Thursday, October 31, 2019

Financial Security in a Persons Retirement Term Paper

Financial Security in a Persons Retirement - Term Paper Example In order to have financial security in our retirement, we need to start saving, keep saving and also stick to our goals. We need to make saving for the retirement a priority. In order to stay focused, we need to know our retirement needs and save towards it. A good starting point is finding out our retirement benefits. Investing for retirement is vital in ensuring safe and enjoyable retirement. Due to uncertainty, the true quality of a person’s retirement actually depends on their planning and planning must begin somewhere (Berk & DeMarzo, 2014). To have a secure retirement one must understand all the necessary factors that are crucial in the realization of the set goal. In saving for retirement individuals must understand the time value of money concept because it influences any financial decision to be made. They need to start saving early enough to increase the worth of the money in the future. It is the idea that money available today is worth more than the same amount in future because of its potential earning capacity (Taillard, 2013). Because money earns interest, any amount of money is often worth more the sooner it is invested. The paper entails computation of the amount to be invested annually to earn $1,000,000 in 30 years and the amount earned at retirement. In addition, it discusses values such as time and the interest rate that can be changed to lower annual deposits while increasing benefits. Besides, it discusses asset allocation among three asset classes, stocks, bonds, and cash. It concludes by looking at the investment objective which in this case is capital appreciation. Further, it discusses investment constraints that affect my asset allocation. In solving the problem, I will use the money purchase method which takes into account annual deposits and actuarial factor that is based on annuity period (time horizon or age) (Berk & DeMarzo, 2014). This method takes into account the time value of money by using present value or ordinary annuityÃ'Ž

Monday, October 28, 2019

Disraelis policy during the Bulgarian Crisis of 1876 Essay Example for Free

Disraelis policy during the Bulgarian Crisis of 1876 Essay To what extent was Gladstones religion the driving force behind his attempt to sabotage Disraelis policy during the Bulgarian Crisis of 1876? Of all the Bulgarian atrocities perhaps the greatest1 was the label Disraeli ascribed to Gladstones 1876 pamphlet The Bulgarian Horrors and the Question of the East, which concentrated into a single utterance a profoundly excited public mood struggling for articulation.2 With the publication of this pamphlet, Gladstone effectively undermined Disraelis policy of unwavering support for the Turks in the face of the Bulgarian massacres, and emerged at the forefront of the Bulgarian Agitation. The popular pressure that ensued ultimately forced Disraeli to abandon any overt military support of the Ottoman Empire, and to declare neutrality in the issue. While the consequences of Gladstones action are known, his reasons for involving himself in the debate are questionable. Gladstones fervent religious beliefs could have provided the main impetus for his involvement, but other arguments, such as his intervention being an anti-Conservative political strategy, are perhaps more plausible given an examination of the evidence. In examining this issue, it is important to understand the depth of contempt that Gladstone and Disraeli held for each others foreign policy. It was not their principles that differed: both believed in a policy of non-intervention in European affairs except for in those that could impact British interests. However, their methods were entirely different. Disraeli believed very strongly in the ruling right and superiority of the established aristocracy in Britain, and this certainly transferred across to his foreign policy, as illustrated by his endorsement of Austrian aristocratic Habsburg rule in Italy in 1851. He felt that Britain had a duty to Europe as the wealthiest and most powerful Empire, and that this would best be served by preserving British influence and furthering the spread of the British Empire. Gladstone also wished to preserve British interests, but often found this to conflict with his nationalism, sympathy with the unalienable rights of smaller nations to their nationhood3. In terms of Italy, therefore, Gladstone could not support Austrian rule because it contravened his nationalistic beliefs, despite the fact that Habsburg domination could have proved more beneficial to Britain. This is mirrored in his stance in the arbitration of the Alabama settlement: Gladstone appeared to capitulate to American demands as opposed to supporting British interests, as he believed that it was the most moral course of action. It was from these differences that the deep opposition to each others foreign policy was born. Disraeli saw Gladstones policy as counter-productive in terms of British interests, accusing him of wanting to dismantle the Empire, while Gladstone found Disraeli to be far too much of an imperialist and insensitive to the rights of foreign nations. Disraeli not only poured scorn on Gladstones foreign affairs, but also disliked his dogmatic religion. It is possible that the modern focus on Gladstone as a highly religious politician was brought about by Disraelis very public attacks on his fervent religious beliefs. Disraeli held nothing but scorn for Gladstones religion, and talked with disdain of him always preaching, praying, speechifying or scribbling4. For Disraeli, Gladstone used his religion to mask his true intentions to appear pious while actually manipulating and manoeuvring his way through politics. Perhaps it is Disraelis emphasis on ridiculing Gladstones religious beliefs that has inspired the concept that he was first and foremost a highly religious man. However, the general consensus is that Gladstones Evangelical upbringing led to a strong sense of religious morality that could be said to have permeated all aspects of his life, including his politics. In modern Britain it would rarely be expected for a Prime Minister to admit to religion colouring their policies: as Alastair Campbell famously declared, we dont do God. Blairs revelation that he ultimately looked to religion for his decision in declaring war on Iraq was frowned upon by many who felt that personal beliefs and convictions should not have an impact on decisions that will affect whole countries. However, in the far more religious Britain of 1876 this was not so controversial. Religious issues permeated every aspect of life, including law and politics. The attitudes of the day are clearly demonstrated in the Bradlaugh Case, in which confirmed atheist and elected MP for Northampton Charles Bradlaugh was barred from taking up his parliamentary seat because of his refusal to take the religious Oath of Allegiance required for entry. This issue was disputed regularly in parliament, showing the height of religious feeling of the time. Gladstone in particular made no secret of his religion, or of his beliefs that it was entirely applicable to politics. In his book The State in its Relations to the Church (1838), Gladstone raised the idea that religion and politics were inextricably linked: the Church was the conscience of the State, while the State had a duty to lend its consistent, unwavering support to the Anglican Church. Although his views later changed to reject the exclusivity of the Church of England, throughout his life he retained the belief that religion should be firmly ingrained in the running of the country. Gladstones beliefs caused him to take an ethical stance in foreign policy, which contrasted greatly with Disraelis firmly imperialist Beaconsfieldism that attempted to secure the best outcome for Britain, sentiments that prefigured the practical criticism of mixing religion and politics today. Disraeli and Gladstone held the greatest of contempt for each other in their foreign affairs, each believing the others policy to be entirely nonsensical and unworkable, attitudes that stemmed from their differing interests. While Disraeli held British interests at heart, Gladstone had a catholic largeness of vision and sympathy embracing Europe as a cultural and spiritual community5 stemming from his views on the unity of the Christian church, and believed that European affairs should be conducted with the best interests of the community at heart. Although Disraeli felt that it was necessary to support the Turks despite their actions in Bulgaria in order to deter Russia from gaining power on territory on the pretext of moral intervention, Gladstone would have found this inexcusable according to his personal moral code and European sense, principally derived from the intense fervour of his Christianity6: as Magnus perceptively states, Gladstone felt that Disraelis interpretation of [British] interests excluded considerations of justice, or of humanity7. It was not only Gladstones European sense that would have rendered support of the Turks inexcusable, but the very nature of the events taking place in Bulgaria. Gladstone consistently cast himself as a moral crusader in his policies, particularly regarding Ireland and in his opposition and criticisms of Beaconsfieldism. Following the brutal massacre of 15,000 Bulgarians, Jenkins argument that the moral Gladstone was spontaneously seized with a passionate sympathy for the sufferings of the Balkan Christian communities8 seems plausible. Gladstone would most likely have been incensed by Disraelis initial denial of the rumours of the massacres, already believing Disraelis foreign policy to be aggressive, expensive and unprincipled. However, Abbot refutes Jenkins claims in stating that the part playedby Gladstones high moral principles has tended to be exaggerated9, and states that the vast majority of his moral outbursts in terms of foreign policy were made when he was in opposition. As a moral stance in foreign policy was a common one for the opposition to take at the time, this indicates that Gladstones intervention was possibly not entirely fuelled by religion. Gladstones role as a cabinet minister during the Crimean War could have provided another factor in his intervention. The Treaty of Paris that brought the war to a close increased the necessity for co-operation within the concert of Europe, as it had substituted a European conscience expressed by the collective guarantee and concerted action of the European powers10 for a pre-Crimean war guarantee of the protection of Christian minorities by the Russians. Turkey had promised better treatment for the Christians of the Ottoman Empire, and Gladstone felt morally obliged to ensure that the terms of the Treaty were not breached, particularly with reference to the protection of the Balkan Christians. Following Russias breach of the Black Sea clauses in 1870, Gladstone was even more determined to ensure that the European Concert continued to function in its protection of the minorities. It seems unlikely that Gladstone wanted to preserve the terms of the Treaty of Paris for purely political reasons, as the maintenance of the balance of power within Europe required Russia to be contained, not encouraged to expand into the Balkans supposedly in order to protect the inhabitants. It is possible then that Gladstone intervened for the same reason as the Russians gave: in order to protect the Christians from an alien nation with an alien religion that mistreated them. A sample from his pamphlet gives a clear indication of his attitude towards the Turks Their Zaptiehs and their Mudirs, their Bimbashis and their Yuzbashis, their Kaimakams and their Pashas, one and all, bag and baggage, shall I hope clear out from the province they have desolated and profaned11. While this has racist overtones, it is difficult to determine whether this is due to a difference in religion. Jenkins raises the possibility that Gladstone could have felt sympathetic towards the Christians, but quashes it with the statement that Gladstone was stronger on the rhetoric of indignation than on detailed knowledge of what was happening in the Balkans12, never having visited the area or displayed any previous interest in it. Indeed, on the subject of previous massacres of Christians, Gladstone had remained suspiciously quiet, despite episodes like the massacre of the Maronite Christians in 1860 which left between 7,000 and 11,000 dead. It seems unlikely that a wild desire to protect those of the same religion only appeared during this particular occurrence, particularly as Gladstone failed to intervene when the news of the massacres initially broke, waiting another two months to bring himself into the limelight. Although Feuchtwanger claims that Gladstones life in politics was a constant quest for God13, the historians emphasis on Gladstone as a singularly moral, religious politician is overly simplistic, and does not take into account Gladstones practical, political nature. There is an obvious practical angle for Gladstones participation in the Bulgarian Agitation: propping up a declining Ottoman Empire was not a viable long term policy for Britain. The tradition of Palmerstonian foreign policy supported Turkish rule in the East, partially in order to maintain a balance of power in Europe, but mostly as a matter of self-interest: in order to protect trade routes in the Mediterranean. Particularly following the Crimean War, the expansion of a hostile Russia would have been detrimental to British trade and to British power and influence within Europe. In the short term a strong Turkey would act as an efficient barrier to Russian expansion, but the Ottoman Empire had become increasingly corrup t and weak; the Bulgarian uprising and subsequent massacre was not the only such occurrence. Moreover, overtly supporting the Ottomans would anger the Dreikaiserbund of Germany, Austria-Hungary and Russia: although it was best not to allow the alliance of these three countries to grow too powerful, neither was it sensible to pursue a policy of mindless support for the Turks whose influence was already declining. Prior to the confirmation of the truth of the massacres, Disraeli, advised by the pro-Turkish British ambassador Elliot, had made moves towards supporting the Turks against Russia, and even went so far as to dismiss the rumours of the massacres as coffee house babble. In sabotaging Disraelis policy by stirring up public opinion, Gladstone effectively limited the options open to the prime minister and possibly prevented him from forming a dangerous alliance with Turkey. Furthermore, it has been suggested that Gladstone in fact saw a better solution to the problem of Russian expansion than bolstering Turkey. From his attitudes towards Italy it is clear that Gladstone favoured nationalism, and believed that all people had the right to national self-determination. Blake claims that Gladstone was hostile to any sort of forward policy14, an unnecessarily harsh statement from the pro-Disraeli biographer: in fact, in supporting nationalism, Gladstone proposed a solution ahead of his time. The creation of Balkan states was the solution used in 1935 to contain Russia, but it would have been equally applicable here. It could be argued that Gladstone was contradicting Disraelis policy because he could see a flaw in the reasoning. It is evident from his pamphlet that he wanted the Turks removed from Bulgaria, but further to this, Magnus claims that he repeatedly urged that the matter should be taken out of Russian hands15 and that this was a solution more realistic16 than Disraelis. Ever politically expedient, Gladstone intended to attack British support of the Turks as well as advocating Russian containment, reasserting the balance of power in Europe. Of course, it is entirely possible that Gladstone was simply launching a direct attack on the policies of the government without any real moral or religious reasoning. A response not born out of righteous indignation or passionate sympathy for the suffering of the Bulgarians but of an attempt to make the government appear weak or badly led would explain his delay in joining the Agitation. Gladstones particular rivalry with Disraeli would have provided motive enough for such an attack: the two men held the greatest contempt for each other, stemming from the repeal of the Corn Laws and the split of the Conservative party in 1846. Although their practical aims were often remarkably similar in foreign affairs, their ideologies differed vastly and each held the others principles in utter contempt. It would not be beyond the bounds of rational thought to assume that in sabotaging Disraelis policy the only thing that Gladstone intended to do was to make him look like a fool. It could be argued that even in this there was a religious motivation. Disraelis Jewish background has led to the suggestion that his anti-Russian foreign policy had more to do with anti-Christian feeling. Feuchtwanger claims that Gladstone was aware of this and distrusted Disraeli for it: all his deep suspicions about Disraeli were aroused; he now even suspected him of being influenced by Judaic sympathy for the Turks and hatred of Christians17, although Blake dismisses such suspicions as absurd18. At a stretch, the poor relationship of the two politicians could also be said to have its roots in their differing religious views. Gladstone may have resented Disraelis conversion from Judaism to Christianity, which could be interpreted as only having been undertaken for social gain and not true faith. Shannon suggests that Gladstones return to the political arena could have been for selfish reasons; that he wanted to restore his bond of moral rapport with the masses19 and adds that it was less a case of Gladstone exciting popular pressure than popular pressure exciting Gladstone20: rather than Gladstone carefully crafting his attack on Disraeli, he merely saw an opportunity to join the virtuous passion21 sweeping the nation and manipulate it to his advantage. Again, this would explain the delay between the beginning of the Agitation and Gladstones involvement. His action in publishing the pamphlet drew him back to the forefront of political life, and his continuing focus on the Midlothian campaign throughout the next four years was an important factor in ensuring his re-election as Prime Minister in 1880. Many historians agree with Shannons interpretation that Gladstone wanted to reforge his links with.mass audiences22, but disagree on the reasoning for this. Shannon and Blake are both of the opinion the Gladstone simply seized upon the opportunity to take part ina moral crusade23 in an attempt to inject himself back into the contemporary political field. Although the consequences of his action suggest that this is a realistic motive, and that he could have chosen to speak out against Disraeli to ensure his own self-advancement, this does seem unlikely considering Gladstones character; Blakes portrayal of Gladstone is excessively negative, probably due to his pro-Disraeli sentiments. The perhaps more reliable Jenkins contradicts these claims of intervention for self-advancement, as It did not follow that what he did was contrived for his own convenience24 and claiming that he was driven on Bulgaria by the same sort of elemental force which had seized him at the time of his Neapolitan pamphlets25. This is a far more accurate judgement given the evidence: Gladstone constantly looked to his moral principles in seeking to do what was best for Britain and for Europe, and it seems unlikely that he would have stirred up such a commotion merely to return himself to the forefront of political affairs. Shannon states that Gladstones first love had been the Church, and to the Church he remained ever faithful26, but despite the politicians overt Christianity historians are unable to agree on the extent to which his religion impacted his policies. In terms of his reaction to the Bulgarian Atrocities alone, numerous theories have been put forward as to the cause: his animosity towards Disraeli, his strong belief in nationalism, a wish to unite with the masses protesting a cause. Although these theories are superficially disparate, a closer examination reveals that they are all underpinned by Gladstones strong sense of morality. This morality caused him to reject Disraelis policies as unprincipled, to campaign for the creation of the Balkan states and to view Europe as a spiritual community that Britain had an obligation to protect and preserve. Ultimately, Gladstones politics were motivated by morality; a morality derived from his fundamental, unwavering religious beliefs. 1 Blake, R., Disraeli, St. Martins, 1967, p.602 2 Shannon, R.T., Gladstone and the Bulgarian Agitation 1876, Nelson, 1963, p.110 3 Abbot, B.H., Gladstone and Disraeli, Collins, 1986, p.95 4 5 Shannon, R.T., Gladstone and the Bulgarian Agitation 1876, Nelson, 1963, p.4 6 Shannon, R.T., Gladstone and the Bulgarian Agitation 1876, Nelson, 1963, p.5 7 Magnus, P., Gladstone, Penguin Books, 2001, p.240 8 Jenkins, R., Gladstone, Macmillan, 2002, p.401 9 Abbot, B.H., Gladstone and Disraeli, Collins, 1986, p.22 10 Magnus, P., Gladstone, Penguin Books, 2001, p.239 11 Feuchtwanger, E.J., Gladstone, British Political Biography, 1975, p.183 12 Jenkins, R., Gladstone, Macmillan, 2002, p.404 13 Feuchtwanger, E.J., Gladstone, British Political Biography, 1975, p.13 14 Blake, R., Disraeli, St Martins, 1967, p.760 15 Magnus, P., Gladstone, Penguin Books, 2002, p.241 16 Ibid. 17 Feuchtwanger, E.J., Gladstone, British Political Biography, 1975, p.181 18 Blake, R., Disraeli, St Martins, 1967, p.600 19 Shannon, R.T., Gladstone and the Bulgarian Agitation, 1876, Nelson, 1963, p.13 20 Ibid. p.110 21 Ibid. p.107 22 Jenkins, R., Gladstone, Macmillan, 2002, p.406 23 Blake, R., Disraeli, St Martins, 1967, p.600 24 Jenkins, R., Gladstone, Macmillan, 2002, p.401 25 loc. cit. 26 Shannon, R.T., Gladstone and the Bulgarian Agitation 1876, Nelson, 1963, p.3

Saturday, October 26, 2019

A marketing report and analysis of Nestle

A marketing report and analysis of Nestle Nestle is the leader in food and beverage industry with wide range of products which accompany consumers live from birth through adulthooh, from breakfast to dinner, at home and elsewhere. This, day by day, represents them as a great responsibility and commitment to quality, taste and nutrion across all their products, to touch lives in a positive way and earn customers trust. They have joined into nutrion, health and wellness strategy with three fundamental beliefs: Pleasure and health: Nutrion have great taste if it is a part of healthy balanced diet. Eating with moderation and balance: Nestles products are designed to a variety of choices for every moment of the day and for all company members. Transparent communication: Transparent is the best way to win customers trust. All ingredients used to produce Nestles products are included on the label. With long term commitment is to enable customer an informed choices about diets and lifestyle, helping them care for themselves and their families, Nestle is really a leader in nutrion, health and wellness area. Business generates the most revenue Nutrion, Health and Wellness generates the most revenue for Nestle. In the recent year 2010, Nutrion, Health and Wellness confirms Nestles strategic direction, with main products is Food and Beverages creat 103.722 CHF millions in revenue equal to 94.53% in Total Revenue. Nestle, 2011, Strong 2010 performance press release, http://www.nestle.com/Common/ NestleDocuments/Documents/Library/Events/2010-full-year-results/Press_Release_EN.pdf Nutrion, Health and Wellness market, which is 100 percent right as determining from Nestles Board of Management in 2007, is a massive market for growing. Over 5 year operating, the industry keep fastest growing rate and contribute most revenue for corporate. This industry has been opened for Nestle S.A in 2007 by Brabeck Letmathe Nestle Groups Chairman when he produce Nestle Roadmap a strategy to transform corperate from traditional business into Nutrion, Health and Wellness with slogan Good Food, Good Life . Business generates the most profit Nutrion, Health and Wellness is the area that brings in for corporation the most profit. In 2010, with EBIT rate of 13.4% equal to 13.898 CHF millions, Food and Beverages main range of products in Nutrion, Health and Wellness area creats main income in total for corperation. Nestle, 2011, Strong 2010 performance press release, http://www.nestle.com/Common/ NestleDocuments/Documents/Library/Events/2010-full-year-results/Press_Release_EN.pdf Business will drive grow in the next decade These are 4 areas provide Nestle exciting prospect for continuos growing in the next decade: Nutrition, Health and Wellness Emerging markets and PPP Out-of-home leadership Premiumisation Nestles Successful Transformation from traditional business into a nutrion, health and wellness company, that brings them to No.2 player all over the world. Efficiently investing in value-added category. Stronger finance and credit. Flexible reaction to changing in strict health care standard and unfair competing. Their global strategy and local execution help them reach almost targets in recent years. Corperate Responsibility. In recent years, to become a successful corperation nowadays, these are their vital programs, which have contributed not only for society but also for themself as listed: Essential Program Context Action Achievement Rural Development Creat positive impact on argriculture area (provide local employment, technical transforming), and evironmental development Provide 200.000 local employments For Nestle: profitable growth, better quality in raw material, raw material supplying guarantee Improve standard of living, increase productivity in rural and economic in general In 2009, they provided microfinance in amount of CHF 48 millions For Customer: more qualified and healthier products for consumer Minimize impact of climate change and sometime is social issues For Society: higher quality for crop, more technical assistance, developping employment and environment, lower natural resources use, larger in yield help lower producing cost. Creating for themsef a stable, protected and qualified raw material to guarantee shareholder value-added Technical assistance and knowledge transfer Water and environmental Sustainability Produce tasting products that also have more and more lower environmental footprint by improving operational efficiacy They have already invested over CHF 220 millions in sustainable programs during 2009 For Nestle: reduce risk concerning health care standard, reduce cost, creat long term availability of resources, profitable growth Reduce use of water, some non-renewable energy and resources with target to reduce CO2 emissing performance and other evironmental affects Launch more projects to reduce greenhouse affect, eliminate waste in operation For Society: better standard of living Promote with supplier to help them a sustainable practices in supply chain Human Resources Dovelopment Long term investment in training Offer more comprehensive training, more opportunities for career For Nestle: skilled workforce, improve performance Continuous improving environmental and occupational health and safety management For Society: more employment, better standard of living, higher worhplace safety standard. Global and diversify Corperation developing Improve health and safety performance Increase Nestles engagement, employee health and wellbeing, reduce accident in workplace Creating an ethical and responsible workplace Climate Change Solution Reinforce Nestles role and plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions Directly controlling operation For Society: lower environment impact Improve through supply chain Helping Nestles consumer Crisis Management Food and beverage market is changing everyday, customers need put producers into circumstance that whether they adapt to new trend or left behind on the race with other competitors. Nestle is an outstanding example in transforming their traditional managing operation into Health, Nutrion and Wellness management with Roadmap to Good Food, Good Life a unique flexible strategy that brings them to number 2 largest company all over the world. In Management and Strategic segment, I am pleased to express: Strategy Nestle Roadmaps success and Nestles solution for Melamine incident in China. In the Crisis management, Melamine scandal in China is outstanding example. On March 15th,2008, Chinese authorities informed that their over 20 Chinese milk companies was launching products contained Melamine this toxic has caused at least 4 babiesdeath and other 1253 Chinese children have fallen ill. Suppliers have been believed to add Melamine to milk to make it higher in protein. There was some ranges of Hong Kong Nestles products using Chinese milk powder. Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7623037.stm After that, some press report in Hong Kong claimed a Nestle growing milk containing Melamine. Immediately, Hong Kong government requested Nestle to withdraw all their products that have been found to contain Melamine. The problem could have pushed them into a long-lasting downturn and other consequence concerning reputation. However, commented on this scandal, Peter Brabeck Letmathe Nestle Groups Chairman said: Sales in China are rather being favouredà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Its rather positive than negative ( Reporting by Devidutta Tripathy; editing by Sue Thomas ) Ref Reuters Sep 26th, 2008 http://www.reuters.com/article/2008/09/26/nestle-idUSDEL31014820080926 How did they react? Yes, it is fantastic that Nestle today, after 3 years from this scandal, did not failed and become the leader in food and beverage area, the number 2 largest corperation all over the world. The first step in chain of resolving incident was complying with authorities request in showing all ingredients and formular used to produce milk, they were also withdrawing some kinds of products in Hong Kong as authorities requests as in line with Nestles Corperate Business Principle. In the mean time, they sent their samples of milk to honour testing center like Hong Kong Standards and Testing Centre Ltd., Food Industry Research and Development in Taiwan, etc. This action was conducted at places where their products have presented. The third step, they announced governments reports and confirmation that their products have been 100 percent safe and exact with things printed on their products label. The final step in this chain, they have combine Research and Development department and Maeketing department in communication with consumer on their producing standards, products quality that 100 percent safe and good for health as confirm from authorities. With this action, they have been not only winning back customers belief on their products, but also underlining that Nestle is the No.1 food and beverage producer all over the world with best quality and healthy products, as their slogan Good Food, Good Life . This is really a key turning-point to help Nestle successful as today. Strategy Nestle Roadmap. Source: http://www.nestle.com/Common/NestleDocuments/Documents/About_Us/Nestle_Roadmap.pdf Nestles strategy is being considerred the leader in Nutrion, Health and Wellness, and reference for financial performance. That is combination between their opportunities competitive advantages, internal strength operational pillars, focused segment growth drivers. This is a simple but right-targetting product from Peter Brabeck Letmathe Nestle Groups Chairman. Three major elements in their strategy including: Internal strength Operational pillars: Innovation and renovation ( from active and creative workforce ) Wherever, whenever, however ( supplying capability ) Consumer communication ( one of RD activity ) Operational efficiency These areas will help accelerate Nestles operation in all key areas with excellent achievement in execution. Focused segment Growth drive: Nutrion, Health and Wellness Value-add ( a massive market for healthy product ) Emerging markets and popularly positioned products the lower end. ( in 2011, growth scenaro in emerging market is around 170 billions US dollars ) Out-of-home consumption Differentation Premiumsation the high end This areas provide exciting prospect for growing. Opportunities Competitive advantages: Unmatched product and brand portfolio Unmatched research and development capability Unmatched geographic presence People culture, values and attitude This competitive advantages come from the value chain over decades, the link between great products efficient RD, great people strong value, broad geographic entrepreneurial spirit. This combination day by day is creating Nestles motivation on the road to leader in Food, Health and Wellness. In general, Roadmap is created from the combination between competitive advantages and their own strength and a right targeting market. Roadmap is almost following three major steps in building strategy for corporate. Analysis: determining the current position ,situation, performance and aspirations of the organisation and its members. Herein, that is competitive advantages. It help them regconize potential opportunities, their right strength that would make drive growth for Nestle in the future. Choice: determining possible courses of action, their possible consequences, problems and difficulties, benefits and advantages. Decision making is the most important step in every company, a wrong choice means a foresee failure. On roadmap, that is drivegrowth, corperate has been right when they choose emerging markets and popularly positioned products to be their motivation in growing in the next strategic years. Implementation: committing the organisation to pursue one of the possible future courses of action. Herein, operation pillars is a group of process to implement a lack or a small failure in the overall strategy. Vision, Mission, Goal. Nestles Vision: By bringing together all of its global RD resources, Nestle is able to provide high quality, safe food solutions for consumers worldwide whether this is in terms of nutrion, health, wellness, taste, texture or convenience. Above all, Nestle brings to consumers products that are of the highest quality. And safety is non-negotiable. Werner Bauer, Chief Technology Officer, Nestle S.A. Innovation, Technology and Research Development Nestles Mission: Their mission is creating value for shareholder and society. CREAT SHARED VALUE Reduce Poverty + Improve Health + Empower People SUSTAINABILITY Protect the future COMPLIANCE Laws, Business Principles, Codes of conduct Nestles Goals: Being recognized the leader in Nutrion, Health Wellness, and the industry reference for financial performance. But how they have been motivating their employees over decades to be the leader. Performance Compliance All Nestles employees have a good knowledge that here or there, we must have responsibility for down performance in the organization. Company have a good reward and recognization tied to performance. Culture Building Sustaining a high performance environment. Maintaining and evolving Nestles culture based on their own principle. Source: Creating successful future Jan 2008 Comment.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

God Exists :: Descartes Philosophy Religion Essays

God Exists The existence of God has been a question since the idea of God was conceived Descartes tries to prove God's existence, and to show that there is without a doubt something external to ones own existence. He is looking for a definite certainty, a foundation for which he can base all of his beliefs and know that they are true. Descartes' overall project is to find a definite certainty on which he can base all his knowledge and beliefs. Descartes attacks the principles that support everything he believes with his Method of Doubt. The Method of Doubt is Descartes' method of fundamental questioning in which he doubts everything that there is the slightest reason to doubt. Think about it like this. Almost everything you believe to be true comes from the senses or through the senses. However, the senses are sometimes deceptive. Since the senses are not completely trustworthy, it is irrational to place complete trust in them. However, it is no small leap of faith to presume that everything our senses tell us is false. In fact, it seems almost absurd to say such a thing. Nevertheless, as Descartes points out, we have dreams regularly and in these dreams, everything we experience is a figment of our imagination, or at least not real in the physical sense. So, it is reasonable to doubt everything our senses tell us, for the time being. Now, using similar logic, we can say that everything we have learned from physics, astron omy, medicine, and other such fields are all doubtful. Descartes even believed we could say that such simple, logical statements as 2+3 = 5 or a square has 4 sides could be conceived to be false. "Since I judge that others sometimes make mistakes in matters that they believe they know most perfectly, may I not, in like fashion, be deceived every time I add two and three or count the sides of a square†¦" We are now at the point where we are doubting everything - the world around us, that we have a body, and anything else that we could possibly believe. Perhaps I even doubt that I exist myself. In doing this, I am in the act of doubting. How can I doubt something if I do not exist? Similarly, maybe I am deceived into thinking I do not exist by some other entity. Then I must exist for it is I who is being deceived.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Migrating to New Cities: Overcoming Challenges

It has been seen that a lot of people migrate to new cities or new countries these days. They may face a number of changes in their new life, including climatic change, changes in language and the way of eating food. This essay will give an overview of these changes and how to overcome these challenges. Firstly, we will consider the climatic change. Those who migrate to new countries, definitely experience sudden changes in the climate.For example, if a person, who travel to countries like United Kingdom, may feel extreme cold weather, because most western countries have cold climate. It will be very difficult for a migrant, if they had warm climate in their own country. This change in climate may create health problems like, cold, sinusitis and head ache. Secondly, language problem. When people migrate to new cities or countries, they may face language difficulties, especially, if their mother tongue is different from the new city or country.It will affect people, when they communic ate with others. Countries like India have 23 different languages in different states. So, when people move their houses to these cities they may find it very difficult to mingle with other people. Thirdly, changes in the way of eating food. People eat food in different ways in different countries. For example, in India, people use their right hand to eat their food. While in European countries people eat their food with knife and fork and spoon.Therefore, when people migrate to these countries, they may feel it very hard to adjust with the new style. However, we can overcome these changes, by wearing warm clothes like jackets, coats. It will help them to avoid cold. Also they can use heaters to warm up their rooms. Language difficulties may avoid by learning new languages, before migrates to new cities or countries. People could change their way of eating by practicing with cutleries. In summary, people experience a lot of changes, when they move their houses to a new place.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Learn ESL Through Movement

Learn ESL Through Movement If youve tried, and struggled, to learn English as a second language (ESL) the usual ways, its time to try it Dr. James Ashers way- through movement. With a student seated on each side of him, Asher demonstrates his technique by asking them to do what he does. Thats all. They dont repeat what he says, they just do what he does. Stand,  he says, and he stands. They stand. Walk, Asher says, and he walks. They walk. Turn. Sit. Point. Within minutes, he gives commands as complicated as, Walk to the chair and point at the table, and his students can do it by themselves. Heres the clincher. In his DVD, he demonstrates in Arabic, a language nobody in the room knows. In study after study, Asher has found that students of all ages can learn a new language quickly and stress-free in just 10-20 hours of silence. Students simply listen to a direction in the new language and do what the instructor does. Asher says, After understanding a huge chunk of the target language with TPR, students spontaneously begin to speak. At this point, students reverse roles with the instructor and utter directions to move their classmates and the instructor. Voila. Asher is the originator of the Total Physical Response approach to learning any language. His book, Learning Another Language Through Actions, is in its sixth edition. In it, Asher describes how he discovered the power of learning languages through physical movement, and the lengths to which he went to prove the technique through scientific experimentation involving the differences between the right and left brain. Ashers studies have proven that while the left brain puts up a fight against the memorization of new languages that occurs in so many classrooms, the right brain is completely open to responding to new commands, immediately. He is adamant about the need to comprehend a new language silently, by simply responding to it, before attempting to speak it, much like a new child imitates his or her parents before beginning to make sounds. While the book is on the academic side, and a little dry, it includes Ashers fascinating research, a lengthy and comprehensive QA that covers questions from both teachers and students, a directory of TPR presenters around the world, comparisons to other techniques, and get this, 53 lesson plans. Thats right- 53! He walks you through how to teach TPR in 53 specific sessions. Can learning take place if the students remain in their seats? Yes. Sky Oaks Productions, publisher of Ashers work, sells wonderful full-color kits of different settings such as home, airport, hospital, supermarket, and playground. Think Colorforms. Remember the pliable plastic forms that stick on a board and easily peel off to move? Responding to imperatives with these kits has the same result as physically moving. Asher also shares samples of mail he has received from people around the world. One of his letters is from Jim Baird, who writes that his classroom has wall-to-wall white boards on which he has created communities and complete countries. Baird writes: Students are required to drive, walk (with their fingers), fly, hop, run, etc. between buildings or cities, pick up things or people and deliver them to other places. They can fly into an airport and rent a car and drive it to another city where they can catch a flight or a boat, all kinds of possibilities. Sure is fun! Asher is generous with the materials and information he provides on his Sky Oaks Productions website, known as TPR World. He is clearly passionate about his work, and its easy to see why.

Monday, October 21, 2019

101 Intro to Solution Argument Professor Ramos Blog

101 Intro to Solution Argument Quick Write What are some problems that would benefit from us researching and writing about them? Solution Argument Prompt Research Argument Topics These are very general topics to consider. For our project, we will be arguing solutions to problems. The problems can be from the list below. Legalize Drugs Rap Lyrics promote sexism Gun Laws Universal Health Care Planned Parenthood Death Penalty Miss Information Protesting Freedom of Speech Gas taxes Border Wall Make drugs illegal Marijuana Laws Trump Same-sex marriage Trans Bathrooms Free College Trains vs Autos Animal Testing Participation Trophies Prostitution should be legal Homework is good or bad? Try minors as adults Driving age raised Drinking age lowered Paternity Leave Logos Famous Arguments Martin Luther Kings I have a Dream Speech Is his speech successful? How does he build Ethos? Where does he use Pathos? Identify uses of Logos. The Danger of a Single Story Novelist  Chimamanda Adichie  tells a story about how she found her authentic voice and warns against a single story. Where did she use Ethos, Logos, and Pathos? How persuasive is she?

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Essay on The psychiatric disorders

Essay on The psychiatric disorders Essay on The psychiatric disorders Essay on The psychiatric disordersThe video on famous people with mental illness demonstrates that many actors, authors, musicians, sportsmen and other public figures suffer from different mental and behavioral disorders. The video gave two main sources, one of which is National Alliance on Mental Illness website and another is Centers of Disease Control and Prevention webpage. They present reliable information, statistical data and case studies of different mental illnesses, they also offer help tips for those who require it and suggest apply to self-pre diagnosis in some cases. Though it is evident that work-related stress and other issues of famous people make them become victims of such illnesses as bipolar disorder, depression, stress disorder, the most surprising was to learn about Gillian Anderson, David Beckham, Halle Berry, Jim Carrey and Ernest Hemingway. David Beckham who is one of the most admired sportsmen having talent and recognition surprisingly suffers from obsessive compulsive disorder. The football player counts clothes and has everything put in a straight line and symmetrically. He describes the disorder as quite tiring. Jim Carrey, one of the most famous producers and known comedians in the world, has a remarkable story from poverty to smashing success. He accepts that has suffered from depression and bipolar for a long time. His depression was accompanied with abrupt mood changes and constant state of sadness. Ernest Hemingway, one of my favorite writers of the twentieth century, has a long story of suffering that eventually led him to suicide. All his life the author of â€Å"For Whom the Bell Tolls† and â€Å"The Sun Also Rises† was obsessed with death. Participation in World War I and World War II resulted in the talented writer’s posttraumatic stress disorder, insomnia, bipolar, narcissistic disorder, paranoia and depression. It is hard to believe that the author of immortal works of fiction suffered from so many i nterrelated psychiatric disorders.

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Gewirth's argument for natural human rights Speech or Presentation

Gewirth's argument for natural human rights - Speech or Presentation Example Gewirth argued against the claims that described basic human rights as 'excess baggage' and an unnecessary burden by claiming that every human being has and must have a basic human right to ensure their own well-being and that such right must be protected by law (Gewirth, 1986: p. 330). Gewirth strongly supported the granting of basic human rights to all individuals and claimed that individuals can rightfully claim such rights for their own well-being merely by virtue of being conscious agents and they also must grant similar rights to others based on the same principle. This argument was however a subject of criticism among other political scholars. Alisdair MacIntyre - a proponent of Aristotelian moral philosophy argued that Gewirth's argument of human rights as 'natural' was illogical and fictional in nature. Jack Donnell on the other hand supported the argument by stating that historically this principle was endorsed during the bourgeois revolution during the 17th and 18th centur ies and hence can be applicable in present day society as well (Tierney, 1997: p.2). 2. Set out the context of the author in question – their work and interests Alan Gewirth, is known for his impressive literary works and scholarly articles in the field of the natural law and political philosophy. He was a staunch believer and proponent of universal human rights. The publication of one of his most widely debated essays on Reason and Morality emphasized his views and ideologies on the concept of human rights as well as the principle of generic consistency whereby he stressed the significance and need for equality of rights for all individuals across the spectrum. Prior to the publication of this project he was focused on exploration and analysis of the works of other scholars such as the famous French philosopher Rene Descartes (Boylan, 1999: p.41; Gewirth, 1943: p. 17) and the political philosophy of Marsilius of Padua. Gewirth's theories and ideologies were inspired largely from the persistent chaos and mistreatment of human beings during wars and other conflicts that plagued the twentieth century (Moreno-Riano & Nederman, 2011: p. 335). Gewirth dedicated a significant part of his academic career at the University of Chicago which was known for its strong support for right-wing libertarianism. As a result several prominent libertarians including Eric Marc, Tribor Machan, Roger Pilon and the likes have used Gewirth's philosophy and take on human rights to endorse and support their own ideologies (The University of Chicago Chronicle, 2004; Brown, n.d.). His previous essays largely focused on a range of issues concerning human rights "Starvation and human rights"; "Can utilitarianism justify any moral rights?" and so on. His earlier works were aimed at exploring the policy issues and theoretical challenges confronting human rights. He also published comprehensive essays with elaborate responses to the critiques of his essays presenting a strong argument i n favour of equality of human rights; the freedom and rights of individuals to seek their well-being; and theories supporting rational justification (Donnelly, 1983: p. 476). 3. Summarise the relevant content and

Friday, October 18, 2019

Edit the document for proper grammar Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Edit the document for proper grammar - Essay Example Sometimes, the contracts I write are in direct support for the many field exercises that our command supports, such as Foal Eagle and Key Resolve where the US and the Republic of Korea (ROK) forces come together annually and conduct trainings to defend South Korea and strengthen alliances. I also support contingency exercises such as Tendon Valiant in Indonesia, a Medical Readiness Training Exercise that supports local people in various areas by providing medical aid. The other contracts I write are for the Garrison environment such as security guards, custodial, among others. My involvement in the organization is very indespensable since I am providing the war fighters their day to day essentials, needs for training exercises and contingency exercises. If I am unable to assist in meeting the mission needs, the services needed to conduct day to day operations might be delayed or put on hold at the cost of the mission’s success. Sometimes our services come from the US and there are regulations regarding procurement that must be followed in accordance to the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA). If we do not adhere to these procedures, it would not only be detrimental to the mission but to the suppliers as well. Each procurement involves many people and I orchestrate these service procurements. Once the services are procured, I also administer the contracts to assure that the contract is completed accordingly and the contractors get paid on time. One of my strengths is being able comprehend and speak English fluently, since English is my native language. This helps me to communicate well with my groupmates. In addition, I am also very well organized, helpful, proactive, and flexible. I have great organization skills in that I keep my electronic calendar up to date and have reminders set for follow-ups on emails and other events. I keep a clean, organized desk and my file cabinets are organized as well. I am

Role of the U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt on America and Essay - 1

Role of the U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt on America and the World - Essay Example This paper illustrates that Franklin Delano Roosevelt had a very long presidency, lasting three terms, which is unusual since American presidents normally only have one or two terms.   He belonged to the Democrat party and introduced many reforms to include the famous â€Å"New Deal† which aimed to get people back to work after the Depression. In his work abroad he was respected for his diplomacy and he certainly is responsible for helping to bring the Second World War to an end. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, as his family name suggests, belonged to a family of Dutch descent. They traced their roots back to the early settlers of America in the region in and around New York and to a Dutch farmer called Nicholas Claes Martenzen von Rosenvelt who came from Holland right at the beginning of the settlement period, in the early 1600s. Franklin D. Roosevelt’s parents were wealthy and they lived in the upper-class Hudson River area. Both James Franklin and Sara Delano had inheri ted money and a good education from their parents and the young Franklin grew up in a happy home, very much loved especially by his mother who was much younger than her husband. After homeschooling by a series of governesses until the age of 14, Roosevelt attended Groton, a private educational establishment led by the school’s founder, Endicott Peabody. This was a very privileged schooling: â€Å"At a time when most educational reformers stressed democracy and equal access to schools, Peabody attempted to build a school where the ‘best families’ of New England would send their sons to prepare them for future positions of leadership.† In some ways, this background excluded the young Roosevelt from the hardships that other people suffered, such as poverty and exclusion from the good things in life, but on the other hand, the Christian morals and hard-working ethic of Peabody’s school gave him a good moral basis for his future life. Having an educated mother who spoke several languages also allowed the young Franklin D. Roosevelt to develop an awareness and understanding of other countries which would come in very useful during his later career.

Discussion 7 international relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discussion 7 international relations - Essay Example 47). Kant’s article thus has promoted a unique cosmopolitan approach to developing an international law that all individuals possess equal rights regardless of the country they belong to. His work put forward specific three articles about perpetual peace among nations, they are, a) republican-character of every states’ civil constitution, b) law of nations as being federation of free states, and c) world citizenship as conditions of universal (Russett, Starr and Kinsella, 2009). First section of Immanuel Kant’s writings emphasized that no peace-treaty will be valid if it is made with a secret reservation for material for a future war, an independently existing land shall not be acquired by another state for inheritance, standing armies shall gradually be abolished, a state’s debts shall not be contracted in connection with the external affairs of the state etc. The other sections from his writings suggested that each nation can demand of the others that th ey should enter along with them in to a constitution, similar to the civil one for the sake of security reasons. His perpetual peace theory denoted idea of international right which in turn presupposes the separate existence of many independent states (Kant, p. 368- 374).

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Morality and Social Responsibility Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Morality and Social Responsibility - Assignment Example This shows that a person’s wrong behavior solely originates from himself and he bares the whole responsibility. This may be too hard on those who may not understand the rules and end up breaking them. Human beings have different reasoning standards. As others are keen to point out the limits of their actions, others may be slow at it. Actions play a big role in the definition of morality. The actions between two or more individuals define character. These actions originate from different or same habits that these individuals have. One’s action will influence the reaction of another, defining his character. This introduces a second party responsible for one’s action. Therefore, environment (culture) plays a role in defining ones morality (Peter & Nicholas, 2011) A person’s upbringing influences the virtues that he will have when he comes of age. Some virtues are inborn while others are acquired. Culture outlines the norms of one’s society. Many do see that abiding by these norms makes one moral. Culture defines people’s social responsibility, and it enables smooth co-existence among people (Scarlet & Arthur, 2011). This social responsibility can be seen as ones duty to morality. The actions that are done usually are of different purposes. An individual can do action because he needs to benefit by protecting his life. On the other hand, it can be done just for the respect of the law to avoid consequences. In the end these actions, regardless of the reasons for performing them, defines ones morality. Deontology helps to control individuals’ actions and the rights of others who interact. People should reflect on the consequences of their actions to others, before doing them. As people who co-exist, cultural laws outline the moral acts that all of them approve. This helps in the establishment of morality amongst them. Morality may be different in different cultures since the cultures tend to differ in

Why and how according to the Buddha should unenlightened beings try to Essay

Why and how according to the Buddha should unenlightened beings try to combat greed, hatred and delusion - Essay Example The fourth noble truth is the result of learning and practicing, which is the stage in which one becomes enlightened. The greed, hatred and delusion fall under the second noble truth. They are aspects of the causation of suffering. This paper purposes to discuss how and why the unenlightened should strive to deal with these three poisons of humanity, as perceived in Buddhism. Greed, hatred and delusion in Buddhism have commonly been referred to as the three poisons or the three fires. Other scholars of Buddhism have referred to them as the three unwholesome roots. Webster (2005 p 98) likens the three of them with evil desire. The reason for their being referred to as such is because of their nature to cause human beings to have a desire to happiness through the wrong motive. A close look at these metaphorical references to these three aspects reveals that they can be very dangerous if not dealt with from a deterministic perspective. They can induce afflictive emotions and thoughts. Buddhism teaches that the three are a byproduct of ignorance. By referring to them as a byproduct of ignorance, the teachings of Buddha point to the fact that there is a means of combating them. This way will be by applying the teachings of Buddha and practicing them so that the person who harbored them can become intelligent, or realize the fourth noble truth. Going by the fa ct that these three aspects are a result of ignorance, it is reasonable that the person experiencing them follows the recommendations of Buddha’s teachings so that they can become knowledgeable. This is to mean that the essence of combating greed, hatred and delusion is to become intelligent. This will be advantageous to the persuerer because they will become intelligent, and will have cured the disease of suffering. The Buddhist hypothesis behind greed, hatred and

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Discussion 7 international relations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discussion 7 international relations - Essay Example 47). Kant’s article thus has promoted a unique cosmopolitan approach to developing an international law that all individuals possess equal rights regardless of the country they belong to. His work put forward specific three articles about perpetual peace among nations, they are, a) republican-character of every states’ civil constitution, b) law of nations as being federation of free states, and c) world citizenship as conditions of universal (Russett, Starr and Kinsella, 2009). First section of Immanuel Kant’s writings emphasized that no peace-treaty will be valid if it is made with a secret reservation for material for a future war, an independently existing land shall not be acquired by another state for inheritance, standing armies shall gradually be abolished, a state’s debts shall not be contracted in connection with the external affairs of the state etc. The other sections from his writings suggested that each nation can demand of the others that th ey should enter along with them in to a constitution, similar to the civil one for the sake of security reasons. His perpetual peace theory denoted idea of international right which in turn presupposes the separate existence of many independent states (Kant, p. 368- 374).

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Why and how according to the Buddha should unenlightened beings try to Essay

Why and how according to the Buddha should unenlightened beings try to combat greed, hatred and delusion - Essay Example The fourth noble truth is the result of learning and practicing, which is the stage in which one becomes enlightened. The greed, hatred and delusion fall under the second noble truth. They are aspects of the causation of suffering. This paper purposes to discuss how and why the unenlightened should strive to deal with these three poisons of humanity, as perceived in Buddhism. Greed, hatred and delusion in Buddhism have commonly been referred to as the three poisons or the three fires. Other scholars of Buddhism have referred to them as the three unwholesome roots. Webster (2005 p 98) likens the three of them with evil desire. The reason for their being referred to as such is because of their nature to cause human beings to have a desire to happiness through the wrong motive. A close look at these metaphorical references to these three aspects reveals that they can be very dangerous if not dealt with from a deterministic perspective. They can induce afflictive emotions and thoughts. Buddhism teaches that the three are a byproduct of ignorance. By referring to them as a byproduct of ignorance, the teachings of Buddha point to the fact that there is a means of combating them. This way will be by applying the teachings of Buddha and practicing them so that the person who harbored them can become intelligent, or realize the fourth noble truth. Going by the fa ct that these three aspects are a result of ignorance, it is reasonable that the person experiencing them follows the recommendations of Buddha’s teachings so that they can become knowledgeable. This is to mean that the essence of combating greed, hatred and delusion is to become intelligent. This will be advantageous to the persuerer because they will become intelligent, and will have cured the disease of suffering. The Buddhist hypothesis behind greed, hatred and

Choose a modern day situation Essay Example for Free

Choose a modern day situation Essay In this lesson, we were some preparation work to prepare us for our historical improvisation piece. We had the choice of two tasks, 1. Choose a famous event from history and create an improvised piece which details this event, or 2. Choose a modern day situation (e. g. at school, a party, a mealtime etc. ) and create a short improvisation showing this. THEN choose a period of time between 1850 and 1960 and re-enact the same scene, as you think it may have happened at the time. Our group decided to choose the second task, and we all decided that doing a piece set in 1960 would be very interesting. When we had chosen the time our piece was to be set in, the majority of our group wanted to set our piece in a party, but Kayleigh wanted to perform a piece set in a school, and the rest of the group all agreed that this was an excellent idea, and could turn out some interesting differences between the 60s and todays school environment. Donna didnt really want to base our performance in the sixties but eventually the group managed to talk her round to our way of thinking, and Donna was quite happy to perform with us. I decided to go home, and research everything I could about the sixties, so that next drama lesson, we would have plenty of information with which to make our piece historically accurate. I have placed the information I collected behind this page, to show that our group have researched and used all resources available to us in order to enhance our performance. In the meantime, for the remainder of the lesson we decide to write a very basic scene plan, for our preparation performance. We couldnt make a prop and costume list, as we hadnt properly researched the time period our performance was set in, but we all agreed to bring in some props and costumes we thought would be appropriate for the piece, and when I brought the research in, we would choose the best from the selection we had brought to the lesson. Scene Plan Scene One Kayleigh is playing the teacher, and as we walk into the 1960 classroom, she invites us all in to sit down with a warm smile. We gave her a smile, to show how friendly a place school was back then, and how friendly the teacher was herself. Then the pupils sit down and the teacher asks them what they would like to do. We thought this was a good way to show the different teaching styles in use at the time, and how different their lessons were to ours, having no set curriculum, and being given the responsibility to choose for themselves what they want to do instead of just being told. The children tell her they would like to protest against war, and the teacher, being supportive of their ideas, and valuing their opinions, gets out her guitar, with which to accompany the protest chant. The girls sit and start to repeat the word peace over and over again, whilst swaying in unison. In mid-sway the girls freeze, and I get up and explain a bit about school in the sixties, and the main differences with today. Then we all walk off stage. Scene Two Kayleigh walks on stage closely followed by the kids. She sits behind a desk, and starts to read the register. I thought it was important to have a desk for the teacher, to show how nowadays teachers use their desks as a barrier between them and the pupils, almost using them to segregate themselves fro the kids, whereas in the sixties, the teachers wanted the kids to feel happy and welcome, and didnt want this barrier between them and the children. The kids attitudes are visible from the very second the walk in the door, I thought it was a good way to use movement to show how the kids feel about being forced into coming to school, and doing work they dont want to do. This is their way of rebelling, in the sixties, they rebelled to, only in the sixties, the teachers helped them. These days, the kids are rebelling against the teachers. The kids just generally give the teacher a load of attitude then we all walk off stage. I thought it was really important to show the two different ways kids then, and kids now, have of rebelling against things, and the way that the hippies used the faculty as a medium for protest, using them to send their message, whereas in this decade, kids just rebel against teachers. It was now the end of the lesson but I knew exactly what I had to research for our performance next lesson, I decided to research hippies, and the political and social background of our chosen date. This meant researching important events and getting an insight into what people were like in the sixties, how they behaved, how they reacted to scandal such as teenage pregnancy, and other social taboos, to help us play the parts convincingly. Also I wanted to find out what motivated the flower power generation to become as big as it did, and what was the reason behind their morals and ethics. I also wanted to find out a little about the music that was playing at the time, and how that was influencing people. My research is displayed over the next few pages of my notebook. The information I collected was very interesting to read, and I accumulated enough to give us a really good idea of how people in the 1960s dressed and more importantly, how they behaved. 13th March This was the lesson that we had to perform our preparation piece in. I was slightly nervous, as I knew another group were also doing the 1960s, and I didnt want our group to be shadowed by their performance, or for it to seem like we had copied them, because all of our ideas had been original and completely uninfluenced by anything they had done, but apart from that, I wasnt nervous of performing at all. We were the first group to perform, and it all went reasonably well, except some unexpected laughing due to lack of rehearsal time. I thought the characters could have been more developed, and it could have been longer, but since it was only a rehearsal piece, this didnt really matter. The other groups came up with some brilliant ideas too, one did a remaking of a scene from the Krays, a film about some London gangsters, infamous for its violent content. This was really good, and had a humourous element at the end, to relieve the tension of the scene slightly. Another group did a news report on the sinking of the Titanic and I found this to be entertaining and informative, at the same time. The other group who did a 1960 hippie setting were really good too, I liked the way they sang, and used drugs, to show that drugs were socially acceptable in those days. When we had finished watching everyone elses preparation performance, it was the end of the lesson, but I felt that the preparation work was very useful in preparing me for the historical task we were soon to begin. It really got me thinking about the different ways we could present information to an audience, and made me consider all the possible ideas we had already been forming about our piece. 20th March When we came into the lesson today, we were given a sheet, clarifying, what was expected of us of our GCSE Drama Historical piece. My rewrite of the sheet can be seen overleaf. The sheet is displayed on the adjacent page. When we all had time to examine the sheet properly, we could not decide which task to choose, so we made a brainstorm on the period of time we were allowed to use for our piece, 1859-1960. We were glad that the time period was so large, as it gave us a lot of events in history to portray. When we had made our brainstorm, we were still no nearer to agreeing on an idea or time period to show in our piece, so we each chose a time period we felt would be interesting to show, and we went to the library to research our individual subjects. Kelly and Teresa wanted to research Rock and Roll and the fifties and Kayleigh and Donna wanted to research hippies. The rest of the group didnt really want to do another piece on hippies, as our preparation piece had focussed on this, but, we did not wish to dismiss any ideas at this time, and so we were all quite happy to research our individual topics. Dora was slightly stuck for ideas on which era she should research, so I suggested the Victorian era, as it covered a wide range of events, within the time bracket we were given, and could be very interesting to look into. I myself decided to research the 1930s, the invention of television, and the broadcasting debut of the BBC, (British Broadcasting Corporation). My research is displayed over the next few pages. 21st March This lesson, the group was still very much divided into two groups, Dora, Me, Kelly and Teresa, who wanted to perform a piece about the rock n roll era of the 1950s, and Donna and Kayleigh, who still wanted to do a play about hippies, and more specifically, hippies in school, which the rest of us seriously objected to, seeing as it was exactly the same as our preparation work. Then Kelly came up with the idea of spanning different decades, and showing one idea, either schools, or parties, throughout the 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 1960. I came up with the idea of everyone sharing the responsibilities equally, and each person having a scene to write up, and design themselves. Then Kayleigh was concerned about the amount of work each person would have to do, so I came up with the idea that if the person in charge of the scene wanted to, they could speak to the audience instead of acting, and this would tie our performance in with both the comparison, and theatre in education tasks we were given, and presenting different scenes in different formats would improve our performance, and make it more interesting for the audience. We decided Teresa would write the 30s scene, Kelly the 20s, Donna and Kayleigh the year 1960, and Dora the thirties. I decide to take the fortys scene, as I thought it would have been really interesting to show the jubilation of the British population at the end of the second world war. Then I said I thought it would be really good idea to have each person who designed the scene, to come to the front at the end, and speak to the audience directly about their scene, the main differences from those days to the present time, and that this would also be a good way to give the other actors time to change before the next scene starts. I thought this would also be a good way to fill in some time too, as with six people in our group our plays ideal length would be about twenty minutes. I thought splitting the scenes up this way would be a great way to get everyone to put their own thoughts and style into the piece, and let everyone each have their individual inputs, and be able to perform one piece of our performance their way. I also thought it would be a really good way to add more variety to our piece, and hold the attention of our audience better than a less creatively structured piece would. We had still not decided on the theme our scenes would have, schools or parties, so we all agreed to go home, and really think about our reasons for our preferences, and think about which idea was the more original and creative. We also decided to seriously think about which would be more interesting for our audience to watch. The research I found about the 1940s, can be found over the next few pages of my notebook. 27th March Today, we were still disagreeing on what the main focus of our performance should be. Kayleigh and Donna still wanted to write our scenes around a school format, and the rest of us still wanted to have the main feature of each part of our performance be a party, or be about a party. When our drama teacher came over to check on our progress, she suggested, if it was causing so much trouble within the group, that we split into a four and a two, with Kayleigh and Donna forming their own group together, but we all decided that this would not be a good idea, as Kayleigh and Donna didnt want to be on their own, trying to create a totally new piece in a reduced time period, and we didnt really want to lose two of our group, and the people who were writing the last scene of our performance, so Donna and Kayleigh agreed to base our performance around parties and not schools. I wanted to use parties, because there is more opportunity to show difference in costume, and behaviour throughout the different decades, than there is in schools. Then for the rest of the lesson, we concentrated on developing a presentation to show to the rest of the class. Each person read out their thoughts on their scene, and how they intended it to develop into the final piece we were to perform. We got some interesting feedback on the subject, mainly, that in order to make my scene/s historically accurate, I needed to do more research on street parties in particular, not just the forties in general. Also, Mark had an interesting suggestion, he suggested that instead of having people get changed while the writer of the last scene speaks to the audience, we have just three people in one scene, and three in the next, however, this is up to the individual who creates the scene, as she will decide how many characters she needs in her part of the performance. At the end of the lesson, we decided to think about the different ideas suggested to us by the rest of the class, and we all agreed to think of some ideas for our scenes for tomorrows lesson.

Monday, October 14, 2019

A Well Detailed Spiral Model Information Technology Essay

A Well Detailed Spiral Model Information Technology Essay The life cycle model most likely preferred or suitable for Sales Order Despatch Application system would be the Spiral Life Cycle Model. The Spiral Life Cycle Model is a software development approach combining elements of both design and prototyping in a much more comprehensive and understandable stages. The spiral life cycle combines the iterative nature of prototyping with the controlled and systematic aspects of the waterfall model, therein providing the potential for rapid development of incremental versions of the software. In this model the software is developed in a series of incremental releases with the early stages being either paper models or prototypes. Later iterations become increasingly more complete versions of the product. A WELL DETAILED SPIRAL MODEL The spiral life cycle model typically contains 6 task regions: i. Customer Communication ii. Planning iii. Risk Analysis iv. Engineering v. Construction and Release vi. Customer Evaluation All the above mentioned tasks has to be addressed during the development of the Sales Order Despatch Application. 1.1 Customer Communication This task region basically has to do with knowing the customer and establishing an effective communication and gathering the requirements of the system to be developed. Customers therefore would be referred to as the management of the Sales Order Despatch System. These requirements can be gathered using several fact finding techniques. The techniques used for this system would be: Questionnaires A survey will be simply carried out on selected Sales Order Despatch Application current workers. This survey would help us understand what the end users of the SODA would want from the new system. And by placing any current problems they are facing as at the time the survey is being carried out can help in enhancing the new system and tackling such problems in the new system. Interviews In this particular fact finding technique, different levels of workers and bodies of the organisation would be interviewed in order to get a suitable and preferable view of the system to be implemented. Such problems being faced in the current system also need to be addressed, and those problems must be surpassed by the new computerized system. The most important people who would be interviewed would be the Managing Director of Fizzypop Plc and major end-users of FizzyPop plc in charge of the day to day activities. The purposes of these fact findings are to understand the functional and non-functional requirements of the system. 1.2 Planning Once all the necessary information is gathered through the interviews and questionnaires, they should be addressed as requirements. Also the system must be developed within a limited time and budget. In this stage an initial budget will be built to get a rough idea on what the final cost will be to implement the system. This initial cost will vary from the final budget due to many changing factors. Also a deadline must be given by the restaurant as to when they want the system implemented. A Gantt chart must be developed to monitor the progress of the system. This will ensure that the system is finished and delivered on time. This a view of the gantt chart which the developers and analysers will use to monitor the progress of the system to be developed: 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 Here are the functional requirements identified for the system: Functional Requirements Functional requirements are the requirements needed for the new computerized system to function properly. The following are the functional requirements for the Sales Order Despatch Application system: * Allow the end-user to specify the customers soft drinks and delivery requirements via an intranet web page. * Able to edit, add to the job sheet online. * Allowing staff and management to view and produce reports of packaged items, via their internal networking infrastructure (i.e., their intranet). * Customers order is been verified against current capacity, stock availability and delivery dates. * Receive confirmation of the delivery date and related billing information * The information system needs to be integrated with their current customer and distribution database. * The system will, from time to time, provide the company with detailed reports of customer profiles (number of customers, types of drink purchased, and current revenue). * 1.3 Risk Analysis In this particular task region, all possible risks to be encountered are been identified. A risk probability impact matrix should be also put up in order to understand the effects of the risks better. Whereby Risk categories have been divided in to 2 sections, namely Technological and Management, and here are examples of such risks: * Management Risks o Computer illiteracy within end-users o Takes time for end users to be comfortable with the change of initial system to current system o Misuse of developed system might lead to unnecessary expenditure on maintenance o Lack of team Support o Inadequate time to complete project o Inadequate funds/ Final expenses higher than initial budget o Disclosure of company information * Technological Risks o Power Failures are vulnerable to loss of data o Due to improper management Data Corruption / Loss of Data can occur o There might be Intruder Attacks from hackers. o Hardware Failures. o The Rapid evolving and change in software. Initially after getting all the risks for the system, it has been noted down that the following risks that have an actual threat to the SODA system are mentioned below: * Inadequate time to complete project * Inadequate funds/ Final expenses higher than initial budget * Data Corruption / Loss of Data * Intruder Attacks * Hardware Failures * Misuse of Equipment 1.4 Engineering: This task region is to design the system with the gathered requirements information using selected tools and coding techniques selected. A sample prototype can be designed as well in this stage. The programming language that can be used to develop the Sales Order Despatch Application SODA could be Java and ASP.NET Since java is a very popular programming language with its own GUI. While ASP.NET is a web based programming language which is also platform independent with JAVA therefore it would be easy making future amendments to the system, in case the system hardware is changed or ready to be reviewed again. SQL server 2008 can be used to create the database for the Bottling companies. It is easier to create and link tables and create queries using SQL server 2008 and will be able to handle all customer and bottling information, including record keeping of customers visiting the website. 1.5 Construction and Release This is the stage where the prototype of the system that was initially designed in the previous stage would be brought into life by coding the system. Once the coding is carried out, the system has to test to see if it meets all the requirements. Testing can be done using sample of test cases and then the actual output is matched against the expected output of the above mentioned system. Once we are through with testing and it meets the given expectations, the final documentation is prepared along with a training manual showing the customer on how to use the system. Technical support will also be provided along with the training manual. 1.6 Customer Evaluation This is the task region whereby feedback is been gotten from the management of FizzyPop Plc. Whether or not the developed system is up to their expectations is learned in this stage. This could be determined as the final stage of the project if the system is acceptable by the FizzyPop plc. But. If it is not accepted therefore you have to case it is back to task region one, Customer communication, by getting the information needed to do amendments and understanding what the customer wants in the system. QUESTION 2 The goal of every software engineer in software engineering is gaining durability for quality products depending on the attributes of such products. There are laid down set of qualities specifically linked with system dependability attributes such as security, safety, fault tolerance; quality that makes for convenience of use, such as usability, adaptability, and clarity; and quality that facilitates and makes future upgrades and maintenance easy. There is some agreement about the attributes that define software quality and dependability over a range of products. These definitions provide the base knowledge from which individual quality products are planned, engineered, analysed, measured, and enhanced. There are many dependability measurement attributes that could be applied to the SODA system, but only few of such attributes of dependability measurements would be described below. These attributes have been selectively chosen due to its high contribution to Sales Order Despatch Application SODA namely: 1. Efficiency/ Performance of the system 2. Accuracy 3. Dependability 4. Usability 2.2Efficiency/ Performance of the system Performance/ Efficiency of a system, is a set of attributes that bear on the relationship between the level of performance of the software and the amount of resources used and under stated conditions. Resources may include other software, hardware, services of operating and users for maintenance and operation. This attribute have 2 major features namely: Time and resource behaviours. And if a processing results requires a very high performing processor and lots or RAM to display the processed result under 3 seconds, that is an indication of poor resource performance. In other words even if the processed results are accurate to its single term, it still requires excess time and resources, it will simply affect the overall quality of the system. . 2.1 Accuracy Accuracy is an attribute of software that deals with the provision of right or agreed results and its effects. The question to be figured out next is how accurate the system performs. For example, the user enters drink specification Mountain dew using the Add function in the database, and the system displays results for Drink specification of only Mirinda or Malta , that indicates an inaccurate system. This happens due to poor programming and system designing. Overall an inaccurate system means the quality of software is poor and therefore the end-users (FizzyPop plc) will not be pleased with the entire software. 2.4 Dependability After the system has been designed for FizzyPop plc And it has proven to be efficient, effective, user friendly and safe, we still have to worry about how dependable the system could be. That is to say that Dependability basically is how dependable the system implemented would be, which has many features and some of those features are: * Maintainability Normally after the system is implemented and sold to FizzyPop plc, it must be maintained, and this maintenance will be done by the users of SODA. Maintenance will usually include updating the system software, taking backups. All this will be taught to the user during the training phase, but this also must be easy to do. * Reliability FizzyPop plc would be open throughout the day, and the system will also be on and running as long as FizzyPop exists.it could only be altered when further development process is been carried out and ready to implement. NOTE: The system must be able to operate during these times without and crashes or system failure. * Availability The system must be able to be started up within a short time, and ready to use. Queries must be responded to as and when the user demands them, that is the basic idea of availability. The system must be ready to use on the users demand. 2.3 Usability Usability is a set of attributes that put up with on the effort needed for use of a system, and on the individual assessment of such use, usually evaluated by the user of the system. The system developed for FizzyPop plc should be easy to use and learn. The user involved with the day to day function of the system, does not really need to be very good technically. Therefore the system must be designed in a way it easy to understand for users who will be using the system. All error messages must be in simple understandable English with less technical jargon. Therefore in the event of any errors the system user should be able to overcome the problem by themselves. Any new user of the SODA system should be able to have an experience and understand how the system works on their own. That will be a good indication of a user friendly system, in other words a good quality system. Also a training session must be provided to the users of SODA in order to show them on how the system works. A manual will also be given, in any case, if there are any problems in the system that needs any attention, SODA users (FizzyPop plc. Staffs) can look up the manual for details. CONCLUSION The spiral life cycle model has been chosen to develop the system so that the final product developed for FizzyPop plcwill very few or no problems will be found at all. This model makes sure that all the risks involved will be identified and taken care of before being handed over to the Bottling Company known as FizzyPop plc. Since the spiral model uses a rotating pattern, it ensures that all requirements are identified, and the system designed meets the specifications in order to make sure SODA users are satisfied with the system before the system is delivered to them. This spiral way of designing the system is also a bit costly to FizzyPop plc compared to developing the system using other methodologies, but its outcome is much worthy. In summary of the dependability measurement attributes, it could be said that, the software which is most efficient, effective and user friendly would be bad in terms on quality if it has low dependability qualities, such as, taking too long to start-up , regularly freezing up/ crashing and requiring high end technical training for users to maintain the system. If it is also a very dependable system, but with poor efficiency, performance and a bad user interface. it will not be a good quality system either. Finally we have concluded by saying that the system developed for FizzyPop plc must be perfect in all of these attributes; any defect or failure in any of these attributes will compromise the overall software quality for the system.

Sunday, October 13, 2019

“A Good Man is Hard to Find”: Comparing Flannery O’Connor’s Literary Te

â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find†: Comparing Flannery O’Connor’s Literary Technique to Grotesque Medieval Literature Upon initially reading Flannery O’Connor’s work, one would have no problem recognizing her use of shocking, violent, or despairing themes. It may not be as easy, however, to completely accept or understand her style. According to Patrick Galloway, one must be â€Å"initiated to her trademarks when reading any of her two novels or thirty-two short stories (1).In many of her works, she paradoxically uses styles that are grotesque and brutal to illustrate themes of grace and self-actualization. As O’Connor herself says, â€Å"I have found that violence is strangely capable of returning my characters to reality and preparing them to accept their moment of grace† (qtd. in Hawkins 30).Although at times disturbing, O’Connor’s paradox is an effective literary technique, deepening the meaning of her stories.Flannery O’Connor’s short story, â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find,† can be used as a tool to become ‘initiated’ to this unique style. Few critics would deny that â€Å"A Good Man† is a grotesque story: A grandmother and her son’s family on vacation are ruthlessly killed by an escaped convict.Some O’Connor critics are taken aback by this grotesque aspect because the family and elderly woman seem so innocent.People do not want to imagine their quiet and delicate, â€Å"gray-haired† grandmother standing in the face of a murderer, so they sympathize with O’Connor’s Grandmother as well (Bandy 2).This gruesome scene does not, however, serve as senseless violence.Beyond the disturbing imagery is a story that makes poignant religious and philosophical claims (Galloway 6).Pat Galloway analyzes this technique as the way O’Connor’s characters receive t... ...arterly 34 (Sum 1993): 383-397. Wood, Christopher. Albrecht Altdorfer and the Origins of Landscape. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1993. Works Consulted Bloom, Harold, ed. Flannery O’Connor. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1986. Hagen, Susan. â€Å"Team Teaching Middle English Literature With Flannery O’Connor.† http://panther.bsc.edu/~shagen/oconnor.htm (10 Nov. 1999). McMillen, Jenny. â€Å"Short Story Reviews.†http://www.geocities.com?Athens/Troy/2188/reviews.html (10 Nov. 1999) Owens, Mitchell. â€Å"The Function of Signature in ‘A Good Man is Hard to Find.’† Studies in Short Fiction 33 (Wntr 1996): 101-106. Schilling, Timothy. â€Å"Trying To See Straight: Flannery O’Connor & the Business of Writing.† Commonweal 122 (Nov 3, 1995): 14-15. Sloan, Gary. â€Å"O’Connor’s ‘A Good Man is Hard to Find.’† The Explicator 57 (Wntr 1999): 118-120.

Saturday, October 12, 2019

Beauty and The Bluest Eye :: Bluest Eye Essays

Beauty and The Bluest Eye Toni Morrison's novel, The Bluest Eye contributes to the study of the American novel by bringing to light an unflattering side of American history. The story of a young black girl named Pecola, growing up in Lorain, Ohio in 1941 clearly illustrates the fact that the "American Dream" was not available to everyone. The world that Pecola inhabits adores blonde haired blue eyed girls and boys. Black children are invisible in this world, not special, less than nothing. The idea that the color of your skin somehow made you lesser was cultivated by both whites and blacks. White skin meant beauty and privilege and that idea was not questioned at this time in history. The idea that the color of your skin somehow made you less of a person contaminated black people's lives in many different ways. The taunts of schoolboys directed at Pecola clearly illustrate this fact; "It was their contempt for their own blackness that gave the first insult its teeth" (65). This self hatred also po ssessed an undercurrent of anger and injustice that eventually led to the civil rights movement. The characters in this book as well as the time period mark a time in American history that played an important role in the ideas of equality and freedom. All of the elements on which this country were founded upon were twisted so they no longer applied to blacks and other minorities in this country. The life led by Pecola as well as others like her good or bad is a part of history that was experienced by many Americans in all parts of the country. While it is questionable whether total equality has been reached in this country, many ideas have changed for the better. This book is significant because it shows a different side to American literature as well as life. Morrison points out what has changed and what has stayed the same. While people are generally equal, there are still prejudices in the idea of what is beautiful and who is worthy.

Friday, October 11, 2019

Online tourism information management system

Introduction Nowadays, tourism Is one of the most Important Industries globally for many social, economic, technological, and geopolitical reasons. It presents an actual high quantitative and qualitative growth dynamics and potential, with substantial contribution to the global economy and employment, as it is the largest Job provider on the planet. Information is very crucial in tourism sector so it has been among the first to exploit new technologies and innovations. 1. 1 Background of the project Tourism Is one of the major contributors In the economy of Cube City.The city appends to be one of the most popular destination for travelers In the Philippines. Cube City Is largely known as Queen City. Cube has plenty of tourist attractions that encourages tourists to enter and explore the city. Some tourists may have a difficult time traveling in the city due to a lack of virtual representations of the city that may lead to an enjoyable stay. Tourists should have a virtual tourist guid e in traveling inside Cube Island to assist them in every destination they ought to go.To assist Tourists in traveling inside Cube, the researchers proposed to develop an inline tourism information management that allows tourists to search their preferred destination and the system will locate it via map. The system will also provide list of accommodations and transportation guides for the tourist In order to provide an easy way traveling in Cube. Also, the system will provide website links of hotels, restaurants, car rentals, and beach resorts companies so that tourists will be able to reserve online. 1. 2 Project objectives 1. . 1 General objectives This study aims to develop an online tourism information management for tourists in Cube to provide an interactive virtual tourists guide that may assist tourists in traveling in the city. 1. 2. 2 Specific objectives Specifically the study aims to: system; To analyses data gathered; 2) To create a system design based on the data gather ed; 3) To develop the proposed system; 4) To test and evaluate the developed system; and 5) To implement the developed online tourism information management system. 1. Significance of the project This project is significant in promoting tourism in Cube and to provide tourists a reliable information that may assist them traveling within Cube. This part of the project discusses about the benefits of creating the system to the following: Students The students can benefit from the system because it will provide additional knowledge in their chosen field. This will also help students in their further projects. Tourists The tourists can benefit from the system because it will provide a decent information and guide for traveling and staying in Cube.Local government The Local government can benefit from the system for it will help to directly boost tourism in the place. Not only that, this will increase the number of people employed. As a whole this will improve the local economy for it wil l become more industrialized. Business The businesses such as hotels, restaurants, beach resorts, and malls can benefit from the system for it will help gaining more customers that can rapidly increase their respective profits. 1. Scope and limitations of the project This project mainly focused on providing travelers and tourists a virtual tourism information management system that would allow them to search their destinations on a virtual map. The proposed system would make tourists find a simpler way to get information and guidance traveling in the city. The project aimed to develop an online tourism information management system to help boost tourism in Cube and to assist travelers and tourists in traveling in Cube.With the proposed online tourism management information system, the user can search and locate their desired destinations. Provided by website links of hotels, car rentals, restaurants, and beach resorts company, they can make reservations directly in a minimal time fr ame in these companies. Moreover, the system will provide a more efficient and interactive way of giving information and assistance to the users n terms of traveling in Cube. The proposed system will provide an overview of the region and its attractions. The weapon is user friendly when it comes to LU design. Assist tourists traveling in Cube.The system does not include online reservations and payments instead it will provide website links of companies that has these kind of transactions to help tourists find accommodations. Chapter II Review of related literature One of the essential factors to consider to have a better view of the project and to have a better evaluation on the project's functionalities, related literature, studies ND works should reviewed, analyses and studied. According to Chou (2004), Tourists need new sources of information in order to help them plan their trips and choose between alternatives tourist destinations.Because it is an information-rich industry, it depends on finding and developing new means to distribute travel and hospitality products and services, marketing information to consumers and providing comfort and convenience travelers. Tourism Management According to Upon (1993) and Sheldon (1997), Technological progress and tourism have been going hand in hand for years. Since the sass, Information Communication Technologies (Acts) have been transforming tourism globally. Developments in Acts have undoubtedly changed both business practices and strategies as well as industry structures (Porter, 2001).The establishment of the Computer Reservation Systems (Cars) in the sass and Global Distribution Systems (Gigs) in the late sass, followed by the development of the Internet in the late sass, have transformed the best operational and strategic practices in the industry dramatically (Bilabials, 2003; business [email  protected], 2006; Emmer, Tack, Wilkinson, & Moore, 1993; O'Connor, 1999). If the past 20 years have seen an emphasis on technology per SE, then since the year 2000 we have been witnessing the truly transformational effect of the communications technologies.This has given scope for the development of a wide range of new tools and services that facilitate global Tourism as an international industry and as the biggest provider of Jobs on the planet boasts a greater array of heterogeneous stakeholders than many other industries. The energetic growth and development of the industry are perhaps only mirrored by the growth of Acts. The accelerating and synergistic interaction between genealogy and tourism in recent times has brought fundamental changes in the industry and on our perceptions of its nature.The significance of crossing the new information threshold of universal, ubiquitous communications access has brought the entire tourism industry to the new levels of interactivity, propelling management by wire. Increasingly, Acts play a critical role for the competitiveness of tourism organizations an d destinations as well as for the entire industry as a whole (UNTO, 2001). Developments in search engines, carrying capacity and speed of networks eave influenced the number of travelers around the world that use technologies for planning and experiencing their travels.Acts have also changed radically the efficiency and effectiveness of tourism organizations, the way that businesses are conducted in the marketplace, as well as how consumers interact with organizations (Bilabials, 2003). There have been many new entrants among the players on the tourism stage, shifts in market share and balance of power, changes in political perceptions of tourism, and a growing recognition of the importance of tourism to an ever-increasing number of national and regional economies.Innovation Trends on Tourism Tourism firms operate in a business environment where innovation is important for their survival (Sorensen, 2007). Thus, the adoption of innovative methods that will aid every country to promot e and support its tourist product, from regional and national tourism organizations to various tourism enterprises can ensure the quality levels and the diversification of services that will lead to the increase of each country's share in international tourism demand. The main modern trends constitute the reference base for the analysis of the current situation in Greece.Destination Management Systems (DMS) The development of DMS can substantially support and enhance the competitiveness of tourism destinations and specifically of the small and medium tourism enterprises (Kigali, 2009). Chem. & Sheldon(1997, p. 159) defined the DMS as an inter- organizational system that links tourist products, suppliers and offers, with consumers and intermediaries in order to enable easy access to complete and up-to- date destination information and allow reservations and purchases.Consumers and demand dimensions Increasingly, Acts enable travelers to access reliable and accurate information as req uired by conventional methods (O'Connor, 1999). Acts can assist in the improvement of the service quality and contribute to higher guest/traveler satisfaction. Acts place users in the middle of its functionality and product delivery. Every tourist is different, carrying a unique blend of experiences, motivations, and desires. To an extent the new sophisticated traveler has emerged as a result of experience.Tourists from the major generating regions of the world have become request travelers, are linguistically and technologically skilled and can function in multicultural and demanding environments overseas. The development of Acts and particularly the Internet empowered the â€Å"new' tourist who is becoming knowledgeable and is seeking exceptional value for money and time. They are less interested in following the crowds in packaged tours and much more keen to pursue their own preferences and schedules.Increasingly, package tours are losing market share in favor of independently o rganized tourism facilitated by dynamic packaging. The contemporary/connected consumer is far less willing to wait or put up with delays, to the point where patience is a disappearing virtue. The key to success lies in the quick identification of consumer needs and in reaching potential clients with comprehensive, personalized and up-to-date products and services that satisfy those needs. Gradually new, experienced, sophisticated, and demanding travelers require interacting with suppliers to satisfy their own specific needs and wishes.Living in a hectic life, consumers in the developed world often have short periods of time to lax their batteries and also to engage in their favorite activities. Leisure time will increasingly be used for â€Å"edutainment†, I. E. The exploration of personal interests for both their personal and professional development. Travel and holidays are one of the most expensive items purchased regularly by households around the world, and it represents a significant proportion of individual's annual budget. The Internet has changed tourism consumer behavior dramatically (Mills & Law, 2004).Prospective travelers have direct access to a much rater wealth of information provided by tourism organizations, private enterprises and increasingly by other users/consumers. From information search, to destination/ product consumption and post experience engagement, Acts offer a range of tools to facilitate and improve the process. Customers search for travel-related information, make online air-ticket bookings, online room reservations, and other online purchases themselves instead of relying on travel agencies to undertake this process for them (Morrison, Jinn, O'Leary, & Lapping, 2001).Due to the popularity of Internet applications, most tourism organizations such as hotels, airlines, and travel agencies have embraced Internet technologies as part of their marketing and communication strategies. Information Search is a significant part of the purchase decision process and was revolutionized as a result of the Internet. Acts not only reduce uncertainty and perceived risks but also enhance the quality of trips (Fodders & Murray, 1997).The more research undertaken on a trip and the more information found, the better customer needs can be met and served. A well-informed consumer is able to interact ere requirements and to take advantage of special offers and reduced prices. According to Snigger, Mugged, Smelling, and World (1990), the four major factors that influence information search in the tourism context are the composition of vacation groups, the presence of families and friends at the destination, prior visits to the destination, and the degree of novelty associated with the destination.Cursory and McCauley (2004) developed a comprehensive theoretical model that integrated all psychological/motivational, economics, and processing approaches into a cohesive hole for understanding tourists' information seeking beha vior. Virtual communities are gradually becoming incredibly influential in tourism as consumers increasingly trust better their peers, rather than marketing messages. The most cited definition of a virtual community was firstly given by Rheingold (1993, p. 8) as â€Å"a virtual community is a group of people who may or may not meet one another face-to-face, and who exchange words and ideas through the mediation of computer bulletin boards and networks†. A Virtual Travel Community makes it easier or people to obtain information, maintain connections, develop relationships, and eventually make travel-related decisions (Steeplechase, Mills, & Kiang, 2007). Pogo and Fisheries (1998) stated that participation and attitude are the primary dimensions of consumer behavior in the virtual communities.Since many travelers like to share their travel experiences and recommendations with others, Was have become one of their favorite areas to post their travel diary. Additionally, online tr avelers are enthusiastic to meet other travelers who have similar attitudes, interests, and way of fife (Wang, You, & Fisheries, 2002). As such, better understanding WAC users' behavior and motivation can assist tourism practitioners and policy makers to establish, operate, and maintain Was in a more efficient way.This, in turn, facilitates consumer centric marketing or relationship marketing (Minnie, March, & Bilabials, 2006). Was, however, may be at risk of losing members if their members are not satisfied with the content, design, security policies, and repercussions for non- compliance with community rules (Allison, Accrual, Moss, & Stuart, 2005; Wang et al. , 002). The emergence of Web 2. 0 or Travel 2. 0 brings together the concept of social networking/virtual communities and applies it to the tourism industry.Trapdoors (www. Trapdoors. Com) is amongst the most successful social networking/virtual community in tourism that facilitates the reviewing of all hotels around the wor ld and brings together individuals in discussion forums. The system provides users with independent travel reviews and comments written from Trapdoors members and expert advisors and provides a powerful platform for interaction between peers Wang & Fisheries, Bibb). User satisfaction is a major factor for evaluating a travel organization.By analyzing Was' content, travel organizations can understand their customers' satisfactions and behavior, and undertake corrective actions to improve their offering. They can also increase brand awareness and strengthen brand association through the assistance of Was. Despite Was' large potential impact on the tourism industry, Prince (2000) stated that research on the topic is still at an infancy stage when compared to other geographical and physical communities.Recommender System receiving indications about what options are better suited in a specific case for specific individuals (Greeter, Mitch, Hang, & Fisheries, 2004; Arsenic & Varian, 1997) . According to Rich (2002), a recommender system can provide valuable information to assist consumers' decision-making process. A recommender system can support travelers in a complex decision-making process by identifying better customer requirements and by correlating those to other consumers and their preferences ( Fisheries, Worthier, & W ¶beer, 2003; Rich & Worthier (2002) and Rich Worthier (2006)).Personality has been related to the selection of vacation destinations, the choice of leisure activities throughout the vacation, and other travel- related decisions. According to LOL, Lorenz, Ashland, & Location (2004), when implementing tourism recommender systems, textual summary is used to classify the database item in themes or categories of the ontology. Although different recommendation technologies have been applied to tourism, Arabians and Rich (2005) argued that the existence of different business models present application challenges.