Investigating the effectiveness of Mobile Antivirus Application on Android and Windows Mobile Phone Essay

Chapter 1: Anti-virus Applications on Mobile Devices Mobile phone anti-virus software refers to security software programs which have been professionally developed to protect device users from viruses, worms, Trojans and other malicious programs and removing them where possible. Anti-virus software programs have lately gained popularity due the increased incidences of malicious threats of attack on the web. There are several new viruses that are detected on a day to day basis on the cyberspace. While some of these viruses may be harmless, others are annoying and quite destructive. Certain viruses replicate themselves, but others may cause serious problems to the extent of erasing all data on a device drive. The use of anti-virus for device protection can be applied to multiple operating systems including Mobile Windows and Android mobile phones (iSoftwareReviews 2010). Antivirus software works in various technical ways to give protection to and remove viruses from mobile devices. This normally occur through two security scanning functions namely On-Access Scanning and On-Demand Scanning. The On-Access scanning works in real-time to ensure a mobile device is protected at all times by monitoring for viruses to any accessing in the mobile device, for example while opening a file or opening an application. Despite of the fact that this software slows down the speed of a device, its role in antivirus protection is so critical and should thus be enabled at all times. On-Demand Scanning offers antivirus protection only when activated to scan any particular area, folder, file, or drive. The program then provides a scan report about how many viruses that have been found in the scanned item. In the event that a virus is detected, the program will notify the user and recommend an action which includes either to deleting or quarantine the virus (iSoftwareRevie ws 2010). The rapidly increasing advancements of mobile phone technology to include a number of useful features have made android and windows mobile phones very popular pocket personal computers. This increased popularity has not however come with its own setbacks. Just like the ordinary personal computers, android and windows mobile phones have also been subjected to increased viruses attack. Virus attack has therefore become the latest and single biggest threat to the mobile phone industry. Subsequently, numerous companies dealing in software have come up with anti-virus for use in the android and windows mobile phones. These are mainly anti-virus software packages developed to provide anti-virus protection to mobile phones (iSoftwareReviews 2010). There are a number of anti-virus software programs for mobile phones that are available to the users. The main mobile phone anti-virus software includes AhnLab Mobile Security, Avast! PDA Edition, Avira Antivir Mobile, BitDefender Mobile Security, BullGuard Mobile Antivirus, Dr.Web Mobile Security Suite, F-Secure Mobile Security, Kaspersky Mobile Security, and Norton Smartphone Security. AhnLab Mobile Security software provides a solution for viruses and worms protection and removal. It runs under windows mobile and android mobile phones. Avast! PDA Edition is an antivirus protection for PalmOS and Windows CE, Android phones, and Pocket PC based devices (iSoftwareReviews 2010). Avira AntiVir Mobile provides professional virus and malware protection for pocket PCs, Windows mobile and Android mobile phones. BitDefender Mobile Security provides solution for virus protection and removal for PDAs and Smartphone that run on Windows mobile or Android mobile phones. BullGuard Mobile Antivirus provides solutions for protecting Pocket PCs and Windows mobile against viruses and other malicious programs. Dr.Web Mobile Security Suite is designed to provide anti-virus security solutions for pocket PCs that runs on Windows Mobile operating system. F-Secure Mobile Security is a complete mobile security software package that includes anti-virus, anti-spyware, a firewall and a remote control anti-theft feature for protection. Kaspersky Mobile Security also provides a complete protection package including Anti-theft protection, virus protection, firewall and anti-spam for SMS, EMS, and MMS. Norton Smartphone Security offers anti-virus, anti-spam, and firewall for Windows mobi le and Android mobile protection (iSoftwareReviews 2010). Protecting an android and window mobile phone from attack requires a complete understanding of all application communication. This is important because software can only protect a device if and only if it is able to read the same information as the mobile phone device, subsequently application layer threats. It may not be possible within the technological framework for antivirus software to understand application communications or analyse application behaviour through the deep inspection of intrusion prevention packets, whether on individual basis or when reassembled into their original sequence. Similarly, network-level antivirus may detect a small number of known, easily identifiable security threats by simply examining pre-programmed patterns (Citrix Systems 2006).   Installation of antivirus is the best known way of protecting android and windows mobile phones. The best types of antivirus are the application firewalls since they operate at the application layer instead of the network level. The application firewalls are able to enforce correct application behaviour while preventing any malicious activity. This is because the firewalls are able to inspect the actual internet communication and understand the context of all client requests and application responses through which they are sent to the internet. A complete mobile phone security application needs to offer full protection of all the elements of an application as well as users of the application. In most cases however, security applications for mobile phones are only limited to the application programme and application data (Citrix Systems 2006). Thesis Statement Despite web devices continuing to face significant security threats, mobile phones go completely unprotected while web browsing, downloading applications, checking e-mail, conducting online banking and connecting to social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook. While mobile attacks are increasing rapidly and hackers are financially motivated to steal data, identities, and intercept corporate communications, it has become critical to protect mobile devices such as android phone and Windows phones. Background of the study Smartphone security is the process of preventing and detecting unauthorized use of your system. Prevention measures help you to stop unauthorized users (also known as â€Å"intruders†) from accessing any part of your mobile phone system. Detection helps you to determine whether or not someone attempted to break into your system, if they were successful, and what they may have done. We use android and windows mobile for everything from banking and investing to shopping and communicating with others through email or chat programs.   Although you may not consider your communications â€Å"top secret,† you probably do not want strangers reading your email, using your phone to attack other systems, sending forged email from your phone, or examining personal information stored on your phone (such as financial statements). There are a variety of antivirus software packages that operate in many different ways, depending on how the vendor chose to implement their software. What they have in common, though, is that they all look for patterns in the files or memory of your Smartphone that indicate the possible presence of a known virus. Antivirus packages know what to look for through the use of virus profiles (sometimes called â€Å"signatures†) provided by the vendor. New viruses are discovered daily. The effectiveness of antivirus software is dependent on having the latest virus profiles installed on your Smartphone so that it can look for recently discovered viruses. It is important to keep these profiles up to date. Chapter 2: Android Phone Emulators An android mobile phone is a phone fitted with a set of software consisting of operating systems, middleware and other major applications. The main features of android include application framework for facilitating reuse and replacement of components, Dalvik virtual machine which is optimised for mobile devices, optimised graphics, an integrated browser, media tools for common audio, video and still image formats, SQLite for structured data storage, and GSM Telephony. Other features include Bluetooth, Camera, and Rich development consisting of a device emulator, tools for debugging, memory and performance profiling. Android technology is dependent on Linux version 2.6 to power the main system servicing including security, memory management, process management, network stack, and driver models (Android Developers 2010). Android technology is made up of a multi-process system in which each application runs in its own process. A standard Linux facility is responsible for coordinating security between different applications such as user and group identifications assigned to the applications in Android mobile phone. The crux of the security applications is on the basis of the concept that no application, by default, has access to perform any operation with a potential of adversely impacting on other applications, the operating system, or the user. The applications that the Linux facility must grant permission include reading or writing the user’s private data, reading or writing another application’s file, performing network access, and keeping the device awake. The permission that an application requires is statistically declared in that application so that Linux facility can master the upfront during installation and not subject to change thereafter (Android Developers 2010). The antivirus software for mobile forms utilises various virus detection methods. The two main virus detection methods include signature based detection and behaviour based detection. Signature Based Detection makes use of virus signatures dictionary to compare the files when checking for viruses. A signature dictionary is a database containing very many virus signatures which the software manufacturer has so far found. The user is expected to continually update the virus signature directory as when new viruses, worms, Trojans, and other malicious programs appear. Failure to update the dictionary may lead to failure of the software to detect emerging viruses. The behaviour Based Detection is designed to monitor and control any activities in the device system for suspicious program behaviour. In the event that a suspicious behaviour is detected, the software probes further into that suspicious behaviour by applying the signature based detection to countercheck whether the activity is malicious or not. In the event that the suspicious program is malicious, an alert will be generated to notify the user. Android emulator is a virtual mobile device which runs on a phone system and allows the user to prototype, develop, and test android applications for possible malicious programs without necessarily using a physical device. This device mimics all the hardware and software features of a phone save for the fact that it cannot receive or make a call. As soon as a particular application starts to run on the emulator, it may make use of the services of the android platform to invoke other applications, access the network, and notify the user. The emulators also contain various debug capabilities like console from which the user can log kernel output, simulate application interrupts, and simulate latency effects and dropouts on the data channel (Android developers 2010). As stated earlier, android utilises a multi-process system in which each and every application runs on its own process. Since majority of the security between applications is granted at the process level, android emulators provide more detailed security features through a permission mechanism that enforces restriction on the specific operations that any particular process can perform and permission for granting ad-hoc access to specific pieces of data. While the emulators ensures that no application acts in a manner that can adversely affect another application, it is still possible for an application to encroach into the actions of another application as long as permission is forehand obtained in order to perform the foreign function not provided by the basic nucleus (Vennon 2010). The android emulators can also disallow these extraneous permissions on the basis of the certificates that were used to sign the application or by simply prompting the user. The permission that an application will require to function outside its nucleus is statistically declared by the emulators within the application and will be relayed to the Smartphone user, and the permission will not change. The android emulators consider malware to be malicious software designed to infiltrate a Smartphone system without the user’s informed consent (Vennon 2010).

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography

Choledocholithiasis (which called bile duct stones or gall bladder stones in the bile duct) is the presence of stones from gall bladder in the common bile duct. Stones usually form in gall bladder but they sometimes pass through the cystic duct into common bile duct. There are many symptoms of gallstone in common bile duct. For example; abdominal pain (in the right upper or middle upper abdomen), fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting and clay-colored stools. So, this condition diagnosed and treated by ERCP. ERCP (Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) is a procedure that enables doctor to examine the pancreatic and bile ducts by insert lighted tube which called endoscope (like the thickness of your index finger) is placed through the mouth and into stomach and first part of the small intestine (duodenum) exactly in (ampulla) and passed of cannula (which a small plastic tube) through the endoscope and into this opening with injected contrast material and X-rays are taken to study the common bile duct. Fluoroscopy is a radiographic procedure that provides a dynamic image of the inside of the body frequently after the administration of the contrast media with the use of persistent x-ray beam that passes through the area of interest and later the attenuated beam that come out of the patient is received by a video monitor to view the body part motion in details. The fluoroscopic studies can efficiently detect variety of abnormalities of different body systems such as the skeletal, digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive and urinary system. (University of Rochester Medical Center,2018). In this assignment I will discuss about equipment used in ERCP, role of radiographer in ERCP, technical and exposure consideration of ERCP and case study. ? ERCP Equipment ERCP contain endoscopy and fluoroscopy. Fluoroscopy consists of C-arm and monitor. Endoscopy consist of flexible tube which called endoscope with at the end it contain a tiny video camera and light. There is a canal inside components of the scope through which thin instruments are passed and can be poked out the tube's end. These instruments include a catheter, balloon, basket, sphincterotome, biopsy forceps and cytology brush and stents. So, for injecting contrast media into the ducts by used of catheter. Used of balloon is to stretch tight areas of the bile duct or pancreatic duct. Also, for removing and manipulating stones used of basket, and to incise tissue and make the bile duct or pancreatic duct opening larger used of a sphincterotome. Biopsy forceps and cytology brush use to obtain microscopic exam, and use stent to bridge blockages. Other openings allow the doctor to suck out water or air inside digestive system as well as clean the camera lens. Control the movement of the tube by gently pushing and pulling on its outside end is done by the doctor while also steering the inside end with control knobs that the doctor holds in his hand. Video television screen in the procedure room is received images from the endoscope. Also, obtain an x-ray image of the bile duct and pancreatic duct by the fluoroscopy. Role of Radiographer in ERCP:Before examination:First, asked to remove any clothing or jewelry that may get in the way of the body area to be examined and wear gown. Then, check name and an identification number of the patient. Third, prepare the C-arm machine and the monitor. Fourth, positioned on the x-ray table depending on what the doctor want. Fifth, make sure everyone who stays in ERCP room wear lead apron. During examination: Regarding on department's equipment, radiographer may have to stay out in the control panel or may be able to stand in the room to x-ray. stand in the room to x-ray In the latter, it is important to pay close attention so as not to miss cue to x-ray. The doctor will ask the radiographer to x-ray when it is required if screen or spot. Also, the radiographer be attention for doctor and patient condition.After examination:The radiographer save the image and sent it. Make sure the machine is clean. Technical of ERCP:Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a technique that to diagnose and treat diseases regarding to the pancreatobiliary system by used of endoscopy and fluoroscopic imaging. The endoscopic portion of the examination uses endoscope that is passed through the esophagus and stomach and into the second portion of the duodenum. For obtaining high-quality radiographic images and for the prevention of pulmonary aspiration and considered optimal for cannulation of the papilla, so ERCP is performed with the patient in the prone position. But, patients who can not able for prone position for ERCP are often placed in the left lateral decubitus or supine positions.Radiation exposure consideration of ERCP:In ERCP the fluoroscopy time is shorter when ERCP is performed by doctor who has many years experience of done ERCP and carried out a large number of ERCPs in the past year. In general, radiation exposure is higher during therapeutic ERCP than during diagnostic ERCP. Radiation dose to patients during ERCP depends on many factors, and the doctor unable to control some variables which are patient size, procedure type, or fluoroscopic equipment used. In a recent prospective study where ERCP instruments used for example, stent insertion, lithotripsy, needle-knife, biopsies, the use of a guide wire or additional wires other than the standard, a balloon and catheter, that will significantly increase fluoroscopy duration.Patient preparation and care:Before the examination, the stomach should be empty. The patient who does the ERCP must not eat anything after midnight on the evening before the exam. Regarding for examination time, if the procedure is done early in the morning, no drinks must be taken, but if examination is done at noon time, a cup of tea, juice, milk, or coffee can be taken four hours earlier. medications of heart and blood pressure must always be taken with a little amount of water in the early morning. The patient needs to have a companion drive them home after the procedure, since the procedure will require intravenous sedation.To cause relaxation and sleepiness, the patient will be given medications through a vein. Local anesthetic is given to the patient to decrease the gag reflex. Some doctors prefer to give the patients more intravenous medications for sedation, so do not use local anesthetic. This also applies to those patients who cannot tolerate the bitter taste of the local anesthetic or who have a history of allergy to xylocaine and the numbness sensation in the throat. The intravenous medication is given, while the patient is lying on the left side on the X-ray table, and then the instrument is inserted gently through the mouth into the duodenum. The instrument advances through the food passage and not the air passage. It does not interfere with the breathing and gagging is usually prevented or decreased by the medication. After the examination, patients must be observed in the recovery place until most of the effects from the medications have worn off. This sometimes takes one to two hours. Case study:Â   This case study is about 77 years old female patient with H/O common bile duct stones. The condition start 8 months ago by right upper abdominal pain and clay colored stools. The patient came to Royal Hospital and the doctor decided to take x-ray first. So, they found 3 large stones in common bile duct. Then the doctor decided to do ERCP. The ERCP was done in 7/5/2018. The doctor saw a perimapullary diverticulum and with injected contrast through common bile duct, the cholangiogram showed 3 large stones proximally back to back, the balloon was used to remove the stones. However, this patient was uncooperative, so stenting done in long time with use 9cm plastic biliary stent with good bile drainage.

Is Hamlet Really Insane... Do I think Hamlet Is Insane Essay

Is Hamlet Really Insane... Do I think Hamlet Is Insane - Essay Example However, he is not mad at all. Hamlet is quite a rational character but he is unable to fight with his circumstances that are all against him. Hamlet, after listening to his father’s ghost’s information about his murder and Claudius’s conspiracy against him tries to sort out the issue and avenge Claudius for his crime. He delays in taking action considering the moral issues involving the whole plan due to which, he overly speculates over the whole situation. It is due to his overly speculative nature that everyone in the court doubts about his mental state. For Hamlet, all the situations that have occurred to him have caused him to hate the world around him as he says, Hamlet thinks that his mother has committed an incestuous act by marrying Claudius soon after his father’s death. Not only has she deprived Hamlet with her motherly love but also snatched the right of being a king after his father’s death. She was unable to understand the melancholy of Hamlet at his father’s death and at her hurried marriage. He goes into a depressed state considering his inability to solve the problems of his life. Even Hamlet is unable to take revenge against Claudius in a timely manner due to which, he is considered as a mad character. He delays in taking action against Claudius, his father’s murderer and his this act dragged him into a more depressed and melancholic state. Hamlet is also a moral character because in killing Claudius, he thinks moralistically and is unable to kill him when he gets a chance when Claudius is praying. Hamlet has seven soliloquies in the play that confirm to the fact that he is not mad at all. His words have profound meanings in them and his exploratory mind is quite evident from his soliloquies. The consideration of Hamlet as an insane character is quite wrong as he is quite perfect in his mental approach and it is

Young womens beleifs regarding human papillomavirus Research Paper

Young womens beleifs regarding human papillomavirus - Research Paper Example The descriptive research utilized a cross-sectional, survey design and included participants from four women’s health clinics and one university classroom. Three hundred and two women between ages 18–24 who could read and write English participated in two surveys. A health and demographic information questionnaire to collect the age, ethnicity, history of STD testing and/or HPV diagnosis, education level, race and relationship status details and a second questionnaire based on Representations of STDs (RoSTD) to survey the women’s beliefs of HPV were issued. The participants also completed a single item evaluating beliefs about the association between HPV and cancer. This research has four major limitations. First, the study employed a cross-sectional research design, limiting the ability to find out causation. Second, the study used self-report data where participants might have biased their responses to establish social desirableness. Third, one half of the participants pointed they were seriously involved in a romantic relationship, a factor that is highly subjective and lacks the ability to directly measure sexual risk behavior. Fourth, the participants were highly literate, largely White, and limited to certain geographic locations, minimizing the ability to generalize findings to other ethnic, racial, geographical, and educational groups. The findings of the study indicate that young women tend to misconceive the cause, symptoms, and chronic nature of HPV and also have negative impressions about the impact HPV diagnosis has on intimate relationships and mental health. Women who had never received STD testing or not diagnosed with HPV have more accurate and less severe representations about HPV when compared with young women with a record of STD testing or HPV diagnosis. Assessing women’s impressions about HPV enables the development of treatment methods centered on patient needs and also enhances HPV management in individuals diagnosed

Employment law - 4 case study questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Employment law - 4 case study questions - Essay Example One of the new terms that the company was introducing was to require the employees ‘to carry out such overtime as may be required by the company’. Question 1 Facts Nigel is one of the employees affected by the ‘new’ terms and conditions. He is a service engineer who has been doing some overtime work in his own volition for the benefit of the company. But upon the requirement to make overtime working an obligation, Nigel has refused to do any further overtime stating that the long working hours are having a detrimental to his health and family life. He further claims that he never signed a contract agreeing to do unlimited overtime. He has consistently and expressly made it clear over the last few months that he was working a limited amount of overtime and was not supporting the unlimited provision the company was introducing. He simply agreed to the limited overtime for the benefit of the company and he never at any particular moment felt obliged to do it. T he company is considering taking disciplinary action against Nigel, with his manager threatening to suspend him without pay until he agrees to resume overtime working. Argument First, the company has a right to compel obedience from its employees. It is the employees’ duty to cooperate with his employer and to obey the instructions given and, most importantly, not to impede the employer’s business (Ullman, 2003). The company can initiate the disciplinary process and even dismiss Nigel on grounds of insubordination. Macari v Celtic FC ct of session [1999] IRLR 788 provided some useful insights when it directed that if the employer breaches the duty of trust and confidence, yet the employee refuses to leave, then the employee should not disregard employer’s lawful instructions. Nigel was informed in advance and in writing on the intended revision of terms. Nigel never left, even though he showed his disagreement with the new terms obligating him to work overtime a s and when required. Due to his decision to stay the company takes that as an implied communication of acceptance of the new terms and conditions. It expects Nigel to adhere to them, failure to which will lead to his suspension and or dismissal pursuant to the provisions of the disciplinary process (Moffat, 2011). The company’s revision of the written particulars was made within the legal framework and therefore, legal and binding if signed. According to ss.1-7 Employment Rights Act 1998, the employer should provide the written particulars of employment within the first two months after the commencement of employment. If it is a continuing employee, like in this case, it should not be later than a month after the change has been effected (Craig, 2008). Again, s. 4 of the Employment Rights Act provides that if such changes are made, then the employees should be informed of the same personally and in writing; the company did so. The company, however, faces tough odds because of the arguments or the courses of action available to Nigel. Nigel claims that working overtime has been detrimental to his health and family life. Employers are generally required under the European Convention for the protection of Human Rights and fundamental freedoms (EHCR) to respect the employee’s right to private life and family life under article 8 (Craig, 2008). The EAT 2 also provides that the employer shall take reasonable measures, as is reasonably practicable, to take care of his employee’

Hillside casr study 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Hillside casr study 3 - Essay Example The system holds relevant capacity and it is set to improve cash management. It seeks to streamline cash collection, Administration of records and determination of discount figures that would be sustainable. It is significant for the financial administrators at Hillside school to establish and understand the processes that the new billing system presents. This is to enable development of accurate decisions on when and at what point they should issue the discount with an aim to eliminate misappropriations or realization of dismal performance in the future. In particular, the new system presents a streamlined structure that defines cash collection effectively. The structure enables individuals to make credible choices from the available options based on set guidelines to boost performance (Barnard, 2008). The administration in a pursuit to improve student enrolment and effective collection of cash seeks to employ a discount strategy for individuals who make fixed payments. This is to ensure early payment of fees by students that would help in facilitating effective financial planning. In any setting, provision of cash discount influence consumers positively. Indeed, the new billing system presents a credible cash collection department where the discount figure should be developed. That is, the discount provided to fixed payees should be sorted at the accounts department to promote accuracy and accountability. The process would foster efficiency and effectiveness in terms of fee payment and collection. The school plans to give 5% discount to students who make prompt payments basic on fixed terms. The figure shows the cash transaction system where fee is collected from tuition and after care service centers. The system is to be upgraded with a discount payment program to facilitate the new initiative that is aimed at encouraging prompt payments. It stipulates that 5% discount is to be provided to students who make

Comparison Between The Number of Web Sites of The Gulf Cooperation Research Paper

Comparison Between The Number of Web Sites of The Gulf Cooperation Council and its Services and E-Government Website - Research Paper Example However, in order to distribute information on the internet, an interface is used, which is known as a Web site. A Web site contains a lot of hyperlinks and contents conveying the message of that particular Web site (Norton, 2001; Shelly et al., 2005). For instance, a web site of a university contains information about that university. In the same way, the Hukoomi is a Web Portal, which offers the people access to information regarding the State of Qatar. It links us with government programs, services, initiatives and events (Government of Qatar, 2012). In addition, through cooperation with government organizations and public service suppliers, the Hukoomi has appeared to build online information more readily accessible at our fingertips. Additionally, the online national web portal hosts a number of significant e-services, and government service application, documents, forms and general information (Government of Qatar, 2012). This report presents a detailed comparison between a num ber of Web sites of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and their services and other e-government websites to know the country and the needs of the Country Website development and optimization and preference. This report will present a detailed analysis of a wide variety of aspects of the Hukoomi in comparison with rest of the Gulf States in terms of electronic services and e-government support. The basic purpose of this comparison is to determine the needs and requirements that are necessary to know for building an effective and informative web site. This analysis will determine what should be included in the web site to make it perfect, with the intention that it could better serve its community. A detailed Comparison This section presents a detailed comparison between different web sites. For this purpose, I have divided this comparison into different parts (depending on the features of a web site). In this scenario, I will compare different features and services which are availab le or should be available at Hukoomi but it is not there and what services are available on other portals. 1- National Overview The first feature or support that we will analyze in this comparison is about presentation of national overview. In this scenario, the Hukoomi offers a good national overview; however, at this web site comprehensive national overview is missing. The national overview of Hukoomi can include information regarding national resources, population, geography and tourism. On the other hand, the Main Page of existing website does not contain such details. As this web site is aimed at presenting a detailed overview of the country so it needs to offer a brief but comprehensive overview of the State of Qatar. In this scenario, we need to add some links in a small portion of the Main Page of the website so that people could know about

The Strategic Implication of E Commerce for the Design and Essay

The Strategic Implication of E Commerce for the Design and Construction Industry Article Analysis - Essay Example The main research question which is being asked by the authors of the article by Johnson and his colleagues is if the AEC industry can benefit itself and integrate e-commerce platforms into the business plans and strategic objectives of the enterprise. If the construction industry and its participants can achieve greater integration of e-commerce it is able to raise overall profits in the industry by streamlining activities that used to take greater efforts which led to unnecessary expenses now become automated activities that provide added value services to the customers. The power of the e-commerce solution is based on the achieved growth in the utilization of the platform after the turn of the century. In 2001 e-commerce in the United States generated $7931 million in revenues (Plunkett Research, 2007). Six years later in the 1st quarter in 2007 the sales volume had grown to $27,092, an overall increase of 242% over a six-year span or an average yearly growth of 40% (Plunkett Rese arch, 2007). These figures clearly illustrate evidence of the worldwide tendency to increase e-commerce dependence by all companies around the globe. The article effectively described the industry in order to evaluate possibilities that are going to integrate e-commerce solutions to increase efficiency in the AEC industry. Various case studies of different participants of the  value-added supply chain that allowed the players in the industry to obtain efficiencies associated with economies of scope, integration of resources, technological advances, information technology and other competitive advantages. The literature provided a very clear and descriptive analysis of the construction industry. The construction industry is a mature fragmented industry which is closely held with less than 25 public trading companies and plenty of small and medium closed held private enterprises.  Ã‚  

Why being on time is important Essay Example for Free

Why being on time is important Essay Being on time is one of the most basic, yet most important things about what we do, as Marines, and Military Policemen. Most Marines understand this concept and are able to comply willfully and promptly due to the extent they have been taught regarding the importance of being on time and the punishment that can follow a more than tardy arrival. Tardiness in the workplace is a correctable issue and majority of the time is nothing more than a seldom occurrence. Some particular occasions however, become more than just the scarce problem that it should be. When this becomes less than an uncommon problem, people begin to take notice. The most important part of any occupation is reliability. People need to be able to view you as more than a mediocre character that stumbles to work subsequently behind every other co-worker. they need to see you as a person that they can entrust their life to, whether that situation arises or not. They need to regard you as a trustworthy, well put together person; a well put together Marine. The Marines is not a place for play. It is not. It is a place for america’s men and women alike to join together and construct an unstoppable effort for the good of this country and a harsh unforgiving authority for our enemies. When a Marine looks in the mirror, that is exactly what they should gaze upon; A Marine. Arriving late, last minute, or unprepared are not attributes that compose a Marine. Being early, well prepared, and enthusiastic to initiate the day are qualities a Marine should have. Not having these aspects can account for many consequences, and whom is ultimately accountable for ones own behavior? It’s not your command who tells you that you are at fault, it’s you. All Marines being on time, as opposed to a belated appearance, is great for unit moral as well. it helps the unit work together due to the fact that everyone feels like they are putting forth an equal, and combined effort towards their common objective. A unit with 1 or more Marines battling an issue with tardiness is likely to have a lessened performance when being  exposed to that Marine, or Marines. The concept will spread; if that marine can be late every day, so can I. This type of ideology can take a drastic toll on the total effectiveness of the unit and cannot be tolerated. The productivity of any given unit with problem Marines, can and will immensely decrease causing Marines and co-workers alike, to be less encouraged to do their job to the best of their abilities. And instead, master the art of just getting by. This is why remaining on schedule is one of the most important parts of your daily routine. And if you are reading this and feel like everything written here doesn’t really apply to you, then I suppose you dont have much to worry about.

Constructivism Essay Example for Free

Constructivism Essay Constructivism and/or social constructionism can be reflected particularly to Alexander Wendt. In his article, Anarchy is What States Make of It: the Social Construction of Power Politics in 1992, laid the fundamental theoretical groundwork for demanding what he believed to be a flaw between neo-realist’s and neo-liberal institutionalist’s; i. e. commitment to a form of materialism. Alexander Wendt opened the way for international relations scholars to pursue work in a wide range of issues from a constructivist perspective by attempting to show that even a core realist concept (e. . power politics) is socially constructed—that is, not given by nature. Hence, is capable of being transformed by human practice. Constructivism principally describes how many core aspects of international relations are. Socially constructed describes constructivism wherein they are given their form by means of ongoing procedures of social practice and communication. Wendt identifies two acknowledged fundamental principles of Constructivism; (1) that the structures of human association are determined primarily by shared ideas rather than material forces, and (2) that the identities and interests of purposive actors are constructed by these shared ideas rather than given by nature . In the formative work of Wendt, constructivism defies the supposition of Neorealist being Structuralist’s by means of showing that the contributory powers attributed to Structure are not given, but will depend in which Structure is constructed through social practice. Regardless of the nature, culture and traditions, religion, society, constructivism does not foresee whether two countries will be allies or enemies, whether they will recognize each others power, will have dynastic ties, and will be revisionist or status quo powers. In a constructivist’s perspective, international laws created were based on the diversity of the races, culture, religion, society, traditions and political power of each of the member countries. In example, the United Nations addresses projects of food security, poverty, and other projects that are for humanitarian purposes. Ideas generated from this kind of institution tend to help countries that were included in the third world countries or what we commonly called the developing countries. With regards to the international relations, international laws were general or universal in terms of what the participating countries see as good, basic to most of the countries, humane, and will not tolerate violence to the whole. Constructivist’s disallows anarchy, of the actions of the countries and deflects materialism. International laws and institutions craft the needed room for their interests, i. e. to take a central place in theorizing international relations. Today, countries are not simply directed by the imperatives of a self-help system but their interests become important in analyzing how they will be of help to other countries that needed them and to maintain peace at all times. As of the nature of the international system, Constructivists see our interests being not objectively grounded in material forces but the result of ideas and the social construction of such ideas. To summarize, the constructivism philosophy with regards to internal relations, the role of international laws and institutions, reflects to a social order, leadership to any system, thus, leading to foundation of international laws and institutions that are general in nature, thus, leading to better international relations of each of the countries and/or actors.

Evaluating Personal Study Skills Education Essay

Evaluating Personal Study Skills Education Essay For this essay I will be evaluating my own study skills and identifying my strengths and weaknesses using a SWOT analysis technique. Once these issues have been identified any deficiencies will be addressed by way of a diagnostic plan. SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats and was created by Albert Humphrey at Stanford University in the 1960s. SWOT Analysis is an effective process for interpreting my Strengths and Weaknesses, and for describing the Opportunities available to me and the Threats hindering me. In order to be productive when learning study skills must be acquired. Study skills include such things as time management, note taking in lectures, concentration, memorizing and public speaking skills. In addition to assisting me to highlight the skills I need to improve and develop, completing a SWOT analysis will allow me to centre my attention onto the skills where I am already strong. Study Skills Swot Analysis Strengths Note-taking in lectures Punctuality Classroom discussions Researching Reading IT skills Weaknesses Motivation Making time to study Spelling Time management Procrastination Self discipline Presenting projects concentration Exam preparation Memory Work experience in the construction industry technical knowledge Impatience Opportunities Extra help from tutors Proof reading by graduated colleagues Use of technology such as recording devices during lectures Opportunities for personal development Job shadowing Engage tutors in providing feedback Threats Working late in my part time job can negatively impact on my studies Long commute to college can affect my time management Time pressure Study Skills Study skills provide a significant contribution to academic success and they are decisive tools for learning. As Devine, (1987) stated: Study skills encompass a range of coordinated cognitive skills and processes that enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of students learning According to Hoover and Patton (1995), study skills include the competencies associated with acquiring, recording, organising, synthesising, remembering, and using information. These skills help the student to be successful. Studying is a skill and like all skills it involves training and developing by using particular methods that assist the student learn, organise, remember, and apply information. According to Gersten (1998), a lot of students with studying weaknesses simply do not know the tricks of the trade that are practiced by more successful students when they study. A skilled student will use a type of cognitive learning rather than just learning from observing and repetition. Pressley and Afflerbach (1995) discovered several key cognitive techniques that successful students use in order to interpret and help remember information. Some of these were as follows: Overview before reading Search for important information and pay more attention to it Relating important points Use of prior knowledge Change the approach of learning when struggling to understand The reverse is true when dealing with students of a low academic level as they will frequently exhibit weak study skills. As they incline to adopt a more inactive role in studying and tend to rely on other people for example, teachers or parents. Studying needs both cognitive thinking, as well as self-management skills in order to sustain the students concentration, effort, and time needed. If these self-management skills are not employed it may be due to inadequate motivation. Study skills are needed for students to achieve academic success. Good study skills reduce the chance that the student will fail and enable them to make the best of what they are taught. To be competent, students must have a broad range of study skills that they are capable of using. Issues to be addressed Time management relates to an array of skills applied to manage time in order to achieve particular projects, jobs and goals. To improve my time management skills it is important I set individual tasks or goals and break them down into an action plan. An importance rating will be established for each individual task or goal and a deadline set (e.g. Dissertation to be completed by April 26th). This process will result in an extensive plan with a schedule of activities over a daily period. Many time management computer programmes are now available which I would find easier to manage. Once my goals and tasks have been set and prioritised time management comes down to the efficient scheduling of my time which helps me to keep on track and focused. Scheduling is the procedure of calculating the time available and planning how to use it in order to accomplish the set goals and tasks. With effective scheduling I can make the best use of the time available and gain an understanding of what is achievable in the time allocated. A leading cause of not being able to concentrate is not being interested in the work. If Im reading something I really want to, my attention typically will remain. Yet, when Im learning something that I regard as dull or tedious, I will normally find it hard. At other times my lack of concentration is because Im tired or a fear of failure. In order to improve my concentration I must improve my work environment by making it more comfortable. Distractions must also be shut out as much as possible (e.g. TV, Radio). I must keep a positive mental attitude for the task and remember my purpose for studying and my ultimate goal. Motivation is a complex field and self-motivating can be hard. There are basically two types of motivation, intrinsic (Doing something because you enjoy it) and extrinsic motivation (Doing things because of external factors like money etc). I can improve my self-motivation by changing the way I look at a task, and I can associate finishing it with something thats intrinsically pleasing. I will also supply my own rewards, and alter how I approach unavoidable tasks to provide more extrinsic motivation. When I procrastinate I put off things that I should be focusing on right now, generally in favour of doing something that is more pleasurable. It is normal to procrastinate on occasion. Yet, unreasonable procrastination can lead to feelings of guilt about not completing a task straight away. Additional, extravagant procrastination can lead to inadequate performance if the task is attempted without enough time to do it competently. In order to break this habit I will make up my own rewards for completing work and ask someone to check up on me to make sure I am carrying out the work needed. There are a number of tools used to improve memory, these are called mnemonics. Mnemonics are methods for recalling information that is otherwise quite hard to remember. The thought behind practising mnemonics is to encode hard to recollect information in a way thats a great deal easier to recall. The central idea is that by encrypting information utilising pictorial mental images they are easier to remember when you need them. There are three basic principles implicit in the function of mnemonics; imagination, association and location. When you put these three principles together you are able to produce effective mnemonic systems. To improve my presentation skills I need to address a number of factors. I firstly have to recognise what the audience requires and then I need to develop the content and deliver it in a confident manor to create an overall engaging presentation. Issue Personal Action Plan Time Managment Set individual goals and tasks. Schedule these tasks on a daily basis Motivation Set personal rewards. Positive attitude Late working hours Talk to my manager about changing hours Concentration Remove distractions. Improve study area Lack of work experience Apply for volunteer work or job shadowing Cognitive Learning Become less passive and more engaged in learning Memory Incorporate mnemonics into my exam revision

The Drosophilia Hydei Essay -- Biology, Fruit Fly

Drosophila hydei, commonly known as the fruit fly, is about 3mm long and typically found near unripe or rotted and fermenting fruit. Its body is segmented into 3 different sections and covered in an exoskeleton. It has six legs, two small antennae, one pair of wings (which extend slightly over its rear), and large, red compound eyes. The complex, compound eyes permit D.hydei to see in many directions, allowing it to sense food or potential dangers (Miller 2000). Its eyes are sensitive to light intensity, therefore when shadows approach, signaling danger, the fly will flee or take flight (Demerec 1950; Miller 2000). Its body is a gray-brown color and shaped like an oblong oval, being larger in the front and narrowing toward the back. Tiny hairs cover the entire body, which allow the fly to sense movements in the air. These hairs alert them of disturbances such as approaching predators (Demerec 1950; Miller 2000). The pupae from which the Drosophila hydei hatch are orange-brown in color and are slightly larger than the adult fly. Males and females are differentiated by the stripes on the back of the males, as well as size. Males have broader stripes and tend to be smaller, whereas the stripes on a female are narrower and they will be larger in size (Miller 2000). In order to thrive, a food source of yeast and sugar must be present, as is the case with fermenting fruit. The mouth of D. hydei is specifically shaped in order to take up liquid food sources (Miller 2000). The range of Drosophila hydei is broad and it exists in many different habitats, ranging from temperate to wet forests (Bateman 1972). Since very cold temperatures are found to have negative effects on insect survival, Drosophila hydei is not found near th... ...fested by wasp parasites and other harmful microorganisms. Ants also pose a threat to the D. hydei, often carrying away the larvae, destroying their ability to survive (Bateman 1972). The predatorial relationship between ants and D. hydei larvae has a negative effect upon the fly, as they are being used as a food source, whereas the ant benefits, as it is getting a food source. Since Drosophila hydei is prey for so many species, its removal would be detrimental to the many species that prey upon it. Overall, Drosophila hydei is a unique species, capable of residing in a large range of habitats, temperature and light conditions. Much research has been done to determine the affect of abiotic factors upon these organisms. Differences in temperature and light in particular are shown to affect the behavior, growth and reproduction of the species.

Two Godesses and A Woman Essay -- essays research papers

Throughout history, women have been looked at as the â€Å"lesser gender,† mortal or immortal. They are always stereotyped as not equally important as men. I strongly disagree with this idea, especially in the book The Odyssey. In The Odyssey, Homer suggests that the women characters in the book are more important than the characters of men despite their stereotype. He portrays this through the characters of Penelope, Kalypso, and Kirke. They are important because they are a large part of the story. The most important woman in this book is Penelope, mainly because of her guile and intelligence. Her guile and intelligence make her important because they put her at a much-needed mental advantage over the suitors. An example of her guile and intelligence is the instance of the shroud she wove for Laertes. When Antinoos is talking to Telemakhos about how Telemakhos’s mother, Penelope, tricked the suitors by weaving and unweaving the shroud to avoid marrying a suitor, he says, â€Å"We have men’s hearts; she touched them; we agreed. So every day she wove on the great loom- but every night by torchlight she unwove it; and so for three years she deceived the Akhains.†(2:111-114). As a result of doing this, Penelope delayed having to marry one of the suitors for almost four years. It gave Odysseus more time to get home. Another example of Penelope’s guile and intelligence is when she tested Odysseus when she was first reunited with him. She tested him by tell ing Eurykleia to make up his bed...

Online Classes versus Traditional Classes Essay

Technology and education has given students many choices in how they obtain their education such as online classes. There have been numerous discussions recently about the success of online learning. The success of the online classes versus traditional classes is based upon the uniqueness of each individual way of learning. Online classes and traditional classes provide flexibility, direct communication and course materials. Studies have shown that online classes can be successful and that on average most students perform better than being in a traditional classroom. The argument of online classes and traditional classes; which is better than the other has many exceptional differences. One is the discussion of how does a person learn: is he a visual, auditory or kinesthetic learner? A visual leaner needs written materials, exercises and graphics. An auditory learner has to hear it, repeat it and needs to have a discussion. A kinesthetic learner needs real life simulations, hands on demonstration and needs to see how the principle works. Visual learners and kinesthetic learners most likely would be more successful in online courses because of the atmosphere it provides. Auditory learners would need to have traditional classes which would provide the best learning opportunity for their learning style. There are cases that individuals do not know how they learn best; an assessment should be given in the situation. The second discussion is flexibility. Online classes and traditional classes both can be just as flexible as the other. Online classes may seem more flexible but depending on the class the deadlines of each assignment may be very time consuming. Online classes sometimes provide more work than traditional classes. Traditional classes can be flexible due to the times that you select to take the classes. Schools are providing more night classes and early morning classes for the working and family-oriented students. Traditional classes provide more lecturing and sometimes more hands on in order to teach the concepts. The third discussion is communication. Online classes communicate by sending  and receiving emails. Some classes have chat rooms for discussions which provide the students opportunities to enrich their understanding of the course or subject being discussed. It also allows those individuals that normally would not speak in discussions to express their thoughts. The instant transfer of material is convenient for the students and professors to communicate. A traditional class allows students to verbally exchange ideas and ask questions directly to the professors. Sometimes this environment does not allow the students to fully express themselves due to time constraints. Some people feel that there are communication barriers in a face to face classroom setting due to time and class structure. (Anderson) One of the most important debates between the two classes is the course materials. The question has been asked if the online course is giving adequate material to teach an individual a lesson. Studies show that online professors give more than enough resources to express the subject and also gives practice graded material to ensure that the student understands. Traditional classes have been accused of doing the opposite and taking for granted that the students are in their presence and extra resources are sometimes a rarity. Online classes allow a person to minimize their distractions and it gives them the ability to fully concentrate on the material they are presented with. A person that enrolls in an online course should be self-motivated in order to be in an environment that requires the individual to monitor themselves and be responsible to handle the course as if it was a traditional course. (Kassop) Online courses provide the ability to be accessible at all times but the work that is required should be quality work. The students’ writing ability will enhance because this is their only form of communication. (Kassop) The professors do not expect students to procrastinate because of the accessibility but the possibility is there. The professors of these courses expect more from the online students since there are not time restraints. Online students have the ability to form small groups to relate to because the workload in online course is difficult. The workload is believed to be difficult be cause of the apparent reason of teaching themselves. Traditional classes allow students social interaction which is a vital piece for many students. There is a set amount of time in a classroom setting and there is limited one on one interaction with the professor. Professors have the ability to read their students body language to assure them if the material or concept is being understood by his or her students. Traditional classes also allow students to get behind if they miss a day or an assignment. The traditional classroom allows the students to strengthen various areas of their social skills such as verbally expressing themselves in classroom discussions. There are differences and similarities in online courses and traditional courses. Throughout are reading and research there can be two conclusions: 1. Online courses are better than traditional courses if the individual is discipline to take the course. 2. Online courses and traditional courses are just as good as the other because they both have the same goals and are achieving the goals to the students that are willing to receive. Works Cited Anderson, Terry, & Elloumi, Fathi Theory and Practice of Online Learning (eds.) (2003) http://cde.athabascau.ca/online_book Angiello, Roanne. â€Å"Study Looks at Online Learning vs. Traditional Instruction.† Education Digest 76.2 (2010): 56-59. Academic Search Premier. EBSCO. Web. 30 Nov. 2010. Diaz, D.P.,& Cartnal. R.B. Students’ learning styles in two classes: Online distance learning and equivalent on-campus. College Teaching 47(4), 130-135 Kassop, Mark. The Technology Source. May/June 2003. 6 August 2011

Democracy in the uk Essay

I love reading romance tragedy books. Firstly it gives me the opportunity to identify love; how love growths, what specific element bring the personas close and attached emotionally. Furthermore it gives in-depth information about love and the aspects of love, this is interesting because love is part of everyday life and a lot of people can relate to it which makes it relatable. Secondly the readers (I) feels inclusive and as well as learn from it in order to prevent the mistakes made by the characters in  the book, or to Improve relationships which will benefits me and also it makes the story appealing and interesting. Thirdly reading a romance book is a really great to relax and escape from the day-to-day world. In addition, I paint a picture which helps me create an image in my head which almost seem like I am watching a movie this makes the book very intruding and makes me yearn to read more. There are certain types of genres that I don’t enjoy reading such as fantasies this is because it is unrealistic as it a paint an unrealistic imagine  which doesn’t make the book relatable and most often it discouraging as the readers do not feel inclusive. I would certainly prefer it if it was mixed with a different genre for example romance etc†¦ However it may suitable for people who wants to escape from the real world and have an adventurous reading. For instance children. I enjoy writing when I am depressed or confused this is because it gives me the sense of relief as I get to express my feelings, thoughts and  decision this helps me ease stress all the stress as it doesn’t became a barding so by having this relief I tend to a solution any problem I’m going through. Reading helps me to explore different thing so by this I read almost every day for example newspaper on my way to college, I have an hour 15mintes journey. Reading keep me awake and rejuvenated as I get to read about different this that’s going on in the world and celebrate gossips etc†¦ this helps me to be ready and prepared for my lessons as  my brain helps my brain stay active. I am reading novels I stopped during exams session ‘vampire beach’ and the following novel is called ‘ritual and legacy’ I am very intrude to read this book because I enjoyed reading the other novels as it meets to my expectations and the genre of the book is also about romance, supernatural and seduction which makes it very interesting as there’s different stories in the book because of the riveting, variety of themes as the reader don’t get fatigue.

Case for Christ Essay

Dr. Jeffry McDonald was an ex-marine standing trial for killing his family. He did not think the jury would find him at fault because he had an alibi. However, his alibi did not stand up to scientific evidence. Dr. McDonald was sentenced based on blood and trace evidence that did not back up his alibi. In this case scientific evidence is introduced to prove or disprove the consistency of the gospels based on the discipline of archeology. Strobel turns to an archeological professional who has personal experience working digs in the Middle East. His name is John McRay. As Strobel seeks to stay independent in gathering the evidence he proposes a question to help him determine if McRay will exaggerate the role of archeology when it comes to determining the reliability of the gospels. McCray points out that archeology can bring forth evidence is presented to either explain or disprove evidence presented. In this chapter the search for opinions contrary to those already collected, which includes the opinions of Jesus Seminar, a self-selected group representing a small portion of New Testament scholars who believe Jesus did not say most of what is credited to him in the gospels. They also published The Five Gospels which include the traditional four plus a manuscript titled the Gospel of Thomas which was written in the second century. The author examines their claims to see if he can find reliable evidence to disprove these confusing opinions. To find answers he visits Dr. Gregory Boyd to gather evidence to the Jesus Seminar’s widely publicized views. Most skeptics take pride in their intellectual ability. Some people like to think that they have no beliefs. However, modern science has shown us that everyone has beliefs. Although people would like to think that everything we believe is based upon evidence and logic this cannot be. We become emotionally bound to our worldview, so much so that worldview changes occur rarely. Observational evidence became apparent that the universe was expanding. Inferring back in time revealed that the universe was merely billions of years old. The data eventually led to the â€Å"Big Bang† theory which is virtually universally accepted by modern day cosmologist. The idea that the universe could have gone through an infinite number of birth and deaths was shown to be false on the basis of the lack of amount of matter within the universe. So we have come to realize that the universe first began to exist 13 billion years ago. Atheists are left with a problem because their worldview requires all things have a cause to exist So logic says that the universe had a cause. Virtually all atheists say that this cause was some natural phenomenon. It is also possible that the cause of the universe was a supernatural intelligence, God. The problem gets worse for the atheist. The physical laws of the universe fall within very small ranges in order for life or matter to exist contradicting strong atheism. The prospect of finding a naturalistic cause for the origin of the universe is dreary since the laws of physics indicate that we will never be able escape the bounds of our universe to even look for the cause of the universe.

London Jets

Questions for the London Jets Case Download the file LondonJets. xls, available on the course website. I. Perform RFM Analysis: (recency, frequency, monetary (total sales) analysis) as indicated on page 3 of the case; steps for RFM are given on page 8 of the case (I have provided one approach on page 3 of this document). Use pivot table with Frequency and Monetary value for rows and Recency for column. Data field should be Count of CustID. Important Note — The format for this table is shown on the next page; use this format for your RFM table. Please provide a brief interpretation for the RFM analysis – assume you are the consultant to London Jets; how would you explain what the numbers in the pivot table mean (keep the discussion brief; each and every entry need not be explained). II. Additional Analysis: Do two additional sets of analysis beyond RFM. As an example, you may want to analyze attendance patterns for Fan Club Members versus non-members to see if there is any merit in increasing the size of this club (this would count as one analysis). There are several different variables in the database, and as such there are lots of ways in which the data can be analyzed. Think about the issue London Jets is facing – how to increase attendance – and let this objective drive your analysis. For each additional analysis undertaken by your team, provide a rationale as to why should London Jets consider the customer segment you are analyzing. Please also be sure to briefly explain the outcome of your analysis (what did you learn for your analysis, and how London Jets can benefit from this analysis). What to submit? Please submit one hard copy of the report per team. List the last names of team members on the cover page in alphabetical order. Prepare your report in power point such that it could be presented to London Jets’ management (although your team will not be asked to present the report). Your report should end with a Conclusions page where you draw conclusions from all the analyses you have done, and recommended actions London Jets can take to increase attendance to its games based on your work. Please make sure that the report is contained within a maximum of 12 pages (slides) including the title and conclusions pages. Team work models I have seen two models of team work. The first and more commonly used model is where the team divides the workload and each member is responsible for completing their share of work. These disparate pieces are put together as a report. The obvious advantage of this approach is that the work is divided evenly among members. The drawback of this approach is that sloppy work by one or more team members adversely impacts the score of those who put in good work. Additionally, if someone in the team does not take the trouble to integrate the disparate pieces, the end result can be a report that appears disjoint (i. . made up of pieces that do not flow well together). The second, less common approach is where each member provides input on every aspect (question) of the case. Compared to the approach described above, the second approach certainly requires more time from each member. The advantage however is that often the best ideas (i. e. responses to case questions) make it into the report, resulting in a higher quality of sub mitted work. Important Note — This note applies for all cases done in this class. I cannot entertain questions such as â€Å"Professor, please take a look at what we have so far and let us know if we are on the right track†. Teams are expected to work on each case independently. Taking necessary decisions in situations where there is no clear consensus is a part of team learning process. [pic] Learn more about RFM here: http://searchcrm. techtarget. com/sDefinition/0,,sid11_gci751219,00. html Steps for creating RFM table for London Jets Step 0 — Start by creating a column with 3000 entries such that the first 600 entries are 5s, followed by 600 4s, 600 3s, 600 2s and 600 1s. With copy and paste, this takes  less than  2 minutes and I can gladly show you how. Here are the remaining steps for assigning RFM codes to the London Jets. Step 1 — Sort the entire data on recency of attendance so that customers that attended the games most recently will be on the top of the list. Add a new column to the data labeled R, where you copy and paste the column created in step 0. Step 2 — Sort the entire data, including recency codes assigned in step 1, on the basis of frequency of attendance such that customers with the highest frequency of attendance are at the top of the list. Add a new column to the data labeled F, where you copy and paste the column created in step 0. Step 3 — Sort the entire data, including recency codes assigned in step 1 and frequency codes assigned in step 2, on the basis of  monetary spending such that customers spending the most are at the top of the list. Add a new column to the data labeled M, where you assign first 1000 hundred customers a  M code of 5, the next 1000 a code of 4, and the last 1000 a code of 3. You are done assigning codes at the end of step 3, and are ready to create the RFM table.

GLO-BUS: Developing Winning Competitive Strategies

GLO-BUS Developing Winning Competitive Strategies Welcome to GLO-BUS. You and your co-managers are taking over the operation of a digital camera company that is in a neck-and-neck race for global market leadership, competing against rival digital camera companies. All digital camera makers presently have the same worldwide market share, although shares vary by company across the four market regions – Europe-Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and North America. Currently, your company is selling close to 800,000 entry level cameras and 200,000 multi-featured cameras annually.Prior year revenues were $206 million and net earnings were $20 million, equal to $2. 00 per share of common stock. The company is in sound financial condition, is performing well, and its products are well regarded by digital camera users. Your company’s board of directors has charged you and your co-managers with developing a winning competitive, marketing strategy, one that capitalizes on growin g consumer interest in digital cameras, keeps the company on the ranks of the industry leaders, and boosts the company’s earnings year after year.Some Background Information Your company began operations five years ago and maintains its headquarters in Lisle, Illinos,USA. It assembles all of its cameras at a modern facility in Ha Noi, Vietnam and ships them directly to cameras retailers (multi-store chains that sell electronics products, local camera shops, and online electronics firms) located in Europe-Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and North America.The company maintains regional sales offices in Milan, Italy; Singapore; Sao Paulo, Brazil; and Toronto, Canada to handle the company’s sales and promotion efforts in each geographic region and help support the merchandising efforts of area retailers who stock the company’s brand. Retailers endeavor to maintain ample inventories of camera models in their own stores and warehouses to satisfy shopper demand. S easonal Production and Seasonal Demand. Camera demand is seasonal with about 20 percent of consumer demand coming in each of the first three quarters of each calendar year and 40 percent coming during the fourth quarter holiday season.Retailers place orders for digital cameras roughly 90 days in advance of expected sales, so as to have ample numbers on hand to satisfy camera buyer demand in the upcoming quarter. Thus, during Quarter 1 they place orders for the cameras they expect to sell in Quarter 2; during Quarter 2 they place orders for the cameras they expect to sell in Quarter 3, during Quarter 3, they place orders for the cameras they expect to sell in the peak holiday season fourth quarter; and in Quarter 4 they order the number of cameras they expect to sell in Quarter 1 of the following year.Assembly and Shipping. The company has a staff of people engaged in new product R&D, engineering, and design; this group has the capability to develop new and improved camera models as directed by top management. Once co-managers settle on the desired specifications and performance features for the company’s line-up of camera models, the needed parts and components are obtained from suppliers having the capabilities to make deliveries to the company’s Ha Noi assembly plant on a just-in-time basis.Cameras are assembled by four-person product assembly teams at well equipped workstations. Shipping department personnel ready retailer’s orders for shipment and stack them on the loading dock for pickup by independent freight carriers. The cameras are delivered anywhere from 3 days to 3 weeks later, depending on a retailer’s location and the means of transportation. The cost of boxing the cameras, packaging them for shipment, and freight averages $3 per camera. Many countries have import duties on cameras.Import duties in each of the four geographic regions currently average $5 for entry-level cameras and $10 for multi-featured cameras. Import duties are subject to change in upcoming years. Competitive Efforts. To capitalize on advances in digital technology and keep its cameras appealing to consumers, the company from-time-to-time introduces new and improved models, adds performance features, restyles its camera bodies or housings, and upgrades the internal camera software.Aside from company efforts to make its cameras lines appealing and competitive with those of rival companies, the company’s sales volume and standing in the marketplace is affected by the prices at which it sells its cameras to retail dealers, advertising expenditures, the number of retail dealers it is able to attract to carry its brand, the number and length of quarterly promotions, the size of the price discounts offered to retailers during these promotions, the length of the warranty periods on its cameras, brand image and reputation, and the caliber of the technical support provided to its digital camera users.Stock Listings. The companyâ €™s stock is publicly traded on the NASDAQ exchange in the United States and on several other stock exchanges. The closing price in Year 5 was $30 per share. The company’s financial statements are prepared in accord with generally accepted accounting principles and are reported in U. S. dollars. The company’s financial accounting is in accord with the rules and regulations of all authorities where its stock is traded.The World Market for Digital Cameras The industry your company competes in consists of 4 companies. All companies are on an equal footing from a global perspective, but there is one essential difference in the competitive positions of the rival companies – the percentage of cameras being sold in the four geographic regions (Europe-Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and North America) are not identical from company-to-company as follows:Percentages of Company Sales Volume in (unit sales) North America Europe-Africa Asia-Pacific Latin America Yo ur Company 40% 30% 20% 10% Competitor A 10% 40% 30% 20% Competitor B 20% 10% 40% 30% Competitor C 30% 20% 10% 40%In effect, each company presently has a strong market position in one region, intermediate market positions in two regions, and a weak market position in one region. So there are market share differences among the companies in the industry within each geographic region of the world camera market. In upcoming years, company managers can undertake actions to alter their sales and market shares in all regions, opting to increase sales and share in some and to decrease sales and share in others. Market Growth.The global market for digital cameras is projected to grow 8-10% annually for the next five years (Years 6-10) and then to grow at a slower 4-6% annual rate during the following five years (Years 11-15). These projected growth rates apply to all four geographic regions and to both entry-level and multi-featured cameras. However, in any one year, the growth rate in each r egion can deviate from the 9% average for Years 6-10 and the 5% average for Years 11-15 by as much as 1% in either direction, with different size deviations for each region. The same goes for the projected growth rates for entry-level and multi-featured digital cameras.Hence, there is an element of uncertainty surrounding just where within the 8-10% range and the 4-6% range the growth rate for a particular year will actually fall, for either a given geographic region or a particular type of camera. Ratings of Digital Camera Performance and Quality. The World Digital Camera Federation, a well respected affiliation of camera industry trade groups and camera experts, tests the performance and quality of the camera models of all competitors and assigns a performance-quality or P/Q rating of 1 to 5 stars to each company’s entry-level camera line and multi-featured camera line.Currently, both the entry-level and multi-featured camera lines of all competitors have a 3 star P/Q ratin g. Spirited competition among rivals is, however, likely to result in different P/Q ratings in the forthcoming years. Digital Camera Retailers. Worldwide, there are some 50,000 retailers of digital cameras scattered across the world; each of the four major geographic regions of the world market has 12,500 retailers, some of which are multi-store retail chains (100 per region), online electronic retailers (400 per region), and local camera shops (12,000 per region).Retailers with store locations that also sell cameras on their websites are not included in the online category. Multi-store chains account for the biggest percentage of entry-level camera sales, with online retailers second; local camera shops account for the biggest share of multi-featured digital camera sales, with online retailers second. Retail markups over the wholesale prices of digital camera makers run 50% to 100%; thus an entry-level digital camera wholesaling for $160 could retail for $300 or more and a multi-fe atured camera wholesaling for $360 might carry a retail list price of $700.Such markups give retailers the latitude to put digital cameras on sale from time-to-time at 10% to 20% off regular price and still make a decent profit margin. Retailers typically carry anywhere from 2-4 brands of digital cameras and stock only certain models of the brands they do carry, but in all four geographic markets there are around 20 ‘full-line’ camera retailers that stock most all brands and models. Chain store retailers are drawn to carry the best selling brands and mainly stock entry-level cameras.The makers of weak selling camera brands have difficulty convincing major retail chains to devote display space to their models. Local camera shops and online retailers are, however, more amenable to stocking and promoting low-volume brands, especially those with above average P/Q ratings and respected brand images. Local camera shops and online electronics retailers devote much of their mer chandising effort to multi-featured digital cameras because of their bigger profit margins.In the multi-featured camera segment, local camera shops enjoy an advantage over online retailers because many multi-featured camera shoppers prefer to â€Å"touch and try out† the functioning of the multi-featured cameras they are considering and seek out the opinions of camera savvy personnel in local camera shops before finalizing their purchase. In choosing which brands of multi-featured cameras to carry and feature in their local ads, local camera shop owners put a fairly heavy weight on P/Q ratings, warranties, brand image, and the number, length, and price discounts of manufactures’ promotional discounts.Online retailers use essentially the same criteria in deciding which multi-featured camera brands to give top-billing and search priority on their websites. Digital Camera Buyers. Digital camera shoppers are generally quite knowledgeable; many do extensive Internet researc h to educate themselves about the features, performance, and prices of competing digital camera brands and models. The World Digital Camera Federation’s much publicized P/Q atings are trusted by camera shoppers; its frequently visited website has detailed information concerning the results of its performance tests and the basis for its P/Q ratings of each camera brand. Both camera makers and online electronics retailers have extensive information on their websites about currently available models. Numerous websites and publications review new and improved camera models as they are introduced by manufactures.The buyers of entry-level digital cameras are considerably more price sensitive than multi-featured camera buyers and many do comparison shopping on price in selecting which brand to purchase. The purchasers of multi-featured cameras are much more particular about camera performance and picture quality. Many price sensitive consumers shopping for their first digital camera are inclined to wait to make a purchase until electronic retailers have special sales promotions and offer entry-level camera models at sizable discounts off the regular retail price.It is common for camera retailers to also have special sales promotions for overstocked multi-featured models. The Competitive Factors That Drive Market Share Competition among rival camera makers centers around 11 sales determining factors: – How each company’s wholesale selling price (for both entry-level and multi-featured cameras) compares against the corresponding industry-wide average price in each geographic region. – P/Q ratings. – The number of special promotions each quarter. – The length of the special quarterly promotions (in weeks). The size of the discounts off the regular wholesale price during these promotions. – Advertising expenditures. – Product selection, as measured by the number of models in each line of cameras (entry-level and mul ti-featured). – The number of retailers carrying the company’s brand. – The length of the manufacturer’s warranty period. – The ease with which users of a company’s digital cameras can obtain responsive technical support when they encounter difficulties. – Brand reputation among buyers and retailers.With these 11 competitive determinants of sales and market share in play in each camera segment in each geographic region, you and your co-managers have many options for crafting a strategy capable of producing good profits and return on investment and keeping your company in contention for global market leadership. For example, you can – Employ a low-cost leadership strategy and pursue a competitive advantage keyed to having lower costs and selling your digital cameras at lower prices than rivals. Employ a differentiation strategy that sets your company’s digital cameras apart from rival brands based on such attributes as a higher P/Q rating, more models/styles to select from, and such marketing attributes as more advertising, longer warranties, more promotions, better technical support for owners of your digital cameras, or a bigger network of retail outlets carrying the company’s brand. – Employ a more value for the money strategy (providing 4-star digital cameras at lower prices than other 4-star brands) where your competitive advantage is an ability to incorporate appealing attributes at a lower cost than rivals. Focus your strategic efforts on being the clear market leader in either entry-level or multi-featured cameras. – Focus your company’s competitive efforts on gaining sales and market share in those geographic markets where your company already has high sales and deemphasize sales in those areas where your company has a comparably low market share or where profit margins are relatively low. – Pursue essentially the same strategy worldwide or else have regio nal strategies tailored to match the differing competitive conditions and actions in North America, Europe-Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America. Focus your company’s competitive efforts on those regional markets where sales are highest or most profitable and either deemphasize or withdraw from one or more geographic areas where market share is low and/or profit margins are small. Thinking Strategically: The Importance of Trying to Out-Maneuver Rivals Making Decisions. The following areas should be the basis of your decision making process. They are as follows: Product Design Marketing Assembly Compensation, Training, and Labor Force Special Order Bids Social Responsibility and CitizenshipFinance What Your Board of Directors Expects. The Board of Directors has given you and your co-managers broad strategy-making and operating authority to pursue the achievement of performance objectives, subject to two primary constraints: (1) Your company may not merge with another company ; the Board wishes the company to remain independent. And (2), company co-managers are expected to comply fully with all legal and regulatory requirements and to conduct the company’s business in an ethical manner. Good Luck. R. G. Revers PhD

Killing Us Softly 4 - movie review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Killing Us Softly 4 - movie review - Essay Example According to Hook, black women positively responded to Sapphire film which negated black female representation by showing how frustrated and violent black women are as well as terming black women as bitches? Interestingly, the black females instead responded to the movie by saying that it exactly portrayed what their characters and behavior are (Hooks 120-121) Women tend to copy perfection shown on the advertisements yet these flawless are not real and cannot be achieved by the advertisers themselves. Advantages portray models as people with slim perfect look hence making the audience to try to lose weight and gain smooth skin just like the image seen in the advertisement. It is interesting to note that failure for the audience to achieve or resemble the image of the celebrity is treated as let down (Kilbourne Film). The message Kilbourne communicates is that no matter how much we try to idolize other people, we can never be perfect at all. Women should just accept their normal looks without imitating others. Advertisement and the media do not show us reality and this is even evident when the celebrities portrayed as beautiful also dispute the media imaging. There is no photograph of a woman that is not photo shopped and beauty is depicted by a white ideal that includes light skin and straight hair (Kilbourne Film). Advertisements normally dismember women bodies by focusing only one part of the body such as breast, unlike men whose bodies are not scrutinized and criticized.

Tiers of Rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Tiers of Rights - Essay Example The Supreme Court has over the years extended the fundamental rights to include right to marriage, right to contraception and also right to privacy (Smith 36). The Supreme Court uses a three-tier approach in determining the level of protection of each constitutional right. For instance, the strict scrutiny enables courts to reject any legislation that is not geared at fulfilling overriding government objective. The second tier is the intermediate scrutiny whereby the legislation must demonstrate a substantial societal interest such as extramarital affairs. The third scrutiny is a rational relationship test whereby the legislation must relate to legitimate government objective and must protect the specific constitutional rights. The upper tier constitutional rights include the fundamental rights safeguarded by constitution such as the right to freedom of association, freedom of worship, right to counsel and right against double jeopardy. Right to protection against unfair trial and cr uel punishments are also fundamental rights that form the first tier of constitutional rights (Fireside 34). ... In addition, the double jeopardy protection prohibits subsequent prosecution after the conviction, acquittal and multiple punishments for the same indictment. Accordingly, the constitutional right protects the accused from witnessing against himself since this may lead to self-incrimination (Smith 65). The right to protection against self-incrimination extends to custodial interrogation. The Fifth Amendment is clear that evidence obtained illegally cannot be admissible in prosecutions even when such evidence is obtained by torture of the accused. In the case of Miranda v, Arizona, 384 U.S. 436 (1966), Ernesto Miranda had been convicted for several charges including armed robbery, assault, attempted rape and burglary. In police custody, he had confessed to the crimes and the court found him guilty (Smith 50). However, after his appeal, the US Supreme Court ruled that his Fifth Amendment rights had been violated since the law enforcement authorities should have warned him of the right to remain silent or provide evidence in the presence of an attorney. In addition, the right to remain silent in criminal trials prohibits the government from punishing the defendant through allowing the prosecutor to assume the guilty of defendant. This was evidenced in the case of Griffin v. California, 380 U.S 609 (1965), when the Supreme Court held that it was unconstitutional for California state to grant such powers to the jury and prosecutors (Vile 20). Conclusion In conclusion, constitutional rights are classified in to three tiers depending on the level of protection by the constitution. The right to fair trials in criminal charges is an upper tier constitutional right that is safeguarded

War on terrorism vs. Human Rights Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

War on terrorism vs. Human Rights - Essay Example When the truth was finally revealed by Miliband, questions were raised about the honesty of the government. And because the public already knew that there were two cases of renditions that have happened, there were doubts that maybe out of the 170 stopovers in the United Kingdom, there might have been more than two renditions that have transpired. As Tom Porteous, the Human Rights Watch' London Chief would put it, "We now know that in at least two cases, the U.S. didn't ask permission. How many other times did the U.S. fail to inform the British government" 3 The said confession on the controversial matter thus stained the trust of the people to their leaders in the government. But what was more disturbing on this matter is that there were human rights violated in the said extraordinary renditions done by the CIA. group, both locally and internationally, which firmly believe in the possibilities that there were rights violated in the said measures of renditions. ... about kidnapping and secret detention."4 And even if one views such matter in so many ways and in different perspectives, it will never look all right. Just the thought of detaining and torturing the suspects is already unfair and discriminatory. Though it is given that "Extraordinary rendition violates the universal declaration of human rights,"5 it is still not enough reason to physically abuse the suspects. They are called as suspects because they are not yet convicted to have committed the accused crimes. Now, if justice would always be done in this way- people without even undergoing the proper court proceedings, we might as well disregard the promulgated laws because the reason that the laws exist is for the people to be protected. In this case, these people- the suspects- are not protected. It is stated under Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights that there is a "fair trial before an independent tribunal, andsuspects are innocent until proven [sic] guilty." 6 In this light, suspects, no matter what, are still human beings entitled with their own rights. And for that reason, I believe that they too have the claim to exercise their civil liberties and human rights. These norms then that protect people from various places around the world against 4BBC News,"UK Apology Over Rendition Flights"; available from http://www.khilafah.com/kcom/index2.phpoption=com_content&do_pdf=1&id=2005; 5 David Weissbrodt et al., "Extraordinary Rendition: A Human Rights Analysis," Harvard Human Rights Journal 287, Vol. 19 (2006), http://www.law.harvard.edu/students/orgs/hrj/iss19/weissbrodt.shtml. 6Sabina Zaccaro, "Rights: European Parliament Turns Policeman Over Renditions, http://ipsnews.net/news.aspidnews=36499. several forms of abuse, torture, and

What may be the 'Best Practices' so far as Action Planning is Assignment

What may be the 'Best Practices' so far as Action Planning is concerned - Assignment Example Non-discriminatory policies increase the rate of work commitment (Australian Human Rights Commission 2014). Delivering real value to customers helps them realize that they are valued by the provider of services which increase customer loyalty. The more customer loyalty there is, the higher competitive edge is achieved by an organization over rival companies. This is why making wise investments in this area is highly valuable making it one of the best practices of an action plan (Bradt, Check & Pedraza 2011). Employers and employees should continually strive to enhance their organization’s image. This helps the people realize that focus is not only concentrated on maximizing profit. Rather, the organization is conscientious enough to protect its reputation also (Nagy & Fawcett 2013). Customers have more confidence in those companies which have a very healthy image compared to those which have cracks in their images. Australian Human Rights Commission 2014, Developing an effective Action Plan, viewed, 07 June 2014, Nagy, J & Fawcett, SB 2013, Proclaiming Your Dream: Developing Vision and Mission Statements, viewed, 07 June 2014,

The Rise of Capitalism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Rise of Capitalism - Essay Example Smith’s theory that propagated dependence of individualism that oozed out of the nation at this time period. America’s obsession with Industrial began with Slater’s mills in which textiles became the primary market to produce. Although it may seem a new age, most workers were orphans or children who owed debt to the nation. The drive of capitalism for this country relied on many factors that included slavery, turned raw goods into products, factories, and the ability to produce such a drastic workforce. Jefferson understood and acknowledged this problem. He feared that the America could not be properly industrialized due to the fact that it would not attract workers. Hence, the need to build factories around villages became critical components towards the move to industrialize America. Moreover, the ability of the American leaders to explore the â€Å"wild west† catapulted the nation to expand and dramatically changed from an urban to a rural area. One of the most significant factors that contributed to the development expansion of the United States was the fertile land that was available in the South. The large plantations in the south gave the rise to slave labor was the fertile farmland in the Midwest enabled United States to accomplish several things. First of all, the invention of Eli Whitney’s cotton gin initiated the rise to slave labor in the rich land that extended beyond from Carolina to Texas, which expanded the United States border. The fertile land gave boosted the American economy, which contributed to development of United States. The south had to dramatically shift their economy to tobacco and cotton to agriculture. In the north, corn supply was enhanced along with the focus on producing textiles. Cities such as New York and Chicago became the top commerce cities that built its economic empire due to the industrial revolution. The creation of Erie Canal became the hallmark of water commerce that enabled America to lower shipping costs

Rhetorical context assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Rhetorical context assignment - Essay Example A poll, published the same day he delivered his speech, had it that only 26 per cent of the public approved his handling of the Vietnam War. With the rest 74 per cent being against his handling of the war, it was evident that majority were for the view that the United States should stop its bombardment of Northern Vietnam. The Pacifica Radio/UC Berkeley had reported that, the advisory body of current and retired President’s advisers that President Johnson constituted on Match 25 to 26, had advised him against increasing war troops in Vietnam in for peaceful negotiations. According to the HistoryPlace article titled, ‘President Lyndon Baines Johnson decides not to seek re-election’, there was popular and political erosion for the support of the war. The Democrats were against the decisions and led various demonstrations in America. Moreover, the Newshistory.com article titled ‘President Johnson Orders Air Strikes against North Vietnam’, had it that, th ere was a reason for America escalating the war on Vietnam because the Asian communists went on provoking America to shoot and bomb Northern Vietnam. In this case, there were different reactions on this topic according to different affiliations. As he stated in his speech, peaceful negotiations were the only way out, and this move was preferred by the rhetoric of the time. The rhetoric of stopping the Northern Vietnam bombardment and seeking peaceful negotiation inspired the president to deliver this speech. In this case, the rhetor was responding; to the idea that the bombardment of the Northern Vietnam should be de-escalated. Secondly the people’s opinion favored peaceful negotiations rather than war in approaching the situation in Vietnam. He used his speech to show the benefits of peaceful negotiations to the Northern Vietnam, a move which was meant to gladden the majority who were against his former stand. The rhetor was also aware that his