Monday, August 24, 2020

Synthesis and Purification of Acetylsalicylic Acid free essay sample

Union and Purification of Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA or Aspirin) Background Salicylic corrosive is a phenol just as a carboxylic corrosive. It can along these lines experience two unique kinds of esterification responses, making an ester either with the hydroxyl or with the corrosive. Within the sight of acidic anhydride, acetylsalicylic corrosive (ibuprofen or ASA) is shaped. Correspondingly, an overabundance of methanol will frame methyl salicylate, which is additionally a pain relieving. In this analysis, we will utilize the previous response to get ready anti-inflamatory medicine. Salicylic corrosive won't respond essentially with acidic corrosive to create anti-inflamatory medicine. Acidic corrosive anhydride, in any case, is more responsive than acidic corrosive on the grounds that the acetoxy bunch (- O2CCH3) is a vastly improved leaving bunch than the OH-of acidic corrosive. The response has one entanglement, in any case, in that an esterification can happen between the phenol and corrosive segment of nearby salicylic corrosive particles. Further, more atoms can tie to the staying free substituents on these particles to make a macromolecule, or polymer. We will compose a custom article test on Amalgamation and Purification of Acetylsalicylic Acid or on the other hand any comparative point explicitly for you Don't WasteYour Time Recruit WRITER Just 13.90/page The polymer is framed as a side-effect. Acetylsalicylic corrosive will respond with sodium bicarbonate to shape a water-dissolvable sodium salt, though the polymer stays insoluble. This distinction can be utilized to purge the anti-inflamatory medicine item. The most probable debasement in the last item is salicylic corrosive, which can be either unconsumed reactant, or the aftereffect of hydrolysis of the anti-inflamatory medicine item. Salicylic corrosive is evacuated during the purging strides too. Salicylic corrosive, as most phenols, frames an exceptionally hued complex with ferric chloride, and is handily distinguished. Anti-inflamatory medicine doesn't frame the hued complex on the grounds that the hydroxyl has been acetylated. Give arranged and trial MP’s to item. Report mass and moles for the reactant and item, and compute yield % on a molar premise. Instrument The system is called nucleophilic acyl replacement. It is comparative, yet not indistinguishable, to the hydrolysis on pg 802. The entering nucleophile is salicylic corrosive, not water. On the subsequent tetrahedral transitional, the H from salicylic corrosive moves to the center O on the anhydride. At last, the leaving bunch is acidic corrosive, not chloride. No base is included. Give structures of all intermediates in your lab report.

Saturday, August 22, 2020

Introductory Speech Essay Example for Free

Starting Speech Essay Presentation: Somebody once said; an image paints a thousand words. To me that’s a hundred percent valid. I began photography when I was at a youthful age, around twelve. I conveyed my camera wherever I went to catch each memory, each landscape that was around me in one straightforward photograph. I love the way that with film, you’re stayed with the photograph on paper, while with advanced you can erase it and lose it until the end of time. Here are a few reasons why I acquired my film camera, in addition to the fact that it describes my enthusiasm for photography, however the focal points I glance through can catch my life in a tick. Theory: I think my film camera uncover a ton about me †my ordinary exercises and side interests, yet the occasions that occur through my life. Body: Review: If you take a gander at the camera, you can tell how old it is and the amount it has been utilized. 1. I am an innovative individual a. I take pictures of anything, from scenes, to irregular items lying around on the ground †in which I make something out of it. b. I’m into workmanship, in addition to the fact that I take photos, however when I do I will in general paint them to broaden them. Progress: The inside of my camera can reveal to you a ton about what I do with the move of film, yet when created, they likewise can give intimations to who I am and where I have been. 1. I love to be outside, and with family a. With respect to taking pictures of loved ones, individuals die, they change, and when Im in school I know Ill presumably never observe them again so I like to have the recollections. I. I just get the chance to see family once per year, and catching the uncommon minutes we have together is the thing that causes the minutes to appear to keep going forever. b. The film inside (when present and grown) likewise gives a great deal of photographs that catch my life outside. I. I appreciate going outdoors, I invest my larger part of the energy out strolling and getting a charge out of the hues and environmental factors of the outside. ii. I for one appreciate taking pictures of landscape since I like to catch nature before its decimated yet in addition since its continually evolving. End: So you can see my camera catches the innovative side of me. It has been an observer to my ordinary experiences and the numerous excursions. You could get familiar with a great deal about me by taking a gander at the photos I have taken. When Im behind my camera, I now and then feel like Im taking a gander at the world through somebody elses eyes.

Wednesday, July 22, 2020

How to Use Cheap Paper Writing Services

How to Use Cheap Paper Writing ServicesCheap paper writing services come in many different forms, all of which have their benefits and drawbacks. You need to decide whether you want to hire a small business or a large one to do the work for you, but you also need to make sure that you get the best out of your money.The first and most obvious advantage of cheap paper writing services is that you can get quality work done for much less than you might expect. The best paper writing services don't just try to cut corners or give you what they consider a low rate; they'll go the extra mile to get the work done right the first time. If you're not sure how, ask about professional proofreading services and how they go about fixing problems in the text.Your writing should be tight and easy to read, so make sure that it's legible on the first try. Look for the benefits of the page layout. For example, instead of just having left and right sides of the page, look for multi-column text or page b reaks that give the eye more room to look around.Cheap paper writing services are still providing a service. They are still using paper and ink to get the job done, even if they can charge you less. They may offer cheaper pricing as a way of providing their service more cheaply, but that doesn't mean that they're not still doing it. You still have to get your finished product.Cheap paper writing services aren't necessarily inefficient or anything like that. Many printing companies are quite good at what they do. Even those who offer a lot of online advertising should still have a good grasp of what a particular style of writing would look like. Ask them about page spacing, using fonts and colors to their liking, and knowing the general kind of look they're trying to achieve.The services that you choose should provide exactly what you need. Don't just hire the cheapest service you find. Find one that's willing to match your needs with theirs, providing a service tailored to the detai ls you need to know. There should be plenty of support out there for you when you get started in writing online, and good paper writing services should be able to help you through the entire process.Even if you're an experienced writer, services that offer fast turnaround for their papers are likely to be cheaper than those that take longer. This is because the fast turnaround service is only running a small number of words and letting the paper printing do the rest. If you're a person who has a lot of input into the final product, the lowest possible price should be the same as the most affordable kind of service.Cheap paper writing services are here to stay. Whether you want a larger or smaller company to do the work for you, or you just want to get the work done at a lower cost, a cheap service is probably going to be your best bet.

Friday, May 22, 2020

Binding Energy Definition

Binding Energy Definition: The energy required to either separate an electron from an atom or to separate the protons and neutrons of an atomic nucleus.

Thursday, May 7, 2020

Since Diversity Plays A Critical Role In Today’S Business

Since diversity plays a critical role in today’s business world, it could create conflicts among team members in the organization. Conflicts can be separated into two types which are functional and dysfunctional conflicts. It can be either positively or negatively affect the team and organization, depending on its type (Tjosvold, 2008). The first conflict type is functional conflict in which team members have different ideas and opinions for one issue and end up with the positive result to both parties. They brought up two different solutions and solve those issues together by face to face until acceptance and respecting for differences. Their aim is to explore and resolve the problems mutually and make it an opportunity for the company†¦show more content†¦It could cause marketing team to have difficulties during the work process since sometimes it is impossible to follow everything project managers ask for. 2. Not enough resources: Departments will compete with each other for resources, including money, time, human resource and materials. This can cause teams to have conflicts between departments or other work groups. Valuable resources need to be protected, as well as distributed fairly among all the groups. Case: From my personal experience, most of the departments in the organization, especially project manager and integrated marketing communication manager would have conflict with each other due to the insufficient resources such as team budget. Each department manager would fight for the maximum budget they could have. 3. Interpersonal relationships: It can be occurred when people have different personalities and need to work together, resulting in conflict of interpersonal relationships. These kinds of conflict can be overcome if people understand with each other and deal with those issues before conflict happens. Case: According to the sales team, salespersons have different personality which can create conflicts among them. Sometimes, it could cause the problem when they need to work together since they prefer not to talk directly, resulting in delaying work and reducing the work quality. However, being in a conflict is not always caused a negative result. According toShow MoreRelatedCultural Environment Of International Business Essay1327 Words   |  6 PagesEnvironment of International Business Vanda Mallo Keiser University â€Æ' Abstract Understanding the management role relative to cultural influences is critical for today’s managers who want to interact proficiently across borders. One important concept which provides insight into the idea of intercultural aptitude is the notion of â€Å"mindfulness† or the ability to interact with others from different cultures. Managers must become more culturally sensitive since diversity in the workplace is now the normRead MoreThe Problem of Childcare Essay1732 Words   |  7 Pagesadversely affect productivity and work quality and ultimately the competitiveness of the businesses that employ these workers. * Secondly, in the past such problems with childcare would be of little concern of employers since few employees were affected and there always seems to be other workers willing to take the place of those that quit. But the labour market today and into the foreseeable future is radically different. Apart from the aboveRead MoreStakeholders Are An Important Factor For Any Business844 Words   |  4 Pagesimportant factor to any business, because their actions can determine certain business outcomes. Target states that â€Å"Engaging with our stakeholders and listening to their ideas, concerns and perspectives is vital to the success of our business. 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Unlike the women managers in the 1970s and 1980s not all femaleRead MoreChallenges Facing Organizational Managers Employees Today in Relation to the Modern Theory of Organizational Behaviour2390 Words   |  10 Pagesfacing different challenges in todays environment. 4 1. Technology 4 2. Diverse 4 3. Multiple 4 4. Responsiveness 4 5. Rapid 4 6. Globalization 4 8. Communication style 5 9. Organization direction. 5 10. Decision making. 5 11. Feedback mechanisms. 6 12. Change adaptability. 6 13. Innovation within the organization. 6 14. How do we build an organization that actually inspires extraordinary accomplishment 6 15. Lawsuits 6 Dealing with the Challenging Issues 7 1. Diversity Goals 7 Conclusion 9 ReferencesRead MoreBenefits Of A User Friendly Software1418 Words   |  6 Pagesissues that still persist today, a usable software is critical; Ultimate Software appears to offer these results. While reviewing â€Å"The 35 Best Places to Launch Your Career†, The Walt Disney Company finally made an appearance at number seven. The candidates must have effective communication skills along with a college degree; the top degree amongst entry level employees being business. After all, a child’s magic is an adults engineering, business, and dedication. Of the remaining thirty-four companiesRead MoreEssay about Multicultural Issues in the Workplace2145 Words   |  9 Pagesis becoming more and more important for companies to understand and manage diversity. The people of different background, races, religion creates diverse workforce. There is an importance of having diverse workforce to provide better performance. There are perspectives of managing the diverse workforce, which require organization leaders and managers of being responsible of attaining better diverse workforce. Diversity means differences, difference of age, sex, race, religion and culture etc. PeopleRead MoreThe Effects of Mulitcultural Management on the Work Environment 2708 Words   |  11 PagesIntroduction The management of an organization plays an integral part in determining the direction and performance of the organization. The manner in which the management of an organization is handled has a profound effect on the organization. The success of an organization is dependent upon a flexible and skilled management and workforce. The management of an organization is responsible for shaping up the organizational behavior and ultimately the culture within the organization. Public management

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

The Effect of Indoor Environmental Quality of a Green Building Free Essays

THE EFFECT OF INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY OF A GREEN BUILDING TOWARDS ITS USER’S/OCCUPANT ‘S LEVEL OF COMFORT LITERATURE REVIEW Green edifices need an attack including consideration towards wellness and well-being of the residents in every facets of the build undertakings, non merely for the single flat unit but for the full edifice, based on a wider context about the environment and the community about. This affair can be a immense attack which need an incorporate thought for the designers, interior decorators, developers and authorities who is responsible in the community planning ( Plass N 2007 ) . Even though we are still in early phase, constructing a sustainable edifice presents is an set up construct with increasing rate of demand in most states where it is supported by authorities in Europe, America, China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Korea. We will write a custom essay sample on The Effect of Indoor Environmental Quality of a Green Building or any similar topic only for you Order Now These authorities have been promoted by their several Green Building Councils. In a rate where ages is threatened by the clime presents, there is an increasing demand for energy and resource efficient edifice, but there is besides a demand to construct a healthy and comfy places that is non affected by undue emanations of harmful substances ( Yu CWF 2010 ) , blaze ( PR 2010 ) or deficient lighting ( Lim HS 2010 ) , noise ( Han MH 2010 ) , hot and cold clime ( Daghigh R 2009 ) , where residents can really experience safe, can interact with each other freely and can construct hope for our hereafter. For commercial edifices, there are studies of grounds about the environmentally certified edifices are raising in the facets of personal control, twenty-four hours lighting, thermic comfort, air quality and noise decrease which can increase the productiveness of persons in order for them to make work or concern operation ( Lee YS 2010 ) . Meanwhile this current research is besides about th e reappraisal of environmental appraisal strategies based on IEQ issues where it can give a immense impact on the satisfaction degree of residents. ( Browning W 1995 ) have made a study on the multiple pre-post observational surveies which examined the consequence on energy efficient designs on the productiveness of the workers. one of their survey is affecting an energy efficient retrofit to the Main Post Office in Reno, Nevada. A new ceiling was fitted inside the edifice for an betterment of light, temperature, and noise within the scope of mail sorting room. Productivity eventually been reported to hold the consequences in increased of 6-8 % after the retrofit installed. Similar to other single-group pre station survey of this sort, nevertheless, one ‘s demands to be more careful when saying other grounds for the ascertained addition. They besides argue about the issue of coinciding program to better productiveness in clip of the retrofit which they stated that there are none and the productiveness was ever measured. Unfortunately, the graph that they presented merely demo the elevation of the productiveness followed by retrofit. If productiveness was measured as a normal operation, it would be a sourceful information to demo the productiveness informations during the pre-retrofit period. They stated that productiveness that been acquired in Reno Office are higher comparison to other sorters in western part of United States. However, the information for this other offices are non presented. Therefore, the groundss that proves the relationship between energy efficient design and the productiveness in this survey was non strong. Furthermore, the retrofit besides mentioned about lighting, temperature and sound. So, it can be clearly said that there is non possible for imputing the study in the betterment of productiveness from the peculiar alteration, merely retrofit in general. About the same, the 2nd illustration cited by ( Browning W 1995 ) is about the Nederlandshe Middenstandbank. It involved a batch of alteration to the new building- one of it could non be claimed as unique between green edifices, whether the S-curve land program which have gardens, courtyards, eating houses and meeting suites. Along with that it is besides non possible to impute the study that stated 15 % decrease in absenteeism of green characteristics in the new edifice where the characteristics include are twenty-four hours lighting, and natural airing through operable Windowss. The 3rd illustration by ( Browning W 1995 ) was a Walmart Store which had installed fanlights at about the scope of one half of the shop. It was reported that the gross revenues ( per square pes ) was higher than other section which situated in day-lit half. However, the consequences can be given other grounds on why this state of affairs go on between the two groups of section. ( J 2000 ) had done a reviewed literature on the subject of green edifices and the resident ‘s productiveness. One of the survey that he cited is research from ( Browning W 1995 ) . Another one is from ( A 1999 ) where he concluded that comfort and productiveness that can be seen is higher in a edifice where residents have control over ambient status and where the edifice provide both natural and air conditioning. All of this research really have the same decision. ( Menzies D 1997 ) concluded that the productiveness was increased by 11 % ( if comparison with controlled groups ) for the workers that have been given full control over the entire and way of the air flow in their work infinite. ( Brager GS 1998 ) reported that there is a relationship between personal control in environmental conditions, particularly temperature and airing, and work public presentation. However, ( Brager GS 1998 ) besides noted about the research from ( Preller L 1990 ) which shows absenteeism that were related with Sick Building Syndrome ( SBS ) should be 34 % lower if the employees were giving full control over the temperature and airing. This state of affairs had produce a nexus between green edifice and productiveness which become the go-between for air quality and SBS beside comfort. From this, guided by the relationship between green edifice and IEQ ( for illustration comfort ) , it can be said that the existing cogent evidence is really weak and if there is a nexus, it is said that it was attributed to personal control on the ambient conditions. This sort of affair should be given an attending to look into whether or non soothe relates to satisfaction. In a reappraisal of environmental psychological science, ( Sundstrom E 1996 ) had underline twosome of theories which guided the research on dealing between human and physical environment subjects including the workplace. In these theories are arousal, environmental burden, emphasis and version, privateness ordinance, transactional attack, and ecological psychological science and behaviour puting theories. Hypothesis for rousing is to foretell the optimal satisfaction and public presentation while under the status of moderate rousing. This had given an sentiment on how temperature, sound and lighting can act upon the satisfaction degree and public presentation through psychosocial rousing. On overload hypothesis, people is considered holding a limited capacity to treat stimulations and information and predicted that we confront them with an overload, for illustration noise overload, where we choose in advancement for incoming information and disregarding the low-priority inputs. The research in environmental emphasis and version had recognized the relationships between temperature and sound with physiological and psychological emphasis ( for illustration chronic unwellness, and psychological impairement ) and confronting adaptative behaviours to cut down the effects/ emphasis. ( Sundstrom E 1996 ) stated empirical find in general is consistent with this hypothesis. ( Vilnai-Yavetz I 2005 ) proposed that office interior decorators should denounce the three separate rule which is the instrumentality, aesthetics and symbolism. Instrumentality is about the phase where physical property of an office supported their needful activities. Aestheticss refer to the beauty of the office. The survey besides province about the research that discover ‘beautiful ‘ suites ( as opposed to ‘ugly ‘ suites ) have a important difference on consequence to the perceptual experiences and emotions non numbering for short/long term. The 3rd rule is symbolism, which refer to the relationships that created by a infinite. the author found difference statistically between these two rules, that is instrumentality and aesthetics and occupation satisfaction and public presentation. Large part of all of the undertakings that residents in offices been through demands mental labor comparison to physical labor, where it relates with the office environment that should be more related to comfort. Furthermore, decline of interior environment will cut down the degree of capacity of the residents, where it will do the reduction of productiveness and increasing the emphasis degree. So, maintaining a better office is really important. ( Brasche S 2001 ) . As the sum-up, beside of all these groundss are still blur, there are a few of character that can be categorized as alone, or at least more common towards green constructing that have been linked to the quality of the indoor environment. Besides that, there are groundss which can associate comfort with characteristics that grant personal control towards temperature and airing. Furthermore, there are cogent evidence on how comfort is associating to workplace satisfaction. The purpose of this survey is to prove a statement, ( 1 ) green constructing create more comfy infinite ( 2 ) better comfort will steer to a higher overall satisfaction. This statement will be trial with methods of understanding the IEQ i a green edifice and how it act upon the comfort and satisfaction perceptual experience of the residents. Green edifice in this research is a edifice that situated in the locality of a metropolis in Malaysia, where Malaysia is celebrated for typical tropical clime. The variable of th e clime in Malaysia is non based on the temperature or air force per unit area but rainfall. In general, the clime in Malaysia can be describe where its coastal field temperature averaging 28 °C. With this type of clime, it will be a alone chance for this type of survey to see the mode of the IEQ of green edifices in Malaysia react to their resident ‘s degree of comfort. A, L. ( 1999 ) . UK survey links productiveness to airing systems. HPAC Magazine. 71. Brager GS, d. D. R. ( 1998 ) . â€Å" Thermal version in the reinforced environment: a literature reappraisal. † Energy and Buildings 27: 83-96. Brasche S, B. M. , Bronisch M, Bischof W ( 2001 ) . â€Å" Eye and tegument symptoms in German office workers. † Int J Hyg Environ Health 203: 311-316. Browning W, R. J. ( 1995 ) . Greening the bottom line: increasing productiveness through energy efficient design. In: Second international green edifices conference and expounding. Gaithersburg, MD, National Institute of Standards and Technology. Daghigh R, A. N. , Sahari BB ( 2009 ) . â€Å" Ventilation parametric quantities and thermic comfort of of course and automatically ventilated offices. † Indoor Built Environ 18 ( 2 ) : 113-122. Han MH, J. M. , Oh YK ( 2010 ) . â€Å" Residential and acoustic environments perceived by occupants of regional metropoliss in Korea: a instance survey of Mokpo metropolis. † Indoor Built Environ 19 ( 1 ) : 102-113. J, H. ( 2000 ) . â€Å" Green edifices, organisational success and occupant productiveness. † Building Research A ; Information 28 ( 5/6 ) : 353–367. Lee YS, G. D. ( 2010 ) . â€Å" Indoor environmental quality differences between office types in LEED-certified edifices in the US. † Building Environ 45 ( 5 ) : 1104-1112. Lim HS, K. G. ( 2010 ) . â€Å" Predicted public presentation of shadowing devices for healthy ocular environment. † Indoor Built Environ 19 ( 4 ) : 486-496. Menzies D, P. J. , Nunes F, Leduc J, Chan C-H ( 1997 ) . â€Å" Effect of new airing system on wellness and wellbeing of office workers. † Archives of Environmental wellness 52 ( 5 ) : 360-368. Plass N, K. I. ( 2007 ) . â€Å" Strategic and practical deductions in determination devising and planning for sustainability. † Indoor Built Environ 18 ( 3 ) : 204-215. PR, B. ( 2010 ) . â€Å" The impact of visible radiation in edifices on human wellness. † Indoor Built Environ 19 ( 1 ) : 8-20. Preller L, Z. T. , Brunekreef B, Bolej JSM ( 1990 ) . Sick leave due to work related wellness ailments among office workers in the Netherlands. Indoor Air ’90, Toronto. Sundstrom E, B. P. , Busby PL, Asmus C ( 1996 ) . â€Å" Environmental psychological science 1989–1994. † Annual Reviews in Psychology 47: 485-512. Vilnai-Yavetz I, R. A. , Yaacov CS ( 2005 ) . â€Å" Instrumentality, aesthetics, and symbolism of office design. † Environment and Behaviour 37 ( 4 ) : 533-551. Yu CWF, K. J. ( 2010 ) . â€Å" Building pathology, probe of ill buildings– VOC emanations. † Indoor Built Environ 19 ( 1 ) : 30-39. How to cite The Effect of Indoor Environmental Quality of a Green Building, Essay examples

Monday, April 27, 2020

Marriott International Hotel Groups and environment

Introduction As the world continues to modernize, the environment suffers. Trees are cut down to give way for the latest commercial and/ or residential areas. The results of deforestation have been deadly over the last decades were floods and landslides brought about disasters in the homes of thousands of families. Campaigns that promote the restoration and preservation of the environment have risen over the years.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Marriott International Hotel Group’s and environment specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Different organizations have supported such through their corporate social responsibility programs but there are some that go a step further. This paper will examine Marriott International Hotel Group’s efforts in sustaining the environment. The individual operation of a hotel will be the focus of this paper because by studying the activities of Marriott in their camp aign to go green the hotel chain’s strategies implemented can be a learning lesson for someone who is in the hospitality and tourism industry. Marriott International has won several awards in terms of their environmental sustainability programs over the past decades. The JW Marriott in Indianapolis has been awarded the Emerging Green Award which was presented by the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) last November 9, 2011 at the Washington Hilton Hotel (JW Marriott Indianapolis Wins Green Award, 2011). â€Å"To be considered for the award, the hotel had to document all steps taken to lessen its environmental impact such as buying and using environmentally friendly products, having ongoing training in environmental policies and practices and encouraging the use of low-impact transportation for guests and employees† (JW Marriott Indianapolis Wins Green Award, 2011). Challenges There are a few challenges in environmental sustainability programs especial ly in the hospitality and tourism industry. In order to build hotels, trees are cut down as they are being used to build facilities. Sometimes deforestation occurs to give way for hotels and country clubs to be built on. It is a challenge for hotel engineers and architects to lessen the cutting down of trees in building facilities. Another challenge in the hotel industry with regards to environmental sustainability campaigns is the monitoring of power, gas and water usages. The hotel management can discipline and monitor the consumption of electricity, gas and water of hotel staff but it is very difficult for them to monitor the usages of hotel guests.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The management can only put notes in hotel rooms to inform guests of conserving resources but they cannot impose such on the latter thus it is difficult to monitor the consumption of natura l resources. Lastly, the challenge of reusing and recycling materials to prevent environmental harm and wastage has been a constant obstacle for any company in any given industry. In the hospitality sector, it is a challenge to reuse and recycle materials because guests and customers may complain about unsanitary practices which may harm the branding of the hotel but it is essential to note that as long as procedures are followed through management can push through with their environmental campaigns. Opportunities Opportunities for growth are endless especially in terms of environmental sustainability in the hospitality industry. For Marriott international, opportunities can be seen in the constant development and expansion of the company’s corporate social responsibility sector. Over the years the company has hosted programs such as their rainforest preservation program and the green buildings program (Sustainability Report, 2009). Marriott has set out goals to further impro ve its participation in preserving the environment. These goals include the reduction of energy and water consumption by 25% per room by 2012, expansion of the green hotel development in 5 years time, conversion of Marriott’s $10 billion supply chain to green, educate and inspire not only associates but also guests to support environmental programs and address environmental obstacles through innovative conservation initiatives like the rainforest protection and water conservation (Sustainability Report, 2009). Trends Jonas Lang LaSalle predicted that by 2012 there would be 4 environmental sustainability trends that would persist. These trends would shape the sustainable development movement are transparency, global consistency, public/ private collaboration and focus on solar energy (Four Sustainability Trends to Watch in 2012, 2012). Transparency includes measurement and disclosure of information relating to sustainability such as energy consumption and carbon emission.Adver tising We will write a custom case study sample on Marriott International Hotel Group’s and environment specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More â€Å"In 2011, more than 3,000 companies, including 404 Global 500 firms, voluntarily reported their carbon emissions, water management and climate change policies to Carbon Disclosure Project in 2011, perhaps swayed by CDP’s 551 investor members, who use the information in deciding where to place more than $71 trillion in investment capital† (Four Sustainability Trends to Watch in 2012, 2012). Global consistency includes the development and standardization of a framework in understanding the effectiveness of environmental sustainability strategies adopted and implemented by different firms globally. â€Å"Consistent measurement is important to corporations as they focus on sustainability not only in their own operations but, increasingly, throughout their supply chain as w ell† (Four Sustainability Trends to Watch in 2012, 2012). The collaboration of the public and private sector is an expected trend in 2012 and for future years to come. In the past year, 2011, we have seen both government and business organizations collaborate in sharing and realizing their green goals. It is in theses collaborative initiatives that obstacles to sustainability are best overcame for both agencies possess their own strengths which may be beneficial in the collaboration. Lastly focus on solar energy will be the last perceived trend in 2012. Jones Lang LaSalle predicts that by 2012 solar powered devices will take over the market. These devices will affect supply and demand economics paving way to technological advancements and organizations will take advantage of this innovation by creating incentives. Global Perspective: Hospitality Industry Going Green In 1996, the World Travel and Tourism Council together with the World Tourism Organization and the Earth Council developed the global environmental certification program for the hospitality and tourism industry. This program identifies environmental sustainability issues that threaten the economy as well as the ecological balance of the community. It presents recommendations and strategies on how to transition to more sustainable development practices. Environmental friendly practices are encouraged by hotel companies. They are â€Å"embracing sustainability practices through all their developmental and operational strategies†.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is a trend in the hotel industry to go environmentally friendly thus initiatives such as educational programs, reforestation programs, eco-resorts, energy efficient practices and developmental projects that build infrastructures that comply with environmental friendly standards enable the hotel industry to adopt practices that are related to sustainability more conveniently. â€Å"Over the last decade, the movement towards ecologically sound tourism has swept across the globe; and the practices being implemented are as diverse as the different geographies. Hotel companies are being prompted by rising energy costs, government pressure, consumer expectations and the competitive landscape to increasingly make sustainability a top priority† (Hospitality Going Green, 2009). Ten Eco-Friendly Hospitality Companies Below is a list of the top 10 eco-friendly hospitality companies with their corresponding platforms with regards to eco-friendly practices and environmental conservatio n and sustainability programs (Environmental Mission Statements: A List of Hotel Sustainability Policies, 2010). Kimpton Hotels Restaurant Group – The company has an environmental program called Eathcare where every hotel and restaurant adopts environmental friendly products at the same time they religiously practice recycling among its chains. – Corporate Philanthropy. Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company – The company has created the Ritz-Carlton Environmental Action Conservation Teams (REACT) to deliver its objective in conserving the environment. The team is responsible for implementing eco-friendly practices to minimize environmental imprint of the hotel chain. REACT primarily works on projects aimed to restore native plants, protect endangered species and clean beaches and roadsides. – Corporate Philanthropy. Intercontinental Hotel Group – They created a program called Green Engaged where their objective is to reduce energy, water and waste, cutting carbon emissions, and raising guest and staff awareness of sustainable issues. They have partnered with National Geographic in educating people on environmental issues. –Corporate Philanthropy. Fairmount Hotels and Resorts – Created the Green Partnership Program which minimizes â€Å"property operational impacts on the environment through resource conservation and best practices†. – Corporate Philanthropy. Marriott International, Inc. – The hotel chain’s environmental goals are to decrease water and energy consumption by 25% per room by 2017, create green construction standards for hotel developers, educate partners, staff and guests about environmental issues and invest in conservation initiates such as the rainforest protection and water conservation. Corporate Philanthropy. Omni Hotels and Resorts – The company is heavily practicing recycling, conserves energy by promoting hybrid and other energy efficient technologies, utilize eco -friendly products, reduce carbon footprints, create green roofs and plant more trees and water supplies. Corporate Philanthropy. Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. – The company has created an environmental sustainability policy aimed at conserving natural resources, minimizing waste and pollution, enhancing indoor environmental quality, establishing and reporting on key environmental performance indicators and educating associates, guests and communities on environmental issues. Corporate Philanthropy. Wyndham Worldwide Corporation – They created a program called Wyndham Green where they aim to develop environmental programs, products and services, set and measure environmental impact targets, and comply with climate policies and environmental laws. Corporate Philanthropy. McDonald’s – The fast food chain aims to help the environment improving waste management and sustainable packaging, conserving energy and having green restaurant designs. â⠂¬â€œ Corporate Philanthropy. Lifetime Gym – The gym’s sustainability initiatives involve sustainable carpeting, designing a green building, energy and water conservation, recycling and promoting the use of environmental friendly products and services. – Corporate Philanthropy. Marriott Environmental Campaign Marriott Hotels International has been one of most active hotel organizations in terms of the preservation of the environment. The company pays attention to the quality and services its managements provides. It pays much attention to sourcing locally grown products and encourages its associates, staff and guests to minimize their impact on the environment by conserving energy, gas and water. Marriott Hotels International promotes among its staff and guests the proper way of disposing garbage, conserving energy and traveling and/ or working in the most environmental friendly way an individual can. Among Marriott’s eco-friendly programs include  "Marriott’s linen and towel reuse program which aims to conserve water and energy and minimize the release of detergent chemicals to the environment. The environment is an everyday consideration at Marriott, say staff, returning a positive green score of 81% on this point in our employee survey. They say the green credentials of the organization influenced their decision to work here (50%, and a top 15 ranking) and acknowledge that it is younger colleagues who are driving environmental change (62%, with just seven firms scoring better). Marriott’s eco-friendly practices include providing eco pillows, recyclable key cards and coreless toilet rolls, and producing up to 20% of its own electricity† (Best Green Companies, 2011). In March 2010, another Marriott branch in Portsmouth launched its latest recycling scheme where the hotel aims to recycle 98% of wastes produced (Portsmouth: Marriott recycles 98% of waste, 2010). The hotel has collaborated with local recyclin g experts such as ACM Waste Management plc and PDM Group to make such program a success. In this recycling scheme all the hotel’s waste food products will be recycled. This program is first implemented in Portsmouth but will soon be adopted by other hotel branches. Aside from this new recycling program, Marriott has implemented other processes in recycling. This included the placing of recycling bins in guest rooms and meeting rooms. All hotel staffs are trained to separate biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes ((Portsmouth: Marriott recycles 98% of waste, 2010). Marriott’s Environmentally Conscious Hospitality Operations program is the hotel chain’s sustainability plan where it focuses on the conservation of water and energy, activities concerning clean air, recycling, wildlife preservation and cleaning up neighborhoods. â€Å"Through this program, it replaced 450,000 incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent lighting, introduced linen re-use systems, and installed 400,000 low-flow showerheads and toilets at its hotels worldwide. Marriott has also reduced water usage by more than 15% over the last five years through the said program† (Marriott International Inc, USA and Global Tourism Business Award Winner, 2009). Marriott Hotel International commits to ensure that business activities and practices of the company will be properly managed so as to have minimal impact on the environment. The company guarantees that the operations of the hotel chain will comply with all statutory regulations concerning the environment. Marriott’s environmental action plan for 2010 includes the increase of recycling practices to reduce wastages, the improvement of energy management systems and awareness to reduce the consumption of power and gas, the installation of flow reducing devices to reduce water consumption, the investment of compact fluorescent lamps and replacement of existing Dichronic Halogen lamps to reduce energy consumption a nd the establishment of a green team to help implement energy saving initiatives (http://www.marriott.com/hotelwebsites/us/l/lgwgs/lgwgs_pdf/Environmental%20Policy-2010.pdf). In its use of technology Marriott was named â€Å"Top 12 Green IT Companies by the Computer World magazine in 2009 (Marriott Wins Big Reward by Going Hi-Tech and Low Energy, 2009). â€Å"Marriott developed an underground data center to take advantage of a naturally cool environment to reduce power consumption in the IT arena. The company also uses server virtualization and desktop power management policies. Additionally, so far Marriott has recycled more than 28,761 IT assets, diverting 629,408 pounds of waste from landfills, according to the release† (Marriott Hotel Industry Continue Green Push, 2009). Marriott has also stopped its automatic newspaper drop program to guests’ bedroom but instead the management asks guests which newspaper they wish to read during their stay. The hotel chain also o ffers its guests the option to support their green stay program where an additional $1 a day will be billed to hotel guests (Marriott Hotel Industry Continue Green Push, 2009). The hotel chain also expressed its plans to expand their green hotels program by 1000% in November 2009. This program includes the revamping of Marriott’s hotels to environmental friendly designs (Marriott Plans to Expand Green Hotels by 1000%, 2009). Marriott Hotel International also adopted a smoke-free hotel policy where it provides its guests a smoke free environment. â€Å"The smoke-free hotel policy has received praise from guests, and Marriott remains committed to achieving a smoke-free environment in all of its properties in the U.S. and Canada. The continuing efforts of these properties to comply with the smoke-free policy reinforce Marriott’s commitment to being an environmentally friendly company† (The Marriott Smoke-free Hotel Policy, 2012). Marriott Hotel International has be en actively involved in the preservation of the environment. The hotel chain has trained its associates and staff of eco-friendly practices to adopt in proving services to clients and guests. Staffs are trained to conserve energy, gas and water. They are also educated in separating wastages from biodegradable to non-biodegradable. Hotel staffs are well aware of practices which may benefit the environment thus the success of Marriott not only lies with their environmentally aware manpower but also in their constant innovative programs and strategies to minimize the hotel chain’s impact on the environment. The corporate social responsibility team of Marriott International Hotel has been actively participating in the conservation of the ecosystem. Marriott has been developing programs such as the reusing of linens and towels by guests to conserve electricity from washing them as well as water. This program also minimizes the use of detergents to flush out in the environment. Asi de from training and educating its staffs and associates, Marriott also holds programs where it helps in reviving rainforests especially in Brazil. The company has contributed so much in terms of saving the environment. It has also started renovating existing hotels with a new environmentally friendly â€Å"green† design. Conclusion Environmental sustainability is very important especially in the hospitality and tourism industry because we are marketing sceneries for guests to relax. With the destruction of the environment, traveling will be a hassle especially with the constant change of weathers. Hotels in the tropics especially those located near beaches would always suffer from tsunamis. On the other hand hotels located in areas where forests have been victimized by illegal logging and deforestation would constantly suffer from flash floods and landslides. It is important to sustain our environment to preserve the eco-system. As someone who is part of the hotel and touris m business, I have observed that the weather and climate as well as the environment play important roles in marketing and packaging hotels and vacations. Clients want to visit places that are beautiful. Most people whether they are staying in a hotel for vacation or for business prefer the ambiance of nature. Whether they are surrounded by trees or the ocean, it is a big and major factor where hotels are located. It is important to preserve the environment for it affects all industries. In the hospitality and tourism industry the environment plays a big role in the planning and decision making of customers and guests. It is important that each company must be aware of environmental issues and address them through simple deeds such as the conservation of power, water and gas. Employees must be trained to conserve resources and practice proper waste disposal. It is also important that companies constantly improve corporate social responsibility programs to further adapt to changes in the environment and address issues through CSR programs. Marriott International Hotel is a great example of a hotel chain with a solid environmental sustainability program. Reference List Best Green Companies. (2011). Retrieved from http://bestgreencompanies.thesundaytimes.co.uk/5/profile/307/Marriott-Hotels-International/ Environmental Mission Statements: A List of Hotel Sustainability Policies. (2010). Retrieved from http://www.environmentalleader.com/2010/03/18/environmental-mission-statements-a-list-of-hotel-sustainability-policies/ Four Sustainability Trends to Watch in 2012. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.htrends.com/trends-detail-sid-60391-t-Four_Sustainability_Trends_to_Watch_in_____.html Hospitality Going Green. (2009). Retrieve from http://www.irei.com/uploads/marketresearch/128/marketResearchFile/hospitality_insights_DF0052.pdf JW Marriott Indianapolis Wins Green Award. (2011). Retrieved from http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jw-marriott-indianapolis-wins-green-a ward-135446153.html Marriott Hotel Industry Continue Green Push. (2009). Retrieved from http://www.environmentalleader.com/2009/04/27/marriott-hotel-industry-continue-green-push/ Marriott International Inc, USA and Global Tourism Business Award Winner. (2009). Retrieved from http://www.besteducationnetwork.org/case_studies/pdf/Marriott%20International%20Inc%20USA.pdf Marriott Plans to Expand Green Hotels by 1000%. (2009). Retrieved from http://www.environmentalleader.com/2009/11/11/marriott-plans-to-expand-green-hotels-by-1000/ Marriott Wins Big Reward by Going Hi-Tech and Low Energy. (2009). Retrieved from http://www.hoteltechresource.com/article38330.html Portsmouth: Marriott recycles 98% of waste. (2010) Retrieved from http://www.businessmag.co.uk/News/Hospitality/Portsmouth–Marriott-recycles-98–of-waste.aspx Sustainability Report. (2009). Retrieved from http://www.marriott.com/Images/Text%20Images/US/MarriottSocialResponsibilityandCommunityEngagement.pdf The Marrio tt Smoke-free Hotel Policy. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.marriott.com/marriott.mi?page=smokefree This case study on Marriott International Hotel Group’s and environment was written and submitted by user Darkstar to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Thursday, March 19, 2020

Writing Habits to Jumpstart Your Creativity and Keep You Focused - Freewrite Store

Writing Habits to Jumpstart Your Creativity and Keep You Focused - Freewrite Store I don’t know about you, but for me, I find that creativity and inspiration are two of the hardest things to come by as a writer. Random flashes of ideas for stories are great when they happen, but what about all those times you need to intentionally create an idea for a story or an article? Today’s guest post is by  Matt Grant.  Matt is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor.  His  work has appeared in  Literary Hub,  Book Riot,  HuffPost, and  BookBrowse.  Find Matt  online, or follow him on  Twitter  and  Facebook. I don’t know about you, but for me, I find that creativity and inspiration are two of the hardest things to come by as a writer. Random flashes of ideas for stories are great when they happen, but what about all those times you need to intentionally create an idea for a story or an article? As humans, we’re all creatures of habit. But our habits are always doing one of two things: helping us or hurting us. The good news for writers is that we can leverage our tendency toward the habitual to aid us in the writing process. Good writing habits, when used correctly, can help us get into a regular rhythm that cultivates inspiration and keeps us focused during our writing time. Below are some of the best habits you can start today that will jumpstart your creativity and make sure your writing time is fruitful and rewarding. Before the Process Practice Morning Pages Morning pages were first introduced in Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity.The idea of morning pages is simple: the first thing in the morning, write three full pages in a journal or notebook, longhand, as stream-of-consciousness. It’s not supposed to be great writing, and you’re not to self-edit. The main purpose for practicing morning pages is to clear your mind of all distracting thoughts, tasks, and moods that might hinder your creativity that day. When it comes time to write, you won’t be thinking about the laundry you have to do or the conversation with a friend you need to have that day, because you’ve already written it out and set it aside for later. Do writing prompts I’ve recently discovered the huge benefit of writing prompts after being skeptical of them for many years. Often writers don’t think they need to do prompts because they prefer to come up with their own ideas.   But the right prompt can open up new ideas and ways of looking at things you aren’t able to see on your own. You can find writing prompts a variety of ways. Many are free online, you can buy a book of them, or come up with them yourself. Write them down to use at a later time. Try writing sprints Often the challenge for writers is to finish a piece of writing without worrying about it being perfect. That’s where sprints come in. Sprints are short bursts of writing, about 15 minutes at a time. They’re like doing repetitions at the gym. You do a sprint, then rest and do something else, then do another sprint, then rest again, and so on, for as long as you like. Similar to morning pages, you shouldn’t stop writing or try to edit your work during the sprint. Just pick a topic and write for fifteen minutes straight. When you’re done, you’ll have a finished thought or a piece of flash fiction that can then be edited and shaped into something more significant. Check out this free sprinting program  by the Freewrite team  to help you! Read voraciously I know, I know, I probably should have put this one first. It can sometimes be hard to see how reading directly affects your creativity, especially when you’re anxious to get a work in progress done, and you’d rather be writing. But the adage â€Å"a writer is first and foremost a reader† is absolutely true, so read widely anything you can get your hands on, any chance you get. Read different genres in different forms – novels, articles, essays, short stories, poetry and flash fiction. You never know when something you read will strike you as inspiring, and the more you absorb the words of others, the better your own words will get. To get started, try this reading challenge that forces you to read diversely. During the Process Pick the right time of day Once you’ve had that flash of inspiration and are settling in to get started on your work, it’s important to implement the right habits to keep you on track and focused. One of the first steps is figuring out when you’re likely to get your best work done. I’ve personally found that waking up extremely early and writing first thing in the morning has opened up the rest of my day. After I get home from work, I don’t feel as energized or as focused. Of course, not everyone is a morning person. For you, it might be at night, or in the afternoon. Pick which time of day you’re at your most alert and creative, and block out that time to write. And once it’s scheduled, stick to it! Change locales If you’re in a rut, one of the best things you can do is get a change of scenery. Often, finding a coffee shop or a nice library, surrounded by books or soothing music, can be a real boon to getting those creative juices flowing again. If you don’t have a place nearby where that’s possible, go for a walk to clear your head and come back to your work with fresh eyes. Put away distractions However, these locations can only be helpful if you’re not distracted, so be ruthless about putting distractions away! Buy a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, turn the wireless off on your computer, put away your cell phone, and stay away from your inbox. We all know the Internet is a black hole – one minute you’re looking something up for your project, and the next, you’ve spent an hour on Facebook. Set aside another time for planning and researching. Keep your writing time sacred for just that – writing.    Bonus Question: Do you really need to write every day? This suggestion is usually at the top of most writing advice lists. To be honest, I’m inclined to distrust it. I’m wary of anything that’s touted as a â€Å"must† or some mystical talisman. Of course, it’s a good idea to get into a habit of writing on a regular basis. Of course, you should often write and for long periods of time.   But I firmly believe, as with everything, writing should be done in moderation to maximize its effectiveness. More and more research is pointing out how, paradoxically, working less actually leads to more productivity. People who are constantly working are more tired, more anxious, and less inspired – all of which are deathblows to creativity. I regularly take vacations from writing, where I don’t do any kind of work at all. At the end of these breaks, I always come back to my work with a renewed sense of enthusiasm and motivation.    So, by all means, write as often as you can, but if you miss a day, give yourself some grace. When it comes to inspiration, there’s a lot to be said for being out in the world, doing other activities and experiencing things that will fuel your stories. For a writer, there’s no better inspiration than just living life. There’s no doubt that writing is work – hard, grueling, sweat-inducing work. Just as with everything, there are working behaviors and practices you can put in place to help you be more productive and less distracted. Obviously, not everything on this list is going to work for you, and there might be something I left out that’s even better. If so, please leave a comment and let me know what behaviors and practices you have that help keep you inspired! What writing habits do you swear by? Do you have any habits or routines that you love and would recommend to others? Let us know in the comments!    Matt Grant is a Brooklyn-based writer whose work has appeared in  BookRiot, The Huffington Post, BookBrowse, and  Pop Matters. When he's not writing or reading, he works in youth development as an after-school program director for one of the largest middle schools in Manhattan. You can find him online at www.mattgrantwriter.com or on Twitter: @mattgrantwriter.

Monday, March 2, 2020

Forming Plurals with s

Forming Plurals with s Forming Plurals with ’s Forming Plurals with ’s By Maeve Maddox This reader’s lament prompted the recent spate of apostrophe posts: Could you please do a post on possessives versus plurals? Im seeing this mistake more and more, to the point where I saw someone use an apostrophe for a plural on a billboard. Because people are easily confused by the apostrophe, I have treated possession separately: The Singular Possessive Apostrophe The Plural Possessive Apostrophe Now, I’ll focus on the reader’s main concern: the use of the apostrophe to form a plural. Some English speakers associate the apostrophe so strongly with the letter s that they compulsively hurl it at every s that occurs at the end of a word. For example: 20 Craft Idea’s for Kid’s Three Barber’s on Duty My Cat Love’s Me All Product’s Updated Frequently Puppie’s For Sale Open Sunday’s Our Preschooler’s Can Read In deference to another reader, who has asked me to supply corrected versions of cited errors, here are the correct forms: 20 Craft Ideas for Kids Three Barbers on Duty My Cat Loves Me All Products Updated Frequently Puppies For Sale Open Sundays Our Preschoolers Can Read I wish that I could state the rule that one must never ever use an apostrophe to form a plural. All I can say is that one must almost never ever do so. Certainly, an apostrophe is never used to form the plural of an ordinary noun. Someone who sports a bumper sticker that says, â€Å"Our preschooler’s can read† or letters a sign that says â€Å"Puppie’s for sale,† has a feeble understanding of how noun plurals are formed in English: one preschooler, two preschoolers one puppy, two puppies Someone who embroiders â€Å"My cat love’s me† on a cushion has never learned the difference between nouns and verbs. Third person singular verbs in English end with s: He runs, she sings, it barks. Apostrophes are never used with verbs. We can postulate a rule about words that end in s: If a word ends in the letter s, don’t put an apostrophe anywhere near it, unless you wish to indicate possession. So, when is it all right to form a plural with ’s? Usually, the only time to use ’s to form a plural is when pluralizing letters and symbols like and %. Authorities differ. The Plural of Capital Letters The Chicago Manual of Style states the rule that most capitals may be pluralized by adding s without an apostrophe and gives this example: â€Å"Children need to master the three Rs.† The AP Stylebook, on the other hand, recommends using the apostrophe to form the plural of all capital letters and gives the example â€Å"the three R’s.† The AP recommendation makes practical sense because some capital letters do require an apostrophe for clarity. Compare: Your Ss, Is, and Us are illegible. Your S’s, I’s, and U’s are illegible. The Plural of Lowercase Letters Lowercase letters require an apostrophe for clarity. Compare: There are two is in liaison. There are two i’s in liaison. The Plural of Numerals Numerals form their plurals by adding s only: He bowled three 300s. His parents grew up in the 1950s. Both CMOS and AP agree that numerals may form the plural without an apostrophe. OxfordDictionaries online does allow the use of the apostrophe to show the plurals of single numbers: â€Å"Find all the number 7’s.† The Penguin Guide to Punctuation (first published 1997), states that American usage calls for an apostrophe with a date and admonishes British speakers: â€Å"You should not adopt this practice unless you are specifically writing for an American audience.† The use of an apostrophe with a pluralized date may once have been American practice, but now both the Chicago Manual of Style and the AP Stylebook state that dates are pluralized without an apostrophe: â€Å"the 1950s.† The trend globally is against the use of the apostrophe to form the plural of anything. Using an apostrophe to form the plural of a word, letter, symbol, or numeral is justified only if leaving it out would interfere with reading comprehension. I’ve yet to exhaust the topic of apostrophe use, but this will have to do for now. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Punctuation category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:5 Uses of Infinitives8 Types of Parenthetical PhrasesTitled versus Entitled

Saturday, February 15, 2020

Managerial Decision Making Research and Analysis Paper - 1

Managerial Decision Making and Analysis - Research Paper Example This strategic initiative has enabled the company to grow its business in international scales. As a result, nowadays, Starbucks operates in 62 countries across North America, Latin America, the Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa. As of September, 2014 the company employed approximately 191, 000 people (Starbucks Annual Report, 2014). For the FY 2014 the company reported the total net revenue of $16, 447.8 million, which resulted in 12% increase compared to the revenue generated in FY 2013 (Starbucks Annual Report). Below is provided more detailed overview of company’s total net revenue for the past 5 years. Thus, total net revenues of Starbucks increased by 11% in 2014 compared to 2013. In terms of business segments, the Americas business segment has generated the highest share of revenue - $ 12 billion (increased by 9% compared to FY 2013 (Starbucks Annual Report, 2014). Starbucks, being a company operating internationally faces many different types of risks and uncertainties, which are industry-specific, country-specific and general business risks. In its Annual Financial report, Starbucks indicates risks and possible changes to the economic environment that could ultimately appear to have adverse affect on its financial condition, business, or results of operation. Some of these risks include the following: As the US is one of the major markets generating significant share of the total revenue of the company, it is dependent on the economic condition in this country, in particular, on consumer discretionary spending (Starbucks Annual Report, 2014). Starbucks operates in food and beverage industry and is subject to public criticism and other adverse opinions. Such incidents could harm the company’s business and damage its brand value (Starbucks Annual Report, 2014). Thus, for example any report linking Starbucks with use of unclean water would threaten the

Sunday, February 2, 2020

American Heritage Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

American Heritage - Essay Example These branches include legislature, executives and judiciary. Where the legislature is responsible for law making and involves Congress and Senate, executives include president and other members of state departments. These members are responsible for ensuring that laws are well executed. On the other hand, judiciary is vested with the power of evaluating how the law is interpreted. It is important to note that the notion behind separation of power also provides one branch a leverage or supremacy over other to ensure that no branch supersedes others and also there is no abuse of powers. This system is further supported with the help of state and national governments and horizontal division of power among them. Mainly the vertical division among government branches i.e. legislature, executive (president and bureaucracy) and judiciary (the Supreme Court and federal courts) is known as separation of powers (Geer et al. 11). Articles I, II and III of U.S. constitution provide a preamble o f this division of power and authority among government’s branches. A simple example of it can be President’s authority to designate judges however members of the Senate need to approve these nominations. Secondly, legislation passed by Congress can be superseded by President’s veto power. ... There are different views regarding which branch has a tendency of ruling out the interests of others. According to Hamilton, judiciary is the weakest of all as it only has access to limited areas of constitution i.e. controversial cases only (Lavinbuk 862). On the other hand, Presidency is perceived to be a weaker part since its actions are based on the approval of Senate. Despite all these allegations, the separation of power ensures transparency and checks and balance in all branches of government theoretically. 2. Differences in Hamilton and Jefferson School of Thought Hamilton and Jeffersonian views have some significant differences regarding shape and structure of government in United States. The present structure represents an amalgam of both however some of differences are irreconcilable. Firstly, Jeffersonian view supports equality of all individuals despite their class, gender, ethnicity or age. Despite absence of women and African Americans in 1787 Constitution, the propos ed system had a room of inclusion of different social groups identified in future (Geer et al. 13). On the other hand, Hamiltonian view was an advocate of elites running the national government particularly at its beginning. Jeffersonian view is rather skeptical of government’s integrity and believes that every form of government can be corrupted due to a superior executive whereas Hamiltonian view believed that for a stronger system of, a power executive is important. Thirdly, Jeffersonian school of thought believed in state governments and citizens to have control over main government whereas Hamiltonian group supports the idea of strong national government (DiLorenzo 59). Fourthly, Jeffersonian perspective assumed U.S. to be an agrarian entity with no involvement in global

Saturday, January 25, 2020

Capital Punishment Essays - Benefits of the Death Penalty :: Argumentative Persuasive Essays

Capital Punishment Essays - Benefits of the Death Penalty    In the eighteenth century,England would punish by death for pickpocketing and petty theft. Ever since the 1650's colonist could be put to death for denying the true god or cursing their parents advocates. Capital Punishment have clashed almost continuously in the forum of public opinion in state legislatures and most recently in courts. In 1972,the case of furman vs.Georgia reached the supreme court. The court decided that punishment by death did indeed violate the eighth amendment to containing that "excessive fines imposed,nor cruel and unusual punishment inflicted." By this decision death sentences all over the country were set aside. The three most common death penalties are the gas chamber,lethal injection,and the electric chair. Capital punishment has become an increasingly controversial issue over many decades. The problem lies between, is the death penalty being accepted in murder cases or ruled out completely. While some people feel that Capital Punishment will not discourage crime, Capital punishment should be legalized in all states, because it is morally just and it will deter crime.    The many opponents of capital punishment who are against it feel that the death penalty is not a deterrent and that it is barbariaertic of the past. It has no place in a civilized society today. One of the biggest arguments against capital punishment is people feel that it violates the eighth amendment which forbids cruel and unusual punishment. People against Capital Punishment believe the death penalty is absurd and is in un-christian practice. Further more, they feel society should not" encourage sentiments of vengenance cater to morbid interest in ritual execution." Criminologists also built a strong case that the threat of death failed to deter murder, anymore effectively than prison. Therefore, to inflict harm to one,it is simply useless.    However, the punishment fits the crime therefore, it is morally just. Capital punishment is an expression of society's moral outrage at offensive conduct. This may be appealing to many but it is essential in an ordered society. It asks our citizens to rely on legal procedures rather than to self-help their wrongs doings. It is morally right to sentence a person to the death penalty who has commited a serious crime as murder. If someone has murdered a person it is unethical to let the murderer live when you have an innocent person who is dead. Capital Punishment has to be based entirely on consideration of justice and morality.    Finally, the death penalty is a deterrent against crimes. Statistics show that the crime rate is reduced in all states that hold the death penalty.

Friday, January 17, 2020

Philippine Cinema: An in-depth Analysis Essay

Values and Traits of Filipino Films Philippine Cinema has unique values and traits. Don Jose as the Father of Filipino Films labeled the Filipino films as quality content and has a commercial appeal among movie goers. Many of the films created by Don Jose Nepomuceno were received the approval of the box office and win the heart of film critics. Nepomuceno has a mind-set in every movie that he will create that a content of a movie should have the combination of artwork and crass commercialism (Quirino, 1983). Nepomuceno did not know that he will become a master of film creation here in the Philippine Cinema. Nepomuceno studied fine arts in his college degree and after finishing that course he continued studying electrical engineering. He is also a business minded person at the very young age because of the influence of his family and they have their own business stalls. The combination of his technicality with his background in electrical engineering and the artistic mind of Don Jose as he had a background in his fine arts degree led him to his popularity and became a successful director in Philippine Cinema. He’s mind as business person also helped him to create movies that will approve the movie-goer’s choice as the competition from other films especially Hollywood films were tough at that time. He survived his movies as compare to other Filipino filmmakers to remain on the circulation (Qurino, 1983). On the study conducted by Nicanor Tiongson, she mentioned in her article entitled â€Å"Four Values in Filipino Drama and Film† that most of the films in the Philippines have a perspectives of 1.Maganda ang Maputi (White is beautiful) 2. Masaya ang palabas (Shows are the best) 3. Mabuti ang inaapi (Hurrah for the undog!) 4. Maganda pa ang Daigidig (all is right within the world) (Tiongson, 2004). Tiongson (2004) concluded on the said article above that the first value which is white is beautiful is the strongest evidence of colonial mentality from the date when we were colonized by the Spaniards up to the present time where in we’re introduced to Western-pop culture. Television also showed the concept of having white skin is beautiful. Lots of commercials endorsed to  use whitening soap, lotion, or even taking tablets or capsules are prescribed to have fair and white skin. The said article based on the study performed by Tiongson came up with a resolution and recommendation that those four values must be replaced by the following: 1. Maganda ang kayumangi 2. Masaya ang palabas na may laman 3. Mabuti ang may sariling isip 4. Gaganda pa ang daigdig. This only show that we need to create art that will help to lift-up our own culture. The article sends a message that if we think we have good content of the films, we can make it better by trying the values that we don’t use ( Tiongson, 2004). As what Tiongson concluded on her critics in Philippine Cinema, the content of the films produced locally became low and not offer unique storyline anymore. Viewers now a day entertained and patronized movies that has no content of artistry and it has a universal plot of story which can be viewed and be predicted even at the start of the story. As what important from the current film industry especially in mainstream movies are to give entertainment among the audience and it should have a crass of commercialism even the quality of the movie will suffer. It seems the reason why many Philippine filmmakers and film industry are currently facing huge problem in terms of gaining trust from the audience and the positive feed back from the film critics. Joe Quirino(1983), reported on his book â€Å"Don Jose and the early Philippine Cinema† that there are only two kinds of Filipino movies and both of them make you cry – one because it’s so sad and the other it’s so bad. This only means that early cinema created films that will touch the heart of viewers. Filipinos really love the story of a film or telenovela which has drama-genre that made their eyes cry. Atty. Espiridon Laxa (President of Philippine Motion Pictures Producers Association) narrated the traits of Filipino films and the reason on why it always cater sad stories in his speech – â€Å"When our film industry came into existence in 1917, rather than functions as an art expectedly to reflect the different facets of Philippine life it became a medium of expressing the sadness of a people who suffered from foreign domination after another. This  why so many years the local films depicted sob stories† (cited in Don Jose and the early Philippine Cinema, Quirino,1983). Colonization from different foreign countries was the reason why early cinema depicted into sad stories or drama-genre of films. Current events in our society might be a big influence on the trends of films produced within a certain period of time. Marc Ferro- co director of Annales (ESC) (as cited by del Mundo, 1998), he explored the intersection between history and cinema. â€Å"We need to study film and see it in relation to the world that produces it what is our hypothesis? – that film image or not reality, documentary or fiction, true story or pure invention, is History (pp. 29). Challenges of Philippines Cinema Industry Like a simple business industry, cinema industry also encounters problem and challenges like financial aspect that affect the number of films produce each year, huge amount of taxes placed by the government in the Philippine film industry and at the same time the lack of support of the government to our filmmakers and film industry. The main root of the low quality movie produced locally is the wrong perspective of most of the filmmakers especially in the mainstream industry. The perspective of a master cinema by Filipinos and filmmakers are represented by the foreign films. The Filipino filmmakers failed to break the influence of the colonialism in the films that they created ( Del Mundo, 1998). The main challenge among Filipino filmmakers is to go back to the roots of Philippine Culture like moro-moro and zarzuela but not necessarily revive them, but to explore these indigenous sources with new character and identity. This might help Filipino blind eyes of appreciating our own native culture and can bring a promise of brighter future of Philippine Cinema (Del Mundo, 1998).

Wednesday, January 8, 2020

Alzheimer s Disease Genetic Analysis - 1129 Words

Alzheimer’s Disease: Genetic Analysis Introduction Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a profoundly common form of degenerative dementia that is caused by neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid plaques accumulating in the brain (Sennvik et.al., 2000). The study of the human genome has elucidated gene variants; single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and mutations which affect the age of onset and the likelihood of developing AD. Understanding the causes of familial AD, the genetic risk factors for AD and the links between AD and other disorders; such as Down’s syndrome, will aid researchers in the diagnosis and treatment of AD. Familial Alzheimer ’s disease Familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD) is the inheritable genetic predisposition to early-onset AD.†¦show more content†¦This promotes the aggregation of amyloid plaques and causes early-onset of FAD. Presenilin 1 Presenilin 2 PSEN1 and PSEN2 are polytopic membrane proteins (Davis et.al., 1998) that form the catalytic core in the protease ÃŽ ³-secretase (Francis et.al., 2002), which is responsible for the proteolysis of APP (Navivaeva Turner, 2013). When there is a mutation at the loci for PSEN1 and PSEN2, located on chromosome 14 and 1 respectively, the activity of ÃŽ ³-secretase is altered resulting in changes in the proteolysis of APP and increased formation of AÃŽ ² (Qain et.al., 1998). Due to the increase of AÃŽ ², amyloid plaques aggregate quickly causing early-onset of AD. Amyloid Plaques and Down’s Syndrome Down’s syndrome has distinct phenotypic features which include the aggressive early-onset of AD. This is due to the location of the APP gene; on chromosome 21. The protein APP is triplicated due to the trisomy of chromosome 21 (Wisniewski et.al., 1985). The triplication of the APP gene causes an overexpression of APP; 1.5 times more protein is produced compared to persons with two copies of the APP gene. This ultimately results in high quantities of amyloid plaques due to the larger quantity of AÃŽ ² produced. Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease While genetic mutations in proteins such as APP and presenilins have been revealed to cause deterministic

Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Short Cases - 19708 Words

MM21c short cases:MM21c-front matter 12/23/08 12:59 PM Page 1 MANAGING MARKETING IN THE 2 1S T C E N T U R Y : SHORT CASES www.mm21c.com MM21c short cases:MM21c-front matter 12/23/08 12:59 PM Page 2 2 MANAGING MARKETING IN THE 21ST CENTURY TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. SONIK CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 2. ICI FIBRES LTD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 3. THE ARDEN COMPANY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 4. UNIPRO INC. . . . . . . . .†¦show more content†¦On average, subscribers purchased 19.9 CDs annually, mostly through Sonik’s website. Annual subscriber retention rate was 90 percent. Sonik accumulated CDs from various suppliers and fulfilled its own orders. Annual fixed costs of fulfillment were $400,000; shipments averaged 3.7 CDs per package. Annual marketing expenses were $230,000; Sonik spent 90 percent on acquiring new subscribers and 5 percent on subscriber retention. Sonik’s cost of capital was 12 percent. It was considering three grow th options: a. Continue the Niche Strategy: Sonik believed it could acquire 20,000-30,000 new customers per annum for the next several years without major new investment. Sonik also believed that spending $0.5 million per annum would increase customer retention to 95 percent. b. Mass-Market Strategy: Abandon the subscription model, add many other music genres, and build a mass-market brand. Sonik estimated it would need an initial investment of $1-2 million to build brand awareness, plus an additional $0.5 million per annum for distribution and warehousing. Sonik believed it could add 40,000-50,000 new subscribers per quarter at a subscriber acquisition cost of $12.50; annual margin, $15; and 60 percent customer retention rate. c. Distribution Strategy: In addition to CDs, Sonik distributed products for other online retailers. AmeriNet Radio operated 43 radio stations in the southeast U.S. and sold CDsShow MoreRelated Pauls Case The Movie Vs. Pauls Case The Short Story by Willa Cather920 Words   |  4 PagesPauls Case The Movie Vs. Pauls Case The Short Story by Willa Cather Sometimes in movie production a film is developed from a piece of literature. Directors will use the plot of a book either to create a unique movie, or to give the audience a chance to see what their favorite book is like when acted out on the screen. Willa Cathers Pauls Case is a good example of a work adapted to video. The movie has slight differences from the book, but the director Lamont Johnson follows the originalRead MoreA Short Case783 Words   |  4 PagesREFERENCING NECESSARY Seminar week and time: Week 3 (Seminar 1), 11-11.50am Student name and ID number: Jayeshlin Naidu, s2943053 Case name: JOHANNES VAN DEN BOSCH SENDS AN EMAIL Goal of analysis: GET THE REQUESTED INFORMATION TO THE CLIENT IN A TIMELY MANNER; PREVENT LOSING THE CLIENT A. Case introduction (describe relevant case background and scope of analysis): The case is clearly about the email exchanges between both Johannes van den Bosch and his British client, Malcolm Smythe- Jones. HoweverRead MoreDescription Of A Model Case1281 Words   |  6 Pages5. Cases: Model, Related, Contrary, Borderline Invented Model Case A model is a simple representation of something else. Avant and Walker 2011, define a model case as an occurrence that defines the case or idea exactly. In many instances, a model is something that the person can relate to and should come first in the study (Avant Walker, 2011). Example of a model case: â€Å"Jason† is a 31-year-old white male that has worked on the surgical oncology floor for 5 years. He has a wife and a two-year-oldRead MoreCase Study : Short Chapters1984 Words   |  8 PagesComment and Favorite this chapter please! Short chapter guys but dont worry guys the next chapter will be much longer!!! Song: Monster by Ruelle You are closing up Lailah Leonardo, the owner of Take in Take out called out for Lailah Storms one of the waitresses that worked there. Lailah nodded and sighed quietly hoping her boss hadnt heard, she didnt want to get trouble this early in the job. Lailah didnt exactly need money, she just wanted extra cash for other purposes. 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I had always wanted to go back to my hometown and live with my parents and when I got a transfer to Delhi I didn’t waste a single moment in saying yes to the new project and heading towards Delhi. Many of my friends were also moving out from Bangalore at the same time which only made my decision easier. I felt that CaremarkRead MoreWaking Up Ibm : How A Gang Of Unlikely Rebels Transformed The Big Blue Essay2574 Words   |  11 PagesThis analytic paper will be talking about a business case titled Waking up IBM: How a Gang of Unlikely Rebels Transformed the Big Blue† by Gary Hamel (2000) and how it was transformed into an internet wave, that Bill Gates and Microsoft missed. In this paper, I will analysis the problem that was discussed throughout the business case. This will include different ideas and concepts of the company, the Org anizational Structure, and Culture of IBM during this change. This paper will shed light on theRead MoreBusiness Case Vs. Business Plan1132 Words   |  5 Pages Business Case vs. Business Plan Sunilkumar Patel Wilmington University Benjamin Franking has once said â€Å"By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.† This quote is still stands to true no matter which side of the global you visit. Especially in businesses, not discounting what size is it, it is very important to plan ahead; set goals whether they are short term or long term, share the vision with its employees. All these are mentioned in business plan which states how businessRead MoreWorking With The Current Industrial Placement Student1514 Words   |  7 Pagesmeeting deadlines was a struggle for me, since I had no hand over period. It took me a while to get my head around the different task I was required to complete. I managed to get the work done within the assigned hours, only having to stay back for short periods of approximately half an hour a couple of days. I found this period to be both rewarding and enjoyable. I had made my self familiar with Xerox abbreviations and acronyms as well as improve my excel skills. For the major ity of the work loadRead MorePauls Case the Movie vs. Pauls Case the Short Story Essay932 Words   |  4 Pagesfavorite book is like when acted out on the screen. Willa Cathers Pauls Case is a good example of a work adapted to video. The movie has slight differences from the book, but the director Lamont Johnson follows the original closely. Most movies that are inspired by books hold some relation to the authors version, but are changed to fit the directors vision and perhaps make the movie more presentable. Pauls Case the movie, beginning to the end, is basically the same, but slight differences

Monday, December 23, 2019

ADHD Diagnosis, Treatment, Etiology, and Treatment...

ADHD: Diagnosis, Treatment, Etiology, and Treatment Outlook Attention Deficit with hyper activity Disorder commonly known as ADHD is classified as a disruptive behavior disorder usually diagnosed in childhood. ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavior disorder of childhood. It appears to be more common in boys than it is girls. This Disorder is more common in boys than in girls and approximately five in one hundred children are affected (Busing). There are three subtypes: Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, predominantly inattentive, combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive (most children have the combined type of ADHD)(nimh.nih.gov).The age of onset of ADHD is usually in preschool to early elementary school years.†¦show more content†¦Some possible triggers or contributing factors are: brain injury, environmental factors, alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy. There have also been a number of â€Å"mythical causes† that have been ruled out. Some of these are: bad parenting (although a dysfunctional home can exac erbate symptoms), too much or too little sugar, artificial sweeteners, allergies and lack of vitamins. Scientific research does not currently support any of these indicated potential causal factors (nimh.nih.gov) According to the Surgeon General website, â€Å"Because the symptoms of ADHD respond well to treatment with stimulants, and because stimulants increase the availability of the neurotransmitter dopamine, the â€Å"dopamine hypothesis† has gained a wide following. The dopamine hypothesis posits that ADHD is due to inadequate availability of dopamine in the central nervous system. The neurotransmitter dopamine plays a key role in initiating purposive movement, increasing motivation and alertness, reducing appetite, and inducing insomnia, effects that are often seen when a child responds well to methylphenidate. The dopamine hypothesis has thus driven much of the recent research into the causes of ADHD.† (Surgeon General website). It does make sense that neurotransmitters are involved, since the mechanism of medications that seem to effectively reduce the symptoms of ADHD impacts the neurotransmitters. This may explain why these medications are effective for many peopleShow MoreRelatedBipolar Disorder Essay3292 Words   |  14 PagesMania, Depression, Hypomania and Mixed Episodes are the predominant moods that can be identified in the different forms of Bipolar Disorder (GlaxoSmithKlein, 2007). The etiology, symptomology, and treatment for each mood and form of Bipolar Disorder vary as well. Moods can be identified by a person’s level of happiness, sadness, outlook on life and how he may physically feel (Mondimore, 2006). Patients struggling with Bipolar Disorder have difficulty regulating the euphoric highs of mania, the â€Å"blackRead MoreAbnormal Psychology Chapter Mood Disorders5762 Words   |  24 Pagesaccount and purchased thousands of jars of vitamins and small boxes in which to put them. When he appeared at a hospital emergency room loudly demanding names of patients with AIDS, he himself was hospitalized for psychiatric observation. What is your diagnosis of Manny? A. major depressive episode B. hypomanic episode C. manic episode D. postpartum psychosis 11. Dysphoric mania refers to a type of mood disorder in which manic episodes are: A. extremely severe B. very mild C. accompanied by depression

Sunday, December 15, 2019

Ikea Paper Free Essays

string(37) " stated that IKEA is a price setter\." IKEA Business Analysis Industrial Organization – Essay I March 17, 2013 Word count: 3397 Introduction IKEA is a privately held, Swedish multinational company that is one of the world’s largest furnishings retailers. This international home products company designs and sells ready-to-assemble furniture such as beds, chairs, and desks, appliances, and home accessories. The company is the world’s largest furniture retailer. We will write a custom essay sample on Ikea Paper or any similar topic only for you Order Now IKEA was founded in 1943 in the South of Sweden, and its name is an acronym of the initials of the founder’s name, Ingvar Kamprad and of Elmtaryd and Agunnaryd, the farm and village where Kamprad grew up. The company is known for its modern architectural designs on various types of appliances and furniture, often associated with a simplified eco-friendly interior design. In addition, the firm is known for the attention it gives to cost control, operational details and continuous product development, allowing it to lower its prices by an average of two to three percent over the decade to 2010, while continuing its global expansion. As of October 2011, IKEA has 332 stores in 38 countries. Most of these stores are directly owned but some are managed under franchise by owners outside the company. By doing this, IKEA faces a higher chance of success than in a sole proprietorship. In fiscal year 2010, it sold $23. 1 billion worth of goods, a 7. 7 percent increase over 2009. In recent years, IKEA purchases from developing countries have grown from 32% in 1998 to 48% in 2003; 29% of its output comes from Asia, 67% from Europe and 4% from the USA (Arrigo, 2005). For a long time, Poland was the second supplier of raw materials after Sweden, but there was recently a giddy increase in China which, in 2004, accounted for 14% of total output, followed by Poland with 12%, Sweden with 8%, Italy with 7%, and Germany with 6% (IKEA. com). To achieve its goal of boosting efficiency while cutting costs and prices to the end consumer, IKEA is constantly looking for convenient new locations. This paper will focus on strategic investments decisions with regard to innovation and advertising and strategic product feature decisions. IKEA Supply IKEA’s vision is â€Å"To create a better everyday life for the many people. † To meet its vision IKEA provides many well-designed, functional products for the home. It prices its products low so that as many people as possible can afford to buy them. However, in creating low prices IKEA is not willing to sacrifice its principles. Low price but not at any price† is what IKEA says. This means it wants its business to be sustainable. IKEA supplies goods and services to individuals in a way that has an overall beneficial effect on people and the environment. Customers all over the world have responded positively to IKEA’s approach. This is evident in its increa sing sales. Supply chain IKEA has an extremely efficient supply chain and its management was the key source in IKEA in cost management which gave it a cutting edge among its competitors as it products where charged 30% lower than the cost of its rivals. With regard to the supply chain, the flow of production and processes go through three industrial sectors before the end product reaches the customer. Firstly, it starts with the primary sector concerning raw materials. Natural resources such as timber are extracted and developed. IKEA buys products from more than 1,300 suppliers in 50 countries (The Times 100). It uses a number of trading service offices across the world. They negotiate prices with suppliers, check the quality of materials and analyze the environmental impacts that occur through the supply chain. IKEA aims that all the products and materials it takes from the primary sector do not harm the environment. They also keep an eye on social and working conditions at suppliers. The second step is manufacturing where primary materials are used to build, manufactured and developed to finished goods. A key part of IKEA’s success is due to its communications with materials’ suppliers and manufacturers. During manufacturing IKEA specifies to its producers that waste should be avoided. Where waste does occur the firm encourages suppliers to try to use it in the manufacture of other products. IKEA has a code of conduct called the IKEA Way of Purchasing Home Furnishing Products, the IWAY (The Times 100). This contains minimum rules and guidelines that help manufacturers to reduce the impact of their activities on the environment. IKEA aims that all there products are manufactured in a responsible way. The tertiary sector provides services needed to meet the needs of the end users such as retailing, distribution, insurance, and customer services. IKEA’s retail stores add value to manufactured goods by providing a form of shopping different to the usual high-street experience. They meet the needs of the consumers in a number of different ways. Each IKEA store is large and holds more than 9,500 products giving lots of choice. Within each store, there are a number of realistic room settings that enable customers to see what the products would look like in their own homes. In addition, the IKEA store is built on a concept of â€Å"you do half, we do half; together we save money†. This refers to, for example, the customer assembling furniture at home. Customers handpick products themselves using trolleys. Also, IKEA provides catalogues and home delivery to save customers’ time. IKEA stores also have restaurants that provide Swedish dishes alongside local food choices. IKEA Competition To define the relevant market, IKEA operates in a perfectly competitive market. IKEA is a furniture store and there are many other furniture stores owned by various different entities (so there are many suppliers in this market). Normally the firms in a perfectly competitive market would be price takers. However, IKEA has a lot of market power as it is able to raise its prices above the perfectly competitive level without losing many consumers. Therefore it can be stated that IKEA is a price setter. You read "Ikea Paper" in category "Papers" There are off course competitors, however it seems that IKEA does not really take competitor’s decisions into account as they are not really relevant to their own decisions. IKEA sets its prices very low because they face low production costs as a result of strong relationships with its suppliers. Competitors are predictable but even if they were unpredictable, IKEA would not be affected by their decisions as the firm is already at the bottom end of the market. IKEA makes use of their concept in a global strategy that designed furniture for a lower price than other competitors offer that can be sold everywhere for the targeted market segment. Sometimes regional differences appear that arise form national habits, lifestyles and culture. What gives IKEA a huge advantage in selling its products at a lower price springs from their â€Å"young† concept is that the customers have to bring home the products and assemble it themselves. No other firm manufactures as much furniture as IKEA. The firm can and will eliminate any local competition by using their global position. It is a fact that they have no competitors on the global market. IKEA’s success was recognized to its vast experience in the furniture retail market, its product differentiation and cost leadership. Across markets where it presently has a presence, products are sold at prices that are 30 to 50 percent lower than competing products. This penetration pricing enables IKEA to gain significant market share. Low prices are a result of large-quantity purchasing, low-cost logistics, and store location in housing areas. In addition, IKEA also benefits from economies of scale and healthy supplier-firm relationships. IKEA enters into long-term contracts, provides leased equipment and technical support in exchange for exclusive, low-cost manufacturing from suppliers. For new markets, IKEA should retain its price-image to maintain the brand’s positioning. IKEA strives for cost leadership, and for this reason it negotiates the most cheap conditions with a very large number of suppliers, a large part of whom live in eastern Europe and Asia, where the cost of raw materials, manpower and warehouse rentals is lower than elsewhere. IKEA always tries to acquire raw materials at the best price, choosing the suppliers with the cheapest price but it is equally focused on maintaining good relationships with them to avoid late deliveries or poor workmanship. IKEA’s low cost policy is based on several factors. Firstly, and previously already mentioned, it is based on economies of scale where large volumes reduce the unit cost of production. Secondly, the low cost policy is based on economies of transport where large orders of products permit to IKEA to transfer transport costs to suppliers. Low running costs inside the stores is also a factor. For example, the group uses buildings that are easy to build and inexpensive to manage, and it also has a ‘dressdown policy’, with all employees wearing the same uniforms, which are very simple and ractical. A last factor with regard to low cost policy is the purchases of unassembled products from suppliers with a consequent reduction of costs (taxes are lower for components than for finished products). IKEA Demand With regard to the number of buyers, this market faces a great number of buyers as IKEA wishes to reach everyone who needs a new piece of furniture or accessory. IKEA provides its products to end consumers as it only supplies their final products. These consumers can be households, other companies, or governments for example. On the demand side, the active participation of its customers, who are seen as genuine partners, is a source of economic saving for IKEA. Most of its products are packed in flat packs and the customer has to take them home and assemble them, paying the cost of transport and assembly, and thus reducing storage costs for IKEA. Wherever consumers go to IKEA stores, products are always the same. Consumers therefore know what they can expect and for what price. This is a very strong characteristic of IKEA because familiarity with a brand makes consumers come back. The 9,500 products that IKEA supplies is available in all IKEA stores and customers can order much of the range online through IKEA’s website. By doing this, IKEA makes products easier accessible, reducing the distance a consumers has to travel when choosing to purchase IKEA products, and bundles its good together with home deliveries of the orders. An IKEA market strategy in terms of service providence to their customers is always a unique one. The stores and services of IKEA are very much different from the other furniture vendors. The stores are very much spacious and divided into cheerful model rooms. This provides wide range of services to its customers to choose the furniture according to the measurements of their house along with the prices and variety of designs that are showed in kiosks. In addition, IKEA also provides childcare centers and include restaurants and cafes serving typical Swedish food. They also have small food shops selling Swedish groceries, everything from the famous meatballs to jam. Stores are located worldwide. It welcomed a total of 565 million visitors to the stores during the year 2008 and a further 450 million visits were made to the IKEA website. Low prices are one of the cornerstones of the IKEA concept and help to make customers want to buy from IKEA. IKEA’s products cater for every lifestyle and life stage of its customers, who come from all age groups and types of households. This is vital in times when the retail sector is depressed, as it increases IKEA’s potential market. The wide range of products that IKEA offers are of most value for consumers. Consumers prefer to have a lot of choice for good quality and low prices. IKEA’s product based market strategy drew many customers to their store and kept it the top position in the global market of the furniture companies. As previously mentioned, IKEA issued variant catalogs of their products in different native languages so as to reach all sections of their customers. IKEA also adopted some of the experimental marketing strategies for the publicity of their products. In earlier years it has taken decision to decorate a chain hotel with their furniture that has become a beneficial market strategy for both the parties. Its main aim is to target the customers of that hotel and market their products. Even the chain hotel gets benefit to decorate their hotels with lavishing furniture at low cost. Furthermore, the most important strategy of IKEA is not providing the exit for the customers who had entered in to their stores without having seen all the furniture in store. In this phenomenon there is scope that the customers may go for the more furniture that is not actually needed (Kotelnikov, 2005). Since it was founded IKEA has always had concern for people and the environment. The IKEA vision â€Å"to create a better everyday life for the many people† puts this concern at the heart of the business. IKEA has responded to the public’s rising concern for sustainability in its choice of product range, suppliers, stores and communication. It has also spotted business potential in providing sustainable solutions. IKEA’s concern for people and the environment encourages it to make better use of both raw materials and energy. This keeps costs down and helps the company to reach its green targets and have an overall positive impact on the environment. IKEA aims to be a responsible organization and believes that a strong environmental stance is good business practice, as it also has shown as the current trend of more â€Å"green† and environmental friendly preferences of consumers when choosing their products. Demand Supply Function Demand Function There are a couple of variables that are relevant to the quantity (Qd) of IKEA goods and services that consumers are willing and able to purchase, in other words demand. First of all the price of the goods (P) IKEA sets affects the demand. Next to P, prices of related goods and services (PR) are also important as those are goods from which inputs are derived to be used in the production of the primary good. The prices of related goods and services are therefore taken into account when IKEA sets its price (P). The expected future price of products (Pe) might also influence demand because if a consumer believes that the price of the good will be higher in the future, he or she is more likely to purchase the good now. In addition, prices of all other companies’ products (P1†¦Pn-1) have an influence on the demand function of IKEA. If their prices are much lower than IKEA prices, consumers will buy from other firms. However, as already mentioned, this is not the case for IKEA as they offer products for low prices. Also, if the consumer expects that his income will be higher in the future, the consumer may buy the good now. Therefore, expected future income (Ye) also affects demand. Thirdly, the incomes of consumers (Y) are also relevant to demand because this influences the ability to purchase the IKEA goods. Demand is also affected by the number of consumers in the market (N), the more consumers in the market, the higher the demand for the IKEA products. Moreover, advertising expenditure (A) affects demand as well. The more advertising, the more consumers are informed or persuaded to come and buy at IKEA. IKEA shows to be very efficient at this with providing their catalogs. Lastly, consumer tastes and preferences (T) also affect demand. It seems that consumers prefer IKEA products over other products because of its low prices and quality of the products. However, consumers incur transportation costs (t) that have an effect on preferring to buy from IKEA (which is often located just outside the city center) or to buy from a shop closer to their homes. Consumers know that IKEA provides very high quality products no matter in which shop they will buy the products and consumers could therefore prefer IKEA products over other. The general demand function for IKEA would therefore be: Qd = f (P, PR, Pe, Y, Ye, N, A, T(t)) or, Qd = a + bP + cPR + dPe + e(P1†¦Pn-1) + fM + gYe + hN + iA + jT(t) Where b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, and j are slope parameters that measure the effect on Qd of changing one of the variables while holding the others constant. We assume that, all in the short run, there is no change in taste and preference, that the income of the consumer is constant, that there is no change in customs, habit and quality of goods, no change in substitute products, related products and the price of the product, and finally, that there are no complementary goods. Supply Function There are a couple of factors that affect supply, the amount of products IKEA is willing and able to sell at a given price all other factors being held constant. Firstly, the price of IKEA’s products (P) influences the supply function. Ikea can be seen as a leader in this market and therefore it might be the case that the firm cuts its price, possibly as an attempt to keep the number of entrants low. Secondly, the price of related goods (PR) influences the supply function. If the PR increases, the cost of production will increase and therefore supply would decrease. Thirdly, technology (T) with regard to production affects supply in a way that whenever there is a technological advancement or technology used making production very efficient, the supply increases as production costs decrease. In addition, the price of inputs (PI) such as labor, energy, raw materials, influence supply. When PI increases, sellers are likely to raise P for each unit of output. For IKEA it is known that they have access to relatively cheap raw materials and an increase in PI would not quickly lead to an increase in P because IKEA aims to keep its prices low. Moreover, the number of suppliers (N) in this market might have a small effect on the supply function of IKEA. There are already many suppliers in this market and an increase in N would not lead to a significant decrease in P of IKEA. As stated previously, in creating low prices IKEA is not willing to sacrifice its principles (â€Å"low price but not at any price†). Expectations (Em) concerning the future market condition can directly affect IKEA’s supply in that whenever IKEA believes that the demand for its product will increase in the foreseeable future, IKEA will immediately increase production in anticipation of this increasing demand and therefore future price increases. Lastly, government policies (G) and regulations can have a significant effect on IKEA’s supply. For example environmental regulations could influence decisions IKEA has to take in consideration when switching to a new supplier of raw materials. The general supply function for IKEA would therefore be: Qs = f (P, PR, T, PI, N, Em, G) Assuming that all consumers know all things, about all products, at all times (including knowing the probabilistic outcome of all future events), and therefore always make the best decision regarding purchase. In addition, assuming that Ikea is the leader in a market with a large and endogenous number of firms. Decisions As IKEA is already at the bottom end of the market and operating very efficiently and profitably, the only decisions that they will face would be concerning future investments, advertising, and product features. One of the things that IKEA is now able to do is expanding more to new markets. So far, IKEA has limited its store locations to some of the most heavily populated markets in the countries in which it competes. To continue its growth trends, IKEA may have to begin investigating other (smaller) communities. IKEA has to consider how it will respond if and when a lower priced competitor enters its market. Also, IKEA may want to consider that its product assortment and promotions may not appeal to all cultures. However, for new markets, IKEA should retain its price-image to maintain the brand’s positioning. New cultures mean also that branding has to adapt to popularity in those particular new countries. For IKEA, despite the history of success the company has enjoyed thus far, there are no guarantees for the future. If IKEA does not keep on innovating and making the right expansion decisions, the company will become increasingly vulnerable to new competitors. Word count: 3397 References Arrigo, E. (2005). Corporate Responsibility and Hypercompetition. The IKEA Case. Symphonya, 2, pp. 37-57 Facts and figures, www. IKEA. com. Kotelnikov, V. (2005) Experimental Marketing. Retrieved from: http://www. 1000ventures. com/business_guide/marketing_experiential. html Building a sustainable supply chain: An IKEA case study. The Times 100. How to cite Ikea Paper, Papers