Business Strategy -------- (Degree Module) Essay

Business Strategy -------- (Degree Module) - Essay Example The portuguese were also involved in these early forms of globalization by the 16th century as they conducted their global explorations. These explolarions are known to have created connections between continents, world populations and economic systems. Colonization also largely contributed to globalization of trade, mixture of world cultures and religion. In the recen years, there has been a wave of globalization that can be attributed to four major drivers for change. These include technological advancement, social cultural aspects, economic and political drivers. Technological advancement has played a significant role in reducing the time and cost of travelling and transportation of goods. It has increased the efficiency of service delivery globally. For example, air transport has enabled traders in perishable commodities such as horticultural products to effectively transport them to differnt continents without suffering losses or incurring extra costs of rifrigeration facilities. Before the modern transport systems, it took a number of days to move from one country to another. Recent developments in communication technology have also had a significant impact on globalization. Global social interractions have been facilitated by the use of internet technology. More over, this technology has enhanced global trade since people can buy and sell products through the internet. Electronic banking has been on the rise and more and more people are engaging in online trade. It has also led to globalization of education whereby on line learning is cu rrently a major feature of modern education. As world economies strive to achieve economic growth, they are tending to engage in international trade where they engage in foreign direct investment. This has led to establishment of multinational companies with the aim of utilizing the available opportunities through expanding their markets in foreign countries. Financial globalization has been effective in

What Are the Humanities and Why Do We Study It Essay Example for Free

What Are the Humanities and Why Do We Study It Essay I went around asking multiple people what they thought Humanities was. Most of them kind of hesitated before they would come to a conclusion. I asked my friend, Gabe, what he thought humanities was. His response was, The study of humans and where they come from? He asked it in a question like he wasnt quite sure. Another person I asked was my friend, Amberly. She thought it was the study of humans health. She was also very hesitant when she responded to my question. My friend, David, response was, The study of cultures and how they express themselves. He was very quick to respond when I asked him. It didnt even take him a second to think about it. I finally looked up the word Humanities in the dictionary to find out the correct definition and this is what it read: a.the study of classical languages and classical literature. b.the Latin and Greek classics as a field of study. c.literature, philosophy, art, etc., as distinguished from the natural sciences. d.the study of literature, philosophy, art, etc.  Studying Humanities is important because individuals should be aware of the differnt cultures around them and be open to how people express themselves. There is a lot of judgemental people out in the world. I dont believe anyone should be given dirty looks for having piercings/ tattoos, dressing differently, being over/ under weight, etc. Everyone is unique and beautiful in their own way. Individuals should not have to change themselves because someone has made fun of them or looked at them differently.

The Impact And Spread Of Consumer Society Marketing Essay

The Impact And Spread Of Consumer Society Marketing Essay Consuming is one of human nature that cant be changed. Why and how we consume is the control of this human behaviour. There are two kinds of thought about this behaviour. One is does consumer shapes our lifestyle and the other one is the other way around. Consuming has a close relationship with lifestyle. The way people consume reflects their lifestyle. Does this lifestyle is a pure desire or is it encourage by other aspect like design? Through visual and mental, tangible and intangible, design gives an impact to both the environment and the consumer. These experience makes people addicted to something they consume. Does consumerism is something bad or good? There are some good and bad points to be looked. Through the design, consumerism is being passed unconsciously. Design has a role and an impact on consumerism. That is why the existence of design is important to shape or to be shaped. Table of Contents Abstractà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..i Table of Contentsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ii List of Referenceà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..iii Introductionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..1 Analysisà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦2 Consumerism in Societyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦2 Consumerism in Bar and Restaurantà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦4 Design in Consumerismà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.4 Conclusionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦6 List of referencesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦7 Bibliographyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦7 1. Introduction Today commercial space becomes a territory of consumerism. Brands as a generator become a magnet for the consumer. Consumerism is derived from the words consume. In the end of this word there is a suffix -ism that is known as a belief, system or philosophy. How far consumerism plays a role in human life? Trading and exchanging are own nature. Why do we need to trade or exchange? The reason is to get what we get so that we are able to consume it. As the time goes by, consuming and technology have been developed. People could be easily fulfilling their need. And then what after that? Do we as human beings are just satisfied? Human will never be satisfied. It is their desire to keep wanting more and more. Imbalance between needs and desire causes consumerism. Does consumerism as a way of life creates our lifestyle or we want to creates our own lifestyle? 2. Analysis Thinking about consumerism must not forget about consumption. Both consumerism and consumption has a closed relationship between each other. Consumerism happens because of consumption. It is not a mistake that we consume almost all the things in our life such as goods and experience. Furthermore, human has been exercising to consume since civilization had not been developed yet. Exchange becomes humans nature. As the time goes by, human keep developing to have a better life. If we, human, has fulfilled our primary needs, we want something more other just than that. Imbalance between needs and desires give a result as consumerism. Consumerism happened just before Industrial Revolution period but it could be seen obviously during this period. Lawson (2009, p.60) said by the 1950s, for the first time in our history, we were producing enough to allow choice for masses. It means that consumer society was born. 2.1 Consumerism in Society There is a myth: The more we have, the happier we become. This myth is suitable with the state of consumerism. People believe that the more things they have, they would be happier but in fact it is not. Our happiness now is determined by other people unhappiness and so our need is. We want something because we saw it somewhere and someone own it. The desire of owning makes us addicted to have almost all the things we saw. Moreover, the desire becomes greater if the things we want is being consume by most of the people. Due to a tremendous consumption, it makes the things become as if it is our primary needs. For example is mobile phone. Back to the time when technology had not been as high as today, mobile phone was something that is common. The price was expensive at that time but as the technology was being developed, mobile phone became mass-produced. Since that time, almost all the people own it. It becomes ubiquitous and now becomes our needs. We can not live without it. We consume not only because of the desire but also the seducer of experience as well as our own monster, which is our fear. Today, by consuming we show our identity. It is a visual sign that determines which society are you from. The sign could be seen from the things we bought and consumed. The most noticeable evident is brand. For example, Louis Vuitton. We acknowledge that it is an expensive brand whereby not all the people are able to afford it. By using the product of that brand, one tells the society where one belongs to indirectly. The monster creates a fear of other people judgments. Consumerism becomes sustainable by having this kind of mindset. The society in this situation creates a way of life where consuming is addictive so that people want to keep buying more and more. We know that consumerism needs to be control. Nevertheless, majority or the society choose to continue the way of life they live in. Singapore is one of attractive destination for travelers. Hence, they promote themselves through Singapore Tourism Board that has a big impact on tourism. They promote the entertainments and luxury shopping centers. In this condition, media is the powerful medium to send the message to all the people in the world. Hence, inside this entertaining city, consumerism could be seen easily in public. Walking in the city area like Orchard, names of the brands are located all over the place. By taking a glimpse, consumer society could be satisfied in this area. Well-known brands are able to be found easily. This is not only applied to goods such as bags and clothes but also restaurants. Popular and expensive restaurant will show their identity and pride. Consumerism in Singapore has been developed and designed by the government either consciously or unconsciously, a very popular way of life. Life for Singaporeans is not complete without shopping. This state was declared by the Prime Minister, Goh Chok Tong in National Day Rally Speech (Straits Times, 18 August 2996). Shopping is their happiness and needs. This could be seen by many new shopping centre which was built in the last few year. Therefore, the plan of building another commercial buildings are still going on. The government wants either their citizen or the visitor to spend their money in this country. The government directly dictates the citizen since they are young to consume so that consumerism assemble unconsciously. Other than Singapore Tourism Board, they seduce consumer through media like magazine. Magazine is not only a seducer but also a reflection of the lifestyle they live on. The latest information about fashion or dining place could get just by flipping a bundle of paper. 2.2 Consumerism in Bar and Restaurant Do you have a desire to go to a certain place to eat? Is it only to consume the food or to consume the experience? Definitely, human wants to try something new. Human is a creature with high curiosity. In this situation, where do we get the information that caused us to have an intention to try something? We live in the hi-technology era whereby people around the world are connected eventhough they are not in the same place. They are able to communicate and exchange information to the other. Internet is a big innovation, which was invented in our world. The consumer could get the information easily by this invention. Other than that, they could get the information from the magazine. In Singapore, there are a several magazine that will help you to tell what is the latest information of dining for example is Wine and Dine. The magazine is about stack information about well-known food and beverage. It could seduce the consumer easily through the explanation and the pictures they show. I t is one of the way how does consumerism reach consumer society. Business travelers, according to Singapore Tourism Board Data Statistics, have a demand as a target market in Singapore. The number of business travelers is keep going up even though there is a recession happens in the world. They, obviously, has an adequate income more than just to survive. For businessmen, business partner are an important aspect in the business life. The way they associate is not only in a formal way but also in an informal way like having fun. The current trend, in the last few years, bars and restaurants are increasingly spread. The demand of this aspect is growing due to the interest of consumer. Bar and restaurant offer alcoholic beverage that is popular in the society. Alcoholic beverage has a side effect of addiction. It reduces the function of brain and makes the feeling of good. Due to dysfunctional of brain, people will keep consuming, as they wanted the feeling to be there. This situation causes an addiction. Hence, addiction will end up by consumerism, subconsciously consume. 2.3. Design in Consumerism Previously, we talked about consumerism in bar and restaurant by the edible. Despite of edible, is there any other thing that makes people keep consuming? As it is mentioned before, nowadays consumer is seduced not only by the edible or things they offer but also by the experience. Experience makes it different from one to the other place. It is a unique offered. Design makes it come true. Design is like a creation of God, which was nearly to perfect, human. Eventhough it is similar from the look, the experience will not be the same in one place to the other. Ron Swidler () on Wine and Dine Magazine said that one of the big trends in hotel and restaurant design right now is creating experience. It shows that what people are looking for is not just something tangible but also intangible. Intangible things could be buy with money. Tangible things like edible could be consumed only at that time, but the impression of intangible things last forever in consumers mind. The desire of consum ing is more on emotional feeling. On the editors note area on Wine and Dine magazine, Leena Ng, the editor, states that one of the biggest experiences consumers desire is for access to the lifestyle they see reflected in the media and in their travels. In this circumstance, media has a big role to support consumerism. Pretty pictures on the magazine attract consumer society to visit and consume what they offer on the media. How to create experience is by looking at the design. The designer creates the composition between each element to create a certain ambience that would make a tremendous impression to the consumer. Is creating ambience just by decorate the space? Creating ambience is supported by the building and the elements such as light, sound and smell. It is true that visual presentation has quite a big impact for the consumer such as the concept and the theme. Nevertheless, intangible thing must not be forgot. The use of lighting usually enhances the design more. The concept of the bar and restaurant must have interconnection with the demand and the aim of the project. In this situation, urban nomad has been chosen as the suitable concept. Urban nomad is someone who is always on the go. Derived from the urban nomad; journey, connectivity and energy are the keywords as the expression or urban nomad. The concept is evident on the journey that is created. A long journey to the lobby with a teaser of how would the consumer experience in the space. Unconventional lobby is being introduced. Stairs are being used as a bridge that connect one space to the other space. Each space on this restaurant and bar are spread in the whole big space. It is the design intention that force people to move around the space and consume the journey. On the journey, consumer are being seduced by the existence of indoor garden that is relaxing and offer a new experience inside the space. Overall, the space is created in order to create impression on consumers mind so t hat they are willing to experience and consume the space again on the other time. 3. Conclusion Consumerism is not just a concept. It is now believe as a way of life where people consuming a great of amount of goods in quantities. Consuming could be separated from human. It is the nature of human being that has been developed since long time ago. Today, people consume to show their identity. The main reason of consuming is no longer exist. Consuming has become part of Singaporeans life whereby people in this country are encouraged to shop by their prime minister. Therefore, consumerism becomes a habit and culture. The government is supporting the consumerism. It is true that consuming could give back benefit to the country; on the other hand what is the impact of it? If we look at the long-term side effect, this situation will destroy their own citizen because they will not be satisfied if they are not consuming. On the other perspective, consumerism is being boosted by design. A successful design is addictive to the consumer. They will keep coming back to experience it over and over again. In this situation, consumerism could be seen as a sign as a successful design. Design has an impact on consumerism. Something that is being designed has an their own attraction to draw peoples attention. In conclusion, there is no right or wrong about consumerism. It depends where are we going to put our perspective. Generally, consumerism needs to be stopped due to an unbalance between humans mind and their desire. Nevertheless, if we look from the design perspective, there is nothing wrong with consumerism. In fact, because of design, consumerism is being boost. It is our decision to control how far the consumerism need to be control and use from other point of view so that it would not cause self-destructing for human being. It is now our decision to be shaped by the consumerism or we shaped our own lifestyle. http://usj.sagepub.com/cgi/pdf_extract/35/5-6/981 List of references Cross, Gary, [2000], All Consuming Century Why Commercialism Won In Modern America, Columbia University Press, New York. Lawson, Neal, 2009, All Consuming, Penguin Group, England. Miller, Geoffrey, 2009, Spent Sex, Evolution, and Consumer Behavior, Penguin Group, England. Miles,Stevens, 1998, Consumerism as a Way of Life, SAGE Publication Ltd., London.

The Dramatic Impact on a Jacobean Audience of Act 1 Scene 5 of Shakespe

The Dramatic Impact on a Jacobean Audience of Act 1 Scene 5 of Shakespeare’s Macbeth In this essay I will be examining how Act 1 Scene 5 of â€Å"Macbeth† would have had a dramatic impact on a Jacobean audience. I will also be exploring how Shakespeare’s stagecraft – his use of devices such as symbolism, references to contemporary events and imagery – would have helped to create this dramatic impact. Macbeth was written to be performed – on a stage, by actors, and to an audience. In Jacobean England, drama was considered to be the greatest art form, and was appreciated by many classes of people, from King James downwards, so these audiences would have been large and varied. Shakespeare’s stagecraft is such that it would have been understood by the whole audience – though many themes were linked to the particular interests of King James, they would have been understood by all, as would all the imagery and symbolism in the play. Act 1 Scene 5 begins with Lady Macbeth reading the second half of a letter she has received from Macbeth. Starting the scene with the second half of the letter helps with continuity in the play and between the scenes, and also means that the audience will not have to hear Lady Macbeth read information that they already know. The part of the letter that is read reveals much information about Lady Macbeth and Macbeth’s relationship. It shows that they have a loving relationship - Macbeth addresses Lady Macbeth as ‘my dearest partner of greatness’. This line also shows that they share a love of power, and both have strong ambitions. However, after she has read the letter, Lady Macbeth reveals in her soliloquy... ...suspense and dramatic irony. Dramatic irony – when the audience know something that a character does not - is also very important throughout the play. In Act 1 Scene 5, when Lady Macbeth is planning to kill the King, the audience knows that the King will be staying at her castle that night, but she does not, and is shocked when she is told – ‘Thou’rt mad to say it.’ In my opinion, Shakespeare effectively creates dramatic impact in Act 1 Scene 5 of Macbeth. I think that this impact would have been particularly pronounced on a contemporary Jacobean audience. Shakespeare uses a wide range of techniques, all of which are used successfully. The scene, and the play, would have appealed to and interested all of a Jacobean audience, from the King downwards, because of these techniques and the dramatic impact they create.

Economics Practice Exam Questions

1. Â  A trade quota:is an explicit limit on the amount of exports of a good from a country.is an explicit limit on the amount of imports of a good into a country.is a tax only on exports.is a tax only on imports.2. Â  An import tariff:is an explicit limit on the amount of exports of a good from a country.is an explicit limit on the amount of imports of a good into a country.is a tax only on exports.is a tax only on imports.3. Â  While an import tariff on a good will both raise the domestic price of that good and its domestic production levels, a quota:will not raise the domestic price but will increase the amount of the good produced domestically.will raise the domestic price but will not increase the amount of the good produced domestically.will both raise the domestic price and increase the amount of the good produced domestically.will neither raise the domestic price nor increase the amount of the good produced domestically.4. Â  If the dollar price of the German mark increase s, then:the German Mark has appreciated while the U.S. dollar has depreciated.the German Mark has depreciated while the U.S. dollar has appreciated.both the German Mark and the U.S. dollar have depreciated.both the German Mark and the U.S. dollar have appreciated.5. Â  An exchange rate measures:the price at which one can exchange one good for another good.the price at which one can exchange one resource for another resource.the discounted price one received when returning defective goods for exchange.the price at which one can exchange one currency for another currency.6. Â  Consider the following two statements:The U.S. dollar will depreciate when U.S. Demand for foreign goods increases.The U.S. dollar will depreciate in the present if the public believes that the U.S. dollar will depreciate in the future.both statements are true.both statements are false.I is true while II is false.I is false while II is true.

Free Essays on Thems.

It is only human nature that we develop our self image based on society’s view of a perfect body. Bigger is better is the most commonly used clichà ©. Women are getting breast implants at an ever growing rate. Men are doing painful exercises and ordering expensive pills all in the race for bigger. I never agreed with the clichà ©. I don’t look for the 36-24-36 in my women. I believe that a natural breast type is more attractive than that of the exaggerated almost caricature like implanted look that is prevalent in Hollywood today. The problem is indeed Hollywood, which has a big affect on our self image as a whole. We see the way the rich and famous live and we seek to emulate it. This includes everything from their lifestyle to their look. Another clichà © I have become familiar with is â€Å"it’s not the size of the boat; it’s the motion of the ocean†. Women like for their man to master the art of sex and want a man that can help them reach a c limax. Whether their partner is built like a porn star or not is irrelevant. What matters is if their partner is confident in his self and can perform. Men however are almost completely opposite. I believe that men are more caught up in size than women. Men fantasize about the women of Hollywood and look for a woman with their similar body type. A small waist and a large bust have become ideal. This is part of the problem causing the outbreaks of implants in women.I believe that bigger is nice but contrary to popular belief, bigger is not necessarily better.... Free Essays on Thems. Free Essays on Thems. It is only human nature that we develop our self image based on society’s view of a perfect body. Bigger is better is the most commonly used clichà ©. Women are getting breast implants at an ever growing rate. Men are doing painful exercises and ordering expensive pills all in the race for bigger. I never agreed with the clichà ©. I don’t look for the 36-24-36 in my women. I believe that a natural breast type is more attractive than that of the exaggerated almost caricature like implanted look that is prevalent in Hollywood today. The problem is indeed Hollywood, which has a big affect on our self image as a whole. We see the way the rich and famous live and we seek to emulate it. This includes everything from their lifestyle to their look. Another clichà © I have become familiar with is â€Å"it’s not the size of the boat; it’s the motion of the ocean†. Women like for their man to master the art of sex and want a man that can help them reach a c limax. Whether their partner is built like a porn star or not is irrelevant. What matters is if their partner is confident in his self and can perform. Men however are almost completely opposite. I believe that men are more caught up in size than women. Men fantasize about the women of Hollywood and look for a woman with their similar body type. A small waist and a large bust have become ideal. This is part of the problem causing the outbreaks of implants in women.I believe that bigger is nice but contrary to popular belief, bigger is not necessarily better....

My experience to study speech Essays

My experience to study speech Essays My experience to study speech Essay My experience to study speech Essay Essay Topic: 7th Grade 9th Grade Autobiography of My Mother Everybody learns moral values from different experiences of his/her life. Here is an experience, which was a turning point to my life. My speech was a laughable to listeners when I was in my 9th grade year. Learning how to speak in front of a crowd was a most significant moment in my life because I learned basic skills like speaking, facing an audience, and memorizing sentences. My English teacher paved the way for me to be a better speaker. It all started when she told me to speak some words about my achievements in school life in front of a crowd. I felt so nervous, and I said al the achievements the wrong way. When I moved in front of the crowd, my heart beat increased. My hands became sweaty. I felt so cold. I thought to say many good things about my teachers, but I spoke all the wrong things. I did not know what happened to me. My speech became laughable in the class. The teacher understood my problem. She told me about her first experience of speech in her class. In her first speech, she felt so nervous and cried in front of the crowd. It happened in her 7th grade year. Her experience relaxed me, but I was still feeling so depressed. My cheer came to me and sat with me. She taught me about thesis and writing techniques. She gave me a book to learn the basic skills of speech. I bought books to learn basic skills of speech. Every day, I spent some time reading the text books for speech. I watched many speeches on television and the Internet. From the speeches, I gained great knowledge about major issues facing society. One day I watched a speech by A. B. J. Abdul Koalas, the ex-president of India. The speech was about his dreams about a developed India. I felt patriotic when I watched the speech. I was inspired to be able to give a speech like him, so I practiced my speech by speaking in front of a mirror, and with time I became better. Research and practice helped me to speak better. With help from my mother, I studied the basic skills of facing an audience. She taught me some meditation tips to lower fear. I performed my second speech on Independence Day at our students club celebration, but the audience did not give me a positive feedback. When my mother saw me crying in my room, she came in to calm me down. She motivated me by telling a story about the first speech f Mahatma Gandhi, the father of India. He became so nervous when he performed his first speech at the age of 28. When he began to speak, he felt so nervous that he could not say a single word. It was an interesting story. I also experienced similar feelings. I read the autobiography of Mahatma Gandhi, and I learned more about him. I learned how to face audiences from the book. M. K Gandhi was a lawyer, and one incident in the book influenced me was that his first case in the court room. While speaking in front of the crowd, he became so nervous and anxious. All of them gauged and his client scolded him. This incident make him a better speaker and his story gives me courage to face audience. In order to reduce fear, I learned basic skills of meditations like yoga, which is a generic term for the physical, mental, and spiritual practices or disciplines, originated in ancient India with a view to attain a state of permanent peace. Yoga is a Sanskrit word which means union and is interpreted as union with the divine. More meditation gave me more peace and friend. I was not good at remembering things. Once, I met a man who worked with y dad. He has a B. A in psychology. He taught me different techniques of memorization. I studied different ways to remember things. There are many different ways to study long paragraphs, long patterns of words, timeliness, etc. The most interesting way to help memorization is story making. With this method I make a story by connecting words or sentences in essays. I include the most interesting characters in the story, so that way, I cannot forget the story or essay. I learned this technique to learn essays for speeches. The memorizing tips also help me to prepare or exams. First, I learned basic skills of speech from my high school English teacher. Second, I learned how to face an audience without fear. Third I learned how to memorize essays and long speeches. All of these techniques helped me to win in a speech competition. I performed my third speech with a lot of confidence and without fear. When I stood in front of a big crowd, I did not feel any anxiety. The speech titled Torturing to Indian Women in Our Society. I included recent incidents and other major issues in society. I got more knowledge about these things from Abdul Salaams speech. I also mentioned his dreams about India, which was a main point. My speech was an encouraging one to all. I was proud of myself. Everybody appreciated me. I got 500 rupees cash award on that speech. This was the most joyful moment in my life. Self-confidence, hard work, and courage are valuable in life. I learned this lesson from my lifes experience. My speech was a turning point in my life. My experiences to learn speech techniques not only helped me to learn how to speak, but also, I learned moral values to become a perfect man.

buy custom Fast Food Obesity essay

buy custom Fast Food Obesity essay Opening Fast foods are very common nowadays, and they are present everywhere in any country. And as fast food chains are growing in number, we can notice that people are growing too, not in height but in size. Obese people are increasing in number with each year. Statistics also shows that obesity is a growing problem not only in the Unites States but in almost all corners of the world. In the United States, around 30 percent of the population is obese. This problem is often linked with the rise of different fast food chains and their multiplication. And because these fast food chains and obesity rates increase together, many public debates assume that the rise of these fast food restaurants is significantly related to the growth of obesity rates. There are some reasons. The widespread growth of fast food restaurants provides people with easy access to these kinds of food. In this fast-paced world, people are getting busy and do not have enough time to prepare and cook laborious foods at home. And because they are extremely engaged with their works and other things that keep them busy, they will prefer to have a short meal in the fast foods. More than being accessible, fast foods are affordable for almost all social groups. People do not have to wait for a long time to get an order, and fst foods fit their lifestyle. The irony, however, is that these fast foods do not make their bodies fit. However, these people will still choose such kind of food because they think they are hitting three birds in one stone: fast and, moreover, delicious food at an affordable price. Of course, people would not like to eat foods that will not satisfy their tastes; save for the health conscious ones, who will endure the bitter or the sour taste for the sake of their he alth. The general public is very much enthralled with the delicious and tasty fast foods, forgetting the fact that it would not make them healthy but rather obese, and hence, sick. Closing Fast foods are a reality of the present world. We could not deny the fact that these food institutions are continuously growing and invading the todays society. Simultaneously, obesity is also a dominating health problem nowadays. Accept it or not, the rise of fast food chains has a great effect on the obesity rates among both children and adults. This food has been already proven to be unhealthy. It is rich in cholesterol, unsaturated fats, sodium, and calories. Obviously, these foods have a great impact on the health of consumers and, believe it or not, on their weight, primarily. People come in and out of these fast food chains and enjoy the sweet, salty, tasty, and delicious food. Therefore, many people are prone to gain weight while enjoying the taste. More than that, fast foods are giving special interest in attracting the attention of children. They are creating colorful and jolly characters to attract them. The fact food corporations are spending billions for advertisements annually. Once they caught the kids attention, they would always want to go back to the fast food restaurant. The parents, therefore, will always bring them there thinking that they are giving their children enjoyment. This is another reason why obesity is very much common among children. Moreover, when these children and adults become used to eating this kind of food, they will have a hard time eating vegetables and fruit. They will always look for the crispy, starchy, and sweet fast foods. Their tongues become accustomed to the taste, and they may not notice that they are already addicted to it. These foods promote eating too many calories, sodium, and fewer vegetables, fruit, and dairy products and, therefore, lead people to gain extra weight. But because people become addicted, they will always return to the fast food restaurant to savor the delicious foods, even though, it will only give them additional fats calories, carbohydrates, less nutrition, and more weight. Buy custom Fast Food & Obesity essay

Matthew Carter Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Matthew Carter - Essay Example Carter visited New York four years after completing his internship at Enschede. The visit introduced him to the world of type designing, in which he soon developed intense interest. He was astounded by the positive advancement in typographic creations as evidenced in the compositions of designers like Milton Glaser, Herb Lubalin and others that contributed to the progressiveness of New York’s commercial art industry in 1960. When Carter returned to London from New York, he found that its commercial art scene lacked contemporary sans serif type. He joined forces with men such as Alan Fletcher, Bob Gill, David Collins, Colin Forbes and others to create many sans serif faces for the country’s young and inexperienced graphic design industry. One such sans serif face was made for Heathrow airport’s new terminal. Carter’s fascination with New York’s progressiveness lured him to the U.S again. He took up employment at Mergenthaler Linotype located in Brook lyn. While being intensely influenced by its director of typographic development Jackson Burke, Carter began threw his heart and soul into his work and started designing new typefaces for photocomposition. One of them was Snell Roundhand, a script face that he created in 1966 that exquisitely displayed the relative advantages of photosetting

Citizenship in United Kingdom under Neo-liberalism Essay

Citizenship in United Kingdom under Neo-liberalism - Essay Example Opening of markets refers to free trade and an international division of labor (Bateman 48). Neoliberalism usually favours multilateral political force through international organizations or treaty devices such as the WTO and World Bank. It promotes plummeting the role of national governments to a minimum. Neoliberalism favors laissez-faire over direct government intervention (such as Keynesianism), and measures achievement in overall economic gain. To improve corporate efficiency, it strives to reject or mitigate labor policies such as lowest wage, and collective bargaining rights. (Faulks, pp 34-37) Neoliberalism is an economic philosophy rather than a broader political ideology. The swing away from government action in the 1970s led to the prologue of this term, which refers to a program of dipping trade barriers and internal market restrictions, while using government power to enforce opening of foreign markets. This is strongly different by economic liberals, who favor a free market and free trade. Neoliberalism accepts a positive degree of government involvement in the domestic economy, mainly a central bank with the power to print fiat money. It also favors an interventionist military (Cate 73). While neoliberalism is sometimes described as overlapping with Thatcherism, economists as varied as Joseph Stiglitz and Milton Friedman have been described - by others - as "neoliberal". This economic agenda is not essentially combined with a liberal agenda in politics: neoliberals often do not pledge to individual liberty on moral issues or in sexual mores. An extreme example was the Pinochet regime in Chile, but some also categorise Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher and even Tony Blair and Gerhard Schrder as being neo-liberal. It should be distinguished that, in the 1990s in the UK, a lot of social democratic parties adopted 'neoliberal' economic policies such as privatization of industry and open markets, much to the disappointment of many of their own voters. This has led these parties to become de facto neoliberal, and has often resulted in a radical loss of popular support. For instance, critics to the left of the German Social Democratic Party and the British Labour Party blame them of pursuing neoliberal policies by refusing to renationalise industry. As a result of this, much support for these parties has been gone astray to the Christian Democratic Union and the Liberal Democrats, correspondingly. (Cate 77) Sometimes 'Neoliberalism' is use as a catch-all term for the anti-socialist response which sweep through some countries during the period between the 70s and 90s. 'Neoliberalism' in the form of Thatcher, Reagan, and Pinochet claimed to move from a bureacratic welfare-based society in the direction of a meritocracy acting in the interests of business. In actuality, these governments cut financial support for education and taxed income more deeply than wealth, which augmented the influence of big business and the upper class. Some conservatives perceive themselves as the true inheritors of classical liberalism. Jonah Goldberg of National Review argues that "most conservatives are nearer to classical liberals than a lot of Reason-libertarians" because conservatives want to protect some institutions that they see as wanted for liberty

Project MKUltra Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Project MKUltra - Research Paper Example Project MKUltra scope is broad, with research happening within 80 institutions including colleges, universities, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals and prisons. CIA operated through the institutions using some front organizations though the top officials from these institutions knew of the involvement of CIA. The Project MKUltra came to public in 1975 by US congress church committee and the Gerald Ford Commission in order to investigate on the activities of CIA in United States. However, the investigative efforts suffered adversely when Richard Helms, the CIA director, ordered destruction to MKUltra files. This compelled investigators to rely on sworn testimony directly from participants and few documents that survived the destruction order by Helm. A 20,000 documents cache emerged in 1977 through a freedom of Information request. This led to senate hearings in the same year, and in 2001, there was declassification of surviving information on MKUltra.1 Goals of MKUltra The agency used a lot of money to examine the methods used in controlling and influencing the mind, as well as enhancing the ability of extracting information from resistant subject when interrogating them. CIA attempted to focus the attention of the media on programs to divert the attention of people on the major goal of the research, which developed effective interrogation and torture methods. The substances used promoted impulsiveness and illogical thinking to a level of discrediting the recipient in public. Such substances enabled the subjects withstand torture, coercion and torture during interrogation, and enhanced mental confusion such that an individual cannot maintains any fabrication. In 19532, a secret memorandum granted up to 6 percent of CIA research budget to MKUltra with accounting or oversight. The LSD drug distorted sense of reality of a person. The administration of drugs targeted helpless people with no ability to fight back, and also to the officials of CIA, doctors and military personnel. However, the administration happened without the subjects’ informed consent or knowledge. After the administration, subjects answered questions in the presence of doctors, with stern warnings of punishment in case they failed to reveal the secrets. This aimed at bringing out drugs which irresistibly triggered deep confessions. Other drugs triggered a person to sl eep so that interrogators may ask questions and get answers with much ease. This enabled CIA asks questions, and sometime gets useful answers. Deaths The CIA destroyed most records purposely and failed in following up informed consent when administering the drugs. However, project MKUltra caused several deaths such as those of Frank Olson of United States Army and other CIA officials. CIA used the biological materials in their covert operations. In January 1953, Harold Blauer died after administration of secret army experiment using MDA. Legal Issues Associated with MKUltra Revelations of the army and CIA prompted most survivors and subjects file several lawsuits against the federal government for engaging in experiments without the informed consent. Despite the government trying to evade legal liability, most plaintiffs received compensation through court orders. The CIA and Army director also met together with victims offer their apologies. The Army and CIA had previously sought a successful incrimination of the information, and secretly

International financial management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

International financial management - Essay Example Foreign exchange market makes it possible for both private and commercial transactions including loans, investments, and foreign trade. The existence of a foreign exchange market is a result of economies employing national currencies rather than a common currency (Kumar, and Mukherjee, 2007; Butcher, 2011). If the world economy was to use a single currency, foreign markets could not be a necessity. The foreign exchange market is exceedingly active, and it is largely an over the counter market. Although the exchanges trade futures and option, a number of transactions are over the counter (Brigham, and Houston, 2009). The future expected spot price is the market's belief about an asset’s spot price in the future (Poniachek, 2012). This leads to a question of whether or not one can use the current forward price to predict the particular future spot price. A number of hypotheses have been in place to try clarifying the relationship between the expected future spot price, and the c urrent forward price (Wang, 2009). In the field of financial economics, there has been intensive examination by researchers on the â€Å"Forward Rate Unbiased Hypothesis† (FRUH), as Kumar (2011) indicates. ... This means that organizations can look upon a future exchange rate that is prevailing today as the spot rate of the future date (Sharan, 2006; Carbaugh, 2011). In the case of an assumption that the forex market is rational or efficient, the spot rate that is common at the future date should be in tandem with the future rate for that date established in the market today. Contrary to this belief, scientific evidence indicates that there are significant variations between the forward market rates and the spot rates (Kumar, 2011). In addition, the studies have not been able to produce any material evidence to prove that forward market rate can predict the future spot rates. Some forecasters hold the believe that foreign exchange markets for the principal floating currencies are efficient, and that forward market rates are an unbiased indicators of the future spot exchange rates. Unbiased prediction implies that the forward exchange rate will, on average, underestimate and overestimate th e actual future spot exchange rate in equivalent degree and frequency. There is a probability that the forward market rate may not be equivalent to the future spot exchange rates. This relationship’s rationale is founded on the assumption that: a) There is a quick reflection of all relevant information in both the forward exchange markets and spot exchange markets b) Instruments that are denominated in the various currencies are perfect alternates for each other c) Operation costs are minimal 3. The future spot rate and the forward rate One can make out the relationship between the forward market rate and the expected future spot rate on the unbiased forward rate theory. This theory claims that the forward exchange rate is the superlative, and a balanced,

Standards Save Public Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Standards Save Public Education - Essay Example Standards are then made available and accessible to the public and the stakeholders in the education system eg teachers, parents and the textbook writers and publishers. Standards are inspired by the need to have a literate and economically competitive human resource in the country and therefore outline the important things that the students should know and understand and be able to execute perfectly. They are formulated in a way that they are appropriate in growth and development as well as relevant to future education and employment needs (McInerney, Etten, & Dowson, 2007). Standards are set in a manner that all students are able to attain them with ease and the excellent students exceed them ensuring that no student is left behind. Though students, both fast and slow learners can learn new things in their own ways the instructions that help an individual student attain the set standards is emphasized. Standardisation ensures that both excellence and equity are upheld where systemi c bias, discrimination and tyranny of low expectation are greatly reduced. Standardization also empowers the teachers to make decisions that ensure effective learning while highly discouraging social promotion of students as opposed to promotion based on their academic achievement. Reasons for standards in education Education standards ensure that teachers and schools are held accountable of teaching students what they should know in school. Teachers and the school therefore have a social responsibility to ensure that all students gain what they are supposed to gain in school and pass the standardised examination. Poor performance leads to disciplinary actions against the teachers and schools which may involve salary deductions or loss of job. If a school repeatedly exhibits poor results, it is taken over by the government or it can even be closed down. This ensures that no student is left behind or drops out of school due to low motivation or absolute loss of hope in education. Edu cation standards in the united state provide an avenue where students from different schools, districts or even states are compared which would otherwise be impossible without standardisation. Students from the same state e.g. California are expected to do the same standardised exam which allow comparison of students’ performance. Education standards are very important because people do move around nowadays and without standard education curriculum, it would be very challenging for students moving from one school to another. Many students would probably end up dropping out of school due to discontinuation or interruptions after transfers from one school to another. Education standards provide teachers with a standard framework of instructions which guide them on what and when to teach thus creating some uniformity and organisation in schools (National Committee on Science Education Standards and Assessment et al, 1995). Without the standard instruction framework for schools, maybe a teacher in fourth grade and a teacher in fifth grade would be teaching the same thing which would create confusion in the education sector. This also ensures that students who change school from other districts don’t have difficulties adapting to teaching in their new schools. Standardized tests are usually objective in nature in that the scores are awarded by computers or by individuals.

A feminist superhero Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

A feminist superhero - Essay Example Frida Kahlo mentored by Iris Marion Young, who is a feminist theorist, under whose feministic argument and glow, the superhero sails. The paper exploits the underlying reasons as to why feminists seek liberation as well as how they seek to get that liberation. Frida Kahlo has the power facing the reality as it is fearless. Though she was born in 1907, as she grew up Frida claimed that she was born in 1910 - the year when the Mexican Revolution begun - so that people would directly associate her with the revolution (Chadwick, 2007). Association with revolution signified her fearlessness and ability to go against the social norms of the time. Empowered with the advice of Irish Marion who was very vocal against the gendered positioning of women as objects, Frida revolted against the predominantly held paternalistic ideologies and beliefs of the time (Ferguson & Nagel, 2009). Further, Frida had the ability to communicate her feelings through paintings she was an artist. â€Å"Look at the society in which you have been born and see the image that women are presented. Aren’t they seen as objects in the society?† Marion would ask Kahlo referring to the domination of women by men. â€Å"I had no choice to be born in such a paternal society where male sex is always considered superior to their female counterparts.† Frida responded naively. â€Å"Use then your artistic work to liberate women from the traditional obscurity and bring them to the fore light of recognition in the society.† This mentor’s advice brought hope to solving the historical stalemate that has traditionally positioned women as objects rather than fellow human beings capable of self-expression and independent opinion (Chadwick, 2007). Walking in the light and mentorship of Young Marion, Frida Kahlo staged a revolution through her living experiences and her artworks. Looking through her artwork and paintings,

International financial management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

International financial management - Essay Example Foreign exchange market makes it possible for both private and commercial transactions including loans, investments, and foreign trade. The existence of a foreign exchange market is a result of economies employing national currencies rather than a common currency (Kumar, and Mukherjee, 2007; Butcher, 2011). If the world economy was to use a single currency, foreign markets could not be a necessity. The foreign exchange market is exceedingly active, and it is largely an over the counter market. Although the exchanges trade futures and option, a number of transactions are over the counter (Brigham, and Houston, 2009). The future expected spot price is the market's belief about an asset’s spot price in the future (Poniachek, 2012). This leads to a question of whether or not one can use the current forward price to predict the particular future spot price. A number of hypotheses have been in place to try clarifying the relationship between the expected future spot price, and the c urrent forward price (Wang, 2009). In the field of financial economics, there has been intensive examination by researchers on the â€Å"Forward Rate Unbiased Hypothesis† (FRUH), as Kumar (2011) indicates. ... This means that organizations can look upon a future exchange rate that is prevailing today as the spot rate of the future date (Sharan, 2006; Carbaugh, 2011). In the case of an assumption that the forex market is rational or efficient, the spot rate that is common at the future date should be in tandem with the future rate for that date established in the market today. Contrary to this belief, scientific evidence indicates that there are significant variations between the forward market rates and the spot rates (Kumar, 2011). In addition, the studies have not been able to produce any material evidence to prove that forward market rate can predict the future spot rates. Some forecasters hold the believe that foreign exchange markets for the principal floating currencies are efficient, and that forward market rates are an unbiased indicators of the future spot exchange rates. Unbiased prediction implies that the forward exchange rate will, on average, underestimate and overestimate th e actual future spot exchange rate in equivalent degree and frequency. There is a probability that the forward market rate may not be equivalent to the future spot exchange rates. This relationship’s rationale is founded on the assumption that: a) There is a quick reflection of all relevant information in both the forward exchange markets and spot exchange markets b) Instruments that are denominated in the various currencies are perfect alternates for each other c) Operation costs are minimal 3. The future spot rate and the forward rate One can make out the relationship between the forward market rate and the expected future spot rate on the unbiased forward rate theory. This theory claims that the forward exchange rate is the superlative, and a balanced,

A feminist superhero Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

A feminist superhero - Essay Example Frida Kahlo mentored by Iris Marion Young, who is a feminist theorist, under whose feministic argument and glow, the superhero sails. The paper exploits the underlying reasons as to why feminists seek liberation as well as how they seek to get that liberation. Frida Kahlo has the power facing the reality as it is fearless. Though she was born in 1907, as she grew up Frida claimed that she was born in 1910 - the year when the Mexican Revolution begun - so that people would directly associate her with the revolution (Chadwick, 2007). Association with revolution signified her fearlessness and ability to go against the social norms of the time. Empowered with the advice of Irish Marion who was very vocal against the gendered positioning of women as objects, Frida revolted against the predominantly held paternalistic ideologies and beliefs of the time (Ferguson & Nagel, 2009). Further, Frida had the ability to communicate her feelings through paintings she was an artist. â€Å"Look at the society in which you have been born and see the image that women are presented. Aren’t they seen as objects in the society?† Marion would ask Kahlo referring to the domination of women by men. â€Å"I had no choice to be born in such a paternal society where male sex is always considered superior to their female counterparts.† Frida responded naively. â€Å"Use then your artistic work to liberate women from the traditional obscurity and bring them to the fore light of recognition in the society.† This mentor’s advice brought hope to solving the historical stalemate that has traditionally positioned women as objects rather than fellow human beings capable of self-expression and independent opinion (Chadwick, 2007). Walking in the light and mentorship of Young Marion, Frida Kahlo staged a revolution through her living experiences and her artworks. Looking through her artwork and paintings,

A Day Not Forgotten, the Attack on Pearl Harbor Essay Example for Free

A Day Not Forgotten, the Attack on Pearl Harbor Essay The attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese on December 7, 1941 remains a clear memory for both nations. Everything seemed to have played in favor of the Empire of Japan; from planning, to gathering the necessary resources, the silent 3,300 nautical mile journey of the task force and ultimately the attack itself. From a tactical standpoint the attack was one of the most ingenious naval operations in history. With the loss of four U.S. battleships, 180 Aircraft, and 2,400 sailors the attack can be chalked up as a â€Å"win† for Japan. But since the surprise attack was conducted without a formal declaration of war, it may have been one of the biggest mistakes ever made in world-war II. See more: Homelessness as a social problem Essay Planning the attack on Pearl Harbor was done by Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, in hopes to challenge Imperial Japans current naval doctrine of â€Å"Big Ships and Big Guns.† Much of imperial Japans naval concern was directed toward the construction of the Musashi, and the Yamato, two of the largest most powerful battleships ever built. Admiral Yamamoto, along with other high-ranking naval offices doubted the â€Å"Big Ships and Big Guns† mindset, but it was Yamamoto who opted for a different approach. He recognized the massive potential of aviation, more specifically naval aviation since the 1930s. The idea of an air raid on Hawaii came after his observance of naval air maneuvers, clearly demonstrating the superiority of air power over battleships. This may have possibly been the main reason why the Japanese decided to take on such an operation, to simply prove the value of the aircraft carrier. With the aid of Rear Admiral Takijiro Onishi and Commander Minoru Genda, Yamamoto began to devise a plan of attack. The operation must be executed in a manner that takes the enemy by surprise, with the main targets being the aircraft carriers and land-based planes. All available Japanese aircraft carriers will be needed for the operation, with the primary method of attack being torpedo- and dive-bombing. Bomber support and strafing runs will be handled by the fighter planes, and the operation was to be conducted early morning. Even the best laid plans have problems, and the raid was no exception. One such problem would be the allocation of resources for both an attack on Hawaii and the operations in the Philippines which have already begun to take place. Other than the small number of aircraft carriers that the Japanese fleet maintained, another problem would be the large amounts of oil needed to support both operations. The attack itself had a number of obstacles, one of which would be the issue of maintaining secrecy. An operation such as this raid the element of surprise is paramount; very few people were given details of the operation. Second would be the route traveled by the task force, because plotting a course through the rough waters of the northern pacific during the winter is not an easy task. Ultimately the task force would start from Etorohu; heading 42 degrees north/ 147 degrees west, which would eventually put the task force north of Hawaii. Lastly was the issue of releasing torpedoes in the shallow waters of Pearl Harbor. Modifications were made to the torpedoes allowing them to be used in the harbor. Vice Admiral Chuichi Nagumo was selected as the task force commander for the operation. The task force itself consisted of 30 ships, 6 of which were aircraft carriers, with a full complement of 430 planes to conduct the air raid. During the voyage the fleet was kept under strict radio silence, and was limited to receiving transmissions. Transmitting messages from the fleet would run the risk of exposing the position of the fleet by the U.S. At this point all the preparations were obviously complete, and the attack on Pearl Harbor was imminent. With all the planning being done by Admiral Yamamoto and the Japanese fleet, there were also events taking place in Washington. On October 16 of the same year news reached Washington reporting the fall of the Konoye Government, resulting in the appointment of General Tojo as Prime Minister of Japan. This set off alarms in D.C. because of the fact that General Tojo is a militarist, and fears of his cabinet would be bent on war. But the Japanese maintained diplomatic negotiations with the goal of achieving an agreement to restore oil supplies. On the American end of the negotiations, Presidents Roosevelt was more concerned with Japan ending its tripartite pact. Kichisaburo Momura was the ambassador of Japan in charge of facilitating requests between Tokyo and Washington. He was in charge of delivering the 14 part message from Tokyo that ultimately relays the declaration of war on the U.S., just hours before the attack would commence. The delivery of the final portion of the message came about one hour after the attack had begun, thus making it a violation of international law. The first wave of 183 Japanese planes initiates the attack at 0600 hours and was concentrated on Hickam airfield and the flying boat ramps on Ford Island, with the torpedo bombers en route to battle ship row. The first wave lasts until 0945 with 4 battleships sunk, 8 badly damaged, 200 U.S. aircraft destroyed and multiple smaller ships lost. A secondary attack is launched as well, with the total casualty count tallying in roughly 2,400 U.S. personal killed, and 1,200 wounded. A nation-wide broadcast of the â€Å"Sneak Attack† hits the airwaves, rallying the nation behind President Roosevelt into the war. This was the exact opposite result that Admiral Yamamoto had hoped this raid would have on the American fighting spirit. What was thought to be the most brilliant naval operations in history has also become the biggest mistake of World War II. â€Å"†¦with the un-bounding determination of our people we will gain the inevitable victory. So help us God†. These were the last words of president Roosevelt addressing the Japanese attack before the chamber in which he stood erupted with cheer. Although, some of the reactions made by the American people were not so level headed; such as the boycotting of Japanese shops and goods, the nation as a whole was geared toward the war effort, American wanted payback. The war in the Pacific was slow to get going because Europe was made a priority. This would mean the forces already committed to the Pacific were without the possibility of reinforcement. The Japanese onslaught came fast and it looked as if it wasn’t slowing down. Position after allied position, was taken by the empire and the outlook of the pacific war looked grim but not for too long. An admiral by the name of Ernest J. King soon devised a raiding strategy after his careful assessment of previous Japanese operations. The strategy consisted of raids on unsuspecting Japanese positions which were to be conducted by carrier groups. The objective of this strategy was to force the Japanese to reinforce these exposed positions; thus spreading their defenses too thin and unable to counter an actual advance. The carriers that were involved with operation were the U.S.S. Saratoga, Lexington and Enterprise. The raids at first inflicted mild damage, but the carrier group was soon bolstered by the addition of the U.S.S. Yorktown. A raid was conducted on the enemy positions at Lae and Salamana destroying several Japanese transports. Doolittle’s raid was one that resulted from Admiral Kings’ strategy, forcing the Japanese high command on their heels. The pivotal naval battle of Midway was also a hard fought victory on the road to winning the war in the Pacific. The Midway atoll was located between the Hawaiian Islands and was a vital strategic position for both countries. It was essentially the doorway to both the Japanese Empire and the U.S. Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, the overall commander of the Pacific theater, planned a â€Å"scissor† type strategy to defend Midway from an impending Japanese attack. This strategy was to be executed in a way where it would place the Japanese carrier group between land-based air attacks and the two U.S. carrier groups. The position of the Japanese fleet was hard to locate until Lieutenant-Commander â€Å"Wade† McClusky spotted an enemy destroyer following it back to the main force. Coincidently the strike group that was launched from the other carrier fleet located the Japanese fleet at the same time approaching from the east. The clash at Midway resulted in a one-sided victory for the U.S. destroying four Japanese carriers, one heavy cruiser, 275 planes, and 3,500 Japanese personnel. As the Allied forces closed in on the Japanese Empire, land based operations became more and more frequent. Although there were plenty more Naval engagements that took place, the taking of land-based positions were the deciding factor. One important land operation was the taking of Guadalcanal giving way many lessons learned. At the unfortunate cost of countless lives, it showed the U.S. the difficulty of supporting a fighting force on an enemy shore and the many logistic risks when taking on an amphibious assault. It also made military commanders aware of the hardships of fighting in dense jungle terrain and the threat of disease and sickness. One by one enemy positions fell to the Allies and the Japanese Empire slowly dwindled. And the closer that the Allies got to their homeland the Japanese fought harder. But their fervor was not enough to beat back onslaught of the Allied forces. With every inch gained, every battle won, and every life lost Allied resolve grew hundreds of times stronger. If it weren’t for the day that the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, the outcome probably would’ve been different. But the damage was done, and the mistake of awaking the fighting spirit of the American people marked the beginning of the end of the Japanese Empire. References http://www.historyplace.com/worldwar2/timeline/pearl.htm http://worldwar2history.info/Pearl-Harbor/

The Concepts Of Supply Chain Management Business Essay

The Concepts Of Supply Chain Management Business Essay Explain what are the supply chain uncertainties and supply chain risks; explore some already established theories about the supply chain uncertainty using academic and professional journal articles. Discuss the phenomena and behaviour of the Forrester Effect as one of the models for demand uncertainty; further explore the countermeasures of Forrester Effect. Elucidate the critical importance of supplier relationship management for the supply chain competitiveness; by finding and referencing to a number of professional literatures critically review some relationship management frameworks, models and approaches; discuss how a business might decide on the most appropriate relationship portfolio and management approach. Define and explain the concept of strategic outsourcing in the context of designing and reconfiguring supply chain structures; discuss the decision process of outsourcing and influencing factors; explore what might be the difficulties and barriers in its operational implementation; and finally summarise the key benefits and potential risks. Requirement: A content page and page numbering To complete two separate reports on two chosen topics from the three above, indicating the question number. Properly structure the discussion into sections and give subtitles for each section. Use references (normally 3-5 professional journal articles for each report) to demonstrate the extended learning Each topic is recommended to be up to 2500 words in length. No lengthy case study is required, but some short (a few sentences) real world examples may be adequate. SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT Table of Contents 1.0 SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT.2 1.1 Introduction .2 1.2 Importance of Supply Relationship Management..2 1.3 Relationship Management Framework.4 1.3.2 Industrial Marketing and Purchasing (IMP) interaction Approach..4 1.3.3 Supply Chain Frameworks.4 1.3.4 Service Supply Modelsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦..à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦5 1.4 Relationship Portfolio and Management Approach6 2.0 STRATEGIC OUTSOURCING11 2.1 Outsourcing and Supply Network Design..11 2.2 Outsourcing Decision Process and Influencing Factors..11 2.2.1 Planning phase12 2.2.2 Explore the Strategic Implications phase..12 2.2.3 Tactical implications phase.12 2.2.4 Cost analysis phase..13 2.2.5 Implementation phase..13 2.3 Implementation Problems.14 2.4 Key Benefits and Potential Outsourcing Risks.15 REFERENCING..17 1.0 SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT 1.1 Introduction An important feature of a world class organisation is the way the organisation has been able to develop and link its suppliers with its external processes, Peter Hines, World Class Suppliers, (Pitman, 1994). Supplier relationship management can be defined as the relationship that exists between the supplier and its buyer based on long term commitments and trust with the ultimate aim to maximise the potential value of the relationship. This will include the management of different forms of supply relationships such as partnership, joint venture and vertical integration. 1.2 Importance of Supply Relationship Management The critical importance of supplier relationship types to achieve supply chain competitiveness can be viewed under the following headings: The effective use of strategic partnership Typical traditional short term relationship is characterise by irregular or one-off transactions that give rise to supply uncertainties, difficulties in choosing suppliers, and is price oriented making this type of relationship unreliable and unsupported. Organisations can move from this type of relationship towards a long term relationship known as partnership based on trust, shared goals and risks to achieve mutual benefits. Nigel Slack, Stuart Chambers and Robert Johnston, Operations Management, (Pearson, 2010), define partnership as an agreement between two firms that seek to accomplish a common objective. The Japanese, James P Womack et al, the Machine That Changed the World, (Macmillan, 1990) , used the concept of partnership and lean to gain competitive advantage because they realised their partners had the expertise, the technical knowledge and were reliable. Effective partnership with suppliers made them to compete favourably in the market because of good product quality, lo w cost and reliable delivery. Therefore, firms can use this same method to rationalise their supply base and use the lean concept to produce efficiently which will lead to reduce product lead times, reduce inventory and inventory cost. The implementation of new management tools and systems A key element of supply relationship management that gives firms competitive advantage is the implementation of the lean concept of monitoring supplier performance and continuous improvement. Monitoring performance is a post-contractual procedure in which the buyer continuously keeps an eye on the supplier by either managing the suppliers activities to make sure all commitments are met or using a measurement matrix such as key performance index (KPI) to compare supplier progress and divergence from targeted objective. The overall competitive advantage is an operation that is continuously improved in terms of quality, delivery and service. In 1989, Chrysler benching against the Japanese companies, initiated the Supplier Cost Reduction Effort (SCORE) program aimed to reduce cost, quality and monitor supplier performance; Dawei Lu et al, Supply Chain Management module notes (WMG, University of Warwick, 2011). The integration of knowledge and technology to create an all new technology Integration with supplier is all about coordination. Here, the buyer and supplier come together to align their processes thus improving communication and supply chain visibility for both parties. When firms integrate their knowledge and technology they are able to meet the needs of end customers by getting the right product at the right price and quality, giving them a competitive edge. This strategy was used by Bose Corporation 1990 that led to the extension and creation of the JIT2 concept, a logical extension of JIT that eliminates waste in the system, improves communication and reduces demand variability. Efficient consumer response (ECR) to demand variability caused by the forester effect. Firms are always seeking solutions for continuous demand variation and consumer requirements. Through effective supplier and buyer collaboration, firms will be able to achieve competitive advantage by efficiently managing their supplier relationship to meet the needs of the end consumer creating a fluid inventory flow from suppliers to the consumers reducing lead times, demand variability and uncertainty. This has led to initiatives such as Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID), a tracking technology that provides real time information and location of goods. Tesco, UKs largest grocery retailer has exploited this technology strategy and is piloting pallet-level RFID to manage its logistics; Christos Tsinopoulos and Carlos Mena, Competing Supply Chain Strategy: Tesco, Aldi and Lidl, (ECCH, 2010). Increase competition amongst firms to secure and increase domestic and international market share. Domestic and international market pressures are just other facets that have pushed firms to collaborate and develop strategic partnership with suppliers to gain competitive edge. Using this approach, firms use both local and international suppliers to broaden their sourcing base, reduce product lead time, and stream line cost through cheaper, global and local sourcing alternatives. The benefits are quick response to demand variation and high availability of variety of products at reasonable price and quality. This in turn attracts a greater amount of customers and increase market share. This is a strategy which IKEA, a Swedish international furniture company has successfully used to provide quality products at reasonable price and secure a large market share both domestically and internationally. 1.3 Relationship Management Framework 1.3.1 Introduction A relationship defines an interaction between individuals, organisations and groups; Kenneth Lysons and Michael Gillingham, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management (Prentice Hall, 2003). There are many possible supply chain relationship types because very few companies can operate on their own. These relationships can be categorized as business-to-business (B2B), business-to-consumers (B2C), consumers-to-business (C2B) and customers-to-customers (C2C). B2B relationships are most common and have been used in many approaches and models such as IMP, SCOR, HP, GSCF, Service supply chain and IUE-SSE to help explain supplier-customer interaction. 1.3.2 Industrial Marketing and Purchasing (IMP) interaction Approach The IMP interaction approach is a dynamic model of supplier-customer relationship developed in the mid 1970s by a group of five European countries and universities; IMP Group.[online].(http://www.impgroup.org/about).(Accessed 06 Feb 2011). Based on investigations of about 900 business relationships, the IMP group developed a model of an interaction process at both the firm and individual levels creating a dynamic, complex and long standing relationship rather than one based on a short term stable relationship; Bensaou M (1999), Portfolios of Buyer-Supplier Relationships, Sloan Management Review, Vol. 40, 35-45. This relationship is influenced by soft factors such as power, cooperation, closeness and expectations as well as external environmental factors such as market structures, dynamism, internationalisation and position in the market. The IMP Group approach and model provide a good overview of buyer-supplier relationships and have formed the basis of other frameworks like David T. Wilson, (1995) Integrated model of Buyer-Supplier relationships, Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science , Vol. 23, 335-345. 1.3.3 Supply Chain Frameworks Customer-supplier relationship management models and frameworks can also be viewed within the context of the different types of supply chain models that exhibit customer-supplier relationship management. This will include a variety of supply chain models which address customer-supplier relationships such as HP, SCOR, GSCF, and IUE-SSC model. These models identify customer-supplier relationships by adopting two differing views; product and service supply chain view. Product oriented models adopt a manufacturing approach that involves the physical movement of goods under uncertainties managed to satisfy customer demands and include the HP, SCOR and GSCF models. The Hewlett Packard (HP) model was developed by the Hewlett Packard Company as a result of spiral inventory and customer dissatisfaction the company was facing with its order fulfillment process. Lee, H. and C. Billington, (1995), The Evolution of Supply-Chain Management Models and Practice at Hewlett-Packard, Business Source Premiere, Vol. 25, 42-63, used this model to demonstrate how suppliers, manufacturers and customers are linked in the flow of goods with multiple warehouses providing inventory at each stage to buffer demand. The Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) model is a highly structured and broad model developed by the Supply Chain Council to measure total supply chain performance; Supply Chain Council. [Online].(http://supply-chain.org/f/SCOR%2090%20Overview%20Booklet.pdf ) (Accessed 06 Feb 2011). The SCOR model adopts a process manufacturing viewpoint and identifies supplier- customer relationships by breaking down the supply chain into links, each link made up of processes representing supplier-customer relationships. These relationships are then benchmarked using Key Performance Indicators (KPI) to assess the success within the supply chain. This model, although it improves customer satisfaction through improved supplier-customer relationships, it does not attempt to describe some elements of post delivery customer support, a critical feature of supplier-customer relationship management. The Global Supply Chain Forum (GSCF) is yet another supply chain framework that adopts the process manufacturing approach and identifies supplier relationship management as one of its eight key business processes of product flow. Croxton L. Keely et al, (2001), the Supply Chain Management Processes, International Journal of Logistics Management, Vol. 12, 13-24, depicts this model as an end-to-end process where each process is linked and managed to interface with key customers and suppliers. This creates eight business processes among which is customer-supplier relationship management to allow the smooth flow of product within the supply chain. 1.3.4 Service Supply Models The above three models define supply chains purely from a traditional perspective of product flow. However, with the growing importance of services and service industry, Ellram et al, (2004), Understanding and Managing Service Supply Chain, The Journal of Supply Chain Management, Vol. 40, 17-32, adapted this manufacturing approach into a new line of service thinking that uses service capacity and delivery, instead of products to classify supply chains as the key processes. This service supply model captures customer-supplier relationship via an end-to-end supplier and customer process that include capacity and demand management, cash flows and service delivery management, and just like manufacturing supply chain, customer relationship management. This is a very good approach that identifies relationship management but limited in that services are intangible and this makes them difficult to visualise and measure. A follow up to the service supply chain viewpoint is the work of Baltacioglu et al (2007), A New Framework for Service Supply Chains, Service Industries Journal, Vol. 27, 105-124, who proposed the IUE-SSC model. IUE-SSC model represents the initials of the affiliated organisation of the authors and Service Supply Chain Model. This model identifies customer-supplier relationships by breaking down supply chain into three basic parts: the supplier, the service provider and the customer. Here, the service supplied by the supplier constitutes a core and supporting service and just like the service supply chain model by Ellram et al, this model identifies a number of activities that includes some customer-supplier relationship management essential to the service supply chain. Relationship types are diverse and could either be of business type such as B2B or consumer type such as C2C. In my thinking the popularity of B2B and the historical context of consumer-supplier behaviour pushed the above mentioned authors to focus exclusively on B2B relationships in explaining customer-supplier behaviours in the models they proposed. But the general shift in consumer behaviour and the impact of globalisation and information technology should trigger a move to contemporary models of consumer-supplier relationships in business-to-consumer, consumer-to-business or consumer-to-consumer. I therefore think that the modern business world would appreciate models build around E-commerce type relationships and a move from product or service approach models that explains consumer-supplier relationship management. 1.4 Relationship Portfolio and Management Approach Conventional thinking suggests that relationships tend to vary with companies and there is no fit for all purpose relationship. A logical step after organisations are able to identify the various types of relationships is to focus on the relationship portfolio they want to build with their suppliers and to effectively manage this relationship for competitiveness. A number of methods and approaches have been adopted ranging from the various types of relationships to more analytic models such as Kraljics Purchasing/supply portfolio-analysis and the power regime. Firms have adopted different approaches to tailor the different types of relationships to fit their particular products, service or markets. These relationships tend to follow a pattern from a short term traditional arms length relationship to a new form of close and long term relationship known as partnership or vertical integration; Alan Harrison and Remko van Hoek, Logistics Management and Strategy, (Pearson, 2008). Others have viewed this trend as a continuum and included additional types such as strategic alliance and joint ventures. Depending on its strategy, a firm might adopt a range of style such as develop strategic partners by rationalising its supply base and dealing only with a few suppliers, a popular approach most firms are now adopting. It might also adopt a variety of relationships style depending on the markets and the products. The Kraljics model analyses the purchasing portfolio of a firms product into high and low supply risk and supply impact on the financial results. The end result is the segregation of products as: strategic, leverage, routine and bottlenecks as shown below; High Low Fig 1: Kraljics model Leverage products Alternate source of supply available Substitution possible Competitive bidding Strategic products Critical for products cost price Dependence on supplier Performance based partnership Routine products Large product variety High logistics complexity Labour intensive System contracting E-commerce solutions Bottleneck products Monopolistic market Large entry barriers Secure supply and search for alternatives Low Supply Risk High Source: Dawei Lu et al, Supply Chain Management module notes (WMG, University of Warwick, 2011). Using this method, management can therefore spend time and develop performance based relationships such as partnership on those suppliers whose products matter most, for example, strategic products and outsource non critical or leverage products. Bensaou M (1999), Portfolios of Buyer-Supplier Relationships, Sloan Management Review, Vol. 40, pp. 35-45 adopted a similar approach based on product and market conditions to create a supplier portfolio of our different relationship profiles; captive buyer, strategic partnership, market exchange and captive supplier. Fig 2: Relationship Portfolio Source: Bensaou M (1999), Portfolios of Buyer-Supplier Relationships, Sloan Management Review, Vol. 40, pp. 35-45 To effectively manage the relationships such as the Captive buyer and Market exchange, Bensaou suggested the use of management practices such as treating each other with respect and fair profit sharing and for strategic partners to regularly exchange information or pay frequent visit creating a social climate that is trusting and collaborative. The ABC analysis method is another commonly used technique by businesses to segment supplier relationship portfolio. Wagner S. and Johnson J. L., Configuring and Managing Strategic Supplier Portfolios, Industrial Marketing Management, Vol. 33, 717-730 adopted this approach using a wide range of factors such as volume, suppliers performance, supplier strategic importance, price and quality to segregate suppliers into category (Cat) A, B and C. Cat A suppliers where suppliers that supplied a total 80% volume, while Cat B supplied 15% and finally Cat C, 5%. Very little time is spent on managing and developing Cat C supplier because of their limited volume. In most cases they are used by the company as a way to reduce cost by either direct sourcing or via e-procurement. On the other hand, Cat A suppliers should be considered imperative by top management and a close relationship or partnership should be developed. This relationship can be monitored through regular and annual meetings with suppliers as well as creating an award for suppliers to maintain motivation. In addition, the buyer can invest on supplier development by either assisting or sponsoring supplier to improve performance. Another approach is that by Andrew Cox et al (2004), Managing Appropriately in Power Regimes: Relationship and Performance Management in 12 Supply Chain Cases, Supply Chain Management, an International Journal, vol. 9, 357 371, that correlates the findings of relationships and performance management strategies in power regimes. In a power regime, a business can decide on the appropriate relationship and relationship management style(s) depending on their power condition, as shown on the fig 3. Therefore, in a business deal where the buyer is dominant or has an interdependence power position, it will be better to choose a relationship approach based on supplier development. Conversely, in a supplier power regime relative to supplier dominance and/or interdependence then the option is for a supply chain management approach to be adopted. A change in the power structure in this technique will lead to a change in the relationship portfolio and this will lead to improve performance outco mes especially when either parties change their behaviour. Fig 3: Power Regime 2.0 STRATEGIC OUTSOURCING A significant decision facing most businesses today and which have a long term impact on the firm is whether to produce internally (insourcing) or use an outside supplier (outsourcing); Robert Monczka, Robert Trent, and Robert Handfield, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, (Thomson, 2005). 2.1 Outsourcing and Supply Network Design Outsourcing, sometimes referred to as make-or-buy, is a strategy by which an organisations management decides to hand over its non-core activities to a specialised third party that can efficiently provide the service; Kenneth Lysons and Michael Gillingham, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, (Prentice Hall, 2003). Therefore, central to outsourcing is the make or buy decisions and the relationship that is formed between the purchaser and the supplier. The make or buy decision arises because organisations have come to the realisation that they cannot produce or make everything on their own and can effectively spend more time on core competence while non core competence could be outsourced. This decision to outsource or make or buy is a strategic one that will create a new supply network of suppliers and sometimes suppliers suppliers. In this new supply network, the organisation will need to adjust its operation in line with its new suppliers and, where possible, its suppliers suppliers creating a total supply network; Nigel Slack, Stuart Chambers and Robert Johnston, Operations Management, (Pearson, 2010). This strategic decision to outsource brings a whole new chapter within the organisation and will prompt a key design decision; how to configure the new network and how much of the network should be retained by the organisation. This will help management to decide on how it intends to influence and manage the overall new structure . 2.2 Outsourcing Decision Process and Influencing Factors Traditionally, the main outsourcing decision process focused on cost reduction. However, the importance of outsourcing decision to an organisation competitive position has pushed many organisations to consider a number of other factors. The decision process adopted here is one adapted from Robert Monczka, Robert Trent, and Robert Handfield, Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, (Thomson, 2005). 2.2.1 Planning phase The initial process in undertaking any outsourcing motive is to initiate a project of a cross functional team and define its scope and objectives. The team should identify activities to be outsourced and present to management for acceptance. Explore the Strategic Implications phase Strategic implications will mean aligning the outsourcing decision with three main factors: The companys long term plans and its impact on other activities and functions. This means if the activity that is being outsourced should disrupt the companys future plan or affects other functions, it is better off being insource. Furthermore, the decision should be in line with an understanding of the organisations core competence. If outsourced activity is not perceived as being core capabilities, the firm might decide to outsource. Analysis of the impact of process technological and how it compares to its competitors for competitive advantage. If analysis shows minimal competitive advantage then the organisation can decide to outsource but in cases where in house process technology provides competitive advantage, the organisation could reconsider to insource. 2.2.3 Tactical implications phase Tactical decision process will consider the following factors, and the ability to test prospective outsourcing initiative. Alternatives to outsourcing: Being tactical is crucial in outsourcing because the final decision to outsource can be very expensive for the organisation. Therefore, before making that final decision, the organisation could reconsider alternatives to outsourcing such as producing in-house, subcontracting or vertical integration. The length of contract: Outsourcing decision could mean being tied down in a long term contract which could impact on other strategic objectives. Impact of size: Also the size of the outsourcing activity can impact on the decision process as management can decide on other options if the activity to outsource is too large and can have adverse effect on core activities. Corporate culture: The impact on corporate culture is another key tactical factor that should be considered on outsourced activity to organisation. This means considering employees feelings regarding the activity to be outsourced. 2.2.4 Cost analysis phase Critical to any outsourcing decision process is its ability to be cost-effective at a quality level competitive in the marketplace. An accurate cost-effective calculation looks beyond the initial and obvious costs and is based on a marginal costing principle; a cumulative costing concept including total variable cost, total fixed cost and operating costs. Other costs will include the opportunity cost which is the potential benefits forgone if the activity being outsourced is done in house. Implementation phase The implementation process will be driven by effective service provider selection and managing post-contractual relationship. Because outsourcing usually involves a long term contract and high investment, selecting the correct service provider is imperative. The selection process will include; Market research: This involves carrying out a thorough market research to determine market price and terms of conditions, and identifying potential service providers with the right expertise, capacity and similarity in corporate culture. Develop a tender request. The tender request should provide in detail the outsourcing requirements as well as general information about the organisation including the scope and the objectives of outsourcing. This document will form a good guide to potential service providers. Conduct site visit. After tenders have been submitted, a site visit to potential service provider will aim to compare reality to what is on paper. It will be an opportunity to look at the corporate culture, its processes, the people, and how they can fit in to the outsourcing organisation. Negotiate. Negotiation will aim to find a common ground for a win-win situation. Central to this will be: quality of service and the performance level, scope for improvement and change, pricing and management style including assimilation of employees. The implementation process is not complete without any form of decision to manage post-contractual relationship which is very important to the sustainability of the whole outsourcing process. The key factor is to develop a key performance indicator (KPI) to continuously measure and monitor performance of service provider so that service quality is maintained and relationship continuously improved. In conclusion, the decision to outsource by a firm is a crucial and strategic one because it affects a greater part of the firm and it can be used as a competitive tool. Traditionally, this decision was based simply on cost and benefits but as discussed above, the decision process is now influenced by many factors and departments. Therefore, for an outsourcing decision process to be effective and efficient, a cross functional team should be selected to be part of the whole process. Implementation Problems Shawn McCray (2008). [Online].(http://www.tpi.net/pdf/papers/Top_10_Problems-with_Outsourcing.pdf).(Accessed 23 February 2011), identifies poor change management and governance as key issues in implementing outsourcing. Some of the problems related to implementation are: Post-contract processes poorly written: This occurs because both parties after signing the contract do not want to work together. The root problem being mutual misunderstanding of contract and the scope of outsourced activities resulting to services not performed and increase frustration amongst staff. Cultural clash: Cultural clash, corporate or international, can tend to produce tension, distrust and misunderstanding. This is problematic especially in a situation of offshoring where communication is limited to email or phones. This will be further compounded in difference in work ethics which if not streamlined will create added tension. Quality of service: A main reason management decides to outsource is to improve the quality of service. Where service provider is unable to achieve this, the whole outsourcing process becomes questionable and creates problems surrounding contractual performance and implementation. Lack of Coordination: Coordination and the lack of a coordinating team present an implementation problem. This is because as soon as the contract is signed, the client quickly shifts all responsibilities to the service provider who is still trying to get started and there is no team in place to coordinate activities. This wi