his classic Stages of Economic Growth in 1960, which presented five steps through which all countries must pass to become developed: 1) traditional society, 2) preconditions to take-off, 3) take-off, 4) drive to maturity and 5) age of high mass consumption. The model asserted that all countries exist somewhere on this linear spectrum, and climb upward through each stage in the development process: Traditional Society: This stage is characterized by a subsistent, agricultural based economy, with intensive labor and low levels of trading, and a population that does not have a scientific perspective on the world and technology.Preconditions to Take-off: Here, a society begins to develop manufacturing, and a more national/international, as opposed to regional, outlook.Take-off: Rostow describes this stage as a short period of intensive growth, in which industrialization begins to occur, and workers and institutions become concentrated around a new industry.Drive to Maturity: This stage takes place over a long period of time, as standards of living rise, the use of technology increases, and the national economy grows and diversifies.Age of High Mass Consumption: At the time of writing, Rostow believed that Western countries, most notably the United States, occupied this last developed stage. Here, a countrys economy flourishes in a capitalist system, characterized by mass productio n and consumerism. Rostows Model in Context Rostows Stages of Growth model is one of the most influential development theories of the twentieth century. It was, however, also grounded in the historical and political context in which he wrote. Stages of Economic Growth was published in 1960, at the height of the Cold War, and with the subtitle A Non-Communist Manifesto, it was overtly political. Rostow was fiercely anti-communist and right-wing; he modeled his theory after western capitalist countries, which had industrialized and urbanized. As a staff member in President John F. Kennedys administration, Rostow promoted his development model as part of U.S. foreign policy. Rostows model illustrates a desire not only to assist lower-income countries in the development process but also to assert the United States influence over that of communist Russia. Stages of Economic Growth in Practice: Singapore Industrialization, urbanization, and trade in the vein of Rostows model are still seen by many as a roadmap for a countrys development. Singapore is one of the best examples of a country that grew in this way and is now a notable player in the global economy. Singapore is a southeast Asian country with a population of over five million, and when it became independent in 1965, it did not seem to have any exceptional prospects for growth. However, it industrialized early, developing profitable manufacturing and high-tech industries. Singapore is now highly urbanized, with 100% of the population considered urban. It is one of the most sought-after trade partners in the international market, with a higher per-capita income than many European countries. Criticisms of Rostows Model As the Singapore case shows, Rostows model still sheds light on a successful path to economic development for some countries. However, there are many criticisms of his model. While Rostow illustrates faith in a capitalist system, scholars have criticized his bias towards a western model as the only path towards development. Rostow lays out five succinct steps towards development and critics have cited that all countries do not develop in such a linear fashion; some skip steps or take different paths. Rostows theory can be classified as top-down, or one that emphasizes a trickle-down modernization effect from urban industry and western influence to develop a country as a whole. Later theorists have challenged this approach, emphasizing a bottom-up development paradigm, in which countries become self- sufficient through local efforts, and urban industry is not necessary. Rostow also assumes that all countries have a desire to develop in the same way, with the end goal of high mass cons umption, disregarding the diversity of priorities that each society holds and different measures of development. For example, while Singapore is one of the most economically prosperous countries, it also has one of the highest income disparities in the world. Finally, Rostow disregards one of the most fundamental geographical principals: site and situation. Rostow assumes that all countries have an equal chance to develop, without regard to population size, natural resources, or location. Singapore, for instance, has one of the worlds busiest trading ports, but this would not be possible without its advantageous geography as an island nation between Indonesia and Malaysia. In spite of the many critiques of Rostows model, it is still one of the most widely cited development theories and is a primary example of the intersection of geography, economics, and politics. Sources: Binns, Tony, et al. Geographies of Development: An Introduction to Development Studies, 3rd ed. Harlow: Pearson Education, 2008. Singapore. CIA World Factbook, 2012. Central Intelligence Agency. 21 August 2012.

Genealogical Historical Documents at Footnote

Genealogical Historical Documents at Footnote The Bottom Line Important historic documents from the U.S. National Archives are now making their way online due to an agreement with Footnote.com. Digitized copies of documents such as Revolutionary War pension records and Civil War service records can be viewed and even annotated through what is possibly the best image viewer Ive seen on the Web. You can also create free personal story pages to track your research or share your documents and photos. Search results are also free, although youll have to subscribe to view, print and save most of the actual document images. In my opinion, Footnote.com is a bargain for the money. Pros One of the best image viewers Ive seen for accessing images onlineOffers access to millions of historic documents previously unavailable onlineThe ability to annotate and/or add comments to any individual document page7-day free trial available Cons Requires the lastest version of Flash. In some cases, the site wont even load without it.No soundex search. Some advanced search features are available, but not obvious.No FAQ or easy answers to support questions such as the Flash issue.Many document series are still in progress Description Over 5 million images of historical American documents and photos from the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries.Records include: Revolutionary Civil War pension service records, state naturalization records and case files of the FBI.Annotate, comment, print and save digital document images.Story pages allow you to create a simple Web page with point and click editing.Upload and post your own historical documents for free.Under the nonexclusive agreement, Footnotes images will be available on the National Archives Web site after five years. Guide Review - Footnote.com Footnote.com allows you to search and view over 5 million digitized documents and photos from American history. Members can view, save and print the documents they find. A nifty feature allows you to highlight a name, place or date and add an annotation. Comments can also be added to post corrections or add additional information for anyone else who views the same image. The image viewer works as quickly and seamlessly as any Ive seen, and the jpeg images are of very high quality. Since many of the titles are in progress, I recommend that you use the Browse by Title feature to view the full description of the each document series, as it includes a nice completion status feature. Titles and documents are being added quickly and regularly, however. If you have a problem with the site loading slowly, be sure you have downloaded the latest version of Flash player for your browser. This usually fixes many such problems. Simple search is just that - simple. You enter search terms and then choose whether to search across all documents, or within a specific document set, such as PA Western Naturalizations. There is presently no soundex search, but you can narrow the search by document type, such as across all naturalization records, or within a particular title (first browse to the document subset you wish to search, and then enter your search terms). Advanced search hints can be accessed by clicking on the ? next to search. Footnote.com has the framework in place to be one of the most flexible and user-friendly sites on the Web for American genealogists. Once they add more records (and there are many in the works), upgrade the search feature, and do some tweaking, it has the potential to be a 5 star site. Despite being a newcomer to the world of digitized historic documents, Footnote has definitely risen the bar.

How to Apply for College Complete Expert Guide

How to Apply for College Complete Expert Guide SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Applying for college is a complex process with a lot of moving parts. However, the process doesn’t need to be confusing! By learning about each step and starting early, you can navigate your applications like a pro. This comprehensive guide will go over the ABC’s of how to apply tocollege, from each requirement to what you can be doing as early as freshman year to start planning. While technically your application is made up of a few required materials, it’s actually shaped by what you do and accomplish throughout all four years of high school. That’s why we’ll start off this guide with advice for what you can do early on to build a strong foundation. If you’re already a senior in the midst of college application season, then you can scroll down for more concrete information on application requirements. (This guide, by the way, is primarily focused on applications to four year colleges.) Let’s begin by considering what you can do in the first few years of high school to prepare for applying to college. Plan Early for College As your teachers may have told you, admissions officers consider all four years of high school when they evaluate your application. They want to know what classes you’ve chosen, grades you’ve received, and extracurriculars you've been involved in. They’re interested to learn about your progress, whether you’ve chosen progressively harder classes, for example, or advanced into a leadership position in a club. Ultimately, factors like your grade point average (GPA), test scores, and academic and extracurricular achievements determine where you apply. You may apply to a few schools that let in students whose GPA and scores are a little higher than yours, a few that match, and a few that are lower. You’ll research, visit, and apply to schools that you like and where you think you have a good chance of getting in. Rather than figuring all this out senior year, you can go into high school with a proactive mindset. Be conscious about choosing your course schedule, extracurriculars, and standardized tests. All of these components will help determine what schools make it onto your list and how to apply for college. Let’s consider each of thesepiecesindividually, in terms of what you’ll acutally submit to schools, why colleges care, and how you can put yourself in the best possible position to apply. Choosing Classes Your colleges are interested in both your grades and which classes you decided to take. This is one of the most important parts of how to apply to college. First, what will you show the admissions committee? What Will You Send? When you apply to college, you’ll have your high school send along your official transcript. Your transcript will show the classes you took and the grades you received. All your grades together make up your GPA, which is an important measure that admissions officers use to compare students’ records. Colleges also get a report on each high school so they have context for your individual record. They should know what level of classes are on your course list - college prep, honors, AP, for example, along with the general expectations and rigor. They should know if your school adds an extra six points for honors classes, or if its GPA scale is out of 5.0 rather than the usual 4.0. Colleges will also see your courses, grades, and any AP results from senior year. An acceptance halfway through the year is still contingent on successful completion of all your classes. Why Do Colleges Care? So what are colleges looking for in your high school transcript? First, they want to see evidence of academic achievement and college readiness. They want to make sure you can succeed in your college classes. Especially selective schools are looking for students with outstanding academic records. Beyond this, admissions officers often appreciate evidence of progress. They want to see that you’re improving over the years and taking on challenges. If you have some choice in electives, they may also be able to learn more about your interests from what you’ve chosen. Colleges seek academically oriented students with a love of learning who are willing to challenge themselves. Evidence of these qualities in high school bodes well for building a class of students who will succeed in class and ultimately use their education to contribute in positive ways to society. Considering the importance of your academic record in your college applications, what can you do as a freshman and after to prepare? What Does This Mean For You? A lot of your classes in high school, like four years of English and math, may be chosen for you by high school requirements. However, you may have choice in the level of classes, as well as in areas with more options like foreignlanguage and electives. If you’re someone driven to take all the honors and AP classes you can, then your challenge will be to find ways to balance all your work and find time to honor your interests. Colleges appreciate demonstrated interest in a specific field as much as, if not more, than general well-roundedness. If you’re starting out in mostly college prep classes, consider adding an honors class or two to your schedule. If you especially like English, then consider taking on the challenge there. If math makes sense to you, see if you can transition into a higher level. Even if you had a rocky freshman year, you can show admissions officers that you’re making progress over all four years. Treat all classes as important, as they’re all part of your GPA. Remember, a 3.7 (A-) in honors classes versus a 3.7 in all college prep classes will be more competitive. Rather than playing it safe for an easy A, seek out a challenge in the subject(s) that call to you. Apart from your performance in the classroom, admissions officers are also looking to see what you do outside the classroom. Extracurricular Involvement Just like with your classes, grades, and GPA, you’ll send a record of your extracurricular activities. As above, let’s take a look at what you’ll send, why colleges care, and what you can do to prepare. What Will You Send? On your college application, you’ll list out your activities, including clubs, sports, summer camps or classes, and work experience. You’ll typically give a brief description of your role, along with the time commitment and how long you’ve been involved. Some students also send a resume with their application, which similarly lists and describes your activities and/or work. You’ll tell admissions officers about your extracurriculars throughout all four years of high school. Why Do Colleges Care? Admissions officers are looking to gain a full sense of who you are as a student. If they only relied on grades and test scores, most colleges would have more qualified students than they had spots to offer. Secondly, they could accidentally end up with an entire class of engineers, or writers, or history majors (unlikely, but still a possibility if they don’t get to know each student’s interests and goals beyond her grades). Not only do they want to find students with diverse experiences and interests, they want to find students who will be active and create a lively, interactive community. If you’re involved in high school, then you’re likely to get involved in college too. Just as colleges want to find students who are open to taking on academic challenges, they want students who pursue their interests and take action toward their goals. Again, colleges are seeking to educate students who will go on to create value in the world. Not only does your academic record indicate how you approach your education, but your extracurriculars show how you get involved in your community and the world around you. What Does This Mean For You? Explore! Get involved! But do so in a way that’s authentic to you. You definitely don’t have to go sign up for every club and team that your school offers. In fact, doing somight just confuse admissions officers. They want to know what you’re interested in, rather than see you participating for the sake of resume building. Deep involvement is looked at more favorably than occasional participation. If you join a club freshman or sophomore year, then you could benefit both personally and on your college apps from sustaining that involvement and even advancing into a leadership position (or developing greater skill in a more solitary pursuit like painting or writing poetry). Freshman year and summer is a great time to explore activities. Not only will you be able to explore your interests and discover new ones, but you might meet like-minded peers and gain skills that can help in class and eventually professional environments. Consider clubs, sports, art, music, community service, volunteer work, travel, internships, part time jobs†¦and reflect on what led you there and what you’d like to gain from the experience. Ideally, you’ll take time to explore in the beginning of high school and get more deeply involved in later years. Along with your classes and GPA, your extracurricular involvement indicates your interests, commitments, and how you might contribute at college. The finalpart of your application that requires months to years of planning is your standardized tests, like the SAT and ACT. Plan and Prep for Standardized Tests Most colleges require the SAT or ACT (and TOEFL if English isn’t your native language). For the majority of students, doing well on these tests requires a lot of prep and planning. Most take it more than once, even up to three times or more. Let’s consider what colleges want to see, why, and how it affects your college planning. What Will You Send? Most colleges, unless they’re test optional or test flexible, require that you send the SAT or ACT. Some also require one or two SAT Subject Tests. You’ll take the tests, leave at least three weeks to get your scores back, and request official score reports sent from College Board or ACT, Inc. Why Do Colleges Care? The SAT and ACT are standardized tests, meaning that the test and testing conditions are the same for all students who take it (or at least, they’re supposed to be). While these tests can be controversial, their underlying purpose is to compare students’ academic abilities and achievement on an equal footing. As I mentioned above, colleges have some sense of the differences among high schools and can thereby put your GPA and course selection in context. The SAT and ACT allow them to automatically compare scores on a more level playing field. You can figure out what score you need by searching the name of your college and average SAT or ACT scores of accepted students. If you already have a dream school in mind, then you can shape your test prep around achieving the target scores you need to be a competitive applicant. What else do these testing requirements mean for you as you go through high school? What Does This Mean For You? Because these are important tests, especially if you’re making up for a low GPA, you should prep early and give yourself enough opportunities to retest and improve your scores. You may start researching colleges early, so you can have a sense of how high a score you need to achieve. One common schedule is to take the SAT or ACT for the first time in the fall of junior year, again in the spring, and for a final time in the fall of senior year. This means you’ll start prepping in sophomore year or the summer after. Just as you should be thoughtful about your class schedule and extracurricular involvement, you should start planning and studying early for this important part of your college application. You’ll learn a lot from your classes and experiences during high school and will grow a lot in terms of your interests and beliefs. As you explore and reflect, you should start thinking about where you’d like to go to college and where you have a good shot at admission. By the end of junior year, you should be drafting your college list. Making Your College List Apart from the preparation and planning discussed above, one of your first direct steps toward applying to college will be making your college list. There are thousands of colleges to choose from in the U.S. While this may sound overwhelming, you can narrow the number down quicklywith a few considerations. Some of these considerations include location, size, majors, financial aid, and overall academic and social culture. The selectiveness of the school will be a determining factor too, i.e., whether or not you have the grades to get in. Ultimately, you should aim to have about two reach schools (tough, but possible for you to get in), three on-target schools (reasonable chance), and two safety schools (very strong likelihood that you’ll get accepted). You may apply to more, but it's not advisable to send out applications to 20+ schools to see which ones stick. It's more important to figure out the question of institutional fit up front, rather than stressing out in April about which college to choose. You can set your preferences onsearch tools, like College Board and Naviance, to find schools and learn more about them. Apart from learning about the schools on their websites, you should, if possible, visit and take a campus tour. Touring Campus If you can, you should definitely visit your colleges of interest in person. Just walking around the grounds, checking out the buildings, and feeling the general vibe of a school can help you figure out if it’s somewhere you’d like to spend four years of your life. Most high schools allow their students three or four excused absences to take campus visits. You can take tours over the summer too, but you’ll get a more realistic sense of the school if you go when students are there, and classes are in session. You can usually sign up for campus tours on the school websites, and sometimes you can arrange to stay overnight in a dorm or meet with school officials. Some admissions officers keep track of your â€Å"demonstrated interest,† so having your name on campus visit records could ultimately be helpful for your application too. Now that you have a sense of the planning and preliminary steps that go into applying to college, let’s review the actual requirements of most college applications. This application contains all the information, like test scores and extracurriculars, that summarizes your high school work. We’ll go over each part, as well as some strategies for keeping track of everything. College Application Requirements Before getting into each component in more detail, let’s go over a general overview of what you’ll need to send to colleges to apply for admission: Application Personal Essay Supplemental Essays Recommendations High School Transcript SAT or ACT score reports Some students send additional supplemental information if their program calls for it, like a portfolio for art school. Others may also set up interviews. More selective schools, like the Ivy League and MIT, often require interviews, while others simply encourage them. Usually, the school will have an alum close by that can meet you in a library or coffee shop and talk about your experiencesand interest in the school. Let’s take a look at each of the maincomponents in greater detail. I’ll give a brief description here, but check out the links for more extensive guides on each application requirement. The Application Many schools use the Common Application, an online app that you can fill out once and then submit to several schools at once. The Universal Application is another option for some schools, though not as common. Some schools, like those in the University of Texas and University of California system, use their own applications. Whether you use one kind of app or a combination, you’ll set up an online account with a username and password. You’ll fill out basic personal data, like your name, address, and contact information. The first four "pages" of the Common App, for instance, ask for this type of information on yourself and your family, plus your educational and testing records. The final two pages ask you to write about your extracurricular activities and paste your personal essay. While filling out your application may only require a few weeks of information gathering and proofreading, other components, like your essay and recommendations, merit a few months of preparation. The Personal Essay (and Any Supplemental Essays) Your personal essay is a very significant part of your application. It’s your chance to share your voice with the admissions committee and describe something meaningful to you. Plus, you demonstrate your ability to consider and communicate ideas through writing. The Common App asks you to choose from one of five essay prompts, all of which ask you to share something insightful about your identity. Schools with their own applications will have different essay questions. Admissions officers want to get to know you, and are looking at depth of thought and quality of writing along with insight into your character and personality. Your personal essay is a challenging piece of writing, and it's a good idea to start at least two to three months before your deadlines to give yourself time to brainstorm, draft, elicit feedback, and revise. Some schools also ask additional essay questions. These essays are usually shorter and may ask why you want to go to the school. Some questions arepretty unusual and call for you to get creative. Just as your personal essay and supplemental essays take a few months of planning, your recommendation letters also require early preparation. Letters of Recommendation Most colleges require a recommendation, often referred to as the "secondary school report" from your counselor, along with one or two recommendations from teachers. Commonly, you'll ask a teacher you had in junior year. If you're applying to a specific program or major, you should ask a teacher in that field. The best letters come from teachers who know you well and are enthusiastic about recommending you. Just as admissions committees read your personal essay to get to know you better, they also place a good deal of weight on recommendations and what they have to say about your academic and personal strengths. You want to ask your recommenders at least three to four weeks before your deadlines, plus you should spend some time filling out a detailed "brag sheet" that they can refer to as they write your letter. While all of the requirements discussed above will be part of your application, you'll also have to step outside of your online application account to send official documents, like your transcript and test scores. High School Transcript While you may self-report some of your classes and your GPA on your application, you also have to send along your official high school transcript. This documents shows your GPA, courses, and course grades, plus it proves that you're on track to graduating. Most high schools will have you fill out a form and pay a small fee to your guidance office, which will send your transcript to the colleges indicated. Make sure tomake your transcript request at least three weeks before your college deadlines. While you may submit a request to your guidance office, you'll send your SAT or ACT scores through your online account. Official SAT or ACT Score Reports Just like with your GPA, you might provide your scores on your application, but you still have to send official documentation. You'll request these score reports through your College Board or ACT account. If you take the SAT or ACT more than once, you might use Score Choice to decide which score reports to send (if your college allows it). You may also consider here your colleges' policy towards superscoring, or recombining your scores from various test dates to give you the highest possible composite score. As with all the other parts of applying, sending your test scores requires some strategy and planning on your part. Now that you have a sense of what you'll be sending to colleges, what about the question ofwhen to send these materials? When are college deadlines? When Are College Deadlines? Most students apply to college in the fall or winter of senior year. Schools offer a few options for deadlines, usually one or more of early decision, early action, regular decision, or rolling admissions. Early deadlines are typically in November, and regular deadlines are commonly in January. You'll get notified of your admissions decision around December or April, respectively. Schools with rolling admissions allow you to submit your application within a period of time ranging from the fall to the spring. While these schools don't have a set deadline, they still tend to favor candidates who get their applications in sooner rather than later. As you saw above, your college application process starts a lot sooner than the fall of senior year. Given that the college planning process is one that continues throughout high school, how can you keep track of everything? Keep Track of Your College Planning There's a lot to juggle when it comes to applying to college, but if you start early, you can space out the process and find ways to balance it with all your other commitments. Since the process is largely online, your applications and software like Naviance help you keep track of what you've completed and what you still have left to finish. On top of this, it'd be a good idea to write up a checklist, set personal deadlines for each requirement, and keep track of everything according to your own goals and schedule. While you may not feel like you have to do anything for college until junior or senior year, the choices you make in 9th and 10th grade actually set the foundation for where you'll apply and what will go into your college applications. Colleges want to learn about you from your application - your strengths, interests, and goals - but don't feel you should join a club or take a class based on your idea of what would impress an admissions committee. They're interested in learning about your authentic interestsand unique voice. Exploring your academic and extracurricular interests will not only help you develop and improve your skills, but it will also help you gain self-awareness. By thinking about what you like and setting goals, you'll be able to find and apply to the colleges that would ultimately be the best fit for you. Check Out These Other College Planning Resources Public vs. Private Colleges: Where Should You Go? 79 Colleges with Full Ride Scholarships The Best Colleges with Low GPA Requirements What Are In State Colleges? Should I Go to One? Can Undocumented Students Go to College? Simple Guide: How to Apply for Financial Aid These are a few of our many resources to help you plan and apply for college. Explore these resources and more to learn everything you need to know about planning and applying for college and financial aid! Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Definitions of Freedom, Servitude and Slavery Change in Colonial Essay

Definitions of Freedom, Servitude and Slavery Change in Colonial America - Essay Example Over the years, however, the definitions of freedom and servitude changed, not for the better, but they grew to be a part of the daily life of the people of colonial America and the language and idiom that they use to convey their beliefs regarding the freedom of the marginalized and the subaltern make this very clear. The practice of assigning superiority to the white man was an intrinsic feature of the colonizer’s rhetoric. One may take the example of John Winthrop’s speech to the general court of 1645. Winthrop was a rich lawyer who settled in America and was one of the major settlers of the new colony. His speech talks of the hierarchies that were divinely ordained whereby even the wife of a white man was supposed to find â€Å"honor and freedom† in â€Å"her subjection to her husband’s authority† (Winthrop). Such convoluted notions of freedom were extended to other subaltern groups in the society which would then occupy various positions on the social ladder, thus justifying subjection in general and offering a justification for slavery and colonialism based on theories that were based on Christian ideologies that were not a part of the societies of the slaves or the indigenous residents of America. This fervor to foist one’s own ideologies and beliefs onto the cultural ‘other’ also finds expression in the cartography of the period. Captain John Smith’s map of Virginia is an excellent example of this tendency where a map of an Indian settlement is replete with symbols of British monarchy; thus seeking to subjugate the native tribes of the area even in one’s own mind, on the part of the colonizer (Captain). The situation of the people who arrived in America as indentured laborers was only slightly better than that of the black slaves. They were welcomed with diseases the like of which they had not seen before in their land. The lack of immunity to these diseases led to a great number of de aths, to which the authorities turned a blind eye. This reveals the shocking insensitivity to servants in the minds of those who held positions of power in colonial America. This can be understood from a letter written by an indentured laborer named Richard Frethorne, to his parents, in which he complains, I am not halfe a quarter so strong as I was in England, and all is for want of victualls, for I doe protest unto you, that I have eaten more in a day at home than I have allowed m here for a Weeke. (Richard) This makes clear the sheer inhumanity of the treatment that was meted out to indentured laborers and gives us an idea of how worse the treatment that the black slaves faced was. The treatment that the blacks faced however did undergo a change for the better. Attitudes that the colonizers held slowly started to change and the magnitude of the atrocities began to dawn upon some members of the colonizing nations. Alexander Falconbridge’s relatively sympathetic treatment of the narrative of the journey of the blacks to the slave markets is an instance that communicates to us the changing attitudes towards the inhuman treatment of slaves. There are several concessions that Falconbridge makes to the slave communities such as the occasion when they are forced to sing. Falconbridge accedes to the fact that â€Å"as may naturally be expected, melancholy lamentations of their exile from their native country†

Islamic Politics and Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Islamic Politics and Culture - Essay Example They were the minority and through them, he ruled for some time as the Caliph, a title that was normally given to Muhammad successor. However, this rule ended after the majority Sunni Muslims killed his son Hussein and went ahead to monopolize political power. After this, the Shia has lived in the shadow of the state and appeared to give up politics in favor of religious concerns looking to Imams rather than political leaders. The first 12 of the Shia Imams descending from Ali gradually directed the faith of their followers to create a disparity between them and the Sunni. Sunni Muslims regard themselves to be the orthodox or traditionalist of Islam, their name, Sunni is derived from the word Ahl al-Sunna† which translates into people of tradition. This is in reference to the traditions that were inherited form the actions of the prophet and those he held close. The Sunnis are well known for their veneration of all the prophets that came before Mohamed although they view those that followed him to be little more than temporal figures. Unlike the Shias, religious teachers by the Sunni have in most cases come under state control given that their system emphasis a codified system of Islamic law and the adherence to its four schools of low. The Shias on the other hand have a messianic attribute about them and they have a hierarchy of clerics that practice independent and current interpretations of the Islamic texts. The Shia Muslim number between 120 to 170 million, which is on average about a 10th of all Muslims globally. The Shia are the majority in Iran, Iraq Bahrain and some people claim that they are also the majority in turkey although this has never been verified (Barzegar 51). Shia Muslims hold that the Imam is holy and cannot commit sins which makes his authority both perfect and divine under the assumption that

Technology to Improve Internal Audit Research Paper

Technology to Improve Internal Audit - Research Paper Example Conclusion 7 Name of the Student: Name of the Professor: Course Number: Date of the Paper: Technology to Improve Internal Audit 1. Introduction The internal audit is defined as the process of an autonomous appraisal function that is established within the organization to evaluate and examine the activities as a service. The main objective of the internal audit is to assist the members of the organization to effectively perform their responsibilities. The end result of the internal audit is to provide the analysis, assessment, suggestion, direction, and information regarding the reviewed activities. The end objective is promoting control over the reasonable cost (Kagermann 4; Trenerry 266; Pickett 325). The primary role of the internal audit has undergone radical changes. After the introduction of Sarbanes Oxley (SOX) Act in the USA in 2002 the internal audit has started to redeploy the financial control auditing (Leung, Cooper and Perera 785). This paper focuses on how technology has improved the internal audit. 2. Literature Review 2.1 New methodologies in use The recent development in the technology has led to the use of more sophisticated methods for internal auditing in the organization. The methodologies that are currently in use are (Dittenhofer 462): Computer assisted audit techniques (CAAT) Expert System Analytical Auditing 2.1.1 Computer assisted audit techniques The most dynamic way of processing audit is the use of computer assisted audit techniques (CAAT). This technology is not a new one, but requires a continuous up-gradation to increase the efficiency of auditing account inventories, receivables, fixed assets accumulation, and accounts payable. This method consists of the process of downloading the subject files and testing these files irrespective of the computer system of the auditee. The CAAT process eliminates the hand processed and time consuming substantive testing. It produces the automatic computer generated working paper, which is displa yed on the basis of â€Å"by difference†. There are several other computer applications that enhance the audit operation, reduce the time consumed, and also increase the accuracy of the work (Dittenhofer 462-463). 2.1.2 Analytical Auditing The use of the analytical auditing procedure is the recent development in the process of internal auditing. This process leads to the development of the relationship between the operational or physical aspects and financial aspects. The procedures claim that there must exist some relationship and unless they exist, some mitigating circumstances must be there, or if not some investigation should be done to determine the reason of inexistence. The technique tends to find the areas that require more in-depth investigation process and also identifies the areas that require a very little in-depth investigation. This method can be used as the potential area of interest. Without the indication of the problem absence and further examination, this p rocess cannot be used in a positive way (Dittenhofer 463). 2.1.3 Expert System The procedure of the expert system is another development that enhances the operation of internal auditing. This procedure includes computer programs that are identical to human reasoning and can be used to alert the auditor to investigate certain situations or the audit activities that should be considered as the response to the situation that appears to be unusual. Hence, two capacities are displayed by the functioning of the expert system. Firstly, the system is built on the computer program that records information automatically and compares it to the standard information that is already present to find the situation that

Confirmation Names vs. Carpathia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Confirmation Names vs. Carpathia - Essay Example Vicky chooses the name Barbara after letting a boy read her palm; St Barbara is described as the "patron saint of those in danger of sudden death." The legend of Saint Barbara begins when her faith in Christianity strengthens; her father becomes furious and beheads her. Soon after, a lightning bolt strikes down her father. This event led to her being canonized a saint, who grants protection in time of danger from thunderstorms, fires, and sudden death. Saint Barbara is commonly characterized as standing by a tower with three windows, carrying the palm of a martyr in her hand. Lippo's choice of saints' names for each of his characters is a symbol of their personalities. In Kercheval's "Carpathia", there is an ironic reference in relation to the Titanic ship. The icy water symbolizes the relationship between the father and the mother in reversed roles. The first note of this reversal is observed when the survivors are mostly women and children, and "only 2 sailors for each boat." In the second paragraph, it is glaring how the father feels, as he "stood looking at the icy water where, if he had been on the other ship, he would be." The father then proceeds to exclaim his choice of what he would have done if he were on the boat, as he exclaims, "They should have put the men in the lifeboats." The mother, disturbed, "was the one drowning." Both short stories reflect internal conflicts. At first in Lippo's "Confirmation", the characters reflect themselves with the saints on the outside. However, the internal workings go much deeper. The woods represent the things "off-limits" to the nuns, but to the characters (both the saints and children) to them it is their own sanctuary. The Saints had all suffered martyrdom. Carpathia's the internal conflict presented in the relationship with the mother and father. Both of them are disgusted with their choices and the events that had taken place. However, if the roles were to be reversed, according to the wish of the father, mother and her unborn child would not have survived, for "She was pregnant" and it felt like "she was the one drowning." The father would rather have them be in the icy waters and he be saved. The conflicts are resolved. This is because in Lippo's, the conflict is resolved in the lasting closing paragraph about Magdalene, who was the secret patron whose spirit, they believed, watches over them from the trees. The characters involvement with the saints and the church, the forest and themselves, provides them a sanctuary. From the very beginning, the nuns had made the woods "off-limits" and "Magdalene, the whore." Nevertheless, the characters went into the woods, even before mass because "She was the saint who turned the flesh Divine." The confirmation was not a mere event to give names but a sacramental event in both the woods and the church, which both "studied the saints." The conflict is not resolved in Carpathia. There are many emotional events taking place at the same time. The father had openly expressed his choice that the mother should have drowned. "Confirmation Names," and "Carpathia" seem to be stories of two extreme opposites; they are closely linked to unearth a similar central conflict. Confirmation signify's new beginning, a life of prospects and adventure whilst Carpathia

A critique paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A critique paper - Essay Example Allie’s parents are impressed with Lon, but Allie cannot stop thinking about Noah, although she has not received any information from him for a while (Wasowski 67). However, one day Allie embarks on visiting Noah subsequent to seeing his photo in the newspaper standing by an old house, which he had promised to refurbish. Later on, Allie realised that Noah had been sending her letters since when they parted ways and only her mother hid them from her, all this long. Their love was still evident, just as it was several years back (Wasowski 68). However, Allie did not know whether to choose Lon or Noah. Her dilemma was tied on the hatred that her mother had against Noah and the great love she had for him (Sparks 45). She results to choosing Noah and they live a happy life together, until when they die next to each other in the nursing home. The movie is creatively produced and directed with great film techniques all through the scenes. In particular, the presence of a narrator in a couple of scenes was significant in presenting the love story. This narration is applied stylistically to create a difference between the past and the present events (Sparks 56). The viewer can comprehend the themes easily with the help of this narration. The movie manages to preserve the emotions and sentiments of the characters through narration. The movie also highlights the two lovers reacting to each other roughly when angered. In particular, it is surprising to see the two lovers exchanging heartless words and further push and shove around as a mark of bitterness and rage. It is sad for the movie to allow this theme to be perceived as the best way lovers should react when angered. This is for the reason that not many people will desire to be in a relationship where fighting or violence towards each other is evident, all in the name of love. Conversely, the movie presents vivid pre-marital sex scenes. In particular, there are

Organizational and National Cultures in a Polish-U.S. Joint Venture Essay

Organizational and National Cultures in a Polish-U.S. Joint Venture - Essay Example The Poles believe that only older people have the experience and knowledge to be managers. In addition, it is also more difficult to earn the trust of Poles compared to Americans who are more sociable and trusting. Poles are also more formal in their communication than Americans are while they also expect to have a clear distinction between families and work (Cullen, 2011). In the latter case, they view extra hours at work as being intrusive on their family life. Finally, Polish managers will most likely utilize negative feedback and criticism, instead of giving positive feedback, as a means of motivation. Apply Hofstede’s and the 7d cultural dimension models to explain the cultural differences noted in the case Clearly, the first main difference in Poland is that they possess a power distance society that is higher than in the US. This explains the basis of evaluations or promotions on trustworthiness, while also explaining why they do not like work and seem to accept inequal ity, which, in turn, drives general distrust (Cullen, 2011). The second big difference is that Poland, compared to the US, is a country with high uncertainty avoidance. This helps to explain the reason why Poles value age and seniority. For instance, seniority is used to promote workers, thus reducing uncertainty. Using the 7d model, the first big difference is the neutral dimension. Poland scores highly to provide an explanation for their formal nature. In neutral cultures, people work without revealing feelings or thoughts, while also being under more control. The achievement dimension also varies with lower scores for Poland, explaining why they prefer seniority, as well as their preference for titles (Cullen, 2011). Finally, the difference is critical with regards to internal control with Poland scoring one hundred. This shows their decreased tolerance for volatility and their increased drive to control the environment. Analyze institutional explanations for how the Polish worke rs react to U.S. management style In this case, the most significant explanation involves institutional effects that communism left on Poles and the manner in which it affected its workers. For example, the former communist regimes in Poland saw a dependence on affiliations and connections for success, rather than performance (Cullen, 2011), explaining why they desire to be managers without qualifications. In addition, communist societies oversaw a system that had little or no institutional structures that were meant to guarantee exchange (Cullen, 2011). Therefore, Poles are less trusting of others, preferring to rely on personal affiliations. This low level of trust is also a good explanation for the reason why Poles do not favour teamwork. All new workers in Poland are considered as competition, which makes it difficult to build trust that is, in turn, essential for team building. Finally, the effects of the former communist regime also explain why there is little positive feedbac k between managers and workers. This could also explain their preference for public statements on salaries, which is meant to give them an idea of their status and standing (Cullen, 2011). Recommend the types of cultural adaptations to the U.S. expatriate managers regarding their management styles Working in Poland, expatriate US managers should have more respected for older workers and managers, while also

A critique paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A critique paper - Essay Example Allie’s parents are impressed with Lon, but Allie cannot stop thinking about Noah, although she has not received any information from him for a while (Wasowski 67). However, one day Allie embarks on visiting Noah subsequent to seeing his photo in the newspaper standing by an old house, which he had promised to refurbish. Later on, Allie realised that Noah had been sending her letters since when they parted ways and only her mother hid them from her, all this long. Their love was still evident, just as it was several years back (Wasowski 68). However, Allie did not know whether to choose Lon or Noah. Her dilemma was tied on the hatred that her mother had against Noah and the great love she had for him (Sparks 45). She results to choosing Noah and they live a happy life together, until when they die next to each other in the nursing home. The movie is creatively produced and directed with great film techniques all through the scenes. In particular, the presence of a narrator in a couple of scenes was significant in presenting the love story. This narration is applied stylistically to create a difference between the past and the present events (Sparks 56). The viewer can comprehend the themes easily with the help of this narration. The movie manages to preserve the emotions and sentiments of the characters through narration. The movie also highlights the two lovers reacting to each other roughly when angered. In particular, it is surprising to see the two lovers exchanging heartless words and further push and shove around as a mark of bitterness and rage. It is sad for the movie to allow this theme to be perceived as the best way lovers should react when angered. This is for the reason that not many people will desire to be in a relationship where fighting or violence towards each other is evident, all in the name of love. Conversely, the movie presents vivid pre-marital sex scenes. In particular, there are

Modified Fingernails †Symbols of Social Essay Example for Free

Modified Fingernails – Symbols of Social Essay Western society has not been traditionally attuned to see body adornment as a form of social status. Thus over the years people in the West attribute it to less developed societies which lay emphasis on rituals. Thus body modification was seen as an articulation of values which were essentially non western. (Krakow, 1994). However this does not seem to be the case any more as a greater number of people are willing to modify their bodies thus making body beautification acceptable thereby giving a person social as well as individual identity in a society. Body modification is thus seen as enabling a person to exemplify and attenuate him or her personality through alteration of natural color, shape, tone and tenor. By decoration such as nail painting, gloss and enhancement, a person can project himself in the manner he wants others to perceive. Thus a girl with long nails, fully adorned with polish is seen as one who is in tune with the social image of somebody who has arrived in society. As greater numbers of people are adopting this mode, nail or other forms of body adornment is becoming an expression of actual position held by a person in society. Thus through external embellishments a person is able to define herself to others. Increased acceptance of this practice is indicated by forms adopted in nail adornment such as gluing of plastic to increase the length of the nails so that bright colors, paints and sparklers can be applied to these. (Andersen. Taylor. 2005) The reason for extension of nails is quite obvious, this is to enhance visibility through added length of the body object which is otherwise quite innocuous. By making it longer, the same can be decorated and made more noticeable. But the process also needs specialized treatment, which can come about at a certain level of monetary standing indicating the link between wealth and length or adornment of nails. As societies become more complex, they tend to provide opportunities to people to define their status through adornment of the body. Nails are perfect symbols of such social embellishment. The first requirement of a well kept hand is absence of manual labor. Thus there is obvious connection between a person of high society and well kept hands which indicates social as well as wealth status of a person. This has been ancient tradition and has been carried forth in the modern World. (Peters. Lock, Eds, 1999) Since a large degree of artistry of the body is now made by instruments as lasers, surgical and other tools by experts this has become expensive. Thus body art studios and fingernail manicure specialists have established high end shops, where they are able to manipulate your nails to the desired shape, size and color. By being exclusive in nature, they establish a distinction of economic status. As society has evolved thus body art has assumed proportions of social as well as wealth standing. (Jeffreys, 2000). Over a period this distinction is also translated from overall to individual social status. Thus a person who has manicured, well kept finger nails is associated with wealth as well as standing through a process of exclusion. This exclusion works first monetarily in that as it is expensive those who cannot afford it are denied an opportunity of being in the same class. In the second stage it is seen to work socially as shapes, colors and contours are so distinctive that a person wearing a superior shade of nail polish is easily identified as one who can afford it and hence ipso facto assumes higher standing. Thus from abhorrence as practices which were aboriginal to adoption of body adornment as a form of celebration of ones arrival in high society, fingernail manipulation has assumed a social symbol even in Western society today. Vantoch (1999) explored this evolution of the new American female by denoting the large number of nail adornments of different colors and shapes present in a pre teen’s room. The girl was sporting what can be described as talons, two inches long finger nails. (Vantoch, 1999). The fingernail was converted into a symbol of expression of the persona just like any other accoutrement at a very early age in life. The refined development of the art of the make up in modern times is also responsible for such an evolution. Thus nails have been converted into objects of art and ornamentation by using these for nail jewelry, nail art, air brush design, sculpturing of nails as well as providing green glitter. This has also provided a common touch thereby enhancing a wider number of females in society to higher standing. (Vantoch, 1999). Most interestingly it denotes how society has evolved, from considering these as a possible aboriginal practice to be abhorred by the West, more and more people are using it to express their state of social as well as economic evolution. The utilitarian view of nails as symbol of health has been known over the ages and is seen to continue even to this day. Thus fingernails are many times the first to be seen by a doctor. (Anatomy, 2005). Yellow or green fingernails invariably indicate ill health, a bronchial disease or other conditions which are diagnosed by the family physician. When nail problems persisted, these also indicated that the person required sustained treatment. The ultimate in nail care which has emerged is a combination of health, fashion and social status. Manicure and the higher forms of nail care and manipulation seen in advanced societies today is seen as a symbol of the rich, as one who has arrived in society and also some body who maintains good health. How long will this trend persist remains to be seen, for there are many periods in human evolution wherein short nails were as popular as long. Reference: 1. Anatomy. (2005) Anatomy of a healthy fingernail. Accessed at http://www. cnn. com/HEALTH/library/WO/00020. htmlon 23 March 2007 2. Andersen, Margaret L. Taylor, Howard F. (2005). Sociology: The Essentials. Belmont : Thomson. 3. Jeffreys, Sheila. ‘Body Art’ and Social Status: Cutting, Tattooing and Piercing from a Feminist Perspective. Feminism Psychology, Vol. 10, No. 4, 409-429 (2000) 4. Krakow, A. (1994) The Total Tattoo Book , New York : Warner Books. 5. Peters, Charles, R. Lock, Andrew. (1999). Handbook of Human Symbolic Evolution. Oxford : Blackwell. 6. Vantoch, Vicki. (1999). Fingernail Fashion Choices. The Washington Post. December 28, 1999. Accessed at http://www. washingtonpost. com/wp-srv/style/feed/a41653-1999dec28. htm on 23 March 2007.