The strategy of e-business Annotated Bibliography

The strategy of e-business - Annotated Bibliography Example Because of the nature of these networks, there is then the recognition that the very framework of e-business strategy must be reimagined in conjunction with this new landscape. In this way the article argues that businesses must reimagine strategy based on a more dynamic business environment. The traditional business environment examined strategy in terms of specific goals and long-term visions. The nature of this new paradigm in e-business, however, is such that business must constantly assess their strategic approach in regards to the shifting nature of connectivity. For Li (2004, p. 46) then then this is accomplished through establishing a holistic framework. Within the holistic framework the business will consider all inputs – supply chain management, sales, general business strategy – in a systematic and dynamic process. No longer will business establish a simple long-term vision, but instead will establish a dynamic and agile business strategy for to function within this new paradigm. In pursuit of this new paradigm the article established seven key points. Among these points include the pursuit of margin size and volume rate, and the p ursuit of low cost and high value. The fundamental recognition is that these concerns involve different levels of strategic concerns than the traditional environment had posited. After these theoretical considerations the article examines a case study with a Chinese business. The case study functions to demonstrate the importance of developing a holistic business strategy. Additionally the case study indicates the importance of developed countries establishing effective strategies in its business model when dealing with developing countries. In this way the concept of strategic alliance emerges as a prominent strategic approach. This text relates to the key concepts in the course in a variety of ways. From an overarching perspective it considers the very

The arrival of the cousins in Act one Essay Example for Free

The arrival of the cousins in Act one Essay Compare the way Miller presents the relationships between Beatrice, Eddie and Catherine, before and after the arrival of the cousins in Act one.  In 1915 America was seen as the land of freedom for many Italians and they fled from the poor, grimy streets of Italy. America was there only hope and they came in there thousands to earn money for there starving families and find a new life. The Carbone family as presented by Miller is one such family. The Carbone household conceals a web of mixed feelings and from the start you can feel the tension brewing under the false smiles and unspoken conflict. We are introduced to Eddie Carbone, Beatrice Carbone and Catherine at the start of the play yet we are not told of there relationships with each other until later. At first it seems that Eddie and Catherine are together and we have no idea that they are uncle and niece.  Beatrice knows of Eddies feelings yet says nothing. This all adds to the tension and we know its all going to explode, the only question is when.  The cousins arrival aggravates this or and even adds more conflict and tension. The first impression we get of the relationships in the house is that Eddie and Catherine are lovers. There actions towards each other are sexual and flirtatious yet they are trying to hide it. This is shown when Eddie refers to Catherines skirt as beautiful he could have been talking about the skirt or maybe Catherine as a whole. The relationship between Eddie and Beatrice on the other hand is one of duty rather than love. Beatrice is silent to what is going on around her. This shows the power Eddie holds over her. This is displayed throughout the play, by the lack of respect given to her and by how he speaks to her. For example you lived in a house all your life, what do you know about it? this shows he doesnt respect her and thinks she has an easy life. Catherine and Beatrices relationship is quite innocent at first and there doesnt seem to be much between them, it later appears that Beatrice holds a deep jealousy of the relationship she has with Eddie. This is shown by miller when Beatrice confronts Catherine about her behaviour around Eddie. Like when he comes home you throw yourself at him like when you was twelve years old Although it is apparent to us that the relationship between Eddie and Catherine one of a sexual or desiring nature. Catherine appears to be oblivious to it, for example she strikes a match and holds it to his cigar this is a very up-close and personal act and then she blows out the match, this seems a very sexual act, with them being so close and her blowing out the match so close to his face, yet Catherine does not make anything of it and carries on. Catherine sees Eddie as a Father figure and is always seeking to impress him. Her actions are often mistaken to be flirtatious when they can also be seen as innocent behaviour of a young girl looking for her fathers approval. One such instance is when Catherine starts running her hands over her skirt this can be seen as flirting or it can also be seen as though she is nervous because she does not know if Eddie approves.  This is also apparent when Eddie says you aint all the girls this shows that he considers her to be special either because he is in love with her or because he sees her as his daughter Beatrice Knows of Eddies feelings towards Catherine however she cannot say anything because she fears Eddie and she holds it in, taking the anger out in her actions. For example when she is mad she gets up, clearing the dishes this shows that she doesnt want to confront Eddie therefore she occupies herself with other tasks. Beatrice is also jealous of Catherine; she wants the same relationship that Catherine has with Eddie. Eddie holds the power in the house, with him being the only man. Both women look up to him and never contradict him. Miller clearly shows this throughout the start of Act 1. An example of Eddies power is when it says Eddie is standing facing the two seated woman this shows the women look up to him and it also forms a triangle with him being the top point, showing his power over them. This can also be seen as though both women are competing for Eddie.

Bullying in Schools Essay -- Violence Crime Essays Education Kids Pape

Bullying in Schools Many people feel that some of the major issues that plague our schools are drug/alcohol use or violence, yet no one recognizes the significance of school bullying. For the victims of bullying, they go to school everyday facing harassment, taunting, and humiliation. For all potential educators, it is very important to realize that bullying is a problem, so that they can work to prevent it in the future. Since being at Middle School, I have realized how prevalent bullying is on a daily basis. In addition to reading various sources, I decided to ask some of my students about the bullying they experience or witness in their own school environment. I felt learning about bullying directly from the students would be an invaluable experience. Bullying is most common in middle school, with 6th graders on the receiving end the most and 8th graders handing out the most bullying. In a study of 15,686 students in 6th through 10th grade in private and public schools, it was found that 13-23% of boys and 4-11% of girls experience some sort of bullying. (Nansel 2003). Nearly one in six children in that age range fall victim to bullying each year, which means about 3.2 million children being bullied. Whereas, 3.7 million children are acting as bullies (Kerlikowske 2003). Six out ten children witness some form of bullying on a daily basis. In schools, bullying most likely takes place on the playground, followed by the classroom, then the hallways (Drake 2003). For the students at Dunn Middle School, a lot of the bullying occurs out of school. If it occurs in school, most students said bullying occurs in the hallways or in the lunchroom. One student even mentioned a fight that took place during an as... ...ee of bullies can accomplish many things. All children can benefit from lessons about treating each other with respect. Bullying is one childhood memory no youngster should have. References Bullies and their Victims. Harvard Mental Health Letter. 2001, 4-7. Drake, J. Teacher preparation and practices regarding school bullying. Journal of School Health. 2003, 347-356. Espelage, D. Schoolroom torment. People. 2/05/2001, 91-92. Feldman, S. Bullying prevention. Teaching PreK-8. 2004, 6. Kerlikowske, G. One in six students fall prey to bullies. Inside School Safety. 2003,6-9. Nansel, T. Bullies found to be at risk for violent behavior. Inside School Safety. 2003, 1-4. Rubin, R. Study: Bullies and their victims ten to be more violent. USA Today. 4/15/03 Svoboda, E. Everyone loves a bully. Psychology Today. 2004, 1-20.

Rejuvenating a Mature Business

The last two decades has seen a revolution in management accounting theory and practice due to the challenges of the competitive environment in the 1980s. Kaplan and Johnson (1987) identified the failings and obsolescence of existing cost and performance measurement systems which led to re-examination of traditional cost accounting and management control systems. Conventional financial and management accounting methods have developed primarily as a result of corporate legislation in the 1930s forcing companies to provide externally published financial accounts. Management accounting is primarily focused as a decision making tool for running a business, hence they require more flexibility. According to Kaplan management accounts have become a subset of financial accounts and that they reflect more on the external rather than internal requirements of the company. Most of the managerial decision-making and control systems in use in the late 1980s were described by Johnson and Kaplan as stagnant. As a result, they went onto research in new accounting systems raising the profile of internal accounting systems by use of financial and non-financial measures although their work was seen as controversial by Drury but is now considered of key importance to manufacturing industries aiming to become world class. This essay aims to discuss the ways in which new management accounting techniques can bring life into mature businesses, in particular those using non-financial measures. Most companies still use the same cost accounting and management control systems that were developed decades ago in a competitive environment drastically different from today. These systems have major drawbacks described below: They distort product costs i.e. absorption of production overheads into product costs for the purpose of stock valuation. The external financial reporting process was purely driving this allocation of overheads for stock valuation. They do not produce the key non-financial data required for effective and efficient operations, hence they are of little help to operating managers† seeking to reduce costs and improve productivity. The data produced reflected on external reporting requirements far more than the reality of the new manufacturing environment. Failure to provide accurate product costs as they were distributed by simplistic and arbitrary measures usually direct labour based. The short term profit pressures led to a decline in long term investment. These poorly designed or outdated systems can distort the realities of manufacturing performance. As companies become more efficient by using new technologies, labour costs are accounting for a smaller proportion of a company†s overall cost, hence the allocation of overheads to labour hours will become irrelevant and counter-productive to the company†s operations. The most enduring management accounting innovation was the return on investment (ROI) measure which provided an overall measure of the financial performance of each operating units or the entire company. The ROI, initially developed by Du Pont and General Electric in the early 20th century, came about due to the excessive focus on achieving short-term financial performance. As ROI control was introduced, managers aimed to achieve good performance by making operating and investment decisions on developing new and better products/processes, increasing sales and reducing operating costs. But it later became evident that during hard times, when sales were decreasing and operating costs were increasing, ROI targets could still be achieved through financial entrepreneurship by reducing discretionary expenses and exploiting accounting conventions. The creation of wealth through these activities will not help companies survive as world-class competitors. Problems of ROI are only surfacing now because of: the difference in size of organisations, changes in the competitive environment and the rapid movement of technology less pressure for short-term financial performance in the last two decades current managers have little knowledge of their organisation†s technology hence they rely on creating value through accounting activities Cooper and Kaplan introduce the Activity Based Costing (ABC) systems for manufacturing expenses as a replacement for traditional cost allocation systems. ABC is an internal accounting system designed to track overheads to cost units. ABC attempts to track overhead costs to units as accurately as possible hence the concept of the cost driver is essential to this system. A cost driver is a unit measure of a particular overhead that can be assigned to a user of that overhead. For example, in attempting to allocate administration overheads to products, the cost driver may be the number of invoices generated for that product. Hence the product generating most invoices will acquire the largest share of the administration overhead. There does not have to be one driver per overhead. There can be more drivers per overhead if they are relevant to the organisation. The ABC model is shown below: A more accurate means of allocating overheads means that product costs can now be more accurately assessed. ABC analysis allows companies to discover profitable products that have not been properly exploited because the correct costs had not been appreciated. If unit costs are based on budgeted capacity rather than actual, ABC highlights excess capacity because only consumed capacity is allocated via cost drivers. Hence there is a now a measure of excess capacity. This takes away the focus of meeting budgets at all costs and instead focuses on continuous improvement. Product costing is not the only use of ABC. By finding appropriate drivers and cost units, overheads can be assigned to anything that uses them. This allows sales and marketing costs to be assigned both to the products and customers. Traditional systems do not take into account costs generated by customers. For organisations concerned with customer focus, ABC will give valuable insights into customer behaviour. The other benefits of using ABC are its focus on continuous improvement, its measurement of activities at the process level, its provision of accurate cost data including those generated by the customers, and it is geared for the medium term (3-5 years). An extension of ABC is Activity Based Management (ABM), where using the cost drivers, a deeper understanding of the process is enabled. By measuring activity and costs, ABM has a system to monitor continuous improvement and manages a business from a process perspective rather than a departmental one. Therefore it can make decisions based on accurate process level information. A greater understanding of factors critical to the success of manufacturing organisations is needed. Accounting researchers can play a critical role in this effort by attempting to develop non-financial measures of manufacturing performance like quality, productivity, inventory innovation and workforce . A particular challenge is to de-emphasise focus on short-term financial measures and develop indicators that are more consistent with long-term competitiveness and profitability. The challenge of improving a firm†s manufacturing performance is particularly relevant to managerial accountants as they are supposed to provide information for planning and decision making. Therefore, measurement systems for today†s manufacturing operations must consider the following non-financial indicators of manufacturing performance: Quality is emerging as perhaps the most important factor if companies are trying to excel as world-class competitors. U.S. firms typically inspect quality into products whereas Japanese manufacturing is dedicated to eliminating all product defects. Quality is planned and thought into the product at all stages of manufacture including design and supplier specifications. Further commitment is required in training employees, maintenance of equipment and integrating with suppliers. With this embedded into the processes the goal of achieving zero defects can be achieved. Executives claim that manufacturing costs decrease as quality increases thus a continuous drive to reduce product defects will enhance the long run productivity of the production process . Managers tend to use the economic order quantity (EOQ) model which helps in determining the cost balance between an additional set-up (for a new production run or change of product) to the cost of holding inventory. If set-up costs could be driven to zero and by just-in-time inventory control systems implementation firms would hold less inventory and raw materials. These would result to lesser costs in holding material that has no value being added to it. In addition, reducing uncertainties in deliveries from suppliers through close co-ordination can enable factories to run without any raw materials in stock. Reducing machine breakdowns also contributes significantly toward reducing work-in-process (WIP). Thus by investing in information systems and integrating with suppliers, inventory costs can be reduced significantly and accurate information on the company†s manufacturing performance can be obtained. Productivity measures for manufacturing performance have not yet been considered as part of the information that will help managers in decision making and control activities. These measures should be a supplement to financial measures that highlight improvements. Developing new productivity measures would thus be a fruitful field for accountants. There are companies present whose competitive strategy is based on the introduction of new products with unique characteristics, rather than producing mature products with lower costs. These companies will only succeed if their products are introduced at the right time and have features that are desired by their customers. Companies that are forced to produce these products on existing line, due to lack of space, will have to directly monitor the performance, quality and delivery and disregard traditional measurements which put an emphasis on efficiency. The attitudes, skills and morale of employees are important if companies are to succeed in achieving their goals. Investing in skills training, conducting surveys of employee attitudes etc by human resources are all critical if employees are to share company goals. It is clear from the above indicators of manufacturing performance that non-financial measures are essential in rejuvenating mature businesses to become world-class. Executives are also aware that traditional accounting measures like ROI can give misleading information on continuous improvement and innovation which current competitive environments demand. Managers want a balanced presentation of both financial and operational measures which led Kaplan and Norton to devise a balanced scorecard that incorporated both such measurements. The scorecard aids the building of a comprehensive picture of the company†s health and effectiveness in achieving its goals. The balanced scorecard includes financial measures that produces results on actions already taken and is complemented by operational measures on customer satisfaction, internal business processes, innovation and learning activities. It is these operational measures that will fuel the performance of future financial measures. The balanced scorecard yields several benefits, including the ability to bridge the gap between objectives of high level executives and those of front-line workers whose performance is ultimately responsible for reaching the company†s goals. Rather than focusing on short-term financial results, which can blind management to internal efficiency and lead to continued revenue losses, chief executives can benefit by using the balanced scorecard as a strategic management system for translating strategy into action at all levels of the enterprise.

The impact of hosting the World Expo 2020 on Dubai’s future economic, social and cultural life

Introduction This proposal outlines the following research question: in what ways, positive or negative, will the World Expo 2020 affect Dubai, the surrounding region, and the world in generalThis is an interesting topic for two primary reasons. The first is the personal workplace experience of the author, which involved a position at Dubai Media Incorporated (Dubai TV) conducting analysis about current affairs in the UAE region. The second is the fact that this is a landmark moment in the history of Dubai, the UAE, and the Middle in general, as it is the first time that an international exposition has been held in the region. It is possible that it will lead to the development of new forms of culture; the old may be reformulated and developed in unique ways, but it may also be fused with ideas and institutions from abroad to create novel cultural hybrids. This idea of bringing regions of the Middle East together with the rest of the world was explicitly supported by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s leader, who argued for the importance of ‘a renewed vision of progress and development based on a shared purpose and commitment’ (Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE, 2013). The possibility that the Expo 2020 will be a crucible for interacting creative forces across the world is, moreover, encapsulated in Dubai’s chosen theme: ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’ (Big News Network, 2013). Research questions This research will aim to answer the following questions: What factors are likely to contribute to the success or failure of the World Expo 2020? What are the social, economic, and cultural changes that Dubai is a likely to experience? How will be Dubai’s future in the global stage change as a result of this event? How might Dubai use the World Expo 2020 as a marketing tool? How might Dubai use the symbolic economy to aid its cultural and urban regeneration and shape its new urban identity? Will Expo 2020 commentary and press show Dubai in a positive or negative light? Literature review Due to the very recent nature of the announcement, there is almost no literature dealing directly with the relationship between Dubai and the Expo 2020. However, there has been considerable commentary in the form of political and economic punditry, much of which is academic. Piers Schreiber, Vice President of Corporate Communications & Public Affairs at the Jumeirah Group, claimed that ‘the Expo will create up to 270,000 jobs in the region, bringing great economic and social benefits’ (cited in Wilson, 2013). Among these are an injection of roughly ˆ17.7 billion into the economy and a migration of talent from abroad (Wilson, 2013). These estimations are supported by the forecasting group Oxford Economics, which claims that the event will contribute nearly $40 billion to Dubai’s GDP and create 277,000 new jobs over the next seven years (Big News Network, 2013). A similar argument is put forward by Rose and Spiegel (2009), whose work suggests that ‘mega ev ents’ lead to a substantial increase in trade (approx. 30%); however, they also show that ‘unsuccessful bids to host the Olympics have a similar positive impact on exports†¦trade is attributable to the signal a country sends when bidding to host the games, rather than the act of actually holding a mega-event’ (p1). Although Sheik Mohammed has claimed that the â€Å"Dubai Expo 2020 will breathe new life into the ancient role of the Middle East as a melting pot for cultures and creativity† (Big News Network, 2013), the goal of cultural diversity has been questioned due to the strong emphasis on boosting an ‘Islamic economy’, which suggests continuity more than change (Wilson, 2013). Based on comparisons with other ‘mega events’, it is often argued that the effects of the Expo 2020 are likely to be negative for Dubai. Rose and Spiegel (2009), for example, stress that much of the evidence for the benefits of mega events is commis sioned by groups with biasing agendas (e.g., Humphreys and Plummer, 1995; Fuller and Clinch, 2000, both cited in Rose and Spiegel, 2009). The same is argued by Nitsch and Wendland (2013), who also point to the large initial investment in facilities and infrastructure associated with mega events, which can place a considerable burden on the local or national economy; there tends also to be a dramatic and unpredictable effect on property prices. The conclusion of Nitsch and Wendland (2013) is that mega events tend to have an overwhelmingly negative effect on population growth (i.e., a population decline), as measured relative to a control group. However, Nitsch and Wendland (2013), and Rose and Spiegel (2009), point to the difficulty of estimating the impact of major events. Problems quantifying the effects, especially on phenomena such as labour markets, are often exacerbated by the fact that many studies are commissioned ex ante by biased groups. Moreover, in conducting analyses suc h as this, it is difficult to find an adequate sample size due to the infrequency of mega events. Then there are problems with the intangibility of cultural and social spillover effects, as well as the economic multiplier (Rose and Spiegel, 2009). Methodology The effects of the Expo 2020 are best assessed using a variety of methodological approaches, employing both quantitative and qualitative methods. From the quantitative side there will be content analysis-case studies and statistical analyses. From the qualitative, there will be surveys, questionnaires, and interviews. In terms of research philosophy (or methodology, strictly speaking), this research will take both an objectivist and a subjectivist approach (Crotty, 1998). It would be advantageous to use what Nitsch and Wendland (2013: 4) call a ‘difference-in-differences methodology’. This draws ‘before and after’ comparisons, and in this case would entail looking at the effect of former Expos on host nations and cities and extrapolating about the probable effects on Dubai. Bibliography Crotty, M. (1998) The foundation of Social Research: Meaning and Perspective in Research Progress. Sage Publications: London Big News Network (Nov 2013) Dubai wins right to host Expo 2020 http://www.bignewsnetwork.com/index.php/sid/218715287/scat/3a8a80d6f705f8cc/ht/Dubai-wins-right-to-host-Expo-2020 [Retrieved 03/02/2014]. Nitsch, V. and Wendland, N. (2013) The IOC’s Midas Touch: Summer Olympics and City Growth, CESIFO WORKING PAPER NO. 4378, Centre for Economic Studies & Ifo Institute. Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE (2013) Our Bid http://expo2020dubai.ae/en/our_bid [Retrieved 03/02/2014] Rose, A. K. and Spiegel, M. M. (2009) The Olympic Effect, NBER Working Paper No. 14854, The National Bureau of Economic Research http://www.nber.org/papers/w14854 [Retrieved 03/02/2014]. Wilson, J. A. J. (Dec 2013) Global Islamic Economy Summit and World Expo 2020 boost Dubai’s Halal credentials, The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/jonathan-aj-wilson/global-islamic-economy_b_4366436.html [Retrieved 03/02/2014].

Should Organs Be Taken From Th essays

Should Organs Be Taken From Th essays Should Organs Be Taken From The Dead Without Prior Written Consent Of The Deceased Or Consent Of The Family? Within the last few decades, one of the most amazing medical advances has been the ability to give organ transplants (Newkirk 11). Gary Newkirk states in Modern Medicine that these medical events are a bittersweet experience, since in many instances someones untimely death facilitates the survival of someone else(Newkirk 11). The Pope John Paul II says organ donation is a genuine act of love (Century 947). Ten different religious leaders at the Ottawa headquarters of the Kidney Foundation in Canada, all signed an organ donor card (CMJ 1338). Rabbi Reuven Bulka says We want to escalate this to the point where its not even a choice-it is a duty of the individual(CMJ 1338). Currently, there are 62,000 individuals on a national waiting list for organ transplants of various types (Newkirk 11). Four people are added to this organ waiting list every hour, however, 12 people who are already on this list will die daily while waiting for a transplant (Newkirk 11). Many Americans claim they would gladly donate their family members organs if they knew that this was something their family member wanted (Newkirk 11). However, more than 75% of Americans dont know if their family member is a registered donor (Newkirk 11). When confronted, roughly 50% will allow removal of their family members organs (Newkirk 11). The key words here are when confronted. It says in Lancet that studies have showed health care workers do not like to confront the family during this tragic time with such a request (2085). The organ donation question must be asked immediately following the death, because time is a major player (Perry 38). Major organs, like the heart and lungs, need to be removed from the body with 4-6 hours after death (Perry 38). Other organs, like th...

xerox bit essays

xerox bit essays 1. What value does BIT create in the distribution value chain for books? Book-In-Time is a digital low-cost, order-to-fulfillment system for the on-demand printing of books. Xeroxs unique technology had been optimized for custom lengths of as low as one but could economically handle up to 1,200 or more. At run lengths of less than 25 books, other printing methods would have to incur a minimum cost of $5,000 or so, whereas Book-In-Time could conceivably deliver at a cost of only $6.90 per book. BIT creates value in the distribution chain in two distinct cost saving ways. First because BIT is a just in time system where publishers can customize the number of book runs they would like to establish. This added flexibility will help reduce the cost of inventory and returned books. According to the case it states that of the publishers selling price 25% of the cost factored in was the cost of books returned. BIT would dramatically reduce or eliminated this cost. Another way BIT creates a cost value in the distribution chain is that it enables books that were out of print or book with low demand to be printed. Before book in time cost per book was a function of print run size. For large run sizes the per unit costs were low because there was a greater quantity of books created, however for short runs the fixed cost were spread over a smaller number of books, raising the per-unit cost. Many publishers were reluctant in publishing low demand books because of the increased cost, however BIT can allow the supplier to match the supply with the demand without sacrificing any cost. The costs benefits from BIT should trickle down the distribution value chain. The cost savings the publisher recognized will then be transferred to the retail chains/wholesalers that purchase the books and then ultimately the customers will benefit from a reduction in price. Also the authors of books with lo ...

Synonymy Definition and Examples

Synonymy Definition and Examples Pronunciation: si-NON-eh-mi Definition: The semantic qualities or sense relations that exist between words (lexemes) with closely related meanings (i.e., synonyms). Plural: synonymies. Contrast with antonymy. Synonymy may also refer to the study of synonyms or to a list of synonyms. In the words of Dagmar Divjak, near-synonymy (the relationship between different lexemes that express similar meanings) is a fundamental phenomenon that influences the structure of our lexical knowledge (Structuring the Lexicon, 2010). Examples and Observations The phenomenon of synonymy is a central interest for both the semanticist and the language learner. For the former, synonymy is an important member of the theoretical set of logical relations existing in language. For the latter, there is a good deal of evidence to suggest that vocabulary is often best acquired by analogy, in other words, remembered as being similar in meaning to previously acquired forms... In addition, what we might term definition through synonym is a central feature of most dictionary organisation (Ilson 1991: 294-6). For motives of stylistic variation, non-native learners and translators have a pressing need to find lexical alternatives to express a particular concept, especially in writing. Harvey Yuill (1994) found that searches for synonyms accounted for over 10 percent of dictionary consultations when learners were engaged in a writing task. However, given the rarity of absolute synonymy, learners also need to know which of the particular synonyms given by dictionaries and thesauruses is the most suitable for any given context.(Alan Partington, Patterns and Meanings: Using Corpora for English Language Research and Teaching. John Benjamins, 1998)​ The Productivity of Synonymy - The productivity of synonymy is clearly observable. If we invent a new word that represents (to some extent) the same thing that an existing word in the language represents, then the new word is automatically a synonym of the older word. For example, every time a new slang term meaning automobile is invented, a synonym relation is predicted for the new slang term (say, ride) and the standard and slang terms that already exist (car, auto, wheels, etc.). Ride does not need to be inducted as a member of the synonym set- no one has to say ride means the same thing as car in order for the synonym relation to be understood. All that must happen is that ride must be used and understood to mean the same thing as car- as in My new ride is a Honda.(M. Lynne Murphy, Semantic Relations and the Lexicon. Cambridge University Press, 2003)Synonymy, Near-Synonymy, and Degrees of Formality - It should be noted that the idea of sameness of meaning used in discussing synon ymy is not necessarily total sameness. There are many occasions when one word is appropriate in a sentence, but its synonym would be odd. For example, whereas the word answer fits in this sentence: Cathy had only one answer correct on the test, its near-synonym, reply, would sound odd. Synonymous forms may also differ in terms of formality. The sentence My father purchased a large automobile seems much more serious than the following casual version, with four synonymous replacements: My dad bought a big car.(George Yule, The Study of Language, 2nd ed. Cambridge University Press, 1996) Synonymy and Polysemy - What defines synonymy is precisely the possibility of substituting words in given contexts without altering the objective and affective meaning. Inversely, the irreducible character of the phenomenon of synonymy is confirmed by the possibility of providing synonyms for the various acceptations of a single word (this is the commutative test of polysemy itself): the word review is the synonym sometimes of parade, sometimes of magazine. In every case a community of meaning is at the bottom of synonymy. Because it is an irreducible phenomenon, synonymy can play two roles at once: offering a stylistic resource for fine distinctions (peak instead of summit, minuscule for minute, etc.), and indeed for emphasis, for reinforcement, for piling-on, as in the mannerist style of [French poet Charles] Pà ©guy; and providing a test of commutativity for polysemy. Identity and difference can be accentuated in turn in the notion of partial semantic identity.So polysemy is defi ned initially as the inverse of synonymy, as [French philologist Michel] Brà ©al was the first to observe: now not several names for one sense (synonymy), but several senses for one name (polysemy).(Paul Ricoeur, The Rule of Metaphor: Multi-Disciplinary Studies in the Creation of Meaning in Language, 1975; translated by Robert Czerny. University of Toronto Press, 1977)

Final paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 3

Final paper - Essay Example r dehumanisation of the Jews through the environment and the brutal, cold treatment from different groups of people, and though many survivors had the ideology of using one another as means to basic survival, some admirably managed to keep their humanity intact by compartmentalising animal and humane instincts. The book effectively demonstrates that, to win against the Nazis, the Jews did not only fight the daily battles for physical survival in Auschwitz, but, more importantly, they fought the war for the survival of their humanity. The temporal setting reflects the inhumane conditions of the Jews through the Nazis who used the environment to maximise the torture they could inflict on them. The transportation to the camp itself was agonising enough to kill many. Without food, water, warmth, and enough physical space, Levi captures the first stage of the machine of destruction- to die by natural means through unnatural uses of environmental conditions.2 He narrates how, in the trains, â€Å"†¦men, women and children [were] pressed together without pity, like cheap merchandise, for a journey towards nothingness, a journey down there, towards the bottom.†3 The inclusion of women and children in the same circumstances indicated how the Nazis perpetuated anti-Semitic ideology that judged the Jews’ inferiority as innate, even women and children were not spared. One of the greatest enemies in the Holocaust was not only the Nazis, but the severe environment. Even in summer, Buna was not better, excep t it was not so cold. Levi takes pains depicting Buna as â€Å"desperately and essentially opaque and gray,† a â€Å"negation of beauty,†4 while Carbide Tower was compared to the Tower of Babel because inhabitants had 15 to 20 languages.5 These descriptions prove that the centralised aspect of the annihilation of the Jews included their assignment in unrelenting environments that killed them physically and mentally. Removed from their comfortable civilised stations in life,

Global Warming Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 7

Global Warming - Essay Example It was referred to carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor, exhilarant gas, freon gas, etc. During the intergovernmental conference in Madrid in 1995 UN proclaimed global warming to be a scientific fact. Nevertheless, nowadays there is a big number of respectable scientists denying the threat of global warming and proving such a large-scale problem to be just a great mystification, or at least an exaggeration. The theory of global warming comes down to the opinion that the increase of concentration of carbon dioxide in the air would necessarily cause the atmospheric temperature rise, earth surface and water warming. The defenders of this theory consider anthropogenic factor to be its main peculiarity. A huge amount of factories, plants, automobiles inject carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, which causes a number of cataclysms around the whole world. Earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, tornados, and many other natural disasters may be considered as a consequence of global warming. The theory of global warming gained its worldwide notoriety on account of former vice president of the US Albert Gore. After the defeat at election in 2000, he directed his efforts to public activity connected with the investigations of global warming. In 2007 he was awarded with two Oscars for his film An Inconvenient Truth, illustrating previously unknown facts about global warming. This film turned to have a huge impact on the attitude towards this problem. Gore received a Nobel Prize for environmental protection and the research of climate change issue. His name turned to be a synonym of the protection of nature and global warming control. One more thing he managed to receive was the positive public image. Nevertheless, the theory of global warming has faced a lot of criticism. A great number of scientists deny the influence of CO2 on temperature. A famous American climatologist

Three Mile Island Accident Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Three Mile Island Accident - Essay Example However, people sometimes become complacent in performing such tasks, particularly routinely tasks. This kind of attitude are the often causes of accidents (Accident Prevention, 2014). In the morning of March 28, 1979, a very serious incident happened in the Three Mile Island nuclear plant. A series of equipment failures took place. It was even compounded by human error which resulted to the exposure and partial meltdown of the nuclear reactors core. Operators did not seem to realize the impact of their actions while solving the problem. They even fail to prevent future complications because of their negligence. But the worst thing was that the people surrounding the area had no idea of the dangers that they are into. It even took several years before the truth came out with the help of the engineers and a robotic camera. This incident may raise a lot of questions. What could have been if this kind of accident was anticipated? If potential hazards were identified before operating the machines? Maybe the problem will not be this serious. What if they asked for help instead of hiding the truth? There could be more knowledgeable people who may offer help. Instead of escaping from the problem, it is better to solve it immediately to prevent further complications. Are the operators really aware of the risks and danger that this accident may give to the people and the environment? Well, they should be but with what happened, it is really hard to say. "Reducing Workplace Accidents: Advice for Employers.† Accident Prevention. European Agency for Safety and Heath at Work Website, n.d. Web. 17 Sept. 2014.

Theory and Analysis Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Theory and Analysis - Coursework Example The amount to be recorded would be either the present value or the fair market value of the asset. In this case the amount to be recorded is the present value which is calculated by discounting annuity due payments by discount rate of 8%. Amount totaled to be $86,243 in comparison to $96,000 i.e. the fair market value. b) The costs associated with the lease are taxes, insurance, maintenance and depreciation. These costs are obligatory to pay as it is considered incidental to ownership. These costs would be determined during the operations conducted by or on the property. Depreciation can be charged through straight line method. c) Lani would record lease transaction on December 31st,2006 on the balance sheet as: {Principal-[Payment-(Principal*interest percentage)]} This will give you the amount to be balanced as â€Å"Lease† in the liability section as well as provide you with the proportion of interest payment from the Annual annuity paid. CASE 13-5: Lease in order should mee t the following criteria for Doherty Company to classify it as a capital lease: Firstly, the lease should transfer ownership of the good to the lessee at the end of the lease term. Also, it should be noncancelable plus renewal options and periods should be attached.

Reconstructing Keynesian Argument Research Paper

Reconstructing Keynesian Argument - Research Paper Example Keynes deviates from what the Classical economists majorly focus upon, for the reason that he had been surrounded by Classical and Neo-Classical thinkers throughout his life, yet his ideas have a strong reliance to the Classical Thought and form an inspiration from this school of economic thought (Tarshis). Keynes strongly believes that the Classical Economic Theory focused on a specific, exceptional, rather than a general condition of economic theory, namely the strong emphasis on prices and wages as a determinant of the overall employment level of a country. He demonstrated this with respect to the Great Depression and concluded that the Classical focus was too narrow to apply in general. The Classical economists formulated the concepts which made us believe that we can drive the economy according to set preferences and likes, but in reality, it is difficult to so influentially affect the various economic forces which alter the real conditions. Hence, according to Keynes, the Classical Economic Theory is not sufficient to explain the general economic conditions. This gave rise to The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money, which focuses on general activity, unlike the Classical case. Building upon the concepts of employment, interest, and money, Keynes was not just an economist who provided core theoretical concepts, rather he believed in the formulation of sound economic policy through the application of those concepts (Johnson). Keynes’ theory, therefore, was not just focused on one particular direction of economic activity, but actually covered everything from the basics (prices, supply, demand, wages, employment, saving, investment, capital etc.) to actually applying those concepts practically, as economic policies.

Air Arabia Formal Report Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Air Arabia Formal Report - Research Paper Example The hubs are world’s tourist destinations. The strategic position of the airline gives it the power to establish business with local investors (Airarabia.com, 2014). There have been vagaries within the regional economic platform of Middle East, but Air Arabia has managed to make a profit consistently. It has proved to be a cost-effective airline despite the increasing oil prices. The airline also has survived the rising inflation in Saudi Arabia market since 2008. It has maintained its budget airfares to gain public support. The airline has operated in situations of political unrest in Middle East and North Africa. Its business survived the political unrest in 2011 and Libya ousting of Gaddafi. It boasts of strict adherence to Shariah Laws because most of its destinations are in Islam-dominant countries (Katsioloudes and Hadjidakis, 2007, p.593). Air Arabia has established a sound business portfolio over the years and has gained the attention of passengers who want to travel between Middle East and North Africa among other subsidiary destinations. It caters for clientele seeking cargo facilities between the destinations covered by the airline. It chose Sharjah as the central hub for its flights. Sharjah is an Islamic cultural destination that boosts high tourist influx annually. The airline also operates across 90 destinations with diverse cultures, but the help of agencies has helped it to offer a customized service for each cultural group. The airline carved a unique technological niche whereby it operates in remote aviation hubs with outstanding adherence to current IT developments. In a bid to increase brand awareness, Air Arabia has been compelled to adopt In-Flight advertising campaigns that have been by initiated in United Arab Emirates airlines. Moreover, the airline industry now demands technological adjustments in the form of in-flight entertainment system, overhead bin doors and graphic tray tables (Lück, 2013, p.65). Air Arabia is an

Reconstructing Keynesian Argument Research Paper

Reconstructing Keynesian Argument - Research Paper Example Keynes deviates from what the Classical economists majorly focus upon, for the reason that he had been surrounded by Classical and Neo-Classical thinkers throughout his life, yet his ideas have a strong reliance to the Classical Thought and form an inspiration from this school of economic thought (Tarshis). Keynes strongly believes that the Classical Economic Theory focused on a specific, exceptional, rather than a general condition of economic theory, namely the strong emphasis on prices and wages as a determinant of the overall employment level of a country. He demonstrated this with respect to the Great Depression and concluded that the Classical focus was too narrow to apply in general. The Classical economists formulated the concepts which made us believe that we can drive the economy according to set preferences and likes, but in reality, it is difficult to so influentially affect the various economic forces which alter the real conditions. Hence, according to Keynes, the Classical Economic Theory is not sufficient to explain the general economic conditions. This gave rise to The General Theory of Employment, Interest, and Money, which focuses on general activity, unlike the Classical case. Building upon the concepts of employment, interest, and money, Keynes was not just an economist who provided core theoretical concepts, rather he believed in the formulation of sound economic policy through the application of those concepts (Johnson). Keynes’ theory, therefore, was not just focused on one particular direction of economic activity, but actually covered everything from the basics (prices, supply, demand, wages, employment, saving, investment, capital etc.) to actually applying those concepts practically, as economic policies.

Analysis of conversation Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Analysis of conversation - Assignment Example Analysis of a conversation is the study of trying to describe the structure and order that a conversation takes place in. every dialogue or interaction that takes place between people has a particular way of functioning attached to it. Presented forth are two conversation analyses that have taken place in two different instances and situations. Both conversations are fairly informal in nature, with the second conversation having a hint of formality between the speakers. Conversation Analysis 1 Speech Acts and Moves: In the first conversation, speaker A is very hesitant and is holding himself from completely speaking what he wants to, perhaps due to certain inconsistencies in his character. The use of a directive speech act has been made by A in lines 1 and 3 in the form of a request. He asks questions in lines 6, 10 and 13 whereas B asks a question in line 4. Future actions or Commissives have also been used in lines 15A and 14B. He does not wish to come across as someone who is not able to afford the paint, and thus messes up his sentences in trying to clarify their costs with the shop keeper. He takes a number of pauses in his speech and conveys a lot of uncertainty in his dialogue whereas B is very sure of himself and promptly replies to everything he is asked. Illocutionary acts involve making conversation very concisely, in a manner that helps to put forth clearly the message that one wishes to speak. However, as compared to Conversation 1, conversation 2 is much clearer in conveying what the speakers want to ask each other. Moves are also present in the discourse at lines 3 and 4 as the conversation moves gradually from one speaker to another. Turn taking and Pauses: Taking turns to speak is a very fundamental aspect of any conversation. Turns are taken between speakers participating in a conversation when one wants to compare the conversation to a certain norm or make a comparison between two dialogues. B helps A speak by giving him chances to voice his opinions and takes his own turns with great patience to speak except for when B interrupted A at 4 with his line 5. Also, in line 10, B began his dialogue beforehand, as an appended term tag, already predicting the answer to A’s dialogue in line 11. There are many pauses in the conversation, for example in lines 5, 15 and 16, all by A as he was very unsure of his speech. Adjacency Pairs: This is an aspect of conversation analysis where the conversation tends to take place in responsive pairs. In the first conversation, an adjacency pair is noticeable as the conversation is taking place between A and B side by side with both parties trying their best to carry on the conversation and help the other speak the next sentence. The answer to A’s question in line 6 has been answered by B in line 9. Much the same way, 9 has been replied to in line 10 and finally 16 and 17 are another adjacency pair as B apologizes in the final line. Cooperative Principle: Cooperative principles help to define how people react and speak with one another. A person who makes use of this principle always helps to add more to the conversation and take it further to another level. This involves cooperating with the sentences and dialogues spoken by the other parties engaging in the same conversation in a manner that helps to take the conversation ahead. All these actions indicate uneasiness and hesitance which further tell us that he is not interested in carrying on the conversati

Travel, Tourism, Lodging, Food & Beverage, Content and Application Essay Example for Free

Travel, Tourism, Lodging, Food Beverage, Content and Application Essay Abstract In this very competitive world of business like in hotel and restaurant, it is not only about customer service is important but more importantly it is about safety and design of the hotel is very important.   Rehabilitation that not only gives security for its guest and even rehabilitation of guestrooms would give added enticement for guest to come to the hotel.   This is also the main aim of this paper, which is to provide the different factors that should be done in order to achieve effective rehabilitation and maintenance in the hotel. Introduction In this continuous effect if globalization, many businesses are not only continuous to rely heavily on research on how they can perform quality service and also on how they can effectively manage human resources in the organization.   But, for hotel and restaurant business, it is more than just superior quality service or satisfying its manpower that needs to the main priorities.   Since hotels and restaurants are there to entice guest, most especially foreign guests, their safety and comfort is another aspect of the business that cannot be compromised. Safety, not only with regards to terrorist attack but safety with regards to maintenance and rehabilitation of the building itself is the one that needs to be done.   For superior comfort and satisfaction among its guest, design is another aspect that guest would always feel to come back to the hotel and restaurant that has created more than just satisfaction for them, but it is more of total relaxation and peace whenever they visit and these are the main focus of this paper.   This paper also provides some relevant information that would really help hotels or restaurant to achieve these very important aspects of this type of business. Main Thesis Rehabilitation is truly one of the most important aspects of ensuring guest that safety is also a priority in every hotel business in order to achieve superior quality service.   This has also become a common practice and a shared responsibility of the housekeeping, maintenance, and engineering department of all hotels.   Housekeeping because with excellent housekeeping, it can help guest to be organized since the hotel is also organized, effective advice on where and when to use facilities and other hotel service will be observed.   Maintenance is also another aspect for this paper because it also a vital department for assuring quality in the hotel, this department does all the fixing that need to be perform in the hotel before it becomes worst if not attended properly. One excellent example for maintenance is electrical maintenance within the hotel, possible leak problems also.   These are just some of the problems that may arise if maintenance department will not be pro-actively anticipating these problems.   Lastly, engineering department within the hotel is also another team that will be vital for the success of rehabilitation; engineering team will be used to formulate a more of long-term plan for the hotel in order to achieve longer and stable security and assurance for safety within the hotel.   One good example here is when they implement control system for disaster and safety devices that will be used for emergency situations. III. Related Topics In the actual rehabilitation of the facilities in the hotel, there are many roles that need to be involved.   Not only roles or duties are involved but also additional cost is also involved. Facility Systems Facility systems are one of the major aspects of rehabilitation that is always a concern within the hotel.   It involves the following facilities: (1) safety and security, (2) water and wastewater, electrical, (3) heating, ventilating and air conditioning, (4) lighting, (5) laundry, (6) food service equipment, lastly, (7) building structure, finishes and site system.   These are the different facility system that has to be the main focus for rehabilitation and maintenance.   Starting from safety and security, alarm signals are just one of the most common facilities involved in security.   This sometimes creates peace of mind for most of the guest since it makes them feel that the hotel can always be ready for any disaster. This also directs guests to directions and paths for safety in case disaster happens, an example guide here is the fire exit and fire extinguishers, and these are just two common examples.   For water and wastewater systems, it involves how waster is properly managed within the hotel.   This is one of the most important facility systems within the hotel that can create big dissatisfaction among its guests, because waster can affect health and it can cause other problems like environment as well.   Waster control like proper garbage collection and disposal are just some of the common priorities in this area.   But, more importantly is water; water system should also be maintained at all times since it is the source for cleanliness within the hotel.    Maintaining it like always checking the water holes and reserves, most especially for disaster situation is importantly be monitored and checked round the clock.   The third is electrical system, this is no question that has to be maintained as well since most buildings like hotels, electrical related disasters are always the issue for fire in the buildings. Some of the common priorities in order to minimize if not totally eliminate this problem is that it needs to check the smoke and fire detectors, also includes here is the safety guidelines for safe electrical tips within the hotel.   Guest should always be well educated for every situation that would occur that relates to electrical issues within the hotel, because this not only would create problem for the guests but also for the owners most especially.   The fourth facility that needs to be well maintained and rehabilitated is lighting, lighting creates better ambiance for the hotel which creates a relaxing mood for the guests. Lighting focuses more on the design of the hotel rather than for security and safety of the guests.   For the fifth and sixth facility systems, laundry and food service equipment, starting with the laundry, these are very important for long stay guests, laundry services and facilities are essential most especially in terms of drying services for laundries. There are laundry services that have no driers available and this can create dissatisfaction for the guests.   The sixth facility services of food equipments, many facilities that falls in this category are common facilities within the hotel, food equipments are sometimes in common areas where these equipments must also be checked if it is enough for its guests, like for example doe micro wave ovens are enough for the guests. Or will there be any facility that would give guest the chance to cook in their own room in case they want it.   Lastly, is building structure, does the building is well maintained yearly, does the structure is string enough to sustain the number of floors with the total number of guest and what if the number exceeds this numbers. Or what if there will be disaster like earthquake, will the building can sustain that unexpected disaster, does the building has been checked regularly on how its structure can sustain disaster.   This is very important because it does not only create a worry-free for customers or guests but also a concern for business if in case the owners would really focus on not just satisfying their customers with their design but most of all safety of everyone. Facility Design The design for hotels establishments is also another priority for maintenance and rehabilitation.   Design is always a recipe for competition among hotels, it also one major aspect on how it can entice more guests depending on how relaxing and how inviting the design of interiors it maybe.   One of the major designs driven part of the hotel is the lobby or the guest rooms.   This is where quest considered as king and queen of the hotel.   This can create an environment of high respect for its guests.   Maintaining this part of the hotel is considered a mandatory action that needs to be done all the time.   From the superior design of lightings, interiors, furniture and even up to the uniform that is worn by hotel personnel are all part of the design that would attract more and more guests to visit the hotel. In the design priority within the hotel, there are three most common design factors that always need to prioritize in the hotel: lodging planning and design, food service planning and design, and lastly, other renovation design.   Lodging planning design is again part of this is the guest room, reception or lobby design area, where this section should always be well attractive to the guests.   Again, most of the time it is not only the design itself that is being focus here but part of it are also the people who are working within this special section of the hotel.   Usually, only the most charming, intelligent and articulate persons of the hotel works in this section, which not only to educate guests about the security, safety as well as how they can enjoy other facilities are explained.    Lodging planning design also involves the way the rooms are designed which primarily focus on how they can effectively welcome guests with the design and well presented gifts and service that guests can always feel respected.   For food planning design, this is more of how personalized service is given for guests, like the usual breakfast in bed or if the guests are in the buffet area, a design for presentation of food where the guests will be able to be given freedom of choosing what ever food he or she wants.   A design that would not always make the guest feel bored, even a smile from the waitress and a warm offering of additional coffee or with additional towel even before the end of meal are an important gestures that need to be carries out and will always be part of the design of the food planning of the hotel. For other renovation design, there are also other parts of the hotel that are usually in need of design improvements or maintenance.   This includes facade of the hotel or even the design of facilities of the hotels like swimming pools and saunas.   This could also add value to the service that the hotel provide from its guest, most especially if the hotel always tried its best to be more personalized as possible, that would give additional appreciation from the guests.   (Stipanuk, D, 2006, pp. 89-201). Involvement in Safety Organization through Training and Seminars It is also important for hotels to be able to really measure the success and achievement they have when it comes to safety or design is to be involved in known and respected organizations.   Like in the case of safety OSHA Us Department of Labor (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), this organization is one of the well respected institution when it comes to safety and health administration in all types of organization.   For hotels, it is important that they are well monitored and followed the best guidelines of this organization in order not only use the company investment effectively but also would give its owners most especially their customers the assurance that they are compliance to real safety and health procedures that are presented by such well respected institution like OSHA. As lone good example in this paper is where there was a recent partnership or alliance between the workers of the US Virgin Islands Hotel and Tourism Association and the US labor Department’s OSHA.   This alliance will promote safety and health trainings for hotels and hospitality workers of the Island.   This alliance will focus on three aspects: fire protection, hazard communication and the use of personal protective equipment.   This training not only gives the worker more confidence as to how they would react and act on certain situation pro-actively, most especially in situations that are unexpected. The training will also give the workers enough information on hoe they will identify the hazardous information that they might encounter on the job and how they can respond and act on it.   OSAH will also provide best practices and processes on the safety and health administration that can be applied in the hotel which is mandatory for all hotel businesses.   This was also considered a big investment not only for future business benefit but also knowledge gain for all the workers in the hotel business around the island.   With this initiative, the workers will be more confident in performing their jobs and also can increase quality service for its customers in the island.   (Fitzgerald, T, 2007). Infusing New Ideas In the side of design, there are both innovative and economical ideas that can be perform in the hotel business.   This also could help minimize or if effectively implemented could eliminate disaster in the hotels.   Like the infusion of better lighting systems and designs within the hotel.   One of the most well respected organization in the United States that focuses on inventing and finding new innovative ideas when it comes to lighting is the American Lighting Association.   These organizations are formed to assist home owners or hotel business owners on how they can design a lighting system that not only costly but also can provide an enticing design for guests.    Sometimes it is really important for hotel owners not only to seek designs that are presented by internal hotel experts but also can come from experts that are purely specialized into a specific subject, like in this case lightings.   The American lighting Association has a group of experts in lighting that are experienced with expertise in imagination.   They are tag to developed not economical design but also beautiful to the eyes. This is very essential in the success of the hotel because it does not only help the business in minimizing the cost but more importantly can be an option for design improvements and rehabilitation process in the hotel which is the main subject of this study.   (What does it mean when a store is a member of the American Lighting Association, n.d.). Conclusion In this study, it only shows that for hotel any hotel business, maintenance and rehabilitation is not just making sure that customer will be satisfied but also would help its owners and employees to know the right processes that needs to be perform in the hotel businesses.   Processes like in terms of facilities and design, facilities that would make the business performs based on the effective guidelines that is advised and mandated by respected organizations like the US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration.   This can help boost the business not only will favor the employees but most especially their customers as well, since they can always make sure that the service being rendered are in accordance with the policies. In this study, it also showed that design is not just for beautification that needs to be done in the hotel, but it can also create economical ideas that can also comes from not just from the internal experts of the hotel but also from reliable organizations like American Lighting Association, which not only provides expertise for beautification through lighting but also gives convenience for owners as well since cost will be less.   Trainings are also encourage to be perform of hotel businesses since there are some cases that learning the processes within is not enough, most especially as time goes on, new implementation needs to be followed in order to be sure that processes are still applicable. References Fitzgerald, T. New Alliances will Promote Safety and Health Training for Hotel and Hospitality Workers in the US Virgin Island’s Hotel Tourism Association Joins with the US Labor Department’s OSHA. US Department of Labor – Occupational Safety Health Administration. 20 February 2007, http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=NEWS_RELEASESp_id=13781, Retrieved 13 July 2008. Stipanuk, D. (2006). Hospitality Facilities Management and Design 3e. US: Educational Institute of the American Hotel. What does it mean when a store is a member of the American Lighting Association. American Lighting Association. N.d, http://www.americanlightingassoc.com/home.php, Retrieved 13 July 2008.

Marketing Analysis Of First In Show Pet Foods

Marketing Analysis Of First In Show Pet Foods However, to start any new business venture, several factors have to be considered. The management is therefore presented with the task of formulating the best approach inclusive of objectives, constraints, available resources, monetary budgets, period, operation market areas and nature of competition amongst many others. For First in Show Pet Foods, Inc it was not an exception hence the attempts by the executives in formulating the best approach to undertake in venturing in the now desirable new market. The marketing firm representatives would provide a detailed proposal to the companys executives for analysis and possible formulation of the strategies towards the start of business in the particular market of retail dog foods. Further, the information from the food brokers was to be considered in structuring the appropriate approaches, policies and strategies for the new business activity. 2. Situation analysis The companys main goal is in 2009 and at Boston market area to effectively introduce and promote the Show Circuit dog food sale. The availability of this Show Circuit dog foods considered to be among the costliest would be through supermarkets. The quality of Show Circuit is finest and prepared as a full balanced dog food to be stored in refrigerators. It has for years, received positive recommendations from many professional owners of show-dogs. However, Show Circuit is publicly unknown by many and essentially considered as a new product despite such a vast history. An advantage that can be capitalized by the company is the fact that, at supermarkets frozen food section, only the Show Circuit dog food will be rightly available for customers. The successful marketing of Show Circuit requires the initial accomplishment of two important objectives. First, public awareness should be achieved in relation to the high-quality component of the Show Circuit dog food, the packaging designs an d the dog foods brand name. Secondly, at the supermarkets, dog owners should be directed towards the frozen food section when making dog food purchases. The environment under which the business for dog food is done seems not fully exploited. The tapping of the dog food industry is far from full potential yet because of the fact that prepared dog food is regularly fed to less than half the number of dogs owned in the United States. Based on manufactures prices, a total of $ 10 billion from the sale of dog food will be made in 2009. The analysis of four trends helps justify that such optimism in dog food industry is indeed well founded. First, the increase in dog ownership has consequently created benefits at the dog food industry. The owned-dog population in the U.S is approximately about 65 million. This steady growth in numbers is expected to continue, as more people require protection and the increased desire for companionship from dog owners. Secondly, another positive trend has been the increased investment on human companions by pet owners. On many settings, owners consider and treat pets as family members in possession of human qualities. For instance, according to research, a dog owner usually identifies himself/herself with the pet as well as assigning human characteristics such as needs, feelings, language and thoughts. A big number of dog owners, about 75% not surprisingly offer their animal companio ns the feelings of Mom and Dad. In addition, about 95% of dog owners would hug their pet on daily basis. Therefore, not surprisingly that annual veterinarian fees, accessories, clothing, dog toys, dog medication and furniture spend by dog owners are more than $ 20 billion. Thirdly, a positive trend has been the growth in dog food industry such that there is now the production of dog foods classified as premium and super premium. Such dog foods are of higher quality and are therefore higher priced. The increased rate of dog ownership together with this type of dog foods has spurred the growth in sales made from dog foods. Fourthly, a growing trend involves dog owners increasingly making claims for the introduction of a new product in the dog food industry. Such new dog food product should be enriched in vitamins and minerals, all natural and with no preservatives or additives. The table (1) below represents claims for the introduction of new dog food product for the period 2006- 2007 and 2007- 2008. Claim Claim frequency (2006- 2007) Claim frequency (2007- 2008) % change No additives/ No preservatives 95 146 53.7 Vitamin/ mineral enriched 94 144 53.2 All-natural 107 138 29.0 The distribution channel to be chosen is that of supermarkets. The distribution of all dog food in Boston market and the rest of United States at manufactures prices through the supermarkets accounts for about 36%. Other channels may include independent pet stores, mass merchandisers, farm/feed stores, pet superstores and veterinarians. The Boston market environment seems to be the ideal area to launch a new dog food product. The population at Boston area is estimated to be 1.2% of total U.S population. Because of the strong correlation between human population and dog population, the dog population at Boston area is also about 1.2%. In addition, the national expenditure of the Boston population is approximately average to expenditures on pet products. The analysis of the situation affecting the First in Show Pet Foods, Inc executives must take into account critical aspect of competition. The United States dog food industry approximately has about 350 dog food types and 50 manufactur es of dog food products. In the year 2008, five major companies made about 75% of sales of all the U.S dog food products. These companies were the Master foods USA, Hills Pet Nutrition, Del Monte Foods Inc, Nestle Purina Pet Care and the Iams Inc. Considerable percentage of the sales did accrue from supermarket dog food sales. This presents a huge concern for the Executives of First in Show Pet Foods, Inc since they intend to sell their new dog food product through the supermarket distribution channel. The marketing strategy for the introduction of Show Circuit in the dog food industry should indeed be well planned. The forms of advertising as well as the spending by competitors on advertising require major considerations. 3. SWOT analysis 3.1 Strengths First In Show Pet Foods, Inc has been supplying Show Circuit exclusively in the U.S to the show-dog kennels hence the improvement of dogs coats. Because of the products quality, the company is intends to supply this product in retail market to cater for normal dogs. Show Circuit is a dog food of high premium with ingredients of cereals and fresh meats and also being additives/ preservatives free. Such unique food components could remarkably improve the dogs coats, making a normal dog beautiful and healthy. Professional dog owners have recommended and used this food product for years in addition to being proven as the dog food of finest quality. Dog owners who largely consider issues of beauty and health for their dogs will be definite customers of Show Circuit. This dog food product will be the first available in the U.S market of the type of organic dog food. The product will be frozen packaged hence the fresh and uncooked meat will not spoil. This presents an advantage for the comp any because after the introduction of the product into the market, the frozen section of the supermarkets will only have this dog food product. 3.2 Weaknesses Show Circuit will be a new product name being introduced into the market. Further, the products premium quality makes its price quite high in comparison to other available dog food products. Because of this problem, the company has to create brand awareness in the market through aggressive communication in an attempt to compete with other brand names already known to dog owners. Besides that, the frozen packaging form presents difficulties to the company with regard to product placement and distribution. The supermarket is the only distributor available because of the freezing space although this space is prioritized for human food rather than frozen food. 3.3 Opportunities The company has an opportunity in the U.S market to tap its vast potential as represented by the annual growth of sales (64%) of organic dog foods. The willingness of consumers who own dogs to pay premium prices for dog food products is expected to rise. About 65 million people in the U.S own dogs and the number is expected to increase as more desire to own animal companions. The Boston market area presents a good potential for this business with a population of 1.2% of total U.S population. Expenditures by Boston residents on pet products are approximately averages national expenditure. The Boston supermarkets have no other pet products of the type of complete frozen dog foods hence the chance that, Show Circuit will be the first dog food available in frozen-food section of the supermarkets. 3.4 Threats Besides the benefits that the product offers, this company will face competition from other companies providing the market with dog foods. The company will struggle to outcompete established companies such as Nestle, Mars Inc, Delmonte Foods Inc. as well as Procter Gamble. In addition, difficulties are expected to arise in convincing distributors (supermarkets) to provide in their stores freezer space. Majority of these supermarkets have limited freezer spaces where such frozen products are to be kept. The distributors will also have problems as it is a long process when making available the thawing time for frozen food. To deal with this, a 7% commission is to be offered based on the proposed price to retailers. 4. The problem/Decision statement With the market situation analyzed in terms of the dog food industrys environment, competition and opportunities, the executives should make decisions based on objectives, alternative strategies and the organizations strengths and weaknesses. The introduction of new dog food product into the market is faced with problems and challenges. A sound decision needs to be made if such business activity venture proves successful in the future. The executives of this company have to deal with problems such as, adequate market segmentation, specific market target, distribution channel, Show Circuit sale price, advertising models and most important the return on sales percentage. Such decisions in any business set up need a well-constituted problem-solving model that balances total variable costs with revenues. For First in Show Pet Foods Inc, the introduction of Show Circuit dog food at dog food industry requires well-calculated strategies. The supermarkets have already other brands of dog foo d products such as the treats, canned and dry. To achieve substantial brand shares at the supermarket channels, consumers have to be educated on the new Show Circuit with regard to brand, price, packaging and ingredients. 5. Presentation of alternatives There exists a possibility that at supermarkets, the frozen dog food will be subjected to varied objections with regard to freezer space and thawing time requirements. An alternative to overcoming such anticipated objections would be suggestions for fast thawing, the longest time to keep the food in the refrigerators and the thawing time indicated on the packaging container. The use of microwaves should also be suggested as a possibility for consumers who purchase such frozen dog food from the supermarkets. The pricing aspect of this new dog food product is very important considering the general price sensitivity of dog owners. In addition, the dog owners are more concerned with the welfare and health of their pets. A premium price may be good for Show Circuit considering its quality and the retail prices of other frozen dog foods sold in supermarkets. There are opportunities that can be seized up with the introduction of Show Circuit in frozen dog food market. Boston supermarkets pr esent a huge market potential with regard to the sale of frozen dog foods. In addition, there is a trend that organic dog foods are increasingly becoming popular in the dog food market with consumers willing to acquire such foods at premium prices. The company can capitalize on this opportunity in an attempt to acquire substantial market share. Another very crucial alternative is the opportunity to constitute the groundwork through which to rollout Show Circuit dog food into the national market. 6. Analysis of Action Plan The introduction of this new dog food product requires implementation of very creative strategies. Show Circuit will be positioned in the market as the truly dog food available at reasonable price. The advertising strategies will target both married and unmarried consumers occupying the age bracket of 21 to 54 years. Such target market group should also have a household income of higher than $ 25,000. The reason as to why such target market is selected is the trend that, married couples and single adults with or without roommate households or children treat their dogs as family companions. The advertising strategies through various campaigns will adequately justify the Show Circuit dog food as a unique product. The advertising campaigns will incorporate a variety of concepts in an attempt to create customers attention on the dog food identification. The packaging container will have an introductory coupon displayed prominently to emphasize on the quality the Show Circuit dog food has . Sections such as the television, sports, society and dining will carry out ads considered for special interests. Based on the unique qualities the product posses, they warrant media placement that is varied and intense. In covering a wider audience, the advertising campaigns will cover locations beyond the Boston market geographical area. The sales packets are designed to provide information in the most persuasive manner. Such information include, the acceptance of the dog food by chain stores, the manufacturers retail price, quantity discount schedule, market potential, promotional schedule, user endorsements and order information. In advertising, different types of media will use different creative strategies. For instance, the positioning of the product relative to its competitors is through the print media. The product is compared with other categories of dog food such as the dry and canned products. On the other hand, television adverts will emphasize on the products location in the supermarket hence minimizing problems when looking out for the product. It is evident that dog food industry receives heavy advertising and therefore the company must follow suit. In order to remain competitive in this industry, the First in Show Inc should carry out intensive advertising. The developed media advertising strategies aim to achieve the following objectives: Awareness creation of the new brand Attainment of distribution through supermarket channels Coupon redemption to motivate trial Motivation of trial by the emotional impacts created by the television 7. Recommendation The introduction of Show Circuit as a new dog food product is quite viable for this company considering the environment, nature of competition and the potential opportunities available. By employing, the strategies proposed in line with the organizations objectives, this new business venture would be a success. The organizations strengths that outweigh the weaknesses place it well to compete with other companies in exploiting the vast potential at Boston market and beyond. With the dog ownership industry expected to expand so does the expected return in sales of dog foods. The launch of the business activity in Boston market will involve incremental costs of about $ 30,000. The program budget inclusive of advertising expenses and slotting fee will range between $ 500,000 and $ 700,000 as shown in the table (2) below. Item Budget Levels Budget Levels Television $359,000 $529,000 Newspapers/magazine $100,500 $130,500 Collateral (sales pack) $9,750 $9,750 Miscellaneous $5,250 $5,250 Agency fees $25,500 $25,500 Total $500,000 $700,000 The expenditure is reasonable since countrywide media promotion for established brands cost $ 7 million to $8 million. A high initial expenditure for a new product is essential and the company will use savings to cater for the expenses.

The Opening of A Dolls House :: A Dolls House Essays

A critical analysis of the opening of the play A Dolls House. In the opening of the play "A Dolls House" ,the setting of the stage is of a house portrayed as if it were a dolls house. The items described in the house are all small therefore representing a dolls house where all items are miniature, the type of furniture owned , such as a piano, show that the family is moderately well off. There is no narrator in the play and all information and knowledge about the character is gained from listening to conversations. Ibsen has incorporated relevant information into conversations, this seems like a natural situation and makes the audience feel like they are looking onto a real house with real people. This means that the actors will have to act well so as to show audience with out seeming as if they are telling them. This means Ibsen had to write the opening of the play not only telling the audience what is going on but what has gone on. Nora is the first character introduced, and is shown entering the house on her own, the first sentence spoken in the play is said by Nora, this is to do with concealment and money. "The children mustn't see. How much is that?" This is significant to the rest of the play as these are two main themes used through the play. When Helmer (Nora Helmer's husband) enters he is then shown through out of the rest of the opening and the play, to treat Nora like a child using methods such as control and speaking to Nora in a patronising and child like manner. In the conversation between Nora and Helmer, Helmer refers to his wife as if she were inferior in the relationship using terms such as "songbird" and "squirrelkin". Nora in return replies to Helmer also using child like talk, such as referring to money as "pennies and pennies". Nora is also shown to be generous with money as she is tells the porter to "keep the change" this is an immediate indication that Nora is not worried about spending. Helmer also states that when Nora gets money it "melts in (her) hands" suggesting that she does not save .Nora's attitude towards money is also shown later in the opening when she shows no concern of borrowing money and being in debt. Nora also shows lack of feeling towards other people and there situation as long as she is ok , this shows a selfish nature as she says "why would U care if I still owed people money".

Bad debt

Bad debt is a serious financial problem affecting the United States. When people do not pay their debts, the economy suffers because the banks, credit card companies, doctors, utility companies, and other businesses lose money. The same applies to when businesses fail to pay their financial obligations to other businesses. However, personal bad debt and corporate bad debt is viewed differently by the government (Bankruptcy FAQ for small business. ) Corporate bad debt is easier to file bankruptcy upon than when a private person loses money.This seems to be simply because allowing corporations to do business honestly without threat of losing their personal financial security is an important ideal to keep the economy going. A company getting rid of their bad debt through bankruptcy all but destroys their ability to stay in business. Personal bad debt, however, is treated stricter because there are by appearance more controllable factors. People are expected to feed their families and st ay in a home without using credit and to not borrow more than they can afford.In addition, the companies and government likely fear that if people who don’t pay their bills can repeatedly file bankruptcy and keep everything they bought, there will be no incentive for them to do the right thing and live within their means. Those who honestly cannot pay their bills will not go to jail, but in the case of a business will likely lose their company and in a person’s case lose any homes or other property owned (Bankruptcy Courts. ) Otherwise, the economy would be in even worse shape if people and businesses could just run up bills, decide not to pay them, and not have any additional financial consequences.The government’s position seems to remain that businesses have a better right and need for credit to help the economy than individual households, and this is unlikely to change anytime soon. References: Bankruptcy Basics. (2006). Retrieved March 25, 2009 from U. S. C ourts: http://www. uscourts. gov/bankruptcycourts. html. Bankruptcy FAQ for small business. (2009). Retrieved March 25, 2009 from Bankruptcy in Brief: http://www. moranlaw. net/business-bankruptcy-faqs. htm.

Integrative Therapy Essay

I started my first class of counselling today. I was very nervous and excited at the same time. I was nervous because I had not been in formal education for the past ten years and excited because I was going to do something for myself after 3 years of sitting at home and focus on something other than domestic issues. I arrived to my first class late and that made me more apprehensive. Looking around I noticed that there were people from different age and background. I started the class by telling others about myself and listened to them. I felt like I was in a group therapy, in a way it actually was because we were using our listening skills, which I believe is essential part of counselling. As it happened at the end of the task I was less nervous than I was at the beginning. Our next task was to find a partner and talk about ourselves to each other. We talked about our lives and it was up to us how much to tell our partner and to share it with the rest of the group. Again here, our listening skills were tested. This task also acted as ice breaker where the atmosphere of the class become more relaxed as we listened to each individual’s life and their achievements as well as their aspirations. I realised that most of the people who attended the course were there because of their life experiences propelled them to this course and that they felt they have something to give back as counsellor, or that they may learn some counselling skills to help them with their own lives. As for myself, since studying counselling as part of my degree course 10 years ago, I have wanted to become a counsellor. I always was motivated to help others. My only inability is and has been my lack of confidence. This is not because I don’t have the ability to listen and help others, but just that I am not a confident speaker and my communication skills needs to be enhanced and by doing this course I am hoping to overcome both and be prepared for further qualifications in counselling. During the class in groups we also discussed, what we want from rest of the group and what is required of me. There were some points, such as, Respect, Confidentially, Honesty, Being non- judgmental, etc, that we all agreed on. We ended the class by â€Å"checking out†, where we said how we felt and what we learned, like me, the rest of group was also more relaxed and were looking forward to the rest of the course. I see this course as learning route, where by the end of it I have learned some counselling skills, hopefully I will also overcome my own issues, which might have an impact on my role as a helper.

HAL, Inc. is a major manufacturer of computers and computer components Essay

HAL, Inc. is a major manufacturer of computers and computer components. In one of their plants they made printed circuit boards (PCB’s), which were used by other plants in the company in a variety of computer products. The basic process runs 3 shifts per day and it can be briefly depicted by following flow diagram Optical Test-internal Pro-Coat Copper plate Drilling Optical Test- external End of line test Sizing Machining Lamination core Treater procMess Internal circuitize Lamination composite External circuitize The targeted output for the plant is 3000 boards per day, five days a week, with plant running three shifts per day. But the plant has been failed to reach and maintain the targeted throughput at a steady rate due to manufacturing complexities associated with the product mix. It was also found that, the output of the pro-coat process is very slow (1200 boards/day) compared to the expected throughput and therefore Hal has to engage a vendor on the pro- coat process to fulfil the demand. This engagement of vendor has caused increase in cost per board and two days delay because of shipping up and back. So the Hal is striving to increase the throughput of the pro-coat process and the purpose of this case study is to provide some guidance to them in their effort by giving some recommendations to improve the existing system. Floor arrangement and the work flow of the pro-coat process Daily demand = 3000 boards Working hours = 24- (Breaks + Lunch + shift change + Meeting) = 24-(20X2X3+40X3+10X3+90/5) = 19.2 hrs Demand= 3000/(19.2X60) = 2.604 boards/min Assumption; 1. Demand = Arrival rate (ra=2.604 boards/min) 2. Arrival pattern exponentially distributed (Ca2=1) Machine Name| Mean process (load) time (min)| Std. Dev. Process Time (min)| Trip Time (conveyor) (min)| MTBF (hr)| MTTR (hr)| Setup time (min)| Availability| Number of machines| Rate per day| Clean| 0.33| 0| 15| 80| 4| 0| 0.95238| 1| 3325| Coat 1| 0.33| 0| 15| 80| 4| 0| 0.95238| 1| 3325| Coat 2| 0.33| 0| 15| 80| 4| 0| 0.95238| 1| 3325| Expose| 103| 67| 0| 300| 10| 15| 0.96774| 5| 2834| Develop| 0.33| 0| 2.67| 300| 3| 0| 0.99010| 1| 3456| Inspect| 0.5| 0.5| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1.00000| 2| 4608| Bake| 0.33| 0| 100| 300| 3| 0| 0.99010| 1| 3456| MI| 161| 64| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1.00000| 8| 3435| Touchup| 9| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1.00000| 1| 7680| Once analysed the Hal pro coat process, the expose work station (highlighted in above table) has been found as bottle neck operation under the 19.2 working hour situation. But the company goal is to achieve 3000 boards per day. If the company operate under the optimum condition, 2,834 boards could be produces, which is still below the company goal. According to the given data in the case was deeply analysed as follow. Assumption: Inspection and MI are manual operations. So number of work benchers has been considered as 8 in MI operation and 2 in inspection work station. It could be possible to eliminate the bottleneck situation by adding resource (No of operators). 1. Cleaning Effective processing time (te) = t0A = 0.33/0.95238 = 0.3465 min Utilization (u) = rax te = 2.604 X 0.3465 = 0.902 Ce2= C02+1+Cr2A(1-A)mrt0 Ce2= o+1+00.95238(1-0.95238)2400.33 = 32.98 Departure rate; Cd2=u2Ce2+(1-u2)Ca2 = 0.9022x 32.98+1-0.9022x 1 = 27.019 cd2 =27.019 2. Coat 1 Similarly, Effective processing time (te) = 0.3465 min Utilization = 0.902 Ce2= C02+1+Cr2A(1-A)mrt0 ce 2 =32.98 Cd2=u2Ce2+(1-u2)Ca2 = 0.9022x 32.98+1-0.9022x 27.019 cd2=31.87 3. Coat 2 Similarly, Effective processing time (te) = 0.3465 min Utilization = 0.902 Ce2= C02+1+Cr2A(1-A)mrt0 ce2 =32.98 Cd2=u2Ce2+(1-u2)Ca2 = 0.9022x 32.98+1-0.9022x 31.87 cd2=32.77 4. Coating and expose Since the coating 2 processing rate greater than the arrival rate of the pro- coat system. Arrival rate of the expose machine govern by the arrival rate of pro-coat system Expose machine calculations based on jobs (60 boards = 1 job) Arrival rate =2.604/60 =0.0434 jobs/min Buffer size = 05 Blocking size = (buffer size + maximum jobs in expose machines) = 5 + 5 b = 10 ra=0.0434 Ca2=32.77 Coating 2 Expose = 10 Preemptive outages; Effective processing time (te) = t0A = 103/0.9677 = 106.43 min Assumption; Number of boards between setups = 120 Total effective processing time (Preemptive and Non-preemptive outages); (te) = t0A+tsNsx job size = 1.720.9677+15120x 60 = 114.14 min Assumption – Standard deviation for repair = 0 min (constant distribution) Preemptive outage variance = ÏÆ'02A2+(mr2+ÏÆ'r2)(1-A)t0Amr =672.96772+6002+01-0.9677Ãâ€"1030.9677Ãâ€"600 = 6856.43 Preemptive outage SCV Ce2= C02+1+Cr2A(1-A)mrt0 = 6721032+1+0x0.9677Ãâ€"1-.9677Ãâ€"600103 =0.6052 Assumption- No variation in setups (constant distribution) Total variance (preemptive + non-preemptive outage) = ÏÆ'02+ÏÆ's2Ns+(Ns-1)Ns2ts2 = 6856.43+0+(120-1)1202152 =6858.29 SCV for expose(preemptive + non-preemptive outage) = =Ce2= ÏÆ'e2te2 = 6858.29114.142 = 0.526 Utilization for expose = raxtem = 0.0434Ãâ€"114.145 =0.99 Arrival SCV for batch = Arrival SCV for individual part/batch size = 32.7760 = 0.546 U

Hotel Management Interview Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Hotel Management Interview Paper - Essay Example Where the internal auditor is not trustworthy, a random independent audit will help the organization to detect fraud and financial errors that lead to a fair and true reflection of the organization’s financial position. Moreover, a random independent audit helps business owner to establish the effectiveness of specific business operations and the performance of various departments (Kotan Australia, 2011). The audit exposes the errors of omission and commission in the company’s financial statements and prevents the reoccurrence of such errors in the future. Ideally, a random independent audit delivers a sovereign opinion on the organization’s financial condition since independent auditors seek to establish the truth and fairness of financial statements (Kotan Australia, 2011). The sovereign opinion by an independent auditor helps the management to make informed decisions. More so, a random independent audit is a fundamental requirement for all public companies. As such, it enhances compliance to audit and accounting requirements (Kotan Australia, 2011). A random independent audit would equally help in promoting the goodwill and competiveness of a company. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) is an accounting firm that would do a random independent audit (PwC, 2014) I contacted PWC and sought their comment on the benefits and costs of a random independent audit. PricewaterhouseCoopers noted that most companies hire independent auditors or external auditors to inspect their financial statements. The main objective of hiring independent auditors is to offer independent opinion of a company’s financial position. Independent auditors provide an independent opinion that reflects the true and fair financial position of the company. Independent auditors are more proficient than internal auditors are and hence organizations and their