Identtifying a Nation's Possibilities. Costa Rica Essay

Identtifying a Nation's Possibilities. Costa Rica - Essay Example In 1969, a constitutional amendment was adopted to limit to a single term the length of a President’s and Legislators tenure. This prohibition was however overturned in April 2003 effectively paving the way for the President to seek a second term. In that election, Oscar Arias Sanchez received 40% of the popular vote. The next elections are slated for February 2010. Costa Rica has a unicameral Legislative Assembly. The assembly at full seating has fifty-seven (57) members. The members are elected by direct popular vote to a single four-year term. The Legislature writes and enacts laws for the country. Elections into the Costa Rica Legislative Assembly were held in 5 February 2006, the next scheduled polls are to be in 2010. Costa Rica does not have provincial legislature, they were abolished in 1998. The Costa Rican Judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. Costa Rica highest court is the Corte Suprema or Supreme Court. The court is composed of twenty-two (22) elected Justices. The Justices are elected by for renewable eight-year terms. The terms are only renewable by the Legislative Assembly. Costa Rica’s legal system is based on Spanish civil law. There is judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court. Costa Rica is also a signatory of the International Criminal Justice jurisdiction. Although Costa Rica has no military; the Federal Government maintains a domestic Police force and an armed National Guard. President Jose Figueres Ferrer abolished the army in after the 1948 civil war. The abolition became an act of the constitution in 1949. Current President Oscar Arias Sanchez declared December 1 as the Military abolition day. Costa Rica’s political parties are very ideological with nationalist, progressive, libertarian, socialist and leftist agendas. The leading parties include Citizen Action Party (PAC), Costa Rican Renovation Party (PRC), Democratic Force Party (PFD), General Union Party ( PUGEN),

Sustainability and the Balanced Scorecard Essay Example for Free

Sustainability and the Balanced Scorecard Essay Practices that are good for the environment and society may appear to have a negative impact on corporate profitability, but use of the balance scorecard can result in a clearer picture of the relationship among sustainable practices, corporate strategies, and profitability. This article explores three ways that sustainable practices can be incorporated into BSC and discusses issues that should be considered when selecting sustainability related measures, targets, and goals. It also examines ways to enhance both internal and external reporting of sustainability-related performance. Adopting green operating practices is certainly good for the environment, yet the implications of such practices for a business’s profitability may be viewed as both positive and negative. On one hand, by contributing to product differentiation in the market- place and enhancing organizational image to investors and customers (both current and potential), green practices may increase a company’s profitability. On the other hand, green practices may actually reduce profitability because of extra costs that result from implementation and continuation of sustainable practices. For example, installing solar panels on a building may lower monthly electricity bills, but, concomitantly, the reduced electricity bills may be more than offset by the high purchase and installation costs associated with the panels. The sustainability concept now runs rampant in business literature, but, unfortunately, there is no agreed- upon definition of sustainability or its underlying tenets. â€Å"Sustainable† or â€Å"green† practices will be found throughout the operations of a business. These practices can be included in the design features of an organization’s buildings, vendor  selection in the supply chain, production of goods and provision of services, and packaging features and distribution elements of those products and services, and the practices will be a significant consideration in a product’s ultimate disposal. The BSC typically reflect four interrelated perspectives of a company: financial, customer, international business prowess, and learning and growth. Each perspective has a series of performance measures, targets, and goals that reflect the firm’s long-term strategies. The financial perspective takes the viewpoint of the company shareholders and typically uses traditional financial measures such as operating cash flows, return on investment, and changes in operating income over time. The customer perspective addresses product and firm differentiation strategies as well as value creation from the viewpoint of the organizations client base. The international business processes perspective includes measures of the efficiency and the effectiveness of the firms operations. The learning and growth perspective focuses on the creation of organizational value through employees and innovative practices. The first method is to add a fifth perspective to the BSC. It may be the simplest approach for companies that want to emphasize sustainability as a key corporate value or a critical strategy. The sustainability perspective consists of social and environmental performance indicators that link with the other four BSC dimensions and highlights the importance of social, environmental, and economic responsibility as a corporate goal. This approach could allow management to establish less definitive measurements without compromising organizational aggregation. The second approach is sustainability-balanced scorecard (SBSC). A separate SBSC is an appropriate for many companies such as those existing BSC but want to measure or integrate sustainability without the disruption and cost of adopting a full-scale BSC. SBSC include the following four perspectives: sustainability, stakeholders, processes and learning. The sustainability perspective would emphasize the triple bottom line of economic prosperity, environmental quality, and social justice. The stakeholder perspective would  incorporate measures of business ethics, labor practices, and impact on society. The processes perspective would focus on specific organizational external and internal processes products, tools, and systems. The learning perspective would stress organizational synergy, training, and research and development. A strength of the SBSC is that a well-defined corporate sustainability strategy is not essential to its development. The third is integrating sustainability measures throughout the four perspectives. Management has to both define the metrics that are important in measuring progress towards organizational sustainability objectives, and how sustainability (or lack thereof) will affect the future. Incorporating new measures are important the firms financial well being as customer satisfaction, manufacturing cycle efficiency, and patent-generating research and development. The integration method also works well for companies that have adopted a more all-encompassing definition of sustainable practices that includes environmental, health, and social aspects. This article relates to accounting class because of the topics covered such as sustainability, triple bottom reports, return on investment, and balanced scorecard. The article concludes with developing sustainability metrics. These provide tangible guidance to how the strategies implemented help create shareholder value. There are three ways that sustainable practices can be incorporated into the balanced scorecard: adding a fifth perspective to the BSC, a sustainability-balanced scorecard, and integrating sustainability measures throughout the four perspectives. My perspective is, I know how important it is to be not only more â€Å"green† today, but as cost effective as possible. The three methods don’t look too complicated to be implemented. The article states at the end that companies are being pressured by stakeholders to become more transparent, and such transparency is becoming the norm rather than the exception. The 2008 KPMG international survey of corporate responsibility reporting found that, in 2008, nearly 80% of the worlds largest 250 companies issued some type of responsibility report. These responsibility reports included governance, ethical, environmental and social issues. It is now more important than ever to go green.

Report of Strategic Management Process practiced at Jusco

Report of Strategic Management Process practiced at Jusco The strategic management process aims at delineating the organizations strategy. It is defined as the process by which managers make a choice of a set of strategies for the organization to achieve efficient functioning and higher accomplishments. It is a continuous process that appraises the business and industries where organization is involved, evaluates its competitors, defines targets to meet all the present and future challenges and finally assesses each strategy periodically  [1]  . Strategic management is a particular course of action that is meant to achieve a corporate goal. By and large, the owners, founders of the company take the first step of the process. They lay down the structure responsible for carrying out several functions such as providing direction and guidance to the employees, setting up measurable goals with defined time spans and designated duties. Planning, budgeting, acquiring resources, maintaining resources and using follow-up techniques to resolve key issues are key elements for managers to know in the strategic management process. Strategic planning came into being years ago as an alternative to then popular tradition of long-range planning. Long-range planning was based on pooling historical data and several market assumptions to chart the direction that an organization should take. Strategic planning on the other hand is more leadership driven and vision-based; leaders decide on principles that guide the organization toward established goals  [2]  . Strategic management process is defined by four major steps which can be defined as follows  [3]  : Environmental Scanning-  Environmental scanning refers to a process of collecting, scrutinizing and providing information for strategic purposes, analysing the internal and external factors influencing the organization. After gathering the required data, management evaluates it on a continuous basis and strives to improve its resource database. Strategy Formulation-  Strategy formulation is the process of deciding best course of action for accomplishing organizational objectives and hence achieving organizational purpose. After conducting environment scanning, managers at this stage formulate corporate, business and functional strategies. Strategy Implementation-  Strategy implementation implies making the strategy work as intended or putting the organizations chosen strategy into action. Strategy implementation encompasses designing the organizations structure, distributing resources, developing decision making process, and managing human resources. Strategy Evaluation-  Strategy evaluation is the final step of strategy management process. The key strategy evaluation activities are: appraising internal and external factors that are the root of present strategies, measuring performance, and taking remedial / corrective actions. Evaluation makes sure that the organizational strategy as well as its implementation meets the organizational objectives. These components are chronologically carried steps while creating a new strategic management plan. Firms with existing plan in use revert to these steps as per the situations requirement, so as to make essential changes. Components of Strategic Management Process Components of Strategic Management Process 1.1 Environmental Scanning: Internal External Environment Organizational environment consists of both external and internal factors which need to be continually monitored to determine development and forecasts of factors that will influence organizational success.  Environmental scanning refers to possession and utilization of information about occasions, patterns, trends, and relationships within an organizations internal and external environment  [4]  . It helps the managers to decide the future path of the organization. Scanning must comprehensively identify the threats and opportunities existing in the environment such that efficient strategy which takes advantage of the opportunities and minimize the threats can be formulated. Internal analysis of the environment  is the first step of environment scanning. This primarily includes interaction of employees with other employees, management, manager interaction with other managers and shareholders, access to natural resources, brand awareness, organizational structure, main staff, operational potential, etc  [5]  . Internal environment analysis helps identify strengths and weaknesses within the organization. Most commonly used instruments used for assessment include interviews, surveys, discussions etc. While in  external analysis, three correlated environment are studied and analysed Immediate / Industry environment National environment Broader socio-economic environment / Macro-environment Examining the  industry environment  involves survey of the competitive structure of the organizations industry, emphasising competitive position of the organization with respect to its main rivals. This includes assessment of the nature, stage, dynamics, history of the industry and the effect of globalisation on competition within the industry. Analysing the  national environment  involves appraisal of efficacy of national framework in achieving competitive advantage in the global environment  [6]  . Macro-environment  analysis includes exploring macro-economic, social, government, legal, technological and international factors that may influence the environment. The analysis of organizations external environment reveals opportunities and threats for the organization  [7]  . As business becomes more competitive, external environment fluctuates rapidly hence, information from external environment adds crucial elements to the effectiveness of long-term goals and strategies. It becomes indispensable to identify competitors moves and actions in the dynamic environment such that organizations can amend their core competencies and internal environment as per external environment. Strategic managers must not only recognize the present state of the environment and their industry but also be able to predict its future positions. 1.2 Strategy Formulation Strategy formulation refers to the process of choosing the most appropriate course of action for the realization of organizational goals and objectives to fulfil organizational vision.  The process of strategy formulation involves six main steps which can rationally be followed in the following order  [8]  : Setting Organizations objectives   The key component of any strategy statement is to set the long-term objectives of the organization. Objectives specify the desired end state while strategy stresses upon the means of achieving it. Strategy encompasses both fixation of objectives and definition of the medium to be used to realize those objectives. Thus, strategy is an extensive word which is based on manner of deployment of resources to achieve desired goals. While fixing the organizational objectives, it is essential that the factors which influence the selection of objectives must be analysed before the selection of objectives. Evaluating the Organizational Environment   The next step is to evaluate the general economic and industrial environment in which the organization operates highlighting its competitive position. This generally involves a qualitative and quantitative review of organizations existing product line.  [9]  The aim is to ensure that factors important for competitive success in the market can be discovered such that management can identify and exploit its strengths and weaknesses against those of its competitors. Setting Quantitative Targets   In this step, an organization must fix desired quantitative target values for certain objectives. The idea behind this is to compare with long term customers, so as to evaluate the contribution that might be made by various product zones or operating departments. Aiming in context with the divisional plans   In this step, the contributions made by each department, division, product category within the organization is identified and accordingly strategic planning is done for each sub-unit. This requires a careful analysis of macroeconomic trends. Performance Analysis   Performance analysis includes discovering and analysing the gap between the planned and desired performance. A critical evaluation of the organizations past performance, present condition and the desired future conditions must be done by the organization. This critical evaluation identifies the degree of gap that persists between the actual reality and the long-term aspirations of the organization. An attempt is made by the organization to estimate its probable future condition if the current trends persist. Choice of Strategy   This is the ultimate step in Strategy Formulation where the best course of action is selected after considering organizational goals, organizational strengths, potential and limitations as well as the external opportunities. 1.3 Strategy Implementation Strategy implementation is the translation of chosen strategy into organizational action so as to achieve strategic goals and objectives. Strategy implementation is also defined as the manner in which an organization should develop, utilize, and amalgamate organizational structure, control systems, and culture to follow strategies that lead to competitive advantage and a better performance. Organizational structure allocates special value developing tasks and roles to the employees and states how these tasks and roles can be correlated so as maximize efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction-the pillars of competitive advantage  [10]  . But, organizational structure is not sufficient in itself to motivate the employees. An organizational control system is also required. This control system equips managers with motivational incentives for employees as well as feedback on employees and organizational performance. Organizational culture refers to the specialized collection of values, attitudes, norms and beliefs shared by organizational members and groups. Following are the main  steps in implementing a strategy  [11]  : Developing an organization having potential of carrying out strategy successfully Disbursement of abundant resources to strategy-essential activities Creating strategy-encouraging policies Employing best policies and programs for constant improvement Linking reward structure to accomplishment of results Making use of strategic leadership Excellently formulated strategies fail if not properly implemented. Also, it is essential to possess stability between strategy and each organizational dimension such as organizational structure, reward structure, resource-allocation process, etc to ensure efficient strategy implementation. Strategy implementation poses a threat to many managers and employees in an organization as new power relationships are predicted and achieved. New groups (formal as well as informal) are formed whose values, attitudes, beliefs and concerns may not be known. With the change in power and status roles, the managers and employees may employ confrontation behaviour  [12]  . Following are the main differences between Strategy Formulation and Strategy Implementation  [13]   Strategy Formulation Strategy Implementation Strategy Formulation includes planning and decision-making involved in developing organizations strategic goals and plans. Strategy Implementation involves all those means related to executing the strategic plans. In short, Strategy Formulation is  placing the Forces before the action. In short, Strategy Implementation is  managing forces during the action. Strategy Formulation is an  Entrepreneurial Activity  based on strategic decision-making Strategic Implementation is mainly an  Administrative Task  based on strategic and operational decisions Strategy Formulation emphasizes on  effectiveness. Strategy Implementation emphasizes on  efficiency. Strategy Formulation is a  rational process. Strategy Implementation is basically an  operational process. Strategy Formulation requires co-ordination among few individuals. Strategy Implementation requires co-ordination among many individuals. Strategy Formulation requires a great deal of  initiative and logical skills. Strategy Implementation requires specific  motivational and leadership traits. Strategic Formulation precedes Strategy Implementation. Strategy Implementation follows Strategy Formulation. 1.4 Strategy Evaluation Strategic Evaluation is the final phase of  strategic management. Strategy Evaluation throws light on the efficiency and effectiveness of the comprehensive plans in achieving the desired results as stated during strategy formulation. The management assesses the validity of current strategy in existing environment with respect to dynamic socio-economic, political and technological innovations. The significance of strategy evaluation lies in its capacity to co-ordinate the task performed by managers, groups, departments etc, through control of performance. Strategic Evaluation is significant because of various factors such as developing inputs for new strategic planning, the urge for feedback, appraisal and reward, development of the strategic management process, judging the validity of strategic choice etc  [14]  . The process of Strategy Evaluation consists of following steps  [15]  : Fixing benchmark of performance   While fixing the benchmark, strategists answer questions such as what benchmarks to set, how to set them and how to express them. In order to determine the benchmark performance to be set, it is essential to discover the special requirements for performing the main task. The performance indicator that best identify and express the special requirements might then be determined to be used for evaluation. The organization can use both quantitative and qualitative criteria for comprehensive assessment of performance. Quantitative criteria include determination of net profit, ROI, earning per share, cost of production, rate of employee turnover etc. Among the Qualitative factors are subjective evaluating factors such as skills and competencies, risk taking potential, flexibility etc. Measurement of performance   The standard performance is a bench mark with which the actual performance is compared. The reporting and communication system help in measuring the performance. If appropriate means are available for measuring the performance and if the standards are set in the right manner, strategy evaluation becomes easier. But various factors such as managers contribution are difficult to measure. Similarly divisional performance is sometimes difficult to measure as compared to individual performance. Thus, variable objectives must be created against which measurement of performance can be done. The measurement must be done at right time for evaluation to meet its purpose. For measuring the performance, financial statements like balance sheet, profit and loss account must be prepared on an annual basis. Analysing Variance   While measuring the actual performance and comparing it with standard performance there may be variances which are further analysed. The strategists must mention the degree of tolerance limits between which the variance between actual and standard performance may be accepted. The positive deviation indicates a better performance but it is quite unusual exceeding the target always. The negative deviation is an issue of concern because it indicates a shortfall in performance. Thus in this case the strategists must discover the causes of deviation and must take corrective action to overcome it. Taking Corrective Action   Once the deviation in performance is identified, it is essential to plan for a corrective action. If the performance is consistently less than the desired performance, the strategists must carry a detailed analysis of the factors responsible for such performance. If the strategists discover that the organizational potential does not match with the performance requirements, then the standards must be lowered. Another rare and drastic corrective action is reformulating the strategy which requires going back to the process of strategic management, reframing of plans according to new resource allocation trend and consequent means going to the beginning point of strategic management process. 2. Strategic Planning Vs Strategic Thinking There has been a lot of research done on strategic planning and strategic thinking but seldom is the contrast explained well enough. Strategic thinking is about coming up with the next big idea. This is not the sole responsibility of any one person. Everybody in the organization from the salesperson who suddenly discovers an untapped market for the product to the business level head who can come up with product modifications and product innovations should ideally be a part of strategic planning process. This process involves intuition and understanding about the process. The outcome more often than not is a vision of direction and not a concrete plan. The strategic planning is a natural progression step after this as explained below. Strategic Planning is articulation, elaboration of strategies that already exist. Planning essentially breaks down an idea or a broad vision into smaller more concrete and clear steps that can be implemented almost automatically. Formal planning is very analytical and depends on rearrangement of established strategies, products and structures. Too much reliance on planning impedes organizational change. We then begin to experience only incremental changes and will miss out on many good opportunities. As a result people have become disillusioned with Planning. Also planning tends to impose too many restrictions on the working of lower level managers by defining everything very precisely. These factors along with the ones listed below led to downfall of strategic planning in its current form. Deterministic Framework Planning borders on being an exact science. It assumes many simplifying assumptions which generally do not hold true in real life. The planning process requires estimates within a very narrow band for it to have any considerable accuracy. But in todays fast changing world it is the one luxury that we do not have. There are too many factors that are changing ranging from technological breakthroughs to governmental regulations to entry of new and powerful competitors. The Silo Syndrome Strategic Planning was generally carried out in the management by exception mode. The top management basically got information from the ground level and developed strategies without consulting anybody at the ground level. This approach generally lacked the soft insights that people in the field develop when they deal with the product which are far more valuable than general theories espoused by the management. The other drawback was the resistance it faced from the lower levels of the organization. They felt that these decisions were being forced on them by the top management and did not like the autocratic form of decision making. Formalization Fallacy Formalization implies a rational sequence from analysis through administrative procedure to eventual action. But good strategies are not always formulated in that order. Most of the radical ideas were stumbled upon by accident. Many times we try things and those experiments that work gradually converge into viable patterns that become strategies. Formal procedures will never be able to predict discontinuities or create novel strategies. These shortcomings led to the decline in popularity for the practice in this form. 2.1 Modus Operandi Based on the above discussion we can broadly divide strategy formulation into two parts namely strategic thinking and strategic planning. The business level managers are ideally positioned to take up the role of strategic thinking because they have the access to soft information from informal sources mostly like grapevine, informal talks with the people on the field. They also have the suitable authority derived from their position to take decisions and provide directions. Once the rough plan has been outlined the planners can take over. This method has some distinct advantages. The planner has the analytical tools and the abilities to give proper shape and form to the outline. The manager also does not generally have the time to break down a plan into finer and actionable sub-plans. 2.2 Advantages of highly evolved plans A well articulated plan can ensure coordination among the various parties involved. This will also help clarifying the roles, responsibilities and interdependencies present. These plans can also be used to gain tangible support from outsiders. Written plans can also be used to inform financiers, government and other stakeholders about the current state of the company. 2.3 Roles of Planners Strategy Finders It is basically the responsibility of the mangers to find out and formulate new strategies. Planners can help the mangers in this regard. Planners can snoop around places to find patterns while eliminating the noise from the data. They could discover new ways of doing things like finding out new markets and also coming up with new products for the existing markets. Analysts Planners also have the responsibility of carrying out analyses of specific issues. Planners are an obvious choice for studying hard data and ensuring that managers consider the results in strategy-making process. This may include industry analyses, competitive analyses, and internal analyses among other things. Catalysts When the planners are donning the role of catalysts they are not a part of the decision making process but they ensure that the right kind of people line managers, business level managers are in charge of this process. Planners in this role help mangers get out of ruts and help them think out of the box. This could be achieved by challenging the conventional wisdom and practices by asking uncomfortable questions about the status quo. Overall strategic management is a process by which the managers along with planners come up with new ideas that help the firms chart their future course of action and stay ahead of the curve. 3. Strategy Development Process at JUSCO The Strategic Planning Process (SPP) at JUSCO is led by the Managing Director along with Senior Leadership Team (SLT), the purpose of which is to collectively establish directions for future success through: Evolving analysis-based Long Term/Short Term plans Setting measurable goals Setting review mechanism to monitor progress and take corrective action SPP has a flow which is aimed at ensuring focus and action ability of strategy. SPP is an enterprise level process comprising of four basic steps: Plan-Develop-Deploy-Review (shown in figure on next page along with the key steps, participants, outputs and timelines). The process includes revisiting Vision, identification of Strategic Direction / Challenges / Advantages / Objectives and Long Term / Short Term plans followed by deployment through Balanced Score Card (BSC) and review. It is supported by data / information gathering and analysis including comparisons with benchmarks / competitors / past performance / targets. Strategy development is a continuous process with strategic directions being reviewed by the Board. In order to formalize directions, SPP is followed annually with inputs, schedule and participation across levels. SPP utilizes inputs from promoters expectations, external environment, other stakeholders, strategic challenges and advantages identified by each businesses / functions, aspirations for each business, process reviews and feedback of internal and external assessments. Through collective discussion in strategy workshops involving SLT, corporate level strategic challenges and advantages are identified. Challenges posed to the organization by various stakeholders are identified collectively in the strategic planning sessions. From the list, strategic challenges are identified which are likely to exert most decisive influence on companys future success. Principle Success Factors (PSF) are then identified which can help the company overcome the strategic challenges. From list of PSFs, competitive differentiators, strategic advantages, core competencies and likely future core competencies. As part of SPP, formulated strategy is syndicated with strategic advisors, consultants and sectorial experts. Strategy is also presented to the Board for its inputs and approval. This brings external perspective, utilizes market standards and helps in validation of potential blind spots identified during SPP. Short-term and long-term planning horizons are 1 year and 4 years respectively. JUSCOs major businesses (Water Services, Power Services, Municipal Solid Waste Management, etc.) are primarily in domain of government and semi government bodies. Reforms have begun in these sectors and are expected to translate into business opportunities. In such a reforming sector, a 4-year time frame allows appropriate assessment of ever-changing market and evolving regulations. First years plan of 4-year horizon is the short term plan, which forms the basis for Annual Business Plan (ABP), thus integrating short-term and long-term planning horizons. These time horizons are reviewed continuously for their adequacy in addressing needs of planning process. SPP has undergone several rounds of Evaluation Improvement (EI) based on the changing environment and needs of the organization. 4. Inputs to Strategic Planning Process Environment Analysis: Environment scanning is done throughout the year, which incorporates analysis conducted by businesses/functions and discussions in reviews. Performance reviews, ABP sessions and Business Excellence assessment feedback help in identifying industry attractiveness, companys SWOT and competitors strength and weaknesses which are used to modify strategies, BSCs and targets. SPP captures information on various factors from internal as well as external sources. Strengths and weaknesses: Gaps in capabilities of resources are assessed to identify training and development, recruitment and organization change needs, IT initiatives, new business opportunities, procurement of equipment, etc. JUSCOs major strength lies in its ability to manage water on river-to-river basis, its understanding of municipal water market which helps in taking risk in emerging market and bidding competitively, urban power distribution and Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management. These strengths are used in SPP to identify competitive position leading to direction for growth. Changes in Regulatory Environment: The sectors JUSCO operates in are expected to be under continuous regulatory scrutiny at all times. Interaction with regulatory bodies and consultants, participation in conferences, legal and internal audits help in identifying statutory shifts and legal requirements and ensuring compliance. At the business levels, changes in regulations are closely monitored to enable quick reaction. Opportunities and threats: SPP captures information on emerging opportunities and threats while deciding strategic challenges and accordingly plans are made for timely preparation of organization and capturing these opportunities. Opportunities arising out of reforms in power sector had been exploited by JUSCO previously by acquiring license for Saraikela-Kharsawan district as first parallel power distributor in the country and more such future endeavors are planned. Major shift in Markets Customer preferences: These are identified through interaction with potential customers during business development, industry meets, conferences, customer satisfaction surveys, customer feedbacks, etc. Analysis of marketplace shifts provides inputs for innovating business models, identifying strategic objectives and Long Term/Short Term plans e.g. identifying partners, targeting new market segments and geographies, etc. PPM and SWOT analysis deal with customer, market needs, expectations and opportunities. At business/ functional level, inputs from Customer Complaint Handling Process (CCHP), Customer Satisfaction Survey (CSS) and Customer Visit Report (CVR) are used to evaluate and improve operational effectiveness parameters like cycle time, response time and service quality and also to align capabilities like IT system, HR skills, etc. Major shift in Competitive Environment: As integral part of SPP, information on competition is captured through internal market surveys, win loss analysis, various professional bodies, conferences, publications etc. Information is analyzed to assess competitive strengths, weaknesses, strategies and capabilities and prepare pricing and positioning strategies. This information is also utilized to identify new opportunities and partnership requirements. Major Technological shifts: At corporate level, SPP utilizes analysis of technological shifts to enhance competitiveness, improve services, and identify partnership and competency needs. Recent significant shifts in technologies have been reuse of waste water and desalination of sea water for potable needs. At business/functional level current performance is evaluated for potential improvements through technological up gradation. IT infrastructure improvement/up gradation is based on scalability, responsiveness, accessibility, productivity improvement, etc. Human resource capabilities: HR strengths and weaknesses are evaluated through analysis of employee mix, engagement survey results, leadership perception survey results, skill gap, attrition, etc. Redeploying resources, creation of bench strength, Rewa

Japan: 1945 conflicts and internal politics Essay -- essays research p

Discuss the occupation of Japan from 1945 to 1952. What effects did the purges have on political and business leadership in Japan and to what degree did this action have on the continuity or discontinuity between pre-war and post-war elites? What actions led SCAP to â€Å"reverse† its policies from around 1948? What were the aims and goals of the occupation forces? The occupation of Japan began in August 1945 and ended in April 1952. General MacArthur was the first Supreme Commander. The entire operation was for the most part carried out by the United States. Japan in essence lost all the territory obtained after 1894. The remnants of Japan's war machine were gone, and war crime trials were held. Approximately 500 military officers committed suicide shortly after Japan surrendered, and hundreds more were executed for committing war crimes. The Emperor was not declared a war criminal. A new constitution went into effect in 1947: The emperor lost all political and military power, and was solely the symbol of the state. Universal suffrage was introduced and human rights were now guaranteed. Japan was also forbidden to lead a war again or to maintain an army. MacArthur also intended to break up power concentrations by dissolving the zaibatsu and other large companies, and by decentralizing the education system and the police. In a land reform, concentrations in land ownership were removed. During the first half of the occupation, Japan's media was subject to rigid censorship of any anti-American statements and controversial topics. The co-operation between the Japanese and the Allied powers worked relatively well. Critics began to grow when the United States acted according to self-interests in the Cold War. The United States reintroduced the persecution of the communists, stationed even more troops in Japan, and wanted Japan to establish its own self defense force despite the anti-war article in the constitution. Many aspects of the occupation's so called "reverse course" were welcomed by conservative Japanese politicians. With the peace treaty that went into effect in 1952, the occupation ended. Discuss the significant features of post-war Japan that has lead Japan to become on of the leading industrial nations of the world. Emphasize the economic activities of the 1960’s and 1970’s. After the end of World War II, Japan's economy was a disaster, ... ...opment priorities and scale down its commitments. However, the signing of this arrangement mirrored the desire on both sides to advance relations. In April 1978, a disagreement involving the incursion of armed Chinese fishing boats into the waters off the Senkaku Islands, a collection of barren islets north of Taiwan and south of the Ryukyu Islands, flared up and endangered the developing momentum toward a continuation of peace treaty talks. Self-control on both sides led to an agreeable solution. Talks on the peace treaty were resumed in July, and an arrangement was reached in August on a compromise version of the antihegemony clause. The Treaty of Peace and Friendship was signed on August 12 and came into effect October 23, 1978. Thus, common strategic concerns, as well as economic interests, held the two nations together. Until the late 1970s, China appeared more alarmed than Japan about the Soviet military buildup in Asia. But as the Soviet Union increasingly sought to impede strategic cooperation among Japan, the United States, and possibly China, in part by stepped-up intimidation of Japan, the Nakasone government became more concerned about the Soviet military buildup.

Personal Imaginitive Coursework

I trekked slowly across scorching sands; the beach was bare and inert, the searing sun too much for most, who took refuge in the shade. My mouth parched and dry, I licked my lips; my sweat tasted too salty. I dragged my unwilling limbs further along. In the background I could hear weary birds groaning under the sun,s ruthless blaze, they seemed to be circling me slowly, waiting to pounce. The vast, clear waters seemed lifeless, there were no amiable waves; there were not even small ripples. The ever present fish had decided to seek safe haven in the ocean's limitless shelters. I felt alone, secluded and dejected. I gently closed my eyes: Where was it? Would she be there? Was I late? These questions overwhelmed me. I quickly opened my eyes. In the distance stood a very small and trivial hut, I could barely make out any significant detail, however I knew it was where I needed to be. I started walking, with a new found energy, towards it ignoring the surroundings. The hot and heavy sand baked my bare feet subsequently causing me great pain. The humid and muggy air caused my eyes to water as I focused all my attention on the hut. As I got closer to the hut I could make out its finer details; it seemed a battered old construction with little in terms of modern architecture. The substandard paint that covered its cheap bricks was peeling at the far edges. The decayed wooden panels had lost their pristine newness long ago and had now become antiques that belonged in a museum of a desolate town. The ocean's rage was reflected in its rotting foundations. The hut had seen it all over the decades. She was already there and I was late. On viewing the fetid diving suits I was shocked. The suit was muddy and grimy. Its surface was no-longer new; it was instead coated in a thick layer of mire that had partially dried making the suit rigid. Reluctantly I put it on. Its tough fabric caused my skin to itch frantically. I ignored all of this as much as I could by focusing my thoughts elsewhere. For what seemed like an eternity I had played with the thought of being deep underwater: Would I feel crushed under the weight of the ocean? Would I run out of oxygen and suffer an excruciating death? I had my questions and I was soon going to find out the answers to them. The old engine roared deafeningly behind us as we travelled out to sea. I could feel its uneven vibrations running through me, adding to the nervousness I was keeping concealed inside. The beach was a distant memory and the heat no longer seemed to exist. I looked over at my diving partner. I could tell from the look in her eyes that she was as anxious as I was. We stopped in the middle of a vast ocean, the coast was no longer visible; we were alone. The suns powerful reflection dazzled all around us. We put on our goggles and set up our tanks. As soon as we had done this we positioned ourselves on the edge of the boat. I closed my eyes, ready, and dropped into the blue world beneath. It was like going to sleep and waking up in a surreal dream. It can only be described as illusory. I felt completely different; my whole body felt tranquil, sharing a unity with the ocean. I followed her deeper and deeper into the ocean's depths; every thing I saw was new to me. I saw a shoal of sapphire coloured fish swimming by swiftly beneath me. Their presence created a gap in my mind; I wanted to find out more about the ocean and its colourful inhabitants. After several more minutes of diving down we reached the bed. It was littered with coral. A diver will never find two corals exactly alike. It is in this mysterious and irregular aura which makes coral of significant beauty. It was very difficult to examine what was amongst the coral as light was partially absent there. The sand on the bed was in a wave-like pattern. Around me there were various fish swimming around almost purposefully, fish were appearing and disappearing every few seconds. There appeared to be small dwellings where groups of fish congregated amongst themselves. It seemed as if the fish had their own society, distant from the human world. I felt a gentle palm rest on my shoulder. She was pointing apologetically to the surface. It was clear that neither of us wanted to leave. We rose much quicker than we had descended; the oceans upward thrust almost throwing us out of its territory. As we approached the surface, I felt as if I had got to known the ocean and appreciate its hidden wonders. We surfaced and climbed onto the boat. I felt sad; as if I had left a part of me behind.

Personal Finance Budget Plan

| Personal Financial Planning Budget| 10/11/2012| PFP-110-120A-02 Phase I Individual Project| A personal budget is a financial plan of an individual’s or household’s income and expenses over a given period, typically one month (www. careeredonline. com). The budgeting process involves estimating future results. In order to prepare this particular budget, the previous month is analyzed. This process helps to understand how and where the money is going all month. The bills that need paid out of a $4. 040. 00 income, were as follows: * Income – $4,040. 00 Taxes Taken Out Before Bring Home Income – $40. 00 * Mortgage – not discretionary * Utilities – $190. 00 – some discretion can be applied * Groceries – $400. 00 – some discretion can be applied * Auto Insurance – $120. 00 –not discretionary * Car Payment – $250. 00 – not discretionary * Entertainment – $400. 00 – 100% discretionary * Savings – $168. 00 – preferably not discretionary * ————————————————- Child Care – $360. 00 – not discretionary * Total That Is Left – $1,512. 00 Most of the bills are not discretionary except the entertainment, and this can get cut back on an extreme amount.Going places and buying things that are not necessary could save money to add to the savings. The budget had no risk after paying the bills; however the money that is left could be put into an investment that is analyzed before investing in it. A personal financial budget can provide guidance for anyone with their financial management, which is a type of a management that deals with the financial matters of the individual’s or household’s income and expenses (www. wikipedia. com). Having a personal financial budget can actually help an individual’s credit score. If all of the bills are paid on time, then it looks good to the credit bureau. When going to purchase something on credit, a business will look to find if all the accounts in a person’s name are paid on time and rate your credit to see if the score is high enough. The best point of this budget is the balance did not come out in the negative, so from here on out the savings needs to be the focus. After finding out just how much can be saved, then investing in a particular thing could benefit and contribute to the income that is coming in now.Strategic planning is also an important part of the budget process. Strategic planning can provide information regarding internal and external economic conditions, investigating potential investments that may be beneficial, and can give long-term goals for financial management (www. assets130000. pdf). Setting goals, being disciplined, and learning to budget your finances, can help to reach your financial goals. References www. careeredonl ine. com www. wikipedia. com www. assests130000. pdf www. ctuonline/courses/pfp10. pdf

Clay Synergy Exhibit essays

Clay Synergy Exhibit essays As I first walked in to the Nave I was surrounded by bright colors and the beautiful work of Steve Reynolds. I walked throughout the museum, but my eyes brought me back to the first room of work. I wanted to see more; I wanted to know what these pieces meant and what they were all about. A particular piece that I was drawn to was Steve Reynoldss dossier, 2004, mixed media. This thick two-dimensional piece was a collage of newsprint and colorful ceramic glazes. In the upper left corner side was where my eyes were first drawn. In that corner was what appeared to be a newspaper clipping slanted in black and white, all capital letters spelling Dossier surrounded by smaller print. I followed a compositional line to the right. My eyes were interrupted by overlapping, dropping, and splattering of deep blue, red, green, black, orange, and white glazes. Surrounding the piece are two corners of frame: one on the top left and one on the bottom left also creating a compositional line. The right side seems to be heavier; it is busier and has more medium. The right side also has a larger frame. Creating balance in visual weight there was an external object attached to the smaller frame at the left top with darker colors. When looking at this piece at first I was attracted to the colors. At a closer look my eyes were drawn to the text, then to the bottom right. The frames on each corner almost acted as arrows for direction bringing my attention left from right. The object was primarily rectangular, but when taking a step back and looking at is as a whole it looks as if it has a flame and is falling or shooting in air. I was very enticed by Steve Reynolds work but I am not sure about his meanings. The work dossier means collection of papers. In his series he used a collection of papers but it held no significant meaning to me. I would like to know what the meaning ...

How to Title a Book in 4 Simple Steps (With Free Checklist!)

How to Title a Book in 4 Simple Steps (With Free Checklist!) How to Title a Book: What Do Good Book Titles Have In Common? So you’ve (finally) finished your book, only to find one last question standing between you and the bestsellers list: how to title your book. Maybe you don’t like the working title you’ve been using these past few months. Perhaps you’ve come up with a title you love - but everyone else says that it might hurt your market potential.So what makes for a truly good book title? Luckily, there’s a short, simple, 4-point checklist that will help you choose a book title that’s guaranteed to catch a reader’s roving eye. Only joking! Although that would be nice, wouldn’t it? While there’s no sure-fire method for formulating the perfect title, this post will give you ideas for devising a title that enhances your book and gives it the best chance of success. Why do book titles matter?Remember to test your book title with target readers: this is who will read your bookHere are some ways you can check if your title floats in the real world and in the heads of your audience who, after all, are the most important people in this process. It’s vital to remember that book titles are ultimately for readers.Start localBegin with your family and friends, but remember that if you just poll inside your immediate circle for feedback, chances are it will be biased towards the positive and not totally objective. While this may be great for the ego, at this stage in the game you need some genuinely constructive criticism. Distinguish who your target audience is (they might not be your friends), and try to get some feedback from these people.Facebook groupsLike many things, there is a Facebook group for this exact purpose. Just searching for ‘book title review’ or ‘test book title’ will yield some preliminary results. All it takes is to put up a post asking people to choose between two or three, and some real-life (probably literary-headed) people will give their honest opinions. If you're looking for a group to help you out, why not check out The Street Team, a book marketing group moderated by Reedsy?SurveyMonkeyIn a similar vein, gain the opinion of people slightly further out of your inner circle by making a survey on SurveyMonkey and share the link with as many people as you can. Obviously, this will start amongst friends and family, but if you encourage them to share it the ripple effect should kick in and you’ll be getting some valued feedback from all sorts of participants in no time. Nothing beats genuine, honest opinions, and it’s even better the wider you can cast your feedback - people are less likely to be clouded by personal bias if they don’t know you.Run an Adwords campaignDepending on your technological capabilities (although it sounds more complex than it is i n practice) you can A/B test your title, provided you have a final two, via an Adwords campaign. This way, success is measured by clicks, and you have in-depth analysis to work off. This will require a bit more work than the others, maybe involving creating ads that have people sign up to for a free sample or free chapter of your book. But, like most things that take more effort, the results will be worth it.Unbiased surveysWe were recently introduced to Pickfu - a testing service that allows authors to ask strangers their opinion. Their tagline is ‘optimize without an audience,’ shouting loud and clear how they’re going to help you test your book title, even if you don’t have hundreds of willing participants that you know personally. Getting the opinions of strangers is just as (if not more) useful than polling those you know personally - they are sometimes going to be more like your target audience than those closest to you.Now it’s your turnYou r book title is the foundation that your book will stand on once it’s published, and will be a key part of convincing readers (or publishers!) to take a chance on your book. Hopefully, all this will get the ball rolling on your book title, and we’d love to hear the results!How have you created the titles for your own books? If you have any particular methods, share them with us in the comments below.

Economics Report 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Economics Report 3 - Essay Example The company currently is also observed to be focused on product differentiation to obtain competitive advantages through the demand shift trends reflected in the recent market changes. Table of Contents Abstract 2 Table of Contents 3 1.0. Introduction 4 1.1. Report Brief 4 1.2. Company Background 4 1.3. Research Aim 4 1.4. Method of Data Collection 5 2.0. Literature Review 5 2.1. Demand Theory 5 2.1.1. Demand Curve 5 2.1.2. Price and Demand Elasticity 6 2.2. Market Structure Theory 6 2.2.1. Product Differentiation Theory 7 2.2.2. Sales Revenue Maximization Theory 7 2.3. Long Run Theory 8 3.0. Case Study 8 3.1. Demand Curve Shift 8 3.1.1. Sainsbury Investment 9 3.2. Market Structure 9 3.2.1. Product Differentiation Strategy 10 3.2.2. Product Shift and Sales Maximization 10 3.3. Unconventional Long Run Company 11 4.0. Conclusion and recommendation 11 4.1. Answer to Aim 11 4.2. Overall Conclusion 11 4.3. Recommendations 12 References 13 1.0. Introduction 1.1. Report Brief This report ai ms at examining the current performance deciphered by the UK based retail giant, J. Sainsbury plc (Sainsbury). Accordingly, to accomplish the defined objective, various economic theories have been applied and eventually, make suggestions for the better performance of the company in future. 1.2. Company Background The retailing company was founded in 1869 by John James Sainsbury and his spouse Mary Ann Sainsbury. Since then the company has been growing at a sustainable pace. Currently, the company operates over 1,106 supermarkets and convenient stores and has an employee base of 157,000. Operating in the retailing industry the company has it’s headquarter in London (J Sainsbury plc, 2013). 1.3. Research Aim As mentioned above, this study aims at researching the current developments in Sainsbury’s strategic behaviour along with that observed in its industrial trends, with the application of relevant theories. Based on the inferences drawn from the assessment of Sainsbury ’s current developments, as presented in its annual report for the year 2013, the essay also aims to suggest few rational recommendations to the company. 1.4. Method of Data Collection The primary source used in this research is the 2013 annual report of Sainsbury. Besides this source, information from the company website are also used in this essay, as per as the requirement. Additionally, inferences have been drawn from relevant peer-reviewed journals and academic sources so as to accomplish the research aim. 2.0. Literature Review 2.1. Demand Theory According to the demand theory, explained in Reynolds (2011), customers’ willingness to buy the commodities served by a particular industry or by a company along with their purchasing capacity, determines the market demand. The theory bases its assumptions on the study of various determinant factors that influence consumer willingness and their purchasing power as well. These determinant factors include, the price of the products (Px), price of the other goods or substitute goods (P0), income of the consumer (I), advertisement and the structure of population (N) among others. Thus, the demand function is depicted as D = f (Px, P0, I, N). The theory further assumes that consumer demand for a particular commodity varies if

Asssignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Asssignment - Essay Example For example, food, air, and water are physiological needs. One needs to have these essentials of life in order to survive. Only after one remains alive can one struggle to be safe. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory is suitable to be used mostly because all human needs can generally be placed in one of the five basic needs’ levels identified by Maslow. The best part of this theory is that it explains that if an employee is not displaying best performance, there can be certain underlying factors that may not necessarily be directly related to the workplace that need to be addressed first. Another very good feature of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory is that it places the five needs in different levels, each having its own level of importance. This helps the management streamline its efforts to address workers’ needs according to their priority as suggested by the pyramid. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs guides management on how to reward individual employees depending upon which level of need different employees find unmet and are motivated

Education and Professional Studies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Education and Professional Studies - Essay Example This paper approves that The context of primary education in England and Wales in which the ideology of child-centered education is still central, it is not possible to devise any assessment task or test to be implemented by teachers, which will not be subject to very considerable contextual effects. The National Curriculum is a statement of educational entitlement to which no child should be denied. To withdraw a child’s entitlement by disapplying the National Curriculum requires strong justification. The Code of Practice on special educational needs reiterates the inclusivity of the National Curriculum: ‘Children with special educational needs require the greatest possible degree of access to a broad and balanced curriculum including the National Curriculum’. This paper makes a conclusion that one way of utilising children’s motivation for learning and of building on this is to encourage children to develop their own interests through topic- or project-based learning. The extent to which a topic approach to developing learning is motivating for children may depend on how the topic is chosen. Ways of introducing topics range from wholly child-centred to more strongly teacher-initiated. At the child-centred end are situations in which learning develops naturally from a child’s firsthand experiences. This approach requires much careful teacher guidance of children and direct teaching when the need for this is apparent. Its great strength is that it starts with the child’s interests but difficulty arises in ensuring progression, balance and breadth in learning.

Describe an activity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Describe an activity - Essay Example h the questions that Cvitanic and Hoegerman (2013), Opinion Co-Editors of Daily Nexus, asked: â€Å"What can we learn [from these negative effects of our social activities]?† These beach cleanups made me realize that, apart from school activities, community experiences contribute to my development as a global, environmental citizen, if I both learn how to ask questions and to offer answers through personal and collective action. Community interactions, especially through voluntary experiences, help me become a global citizen because I ask action-oriented actions and offer solutions and contribute to collective action. Sexuality is not wrong, but leaving behind litter because of its expression is. After finding numerous used and unused condoms, I thought about how irresponsible these people must be to have sex so openly and yet not minding their trash. Paul and Elder (1999) underscored the importance of asking questions in teaching, learning, and thinking. They said: â€Å"Questions define tasks, express problems and delineate issues.† Many of those who litter in Isla Vista are not only community members, but also outsiders. My questions go to all of us who partake in these community events are: How should global citizens inject responsibility into the meaning of â€Å"partying† in modern society? How can be nurture thinkers who ask their accountability for their community actions? Because of t hese cleanups, I realized the role of thinking in being responsible global citizens who visit and attend different community affairs. Apart from asking questions, these volunteer experiences helped me offer personal solutions, while contributing to collective efforts. As I clean up, I reduce litter in the beach, and together with volunteers, we hopefully provide a model of good conduct to the community. These efforts contribute to my global citizenship by making me aware of my connection to others through our oneness in the community. Apart from global citizenship, I learned

BRL Hardys post-merger success Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

BRL Hardys post-merger success - Term Paper Example They also made similar acquisitions in France and Italy and these acquisitions were particularly targeted as credible organisations. It became relatively easier to effectively operate in the industry since there was a clearly defined network of distribution channels. The main advantage of mergers and acquisitions is that they give the company competitive advantage in that the resources are pulled together and new knowledge is introduced to the company by the people crossing the floor from the other company. The company immensely gained from the wealth of knowledge brought by people who moved from the other companies. On the other hand, it can be noted that acquisitions of reputable companies helped the company to gain a competitive advantage as a result of clearly defined distribution channels that already existed in the market. The other factor that contributed to BRL Hardy’s post merger success is a result of the stance taken towards changing the culture of the organisation. However, the new management which assumed top jobs at the merged companies was comprised of ex-BRL executives and focus was primarily aimed at the Australian market which was believed to be supportive of the company’s quality concerns. However, the company adopted a decentralisation approach whereby the middle managers were given the autonomy to make decisions in their operations as a way of improving the overall operations of their responsible departments. As such, the managers were empowered to make decisions while at the same time holding them accountable to their actions as a way of ensuring that there is conformity with the set organisational goals. By virtue of allowing the managers to make decisions in their operations, the organisation is likely to positively grow given that they will be motivated such that they w ill also develop a sense of belonging to it. Empowering the managers also helped them to be creative which positively contributed to the growth of the organisation. The other factor of BRL Hardy’s post-merger success can be attributed to the stance it took in sourcing the grapes used in wine production. Having realised that there were risks associated with the production of the grapes, the organisation decided to form joint ventures with different farmers in an attempt to ensure consistency in supply of the grapes even during periods of unprecedented events that can negatively affect supply. On the other hand, the company acquired expansive land to grow grapes and this was a good move given that it was always assured of abundant grapes should anything unfavourable occur in the environment. On top of that, the post merger success of the organisation in question can be attributed to the marketing strategies implemented such as the branding and labelling strategies. Whilst it is generally appreciated that branding a product like wine is a bit challenging from a global perspective, the company adopted a labelling approach especially in UK where it witnessed improved sales of different brands that were offered on the market. 2. Basically, the main essence of tensions between Steven Davies and Chris Carson is mainly concerned with the marketing strategies to be implemented. The head office in Australia was particularly concerned with endorsing the Australian brand of wine while Carson who operated in UK was of the opinion that this brand had been eroded especially in UK hence there was need for branding. This was the major source of tension especially with regards to the marketing strategy. Basically, branding is a basic tenet of marketing strategy given that it makes a clear distinction between different brands. Carson is of the view that there is need to relabel, reposition and relaunch the wine brand particularly in UK but this

Chinese Logistics Companies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4750 words

Chinese Logistics Companies - Essay Example ........................................................................... 20 How to devise strategy for logistics companies in China to fit in the tough market environment 1. Introduction The subprime crisis has had an enormous effect on the global financial markets. It has also affected the Chinese economy. China's economy has been faced with many difficulties which include global slowdown, the undulation of the oil price, pressure of RMB appreciation and inflation. The subprime crisis has been particularly cruel to the Chinese economy. The logistics industry in China is still at the beginning. Although it is developing fast, it has many problems. The out-dated management styles, obsolete information technology and haphazard planning of capital construction in the national transportation system and so on restrict the development of the logistics industry in China. However foreign competitors pay attention to this potential market due to the fact that their existing operational capabilities elsewhere can be effectively utilized in China. Flynn (2006) argues that foreign logistics companies entering the Chinese market, especially after WTO accession, brought tremendou s pressure to bear on the local companies. This situation forces them to improve their technology and reformulate their strategy. At the same time, the Chinese government recognizes the significance of the logistics industry to China's continuing economic prosperity. Millar (2006), for instance has shown that the Chinese government has seen logistics as a strategic imperative. Gradual deregulation combined with immense investment in the transportation infrastructure to improve the logistics development is an inevitable outcome of this desire. While, depending on the...However foreign competitors pay attention to this potential market due to the fact that their existing operational capabilities elsewhere can be effectively utilized in China. Flynn (2006) argues that foreign logistics companies entering the Chinese market, especially after WTO accession, brought tremendous pressure to bear on the local companies. This situation forces them to improve their technology and reformulate t heir strategy. At the same time, the Chinese government recognizes the significance of the logistics industry to China's continuing economic prosperity. Millar (2006), for instance has shown that the Chinese government has seen logistics as a strategic imperative. Gradual deregulation combined with immense investment in the transportation infrastructure to improve the logistics development is an inevitable outcome of this desire. While, depending on the government's help is not enough. The logistics companies must revise their strategies to promote their competitive advantage to coordinate with the policy. If they cannot they will be left behind. Realizing how to devise strategy for logistics companies in China to fit in the tough market environment is becoming more and more important to the logistics companies. The aim of this research paper is to highlight on logistics op

Describe an activity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Describe an activity - Essay Example h the questions that Cvitanic and Hoegerman (2013), Opinion Co-Editors of Daily Nexus, asked: â€Å"What can we learn [from these negative effects of our social activities]?† These beach cleanups made me realize that, apart from school activities, community experiences contribute to my development as a global, environmental citizen, if I both learn how to ask questions and to offer answers through personal and collective action. Community interactions, especially through voluntary experiences, help me become a global citizen because I ask action-oriented actions and offer solutions and contribute to collective action. Sexuality is not wrong, but leaving behind litter because of its expression is. After finding numerous used and unused condoms, I thought about how irresponsible these people must be to have sex so openly and yet not minding their trash. Paul and Elder (1999) underscored the importance of asking questions in teaching, learning, and thinking. They said: â€Å"Questions define tasks, express problems and delineate issues.† Many of those who litter in Isla Vista are not only community members, but also outsiders. My questions go to all of us who partake in these community events are: How should global citizens inject responsibility into the meaning of â€Å"partying† in modern society? How can be nurture thinkers who ask their accountability for their community actions? Because of t hese cleanups, I realized the role of thinking in being responsible global citizens who visit and attend different community affairs. Apart from asking questions, these volunteer experiences helped me offer personal solutions, while contributing to collective efforts. As I clean up, I reduce litter in the beach, and together with volunteers, we hopefully provide a model of good conduct to the community. These efforts contribute to my global citizenship by making me aware of my connection to others through our oneness in the community. Apart from global citizenship, I learned

Chinese Logistics Companies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4750 words

Chinese Logistics Companies - Essay Example ........................................................................... 20 How to devise strategy for logistics companies in China to fit in the tough market environment 1. Introduction The subprime crisis has had an enormous effect on the global financial markets. It has also affected the Chinese economy. China's economy has been faced with many difficulties which include global slowdown, the undulation of the oil price, pressure of RMB appreciation and inflation. The subprime crisis has been particularly cruel to the Chinese economy. The logistics industry in China is still at the beginning. Although it is developing fast, it has many problems. The out-dated management styles, obsolete information technology and haphazard planning of capital construction in the national transportation system and so on restrict the development of the logistics industry in China. However foreign competitors pay attention to this potential market due to the fact that their existing operational capabilities elsewhere can be effectively utilized in China. Flynn (2006) argues that foreign logistics companies entering the Chinese market, especially after WTO accession, brought tremendou s pressure to bear on the local companies. This situation forces them to improve their technology and reformulate their strategy. At the same time, the Chinese government recognizes the significance of the logistics industry to China's continuing economic prosperity. Millar (2006), for instance has shown that the Chinese government has seen logistics as a strategic imperative. Gradual deregulation combined with immense investment in the transportation infrastructure to improve the logistics development is an inevitable outcome of this desire. While, depending on the...However foreign competitors pay attention to this potential market due to the fact that their existing operational capabilities elsewhere can be effectively utilized in China. Flynn (2006) argues that foreign logistics companies entering the Chinese market, especially after WTO accession, brought tremendous pressure to bear on the local companies. This situation forces them to improve their technology and reformulate t heir strategy. At the same time, the Chinese government recognizes the significance of the logistics industry to China's continuing economic prosperity. Millar (2006), for instance has shown that the Chinese government has seen logistics as a strategic imperative. Gradual deregulation combined with immense investment in the transportation infrastructure to improve the logistics development is an inevitable outcome of this desire. While, depending on the government's help is not enough. The logistics companies must revise their strategies to promote their competitive advantage to coordinate with the policy. If they cannot they will be left behind. Realizing how to devise strategy for logistics companies in China to fit in the tough market environment is becoming more and more important to the logistics companies. The aim of this research paper is to highlight on logistics op

Enron collapse A look back Essay Example for Free

Enron collapse A look back Essay Enron was formed as a result of merging with another company and it became a successful corporate. The joy of the business owners is to see how it grows fast and to attract more investors. There are rules and regulation that governs the corporate financial report that is open for inspection by potential investors (Folger, 2011). The audit of these financial reports should disclose the accurate financial state of the company and this should be made known to the stakeholders of the company. The stakeholders of a company play an important role in progress of the business and the going concern of the company (Sterling, 2002). The company of Enron did not manage its debts and therefore looked for means of hiding the truth from its stakeholders so as to continue making profit. Â   Â   Â   Â   Â   The aim of a business is to make profit and be able to pay the debts of the creditors and also attract investors who are interested in the business. Most investor relay on the financial statement to determine whether to invest or not to invest (Folger, 2011). The Enron Company was a big company that was famous and successful before its fall. The corporate attracted many investors since they financial report showed how the business was growing at high rate (Bauer, 2009). However the corporate management did not disclose the true and fair view of the financial reports. The financial report of a company should not mislead the shareholders or its members. Â   Â   Â   Â   Â   Moreover, in the Enron scandal there were some cases in which it showed misconduct of its financial reporting since the corporate did not display true and fair financial accountings to its stakeholders. The corporate used financial fabrication and mark- market accounting to hide its actual debts and real financial situation (Folger, 2011). These reports made the investor believe that the corporate was making profit while it was making losses in real sense. It is also a form of fraud to stakeholders since it cannot meet all its debts and in case of winding up majority of the investors and shareholder would suffer greatly. The Enron scandal was deemed to be great since it had huge debts to settle and its assets could not settle these debts. Â   Â   Â   Â   Â   Indeed, financial misconduct affects a large group of stakeholder and leaves a great mark that cannot be erased (Sterling, 2002). For example the shareholders of Enron corporate were highly affected and suffered a loss of billions that were not recovered since the corporate went bankrupt and the assets of the business were also false in existence. The investors also suffered greatly from these financial misconduct, they lost their resources. In addition, the employees suffered greatly by losing billions of pension benefits due to the misconduct of financial reports which led to the bankruptcy of the Enron therefore could no longer pay them (Folger, 2011). Â   Â   Â   Â   Â   The financial statement of a company is very important to the investors, it gives an over view of the stability of the business and its ability to pay debts. The Enron corporate failed to disclose true and fair view financial statements by hiding its real financial reports and the investors were misled and also due to many investments made by the company lead to its bankruptcy (Sterling, 2002). The purpose of accurate financial reports is to help the investors and also the company to know to what extent they should contract or invest in other businesses. It also helps in managing of the company’s debt thus making profit but the Enron was only interested in making a lot of profits that led to their down fall. Â   Â   Â   Â   Â   Â  Ethics are rules that govern every business and its members on how to conduct their daily roles in the company (Brady, Dunn, 1995). In other words, the managers of this corporate owe their loyalty to its stakeholders and their interest ought to be the interest of the business (Bauer, 2009). In deontology of the Enron corporate, the management had a duty and obligations to display the true statement of finance and also to operate the business in the interest of the stakeholders and not their interest. As the leaders they ought to make sure that the going concern of the business is kept and the assets of the company are secured. In addition, the duty of the Enron managers was to disclose the true and fair view of financial reports (Bauer, 2009). Â   Â   Â   Â   Â   Â  On other hand, utilitarian is a form ethic that is used to show the positive side of the organization, for example by disclosing the false statement to stakeholders thus blinding them of the real situation (Folger, 2011). The Enron leaders used different methods to conceal the truth about its debts and faked the profits. They made the business look attractive and therefore more investors invested in the business. At the end, the ethics rules were violated and the leaders had a role to play .Enron had a role to disclose the truth which could have rescued the company (Bauer, 2009). If at the beginning, the company revealed the truth it would not have ended bankrupt and the employees would have secured their jobs. Finally, the company had a duty to disclose the true financial statements and also save the company from falling and the scandals would have been avoided. The companies should put into practice the ethics governing the corporates. Therefore, to pre vent any future happenings such as the past frauds in the company, there has been an enhanced regulation as well as oversight in the company (Folger, 2011). References Bauer, A. (2009). The Enron scandal and the Sarbanes-Oxley-Act. München: GRIN Verlag. Brady, F. N., Dunn, C. P. (1995). Business meta-ethics: An analysis of two theories. Business Ethics Quarterly, 385-398. Folger, J. (2011). The Enron collapse: A look back. Investopedia, December 1. Retrieved October 25, 2014, at http://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/1211/the-enron-collapse-a-look-back.aspx Sterling, T. F. (2002). The Enron scandal. New York: Nova Science Publishers. Source document

Gender And Sexuality In Shakespeares Plays English Literature Essay

Gender And Sexuality In Shakespeares Plays English Literature Essay The three William Shakespeares plays, The Twelfth Night, Hamlet and The Winters Tale share the same theme gender and sexuality. In the three plays the plight of women is addressed (Ralli, 2008). The Twelfth Night portrays a sexual mess where people go to various heights to win the people they love. Hamlet shows how men regard women as morally corrupt because they follow their hearts desire. In The Winters Tale hatred for women is portrayed by King Leontes as he mistreats her wife and daughter on accusation of infidelity. Hamlet and The Winters tale share some similarities and differences in matters of gender and sexuality. In both plays Hamlet and The Winters Tale, Shakespeare brings out the theme of gender and sexuality. In Hamlet gender uncertainty is brought about by the motif of incest. Claudius and Gertrude are married although they were former sister-in-law and brother-in law. Ophelia and Laertes display a relationship that could be taken as incestuous. Ophelia and Laertes are sister and brother but Laertes sometimes uses sexual terms to speak to his sister. When Ophelia dies, Laertes leaps in to the grave and holds her in his arms a sign of affection (Shakespeare, 1869).Hamlet and Gertrude relationship however shows the strongest form of incest. Hamlet is obsessed with Gertrude and preoccupied with her in such a way that he is fixated with her sex life with Claudius. Hamlet shows hatred against one gender specifically women. Hamlet hates women after her mother is so fast to get married to Claudius after his fathers death. He believes that women are morally corrupt and does not take Gertrudes actions as a sign of female sexuality. Throughout the play, Hamlet is cynical about women as can be seen in his relationships with Gertrude and Ophelia. Hamlet is seen urging Ophelia that instead of facing sexual corruption it is better if she joined a nunnery. He even uses the words Frailty, thy name is woman on her mother (Gertrude) to show she hated women. In the play The Winters Tale, Shakespeare shows the theme of gender and sexuality. Hermione faces the wrath of his husband Leontes when he is faced with sexual jealousy. Leontes believes that his wife is having romantic relations with Polixenes his friend (Prosser, 2003). Instead of taking revenge on Polixenes, Leontes imprisons his wife as a punishment after Polixenes escapes. The play is full of misogyny as Leontes regards her wife as nothing. After her wife gives birth to a daughter, he claims that she belongs to Polixenes and orders her to be taken to desolate land far away. As a sign of revitalization, Shakespeare uses Perdita, Leontess daughter to build the family back together and heal the broken relationship with Polixenes. Florizel, Polixeness son falls in love with the abandoned Perdita and wants to marry her. Throughout the play Hermione spends all her time defending herself against the unjust accusations of her husband. The play shows the mistreatment of female in the soc iety. In the two plays Hamlet and The Winter Tale, the characters Hamlet and Leontes demonstrate the theme of gender and sexuality through the motif of misogyny. Hamlet displays his hate for women when he is disgusted with her mothers decision in marrying Claudius just a few days after his fathers death. Hamlet believes that this is sexual immorality. Hamlet is in love with Ophelia, Laertess brother whom she warns that she would rather go to nunnery rather than become sexually corrupted. Hamlet seems to have the opinion that a woman getting married immediately after the husbands death is immoral. He does not blame the men who do these sexual wrongs. The same character of misogyny applies to Leontes who believes her wife Hermione must pay for his suspicion of infidelity. Although he does not have any prove that his wife is unfaithful, he sends her to prison believing that she did an unforgivable sin. Leontes shows hatred for women because it would have been logical if he punished Polixenes for the same sins but after he escaped he sought to punish the wife. The hatred for women is further shown when he even refuses to acknowledge her daughter as her own. He opted to perceive her as an object of infidelity and she should be abandoned. The only difference between Hamlet and Leontes is that Hamlet is compassionate while Leontes is not. Hamlet loved her mother Gertrude despite her disloyalty. Although he hated what her mother was doing, Hamlet did not stop supporting her. Hamlet loved Ophelia despite the opposition from her family. He only condoned the character but did not use his powers to abuse or mistreat these women. On the other hand Leontes used his power to inflict physical and emotional pain to his wife and daughter who were supposed to be her family. Shakespeare has used similar figurative language in the two plays Hamlet and The Winters Tale. In both cases figurative language brings up the key ideas of gender and sexuality that show love, guilt and revenge. Both plays use a figure of speech known as soliloquy. In Hamlet the soliloquies use include instances where Hamlet says o that this too solid flesh would melt'(Act1 Scene 2), O, What a rogue and peasant slave am I'(Act 2 Scene 3), To be, or not to be'(Act 3 Scene 1), How all occasions do inform against me'(Act 4 Scene 4) among others. In The Winters Tale soliloquy is used in Act 4 Scene 3 where Autolycus speaks of his past life. Although he is addressing the audience it is as if he is talking to himself. He talks about his trickery and the way he sees a young shepherd (Clown) approach him which makes him gloat(Helprin, 2005).The most evident soliloquy is when he says I have served Prince Florizel à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ My traffic is sheets à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ With die and drab I purchased this caparison A prize! A prize!(Helprin, 2005) In both plays, Shakespeare also uses Imagery. In the Hamlet imagery is used to represent concepts and abstract ideas (Shakespeare, 1869).Act V, Scene I, Yoricks Skull discovered on the graveyard represent symbolism. The skull represents the inevitability of death. Hamlet talks to the skull a figure of speech known as soliloquy (V.i.174-179) .In The Winters Tale, imagery is used to express the contrasting ideas of guilt versus innocence. Shakespeare uses the bible to portray the sinful acts of adults. He uses Isaiah11:6-9 A little child shall lead them .Through the death of Mamillius, a little child, King Leontes is reformed. Perdita was a source of joy to Paullina, Polixenes, and Antigous and finally to Leontes (Act I, Scene II, and Lines 83-87).Shakespeare also uses epigrams in the play on Act I, Scene II, Lines 203-205 He makes a Julys day short as December. Act II, Scene III line 185 I am a feather for each wind that blows. The other similarity between Hamlet and The Winters Tale is the use of one distinct round character. In Hamlet, the main character is Hamlet. Hamlet builds up the whole story which revolves around him. In the whole play he brings out the theme of gender and sexuality through romance, guilt and revenge. Hamlet wants to eliminate Claudius because he was involved romantically with her mother which he suspects was the reason he killed her mother. In The Winters Tale Leontes is a round character who brings out the theme of gender and sexuality. Leontes is jealous because he thinks his wife and Polixenes are romantically involved (Helprin, 2005). A major similarity between the two plays is that the major conflict in the plays is brought about by romance. In the Hamlet, Claudius falls in love with Gertrude. Due to the romantic relationship he kills Hamlets father. Hamlet is thereafter trying to revenge for his fathers death. In The Winters Tale, Leontes is annoyed because he believes his wife is romantically involved with his friend. He throws his wife in prison and disowns his daughter. His daughter falls in love with Polixeness son and gets married. Their romance leads to marriage which thereafter unites the two families.

Wal-Mart Essay -- Chain Stores Wal-Mart Sam Walton Essays

Wal-Mart Wal-Mart started out as a five and dime store by Sam Walton back in the 1950’s in Rogers, Arkansas. From those humble beginnings, Wal-Mart is now the world’s largest corporation passing the likes of U.S. Steel & GM with over $256 Billion in sales for one year announced at an annual stockholders meeting. What makes Wal-Mart so successful? The rise of technology and the explosion of the global economy, coupled with the effort of keeping prices as low as possible has propelled the conglomerate into becoming the world leader in logistics. They were one of the first to understand the power of the barcode. They also shifted the industry from ‘Push’ to ‘Pull’ production, meaning retailers would decide what and how much a manufacturer should produce. Due to the power possessed by Wal-Mart, other companies and suppliers have set up satellite offices around their corporate headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas. Rubbermaid, stationed in Wooster, Ohio, wasn’t well known until their variety of products donned the shelves of Wal-Mart. In 1994, they were voted as the most admired company in America for its quality due largely to its partnership with Wal-Mart. Raw materials among other materials of production increased for Rubbermaid which meant a price increase to all of its retailers. Wal-Mart wouldn’t accept the price increase and subsequently dropped a number of Rubbermaid products, which began the decline for the company. Newell, a rival, bought out Rubbermaid for...

Heart of Darkness in Relation to its Title Essays -- essays research p

The Parallel meaning of the novella with its title- Heart of Darkness The title, Heart of Darkness, aptly chosen, can be very strongly linked to the novel. IT can be used to describe Joseph Conrad’s views on civilization, the individual mind and the land into which he ventures. These sum up his opinions on the bourgeoise society, uncivilized society and the faults of human nature, linking them to the land under one common theme and thus establishing the title. ‘Heart of Darkness’ can most noticeably describe Marlow’s journey into the heart of the land. A dominant symbol in the novel is of the river- the snake- â€Å"But there was in it one river especially, a mighty big river, that you could see on the map, resembling an immense snake uncoiled with its head to the sea, its body at rest curving afar over a vast country, and its tail lost in the depths of a land† (71). This river brings him into what has become a ‘dark’ place- â€Å"It had ceased to be a blank space of delightful mystery- a white patch for a boy to dream gloriously over. It had become a place of darkness† (71). As in snakes and ladders, you start at the head and go towards the tail. This leads him into evil (snake symbolism), danger (uncoiled), and deeper towards Kurtz, whom the snake has swallowed towards the tail. As he travels along, just as the snake’s body grows thinner, so do the tolerance levels of those who thin k they are civilized. First Fresleven clubs a black village chief, then a brawl breaks out, and this progresses to all-out insanity, where cannibals, primitives, Inca-like natives and, eventually, Kurtz, reside, where he loses any control he had of his life, doing anything for more ivory, and realizes this in his dying moments. Marlow again mentions headin... ...ke hell break loose. Voyage into the land increases the themes of death and chaos. However, with the trek into the heart of the land, the other two concepts significantly grow- civilization becomes more and more edacious, and the dark heart of each individual is more likely to burst free. This may very well explain how when with his aunt, Marlow is so resisting that he states that the company is totally profit-oriented. By the time he has been at the station for a period of time and reads Kurtz’s book, he actually considers his views on the inferiority of the natives. Also note how the continent ‘got to’ Fresleven, causing him to go insane. The half-hidden, negative side in each concept becomes the ‘heart of darkness,’ both relating it to the title and a very unifying theme. Bibliography Conrad, Joseph. Heart of Darkeness. New York: Chelsea House, 1987.

Department of biology Essay

INTRODUCTION: Every cells of living organism contains genetic materials known as deoxyribonucleic acid, DNA. It can be isolated from tissue sample of living things by separating it from other cellular component in a manner that still preserves its structures. The structure of DNA is double-stranded helices that made up from the monomer of nucleotides. Each of the nucleotides composed of three parts that are the phosphate group, deoxyribose sugar backbone and also nitrogenous bases (Adenine, Guanine, Thymine and Cytosine). This nitrogenous base are arranged in sequence and holds the information and coding for controlling the physical trait that we all have as well as the regulation of our body. DNA extraction is simply a process that results in separation of DNA from the cells or viruses that are hosting it. Through the meaning is simple but the process is not. When we go into the peculiar details of DNA extraction, we realize that it’s more of an initial stage in other intensive DNA testing processes. DNA test could be performed for any reason; however for any DNA testing to happen the first stage normally is the isolation and extraction of DNA molecules from the cells that they reside in. DNA extraction follows a series of step, stripping all proteins from the DNA and the extraction protocols have to make sure that the DNA thus obtained via isolation and extraction is of high or acceptable quality. DNA isolation is a process of purification of DNA from sample using a combination of physical and chemical methods. Currently it is a routine procedure in molecular biology or forensic analysis. Primary structure consists of linear sequence of nucleotides that are linked together by phospodiester bonds. It is the linear sequence of nucleotides that make up the primary structure of DNA. Specific techniques must be chosen for isolation of DNA from some samples such as samples from microorganisms with thick cellular wall, for example yeast. Biological DNA represents the information which directs the functions of a living thing. A. Yeast DNA Extraction Materials : 1 packet of dry yeast, Sodium chloride, Meat tenderizer, Ice cold 95% ethanol, Sunlight detergent, distilled water, blender, graduate cylinders ( 10mL, 100mL and 500mL ), Beaker ( 250mL, 100mL ), glass stirring rod and wooden sticks, 15mL test tube, test tube rack, 1 ,l pipette and blue tips. Method: 1. 1 packet of dry yeast was mixed with 40ml of 50Â °C tap water. The yeast was stir to dissolve and the mixture was leave and covered for 20 minutes. 2. Salt/detergent solution was prepared by adding 40 ml detergent and 40g NaCl to 360ml distilled water. The solution was mixed till dissolved. 3. 5% meat tenderizer solutions were prepared by adding 5g of meat tenderizer to 80 ml of distilled water. The solution was top up to 100 ml with distilled water. *salt / detergent solution and meat tenderizer solution is prepared once for Part A, B and C. *alternatively, 5% meat tenderizer solution may be substitute with 100 ml of fresh papaya juice or pineapple juice. 4. 40 ml of yeast mixture and 40 ml of salt/detergent solutions was placed in a blender and was blended at high speed for 2 minutes. 5. The solution was pour into the beaker and 15ml of meat tenderizer solution was added. The solution was stir to mix. 6. The mixture was leave at room temperature for 5 minutes. 7. A cheese cloth was place over a filter funnel. The mixture was pour over the filter funnel and the clear supernatant was collected. 8. 3 ml of clear solutions was transfer into a 15ml tube. 9. The test tube was tilted to a 45 degree position. 3 ml of 95% ice cold ethanol was gently added to the side of the tube. 10. The test tube was leave undisturbed for 3-5 minutes. A layer will be formed in the tube. 11. DNA precipitate was formed at the interphase layer. A wooden stick was used to swirl the DNA out Result : Table A(i) : Yeast DNA Extraction B. Onion DNA Extraction Materials : Fresh onion, salt detergent solution, meat tenderizer solution, ice cold 95% ethanol, distilled water, blender, graduated cylinders (10 ml and 100 ml), glass stirring rod and wooden sticks, 15 ml test tube, test tube rack, 1 ml pipette and blue tips. Method : 1. The prepared salt/detergent solutions and meat tenderizer solution from part A was gathered. 2. 3 medium sized onions were cut into an inch cube and were placed in a blender. 3. 100 ml of salt/detergent solution was added in a blender. 4. The solution was blended at high speed for 2 minutes. 5. A cheese cloth was placed over filter funnel. The mixtures were poured over the filter funnel and the clear supernatant was collected. 6. The clear solution was transfer into a beaker and 30 ml of meat tenderizer solution was added. 7. The mixtures were leave at room temperature for 5 minutes. 8. 3 ml of clear solutions was transfer into a 15 ml tube. 9. The test tube was tilted to a 45 degree position. 3 ml of 95% ice cold ethanol was gently added to the side of the tube. 10. The test tube was leave undisturbed for 3-5 minutes. A layer will be formed in the tube. 11. DNA precipitate was formed at the interphase layer. A wooden stick was used to swirl the DNA out. Result : Table B(i) : Onion DNA Extraction C. Apple and Orange DNA extraction Materials : Fresh apple, fresh orange, salt detergent solution, meat tenderizer solution, ice cold 95% ethanol, distilled water, blender, graduated cylinder ( 10 ml and 100 ml ), glass stirring rod and wooden sticks, 15 ml test tube, test tube rack, 1 ml pipette and blue tips. Methods : 1. The prepared salt/detergent solutions and meat tenderizer solution from part A was gathered. 2. An apple / orange were cut into an inch cube and were placed in blender. 3. 100 ml salt/detergent solutions were added in a blender. 4. The solution was blended at high speed for 2 minutes. 5. A cheese cloth was placed over filter funnel. The mixtures were poured over the filter funnel and the clear supernatant was collected. 6. The clear solution was transfer into a beaker and 30 ml of meat tenderizer solution was added. 7. The mixtures were leave at room temperature for 5 minutes. 8. 3 ml of clear solutions was transfer into a 15 ml tube. 9. The test tube was tilted to a 45 degree position. 3 ml of 95% ice cold ethanol was gently added to the side of the tube. 10. The test tube was leave undisturbed for 3-5 minutes. A layer will be formed in the tube. 11. DNA precipitate was formed at the interphase layer. A wooden stick was used to swirl the DNA out. Result : Table C(i) : Orange DNA Extraction Table C (ii) : Apple DNA Extraction RESULT ALL OF EXPERIMENTS: Sample Extraction Amount Apple Success Large Onion Success Small Orange Success Small Yeast Success Small DISCUSSION: Based on our experiment discussion, we obtained that the difference amount of DNA extraction from yeast, onion, apple and orange is different. The amount of apple DNA extraction is larger than onion, orange and apple DNA extraction. Each step of the process will help in a certain way to extract DNA, until we are finally successful in the end. In the yeast, extraction, the ethanol will be able to separate the DNA and it will float between the less dense ethanol and the denser homogenizing mixture. In the onion DNA extraction, the chloroform and homogenizing medium will help break down the cell membranes and the ethanol like in the yeast DNA extraction. It will cause the DNA to separate and be suspended in the interface between the two solutions. It will be same to apple and orange DNA extraction. The precaution step on this experiments we tilt 45Â º to add the ethanol. This is because it will form a layer on top of the sample because the ethanol is less than water. So, it does will be on the top of layer. We also used 50ï‚ ° of hot water in yeast solution. Its will formed the best of result because hot water is the optimum temperature for yeast. We also obtained about perceptions step why only clear solution produced in these experiments. Its means the extraction was failed. CONCLUSION: REFERENCES: http://www.whatisdna.net/dna-extraction.html http://classic.sidwell.edu/us/science/vlb5/Labs/DNA_Extraction_Lab/dna_extraction_lab.html#predictions http://sciencehk.weebly.com/lab-reports.html ANSWER AND QUESTION: Answer all the questions. 1. Describe the functions of following: a. Applying blender to sample and salt/detergent solutions Strain the DNA mixture. b. Salt Salty water helps the DNA precipitate (solidify and appear) when alcohol is added. c. Detergent Detergents are used to break down cell walls and nuclear membranes to release the DNA. They work by chemically poking holes in the cell membranes or walls. Once holes are poked in the membranes, the membranes can be further distrupted mechanically, as with a blander. After that, it’s easier to get the contents of the cell out, including the DNA, d. Meat tenderizer solutions Meat tenderizer acts as an enzyme. The DNA in the nucleus of the cell is moulded, folded, and protected by proteins. The meat tenderizer cuts the proteins away from the DNA. e. 95% ice cold ethanol Having ice cold ethanol only increases the rate of precipitation of DNA and helps increase yield of DNA. It can either use room temp or ice cold ethanol for DNA precipitation. Think about precipitation of a super concentrated solution as you decrease the temperature. As the temperature decreases, the amount of precipitation increases. Overall temperature affects solubility. As temperature decreases the substance becomes more insoluble (in general. this does not apply to every molecule). So, ice cold EtOH allows for more DNA to interact together and allow for a more rapid and efficient precipitation of DNA. 2. Compare the reliability amount of DNA obtained from all the samples. The reliability amount of DNA obtained from apple is much larger compared to Reliability amount of DNA from onion, orange and apple. 3. Write out the principle involved in DNA extraction. – Break open cells by mashing the fruit. – Dissolve organelles and cell membranes with detergent. – Separate DNA from proteins with salt – Filter out the clumps with a coffee filter – DNA precipitates in cold alcohol and is spooled out.