Project Management - 32831 Words

GIS PROJECT MANAGEMENT MSc Thesis Dissertation submitted in part fulfillment for the degree of Master of Science in Geographical Information Systems April 1997 J.G.A. Bestebreurtje Manchester Metropolitan University Mentor: Prof. Dr. H.J. Scholten Free University of Amsterdam Master Thesis: GIS Project management Final Version ABSTRACT Recent studies concerning GIS show that it is the fastest growing segment (both hard software) of the graphical computer market. 70% of private organizations expect to use GIS as a strategic tool within their company. Like a product, GIS in an organization has a life cycle. According to the model of Nolan this life cycle starts with awareness and ends when full integration with other†¦show more content†¦Change requests, expectations and deviations 3.9.1 General 3.9.2 Change Control 3.10. Exceptions 3.11. Threats in a project 3.12. Project Closure 3.12.1 General 3.12.2 Acceptance testing 3.12.3 Project Closure Meeting 3.13. Quality Review 3.14. Training 3.15. Support 3.16. Summary 4 THE SPATIAL COMPONENT; ARE GIS PROJECTS DIFFERENT? 4.1. Introduction 4.2. The G in GIS 4.3. The IS in GIS 4.4. What is so special about GIS? 4.5. The acquiring of Geo Information 4.6. Are GIS project different? 4.7. Conclusion 5 MANAGING A REAL PROJECT - THE MILGIS PROJECT 5.1. Introduction 5.2. Approach 5.3. Content of the MILGIS PID 5.3.1 MILGIS PID - Background 5.3.2 MILGIS PID - Mission, Objectives, Strategy 5.3.3 MILGIS PID - Scope of Work 5.3.4 MILGIS PID -Constraints 5.3.5 MILGIS PID -Methods 5.3.6 MILGIS PID Project Organization 5.3.7 MILGIS PID Project Plan 5.4. MILGIS Risks 5.5. MILGIS Quality 5.6. Does the proposed methodology work? 6 CONCLUSIONS 6.1. Introduction 6.2. The importance of Life Cycle and Methodologies 6.3. Project management for GIS 6.4. Area for further research ADDENDUM -Risk Management Checklist REFERENCES Page 81 Page 83 Page 83 Page 84 Page 85 Page 86 Page 89 Page 89 Page 89 Page 90 Page 90 Page 93 Page 94 Page 95 Page 96 Page 96 Page 96 Page 97 Page 99 Page 104 Page 106 Page 107 Page 108 Page 108 Page 109 Page 109 Page 110 Page 111 Page 113 Page 115 Page 116 Page 117 Page 121 Page 128Show MoreRelatedProject Management : Projects Management902 Words   |  4 PagesProject Management Project Management. What does the words Project Management mean and what are the steps to managing a great project. If we break down the two words Project Management it is defined on dictionary.com as â€Å"The process of planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling the production of a system†. As shown in the website Project Insight there are multiple different steps in the project management roll such as project scope, life cycle, objectives, assumptions, constraintsRead MoreProject Management and Project Management It3115 Words   |  13 PagesExamination Paper: Project Management IIBM Institute of Business Management Examination Paper Project Management Section A: Objective Type (30 marks) †¢ †¢ †¢ This section consists of multiple choices questions and short answer type questions. Answer all the questions. Part One questions carry 1 mark each and Part Two questions carry 5 marks each. Part One: Multiple choices: 1. During _________formal tools and techniques were developed to help and manage large complex projects. a. 1950s b. 1980sRead MoreProject Portfolio Management : Project Management1432 Words   |  6 PagesProject Portfolio Management (PPM) is the centralized management of the processes, methods, and technologies used by project managers and project management offices (PMOs) to analyze and collectively manage current or proposed projects based on numerous key characteristics. The objectives of PPM are to determine the optimal resource mix for delivery and to schedule activities to best achieve an organization’s operational and financial goals ― while honoring constraints imposed by customers, strategicRead MoreProject Management, Project Communication, And Project Stakeholder Management797 Words   |  4 Pagesareas of project management that stood out while taking this program. Project integrated management, project communication, and project stakeholder management. A discussion on how they are executed will be presented. As more courses were taken during this project management graduate program, many of the project management concepts became clear and revealed more of the interdependencies and intricate dynamics that are required for successful project management. Stakeholder Management Project StakeholderRead MoreProject Management : Project Integration Management1236 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"Direct and Manage Project Execution is the process for executing the work defined in the project management plan to achieve the project s requirements/objectives defined in the project scope statement† (comp. PMBOK3, p. 78). The Project Manager helps with the execution of the planned activities, sometimes with the assistance of a project management team for larger projects. This occurs during the execution phase of the project. Figure: Phases of a project When we are completing the work assignedRead MoreProject Management Msc. 7Pjmn009W Project Management Project.1391 Words   |  6 Pages Project Management MSc 7PJMN009W Project Management Project Author: Maria Chico Garrido Date: 06 March 2017 Version: 1.1 Project type: Academic Preferred Supervisor: Proposed Title: How does the use of formal project management methodologies in complex Home Automation projects contribute to project success? Main Deliverables/Milestones: Deliverable Date Project Mandate 09 March 2017 Project Brief: In depth literature review of formal project management methodologies and project success. BackgroundRead MoreProject Management1510 Words   |  7 PagesSystem. You are the project manager on a project to construct a flyover in the city to ease traffic congestion. Flyover construction should cause minimum disruption to the traffic until it is complete. Ensuring safety of the commuters and workers at the site is the responsibility of your company. The date of completion of the project is six months from now. This date cannot be extended because of an upcoming international summit in the city. To achieve the overall project time lines, the followingRead MoreProject Management Project And Change Management1940 Words   |  8 Pages Paper on project management in smart voice project Sohail Kamdar Project and change management Table of contents Name of the topic Page No. Abstract†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..3 Introduction†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦4-5 View point of project management†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦5 Outlook of the project†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦5-6 Milestone inventory†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦6-7 WBS†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦7 Plan of project management†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦7-9 Cost savings plan†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Read MoreProject Management1713 Words   |  7 PagesProject Management The Project Manager has some tasks that have to be carried out, he/she is responsible for the full project. The Project Manager has to make the best use of all the resources so the project can be completed successfully. The project Manager sets the boundaries for the project, such as schedules and what is done and when it has to be completed. There are various tasks the project manager is responsible for such as: 1) Time and resource allocation and management 2) Setting upRead MoreProject Management1015 Words   |  5 Pagesor renewed interest in the field of project management? IT is growing at a rapid rate and with that growth demands people to manage this growth. People I think are more trained to be project managers and also there is new software that helps tremendously with the management part of the tasks. So demand is up, skilled workers are up, and the cost benefit is there for this renewed interest. 2. What is a project, and what are its main attributes? How is a project different from what most people do

Analysis Of Frank Huyler s The Blood Of Strangers

Prominently featured in the mission statements of virtually of every medical school and medical institution in the world is the call for empathetic doctors. These institutions wish to train medical professionals that possess qualities of sympathy and compassion, and hospitals wish to employ health professionals that showcase similar qualities. The reality, however, is starkly different, as physicians, jaded by what they have seen in the medical world, lose the qualities that drove them to medicine in the first place. In Frank Huyler’s â€Å"The Blood of Strangers,† a collection of short stories from his time as a physician in the emergency room, Huyler uses the literary techniques of irony and imagery to depict the reality of the world of a medical professional. While Huyler provides several examples of both techniques in his accounts, moments from â€Å"A Difference of Opinion† and â€Å"The Secret† in particular stand out. Huyler uses irony and imagery i n these two pieces to describe how medical professionals have lost their sense of compassion and empathy due to being jaded and desensitized by the awful incidents they have witnessed during their careers. In a particularly morbid display of irony, Huyler, an emergency room physician who has pledged to serve the health of humanity, wishes his comatose patient was dead. In â€Å"A Difference of Opinion,† Huyler is treating a patient who has been in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for over a month and showed little sign of improving. Due to the

Are There Tests That Could Predict Violence In School Students Essay Example For Students

Are There Tests That Could Predict Violence In School Students? Essay This is an overview of the types of constructs which one might look at to determine if a student is in a high risk category for acting out in a violent manner, and the types of tests which would measure those constructs. We will look at some of these predictors, the constructs they attempt to measure, and how this might aid in predicting future behavior. There have been a lot of studies, interventions, programs, and models designed to reduce or predict violence among our youth. The strongest predictor being past violent behavior. Most of these studies have been linked to some type of deficiencies in the home environment and school environment. The overwhelming question facing America now is Why would a student who has almost anything he desires, living in an upper middle class neighborhood, bring a gun to school with the purpose of killing his classmates and teachers? The question for researchers is Can we predict which students are likely to engage in this type of behavior? The resounding answer so far seems to be negative. There is not any test, inventory, or self-report scale which can tell us which students will act out in this manner. However, reviewing the literature there appears to be different types of measurement when looked at aggregately, might identify those students who would be at higher risk although they do not sho w a past history of violence and therefore fall outside of the previously researched areas. Some of the things we would hope to assess in identifying violence-related attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors among youths would be broken into three categories:1. Attitude and Belief Assessments aggression, couple violence, education and school, employment, gangs, gender roles, television, handguns2. Psychological and Cognitive Assessments aggressive fantasies, role models, attributional bias, depression, psychological distress, fatalism, future aspirations, hopelessness, hostility, moral reasoning, perceptions of self, responsibility, self-efficacy, impulse control, self-esteem, empathy, and social consciousness3. Behavior Assessments concentration, aggressive behavior, conflict resolution skills, drug and alcohol use, handgun access, leisure activity, parental control, social competence, social problem solving skills, victimization, disciplinary and delinquent behavior. 4. Environmental Assessments exposure to violence, family environment (adaptability, bonding, cohesion, relationships), quality of life, quality of neighborhoodAssessment of Self-EsteemOne of the psychological and cognitive assessments we choose to look at is self esteem. Self-esteem has been viewed in different ways. Block and Robins (1993) have viewed it as a global entity: we view self-esteem as the extent to which one perceives oneself as relatively close to being the person one wants to be and/or as relatively distant from being the kind of person one does not want to be, with respect to person-qualities one positively and negatively values. Self concept theory has stressed that self-esteem is an attitude about oneself as a whole (global self-esteem) as well as ones functioning in specific areas of concern to oneself (specific self-esteem). Relatively little is know concerning relationships between a childs self-esteem and observations of the childs behavior. Most have come to a clinical assumption that children with externalizing behavior suffer from poor self-esteem. The other issue about self-esteem revolves around whether or not it is a stable trait or a fluctuating state. Heatherton and Polivy (1991) referred to the short-lived changes in an individuals self-esteen as state self-esteem and developed a scale to measure it called the State Self-Esteem Scale (SSES) which is a 20-item Likert-type scale designed for measuring temporary changes in individual self-esteem. There are three self-esteem factors in the scale: Academic Performance, Social Evaluation, and Appearance. Coefficient Alpha for the scale equals 0.92. Shakespeare on the Scene- An Examination of Romeo EssayThe primary means of assessing depressive symptomatology on the MMPI is the depression (D) scale. It consists of 60 items with the subject either agrees or disagrees, allowing for a range of scores from 0 to 60. The items are associated with clinical symptoms that characterize feelings of hopelessness, despair, discouragement, and basic personality features like high personal standards and intrapunitiveness. MMPI-D was able to correctly identify 69% of a sample of depressed individuals using a T-score of 70 or above for its criterion. The Rorschach Depression Index (DEPI), is comprised of five variables (vista responses, color-shading blends, egocentricity index, achromatic color responses, and morbid responses) and the subject can receive scores ranging from 0 to 5. The results of Carters research (1996) showed a statistically significant relationship between the BDI and the MMPI-D scale. However, there was not a significant correlation between the DEPI with the BDI or the MMPID. This concurrent validity was assessed by computing Pearson correlation coefficients for the depressed and non-depressed groups. Both the BDI and the MMPI-D were statistically significant in discriminating depressed and non-depressed samples. The DEPI as a sole predictor variable did not yield a significant discriminant function. When looking at the three assessments scales as predictor variables in varying combinations, no combination increased the classification accuracy rates produced by the MMPI-D scale alone. REFERENCESCarter, C.L. (1996). Validity of the Beck Depression Inventory, MMPI, and Rorschach in assessing adolescent depression. Journal of Adolescence, 19, 223-231. Frankel, F., Myatt, R. (1996). Self-esteem, social competence and psychopathology in boys without friends. Personality and Individual Differences, (20) 3, 401-407. Heatherton, T.F. Polivy, J. (1991). Development and validity of a scale for measuring state self-esteem. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 60, 895-910. Linton, K.E., Marriott, R. G. (1996). Self-esteem in adolescents: Validation of the State Self-Esteem Scale. Personality and Indvidual Differences, (21) 1, 85-90. McMahon, R.J. (1994). Diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of externalizing problems in children: The role of longitudinal data. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 62, 901-917. Olweus, D. (1978). Aggression in the schools. New York: Wiley. Schneider, M.J. Leitenberg. H. (1989). A Comparison of aggressive and withdrawn childrens self-esteem, optimism and pessimism, and causal attributions for success and failure. Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology, 17, 133-144.

One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest - The Power Of Speech And Silence Essay

One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest - The Power of Speech and Silence There are many powers associated with both speech and silence. One can use either speech or silence to their advantage in a power struggle. Both can be very effective if used properly. In the book One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Nurse Ratched and McMurphy use the power of speech and Chief Bromden uses the power of silence. The power of speech can be used in a number of ways. McMurphy uses his power of speech to rally his fellow patients against the evil Nurse Ratched who is constantly taking their privileges away. He also uses it to get just about anything that he wants, by conning the other patients. Speech gains its power when the volume is raised, and when it is used to humiliate people. It can also be used to intimidate, to flirt and to threaten, all of which are key strategies to winning a power struggle. Speech is a vital utility in a power struggle if it is used properly. Silence can also be used in a power struggle. Chief Bromden used silence very effectively to his advantage. Everyone thought that he was deaf and dumb, but he has been faking it the whole time that he has been in the mental hospital. With Chief Bromden silence was extremely powerful. He was able to hear everything that went on in the meetings where the doctors and nurses discussed the future of the patients. Silence can also be used to gain power if you stop talking to someone (give them the silent treatment), because you gain more power in the situation. In a power struggle, silence can be used if someone is talking to you and you just don't respond, it causes great annoyance and frustration, and this is a key to victory in a power struggle.

Parenting Essays - Cartoon Network, Jake The Dog, Jake Dean

Parenting It all started when little Jake was one month old. He quickly learned that boisterous wails would cause his grandmother, Betsy, to rush to his crib. He was well on his way to becoming a little dictator. Betsy, being a kind-hearted and compassionate woman, felt sorry for the boy because he had no father or mother to speak of. Betsy would perform on command every time the child uttered a whimper. Her doctor suggested that she let the boy cry. He further explained that, in time, the child would get the hint that no one would be coming at his every whim. Jake's rein of terror would have ended if his grandmother had taken her doctor's advice, but she ignored the suggestion. The effect was predictable: soon, Betsy was suffering from exhaustion. Is it any surprise that, by the time Jake reached his first birthday, his first word was no? Jake, please don't throw your toys, his grandmother would plead sweetly. No! was Jake's reply as he hurled a hard plastic ball at Granny. Eat your cereal, his Granny would say. With a sweep of his little hand, Jake knocked the cereal bowl to the floor while he bellowed another No!. All right, Jake, Granny replied, If you don't like the cereal, I'll fix you something else. Filled with hope, she mistakenly thought the boy would outgrow this behavior. By the time he was five years old, Jake did not hesitate to throw very public tantrums. He once sprawled out on the department store floor, kicking and screaming because he had been denied a toy he wanted. Embarrassed by his behavior, Betsy quickly placed the toy in the shopping cart and proceeded through the checkout line. When they arrived at home, Betsy informed Jake that his behavior had been inappropriate. We don't act like that in public, she explained. I am certain that the boy was thinking, Why not? It works. When Jake was ten, Granny warned him that if he did not do his homework he would not be allowed to go camping with his friends the following month. Jake promised to do his homework, but a phone call from the school confirmed that he had not turned in a single homework assignment during the entire semester. After a mild scolding, the lad made a half-hearted attempt to finish his assignments. He complained that the work was too hard, and that he didn't understand the material. Grateful for the meager crumbs that Jake offered, Granny began to help him with his homework, often doing most of it herself. Soon the time came for the camping trip. Wearing a halo and a pasted-on smile, Jake asked in his most angelic voice whether he could go. Granny consented. She was afraid that the boy would revert back to zero homework performance if she disallowed this outing. At twelve, Jake had completed the last three years of his schooling by attending summer school. Every morning, Granny begged him to get up for school, but Jake lingered until he missed the school bus. Granny then dutifully drove him to school so that he would not be late. Of course, the cafeteria food was not good enough for him, so Jake was handed a ten dollar bill each morning to purchase two hoagies and a large soft drink at the local convenience store. By the time Jake turned fourteen, he was roaming the streets with his friends every night past curfew. Demanding to wear the latest and most expensive fashion, he got what he wanted. Jake was denied nothing by his grandmother. Smoking cigarettes, getting drunk, and mouthing off to Granny in the most foul language had become a way of life for Jake. Finally acknowledging that Jake was well on his way to becoming a juvenile delinquent, Betsy decided to take him to a psychologist. Despite paying thousands of dollars towards the cause, she could discern no positive changes. The psychologist diagnosed Attention Deficit Disorder, which now gave Jake a handy excuse for his inappropriate behavior. Soon, Betsy was on the phone with her oldest son, Dennis. She complained that Jake would not listen to her. She cried, wondering where she had gone wrong. After two years of phone calls and letters to her son and daughter-in-law, Betsy

Did Homers Troy Really Exist essays

Did Homer's Troy Really Exist essays Homers Troy, did it really exist? Did the Trojan War really happen as depicted in the Iliad? There are many sceptics that say no, the Trojan War, described in the epic poem The Iliad never happened. On the other hand, many others have spent years trying to prove these critics wrong. An archaeologist, by the name of Manfred Korfmann, who was directly involved in one of the several excavations of Troy, stated that because the city was so strategically placed by a large body of water, to make trade easier, that the war could have easily been fought there and that The Iliad was the story from that war. Troy was a city, located at Hissarlik, in Turkey (Tyler 7). Homer describes the Trojan War as a ten-year long bloodbath. The event, in which Homer recites as the cause of this long battle, is when Paris, who is the prince of Troy, convinces Helen, wife of Menelaus, to come back to Troy to be his wife. This of course infuriates Menelaus, the King of Sparta. So the Greeks decide that they will go retrieve her from the walls of Troy. Battles occur day in and day out. Both the Greeks and the Trojans have won their share of these battles. The problem was that the Trojan walls were seemingly impenetrable. The Greeks devise the plan of the Trojan Horse. As a gift, they built a huge wooden horse large enough to fit many Greeks inside. When the Trojans brought the horse inside the walls, and were celebrating their supposed victory, the Greeks emerged from the horse and overtook the city. Killing and burning everything in sight. Homers story is a strange mixture of gods and goddesses, heroes and heroines(Edmondson 4); this is why many pass it off as a fictional story. Jacob Bryant, rejected the reality of the war and the city of Troy (Wood 41). Others, such as Heinrich Schliemann and Frank Calvert, both archeologists, were convinced the Trojan War happened and that Troy really did exist, and they set out...

Leadership Differences Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Leadership Differences - Term Paper Example New leadership theories attach emphasis on the importance of trust, honesty and long-term partnerships in conducting and running organizations. The 21st century presents a competitive business world and, therefore, needs leaders with novel ideas and that are willing to inspire and motivate others to take risks as well as being able to build new strategic relationships to address the emerging challenges brought about by globalization (Richard Daft, 2010). In the 20th century, leadership was about obtaining a finite objective or goal that is, delivering goods and services with a sole aim of making profits; dominance and the exercise of market power. However, in the 21st century, leadership is about an infinite objective or goal of satisfying customers; cognitive flexibility, vision and mission, authenticity, and the creation of strategic relationships. Organizations in this century make profits by creating value and quality products to customers and not through the solely delivering goods and services to the customers like in the 20th century. For this reason, scholars argue that â€Å"the finite objective of the 20st century about delivering goods and services to make profit was dispiriting and annoying because the goal demotivated and dispirited the workers, in addition to, acting as a source of frustration for the customers since the objective was unsustainable as it ignored quality and value addition† (Denning, 2010). The i nfinite goal of the 21st century, on the other hand, is naturally inspiring and aims at satisfying customers and workers, thus considered sustainable. Conversely, the 20th century business landscape was characterized by linear objectives, which organizations would obtain with ease through internal advantages such as economies of progressively because the organizations were in charge and controlled the consumers. The organizations, thus never minded much about quality and the need to provide innovative and quality

Case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 11

Case study - Essay Example Additionally, these effects led to the eruption of series efforts channeled towards ensuring that there was no future attacks in both countries (International Cases of Terrorism, pg. 362). On the other hand, the impacts of terrorism on these two regions also exhibited a number of variations. To begin with, Fifty eight tourists (Australians) lost their lives in Egypt in 1997 while in Bali, a total of 200 persons comprising people from different religious backgrounds died after the terror attack. Consequently, the rate of tourism reduced in Egypt rapidly but later rose up to 20% due the measures taken by the government to eliminate the possibility of future attacks (International Cases of Terrorism, pg.362). In Bali, the tourism reduced rapidly and has not risen since these attacks occurred, however, efforts are undertaken to assure tourists and the populace of their safety International (Cases of Terrorism, pg.363). The major strategy is to create awareness among the public and the tourists of terror attacks and encourage the spirit of cautiousness and personal initiative in reduction of terrorism. There should also be improved and strict surveillance measures undertaken at public places through the use of scanners, bomb detectors as well as thorough frisking of visitors and the locals entering public places. It is also pertinent to involve the media and ensure that terror attacks are properly covered and people made aware of their existence in order to ensure that such places are avoided. Leaders can also implement initiatives where the public are assured of their safety and encouraged to co-exist harmoniously through peace campaigns. Implementation of strict terror surveillance measures for instance: Use of proper technologies such as scanners, metal detectors and cameras to control terrorism. There is also the use of

Annotated bibliography-Sheila Bibliography Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

-Sheila - Annotated Bibliography Example Although these authors have presented a detailed analysis on the subject, a knowledge gap can be witnessed in the book. The authors did not present steps for making efficient corporate strategy that drives towards sustainability. The principles of business sustainability are most relevant to the main topic i.e. DSS. The authors did not conduct any specific research on the subject; they presented the information by gathering data from past authors and through their own analysis of knowledge. The proceedings, ‘Intelligent Data Engineering and Automated Learning -- IDEAL 2014: 15th International Conference, Salamanca, Spain, September 10-12, 2014. Proceedings’ is edited by Corchado. It is the compilation of the IDEAL 2014, 15th International Conference that took place in Salamanca, Spain. In short, the proceedings of the conference have effectively highlighted the main aspects of the conference. In the proceedings, some of the most advanced and highly technological methods of data engineering are discussed. Springer, London, published it. Springer publishing is a world famous publishing company that has its franchise throughout the world. It publishes books, textbooks, journals, researches, etc. the editor of the proceedings has presented some simple yet highly advanced methods of data engineering and automated learning. For this reason, it is highly in relevance with the core topic i.e. DSS. Since, it is a conference proceeding therefore it is difficult to s ay whether there are some knowledge gaps in the book or not. The information provided in the proceedings however provides an in-depth analysis of the subject topic. The book, ‘GIS to support cost-effective decisions on renewable sources’ is written by  Gemelli, Mancini,  Diamantini, &  Longhi. As the name suggests, the book discusses some of the key elements regarding cost effectiveness and decision making on how to renew

Reform Measures in Healthcare

Reform Measures in Healthcare Within a rapidly expanding global community, evolving economies and social structures challenge local governments to reform and revise historical practices in more supportive and efficient manners. New public sector management aligns explicit standards and objectives with a ‘hands on’ management technique dedicated to generating tangible outputs and improving efficiencies. Global leaders in such progressive policies recognize that convergence between nations as well as internal organisations continues to evolve public policy towards cohesive and translatable objectives. Recognizing the multinational variability inherent in public sector modernisation, the OECD (2003) reminds that oftentimes systemic differences and public transparency offer significant challenges to integrating such convergence methodology. Yet policy evolution challenges governing bodies to recognize the benefits of actively participating within the public sector and defining the nature of organisationa l compartmentalisation as well as establishing a participative role within a much broader multi-national enterprise. Perhaps one of the most researched models of public sector management, the health care sector offers a challenging, yet essential participle to works programmes that are increasingly becoming a staple of humanitarian necessity. Goddard and Mannion (2004) recognized that governance systems evolve around a hybrid of vertical and horizontal methods, each imposing unique performance expectations on the constructs of public programmes. The former, a mode of authoritative control from a central body, enables dissemination of ideologies and performance expectations across a broad range of coordinated operations. More autonomous by nature and open to rapid evolution, under horizontal initiatives, local programmes are responsible for performance initiatives, oftentimes competing and collaborating with their counterparts throughout the process. Both the UK and China have integrated varied representations of such programmes as modes of reforming their health care initiatives. While similarities and natural convergence exist in practice and policy, the historic path towards improved public programmes has undergone dramatically divergent modes of operation. The following sections compare and contrast such evolution, recognizing the opportunities for future reform as health care reform becomes an increasingly volatile political topic. In order to appropriately consider reform measures, government leaders must actively consider the benefits of decentralisation and potential for accountability protocol in spite of divergence. Davies, et al. (2005) challenge that it is important to the reform process to explore the advantages of increased competition prior to policy implementation; from this proactive, analytical standpoint, national leaders can actively direct their performance expectations in a result driven programme. Given the objectives of disggregation, performance contracting must integrate a multi-dimensional structure, one which becomes innate within corporate procedures, policies, and activities, and is regularly audited for compliance (Talbot, et al., 2000). Those nations who establish firm programme objectives prior to implementation will allow a variety of targeted studies, including convergence comparisons, future feasibility protocol, and concise results analysis. Within the UK reform system, the Natio nal Health Service (NHS) has been designed with performance measurement guidelines strictly integrated into its foundation. Specifically, the formation of Foundation Trusts, a type public-private partnership, has enabled regulation through achievement of performance objectives directly related to both economic and social expectations (Goddard and Mannion, 2004). A form of both vertical and horizontal control, such foundations provide for accountability along government sponsored programme lines as well as intra-network through their partnerships with other trusts. Talbot, et al. (2000) recognize that once agency control has been extended outside of the locus of governmental control, regaining oversight and returning operations to an internal government function is both difficult and oftentimes detrimental to the success of the programme. For China, however, this locus of control has presented a much more dire challenge, as redistribution of power to local authorities in the 1990â₠¬â„¢s represented a dramatic decline in health care coverage and a lack of social equity in opportunities. Historic challenges within the public sector reform initiatives are directly linked to a relaxed sphere of governmental control, one which is deeply seeded in a loss of democratic abilities, diverse and incongruous organisational formats, and coordination failures (OECD, 2004). Perhaps one of the most integral but challenging objectives of public sector reform is that of economic benefit and appropriate balances throughout a developing system. Between 1978 and 1990, the Chinese government, realising that medical subsidies were limiting economic growth, reduced government spending from 32% to 15% of GDP revenue (Blumenthal and Hsiao, 2005). Palmer (2006) notes that in the UK, health care expenses currently account for around 7 percent per annum of English GDP and is expected to increase to around 8 percent over the coming five years. In spite of the dedicated capital flow, historic Chinese health care relied on an inefficient system which was eventually devolved to local governments and provincial leaders, dramatically adjusting the available financing within poorer rural areas (Blumenthal and Hsiao, 2005). In fact, recent data from the Chinese Ministry of Health demonstrates that spending per capita throughout urban areas is over 3.5 times that of rural are as, underling the subversive mechanisms of public sector divergence and reform efforts (Chinese Health Statistical Digest, 2005). Under the reformed UK NHS system, such deficiencies are idealistically reduced through a system of weighted capitation and demand-side reform (Department of Health, 2005). The long term objective is to impose efficiency standards on PCT’s in an effort to regulate the dispersion of funding across large geographical areas. In this way, both urban and rural participants receive equitable treatment and humanitarian interests are maintained in spite of social standing. The recent revision to the Chinese health care plan boasts similar principles, placing citizen services before profit and transitioning its national healthcare system to one of non-profit status (Juan, 2008). Unfortunately, a programme which is primarily reliant on tax surplus and participant fee payments will flounder within the overwhelming needs of a rapidly expanding global power. One method that evolving governments have actualized rapid growth and economic stability is through public private partnerships and privatisation. Hsiao (1995) notes that given the radical shift away from governmental funding, market-oriented fee based systems became normative throughout China, thereby reducing the propensity of rural poor to pursue inoculations and more common medical treatments due to an overwhelming cost basis. The modern Chinese system purports a much more inclusive focus, challenging consumers to participate within the reform mechanisms and have a voice in government initiatives (China Daily News, 2008). Yet even under the reform measures within the NHS system, citizen vocalization remains a key point of debate, as a recent survey generated less than favourable results for the progress over the past several years. Ultimately, the challenge to the governing organisations is to allow a participative structure with accountability protocol for local commissioners wh o fail at their expected duties (Department of Health, 2008). Returning oversight to trusts and local authorities and expanding focus away from private finance initiatives and privately managed health care systems will continue to redress the challenges of performance achievement and social participation. Privatisation within the Chinese medical infrastructure has dramatically altered the quality and cost basis of medical services, undermining the needs of a financially burdened population, and evading governmental oversight due to limited performance evaluations and control mechanisms (Liu and Mills, 2002). Similarly, Dummer and Cook (2007) challenge that the Chinese regime moves towards a privatised and market-based economy of health care has led to inequity and inefficiency in the health service system, directly undermining the expected performance results achieved by international counterparts. Considerations within public sector often revolve around government oversight and market partnerships which sustain broad focus objectives and offer progressive reform stability. One evolution of the NHS system which has a occurred as a result of the 2004 and 2006 white papers is the introduction of community health care, and most importantly, a predictive structure which integrates both local preventative care facilities with hospital services (Palmer, 2006). Exemplary of opportunism within private practice, within its historic format, Chinese practitioners have been encouraged to utilize more sophisticated methods of diagnosis and treatment (and by nature, more costly) as government subsidies actively reduce the cost of more fundamental treatments in order to extend medical opportunities to all classes of citizens (Wagstaff and Lindelow, 2008). Lakin (2005) reminds that within developing nations, natural inadequacies within the regime structure oftentimes encourage the integration of agency initiatives and public works management. An evasion tactic, agency integration offers an exodus from bureaucratic inefficiencies, thereby benefiting both social and economic development at a much more rapid and effective pace than government oversight can offer. Under the reform mechanisms set in motion in the NHS system, general practitioners (GP’s) are offered incentives for reducing the number of unnecessary hospital referrals and maintaining an appropriate geographic area for patient distribution (Palmer, 2006). Chinese reform mechanisms challenge practitioners to ensure appropriate distribution of the patient base, limiting hospital visits to those scenarios which require complex solutions not actionable at their local clinic or GP (Juan, 2008). The nature of reform is one which continues to evolve as public interest and more efficient solutions become visible through experience and convergence. The OECD in their 2004 Policy Brief reminds that the impetus for public administration should be one founded on governance and not the narrowed and limiting principles of managerial oversight. This secondary nature defines the nature of policy implementation, and as public programmes are expanded to include private partnerships, governance becomes a fundamental utility which is directly linked to well defined performance categories. In the 1970’s over 90% of rural Chinese workers were covered by the cooperative medical system (CMS), most of who lived within 1.5 km from a township health centre (Dummer and Cook, 2007). Other schemes, the labour insurance scheme (LIS) and the government insurance scheme (GIS) covered the broad scope of other Chinese citizens in varied employ, ensuring that medical coverage was generally free and government subsidised (Dummer and Cook, 2007). Figures show that by 2003, 80% of China’s population (640 million people) lacked health insurance and even those who were represented by agency coverage were increasingly challenged to cover a higher percentage of their own medical expenses (Anson and Sun, 2002). Similar challenges have evolved throughout the reform process of the NHS system, as available resources are inefficiently distributed among the population resulting in increased waiting times and misdirection of care due to resource allocation. Researchers note that within the current NHS reform mechanisms, the vertical alignment of performance creates an inequitable system within which primary care trusts (PCT’s) are challenged to meet efficiency expectations outside of their capacity (Palmer, 2006). Each representing a unique and politically charged challenge within the scheme of socio-economic expansion, the case studies of both the UK and China offer remarkable insight to the volatile and unpredictable world of public health care programmes. Ultimately, the nature of convergence, an informed collaboration across international borders will install comparable programmes within each system of operation; however, the nature of social and political environments ensures that public sector management techniques will remain unique to each governmental agency. Specific opportunities for policy reform do linger within each political structure, challenging conventional techniques and perceptions to evolve to meet public demand. First and foremost, the continued partnership with private enterprise will enable rapid evolution of public programmes for both nations in spite of their stages of development. By nature, the capitalisation of government programmes is dependent on the support of t he public; recognizing this frailty, government partnerships will continue to offer modes of revenue generation without directly affecting a hypersensitive community. Secondly, equity across geographic areas is essential to the principles of supportive health care programmes. The failures within both structures are inherent in the definition of equity itself, in that it can no longer be taken as a literal term. Communities with larger populations must be availed of a larger budget for health care provision; whereas those communities who are more rural and of smaller makeup may receive a more limited budget, the opportunity for expanding such funding given varied annual trends should be readily available. Finally, global insight recognizes that preventative care is a means to life preservation and progressive health care practices which fundamentally improve health by active methodology. Both nations already recognize the substantial cost savings from reducing the number of practitio ner visits through preventative awareness and care; therefore, revised programmes should place this educated perspective at the forefront of policy, actively ensuring that doctors and care providers are able to encourage such opportunities for wellbeing. While fully integrated convergence in a globalised community is an unrealistic ideal, the potential for collaborative development and multi-national partnership remains a worthy accompaniment to foreign policy. As health care programmes evolve and reform worldwide, the nature of humanity is one of wariness and rejection; through new public sector management practices, the potential for rapid assimilation and supportive expansion becomes a readily attuned mode of unprecedented participation. References Anson, O; Sun, S. (2002) â€Å"Gender and Health in Rural China: Evidence from HeBei Province.† Social Science and Medicine, Vol. 55, pp. 1039-1054. Bluementhal, D; Hsiao, W. â€Å"Privatization and its Discontents—The Evolving Chinese Health Care System.† The New England Journal of Medicine, Vol. 353, No. 11, pp. 1165-1170. â€Å"China’s Health Care Reform Focuses on Public Service.† (2008) China Daily, April 15th, Accessed on 8/2/08 From: http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2008-04/15/content_6619372.htm. â€Å"Chinese Health Statistical Digest.† (2005) Chinese Ministry of Health. Davies, Lesley; Wright, Kathryn; Price, Catherine W. (2005) â€Å"Experience of Privatisation, Regulation, and Competition: Lessons for Governments.† Economic and Social Research Council, Centre for Competition Policy, Working Paper 05-5. Dummer, T.J.B; Cook, I.G. (2007) â€Å"Exploring China’s Rural Health Crisis: Processes and Policy Implications.† Health Policy, Vol. 83, pp. 1-16. â€Å"Engagement Analysis: NHS Next Stage Review, What We Heard From the Our NHS, Our Future, Process.† (2008) Department of Health, July, Accessed on 8/02/08 From: http://www.dh.gov.uk/publications. Goddard, Maria; Mannion, Russell. (2004) â€Å"The Role of Horizontal and Vertical Approaches to Performance Measurement and Improvement in the UK Public Sector.† Public Performance and Management Review, Vol. 28, No. 1, September, pp. 75-95. â€Å"Health Reform in England: Update and Next Steps.† (2005) Department of Health, Press Release, 2005/0445, 13th of December. Hsiao, W. (1995) â€Å"The Chinese Health Care System: Lessons for Other Nations.† Social Science and Medicine, Vol. 41, No. 8, pp. 1047-1055. Juan, Shan. (2008) â€Å"Equity Main Aim of Health Care Reform.† China Daily, March 14th, Accessed on 8/02/08 From: http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2008npc/2008-03/14/content_6535754.htm. Laking, Rob. (2005) â€Å"Agencies: Their Benefits and Risks.† OECD Journal on Budgeting, Vol. 4, No. 4. Liu, X; Mills, A. (2002) â€Å"Financing Reforms of Public Health Services in China: Lessons for Other Nations.† Social Science and Medicine, Vol. 54, pp. 1691-1698. Palmer, Keith. (2006) â€Å"NHS Reform: Getting Back on Track.† London: King’s Fund, Accessed on 8/2/08 From: www.kingsfund.org.uk/publications. â€Å"Public Sector Modernisation.† (2003) OECD, Policy Brief, October. â€Å"Public Sector Modernisation: Changing Organisational Structures.† (2004) OECD, Policy Brief, September. â€Å"Public Sector Modernisation: Modernising Public Employment.† (2004) OECD, Policy Brief, July. Talbot, Colin; Pollitt, Christopher; Bathgate, Karen; Caulfield, Janice’ Reilly, Adrian; Smullen, Amanda. (2000) â€Å"The Idea of Agency: Researching the Agencification of the (Public Service) World.† Washington, D.C.: American Political Studies Association Conference, August. Wagstaff, Adam; Lindelow, Magnus. (2008) â€Å"Can Insurance Increase Financial Risk? The Curious Case of Health Insurance in China.† Journal of Health Economics, Vol. 27, pp. 990-1005.

Paper on Light vs Darkness In A Tale of Two Cities Essay

Often times in literature the comparison between light and darkness is made. In Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities, the author contrasts the two elements throughout the novel. Light and darkness are in constant battle with each other, they also dominate the setting and tone of the story. From the opening lines the reader has a since of struggle between light and darkness, â€Å"It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness.† The story then progresses and introduces Dr. Mannette, who’s inner darkness was revealed through his surroundings, â€Å"The garret†¦was dim and dark†¦Such a scanty portion of light was admitted through these means, that it was difficult, on first coming in, to see anything; and long habit alone could have slowly formed in any one, the ability to do any wo rk requiring nicety in such obscurity. Yet, work of that kind was being done in the garret; for, with his back towards the door, and his face towards the window where the keeper of the wine-shop stood looking at him, a white-haired man sat on a low bench, stooping forward and very busy, making shoes.† Dr. Mannette was living in turmoil from the years of captivity he had been in, and he had gone into a state of madness. Not only was his surroundings dark, but also the life he was living. However, through the light, which was his daughter, he was able to escape from his inner darkness, â€Å"with hands which at first had been only raised in frightened compassion, if not even to keep him off and shut out the sight of him, but which were now extending towards him, trembling with eagerness to lay the spectral face upon her warm young breast, and love it back to life and hope-so exactly was the expression repeated on her fair young face, that it looked as though it had passed like a moving light, from him to her. † Dr. Mannette is not truly alive until he sees his daughter; the light that she brings penetrates his darkness and brings a new life into him. Darkness and light also helped to stage the setting and tone of the story. The time the novel was placed in was truly dark. Death and despair were rampant in France and darkness was an adequate adjective for the people’s lives, â€Å"Darkness closed around, and then came the ringing of church bells and the distant beating of the military drums in the Palace Courtyard, as the women sat knitting, knitting. Darkness encompassed them. Another darkness was closing in as surely, when the church bells, then ringing pleasantly in many an airy steeple over France, should be melted into thunder cannon† This was used to foreshadow terrible events to come; soon all of France would be engulfed in revolution. Irony was also seen when light was used during a horrific event, â€Å"Along the Paris streets, the death-carts rumble, hollow and harsh. Six tumbrils carry the day’s wine to La Guillotine.† This scene was right before Carton was to be executed. Although this is one of the darkest parts of the story, it occurs in the light of day. Throughout A Tale of Two Cities light and darkness are contrasted and emphasized in regards to the setting and characters. From the opening sentence to Carton’s execution, light and darkness were prevalent in the novel. Although darkness seemed to outweigh the light, there was no grey area, only extremes. Darkness or light, bad or good, Dickens felt this period could only be described by these extremes and he showed them in his story.

Jc Penny Essay

This is not the first time that this company has been faced with adversity. The first time was in the 1960’s when shopping went from downtown locations to more uptown locations in malls. The company transitioned to mall locations to cope with the change. This time the change did not come easy to the company. In fact this change has cost the company millions. This time JC Penney’s was faced with a challenge that they wanted to change. They wanted to transition the public’s perception of them. They no longer wanted to be viewed as an old fashioned department store. The company no longer wanted sales or clearance racks. They wanted to change the whole retail climate. They called it fair and square pricing (Baskin, 2013). This came off a lot like Wal-Mart’s always low prices campaign. This sounds like a great idea to me. However, it failed for many reasons. The main reason because it was confusing to consumers. While the other main reason being poor marketing. Many people sat in anticipation of this new campaign by JCPenney’s. There were just as many supporters in the beginning as well. When I heard of this I thought of an upscale Wal-Mart. Low prices I do not have to shop for sales anymore because these should be low prices every day. However, very shortly after this I found myself not shopping there at all. Consumers want a deal, and they do not feel that deal when they shop there anymore. It is the thrill of the hunt for consumers. Not only that but the sales ad and clearance racks used to change. They are no longer changing prices so there is no need to go daily, weekly, or even monthly. Customers may check there as a way to show case, but they are not buying. Without the sales and without the sale advertisements the company is not bringing in nearly the amount of people that were coming into the store to score the best deal. Next the advertisements they are sending out are worded poorly. They are no longer doing sales but they do mail out what they called month long value. Customers did not understand the wording of it. It was never broken down for them. Ideally they had sales, but they were not called the standard name. Therefore, customers missed out on them and they were not bringing in the clientele like a â€Å"sale† probably would have. They were not able to embrace JC Penney’s new tactic. Another problem with this campaign is that the average consumer does not know what the clothing costs. Therefore they think it should be or could be marked down. They have no idea if they were getting a good deal or not. Again the thrill of the hunt is gone, and still makes the customers confused. It was confusing to customers and that means there is a problem in marketing. When a place makes changes that could potentially be confusing marketing is the key. However, there advertisements were so irreverent that they made even less sense to begin with. They came up with a campaign after their numbers dropped called â€Å"do the math. † It was supposed to show how much easier it is to just get a low price in the beginning rather than use a coupon. This action failed for the company. The CEO Ron Johnson came out and reported later that â€Å"it was confusing† to some of their consumers (Baskin, 2013). It’s no wonder that they lost customers. They did not target other competitors about their prices just what the company was trying to do. Last but not least they attempted to open little stores inside their stores. It was a Martha Stewart collection like IKEA. Even that failed because Martha Stewart was not able to put her name on it, because she was still in litigation over her brand. So, it was still branded as JC Penney’s. Not that the name would have made much difference, but it was not thoroughly hought out within the company. Also, this is not a new tactic stores have been doing this for years. The renovation of the stores to add in this small store was costly. It has cost the company millions of dollars. It has depleted their cash, and has also caused their credit rating to drop (Baskin, 2013). This was a costly decision to make when sale s were already down. Here is the largest problem that they had they wanted become a high end store in a low end economy. If I were the CEO of JC Penney I would make quite a few changes. My first change would have been to go back to traditional wording for now. These are the words that customers are the most familiar with. I understand that some companies like to do all their changes at once because it is cheaper. However, when you are changing familiar terms it is wise to do it slowly. Or at least explain it as thoroughly as possible. Change is needed as a society, but no one likes change, because of this I feel that they should be done slowly and over a period of time. I would also have changed the price tags on their merchandise. In order to make someone feel like they are getting a deal I would change how they were priced. I would put a suggested retail price and then put â€Å"our† price on the label. This would appear to customers that they were getting a deal. Sales are because the prices are higher than what they need to be. The advertising is all about â€Å"trickery† to pull people in. In reality they were still doing sales but they were not called sales, and people did not buy into it. By changing the price tags on the items the customers are still getting the thrill of the buy. They can see what their item is going for at their competitor’s location, and impulse buy. This helps eliminate â€Å"showroom† shopping. Or leaving to check their prices somewhere else. If it is a matter of a few dollars they will not go back to purchase. However, if they can see the deal they will buy. Instead of focusing on expanding a business inside of an already expanding business I would have spent the money elsewhere. Imagine if they could have established new rules for buyers. Gone back to JC Penney’s original roots and prove their claims. It could have created new financing and lay-away policies that communicated value, and used social media to create meaningful communities of consumers who wanted to track and participate in conversations about prices. Employees could have been recruited and trained to offer a fundamentally new customer experience based on integrity. They could have changed the way Americans shop and feel they should stop. I would not have wasted money on an advertisement that was bewildering. I would have spent money marketing on calling competitors out on their prices. Sharing the news on how Penney’s was changing. How they were forward looking. Instead of making confusing ads with no sales just to avoid the word sale I wouldn’t have tried to stay away from it. Since they were still doing sales but not doing sales on certain items. Limiting the sales options were not the problem the problem was using unfamiliar wording. Measuring some of these techniques could be hard to do. Going back to traditional wording would be one way that is hard to track. However, I believe it would go hand in hand with how you would track the new price tags. That would be sales. With these new changes and advertisements I would think that sales would increase. I would not look at the actual accounting book but do a twelve month comparison on the sales on each individual store. This is time consuming and costly but I think it is the only way to see how each store is doing in comparison to how they were doing the previous month and year. During high sale times I would make sure I would have as much staff as possible on the floor to assist our customers. Maybe they do not need help but a casual conversation can lead into why they came into this department store and not the one across the way. Along with this I would like to institute team meetings once a week where department heads meet with their front line employees on all shifts. To find out their ideas and where they are hearing concerns are. Then I would have them write them up and do a teleconference with each store head to hear these ideas, questions, or concerns. I feel this is an open door policy. I would also include suggestion boxes not only in the store, but in the break room for employees so they could bring these up anonymously if they felt the need to. Also, I would work on getting the contact information to employees for everyone in charge. Change can happen and many great ideas come from the front line, because they see and do it every day. However, their voices are not often heard. To measure the effectiveness of advertising I would do a few things. I would add a survey at the end of their receipt to figure out what they thought about the advertisement. I would also add a quick questionnaire in the store that the customer could fill out. I would also make it known that there is a number they can call at any time with questions. I would make it so that they could be heard with questions and concerns. Before I launched a campaign I would have a test market so that we could see what people could recall from the add, as well as find out if there was any confusion on what may have been advertised. The sales would play a large part also in whether it was an effective campaign. A company that has been operating for 100 years is struggling. JC Penney ’s was once a fashion icon to children, young adults, and teens. Beginning in 1913 it currently operates over 1000 stores. Growing up my sister and I waited to go through their catalogue. However, in the last few years something has changed. The company didn’t look far enough ahead to the future to predict these changes. They tried to become a higher end boutique like store in an economy that could not support it. Poor marketing and too many changes has made this one booming store one of the top ten stores that are predicted to be out of business in the next year. Works Cited Baskin, J. (2013, January 2). Lessons From JC Penney’s Doomed Marketing Makeover. Retrieved May 12, 2013 , from Forbes: http://www. forbes. com/sites/jonathansalembaskin/2013/01/02/lessons-from-j-c-penneys-doomed-marketing-makeover/ Tuttle, B. (2012, June 19). More Troubles for JCPenney: Top Executive Departs Amid Sales Slump. Retrieved May 12, 2013, from Time Magazine: http://business. time. com/2012/06/19/more-troubles-for-jcpenney-top-executive-departs-amid-sales-slump/

Research Paper on Breast Cancer

Research Paper on Breast Cancer According to the National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations (NABCO, 2002), breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer in women in the United States, falling only behind skin cancers. This is why it is such an important disease to understand. Throughout this paper there will be information about various issues which deal with breast cancer, in an attempt to give better insight to the disease. First there will be a brief discussion on the normal and altered physiology of the breast followed by the etiology and possible causative factors. Next there will be signs and symptoms which result from these alterations. Finally, the research paper will be ended with some complications and the prognosis of this disease. Although breast cancer occurs in both men and women the prevalence is low in men. Out of every 100 women who are diagnosed with breast cancer only one man is which is why this paper will concentrate on the disease process in women. (ACS) (American Cancer Society [ACS], 2002) Please refer to the illustration above for help in understanding the structure of a normal breast. The female breast is primarily made up of lobules, ducts, and stroma. Lobules are milk producing glands, ducts are the milk passages that connect the lobules to the nipple and stroma is fatty and connective tissue that surrounds the ducts, lobules, blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. Lymphatic vessels carry lymph, a clear fluid containing waste products and immune cells. There are also lymph nodes along the lymphatic vessels; these nodes are bean-shaped collections of immune cells. Most lymphatic vessels of the breast connect to axillary lymph nodes which can be found in the armpit. Other nodes, such as internal mammary nodes and supra/infraclavicular nodes can also be found inside the chest or above and below the collarbone. (ACS, 2002) According to NABCO cancer is a group of more than 100 different diseases and occurs when cells become abnormal and are without control or order. The cells then continue to divide if when new ones are not needed. During the change from a normal cell to a cancerous cell, however, the cells requires many different gene alterations. Eventually these altered genes form a tumor which may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A benign tumor can damage local tissue but fortunately will not spread to other parts of the body. Malignant tumors on the other hand spread to other areas of the body damaging and destroying healthy tissue. (NABCO, 2002) A gene that is commonly found in breast cancer patients which have a high incidence of familial causes is the BRCA gene. Unfortunately inherited breast cancer only accounts for 10 % of the approximately 200,000 cases which are diagnosed each year. Molecular biologist, Masaaki Hamaguchi, of Cold Springs Harbor Laboratory has developed a theory that may give insight to the other 90% of breast cancer cases. While comparing healthy and cancerous cells of 200 women diagnosed with the disease his team noticed that a gene called DBC2 had been completely deleted in the cancerous cells of seven women. The team then looked at 56 more cancerous and 19 more healthy tissue samples for messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA showed up in all of the healthy cells while the mRNA was missing in 58% of the breast cancer tissue. This recent discovery may aid in the detection of the underlying causes of breast cancer. (Beckman, 2002) As stated earlier the gene which causes inherited breast cancer is better understood. BRCA is a tumor suppressor gene. This gene is normally programmed to slow down cell division or cause cells to die at the right time. In the case of breast cancer DNA mutations cause the BRCA gene to â€Å"turn off† allowing cancer cells to multiply. (ACS, 2002) There are believed to be many risk factors of this disease, unfortunately, the reasons for the many of the risks are often unclear. The most validated reason for breast cancer is estradiol exposure. For this reason, being a woman is the greatest risk factor of all. Women have many more breast cells which are constantly being exposed to growth hormones. White women are also higher risk than their black counterparts, though the reason for this is not known (Apantaku, 2000) (ACS, 2002) Due to estradiol, an early onset of menses or the late development of menopause puts a woman at greater risk because there are an increased number of menstrual cycles leading to extra estradiol production. For this same reason, women whose cycles are shorter than 25 days; women who have used conventional animal estrogens or synthetic hormone for more than five years; and those women who used birth control before their first pregnancy, before 20, or for more than five years before 35 double and possibly triple the risk for developing breast cancer. (Samet) Hereditary, dietary and lifestyle factors are also contributors to beast cancer risk. Women whose mothers had breast cancer are at twice the risk for developing this disease, generally the younger the mother is at the time of diagnosis the greater the risk. If a sister has breast cancer or a brother has prostate the risk can increase even more. Diets high in fat are also linked to this illness; because more fat cells produce more estrogen, high fats promote early onset of menstrual cycle, and there are hydrogenated fats from trans-fatty acids found in margarine which are considered cacogenic. Increased alcohol consumption also promotes increased estrogen levels. Lack of regular, physical exercise can also be a risk factor, because exercise directly decreases estradiol absorption and improves immune response. (Samet) Now that some of the risk factors are known, can breast cancer be prevented? While it is not possible to completely prevent the disease it is possible to reduce the risk with a hormone called Tamoxifen. Tamoxifen is an antiestrogen drug which is most often taken in pill form for approximately five years. This hormone is not only used as a preventive treatment for development of cancer in those people who have not had it , but it is also used to prevent a second episode of the disease and to prevent further tumor development during the actual disease process. After taking the hormone for five years 49% fewer women were found to  have breast cancer than women with the same risk factors who did not take the hormone. Unfortunately, this therapy does not come without side effects. The use of this drug increases the risk for developing uterine carcinoma, a rare and potentially serious condition. Other side effects include weight gain, mood swings, hot flashes, blood clots and cataracts. Because of these serious side effects it is important for a patient to weigh their options, but more often then not the benefits prevail. (ACS, 2002) Symptoms found with breast cancer are masses, pain, erythema, nipple drainage, and enlarged lymph nodes. The most common complaint which causes women to seek medical attention is a breast mass. Approximately 90% off all masses found are due to benign lesions. Masses that are smooth and rubbery are usually a result of fibroadenoma and occur in the 20s or 30s while cysts are what are commonly found in women in their 30’s and 40’s. The etiology for fibroadenoma is unknown, but the pathogenesis is a clonal stromal component. There is proliferation of both the ducts and the stroma, numerous fibroblasts of the stroma can be seen along with a pale eosinophilic cytoplasm. The typical duct epithelium often lines the glandular spaces which may lead to compression because of this fibrous proliferation. (National Breast Cancer Foundation [NBCF]), (Sanders) There are two types of breast pain, cyclic and non-cyclic. Cyclic pain is related to a woman’s cycle. Non-cyclic pain however, is often only experienced in certain area of the breast. This pain may sometimes be caused by injury or trauma to the breast such as after a breast biopsy. It is associated with both pre and post menopausal women and is most common in 40 to 50 year old. Although these pains often subside after a couple of years and are not usually associated with breast cancer the possibility still exists and therefore should be discussed with a physician. (Imaginis, 2001) Another symptom is erythema, an abnormal redness of the skin. There is dilation of the superficial capillaries of the skin which then leads to inflammation and redness. The tumor or cyst may cause this hypersensitive, inflammatory reaction, although it is not known for sure. Yet another symptom related to breast cancer can be nipple discharge. The majority of nipple discharges are associated with non-malignant changes and are often caused by hormonal changes. Discharge is a concern when it is bloody, sticky and clear, brown or black, is spontaneous, or unilateral. About 90% of bloody discharges are the cause of papilloma or infection; a papilloma is a non-cancerous tumor that has a branch or stalk which reaches into the breast duct. This tumor is also malignant almost 10% of the time occurring unilaterally, so further diagnostic testing should be preformed. (Imaginis, 2000) Finally, discussion of the last symptom of breast cancer is enlarged lymph nodes. The enlargement is due to the production of additional white blood cells which helps ward off infection. The infections that cause this inflammation are often benign, but can be caused by the presence of cancer cells. Unfortunately, the only way to find out whether the cause of the swelling is cancerous or non-cancerous is to perform a biopsy. However, some signs are more associated with being benign, such as, a node that is less than one centimeter in size, and is soft, rubbery and tender. (Imaginis, 2001) Lymph nodes are also the key factors in staging breast cancer and determining the prognosis of a patient. Stage one show a tumor which is less than 2 cm in size with no lymph node involvement or metastasis. In stage four the tumor size is not applicable, nor is lymph node involvement, but there is metastasis of other tissues. In stage one there is a 98% five year survival rate while in stage four there is only a 16% five year survival rate. For this reason it is important to perform self breast exams and receive yearly mammograms after the age of 40. The sooner the cancer is detected the quicker treatment can be started, and early treatment dramatically increases chances of survival. (NBCF, 2002) Complications of this disease of course include death, but also fatigue which is usually associated with the treatment of the disease. Death caused by rapidly metastasizing cancerous agent is nearly unavoidable in later stages of the disease which again is why early detection is so critical. Fatigue related to treatment, which is due to the loss of so many cells and important energy producing agents can be helped. A recent study showed that exercise during treatment dramatically improved the energy levels of the patients, both physically and mentally. (NBCF, 2002) As one may see from the above information of etiology, signs and symptoms, and potential complications of this disease, breast cancer is a serious disease that should not be taken lightly. In order to prevent complications, it is important for women to perform self exams, get regular mammograms, and maintain a healthy lifestyle, so that if the disease does occur there is optimal prognosis.

What Is a GED Should You Get One

What Is a GED Should You Get One SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips If you don't have a traditional high school diploma, you can still earn an equivalent credential by getting your GED. But what is a GED? Basically, it's a credential that can subsitute for a high school diploma. Since most employers (and all colleges) will require you to have graduated fromhigh school, it's usually a good idea to get aGED if you don't complete high school. Doing so helps to ensure thatyou'll have access to more opportunities later in life. In this article, I'll go through what GED stands for, the advantages this credentialcan give you, and how to get your GED. What Is a GED? How Is It Different From a High School Diploma? GED is an acronym that refers to the General Educational Development Test. The test measureswhether students possess the academic skills equivalent to those of graduating high school seniors. People who dropped out of high school initially, but are concerned about their prospects without a diploma, often take the GED Test. The four content areas that comprise the GED Test correspond to the four most prominent core subjects in high school: Reasoning Through Language Arts Mathematical Reasoning Social Studies Science This is a recent change instituted in 2014 (there used to be five subject areas, with Reading and Writing as separate tests).The test has been updated from the 2002 version to require a deeper understanding of the material and more advanced reasoning skills. If you pass the GED Test, you will earn a GED credential, which may be a diploma or certificate depending on the state.A GED certificate or diploma is technically considered just as valid as a regular high school diploma.However, some employers and colleges will favor students with high school diplomas over those with GEDs because of the skills each measures.Since you can earn your GED by taking one test (well, a series of tests, but I'll get to that later), it may not be seen as an indication of your academic perseverance on par with a traditional high school education. If you’re still young enough (usually under the age of 20, although policies differ across states) that you have the opportunity to go back to high school rather than get yourGED, I would strongly recommend trying to complete your course of study so you can earn a regular diploma.Still, it’s better to have a GED than no degree at all, and with recent changes to the test to make it more rigorous, it might be viewed differently in the future. Who can tell what the future holds for any of us? Does free will exist? Is life just a circular hallway where all exits lead to the unfeeling void of eternity? Ok, back to the GED, sorry. Will You Be Able to Get Into College With a GED? According to the College Board, 95 percent of U.S. colleges and universities will accept GED graduates who meet their other qualifications for admission. Some examples of the few colleges that don't accept GEDs include Fairfield University, Sewanee – University of the South, and Bowdoin College.Keep in mind, though, that many colleges require students to submit results from the SAT or ACT, and they are looking for a well-rounded application that includes a good GPA.If you dropped out of high school relatively early, you might not have a ton of information to put on your application.For this reason, many people who earn GEDs start out at community colleges or technical schools and transition to four-year colleges after a year or two. It can also be tough for students with GEDs to acquire the study skills needed for success in college because the test doesn’t prepare them for more in-depth assignments and long-term projects.If you had problems keeping up with assignments when you were in high school, you might want tothink about how you can revise any bad study habits you had in the past before you enroll in any competitive college programs. You should also know that college financial aid is just as readily available for students who have earned their GED as it is for traditional high school graduates, depending on your needs. You could benefit from using a planner in college if you're not the organized type (although personally I'm so disorganized that I forget to write things in planners, so that might be a problem). How Can You Earn YourGED? You must be at least 16 years old to take the GED Test, and you must not be enrolled in high school.You should also meet state eligibility requirements for the amount of time you’ve been out of high school.In some states, you have to be out of high school for at least 60 consecutive days before you’re allowed to take the test. Contact the program administrator in your state for more details. You must pass all four subject tests in the GED battery of tests, which means scoring at least a 150 on each test (scores range from 100 to 200 on the 2014 version).A score of 170 on each test is the benchmark for college and career readiness, and you will receive an Honors distinction if you reach this score.The four tests take seven and a half hours total and are administered by computer. You don't have to take them all on the same day, but some states enforce specific time frames for completing the tests.All questions are multiple choice except for one essay question on the Reading Through Language Arts test, one essay question on the Social Studies test, and two short answer questions on the Science test. If you don’t pass a test the first time around, you can retake it,although different states have different requirements for people who need to retake GED tests (such as additional fees or proof of attending a preparation class).Testing accommodations are available for those with disabilities; you can sign up for them through your online account after you register.You usually have to pay to sign up for the tests, but the cost varies from state to state. After you take each test, you willreceive your scores within24 hours.Here are some more details about the score report. Once you complete all four tests, you'll earn your GED in an elaborate ceremony where you must construct a giant pie chart that symbolizes your accomplishments. How Can You Prepare for the GED Test? You can call 800-62-MYGED (800-626-9433) to get referrals to local GED prep programs and testing sites along with more information and study materials.You can also sign up for an account on the GED website to register for the test and get access to practice tests and other materials that will help you prepare. Make sure to do some review if you’ve been out of school for a while and you think your skills might be rusty.Here’s a link to some free practice tests in both English and Spanish that you can take right away.According to the information on the GED site, most people manage to pass the test and earn their GED certificate or diploma within three months, so it doesn’t have to be a super long process! Should You Get Your GED? You still may be wondering whether it's really worth it to get your GED as compared to other options. In comparison to no diploma at all, it's a good idea to earn a GED. As I've mentioned, you'll have access to many more opportunities in life, and you may be able to continue your education further.You could also get your HSED or High School Equivalency Diploma, or you could choose to go back to high school if you're still young enough. In comparison to a regular high school diploma, a GED will make you look slightly less qualified to some employers and colleges. If you have the ability and opportunity to do so, I strongly recommend going back to school and finishing your courses. If this isn't an option for you, you could also consider earning a High School Equivalency Diploma instead of a GED. The HSED has a couple of additional requirements, but you'll still have to take the same tests as you would for the GED in most states. The HSED is accepted by a slightly larger range of employers and colleges, although it probably won't make a huge difference in your prospects as compared to a GED. A high school education is vital if you want to be eligible for most professional jobs and all colleges. Even if you didn't finish high school as planned, earning your GED will show that you are as qualified as other high school graduates for a wide range of opportunities in the future. Put up a new road sign on a highway called YOUR LIFE. What's Next? Are you concerned about the costs of higher education? Read our practical guide detailing the best ways to save money for college. If you or someone you know is juggling a college education and the responsibilities of raising a child, you should check out this list of great scholarships for moms and single mothers. You also might qualify for a federal Pell Grant if you need help managingthe costs of college. Find out if you're eligible here. 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:

Non Profit Reflection Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Non Profit Reflection - Essay Example The larger organizations are required to present published financial reports showing their income and expenditure in details for the public. Bearing in mind that the non profit organization have workers like board members, committee members and others who ensure there operations, it raises eyebrows on their pay. Some may be volunteers but it has been noted that non profit organization are among well paying jobs. These organizations are funded by donations, grants, from public and other organizations hence drawing down a suitable financial plan is very important. Otherwise the non profit organization could free their activities in jeopardy. The non profit organizations have played a great role in the society in offering very important services. Some of the notable are the Mozilla firefox and American Heart Association among others. Mozilla firefox provides free internet services with close to 20% of internet users who access their services absolutely free, surfing and downloading information. The mozilla firefox management relies on donations to get money for maintaining their systems and protecting users from computer crimes that include harking. Firewall has established security features that help protect user as they are browsing. Another means of assisting the management of Mozilla firefox is that, users (meaning us) distribute the browser, update it and maintain it free of charge, having no experience in this field, is give my full support through donations. Being a frequent user of the internet, I find it necessary to fund the program that help me find important information about dignitaries and other issues I ma y be looking up. Another group of donors who made an impact on the American heart association are; Lockhead Martin Range Rover, and Northrup Grumman. Another style that has been used to help fund non profit organization is through some food retailers who place a certain fraction on the price that goes to organizations like American heart Association. These food retailers have a direct influence on our lives and the mange to obtain our money to assist others who are in need. The American heart Association offers free medical services to people with cardio vascular problems to reduce chances of death and possible disabilities like stroke. Alternatively we may offer support by doing some of the things that have been almost forgotten for example participating in marathon run to raise money for heart foundation or jumping a rope. Such activities usually turn out to be very useful for example the Multiple sclerosis bike ride I did some times back. Many family members, friends, and colleagues were very much corporative and raised a lot of funds. Why Fund Non Profit Organizations I have always wondered why it was expensive to visit a game park or National forest for instance. Giving it a second thought, one realizes that there is a lot of manpower involved in maintaining and landscaping the area, these services need to be paid for. I have leant a lot of things and feel that it's sensible to finance. This also applies to other areas like the zoo as the animals need medical attention, food and housing. Some of the non profit

Macgiavelli's Relationship To The Coca-Cola Company Research Paper

Macgiavelli's Relationship To The Coca-Cola Company - Research Paper Example The current business world is growing very first, and the customer's demand is highly increasing and becoming more sophisticated. The existing companies are facing a big challenge on how to cope with this sophisticated custom demand; the first growing technology, competency and resources. For the companies to solve the above challenges, there is need for an alliance that is the only solution to the first growing market. The strategic alliance will enable the companies to access new markets, obtain cutting-edge technology, expand geographic reach, and cope with the first competition being experienced (Hoskisson et al., 186). These alliances have allowed most organizations to compete more effectively and have also enabled these companies to be in a good state with the increasing technological and organizational complexities that have currently come into play in the today’s market. Strategic alliance has contributed in changing the dynamic and structure of the today’s competition in the whole world. In general, strategic alliance is whereby two companies come together to obtain a common interest which might not be easy to obtain individually (Botten, 298). MACGIAVELLI'S RELATIONSHIP TO THE COCA-COLA COMPANY The Coca-Cola Company has ventured into the alliance strategy to outdo his rivals in the market. However, according to Machiavelli, a prince who is self-sufficient is better of as he is always ready to meet any enemy at the battlefield. This is because he is always armed with his army. The argument is a contradiction with the approach the Coca-Cola Company is taking. This approach of forming alliances is helping the company to prosper in the today’s market.

Answer two questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Answer two questions - Essay Example Every individual has the decision to make with regard to the receiving the grace of God. For example we have a choice to receive or reject Jesus Christ. There are two doctrines that seek to expound the responsibility of God and man in the issue of salvation. According to Arminiasm, salvation is received through the efforts of both man and God. Mans response is therefore the main factor, because he has freewill. Therefore the provision of salvation is not for everyman (Picirilli 482). Man is the determining factor towards the gift of salvation. For example, God saved Adam but man still resisted his grace. According to the doctrine of Calvinism, salvation is determined by the power of God. God therefore determines who will receive salvation. Both are summed up in five points. Calvinism looks as atonement being unlimited and Arminism vice versa. The number of Christian denominations, in the United States are numerous, among them Lutheran, Evangelical, Orthodox among many others. Most Christian professes to love one another yet they cannot stand the ideals of others. Religious tolerance is an important aspect both to the believer and to the community because lack of tolerance leads to misunderstanding among the community who discriminate and ignore others who does not have the same common views and background. Majority of people do not know that religious tolerance promotes respect and understanding among different believers. In the world, all the big religions share the same basic rule, the culture as our golden rule, that promotes the concept of do onto others as you would like them do onto you. According to my views, this is a major teaching that demonstrates that these religions are not different from others much. In an example, Islamic tells us that Ishmael, who was Abraham’s son, was the patriarch of the Islamic religion. Jews also believes that Abraham’s son Isaac was their patriarch as he was a Jew like Abraham and so helped in spreading the Jewish

Endeavour Journal Essay Example for Free

Endeavour Journal Essay This journey followed close upon the visit of the expedition on Tahiti to observe the transit of Venus. On 8 June 1769 the transit of Venus was successfully observed from three different points. After fulfilling his mission on Tahiti Cook resumed his voyage to fulfil the task given to him secretly by the Royal Society. On 7 September 1769 the Endeavour reached New Zealand, which had never been visited by any European after Abel Janszoon Tasman had discovered it on 13 December 1642. Tasman’s stay at New Zealand was not successful in the means of its discovery. No trading had been done between the native Maori and Tasman’s crew. The first discovery by the Dutch businessmen Tasman was only the western coastline of New Zealand, which had been mapped afterwards. The first seven days of the journal had been taking place at ‘Cannibals Cove’ where the HMS Endeavour anchored for about twenty-three days. James Cook has given the name after he had an encounter with indigenous people, which will be described in the following. During the stay Joseph Banks refers to several encounter with indigenous people of New Zealand. He describes the behaviour and findings in a large extend. As an example he describes the encounter of members of HMS Endeavour’s crew and a double canoe. They have been told that the indigenous people lost a female child that according to their narrative â€Å"had been stole and eat by some of their neighbours†. Another group of crewmembers reported that they have met people who told them that they ate a child the day before. As a result of these stories Banks describes the conclusions of the crew as thefts of this kind are common for those Indians. Afterwards he tries to analyse and evaluate these stories. He assumes that the crewmembers met the same people and interpreted the stories differently which have been told by the indigenous people. Nevertheless he does not exclude this either, since families that came of to the ship â€Å"often brought women and young children in arms as if they were afraid to leave them behind. † Banks’ interest in the indigenous people of New Zealand can also be illustrated by his encounter of an Indian family. He describes them as being affable, obliging and unsuspicious and observed any order or subordination. By making known his regret of not being able to stay with the family for one night his interest in people and their behaviour can be seen. On the following days Banks describes how the exploration of the Cook Straits took place. The officers’ spread their thought that the land they have been round might be an isthmus that is between their current position (Cook Strait) and the Cape Turnagain, which they have last seen 17 October 1969. To confirm this Cook ordered the crew to sail northward until the cape could be seen. Whilst sailing in this direction HMS Endeavour came across indigenous people which in Banks’ journal entries are described as richer and more cleanly than any people they have seen since their stay at the Bay of Islands 3 November 1769. This makes him believe that they might have met subordinates of the Dominions of Teratu. As it turned out they were not this kind of people and thus they had to go on sailing northward looking for a well-known part of New Zealand. On 9 February 1770 an important discovery had been made. Cape Turnagain came back into sight, which proved that the land, they had been visiting, is an island. Besides Banks’ depictions of the exploration of New Zealand and the description of the indigenous people in huge detail he described Albatrosses and other animals to a small extend. His task as botanist plays a minor part during these days. By shooting Albatrosses as often as possible he tries to nourish the crew with fresh meat. The last four days of the journal at hand take place at the east coast of the future southern island of New Zealand. On 16 February 1770 Banks reports the sighting of a new island. This island will be later called â€Å"Banks’s Island† according to the chart of New Zealand based on Cook’s mapping. The fact that this is not an island but rather part of the southern island of New Zealand will be unknown for the rest of the journey. This error happened because Captain John Gore believed that he saw land in south eastward direction. To pursue this Cook decided to follow this direction and validate Gore’s assumption so â€Å"that nobody should say he had left land behind unsought†. On 18 February 1770 Banks states that no land could be found and the voyage will continue in westward direction. In the journals’ last entry Banks describes the discovery of land that might be either part of the New Zealand or the beginning of the southern island, which they have long yearned for. What can be seen in this part of the journal is the personal conflict of Banks. Intelligence obtained by the Indians during their last anchoring stop tells them that this might only be an island, nevertheless Banks does not want to let go of the â€Å"strong hopes that we had at last completed our wishes and that this was absolutely a part of the Southern continent†. The journal at hand includes without limitation information on the discovery of the Cook Strait and exploration of New Zealand. The subsequent days of the journey will clarify if the land they have spotted is either part of the southern continent or an island on its own. Nevertheless an outcome of this journey so far is a detailed map of northern New Zealand and the discovery of the isthmus between the northern island and the southern part. The nature of this journal is a very objective description of the happenings during the voyage.

Phaedra Essay -- essays research papers

Theseus was the son either of Poseidon or Aegeus the king of Athens. His mother was Aethra. The childless Aegeus consulted the Delphic Oracle and was told not to untie his wine skin until he returned home. He did not understand what the oracle meant and so visited his friend King Pittheus of Troezen. Realizing that Aegeus was going to beget a powerful son immediately after the celebration feast for his safe return to Athens, Pittheus made his guest drunk and put him to bed with his daughter Aethra, and so Theseus was conceived. Before he left for home, Aegeus took the pregnant Aethra to a great boulder underneath which he placed his sword and sandals. He told her that, should she have a son, she must wait until he was strong enough to raise the boulder before she sent him to his father's court. After Aegeus' departure the wily Pittheus said his daughter's lover was really Poseidon. When Theseus came of age, Aethra explained that he was heir to the Athenian throne and he retrieved the sword and sandals. On his journey to Athens he slew several desperate bandits, a fearsome son of Hephaistos, and a dreadful sow, the daughter of the monster Typhon. At Eleusis, then a kingdom separate from Athens, Theseus was forced to accept the challenge of a wrestling match with its king, Cercyon. The aggressive ruler died as a result of the contest, so Theseus became king of Eleusis, which he later added to the Athenian kingdom. On his arrival in Athens, Theseus learned that his father A...

A Distinction between Sex Tourism and Romance Tourism Essay

Introduction Tourism is can be described as an activity that is characterized by taking a trip primarily for the purpose of leisure. The duration of the trip usually lasts from just a few days to several weeks. This involves visiting famous and historical places, experiencing the culture, traditions, food, and weather conditions that a certain spot has to offer. Thesis Statement As the world has gotten smaller with the advent of transportation and modern technology, the tourists of today have grown to be more cultured and thus more demanding. They know what they want. Tourists nowadays would like their travel agents to be able to offer destinations and services that would cater to their specific needs. This is where niche tourism comes in. (Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, 2007) See more: Homeless satire essay   Ã‚  As the popular expression in the world of marketing says, â€Å"sex sells†, sex indeed sells, and is among the specific needs that the travel industry caters to. Niche Tourism Niche Tourism is tourism that not only affords the tourist the luxury of travelling to certain places. Apart from booking a destination and arranging for transfers and accommodation, niche tourism caters to specific needs of discriminating clients. There is something for everyone.   (Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, 2007) Categories of niche tourism include but are not limited to the following:   Sports-oriented or physical activity niche tourism, learning-oriented, lifestyle-oriented and other miscellaneous types.   (Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, 2007)      Sports-oriented or physical activity niche tourism includes activities such as hiking, mountaineering, backpacking, skiing, golf, and diving.   For the ultimate risk taker, there is extreme tourism is offered where activities such as base jumping, bungee jumping and other high-risk activities are offered.   For the intellectual types,   there is learning-oriented niche tourism which offers walking tours, bookstore tours, creative workshops, hobby tourism, and ancestry tourism, among others. Wine tours, gay tours, medical tours and accessible tourism, which caters to people with special needs all fall under lifestyle tourism. (Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, 2007) Falling under the miscellaneous types of niche tourism are perhaps among the interesting and controversial types such as drug tourism (such as going purposely to Amsterdam to be able to use drugs freely), pilgrimages, space tourism and sex tourism. Legality of Sex Tourism Some countries consider prostitution legal. Chances are sex tourism is also legal in these places. However, unlike other crimes, prostitute is not regarded with the same level of disdain. The issues raised are more from a moral standpoint. Nations that are known to be extremely religious and that   tend to be absolutely against any form of prostitution. However, prostitution may still exist subversively. For example, a regular-looking spa could be a cover up for a prostitution den that comes alive once deep inside the establishment. When caught perpetrators are made to pay dearly for their crime. Although more people have become open-minded with regard to prostitution over the years, many draw the line when prostitution already involves the use of minors and innocent children. This has been a cause for alarm and many human rights groups have been involved in the fight against child prostitution, especially the type that involves child molesters. Efforts to attempt to wage war with this type of abuse have carried out, however many despicable but seemingly harmless individuals are still able to get away with this form of wickedness. This can be attributed to the fact that life has been hard for most of the people who become involved in this trade. They see prostitution as their way out. Unfortunately, a majority of them are young girls who willingly fall victim to this vicious cycle. Instead of staying in school, they get involved in the flesh trade with hopes of leading their families towards a better future. They allow themselves to fall prey to unscrupulous individuals who take advantage of their situation.   (Hall & Ryan, 2001) Amsterdam is an example of a place where prostitution, not to mention drugs, is legal. When in Amsterdam, it is common to see people in the sex industry openly â€Å"peddling† their wares and common to see potential clients â€Å"window shopping†. Difference between sex tourism and romance tourism The difference between sex tourism and romance tourism is the objective of going on the trip. The main goal of sex tourism is to go to a certain place and be able to avail of sexual intercourse. Clients who prefer romance tourism, on the other hand, go on such trips to find companionship and sex is not necessarily a part of the equation.   More often, women prefer romance tourism and men tend to favor sex tours. Male sex tourism Among the types of sex tourism, male sex tourism is perhaps the most proliferative and the most widely accepted. It is in fact normal to see men in girly bars mingling with girls hoping for a fling or a one-night stand.   In male sex tourism, sex is a plays a major role. Female sex tourism – Origins Sex tourism particularly female sex tourism proliferated during the Victorian era. Coincidentally it was during that time that feminism gained popularity. Female sex tourism first became known in England, in other parts of Europe and then later in the United States.   (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2007) Female sex tourism is also known as romance tourism. The reason for this alternative term is that the aim of female sex tourism is not aimed mainly to be able to avail of sexual intercourse. The main purpose of women clients for going on such trips is to attempt to form a relationship based on affection. Female sex tours are real tours wherein the women book flights and   accomodations with hopes of finding companionship with male escorts at their destination. Sex may or may not be part of the package. More often, what happens depends upon the discretion of the female client. Payments come in kind where women would shower the male escorts with extravagants gifts of clothes, meals at expensive restaurants.   Cash payments are also given; they vary on the â€Å"going rate† at certain destinations. The usual rate ranges from $50 to $200 a night. There are few, rare destinations where men don’t expect to be paid. Places that are known for this are Southern Europe, Turkey, Bali and the French Caribbean. (Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2007) Although female sex tours are available, majority of societies still frown on women who go looking for companionship in this way. There is still that double standard in society wherein it is perfectly fine for men to freely engage in sexual relations but an abomination for a woman to be caught in such a situation. Terms Identified with Female sex tourists The proliferation of sex tourism as an industry has resulted in the emergence of terms or jargon. Just like the rates, the names vary depending on the place. The terms are somewhat amusing, for example, female sex tourists are called ‘milk bottles’   in Jamaica especially if they are fresh from a trip, British call them ‘Shirley Valentines’, black female sex tourists are called Stellas and many others. (Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, 2007) Likewise, the male escorts who render this type of service to these clients also have names. The Caribbean calls them several names from rent-a-gents to the Foreign Service. Greeks call them ‘kamakia’ which means fishing harpoons. Costa Rica calls them sharks. Peru calls them ‘brichero’.(Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, 2007) Destinations The preferred destinations for male sex tourism are Latin America and East Asia. The reason for this is that a majority of men who engage in sex tourism tend to prefer women who are exotic looking and are more aware of their sensuality.   Not to mention that men in relationship going about their extramural or extramarital sexual activities in faraway places ensures that the chances of them getting caught is very little to zero.   A secondary reason is that a lot of people from these places have sort of welcomed the sex industry as their means of survival.   (Sex Tourism )   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The preferred destinations for female sex tourism are Southern Europe, the Caribbean and Africa.   The reason for this preference is that like men, women are drawn to certain physical characteristics and personality traits that only men from these regions possess.   (Sex Tourism) Best Countries to go for Sex tourism In Asia, Thailand is one of the most popular haunts for sex tourism. High-end brothels are situated in extremely progressive tourist spots like Phuket, Bangkok and Pattaya.   (Sex Tourism) Taiwan, South Korea and Vietnam are similarly popular places in Asia. An interesting fact about Vietnam as a sex tourism spot is that freelance prostitutes are easily recognizable. Prostitutes in Saigon sport pale faces, making them easy to distinguish from the regular woman.   (Sex Tourism ) Another selling point for sex tourism in this region is that the price ranges are affordable compared to other parts of Asia like the Philippines where similar services in Manila are quite expensive.   (Sex Tourism) The Caribbean and Latin America are known as the best. Brazil is considered as a cut above the rest for its beautiful women. Brazilian people are generally warm and although prostitution is considered illegal, people who operate bath houses and bars are armed to the teeth with information for clients who opt to avail of prostitution â€Å" services†.   (Sex Tourism ) The Netherlands is the best in terms of accessibility. Prostitution is very much legal in Amsterdam. Perhaps one of the best testaments to this is the famous Casa Rosso. Casa Rosso is a well-known sex theater located in the red light district of the city.   (Sex Tourism ) In Eastern Europe, the Czech Republic is one of the best places for sex tourism. The Czech Republic has Prague which is famous for its clubs. Ukraine and Russia are known for romantic tours. (Sex Tourism ) Austria is another example of regulated prostitution, much like Amsterdam. However, Austria has set regulations for example, they forbid young men and women who are under the age of 18 to engage in prostitution. Having sexual relations with a minor is considered sexual abuse. Individuals engaging in the sex industry are required to be regularly tested for HIV, AIDs and STDs. Prostitutes are considered as self-employed individuals and are     obliged to pay taxes. (Sex Tourism ) Worst Countries to go for sex tourism The United States is among the worst destinations for sex tourism. Prostitution is illegal for the most part of this country.   (Sex Tourism ) Middle Eastern countries where Islam is largely practiced totally prohibits prostitution. Women are highly respected and are not even allowed to go out alone in public in some places. Their culture also dictates that their women should wear appropriate clothing and something that bares much skin is not favored.   (Sex Tourism ) In Europe, Germany, France and England are not known for prostitution. Like the prices of most commodities in these places, rates of prostitution are exceedingly expensive. In Israel, most women who work in this industry are much older women and are foreigners. Like the prices in Europe, rates for prostitution in Israel are also high. Conclusion The advent of modern conveniences and the information age has brought about numerous developments in all aspects of life. Sexuality is not left out. Human beings have become more particular with their wants and needs. People have become more open-minded and liberal about their opinions regarding many things that were once forbidden and unheard of. The proliferation of sex tourism is one of the results of these progressions. In spite of all these liberties, it is important to be responsible of one’s own actions. People who would settle on experiencing these liberties should also be aware of their limits. If these freedoms are abused, they are in danger of being taken away. It is important to weigh the consequences of such precarious actions. A lot of factors need to be considered. An individual considering on embarking on such an activity should realize that once it is done, it will be difficult to turn back and reverse the possible repercussions. First, one must consider the effect such activities may have on his relationships. Should a committed man or woman engage in extramarital affairs, once he or she is caught, the incident will cause a major strain that could be beyond repair. Second, one must consider the physical consequences. Engaging in sexual promiscuity without the proper protection could lead to one contracting sexually transmitted diseases that are potentially deadly. Moreover, one could end up with unwanted pregnancy which could completely alter a person’s life. Third, one should think about the moral implications of   taking on such activities. A person may be able to get away with so much during   his lifetime but he may forever be   disconcerted by his conscience. References Hall, C. M., & Ryan, C. (2001). Sex Tourism Marginal people and liminalities. London and New York: Routledge. Law, L. (2000). Sex Work in Southeast Asia: The Place of Desire in a Time of AIDS. London: Routledge. Sex Tourism . (n.d.). What is sex tourism? Retrieved November 7, 2007, from Sex Tourism : http://sex-tourism.org/index.html Wikipedia the free encyclopedia. (2007, November 6). Tourism. Retrieved November 6, 2007, from Wikipedia the free encyclopedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourism#Recent_developments Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (2007, October 13). Female sex tourism. Retrieved November 7, 2007, from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Female_sex_tourism