Dynamic Programming Essay

Dynamic Programming is a mathematical technique dealing with the optimization of multistage decision processes. In this technique, decisions regarding a certain problem are typically optimized in stages rather than simultaneously. This generally signifies that the original decision problem is divided into small sub-problem (stages) which can then be handled more efficiently from the computational view point. Basic Elements of Dynamic Programming To apply Dynamic Programming, we have to pay special attention to the three basic elements of the DP Model. They are: 1. Definition of the stages. 2. Definition of the alternatives at each stage. 3. Definition of the states for each stage. Definition of the states varies depending on the situation being modeled. Nevertheless, as we investigate each application, we will find it helpful to consider the following questions: 1. What relationships bind the stages together? 2. What information is needed to make feasible decisions at the current stage without reexamining the decisions made at previous stages? Application of the Dynamic Programming in the Business World We will try to present three application models and finally a worked out implementation of Dynamic Programming showing the superiority of DP over the usual or straight forward method of solution. 1. Work Force Model: In some construction projects, hiring and firing are exercised to maintain a labour force that meets the needs of the project. Given that the activities of hiring and firing both incur additional costs. In such cases, through the implementation of DP Model, we can get the optimum result regarding how the labor force should be maintained throughout the life of the project. For example: A construction contractor estimates that the size of the work force needed over the next 5 weeks is to be 5, 7, 8, 4 and 6 workers respectively. Excess labor kept on the force will cost $300 per week and new hiring in any week will incur a fixed cost of $400 plus $200 per worker per week. The elements of this DP model are: 1. Stage i Such problem can optimally be solved through DP Model. Equipment Replacement Model: The longer a machine stays in service, the higher is its maintenance cost, and the lower its productivity. When a machine reaches a certain age, it may be more economical to replace it. The problem thus turns into determining the most economical age of a machine. Suppose that we are studying the machine replacement problem over a span of n years. At the start of each year, we decide whether to keep the machine in service an extra year or to replace it with a new one. For example: Shajib Farms wants to develop a replacement policy for its 2-year-old tractor over the next 5 years. A tractor must be kept in service for at least 3 years, but must be disposed of after 5 years. The current purchase price of a tractor is $40,000 and increases by 10% a year. The salvage value of a 1-year-old tractor is $30,000 and decreases by 10% a year. The current annual operating cost of the tractor is $1,300 but is expected to increase by 10% a year. Such problem can optimally be solved easily by applying DP Model. Investment Model We commonly assume that an investor wants to maximize â€Å"Total Return†. Suppose that Mr. Jamal wants to invest Tk. 4,000,000 (4 Million) now and 2,000,00 (2 Million) at the starts of years 2 to 4. The interest rate offered by NCC Bank is 8% compounded annually and the bonuses over the next 4 years are 1.8%, 1.7%, 2.1% and 2.5% respectively. The annual interest rate offered by Eastern Bank is 2% lower than that of NCC Bank, but its bonus is .5% higher. The objective is to maximize the accumulated capital at the end of 4 years. Such problem can also optimally be solved easily by applying DP Model. A company is selecting the advertising for its productand the frequency of advertising by each material are shown in the following table: |Frequency per week |Expected Sales (In Tk. 1,000) | | |Television |Radio |Newspaper | |0 |0 |0 |0 | |1 |25 |20 |33 | |2 |42 |38 |43 | |3 |55 |54 |47 | |4 |63 |65 |50 | We have to determine the optimum combination of advertising frequency and sales. Solution: States: Let X1= The frequency of advertisement at stage-1 (0~6) X2= The frequency of advertisement at stage-2 (0~6) X3= The frequency of advertisement at stage-3 (=6) S= Total Frequncy Stage-1 |Total Frequency (S) |Frequency at |Expected Sales | | |Stage-1(X1) | | |0 |0 |0 | |1 |1 |25 | |2 |2 |42 | |3 |3 |55 | |4 |4 |63 | Stage-2 | X2 |f 2(S, X2)=R2(X2)+ f 1*(S-X2) | | | | | |f2*(S) |X2* | |S | | | | | |0 |1 |2 |3 |4 | | | |0 |0+0=0 | | | | |0 |0 | |1 |0+25=25 |20+0=20 | | | |25 |0 | |2 |0+42=42 |20+25=45 |38+0=38 | | |45 |1 | |3 |0+55=55 |20+42=62 |38+25=63 |54+0=54 | |63 |2 | |4 |0+63=63 |20+55=75 |38+42=80 |54+25=79 |65+0=65 |80 |2 | Stage-3 | X2 |f 3(S, X3)=R3(X3)+ f 2*(S-X3) | | | | | |f3*(S) |X3* | |S | | | | | |0 |1 |2 |3 |4 | | | |4 |0+80=80 |33+63=96 |43+45=88 |47+25=72 |50+0=50 |96 |1 | Now we can derive the optimal values: X1=1 X2=2 X3=1 Expected Sales= 96,000 Usual or Straight forward method of solution √ Circle indicates alternative plans at each stage & √ Arrows represent the decision. The features of the above exhaustive enumeration scheme are: 1. All the decisions of any combination must specified before a combination can be evaluated. Here during solution, we have to make 64 alternative plans first. 2. An optimum policy cannot be determined until all combinations have been evaluated. This method is inefficient because some of the combination may not be feasible. 3. In other cases the number of combination may be too large to allow exhaustive listing. The Dynamic Programming approach avoids the above mentioned difficulties by first breaking up the problem into smaller sub-problems which are called stages in DP. A stage here signifies a portion of the problem for which a separate decision can be made.

Answer Key

Professor Mumford [email  protected] edu Econ 360 – Fall 2012 Problem Set 1 Answers True/False (30 points) 1. FALSE If (ai , bi ) : i = 1, 2, . . . , n and (xi , yi ) : i = 1, 2,  ·  ·  · , n are sets of n pairs of numbers, then: n n n (ai xi + bi yi ) = i=1 i=1 ai x i + i=1 bi yi 2. FALSE If xi : i = 1, 2, . . . , n is a set of n numbers, then: n n n n n (xi ? x) = ? i=1 n i=1 2 x2 i ? 2? x i=1 xi + i=1 x = ? i=1 2 x2 ? n? 2 x i where x = ? 1 n i=1 xi 3. TRUE If xi : i = 1, 2, . . . , n is a set of n numbers and a is a constant, then: n n a xi = a i=1 n i=1 xi = a n x ? here x = ? 1 n i=1 xi 4. FALSE If X and Y are independent random variables then: E (Y |X) = E (Y ) 1 5. TRUE If {a1 , a2 , . . . , an } are constants and {X1 , X2 , . . . , Xn } are random variables then: n n E i=1 ai X i = i=1 ai E (Xi ) 6. FALSE For a random variable X, let  µ = E (X). The variance of X can be expressed as: V ar(X) = E X 2 ?  µ2 7. TRUE For random variables Y and X, the variance of Y conditional on X = x is given by: V ar(Y |X = x) = E Y 2 |x ? [E (Y |x)]2 8. TRUE An estimator, W , of ? is an unbiased estimator if E (W ) = ? for all possible values of ?. 9.FALSE The central limit theorem states that the average from a random sample for any population (with ? nite variance) when it is standardized, by subtracting the mean and then dividing by the standard deviation, has an asymptotic standard normal distribution. 10. TRUE The law of large numbers states that if X1 , X2 , . . . , Xn are independent, identically distributed random variables with mean  µ, then ? plim Xn =  µ 2 Multiple Choice Questions (a) ceteris paribus (b) correlation (c) causal e? ect (d) independence (20 points) 11. The idea of holding â€Å"all else equal† is known as 12.If our dataset has one observation for every state for the year 2000, then our dataset is (a) cross-sectional data (b) pooled cross-sectional data (c) time series data (d) panel data 13. If our dataset has one observation for every state for the year 2000 and another observation for each state in 2005, then our dataset is (a) cross-sectional data (b) pooled cross-sectional data (c) time series data (d) panel data 14. If our dataset has one observation for the state of Indiana each year from 1950-2005 then our dataset is (a) cross-sectional data (b) pooled cross-sectional data (c) time series data (d) panel data 15.Consider the function f (X, Y ) = (aX + bY )2 . What is (a) 2aX (b) a(aX + bY ) (c) 2a(aX + bY ) (d) a2 X ? f (X,Y ) ? X 3 Long Answer Questions (50 points) 16. The sum of squared deviations (subtracting the average value of x from each observation on x) is the sum of the squared xi minus n times the square of x. There are ? several ways to show this, here is one: n n xi (xi ? x) ? i=1 = i=1 n (xi ? x + x) (xi ? x) ? ? ? n = i=1 n (xi ? x) (xi ? x) + ? ? i=1 n x (xi ? x) ? ? = i=1 (xi ? x)2 + x ? ? i=1 n (xi ? x) ? (xi ? x) = 0, so ? and we know that i=1 n i=1 (xi ? x)2 ? 17. Th ere are several ways to show that this expression equals the sample covariance between x and y, here is one: n n xi (yi ? y ) ? i=1 = i=1 n (xi ? x + x) (yi ? y ) ? ? ? n = i=1 n (xi ? x) (yi ? y ) + x ? ? ? i=1 (yi ? y ) ? = i=1 (xi ? x) (yi ? y ) ? ? 18. Correlation and causation are not always the same thing. (a) A negative correlation means that larger class size is associated with lower test performance. This could be because the relationship is causal meaning that having a larger class size actually hurts student performance.However, there are other reasons we might ? nd a negative relationship. For example, children from more a? uent families might be more likely to attend schools with smaller class sizes, and a? uent children generally score better on standardized tests. Another possibility is that within a school, a principal might assign the better students to smaller classes. Or, some parents might insist that their children are in the smaller classes, and these same pare nts tend to be more involved in their children’s education. Given the potential for confounding factors such as these, ? ding a negative correlation between class size and test scores is not strong evidence that smaller 4 class sizes actually lead to better performance. Thus, without other information, we cannot draw a meaningful economic conclusions. A correct answer should explain that we should be careful about drawing economic conclusions from simple correlations. (b) The sample correlation between N and T is de? ned as: s rN T = N T sN sT where the sample covariance, sN T , is given by: sN T = 1 999 1000 ? Ni ? N i=1 ? Ti ? T and the sample standard deviations are given by: sN = 1 999 1000 Ni ? N i=1 2 sT = 1 999 1000 ? Ti ? T i=1 2 Note that there are several alternative ways to write this and statistical programs generally use other algorithms to calculate the correlation that are less prone to loss of precision due to roundo? error or storage over? ow. 19. Wage data ( a) There are 526 observations. (b) There are 274 men in the sample. This means that the sample is 52. 09 percent male. (c) The average level of education in the sample is 12. 6 years. The median level of education is 12 years. (d) The highest education level in the sample is 18 years of school. 9 people in the sample report having 18 years of education. (e) The average hourly wage in the sample is $5. 90. The median hourly wage in the sample is $4. 65. 20. Fertility data (a) There are 363 women in the sample. (b) The average number of children ever born to a woman in the sample is 2. 3. The median number is 2. (c) The largest number of children ever born to a woman in the sample 7. Six women report having seven children. (d) 25 percent of the sample lived in the eastern United States at age 16. (e) The average level of eduction in the sample is 13. 2 years. 5

Creation Myth, Religious and Cultural Traditions of Anishinaabe People Essay

Creation Myth, Religious and Cultural Traditions of Anishinaabe People - Essay Example His book the Mishomis Book informs readers of the origin of man and his indigenous language. As a way of validating Benton-Banai’s claims, it is important to compare his claims with the general view of the creation theory, cultural, and religious practices of this unique group. Thus, a detailed comparison shows various similarities and differences in the two accounts. The general view of the Anishinaabe tribe reveals this group of people believe in the existence of a Supreme Being. According to Kulnieks, Longboat, and Young (2013), their creator existed long before the creation of the planet earth. Consequently, He is responsible for creating the earth and all existing human beings and animals. In addition, the Supreme Being created man on the last day. He gave man responsibility to name animals and plants in his native language that is the Anishinaabemowin. Besides, the man had no existing family and community members at that particular time. The creator, Ghizemanidoo, particularly named man Nanabozho. Furthermore, the creator said the name was important and a sign of unity in the community. As a result, it became part of the daily greeting of the community members. Both the general view and Mishomis Book have numerous similarities concerning creation story and religious belief and practices of the Anishinaabe community. Both argue that the Anishinaabe people believe in a supreme and almighty being. This group of people have religious traditions and believes in a creator. They respect and obey their creators’ orders and rules. According to Benton-Banai (2010), the Anishinaabe people have a creator who is their source of life. The creator not only gives them life but also gives them the responsibility to name all animals in the world. In addition, their creator gives a responsibility to preserve and protect animals and plants on earth. This point is also supported by the general people`s view of this tribe.  

Management Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Management Project - Essay Example The paper includes an in-dept analysis of the four important aspects of management (planning, organizing controlling and leading) in the context of PNR. It also provides a brief description regarding the products and operations of the company. The company overview PNR Private Ltd has been involved in the business of tyres that are mainly used in two wheelers. It produces tyres for two wheelers especially for the motor cycles. It is been almost seven years that the company is manufacturing and selling tyres. Its main customers include some of the local as well as global two wheeler manufacturers. Furthermore, there is a strong network of dealers that sell the products to the individual customers. In the last year PNR’s annual revenue reached almost $100M. However the company’s performance was badly hit by the recent global financial crisis that rocked most of the developed economies in the world especially the US and UK economy. As the demand of cars and bikes was signif icantly lowered due to this global crisis, tyre industry was also remarkably affected. Being a part of this industry PNR also experienced a tough time when its annual revenue was gone down by almost 10% in the year 2008-2009. However, with recovery of global economy PNR has also improved its performance. At present the company employs almost 100 individuals. The management of PNR gives significant importance on the quality and innovation of the product. The company’s main objective is to take the customer satisfaction level to a new high that will help the company to meet its annual target of revenue easily on a regular basis. Over the years ‘Innovation’ has been the key to PNR’s success. The company has plans to invest significant amount of resources in the research and development section. A new production plant with state-of-the art technology and advanced research and development facilities is likely to come up in near future. The company’s visi on is to become the market leader in two wheeler tyre industry by means of high degree of innovation and customer satisfaction. In PNR it is believed that management is a concept that is neither solely science nor solely arts, but it is a blend of both. In the present business world which is intensely competitive, organizations fail to succeed if they do not focus on innovation, research and development. Today, most of the managerial decisions are taken after conducting extensive marketing as well as financial research. If management is looked at from this perspective then it can be considered as more of science rather than arts. However, on the other hand management is also about art of convincing and communicating with the staffs. According to Basu, â€Å"management is getting things done through and with others† (Basu, Business Organisation And Management). This statement reflects that art is an important component of management. The management of PNR admits these facts an d believes that management is the combination of both science and art. The next section provides a clear picture of the four important aspects of management i.e. planning, leading, organizing and controlling in the context of PNR. Planning SWOT Analysis SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Threats and Opportunities) Analysis is a strategic tool that is widely used across all the industry. PNR’s main strength is its strong customer base. Despite

Developing a conceptual framework is an impossible possibility Essay - 5

Developing a conceptual framework is an impossible possibility - Essay Example Further, it forms the basis for establishing which events should be accounted for and how the same should be released to the accountants (Macve 1987 p. 11). Despite the pertinence of the conceptual framework, there are challenges which are involved. This is so because it should and it is a concept that is developed to guide study and what is transpired or has transpired over a given period of time on certain things. Tentative theory explains a conceptual framework as a phenomenon which is subject of investigation. This theory enlighten the rest of your design, it helps in evaluating and also refining your targets, initiate realistic and important research issues. Further, it helps in selecting proper methods and recognizes probable validity perils to your conclusion. This theory also helps in proving your research. Conceptual framework can be described as the research problem. It therefore involves formulating research problem for purposes of initiation and designing of your study. The ideology behind this argument is that conceptual framework identifies something that is happening in the globe which is hard to analyse. As such therefore, the conceptual framework which you develop and deduce for consumption by the rest of the people should be justifiable so that people can be able to appreciate your work. This requires that the conceptual framework k should be backed with factual examples touching on the daily happenings in different institutions (Bhimani, 2005 p. 23). What we have discussed in the above statement does not mean that there exists clear and express report of the research problem. However, it is important that research structure should demonstrate impliedly or expressly some issue which are hypothetical in nature and also reveal which other information so required. To avoid misleading ideas on the issue of the conceptual framework, one

Celia Cruz Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Celia Cruz - Research Paper Example She also lived together with her mother in the city of Havana. During her schooling, she enrolled at the Normal School for Teachers located in Havana with an intention of becoming a literature teacher. Celia Cruz later interrupted her studies to pursue a singing career after winning a talent show. From the talent show, she realized she could sing well since she captured the attention of her audience. In addition, Cruz had a passion for singing. Celia Cruz won the talent show from her tango presentation of Nostalgia presentation. From her performances, Celia Cruz had many fans that enjoyed her music and dance. She later replaced the lead singer Myrta Silva. In 1962, Cruz fell in love with the orchestra’s lead trumpet performer Pedro Knight. Cruz’s husband directed and managed her after pursuing a solo artiste career. The 1960s made it hard for Cruz to locate a huge audience in America in spite of the number of recordings she had done during her music career (Sloan 159). Her success rose when she became popular with salsa music and dance. Salsa dance evolved from musical experimentation with Caribbean sounds. Cruz became famous for her music and salsa dance that thrilled her fans while she performed on stage (Mendible 108). Celia Cruz had a soft voice that people described as operatic. During her performances, she controlled her voice through high and low pitches with ease. She also added flavor to salsa music with her rhyme music. In addition, Celia Cruz also thrilled her fans with her flashy costumes. Cruz became a leader in her professional circle in the years that followed by appearing in one of a 1988 BBC feature film entitled My Name is Celia Cruz. Four years later, Cruz was featured in The Mambo Kings and afterwards The Perez Family in 1995. Ana Cristina Reymundo, originally published in Spanish, wrote Celia Cruz’s autobiography. Celia Cruz became famous from her many honors that she received from her recordings. Cruz and her husband became citizens

The effect of family eldercare responsibilities on labour market Research Proposal - 1

The effect of family eldercare responsibilities on labour market involvement in South Africa and Canada - Research Proposal Example Gerontological research nowadays has placed emphasis more often on trends of family or informal care for the elderly in less developed countries Without the basic social services and assistance the vulnerable elderly in LDCs are a group exposed to significant risk. Nevertheless, according to Williams (2000), at present, majority of empirical findings indicate that a significant portion of the elderly population in developing countries depends on their own job or their families as their sole protection at later life periods. One important variable in the subject matter of family elder care is the participation rate of women in the labour force. Globally, the proportion of women in the work force grew significantly between 1970 and 1990 not including sub-Saharan Africa and ex-USSR where it dropped to some extent (Mueller 2000, 2). Former USSR, sub-Saharan Africa, Eastern and Southeast Asia have the highest rates whereas Southern and Western Asia and North Africa have the lowest (Muelle r 2000, 2-3). The rate of women’s labour force involvement may be indicative of the level of eldercare responsibility placed on women. A. Objective of the Research This study will try to compare the influence of family eldercare on the labour market, specifically the involvement of women in the work force, of South Africa (developing country) and Canada (developed country). It is the objective of this study to contribute to the insufficient understanding of the impact of informal or family care of the elderly on the composition of the labour market in developing and developed nations. B. Research Questions The primary question that this study will try to answer is what is the effect of family eldercare on the labour market of South Africa and Canada? More specifically, this study will attempt to address the following questions: a. Do women feel or think that they are more obliged to take care of the elderly in their families than their male counterparts? b. What is the typica l age at which working women initially take up obligations of eldercare? c. Do women decide to leave the work force if the obligation of caring for the elderly becomes onerous? C. Significance of Research Even though extensive consideration has been conferred over the recent years to the difficult endeavour of building equal status for men and women in the labour market, there have been comparatively very few methodical attempts to evaluate or measure the effect of family or informal eldercare obligations on males’ and females’ employment prospects, in that case, of labourers generally. Hence, this study hopes to give explanation of the implications for labour force involvement of choices made by women to assume eldercare responsibilities. II. Review of Related Literature Because of the dearth of available literature on the impact of family eldercare responsibilities on the labour market of South Africa and China the researcher will present in this section piecemeal in formation about ageing and the labour market of each of the two aforementioned countries. The next section will generally discuss the implication of family eldercare obligations on the labour market of both developing and developed countries. Nevertheless, it is important, above all, to discuss first the theoretical foundation of this study. A. Theoretical Paradigm In conceptualising the labour market in the perspective of the family, time distribution frameworks are suitable. The influential work

Abortion and personhood Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Abortion and personhood - Essay Example Although highly controversial, the Roe decision, specifically, and the abortion debate, in general, continues to be one of the most significant issues, both from a theological and a moral perspective. When examining the use of the concept of personhood from an ethical standpoint, Gibson2 points out traditionally the debate surrounding abortion is, in actuality, a debate over whether a woman has the right to maintain control over her own body. Although there is little disagreement that women are afforded the right to choose, the right to privacy, the right to control their bodies and the right to self-determination, these distinctions become less clear when a woman wishes to execute these rights at the expense of a fetus. At this point, pro-life proponents would argue that the rights of the fetus outweigh those of the host (i.e. the pregnant female). Herein, lays the problem of basing the morality of abortion on personhood. According to Gibson when this is done there are three theoretical frameworks that are present each of which acknowledge and define personhood as occurring at different stages of fetal development. These three varying positions as to when personhood is present a nd translated into rights are the basic camps of the abortion debate. The first is that personhood and therefore the right to life is present at conception. The second, as argued by Aquinas, is that the right to life is present at some point after conception, but before birth. Lastly, the third position holds that the fetus does not possess any right to life, therefore personhood, until birth. Gibson notes that although these various camps of pro-choice versus pro-life differ as to their belief systems, both from a moral and theological standpoint, they all base these positions on the notion, directly or indirectly on personhood which, in effect, focuses not on the right of the woman but on the moral status of

Art and Protest in Writing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Art and Protest in Writing - Essay Example It is a tool that communicates the thoughts, ideas and proposition of writers effectively if proper skills are adopted. Writing as an art would basically involve the writer using writing as a medium for expressing the intended long lasting communication, an avenue for personal interactions or as a means to convey feelings and ideas to the reader, at the present or future times. Taken as an art, there would be need for motivation to actually cause the potential writer to go into the trouble of writing, creativity and attribution to make the writing interesting and to give an indication that the writer reads from the works of other authors. To a new writer, attitude would be a critical component especially when sharing what has been written with other writers. Wiggins (41) argues that every successful writer needs to posses some degree of arrogance. For example, Alvarez is a renowned novelist. In her novel Something to Declare, the author includes a reader’s comment claiming tha t after finishing one book by the author, the reader would automatically be led to buy another of the author’s books. This has been used as an intentional strategy by most writers to gain trust from the readers and thus make it easy to manipulate their minds in line with their purpose of the writing. Cambridge Educational Services introduces an important aspect in writing referred to as â€Å"wordsmithing† (20). ... The author chose to use the America beauty pageant instead thus reduces chances of undesirable consequences. Most people would write about others but their works would not last. But for writers like Alvarez, their works become constantly new in the reader’s mind. There is much difference between disclosing one’s life in writing without any purpose and using one’s emotions and concerns in constructing a bond between the reader and the author or writer. Therefore, knowing the purpose for writing would be critical before engaging in any writing works. This would also be an important phase in the determination of the target audience so as to choose an appropriate delivery technique depending on whether the writing is aimed at informing, entertaining, demonstrating or persuading. With the development of skills for identification of purpose, together with organization, the tone and texture of the writing automatically gets to the required standards. It just resembles t alking to the target audience only that in this case, it would be done in writing. The author should be careful on the language used depending on the knowledge and exposure of the targeted audience. Although Alvarez has her poems and essays done from an American-Hispanic perspective, she thoroughly analyses human behaviors. The art of writing surpasses language and cultural barriers to achieve the intended objective as long as the purpose has been outlined. In her I want to be Miss America works, Alvarez portrays the image being sent out of the American culture. Through narrative writing in her novel, the author protests at the society’s Americanization of beauty. Through the story of Julia Alvarez and her sisters watching the

Herodotus Thucydides Essay Example for Free

Herodotus Thucydides Essay The accounts of what happened in the past are known as history. People who recorded history in any way are called historian. As early as 5th millennium B. C, ancient Sumerians already recorded their history, making them the earliest historians. Many great historians were produced as history was being made. But simply writing history will not produce good historians. Good historians are not only producing written accounts of what they believed happened just for the sake of recording something, but can also provide genuine material or testimonial evidences of what they claimed happened which can be inspected, tested, reviewed, or retraced by others , can accurately record the facts without incorporating their own ideas or beliefs, can effectively transmit their recorded works through succeeding generations, and can bring their reader back to the past when the event actually happened (Simkin 1). The two most common ancient historians whom works are always being compared are Herodotus of Halicarnassus and Thucydides of Athens. Herodotus of Halicarnassus was known from his work entitled â€Å"The Histories† which was divided into nine volumes and was given the name of a muse- Greek mythology Goddess- for each. In his books, Herodotus recorded mainly the events happened during the Persian and Greek wars and the accounts of his journey throughout the Mediterranean and Black sea including the place he reached, describing the geography, faunas, and floras, and the people he met, taking into accounts of the stories, claims, ideas and beliefs of each individual (Zarit 1). With his early written descriptions of history, Herodotus has been known as the â€Å"Father of History† (â€Å"Herodotus Compared with Thucydides† 1). On the other hand, Thucydides of Athens was an Athenian military general known from his work entitled â€Å"History of the Peloponnesian War† which describes the battle between the Peloponnesian Alliance- led by the Spartans- and Delian Alliance- led by the Athenians (Maxwell 1). Thucydides escaped death caused by the plague that spread in Athens. This plague killed many famous philosophers and scholars, including the elite and common Athenians. Thucydides obtained fame and respect from his fellow Athenians with less effort since he came from an aristocrat Athenian family. He served in the military and later became a general which gave him easy access to account accurate information (Zarit 3). Thucydides has been known as the â€Å"Father of Scientific History† due to the historical accounting method he used, and has been called the â€Å"Father of the School of Political Realism† due to his unbiased account of different political views in his book (Maxwell 1). Herodotus and Thucydides were both Greek historians but both wrote history on different historical perspective, analysis, and purpose as seen in the contents of their works. Herodotus wrote his book mainly for his fellow Greeks. He intended not only to inform but also to entertain them by infusing his literary writing capabilities. If some information he gathered was not too appealing and would cause disinterest to his audience, Herodotus would sometimes exaggerate or use some â€Å"artistic† words to his work to attract the attention of the audience (â€Å"Herodotus Compared with Thucydides† 1). Since Greeks considered their selves direct descendant of Gods and Goddesses, they accepted Greek God mythology as fact, believing the will of their Gods and Goddesses as valid and true. Furthermore, the Greek oracles was considered the link between them and their immortal Gods, therefore anything that the oracle said was also considered an absolute truth (Maxwell 1).. Herodotus included the prophecies and advises made by the Greek oracles in his work. He explained things or events, relying to Greek God mythology as his reasons. He usually used the prophecies and advises of the oracle to predict the outcome and to explain the consequence of a historical event. The influence of his religion and his artistry to his works could be seen when he named his book after the nine Greek God deities (Zarit 2). Herodotus took into account all information, data, and facts available to him whether these said information, data, and facts was directly connected to his subject being discussed in his book or unnecessary information. He recorded detailed account on his subject matter, sometimes too detailed descriptions that create several degrees of sub-subjects which may lead to confusion or comprehension difficulties for some readers. Furthermore, if the first hand information is not available for his access, Herodotus used second hand information. Even if the source of the second hand information was not certain with the details, Herodotus was obliging the source to pick the closest information he could remember. In some instances, Herodotus let his reader choose the most likely conclusion of an event if unexpected outcome or opposing result can occur (â€Å"Herodotus Compared with Thucydides† 1). The focus of Herodotus in writing his work was to find the cause that led to the Greek-Persian war. He tried to include all possible reasons including but not limited to religions, topography, culture, animals and beliefs of different places involved (Zarit 2). Herodotus’ â€Å"The Histories† can be summarize as a history book written in a literary way. Despite of biased and inaccurate accounts, readers still prefer to read Herodotus’ work than Thucydides’ because it was presented in an amusing way. Thucydides wrote his book mainly for the purpose of educating future generations. Unlike Herodotus, Thucydides accounted history using inductive approach. He deduced the outcome of a phenomenon based on what the accessible evidences were dictating. He was unbiased when recording information, keeping out his personal ideas and beliefs to influence his work. Despite of being a military general of Athens, he still presented his works fairly, without being impartial to Athenians or Spartans point of view (â€Å"Herodotus Compared with Thucydides† 1). Although Thucydides was raised as Greek, nurturing strong Greek ideas, beliefs, and norms, he did not let this influence him. He tried to explain phenomenon and conclude the outcome of events using logic as reason not divine intervention which was contradictory on what Herodotus did. Thucydides’ written accounts were concise and direct. His descriptions on his subject were detailed and straightforward which were usually supported by several evidences he gathered including his own observations. He did not include information or description without supporting evidences to back them up. He made sure that the proof he used can be tested, viewed or examined again by others (Maxwell 1). If proofs were not available, he preferred not to record the event. This approach of Thucydides’ explanation was similar to the method used now in scientific inquiries and investigations- the scientific method-, hence giving Thucydides the title â€Å"Father of Scientific History†. Thucydides’ perspective to history is mainly about politics as seen in his work the â€Å"History of the Peloponnesian War†. In his work, Thucydides clearly and accurately recorded facts. Thucydides described the sites where the war had taken place. He introduced the people involved in the war, their roles and goals. He accounted the outcome of several military campaigns. But most importantly, he discussed the political aspects, morals, and decisions behind each event and their corresponding consequences that led to the outcome (Zarit 3). He used these facts to synthesize theories why men go to war. He tried to explain the cause of war in the context of human reasons. Furthermore, he concluded that if man would prefer reasons to settle conflicts, war could be prevented. Thucydides’ conclusions, political perspective and analysis to history are still widely used today (Maxwell 1). Today, the validity of his ideas is still applicable and is still being taught. With this perspective and analysis to history, Thucydides was named â€Å"Father of the School of Political Realism† (Zarit 3). Herodotus’ and Thucydides’ approach in writing history were very different. Regardless of whom the audience is and what the purpose is in writing history, the historical contents should be valid, accurate, precise and true. This could be supported by evidences such as written documents, geographical validity or verbal accounts. Furthermore, the continuing relay and availability of historical facts through succeeding generations is equally important as its truthfulness, since history is written to be read by others. Since both works of Herodotus and Thucydides satisfied the successful transmission through generations, only its truthfulness could be questioned. Many evidences proved the validity of Thucydides claims. On the other hand, some claims of Herodotus were also proven valid. But in this race of who is better historian between the two, Thucydides of Athens gave more valid and accurate claims in his account, therefore making him the better historian. References: â€Å"Herodotus Compared with Thucydides. † Free Essays. 21 November 2001. 23 August 2008 http://essays.org. uk/classical-studies/herodotus-thucydides/2paper/. Maxwell, Michael. â€Å"Herodotus Thucydides. † StudentsFriends. 2001. 23 August 2008 http://www. studentsfriend. com/historians. html. Simkin, John. â€Å"What makes a good historian? † The Education Forum. 1 January 2005. 23 August 2008 http://educationforum. ipbhost. com/index. php? showtopic=2777. Zarit, Ben. â€Å"Herodotus and Thucydides Through the Lens of Aristotle. † The Perseus Project. 9 May 1995. 23 August 2008 http://www. perseus. tufts. edu/GreekScience/Students/Ben/aristotle. html.

PESTEL and SWOT Analysis of AstraZeneca pharmaceuticals

PESTEL and SWOT Analysis of AstraZeneca pharmaceuticals This is a report about entering a new market of AstraZeneca which is one of the worlds greatest pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. Being an international manager of this company, this report clearly shows the marketing plan of the company. 1.0 Introduction of AstraZeneca pharmaceuticals AstraZeneca pharmaceutical is a rapidly leading growing company that has branches in several countries. This company was formed on 6 April 1999 through the merger of Astra AB of Sweden and Zeneca Group PLC of the UK two companies with similar science-based cultures and a shared vision of the pharmaceutical industry. It is a company fully focused on single purpose, to enable the people life altering condition to live better lives. It has a portfolio of products for major diseases like cancer, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, infection, neuroscience, respiratory and inflammation. The motto of the company is to build a significant difference to patient throughout great medicines that bring do good to for patients and add value for stakeholders and society. Product market characteristics AstraZeneca is an innovative driven biopharmaceutical global business that supplies their products in more than 100 countries. In many countries, it manufactures the products while also export products to countries where they do not have manufacturing operations. With the aim to be success, AstraZeneca has developed flexible marketing strategies to market and distributes its products in local areas of emerging market. The company focuses the skills and resources in six important areas of health care. It discovers, develops, manufactures and markets prescription pharmaceutical on the areas which include cardiovascular, cancer, infection, gastrointestinal, respiratory and inflammation. AstraZeneca is providing medicines for these worlds serious diseases. Now a day, people of every country is suffering from different type of bacterial infection. The death rate in developing country due to inflectional diseases is also increasing due to lack of appropriate medicine. There is a high demand of antibiotic medicine around the world in developing countries as well as in developed countries. Performance of AstraZeneca The performance at AstraZeneca is committed to achieve the financial and strategic objectives at the same time as maintaining the core values as the number one priority in counting to bring the best products to market all over the world. Research and Development is a key competitive advantage for this company. Without RD AstraZeneca could not have become the global leading biopharmaceutical company. The revenue of the company in 2009 was increased by 7% as well as new emerging markets businesses grew strongly by 12% revenue in constant currency time. There was improved in efficiency throughout the organization and some extra gains within other income. Although company revenue growth is slowing down due to continuous pressure on healthcare costs and pricing as well as vast competition from generic medicines, the demand for health care will derive the company future growth remain strong. (AstraZeneca Annual report 2009) 2.0 International marketing planning According to McDonald, marketing planning is a structured way of identifying a range of options for the company, of making them explicit in writing, of formulating marketing objectives which are consistent with the companys overall objectives and of scheduling and costing out the specific activities most likely to bring about the achievement of the objectives.(L S Walsh, International Marketing, third edition) 2.1 Internal and External environment It is also needed to take into consideration those internal factors close to the unit that have a direct impact on the unit and AstraZeneca strategic marketing.   These will include:   CUSTOMERS   AstraZeneca survive on the basis of meeting the needs, wants and providing benefits for their customers. Failure to do so will result in a failed business strategy.    EMPLOYEE   Employing the correct staff and keeping these staff motivated is an essential part of the strategic planning process of a AstraZeneca. Training and development plays an essential role particular in service sector marketing in-order to gain a competitive edge. The success is due to the 62,000 people they employ in their businesses. SHAREHOLDERS   It is the responsibility of the AstraZeneca to meet the expectation of Shareholder and perception. This company is trying its best to fulfill its strategy so that they can meet shareholdersexpectation.   When dealing with the marketing environment it is important for a company to become proactive. By doing so, they can create the kind of environment that they will prosper in and can become more efficient by marketing in areas with the greatest customer potential. It is important to place equal emphasis on both the macro and microenvironment and to react accordingly to changes within them. External strategy The PEST analysis examines changes in the marketplace caused by Political, Economic, Social, Technological factors. Political is political change whether it be through the European Union or the UK, from one party to another in control. Economic influences are the level of interest rates and the level of inflation. Social change involves changing attitudes and lifestyles. Technological change creates opportunities to invest in new products cutting costs. Political factors The government can have a major influence on the eating out industry, as all laws are passed through parliament. The types of laws that can affect the eating out industry are, tariffs on imports, a possible raise in value added tax and new health and safety laws, and also there is the possible introduction of laws from the European Union. So government regulations and legal issues have a direct impact on the way AstraZeneca operates. In result of growing awareness of the environmental consequences, U.K Government is planning actions to ensure aviation reflects its environmental impacts. Proposals are emerging for a tax on aviation, fuel and VAT on air tickets. Governments taxation policies and decision about the increase in the petrol prices have affected the buying power of the individuals in U.K. All of the above can cause a rise in costs so prices may rise in order to pass the costs onto the consumer. Economical factors AstraZeneca is also affected by economical factors nationally and globally. Whether an Economy is in a boom, recession or recovery will also affect consumer confidence and behavior. Economic factors have affected the purchasing power of potential customers, and the state of the internal/external economy in the short and long-term. As a result the company needs to consider: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Economic growth à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Interest rates à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Inflation rate à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Budget allocation à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The level of inflation à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Employment level per capita   Interest rates are the lowest they have been for forty years and this affects the rate of consumer spending on goods and services. The rate of interest affects the economy through its influence on aggregate demand, the higher the rate of interest, the lower the rate of aggregate demand. A fall in interest rates usually means that assets rise in value; this means that consumers become wealthier. Social factors Social factors will include the demographic changes, trends in the way people live, work and think and cultural aspects of the macro environment. These factors affect customer needs and the size of potential market: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Population growth rate à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Age distribution à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Internal/external emphasis on safety à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Internal/external attitudes to change à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ What is the stakeholder expectation of the unit?   Technological factors The complexities of achieving business success through increased efficiency, effectiveness and competitiveness, combined with innovative applications of modern technology, has heightened the awareness of both technology and business managers towards more strategically oriented approaches for planning and management of AstraZeneca. SWOT Factors SWOT factors refer to the strength, weaknesses, opportunity and threats of the company. The main strengths of AstraZeneca are its brands. It has an ability to deliver the potential of existing and future products through the power and reach of a combined global sales and marketing resources. It has a wide spread class coverage in key therapy area such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases due to complementary nature of product. It is focused on constantly developing new products to expectations. Since it is a global industry it is a member of many organisations all over the world. The world population has doubled in the last 50 years from three billion to over six billion and is expected to reach nine billion by 2050. In addition, the number of people who can access the highest standards of healthcare continues to increase, particularly among the elderly, who represent a rising proportion of populations in developed nations and continue to offer opportunities for the industry to supply an expanding number of patients who can benefit from medicines. Currently, the threat of new viable competitors in the global industry is not very substantial. The main rivals of the company are GlaxoSmithKline plc, Merck Co.Inc, Novartis AG. The threat of substitutes, however, is a very real threat. The UK, and especially London, has been a prime target of the religious fundamentalists and terrorist outfits. London and other cities in the UK have been frequently under high alert since9/11 in general and after the war in Iraq in particular. 2.3 Marketing goals and objectives The main objectives of the company is to be the worlds largest pharmaceuticals company and to build a significant difference to patient all the way through great medicines that bring do good to for patients and add value for stakeholders and society. Boosting efforts to source improvement from outside the company and working in partnerships across all aspects of RD to broaden the base for a success. Market analysis Now a day, people of every country is suffering from different type of bacterial infection. The death rate in developing country due to inflectional diseases is also increasing due to lack of appropriate medicine. The demand for health care is more in every country so the companys future is bright and growth remains strong. Population are increasing and people are living longer. There is a high demand of antibiotic medicine around the world in developing countries as well as in developed countries. Although this company has its market in different countries, there are more countries where this company can gain its market. So, I have a target to provide medicines for inflectional diseases in new market. Merrem/Meronem (meropenen) is an ultra broad spectrum injectable antibiotic for a wide variety of serious infections, including meningitis and pneumonia. To meet the goals of the company even though it has its market in more than 100 countries, being an international manager of the company I would like to enter into other new market. So, first of all I am going to research the business environment of the country. I have chosen four countries Singapore, Bangladesh, Sri lanka and New Zealand. By doing PEST analysis of these countries I would choose the best one for my new market. PEST ANALYSIS OF FOUR COUNTRIES Countries Political factors Economical factors Socio cultural factors Technological factors Demographic factors Singapore Political condition is stable as there is parliament republic ,English law is accepted Highly developed and free market economy and GDP rate is also higher than other developed countries. Mix of culture and education is the main instrument Excellent transportation, communication system Population is less than other three contries ,total area is 756950sqkm Bangladesh political condition is not stable, Poor economic condition due to recession Different types of languages and religions, health standard is improving Modern communication system and advanced road system 7th highest population in the world Sri lanka republic Developing country, estimated GDP growth rate is 3.5% Various languages and religion, multi ethnic countries Sophisticated transportation communication services Population is estimated 20,238,000 New Zealand Free market economy, can compete globally Modern, Prosperous and high standard of living Rich in culture, different religious Excellent technological factors services Population is 43677000. Source: Wikipedia of all countries According to PEST analysis, I found New Zealand and Singapore are the strong country than Bangladesh and Sri lanka in every aspect. Among these two countries I am going to choose New Zealand for new market for my product. New Zealand is one of the prosperous and high living standard countries. Political environment is stable so there is no difficulty for the businesses. Since 99% of people are educated they are aware about their health and they demand for better healthcare. The average life expectancy is 80 years, as people live longer they suffer from different diseases. 3.0 Market Entry Strategy There are different methods of entering an overseas market. Expansion of business into international market can be done through following mechanisms which are discussed below. Export Joint Venture (franchising, licensing) Foreign Direct Investment Export: It is a traditional and well established method of market entry to foreign markets. This method is less expensive as we dont have to establish new company in other market but have to find distributor for my product. Joint venture: In this type the two or more companies in different countries agree to perform the business and share the profit and bear the losses. Nowadays this method is famous as there is low risk and burden is divided. Joint venture can be done in two ways: licensing and franchising Licensing: It is a wide range of agreements relating to the sale or leasing of industrial or commercial expertise by one party to other in returns for valuable considerations. Franchising: it is a form of licensing by which the franchiser provides a standard package of components or ingredients together with management and marketing services. The franchisee provides capital, market knowledge and personal involvement. Foreign Direct Investment: It is the direct ownership of facilities in the targeted country. It is the 100%investment in that country. It can be done by acquisition of existing company in the targeted country. Advantages and disadvantages of market entry methods Methods Advantages disadvantages Export Less expensive, minimize investment, efficiency as there is speed entry. Limits access to local information and market, transportation cost may be high, risk of exchange rate of currency joint venture Low risk, less investment required, overcomes ownership and cultural distances Conflict between two parties, differences in cultures and management styles Foreign direct investment Greater knowledge of the market, 100% control, gives the company fully protection Higher risk than other methods, lack of managerial skills as well as ,expensive, 4.0 Implementing marketing plan ps Product Price Place promotion .

SBS Leaving the ABC Unaccountable Essay -- Media

Introduction Whether the ABC broadcasts content sufficiently diverse to meet their original intent is widely debated among modern media scholars (Alexander 173). The creation of the SBS allowed the ABC to remain unaccountable in terms of their original purpose to provide high quality, impartial and educational broadcasting for a culturally and linguistically diverse audience. It is critical to understand the original purpose of the ABC’s creation, where and how the ABC failed to fulfill this purpose and how the SBS filled the niche left by the ABC’s downfalls. An evaluation of the ABC’s broadcast schedule for the first week of May 2012 will be included to provide current evidence for whether the ABC is fulfilling their purpose. Before we can evaluate ABC’s downfalls and why are in fact downfalls we must first understand what the original intent of establishing the ABC was. The ABC’S Purpose The ABC is an independent statutory authority whose role and function is established in legislation (Australian Broadcasting Corporation, 1998). The legislation under which the ABC was establish is the Australian Broadcasting Corporation Act of 1983 also know as the ABC charter, it outlines broadcasting, programming and service requirements that as a whole aim to provide a sense of national identity through high standards of diversified content (Austrain Broadcasting Corporation, 1983). Section 6 of the ABC Charter outlines that the ABC amongst other things must: 1. â€Å"provide within Australia innovative and comprehensive broadcasting services of a high standard, 2. provide programs that contribute to a sense of national identity and inform and entertain, and reflect the cultural diversity of, the Australian community, 3. prov... ...issues-bias-funding-sponsorship/is-the-abc-biased/abc-bias-verdict-from-the-government-appointed Minchin, N. (2012, April 29). Climate Change - What the ABC edited out. No Carbon Tax Climat Sceptics Blog . Munsie, J. (2012). ACMA’s Ruling on Kyle Sandilands – Toothless Tiger or the Kitten Who Roared? Addisons Commercial Lawyers, Addisons Focus Papers. Addisons Commercial Lawyers. Nova, J. (2012, April 27). ABC Biased. Scientist Matthew England, outrageous error or dishonest? Nick Minchin owed an apology. Jo Nova . Reynolds, H. (2012, Feb 14). A very British summer on your ABC. Retrieved May 20, 2012, from Inside Story : http://inside.org.au/a-very-british-summer-on-your-abc/ SBS. (2009). Annual Report 2008-2009. Annual Report, SBS, Sydney. SECRC. (2011). Inquiry into recent ABC programming decisions. Senate Environment and Communications References Committee .

Essay --

2) The Three Main Fashion Centres Within France Paris, Lyon and Marseille are not only the three largest cities in France, but they are also the main fashion centres in the country. Each city has played a unique role in shaping France as a fashion mecca. France has been called the world fashion capital for many decades. France’s capital and largest city, Paris is home some of the world’s most elite French fashion houses. The Golden Triangle is a name given to Avenue Champs- Élysà ©es, Avenue Marceau, and Avenue Montaigne, the main districts for luxury shopping in Paris. These areas boast stores of the highest names in fashion such as Chanel, Dior, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Christian Louboutin, Balmain and many more. There are also many high-end department stores like Printemps, Bon Marchà ©, and Les Galeries Lafayette, which draw thousands of locals and tourist every day. Other districts, like La Marais are home to many smaller boutiques, and much more affordable shops. It seems as though everywhere you turn in Paris, there are luxurious fashion houses, contemporary boutiques, and unique t... Essay -- 2) The Three Main Fashion Centres Within France Paris, Lyon and Marseille are not only the three largest cities in France, but they are also the main fashion centres in the country. Each city has played a unique role in shaping France as a fashion mecca. France has been called the world fashion capital for many decades. France’s capital and largest city, Paris is home some of the world’s most elite French fashion houses. The Golden Triangle is a name given to Avenue Champs- Élysà ©es, Avenue Marceau, and Avenue Montaigne, the main districts for luxury shopping in Paris. These areas boast stores of the highest names in fashion such as Chanel, Dior, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Christian Louboutin, Balmain and many more. There are also many high-end department stores like Printemps, Bon Marchà ©, and Les Galeries Lafayette, which draw thousands of locals and tourist every day. Other districts, like La Marais are home to many smaller boutiques, and much more affordable shops. It seems as though everywhere you turn in Paris, there are luxurious fashion houses, contemporary boutiques, and unique t...

Isabel Allendes The House of the Spirits Essay examples -- Isabel All

Isabel Allende's The House of the Spirits In many novels, relationships shape a character. Throughout Isabel Allende's The House of the Spirits dissimilar individuals constantly come together to form relationships that change or develop their disposition. While Allende uses relationships to build upon a character, she also depicts a character's living environment in order to confirm their true soul and lifestyle. Due to the observation of both relationships and environments, a character's true qualities are expressed to a reader. The relationship between two individuals, Ferula and Clara, proves itself a positive product of the union of differing people. Through analysis of Ferula's home and close observation of her bond with Clara, Allende reveals Ferula's true character as she illustrates Ferula's dramatic change from a desolate soul to the selfless and loving character that molds Clara into the confident woman she aspires to. Ferula's life story, the desolation of her soul, and the connection she eventually has with Clara all became evident in the mere description of her living environment. At one point in the novel, Clara wrote of her experience in the vicinity of Ferula?s home. Clara explained that ?The tenement was a long passageway of ruined houses, all exactly the same; small impoverished dwellings built of cement, each with a single door and two windows. They were painted in drab colors and their peeling walls were linked across the narrow passageway by wires hung from side to side. [She] walked deeper into the neighborhood, avoiding puddles of dirty water that overflowed from the gutters and dodging piles of garbage in which cats were digging like silent shadows. In the center of the little... ...ship with Clara, Ferula became one of the most dynamic characters within The House of the Spirits. From ?ruined houses? to a life giving ?fountain? Allende demonstrated the great transformation of Ferula?s soul from complete desolation to true love. The bond she shared with Clara proved itself as one that could not compare to any others within the novel. Clara ?always was thinking of [Ferula]?(152), demonstrating the great impression Ferula left with her. No other relationships developed such a transformation as did this one. Truly, Ferula?s love influenced Clara?s life and molded her heart with the love and confidence that forever remained in the Trueba household and its memories. Works Cited: Allende, Isabel. The House of the Spirits. Trans. Magda Bogin. New York: Bantam Books, 1986. Trans. of La casa de los espiritus. Barcelona: Plaza and James. 1982.

The Issues Of Investing In Wind Power Environmental Sciences Essay

Buying and put ining a little air current power generator for your place is a undertaking that requires significant investing. Small wind generators can be you anyplace from $ 2000-6000 per kilowatt. As such, even the smallest air current turbine – i.e. a 5kV generator – can be you about $ 10,000. As such, it is intrinsic that you consider a few issues before you invest a majority of money in a little air current power generator to cut down your future public-service corporation costs Regional Wind Speed This is one factor that most people miss out on when make up one's minding to purchase a little air current power generator, and it is due to this that most people complain about air current power generators. Get to cognize the mean air current velocity in your country before purchasing a air current turbine. Subsequently, when you go to buy a air current turbine, expression at the sum of air current velocity it requires for declared power coevals. Most people deny this and frequently stop up kicking about non acquiring what they want. Remember, little air current generators require ample wind velocity and as such you should look up the air current velocity statistics and choose the appropriate air current power generator. On or Off-Grid First of wholly, you should make up one's mind whether you will be linking your little air current power generator to the power grid or non. If you decide to maintain it off-grid, you will be farther required to buy batteries and an inverter to hive away the extra energy and utilize it subsequently onwards. If you decide to link your generator to the grid, it wo n't be you much and you will be able to sell the extra energy generated to the local public-service corporation company. By and large, linking the generator to the power grid is preferred as it consequences in larger decrease in public-service corporation measures. Actual Capacity The declared capacity is ever mentioned sing the turbine invariably receives the ideal air current velocity and as such it is frequently extremely overstated. You should recognize that little air current generators do non work at their existent rated capacity ; alternatively, they merely produce 10-40 % of their stated capacity on a day-to-day norm. For case, a 1kW turbine will non bring forth 24kW in 24 hours, but alternatively it will bring forth 10-40 % of 24kW ; i.e. 2.4-9.6kW on a day-to-day footing. It is of import you realize this and maintain this in head while buying little air current generators. Area & A ; Placement of Wind Turbine By and large, it is said that a air current turbine should be placed at a tallness of 80ft for ideal air current velocity. However, there are a few issues when puting a air current turbine at such a tallness. Chiefly, if you are traveling to put a air current turbine at such a tallness you will be required to construct a tower of the same tallness on which the air current turbine will be placed. Furthermore, the tower will necessitate to be sturdy so that it is non destroyed in instance of high velocity air currents. Many legal powers do non let anything to be built in a residential country over the tallness of 35ft. In such instances, you will necessitate to get a edifice license from the local council or the several lodging authorization. If you are acute on puting your little air current power generator elsewhere, you will be required to supervise from which way and at which tallness of your house do you have ideal air current velocities. Remember that a air current turbine is dea rly-won and if you can non put it in countries of good air current velocity, it is a waste of money. At every point in make up one's minding to buy a air current power generator, you should maintain in head that little air current generators country a brawny investing. You should purchase one that is ideal for you or else all your invested clip and money will travel to waste. Article 2 – Why Home Wind Power Is Good? Environmentally Friendly In the face of issues such as planetary heating and depletion of non-renewable natural resources, one of today ‘s major issues is utilizing environmentally friendly merchandises. One of the most obvious advantages of utilizing place air current power is, hence, doing usage of renewable beginning of energy ( air current ) to bring forth energy. This in bend frees the non-renewable resources such as coal and oil for other utilizations. Windmills or weave turbines minimise the harm done to environment compared to utilize of coal and oil for the same which release toxic exhausts that have led to ozone depletion. Cost Salvaging Furthermore, the cost of operation of place air current power is drastically low compared to other beginnings. Although the initial capital cost possibly high, consecutive cost of operation remains highly low. Hence, the option is cost-efficient and has the potency for tremendous nest eggs for today ‘s cash-starved clients. In some states, the authoritiess have besides initiated revenue enhancement freedoms for families that survive on place air current power. In some provinces the cost of the equipment is written off against the person ‘s income that consequences in lower nonexempt income and hence, income revenue enhancement. Other provinces may let revenue enhancement interruptions for families utilizing place air current power as good. Customers besides benefit from lower electricity measures. Always Powered Possibly, a noteworthy advantage of utilizing place air current power is that this system is dependable and families do n't hold to endure from deficiency of electricity due to power outages. Hence, in states with terrible power crises and burden casting issues, this system of place air current power ensures power even when there are blackouts. Furthermore, clients no longer necessitate to trust on grid Stationss for supply of electricity ; they become self-sufficing with domestic air current power turbines and windmills. Besides, the operation is highly straightforward and hassle free and does non necessitate complicated processs of installing. Home wind turbines are one manner of bring forthing air current power and they significantly cut down C emanations. It, hence, leads to a greener environment. By hive awaying fresh air current energy, wastage of the renewable resource is reduced. Good Investing Wind power equipment is treated as an investing. Its lifespan extends by more than twenty old ages. The usage of air current power non merely helps families salvage money but besides helps them do money. On high air current yearss families are able to sell power to grid Stationss and they might acquire paid for it by electric companies where the province allows. It is highly good for places located near the national grid. Families can hive away extra air current on a blowy twenty-four hours and so sell it subsequently to the national grid. Although air current turbines are normally tall vertically, they take up really small infinite vertically and are, hence, convenient to topographic point in little houses. They besides free up the staying land or infinite for other utilizations. Furthermore, by geting the air current power installation the resale value of residential places increases because the equipment is regarded as a place betterment and has reasonably low care costs. It is tr eated as a back-up beginning of energy as good ; hence, purchasers end up paying more for houses with this installation. Article 3 – Wind Power VS Solar Some parts of the equipment used in solar panels are frequently obtained by activities such as strip excavation and through significant harm to the environment which is non the instance with residential power generators. Residential air current power generators have a batch of traveling parts, whereas solar panels do non. Therefore, the operation of residential air current power generators is noisy compared to that of solar panels which is soundless. Residential air current power generators have lesser dependability and a shorter battery life ( from 10-20 ) old ages compared to solar power equipment that has a life of about 25 old ages. Furthermore, air current power equipment requires greater monitoring compared to solar power. It besides requires more expensive care compared to solar power. Besides, residential air current power generators are more conspicuous compared to solar panels that become less obvious when installed on rooftops. Installation with solar power is besides fast er compared to that of air current power and less overseas telegram is required. The former is besides less affected by harm by buoy uping and is besides less antipathetic to damage by high velocity air currents. Besides, in some states authoritiess are antipathetic to the thought of installing of residential air current power generators and permission is hard to obtain compared to that for solar power. Besides, the air current turbines and generators are risky to winging animals such as birds that get trapped into the fan and lose their life. Residential power generators can botch the attraction of a house by going excessively outstanding in the landscape. As a consequence the value of existent estate may travel down. Wind power equipment requires more infinite compared to that for solar power which can easy be built onto rooftops. Professionals of Wind Power One of the most obvious advantages of utilizing wind power is that they can utilize wind twenty-four hours or dark or 24 hours every bit long as air current is blowing, whereas, in the instance of solar power, energy can be obtained merely during daylight hours. Besides, the installing of residential air current power generators is frequently less expensive than that of solar power panels and the production of solar panels consumes greater resources. Furthermore, air current power frequently produces greater sum of energy compared to solar power which is suited for low-energy ingestion contraptions such as bear downing batteries etc. Cons of Wind Power End product from air current power is non as predictable and consistent as that from solar power, harmonizing to research by NASA. In countries where the mean air current velocity is less than 5 metre per second, solar power provides greater value for money compared to weave power. Its credibleness is farther weakened by issues such as dependence on velocity, strength and way of air current. The operation of air current power equipment is noisy and harmonizing to one research can bring forth the same noise as a auto traveling at the velocity of 70 miles per hour. The production of air current power equipment besides consequences in pollution ; hence, their usage is non free from pollution. Besides, one piece of air current power equipment has really small capacity compared to a solar panel and the largest capacity extends to merely 475 people. If this signifier of energy were to be used extensively in future, a batch of such equipment would necessitate to be manufactured. Article 4: Is Wind Power Apt for You Several factors need to borne in head before make up one's minding to utilize wind power. Geographic Considerations It is necessary to do certain there are n't any physical barriers or breaks in the signifier of skyscrapers, edifices, trees or hills near the place. Locations that are exposed are frequently the best for air current generators for place usage as they are non disrupted by any turbulency. Besides, it is necessary that the place is located in a blowy country. If the air current velocity is less than 5 meter/ second, the air current generators for place usage fail to work decently and do non bring forth coveted energy degrees. Besides at velocity less than 5 metres per second, air current generators for place usage become less cost effectual than solar panels. Furthermore, a really of import factor is whether the place is east unfastened or west unfastened. Wind generators for place usage mostly depend on the way of air current. If air current is in the opposite way so opportunities are high that the equipment wo n't work. The strength of air current is merely every bit of import as the velocity of air current. By and large, the higher the strength the better the public presentation of the air current generator for place usage ; nevertheless, if the strength is excessively much ( as in the instance of gales ) the equipment can be destroyed. Furthermore, air current power is of great benefit to the client if the place is located far off from the national grid. The public-service corporation of air current generators for place usage is maximized to those whose places are remotely located and are barren of electricity supply. Legal & A ; Aesthetic Considerations Legally, it is necessary to happen out whether there is demand for be aftering permission for installing of air current generators for place usage in the peculiar vicinity where the place is. Often little graduated table usage of air current power requires some kind of be aftering permission and authoritiess may be susceptible to the thought of air current turbines and generators as they are presumed to destruct the aesthetic attraction of a vicinity. Furthermore, if the occupants of the place intend to resell the place in close hereafter, they possibly averse to the thought of air current generators for place usage as they destroy the beauty and attraction of the house and might ensue in lower resale value. Other Considerations Furthermore, the size of the place is really of import. Wind power equipment by and large requires big infinite, particularly 1s with big energy capacity. Besides it is of import to put precedences, that is, does the place need a changeless power supply or can it make without one. One of the major grounds for utilizing wind power is to minimise losingss originating from burden casting or blackouts. Wind power is besides used for exigency intents ; hence, it is indispensable to make up one's mind whether the house needs energy in times of power cuts. It is besides indispensable to find the income degree of the family. If the income degrees are high opportunities are that the usage of air current power may non look really convincing as the family possibly able to boom on the usage of coal or gas powered generators and manage to pay immense electricity measures. Article 5: Cost of Wind Power Capital Costss These include the cost of turbines, blades and any other constituent that is built on the top of the towers. A broad assortment of makers are available. Vestas, GE, Mitsubishi are some of them. The cost of air current power varies with makers. Furthermore, the cost depends on whether the stuff is imported or local. Costss related to interconnection such as substations are besides included. These are needed to let the air current farm to acquire entree to transmittal lines. Furthermore a connexion to the grid station possibly required if the client wishes to provide the national grid station with extra electricity. These costs vary with the terrain ( they are higher in cragged or rugged terrain ) every bit good as distance and handiness of rights. Legal Costss Cost of obtaining be aftering permission from the authorities can besides be important constituent of the overall cost of air current power and depend on the grade to which authorities of the province are inclined towards the thought of utilizing wind power. State blessing every bit good as local zone blessing is required. This includes fees of attorneies, lobbyists every bit good as applied scientists. When seeking legal blessing, of import considerations might include taking into history possible harm to vicinity ( in footings of noise pollution ) or to the aesthetics of the town. Financing Costss Cost of funding possibly a really of import constituent. Since the cost of installing of air current power equipment is high, some families may see borrowing a loan and the rate of involvement on that loan may be considered as a possible funding cost. The cost of air current power varies and its deserving depends on the beginnings of finance available to the client. The cost of a system that is roof mounted sums to ?2,000. Larger installings range from $ 30,000 to $ 48,000 and include a revenue enhancement amounting to 5 % of the cost of installing. Tax freedoms of revenue enhancement interruptions possibly deducted from the overall cost. Other Costss These are costs associated with the force per unit area, way, velocity and variableness in air current. The sum of burden borne by the national grid every bit good as transmittal lines plays an of import function ; the higher the burden, the higher the costs of air current power. Cost of battery is another consideration here. Battery life may change from between 6 to 10 old ages. Research suggests that extremum end product occurs less than 30 % of the clip which means that there are costs associated with off-peak end product. Costss associated with insurance, and noise costs ( such as uncomfortableness to neighbours ) may besides be high. Besides, the cost of bird deceases caused by the operation of equipment is a societal cost of air current power. Repair and replacing costs The utile life of air current power equipment varies with the usual life changing between 10 to 20 old ages. Monitoring costs of air current power are normally high and replacing is costlier compared to other signifiers of energy.

Document Imaging and the Role of Health Information Management Essay

An automated record system will ultimately replace paper-based record to provide timely access to health information for health surveillance, resource planning, and health care delivery (e. g. , statistical reports can easily be generated to display health care trends, and so on) (Green & Bowie, 2004). According to Green & Bowie (2004), there are three types of automated record systems, which include: Electronic Health Record (EHR) or computer based patient record (CPR); Electronic Medical Record (EMR); and Optical Disk Imaging or Document Imaging. The high capacity physical media for storage of medical information, the increasing CPU power for processing complex images, and the advancement in the imaging and workflow technology has underpinned the growth of document systems (Armoni, 2000). Optical Disk Imaging or document imaging which provides an alternative to the traditional microfilm or remote storage systems because records are converted to an electronic image and saved on a storage media; optical disk imaging uses laser technology to create the image (Green & Bowie, 2004). Based on Green and Bowie (2004), a scanner is used to capture paper record images onto the storage media allowing for rapid automated retrieval of records. American Management System (AMS) architects an enterprise-wide workflow and imaging solution in support of health information management (HIM), financial services (PFS), and human resources processes (Armoni, 2000). Based on Armoni (2000), the AMS solution has eliminated the paper problem, saved record storage spaces, enhanced the productivity, and reduced labor cost. Most profound is the impact of the HIM management. Many headaches of the paper-based system have been eliminated as one physician user of the system commented, ‘†¦hours-long delays getting the old chart, lost medical record, charts lost, the need to store records off-campus, etc†¦ no longer occur with electronic medical records’ (qtd. n Armoni, 2000). As Armoni stated (2000), physicians are able to make better medical decisions with the system because they can access the patient’s records efficiently and timely from anywhere and at any time; the availability of the files for more than one person is a great advantage with the system; more importantly, the system is able to capture information more accurately, thus reducing the unnecessary errors while increasing the efficiency.

Analysis of John Howard Griffin’s “Black Like Me” Essay

John Howard Griffin’s research should undeniably be considered sociological. He began with a theory, if he became black he could help understand the difficulties between races as both a white man and a black man in the south and with this knowledge develop a means to bridge the gap. With this information he developed a micro-theory, trying to explain a limited part of human behavior; why is there hate among blacks and whites? He collected his data in a process of explanatory research. He needed to test his theory in order to elaborate existing explanations. He gathered all his data and went through all research methods in the hopes of explaining his theory. He followed the research process; developed a question, took into account what would be needed to answer the question, decided how to get this and conducted it as ethical as a black-white southerner could. He used a meta-analysis in examining the information. Griffin improved the description of the relationship while developing explanations for the cause of such activity and aimed to advance research in this area by gathering new knowledge. Finally, when he gathered all his information he released it to the mass media. Although it takes the form of a journal it should still be considered sociological research. The diary method is, in fact, beneficial. Instead of conducting a cross sectional form of research in which information is gathered at one particular time, Griffin, using the diary, conducted a longitudinal study. With such a study change can be identified and a broader understanding will develop in the hopes of answering the research question. Of coarse when such a research method as a diary is used questions arise as to its validity and reliability. It can be assumed that the reliability of Griffin’s work is quite substantial. He had an insider perspective due to his covert observation and participant observation. His information was derived from a large population across more than one state, while still focusing on the southern parts of America. All the persons mentioned in the diary shared the same belief; whites were limiting the black potential. Then it must be asked whether the diary was biased or not. Since it was, in reality, a diary, the information published could be selective. This then questions the validity of the  research. There is no doubt that Griffin had opinions on the topic before it was investigated. However, the research was also very generalizable. This should help to alleviate many of the doubts towards the ethics of the means of research. Since human behavior is very complex it is difficult to narrow down the independent variable. All doubts on validity aside, the research was conducted in a meth od of sociological nature. It was a combination of participant observation, covert observation and unstructured interviews. For example, Griffin had conversations at the YMCA with other black men, or on the bus between New Orleans and Mississippi. These weren’t done with an outlined set of questions; they were conducted by way of one oppressed African-American to another. In conducting his research in such an unobtrusive manner Griffin helped the media identify the setting, the human and social environment, their activities and behaviors, and non-verbal communication. In this method Griffin wasn’t looking to prove causality, rather looking to support his argument in hope for change. With all this taken into account it can be summarized that Griffin followed the research process and used sociological methods. Norms are generally defined as an aspect in society in which an expected behavior binds a certain group of people. However, norms can be applied to many different areas. It can mean placing a set standard for achievement on a certain communal grouping based on the accomplishments of the average person from that grouping. It can also mean a characteristic that is representative of a social group. Or norms can be considered a common practice, belief or custom . However when dealing with norms it must be understood that they apply differently depending on the context of the situation. Much like social norms vary from legal norms. Social norms were the predominant force Griffin encountered throughout his research. Although legal norms played a particular part, judgment was based on the structures of mutual belief, not necessarily judicial. For example, the â€Å"whites† of the southern United States were holding the assumption that the â€Å"blacks† were sexually demented and intellectually impaired (Griffin, 1962: p. 114). The southern white majority assumed that African-Americans were so open about  their sex lives that they even performed activities in the streets and in front of children. They also believed that the blacks wanted white woman sexually and that due to their lack of education all they knew was their natural instinct to reproduce. They assumed this behavior to be applicable to all African-American men. As Griffin tries to explain, he can find no inferiority amongst the blacks; â€Å"These characteristics don’t spring from whiteness or blackness, but from a man’s conditioning† (Griffin, 1962: p. 92). Role taking is a critical part of fostering any sober understanding of a relevant society. It involves looking at things from a different viewpoint. This assists us in understanding how different groups perceive us. We have to know what we look like through others eyes. In order to achieve this we must first understand their mind frame. John Howard Griffin goes through great lengths to achieve this. He understands that it is practically impossible for him to fully comprehend what life is like for a black man, while being a white man in the southern United States. Thus he undergoes pigment therapy that redefines his life. Griffin darkens his skin in order to appear as though he were a black American, in the hopes to achieve an unbiased account of African-American life in the deep south. By infiltrating the seemingly distinct society and adapting to the practices of that society Griffin has undergone role taking. When in New Orleans, Griffin’s first area of research as a black s outherner, he quickly learns of the limitations enforced only by the fact that his skin color was different. By becoming the minority studied, Griffin was not only able to study, first hand, the accounts of racism, but he was also able to emotionally attach himself to the African-American society. Alienation is the separation between â€Å"parts or the whole of the personality and significant aspects of the world of experience.† This term can have many meanings depending on the situation and for whom it is intended. In terms of Griffin’s book, alienation was the physical segregation and the emotional feeling of inequality and unequal opportunities based on skin color. Alienation was evident throughout Griffin’s experiences. Separate waiting rooms at bus stations, separate washrooms and fountains, isolated living  areas, the inability to purchase food and drinks at certain stores, the inability to rest in certain areas, unequal job and education abilities, all formed the feeling of alienation. (Griffin, 1962: p. 92) Griffin realized that this division, both physical and emotional would have to be overcome in order to attain a greater appreciation as a race. Griffin and many blacks alike thought education was the key to destroying the norm of alienation. â€Å"Equal job opportunities†¦ That’s the answer to much of the tragedy of our young people† (Griffin, 1962: p. 44). According to Griffin there were two problems that caused this alienation and lack of motivation to change, they were: the discrimination against the Negro and his discrimination against himself (Griffin, 1962: p. 45). According to Griffin then, it was not only the fault of the whites that the blacks were in the situation they were, it was partly the fault of the blacks as well. Stereotypes are formed when the characteristics of a certain group of people are based on the generalized characteristics of a few. They are most often used to simplify that which we have difficulty understanding, in order to make it more predictable. As W.I. Thomas taught, what we believe to be true will be true in its consequences. Throughout history racial stereotypes have always existed. Perhaps, though, the most dominant stereotypes have been placed against African-Americans. They have been thought of as uneducated, immature, unmotivated, criminal, violent and sexual predators. However, as Griffin points out, the sins the whites commit are the same as the blacks. Except for the fact that blacks are deprived of the â€Å"pleasures of the spirits†. They feel like a lesser person so in order to acquire that feeling of accomplishment and manhood they engage in such activities (Griffin, 1962. p. 91-93). After all, it is the white man who, all through the book, is intrigued by the sexual natures of the black race. It is the whites who hire black prostitutes and it is the whites who violently punish the blacks. Not only are the stereotypes revealed, they are identified as completely illegitimate. In one instance on a bus in New Orleans Griffin attempted to offer an elderly lady a seat by indicating with his eyes that there was an empty one beside him. He thought she would be sympathetic, however she disrespectfully replied, â€Å"What’re you looking at me like that for?† Implying that there were sexual desires instead of kindness behind his offering  (Griffin, 1962: p 25). Reductionism in sociological research places limits on what can be considered as causes when attempting to explain a range of human behavior. Griffin may have been affected by reductionism due to the fact that he was writing a sociological paper. As a result he may have focused on such limited topics as norms, stereotypes and alienation. An economist, however, may have looked at the economic prosperity in the south compared to other parts to explain the racial tensions. Perhaps even the government would be to blame for enforcing racism through propaganda and unequal laws. A biological reductionism would be trying to reduce the problem down to the genes of the human being or as a revolutionary process. In order to achieve a full understanding of the situation, all accounts should be measured, not only those which apply to a specific field. Therefore, the validity and reliability of the research can be questioned. For example, in Griffin’s book, he focuses only on the stereotypes of society, not where they come from. He doesn’t attempt to answer why whites feel hatred towards the blacks, only that it exists. Perhaps the underlying problem is purely situational. The south is known for its farms and small communities, but does this problem exist in the larger cities throughout North America? And if it doesn’t, why not? If it doesn’t exist than it is strictly environmental. Griffin mentions that there are those people who are not actually racist, but they fear showing any sympathy towards another race. What causes this fear? There must be some form of pressure from somewhere that causes this racism. All these questions must be answered in order to truly define the problems between African-Americans and Caucasians. Griffin did a fine job in writing the introduction to racism, however he left the body blank.

Differentiate Between Management and Leadership

Individual paper: Differentiate between management and leadership. Be specific 1. Describe the roles and responsibilities that organizational managers and leaders play in creating and maintaining a healthy organizational culture. 2. ————————————————- Recommend at least two strategies that organizational managers and leaders can ust to create and maintain a healthy organizational culture. Support your concepts w/the concepts discussed in class. Management and leadership both play an important role in the success of a company.However, each role has a different function and in order to be successful in either position, you must have a clear understanding of what each role entails. This paper seeks to provide an understanding of the difference between management and leadership positions. It will expound on the role and responsibilities of each position because often times the t wo are viewed as having the same function. Managing a company is the process of moving the company forward implementing identified goals and objectives. Managing is the process of planning, organizing and allocating the necessary resources to accomplish these goals and objectives.He/she will be responsible for developing control mechanisms to motivate employees, measure the companies achievements, as well as ensure projects and operations are run efficiently, cost saving, and effective. 3. Leadership is more abstract when considered separately from management. Leadership is guiding a person or group toward the best results. It is having sound understanding to determine and ability to articulate visions and goals. Leadership is in par with management, but takes on precedence for strategic management and long-term success.

139 DB wk4 KJ Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

139 DB wk4 KJ - Essay Example These people are governed by a common set of workforce principles (Waxer). Cirque du Soleil encourages its employees to contribute to the organization. As a result, Cirque du Soleil shows represent a blend of global influences and are well appreciated by people all over the world. Cirque du Soleil is a good corporate citizen as it dutifully discharges its corporate social responsibility. Cirque du Soleil has reached dizzy heights and has an international presence. The company’s founder Guy Lalibertà © has not forgotten his humble past and therefore helps underprivileged sections of the society. The company sets aside one percent of its revenue for outreach programs to help at-risk kids. Cirque du Soleil recognizes the importance of paying back to the communities in which it operates. These social initiatives enable Cirque du Soleil gain international goodwill. Ethnocentrism, the belief that one’s own ethnic and cultural group is important, plays a significant role in fulfilling this social role. Cirque du Soleil’s own team represents varied cultures from all over the world. People from diverse regions, beliefs and attitudes are treated with respect and dignity. The organization extends the same feeling of equality while contributing meaningfully to 80 communities in more than 20 countries (Cirque du

The social role of magazines is as uncertain as their commercial basis Essay

The social role of magazines is as uncertain as their commercial basis - Essay Example Over the years, there have been reports of increasing demands among customers regarding a certain extent of control and influence over their media experiences as the media and technology industries have compelled them to do so. At present, digital formats can enable readers to easily navigate and establish interactions with the magazine content. Publishers have increased their ability in retaining the design conformity of a typical print magazine and, at the same, integrate the dimension of interactivity which attracts readers and generates a more engaging and dynamic experience (Machin and Thornborrow, 2003). In addition, the engagement of advertisements can also be enhanced owing to this digital resolution. However, there is still an increasing concern as to how magazines can retain their readers, establish and sustain effective brands, and increase profitability. Therefore, a number of factors must be emphasized, including brand awareness as well as the engagement of customers and their intentions to purchase. This paper will then focus on how readers relate to the magazine as a brand and how this process can influence their recall of the brand along with their intentions of purchasing such publications. Opportunities from the use of the new media have been recognized; if publishing will strongly depend on effective content delivery, consequently, the conventional print format will experience considerable threat. Retail wastage along with excessive reliance on distribution through newsstands has been associated with such format in the United States and in a number of European countries (Al-Olayan and Karande, 2000). On the other hand, the new delivery of media content has offered publishers and companies various opportunities; for instance, it helps reduce waste similar to the advantages of subscriptions, and provides real time interactivity between the readers and content. Such immediate interaction with these readers often entails a considerable culture ch ange which brand owners and manufacturers should effectively carry out to retain their readers. Finally, online publishers increase their ability in become a search engine with which a magazine site can help direct their readers to the source of information which they are seeking, implying that their magazine fits the readers’ lifestyle. Owing to the fact the online market has continued to present increased choices, one of the most crucial actors for success when using the new media is brand image (Vargo and Lusch, 2004). Many publishers have recognized that the branding concept is a solution to the threats of the new media. On the whole, the customers’ awareness of a certain product, also characterized as their ability to think back to it, has typically been viewed as a crucial factor that determines their choice of purchase. However, others have underestimated the advantages that branding can provide by overlooking the usage of new media or considering such as a non- profit platform, similar to the free supply of magazines during events. The fact that numerous publishers have been offering their magazine content for free through the Internet can bring about risks for these firms. As branding has been increasingly deemed as an important component for magazine publishers, this emphasizes the traditional role of these publications in the society, which is to bring together