Media Studies †Podcasting and Radio

Ben Hammersley of the Guardian first discussed the advent of podcasting technology only two years ago (Hammersley, 2004). Yet this newly created communications channel has grown from being a small niche market   – with only six thousand hits on Google in 2004 according to Terdimann (2004) as compared to today’s excess of forty-one million (Google, 2006). Podcasting has changed radio with breathtaking speed, removing almost all barriers to access in ways that Internet radio was never able to on its own. This paper will discuss how and why podcasting is the radio of the future because of its convenience, intimacy and ease of access. Podcasting Defined In simple terms, podcasting is a digital music file that is presented to the end user within an RSS feed, where RSS is a grouping of different feed formats used to update and publish web content. Users subscribe to an RSS to listen to audio files, are automatically updated each time a new file is uploaded, and can listen to the podcasts on any MP3 player. What makes podcasting unusual is the automatic updating portion of the system: instead of having to return to a particular website to see if the content has been updated, the users’ subscribed-to feeds automatically deliver the content on-demand. A Brief History of Radio as Related to Podcasting Initially, radio was used in the late 19th century for users separated by geography to communicate. However, other people started ‘overhearing’ these radio transmissions and slowly it became a means with which to talk to a larger populace, evidenced by BBC’s start-up three decades later. It didn’t take long for radio listeners to realize radio’s potential scope as shown by comments made in 1930: â€Å"The radio would be the finest possible communication apparatus in public life, a vast network of pipes. That is to say, it would be if it knew how to receive as well as to transmit, how to let the listener speak as well as hear, how to bring him into a relationship not isolating him (Bretcht, 1993). Interestingly, these comments seem to describe podcasting to a tee, as anyone can transmit information using this technology, with no higher authority monitoring its use. A similar growth pattern is seen when reviewing the advent of Internet radio as well, with the 1995 creation of Real Audio software, allowing radio stations to send transmissions through the Internet instead of through other, more traditional processes (Priestman, 2001). While this was a huge breakthrough in technology and access to mediums previously controlled by geography and cost, it still made Internet radio dependent on positioning: you had to be in front of a computer to listen (Wall, 2004). This lack of portability has somewhat been trumped by new WiFi radio options in the UK (Rose, 2005), but that discussion is beyond the scope of this paper. Podcastings’ Origins Portable music devices first appeared in the late 90’s (Van Buskirk, 2005) but it wasn’t until Apple’s 2001 release of the iPod that podcasting became a household name. At that time, no other commercial venture had successfully sold legally available songs online and then facilitated transferring them onto a digital media device. Podcasting Success Factors We must go back in time to 1996 to determine just why MP3 players such as the iPod and podcasting in general took off at such an alarming rate. It was at this time when The Telecommunications Act of 1996 changed American radio forever by allowing companies to own more than four radio stations in a specific market and more than forty nationwide, both of which were previous limiters (Mann, 2005). This allowed Clear Channel, one of the more infamous radio station consolidators, to merge well over one thousand stations across the U.S. using their tried-and-true content-weak system of providing lots of specifically targeted music to a specifically targeted consumer and the addition of even more commercial time. It seems evident, then, that radio listeners were well primed for an on-demand music service with fewer (or no) commercials without the WalMart of radio forcing listening decisions. How Has, and Will, Podcasting Changed Radio? In a sense, podcasting has changed radio into a new medium entirely. Now anyone, anywhere, with no prior radio, media or telecommunications knowledge can create a podcast for listeners around the world to enjoy, respond to and interact with. Plus, it has provided access to public figures in ways that radio couldn’t previously, as with Vice-Presidential candidate John Edwards’ kitchen table talks or President Bush’s weekly radio addresses (see http://www.whitehouse.gov/radio). Future applications of podcasting technology are only limited by the accessibility of MP3 players and the ingenuity of the users. The next step of all-access, user-driven radio is to have the smaller hand-held devices download podcasts (technology which is just become available now) through wireless technology. This will work in tandem with current movement towards Wi-Max networks (where entire cities have wireless access availability instead of merely chosen ‘hotspots’), enabling users to save the costs of downloading content through their cellular phone providers or current fatport company. In fact, the Nokia N91 was to be released earlier this year with this same technology on board (Rose, 2005). Yet as MacFarland stated in 1997: â€Å"The answer will lie not so much in technical improvements to audio reproduction as in improvements to the product the audience is seeking – programming that is responsive to the listener’s needs. Conventional radio stations have already picked up on this trend such as the Boston-based â€Å"Jack FM† which boasts an iPod-like random playlist complete with an â€Å"I don’t care† attitude as shown by the DJ’s frequent mentions of the company’s tag line: Playing What We Want. Although podcasting may not reconnect traditional radio listeners with their radio roots (such as CBC has done in Canada with Radio One), it may add increased interest on the part of listeners, intent on learning more about new media and music not previously available to them. Some media experts may feel that podcasting is the end of radio as we know it, but rather it should be looked at as new way, method, technology and available to connect intimately with an audience hard to pin down and even harder to communicate with. Works Cited B, Brecht. â€Å"The Radio as an Apparatus of Communication’.† Radiotexte. Ed. Neil Strauss . New York: Semiotext(e), 1993. â€Å"SEARCH: Podcasting.† Google. Google. 30 Nov 2006 . Hammersley, B. â€Å"Audible revolution.† Guardian Unlimited: Technology. 12 Feb 2004. Media Guardian. 30 Nov 2006 . Mann, Charles. â€Å"The Ressurection of Indie Radio.† Wired Magazine 13.03Mar 2005 30 Nov 2005. Priestman, Chris. Web Radio: Production for Internet Streaming. London: Focal Press, 2001. Rose, Frank. â€Å"Battle for the Soul of the MP3 Phone’.† Wired Magazine 13.11Nov 2005 30 Nov 2006. Terdiman, Daniel. â€Å"You, Too, Can Be a Podcaster.† Wired News 31 Dec 2004 30 Nov 2006. Wall, T. â€Å"The Political Economy of Internet Radio.† The Radio Journal 2(2004): 27-44. Van Buskirk, Eliot. â€Å"Introducing the World’s First MP3 Player.† MP3 Insider. 21 Jan 2005. CNET Reviews. 30 Nov 2006 .         

Equality And Inclusion In Health And Social Care Essay

Outcome 1.1 Explain what is meant by Diversity – Understanding that every individual is different, and being able to recognise and individuals unique differences, whether it be age, race, gender etc. Equality – Every person being treated equally and fairly regardless of cultural backgrounds, sexuality, beliefs. Inclusion – Being included without being limited or restricted, and irrespective of differences such as disabilities embracing individuals to make them feel included. Outcome 1.2 Describe ways in which discrimination may deliberately or inadvertently occur in the work setting A person being treated differently or unfairly because they are from a different race or from a different culture. Discrimination inadvertently can happen when a certain group of people feel restricted or limited from something like a general rule that applies to all only being written in English, excluding members from other cultural backgrounds and creating a barrier. Outcome 1.3 Explain how practices that support equality and inclusion reduce the likelihood of discrimination Treating another person as you equal, engaging and including them will have a positive effect and therefore reduce the likelihood of discrimination. Read more: What is meant by inclusion in health and social care  essay Outcome 2.1 Identify which legislation and codes of practice relating to equality, diversity and discrimination apply to own role Equality Act GSCC – The General Care Council Human Rights Act Outcome 2.3 Describe how to challenge discrimination in a way that encourages change Being positive towards co workers and service users, promoting positive behaviour will make other people feel positive and hopefully change their opinions and actions in the future. Outcome 3.1 Identify a range of sources of information, advice and support about diversity Library Internet Colleagues Policies and procedures Work based training Outcome 3.2 Describe how and when to access information, advice and support about diversity, equality and inclusion You can access this information by asking your line manager and also in the policy and procedures, if you feel someone is being treated unfairly the information should be dealt with as soon as possible

A Summary of Amy Tan s “Mother Tongue” Essay

In â€Å"Mother Tongue†, Tan writes about the awareness and discrimination about â€Å"broken English† compared to Standard English. In Tans essay she quotes her mothers’ speech to demonstrate her mothers â€Å"broken English†, it was a very trivial story but the thing that is worth looking at was her mother’s grammar. The quoted parts were filled with grammatical mistakes and the text was quite confusing. In fact, her mother had better command in English than all that was evidently showed in her story. She could read very sophisticated and high level documents without much difficulty. In â€Å"Mother Tongue†, Tan mainly talks about her realization of the existence and effects of the â€Å"broken English† of her family. She takes her mother’s talk that is full of grammatical mistakes and conversation with the stockbroker as examples, which gives us an impression that her mother is not well educated. Yet the truth is, her mother grasps better in English than her speaking ability and can easily read high-level papers and documents. â€Å"Mother Tongue† reflects on the misleading illusion that language can represent one’s education level. Amy’s mother has intelligent thoughts and is just hard to express in understandable words when special situations occur. â€Å"Mother Tongue† is a look into the way some people, look to language as a way as a sign of how educated you are. In views of Tans prompt she gives the readers the impression that her mother is an uneducated Chinese woman who does not comprehend the language. Nevertheless, this was never the effect Tan intended for readers to assume of her mother considering that Amy did not think her mother was ignorant or uneducated because her intelligent thoughts and answers were there. Her mother just could not relay her thoughts into understandable words like the time when talking to the stockbroker.

Vietnam war Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Vietnam war - Essay Example The loss of the money which caused the withdrawal was as a result of poor planning on the part of the military leaders on what areas to hit and the use of magnitude. They hit the wrong area and gave the Vietcongs the advantage in the end. The media also put pressure on the government to withdraw its troops and end the war after receiving tips on the progress of war, the budget and the number of deaths (Johnson 883). This pressure went international and eventually the government gave in and withdrew. Zinn insists and in great detail that the most important factor that led to the withdrawal was the massively organized civil rights movement against the involvement of US in Vietnam and especially in relation to the killings of innocent civilians (Zinn 484). They also protested against the excessive force being used by the US government in Vietnam especially the bombings and mass shootings by the CIA operatives. The other factor was the fact that the young men who had been drafted burnt their draft cards and even refused to show up at the draft office. This reduced immensely the number of drafted soldiers required to go to Vietnam by more than half. The war could not continue without soldiers and since the young men had refused to be drafted, there was no alternative but to end it. The most compelling is that of Zinn. In Johnson’s account, the US had the ability to borrow more money from other places and continue financing the war. This was therefore no major reason to end the war. However in Zinn’s account, the two major reasons provided have significant impact. If the government could not enlist enough soldiers to go to war, they would be unable to fight and hence being in an even worse place. The civil rights movement encompassing both blacks and whites and massive student organizations would jeopardize not only the

Designing an In-Service for Underserved Population about Health Care Research Paper

Designing an In-Service for Underserved Population about Health Care Resources - Research Paper Example Moreover, a curriculum will be designed to organize what the program will address and various stakeholders as well as concerned parties will be involved. The reason why I have decided to handle the drug and substance abuse topic in this in-service program is that majority of the underserved population lacks knowledge about the health care resources about drug and substance abuse provided by the federal and state governments. Such resources include information about drug and substance abuse, rehabilitation facilities and drugs, information about the law monitoring distribution and sale of drugs and chemical substances and the places where they can go for advice on drug and substance abuse. As a result, these kinds of people are not able to access such services when they need them and therefore they become victims of the drug and substance abuse menace. A very high percentage of the people in this underserved population that I have chosen are affected by the drug and substance abuse me nace whether directly or indirectly. I also discovered that among those affected by this menace majority got affected due to lack of necessary and up-to-date information about drugs. I also realized that a good number among these people do not know the health care resources availed for them by various governments. ... Moreover, it could make them to understand where they can get various services that they need in order to improve their conditions. Several organizations oversee the issues relating to drug and substance abuse in this country. These organizations are either national based, state based or community based. A national organization mandated to oversee the activities designed to hand the drug and substance abuse menace is the National Drug Control Policy. This is the organization that is mandated to design and develop the National Drug Control strategy that entails all the activities designed to handle the drugs menace (McCaffrey, 1998). Moreover, each of the American states has a department in its government mandated with a responsibility to oversees alcohol and drug abuse. A good example of such departments is the Missouri Department of mental Health that is a single state agency responsible for overseeing a statewide network of publicly funded substance abuse, treatment and recovery su pport services within the state of Missouri (MDMH, 2011). Moreover, there is also the Substance abuse and Mental Health Services Administration that is the major federal organization mandated to oversee all the issues of drug and substance abuse throughout the United States. This organization works with other state, community and private organization to improve access to quality substance abuse and mental health services (Niles, 2010). It makes sure that all the necessary facilities are put in place to facilitate the fight against drug and substance abuse and to facilitate promotion of mental health. There is a very big controversy surrounding this area of drug and substance abuse. Most people argue that drug, substance abuse is the use of illegal

Comparing and Contrast of the Leadership Styles Research Paper

Comparing and Contrast of the Leadership Styles - Research Paper Example Participative leaders are those who believe in democracy, â€Å"This style involves the leader including one or more employees in the decision making process (determining what to do and how to do it). However, the leader maintains the final decision making authority. Using this style is not a sign of weakness; rather it is a sign of strength that your employees will respect.† (Leadership Styles) Leaders who delegate authority always take a risk but it endears them to their employees because employees want to be a part of the decision making process. This has pros and cons but works out well because employees put in extra when they realize that they are wanted and an important part of the organization. â€Å"Jon Howell in an interview with Sun-News (January 29, 2001: 7) states "A leaders' behavior must match the situation, and the news of his or her followers." And his summary is very appropriate here: Leader effectiveness is determined by what people do, not by some inherent personal characteristic... I'm not saying personal characteristics don't help; they certainly do. But leaders have to adapt their behavioral styles to fit the situations in which they find themselves" (p. 7).   Howell says the good news is most people can learn leader behaviors and learn to recognize situations in which certain behaviors are most important.   Howell and Costley (2001) argue for the match of leader behavior, leader traits and characteristics, follower characteristics, and the situation at hand.   And there are seven leader types, fit for various behavioral processes and situations in my read of their leader theory: 1. Supportive Leaders (those considerate, people oriented leaders). 2. Directive Leaders (fit for repetitive or work spread between sites and for cultures such as Mexico that prefer status well defined. 3. Participative Leaders such as Dwight Eisenhower who could tame the Primadonna generals and politicians of WWII, and by careful listening to many v oices craft an alliance.   4. Reward and punishment leaders (transactional). 5. Charismatic (heroic) leaders 6. Boundary spanning (network) leaders 7. Leaders who build and forge social exchange (also networkers).   And now we have left the obsession with one best style of leadership. There is no universal style. There is as I have suggested, a dimension of behaviors running between Transactional and Transformational. The behavior school to this point is fixated on the transactional. To find transformational we must sail to the Isle of Situation.† (Howell and Costley). The same principles of Howell and Costley are elucidates in the paper. Core leadership behaviors Every behavior pattern has its own pros and cons. But the behavior pattern which works out the best is undoubtedly participative leadership. In this the terms and conditions are made very clear to the employees, any breach of these terms and conditions result in punishment, on the other hand if the employee perfo rms well, he/she is rewarded suitably for his/her work. This is probably the best behavior pattern, simply because everything is made crystal clear to the employees. The harder the employee works more will be his/her chances of getting rewarded. This pattern also has some risks involved like if an employee is punished for some mistake, the employee may leave the organization or

Case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 35

Case study - Essay Example Among those players, the most notable and renowned name was of the Next Step Herbal Health, which was also regarded as one of the fastest establishing companies in the US by Forbes. She decided to accept the invitation of joining the company for a ‘Get to Know Us session’. While she was leaving to join the session, she conducted some internet research about the company owing to which she was able to know that the company and its operational effectiveness in an efficient manner. However, some of the internet materials also depicted the malpractices of the company within their business operations. She received a warm welcome when reached the company. She interacted with the recruiters and enquired about the reality of the articles she read on the internet about the ethical practical practices of the company. She also attended a small event where the CEO of the company described the mission and vision of the business in precise. Subsequently, she was offered a contract by t he management after which she would need to join an orientation program in the Atlanta office of the company. It is apparent that Ramona was offered employment with an attractive contract by one of the top companies of the US. However, there are certain ethical practices and situations that need to be considered by Ramona while signing the contract with the company. Since Ramona was Christian in terms of religion there are also certain spiritual aspects that must be taken into consideration. Notably, as per some of the stanza in the Bible, ethics is an important part to be practiced by individuals towards ensuring their inner satisfaction. As per a particular excerpt from the Bible, â€Å"You shall not steal; you shall not deal falsely; you shall not lie to one another.† The excerpt primarily means that one should not be involved in stealing or appreciating falsely and must not lie to one another. Contextually, it has been noted from the provided case study that the

International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

International Business - Essay Example hift in the policy happened is the question to be discussed in this essay as it will analyze as to why the government withdrawn from intervening in the market and what may have changed over the period of time. In UK, the architects of the free market policies were Margret Thatcher who was largely considered as the Prime Minister with the mandate to reverse the economic decline of UK. The major influence on Margret Thatcher was from Milton Friedman- a Noble Prize winning economist whom she described as the reviver of economics of liberty.(Cornwell,2006). It started with the privatization process initiated basically in order to make institutions more competitive because of the long term chronic problems of the UK economy. The process of privatization was slow and done in phases where the government gradually sold their stakes in the public enterprises to make them function under the private management in order to make them more efficient. (Cook, 2009). The long term failure of fiscal economics as UK was facing strong inflationary pressures. The policy response from Thatcher government was to gradually decrease the State intervention into the affairs of the free market by leaving them on the ir own to float and regulate the market. Further, the initial steps also included banning unionism within the organizations to increase their efficiency and at the same time providing rights to the workers in order to balance the power within the organizations. Another very important measure taken while making a stride towards free markets was the fact the monetary policy was made largely independent. However, it was largely directed at controlling and managing inflationary pressures on the economy. Interest and tax rates were cut besides reducing expenditure on the social security nets in a bid to lessen the influence and intervention of government from the market. As a result of this, UK witnessed a gradual decrease in its inflation and could achieve growth rates which were

How ratio analysis provides a meaningful comparison of a company to Essay

How ratio analysis provides a meaningful comparison of a company to its industry, chief competitors, or to any other well run firm - Essay Example These techniques help to compare a company’s performance with its chief competitors in same industry as well as monitor the company’s progress over time. Accounting ratios is an important tool for financial statement analysis. A ratio is defined as relation between two numbers expressed as fraction or as percentage. When such relationships are derived from the financial statements, they are called accounting ratios (Kim & Ayoun, 2005, p.2). Accounting ratios have immense application in interpretation of financial statements by helping perform both intra-firm and inter-firm comparison. Intra-firm comparison helps to measure the performance of the company on Y-O-Y basis while inter-firm comparison helps to evaluate Company’s performance with its competitors. Ratios can be broadly classified into income statement ratios (derived from income statement), balance sheet ratios (derived from balance sheet) and composite ratios (one item from balance sheet and another from income statement). They help to evaluate the firm’s ability to honor its short term or current obligations. It is an indicator for the measure of working capital management. The firms’ short term obligations include carrying out day to day operations, payments to creditors for purchase of raw materials, payment of daily wages of laborers, outstanding expenses and bills payables, etc. These current liabilities are financed by current assets (Bragg, 2012, p.73). It is the ratio of total long-term debt to total asset. While a low ratio provides security to creditors a high ratio helps the management to trade on equity. Hence it is also called the leverage ratio (Drake, 2008, p.9). It is the ratio of long term debt to shareholders’ fund (Equity shares, retained earnings, preference shares, and fictitious assets). Form the investors’ point of view a

Open and Closed Source Systems Essay Example for Free

Open and Closed Source Systems Essay The GNU General Public License has served a major role in the way people think of programs today. The GNU, or simply GPL is originally written by Richard Stallman of the Free Software Foundation (FSF). The case is, most software’s don’t want you to share or change the program. This means that they are trying to take away freedoms of having the program. What the GNU General Public License is designed to do is the opposite of that because it offers freedom to share and change the software and to make sure it is free for all of its users. This creation caused it to be the most widely used free software license. As of August 2007 the GPL accounted for nearly 65% of the 43,442 free software projects listed on Freshmeat. Some believe that the copyleft provided from the GPL was crucial to Linux’s Success because it gave programmers who contributed to the kernel the assurance that the work done by them would benefit the world and remain free. After the first version of the GPL, more were made that followed. The first GPL was made in 1989. After that, another version was made with similar licenses but there was concern over problems in the GPLv2 so they made another one in June 2007. Preamble The General Public License was designed so that it meant that the people won’t think of a free software as related to its price but more to freedom. What this means is that people can do almost anything to the program including, making copies, giving away copies, selling the program, and either turning the original program into something that is better. What this license includes in its preamble is; each distributer must know that there is no warranty for this free library. With this license, comes great responsibilities for handling this. One example of this would be if you were tried to sell the program that you copied, you will have to tell them all their terms so they know their rights. The protection of a person’s rights is split into two sections; the first is you cope the library then second, you get offered this license which gives you legal permission to copy, distribute, and or modify the library. Terms and Conditions There are many terms and conditions that you have to go by while using this license because if you don’t go by them, there could be real harm. A library is a collection of software functions and or the data prepared so it can link with other application programs. You are only allowed to modify copies of the library if you show that you modified the library, you must make sure that there is no charge to third parties for the work to be licensed and you have to show them their terms to make sure they know their rights. If the license isn’t signed then you are not allowed to modify, copy or sell anything from a library because it’s prohibited by the law unless you have signed the license. If you create any attempts to copy, modify, sublicense, link with or distribute the library without this license, then you are prohibited from ever getting it and the library will be void. GNU Conclusion This idea that was released by Richard Stallman was brilliant in many ways. One major way it was important was it allowed people to sell programs for free and let people try them and not be controlled by companies. Freedom is important not the price of the program.

Indias Society and Culture

Indias Society and Culture Executive Summary The culture of India is among the worlds oldest, reaching back about 5,000 years. Many sources describe it as Sa Prathama Sanskrati Vishvavara — the first and the supreme culture in the world. India is a very diverse country, and different regions have their own distinct cultures. Language, religion, food and the arts are just some of the various aspects of Indian culture. Here is a brief overview of the culture of India. Introduction Major determinants of social and political organization in India today are: Religion, Caste, and Language. There are more job opportunities in the private sector and better chances of upward social mobility now, hence India has begun a quiet social transformation in this area. The government has recognized 18 official languages; Hindi, the national language, is the most widely spoken, although English is a national lingua franca. About 80% of the population is Hindu; India is the home of more than 138 million Muslims, the third largest Muslim population in the world. India’s population also includes Christians, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and Parsis. The Caste System The caste system is based on occupational and socially defined hierarchies. There are 4 castes: 1) Priests (Brahmin), 2) Warriors (Kshatriya), 3) Traders/artisans (Vaishya), and 4) Farmers/laborers (Shudra). These categories are generally understood throughout India. The caste system does not include the tribal people and those outside the caste system formerly known as untouchables†, or dalits. In reality, Indian society is divided into thousands of jatislocal, endogamous groups based on occupationand organized hierarchically according to complex ideas of purity and pollution. Discrimination based on caste is officially illegal, but remains prevalent, especially in rural areas. Government effort, expanding education, land reform and economic opportunity through access to information, communication, transport, and credit are helping to lessen the harshest elements of the caste system. The Hindu Worldview Concept of dharma – following one’s duty; being duty bound Karma – action and consequence (as we sow, so we reap) Samsara – cycle of life Moksha – release from the successive cycles of life, death and rebirth Hindu Weddings Hindu weddings are a sacrament. Generally, they last a few days. They are highly ritualized. Fire is a sacred and central element of the Hindu wedding. Weddings are very festive, with lots of music, dancing, food, sweets, gifts, and include many family traditions. Black or plain white is NEVER worn at a wedding as both are the colors of sorrow, mourning or widowhood. Not all Hindu weddings are ostentatious, noisy, and long. Many factors affect wedding customs: Region Caste Socio-economic standing Education level Urban versus rural Family make-up Workforce Labor force: 487.6 million (2011 estimate) Labor force by occupation: Agriculture: 52% Industry: 14% Services: 34% Unemployment rate: 9.8% (2011 estimate) Classified as a low income country by the World Bank with a GNI (gross national income) of $450. Great inequality in the distribution of wealth: the richest tenth of households hold 33% of wealth, while the poorest tenth only hold 3%. 29% of the population lives below the poverty line; 70% of these people reside in rural areas; 86% of the population lives under $2 per day; 44% lives under $1 per day; 25% of the population does not have enough money to eat adequately. Dos and Donts in India 1) Do drink bottled water only. 2) Dont offer bribes to get any job done. Bribe-taking and bribe-giving are a common practice in India but they are intended to speed up things or win a favor that non-Indians are not entitled to. Plan well in advance. Use consultants or trade and industry associations. If you expect favors, let them come free or not at all. Warn anyone (even in government) who asks you for a bribe that you would report him to the Anti-Corruption Bureau or the nearest police-station. 3) Don’t show amusement at Indian English, accents or choice of words. The fact remains that many Indians speak and write better English than many native English speakers. 4) Do pay attention to the Indian nod. Many Indians are in the habit of shaking their head in the course of conversation or taking instructions. The nod generally means I hear you. Namaste. This is a greeting done with joining of your palms as during prayer. 5) Do say namaste, folding your hands together, as if praying. This is a common greeting well understood across India, in spite of linguistic differences. 6) Don’t shake hands with women if they do not extend their hand out first. Many women may not wish to shake hands when met, so a ‘Namaste’ greeting is appropriate, followed with a Kaise hai? (How are you? in Hindi.) Indian Food Wide regional variation A variety of spices and nuts add delicate flavor to the food Vegetarian food is very common in India There are many types of curries (vindaloo, Madras, etc.) Do not confuse curry with gravy. No beef! (Cows are considered holy in India.) Chicken and lamb/mutton are common meats, as is fish. Indian pickles are served with every meal; they are made with oil, spices and a variety of vegetables (mango, lemon, chilies, and carrots.) Plain yogurt is consumed with almost every meal. Indian Cinema The biggest film producing industry in the world is the Mumbai-based Bollywood. It is also called Hindi Cinema, since many regional language films are also produced in India. Melodrama and romance are common ingredients of Bollywood films. Indian Music India has a history of music that spans millennia. Music serves as spiritual inspiration, cultural expression and pure entertainment. Types of music: Folk – rural, ethnic, regional music Popular – Bollywood and regional cinema music Classical music – two branches: Carnatic) Southern India) and Hindustani (Northern and Central India) Galaxy of Musicians by Raja Ravi Varma depicts Indian women dressed in regional attire playing a variety of musical instruments popular in different parts of the country. Indian Dance In Hindu mythology, dance is believed to have been conceived by Brahma, who inspired the sage Bharata Muni to write the Natya Shastra, a treatise on performing arts, from which a codified practice of dance and drama emerged. The best-known of Hindu deities—Shiva, Kali and Krishna—are typically represented dancing. Shivas cosmic dance, Kalis dance of creation and destruction, and Krishnas dance with the gopikas (cow-herd girls)—Rasa Lila—are popular motifs in Hindu mythology. Conclusion To conclude with, there are different aspects of the Indian culture. Each aspect is practiced by people but not everyone believes in the different aspects. As you can see it is a very traditional culture, everyone has their opinion towards it, positive and negative. Therefore the Indian Culture is a very unique culture and has various practices. Although the youth do not believe in the traditional aspects, the culture will vary with time and will not be traditional anymore because of the modern world. All in all the aspects are frequently practiced but tomorrow’s generation are going to change it.

Argos Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning (STP)

Argos Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning (STP) Introduction The objective of this assignment is to understand Argos segmentation, targeting and positioning in strategic marketing and how Argos uses STP to gain competitive advantage. In strategic marketing STP plays a vital role in the organization or company because it is a marketing strategy for dividing market in segments, targeting customers and making a position for products. (Whaley, A.2010, P12) Competitive Advantage is important for a company because it gives a company advantage over its competitors and gained by offering consumers greater value, either by means of lower prices or by providing greater benefits and services. Argos is a unique retail company in the UK. Its slogan is choice, value and convenience (Argos i, 2010). Argos was founded in 1973 and it owned by GUS PLC. Argos sells general merchandise and other products for the home from 750 stores throughout the UK, republic of Ireland, North Ireland, Wales and Scotland. (HRG PLC Annual i 2010A). Moreover, there are 33,000 employees are working in Argoss stores. Argos serves over 130m customers through stores and takes 26% of sales through the internet. (Argos i, 2010). In 2010, there are 19,300 products registered in Argos latest spring and summer catalogued. (HRG PLC Annual i 2010).Argos majors products are toys, jewellery, sports, electrical goods and leisure equipment and these goods making up50% of its sales mix(scribd i:2010). As the leader in UK for general merchandise retailing, Argos latest revenue is  £1,812.8M in 2010 which is less from 2009 and it sales down 3%. Multi-channel sales grew to 44% of Argos sales in the first half of the year. The internet represented 32% of Argos sales (HRG PLCi: 2010B). Argos is unique amongst its major competitors. Its main competitors are Tesco, Asda, PC World, Homebase and Currys, and online retailer Amazon.co.uk. All competitors have internet presence. However, Tesco recently has been trying to imitate Argos retailing style with its Tesco direct catalogue and in-store shops. (Scribd i, 2010) What is STP? STP stands for Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning. In strategic marketing STP is the second level. In STP; segmentation(S) the market segment deciding which customer to target (T) deciding what messages you want the targets to associate with you; what is called positioning(P).The whole process of dividing the market in different segments, targeting customers and product positioning is known as STP. (Whalley, A. 2010,P12).STP is one of the most important processes in strategic marketing which management should take on both at the start of a new offer creation as well as part of a periodic revision of the collection of offers and strategies by the organization. Taken from Whalley, A. 2010, and P72. 2.1 Segmentation Segmentation is the first step in STP process. In strategic marketing Segmentation can be defined as a process of dividing the total market in different segments for product or service into distinct sub-groups. (Whalley, A. 2010, P72). In segmentation each segment represents a separate target market to be reached with a distinctive marketing mix. Market segment means dividing the market into different subsets of customers with different needs. Segmentation can also be summarized as dividing the market by set of Pre- determined criteria. (Taken from Whalley, A. 2010, P72) Different variables can play a role in purchasing decision of the customers. In segmentation it is important to focus on the customer needs rather than other variables such as geography, demographics, occasion, behaviours etc. Effective segmentation is not easy to achieve, because in the society different groups of people have different choices and needs about products. It can only be achieved when customers share similar of demands. 2.2 Targeting In the STP process, the second step is targeting the market. After the completion of segmentation companies decide which segment they need to target and it depends on the size, area, profit and growth of each segments. Thus, Targeting of market is defined as the identification of market segments that are identified as being the most likely purchasers of a companys product. (Whalley, A 2010:P76) In targeting, a company should target segments in which it has a differential advantage over its competitors. In targeting companies decide to target one or more segments. For that purpose choice about targeted segments should generally depend on the several factors. The first factor in targeting is checking the existing level of the competition and how good it is serving the customers need. The organisation should know about segment, how large it is and how we can expect it to grow and have company strengths as company that will helps customers demand particularly to one group of customers. Companys actual ability of communication with the segment is also an important factor for companies in targeting. (Whalley, A.2010:P76) 2.3 Positioning After segmentation and targeting the next step is positioning in STP process. It refers to the way in which an organization sets itself apart in the market and how its products are perceived by the target market as a whole. (Whalley, A 2010:P77) Product positioning is the process of designing product features. These features are product, place, promotion and distribution. Positioning is about the communication of the overall value of proposition such as that it creates and maintains it clearly to customers. A product position is the place where product occupies in consumers minds. Market position gives a product a clear, unique and desirable place in the minds of target consumers. It is very important for the firm to define market segments, determine the target segments and understand customer needs, expectation and priorities .The study of competitors positioning about services and products are very important for a company, because its essential for a company to make good position f or its customers and communication about products for customer needs. Customers need should be a main priority of an organization. (Whalley, A.2010:P77) Discuss Argoss segmentation, targeting and positioning 3.1 Argoss segmentation As discussed previously, market segmentation means dividing a market into different subsets of customers with different needs. Different variables can play a role in purchasing decision of customers. In Argos demographic approach is used because demography is the study of population and it refers to personal statistics like income, age, gender, nationality, religion, and occupations etc. Argos adopts demographic approach because this approach represent the every member of the society i.e. there are many high and low income people in society, they have different needs about products. Furthermore, people of different ages and choice for men and women also important for a company before dividing the market in different segments. Argoss strategy about market segmentation is to fulfil the need of every customer. It does not matter customer is rich or poor, male or female, educational or uneducated etc. Argos creates well balanced market segment for its target and product. (The Times i, 20 10) 3.2 Argoss Targeting Customers buying habits change with the passage of time. Advancement of the technology changes customer shopping habits because technology makes its access simple for people. Many people nowadays like to use modern technology for shopping and purchasing different products, for that purpose they like to use internet, telephone. Many people like to come into stores to buy goods but the proportions of online buyers are increasing. This behaviour of customers changes companies approach of targeting. Argos thus uses a variety of modern channels to communicate with customers and to provide them with facilities for inquiring about availability of stock, and for making purchases. Argos recognizes that its many customers have different needs and prefer to shop in different ways. Argos targeting approach is getting to success because Argoss customers have already decided what they want to buy before visiting stores. Argos targeting approach make its value reliable for its customers because its targeting strategy aims to target more and more customers and make easy access for its products. Hence, Argos is using modern technology to target its customers because in this busy world ,where people are using advanced technology for communication make essential for Argos to use it for targeting customers. (The Times i, 2010) 3.3 Argos Positioning As discussed previously, product positioning is the process of designing product features. These features are product, place, promotion and distribution. Positioning is the final step in STP process. A strong positioning strategy is very important for company. Argos product positioning is using a differentiated market strategy. Argos low prices create value for its customers and its branded products lines are able to meet the demands of customers. Argos uses low price strategy because it is able to achieve cutting cost through retailing channels and it does not require a large shop space and big staff. Argos positioning strategy about place divides in three formats. These formats are store format, online format and catalogues. In distribution feature, Argos distributes products through Royal mail and its own delivery services. Argos uses advertising tools like internet, TV and indirect advertising through shopping catalogues for the promotion of its products. (Scribd i, 2010) Argos as a truly multi-channel, value orientated general merchandise Retail Company. Its strategy about product positioning is differentiated and formatted. Argos offers highly competitive customers through its positioning features like product, place, distribution and promotion. Infrastructure advantages strategy is to gain infrastructure advantage to increase revenue for this purpose Argos spends capital to improve its stores because strong infrastructure also helpful to create product position in market for customers. Argos positioning about reductions or increased flexibility cost has been achieved while Argos is still maintaining or improving its operational standards. (HRG PLCi: 2010B). Conclusion In conclusion, the STP process always plays a vital role in strategic marketing, because of the division of market into segments, targeting segments and positioning of products. Argos is a unique retailer company in the UK. It has a unique STP strategy policy as a company for dividing market into segments; demographic strategy is used for market dividing because its more suitable than other variables such as geography, occasion, behaviours etc. Argos strategy for targeting customers is flexible because Argos uses a variety of modern channels to communicate with customers and to provide them with facilities for inquiring about availability of stock, and for making purchases. Argos strong product positioning is totally for the benefit of its customers. As a UK retailer company Argos is unique, popular and successful because it is focused around meeting customer needs. Argos has gained competitive advantage on the basis of providing the best value of money for its customers through the best products branding, low prices, place, distribution and promotion. In this assignment, my main objective was to discuss Argos as retailing company and its STP strategy in strategic marketing. Furthermore, its aim was to show how Argos uses STP to gain competitive advantage from rivals by differentiating itself on the basis of providing the best value for money for customers through the most convenient shopping experience.

Corrymeela, a Community of Forgiveness :: Christianity Religion Religious Essays

Corrymeela, a Community of Forgiveness Corrymeela is a dispersed Christian community of reconciliation. There are 180 members, Catholic and Protestant, who commit themselves to search together for the path of peace, as they discover what it means to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. In all our work, Corrymeela seeks to establish a "safe place" where people feel accepted and valued. During a stay at Corrymeela, a person is invited to become part of a "community" that transcends the divisions, which are so powerful in much of life in Northern Ireland. In a secure atmosphere, there is an opportunity to grow in understanding as we listen to one another’s life experiences. We find that "listening" to others, and "telling" our story is a way of growing closer together, and of discovering the vulnerability and humanity of the "other." We find that such an experience can face a person with new choices for their future, as prejudices are uncovered, misunderstandings corrected, and fear is replaced by trust. — Timothy Kinahan, A More Excellent Way: A Vision for Northern Ireland Introduction My deep interest in Northern Ireland is from an unknown source. In part, I know that I was deeply affected by the stories of both frustration and reconciliation that my friend, Jenny, told me after her return from a summer volunteering at the Corrymeela Community. However, Jenny’s parents are from Ireland, her roots are there. Perhaps my heart is there for a reason that will soon be revealed. I am planning on completing my Field Education in Northern Ireland next summer and would like for six of the ten intensive weeks to be spent at the Corrymeela Community near Ballycastle, on the Antrim Coast (see a map of the area, below). I spent four amazing days in Northern Ireland last summer, talking with some of the key players in the ecumenical movement while planning for my Field Education program. I spoke with Trevor Anderson, the Director of Corrymeela at their office in Belfast, I spoke with Johnson McMaster, the Director of the Irish School of Ecumenics who offered to be my men tor next summer. I also spoke with David Stevens, the Secretary for the Irish Council of Churches, and this is only listing a few! The Corrymeela Community that is located on the Antrim Coast is a retreat center which hosts groups and conferences from all over Northern Ireland and the world. Most of the year is spent with different types of groups, including youth, and the summer is spent hosting families who have been affected by the Troubles either financially, by violence, or both.

Playing with the industry leader?s rules is competitive suicide?? If so, why? :: essays research papers

I agree with this statement. When it comes to trying to break into an industry and have a competitive advantage over the rest, the strategy we have to use has to be distinctive. This means we have to come up with a different approach to capture our customers to make them want to use our product rather than product’s from the industry’s leaders. The best competitive position is always to have no competition. To achieve that level, organizations should not be following what the leaders are doing instead they should formulate, implement and deploy a distinctive strategy that changes the rules of the business game in their favor. What wins in business is not in trying to out-muscle competitors, but rather to out-think the competitors by brainpower. For example, there are three major international television networks in the world, CBS, NBC, and ABC. In the last thirty years or so, none of them have managed to get a monopoly of the television industry. However, in the last fifteen years, all three were over-taken by CNN. This is because the three networks were trying to gain competitive advantage by using the same strategies. Only CNN has a distinctive strategy. Instead of standard broadcasting, CNN went cable and satellite. Instead of going with variety programming, CNN went with news. Instead of staying domestic, CNN went global. And because of these very different strategies CNN is one of the major leaders in the television network industry, making about US$8 billion a year. Another similar example would be the airline industry. For the last fifteen years or so, CEOs of many major international airlines openly said how difficult it was to make savings in revenues and profits. Except one airline, whose operation has proven profitable since they start business activities in 1973 - Southwest Airlines of the US. This is more because Southwest is not very conventional in their approach or running an Airline business, Southwest Airlines have a distinctive strategy, Some of their more significant strategies would be using a single aircraft instead of multiple aircraft and forgoing having a reservation system like most major airlines. However even though Southwest’s Strategy is to be as plain and simple without all the frills other major airlines are offering, they are still the major leaders in the Airline Industry This proves that in business; if you are not the leader, never play the game according to the rules that the leader has set.

Barangay Hall Information System Essay

Introduction Nowadays, it is very important to be one step ahead, to be able to cope up with the benefits of technology. Having a computerized system is a big use for the barangay halls for them to lessen the time for a certain operation that if done manually can consume so much time and effort. It can also decrease hassle in workplace and provide accurate and fast result that every barangay hall needs. The proponents have chosen information system entitled â€Å"Barangay Clearance Issuance System† for the distribution of barangay clearance as our target business, in hopes of providing better ways of monitoring records and transactions instead of having them done manually. San Jose’s barangay hall is one of the local government offices in San Miguel Bulacan. They were committed to serve and care the people for them to have a secured and a better way of living. In the nearly past it was only a residential infrastructure given by an old person (citizen of barangay San Jose). Then it w as founded as official barangay hall of San Jose up to date. Significance of the Study This study will help the selected barangay to have a more systematic and modern way of recording and searching records. This part of the study discusses about the importance of creating the system for the benefits of the following: For the Barangay Officials- it will lessen their paper works like manually adding and searching of records. For the Citizen- the system will serve as a primary source of documents for the people to save time and effort and to avoid a long queue. For the future barangay officials – It will reduce paper works in adding and searching of records in accordance to the proponents proposed system. Statement of the Problem The proponents came up with this study in the needs to lessen the manually adding and searching of records in the selected barangay hall. The general objective of this study is to lessen the manual system process of adding and searching of records. Specifically, this study aims to answer the following  question: What are the important features of the developed Barangay Clearance Issuance System? What operational requirements are needed by the system in terms of hardware requirements and software requirements? What process model shall be used in developing the Barangay Clearance Issuance System? How functional is the developed Barangay Clearance Issuance System in terms of the following software evaluation criteria; reliability, efficiency, accuracy, user friendliness; and security? Scope and Delimitation The proposed system will handle the adding, searching, viewing, and updating of the records in the selected barangay hall. A faster process of the said matters will be recognized until this system is implemented most importantly the system will store the data for the future use. The proposed system can perform such as: a) Maintenance of records in connection with the barangay clearance. b) Printing of the said document (barangay clearance). c) Printing of criminal records Concerning records that are not connected to the system is its limitations. The Figure 1 shows the capability of the admin and the end user into the system. Whereas the admin has the entire access to the system while the end user is capable of viewing and searching records only. Conceptual Framework The researchers aim to describe how the Information System can help in barangay hall. Consequently, this section describes the concept of the proposed information system to improve barangay hall and this starts with the citizen/complainant as an input. The Figure 2 shows the flow of the system and how it will work and to help the barangay to have a more systematic way of doing their work. Also it shows the input, process and output of the system throughout the whole procedure. Where the person or citizen will be ask by the secretary or the  user who is a legal officer of the barangay to know if he or she has a bad record. After that the secretary or the user will check the system’s list of records if the person has a clear or bad record in the barangay. If the person has a clear record, no violations committed, and no complaints from the citizens of barangay, the secretary or the user will release the barangay clearance. And if the person has a bad record the secretary or user will not release barangay clearance. In the other hand the complainant can request to file a criminal case to the secretary in the help of system. Definition of terms Database – a structured set of data held in a computer, especially one that is accessible in various ways. Database Management – storage that handles the storage, retrieval, and updating of data in a computer system. Graphic User Interface – is a type of interface that allows users to interact with electronic devices through graphical icons. Hardware – the machines, wiring, and other physical components of a computer or other electronic system. Information System- an integrated set of components for collecting, storing, processing, and communicating information. Microsoft SQL Server – is a relational database management system developed by Microsoft. Software – the programs and other operating information used by a computer. Systematic – done, acting according to a fixed plan or system; methodical. CHAPTER II Review of Related Literature and Studies This chapter presents related literature and writing of recognized experts, both of which have significant bearing or relation to the study. It also discusses the associated methods and researches that was read and reviewed which helped the researchers to have a better understanding and to find some important information that is connected with this study. In the process of system development, literature reviews conducted to theory, methods and technologies associated with systems that have been developed. Background research on the organization and comparative studies of existing systems were also done to understand more the requirements before the system was develop. Barangay Inventory System With our fast-paced developing society, many of our institutions optimize to perform their procedures in a computerized manner. They consider this as a great reliable process to lean on. They believe that this method will help them catch-up with this quick changing situations that they encounter each day. However, it is hard to imagine that many of us still stick to the manual method knowing that computerized system is just there waiting for them to take advantage of. There are several reasons that are forcing them to be stuck with to this traditional system. One of these is illiteracy; no one in this world is unable to understand and adapt to the computerized system if it will be properly introduced and taught. Another one is being doubtful with the system; they believe that manual system can perform less error than an automated system. But as the years goes by, a number of certain works have grown indicating that the manual method is not practical and efficient anymore. Nowadays, people have become more conscious with their time and they find essential ways on how they can do such work in less time or how they can do their number of works at the same time. This study aimed at developing a computerized system for a barangay that still practices a traditional way of creating a Barangay Clearance and management of database. We will do this by incorporating the technology of using camera and stylus pen for creating a Barangay Clearance. We will also use the computer to properly manage their files. By using our system, their barangay employees can have fast, more practical and efficient way of doing their tasks (HazelJane, 2012) Many people believe that manual method can perform less error than the automated one. But as years goes by, technology become more developed. Today, the computerized system is more applicable than the manual one because it can get a more accurate data and will lessen the time of work. Barangay Record System Barangay is the small administrative division in the Philippines and is the native Filipino term for a village or district. Barangay are further subdivided into smaller areas called Puroks (English: Zone). A barangay is led and governed by its barangay officials. It is composed of a Punong Barangay or Barangay Captain/Chairman, seven (7) Barangay Councilors or  Barangay Kagawad and a SangguniaangKabataan Chairman. Together with this is the Barangay Secretary and a residing midwife or a doctor that manages and supervise the barangay health center. The barangay is in charge of keeping track of the records of resident in the place. These records are important for different purposes that the barangay is being used. The barangay has the manual based process for all the services it gives to its constituents. They manually handle files and information they get. For instances, in getting the barangay clearance, they issue a receipt form to the resident requesting the clearance. Same through with the storing of the files, they used folders to store the files. The organization experienced hard and long procedure in accessing the records they have when it is needed and the redundancy of the records were not strictly observed. The proponents proposed a computerized barangay information system that will help the barangay as well as the workers and the people of the place. The proposed system will reduced the hard and long-time procedure of accessing files and records they keep and store. The system will also be the census like system of the barangay for all of its constituents and new people to live in the place. The system will be effective in maintaining, searching and storing of records of all resident in the barangay. This will help the worker for having an easy time on accessing files and records they need (Elmer, 2013) Record System is helpful to the barangay in storing and keeping records or files easily. By the help of the system, they can search easily the record of a particular person. And they can avoid the redundancy of records. E-Blotter System The e-blotter system facilitates fast, easy, and paperless entering of crime information using the computer machine that is linked into one station to another up to the higher headquarters via internet connections. The e-blotter is designed as a stand-alone system which will be installed in all police stations as a means of reporting and monitoring all crime incidents that transpired within their respective areas as well as the results and records of the investigation. The system will allow enhancement in the course of crime prevention, detection, and solution as it enables easy access of data needed for an immediate action from the police officials. Crime investigators and personnel will instantly access crime reports and daily updates of what is happening in the ground, particularly in every  police station which is vital in mapping out strategies for quick response and crime prevention through internet using e-blotter system. The system will allow integration of crime reports for and accurate and reliable documentation which is needed for crime investigation and solution. The e-blotter system will render better police service through an improved and enhanced crime incident reporting system with the use of modern technology (Yhatskii, 2013) The e-blotter is a big help to monitor all crime incidents happened in the barangay. It will also help the secretary to know easily if a person has a crime records before issuing the barangay clearance. Residential Profiling and Recordkeeping System Through the years, the term web-based recordkeeping has blown up to encompass many aspect of recording the file of every resident, thus, the term become more recognizable. A general term that describes recordkeeping system is that collects, organizes, and categorizes records, facilitating their preservation, retrieval, use, and disposition. Software is developed to reduce the time consumed in a particular task to be accomplished with a high standard and accurate output or results. Web based applications are the ultimate way to take advantage of today’s technology to enhance organizations or community more productivity and efficiency. Web based application gives you an opportunity to access your business information from anywhere in the world at any time. It offers cross platform compatibility that is more manageable, highly deployable, give secure live data. It also facilitates to save time and money and improve the interactivity with the client. The main purpose of the study is to explore the development in making a web-based system. Technically, the term Web-Based system refers to those applications or services that the client/resident on a server that is accessible using a Web browser and is therefore accessible from anywhere in the world via the Web. Web-based system is used to secure the records of the residents that only the Barangay Captain and his/her Secretary are the only entities can access the record. Viewing and surfing the sites are the only role that the residents can do. (Boddie, 2013) The system can help to make the records or files more secure. Also, it is easy for them to update and access the records. And lastly, it is easily for them to monitor all of the barangay records. Barangay Information System This participatory action-research followed the reflection-input-action-reflection process in allowing barangays to evolve their own information system. Benchmark study, secondary data use, key informants interview and observations were the key data gathering techniques. Data analysis was basically descriptive. This project was implemented in nine barangays of Munoz, Nueva Ecija. Majority of the respondents perceived their barangay hall as very useful in terms of serving as venue for meetings and as source of vital information about the barangay and its people. However, they felt that the information is inadequate as basis for planning and in responding to information requests from local government offices. The project also described and documented the Barangay Information System (BIS) implementation process of the nine barangays. It covered the activities that the barangays did in implementing their BIS. There were commonalities among the barangays in following a basic implementation process from orientation meeting in the barangay to data storage and updating. However, there were also observed peculiarities on data gathering techniques and logistics wherein some barangay officials voluntarily used their own money for supplies and materials and even provided snacks for BIS team members during data gathering, data posting/tabulation and data presentation so the activities will not be delayed (Almario, 2012) This will improve the efficiency of filing reports and complaints in the barangay level. Storing barangay information in a central database allows for easy storing and updating of records. Retrieval of records will also be faster, translating to faster transaction time. With the records readily available in the server, this will allow concerned government agencies to gather data for planning and development. Furthermore, automation reduces the use of paper. Barangay File Management System Palayan City Local Government Unit (LGU) has long been provided all of its barangays at least a computer unit to upgrade the system of operation to a much enhanced way. That is, through computer technology. That was almost exactly four years ago. But up to now, those computers had not been used to  their fullest capabilities. Barangay offices still rely on manual labor not on the machines as their frontline of service and operations. Some things are neglected. One, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) is not followed. Anyone can have his clearance signed or business permit released even if the authorized person to approve it, for example the Barangay Captain, is not present. The office has at least signed blank clearances and/or permits in this case. Thus, the reliability of such can be questioned. Two, it’s because all of the facts and information on the barangay is kept on papers, there should-be manifestation of the maximized usage of computer is not attained and therefore causes the slow retrieval of information and transactions. And lastly, hard copies of the files, transactions held and other matters require a large file cabinet to hold them which in many case, is a case of an unorganized file management system (wonderworldblog, 2005) The computerized system helps the authorized person in terms of managing the file. Because there are many information and records that they need to organize and secure, the computer machines has its capability of saving large file and providing ways on how to secure the files. CHAPTER III Methodology of the Study This chapter presents the methods and techniques used in the research for the development of Barangay Clearance Issuance System’s target clientele, population and sample, data gathering, instrument of the study, system’s development model used and criteria for system evaluation for this study are given importance in this chapter. Methods and Techniques of the Study The researchers used the Descriptive Research Method wherein the study focused on gathering of data. Based from (James P. Key, 1997) Oklahoma State University, he describes Descriptive research is used to obtain information concerning the current status of the phenomena to describe â€Å"what exists† with respect to variables or conditions in a situation. The methods involved range from the survey which describes the status quo, the correlation study which investigates the relationship between variables, to developmental  studies which seek to determine changes over time. The purpose of using the descriptive research method is to acquire accurate, factual, systematic data that can provide you with an actual picture of the data set that you are reviewing. This method illustrates a survey approach to the respondents from the barangay staffs, complainant and as well as the people in the barangay community. The proposed barangay information system will be beneficial because it will help the people to acquire the information their needed. Data gathering is very important in the study because it serves as a basis and pattern in making the system. Target clientele The target user of this study is the secretary, who will monitor the system and assists the citizens who will request a barangay clearance. The Barangay Clearance Issuance System will be a great help to the secretary to access the records easily. Population and Sample These respondents were asked by the researchers. The population of respondent came from barangay captain and other barangay officials, secretary and also the citizen of the barangay and the respondent will answer the questionnaires to determine the overall performance of the system. Data Gathering Procedures These are the things used for gathering information about the proposed study, the basis for making decisions and evaluations are the collected data and record. Interview – This is where the proponents ask a question and getting the information from the interviewee using direct communication. Questionnaire – It is a series of different question that will be given to the individual who have knowledge of the study, and used to get the information from the respondent and their opinions. Evaluation Form – It is an instrument used to estimate the research study. The following criteria were given to evaluate the developed system: (a) reliability; (b) efficiency; (c) accuracy; (d) user friendliness; and (e) security. Instrument Used in the Study The researchers used questionnaire in dealing this study. A research instrument used to collect data may be created by the researcher or based on an existing instrument. If the instrument is researcher created, the process used to select the questions should be described and justified and it contains indicators that asses of the overall performance of the system. System Development Model Used The System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) for the system development will be used. According to Taylor (2004), the project life cycle encompasses all the activities of the project, while the systems development life cycle focuses on realizing the product requirements. SDLC is used during the development of an IT project; it describes the different stages involved in the project from the drawing board, through the completion of the project. A number of system development life cycle models have been created: waterfall, fountain, and spiral build and fix, rapid prototyping, incremental, and synchronize-stabilize. The oldest of these, and the best known, is the waterfall: a sequence of stages in which the output of each stage becomes the input for the next. These stages can be characterized and divided up in different ways, including planning, system analysis, system design, development, testing, implementation and maintenance. Planning – During the planning phase, the objective of the project is determined and the requirements to produce the product are considered. An estimate of resources, such as personnel and costs, is prepared, along with a concept for the new product. All of the information is analyzed to see if there is an alternative solution to creating a new product. If there is no other viable alternative, the information is assembled into a project plan and presented to management for approval. System Analysis – During the analysis stage the project team determines the end-user requirements. Often this is done with the assistance of client focus groups, which provide an explanation of their needs and what their expectations are for the finished product and how it will perform. The project team documents all of the user requirements and gets a sign-off from  the client and management to move forward with system design. System Design – The design phase is the â€Å"architectural† phase of system design. The flow of data processing is developed into charts, and the project team determines the most logical design and structure for data flow and storage. For the user interface, the project team designs mock-up screen layouts that the developers use to write the code for the actual interface. Development – During the development phase developers execute the plans laid out in the design phase. The developers design the database, generate the code for the data flow process and design the actual user interface screens. During the development phase, test data is prepared and processed as many times as necessary to refine the code. Testing – During the testing phase all aspects of the system are tested for functionality and performance. The system is tested for integration with other products as well as any previous versions with which it needs to communicate. Essentially, the key elements of the testing phase are to verify that the system contains all the end user requirements laid out in the analysis phase, that all the functions are accurately processing data, that the new system works with all other systems or prior systems, and that the new system meets the quality standards of the company and the customers. Implementation – During this phase, the new or enhanced system is installed in the production environment, users are trained, data is converted (as needed), the system is turned over to the sponsor, and business processes are evaluated. This phase includes efforts required to implement, resolve system problems identified during the implementation process, and plan for sustainment. Maintenance – During the maintenance stage, the system is assessed to ensure it does not become obsolete. This is also where changes are made to initial software. It involves continuous evaluation of the system in terms of its performance. Data Gathering and Statistical Treatment After developing the system the information that are gathered, analyzed and tabulated will determine the level of perception of the overall performance of the system, descriptive statistical tools that employed such as weighted mean to determine the perception of respondents on Barangay Clearance Issuance System. Construction Procedures The researchers conducted a survey from the staffs of the barangay and the people in the barangay community, the objectives of this survey are; to know if this study will be a big help for them for the enhancement purposes and it will be easier to release the barangay clearance. The respondents will be given enough time to answer the survey forms that will help the researchers to gather some data for this study. The researchers constructed the survey form having ten (10) questions for them to answer. The procedures in gathering data were presented as follows: 1. The researchers submitted the authorization letter to the administration office for the approval in conducting the survey to the chosen respondents which is related to the present study. 2. The population or the respondents in this study were chosen exactly. Each respondent came from the administration, staffs, and people in the barangay. The total number of the involved persons in this study is 5 (five). 3. After submitting the letter and choosing the respondents, the questionnaires were constructed and distributed on the selected respondents. The researchers gave enough time to answer the survey form. The respondents were supervised by the researchers for further clarification about the survey form. 4. After conducting the survey, the researchers collected the survey form from the respondents to review and verify the answers to processed and tabulate the results of the form, to know if the objectives of this study were meet.

Mananaging finance

This report will concentrate on the performance of the two aviation companies, Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Ltd. and Singapore-based Singapore Airlines. The report will try to help the potential investor in the Asian airline industry to assess the prospects of both companies and their riskiness in regard to each other and the industry as a whole as well as the returns both companies have to offer to compensate for the risk of their financial position. 1. Profitability, growth, return on investment Profitability of the company is indicated by the return on equity ratio that shows the dollar return on each dollar of investment: Return on equity (ROE) = net income/ stockholders’ equity Cathay has a ROE of 1,604/ 31,052 = 5.16% Singapore Airlines’ ROE is 849.3/ 11,455.1 = 7.4% SA provides a better return on equity than Cathay, although the decrease in the annual income at Singapore Airlines in 2003 from 2002 represents a threat to its future earnings and return on equity while Cathay’s results demonstrate improved performance. Return on assets demonstrates how many dollars of income were generated by each dollar of investment and is calculated in the following way: Return on assets = net income/ total assets For Cathay Pacific Ltd. this figure is 1,604/ (54,686 + 20,351) = 1,604 / 75,037 = 2.14% For Singapore Airlines, return on assets is at 849.3/ 16,558.4 = 5.13% Thus Singapore Airlines is more efficient in using its assets and offers a better return on the funds tied up in assets. Another profitability measure is the operating margin that expresses operating profit as a percentage of the revenue. For Singapore Airlines, the operating margin is 680.4/ 9,761.9 = 6.97% For Cathay Pacific Ltd., this ratio is 285/ 2,393=11.9% As for growth, SIA’s revenue dropped in the 2003-2004 fiscal year to $9,761.9 million from $10,515.0 million, which represents a 7.7% decrease in revenue. The company executives explain this plunge with the effects of the SARS outbreak in the Asian region that had a devastating impact in the airline industry. Cathay’ revenue has as well shown a 11.9% decrease in revenue to $3,792 million from $4,242 million. The drop in revenue was reflected in the net income. At Cathay Pacific Ltd., net income was $167 million as opposed to $511 the year before which is a drop of 67.3%. The income dropped as the company was unable to drastically reduce its operating expenses or finance charges in the light of lower revenue. At Singapore Airlines, net income was down 20.2 % at   $849.3 million as compared to $1,064.8 million for 2002-2003 fiscal year. 2. Current financial position, liquidity, both long and short term, sources of finance The liquidity of the company is most often assessed in terms of the current ratio: Current ratio = current assets / current liabilities For Cathay Pacific Ltd. current ratio = 20,351/ 14,520 = 1.4 For Singapore Airlines, current ratio = 3,121.9/ 3,401.6 = 0.92 Usually companies are expected to have a current ratio that is no higher than 2.0, otherwise the company is believed to be in financial trouble. However, due to advances in information technology has enabled a lot of companies to minimize the need to hold cash, inventories and other liquid assets. As a result, a lot of successful companies are content to keep their current ratios lower than 1.0. This allows us to conclude that although Cathay seems to be in a better position in terms of short-term liquidity, SIA’a lower ratio does necessarily signify trouble. Another useful measure is the quick ratio that indicates how well a firm can satisfy existing short-term obligations with assets that can be converted into cash without difficulty and is computed as follows: Quick ratio = (cash + securities + receivables) / current liabilities Cathay Pacific Ltd. has a quick ratio of (15,200 + 4,573)/ 14,520 = 1.36 SA’ s quick ratio equals (0.4 + 130.2 + 1,518.5)/ 3,401.6 = 0.48 Again, based on current ratio, Cathay is much more liquid than Singapore Airlines as it has more assets that can be readily turned into cash. Long-term liquidity of the firm is evaluated using the debt ratio that specifies the overall ability of the company to repay its debts: Debt ratio = Total liabilities/ total assets According to the general rule of thumb, this ratio should not exceed 50%. For Cathay, the debt ratio is (29,361 + 14,520) /   (54,686 + 20,351) = 58.9% For Singapore Airlines, the debt ratio amounts to (446.7 + 2,175.3 + 2,207.2)/ 16,558.4 = 29.16% These calculations make it apparent that although Singapore Airlines is less liquid than Cathay Pacific Ltd., the Singaporean company has less long-term obligations and thus is less risky for the investor. Thus, Cathay relies primarily on debt to finance its operations, while Singapore Airlines is predominantly equity-financed. 3) Changes to the organizations and their effect At Singapore Airlines, a more streamlined organizational structure was introduced at the beginning of the financial year. Under the new structure, sixe senior executives including those heading Services and Operations, Marketing, Corporate Services, Finance, Human Resources and Planning will report directly to the CEO of the company. Hopefully, this simplified structure will make possible a speedier implementation of decisions. Cathay Pacific Ltd. basically retained the same corporate structure in the fiscal year analyzed. 4) The status of the companies in the financial markets and relative to their industry sector. In the aviation industry where both companies belong, the average market cap, according to Yahoo! Finance, is $895.52 million. Both Cathay with about $5.96 billion and SIA with $7.86 significantly exceed this number. On the other hand, revenue growth in the industry has been 12.8% on the average of late as opposed to the drop in the revenue of both airlines. As for profitability, the average operating margin for the airline industry is 6.81% compared to 6.97% at SIA. Cathay with 11.9% is well ahead of the market. The average return on equity in the aviation sector is 8.3% as compared to Cathay 5.16%, Singapore Airlines 7.4%. 5) Past performance and projected future trends Cathay Pacific Ltd. Cathay Pacific Ltd. is Hong Kong’s largest air carrier accounting for a third of all passenger flights through Hong Kong. Cathay owns a minority stake in its competitor Dragonair that holds another tenth of the market. Recently Cathay entered a contract with Air China that it will buy a 9.9% stake in the Air China’s initial public offering. The partnership will allow joint marketing and sales activities, cooperation in engineering, ground handling, purchasing, security as well as better coordination of the two companies’ schedules. This arrangement will allow Cathay to optimize its cost structure. The cooperation with Air China offers a strategic advantage as it provides improved access to Beijing Capital international Airport, a major hub in inland China. China is one of the world’s fastest growing regional aviation markets and the one coveted by many carriers. Competition was until recently restricted by the limitations on the number of flights performed by foreign carriers imposed by the Chinese government. Cathay and Hong Kong have pressured Chinese authorities to allow more flights between Hong Kong and mainland China. Cathay management has been trying to get access to passenger flights between Hong Kong and Shanghai sooner than the agreed date of October 2006 when a second Hong Kong airline will be allowed to start serving Shanghai with passenger flights. Liberalization of these restrictions could boost Cathay’s revenue dramatically since this route is very lucrative because of heavy business travel. In 2003 Cathay resumed air services in mainland China after a 1-year absence from the market. Here it faces competition from its former partner Dragonair. Now it plans to make its three-time -a-week flights to Beijing daily in December, add even more Beijing flights next year and launch passenger services to Xiamen and cargo services to Shanghai. Regular air companies like Cathay and Dragonair now face tougher competition from budget carriers Air Asia from Malaysia and Virgin Blue of Australia forcing the veterans of the market to cut their costs. Earlier Cathay representatives admitted that the prices are somewhat higher in this market than in others but attributed this to the difference in exchange rates and other long-term factors. The tendency towards more open skies pursued by Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia will draw more passengers through their airports but can damage the market share and financial performance of Hong Kong airlines including Cathay. Asian governments are slowly dismantling obstacles on the way of foreign air carriers and can be expected to continue with this policy. This could improve Cathay’s prospects in mainland China but sharpen competition in Hong Kong itself. However, the epidemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome has attracted the public’s attention to the benefit of having a local air carrier since Cathay kept flying at the time when foreign airlines suspended their operations. Overall, since Cathay is in the business of air cargo travel, it can be reasonably assumed to profit from the world’s economic recovery projected to lead to above-average growth in the global airfreight market, according to a Lufthansa report (2004). Lufthansa experts base their assessment of tonnage increase of 5.9% in international air cargo market in 2004 on expectations of the boom in the Asian market and gradual recovery in North America. Singapore Airlines Singapore Airlines is also in the business of air transportation, engineering, airport terminal and pilot training. Its operations cover Asia, Europe, North and South America, South West Pacific and Africa. Due to this global focus, the company is also expected to benefit from the boom in the Asian market. Unlike Cathay, the diversity of the routes makes it easier for Singapore Airlines to balance its risks that can occur because of an economic downturn in one of the markets. Singapore Airlines is primarily focused in its business on the Asian business as it is the largest carrier in terms of market capitalization with $7.86 billion in market cap as compared with Cathay Pacific Ltd. with $5.96 billion. Singapore Airlines has posted strong second quarter results that beat analysts’ expectations. The reason behind strong growth is increase in travel demand. Singapore Airlines is listed on the first London Stock Exchange office in Asia, and on the first New York Stock Exchange office in Hong Kong along with 15 other Chinese companies. This development can contribute to greater transparency of their accounting procedures and lend credibility to their financial information, which in turn can help them bring down their cost of borrowing and attract more investors’ money. There are a lot of European investment funds waiting to be put into the thriving Chinese economy. Investors are attracted by the huge potential of the Chinese outbound market that has already surpassed Japan as the top location in the Asia Pacific outbound ranking. After surviving an epidemic of SARS, the market is forecast by many analysts to return to very strong growth in 2004-2005. China outbound trip volume has increased about five times in the past decade. In 2002 the annual volume was 16.6 million outbound departures as compared to 3.7 in 1993. The market is predicted to show double-digit annual increases if only the outbreak of SARS is not repeated. Singapore Airlines is fully positioned to take advantage of this trend as it is one of the leading carriers in the Asian-Pacific region, so a dramatic rise in revenue can be expected. According to the corporate news, the company is making efforts at slashing its costs. On November 23, it announced the plan to outsource jobs in uplift flight coupon processing and some aspects of interline billings, making 66 jobs in the Finance Division. This effort could help raise the company’s efficiency and improve the bottom line in the long run. The most important challenge for the airline industry is the rising fuel costs. Singapore Airlines admitted that higher fuel costs hold their halfyear net profit to $616 million. A lot for the airlines will depend on the evolution of the world oil prices. Further uncertainties surrounding the operation of the pipeline in Iraq or disruptions in Russia caused by the Yukos legal proceedings could drive up the oil price further up, negatively affecting Singapore Airlines’ net income. According to the company’s calculations, that a one-dollar-per-barrel increase in the oil price amounts to the additional $ 14 million fuel spending for Singapore Airlines. Another worry for the management of the airline is the advent of low-cost carriers that puts increasing pressure on the company’s cost structure. All Asian carriers should hope that an epidemic of SARS will not be repeated as it had a devastating effect on the revenue of Singapore Airlines and other companies. Works cited Beveridge, Dick (October 20, 2004), Cathay Pacific Buys into Air China, goldsea.com/Asiagate/410/21cathay.html Bradsher, Keith (October 22, 2004), A Struggle over Air Routes in East Asia, http://www.nytimes.com/2004/10/22/business/worldbusiness/22aviation.html?ex=1184817600&en=477bd65aaf1258d7&ei=5035&partner=MARKETWATCH Hong Kong, China Strike New Aviation Deal (Associated Press, September 8, 2004) Lufthansa Cargo forecasts swift recovery of the global airfreight market, http://www.lufthansa-cargo.de/content.jsp?path=0,1,14871,15152,15452,16898 Niem, Andrea (2004), London Stock Exchange Aims to Lure Chinese, Companies, http://www.axcessnews.com/business_110304b.shtml World Travel Trends, 2003-2004, WTMGlobal Travel Report Annual reports: Cathay 2003 Annual Report http://www.cathaypacific.com/intl/aboutus/investor/0,,31343,00.html Singapore 2003/2004 Annual Report http://www.singaporeair.com/saa/app/saa?hidHeaderAction=onHeaderMenuClick&hidTopicArea=AnnualReport ¤tSite=global         

Porter Airlines Swot Analysis Essay

TCAA (Billy Bishop City Airport) – The location of this airport, combined with the TCAA/Porter strategic partnership offered significant advantages to Porter. Owning airport infrastructure allowed Porter to better handle operational coast and better control the customer experience. Fleet – Only using a single aircraft (Bombardier Q400 with 35%) resulted in cost savings in maintenance, training, employee pay rate and airport fees. Amenities – In flight and airport value-added services fortify Porter’s brand help attract target market. Weakness Brand Awareness in America – Porter’s international strength lies in Canadian customers flying to the U.S. It is much more costly to attract American passengers heading to Canada. Developing awareness in the U.S. could be very costly. No U.S. customs pre-clearance – passengers must pass through customs upon arrival. This can cause delays and inconvenience to customers. Opportunities Customer Loyalty – The highly flexible fare structure Porter offers to customers is very appealing to business travelers who need to travel on short notice and often rearrange their travel plans. Porter also offers the VIPorter customer reward program. Free travel is very appealing to frequent travelers. Corporate Focus – Combine with large companies whose employees travel frequently. Offer these companies a reduced price and high frequency of flights based on certain popular business routes. Threats Competition – Air Canada has sufficient market share to attempt to undercut Porter and push it out of the market by using very low prices and frequent –flyer programs much like they did against City Express in the early 1990’s. Generating Capital – Growth requires enormous capital in the Airline industry. As a private company, Porter’s financial performance is unknown. This could make it very difficult to raise capital without releasing important performance information. Air Canada Law Suit – A federal court is to rule on whether or not Jazz was pushed off of the Island Unfairly. If Jazz is permitted to return to the island they could compete directly with Porter and will likely undercut Porter as they did with City Express.

Implication and conclusion week 7 Essay

What are the most important concepts you have learned this week? I have learned that leadership is essentially the same among countries. The leadership styles of minorities, men and woman remain consistent. What would you recommend to your management/leadership based on these concepts? Last week, I learned that one must be a leader and a manager in order to be effective. A manager must have strong leadership skills in order to motivate his or her group. Likewise, a leader needs to have a rapport with employees, but needs to focus on accomplishing the company’s goals. How will these concepts impact you personally and professionally? In order for leaders to be successful, they need to have good communication skills and they must be able to demonstrate responsibility. A good leader takes the time to make a plan, be consistent in carrying it out, and can motivate his or her employees to follow it. My study of the readings has taught me that my own life experiences have helped me to develop strategies that I use at work to be a strong, effective, charismatic leader. What is the value-added from these concepts, or what differences can these concepts make to your organization? As in previous weeks, the value-added from these concepts are to reduce misunderstandings, mistakes, and miscomputation while increasing respect, good communication, and the motivation of every person. One must understand one’s own leadership characteristics in order to determine whether or not an individual is a natural leader. Describe important references used this week. List the references in proper APA style. Argyris, C. (1976) Increasing Leadership Effectiveness, Wiley, New York, House, R. J. (2004) Culture, Leadership, and Organizations: The GLOBE Study of 62 Societies, SAGE Publications, Thousand Oaks â€Å"In what ways could leadership training and education be improved? † SMeech. net – Tech Ed and Web Design Retrieved on November 5, 2006 from, http://www. smeech. net/2006/03/in-what-ways-could-leadership-training. htm Mercurious, N. (2006, March). Leadership: become a digital-age thinker. Retrieved on November 4, 2006 from, Techlearning. com Newton, L, (2006) Leaders are Born, Not Made Retrieved on November 4, 2006 from, http://www. imakenews. com/masswit/e_article000115018. cfm Torbert, W. (2004) Action Inquiry: the Secret of Timely and Transforming Leadership, San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler Publishers. Warneka, T. (2006). Leading People the Black Belt Way: Conquering the Five Core Problems Facing Leaders Today. Asogomi Publications Intl. Cleveland, Ohio.

Week 5 Forum Bay of Pigs Failure Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Week 5 Forum Bay of Pigs Failure - Assignment Example The location of the invasion was also very inappropriate considering the lack of an escape route at Bay of Pigs. The location had been chosen quite hurriedly without a consideration of many factors. It proved very hard for the attackers to escape and engage the government in guerrilla warfare. President Kennedy was much worried about an obvious involvement of America in the operation and therefore supplied the operation with only sixteen obsolete aircraft. However, this was done without a consideration of the Cuban fleet. Another major mistake arose when against the advice of the military officials the President reduced the initial fleet from sixteen to eight. That decision was an indication that the whole operation was headed for failure. At the planning stage, the Secretary of Defense actually admitted that the plan was bound to fail considering the haphazard manner in which the operations were conducted. It was much important to totally focus on destroying the Cuban air force at the outset of the operation. However, this was impossible considering the limited attacking fleet1. Part of the failure of the invasion is attributed to the poor coordination between intelligence and operations. Indeed, it is seen that Kennedy did not have much knowledge on intelligence related affairs and did not therefore regard it as essential. For the success of such an operation, much information should have been gathered on the Cuban regime. Information on the training of the solders, demography and the defense ability of the military should have been gathered effectively. It was important to have a close association between intelligence and operations so as to provide the necessary preparation and preparedness for the invasion. Indeed, the fear of exposure was the major concern of America in the whole operation. In this case, everything was done with a need to ensure that such exposure was not possible. However, this was also the major cause of failure in the