Christian Iconography Essay

1. Compare and Contrast: Hosios Loukas, Greece (before 1048) v. San Marco, Venice, Italy (building consecrated 1073; mosaics 12th c.) and the Cappella Palatina, Palermo, Sicily (1142/3) Typical Byzantine churches, like all architectural forms, employ relatively standard layouts and similar mosaic programs. Hosios Loukas, preceding both San Marco and Cappella Palatina, is an example of adherence to Byzantine conventions of visual programs and spatial planning. However, the churches of San Marco and Cappella Palatina are departures from such convention. Experiencing greater influence from the West, the churches of San Marco and Cappella Palatina, in their architectural forms and decoration, at once show their Byzantine roots and strides toward westernization. Hosios Loukas, though appearing irregular in its floor plan, is actually two adjoining churches. Built on the space that marks the site of Saint Lucas’ death, the church is an excellent example of Byzantine planning and dec oration. With a large central dome, the church can be divided into three main parts: the sanctuary, which is east of the dome; the naos, which is the central portion; and the narthex, or entry porch. Possessing a cross-like plan, the church is for the most part centrally planned. In the narthex, the typical mosaics of the Pantokrator, the Crucifixion and the Anastasis are employed. The apse mosaic, which is at the far end of the sanctuary, depicts the image of Theotokos sitting on a throne with the Christ Child; above the alter and the apse mosaic rests the mosaic of the Pentecost in the domical vault. In the central dome, which houses the Pantokrator, the circle converts to the square through an octagonal form, a feature shared by Cappella Palatina. The squinches created by the octagon depict scenes from Christ’s life. Furthermore, the likenesses of saints decorate the church. Most importantly however, the decoration of the church contains little extraneous detail. San Marco, however, exists as a transition from the traditional Byzantine format to more westernized looks. Still displaying a cruciform floor plan, the basilical form is integrated into the church. The four lateral domes and one central dome imply this focus on symmetry and centrality, while still allowing for the western influence. The naos is elongated, to create greater linearity and the cross arm of the cross-square is actually a transept. Though exhibiting much of the same scenes, those of San Marco have a particularly greater focus on narrative. One can observe such effects in the Anastasis scenes of both churches. In the Anastasis of Hosios Loukas, only five figures appear: Christ, David, Solomon and Adam and Eve; the five figures possess enough detail to identify them and the scene. In the San Marco example, eleven figures are present. The crowded quality enhances the narrative, allowing them to be read as more of a story and less as a symbolic image representing an event. Similarly, the crucifixion scene of Hosios Loukas and San Marco are respectively simplified and elaborate. Cappella Palatina, built by Roger II a Norman, focuses even greater narrative. The church also further employs the basilical form, while displaying forms from all the cultures that influenced it. Baring less architectural resemblance to the Byzantine church, Cappella Palatina’s mosaics, though depicting much of the same scenes as Hosios Loukas and San Marco, are composed in a rather haphazard way. For example, the nativity, which is usually streamlined to the most integral parts, shows multiple scenes in the same mosaic. In fact, some figures, such as the magi, appear more than once. This technique, allows the viewer to trace out the story of the birth of Christ. The eastern apse looks like a traditional Byzantine church, with a Pantokrator and seated Virgin. However to the west, the basilical nave shows the Western Christian influence. Its use of Old Testament imagery references Western precedents—from Genesis to Jacob wrestling the angel. Similarly, while the walls depict the same scenes as Byzantine churches, their format is different. Its use of registers is unseen in Byzantine counterparts. Also, the multiple Pantokrators that appear in the church, while a Byzantine form, are used in a uniquely un-Byzantine way. Lastly, the church ceiling, which is decorated with muqarnas, shows the Islamic influence. The basilical influence in San Marco and Cappella Palatina is unmistakable. Much of the imagery and its hierarchical placement—with the holiest at the top and most earthly at the bottom—is drawn from Byzantine churches. However, the use of Old Testament scenes and the greater focus on narrative are symptoms of the western influence. San Marco and Cappella Palatina are consequences of the time and place. They are at once Churches of the West and parts of an imperial history and religious tradition from the East. As a result, their appearance reflects the Byzantine influence, in its similarities to Hosios Loukas, and their Ravennic and Roman precedents. 2. Compare and Contrast: Pilgrim eulogia ampulla, Crucifixion and Women at the Tomb, pewter, 6th-7th c. v. The Limburg Staurotheca, 968-985 Though created centuries apart and strikingly different in size and style, the pilgrim eulogia ampulla and the Limburg Staurotheca are similar in many ways. Both are vessels of holy materials and depict Christ and various religious figures. However the ampula represents the more egalitarian form of relic collecting. The Limburg Staurotheca, on the other hand, in its materials and relics is one of the most elite forms of collectorship. Both the Pilgrimage ampulla and the Limburg Staurotheca are composed out of metals. The ampula is made out of pewter, a metal that was readily available at the time and not costly. The Limburg Staurotheca, on the other hand, is made out of gold gilt medal, enamels and gems. The difference in materials is indicative of their intended patrons. The ampulla, which predates the Staurotheca, was created for pilgrims that visited the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The latter, however, was commissioned by an imperial official and was intended to be viewed by elites. Additionally, both possess the ability to be hung. While the ampulla often hung around the neck of a pilgrim, the Staurotheca, which has a hoop at the top, could have been hung in a devotional space or carried during processions. The function—to hold holy objects—also differs due to its intended viewers. Ampullae such as this were often used to hold holy liquids or soil. However, due to the inscription and its iconographic reference to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the True Cross, this pilgrimage ampulla was used to hold the oil from the True Cross. Therefore, in a sense, both of these vessels hold parts of the same relic. However, the portability and reproducibility of the oil, made it better equipped for pilgrim patrons. The Staurotheca, contrastingly, holds seven splinters of the true cross. Arranged in such a way to show the historical form of the true cross, the slivers are held in place by jewels and gold framing. Additionally, the Staurotheca also was a reliquary for various other relics, such as Christ’s purple robe, the hair of John the Baptist, etc. Housed behind the ten different panels with inscriptions describing that which is behind them, the Staurotheca is an interactive reliquary. The viewer is able to open the panels and see the relics. The iconography of the vessels also differs. The ampulla depicts two scenes. The first is the Adoration of Cross. The meaning of the iconography is twofold. It looks like the scene of the Crucifixion, with the other two crucified flanking Christ and with worshipers in attendance. However, the more pertinent interpretation of the imagery, as it relates more directly to the vessel, is the pilgrims visiting and worshiping the True Cross. On the back of the ampulla, the Women at the Tomb is depicted. It also has two significances; it can be read as the Mary’s visiting the tomb of Christ and pilgrim women visiting the tomb of Christ erected within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The iconography, therefore, draws parallels between the events of Christ’s life and the activities of pilgrims. The Staurotheca, on the other hand, is rich in detail yet does not contain any narrative. On the front of the reliquary is Christ enthroned, with Theotokos, John the Baptist and arch angels flanking him. Above and below are three pairs each of the apostles. Surrounding the nine conjoined panels, are portrait busts of saints. Upon opening the lid, the viewer is confronted with the slivers of the True Cross described above. Depictions of angels adorn the interior as well, and flank the inscribed panels behind which rest other important relics. Rather than expressly depict the relics that were encased, the reliquary simply depicted the True Cross and the portraits of angel, all of which were considered to be the image of God himself. Therefore, the ampulla and the Staurotheca differ in their iconography, their function and their materials. All results of the intended viewers and collectors, both the ampulla and Staurotheca represent the Byzantine desire to obtain primary and secondary relics. Representing the power of Christ and God, these vessels’ contents gave their owners assurance of success and salvation. 3. Essay Question Related Directly to Readings: The issue of images in Byzantine art The lineage and use of images in Byzantine art is perhaps on of the more interesting and complicated aspects of Christian iconography. The Christian imagery in Byzantine art, as noted in Heaven on Earth, became intertwined with imperial icons and ceremony. The course of Iconoclasm, however, remains the most controversial historical discourse about Christian images and their appropriate role. The Iconoclasts believed that images were inappropriate in worship and were similar to the worship of idols, which breaks one of the commandments. Iconophiles, on the other hand, venerated images and opposed the Iconoclasts in the destruction of images. Given the volatile opposition of the two, understanding the Christian image in Byzantine art allows one to understand their forms of worship and relation to the holy. Firstly, it should be noted imperial and religious tradition often created a relationship between Christ and the Emperor. Occurring fairly early in the history of Byzantium, the Emperor Justinian was likened to Christ in the apse mosaic in S. Vitale. Adorned with a halo, Justinian stands in the center among twelve soldiers and religious officials. Although, as Treadgold et al. noted in Procopius and the Imperial Panels of S. Vitale, though the artist had not intended on creating the twelve apostles symbolism, as the feet show that some of the heads were added as an after thought, the resulting effect is the same for the contemporaneous viewer. The emperor, the most powerful and godly of men, is likened to Christ. Such an occurrence, while prevalent throughout cultures and history, undoubtedly watered down the holy significance of Christ images in the realm of worship. However, as noted above, the Iconoclast controversy, which lasted from 726 to 843 AD, is most illustrative of the Byzantine treatment of images. Affecting artistic production during the controversy and in its wake, the debate centered on t he appropriateness of images in the Christian context. Iconoclasts, or â€Å"image breakers,† believed that their fellow Christians had become idolaters. Images, perhaps believed to be a source of power by laymen, the Iconoclasts contended, must be restrained. Militaristic failures reaffirmed Iconoclastic believes that they had sinned and incurred the wrath of God. In the Church of Saint Sophia, for example, depictions of saints were replaced by the cross. Similarly, St. Irene sports a cross instead of a human likeness. (The example of the Church of the Dormition in Nicaea seems to show that the Virgin and Child mosaic replaced the Cross, post-Iconoclasm.) Therefore, the Iconoclasts effectively replaced images with the Cross. Contrastingly, the Iconophiles, or â€Å"image lovers,† argued for the preservation and continuation of images, given their long history. As discussed in the Abgar of Edessa identification, the likeness of Christ was venerated in biblical times. Being an ancient tradition, that Christ himself allowed/encouraged, images should be respected. Furthermore, as mentioned in Mango, the Iconophiles argued that God created man in his likeness, and specifically incarnated himself in the human form of Christ, and therefore allows for representation in the human form. Though they were temporarily victorious between bouts of Iconoclasm, the Iconophiles were ultimately successful in securing the role of images in Christianity. After the ideological defeat of the Iconoclasts, the Iconophiles restored much of the Christian imagery that had been washed away. St. Sophia, having had images removed by the iconoclasts, exists as a testament to the great controversy. The St. Sophia apse mosaic is an excellent example of post-iconoclast image restoration. A mosaic of Theotokos and Child was erected with an inscription condemning the Iconoclasts; the inscription is known to refer to them as imposters. Similarly, written and illustrated texts, such as the Khludov Psalter, describe the heresy of the Iconoclasts. It likens them to the Jews. As the Jews killed Christ, the Iconoclasts washed away and killed his image. Furthermore, much of the margin illustrations depict figures holding a medallion image of Christ, as a testament to the devotion to images. The Iconophiles believed that icons and images of the holy and saintly sanctified churches and practiced such post-iconoclasm. Post-iconoclasm, much of the ravages were rectified and restored. Beautifully decorous images adorned churches and texts in the wake of the controversy. The Psalter of Paris, for example, rather naturalistically depicts David composing the Psalms. Personifying the location and muses, the image gives the layman the opportunity to pictographically read the origin of the Psalms. Ultimately, the images not only teach through visuals, but inspire awe. The illuminating mosaics of churches produced miraculous, luminary effects that created a greater sense of the sacred. Consequently, the use of images in Byzantine art is an issue of great complexity. Once deriving influence from the iconography of pagan religions, the Iconoclasm controversy returned to the Christian-pagan associations. The Iconoclasts believed that the worship of images was like that of idols by the pagans. In an attempt to remain in the right with God, they sought to rid Christianity of its idolatrous icons. Though, in accordance with sanctity, egalitarianism and tradition the debate was won by the image lovers, restoring the place of Christian icons.

Parent: Beloved or Forgotten

â€Å"It's a Special bond that spans years through laughter, worry, smiles and tears, A sense of trust that scant be broken, A depth of love sometimes unspoken, A lifelong friendship built on sharing, Hugs and kisses, warmth and caring, Parent and child, their hearts as one – A link that can never be undone. † Who are we now? Are we someone whose name are known to be excellent,known to be talented,known to be Influencing, or known to be an Individual who can do something great In any Industry we were Involved.I'll bet you have something In your mind that describe of yourself out of every attainments you've got as of today,And even that someone you want of who you will be in the future. But, I can say that no matter who we are, We are nothing without them.. They are the most two influential people who are the real heroes behind every successful man on earth, for they are the one who sowed the seed in our hearts at the time we are born causes us to be successful today or even tomorrow.Today, we adult or young people, has been exposed to any possible technology around us, of course we know that it consume much of our time, and then again after ere become busy with our studies, careers, hang-outs, gigs with friends and to other self Interest we are engage to. Commonly, Here ends our whole day, until become weeks, months or years. We can only count by fingers that we have spent a quality time with them, deliberately bring ourselves to bothers about their concerns and to know their minds.Somehow we maybe missing of time to give a second to think how are THEY? How they feel when they were alone at home, or to know that they were not feeling well or simply to give time talking with them without reasons. With these, we don't really express a love that is worthy for them. They were forgotten†¦ There Is no perfect parents that exist, some of them maybe the reason why you are In pain right now.Some maybe busy as well with businesses so don't have time fo r you as well, some maybe you as their child Is not that proud of them because they were not the parents you dream of, some were willfully taken for granted by us because they were a â€Å"kind† type parents to get angry by our mistakes. In my heart, Whatever lived in the world, why we are now able to stand in our place right now and able to claim our future. Being who and what they are, it is not enough to forget all their toils for us.Even conflicts is also not enough for us to turn our back to them. To love them is simply to give them a time. To honor them is simply to acknowledge them with our achievements. To cherish them is simply to serve them in any possible way we can do. To remember them is simply to say â€Å"thank you† and â€Å"I love You† my dear parents. So let's reflect, which one we are as a child to a parents. It is always important to remember that everything has an end and every instance is transient. Let us not bring ourselves to things that we may regret. Act now! Start now!

A Loan Versus A Sale

Loan and sale The example of fraudulent transaction between Enron and Merill Lynch Bank proved to be a good example of how to use a loan for promotion. In fact, they are not sold technically. In 2004, following the Nigerian barge deal, Enron sold a power generation barge to Merrill Lynch. Company executives recorded a huge sale, which turned out to be a loan rather than a sale, and since the Enron was not actually acquired from the transaction, the US Securities and Exchange Commission conducted a survey in 2004. * Inappropriate reduction of cost or market (LCM) valuation of loans intended for sale: general industry practice of LCM assessment of loans intended for sale is group-by-category lending-run or grouping and monitoring bad loans. With this approach, the mortgage company can properly perform the valuation and monitor the performance of the loan. However, as New Century Financial Corporation organized the two types of performance loans and bad debts into one group, the new cen tury loans held for sale were overvalued and did not make it, so there would be a difference in actual net income . In 2010, Colorado Province undertakes a new loan, with payment date loan reduction, loan cost reduction, six months extension of minimum loan period, ban on sale of incidental products, proportional invoice reimbursement Reduced motivation. According to the responsible loan center, the first minute has been repaid Market lenders constitute a specific subset of private credits and have received a lot of attention recently - the clear feature of this type of lender is that they are offering a selling loan through the online platform . These platforms attract interested borrowers, provide underwriting, set the price of the loan based on the perceived risk level (set the interest rate) and transfer the entire loan to one or more investors throughout the market I will sell it. Rental clubs are typical examples of peer-to-peer (P2P) loans and alternate loans / market loans. Prosperity is very similar and competitive market. Though they all focus on consumer debt, SoFi Common Bond is focusing on student debt, although other people like Ondeck Kabbage focus on SME debt. A Loan Versus A Sale Loan and sale The example of fraudulent transaction between Enron and Merill Lynch Bank proved to be a good example of how to use a loan for promotion. In fact, they are not sold technically. In 2004, following the Nigerian barge deal, Enron sold a power generation barge to Merrill Lynch. Company executives recorded a huge sale, which turned out to be a loan rather than a sale, and since the Enron was not actually acquired from the transaction, the US Securities and Exchange Commission conducted a survey in 2004. * Inappropriate reduction of cost or market (LCM) valuation of loans intended for sale: general industry practice of LCM assessment of loans intended for sale is group-by-category lending-run or grouping and monitoring bad loans. With this approach, the mortgage company can properly perform the valuation and monitor the performance of the loan. However, as New Century Financial Corporation organized the two types of performance loans and bad debts into one group, the new cen tury loans held for sale were overvalued and did not make it, so there would be a difference in actual net income . In 2010, Colorado Province undertakes a new loan, with payment date loan reduction, loan cost reduction, six months extension of minimum loan period, ban on sale of incidental products, proportional invoice reimbursement Reduced motivation. According to the responsible loan center, the first minute has been repaid Market lenders constitute a specific subset of private credits and have received a lot of attention recently - the clear feature of this type of lender is that they are offering a selling loan through the online platform . These platforms attract interested borrowers, provide underwriting, set the price of the loan based on the perceived risk level (set the interest rate) and transfer the entire loan to one or more investors throughout the market I will sell it. Rental clubs are typical examples of peer-to-peer (P2P) loans and alternate loans / market loans. Prosperity is very similar and competitive market. Though they all focus on consumer debt, SoFi Common Bond is focusing on student debt, although other people like Ondeck Kabbage focus on SME debt.

Market Segmentation in Apple Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Market Segmentation in Apple - Dissertation Example â€Å"An example of one product and multiple segments would be Apple’s iPod which was produced and targeted towards different demographic segments including male and females, different age levels and different income levels† (Elements of a Successful Business Plan: Market Segmentation n.d., p. 5). 2. Aim of the Research The aim of the research is to: Investigate the marketing segmentation strategies in Apple (UK). â€Å"Market segmentation is important as it helps the firms to get customer focused† (Saxena 2009, p. 212). It is necessary to investigate the market segmentation strategies of a firm in order to understand its market strategies and to strengthen its products in the market. 3. Literature Review: Market segmentation is a strategy in marketing and economics. â€Å"Apple exemplifies the marketing concept in every aspect of its business† (Boone & Kurtz p. 11). Market segment is a division of a market made up of organizations or people with one or more features that reason them to demand similar product and services based on character of those products such as functions or price. â€Å"Demographic differences have been widely used as bases for segmenting consumer markets† (Croft 1994, p. 24). According to Michael J Baker and Michael Saren in their book, â€Å"Marketing Theory: A Student Text,† market segmentation is essential to strategic marketing. Segmentation outcome is an improved, developed consideration of consumer’s behaviors, similarities and differences, and so directs the growth of marketing programmes and propositions. So as to make informed decisions regarding which parts to target, managers require to identify key marketing environment trends and drivers, competitor’s plans and capabilities, internal capital and capabilities, and probable matching with corporate plan. The procedure of undertaking market segmentation, so, acts as a catalyst to attaining such insights. â€Å"The resulting decisions about resource allocation and marketing programmes are likely to be much better directed as a consequence of the segmentation study† (Baker & Saren 2010). Kotler, in his work, â€Å"Framework for Marketing Management, 3/E† says that apple’s markets know that customers associate the brand with user friendly functionality, innovative technology and sleek design. Therefore, every Apple products, IPod players, Macintosh desktop and laptop computers and even the online ITunes store and tiger software are consistent with this image and delivers the kind of experience those customers expect from the brand. â€Å"Good marketing is no accident, but a result of careful planning and execution, as the Apple computer example shows† (Kotler & Keller 2007). According to Benjamin Bach, in his book called, â€Å"Implications of Enabling Technologies for Apple Inc.: Cyber Marketing,† Apple Inc distributes technological innovations and new products to the market, their targeting, e- marketing segmentation and positioning strategies be different from customary marketing methods in terms of a better segmentation for the reason that customer behavior can be tracked quicker, be easily understood and therefore, f urther sufficiently recognized and lastly targeted. â€Å"Hence, marketing strategies can be faster adapted and updated through the increased speed of information gathering processes from applying technology† (Bach 2007, p. 14). 4) Research strategy and methodology 4.1) Research Question: The research question is to:

The Thrift Savings Plan Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Thrift Savings Plan - Research Paper Example However, as part of the retirement strategy, the employees choose to invest their funds into the Thrift Savings Plan. The funds are not controlled by the government. When the government money is at stake, one place it cannot bump into is the federal employee retirement program for saving. This makes it secure for all federal employees. This review is sought to investigate the purpose of the Thrift Savings Plan, the contributions of both the employers and the employees and its benefits to the employees. It will also explore on the problems and challenges of investing in this particular Savings Plan. History of Thrift Saving Plan The Thrift Savings Plan is a product of the Congress. It is established under the Federal Employees’ System Act of the year 1986 specifically for the federal employees and the military. The Thrift Savings Board is controlled by the Federal Retirement Board, an agency of government that is independent. The Plan is managed by five members of the Board tog ether with a Director, legally appointed by the president. This plan is equivalent to the private 401k and the 403b retirement plans. The tax benefits and saving options offered in The Thrift Savings Plan are similar to other retirement plans (Thrift Savings Plan Website). ... Automatic deductions on income. 2. A diverse choice of investment options for instance professional designed Lifecycle funds 3. A wide range of tax treatment contributions such as: -Traditional tax contributions and tax-referred investment earnings - Roth contributions with tax-free earnings at retirement 4. Low administrative and investment expenses. 5. Contributions of an agency if the employee is covered by the Federal Employees’ Retirement System 6. At some point employees can access their money while still employed by the Federal Government. 7. A beneficiary participant account established for an employee’s spouse in case of death 8. A wide range of choices of withdrawal 9. A widened term of deferred tax on contributions and their growth. According to the Thrift Savings Plan, an employee covered by the Federal Employees’ Retirement System forms part of the package that includes basic annuity and Social Security Fund (Nestler 44). The Thrift Savings Plan expl ains it this way: For those covered by the Civil Service Retirement System, the Thrift Saving Plan is a supplement to their unity. The benefits offered by the Thrift Saving Plan depend on the retirement system one is registered in. However, in all the systems, the Thrift Saving Plan increases their retirement income. (qtd. in Form tsp-3) When the employee funds the Thrift Savings Plan with traditional tax (pre-tax), the amount of income tax is lowered, hence decreasing the burden of tax when working. This can be beneficial if the employee contributes the maximum amount in the income tax bracket. When the employee or the member has invested in the Plan, no tax is made on the earnings until a withdrawal is made. A clear opportunity is

Geology formation in the oil fields Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Geology formation in the oil fields - Essay Example Crude oil is a product of pressure, organic matter from ancient living creatures and certain formation of the rocks in the strata. The porous and permeable rock reservoirs are the collection point of the hydrocarbon fuels. This is possible due the accumulation of these liquid oil and gases such as methane and shale gas. There are however some important factors that ensure the conditions are right for the formation of the crude oil. These factors include the existence of what are referred to as source rocks, reservoir rocks, traps and oil and gas seals. Each of the named features should definitely be present in order for the conditions to be optimal and to allow the proper formation of crude oil. Oil and naturally occurring gas come from certain types of rocks. These rocks are sedimentary in type and were deposited in water during the changing phases of the transformation of the Earth. These rocks are known as source rocks. Mineral fragments, remains of organic substrates, and moistur e. When this type of rocks experience a lot of pressure and heat from the compressing by other layers of rock. The term sedimentary comes from the characteristic of the rock to be formed from sediments, these include organic matter. The sedimentary rocks were usually deposited as soil or mud at the bottom of lakes and oceans. This excessive pressure forces the organic matter from the sedimentary rocks to start to be heated and when the right temperatures reach oil and gases are expelled from these rocks.

Supply Chain Management exam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Supply Chain Management exam - Essay Example The risks associated related to each supplier is to be studied and evaluated. Also, a back up supplier should be selected who can supply in case the first supplier fails. The last step is to implement the strategy and employ regular evaluation of the supplier, its quality and performance. Methods should be used to increase the performance and reduce the extra costs of logistics through various service methods and technologies. Â   Question 2 In the existing scenario of volatile markets, organizations are searching for solutions to reduce costs along the entire enterprise chain. The key is to pursue both the strategic as well as tactical cost reduction and improvement measures which help the management to stay ahead in the com[petition. Further to balance out the long and short term margin pressures, cost reductions have become a necessity. Lean management has definitely been a stress reliever to companies in order to reduce waste and cut down costs. Lean management approach assist t he management to drive a continuous bottom up approach with regular small improvements down the line along all areas and departments in the chain. The fundamental approach of lean is to provide higher value to the end customer by increasing the product quality and reducing the waste. The five concepts of lean are – understanding the concept of the value addition stream and the waste being produced, staff training to help them reduce waste within their own working environment and nurturing the Lean culture among them so that they can become trainers for other teams. The main approach in the lean concept to reduce costs are as follows – 1. Identifying the value preference of the end user – since the end value of the product matters to the client, it is important that the management identifies those activities that add value to the product and those who do not. Activities who do not add value must b e eliminated and thus costs are automatically reduced. 2. Identify ing the true value stream or chain of activities – identifying the correct value stream which consist of those activities which when followed in the right sequence, provide the desired value for the customer. It is significant that the management identifies the correct sequence of activities that constitute the Value stream. This significantly reduces the waste that is generated in the value stream at some points where there is no order. 3. Enhanced Flow of the stream - Lean management lays stress upon steady and continuous flow of activities which support product value addition. Any kind of hindrances are identified by the lean approach and eliminated. 4. Pull approach rather than a push approach - In lean organizations, the production schedules are dictated by a pull approach and not by the arbitrary production plans of the shop floor personnel or Operations Managers. Most services would rather be pulled by the Customer Demand in the lean management. Production only in the case of demand leads to less inventories, less and optimal use of resources, and less cost. 5. Imporvement cycle – when the lean approach progresses within a system, it becomes easier to

The Rhetoric of Fear Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Rhetoric of Fear - Essay Example The sequence of circumstances surrounding the 11th of September led to the establishment of what President W. Bush called â€Å"War on terror â€Å", which became state policy (CNN "Bush Declares War"), meaning that early statements about repossession and revenge to encourage partisanship became an authentic war with no culmination in scene. The language that President W. Bush used to describe the situation and to target United States citizens was very important; it was aimed to shape people’s understanding about the conflict, to define what the problem was and how to think about and even what it has to be done to face the crisis. The events that occurred on September 11th constituted a convincing, powerful, available and understandable frame towards a fearful audience (Gershkoff and Kushner). Expressions like â€Å"acts of mass murder†, â€Å"terrorist attacks†, â€Å"terrorist†, â€Å"nuclear bombs†, â€Å"bombing†, and â€Å"evil† among others were, then, the representational trend of a new phenomenon: the culture of fear. Wars have the capability to stimulate general audience to be better informed, increasing their intake of news. People that are not informed about current issues usually take advice from the opinion of their leaders; at this point, information is not any more objective but liable to manipulation by elites, which lately will help to shape public opinion. The method by which media is able to shape public opinion is through manipulation of contents and through the tone they use to approach the general audience. Media covers political and current issues using political leader’s quotations and official speeches, therefore giving public authorities a scenario where to propagate their messages. Then, un-informed audiences using information from mass media as a source of their information is further vulnerable to respond and believe. If debate occurs, it will be carried up by elites and covered by media, though when deliberation does not exist or it is muted, one-side of information wi ll emerge if other opinions are disposed under consideration. All this turned to be truth after September 11th when media responded respectfully, broadcasting government official positions. However, it is remarkable that while United States citizens are not well informed about politics, they do have resilient opinions on war, then it was surprising how people responded in favor towards the implementation of national security policies and ‘war on terror’ that the government launched after September 11th (Gershkoff and Kushner). The way by which critic situations (for instance, the Madrid train bombing (BBC)) are offered by media stands as a significant topic of studying, especially because of the influence it has over decision making of people and therefore, over the destiny of a nation. Due to the influence that shock and fear provoke, individuals become an easy target of manipulation (Chomsky). Emotions have enormous impact over the way we perceive our environment and consequently over the way we decide to respond (Vergano). From this point of view, society could easily be driven by fear; some can use this power to manipulate the general public to achieve political goals (Chomsky).Then, it becomes mandatory to understand how horror and suffering are represented on media and how they lead human reactions. The September 11th

Text analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Text analysis - Essay Example The argument by the author for this phenomenon is that there are immense psychosomatic implications that impact very much on the military officer or the law enforcement agent if it terminates the life of a fellow human being. This can be shown through the mental anguish that the military officer or the law enforcement agent suffers if they did so without the support of their superiors or peers, or if they are incapable of justifying their act of killing. In explaining his book, Grossman asks why there is little evidence of soldiers discussing of having killed a prisoner or combatants in war. In Grossman’s analysis of battleground fears, there is a revelation that even more than the fear of injury or death, the military personnel has a fear of being seen to have failed in their military obligations of combat. If the military officer kills in times of war, he will be burdened with guilt while if he fails to kill he is ashamed of his failures. The use of the term â€Å"Bulletpro of mind† as an imagery explores what the mind and soul of the soldiers presented in the book is during and after the combat or the war showing the dilemma facing such soldiers with regards to killing. The stresses of the deadly wars that would require the â€Å"Bulletproof† mind include negative impacts on the nervous system, breathing system, memory and visible and auditory functioning that soldiers must find ways of controlling in order to survive. The imagery Bulletproof is therefore simply an analysis of the entire physiological processes that is involved with the killing of a human being (Grossman, 43). The argument that is being brought out by the imagery of The Bulletproof mind is that majority of the people usually have that phobic level of response when it comes to the issue of violence. Therefore, there is need for soldiers to be trained on how to kill in order to have that mind set of performing the duties without fear. There are a lot of physical effects tha t are brought about by violence. These effects stresses on the humans such as changes in the sonic perception, tunnel vision and the post-traumatic stress disorder (Grossman, 56). The relevance of such information about the physiological aspect of the human body is to be able to bring out a clear picture of the stressful training that may end up affecting and bringing out a deadly threat to the human environment. Another aspect that is brought out in chapter three of the book is that of the mental attitude which is required by any warrior in order to fight. There is that perception of the level of stress inoculation that is required as well the importance of the training required. The argument that can be brought out in this section is that of the will of a person to do a certain job without having to be subjected to use lethal force. The determination that is aimed at performing the ultimate required act to the intended recipient to whom the force is addressed may in itself deter t he set actions. If a person is able to adapt the look of being steel eyed then just by the sight of the eyes the enemy may not attempt to test your wrath. In this case you become the weapon and everything else around you becomes a tool. The work of Grossman is an attempt to give a connection between the increasing violence

Summary and analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Summary and analysis - Essay Example Even if they are to be refunded the amount when they are tested negative, still the pain of the expenses would be badly felt by the applicant as they are there in the first place asking for help because they need money to spend for their basic needs and not on some tests that require them precious time and nickels. The reason why this is being taken into consideration is that because it is not only in welfare application that drug tests are being required but in similar situations as well like the job training programs. On another note, the author also considers the fact that there are taxpayers arguing that every penny they pay should be used to help other people for their necessities and not drug dependence, he supports his argument by what statistics say about certain groups. For instance, he notes that if drug testing the welfare applicants were used as a checking tool for drug users, it has been documented that there is no significant difference between the number of drug users among welfare applicants and non-applicants. In fact, another study he mentioned supports that seventy percent of illegal drug users are from the employed group (Cohen). This means that those who really are seeking the government’s help are not the unemployed as it is implied by the policy on drug test implies. Getting back with the argument of taxpayers supporting the expenses of drug users, it is true that they may have all the right to make sure that the money they sweated for is used for good purposes and not for the vices of abusive citizens, it has to be considered also that drug testing applicants is not the answer to checking drug use. On the part of the government, there could be large amounts of money to be saved from not paying applicants who will test positive in their drug tests and this is one argument the author is trying to dig in the article. Considering

Why I want to be a Nurse Essay Example for Free

Why I want to be a Nurse Essay I heard the familiar sound of the front door closing gently. My father was returning from work as a barber. Although he begins his day at 5:00 a.m. every morning, he usually returns at around 7:00 p.m. I never really questioned his schedule when I was a child, but as I entered high school I wondered how my dad could work so hard every day of the week and still enjoy what he does. The uncertainties of barbering are so great and so challenging. It never ceases to amaze me when my father wakes up every morning to start work, that he does so with gusto. The life of a barber can be laborious and stressful, yet my father continues to do his work with passionate enthusiasm. His dedication and pride mystified me throughout high school. Only after I entered college in my late 20s, did I start to understand how he could persevere and face the challenges of raising a family and running his business. I entered college like a small child wandering through a park. Never in my life had I been exposed to anything so grandiose and dominating. Born and raised in a rural town, I wasnt ready for the fast-paced life and crowds. I eventually grew into its lifestyle and learned to adapt to my new environment. I found my communication class, in which we discussed major issues in health care, especially interesting. The nurses dilemma particularly intrigued me: Doing everything to provide the best health care possible, but constrained by limited resources when the funds just are not available. These frustrating situations place a huge strain on nurses, and yet they persevere and continue to work long hours in hospitals, and clinics providing the best care they can. While thoroughly aware of the long hours a nurse must work and the challenges he or she faces, I am choosing medicine because of the unique satisfaction it provides the rewards of helping a sick human being. As I think about a nurses life, I also think of the many times I have watched my father sit silently at the dinner table, deep in thought, contemplating his options when his business was not bringing in enough income and the bills continue to arrive. I didnt hear him complain; I only heard him leave early in the morning and come home late in the evening to make sure that we had everything he did not as a child growing  up. I also saw determination and tenacity in my mother and father to never give up but to keep on trying to the achieve a higher goal. They both came from very large and poor families and were determined to not have me grow up without an education. I will harness that determination in my life and my quest to earn my degree in nursing. They showed me what it means to really enjoy a career. I can have that same enjoyment through nursing the same type of enjoyment my Parents had from tending to their jobs, and businesses. Becoming a nurse is a goal aspired to by many. As a barbers son, I have wakened early and returned home late from long days with my father. I have been able to experience uncertainties, challenges, and plain old hard work similar to that faced by nurses. But like the doctors in the hospitals and my parents in their work, I can find happiness and satisfaction in helping people through medicine. Despite all the hardship nurses face, I want to help people every day. Nursing is something worth stress and long hours. I finally understand my father. I now know how he can wake up every morning at 5:00 a.m. and work hard until 7:00 p.m. and now I will do the same for my family. I will heavily stress the importance of a college degree and a good work ethic. I feel that this is the reason more and more Hispanics are earning their college degrees; they dont want the hardships of their past generations to be placed on their children.

A Comparative Study of the European Pharmaceutical Industry Essay Example for Free

A Comparative Study of the European Pharmaceutical Industry Essay Having healthy citizens is vital to the development of a country. Introducing effective and new methods of using drugs is the key to the improvement of an individual’s quality of life, which could minimize the amount of confinement and medical intervention (House of Commons 2005: 3). In the economy of Great Britain, the pharmaceutical industry is the third most viable income generator next to tourism and finance. Although the United States is still the leader as far as the pharmaceuticals industry is concerned, the United Kingdom remains as the vanguard of the industry in Europe. It constitutes 10% of pharmaceutical research development costs in the world. According to estimates, the United Kingdom funds 65% of all health-related research development (House of Commons 2005: 3). The State of European Pharmaceutical Industry Since the 19th century, the pharmaceuticals industry has been the vanguard of the European industry, providing the biggest contribution to the European trade balance in the field of high technology and research development. However, when compared to the United States, the pharmaceutical industry would find itself in the losing end (Gambardella.  Orsenigo and Pammolli 2000: 1). During the last twenty years, the industry has been marked with vital changes in its structure as a result of technological and institutional shocks that had a great impact on its value chain. Consequently, this paved the way for changes in the firms’ composition as well as in the structure of the market in both regional and global perspective (Gambardella. Orsenigo and Pammolli 2000: 1). At the onset of the 1990s, the American and European market were on equal footing dominating about one-third of the pharmaceutical market in the world. However, the United States has steadily increased to 50% with the European industry lagging behind at 21%. Aside from that, many drug manufacturers based in Europe have transferred their research development facility to the United States. According to Mark McCllelan, Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the United States constitute 50% of global pharmaceutical industry (Silverthorne 2003). Trends on the Pharmaceutical Industry In 1998, the industry size for pharmaceutical products was pegged at $310 billion and increased to $335 billion a year later. There are two kinds of pharmaceutical products being sold in the market; namely, prescription-based and over-the-counter medicines. Approximately 60% of global pharmaceutical sales accounts are devoted on the former, with the remaining 40% devoted on the latter (Harris n. d. ). Most of the global sales generated by the industry came from U. S. -based pharmaceutical companies. In 1999, the industry had a projected income of $140 billion wherein 65% of sales come from domestic operations and the remaining 35% from foreign clients. In the United States, pharmaceutical expenditures as part of overall cost of health care have increased from 4. % to 7. 2% since 1985 (Harris n. d. ). The United States comprises 40% of global pharmaceutical sales, followed by Europe and Japan at 32% and 24%, respectively. Other countries comprise 4% of worldwide sales as the industry is expected to pick up in developing countries (Harris n. d. ). A series of studies have found that Europe is way behind the United States in the pharmaceutical industry. For instance, in 2000, Alfonso Gambardella, Luigi Orsenigo, and Fabio Pammolli conducted a study focusing on the competitiveness of Europe’s pharmaceutical sector (cited in Kobelt 2006: 3). For this study, the authors used several indicators such as â€Å"patent application, approved new molecular entities (NMEs), research expenditure, science provided by universities, and marker share† (Gambardella, Orsenigo, and Pammolli 2000 cited in Kobelt 2006: 3). It was revealed that when it comes to exports and consumption, the United States has already surpassed Europe. This is the key to the implementation of the G-10 review process (Gambardella, Orsenigo, and Pammolli 2000 cited in Kobelt 2006: 3). In addition, a study conducted by Oliver Schoffski (2002) discovered two points that favor the American pharmaceutical industry in the aspect of marketing and research investment (cited in Kobelt 2006: 3). According to Schoffski (2002), there is a huge difference between the dynamics of the market of the various European Union countries with that of the United States on the aspect of introducing a new drug to the market (cited in Kobelt 2006: 3). The study concludes that these structural differences are the reason for the pronounced market dynamics of the American pharmaceutical industry when compared with Europe. According to the study, the US pharmaceutical industry is more attractive than the European market because of its advanced â€Å"scientific and entrepreneurial culture† and the availability of its talent pool, specifically in the Boston area (Schoffski 2002 cited in Kobelt 2006: 3). Some Light in the Tunnel However, not everything is gloomy as far as the European Union’s pharmaceutical industry is concerned. When it comes to profitability, which is a strong indicator of competitiveness, European pharmaceutical firms rank among the most profitable in the world. In 2005, GlaxoSmithKline ranked next to Johnson Johnson’s $10. 4 billion dollars in terms of profitability (Kobelt 2006: 4). Novartis, Roche, and AstraZeneca, with net incomes of $6. 1 billion, $5. 4 billion, and $4. 7 billion respectively, followed American pharmaceutical firm Pfizer. The year 2005 was a banner year for European firms in terms of turnover and income (Kobelt 2006: 4). After a period of underperformance, the European pharmaceutical industry picked up ground and increased by 30%. In contrast, American stocks looked less impressive and underperformed by 9 percent. Employment opportunities in the industry went up by 17% from 1990 to 2004. From 2000 to 2004 alone, almost 50,000 jobs were created, most of which were newly established (Kobelt 2006: 4). IMS Health likewise revealed that the European pharmaceutical industry experienced rapid growth compared to their North American counterparts on the aspect of competitiveness and innovation. For some experts, European pharmaceutical firms can be comparable with American firms on the aspect of innovation and competitiveness (Kobelt 2006: 4). The Structure of the Pharmaceutical Industry The European pharmaceutical industry works as a system or network. Innovation, production, and commercialization of drugs depends on a wide range of players such as various kinds of firms, research organizations and facilities, financial institutions, regulating agencies, to name just a few. Each player is connected together through a network of varying relationships, which may involve market transaction, â€Å"command and control† administrative rules, and various intermediate forms (Gambardella, Orsenigo, and Pammolli 2000: 2). Thus, in order to assess the competitiveness of the industry, one would likewise have to consider a wide range of institutions, infrastructures, and policies that have an impact on the action of firms. The situation is aggravated by the fact that there is a proliferation of various kinds of firms. In fact, multinational companies comprise 40 to 60% of most national markets in the developed countries (Gambardella, Orsenigo, and Pammolli 2000: 2). While the pharmaceutical industry is organized globally, part of the environment in which it thrives in is country-specific. Each nation has its own health care system with separate rules and regulations depending on the industrial policy of that country. Majority of the European countries adopt one of two basic health system model; first, the comprehensive social insurance system which is followed by Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and France; and second, national health service model with public funding, which is adopted by the United Kingdom, Italy, and Sweden (Hutton et al 1994: 100). The European pharmaceutical industry is known for being innovative and competitive. The most notable names in the sector are involved in research and development. They are responsible for generating income, investments, and job opportunities (Kobelt 2006: 1). Aside from its economic worth, the pharmaceutical industry has a vital role in ensuring and further advancing public health and creating medicines that the community needs to cure diseases, decrease health obstacles and guarantee that the people are assured of sustainable healthcare for existing and coming generations (Kobelt 2006: 1). There are two kinds of firms that thrive on the pharmaceutical industry. The first one consists of the smaller companies specializing in the selling of non-R D intensive drugs. The job of these firms is to implement manufacturing and commercialization activities and does not put money in research development. Usually, they are national companies that completely function in their own market (Gambardella, Orsenigo, and Pammolli 2000: 2). During the last two decades, a new set of companies have proliferated in the industry. They have conducted an intensive research which has resulted from fresh opportunities brought by the field of life science. They are known as new biotechnology firms. Their specialty is on developing new biotechnology and their activities may involve discovering and developing new drug compounds to the introduction of new drug screening or research tools and technologies in sectors like genomics, bioinformatics, etc. (Gambardella, Orsenigo, and Pammolli 2000: 2). Regulating the Industry The European pharmaceutical market is a regulated industry. There are two factors that are affected by regulatory measures, namely, the supply and demand. The former can be used separately from the pharmaceutical firm in order to have an impact on those who are in charge of marketing products. Registration is considered as a technical and scientific in most states, but it is the most powerful way to control the economy because it can segregate the product from the market. However, there is still a need to determine whether a product registration system can be cost-effective (Hutton et al 1994: 102). The most common way of regulation in the European pharmaceutical industry is price-based regulation. In countries like France, Italy, Sweden, Belgium, and Switzerland, the cost of reimbursement must be agreed upon prior to marketing the registered product. In majority of European Union member countries, the government has control of price increases throughout the marketing life of a product (Hutton et al 1994: 103). Long ago, pharmaceutical firms were permitted to pass any increase in the cost, but recently however, governments have implemented strict rules when it comes to freezing the price of existing products, as in the case of Switzerland and Italy in 1992 and 1993, respectively (Hutton et al 1994: 103). With the exception of the United Kingdom and Spain, which utilize company profitability as the criteria for control, all other countries use price-based regulation. In the UK and Spain, pharmaceutical companies have the freedom to set their own prices in order to obtain the total rate of profit (Hutton et al 1994: 103). On the other hand, the aim of regulating the demand is to influence the behaviour of the entities responsible for demand generation for drugs such as pharmacists, doctors, and patients. Presently, reimbursement limitations and fixed budgets for drugs are now being utilized. One would usually find positive or negative listings. In France, Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Greece, and Spain, the positive listing is used while in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Germany, the negative list-drugs are being followed (Hutton et al 1994: 103). The Future of the Pharmaceutical Industry in Europe The European Union has clearly pointed out that in order to maintain a competitive atmosphere and be in touch with globalization where countries like China and India can pose a challenge, they need to focus on innovation by investing in cutting-edge technologies and make sure that it retains its position as an attractive venue for foreign direct investment (Kobelt 2006: 2). The European Union, through its Lisbon Agenda has braced itself to become the â€Å"most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy by 2010† (Kobelt 2006: 2). Taking the lead is Brussels, which has initiated several policies, among them â€Å"better regulation† to reduce the current and future EU legislations on businesses (Kobelt 2006: 2). The pharmaceutical industry is one of the primary focuses in Europe’s attempts to make the region competitive (Kobelt 2006: 2). In June 2002, the G-10 was established and in its final report made 14 recommendations on how they can improve the competitiveness of the European pharmaceutical industry. Some of these recommended policy changes have already been implemented and embedded in the EU strategy (Kobelt 2006: 2). In the aspect of pharmaceutical, the EU will likewise implement the â€Å"High Level Pharmaceutical Forum† involving representatives of member states and industry stakeholders (Kobelt 2006: 2). The delegates have promised to work on the following areas: 1) sharing of information; 2) determining the effectiveness of treatment; and 3) costing reimbursement in order to foster innovation and competitiveness (Kobelt 2006: 2). One of the most glaring trends in the field of pharmaceuticals is high growth rate, and as numerous factors suggest, this trend will most likely continue. Advancements in science and technology, particularly in the area of health care, have led to an increase in life expectancy especially in the industrialized countries (Davidson and Greblov 2005: 5). According to the results of various studies, a huge portion of the elderly is deprived of proper health care. In the United States, for example, only 1/3 of the elderly population needing medical treatment for high cholesterol is actually being given sufficient treatment. New health care programs and benefits will increase the accessibility of prescription drugs to senior citizens, which will consequently lead to increased pharmaceutical sales (Davidson and Greblov 2005: 5). Biotechnology provides another promising aspect for the future of the pharmaceutical industry in Europe. Biotech drugs constitute 10 to 15% of the present pharmaceutical industry, and the sector is surpassing the performance of the whole market in the aspect of growth. However, the industry must address critical issues first (Wood 2008). The main problem with biotechnology is that it is a complicated process which can make it quite challenging for drug manufacturers to convince physicians to prescribe and use them. In European countries like France, chemical generics prescription is quite unpopular so it would be a difficult task for governments to advance this method (Wood 2008). Conclusion Since the 19th century, the pharmaceuticals industry has been the vanguard of the European industry, providing the biggest contribution to the European trade balance in the field of high technology and research development. However, when compared to the United States, the pharmaceutical industry would find itself in the losing end. During the last twenty years, the industry has been marked with vital changes in its structure as a result of technological and institutional shocks that had a great impact on its value chain. Consequently, this paved the way for changes in the firms’ composition as well as in the structure of the market in both regional and global perspective. A series of studies have found that Europe is way behind the United States in the pharmaceutical industry. In a 2000 report focusing on the competitiveness of Europe’s pharmaceutical sector, when it comes to exports and consumption, it was revealed that the United States has already surpassed Europe. The European Union, through its Lisbon Agenda has braced itself to become the â€Å"most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy by 2010†. Taking the lead is Brussels, which has initiated several policies, among them â€Å"better regulation† to reduce the current and future EU legislations on businesses. The pharmaceutical industry is one of the primary focuses in Europe’s attempts to make the region competitive. According to the results of various studies, a huge portion of the elderly is deprived of proper health care. In the United States, for example, only 1/3 of the elderly population needing medical treatment for high cholesterol is actually being given sufficient treatment. New health care programs and benefits will increase the accessibility of prescription drugs to senior citizens, which will consequently led to increased pharmaceutical sales. Biotechnology provides another promising aspect for the future of the pharmaceutical industry in Europe. Biotech drugs constitute 10 to 15% of the present pharmaceutical industry and the sector is surpassing the performance of the whole market in the aspect of growth. However, the industry must address critical issues first. The main problem with biotechnology is that it is a complicated process which can make it quite challenging for drug manufacturers to convince physicians to prescribe and use them. In European countries like France, chemical generics prescription is quite unpopular so it would be a difficult task for governments to advance this method.

Structural characteristics of a marketing orientated business

Structural characteristics of a marketing orientated business There are many definitions of marketing. The better definitions are focused upon customer orientation and satisfaction of customer needs. Marketing is the social process by which individuals and groups obtain what they need and want through creating and exchanging products and value with others Marketing is the management process that identifies, anticipates and satisfies customer requirements profitably The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). The CIM definition (in common with Barwells definition of the marketing concept) looks not only at identifying customer needs, but also satisfying them (short-term) and anticipating them in the future (long-term retention). The right product, in the right place, at the right time, at the right price Adcock. This is a snappy and realistic definition that uses McCarthys Four Ps. Marketing is essentially about marshalling the resources of an organization so that they meet the changing needs of the customer on whom the organization depends Palmer. This is a more recent and very realistic definition that looks at matching capabilities with needs. Marketing is the process whereby society, to supply its consumption needs, evolves distributive systems composed of participants, who, interacting under constraints technical (economic) and ethical (social) create the transactions or flows which resolve market separations and result in exchange and consumption. Bartles. Question 1. Enlighten the company on the marketing concept and process, to include a) characteristics of marketing oriented company including structure and culture, b) explain the various elements of the marketing concept, c) access the benefits and costs of a marketing approach. Answer: Structural characteristics of a marketing-orientated business A business that has a marketing orientation sees the needs of customers and consumers as vital. As it develops and markets products to meet those demands, certain structural characteristics become apparent in the business. Structure: Every organization made up of more than one person will need some form of organizational structure. An organizational chart shows the way in which the chain of command works within the organization. The way in which a company is organised can be illustrated for a packaging company. The company will be owned by shareholders that choose directors to look after their interests. The directors then appoint managers to run the business on a day-to-day basis There are different kinds of organizational structure. The most common organizational structure are: -tall -flat Culture: The culture within the organization is known as corporate culture. A market oriented company like Paper Chase Ltd, will have to develop an attitude and way of doing things such that the whole organization embraces the concept that the customers are the key to the companys success and their wants and needs should be satisfied at all times. A corporate culture towards customer orientation and satisfaction should involve providing prompt valuable service. The Marketing Concept The marketing concept is the philosophy that firms should analyze the needs of their customers and then make decisions to satisfy those needs, better than the competition. Today most firms have adopted the marketing concept, but this has not always been the case. The marketing concept has 3 key elements. A customer orientation The customer is always right when they believe they are right.   They may be dead wrong.     But if by their understanding of the situation they believe they are right, then you need to acknowledge their belief.   Only after you have honored that belief and acknowledged that it can you begin to present a different way of looking at the situation.   That takes time and effort.   Seldom is it worth skipping that process An integrated company effort The all structure of the organization must work together to fulfil customers needs and wants. If any section of the organization fails to meet the requirements of the customer, it will result in lost opportunities or dissatisfied customers. A profit-goal rather than just a sales-goal Every company want more profit. This is the one another concept. On the othe hand customers want good product in best price. That means both wants to be satisfied. This satisfaction may well be the result of negotiation where the customer has accepted on alternative product or organization has had to accept lower profit. But they (Both) must be satisfied with the exchange. Otherwise, it will not be marketing. Benefits of Strategic Interactive Marketing * More affluent customers: Those customers that acquire the various interactive technologies are more affluent and value their time more highly. They will pay for responsive service and for having their particular needs met. * Accurately targeting promotions: Personalized and animated illustrations could be electronically delivered regularly or on special occasions (e.g. birthdays, anniversaries, car renewal). * Higher sales conversions through raising customer confidence, and inducing buy-in: Complex offering, whereby a number of different product benefits are inter-linked, could more easily be comprehended through graphics and animation. Using interactive software, including simulation techniques, the customer is able to involve themselves in the development and exploration of various options and see real life illustrations. * Product Awareness: Customer (or sales representative) can have access comprehensive product information to address a wide range of needs (one-stop shopping). Lower Costs * Distribution and sales costs are much lower (see the Booz-Allen Hamilton example banking transaction costs). There are no sales persons to employ, no expensive premises, and customers even perform the data entry! * Servicing costs: Besides the obvious e-mail type links to customer services, customers could directly view or enquire on their product portfolio. * Promotional costs: Electronic delivery is substantially lower, especially when media rich formats are involved. When products or services change, there are no wasted brochures etc * Product retention: Customer (or sales representative) can have access comprehensive product information. In the case of investment products it is imperative that correct advice is given in order to comply with the Financial Services Act. Market Exploitation * Market responsiveness: In response to competitor actions or legislation, etc., changes can be quickly made to products and services and then distributed to customers and suppliers. * Cross-selling: By linking into other companys delivery medium, one companys products can be cross-sold to another, and the linking reciprocated. * Differentiation: A go-ahead insurer has the ability to present a lively and innovative image and to break away from the traditionally stuffy image of the insurance industry. Promotion * Promotion needs to direct customers to different access points according to their capability and inclination to design their own product or service. See Design. Design * Products and services need to be design and made available at a component level under construction together with business rules under construction that define the possible combinations and limits. * Quite often there will be a base (or core) component to which further components are added. * Starter products and services of pre-built components will be available to help customers into the design process. * Product information needs to be available at the component level as well as for any base product. Pricing * Products and services need pricing at a component level and to take into account the distribution method (customer self service, agent or sales person, face to face, via the telephone or the Internet, etc.). Production * Production systems need to assemble the components according to the unique customer design. * A detailed record of the product or service will need to be kept so that it can later be serviced or amend (see Servicing). Servicing * Profiles of individual customer products as well as profiles of the individual customers need to be available to support staff and the customer throughout the life of the product or service. Question 2. Explore the concepts of segmentation, targeting and positioning with reference to Paper Chase Ltd a) Identify and explain the macro and micro environment influencing Paper Chase, b) propose segmentation criteria for any 2 products from the brain storming sessions c) which markets Paper Chase should target and factors influencing their choice d) How buyer behaviour affects the marketing of Paper Chase products. Answer: Marketing environment The term marketing environment relates to all of the factors (whether internal, external, direct or indirect) that affects a firms marketing decision-making or planning and is subject of the marketing research. A firms marketing environment consists of two main areas, which are: Macro environment On the macro environment a firm holds only little control. It consists of a variety of external factors that manifest on a large (or macro) scale. These are typically economic, social, political or technological phenomena. A common method of assessing a firms macro-environment is via a PESTLE (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Ecological) analysis. Within a PESTLE analysis, a firm would analyze national political issues, culture and climate, key macroeconomic conditions, health and indicators (such as economic growth, inflation, unemployment, etc.), social trends/attitudes, and the nature of technologys impact on its society and the business processes within the society. Micro environment A firm holds a greater amount (though not necessarily total) control of the micro environment. It comprises factors pertinent to the firm itself, or stakeholders closely connected with the firm or company. A firms micro environment typically spans: * Customers/consumers * Employees * Suppliers * The Media By contrast to the macro environment, an organization holds a greater degree of control over these factors. Market segmentation Market segmentation pertains to the division of a market of consumers into persons with similar needs and wants. As an example, if using Kelloggs cereals in this instance, Frosties are marketed to children. Crunchy Nut Cornflakes are marketed to adults. Both goods aforementioned denote two products which are marketed to two distinct groups of persons, both with like needs, traits, and wants. The purpose for market segmentation is conducted for two main issues. First, a segmentation allows a better allocation of a firms finite resources. A firm only possesses a certain amount of resources. Accordingly, it must make choices (and appreciate the related costs) in servicing specific groups of consumers. Furthermore the diversified tastes of the contemporary Western consumers can be served better. Market segmentation can be defined in terms of the STP acronym, meaning Segment, Target and Position. Segment Segmentation involves the initial splitting up of consumers into persons of like needs/wants/tastes. Four commonly used criteria are used for segmentation, which include: * Geographical (e.g. country, region, city, town, etc.) * Psychographic (i.e. personality traits or character traits which influence consumer behavior) * Demographic (e.g. age, gender, socio-economic class, etc.) * Behavioural (e.g. brand loyalty, usage rate, etc.) The two products, from the brain storming session, selected for criteria Paper Chase Ltd are: Tea Tea Cup Tea and Tea Cup has three different Segment Tea Cup Large Medium Small Tea Milk Tea Green Tea Red Tea Target Once a segment has been identified, a firm must ascertain whether the segment is beneficial for them to service. The DAMP acronym, meaning Discernible, Accessible, Measurable and Profitable, are used as criteria to gauge the viability of a target market. DAMP is explained in further detail below: * Discernable How a segment can be differentiated from other segments. * Accessible How a segment can be accessed via Marketing Communications produced by a firm. * Measurable Can the segment be quantified and its size determined? * Profitable Can a sufficient return on investment be attained from a segments servicing? The next step in the targeting process is the level of differentiation involved in a segment serving. Three modes of differentiation exist, which are commonly applied by firms. These are: * Undifferentiated Where a company produces a like product for all of a market segment. * Differentiated In which a firm produced slight modifications of a product within a segment. * Niche In which an organization forges a product to satisfy a specialized target market. Position Positioning concern how to positions a product in the mind of consumers. A firm often performs this by producing a perceptual map, which denotes products produced in its industry according to how consumers perceive their price and quality. From a products placing on the map, a firm would tailor its marketing communications to suit meld with the products perception among consumers. Buying behaviour A marketing firm, in the course of its operations, must ascertain the nature of buying behaviour, if it is to market properly its product. In order to entice and persuade a consumer to buy a product, the psychological/behavioural process of how a given product is purchased. Buying behaviour consists of two prime strands, namely being consumer (B2C) behaviour and organizational/industrial behavior (B2B). B2C buying behaviour This mode of behaviour concerns consumers, in the purchase of a given product. The B2C buying process is as thus: * Need/want recognition * Information search * Search for alternatives (to satisfy need/want) * Purchase decision * Post-purchase evaluation As an example, if one pictures a pair of sneakers, the desire for a pair of sneakers would be followed by an information search on available types/brands. This may include perusing media outlets, but most commonly consists of information gathered from family and friends. If the information search is insufficient, the consumer may search for alternative means to satisfy the need/want. In this case, this may be buying leather shoes, sandals, etc. The purchase decision is then made, in which the consumer actually buys the product. Question 3. Identify and analyse the individual elements of Paper Chase marketing, to include product, price, promotion, place, people, process and physical evidence. Answer: Marketing mix In the early 1960s, Professor Neil Borden at Harvard Business School identified a number of company performance actions that can influence the consumer decision to purchase goods or services. Borden suggested that all those actions of the company represented a Marketing Mix. Professor E. Jerome McCarthy, at the Michigan State University in the early 1960s, suggested that the Marketing Mix contained 4 elements product, price, place and promotion. Product The product aspects of marketing deal with the specifications of the actual goods or services, and how it relates to the end-users needs and wants. The scope of a product generally includes supporting elements such as warranties, guarantees, and support. Pricing This refers to the process of setting a price for a product, including discounts. The price need not be monetary; it can simply be what is exchanged for the product or services, e.g. time, energy, or attention. Methods of setting prices optimally are in the domain of pricing science. A number of modes of pricing techniques exist, which span: * Elasticities (whether Price Elasticity of Demand, Cross Elasticity of Demand, or Income Elasticity of Demand) * Market skimming pricing * Market penetration pricing Elasticitys are a microeconomic concept, which gauges how elastic demand is for a given good/service. In a marketing context, its usefulness relates to the suitable level at which a product can be priced, in accordance with price, a products complements and substitutes, and the level of income a consumer possesses. Market skimming pertains to firm releasing a good in a first to market scenario. As an example, picture a company which releases a new type of personal media playing system. It may set the good at an initially high level, but reduce it over time, once the level of demand gradually rises. Market skimming is best operable within a first to market scenario, since there would be few competitors within the companys industry. Market penetration concerns pricing policies for late entrants to a market. Placement (or distribution) This refers to how the product gets to the customer; for example, point-of-sale placement or retailing. This third P has also sometimes been called Place, referring to the channel by which a product or service is sold (e.g. online vs. retail), which geographic region or industry, to which segment (young adults, families, business people), etc. also referring to how the environment in which the product is sold in can affect sales. Promotion This includes advertising, sales promotion, including promotional education, publicity, and personal selling. Branding refers to the various methods of promoting the product, brand, or company. These four elements are often referred to as the marketing mix, [5] which a marketer can use to craft a marketing plan. The four Ps model is most useful when marketing low value consumer products. Industrial products, services, high value consumer products require adjustments to this model. Services marketing must account for the unique nature of services. In order to recognize the different aspects of selling services, as opposed to Products, a further three Ps were added to make a range of Seven Ps for service industries: * Process the way, in which orders are handled, customers are satisfied and the service is delivered. * Physical Evidence is tangible evidence of the service customers will receive (for example a holiday brochure). * People the people meeting and dealing with the customers. As markets have become more satisfied, the 7 Ps have become relevant to those companies selling products, as well as those solely involved with services: customers now differentiate between sellers of goods by the service they receive in the process from the people involved Question 4. Select any 2 products from the brain storming session and elaborate on the application of different marketing mix (to include extended marketing mix elements) to different markets segments and context. Briefly discuss the areas that need consideration, should Paper Chase consider foreign expansion in the future. Answer: Marketing mix for Coffee: Product: Paper Chase Ltd have different kind of Coffee for customers Price: Price are very reasonable for Coffee. So that people can purchase easily Promotion: This company give different kind of advertisement. Place: Paper Chase always find new and comfortable places for the customer. Marketing mix for Clock Product: This company has different type of clock for the customers. Price: Price of the clock always are in customer budget. So that customer can purchase easily. Place: Paper Chase should seek a comfortable place. The atmosphere should be nice. Promotion:Paper Chase provides different kind of promotion. Like advertising, discount, coupon etc. Mr. Smith will think what types of product need for customer. Then those products are supply for the customer. They need widely marketing and more communicate with the customer. Then customer will be attractive for product line or company. Paper chase provide special supply some product. As for example Pens with company logos because whose company ordered the product their company logo will be printed pens body.

Self-Discovery in Oates Naked Essay -- Oates Naked Essays

Self-Discovery in Oates Naked  Ã‚   While other, less accomplished writers use violence to shock or provoke, Joyce Carol Oates is usually more subtle and inventive. Such is the case in "Naked," the story of a forty-six year old woman whose placid outer identity is ripped away by a brutal assault while out hiking not far from her fashionable, University Heights neighborhood. Like many of Oates' stories—and in this regard she probably owes something to Flannery O'Connor—"Naked" focuses on a woman so entrenched in her rigid self-image that nothing short of violence could make her vulnerable to a humbling, though redemptive, self knowledge. The protagonist, a stolid, college administrator, prides herself on her liberal views and anti-racist, fair mindedness. Curiously, she remains unnamed throughout the story, though not without reason. Her namelessness brings us closer to her inner world while at the same time obliquely suggesting that, given these same violent circumstances, she could be anyone, even you or me. Names represent a kind of social identity, and Oates' main interest here is in exploring what might happen when her character's social framework and the comfortably predictable life that goes with it are suddenly, and irrevocably, taken away. This, of course, is precisely what happens. What then, Oates seems to be asking, would be left? The answer, which is feverishly detailed in the remaining thirteen pages of this sixteen page story, is something this woman would never have asked for nor anticipated. Like most people in her social sphere, the woman takes for granted the civility and restraints that have kept her, prior to her attack, comfortably exempt from the personal chaos that violence unleashes. All of... ...the story concludes with the woman "crouched," still naked, "in the underbrush" below her house and marveling how strange it is to be seeing her husband at last after "having wanted so desperately to get home," and yet now feeling "no emotion" at what she saw. (138)    Works Cited Hillman, James. Eranos Lectures 8, "On Paranoia," by Hillman. Dallas: Spring Publications, 1986. Oates, Joyce Carol. "Naked." Heat and Other Stories. By Oates. New York: Plume, 1991. Robinson, Sally "Heat and Cold: Recent Fiction by Joyce Carol Oates," Michigan Quarterly Review, Vol. XXXI, 1992. Notes 1. Robinson, Sally. "Heat and Cold: Recent Fiction by Joyce Carol Oates." Michigan Quarterly Review, Vol. XXXI, 1992. In Contemporary Literary Criticism, Vol. 108. 383. 2. Hillman, James. Eranos Lectures 8, "On Paranoia." Spring Publications, 1986. 13-14.      

Incorporating Global Consideration for Local Instructional Practices :: Essays Papers

Incorporating Global Consideration for Local Instructional Practices The modern Women’s studies classroom has been subjected to many changes stemming from discussions about proper and efficient discourse and method of instruction. Issues such as Socratic/discussion-led teaching or inclusion of different theories of feminist thought have made the Women’s Studies course the achievement of pedagogical compromise. The work of Third-world and anti-racist feminists has contended for inclusion of issues that affect all women and has brought feminism to place based around more global issues. Now, while these debates have led to a complete, thorough and well-balanced course, the applicative and non-theoretical aspects of the classroom need to be addressed in creating the ideal â€Å"safe space† classroom. Beyond any discussions about the specific course materials or required readings, every element of the classroom needs to be structured to create the environment that is conducive to respect and mutuality. Especially for those new to Women’s Studies, a film has the potential to be read differently than the intended reading would be. Ella Shohat discusses the Algerian nationalist film La Battaglia de Algeria (The Battle of Algiers) as one example of an anti-colonialist film with feminist ideas that, in context, misses real elements of feminism (Shohat 1997). In the film, women are portrayed as being as strong and determined in overcoming the rule of the harsh French colonialists as the men are. However, acting the same way in any other arena is frowned upon, as the visible strength of the women in the film is shown â€Å"only insofar as they perform their sacrificial service for the ‘nation’† (ibid). Also seen in this light is the film Wedding in Galilee, a P alestinian film in which the self-inflicted â€Å"de-flowering† of the bride â€Å"allegorizes the failure of an impotent patriarchy to lead toward national liberation† (ibid). These films represent the idea that women and men together must fight for the independence and freedom of a nation, but as soon as the nation is secured the equal sharing of society ends. Films with such a message serve only to create discussion and should be treated carefully when exposing students with little or no Women’s Studies background to feminism. For those times when the classroom is more than the forum for discussion and learning, the classroom becomes the locus for social interaction of students. The prospect of food and a â€Å"party† is a fun and relaxed way of relating to others usually when concluding a class or celebrating a holiday.

The History of Computers :: Technology Technological Computers Essays

The History of Computers The idea of a machine that would make man’s calculations easier, faster, and more accurate is no new notion. The Abacus, â€Å"Napier’s rods†, the â€Å"Calculating Clock†, and the â€Å"Stepped Reckoner† are a few examples of early computer ideas In the more recent history of the computer, we can see how computers have morphed (or dwarfed) from clunky, million-dollar machines into the compact and convenient parts of our everyday lives (Computer Science Student Resource Website, 2003, â€Å"Evolution of Computers: From Stone to Silicon†, Section 1). The Academic Press Dictionary of Science and Technology informs us that John von Neumann’s name is most well-known among the potential â€Å"founders† of the first computer, but to whom the credit belongs can be debated†¦von Neumann wrote a memorandum explaining the ENIAC, and thus his name is recorded (Academic Press, 2002, Section 2, â€Å"Historical Perspective†). The ENIAC (the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator) was developed by J. Preper Eckert and John Mauchly of the Moore School of the University of Pennsylvania in the mid-1940s. The credit for this â€Å"invention† is â€Å"shady† because Mauchly reportedly visited John Atanasoff before building the ENIAC. Atanasoff and his graduate student Berry built the Atanasoff/Berry Computer in the early 1940s at Iowa State University. At any rate, von Neumann’s name is the most well-known and thus settles the issue! The model von Neumann came up with for the basic computer structure is still today, with modifications for speed and size, the foundation for many computers (Academic Press, 2002, Section 1, p. 527). The Academic Press Dictionary states that von Neumann’s report was so well-received because it had incredible â€Å"focus on the logical principles and organization of the computer rather than on the electrical and electronic technology required for its implementation† (p. 527). As â€Å"Evolution: From Stone to Silicon† reports, the first computers were mechanical and used vacuum tubes. These tubes needed to be replaced constantly (Computer Science Student Resource Website, 2003, Section 3). The EDVAC (Electronic Discrete Variable Computer) invented in 1952 used magnetic tape, a revolution from the mess of wires that needed to be moved and replaced to run new programs.

British Airways World Cargo

British Airways World Cargo is one of the leading cargo airlines in the world, carrying freight, mail and courier traffic to 200 destinations in more than 80 countries. The BA network and freighter programme make it one of the largest single carrier networks, with a reliable schedule, same day connections between most continents and destinations, and extensive road connections. They have developed a portfolio of products that meet their customer’s needs. Their experienced operational and commercial teams worldwide take pride in delivering high levels of performance and customer care.The business is administratively divided into geographical regions based in: North America; Central and Latin America (plus Spain); Western Europe; North and Eastern Europe (plus the Eastern Mediterranean); Africa, the Gulf States and India; and Asia Pacific. Autonomous, but not independent, business units reflect functional differences such as cargo, engineering and maintenance, and the recently f ormed UK regional airline, CitiExpress. The group corporate and operating headquarters are located at Heathrow Airport in the UK. Over 61,000 staff were employed by the group worldwide in 2001/2002, 81% of them based in the UK.In 2001 and 2002 the global airline industry experienced a sharp reversal of fortunes. This was caused by the severe wo0rld economic slowdown combined with the impact of terrorist attacks in the US on 11 September 2001. These factors were compounded by the subsequent uncertain geographical; environment and the rise of serious competition from the introduction of the ‘no frills’ airlines. In response BA Background 2 was forced to review the ‘future size and shape’ of all aspects of its business. The review was expected to reduce employment by 13,000 by September 2003.Current employment after the ongoing process of rationalization across Europe and the UK is around 45,000, with operations in Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Portugal, It aly, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Greece, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Ireland. Many of the ‘station’ in Europe, however, employ small numbers of people. Some, like Finland, have fewer than 10 people. The UK employment numbers and practices therefore tend to dominate practices and culture throughout the group. In the UK, industrial relations traditions and culture are rooted in a strong trade union presence in what was once a public sector organisation.Over 70% of UK employees are trade union members and more than 95% are covered by the terms of formal collection agreements. Amicus – AEEU, Amicus – MSF, BALPA (British airline pilots association), Cabin Crew ‘89, GMB and TGWU are the recognized trades unions. National bargaining is facilitated by a number of formal structures for negotiation and consultation, ranging from local sectional ‘panels’ to the British Airways Trade Union Council, recently renamed the ‘Nati onal negotiation forum’ (NNF), where trade union officers meet the Executive management every month.A history of largely conflictual relations continues to exert an influence on attitudes and opinions, en gendering suspicions of motives and resistance to change. Management Background 3 describes its overriding approach to IR as ‘tactical’, taking a ‘partnership’ approach ‘when it works’ and a ‘management’ of the trades unions while admitting varying degrees of representatives in France and employee representatives in Germany and most other countries. In Italy the group operates stations in Rome and Milan as wholly owned units of the core airline business with about 220 employees.Until recently CISL was the only trade union representing BA staff in Italy, but recently UGL, CGIL and UIL are also represented. The wider representation of unions has led to better information although consultation remains essentially ‘after- the-fact’, with trade union represent5ation sensitive to attempts to bypass any union involvement. Managerial Aspects The group corporate and operating headquarters are located at Heathrow Airport in the UK. Over 61,000 staff were employed by the group worldwide in 2001/2002, 81% of them based in the UK.Currently employment after the ongoing process of rationalization across Europe and the UK is around 45,000, with operations in Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Greece, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Ireland. Many of the ‘station’ in Europe, however, employ small numbers of people. Managerial Aspects 4 Some, like Finland, have fewer than 10 people. The UK employment numbers and practices therefore tend to dominate practices and culture throughout the group. THE EWCBritish Airways world Cargo EWC was established within the definitions and under the scope of Article 13 of the EC Directive of 1994 – 95 after some conflict between management and the trade unions. Management initially resisted the inclusion of the UK. Negotiations took place principally between senior representatives of the UK trade unions and senior European and HR management, with some employee representatives from the major European countries. They concluded the agreement in September 1996. Legal advice sought by the company resulted in the EWC being concluded under Belgian law.However, the BA EWC remains highly ‘UK- centric’ with the largest number of representatives, and meetings held at corporate head office at Heathrow. To maintain a European balance UK employee representatives are ineligible for the position of employee chair or spokesperson. Only the deputy position may be held by a UK representative. The agreement was initially concluded for a fixed term of two years from 18 September 1996, to become a non-fixed term agreement automatically after the initial two-year period. Either side may terminate the agreement with six months’ notice.Under the agreement, BA group: Managerial Aspects 5 †¦. recognizes the value of information and the consultation of its employees in conducting the management of the company and also recognizes the need for employees to be informed and consulted on the activities of the group. The BA EWC will deal with issues related to the structures of the British airways group as a whole, its performance and any decision influencing more than one country. In its meetings, the BA EWC will focus principally on the performance of British Airways (and in particular on relevant European Operations), e.g. relevant to trans-national employees. The agreement covers the entire employed workforce of the BA group in at least all EEA countries. A formula laid down in the agreement results in a total of 21 employee representatives, six of whom represent the UK. There are insufficient employees in any other Member state to trigger the 10% of the comm unity-scale undertaking requirement for an additional representative. Therefore the distribution of representatives remains as follows:EWC representations currently comprise 16 men and five women (none from the UK) and do not reflect the diverse racial and ethnic groups employed, particularly at Heathrow. There is, however, a representative of all functions across the airline, including pilots, cabin crew, engineering, group handling, sales and check-in personnel. Key features of the agreement are: ? It is without prejudice to the existing information and consultation structures existing at national level; ? It recognizes the need to develop dialogue and mutual understanding between management and employees on the transnational aspects of the group;? Provision for extraordinary meetings to be convened no later than 10 working days after the company announces significant transnational changes such as mergers, relocations, collective redundancies or restructuring – the spokespe rson or deputy to be informed the same day as the announcement is made; ? Representation for each establishment or group of establishments per Member State with a formula for addition al mandates according to the percentage of total employees of the group ( current ensuring a majority for the UK);? The BA EWC will be chaired by a BA representative of senior management level or above or above with European responsibilities or his or her deputy; Managerial Aspects 7 ? Central management will be represented by appropriate BA managers or their nominated deputies; ? Assistance for the employee side from two of their own experts at the preparatory meeting, the general meeting and the following meetings, and the facility to co-opt other persons as may be agreed from time to time; ? Employee representatives to serve normally for a period of three years;? Two meetings per year, normally within one month of the announcement of BA’s half-yearly and end of year results; ? The secretariat is responsible for coordinating the agenda, advising all parties, preparing and distributing the minutes; ? Employee representatives have to appoint a spokesperson ‘to be a point of reference for the chairman; ? The working language of the BA EWC in English, with facilities for translation available if necessary; ? There are arrangements for time off from normal duties for employee representatives to attend meetings, attend agreed training courses and for minimum necessary traveling time;? The BA EWC meeting will normally last three hours with facilities available for employee representatives and their experts and agreed co-optees to meet the day before the general meeting, and the afternoon after the general meeting; Managerial Aspects 8 ? Confidentially applies to information supplied as such by management, with the obligation continuing after the representatives’ terms of office and any breach considered a disciplinary offence; ? Management are entitled not to provi de information deemed confidential or prejudicial to any other party;? A joint written statement outlining the key points arising from the meeting will be circulated by the secretariat to all appropriate locations for onward briefing. Since its inception the EWC has met twice per year. If required, extraordinary meetings could be called, but only on management’s initiative in the event of level developments of the magnitude of 11 September 2001. after this event some meetings were called but these only involved members of a select committee called â€Å"the bureau†. All full general meeting is considered unwieldy and too difficult to convene at short notice.Furthermore the established information and consultation machinery would in most cases be considered most appropriate to handle corporate wide issues in extraordinary circumstances. In any cases management would be required to inform and consult via the NNF. For example during the course of this research the war wit h Iraq was taking places. The company chose to raise issues relating to the war at a meeting of the NNF, to which the employee spokesperson (or chair) was invited. The bureau is not formalized in the EWC agreement, but was established some 18 month to two years later.When it was recognized that there were some more detailed Managerial Aspects 9 discussions that needed to take place that could not be effectively handled by the larger form. It is a selected committee of management and employee representatives, normally comprising seven to nine people, including the EWC chair (a senior European manager), the employee chair (a Dane), and his deputy and a senior HR manager. A total of four employee representatives plus two experts might attend meetings. Unlike the full EWC the bureau tends to reflect a more European bias with more employee representatives and managers from Europe.The bureau has two meetings per year, in addition to the full EWC meetings, but members may communicate more frequently as required. Mission Statement To develop a portfolio of products that meet customers’ needs and delivering high levels of performance and customer care. Resources Employees Current employment after the ongoing process of rationalization across Europe and the UK is around 45,000. the UK employment numbers and practice therefore tend to dominate practices and culture throughout the group. EDI Business Resources 10 EDI Business continues to enhance the provision of customer service within the air cargo industry.British Airways World Cargo uses this technology to: 1. Receive and transmit air way bill data by EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) 2. Receive and transmit house air way bill data by EDI to customs authorities. 3. Receive and process freight. 4. Deliver automated notification of the receipt of freight. 5. Track and trace freight from the airport of origin to the airport of destination using barcode technology. 6. Improve transparency of performance measurement to customers. Main Airports Served British Airways World cargo has an extensive global network.Major airports served within the UK include: London Heathrow, London Gatwick and Manchester. With stations spanning six continents, there is an integrated flight and trucking capability that enables it cover 200 destinations in over 80 countries. Number and type of aircraft The British Airways World Cargo has a total of 32 Boeing 757-with a capacity of 195 passengers, a range of up to 3,429miles and two Rolls Royce engines –in its fleet. Other aircrafts include: Boeing 737,777,747-400,767,757-200F, 747-200F,747-400F, Airbus A319, Airbus A320, DC8-54F, and MD11F.Operations 11 Operations The British Airways World Cargo has a freighter programme that makes it one of the largest single carrier networks, with a reliable schedule, same day connections between most continent and destinations and extensive road connections. It is operated by the EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) which faci lities the receival and transmittal of airway bill data, house airway bill data, delivering of automated notification of receipt of freight, track and trace freight and improve transparency of performance measurement to customers.Markets served included operations in the UK and across Europe. The type of cargo are limited to freight , mail and courier traffic. At the export is weighed and security screened ( X-rayed) and a security certificate is issued. At many locations, BAWC employs a handling agents to accept goods for carriage and accepts payments on its behalf. Once freight is cleared, the customer has to go to the import office at the destination station with a photographic proof of identify (driving licence or passport, or similar according to local regulations) and details of the goods e. g a copy of the airway bill.It is unlikely that BWAC, or its agents would be able to correctly identify the goods without the number of the air way bill. Business Relationship 12 Business Relationship Cargo 2000 CARGO 2000 is an IATA special interest group of airlines and forwarders, setup in 1997, with the aim of setting new standards for the air cargo industry. This group identifies a need to make the process of moving cargo from A to B much more efficient. Research carried out by IATA in 1997 on unitized point freight showed that goods took as long to travel in 1997 as they haf done 25 years previously.The group agreed that the number of steps in the process had to be simplified and supported by accurate information exchange between airlines, forwarders and shippers. The Cargo 2000 group tackled this by creating the Master Operating Plan (MOP) which defined a streamlined door to door process with specific information checkpoints. The MOP introduced the concept of the route map- the prediction of the journey the freight is expected to take, based upon the booking parameters, which is then validated against actual operational data provided by the airlines and forwar ders.Cargo 2000 is working to a phased implementation programme: Phase 1 Airport to Airport- Shipment Planning and Tracking at Master Air waybill level Phase 2 Door to Door- Shipment Plannin g and Tracking at House Air waybill level Phase 3 Door to Door- Shipment Planning and Tracking at individual piece level- Document Tracking. Business Relationship 13 Benefit to Customers As Cargo members, British Airways World Cargo will: Ensure the Cargo 2000 processes relating to the carriage of air cargo are followed Monitor our performance against the standards set by Cargo 2000Integrate the quality standards set by Cargo 2000 with our own systems and policies Benchmark our performance results and implement procedures to continually review and improve our service standards Aim to achieve accreditation by meeting the criteria specified by cargo 2000 within each phase. British Airways World cargo has been involved with, and participated in the cargo 2000 group since its creation and fully supp orts the objectives and initiatives of the group. Comments The BAWC agenda, focuses on company results and strategy, including items such as plans for aircraft and how management perceive the future of some sectors.Concerns that the company has for south America have been raised as these will inevitably result in some cutbacks in operations in this area. Competition of the North Altantic routes, cutbacks in the USA as a result of the war, and how the company can complete for corporate business, are issues for discussion. Discussion in meetings is not and will not be con fined to BA in Europe, but will encompass the global context for operations. Changes made in the engineering services that affected people working in engineering across Europe were an example of this.The process of consultation had to respect national representative structure and procedures and therefore consultations would always take place at works councils across Europe- particularly in Germany and at the UK trade s union panels and forums, before any discussion could take place at the EWC. Future plans/developments 14 Future plans/developments Management’s aim to provide full and high –level information on transnational issues has evinced a level of empathy from the employee side of the company.While management effectively controls the EWC process there is nonetheless an evident maturation on the employee side with members attempting to make a positive and ‘professional’ input. Crossover communication channels between negotiation forums and the EWC are suggested by management and the employee side both within and outside the EWC, as desirable future developments to enable the EWC to have more relevance and to limit the current duplication of consultation activities.The employee respondents would also welcome more opportunities for employee- only meetings. It is not thought that EU enlargement will significantly affect the BAEWC other than adding to its size and bur eaucracy, possible making it more unwieldy. In consequences the smaller bureau might assume a more emphatic and vigorous role. The UK representatives will still make up the largest national group with the EWC and continue their current dominance.It is hoped that the training currently planned for employee representatives will help new members quickly assume their roles and contribute regardless of their culture. The nature of the industry ensures that English will remain the preferred language. References 1. www. eurofound. eu. int 2. Europe Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working conditions, 2005. 3. BALPA, British Airtime and Pilots Association Journal 2005. 4. EC Directive, Article 13, 1994 – 1995 5. Amicus – AEEU, Journal 2003 6. IATA Journal, 1997. International Air Transport Association