The Creator Of Star Wars - 1586 Words

In the George Lucas film, the creator of Star Wars, has very strong Hindu beliefs. Similar to Hinduism affecting our lives, so has it affected his to an extent, which can also be seen by the fact that he has incorporated Hindu themes throughout the Star Wars film. This essay will explain, through different examples, the way Lucas has pushed Hinduism into this movie. In the movie, The Empire Strikes Back, it seems to portray some type of Hinduism in the first parts. Moreover, In the scene when Luke Skywalker goes to find Yoda. As he arrives, Skywalker finds himself in a swamp or forest, trying to find an old and wise master Yoda to learn the ways of the force. Later in that scene Luke gets a vision that his friends are in great danger. Luke then prepares to departure to go save his friends. Yoda persuades him not to go by saying that he must finish his training first because it is more important. This specifies on the Hindu concept of job over blood. The duty over blood lesson can be looked as examples in readings found in the Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna tells Arjuna to battle his cousin in spite of his emotions for them, it is his job to do so. Towards the end of the training session, as Luke begins to leave, Ben Kenobi tells Luke to never give into anger and hatred. This lesson is also taught by Gandhi, which is explained in Hinduism. Aside from the training sessions, there are several parts of Star Wars that portray examples of Hinduism. An example of this would beShow MoreRelatedStar Wars : Episode Iv A New Hope1225 Words   |  5 Pages Pop Culture Milli Loos 9/9/16 The first Star wars movie â€Å"STAR WARS: EPISODE IV A NEW HOPE† was a game changer in the world of movies. According to the National Information Services, LLC â€Å"STAR WARS: EPISODE IV A NEW HOPE† made $1,554,475 just in the opening weekend on May, 25,1977 and made a whopping $786,598,007 according to the worldwide box office ticket registry. Box Office History for Star Wars Movies. Star Wars Franchise Box Office History. Nash Information Services, LLC., n.d. WebRead MoreDisney s Roster Of Heroes1013 Words   |  5 PagesMan in Disney s roster of heroes (USA Today). Disney Chairman and CEO Robert Iger, along with Star Wars creator George Lucas, set the financial world and nerd-universe on their ear when they announced that Disney was purchasing Lucasfilm for the out-of-this-world sum of $4 billion (the same amount they paid for Marvel) (Screenrant). Disney is buying Lucasfilm for $4 billion, adding the legendary Star Wars franchise to the entertainment giant s s table of characters. Lucasfilm is 100% owned by founderRead MoreThe Development Model Of Digital Creative Talents978 Words   |  4 PagesTakota† on VHX and iTunes. Even at the top of the pyramid, however, there is no guarantee that amassing an online audience will lead to financial rewards. The roadmap for how to build a brand and, ultimately, a sustainable business around a digital creator is still undetermined. As compared to traditional celebrities, YouTubers have a more intimate and, arguably, more authentic relationship with fans. And while this gives them an advantage—they can chat directly with fans and respond to feedback inRead MoreThe Lego Of The World1452 Words   |  6 PagesLegos are very popular collectibles, and there are specialized sets for collectors interested in art, Star Wars, architecture and so much more. Lego collectors and enthusiasts just can t wait to get their hands on the next most expensive Lego sets and pieces. The one-of-a-kind platinum Avohkii mask of Light from the discontinued Lego Bionicle line is believed to be the most expensive Lego piece ever sold, selling for a whopping $15,000 in 2012, according to Press Democrat. Lego collectors are imaginativeRead MoreChapter Two : Do Filmmakers Resort And Using Cgi Too Quickly?946 Words   |  4 PagesFilmmakers Resort to Using CGI Too Quickly? 1999 saw the release of the much anticipated, â€Å"Star Wars Episode One – The Phantom Menace†. It had since been nearly sixteen years since the original trilogy; a new movie meant there was a lot of hype surrounding a new Star Wars story, with audiences knowing there was going to be at least another two more leading up to Episode 4. The anticipation for a new Star Wars movie was a massive phenomenon around the world. During a time before Youtube and social mediaRead MoreCritical Analysis of William Blakes Poem The Tiger1393 Words   |  6 Pagesanswered–Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, while in â€Å"The Tyger† it remains open. Admittedly, this has left much room for various speculations about the tiger and its creator. The perception of the image of the tiger has varied considerably. For example, for Wicksteed, in his 1928 study of the songs, the tiger is a representation of the Creator, God. For S. Damon, â€Å"The Lamb† is an incarnation of Godà ¢â‚¬â„¢s forgiveness, while â€Å"The Tyger† of His punishment. Jessie Beer reckons the tiger to be a resemblance ofRead MoreStar Wars Informative Speech Essay764 Words   |  4 PagesStar Wars What movie franchise has been the most powerful film franchise in history? Who could forget traveling through space fighting evil, using the force, and defeating the empire? Yes I am talking about Star Wars. The franchise includes 6 movies and countless games, toys, and books. Now I know yall must be thinking â€Å"she only thinks star wars in so important cause it’s her favorite movie or she’s a geek or something like that† Well to be honest I have never in my life seen any of the moviesRead MoreThe European Immigration And The New World1366 Words   |  6 Pagesseparating the earth from the sky. On the second day, God created the land and the seas. On the third day, He created the plants that bear seeds and fruit that bears fruit with seeds in it. On the fourth day, He created the sun and the moon and the stars. On the fifth day, God created animals to inhabit the water and birds to fly beneath the dome, blessing them to be fruitful and multiply in the water and under the dome. On the sixth day, God created wild animals and tame animals and crawling thingsRead MoreThe Tyger By William Blake1290 Words   |  6 Pageskingdom. William Blake evokes the image of a blacksmith as creator in his poem â€Å"The Tyger† to comment on the social and political situations of the times. He chooses a rough, rude and labour-driven artist as a way of rejecting the aesthetic features of art for more practical, albeit destructive forms. A blacksmith is an artist of war, a creator of destruction. The tiger is the object of destruction. The speaker is questioning the creator as to why he would create something so powerful yet destructiveRead MoreCritical Analysis of William Blakes Poem The Tiger1378 Words   |  6 Pagesanswered–Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, while in â€Å"The Tyger† it remains open. Admittedly, this has left much room for various speculations about the tiger and its creator. The perception of the image of the tiger has varied considerably. For example, for Wicksteed, in his 1928 study of the songs, the tiger is a representation of the Creator, God. For S. Damon, â€Å"The Lamb† is an incarnation of God’s forgiveness, while â€Å"The Tyger† of His punishment. Jessie Beer reckons the tiger to be a resemblance of

Women The Shape Of American Culture - 835 Words

Sports became the shape of American culture in the early 1900s. It was the face of masculinity and manliness. Sports were created to show off the strength and toughness in men, and according to past physical educators, women did not possess these traits. Therefore, it was frowned upon for females to participate in sporting activity. Critics of women justified these assumptions by providing false medical accusations as to why women should not participate in sports. Some critics believed that if women participated in sports, it would cause reproductive damage, as well as loss of sexual control (Cahn, 1994). Physical educators also concluded that if women participated in athletics they would promote â€Å"sexual licentiousness,† and â€Å"blur natural gender differences† (Cahn, 1994). It was also believed that girls were biologically weaker and contained unsteadiness because of the menstrual cycle. Therefore, women were encouraged to not participate in physical activity, especially when they were menstruating. Other medical assumptions involving women and sport included the idea that women participating in vigorous sports were believed that they would also suffer from â€Å"nerve fatigue,† and â€Å"lowered vitality† (Festle, 1996). Critics believed women could not handle the stress that came with sports. The stress would cause women to eventually break down because they would not know when to stop and call it quits. A Darwinian explanation was also used as a medical justification as to whyShow MoreRelated No Name Women Essay1006 Words   |  5 Pages Cultures can shape the identities of individuals. Kingston identity was shape by Chinese and Chinese American culture. No Name Woman, begins with a talk-story, about Kingston’ aunt she never knew. The aunt had brought disgrace upon her family by having an illegitimate child. In paragraph three, â€Å"she could not have been pregnant, you see, because her husband had been gone for years† (621). This shows that Kingston’s aunt had an affair with someone and the result was her pregnancy. She ended upRead More Eating Disorders, Body Image and Cultural Contexts Essay1306 Words   |  6 Pagesvariation and variation within cultures as well. It is impossible to broach the concept of body image without including the general sentiment of the population being studied as it changes from society to society. Americans, Blacks and Asians ha ve been the focus of a significant amount of research on the cultural attributions of eating disorders and differences in body image between cultures. When a researcher considers body image and eating problems in African-American women, they must also take intoRead MoreBinge Eating in Non-Western Cultures1038 Words   |  5 Pagesnon-Western cultures in general is scarce. Very few studies address disordered eating in cultures outside of the Western and Westernized world. This could be because of the perceived lack of eating disorders in non-industrialized countries or even because there is an overwhelming amount of concern over eating disorders in Western society. However, there have been several studies done on binge eating and dietary restraint in non-western citizens and in non-Caucasian women in the United States. Women whoRead MoreThe Impact Of Media On Gender Socialization Essay1485 Words   |  6 Pagesexpectations throughout the life course of almost every American. Out of four advertisements chosen, two are distinctly for women and two are distinctly for men. It is easy to identify which is which, as everyone has experienced these social expectations that the ads are founded on. For example, the male ad, titled Nivea for Men, is most easily identified as such due to the man used as the model. However, this is not the average male in American society- this is the idealized version that men haveRead MoreI m Considering Becoming A Sports Fan1386 Words   |  6 Pages We come across many different cultures and fashion in our society. Some may indicate that the culture influences one’s fashion while others may oppose and state that each aspect stands alone. Fashion and culture fall into the following identity categories: chosen and assigned. Culture affects many parts of an individual, in some cases you can determine an individual s culture by their speech and clothing; in addition to traditions and the environment in which they were raised. Whereas fashionRead MoreThe Religion Of Thinness : An Spiritual Hungers Behind Women s Obsession With Eating Disorders1452 Words   |  6 Pagesâ€Å"Michelle M. Lelwica author of The Religion of Thinness: Satisfying the Spiritual Hungers Behind Women’s Obsession with Food and Weight declared that ‘Thinness is worshipped in American culture. 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Psychological aspect of eating disorder The psychological effect of eating disorders is one of, if not the most influentialRead MoreThe Synoptic Gospels Lies A Brief Passage Of A Man Carrying The Cross For Jesus1717 Words   |  7 Pageshistorical context of an African American spirituality. This act represents not only the oppression given at the hands foreign oppressors, but also the oppressive forces adopted within Black culture. In Simon of Cyrene, Black people find in him a reflection of themselves in the context of America culture. Black women, Black men, and Black LGBTQ+ people can find their struggles in the person of Simon. Simon as Black Women In the â€Å"pressed service† of Simon, Black women find (to a degree) their historicalRead MoreThe Culture Of Popular Culture860 Words   |  4 Pagespopular culture reveals the culture of society at the time. Further, popular culture reveals the underlying belief, power structures, and philosophical and moral frame of the society that produces those cultural products. Studying popular culture gives us an accessible vehicle through which to explore philosophical and moral questions, as well as the functioning of society on a smaller scale (fan based, consumption), through which we can make larger assumptions. Studies of popular culture may beRead MoreAmerica in the 1920s729 Words   |  3 PagesProgressive Movement and First World War. Politically, the American government was seemingly conservative, but experimented with different approaches to public policy and foreign diplomatic policy. Economically, it was a time of tremendous growth and new forms of organization. Soci ally, the American popular culture reshaped itself to reflect the increasingly industrial, urban, and consumer oriented society. The 20s were a time of a distinguishably new culture and profound change and excitement, but it wasn’t

Voluntary Administration for a Case Study Analysis- myassignmenthelp

Question: Write about theVoluntary Administration for a Case Study Analysis. Answer: Constructing a DOCA Proposal One of the options available under voluntary administration is entering into a deed of company arrangement (DOCA). Either of the interested parties in the administration process, that is directors or creditors, may propose a deed highlighting the rights of creditors against the organisation and its assets and the obligations of the company in paying out its debt (Cseti, 2011). The deed, therefore, is an instrument that presents a compromise arrangement between the organisation and its creditors where the company has been facing financial challenges. It serves as a way to terminate the voluntary administration process. Once the deed is approved by the creditors the administration process is complete and the organisation proceeds to enforce the requirements of the deed accordingly. However various factors must be considered in constructing a DOCA proposal. As a voluntary administrator, once should ensure the deed adheres to the provisions of s 444A of the Corporations Act 2001. In preparing the proposal, an administrator should ensure they have set out the available property; the extent the company is relieved of its debt, pre-execution conditions and post-execution conditions, grounds for termination and order of distribution of proceeds among others. The deed may propose a continuation of the companys operation, injection of funds or sale of company properties or outline a fixed sum payable to creditors over a set period of time. Identifying the most suitable cause of action is guided by the deliberations at the creditors meetings as well as liaising with the company directors. These are the considerations to be made and criteria to be met in preparing a DOCA proposal for the directors and creditors of 4th Estate Media Limited. Insolvent Trading The Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) under s 95A defines solvency as the capacity to cover all debts and financial obligations when they are due, failure to this constitutes insolvency under s 95A (2). With regard to companies, Sutherland v Hanson Construction Materials Pty Ltd (2009) NSWSC held that an organization's solvency is determined by its cash flows which are evidenced by the balance sheet among other financial statements. As such, where an organisations cash flows fail to cover its debt then the organisation would be considered insolvent (ASIC, 2016). Under s 588G of the Act 2001 (Cth), where a company is insolvent and the directors cause it to incur further debt they would be engaging in insolvent trading which is a breach of their duties. The Act under s 588G bestows a duty on directors to prevent insolvent trading where they are directors at the time the debt is incurred, where incurring the debt leads to insolvency or where there are reasonable grounds for belief that the company is or would be insolvent (Quinlan, 2017). A director would be held liable if they were evidently aware of the companys insolvency but allowed the debt to be incurred or where a reasonable person in their position would be so aware of the possibility of insolvency. The Act 2001 (Cth) further considers dishonesty on the part of the director as a determinant for liability; the burden of proof lies with the claimant alleging the directors liability for insolvent trading (ASIC, 2016). Insolvency trading elicits various consequences; perpetrators face civil penalties as well as criminal charges in the event they are convicted of guilt. Contravention of the insolvency provisions outlined above may attract pecuniary penalties totalling up to $200,000. Other civil penalties include disqualification as a manager and compensation to creditors for the loss suffered (ASIC, 2016). Where dishonesty is involved, directors found liable may attract criminal liability. As such, where the director is found criminally liable they are likely to face imprisonment of up to five years (ASIC, 2014). The Impact of an Administrators Appointment on Large Bank Ltd Large Bank Ltd in this case study qualifies as a secured creditor, that is 4th Estate Media owes the bank money to the tune of Two Hundred and Fifty Million Dollars ($250M). In turn, the bank holds a security interest over some of the companys assets. Upon assumption of their role as voluntary administrators, Mark Menthol and James Corporal are expected to investigate the companys affairs and present the bank, along with other creditors and stakeholders with a report and possible options to end the voluntary administration process. Guided by this report the bank and other creditors will hold meetings to determine the best possible cause of action. However, with the appointment of the voluntary administrators, the bank as a secured creditor cannot enforce any security interests they may hold over the companys assets (ASIC, 2017). Further, as a creditor, the bank cannot institute legal proceedings to wind up or recover any debt owed once a voluntary administrator is appointed (Quinlan, 2005). If the bank held a charge over any company property, it must enforce it within ten days of the administrator's appointment; later enforcement would require the administrators consent or leave of court. However, if the bank had commenced enforcement proceedings prior to the appointment of the administrator, the enforcement of the security would proceed. As such, the appointment of the voluntary administrators would limit the rights of the bank to lay claim over the outstanding loan or enforce any existing securities as described above. Board Composition and ASX Corporate Governance Guidelines Generally, board size and composition varies depending on the type and size of the company as well as the complex nature of its business (Governance Institute of Australia, 2014). The ASX Corporate Governance Guidelines (2014) outline the composition guidelines for listed companies and provide that the size of a companys board of directors should be ample enough to cater for the businesss requirements. Additionally, any changes to the boards composition should be carried out smoothly without disrupting company operations. Further, good governance principles dictate that the chairman of the board should remain a non-executive director; the board should comprise of independent directors to ensure an unbiased opinion is reflected in decision making. In addition to this, any director who is described as an independent director should hold no interest whatsoever within the company that would compromise their independence. The conditions listed above outline the criteria for public companies to observe with regard to board composition. In the case study discussed herein, 4th Estate Media Limited has a board of five directors. The number falls within the criteria provided by the ASX guidelines. Additionally, the board chairman Flem Worsley is described as independent which also conforms to the ASX guidelines. Further, Caddy Isely fills in the role of the non-executive director as required by the ASX guidelines. Given the size of the board, it is evident that there is a balance of executive, non-executive and independent directors on the board. With this analysis in mind, it is evident that the company, 4th Estate Media Ltd, has conformed with ASX guidelines with regard to board composition. The Role of Minority Shareholders in the Voluntary Administration Process As aforementioned, the purpose of the voluntary administration process is to restructure the organisation so as to allow it to survive where it has been faced with financial difficulties (Hughes, 2017). It allows the organisation an opportunity its financial status by suspending or negotiating obligations with creditors. During the administration process, the administrator assumes management control from company directors and assesses the companys affairs so as to determine the best possible option for creditors that would ensure the companys survival. The primary duty of the voluntary administrator is to the creditors and the company directors; shareholders play a minimal role in this process (ASIC, 2017). In order to commence the process a voluntary administrator is appointed through a board resolution; shareholders and particularly minority shareholders do not play any role at this stage. Additionally, as previously mentioned the voluntary administrator is under no duty to report to the shareholders; however, shareholders may inspect administration books kept to maintain a record of the process. Shareholders are not accorded the right to vote on the companys future once the administrator is appointed they would also be bound by a DOCA once or if it is approved. It is evident therefore that shareholders rights are limited under the voluntary administration regime (Williamson-Noble, et al., 2015). Minority shareholders are likely to be severely disadvantaged where a company opts for voluntary administration. This is because they lack sufficient voting rights to influence the companys future prior and post voluntary administration and as such are bound by any decisions made by directors and the majority. Additionally, as was the case in Australian Blue Mountain International Cultural Tourist Group Pty Ltd [2015] NSWSC 937, the minority may receive notice of the ultimate decision either in delay or not at all and as such cannot adequately participate in the post administration process. Further, priority payment policies under Australian Corporation Legislation place minority shareholders at a lower priority level over creditors and majority shareholders as such they may receive little to no funds should the company decide to ultimately wind up after the voluntary administration process is complete (Resolute Lawyers Associates, 2014). Reference List ASIC, 2014. Insolvency for directors. [Online] Available at: https://asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/insolvency/insolvency-for-directors/directors-consequences-of-insolvent-trading/ [Accessed 13 September 2017]. ASIC, 2016. Insolvent Trading: Duties of Directors. [Online] Available at: https://aicd.companydirectors.com.au/~/media/cd2/resources/director-resources/director-tools/pdf/05446-6-3-duties-directors_insolvent-trading_a4-web.ashx [Accessed 13 September 2017]. ASIC, 2017. Information Sheet (INFO 43): Insolvency, A Guide for Shareholders, s.l.: ASIC. ASIC, 2017. Information Sheet 74 (INFO 74): Voluntary Administration, A Guide for Creditors.[Online] Available at: https://asic.gov.au/regulatory-resources/insolvency/insolvency-for-creditors/voluntary-administration-a-guide-for-creditors/ [Accessed 13 September 2017]. ASX Corporate Governance Council, 2014. ASX Corporate Governance Principles 3rd Edition. s.l.:ASX Corporate Governance Council. Australian Blue Mountain International Cultural Tourist Group Pty Ltd (2015) NSWSC 937. Cseti, D., 2011. Understanding Personal Property Securities Law. Sydney: CCH Australia Ltd. Governance Institute of Australia, 2014. Good Governance Guide: Board Composition. s.l.:Governance Institute of Australia. Hughes, R., 2017. Explaining the Voluntary Administration Process. [Online] Available at: https://www.franchise.edu.au/home/topics/franchise-management-topics/explaining-the-voluntary-administration-process [Accessed 13 September 2017]. Quinlan, M., 2005. Corporate Insolvency and Restructuring. s.l.:Allens Arthur Robinson. Quinlan, M., 2017. What is insolvent trading?. [Online] Available at: https://www.findlaw.com.au/articles/782/what-is-insolvent-trading.aspx [Accessed 13 September 2017]. Resolute Lawyers Associates, 2014. Insolvency Laws Used to Eliminate Minority Shareholders. [Online] Available at: https://resolutelawyers.blogspot.co.ke/2014/06/insolvency-laws-used-to-eliminate.html [Accessed 13 September 2017]. Sutherland v Hanson Construction Materials Pty Ltd (2009) NSWSC. Williamson-Noble, J., Gordon, T. Tobin, G., 2015. Shareholder's rights in private and public companies in Australia. [Online] Available at: https://ca.practicallaw.thomsonreuters.com/2-611-6545?transitionType=DefaultcontextData=(sc.Default)__lrTS=20170613194830306firstPage=truebhcp=1 [Accessed 13 September 2017].

Question-Specific Strategies - Get a Lot from a Little

The purpose of this section is to familiarize you with the most common questions on business school applications and to explain some possible strategies for handling them. However, there is no single way to approach any of these questions, as they are often open-ended and leave a great deal of room for creativity. On the other hand, browsing a section for a question you dont have can still be useful, because you might discover a strategy that you can apply to an entirely different question.Our goal in this section is to focus on actual essays rather than make abstract suggestions, because you can learn more from illustrative examples than from principles that may not apply to your case. The insights we gain from analyzing these sample essays should inform rather than dictate the approach you choose to take. Extra: Getting a Lot from a LittleIn past sections we have emphasized the importance of reflection and analysis. Although all the schools are looking for this component, the major ity of applicants do not go beyond a very superficial level of insight. Thus the analytical process—rather than the experiences being analyzed—could be the factor that distinguishes you in the applicant pool.I think sometimes theres an apprehension on the part of our applicants [because] theyve never overcome some life-threatening disease or some other huge obstacle in their life, personal or otherwise. These people shouldnt be apprehensive; an applicants response to ordinary life events, like adjusting to college or a new work environment, dealing with being terminated at work, or shifting to a new department as a result of downsizing, can be very compelling to the admissions committee. An applicant doesnt need to have overcome monumental obstacles in order for me to be very excited about a persons candidacy and what hes communicating to me. I want perspective on successes and failures and how you have handled both throughout your life.  Ã¢â‚¬â€ The Wharton School (University of Pennsylvania)Perhaps if everyone could do the self-assessment job well, admissions officers wouldnt be so excited about a good analytical essay every time. But the reality is that many successful business professionals are not naturally suited to this task and dont take enough time to learn it. With this knowledge in mind, applicants have no excuse not to take full advantage of the essay-writing process to distinguish themselves in the only area they can still control.

Assessment of impact of risk analysis on delivery of e

Assessment of impact of risk analysis on delivery of e Methodology has been described by Collis and Hussey (2007, p.78) as an approach used in research to organize and plan the general approach in which the research goals and questions are addressed. In addition, different tasks are carried to ensure that the research is successful since the findings and analysis depend heavily on the methodology applied. In other words, methodology is the core of a research.Advertising We will write a custom dissertation sample on Assessment of impact of risk analysis on delivery of e-learning programs in universities of Saudi Arabia: Methodology specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More According to Goddard and Melville (2001, p.1), research methodology as a process helps in answering researcher’s unanswered questions and creating which that did not exist in the first place. In respect to the research study, different research variables which include risk analysis theory shall be applied. To achieve the r esearch aim and objectives, qualitative research method and exploratory research design will be used. The collected data is relevant and related to risk assessment in e-learning in Saudi Arabia universities. The research approach A well defined research approach plays an integral role in making a research richer in content by following a logical and stepwise framework for the collection of data. According to Gliner and Morgan (2000), there are two research approaches which are commonly, namely inductive and deductive approaches. The research will use deductive research approach because of its applicability in collecting a large volume of data which was required for the research. In addition, compared to the inductive approach, deductive research approach is more supportive to the collection of more authentic data. In course of the research, the researcher shall move from general points to more specific points. For instance, the concept of e-learning will be discussed followed by its impacts on students learning, followed by discussion on the impact of risk analysis on e-learning programs by universities in Saudi Arabia. This will ensure that the goals of the research were achieved throughout the research process. The deductive research approach is appropriate and authentic as it reduces vagueness and bias in the research findings and conclusions. The research method Because of the nature of the research, the researcher will adopt qualitative research method. This is because a qualitative research method allows a researcher to understand a particular social phenomenon and discover the most innermost meaning (Pratt 2006; Newman Benz 2006). In reference to the research study, qualitative research method will be used to understand perspectives, views, and meaning of major interest of members of the Ministry of Higher Education in the National Center for E-Learning and Distance Learning Saudi Arabia. This will allow the researcher to get in-depth information and d ata relative to the subject under study. In addition, it will be possible to get at personal level with the participants since interview which is a qualitative data collection method will be used.Advertising Looking for dissertation on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More From the perspective of the participants, it will be possible for the researcher to understand the situation of e-learning in Saudi Arabia. Since no quantification of the collected data is required, qualitative research method will ensure that extrapolation, understanding and illumination of the situation understand study is realized (Golafshani 2003, p.600). The research design Marczyk, DeMatteo Festinger (2005) note that a research design is pivotal facet of a research study as it assists in the identification of the appropriate research methods so as to meet the requirements of the research approach. Iacobucci and Churchill (2010, p.58) ha ve defined research design as a plan in study, which is used as a guide while collecting and analyzing data. In this line of context, exploratory research design shall be adopted because it allows a researcher to gather preliminary information required in defining the research problem. Furthermore, it is important as is assists in exploring key facts and information about the research problem. For example, exploratory research design will be adopted to get the facts of e-learning from the members of the National Center for E-Learning and Distance Learning Saudi Arabia. The reason why exploratory research design shall be used is because it specifies a reliable, valid and generalized approach to the collection of data. Consequently, errors can be examined in an appropriate way and in a timely manner (Greig, Taylor Mackay 2007; Iacobucci Churchill 2010, p.60). Furthermore, exploratory research design signifies the relevance of data that is collected during the defined process. The us e of the exploratory research design will make possible by combining it with qualitative research method. In addition, information gathered shall be integrated together through risk analysis theory adopted in the study. Lastly, exploratory research has been chosen because of its ability to offer the researchers pertinent information as well as help in answering the research question. This was achieved through information and data gathering and creating theories related to the research study. The data collection Before data collection is carried, consent shall be sought from 70 participants from the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, the participants shall be informed of the nature of the study, its goals, objectives, and why the research is being carried. In addition, a letter from the university and a cover letter outlining the purposes of the research study will also made available to the participants and the relevant a uthority. It is imperative to note that in this study both secondary and primary data collection methods shall be used.Advertising We will write a custom dissertation sample on Assessment of impact of risk analysis on delivery of e-learning programs in universities of Saudi Arabia: Methodology specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Because of the nature of the research study, face to face interviews coupled with personally administered questionnaires shall be used to collect data and information from the selected participants from the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning. The researcher will use semi-structured interview schedules to get the required information from the participants. This implies that the systematically structured questions shall be asked starting with general to the specific. To avoid bias during the data collection method, leading questions shall be avoided. The researcher is aware of th e consequences of asking any leading questions and to ensure originality and both internal and external validity and reliability, the researcher shall offer explanation where the participants may not understand in understandable knowledge possible. Sampling procedure Generally, it is usually impossible to carry a research study on an entire population such as in all universities in Saudi Arabia. As a result, sampling is necessary in ensuring that a section of the population is selected to represent the entire population. Although qualitative research does not require the use of the collected results for generalization purposes, the researcher found it important to carry out sampling to ensure that unbiased sample was selected. In this particular study, simple random sampling method shall be used for sample selection purposes. According to Greene and Hogan (2005), simple random sampling is used to give an equal chance to every member of the university to be selected to be part of the sample used. Simple random sampling has been described as a sampling technique which involves the selection of a group of participants for the purpose of studying a larger population. In addition, each participant is chosen on the basis of chance, meaning that each individual in the large population shares the same chance as the selected participant. In this line of thought, the researcher shall adopt random sampling to select 65 members of the Ministry Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia. To ensure that each of the individual from the Ministry of Higher Education in Saudi Arabia was well represented in the sample, the list of all members of the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia shall be formulated. Out of the population, 65 random numbers shall be selected which shall form the representation of the sample of the research study. Among the 65 subjects, 15 will undergo face to face i nterviews while the 50 be part of self administered questionnaire.Advertising Looking for dissertation on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The major advantage of using simple random sampling in the research is its ability to reduce any potential human bias during the selection of the subjects included in the study sample (Fink 2006, p.48). Consequently, simple sampling shall provide the researcher with a study sample which is a representative of the population under study. In addition, generalizations of the results can be easily done since the sample under study shall represent Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia which is the body which acts as custodian for e-learning in Saudi Arabia. This shall ensure that the researcher achieves external validity which is important in a study. However, the sampling technique does not lack anticipated challenges such difficulties in getting a list with the individual population representing the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia. However, although the process of compiling the list is time consuming and cumbersome, measures shall be undertaken to ensure that the population list is generated for sampling purposes. Research subjects/Participants The research is to be undertaken in the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia. Only 65 members of the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning shall be selected for 15 interview and 50 self administered questionnaires to collect pertinent information about the impact of risk analysis on the delivery of e-learning programs in universities of Saudi Arabia. The major characteristic of the participants is to be over 30 years and above as well as an active member of the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning for the at least two years. The age bracket and the experience are necessary as it shall assist the researcher get the required perception, experiences and opinions necessary in achieving the research study objects. A lthough the issue of having women work in male dominated fields is highly sensitive in Saudi Arabia because of cultural practices and beliefs as well as the low levels of women with university level education, the researcher shall include women as part of the research participants. This shall reduce bias resulting from gender and enabled the researcher to have different views from both males and female participants. Although the sample is small compared to the number of university representatives in Saudi Arabia, it is justifiable and easy to work with since the research is more of qualitative than quantitative. The major strengths associated with the selected sample size are its gender, age and experience considerations. In addition, the sample is easy to access and considerably appropriate for the research study. Since the participants shall be selected through simple random sampling, the data collected from the sample shall not biased and it generalization was possible. The only drawback is that some of the respondents may have busy schedules and the researcher may be forced to re-schedule the data collection timetable to make sure all the participants participate. Instrumentation and Administration For the purposes of carrying out the research study, the researcher shall use structured interviews schedules and personally administered questionnaires. Interviews have been described by Pratt (2006) as one of qualitative research methods applied in research study for its ability to gain rapport and confidence with the respondents. The interview schedule has been designed in such a way that it starts from general questions to more specific questions and a part of closing remarks on implementation of e-learning in Saudi Arabia. The structured research schedule has 10 questions which shall act as guidance during the data collection process. The 15 participants shall undergo face to face interviews for approximately 40 minutes. The formulated questions shall be di rected to the interviewee and their responses recorded. Before the recording is done, consent shall be sought from each of the participants to ensure that they are comfortable with the recording. Audio recording will be carried during the 40 minute interview session. Once the process of interviewing is completed, the responses will be transcribed and the transcripts validated by each of the participants. The data shall then be imported to enhance representation which will later be used for analysis and discussion. The transcripts shall be read and listened over and over so that the researcher could get the key data categories. The collected data and information will now ready for analysis and discussions. Face to face interviews are justifiable because they are cheap, time saving and allow the researcher to collect first hand information (Opdenakker 2006; Valenzuela Shrivastava n.d, p.2; Leon 2003, p.93). Based on this observation, the researcher will be able to use less financial costs and collect information which will directly come from the participants’ point of view. In addition, the researcher will be able to have a rapport and infiltrate the social space of each participant during the interviewing process. As noted by Denscombe (2007, p.175), this allows a researcher to make the participant more comfortable during the interviewing process. Lastly, interviews have a high return rate compared to other data collection methods such as the use of questionnaires (Leon 2003, p.93; Knox Burkard 2009). The major limitation of interviews is that participants can manipulate the responses being given thus comprising the validity of the study results (Crowther Lancaster 2008). In addition, time wastage may be experienced while rescheduling interview. There is high probability of getting biased data if the researcher asks biased questions or concludes the answers on behalf of the participants to meet the researcher’s expectation. Personally administe red questionnaires The researcher will also use questionnaires to collect data from 50 participants from Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning. The questionnaires will be personally administered by the researcher to each of the 50 participants. Personally administered questionnaires are administered personally to the participants where the participants fill them in the presence of the researcher. The major reason why this form of data collection has been selected id because of its capability to sufficiently collect data from an area where the participants are jointly assembled or found. Therefore, since that data will be collected from Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning which offers a convenient setting for the use of personally administered questionnaires. In addition, the use of the personally administered questionnaires will enable the researcher to gather the participants and collect the data. Therefore, compared to interviewing, personally administered questionnaires is less expensive and takes less time thus saving finances, energy and time. In addition, administering questionnaires does not require many skills as in the case of face to face interviews. The major benefit associated with administered questionnaires is that the researcher is afforded the chance to briefly introduce the topic understand as well as motivate the participants to give honest and frank responses. This aspect increases the research finding reliability and viability at the same time. The most probable limitation of using personally administered questionnaires disinclination of Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning of Saudi Arabia to allow the questionnaires to be self administered during working hours. However, this limitation may be countered by leaving blank questionnaires for the participants to complete them in a few days and have them mailed back, or collected by the researcher from a central point. Ethical issues The research endeavor was carry risk assessment on delivery of e-learning programs in universities of Saudi Arabia. To ensure the restoration of professionalism in research study, the researcher shall ensure ethical code of conduct is followed. Ethical considerations shall be taken into account to provide validity to the research study, which is entirely based on an ethical code of conduct. In addition, through ethical considerations, research will be made reliable and credible in the sense that the research study can undergo debriefing process. Prior undertaking the research, the researcher will seek consent from the participants and the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning. The participants shall be given surety that the information recorded during the data collection process is to be kept confidential and that it would not be made available to third party (Jackson 2008). In addition, the researcher will give su rety that privacy and anonymity are to be observed and maintained throughout the research study. Given that the information being collected from participants was original and the content not copied from any source, consent shall be sought from the participants. An explanatory letter shall be sent to each of the 65 participants prior the interviews and the use of questionnaires. The letters sent to each of the participants will be signed by the university faculty. In addition to the explanatory letter, a cover letter outlining the purpose of the research, its aim and surety that the research is for academic purposes will be sent. It should be noted that no participant will be coerced, forced or acted under duress during the sample selection and interviewing process as well as during the completion of the questionnaires. The participants voluntarily agreed to be part of the research and were part of the debriefing process. Before the interviews are audio taped, the researcher will see k consent to record all their responses. Furthermore, the participants will be assured of the possibility of having the results back to authenticate whether they conformed to what they had said during the interviewing process. On the secondary data used in the study, the researcher will ensure that literary works from the secondary materials were acknowledged. Academic requirements in relation to copyrighted materials will also be put into consideration to avoid plagiarism. All these ethical considerations will be carried to ensure that originality, validity, and reliability of the research are achieved. The information used in the research study will be verified from different sources before being presented in a methodical way. Lastly, the information used in the literature review and adopted during the discussion process was used to provide literal support and provide references to the information included in the dissertation paper. Reliability and validity of the study The concep ts of validity and reliability are very important in a study. Threats of these two elements as noted by Cohen, Manion, Morrison and Morrison (2009, p.133) â€Å"can never be erased completely; rather the effects of these threats can be attenuated by attention to validity and reliability throughout a piece of research.† Different instruments of data collection are used to address both validity and reliability. Although reliability is important in a research study, it acts as a precondition for ensuring validity of the methodology. To begin with, validity is used to mean the extent to which an instrument used in a study measures what it was intended to measure (Miller n.d, p.3; Stemler 2001, p.7; Kirk Miller1986). Furthermore, it is applied in qualitative research to determine the authenticity of the collected data. Cohen et al. (2009, p.134) note that validity of qualitative research is not concentrated on collected data but on the meaning in which the collected data is attac hed. In this line thought, the researcher shall be honest enough while self-reporting of the collected data and information. There are some principles which need to be observed for validity to exist. For example, the source of the collected data should be from the natural setting. In addition, the collected data should be descriptive and be represented in terms of the participants rather than that of the researcher (Cohen et al. 2009, 134; Connaway Powell 2010, p.61). To ensure that face validity was achieved, the researcher will ensure that the instrument used in the research which is structured interview and questionnaire schedules, measures what they are designed to measure which is e-learning in Saudi Arabia’s universities. Another kind of validity that will be tested in the research is content validity which according to Miller (n.d p.3), measures the degree to which the designed instrument fully measures the domain of interest. For example, in the study, the researcher will carry the research to explore risk assessment analysis of the implementation of e-learning in Saudi Arabia. In this line of context and drawing from the interview research schedule, the researcher shall ensure that all the questions are fully a representative of the domain under which the study was being carried. On the other hand, reliability has been defined as the degree to which a measurement procedure is able to produce similar results if the research was repeated (Miller n.d, p.1; Thanasegaran 2009, p.35). To ensure that the collected data is reliable, the researcher shall develop openness and trustworthiness. This shall ensure that the researcher gets the intended results from the participants. As a result, duplicability could easily be achieved. Furthermore, the sampling technique adopted will ensure reliability since random sampling gives equal chances to each individual in a population. The data to be collected is believed to be sufficient to facilitate adequate data analysis thus enhancing reliability of the research findings. Limitations The major limitation is the use of qualitative research method only which may be influenced by the researcher or the subjects used in the study. Quantitative research method could have been applied to measure the degree of the risks involved in e-learning implementation. According to Anderson (2010, p.141), subjects used in a qualitative study may influence the responses given leading to bias in the collected data. To avoid this limitation, the researcher shall avoid leading or directive questions as well as developing a rapport with the participants. Another limitation in the research is difficulty in interpreting some of the responses since different people have different ways of expressing their opinions, perceptions and views. To minimize this problem, the researcher shall adopt respondent validation to ensure that any complications and inconsistencies are dealt with. The research methodology is highly de pended on qualitative research method which is less likely to ensure reliability given that the participants could change their responses if the research was repeated. Time barrier because of geographical representations of the two countries may delay the research. Lastly, there is high probability that the participants may not exhaust their responses fully thus exhibiting some level of bias. Appropriateness of the research design The study is based on exploratory research design which explores facts and information about the research problem. In respect to the study, the design is adopted with the attempt to explore the facts of e-learning implementation in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, exploratory research design shall allow the researcher to use the most effective research method to reach reliable and validated outcomes. Additionally, both primary and secondary data shall be used in the study where the secondary data will be used to compliment the data collected through interviews a nd questionnaires. This shall enable the researcher to get the facts with no bias and errors whatsoever. Furthermore, the research design signifies the relevance of data that is collected during the defined process. Summary Qualitative research design will be adopted in the research study and used together with exploratory research design. The researcher will use qualitative research design since only views and opinions of the participants in regard to the research objectives and aim will be required. Exploratory resign design will be used to get the facts and employ the most appropriate data collection methods. By adopting deductive research approach, the researcher will be able to move from general to more specific elements and aspects of the study. Both secondary and primary data collection methods shall be used in the research study. During the data collection process, 25 participants will be interviewed through structured interviews to provide primary data. Secondary data has b een collected from literary sources such as journals, magazines, books, reports, Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia website, and news articles among other relevant materials. The mixed method will ensure that data compliment is realized. The advantages of interviews are that it is cheap, time saving, and information collected is based on the participants’ point of view. On the other hand, data collection methods are also cheap, time saving and have information which is already interpreted and analyzed. Simple random sampling method will be used to select the required sample of 70 participants. The participants will be selected from the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia thus representing all universities in Saudi Arabia. Simple random sampling will be chosen because of its ability to minimize human bias and at the same time providing a sample which forms the representation of the Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning in Saudi Arabia. As a result, external validity will be realized. The selected participants are supposed to be 30 years and above and to have worked in Ministry of Higher Education in National Center and Distance Learning of at least two years. The data will be collected through the use of face to face interviews and personally administered questionnaires. Each participant shall be interviewed for 40 minutes and the responses audio taped. In addition, notes were also collected during the interview process. Different ethical considerations such as participants consent, confidentiality, and anonymity shall be maintained throughout the study. Explanatory letters and cover letters will be sent to each of the participants indicating the research purpose and the intention to carry the study. The participants have voluntarily accepted to be part of the sample and given consent to the audio taped. Secondary materials have been acknowledged and so was plagiarism. To ensure validity and reliability in the research instrument, different methods will be adopted which minimizes validity and reliability threats. The major limitations of the methodology include the use of qualitative research design only, bias from the collected data, and the influence of researcher or the participants on the collected data. Reference List Anderson, C 2010, Presenting and evaluating qualitative research, Am J Pharm Edc, vol. 74, no. 8, p.141. Cohen, L, Manion, L, Morrison, K Morrison, K R B 2009, Research Methods in Education, New York, Routledge Collis, J. Hussey, R 2003, Business Research: A practical guide for undergraduate and postgraduate students, Hampshire, Palgrave Macmillan. Connaway, L S Powell, R R 2010, Basic research methods for librarians, Santa Barbara, Libraries Unlimited. Creswell, J W 2003, Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Method Approaches. 2nd ed. London: SAGE. Crowther, D Lancaster, G 2008, Research Methods: A Concise Introduction to Research in Management and Business Consultancy. 2nd ed. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann. Denscombe, M 2007, The good research guide: For small-scale social research projects, McGraw-Hill Education. Fink, A 1998, Conducting Research Literature Reviews: From Paper to the Internet, Thousand Oaks, Sage. Fink, A. 2006, How to conduct surveys: a step-by-step guide, Thousand Oaks, Sage Publications. Fowler, F J 2002, Survey Research Methods, (3rd ed), London, SAGE. Gliner, J A Morgan, G A 2000, Research Methods in Applied Settings: An Integrated Approach to Design and Analysis, New Jersey, Routledge Goddard, W Melville, S 2001, Research methodology: an introduction, Lansdowne, Juta. Golafshani, N 2003, Understanding reliability and validity in qualitative research, The Qualitative Report, vol.8, no.4, pp.597-607. Greene, S Hogan, D 2005, Researching Children’s Experiences: Methods and Approaches, London, Sage. Greig, A , Taylor, J Mackay, T 2007, Doing Research with Children, (2nd ed), London, Sage. Iacobucci, D Churchill, G A 2010, Marketing research: methodological foundations, Mason, South-Western. Jackson, S.L 2008, Research Methods: A Modular Approach, Cengage Learning. Johnson, P Duberley, J 2000, Understanding Management Research: An Introduction to Epistemology. London: SAGE. Kirk, J Miller, M L 1986, Reliability and validity in qualitative research, Beverly Hills, Sage Publications. Knox, S Burkard, A 2009, Qualitative research interviews, Psychotherapy Research, vol.19, no. 4-5, pp.1-18. Leon, J J 2003, Survey research: in-person, mail, telephone and web methods, Honolulu, Streamline Surveys, Inc. Marczyk, G R, DeMatteo, D Festinger, D 2005, Essentials of Research Design and Methodology, USA, John Wiley and Sons. Miller, M J n.d, Reliability and validity: Graduate Research Methods, Western International University Newman, I Benz, C R 2006, Qualitative-quantitative research methodo logy: exploring the interactive continuum. Carbondale, Southern Illinois Univ. Press. Opdenakker, R 2006, Advantages and disadvantages of four interview techniques in qualitative research, Forum: Qualitative Sozialforschung / Forum: Qualitative Social Research,.vol.7, no.4. Pather, E 2005, Methodology, http://wiredspace.wits.ac.za/bitstream/handle/10539/1811/04Chapter4.pdf?sequence=7. Pratt, N 2006, Qualitative research, edu.plymouth.ac.uk/resined/qualitative%20methods%202/qualrshm.htm#2.%20METHODS%20OF%20QUALITATIVE%20RESEARCH. Stemler, S 2001, An overview of content analysis, Practical Assessment, Research Evaluation, vol.7, no.17, p.7. Thanasegaran, G 2009, Reliability and validity issues in research, http://econ.upm.edu.my/researchbulletin/artikel/Vol%204%20March%202009/35-40%20Ganesh.pdf. Valenzuela, P Shrivastava, P n.d, Interview as a method of qualitative research, public.asu.edu/~kroel/www500/Interview%20Fri.pdf.

Position Paper on Drinking Alcohol in the Dormitories essays

Position Paper on Drinking Alcohol in the Dormitories essays Throughout history, humans have recognized alcohol as a good and positive force in their lives; only within the last two centuries have certain prohibitionist elements in America and Northern Europe sought to vilify this ancient drink and encourage the public to consider it as a poisonous and socially treacherous substance with which one must either abstain totally or become uncontrollably addicted. It is the position of this paper that this all or nothing approach does far more harm than good, and that the best approach to alcohol is not to prohibit it but to encourage its integration into a responsible and healthy lifestyle. For this reason, I believe that the US Air Force should not require total abstinence (from alcohol) in the dormitories but should rather work to educate young airmen on the appropriate and social responsive use of Alcohol can indeed be a negative and socially disruptive force if people engage in problem drinking activities. Alcoholism is disruptive, there is no doubt of that. The idea behind prohibition of alcohol in the dorm is that limiting alcohol intake will limit the number of problems arising from alcohol abuse. However, sociologically speaking this is not an expectation based in fact. According to the International Handbook on Alcohol and Culture, "efforts at increasing controls [on alcohol] are explicitly rationalized and recommended on the premise that alcohol-related problems occur in proportion to per capita consumption, a theory that we have disproved at least in France, Italy, Spain, Iceland, and Sweden, as well as in several ethnographic studies elsewhere." (Heath, 341-342) Of course, that cultural study is to some degree comparing apples and oranges, because the less-controlled areas in this study coincide with areas with a higher social appreciation of responsible drinking. According to a cultural case study in Drugs I: Society ...

UK on-line advertising Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

UK on-line advertising - Essay Example Being at the so called â€Å"digital age†,people tend to go online whenever possible whether to chat,buy products or services,or even finding a job.When you go over the internet, you will see a lot of advertisement regarding various products being posted. Even job orders are being posted online by various companies. While other advertisers tend to spend millions of dollars on television networks, newspapers or magazines, and radio advertisement, there are some advertisers that would rather invest their money with online advertising. It is the current trend in the world of advertising to go over the internet and post ads. But is it really worth spending posting in an online advertisement? What is the level of reliability that consumers who are taking risk that they would not be scammed in availing products or services in an online advertisement? In countries like the United Kingdom, online advertising has a potential market. According to the statistics done by the UK government , between 2001/02 and 2006 the proportion of adults in Great Britain who had used the Internet in the last three months increased by one-quarter, from 48 per cent to 60 per cent wherein, 59 per cent of the 16 years old and over go online almost every day and 4 per cent go online less than once a month. Internet usage is more common among the young people, wherein 84 per cent of people age 16 – 24 go online compare to older people, wherein 54 per cent are 55 – 64 and 15 per cent are 65 and over. ... bility to businesses to customers is easier compare on television and radio wherein, customers can easily interact via internet to the ads posted by advertisers. On the other hand, advertisers can easily access positive or negative customer feedbacks, monitor the customer needs, and communicate faster but cheaper to customers via internet through the websites. Websites have become an essential means to communicate with customers. In 2005, 70 per cent of the businesses online have a website while the proportion of businesses that sold via internet was doubled between 2002 and 2005, from 7 to 15 per cent. In 2005, the sales value over the Internet was ?103 Tan 3 Billion. This accounted for 34 per cent of sales across all kinds of ICT by non-financial sector businesses. The usual Internet activity by nine out of ten or 91 per cent of young internet users was sending or receiving emails. Other activities included were: finding information about goods or services which is 77 per cent, dow nloading software which is 55 per cent, and reading or downloading online news or magazines which is 54 per cent. Meanwhile, seven out of ten or 70 per cent young internet users stated that they had purchased goods or services online.   The increasing demands and internet usage had made advertisers in UK believed that online advertising is important and that has great opportunity. They have seen some potential in doing so because the online become a direct response medium wherein the marketing budgets being stretched to their very limits, and the online has proved its worth. Another is the growth of new display format wherein the internet has become an entertainment medium because of its interactive multimedia content. There is also the booming of e-commerce wherein people shopping choice

IBM and the Holocaust Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

IBM and the Holocaust - Essay Example IBM’s German subsidiary, called Dehomag, once put up a poster in German whose translation to English meant â€Å"see everything with Hollerith punch cards.† This poster, while at the time simply advertising the importance of punch cards in capturing individuals’ information, have been found to have been the reason why the Nazis found it easy to carry out mass murders of the minority groups in Germany. Dehomag is the acronym for the company Deutsche Hollerith Maschinen Gesellschaft (German Hollerith Machine Corporation); a company established in 1910 by Willy Heidinger. Heidinger later sold the company to American industrialist Charles Flint. Through various stages of acquisitions, Dehomag eventually became a direct subsidiary of CTR which was later renamed to International Business Machines in 1924 (Jeffery, 2001). The idea of punch cards had been conceived by Herman Hollerith about the year 1880. Hollerith was working for the US Census Bureau. The punch cards were basically readable cards with perforations in a standardized pattern. Every perforation represented a given piece of information about the individual such as their nationality, occupation, gender, and so on. The traits could be easily sorted out to give the desired picture of a given population. For example, gender could be used to divide the country into males and females (Hayes, 2000). Adolf Hitler and the chief executive officer of IBM Thomas J. Watson are two of the people most famously accused of the genocide in Nazi Germany. While Hitler broadcasted his hate messages against the Jews (and other races), he found fanatics among great men such as Henry Ford and Thomas Watson. With IBM’s presence in Germany and with Hitler at the helm, it was not by chance that Watson fueled Hitler’s aims. While, in my opinion, Watson and IBM are victims of circumstances, their role in the holocaust shall remain significant. If they had turned down Germany’s use of punch cards, they would not have prevented the holocaust since Germany would have obtained the technology anyway.

How can Starbucks react to the threat of McDonalds selling low cost Essay

How can Starbucks react to the threat of McDonalds selling low cost coffee - Essay Example I would be failing in my duty if I don’t thank all those employees of Starbucks and McDonalds who responded to the phone calls and e-mails sent to these organizations. Last but not the least, I would like to thank all my friends who have been supporting and helping me with this assignment. Table of Contents Contents Pages Executive Summary 4-5 Introduction 5 McDonald’s Vs Starbucks 5-6 Problem for Starbucks 6 Sources of Information 6-7 SWOT Analysis 7-8 Financial Analysis 8-9 Findings 10 Recommendations 10-11 Appendices 12-25 Works Cited 26 How Can Starbucks React to the Threat of McDonalds Selling Low Cost Coffee? Executive Summary Starbucks and McDonald's are big multinational companies that have made their presence felt in the businesses they operate in. Seattle based Starbucks was founded with the objective of providing Italian espresso bar experience in the United States. As a business strategy Starbucks operates by forming a personal relationship with its consumer s. On the other hand McDonalds is a family restaurant and attracts people from all age groups. Strictly speaking, both these behemoths have distinct target markets. Starbucks attracts the affluent while customers who are price sensitive are McDonald’s target market. McDonald’s has rolled out its low-priced coffee brand and in the process has started eating into the share of Starbucks. McDonald's appears well placed to become Starbucks’ biggest competitor in the specialty coffee segment in the coming years. Starbucks now has to devise strategies to counter McDonald’s move and not let its market share dip. The present paper is a commentary on ‘How can Starbucks react to the threat of McDonalds selling low cost coffee? To answer this question relevant information on both these companies has been collected from various primary and secondary sources. A comparison has been made on the business operations of both Starbucks and McDonald’s, SWOT analy sis has been carried out and finally a financial comparison has been made. Some alternatives that can be adopted by Starbucks to react to McDonald’s move have been suggested based on aforesaid analysis. I personally feel that Starbucks should not respond to McDonald’s move with a price cut, rather it should elevate the quality perception in the minds of the customer and build a set of loyal customers who are willing to pay a premium price in exchange of getting the ‘coffee experience’ that Starbucks has to offer. Introduction I have decided to write a commentary on ‘How can Starbucks react to the threat of McDonalds selling low cost coffee? I have chosen this topic since it involves two big U.S. based companies who have worldwide operations, have a huge set of loyal customer base and are well known for their quality products. Starbucks Vs McDonald’s Starbucks is Italian-style coffeehouse chain based in Seattle, Washington. The company was foun ded in 1971 and has more than 17, 000 retail stores in 60 countries. Since inception Starbucks has believed in serving the best coffee to its customers. In fact, the company delivers much more than a simple cup of high quality coffee; it ensures a wonderful experience for the customer. A look at the product portfolio of Starbucks clearly indicates that the company has a huge variety of coffee

The Play The Crucible By Arthur Miller English Literature Essay

The Play The Crucible By Arthur Miller English Literature Essay The play The Crucible by Arthur Miller is set in the New England town of Salem, Massachusets in the year 1692. This has a very important effect on the play. Salem is populated mainly with Puritans, or a person who is strict in moral or religious matters. Therefore, there were strict rules as to what it mean to be a Christian. Now, you are inoccent until proven guilty. However in that time, you were guilty until proven innocent. Things that happened in the play, such as the witch trials, could only happen in a theocracy based on literal Christianity. A subsetting in the play is the forest within Salem. The forest was seen as the last strong hold of evil in the town. Abigail and the girls danced in the forest, therefore it was seen as ruled by the devil, when Salem was seen as ruled by god. Plot A group of girls go dancing in the woods lead by an African American slave named, Tituba. Reverend Parris daughter Betty falls into a coma-like state. Revernd Parris sends for Reverand Hale, an expert of witchcraft. Elizabeth urges John to denounce Abigail as a fraud. Mary Warren, returns from Salem with the news that Elizabeth has been charges with witch craft. Giles Correy and Francis Nurse arrest Elizabeth. John Proctor forces Mary Warren to testify that the girls are lying. Elizabeth is spared for time because she is pregnant. John Proctor convinces Danforth to allow Mary Warren to testify and Mary tells the court the girls are lying. When the group of girls are brought in the accuse Mary of bewitching them. John Proctor confesses his afair with Abigail Williams and accuses her of being motivated by the jealousy of his wife. Danforth asks Elizabeth if her husband has been unfaithful to her, but says he hasnt to spare her husbands name. She did not know John had already confessed. Mary accuses John Proctor of being a witch. John Proctor is arrested and Hale quits the proceedings. Abigail Williams runs away, taking Reverand Parris money with her. Reverand Hale begs the accused witches to confess falsely to save their lives, but they will not. Elizabeth trys to talk John into confessing. John confesses but refuses to incriminate anyone else, and ends up retracting his confession. Characters There are many important characters in The Crucible. One of them is Reverand Samuel Parris. Reverand Parris is an egolistic man that was more concerned with his reputation than the sickness of his child. He has made many changes to his church that are to the peoples dismay. He was strongly disliked for straying away from the ways of the Puritan Church, such as placing gold within the church and wanting to own the house that the church had provided for him. John Proctor, the protagonist in this play as well as a target of Reverand Parris, is another important character. Mr. Proctor is a man in his thirties, and is seems unlike the other men in the town. He had a brief afair with Abigain, and is making it his duty to stop the witch hunt that he and his wife, Elizabeth Proctor, have found themselve caught up in. Mr.Proctors wife, Elizabeth Proctor, has a non-affectionate demeanor towards her very caring husband, leading him into the arms of Abigail. This makes Elizabeth Abigails main ta rget, for she thinks if she is gone, she whave a chance with Mr. Proctor. Abigail Williams, the teenage neice of Reverand Parris, is the main force behind the witch hunt. She is the leader of the victims claiming to be possesed who are in search of the towns witches. Abigails cousin, Betty Parris, is the ten year old daughter of Reverand Parris. She mysteriously became ill after being caught by her father dancing with the other girls in the woods naked. Bettys illness brings Reverend Hale to Salem to check for signs of witchcraft. Reverand Hale is a revered reverand who starts a massive outbreak of people being accused. He realizes the corruption of the outbreak and tries to protect the lives of innocent people. Themes Many themes are portrayed in this pay. One of them is lie and deciet. Most, if not all of the characters are lying in some way. If not to other people, then to themselves. Along with, Respect and Reputation, the social status in the town is tied to ones ability to substain the unspoken religious rules. A good name is the only way you will survive, such as getting people to do buissiness with you or even getting a fair hearing in court, however reputation means nothing when it comes to witch craft. Another theme is Good and Evil. The village bases their belief system between good vs evil, or god vs satan. The play is divided into two camps, but nobody truly understands which side is good, and which side is bad. Then of course, theres the theme of jealousy. However, the main theme is fear. Fear of the devil allows the witch trials to proceed, fear of death causes people to lie and say theyre witches, and the fear of lying causes inocent people to die. Quotations Act 4- John Proctor: Because its my name! Because i cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given you my soul; leave me my name! John cares more about he and his friends reputations that his own life Act 3- John Proctor: A man may think god sleeps, but God sees everything. I know that now. -John now realizes that what he did was Abigail was a sin and that it was wrong, and he claims he will not make the same mistake again. Act 1- Abigail Williams: I danced for the devil; I saw him, I wrote in his book; I go back to Jesus; I kiss his hand -Abigail is worried about being disgraced for having cast charms, dancing, and worshipping the devil with her friends and hopes she can be forgiven and return to god. Act 2- Elizabeth Proctor: John, grant me this. You have a faulty understanding of young girls. There is a promise made in any bed -Elizabeth is trying to explain to her husband, John, that Abigail is accusing her of being a witch because she is jealous of her and wants John to herself. Act 3- Danforth: You must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there be no road between. This is a sharp time, now, a precise timeà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬we live no longer in the dusky afternoon when evil mixed itself with good and befuddled the world. -He is saying that everything and everyone belongs to God or the Devil. The court as well as the government of Massachusets necessarily belong to God. That means, anyone who disagrees with the courtà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s activities is not an honest opponent. Questions 1) Why did they set the people that claimed to have worshipped the devil free, rather than the ones that claimed they didnt? 2) What started the witch trials? 3) How did the witch trials end and who ended them? 4) 5) Response I believe things that happened in the Salem Witch Trials were highly unfair and uncalled for. It made me realize that Im very greatful to live in the society we live in today. The court was unfair and people got killed for no reason. If the court had not improved since then, I cannot even begin to imagine what society today would be like. I think they should have at least found evidence of people being guilty before they were hung, rather than taking peoples word. Just because they swore to tell the truth, doesnt mean they actaully do. Assignment #2 Expository Creative Dear Elizabeth Proctor, Throughout the play, i found you one of the most inspiring characters. You were a mother and wife, who has been through a great deal. You were accused of witchcraft simply because of jealousy, and were cheated on but still managed to help your husband when he was in need. The way you carried yourself even though you were accused of something you hadnt actually done is really amazing. You stayed true to who you are and didnt break down like many of the others that had been accused did. When the court asked you to step in and convince John to confess, even though you knew he didnt, you helped him decide what was best to do for not only yourself, but for him aswell.

Joel Joe Varghese Essay

Don Bosco held its much awaited event-Voice of DBA-Solo Singing Competition for classes 3 to 12. The competition was divided in parts that is, for classes 3 to 5, for 6- 8, for 9 and 10 and for 11 and 12. But fortunately the event for classes 9 and 10 and 11 and 12 was held together. I felt excited as now I could listen to my favourite singer – Joel K Varghese. Many singers came and sung melodiously but when the Joel’s name was announced, the atmosphere of the auditorium transformed to liveliness. Applauses and hoots of students flowed through the auditorium. Joel had won the best solo singer’s award in Bosco Fiesta 2014, so we had great hopes for him being the winner of the competition. And then the lines rang in my years- Lately I have had the strangest feeling, With no vivid reasons here to find†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ Silence spread all over the auditorium and we all listened quietly and enjoyed it very much. This song was sung by Joel in Bosco Fiesta 2014 for which he bagged the first prize. Ability to smoothly change and keep pitch, strong lungs, and usually, a lot of talent in auditory memory are the qualities that a good singer has and no doubt that Joel is one of those good singers. His ability to capture attention of the audience through his voice becomes a model for all the Bosconians. His song ended and so did my happiness. I was enchanted and spellbound by Joel’s song. The situation was the same as when William was stunned by the reaper’s song. Results were not declared but I have a strong feeling that Joel will bag the first prize in the competition for he is THE TRUE VOICE OF DBA .

Knee Arthroscopy

KNEE ARTHROSCOPY Procedure Steps: 1. The surgeon marks the anteromedial and anterolateral joint lines and portal positions with a skin marker. 2. The skin areas for portal placement are infiltrated with local epinephrine. If the knee has an effusion, the surgeon aspirates it with a 16-gauge needle on a 60ml syringe, followed by injection of a small amount of distending fluid. 3. After a small stab incision with a #11 or #15 knife blade, the surgeon inserts the irrigation cannula and trocar into the lateral suprapatellar pouch near the superior pole of the patella.Lactated Ringer’s or normal saline solution is connected to the cannula and the joint is distended using gravity or a pressure-sensitive arthroscopy pump. 4. A stab incision is then made laterally or medially 2-3 mm above the tibial plateau or patellar tendon at the joint line. A sharp trocar and sheath are inserted through the stab wound and just through the capsule. 5. A blunt trocar is used to pass the sheath into the knee joint. The surgeon removes the trocar and inserts a 30 or 70 degree scope into the sheath. The light source and video camera are connected to the scope. 6.The inflow may remain in the suprapatellar area, and the tubing is connected to the arthroscope, or the position may be reversed. 7. A spinal needle can be introduced under direct vision to determine the best angle for an opposite portal for insertion of probes and operative instruments. The cruciates and menisci are probed to determine integrity and tears. 8. The scope is moved to the opposite portal to facilitate complete examination. 9. The joint is irrigated periodically and at the end of the procedure to maintain good visualization and clear the joint of blood and tissue fragments. 10.Necessary repairs are made using special arthroscopic instruments, drills, shavers, or implants. 11. The surgeon closes the portals with nylon or undyed polyglactin suture and ? inch wound closure strips. 12. Local of surgeon’s c hoice (usually with epinephrine 1:200,000) may be injected intraarticularly to minimize bleeding and postoperative pain. Vaginal Hysterectomy Procedural Steps: 1. A patient is placed in lithotomy position, prepped and draped. 2. A weighted speculum is placed in the vagina for exposure. 3. A uterine tenaculum is passed to grasp the cervix and two hand held retractors are placed for additional exposure. . The anterior vaginal wall is opened with a transverse incision in the vesicovaginal layer of fascia. Space between vaginal wall and cervix is opened. 5. Bladder is dissected off the cervix and lower uterine segment anteriorly. Bladder is advanced on the cervix to vesicouterine fold. 6. Posterior vaginal wall is mobilized off the cervix by extending transverse vaginal skin incision posteriorly to encircle cervix. Cul-de-sac is entered and the incision extended to the ligaments, clamped, ligated, and incised at their attachment to the cervix. 7.Uterosacral ligaments are exposed, clampe d and doubly ligated bilaterally at their attachment to the cervix. Uterine vessels are clamped, incised, and ligated. 8. Bladder is retracted upward and cervix pulled downward. Peritoneal cavity is opened and uterine body is grasped, marking suture is placed on peritoneum. 9. Peritoneal incision is extended laterally until the anterior surface of uterine body can be delivered. Ovaries and tubes are inspected to determine if they need to be removed. 10. Round, ovarian, broad ligaments and fallopian tubes are clamped and ligated.This is done bilaterally. Mobilization of the uterus continues until it is completely free. The uterus then is removed as the specimen. 11. Next the bladder flap is closed with a 2-0 absorbable suture then the peritoneum also with a running absorbable suture. 12. Excess peritoneum is dissected to a point in front of the rectum. Edges are approximated in the midline and sutured. 13. Additional sutures are placed anterior to the rectum to provide additional str ength and support of the vaginal vault. 14. Peritoneal cavity is closed with a purse string suture.

Tips For Writing Flawless Economics Essays

Tips For Writing Flawless Economics Essays Economics Essay: Crafting an Impressive Essay When in college and studying economics, at some point you will be required to come up with an economic essay. To make it substantial, you need to provide points of arguments and back them up with evidence to support their validity. In order to come up with a first-class essay, you first need to conduct extensive research for your work, structure a thesis for your work and create an outline that will ensure your work is logical. An economic essay relies on facts and each point made concerning the topic of discussion should be supported appropriately, and creativity used to give room for more interpretation and understanding by the reader. Below is a step by step guide that will help you in the writing of an impressive economics essay. Requirements of an Economics Essay Most of the economics essays are posted in terms of the question. After getting your topic, read it through several times until you are conversant with it. Additionally, if you do not understand it properly, do not hesitate to consult your professor. When you understand it, write it down on a sticky note and stick it where you can see and refer to it. Also, highlight the keywords in the provided instructions. It is a sure way of reminding yourself to stick to the required information related to the topic throughout your writing. Conduct Thorough Research Only start your research process when you have familiarized and understood the topic you are to discuss. Several essays only require the information in your textbook for them to be well answered. Just in case you find the information not sufficient, you can refer to the reference section of the book and use the provided sources to conduct more research. All in all, don’t forget that your professor is there to guide you. Use his knowledge and understanding to your advantage and consult where necessary. As you do your research, you are bound to find some unfamiliar terms. Do not take them for granted, try and find their meanings to gain a better understanding of them. Additionally, keep in mind that you are to tick to the main topic of discussion. When you are reading through your source materials, keep to the materials related to your work and avoid any information that is unrelated. Create a Plan for Your Writing After you are done conducting research and you have collected a sufficient amount of evidence and relative backup arguments, you should start thinking of how to write your economics essay. It is prudent to insist and repeat that when it comes to economics essay, you cannot deviate from the topic of discussion throughout the whole essay.   Having a concise plan will help you achieve this. However, do not confuse an essay plan as your outline for writing an essay. Both are different, and its still too early to start thinking about an essay outline at this point. The essay plan consists of a rough draft of the key point that you need to address in your essay. Listing them is important in helping you distinguish the most relevant, from the irrelevant and therefore use the required information in writing your economics essay. Arrange Your Material After you have come up with the essential materials that you are to put in your economics essay, you should arrange them in order to achieve a logical flow of ideas. This will help in the writing of your final draft since the ideas are well put and the narrations of your arguments are smooth. Have in mind the outline of an essay which is the introduction, main body paragraphs, and the conclusion section. When structuring your main body paragraphs, consider the length of paper you are required to submit.   This will ensure that you don’t squeeze your words in ways that will make the point vague and not understandable. It is easier to put a central focus on key issues, and only fill them with brief, but straight to the point arguments. Introduce Your Essay After putting together your research materials and you have a clear understanding of the topic you are to discuss, you can now embark on writing your economics essay.   The crucial but still technical part of writing an essay is the introduction, and that of an economic essay is no different.   It is recommended that you handle this part of the essay first and be done with it. It will also serve as a guideline of how you are to write your body paragraphs and still stick to the topic of discussion. An introduction for an economic essay serves as an extended and broadened version of your main argument that you formulated on the rough draft about your main points. Outline your Main Body Paragraphs After you have successfully broadened your main argument for the economic essay in the introduction part, you have already set the tone for what the reader is to expect as the read your work. Do not forget to stick to the main topic of discussion while writing your body paragraphs. At this point, assemble a more comprehensive outline of your main body paragraphs. This was already done when you arranged your research information in a logical order on a rough draft. For the final copy, you should do the same to ensure you work has a logical flow of the ideas you have presented. Ensure that each point of view and the related argument are done each in their own paragraphs. Your outline should be made of a single sentence addressing your point of view, and several citations that act as a source of material to justify your argument. Writing the Main Body Paragraphs Using the outline created for your main body of the essay, you will easily write the body paragraphs. The only thing left to do is expounding your main points with well-structured arguments from different sources as back up to make the work factual and creative. In simple terms, your body paragraphs will start with the main sentences you came up with in your essay outline and the evidence you gathered from the research materials you used. It is important to stress that the narration of your essay should have a logical flow of ideas and offer each piece of information clearly and straight forward. Make use of transition sentences at the end of each body paragraph to connect on body paragraph to the other for the achievement of a logical connection. Use Compelling Evidence For Your Work A point to note is that an economic essay clearly relies on facts and data as compared to other essays within diverse disciplines. This means that quoting what an author said will not be enough to support your point of view. Avail to the reader specified statistics, facts, and figures. The factual evidence is the argumentative part of your economic essay that gives your work its essence. This should engage you to ensure that every single argument you put across for the main sentences of your body paragraphs is complemented with facts and statistical evidence. Write the Conclusion After you have written your body paragraphs of the economic essay you are working on, consider this the end of discussion for the main part of your essay. What remains now is a summative narrative that briefly reminds the reader of the important points put across and their validity. A concrete conclusion is important as it helps consolidate the trust of the reader in your work and point of argument. This will give the reader a conclusive general impression of the work they are reading. A weak conclusion should be avoided as the reader will remain unimpressed and the work presented won’t be relevant to them thus a waste of time on both sides. Think of a conclusion as a summative part of your whole essay. This is the thought you let your reader leave with after reading and contemplate about as they carry out their own businesses. The best way of creating a good conclusion is restating the central argument that you expressed in the introduction of your economic essay. Read through Your Draft It is naive to think that your work is done when you completed writing your essay. You should always polish your paper to make it worth a read and be sure that you will receive good grades. However, it is too early, to begin with proofreading your work for errors related to spellings, punctuation or grammar. After concluding your work, focus on reading through your work to be sure that each detail presented in your main body paragraphs are associated with the topic. Also, ensure that they are backed up by credible evidence from reliable sources. Any deviations should be cut off the main work. As we said earlier, quality work does not rely on the number of words, but on the preciseness and factual illustration of your written economics essay. Do a Review of the Consistency of Your Writing After confirming the relevance of your information to your topic and each argument is structured according to the source material, you need now to question the sufficiency of the information presented. To start off, ensure that the main argument is clear and understandable to the reader.   Double check its legibility and understanding to the target audience. Make sure that you eliminate any hint of ambiguity to make your economics essay worth a good grade. Another point to consider should be the application of this principle to the entire essay. You should avoid making the reader question the need for some piece of information in your essay, or what it proves relating to your topic of discussion. Proofread for Spelling and Grammar Polishing your work should be the last step in ensuring your economics essay has been well articulated and structured, and all errors have been resolved accordingly.   This involves correcting all forms of grammatical, punctuation, or spelling errors. This will ensure that your grades are not tanked by such mistakes, and the reader does not end up disappointed in the essay you have written. You should keep in mind that no matter how different your major is from language studies, resolving errors in your work is important because by overlooking them, you stand to lose substantial marks that will affect your grade. Make sure you follow the right instruction and hand in a well-written essay that is both impressive and creative.

student Essays

student Essays student Essay student Essay Final Exam Case for 2215 December 5 2013 The following case will be used for the 2215 Final Exam. The chapters that will be referenced in the exam from the ORGB textbook are: 12Leadership; 1 5-0rg Structure and Design; 16- Culture and 17- Managing Change. There will be 5 questions worth 6 marks each. Heidi Weigand Chapters ZAPPOS. COM: ARE CULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY THE SUPER HIGHWAY TO THE FUTURE? Zappos. com isnt the first business venture pursued by entrepreneur Tony Hsieh. He cofounded LinkExchange shortly after graduating from Harvard with a computer science degree. LinkExchange allowed amateur Web publishers to barter for dvertising by agreeing to publish 1 one anothers ads. LinkExchange proved to be a successful business venture, but Hsieh became 2 depressed because the work was no longer fun. When it was Just five or ten people, it was a lot of fun. We were working around the clock, no idea what day of the week it was, sleeping under our desks, says Hsieh. 0 [Continuing, he explains,] [w]e hired all the right people in terms of 3 skill sets, but by the time it was 100 or so, I dreaded going to the office. Hsieh increasingly felt that the people he had hired were not committed to the ventures ongterm growth. 0 Work, which once had felt liberating, had become a chore. He resolved that his next company would not be about a short-term payday. It would be about long-term growth, 4 about creating a place to which he and his employees would want to come every day. 5 At the age of twenty-four, Hsieh sold LinkExchange to Microsoft for $265 million. He used the money to help fund his second company, which was cofounded in 1999 with Alfred Lin, a Harvard classmate. Called Venture Frogs, the business was a venture capital firm investing in start-up businesses. A few of Venture Frogs investments ystem OpenTable?but as the dot. com bubble burst, most struggled to survive, and some were shuttered. Hsieh had been attracted to investing because it seemed to bring all the fun of start-ups on a larger scale; instead, it became a treadmill of meetings full of bad news. 0 What Hsieh wanted, he realized, was the unstructured fun of a 6 new company. As he puts it, I wanted to be involved in building something. One of the start-ups funded by Venture Frogs was the online shoe store Shoesite. om, founded in 7 San Francisco by Nicholas Swinmurn. Reflecting on Shoesite. com, Hsieh says, It was the most 8 nteresting opportunity, and the people were the most fun. Hsieh invested $500,000 in Shoesite. com, Joined the company, and subsequently renamed it Zappos. By the summer of 2000, Hsieh and Swinmurn were co-chief executives, and Zappos was operating out of Hsi ehs 9 living room. Zappos grew rapidly and soon was moved from San Francisco to Henderson, 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 M. Chafkin, Get Happy: How Tony Hsieh Uses Relentless Innovation, Stellar Service, and a Staff of Believers to Make Zappos. om and Ecommerce Juggernautoand One of the Most Blissed-out Businesses in America, Inc. 31(4) (May 2009): 69. Ibid. J. M. OBrien, Zappos Knows How to Kick It, Fortune 159(2) (February 2, 2009): 56. Chafkin, Get Happy, 69. OBrien, Zappos Knows, 56. Chafkin, Get Happy, 70. H. Coster, A Step Ahead, Forbes Oune 2, 2008), forbes. com/global/ 2008/0602/064. html (accessed June 20, 2009). Chafktn, Get Happy, 70. Chafkin, Get Happy, 70; Coster, A Step Ahead. Nevada, Just outside of Las Vegas. When Swinmurn left the company in 2006, Hsieh became the 10 sole chief executive. The Zappos Culture 11 Zappos. This distinctive culture is built upon a foundation of ten core values that all Zapponians?the name that Zappos personnel give themselves?follow in their work lives. These values are as follows: 0 deliver WOW through service; 0 embrace and drive change; 0 create fun and a little weirdness; 0 be adventurous, creative, and open-minded; 0 pursue growth and learning; 0 build open and honest relationships with communication; 0 build a positive team and family spirit; 0 do more with less; 0 be passionate and determined; and 12 0 be humble. 3 Defining core values as a company is one thing. Performing them on a daily basis is another. So, how does Zappos put its core values into practice? First and foremost, Zappos builds its 14 culture, brand, and business strategies on these core values. Developing and maintaining the Zappos culture starts with the hiring process. Tony Hsieh says, [t]here are plenty of candidates who would be great individual contributors, bu t if they are not a cultural fit we would not hire them. we want people who are eager to live the Zappos lifestyle 15 and promote the Zappos culture?not a typical nine-to-five office employee. Culture building continues after the hiring process is over. In fact, it is an important ingredient of everyones Job. [A] passion for having fun is the unwritten requirement n everyones Job 16 description. And annually, the company publishes a Culture Book in which many of the associates explain what the Zappos culture means to them. Moreover, Zappos bases half of an 17 employees performance review on how well he/she has lived up to the companys values. Another important way in which the Zappos staff lives the companys core values is by striving to maintain the firms reputation for developing lifelong customer relationships. According to 10 14 15 16 17 Coster, A Step Ahead. Anonymous, Business: Keeper of the Flame; Face Value, The Economist 391 (8627) ulture/zappos-core-values (accessed Jun e 20, 2009). C. S. Cross, Dot. com Distribution, Industrial Engineer 40(11) (November 2008): 52. Zappos Core Values, http://about. zappos. com/our-unique-culture/zappos-core-values (accessed June 20, 2009). C. Gentry, cultural Revolution, Cham store Age 83(12) (December 2007): 32 and 34. Gentry, Cultural Revolution, 32. (April 18, 2009): 75. Hsieh, [i]f you get the culture right, you dont need to come up with a policy and procedure for 18 everything. Technology at Zappos While organizational culture drives Zappos. com, technology supports that culture nd the work of all Zappos employees in delivering great customer service. A prime example of the role that technology plays is provided by the Zappos distribution center (DC). Zappos has one central warehousing/distribution location rather than numerous regional sites. Physically situated in Shepherdsville, Kentucky, the DC is close to the United Parcel Service (UPS) World Port, the main air hub of UPS in Louisville. This enables Zappos to fill orders less than two hours after they are placed and to take advantage of the UPS late-night pickup 19 schedule. Craig Adkins, vice president of fulfillment operations for Zappos. om, explains the companys reasoning for having one central DC as opposed to a distributed network with several regional locations. Zappos would have to carry more inventory to spread it across multiple facilities. 0 If we were spread out throughout the country, we would be regionally closer, but we would actually be no closer to the customer than we are now. 0 If, for example, I had a building in Reno, and I wanted to serve my customers in California from there, I can actually get goods into 20 Los Angeles faster from Louisville than I cou ld from Nevada. How does technology nable the DC to contribute to fulfilling of the core value: Deliver WOW Through Service? It starts with the companys information technology, nearly all of which is developed in-house, linking its storage and shipping systems to the e-commerce site through a 21 central database. Inside the DC, all incoming shipments from suppliers are unpackaged immediately and placed on pickable shelves. This helps to make inventory management, product distribution, and customer ordering processes integrated and seamless. Craig Adkins explains, There are a million individual SKUs and 4 million items in inventory, so heres no need for a deep level of reserve storage. If you see it on our web site, its on our shelf. If the last item sells out, it comes off the web site automatically. We dont do back orders. Its a live inventory system, which almost 22 nobody does. A recent technological leap forward at the DC was the installation of 72 Kiva robots at a cost of $5 million. The Kiva bots pack 12 percent of the shipped items at the DC, based fulfillment process, says Adkins. The labor costs are 50%, and electrically its only using half as much 18 19 20 21 S. Murphy, Culture Conscious, Chain Store Age 83(9) (September 2007): 55. W. Hoffman, From Bricks to Clicks, Journal of Commerce (December 22, 2008), http:// www. Joc. com/node/408765 (accessed June 9, 2009). P. Barnard, The New Big Thing: Super-size DCs, Multichannel Merchant 25(11) (November 2008): 51 . M. Zager, Zappos Delivers Service With Shoes on the Side, Apparel Oanuary 2009), http:// www. apparelmag. com? ME2/dirmod. asp? sid=23B258090 (accessed June 9, 2009). Ibid. power as our old system. The Kiva bot system allows the Zappos DC to ship a pair of shoes 24 in as little as eight minutes. The Kiva system is extraordinarily flexible and can be adapted to other product lines s Zappos expands. The system can be reconfgured very easily, and it can be moved to any geographic 25 location. Craig Adkins describes the companys experience with the Kiva bots with enthusiasm and a definite view to the future: We were amazed that Kiva transformed our new warehouse from bare concrete to fully operational readiness? with trained supervisors and associates?Just four months after we signed the purchase order. Were already working on designs to cube out the 26 building with Kivas mobile fulfillment system (MFS) on the multi-level mezzanines. This case was written by Michael K. McCuddy, The Louis S. and Mary L. Morgal Chair of Christian Business Ethics and Professor of Management, College of Business Administration, Valparaiso University. C. Steiner, A Bot in Time Saves Nine, Forbes (March 16, 2009), http:// www. forbes. com/forbes/2009/0316/040_bot_times_saves_nine. html (accessed June 20, 2009). 24 25 26 Chafkin, Get Happy, 68. W. Atkinson, Robotics in Action sidebar to The Future Is Flexible, Modern Materials J. Teresko, Getting Lean with Armless Robots, Industry Week 257(9) (September 2008): 26. Student Essays Student Essay Student Essay Documented Opinion Essay TopicsTopics:   Choose a topic from your college major or career plan. Look in current newspapers and magazines for an area of contoversy or interest. The list below includes suggestions.   Brainstorm a list of ideas about your topic and begin to form ideas for developmentEducationHow does a college education prepare students for work   in the career you have chosenIs it better for government on private groups to provide services, such as schools or recycling, in your area of interestStudents at public colleges pay about one-fourth the cost of their education.   Who pays the rest? Is the subsidy justified?   Should students in your major be required to pay more?   Why or why notWhat math and writing skills are needed for success in your profession?   What GPA is requiredHealthcareGiven all the evidence that smoking is harmful, why do people continue to smokeWhy are Americans the most overweight people in the worldHow much should people exercise?    How can we get them to exercise moreShould physicians be prevented from intentionally providing people with the means to commit suicideShould nurses be allowed to write prescriptionsShould mail-order pharmacies be legalAre healthcare professionals motivated by money or concern for helping othersSmall businessWhat incubators are available in the Atlanta area and what advantages do they offerWhat factors are involved in franchisingTo what extent do Atlantas traffic problems limit its economic potentialGovernmentWhy does the United States have a higher rate of crime than almost all other advanced countriesShould states legalize gambling to raise more revenueJournalismWhat restrictions, if any, should news reporters observe in their investigations and reportingAre internet file-sharing services in violation of copyright lawsDocumented Opinion Essay TopicsCOMPUTERS IN MODERN LIFE1. We are becoming increasingly