Gender Inequities In The Classroom Essays - Gender Studies

Gender Inequities In The Classroom GENDER INEQUITIES MEDIA REVIEW WEB PAGE REVIEW The material on Gender Inequities that I found is a web page that discusses strategies to reduce or eliminate gender inequities in Science. It is basically a list of tactics discussing techniques on how to help girls overcome their anxieties in science. This web page came from the NCREL Internet site which stands for North Central Regional Educational Laboratory. This Internet site offers easy to find, concise, research-based information on school improvement. The Gender Inequities webpage gives good information on how to make girls feel equal when dealing with Science. This would be a good webpage for teachers who are involved in the science curriculum, especially those who are having trouble getting girls more involved in the subject. This is also a good webpage for parents to help them understand the problems that their daughter may be having in school, and what they can do about it. The strategies that this web page discusses how to hold girls to high expectations in science classes and encourage girls to take these classes, because they are just as capable as boys. This web page is commendable because it is very informative, yet very simple and only takes a minute to read. It is a good reference to have in the classroom to help reduce Gender Bias in the Sciences. If an instructor is having trouble getting girls involved in their science classes, this is something they should defiantly read. I would recommend schools to use this list in their curriculum in the future to help educate teachers as well as parents and students on how to reduce the Gender Bias that is affecting many girls in their Science classes. Many girls seem to think that in Science and Math, they just do not add up to the boys intellectually. As false as this may be, it is still a reoccurring problem Sociology Issues

Analysis on Laura Bohannans Relationship with the Native of Tiv in West Africa essays

Analysis on Laura Bohannans Relationship with the Native of Tiv in West Africa essays In her essay Shakespeare in the Bush, Laura Bohannan attempts to illustrate whether there is a universal understanding through her experience of sharing Hamlet with the Tiv in West Africa. Throughout the story the Tiv object to some of its details, however, overall they are able to understand Hamlet, a very English play. Different cultural backgrounds not only make the Tiv and Bohannan have very different interpretations of Hamlet ,but also the general ideas of life and death. The essay is very much developed around their simple and abstracted relationship between the Tiv and Bohannan. In her opening paragraph, Bohannan implies a very direct and assumptive relationship of herself and the Tiv. Using a sharp comparison left Oxford for the Tiv in West Africa (300), Bohannan implies that she is from an educated background and the Tiv are not. In addition, Bohannan goes to Africa to conduct her study on the Tiv. An unequal relationship becomes clear. However, when she gets there, the Tiv treat her well and see her as their friend as they invite her to drink beer and to share stories. The Tiv do not feel intimidated by the superior western culture. At first Bohannan thinks that human nature is pretty much the same the whole wide world over (300). She assumes that all human nature including her own culture and the Tiv is the same. She seeks to prove that even a story like Hamlet can be universally interpreted. One need not be from England or another Western country to understand Shakespeare. However, after exposing the Tiv to Hamlet, the interpretation, regarded as universal and correct interpretation, falls short when placed in the context of other cultures. Although the Tiv share in the belief that people are the same all over the world, both the Tiv and Bohannan assume that all people are like them. For example, The Tiv were shocked at the fact that King Hamlet had ...

Sx-wk7 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Sx-wk7 - Essay Example Another example is the South Asian LGBs who are "largely closeted in their own communities.." (p. 135) because of their cultural mores. It can be assumed that all LGB people are "the same" and have the same experiences. According to Bohan, this is not true. In my own experience, I have seen many different LBGs and it seems that there were many differences. As an example, some whites seemed to be more open than minority LGBs. In hearing some of their stories, it seemed to take longer for minorities to "come out" because they were afraid they would be rejected by their families. I found it interesting that LGBs come to midlife that they seem freer than they did when they were younger. I could understand why however. Bohan says that it is because there is "an absence of traditional gender roles allowed by LGB may make midlife a more fulfilling period for LGBs†¦" (p. 159). I think that this is part of it. I also think that at a certain time and space LGBs just get tired of not living their life in the way they want. This comment also reminded me of something that Fee (2006) said regarding transgendered identity. They make the point that when we only have two genders, it is difficult for people who do not fit one of these categories to define an identity (p. 1). It would seem that LGBs would have somewhat of a struggle deciding how to be within a specific gender and are able to release that as they grow

Cultural analysis of baha'i faith Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Cultural analysis of baha'i faith - Assignment Example Such designations as Brahma, Yahweh, Allah, and God all talk about the same supernatural being, whose nature is inaccessible and unknowable to humanity (Kourosh and Hosoda, 445). Moreover, we study about God through his messengers, who guide and teach humanity. Bahà ¡Ãƒ ­s have faith in the oneness of all faiths or religions, as they originate from one God. The main purpose of all faiths is to educate and guide humanity. However, Bahà ¡Ã¢â‚¬â„¢u’llà ¡h says that the teachings of different regions appear to divulge and differ mainly because the truths that are preserved in those religions were revealed in a way that was adapted to the limitation, conditions, and needs of those getting that revelation, just as in the famous narrative told by Budda, in which the blind men varied in their perception of the same elephant. When challenging religious beliefs, one must choose, whether deliberately or not from one of this three mismatched, central belief systems. One, that the religions are developed by man, second, that a particular religion is correct, or thirdly, all religions are part of a united whole. Without the teachings of Baha’i the latter choice has always been an issue due to the absence of a religious framework to help individuals get to know how religions can fit together. What Baha’i teaches is unity to prevail among religions. Bahà ¡Ã¢â‚¬â„¢u’llà ¡h educated that women and men were like two wings of a bird and that unless both of the wings are developed equally, the bird will not be able to fly. Additionally, he taught that humankind is similar to a garden, whose utmost beauty is established in the diversity of fragrances, textures, and color, not in uniformity. These teachings bring about a main idea that the Bahà ¡Ãƒ ­ teachings do not deny different religions; the teachings are only aimed at bringing all those religions to be unified. The Bahà ¡Ãƒ ­

Techniques used by Martin Luther King to make his message powerful Essay

Techniques used by Martin Luther King to make his message powerful - Essay Example What is extra ordinary is his steely determination combined with clear vision and forceful expression that make his message so powerful. Martin Luther King had a good grasp of all facts and figures. The problem of segregation, its impact on a whole race of people whose only misfortune was the color of their skin, the impunity and arrogance of its perpetuators, the trauma and agony endured by its hapless victims most of whom comprised the aged, women and children, and the indifference of the people in general and the authorities in particular who were in a position to mitigate the problem but preferred to look the other way. The length of the letter, its tone, the unwavering documenting of instances that warranted his personal involvement, proves King's intentions of pursuing the case to its logical end. In his letter, Luther King expressed solidarity with his race, regretted the nonchalant way the problem was being allowed to continue, and does not show any sign of relenting on his opposition to the racial slur being daily played out in the country. He proved the validity of his presence in Birmingham as "consent" to an invitation, and his obligation to "live up to his promise" to engage in a non-violent direct-action program to oppose the "injustice being done here (Birmingham)." He also cited examples like Alabama where Negroes were being denied the right to vote. He contended, "Thus it is that I can urge men to obey the 1954 decision of the Supreme Court, for it is morally right; and I can urge them to disobey segregation ordinances, for they are morally wrong." He even goes on to express his disapp ointment with the "laxity" of the church in relation to the inhuman treatment being perpetuated on the blacks. Scriptural and Political Quotations Being a seasoned theologian, he effectively quoted scriptures in support of his argument. He quoted St. Augustine, and declared, "an unjust law is no law." He referred to "the refusal of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego to obey the laws of Nebuchadnezzar, on the ground that a higher moral law was at stake." Assuming a political stance, he stated, "We should never forget that everything Adolf Hitler did in Germany was "legal" and everything the Hungarian freedom fighters did in Hungary was "illegal." It was "illegal" to aid and comfort a Jew in Hitler's Germany." Using scriptural and political precedents, he made a strong appeal to human conscience in defense of his stand. In the entire saga of the good versus evil, the good always have had to pay a price, even when it vanquished the evil. Socrates did not change his stand even though it cost his life. Many others embraced martyrdom. Eventually, history repeated itself with Martin Luther King too. But they are remembered with gratitude all over the world. Source: Martin Luther King's Letter from the Birmingham Jail, http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/conlaw/mlkjail.html

Distribution channel management

Distribution channel management CHAPTER 1: Introduction This chapter will introduce the topic, specify the key aim and objectives of the dissertation, discuss the research approach and state the dissertation outline. The key aim of this chapter is to establish the foundation for the research topic by giving out basic information. Introduction The research is about study of distribution channel management at Dell Computers, UK. The dissertation is more practical in nature, studying the Distribution Channels of Dell, both at a strategic and an operational level. I would be analysing the business function on its efficiency and effectiveness, comparing with the other industry performers. I would mostly be comparing the function against Sony Electronics, the most respected name in multi-channel distribution network; Acer, pioneer of value computing products and proprietary brands like Advent. Dell Inc. is a multibillion dollar, multinational technology firm that manufactures, develops, sells and supports personal computing and computer related products. Dell has seen a rapid growth to become one of the top three vendors in the PC manufacturing industry, and has seen a substantial increase in share price and market value. While many other companies were unable to handle the demands of the competition, Dell has proved successful in such an environment. The main key to success to Dell has been its two innovative practices that is direct sales and build-to-order business model. This model is simple as a concept but highly complex to execute, especially in the present conditions of rapid growth and change. Dell has continually renewed and extended its business model while striking a balance between control and edibility. Dell made changes in its design, manufacturing, procurement, and logistics processes to reduce the costs, and to speed up the entire distribution system. It has expanded into International markets and it started making notebook and server product lines which has led to extraordinary profits for dell, and has given a great market value for the company. Dell has reached sales of $18.2 billion by the year 1998, with a profit of $1.46 billion, and Dells market share in the PC market grew from 3% in 1995 to 9.2% in the year 1999 with stock price increasing by 40 times. Dells market capitalization has reached $100 billion. Research aim and Questions The primary purpose of my research work is to analyse the role distribution channels play in the functioning of a business, both in the long run and in the short run. My study is to present a detailed description of the unique distribution channel adopted by Dell Inc., analyse its efficiency and effectiveness, identify possible loopholes and put forth recommendations for development. My study is being undertaken with an aim to answer the following research questions: How are the various distribution channels organised within Dell Inc.? How does it compare with its competitors? How effective and efficient is this channel management at Dell? What can be done to make it better? The four research questions are the guiding blocks of my entire research and all of the work would be keeping them in view. Distribution Channels within Dell: I would be looking at Dells innovative distribution channel management which has literally revolutionised the importance of Direct Marketing in the consumer electronics space. Direct marketing is still the primary distribution mechanism within Dell. I would be documenting the evolution of this concept within Dell right from its customized sales regime during PCs Limited to the complex and sophisticated systems that it employs currently. I would be presenting a visual of the entire distribution network that it stands at today. Comparison with its competitors: I would be comparing the dynamic distribution systems of its arch rivals. Sony, Acer, Advent and HP Compaq are the brands that I would be concentrating upon. I would be looking at the strategies adopted in different economies, though my primary concentration would be on the English markets. Efficiency and Effectiveness: I would be conducting an efficiency and effectiveness test of Dells powerful distribution network against its competitors. This would be an empirical study. I would be concentrating on the parameters of Customer Satisfaction and Vendor relationship management. Recommendations: Finally, I would be putting forth recommendations for future developments along with the cost benefit analysis of such implementations. Research approach The study is conducted by collecting secondary data and primary data. Secondary data is collected from books, journals, government websites, company documents whereas primary data is collected by means of survey questionnaire distributed among channel partners and the end customers. Participants of research would be intermediaries in the distribution network and the end customer. In order to select the participants the study has made use of stratified random sampling method in order to make sure that major demographic segments are represented while selecting the samples (Rao Skinner, 1996). Questionnaire design consists of two parts. The first part contained the demographic information while the second part dwelled on each of the subjects perception on each variable using five point likert scales from 1 (Strongly Agree) to 5(Strongly Disagree). The study did not require any assistance from a third party or any other institution. In order to collect data the study made use of web portal survey to distribute survey and get responses. The system was designed in such a way that the respondent have to submit all the answers. Out of 60 questionnaires, responses for 50 surveys were obtained. The duration for the survey was kept as two weeks, a reminder mail was being sent to the respondents at the end of week one to remind them. Importance of the study Organizations have been undergoing strategic changes over the past decade. More so in the past couple of years. The current recession has proved that risk management and strategic planning are most vital for an organizations long lasting and self-sustaining performance. My work will strive to highlight one such areas of strategic thinking and inform the senior management about the benefits involved. Research Scope My work would primarily be concentrated on the UK market. Though Dell is a global corporation with intermediaries present across the globe, all working towards forming an effective value chain to maximize business potential and ensure efficiency in operations; UK being the second biggest market after the US will be a general approximation of the entire organizational behaviour. Furthermore, the cosmopolitan nature of London and demographic diversity ensures that it would be a close estimate of the general population. Limitation of Research I intend to undertake my research as comprehensively as possible. As in any research work, inherent are some unavoidable drawbacks in my study. Few of them are: Financial and Time Constraints: As outlined before, the scope of my work is limited to the English market. Financial and time constraints of my semester mean that Im not able to conduct a global research that would be more apt in this case. Personal bias. Most of my work is conducted through a personal observation method; as such it is prone to my personal bias. However as the person who is to do the entire research right from formulation of research questions to recommending solutions, I would be most qualified to comment on the topic. Information Constraints. Distribution channel model is a sensitive piece of company information. Though I have secured access to Dell, wherein I could do all the data mining myself, the extent of information that I would be able to muster about the rivals model is still to be seen. Dissertation outline The structure of the dissertation is as follows Chapter 1: Chapter 1 encompass introduction to the topic, followed by brief background into the research topic. This beginning chapter also lays bare aims and objectives of the research followed by structure of the thesis. Apart from that this chapter also gives information on the research approach adopted and the limitations of the research. Chapter 2: The literature review section of the dissertation explores the definition of distribution, channel, and distribution channel and distribution channel management. Apart from that the section also examines the activities and the levels of distribution channel. The latter half of the section focuses on the distribution strategy adopted by Dell, Sony and Acer. The final section compares the distribution strategy by all the three players. Chapter 3: The thesis then moves on to methodology section wherein the research model, research framework and data collection methodology is discussed. Questionnaire method is used to collect the necessary data from the consumer. Chapter 4: This chapter explores data findings Chapter 5: This chapter presents the conclusion. Chapter 6: This includes references using Harvard referencing style Chapter 7: This includes the Appendix Summary The chapter introduced the topic of the dissertation, specified the key aims and objectives of the research. Discussed the research approach in form of secondary and primary data collection through the means of questionnaire and clearly stated the limitations of the research in brief. The chapter also outlines the research structure specifying the contents of each chapter. Chapter 2: Literature Review During my research, I would primarily be looking towards the concepts of Distribution Channel and its management. I would be guided by the various contributions in the field, though my work would primarily be influenced by the theories and suggestions of Philip Kotler in the area. A Professor of Business Studies at the Kelloggs Business School, Kotler is often regarded as the Father of Modern Marketing. My work also coincides with various other management thinking like Consumer Behaviour, Relationship Management, Marketing Mix and Optimization, among others. Definition Distribution Kotler (1996) states that distribution is a key element in the marketing mix (place amongst the 4Ps). It is the systems and practices in use which make a product or service available to the consumer of such a product or service. Channel Channel is defined as a set of interdependent organizations involved in the process of making a product or service available for consumption or use (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). It can also encompass physical movement, warehousing, ownership of the product, presale transaction, post-sale activities; order processing, credit and collections; and other different types of support activities (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). Distribution Channel The Distribution Channel is the chain of intermediaries, each of them passing on the product or service to another intermediary until it reaches the consumer. The business dictionary defines it as The route by which a product or service is moved from a producer or supplier to customers. A distribution channel usually consists of a chain of intermediaries, including wholesalers, retailers, and distributors, that is designed to transport goods from the point of production to the point of consumption in the most efficient way (Dictionary, 2010) Another definition of Distribution channel states A group of independent and interdependent organizations involved in the sale and movement of goods and services to the end users may be called a distribution channel or network (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). More specifically, a distribution channel is: The transfer of goods from manufacturer to the end user. Route of a company for distributing the goods. The process of moving goods from the manufacturer to the consumer. A supply chain consisting of all parties in between production to the end user. Types of channel members The activities in the distribution channel can be carried out by the marketer himself or it can be carried out by specialist organizations. The specialist organizations and the channel members can be categorized into two types. Resellers Specialty Service Firms. Resellers are the companies which usually buy and take the ownership of the products from the manufacturer with the intention of selling to end consumers. An organization can have one or more than one reseller in the chain. The network or chain of resellers is known as reseller network. The resellers can be further classified into: Retailers: A retailer sells the product directly to the end customer. Wholesalers: Wholesalers buy the products from manufacturer or other wholesalers and then they sell the products to the retailers. Industrial Distributors: They are the ones who sell products from one business to other, they are suppliers who buy the goods and sell it to another firm. Specialty service firms are organizations that do not take the ownership of the products. They also provide additional services along with the products. Specialty firms can be: Agents and brokers: They are the firms which bring together the suppliers and buyers and mediate the sale and they charge a fee for this kind of service. Distribution service firms: They provide services which help with the movement of goods in the distribution channels like transportation, processing and storage of goods and products. Others: They are the firms which provide other services to the channels in distribution like insurance, routing assistance etc. The distribution channels consist of many parties among which each of them is trying to meet their objectives. Relationships between channel members should be strong with each others especially on which they are depending for the further distribution of product. Levels The arrangement of the distribution channels can be classified into two types: Independent channel arrangements. Dependent channel arrangements. Independent channel arrangements: In this type of arrangement the channel members negotiate deals with others which do not result in the binding of the relationships. Channel members are free to make arrangements which they feel is in their own and best interest. An individual member decides what is best for them and not the entire channel. This is also called conventional distribution arrangement and often significant conflict as each member decides what is best for him and not in concern with the entire channel There are four levels of distribution channels. Channel 1 is called the direct marketing channel which is the distribution of products or services from the manufacturer to the customer. The best example for this channel is Dell which does not makes use of any intermediaries to distribute its products to end customers; there are no retailers, agents or wholesalers. The channel does not have any intermediaries. This type of channel helps to eradicate the excess cost and also helps to have good control over the quality and marketing. The other three channels fall in the category of indirect marketing channels. The second channel has one intermediary, if the market is a consumer market the one intermediary is basically a retailer. Electronic consumer goods market of UK is an example of second type of channel arrangement. In this type of distribution arrangement the companies sell good to large retail chains, example would be Sony, Canon, and HP selling their electronic goods to large retail chains such as Dixons. These retailers in return sell the goods to the end customer. The role of the wholesale in this channel is to buy the products at bulk from the manufacturer and then sell the same to retailer in smaller quantities. This model works best for retailers on small scale and not for big chains such as Dixons. This type of distribution channel is best when there are large number of small retailers and not big companies. Example in this case would be the medical drugs distribution market in the UK. The fourth channel has added level to it in the form of agents who work as intermediary between manufacturer and wholesaler. The agent acts as representative for both the sides. This works in textile market. A direct distribution channel is where a company sells their products direct to consumers. While direct channels were not popular many years ago, the Internet has greatly increased the use of direct channels. Additionally, companies needing to cut costs may use direct channels to avoid middlemen mark-ups on their products. Distributors, wholesalers and retailers are the primary indirect channels a company may use when selling their products in the marketplace. Companies choose the indirect channel best suited for their product to obtain the best market share; it also allows them to focus on producing their goods. Though, in practicality, a number of other players exist, they can be generalised to the above. The specific channel of distribution adopted by a company depends, to a major extent, on its business model, the industry type and the scale of its operations. As an Instance, Sony has its own set of company operated exclusive showrooms. The strong brand equity of Sony, the scale of its business and clearly identifiable product differentiations that it enjoys with the consumers, allow it to leverage on its economies of scale and scope by operating its own outlets. Directly, this result in better margins for the company and indirectly it helps building on its already demanding brand leadership. Dell, on the other hand, relies more on online sales. This is because of the organization of its service delivery utility. Dells business model is based upon its centralised manufacturing facilities, rather than the nuclear organization at Sony. Online sales suits such a strategy by negating the high costs of transportation and inventory planning issues involved. A manufacturer selling a physical product might require three channels: Sales Channel, Delivery Channel, and Service Channel. In Our case, Dell uses telephone and internet as sales channels, express mail services as the delivery channel and local repair people as its service channel. Distribution Channel Activities Distribution includes different range of activities (Richard Gay, 2007) Linking many suppliers to provide wide range of consumer choice Assist the exchange process identify the needs of the buyer in the context of product categories, quantities, range etc. and devise manufacturing, inventory and packaging schedules to fit. Marketing information: This encompass collection, distribution and analysing marketing research information such as the past sales data about the players within the organizations marketing environment. Promotional activities- This involves setting of promotional objectives and activating the various elements of the marketing communications mix and measuring their effectiveness, this will encompass identify and communicate with prospects. Pricing: Deciding on the sales terms and conditions at each stage of the value chain Risk management This includes analysis and resource sourcing required for involvement in the channel , the degree of control and influence and the potential benefits such as revenue and profit generation. Physical Distribution Management It includes the transportation all aspects of warehousing management and information flows. Other Activities that may be part of the distribution channels are as follows: Order Generation. Handling of Goods. Shipping of Goods. Storage of Goods. Display of Goods. Promotion of Goods. Sale. Feedback. Distribution Channel Management Distribution Channel Management is all about getting the product or service to the right people at the right time under the constraints of profits, efficiency and effectiveness. Successful marketing does not end when a business has developed a product or service and has found its appropriate target audience with a view to selling it at the right price. The next issue that needs to be faced is how they are going to distribute and sell this product/service to these people- the consumers. When a product/service is purchased by a consumer, it may have been bought directly from the business, or it may have been through a number of intermediaries (wholesaler, retailer, etc.): these are known as distribution channels. Small businesses need to acknowledge the different types of distribution channels to utilize sales potential. Distribution channel management involves a lot of channel decisions, strategic alternatives and numerous linking concepts, all of which would be explored in my research paper. Distribution channel management involves a lot of channel decisions, strategic alternatives and numerous linking concepts. The PC industry is driven by rapid technological improvements in components, particularly microprocessors, other semiconductors, and storage devices. The improved performance of hardware has been matched historically by increased complexity of software, creating demand for the latest hardware. This means that time is a critical competitive factor in the industry in two ways: Firstly, excess inventory loses value (at an estimated 10% per month 😉 and costs money; Secondly, products incorporating the most advanced technologies are in high demand and carry a price premium. As a result, companies that minimize inventory and bring new products to market faster can reduce costs, increase market share, and maintain higher margins. Two factors come into play in determining the ability of PC companies to manage inventory and introduce new products. First is the standardized, modular nature of the PC. PCs are built from standard components, using common architectural interfaces determined largely by Intel, Microsoft, and, earlier, IBM. PC makers also can outsource much of their production and purchase components from a well-established production network of contract manufacturers and components suppliers. This makes it quite easy for PC companies to introduce new PCs with the most advanced technologies. By the 1990s, PC makers could no longer gain much of an edge by virtue of design and manufacturing, as everyone had access to the same technical information and supply base. The difference among PC companies was determined increasingly by the second factor-the structure of distribution. The traditional distribution system of the PC industry is an indirect model often referred to as the channel. The PC maker sells its products to distributors, who buy products from many manufacturers and then sell them to a variety of retailers, resellers, system integrators, and others, who sell products and services to the final customer. This distribution system was an effective means for distributing high volumes of PCs with a variety of configurations to reach a broad customer base. However, it had inherent weaknesses that left it vulnerable in a time-based competitive environment. First was its reliance on market forecasting to drive production. Even the most successful PC makers, such as IBM, Apple, and Compaq, were chronically bedevilled by their inability to accurately forecast demand in a market driven by ever shorter product cycles. They were either caught with short supplies of hot products, causing them to lose sales to competitors, or stuck with excess inventories of slow sellers, which clogged the distribution channels and often had to be sold at a loss to move them out. Even with the best forecasting, the indirect model was plagued by the need to hold inventory at each step. In the early 1990s, it was common for PC makers to have up to 90 days of inventory on hand and in the channel. The high inventory costs and lack of responsiveness of the indirect channel meant that there was an opportunity for someone who could a way to circumvent the channel. The company that seized this opportunity was Dell, which pioneered a new business model based on selling PCs directly to the final customer, and building the PC only when an order was received Selling directly removes two links in the supply chain where inventory could build up and also enables Dell to know its final customers, provide better service to them, and promote repeat or expanded sales to them. Build-to-order production allows Dell to introduce new technologies as soon as customers want them and makes it possible to adjust production to demand very quickly. It also means that Dell does not purchase components and assemble PCs until it has received payment from the customer, giving the company a negative cash conversion cycle in which it receives payment from customers before it must pay suppliers. The current environment for the computer hardware industry is shaped by several macro forces. Primarily, Dell and its competitors are influenced by economic, demographic, technological and national forces. Government, social, physical and national forces peripherally affect the computer hardware industry to varying degrees. The commoditization of the personal computer-a vital tool for business and consumer. Customers- are a key driver for the economics of this industry. Corporate spending accounts for 80% of all technology spending, and economic conditions decreasing business capital expenditures has a negative and direct impact on the computer hardware industry. While this industry is mature in the U.S., leading to decreased growth expectations, computer spending by other countries around the world will likely fill this void. Pricing in the computer manufacturing industry is extremely competitive. IT reflects the rapid pace of technological change and decreasing PC costs. Since 2000, the prices of chips and disk drives declined and the standardization of primary components of PCs led to a decline in PC prices. Direct sellers, including Dell, have traditionally been able to under-price indirect sellers in the industry including Compaq and HP. However, most PC vendors now offer a desktop model for less than $500 and a laptop for $700. Key success factors for companies in this industry continue to evolve as the industry matures. Specifically, they include: Competitive prices Superior relationships with suppliers Product customization for business and consumer customers Quality customer service Excellent cost structure Channel Issues Some of the channels issues that the companies face are as follows Product related issues Promotions related issue Pricing related issues Target market related issue Product related issues: The nature and type of the product decides the distribution option that should be chosen for the product. A few products require special handling. Ex. Flowers, Fragile goods etc. Promotion related issues: The type of promotions that are required to sell the products to the customers also decides the distribution options; there are products which require an extensive contact of the sales person with the customer like automobiles etc. and there are products which require no sales assistance from the sales person like milk etc. Pricing issues: The price at which the marketer desires to sell their product also decides the distribution option for the channel if a product is prices really less it cannot have many members in the distribution channel as each one of them looks at making their own profit in the channel. Target market issues: The distribution channel is successful only if the product can reach the right customer. Choosing a distribution channel is the path to reach the target customer. A key decision in setting of a channel arrangement is for the marketer to choose the approach to reach his target customer in the best possible manner. Dell Company Background Dell Inc. is a multibillion dollar, multinational technology firm that manufactures, develops, sells and supports personal computing and computer related products. Based out of Texas, it employs over 75,000 people globally and is amongst the biggest players in the personal computing space. With revenues crossing 60 billion dollars in 2009, it is a Fortune 500 listing. Dell is a brainchild of Michael Dell, when he was a student at the University of Texas. PCs limited was started by him with a meagre capital of $1,000. The company produced its first computer in 1985, the Turbo PC sold for $1,000. Powered by an Intel 8088 compatible processor running at 8 MHz, it was the start of the most successful story in the modern computing space. Pcs Limited offered these machines in a variety of specifications, customised to each order amongst a pre-defined choice sets. Though not the first company to use this model, it was the pioneer to succeed using it. In its first year of trading, the compan y grossed over $ 70 million. In 1988, the company was renamed as Dell Computer Corporation. In 1987, the company expand overseas with a fully functional service and assembly centre in Ireland. Within the next few months, the count reached eleven. In June 1998, Dell became public with a 50 million dollar Initial Public Offering, one of the biggest in its times. In 1990, Dell test marketed a multi-channel retail distribution strategy with little success and was forced to return back to its direct marketing channel. In 1992, Dell featured in the Fortune 500 list for the first time. In 1992, it started on line sales, by offering its products, initially through its own website and later on through various partners and compare websites. In 2002, Dell expanded its product line by foraying into the consumer electronics segment. It also started manufacturing computer accessories with the launch of the dell branded home and office printers. In 2003, the company was named Dell Inc. so as to parallel its brand name with the variety of product offerings that it started. In 2005, Dell saw its international sales exceeding its domestic ones for the first name. The company was now a truly global performer, featuring in the top 5 power brands, both in the emerging markets as well as the developed economies (Dell Inc., 2006). Organizational Structure Dell Corporations organizational structure is a functional, decentralized structure. The company encourages different departments and functional components to contribute ideas to enhance the strength of the organization. The hierarchical structure provides defines the various functions provided by D

Proper use of Pesticides :: Chemistry Chemical Pesticide Essays

Proper use of Pesticides Storage of chemicals Store pesticides in a locked and posted facility where children or other untrained people cannot get to them. Read the labels on pesticide containers for correct storage procedures. Select a storage site high enough that damage from flooding will be unlikely and downwind and downhill from sensitive areas such as houses, play areas and ponds. Pesticide storage facilities should also be located away from homes and livestock facilities to avoid or minimize contamination in case of fire.Pesticide and expended pesticide containers are best stored in a separate building, room, or enclosure, depending on the size of the pesticide inventory. The storage area should be on the first floor to minimize contamination from a possible leaky container, and the storage area must keep the pesticides dry, cool and out of direct sunlight. The latter requirements are necessary because some pesticides are rendered useless if they become too hot or damp, if they freeze, or if they are exposed to ultrav iolet radiation from the sun.Sacks, cartons and fiberboard boxes containing pesticides should be stored on wooden pallets or on shelves off the floor. Securely lock all possible entrances to the storage area. Hang or mount weatherproof signs stating "Danger — Pesticides, Keep Out!!" or similar warnings over every entrance to the facility. An exhaust fan for ventilation should be used in storage rooms to reduce the temperature and high concentration of toxic fumes.An adequate supply of water and detergent or soap is essential in the storage area. We recommend routine use of these cleaning agents by people who work with pesticides or pesticide-related materials or equipment. Also, water is a quick first aid in a poisoning emergency. Materials such as activated charcoal, vermiculite, absorbent clay, pet litter, ground corncobs or sawdust need to be readily available at the storage site to soak up spills and leaks. Hydrated lime and sodium hypochlorite (chlorinated household blea ch) can be used to neutralize pesticides in an emergency. A shovel, dust pan, broom, and proper type of fire extinguisher are other essential items.Do not store pesticides near food for human consumption, animal feed, fertilizer, seed, veterinary supplies, or other stored products. To prevent contamination or to avoid accidentally using the wrong pesticide, store different pesticides in separate locations within the storage area.Store pesticides only in the original container, with the label plainly visible. Never store pesticides in anything used as a food or drink container, even for a short time.

Biochip technology Essay

The term global village is one popularized by Canadian communications theorist Marshall McLuhan to refer to the ability of electronic communications technologies to collapse notions of geography and disrupt the conventional wisdom by which society appraises time-space relations. At the heart of the concept of the global village is the idea that because electronic communications technology are exponentially increasing their ability to abnegate space and time limitations, they enable individuals, societies and institutions to operate on a larger scale than before – phone calls can be made across greater distances at reduced costs, e-mails allow instantaneous transmission of readable content and cellular technology increases the mobility of telephony. Whereas the domain we used to operate on was on the village-scale, it is now global: a global village. McLuhan effectively celebrated the development of the global village because he believed that it would expand our social consciousness. Not necessarily make us more socially conscious, but at the very least increase the scale by which we already think. Where we used to think primarily in terms of local affairs and developments that are mostly proximate to our surroundings, the ability to transmit developments instantaneously means that citizens can now think on an enlarged scale. More enthusiastic neo-McLuhanists maintain that the global village will eradicate all barriers to cultures, nations and political institutions. However, there is some concern that this is not entirely a good thing. For example, some have worried that expanding the individual consciousness to meet the scale of the global village comes at a cost. In effect, by thinking on the global scale, individuals may find themselves effectively disengaged from local concerns and proximate issues and at the very worse actively following developments in communities they have no power to affect, and disengaged from local developments that they could realistically make a difference in. Castells (1997) contends, however, that the globalizing effects of Internet and other similar networking technologies will not necessarily eradicate political boundaries. Rather the side effect of the Information Age is that many of the things that have come to define the nation state will be effectively downsized. Sovereignty will no longer figure in the absolute sense that we have understood it before, but rather, nation-states will exist solely due to the network of alliances, commitments, responsibilities and subordinations that are more than just existent for the benefit of the state, but are necessary to its existence, and this becomes possible due to the ability to instantiate relationships through networking technologies. It is this component of Castell’s understanding of globalizing effects which hold some consonance with the views of Ulrich Beck. Beck maintains that much of the failure to really take measure of the effects of globalization is derived from a limited understanding of it. Beck contends that globalization is not something that is limited to economic relationships and complex trade relations, but something that occurs in the most internalized sense, such as the ways by which we navigate culture and social relationships in an expanded transnational view that is the result of a national sense sublimated by globalizing technologies, cultural exchanges and international relationships. However, because of the co-dependencies brought upon by the transition into Castell’s â€Å"network state,† there is a risk that globalization will erode what sovereignty and democracy there is in the weaker nation-states. In other words, rather than acting as a force for solidarity, globalization could erode democratic controls and constitute a political and economic injustice to the nation-state. This is possible when a nation-state is unable to negotiate for the betterment of its community (whether through incompetence and corruption from the weaker country, or exploitation and deception from the stronger one. ) Globalization cannot end democracy per se, but it risks compromising it to the point of rendering it ineffective. REFERENCES Castells, M 1997, The End of the Millennium, The Information Age: Economy, Society and Culture Vol. 3. Blackwell, Cambridge, Massachussetts. Beck, U 2000, What is Globalization? Polity Press, Cambridge. McLuhan, M 1986, The Global Village, Oxford University Press: New York.

Water Shortage essays

Water Shortage essays Water shortage and degradation is a growing concern for many countries including the United States. Drinking water protection is a big responsibility that involves government, business and individuals. Everyone has an important role in trying to protect the supply of water. Water is a vital necessity that all people need in order to survive. Without water, people could only go a few days to a few months before having serious health problems or even death. One of the major concerns regarding water is if there will be enough water for the demand within the next 25 to 50 years. With the help of agencies, scientists and experts, we as people may see that there will be a shortage of water in the years to come. Today in the world the leading cause of the water shortage is the rising demand for water for the industries and agriculture (George, 1). On the earth today there is no more freshwater than there was 2,000 years ago. Then the population was 3% of what it is today (Knight, 1). In 31 countries around the world that contains near a half a billion people face water shortage with the most severe being in the Middle East and Africa. By the year 2025 it is estimated that another 17 countries will be added to that list. Some researchers believe that also be the year 2025, 35% or 2.8 billion people will face shortage. There are different reasons and causes of what continues to cause a shortage of water. Some of the water is being contaminated with pollutants. Agriculture is the biggest polluter in which the pollutants come from the fertilizers and pesticides used on the crops. The industries and municipal pollutions are also a factor. In some countries 90 to 95% of all domestic and 15% of all industrial waste goes into the water without any treatment (Knight, 1) Water shortage is also caused by the large amounts of water that is used in homes across the world. The United States uses mo ...

Medieval_Islam_and_Christianity Essays - Islam, Culture, Religion

Medieval_Islam_and_Christianity Essays - Islam, Culture, Religion Running Head: MEDIEVAL ISLAM CHRISTIANITY Medieval Islam Christianity Contrast and Comparison Tapas K Chakraborty A.C.W.A. MEDIEVAL ISLAM CHRISTIANITY [ Declaration: The author of this article remains neutral and restrains himself from expressing any prejudiced view, or judging supremacy or otherwise of either religion in any field. Whatever expressed is purely academic analysis based on materials collected from different sources.] MEDIEVAL ISLAM CHRISTIANITY Introduction : The most important commonality between Islam and Christianity is that both the religions have their roots in Abraham, and that both originated and flourished in the middle-east. Apart from this, both the religions have two common commandments in their text; love God ' and love neighbours ' . However the di s similarities between them outnumber the similarities. Most important dissimilarity, which is also the bone of contention among the two mainstream religions is that, Islam does not consider Jesus as God, though it accepts prophetic status of Jesus. Secondly, Islam believes Allah is the only God, and there exists no God other than God', and any thought of other God is blasphemous. Apart from these , differences between Islam and Christianity exist as regard their respective views on revelation of God and original sin. But another important difference between the religions relate to their views on encouraging and promoting scient ific research in the medieval period. The article throws light on certain facts that giv e a comparative picture of the two religions vis-a-vis scientific and cultural development during that span of time. Comparison and Contrast : Science in medieval Islam : In medieval Islamic society three schools of thought existed namely, the one that followed the thoughts of Aristotle, another was influenced by Plato, and the third was the school of mathematicians. The works of Al-Rhazi, Ibn-Hayyan, and Al-Khazmi were more philosophical and religious in nature. Science as studied in Greece was MEDIEVAL ISLAM CHRISTIANITY adopted by the Islamic society of Arab, and was developed and nourished under the patronage of successive caliphs. Many scientific and mathematical terms that globally u sed , are originally derived from Islamic literature. To name a few are zero, algebra, alcohol, and alchemy. Medical Science : Study of medicine in medieval Islamic society was of high standard and was far ahead of the contemporary western study on the subject. It should be well to remember in this connection that empirical experiences of Indian and Persian physicians highly influenced the study of certain medical sciences in medieval Islamic society, especially pharmacology. Ibn-Sina Al-Rha zi were the front ranking physicians of the Islamic world. The huge amount of medical work by Al-Rhaze that was originally written in Arabic was later highly accepted by the western world. Al-Zarhwai, the tenth century surgeon is considered to be the finest surgeon in the Islamic world. Physics : The most significant works on physics were undertaken by Al-Biruni who founded the specific gravity table of elements and components. Al-Khazmi's work on density and specific gravity and Al-Hatitham's study of optics, rectangular motion of light, properties of shadow s, and invention of camera are few to name for which the world scientific community is indebted to him. Mathematics : Al-Khwarazmi, the Islamic mathematician is considered one of the greatest mathematician s the world has ever seen. He was influenced by study of mathematics in India and Greece. Studies on algebra and trigonometry were cultivated and nourished in the Islamic world under the mentorship of Al-Khwarazmi, Al-Rhazvi, Abu-Barkat, and Ibn Qurrah. MEDIEVAL ISLAM CHRISTIANITY Chemistry : Ibn-Hayyan was the face of Islamic world in the study of Chemistry. His knowledge of chemical nature of matter is revered in high esteem by the scientific community not only in the Islamic world but also in the west and the world at large. Culture in Medieval Islam Abbasid caliph Harun ar-Rashid, is considered one of the most respected caliphs of the medieval Islam. During his period (786 to 809), the House of Wisdom, first University of the world was established in Baghdad . The university became more profound during the reign of his son Al-Ma'mun (813 to 833). During th is period , House of Wisdom became the cultural capital of the Islamic world, where scholars from the

Nursing managment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Nursing managment - Essay Example In other words, the administrative practicum project will give me the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real world situation. Administrative positions in modern healthcare setting is increasingly complex or demanding as the field is highly affected by issues like nurse shortage, clinical errors, and unethical medical practices. Practicum in advanced nursing for the nurse administrator will make a candidate efficient in management of clients, nurses, and resources. Evidently, the practicum project will give me the opportunity to apply the principles of administration under the supervision of a competent preceptor. As far as I am concerned, administrative practicum project will provide me with a highly individualized experience and thereby profound knowledge in complex systems, leadership practice, and organizational theory. However, as Harris et al notes, ‘the collaborative synergy of the preceptor, student, and the practicum instructor’ is significant in the learning experience of the student (213). In total, the administrative practicum project I am doing for my MSN degree can contribute a lot to my nursing career development. Extensive knowledge in nursing administrative positions and practical knowledge in management of clients and resources are the primary outcomes this practicum project offers. Harris, James. L., Roussel, Linda., Walters, Sandra and Dearman, Catherine. Project Planning and Management: A Guide for CNLs, DNPs, and Nurse Executives. US: Jones & Bartlett Publishers, 2010.

Week 3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

Week 3 - Essay Example In a large enterprise, tracking the use of these resources helps in the effective allocation of costs as per the departments. In the end, an organization is able to understand how its network resources are used and how they are paid for. Thirdly, a good reference model plays an important role in the configuration management. This mainly involves understanding the configurations of the devices and network (Nuangjamnong, et al, 2008). This is helpful when adding new components onto the network or when distributing resources to increase capacity. For an enterprise, proper configuration management promotes effective use of the network in undertaking business activities. Forth, the reference model will help in promoting security management. Specifically, the reference model helps in the authentication and authorization processes, thereby controlling who accesses the network. In addition, the reference model plays a role on protecting the security and integrity of the data on the network (Nuangjamnong, et al, 2008). This is important for most enterprises because loss of data or breach of security could have devastating effects to the operations. Finally, having a good reference model ensures that the network management system effectively monitors performance of the network. The organization is thus able to satisfy the needs of all the users with minimum failures and interruptions. Enterprises need to have all the relevant units served effectively in order to enhance the operations within the organization. Nuangjamnong, C. , Maj, S. P., & Veal, D. R. (2008). The OSI Network Management Model - Capacity and performance management . Proceedings of 4th IEEE International Conference on Management of Innovation and Technology . ICMIT 2008. (pp. 1266- 1270). Bangkok, Thailand.