Monday, December 23, 2019

Analysis Of From All This Rage - 1375 Words

â€Å"From all this rage,† observes Esther Summerson as she awaits the passing of the storm over the grounds of Sir Deadlock, â€Å"upon the smallest flower and leaf there was already a freshness poured† (228). No doubt Esther’s, the protagonist of Dickens’ Bleak House, insights are stereotypically appropriate for a female in the Victorian novelï‚ ¾that is, they’re generally polite, empathetic, and tactfulï‚ ¾however, Esther’s considerations are markedly romantic in a way which transcends the semi-concrete framework that most Victorian female characters are made to exist in. In the same scene in which Esther watches the storm from the lodge, she reveals that indeed she stands â€Å"thinking with awe† of the â€Å"tremendous,† â€Å"beneficent,† powers governing â€Å"our†¦show more content†¦Although Esther, as she explains, â€Å"was such a shy little thing† (17), when she did confide or communicat e in someone, it was her doll. This, I will posit, is the first instance where disease (manifested as, at the least, social awkwardness, if not mental illness) and the romantic converge to create Esther’s desire to understand the world as wholly as possible. Esther’s only childhood friend being a doll is quite sad, but it also creates a sense of friendship which is idealized and unrealistic. It becomes both immensely important when she puts her doll to rest, but also rather conspicuous that she does so by burying her in the garden. Esther’s entire understanding of friendship has been shaped by the doll, and in this scene, nature becomes an integral part of Esther’s movement out of isolation and into community. The diagnosis of smallpox becomes the facet through which Esther is forced to abandon a sense of self and others that is idealized and overly romantic: â€Å"in falling ill, I seemed to have crossed a dark lake, and to have left all my experiences, mingled together by the great distance, on the healthy shore.† This is best illustrated through her relationship with Ada. Ada Clare is Esther’s first real companion; indeed, she explains that Ada’s friendship affords her a comfort she had forgotten â€Å"since the days of the doll.† Dickens’ calls our attention back to the doll to remind us of Esther’s lack ofShow MoreRelatedEssay about Baldwins Notes to a Native Son1712 Words   |  7 Pagesof fathers and sons.† This quotation by James Arthur Baldwin helps to bring about one of the main points of his essay, â€Å"Notes of a Native Son.† Baldwin’s composition was published in 1955, and based mostly around the World War II e ra. 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Sunday, December 15, 2019

Ethical Leadership Free Essays

string(53) " listed five principles of ethical leadership \(4\)\." ETHICS IN LEADERSHIP ASHISH 3/18/2013 What is Ethical Leadership? Ethics refer to the desirable and appropriate values and morals according to an individual or the society at large. Ethics deal with the purity of individuals and their intentions. Ethics serve as guidelines for analyzing â€Å"what is good or bad† in a specific scenario. We will write a custom essay sample on Ethical Leadership or any similar topic only for you Order Now Leader is person who influences the thoughts and behaviours of others. A leader is one who establishes the direction for others to willingly follow. One person can serve as a leader or several persons might share leadership. So the art or technique to do so is Leadership. Hence Leadership is about raising the aspirations of followers and enthusing people with a desire to complete the common goals. Robert Kennedy summed up leadership best when he said, â€Å"Others see things as they are and wonder why; I see them as they are not and say why not? † Therefore correlating ethics with leadership, we find that ethics is all about the leader’s identity and the leader’s role. Some of the examples of ethical leaders are Bill Gates, Mahatma Gandhi etc. Ethical leader embraces the act of service as described by Robert Greenleaf (3) in his concept of â€Å"servant leadership. † The effective leader acts as a servant to others engaged in the enterprise, not in any sense of inferiority, but as one who empowers others to achieve success by focusing on right action. Traits/ Characteristics of Ethical Leader ? Dignity and respectfulness: He respects others. An ethical leader should not use his followers as a medium to achieve his personal goals. He should respect their feelings, decision and values. Respecting the followers implies listening effectively to them, being compassionate to them, as well as being liberal in hearing opposing viewpoints. In short, it implies treating the followers in a manner that authenticate their values and beliefs. ? Serving others: He serves others. An ethical leader should place his follower’s interests ahead of his interests. He should be humane. He must act in a manner that is always fruitful for his followers. ? Justice: He is fair and just. An ethical leader must treat all his followers equally. There should be no personal ias. Wherever some followers are treated differently, Ground for differential treatment should be fair, clear, and built on morality. ? Community building: He develops community. An ethical leader considers his own purpose as well as his followers’ purpose, while making efforts to achieve the goals suitable to both of them. He is considerate to the community interests. He does not overlook the followers’ intentions. He works harder for the community goals. ? Honesty: He is loyal and honest. Honesty is essential to be an ethical and effective leader. Honest leaders can be always relied upon and depended upon. They always earn respect of their followers. An honest leader presents the fact and circumstances truly and completely, no matter how critical and harmful the fact may be. He does not misrepresent any fact. Ethical Leadership Theories Ethical leadership theories fall into two categories ? Leader’s conduct (The actions and behaviour of leaders) Consequences (Theological theories) – Focus on what is right and what is wrong. A. Ethical Egoism – An individual should act to create the greatest good for themselves. The leaders should take a career that they would selfishly enjoy. This is closely related to transactional leadership theories. For example, a middle-level manager who wants their team to be the best in the company is acting out of ethical egoism. B. Utilitarianism – We should act to create the greatest good for the greatest number. Maximize the social benefits while minimizing the social costs. Example: when the US government allocates a large portion of the federal budget to the health care instead of catastrophic illness, it is acting out of the utilitarian ethics. C. Altruism – This is the opposite of Ethical Egoism and is concerned with showing the best interest for others even when it runs contrary to self-interest. Authentic transformational leadership is based on altruistic behaviour. i. ii. Duty (Deontological Theories) A. This is telling the truth, keeping promises, being fair, independent of the consequences. B. Actions should not infringe on others’ rights and should not further the moral rights of others. ? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Leader’s character (the personality and character of leaders) Virtue-based theories These are not innate, but can be acquired. They are rooted in heart of the individual and in their disposition. It focuses on telling people â€Å"what to be† as opposed of â€Å"what to do† Examples include courage, temperance, generosity, self-control, sociability, modesty, fairness, and justice. This theory is about being and becoming a worthy human being. honesty, The 4-V Model of Ethical Leadership The 4-V Model of Ethical Leadership is a framework that aligns the internal (beliefs and values) with the external (behaviours and actions) for the purpose of advancing the common good. The model was created by Center founder Dr. Bill Grace based on his formal leadership research and personal passions around faith and ethics. Figure 1: 4-V Model of Ethical Leadership ? ? ? ? Values. Ethical leadership begins with an understanding of and commitment to our individual core values. By first discovering the values at the core of our identities, we begin the process of integrating our unique values with our choice-making on all levels of our personal and civic lives. Vision. Vision is the ability to frame our actions – particularly in service to others – within a real picture of what ought to be. Voice. Claiming our voice is the process of articulating our vision to others in an authentic and convincing way that animates and motivates them to action. Virtue. Understanding that we become what we practice, we foster virtue by practicing virtuous behaviour – striving to do what is right and good. In this way, we develop the character of virtue. In particular, virtue stands for the common good. Ethical leaders ask, â€Å"How are my values, vision and voice in keeping with the common good? † Principals of Ethical Leadership Peter G. Northouse has listed five principles of ethical leadership (4). You read "Ethical Leadership" in category "Papers" Actually the origins of these can be traced back to Aristotle. These principles provide a foundation for the development of sound ethical leadership: respect, serves, justice, honesty and community. Figure 2: Five Different Principals of Ethical Leadership (4) 1) Ethical leaders respect others Immanuel Kant argues that it is our duty to treat others with respect. One should treat others as ends in itself and never as means to an end. Beauchamp and Bowie (1988) pointed out that â€Å"Persons must be treated as having their autonomously established goals and must never be treated purely as the means to another person’s goals. † Leaders who respect also allow others to be themselves. They approach others with a sense of unconditional worth and value individual differences (Kitchener, 1984). Respect means giving credence to others’ ideas and confirming them as human beings. A leader should nurture followers in becoming aware of their own needs, values, and purposes. Respect means that a leader listens closely to their subordinates, is empathetic, and tolerant to opposing views. When a leader exhibits respect, subordinates feel competent about their work. 2) Ethical leaders serve others Serve others is based on the concern for others (Ethical egoism) and also an example of altruism. Example of this can be observed in mentoring, empowerment, behaviours, and team building. Serving others is a similar concept to the â€Å"Beneficence† that is taught to health professionals. Senge contended that one of the important tasks of leaders in earning organizations is to be a steward (servant) of the vision within the organization and highlights the importance of not being self-centered, but integrating one’s self or vision with the vision of the organization. 3) Ethical leaders are Just Justice demands that leaders place the issue of just at the center of their decision making. No one should be treated differently unless their particular situa tion demands it and if that is the case, then the rules for differential treatment should be made clear. Good leaders are those who never have favourites and will treat all the employees equally. The golden rule (Rawls, 1971) is to â€Å"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you† (5). The principles of distributive justice includes: ? To each person, and equal share. ? According to individual needs. ? According to that person’s rights. ? According to individual efforts. ? According to societal contribution. ? According to merit. 4) Ethical leaders are honest Being honest is not just about telling the truth. It has to do with being open with others, representing reality as fully and a completely as possible. There are times of course where telling the complete truth can be destructive and counterproductive. The challenge is to strike a balance. It is important for leaders to be authentic, but sensitive to the attitudes and feelings of others. Dalla Costa (1998) made a point in the Ethical Imperative book (6). â€Å"Do not promise what you can’t deliver, do not misrepresent, do not hide behind spin-doctored evasions, do not suppress obligations, do not evade accountability, do not accept the ‘survival of the fittest’ pressures† 5) Ethical leaders build community Leadership is often defined as the â€Å"process of influencing others to reach a common or communal goal. This definition has a clear ethical dimension. The common goal implies that leaders and followers agree on the directions of the group. Ethical leadership demands attention to civic virtue (Rost, 1991). This means that both leaders and followers need to attend to community goals and not just their mutually determined goals. Ethical Leadership in an Organization Following are the key elements of et hical leadership in organizations and these must be served in the organization to develop the ethical culture which leads to the nourishment of organization as well as of employees. Modelling Ethics If you want your workers to behave ethically, you must behave in that manner. Serve as a model of ethics for your workers by telling them that you expect them to behave in an ethical manner and doing so yourself. For example, if the opportunity to gain advantage over a competitor presents itself, but this advantage would have to be obtained in an unethical manner, decline the opportunity and stick to your principles. Giving Employees Voice Ethical organizations value all employees. Show your workers that they are more than just numbers but instead valuable parts of your business by empowering them and giving them a voice in your decision-making process. Establish a comment box and create an open-door policy in which you encourage all workers to come to you with issues of concern. Considering Impact of Decisions While it can be difficult to see past the bottom line when making decisions that relate to your business, doing so is necessary if you are seeking to establish a workplace rich in ethics. Before making any decision, consider the impact that that decision could have on your employees and customers and allow the degree of this impact to inform your decisionmaking process. Promoting Community Involvement While your business has no requirement to be involved in the community, doing so is an ethical choice. Donate goods to area charitable organizations, and encourage employees to volunteer their time. Offer an incentive to employees who volunteer, such as allowing them to do so while technically on the clock or making it a point to publicly recognize employees who are giving of their time. Responsible Sourcing When seeking goods necessary to make your product or complete the services you perform, source them responsibly. Consider where each of these products comes from, and do business only with other companies that, like you, have ethical principles in play within the workplace. For example, if you discover that one of the providers of the products you use regularly is not providing its employees with safe working conditions, seek another vendor to separate yourself from this fellow business owner who is not behaving ethically. The Importance of Ethical Leadership One of the survey conduct by the Corporate Executive Board released data showing companies with strong ethical cultures, open communication and managers who model corporate values, delivered shareholder returns that averaged 5 percent higher than peers; improved worker productivity of more than 12 percent. And such companies were 67 percent less likely to observe instances of business misconduct than those at companies with low integrity cultures. So from this example we can say that how crucial is the ethical leadership in various rganizations. The following are the some more reasons why ethical leadership is very much important in organizations. 1. Ethical leadership models ethical behaviour to the organization and the community. Leaders are role models. If you want your organization or initiative – and those who work in it – to behave ethically, then it’s up to you to model ethical behaviour. A leader – and an organi zation – that has a reputation for ethical behaviour can provide a model for other organizations and the community, as well. 2. Ethical leadership builds trust. Leadership – except leadership gained and maintained through the use of force and intimidation – is based on trust. People will follow an ethical leader because they know they can trust him to do the right thing as he sees it. 3. Ethical leadership brings credibility and respect, both for you and the organization. If you’ve established yourself as an ethical leader, individuals and groups within and outside the organization, will respect you and your organization for your integrity. 4. Ethical leadership can lead to collaboration. Other organizations will be much more willing to collaborate with you if they know that you’ll always deal with them ethically. 5. Ethical leadership creates a good climate within the organization. If everyone in the organization knows that power will be shared and not abused, that they’ll be dealt with respectfully and straightforwardly, that they’ll have the power to do their jobs, and that the organization as a whole will operate ethically in the community, they’re likely to feel more secure, to work well together, and to be dedicated to the organization and its work. . If you have opposition, or are strongly supporting a position, ethical leadership allows you to occupy the moral high ground. This is especially important if your opposition is ethical as well. You can look very small in comparison if your ethical standards are not up to theirs, discrediting your cause and alienating your allies. 7. Ethical leadership is simply the right way to go. Every one has an obligation to themselves, to their organization, to the community, and to society to develop a coherent ethical system that seeks to make the world a better place. Leaders, for the reasons already stated, and because of the responsibilities of leadership, have a particular obligation in this respect. 8. Ethical leadership affords self-respect. Because you know that you consistently consider the ethics of your decisions, actions, and interactions, you can sleep at night and face yourself in the morning without questioning your own integrity. How to become ethical leader? The following are examples of values. You might use these as the starting point for discussing values within your organization: ambition, competency, individuality, equality, integrity, service, responsibility, accuracy, respect, dedication, diversity, improvement, enjoyment/fun, loyalty, credibility, honesty, innovativeness, teamwork, excellence, accountability, empowerment, quality, efficiency, dignity, collaboration, stewardship, empathy, accomplishment, courage, wisdom, independence, security, challenge, influence, learning, compassion, friendliness, discipline/order, generosity, persistency, optimism, dependability, flexibility As a leader, choose the values and the ethics that are most important to you, the values and ethics you believe in and that define your character. Then live them visibly every day at work. Living your values is one of the most powerful tools available to you to help you lead and influence others. Don’t waste your best opportunity. Psychologist James Rest identified four psychological components which are very important for becoming an Ethical Leader and to be morally mature: moral sensitivity, moral judgment, moral motivation, and moral character. So to become an ethical leader, person must have the traits and principals which are explained above. Conclusion Leadership is a privilege and a responsibility that demands a good deal from those who have it, whether formally or informally. High on that list of demands is the need to be ethical, both in personal life and in leadership. Because leaders are role models whether they choose to be or not, they set the tone for the ethical stance of their individual followers, of the organization or group they lead, and, to some extent, of the larger community. Ethical leadership requires from the leader a coherent ethical framework that will guide her decisions and actions all the time, not only in specific situations. Among the most important of the characteristics that define an ethical leader are openness and honesty; the willingness to make the discussion of ethical issues and decisions a regular part of the organizational or group conversation and culture; the urge to mentor others o lead; the drive to maintain and increase competence; the capacity to accept and seriously consider feedback, both positive and negative; the ability to put aside personal interest and ego in the interest of the cause or organization; the appropriate use of power, which is never abused or turned toward the leader’s own ends. â₠¬Å"A man without ethics is a wild beast loosed upon this world. † By Albert Camus References 1. Michel Dion, (2012) â€Å"Are ethical theories relevant for ethical leadership? † Leadership Organization Development Journal, Vol. 33 Iss: 1, pp. 4 – 24. 2. By Karinlynn, Sep 2008, â€Å"Deontological vs. Teleological Ethical Systems†. 3. Robert Greenleaf, â€Å"The Servant as Leader (Minnesota: The Robert K. Greenleaf Center, 1970)†. 4. Peter G. Northouse Nov 2008, â€Å"Introduction to Leadership: Concepts and Practice†. 5. John Rawls, (1971) â€Å"A Theory of Justice† Harvard University Press. 6. John Dalla Costa 1998 â€Å"The Ethical Imperative: Why Moral Leadership Is Good Business†. 7. Bill Grace, (1990) â€Å"The 4-V Model of Ethical Leadership†. 8. Chris Raymond, (2011) â€Å"Ethical Leadership in a Global Marketplace†. 9. B. M. Bass Steidlmeier, (1999) â€Å"Ethics, character and authentic transformational leadership behaviour†. Leadership Quarterly, 10(2), 181-217. 10. K. S. Kitchener, (1984) â€Å"Intuition, critical evaluation and ethical principles: The foundation for ethical decisions in counselling psychology†. Counselling Psychologist, 12(3), 43-55. 11. P. Senge, (1990). â€Å"The fifth discipline: The art and practice of the learning organization†. New York: Doubleday. How to cite Ethical Leadership, Papers

Saturday, December 7, 2019

Comedy sci

Comedy sci-fi with action Essay The voiceover is very standard and familiar voiceover that is used to in many film trailers. It is typically recognisable as it is deep and distinctive. The accent is American and has a serious tone.  The voiceover in The Little Mermaid is used right through the whole trailer. It tells the story in a fairytale like way starting with the classic once upon a time. Near the end there is the use of alliteration dozens of delightful new Disney characters. This makes the trailer seem memorable and stays in the viewers mind, therefore enticing them to go and see the film. The voiceover is still the typical voiceover that is normally used but the tone is instead buoyant and jovial. This reflects the type of genre meaning it is a fun film that is packed with lots of adventure and exciting moments. In Men in Black the voiceover is only used to give you extra information about the film. This is because the audience it is targeted at (twelve to sixteen) are at an age that can put the scenes together to work out the plot of the play. A voiceover is not needed to tell the audience what the film is about. However, The Little Mermaid has a much younger target audience (two to ten), and so it is easier for them to understand the storyline if it is told by the voiceover. The last information given at the end of a trailer is always significant. In Men in Black the last thing you see is the title. This is also the same in The Little Mermaid and Unbreakable. It is the last thing that you see and the main thing you will remember from the trailer. The name of the film is put at the end so when a person think about seeing a film because they remember the name, it will also gradually help them remember the trailer and in effect making them want to go and see the film. There are certain things in the trailers that constantly remind the person watching it the genre of the film. An example is in The Little Mermaid. Because it is an animated adventure, it has the bold bright colours of the animation. The trailer shows clips of the villain suggesting there will be an adventure. The hundreds of characters and fun packed clips imply the film is fun and exciting.  The genre for the Men in Black is a comedy sci-fi with action. The constant reminders and hints of this are through the scenes packed with humour and also the scenes with the aliens in it. The indirect reminders are through the fast moving packed clips that support the action part of the genre. The frantic and exciting soundtrack also supports this. In Unbreakable, the genre is a supernatural thriller. The scenes are strange and dramatic at some points and seem to catch the eye. In the short scenes there appears to be a lot of questions asked which links to the idea of the supernatural, the unknown. The short scenes that seem to keep you in suspense and the cliffhanger at the end ties in with the thriller part of the genre. The fact that there is no music in the trailer but just eerie sounds also hints the thriller and supernatural elements in the film. All three films trailers have key images that are significant in the film and help link all the parts of the trailer together. The key image in The Little Mermaid trailer is the waves in the background. This plays a very important part in the trailer because the story of The Little Mermaid is set under the sea.  The key image in the Men in Black is the flashes that help link the changing short clips together. In the Unbreakable trailer is the shattering glass which ties in with the title, as the story is about a man who cannot get hurt and so is unbreakable whereas the shattering glass contrasts to this. .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef , .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .postImageUrl , .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef , .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef:hover , .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef:visited , .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef:active { border:0!important; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef:active , .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ub9642a539ded4826c4644806bfb841ef:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Don't tell mother EssayAll three film trailers are very well made as they all have a unique selling point (USP). This is a factor that makes a film different from others in the same genre. All the trailers focus heavily on the target audiences and genres of the films. Because trailers are part of a teaser campaigns, the main object of them is to make the audience watching it want to go and see the film. In order to do this they need unique selling points. Men in Black uses many factors to attract its target audience, these includes the type of film itself. Whereas sci-fi films are usually serious, it combines sci-fi with comedy. The storyline is also very different; the thought of aliens living as humans helps us see things from a different angle and lets our imagination go crazy. The idea also of a secret agency that is kept hidden by the government is very interesting to think about and questions our understanding of what is and isnt reality. The Little Mermaid attracts its target audience in many different ways. The first is the storyline. The fact that Ariel (the little mermaid the story is about) is a fish is very interesting and the setting as well under the sea. This gives scope for a childs imagination to explore. You also have the classic love story but because of the storyline and setting, it differentiates it from other romantic Disney animated classics. The Unbreakable trailer uses certain factors to attract its audience. This is probably the suspense it creates and the way it leaves you with a cliffhanger and unanswered questions. The storyline also, this is the idea of someone who is like superman because they cannot get hurt. The use of supernatural elements makes you curious and you seem to want certain questions answered.  All three film trailers are successful in attracting the audiences and constantly tell you about the genre of the film.

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Violence On Television; Sexual Perversion; Suicide; Aids Essays

Violence On Television; Sexual Perversion; Suicide; Aids XXX America today. Ponder with me that phrase for a second. 14 year olds having sex; Violence on Television; Sexual perversion; Suicide; AIDS. It simply saddens the heart. Our society is lost. Wondering pointlessly in a maze of empty sorrow. Fathers abandon their families because they suddenly decide they are gay, or some *censored* like that. A young mother in high school with herpes. Abortion. Shit is on every channel of the television. OUR CHILDERN ARE KILLING EACH OTHER IN SCHOOL. What the hell is this. Well, we make gay marriages legal. We hand out condoms in school. We show horrid violence in every living room. Heck, a mother can kill her own child if she feels like it. Why is society so wack? When an evil arises, we shun it. But slowly, over time society becomes desensitized to it. Rules are disregarded, morals forgotten. This process ends in acceptance; Basically, we end up legalizing *censored* that was considered unthinkable 40 years ago. Some call it progress. I hate it. This process has created a lost generation that doesn't know what to think. In the short story X, Lois Gould quaintly tackles the issue of gender stereotyping. ?Once upon a time, a baby named X was born. It was named X so that nobody could tell whether it was a boy or girl.? This silly little essay Xplains how to raise an X. The child is allowed to develop traits on it own, without the ?hindrance? of gender pressures. X is allowed to be itself. ?Other children have to obey silly rules, because their parents taught them to. Lucky X- you don't have rules at all! All you have to do is be yourself.? Think of your deepest and darkest thoughts. Would you want everyone to run around being his or her true, primal self? The last thing we want to do is abolish the rules; rip the moral fabric of society. We don't want to see our true and undisciplined selves. We have already seen Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold of Littleton, CO, be themselves. Humanity is inherently evil. There is just too much evidence to say otherwise. What the lost generation needs is strong moral foundation forged by loving parents. A parents' job is not to be entirely accepting. Two year olds should not be allowed to do what they please. A child is a diamond in the rough. It takes powerful cutting tools to chisel out a perfect stone. Young X is being raised in a wishy-washy manner. It will not become a diamond. Men have always been leaders over the household. This age old system has been in effect since the beginning of time. It has produced strong generations of moral men and women. Wishy-washy men are bad leaders; they are the reason for the women's rights movement. Men weren't being men. So the women stepped in. (Progress?) I think X might grow up to be the kind of person who doesn't know who he or she is, or what sex he or she prefers. This question was posed: ?is a world of little X's running around is something we should strive for? (Quiz #7). I say no. Regardless, it has already happened. We have a generation were rules a re disregarded and morals forgotten. A generation of X's. Generation X. Lois Gould's sort story may seem docile, but the kinds of attitudes presented in it are part of the desensitizing process. It is the little attitudes that seem harmless that do the most damage. ?Lucky X- you don't have rules at all!? Lets raise boys and girls who know who they are, and who know the rules. A new generation; one that asks: Y? Y do we allow violence on television? Y am I afraid to go to school? Y do we put up with all this *censored*? Philosophy

Monday, November 25, 2019

Limestonr Doorway From the Palace essays

Limestonr Doorway From the Palace essays During the Nineteenth Dynasty a great many changes started to happen in Egypt. In the year 1225 BC King Ramses II had died at the age of over ninety leaving the throne to his thirteenth son Merenptah (IV.150). When Merenptah began his rule he was well into his later years in life, approximately in his mid fifties. Although Merenptah only reigned for roughly ten years, his days were filled will both battle and rejoice many that have shaped artifact imagery that has been uncovered within the past century. One particular artifact that I would like to describe can be found at the University Museum of Archeology and Anthropology at the University of Pennsylvania. The piece is a limestone doorway from the palace of King Merenptah at Memphis (see Appendix A). This piece represents one of six identical doorways in King Merenptahs palace. The doorway is covered with hieroglyphics that tell many stories of Merenptahs life and symbolic features of Egypt. Before I can describe the details of the hieroglyphs, a brief history of Merenptahs reign should be told. This history develops when the king took office, through his many battles over past grudges and territorial locations, and where and how he died. When Merenptah took over as the head of Egypt, his father Ramses II had left many territorial battles unfinished and in disputes with foreign national leaders. Records show that after Ramses II passed, no wartime outbreaks occurred immediately, but just three years after Merenptah assumed reign there was a widespread revolt against the new king (I.465). Several groups claimed war against Egypt including a group in Asia, the Yenoam and Gezers in Ajalon, and the Askalons at the gates of Egypt. Despite the kings old age, Merenptah fought battles against the Yenoams, Asians, Askalons, Gezers, and also the Hittiles who were a great enemy of Ramses II. All battles were successfully won and the king had gained the r...

Friday, November 22, 2019

An Analysis Of The Asean Regional Forum Politics Essay

An Analysis Of The Asean Regional Forum Politics Essay The end of the Cold War brought a fundamental change of security environment in Asia. As the East-West confrontation ended, US security policies became unclear. A power vacuum had been created in the region after the Soviet armed forces withdrew from Far East and Indochina, and the Chinese political influence was rapidly increasing. A multilateral forum for regional security was therefore ASEAN’s solution to the challenges that arose. In spite of the end of the Cold War, Asia still had problems such as tension on the Korean Peninsula, territorial disputes over the Spratly Islands, civil war in Cambodia and tension across the Taiwan Straits. These were problems that posed the threat of becoming severely destabilizing factors in the region. Although the United States had become the world’s only military superpower, in terms to burden sharing, its domestic economic problems as well as the global nature of all its affairs placed more demand on Asian countries. Therefore, A sian nations were preoccupied with this new set of circumstances in terms of security and how to get through the post-Cold War transitional period, while maintaining stability in Asia and ensuring its further development. The fundamental views of that emerged in the context of the above security threat were: In an uncertain post-Cold War era, promotion of confidence-building measures among Asian countries will be increasingly necessary. The Asia Pacific region will soon be facing new global issues such as the environment, terrorism, and drug trafficking. In order to address such issues, a regional cooperative framework is crucial and should be enhanced. The late 1980s and early 1990s marked a period of strategic shifts and uncertainty for Southeast Asia. Incorporating China and Japan into the web of interdependence with the rest of the region became imperative. It was recognised that United States’ engagement in the Asia Pacific region is indispensable for the stability and p rosperity of the region. Thus, the ARF emerged. The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) is the principal forum for security dialogue in Asia, complementing the various bilateral alliances and dialogues. It provides a setting in which members can discuss current regional security issues and develop cooperative measures to enhance peace and security in the region. It draws together 27 countries which that include the 10 ASEAN member states (Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam). To begin with, it is not hard to miss that the ARF’s scope in terms of its member states goes far beyond South East Asia such that it includes a large number the developed and emerging powers of the world. In my view, this is an important characteristic of the ARF, which makes it unique compared to other security forums around the world. The reason behind this could be the idea of collective security. Most conflicts tend to involve national interests of major powers of the world. Therefore, their inclusion in the forum in a way ensures their consent or commitment towards peace and stability in the region. Formation of the ARF The ASEAN Regional Forum was primarily the outcome of states’ response to regional security problems that emerged post Cold War. The reasons for its formation can be looked via the two contrasting lenses of Realism and Idealism in order to grasp a wider interpretation. According to Realism, state action is a result of it national interests and a constant â€Å"security dilemma† that it faces. The concern for â€Å"security† motivates states to behave in a certain way, which in this case, was to come together and form a multilateral institution. Post-Cold War, there was a concern about changing strategic situation of South East Asia, wherein there was the fear that the attention and aid that the United States had showered during and before the Cold War would wane away. Moreover, the rapidl y rising power of China was extremely worrisome and there was still a trust deficit that existed among the ASEAN countries and Japan- a hangover of Second World War ASEAN saw the ARF as a way to keep the US in, and China and Japan down. Moreover, the ARF could be seen as ASEAN’s way to maintain a â€Å"balance of Power† among the South East Asian Nations themselves.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Emergence of China as a Global Trading Power Essay

Emergence of China as a Global Trading Power - Essay Example When the latest economical growth and development of new emerging countries is discussed, two countries' names emerge from nowhere. These are India and China. The growth in the trade sector of these two countries is surprisingly enormous. If this is partly due to development in the area of science and technology, there is much also that goes for a number of reforms, changes, and redefinition of trade policies and international trade relations. Moreover, there is much on the credit of Chinese distinctive cultural and management practices which makes this country a unique case study (Menkhoff and Gerke, pp. 87-89, 2002). The present paper looks at the issue of the development of China in the business world of the recent times; China is "likely to demand a strong voice in the WTO" due to its major role in present day trade operations (Kennedy, p. 75, 2002). The paper, hence, undertakes extensive research to investigate the causes for the development of China in trade regimes. The paper explicitly brings forward the number of theories of trade which have anyhow any link to the present growth of China in worldwide trade. At the end of the paper, the study analyses the data qualitatively and makes suggestions and recommendation in the light of the causes of trade growth of China. These suggestions and recommendations are meant to contribute to the existing literature of trade theories and development; as well as, they focus to contribute to a broader understanding of Chinese growth. They are also meant to focus those countries which may need to follow China for the economical growth. Trade Theories Reviewed A number of theorists have worked out different theories of trade to cope up with the challenges of trade. These theorists have asked such questions as can help trade to be more profitable, more expedited, more powerful, and so on. This section reviews major trade theories in order to bear a groundwork which is, according to the viewpoint of the present writer, necessary to comprehend China's growth in the recent scenario of trade. Classical economist seem to have defended the Mercantilists' view that the export of a country should be put to as much increase as possible; on the other hand, the imports of that country should be put to as much decrease as possible. According to Grimwade (2000), it was obviously possible only for one country because "one country's export surplus is another country's import deficit" which makes import and export both a requisite function of across-border trade (p. 30). Another objection was made to Mercantilism was that dumping large reserves of gold does not make a country wealthier because gold does not provide the citizens for "goods which could satisfy their wants" (p. 30). Thus, this trend met a death due to its zero-sum philosophy of trade. Next is the comparative advantage. According to this theory (by Smith), differences in costs as the bases for business are identified. To this Grimwade

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

The Essence of Arguments Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Essence of Arguments - Essay Example These rules include distinguishing the premises and conclusions, presenting the ideas in a natural order and use of reliable premises (Weston, 2009). They also entail the use of definite and concrete language, as well as consistent terms and a single meaning for the terms used. Weston also addresses common logical fallacies in the final chapter of the book including ad hominem, ad populum, ad ignorantiam and ad misericordiam. I found A Rulebook for Arguments to be very informative and thought provoking. The non-Christian bias presented when arguing the existence of God was a little distracting for me. However, the book is an excellent guide to improving ones argument strategies applicable in both personal and professional environments. Managers are in a position that requires presentation of ideas to be adopted by the workforce. Therefore, it is necessary for managers to think critically, construct a sound argument and communicate their position effectively. In addition, the book is useful to any manager who intends to improve on their argumentation skills. The book is applicable to problem-solving since it emphasizes critical

Saturday, November 16, 2019

The Comparison and Feature Similarities Essay Example for Free

The Comparison and Feature Similarities Essay Now comes the interesting part, distinguishing how two completely different advertisements use similar features and techniques to sell products and also compare their varied approach to the reader first lets just pick out the similarities and discuss why these similarities may have occurred;  Use of images, very common, both have images present and also bold fonts and titles that stand out against their background colour  Use of beautiful people both people used in the adverts have white teeth are not over weight etc  Both contain the logo of their product somewhere in the advert, and also the logos both seem to be situated towards the end of the advert  Both people in the image are in their natural state for that particular time, in the morning for breakfast, and at night ready for bed, the attire of both people is nothing exceptional and this will relate to all the ordinary people reading the advert. We can see that these similarities mainly relate to the images and the people in the images. This is because the editor needs to make the reader feel special and no different from the any one else and that what Ruby Wax or the lady from the Kelloggs advert does can be done by the reader in just the same way, whether it means having the same furniture, or eating the same cereal, people always find celebrity related products make them exceptional from the others. Comparison  Now lets compare the few features that are in both and see how they differ and why this may be;  There is a lot less colour used in the Kelloggs advert compared to the MFI one, this maybe because in the furniture world colour schemes play a big role and the last thing people want is the wrong colour couches for example. Whereas in the world of cereal colour is not such a big issue whereas taste would be the same thing for Kellogg but the other way round, but colour attracts attention when reading a magazine so this may be a flaw to the Kelloggs advert or maybe the MFI just has too much colour it depends. In the MFI advert there is far less text involved that in the Kelloggs one, this is because the main feature of furniture is how it looks, and the best way to sell furniture is to picture it, in full colour and matching its surroundings whereas in terms of cereal factual information such as nutrition details are required and the effects of the cereal, and time periods before you can see the results all add to the better chance of selling the product. Both adverts include a logo at the end of the advert so to speak, and this is a shared feature, they will both want the same result, this is for the reader to remember the name of the brand over all so at least if the name is remembered then all the details will follow when the person sees the name again.  Both scenarios are perfect all the place is tidy and matching in the MFI advert, and the same in the other not that there is much to be messy but the people are all clean, hair done brilliant smile etc, this adds to the attraction and also allows the reader to associate themselves with these people via the product. In both the adverts the positioning of the wording has to be just right, this especially true in the Kelloggs advert as I had identified that mapping theory, this would not be effective at all if the wording was not correctly positioned and also in the MFI advert, if the text was bang in the middle then that would spoil the view of the immaculate bedroom which is the MFI adverts key feature for attracting readers. So the text is place in the corner out of the way giving the main image plenty of space to be recognised. Conclusion So now after analysing two separate adverts we can get quite a clear image of how advertising works and how all its little features add up to successfully sell their product to the wide range of viewers out there, of course there are many different ways of selling a product and to be sure, we have only covered a small amount of the advertising world but from this assignment we have certainly understood how advertising works and the many ways there are to sell something and the many ways people can play with your mind to make you want what they are selling.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Assessing Issues of Gender in Social Work Practice: An Overview of the

Assessing Issues of Gender in Social Work Practice: An Overview of the De-feminization of the Female A better question would be to ask what we as a society can do to ensure that gender equality is not just an issue about men and women, but also an issue about the quality of humanity. "Every woman is birth-defective, an imperfect male begotten because her father happened to be ill, weakened, or in a state of sin at the time of her conception." ~ St. Thomas Aquinas Simone de Beauvoir's influential work, entitled The Second Sex, made mainstream society aware of women's rejection of the theories upon which her development and socialization were based. Through de Beauvoir's eyes we are privy to her perceptions of the injustices facing women, especially as women attempt to make their way in a male-dominated world. Her social criticisms range from the effects of socialization on female stereotypes and social norms to the imbalance of gender roles and patriarchal psychological theories on female development. She takes particular issue with Sigmund Freud's classical, psychoanalytic theory about human development. Some of her strongest criticisms are of Freud's psychosexual stages of development in which he seems to minimize or devalue female development, thus suggesting that women are sexually and socially inferior to men. The importance of what de Beauvoir is saying is that women's existence has been minimized, devalued, and left out of the psychoana lytic equation altogether in terms of development. While de Beauvoir chooses to study women in an existential perspective - taking into account her complete existence and environment - Freud has minimized the female experience to nothing more than inherent envy for the male org... ...n authority, but also to answer those questions when in authority. References Benjamin, J. (1995). Sameness and Difference: The "Overinclusive" Model. Psychoanalytic Inquiry 15(1), 125-142. Davis, L. (1985). Female and Male Voices in Social Work. Social Work. March-April. 106-112. Gilligan, C. (1982). In A Different Voice: Psychological Theory and Women's Development. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. Goldman, E. (1917). The Traffic in Women and Other Essays on Feminism. New York, NY: Mother Earth Publishing Association. Horney, K. (1967). Feminine Psychology. New York, NY: W.W. Norton and Company, Inc. Paglia, C. (1992). Sex, Art, and American Culture. New York, NY: Vintage Books. Paglia, C. (1994). Vamps and Tramps. New York, NY: Vintage Books. Schultz, D. (1990). Theories of Personality. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Incorporated.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Regulatory Paper: EMTALA

The health care industry has many regulations to ensure proper care is given, information is protected, and organizations are operating properly. The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act statue of 1986 is no exception. In the following the EMTALA law will be explained with its purpose, how it is enacted, key points of information about the law, consequences for failing to abide the law, and how this regulation affects many different aspects, including the management of employees, resources, patients and the health care sector itself.Established in 1986, by Congress, the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act as part of Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) of 1985 (ACEP, n. d. ). EMTALA was initially created to prevent what is known as â€Å"patient dumping†, the transfer of uninsured or underinsured patients from private to public hospitals solely based on the patients’ inability to pay. The intent was to ensure everyone had access to emergency medical treatment and is now known as one of the most comprehensive regulations regarding the guarantee of medical care in a hospital, in addition to emergency care (Emergency, 2001).Investigations of violations of the law are the responsibility of the HCFA and the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services (Emergency, 2001). Any hospital or physician not complying with requirements of the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act can face strong consequences and large fines. The fine for negligently violating EMTALA can reach $50,000 for a hospital or physician, except hospitals who have less than 100 beds, whose fine is limited at $25,000 (ACEP, n.d. ).A non-direct consequence consists of the hospital or physician being revoked from eligibility of the Medicare program (O’Shea, 2007). Although this consequence is not very likely to occur, it still is a very serious possibility. The American Medical Association conducted a Patient Care Phy sician Survey in 2001 with the following facts (O’Shea, 2007): In a typical week of practice more than 95% of emergency department physicians will provide EMTALA covered care.More than 30% of all physicians will provide EMTALA covered care in a typical week. On average, EMTALA covered care makes up 22. 9 hours of an emergency medicine physician’s week and 9. 7 hours of a surgeon’s week. These are important facts for employees to understand because it shows how often EMTALA covered care will be presented to a hospital each week. As with most things in life, the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act has both positive and negative effects on the different aspects of the health care world.EMTALA provides the additional tasks of ensuring employees are properly trained and properly handling and executing situations. It can be debilitating on resources as the patients are uninsured or underinsured and will not have the ability to pay for the services obtained. For patients, EMTALA is a very positive regulation that provides the ability to receive the health care services needed, without the added stress to produce insurance coverage or the money before they are able to receive care.As far as the affect of health care in general it can be debilitating and overwhelming because many patients who lack health insurance coverage attend the emergency room because they have the right to an exam rather than utilizing a primary care physician who could deny services due to nonpayment. The Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act is a complex law that has the intention of protecting the patient, regardless of who they are or what they may possess.Although many may suggest that there is room for improvement, based on the amount of money lost from nonpaid bills of patients’ care protected by EMTALA, it nonetheless serves the purpose of its intention. Employees should be able to understand what the law is, the law’s purpose and who enacts it , key facts about EMTALA, consequences of failing to comply and how the regulations affect management of employees, resources, patients and health care.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Antz – the Bread Factory Marketing Plan

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila College of Management and Entrepreneurship MARKETING PLAN FOR ANTZ – THE BREAD FACTORY In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Subject Retail Marketing By: de Dios, Rizcel B. Dizon, Maralon S. Duhaylungsod, Ram Joseph M. Fabi, Francis Jayvincent P. Gabriel, Aira Migelle Igcasenza, Nestine N. Medallo, Renz Harvey M. Parallag, Jemeremiah I. Rivera, Sear Jan L. Professor Angelo Alfonso Abejero March 2012 I. Company Information A. Trade Name of Retail Business Antz – The Bread Factory B. Nature of Business Antz – The Bread Factory is a self-service bakeshop, engaged in offering freshly baked breads.And last year it launched its new branches with a new business concept of â€Å"BAKESHOP ON WHEELS†, which is a limited service bakeshop offering Antz’s certified original breads. C. Corporate Address AHD Foods Corporation 2nd Floor Dolmar Gold Tower, #107 C. Palanca St. Legaspi Village Makati 1200, Philippines D. D ate/Year of Establishment AHD Foods Corporation opened the first store branch of Antz – The Bread Factory in February, 2008. E. Number of Branches and Locations Antz – The Bread Factory has five operating branches: 1. SM Sta. Rosa, Laguna ( mall branch, bakeshop with dine-in) 2. SM Hypermart, Las Pinas (mall branch) . Bluewave, Macapagal Ave. , Pasay City (bakeshop on wheels) 4. DLSU, Vito Cruz, Manila (bakeshop on wheels) 5. Pioneer Centre, Mandaluyong City (bakeshop on wheels) II. Environmental and Market Trends A. Socio-economic Changes Bread is one of man’s earliest foods. Today it is considered a staple food and part of the diet of almost all people all over the world. Commercial baking and other industries supporting it became big businesses and now constitute a large slice of the food industry. The industry is highly competitive; making it very difficult to start a new bakery, especially in cities. Related reading: Gardenia Marketing StrategyAn entrepreneur might consider buying an existing business or locating in a rural area. One of the fastest growing areas in the bakery business is the specialty franchise store, producing everything from donuts to complete product lines. Many bakers are incurring significant losses because of their inability to adjust bread prices because if they increase their prices, it might lead to a drop on sales. Philippine Association of Flour Millers had explained that it takes three months from purchase date for wheat to become flour due to shipping time from the United States.The Philippines buys its wheat mostly from the United States, so despite of the downward trend in wheat, flour still increases its price. Consumers perceive that small bakeries offer convenience, personal service, and fresher, better quality products. In general, bakery sales increase when consumer’s average incomes increase. B. Consumer Buying Behavior Affecting the B usiness Buying power or purchasing power of consumers depends on the changing environment and economic situation. More people prefer to eat out of home (OOH) because of busy working schedule and for their convenience.Customers, especially those who are employed, tend to choose and buy ready-to-eat foods that can satisfy their need in a quick manner, just like what is being offered in every bakeshop. Nowadays, majority of the populace are value maximizers; people want to ensure that every cent in they pay for the product is worth it —low price at the same time good quality products. There is a high demand for breads because of its affordability and the satisfaction it gives to its consumers. On site baking of some bakeshops became an edge because people are looking for freshly made breads.But there is a buying behavior that cannot be detached to Filipinos, this is impulse buying. People tend to buy products with appealing looks or packaging even though they do not intend and p lan to buy those items. Offerings that capture the attention of potential buyers can make it to the top. III. Competitive Environment The diagram will show the different key competitive factors that make a business thrive in the industry and market. It also shows the evaluation of the strategic group’s performance based on the key competitive factors. Key competitive Factors|Retail Brands| Store Layout/ Design| Competitive Price| Merchandise Offerings| Operation| Type of Promotion| Accessibility of the store| Goldilocks| >blue/yellow>visible menu boards and advertising materials| -low price level| -organized-easily accessible merchandise-wide variety of pastries and cakes| -mall hours-non-mall based stores, flexible hours| Media:>TV, Radio, Newspapers, Magazines, InternetNon-Media:>Flyers, Billboards> Effective promotion| >many operating branches In and out of malls>stores are located in high traffic areas| Red Ribbon| -red/black-dimmed ight> its design provides a romantic an d peaceful mood| -higher price compared to other bakeshops| -easily accessible merchandise-wide variety of pastries and cakes| -mall hours-non-mall based stores, flexible hours| Media:>TV, Newspapers, Magazines, InternetNon-Media:>Flyers> Effective promotion| >many operating branches in and out of malls>stores are located in high traffic areas| Bread Talk| -traditional bakeshop-sleek-space age| -high priced| -40-60 different items daily| -mall hours| >Word of mouth| >many operating branches in malls>stores are located in high traffic areas| Antz – The Bread Factory| -giant loaf bread store-unique storedesign| -mid-price level| -theatre style-see-through kitchens-enticing design of breads| -mall hours-non-mall based stores, flexible hours| Media:-Magazines-NewspaperNon-Media:-Flyers> Less promotional effort| >stores are located in high traffic areas| IV. Company’s Current Strategies A. Target market The profile of the Antz – The Bread Factory customer consists of the following geographic, demographic, psychographics, and behavior factors: Geographic: The geographic market would be urban dwellers in key cities in Mega Manila. Demographic: The primary target customers are those individuals (male and female) who belong to SEC B and C from all ages.Psychographic: The psychographic market would be busy, on-the-go. Behavior factors: * Looking for delicious varieties of breads (savory or sweet in taste) * Want to eat something different from greasy fast foods * Seeks healthier versions of quickly served foods * Searching for a bakeshop offering freshly baked breads B. Positioning * Positioning Statement To urban dwellers in key cities in Mega Manila, from all ages from SEC B – C, who are always busy, and on-the-go looking for delicious varieties of bread, want to eat something different and healthier version of fast foods, and searching for a bakeshop offering freshly baked breads.Antz – The Bread Factory is a (limited service) bakes hop is the Philippines’ fastest rising bakeshop and fast food that is first to introduce a bakeshop on wheels in Asia with its unique â€Å"Big Loaf Bread† store layout offering unique, healthy, and delicious flavored breads with internal man power composed of highly trained nutritionists/dieticians, culinary experts, chefs and bakers. * Positioning Strategy Antz – The Bread Factory offers a variety of healthy, tasty, affordable, freshly-baked breads to help our customers find refuge in today’s greasy fast food. C. Marketing Mix Strategies 1. Product and Merchandise Mix There are varieties of breads offered by Antz – The Bread Factory: * Loaves * Muffins * Fiesta Buns * Floss * Wraps * Ensaimada * Cluster * Other Breads 2. Pricing LOAVES Loaves| Price| Choco Loaf| Php 57. 00| Ube Swirl Loaf| Php 57. 00| Monggo Loaf| Php 57. 00|Raisin Loaf| Php 49. 00| Pandesal Loaf| Php 49. 00| Plain Loaf| Php 49. 00| Wheat Bread| Php 49. 00| MUFFINS Muffins| Price | Strawberry Muffins| Php 30. 00| Choco Pepermint Muffins| Php 30. 00| Orange Choco Muffins| Php 30. 00| FIESTA BUNS Fiesta Buns| Price| Coffee Bun| Php 26. 00| Choco Bun| Php 26. 00| Ube Bun| Php 26. 00| FLOSS Floss| Price| Majestic Pork Floss| Php 40. 00| Spicy Pork Floss| Php 40. 00| Chicken Floss| Php 40. 00| WRAPS Wraps| Price| Ham Wrap| Php 25. 00| Hotdog Wrap| Php 25. 00| PIZZA Pizza| Price| Mayon Pork BBQ| Php 52. 00| Braided Pizza| Php 49. 00| Hawaiian Pizza| Php 49. 00| Mini Lasagna | Php 35. 00| Mini Baked Mac| Php 29. 00|ENSAIMADA Ensaimada| Price| Plain Ensaimada| Php 27. 00| Ubesaimada| Php 27. 00| Macasaimada| Php 27. 00| CLUSTERS Clusters| Price| Monggo Cluster| Php 60. 00| Ubesai Cluster| Php 60. 00| Plain Ensai Cluster| Php 60. 00| Ube Cluster| Php 59. 00| OTHER BREADS Other Breads| Price| Beefy Bread| Php 37. 00| Chicky Bread| Php 35. 00| Porky Bread| Php 30. 00| Ham Cluster| Php 30. 00| Cheesy Cupcake| Php 30. 00| Tuna Bun| Php 27. 00| Cream Cheese Bun| Php 26. 0 0| Garlic Bread| Php 20. 00| Double Choco| Php 17. 00| Pan de Pandan| Php 17. 00| 3. Placement Antz – The Bread Factory does not only focus on having mall branches. Some outlets which are 50-120 sq. eter in commercial space are located at strategic, high foot traffic areas such as central business districts and commercial hubs. 4. Promotion AHD Food Corporation uses both media and non media approaches to advertise and promote Antz – The Bread Factory. Promotions are used to encourage and capture franchisers, at the same time to inform people about their enticing bread offerings. ADVERTISING * Print ads – newspaper and magazines, tarp * Packaging * Audio-visual materials * Symbols and logos SALES PROMOTION * Gifts PUBLIC RELATIONS * Sponsorship * Events 5. Service Strategy a. People Training * Antz – The Bread Factory gives its employees Management Development Programs and continuous training to make sure that its employees perform their best. b. Store Lay out Antz – The bread factory malls located branches have beautifully designed dine-in area and spacious counter with hip music and experiential services provides our customers an  atmosphere  of fun and exciting place to shop and dine. * Antz – The Bread Factory’s â€Å"bakeshop on wheels† branches are designed like a giant loaf of bread with 50-120 sq. m. commercial space. c. After-sales & Customer Service Strategy * Antz – The Bread Factory offers Delivery services, free bread on next visit of customers or thank you messages on bulk orders. V. Company Analysis A. Threats 1. There are many existing bakeshops in the Philippines making it difficult to start a new bakery especially in cities. 2. Inability to adjust bread prices due to the price hike of the bread’s main ingredients like flour, sugar. B. Opportunities 1.There is a big demand for bread here in the Philippines because bread serves as their secondary alternative for rice. 2. Fi lipinos are fond of sweet foods. 3. There is a large bracket of target market because bread is for a wide range of age, male or female. C. Strengths 1. Antz – The Bread Factory offers products that is unique and can only be found in the store. 2. Our Research and Development team compose of highly train individuals namely; nutritionist/dietician, culinary experts, chefs, and bakers. 3. The products are presented theatre style where the kitchen’s SEE-THROUGH design allows the customer to feel the freshness of each bread being made and served. 4. Branches in bakeshop on wheels have flexible operating hours. 5.The store layout of Antz – The Bread Factory bakeshop on wheels is well executed in a big loaf bread design. 6. Antz – The Bread Factory has a strong franchise relationship as member of the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA). D. Weaknesses 1. Antz – The Bread Factory is not well established. The bakeshop is not properly advertised. 2. We off er a product that is already available in the market. 3. Customers have to travel further to get in our stores because we have fewer branches. 4. The products we offer are not durable and can be easily blemished; it is the reason for some leftover. 5. Innovative products can be easily replicated. 6. The operating hours of bakeshop on wheels have no fix operating hours. 7.External employees of Antz’s franchises do not provide proper accommodation to the customers. VI. Marketing Objectives * To increase the number of franchised stores by 15. * To introduce new products to the market. * To increase annual sales by 10% per year * To increase the number of customers by 5% per year VII. Proposed Marketing Strategy A. Target Market Our proposed target market would be the same as the current target market of the company which are busy, on-the-go and health conscious individuals, but this time we will emphasize as our primary target market are the health conscious individuals and othe r urban dwellers as the secondary target market. Health conscious individuals- consists of athletes, parents who want to give their children healthy foods, those who want to maintain their physically fitted body and even those who are not physically fit but want to. †¢ Other urban dwellers- this segment pertains to all other on-the-go individuals, students, professionals, all community dwellers who want something different from greasy fast foods and seeking healthier version of quickly served foods. B. Positioning Strategy Antz – The Bread Factory offers a variety of healthy, tasty, affordable, freshly-baked breads to help our customers find refuge in today’s greasy fast food. C. Core Marketing Strategy 1. Product and merchandising mix Loaves| Loaf Plain| Pandesal Loaf| Raisin Loaf| Wheat Bread| Choco Loaf|Ube Swirl Loaf| Monggo Loaf| Muffins| Strawberry Muffins| Choco Pepermint Muffins| Orange Choco Muffins| Fiesta Buns| Coffee Bun| Choco Bun| Ube Bun| Floss| Maj estic Pork Floss| Spicy Pork Floss| Chicken Floss| Wraps| Ham Wrap| Hotdog Wrap| Pizza| Mayon Pork BBQ| Braided Pizza| Hawaiian Pizza| Mini Baked Mac| Mini Lasagna| Ensaimada| Plain Ensaimada| Ubesaimada| Macasaimada| Cluster| Monggo Cluster| Ube Cluster| Plain Ensai Cluster| Ubesai Cluster| Other Breads| Tuna Bun| Ham Cluster| Double Choco| Creamcheese Bun| Cheesy Cupcake| Garlic Bread| Pan de Pandan| Beefy Bread| Chicky Bread| Porky Bread| *NEW PRODUCT LINE* Fruit & Veggie Breads|Strawberry Glazed Bread| Melon Glazed Bread| Pineapple Glazed Bread| Banana Glazed Bread| Mango Glazed Bread| Malunggay Bread| Squash Bread| Carrot Bread| *BREADS IN BUNDLE* Antz – The Bread Factory will also offer breads in bundle. It will be the assortment of seven (7) breads and it’s the customers’ choice of what bread they put on the bundle. 2. Pricing LOAVES Loaves| Price| Choco Loaf| Php 57. 00| Monggo Loaf| Php 57. 00| Ube Swirl Loaf| Php 57. 00| Pandesal Loaf| Php 49. 00| Rasi n Loaf| Php 49. 00| Plain Loaf| Php 49. 00| Wheat Bread| Php 49. 00| MUFFINS Muffins| Price| Muffins| Php 30. 00| Strawberry Muffins| Php 30. 00| Choco Pepermint Muffins| Php 30. 00|Orange Choco Muffins| Php 30. 00| FIESTA BUNS Fiesta Buns| Price| Coffee Bun| Php 26. 00| Choco Bun| Php 26. 00| Ube Bun| Php 26. 00| FLOSS Floss| Price| Majestic Pork Floss| Php 40. 00| Spicy Pork Floss| Php 40. 00| Chicken Floss| Php 40. 00| WRAPS Wraps| Price| Ham Wrap| Php 25. 00| Hotdog Wrap| Php 25. 00| PIZZA Pizza| Price| Mayon Pork BBQ| Php 52. 00| Braided Pizza| Php 49. 00| Hawaiian Pizza| Php 49. 00| Mini Lasagna| Php 35. 00| Mini Baked Mac| Php 29. 00| ENSAIMADA Ensaimada| Price| Plain Ensaimada| Php 27. 00| Ubesaimada| Php 27. 00| Macasaimada| Php 27. 00| CLUSTERS Cluster| Price| Monggo Cluster| Php 60. 00| Ubesai Cluster| Php 60. 00|Plain Ensai Cluster| Php 60. 00| Ube Cluster| Php 59. 00| OTHER BREADS Other Breads| Price| Beefy Bread| Php 37. 00| Chicky Bread| Php 35. 00| Porky Bread| Php 3 0. 00| Ham Cluster| Php 30. 00| Cheesy Cupcake| Php 30. 00| Tuna Bun| Php 27. 00| Cream Cheese Bun| Php 26. 00| Garlic Bread| Php 20. 00| Double Choco| Php 17. 00| Pan de Pandan| Php 17. 00| *NEW PRODUCT LINE* Fruit & Veggie Breads| Price| Strawberry Glazed Bread| Php 43. 00| Melon Glazed Bread| Php 40. 00| Pineapple Glazed Bread| Php 40. 00| Banana Glazed Bread| Php 38. 00| Mango Glazed Bread| Php 38. 00| Malunggay Bread| Php 35. 00| Squash Bread| Php 35. 00 | Carrot Bread| Php 35. 00| *BREAD IN BUNDLES*Bundle pricing involves selling distinct multiple items offer together at a special prize. For Bread in Bundles, we will give ten (10) percent discount for a minimum of seven (7) breads purchase 3. Placement Strategy Since Antz – The Bread Factory is a member of the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) we propose to locate our franchised stores near the anchor stores to accumulate high traffic and to generate sales. D. Integrated Marketing Communication Strategies 1. Creati ve theme Nowadays people are exposed to greasy and unhealthy food especially those children who are fond of eating fast foods. They choose unhealthy foods over vegetables and fruits that can give positive effects in their body.Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential nutrients that strengthen the body, heal and repair damage, ward off sickness and fight diseases. â€Å"Antz, the provider of fresh and healthy breads† is the campaign for the year 2012. Antz will deliver vegetables and fruits infused breads that can satisfy the need of health conscious customers. Antz will not only offer freshly baked breads but also the nutrients that you can acquire from the vegetables and fruits. Vegetable and fruit breads are the newest offering of Antz that can give delicious experiences to a healthy diet. 2. Integrated Communications Program Based on the company analysis, Antz – The Bread Factory needs to improve its promotional effort to establish the company well in the mar ket.And the following promotional mix will be used to position the company on the bread industry. Advertising * Print Ads (Flyers and posters) – The flyers and posters contains the 2012 campaign which is â€Å"Antz, the provider of fresh and healthy breads. † The flyers and posters will be distributed and posted in high traffic areas and the existing branches of Antz – The Bread Factoy. * Audio Visual Materials (Jingle and Internet advertising) – The jingle will be played in every store branches to capture the attention of the customers. While in the internet advertising, audio visual presentations will be posted on our website and Facebook fanpage to regularly inform the target market about our campaign and new products.Public Relations * Sponsorship (For health oriented events and TV programs) – Antz – The Bread Factory will sponsorship health related events and programs to create a good publicity that will ignite the emotions of the marke t. * E-mail and Telemarketing – we will send a personal message through email for the potential prospects, to inform them about new offerings and events that will be held 3. Media Plan ACTIVITY| TIME FRAME| BUDGET| Distribution of flyers and posters| Every third month| Php 960,000. 00| Releasing audio-visual materials| End of the year| Php 16,000. 00| Sponsoring health-oriented events and TV programs| Every quarter| Php 360,000. 0| Inviting and informing potential prospects through internet| Every month| ———–| *applicable for 2 years Total: Php 1,336,000. 00 4. After-sales and Customer Service Strategy 1. People * Antz – The Bread Factory will provide a service training program that includes one (1) day orientation, three (3) days store management and marketing training, ten (10) days baker mastery, two (2) days cashier service training. * Antz – The Bread Factory will create a proper store dialogue that will surely attract more custo mers. 2. Store layout and design * Antz – The Bread Factory will improve store facade by adding more designs like glass, mirror and lights.We will also add music in the store so the customers will feel more comfortable. We will also create a unique scent to develop a somatic marker to our valued customers. 3. After sales and customer service strategy * Antz – The Bread Factory will give loyalty cards to our customers that give discount. * Antz – The Bread Factory give free breads for those who buy bulk orders. * Antz – The Bread Factory will impose a free delivery for bulk orders. Appendices Appendix A Sketch of the Veggie and Fruit Breads Appendix B Side view sketch of the proposed packaging Appendix C Top view sketch of the proposed packaging Appendix D Front view sketch of the proposed packaging

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Free Essays on Essay on Platos Republic

ESSAY FOR THE SELECTIONS FROM BOOK II OF PLATO’S REPUBLIC I think that Plato believed history had little significance. Although he was one of the Greek’s greatest political figures, I do not agree with his point of view. His form of censorship leads to the falsification of history. In Plato’s Republic, Plato talked about censorship. He wanted to change or remove lines from poems that made the gods look petty and cruel, and he would not allow stories that made the gods seem evil to be told in his city. He wanted to take these actions to keep the children and citizens of the city thinking that the gods would not do anyone any harm. His doctrine might sound good, but the censorship of literature leads to another kind of censorship, the alteration of history. Censorship seems to be on the rise again, in our period in history. Modern censorship is in the form of extreme â€Å"political correctness.† Some history books I’ve seen sugarcoat the truth in the name of political correctness. These books made huge massacres and battles involving several countries sound like little skirmishes between a couple of ‘people.’ We can not use the term ‘men,’ because the history books must to be ‘politically correctâ€⠄¢ these days. Some people believe that the term ‘men’ does not include the female portion of the human race. I strongly disagree with Plato’s doctrine regarding the treatment of history. Following his advice would hide the real facts behind historic events and could change their real significance.... Free Essays on Essay on Plato's Republic Free Essays on Essay on Plato's Republic ESSAY FOR THE SELECTIONS FROM BOOK II OF PLATO’S REPUBLIC I think that Plato believed history had little significance. Although he was one of the Greek’s greatest political figures, I do not agree with his point of view. His form of censorship leads to the falsification of history. In Plato’s Republic, Plato talked about censorship. He wanted to change or remove lines from poems that made the gods look petty and cruel, and he would not allow stories that made the gods seem evil to be told in his city. He wanted to take these actions to keep the children and citizens of the city thinking that the gods would not do anyone any harm. His doctrine might sound good, but the censorship of literature leads to another kind of censorship, the alteration of history. Censorship seems to be on the rise again, in our period in history. Modern censorship is in the form of extreme â€Å"political correctness.† Some history books I’ve seen sugarcoat the truth in the name of political correctness. These books made huge massacres and battles involving several countries sound like little skirmishes between a couple of ‘people.’ We can not use the term ‘men,’ because the history books must to be ‘politically correctâ€⠄¢ these days. Some people believe that the term ‘men’ does not include the female portion of the human race. I strongly disagree with Plato’s doctrine regarding the treatment of history. Following his advice would hide the real facts behind historic events and could change their real significance....

Monday, November 4, 2019

Detection of the Diurnal Rhythm of Cortisol Secretion Essay

Detection of the Diurnal Rhythm of Cortisol Secretion - Essay Example Irregular high levels of cortisol indicate stress in a patient’s case. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) utilises antibodies coupled to colour changes in order to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate substances in biological organisms’ fluid streams such as blood and saliva (Lequin, 2005) (De La Rica & Stevens, 2012). A competitive ELISA operates by competitive binding where the competition occurs between already bound antigens and standard added sample antigens. Competitive ELISA allows for strict quantification of results unlike other ELISA methods such as basic ELISA which is slightly quantitative (National Diagnostics, 2013). Cortisol detection requires the use of competitive ELISA since cortisol molecules are too small to be used with sandwich ELISA methods and need to be bound to carrier proteins. A competitive ELISA requires that the purified antigen be attached to the surface after which it is probed in the presence of similar free antigens labelled as samples. The free antigens are treated as the standard for comparison and tend to compete with the bound antigens which in turn lead to lower levels of bound antibodies. The samples are standard yields are then evaluated in order to discern quantitative comparisons (National Diagnostics, 2013). This is illustrated in the diagram provided below. Cortisol tends to pass into saliva relatively quickly so saliva samples from the same person are obtained at regular intervals over 24 hours. Saliva samples are labelled with the time when they are obtained. A microtitre plate is coated with just enough anti-cortisol antibody that can bind around half of the labelled cortisol added. Row eight is left uncoated in order to measure the non-specific binding of labelled cortisol for tubes without any antibody. In order to set up a calibration graph, a set of

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Rerum Novarum, especially its treatment of Socialism and Capitalism Essay

Rerum Novarum, especially its treatment of Socialism and Capitalism - Essay Example Consequently, it gives an opinion on the protection of property owned by individuals. The church promotes certain elements of capitalism while denouncing the extremist of the same ideology. The church gives socialism some sense of accommodation, though, only to the confines of providing collective support to the people, who are disadvantaged in terms of resource acquisition. However, most of the tendencies are of socialism are not championed and agitated for by the church. While the church encourages the state protection of property, it does not comment on social aspects that are owned collectively by the Society (Novarum 7). The state is viewed only as an agent of the rich, which is a characteristic of capitalism. Socialism does not promote the essence of work and wages a system that the church vehemently talks against. Reference is given to the works of the apostle Paul, who championed the essence of the work. To this end, socialism does not give much prominence as it is done for

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Employee Relations Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Employee Relations - Research Paper Example nd extends maximum opportunities to the employees to participate and furnish inputs in the organizational planning and decision making initiatives (Moynihan, 2008, p. 199). All the activities of an HR administrator need to be focused on the creation of effective performance leaders and extending motivation to employees. In that sense, in the contemporary health care organizations, the role of an HR administrator has graduated from merely being an evaluator to being a precursor and facilitator. Performance management is the key discipline that needs to be taken care of by the organizations striving to be leaders in terms of quality of patient care. Performance management involves a plethora of activities like goal setting, appraising performance, streamlining communication, extending coaching and feedback for enhancing performance, initiation and implementation of employee development programs, and rewarding achievements in a time and appropriate manner (Moynihan, 2008, p. 199). As a VP of HR in a health care institution, I came across multiple lacunas marring the performance management function in the organization I served. In an academic context it will be really interesting to delve on some of the salient performance management related faults I came across in my organization. One major performance management challenge faced by the organization in which I worked was a lack of clear purpose. Their did not exist any systematic mechanism for planning the organizational work and selecting pragmatic expectations, promptly rewarding good performance, placing a system for a continual monitoring of performance, extension of periodical feedback related to employee performance, and encouraging the development of a capacity to perform (Moynihan, 2008, p. 61). The organization simply lacked a clear perception of the factors that were critical to employee performance and a viable performance culture, based on individual accountability and a timely delivery of results

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

E-commerce Data Privacy & Security Literature review

E-commerce Data Privacy and Security - Literature review Example In 2001 most popular commercial website, collecting data from the customers, have clearly mentioned privacy policy statements on their websites (Schuele 2005). Moreover, some websites out of these most popular commercial sites have not published a complete privacy policy (Schuele 2005). 1.2 Emphasizing on Privacy One more study shows that online companies emphasize and focus more on online privacy policy rather than any other aspect. Even online security is considered as the second option. Moreover, the study also concluded that online customers are more worried about their privacy rather than online threats, as they are considered to be in control. In addition, the study also demonstrated a comparison between the two decades i.e. 1999-2001 and 2005-2007 which highlighted the factors that are mentioned previously (Parayitam, Desai et al. 2008). 1.3 Focusing on Customer Demands However, study concluded one interesting factor i.e. the rankings and ratings of policies created for Intern et continues to focus on demands of the web users. Moreover, consumer privacy continues to be on top in both the decades (Parayitam, Desai et al. 2008). The amplified awareness by the contributors i.e. legislators and advocates shows interest level is comparatively high. 1.4 Sugar Coating Privacy Policy Clauses It is very common for a web user seeking for a privacy policy will only able to read some pages mentioned in terms of points, applauses etc. In order to enhance customer experience with privacy policies, there must be an interactive medium via which customer can get awareness. Literature related to serious implication was also found, For instance, organizations construct the structure of sentences in a way that suits their legal rights. A study conducted by (Pollach 2007) shows that the structure of sentences in a privacy policy related to a typical online shopping website are sugarcoating data handling practices. They are foregrounding optimistic facets and at the same time back-grounding privacy incursions. 1.5 Approach From Corporate Organizations A study conducted by (Markel 2005). He concluded that corporate organizations gather personal information from their users on four core factors stated below: To provide value added services to special customers. For instance, history of customers reflects high profile of purchasing or selling products via the site. Moreover, these websites also provide forms, in order to register a customer so that he or she can access ‘only members’ portion of the website that may include special discounts and offers. Organizations also customize website contents and design according to the type of customer, in order to modify web experience. The customization is carried out as per customer’s interest that is extracted from the past history of buying and selling products. Moreover, in order to buy any product from the website, corporate organizations require shipping and billing information in order to sell the product to the web user. Corporate organization also trade customer information to third parties. This business activity is carried out to strengthen business relationships. The information can only be used for online marketing and advertisement purposes.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Billabong Business Report

Billabong Business Report Billabong was established in Queensland as a private company in 1973. In 2000 it was listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX), becoming a public company with shareholders. Over the years it has established operations across 4 continents with distribution to over 60 countries worldwide. Billabong has firmly established its brand at home and abroad with its focus on innovative yet functional products. Acquisitions of other brands such as Von Zipper, Element, Nixon and Honolua have helped the Company diversify their product range. The Company has managed to remain competitive in a receding global economy in the past year aided by strong growth sales in the Europe and Australasian sectors. Billabong employs over 1750 staff world-wide and has a strong commitment to all their stakeholders in terms of integrity and governance. (Cory, 2008, website) Introduction Founded on Australias Gold Coast in 1973 by surfer and surfboard shaper Gordon and Rena Merchant, Billabong has since established itself as a prominent Australian icon. The Company sprang from humble beginnings, with the couple designing boardshorts in their flat overlooking Burleigh Heads, cutting them out on the kitchen table and then carting the finished product around to the local surf shop to sell. Gordons no frills, practical approach to boardshort manufacturing paid dividends, as Billabong grew steadily until his little homespun factory literally burst at the seams. (Pacificshop, 2006, website) From those inauspicious early days the Company has grown rapidly to become a publicly listed international company. Today, Billabongs core business is the design, production, marketing, distribution, wholesaling and retailing (through shops and agencies owned by the Company) of surf, skate and skiing apparel; accessories; and eyewear. This report is an analysis of Billabong Internationa ls business framework. Business Model and Organisational Framework By the 1980s, Billabong had firmly cemented its place in Australian surf culture and was international expansion was in its sights. The Companys first international operation was established in the USA in 1983, followed by New Zealand in 1985 and Europe in 1987. A range of other international operations were established in subsequent years, with Japan opening in 2000 and Brazil in 2001. Through the 1990s the surf industry grew exponentially and professional surfing gained a newfound respectability. The Company also followed its core customers into other boardsports markets, including skate and snow, where it replicated its proven business model. By the close of the decade, Billabong had been restructured to capitalise on the growing global opportunities in all boardsports sectors. The restructure set the foundation for an initial public offering in Australia in mid 2000. The move saw the Companys shares publicly listed on the Australian Stock Exchange in August of that year. Shortly after the public float the Company demonstrated its growth plans with a number of acquisitions including Von Zipper sunglasses brand and the emerging Element Skateboards brand. The successful integration of those businesses saw the Company add to its stable of brands in following years, with Honolua Surf Company acquired in January 2004, Kustom footwear and Palmers Surf in September 2004, a controlling interest in the beach culture airport-retail business in November 2005 and Nixon watches and accessories in January 2006. Other businesses were also established, including the Element footwear range, the California-based Beachworks retail business and various branded concept stores around the world. (Global Village Partnerships, 2009, website) Business Mission/Vision Billabong Internationals values remain consistent with its foundation objectives, which include: a commitment to brand protection and enhancement the manufacture of design-relevant and functional products marketing in the core boardsports channels such as sponsorship of events and athletes, as well as advertising in selected print media to expand into new geographical markets to expand the product range, particularly in the core board sports and youth fashion markets the professional development of staff and ongoing customer service and relationships and to deliver returns to shareholders Leadership Gordon Merchant has consistently had a hands-on role in the designing, marketing and sales of for the Company and brand. He currently sits on the board of directors along with Derek OHYPERLINK javascript:;HYPERLINK javascript:;Neill the CEO, and Paul Naude the Executive Director. The other board members consist of: Ted Kunkel Margaret Jackson AC Allan McDonald Colette Paull Tony Froggatt (Billabongcorporate, 2009, website) Financial Position According to Billabongs full year financial report, the Companys profit for the year ended31st June 2009 was $160.2 million. This was down 9.2% from the same period last year. This is largely in line with the decline in the global economic activity over the past year. The decrease in net profit meant that earnings per share was also down 11.2%. Although net profit decreased, there was a rise in sales revenue. This was largely due to new acquisitions made by the Company and the adverse movement of the Australian dollar against other major currencies such as the US dollar and the Euro. Operations in North America felt the heaviest impact from the economic slowdown. However, this was offset by strong sales growth is the South America sector. Europe was the star performer, with an almost 24% increase in sales revenue. Australasia also managed sales revenue gains of almost 8%, largely helped by the resilience of the Australian retail market and supported by the governments economic stimulus packages. Given the lack of retailer confidence, the steep slowdown in consumer spending in various global economies and the extreme volatility in exchange rates, the Company has performed reasonably well. The forecast for the coming year seems to be conservative in light of the current uncertainty of the global economy. Europe and Australasia are predicted to remain stable, and despite the initial reduction of forward orders in the US, there are promising signs of a recovery. (ONeill D, 2009, website) Human Resources and Stakeholder Management Billabong International has a diverse group of stakeholders that both influence and are impacted by the operations of the Company. These include employees, shareholders, business associates, athletes, suppliers, opinion leaders and customers. Billabong International employs over of 1750 staff worldwide, with the greatest concentration of staff in Californias Orange County, Australias Gold Coast and Hossegor in France. Employees are the main stakeholders in any company and building and maintaining relationships with employees is vital to maintaining effective relationships with business partners, customers and the community. Staff are encouraged to expand their skills and potential, and have access to and receive support for further training and to experience opportunities. Programs for managers to develop vital skills with an emphasis on innovation, planning, leadership and teamwork are a focus of the business. The Company also has guidelines and policies for remuneration to ensure a fair approach to rewarding employees. The Company also has a consultative committee comprising staff representatives and senior managers to discuss issues and consider improvements to the workplace. Billabong International is also committed to conducting business in an ethical and socially responsible manner. This is defined in employee work agreements that effectively form a code of ethics that governs acceptable workplace practices. The Companys corporate governance policy states that the maintenance of all environmental, social and health and safety issues is to be the responsibility of the Board of Directors. As a public company listed on the Australian Stock Exchange Billabong International is required by law to hold an Annual General Meeting of shareholders to discuss the Companys business. The Company also addresses shareholders at least twice a year to update trading conditions and provide a forward business outlook. The Company also consistently interacts with stakeholders through the staging of events around the world. These range from the elite World Championship Tour professional surfing contests, through to professional skate and snow competitions and a range of junior and amateur surf, skate and snow events. At a supplier level, the Company undertakes regular factory visits to conduct audits. During these audits, workers from the shop floor are randomly selected for interviews to help understand workplace standards. Large posters outlining Billabongs supplier Code of Conduct are fixed to high profile locations within factories to ensure workers are aware of their rights. Multi-stakeholder meetings that bring together staff from the Companys geographically diverse regions are also held twice annually. These provide a forum to discuss the direction of the business and gain a better understanding of the motivation that drives business decisions. International Nature of the Business From its origins in Australia nearly 30 years ago, Billabong has evolved into a global business that operates on four major continents. Its name-Billabong International Limited-now reflects this focus and the promotion and protection of its brands and name are a major component of the business around the world. The original market for boardshorts and wetsuits was limited in its size, so Billabong (along with several other similar companies) looked to expand their product range to include clothing and accessories. Originally, these were manufactured in Australia. The drivers for Billabong included the need to expand to new and larger markets in order to increase sales and profits, improvements in technology that led to better production and communication, and the advent of global consumers because of the increasingly popular surf culture and lifestyle. This is essentially a global strategy using global branding in that the same, standardised product is sold in all markets. Deregulation of markets and government influences had minimal impact on Billabong. Billabong also achieved economies of scale through its increase in production, as well as some cushioning of the economic cycle-having operations in both hemispheres, which have opposite seasons, allows the development of products to suit summer in Australia, which can then be sold in the Northern Hemisphere four months later. The globalisation of Billabong was achieved through: seeking cheaper sources for manufacturing (in Hong Kong and China)-factories were established to produce garments for sale in Australia exporting and distributing in the United States (initially in surf areas, such as California) exporting and distributing in France and then in the rest of Europe establishing operations in the United States, France, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, Hong Kong and Brazil that are responsible for importing, distributing and wholesaling Billabong products. This is a form of foreign direct investment the acquisition of other businesses so that they became wholly owned subsidiaries of Billabong. This occurred with Element and Von Zipper-these companies retain their name (brand) but are wholly owned and controlled by Billabong licensing, which allows distributors and some retail outlets to use the Billabong name as part of their operations. There are several key areas which are important in the management of a business at a global scale: Financial Exposure to foreign exchange is a concern for all global companies as well as methods of payment and credit risks. However, the establishment of operations and distributors in various countries ensures that Billabong is in a position to access borrowed funds from overseas if required. Operations In order to reduce production costs the majority of Billabongs manufacturing occurs in China. This is a form of outsourcing and strict procedures are in place to ensure quality control. Billabong has offices in Australia (Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria), the United States (California), France, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, Hong Kong and Brazil. By adopting a global web approach and using subsidiaries, Billabong can move products more easily, avoid some government regulations, be closer to its markets and customers, and avoid some foreign exchange risks. Employment Relations Billabong needs to be aware of differences in labour laws and cope with pressures relating to minimum labour standards. The Company also must adhere to the global standards covering factory inspections (on general human rights and environmental issues) and laboratory tests. Conclusion The original Billabong business focused on gear for local surfers, before diversifying into clothing and accessories for surfing, snow skiing and skating. Billabong now has over 2200 product lines and is the leading surfwear brand in Australia with its products being distributed in more than 60 countries internationally. Despite the doom and gloom of the current economic environment, Billabong has managed to largely steer clear of any major short-comings, enjoying success in most of its global sectors. From a small backyard operation in 1973 to todays multi-national publicly floated company, Billabong is certainly an entrepreneurs dream come true.