Monday, December 23, 2019

Plant Based Nutrition Power And The Planet ! - 1642 Words

Plant-Based Nutrition: Power to the People! Power to the Planet! Dr. Michael Greger provides an eye-opening statistic regarding the link between health and nutrition when he states that, â€Å"The #1 killer in the US – heart disease – was found to be almost nonexistent in populations with diets centered around whole plant foods† (â€Å"Greger†). Even though the idea that a plant-based diet is the best option for many reasons, many groups still passionately contest it. However, recent research in nutritional and environmental science has established that a more plant-based, or vegetarian, lifestyle is the way society needs to go. Webster’s New World Dictionary defines vegetarian as, â€Å"one who eats no meat† (715). Society is showing a trend towards more people adopting plant-based eating. This trend can be seen playing out in the popular media via celebrities who openly discuss their vegetarian lifestyle choices and also in popular televisi on shows whose characters talk about being vegetarian in the dialogue of show. In addition to evidence regarding the nutritional benefits of a more plant-based style of eating, scientists are discovering more information that reveals the deleterious effects of livestock rearing on the environment. In fact, the United Nations News Service states that, â€Å"Cattle-rearing generates more global warming greenhouse gases, as measured in CO2 equivalent, than transportation, and smarter production methods† (â€Å"Rearing†). It is a long established fact that aShow MoreRelatedThe Vegetarian Diet is Healthy and Saves the Planet Essay1441 Words   |  6 PagesHuman life and health is based on nutrition, physical activity and the existence of our planet. Without food or enough oxygen the humans can’t survive, they die. As human’s lifestyle, technology and knowledge changed over the last few decades, so did the causes of death. Obesity, which leads to the diseases on top of death reasons, has been growing in America, because of the wrong choi ce of diet. Meat contains too much fat and unnatural nutrition, which is not healthy for us. The number one factorRead MoreThe Health Benefits Of Vegetarian Diet1295 Words   |  6 Pages50% of deaths that occur in the US are directly linked to dietary habits. Likewise many nutrition-based studies confirm that a vegetarian diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, grains and soy contributes directly to the longevity of people, as well as enabling a healthier and more enjoyable life (2014 Herrero). The benefits of a vegan diet are demonstrable. The â€Å"American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported that even compared with other vegetarians, vegans tend to be thinner and have aRead MoreThe Rise Of Science And Technology2049 Words   |  9 Pagesanother planet. To do this we would need to send hundreds, if not thousands, of people to that planet so that they may be self-sufficient. But first we would need to overcome one major problem, food. If we send thousands of people to another planet we need to have a way of growing food in an extraterrestrial environment. The reason why food is a problem is because of the distance between planets. It is impractical to suggest an idea where a shuttle would resupply the inhabitance of the planet, the costsRead MoreShould Hemp Be Legalize The Planting Of Hemp?1503 Words   |  7 PagesRodriguez-Leyva and Pierce, described people the benefit and nutritional value of hemp: hemp, also known as Cannabis sativa L., belongs to the Cannabaceae family, and it is used widely in food, fiber, medicine and drugs. Hempseed has an abundance of nutrition such as a large amount of protein and Vitamin E. Most importantly, it contains many different kinds of necessary amino acids while producing a high quantity of amino acid arginine that is good for the cardiovascular system. During metabolism, aminoRead MoreThe Gaia Hypothesis Essay1295 Words   |  6 PagesGolding suggested Gaia, after the Greek Earth Goddess. The Gaia Hypothesis was born. In 1979, Lovelock wrote the book Gaia: A New Look at Life on Earth, which developed his ideas. Key to Lovelocks idea was his observation that the planet is self-regulating. He knew, for example, that the heat of the sun has increased by 25% since life began on Earth, yet the temperature has remained more or less constant. However he didnt know precisely what mechanisms were behindRead MoreEssay about Renewable Vs. Non-Renewable Energy Resources1748 Words   |  7 PagesRenewable Vs. Non-renewable Energy Resources: Environmental and Economical Advantages and Disadvantages Imagine a life without washing machines, dryers, refrigerators, computers, televisions, lights, and cars. Imagine a planet so polluted that smog is in the air so bad that one cannot see very far, lakes and streams are poisoned, and land so badly scarred from people trying to find more energy sources. One day this may be a reality if we do not do something to change how we use our energy resourcesRead MoreMeat Consumption2308 Words   |  10 Pages23 May 2011 One Bite At a Time Most Americans are aware of global warming, cancer, heart disease and the fact that the earth’s supply of good water is diminishing. In an effort to conserve our planet people drive hybrid cars, recycle, and use low energy light bulbs and appliances, which is great. However, most Americans are unaware and uninformed about how meat effects global warming, our health, and how much of our planet’s water and resources meat production consumes. Meat contributes to globalRead More`` Happiness Is A Warm Planet `` By Thomas Gale Moore1234 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"Happiness Is a Warm planet†, by Thomas Gale Moore is an article concerning global warming. In the article, Moore claims that â€Å"Global warming, if it were to occur, would probably be beneficial to most Americans†. The main points that Moore explains in the article are that everyone will benefit from the rising temperatures, the cost of fighting CO2 emissions cost too much,, and that America will pa y the price from third world countries not being able to keep up with new conditions. Essentially, hisRead MoreOrigins of Agriculture: the stepping stone for civilization Essay1426 Words   |  6 Pagesoriginated in several different places, it all began practically the same way and all resulted in settlements and, eventually, society. It almost seems impossible that a few seeds and plants could result in the creation of society. However, it is actually not that far off from the truth. While different areas did have different plants, diets, domestic animals, and agricultural practices, all agriculture seemed to have began around ten thousand years ago, in an era known as the Neolithic Revolution. DuringRead MoreA Research Study On Animal Protein Essay1414 Words   |  6 Pagespredecessors ate three times the amount of plant foods we do today. According to Michael Allen Fox’s extensive research on Paleo diets, cavemen were vegetarians. Scavenging meat began in the last two million years with the advent of Homo erectus, who lived until 300,000 years ago. The earliest evidence for hunting technology in the form of spears, currently dates back to about 500,000 years ago. However, this species still largely consumed plant-based foods. Even as human beings very little meat

Sunday, December 15, 2019

Go Sound the Trumpet Synopsis Free Essays

Rodney Carey African American History Dr. Reginald Ellis Go Sound the Trumpet: Synopsis In the book Go Sound the Trumpet by Canter Brown Jr. , he talks about the documentation of different African Communities in Florida and the communities of the freed slaves. We will write a custom essay sample on Go Sound the Trumpet Synopsis or any similar topic only for you Order Now He tells us what happened to slaves after they were freed and where they went. Some of these communities he described as unidentified and he talked about one in particular that escaped identification. Information about the community known as Angola had come up and suggested they were in The Bahamas. A few months after this information came up; John M. Goggin released additional information and offered new insight on the community. The Bahamian Department of Archives published additional documentary evidence in 1980 regarding Seminole Settlements at Red Bays, Andros. It took another decade before the link between the Bahamian exiles and the old Florida homes of the slaves was established. Another author offered details where neighboring Cuban fishermen identified a community with the name Angola, which had existed as a focus for diplomatic and economic activities within the broader Atlantic world. He argued that its presence additionally had created impacts that influenced the course of United States history and, to a lesser extent, the British and Spanish Empires. Some basic facts of the story are shortly after English planters, primarily from Barbados, found what is now known as South Carolina in 1670; Spanish colonial officials decided to weaken, if not destroy, the Carolinian initiative. They did this by attempting to undermine an economy that based itself on slave labor while also commanding efforts to grant greater protection for St. Augustine against English incursions. Authorities addressed the latter goal in part by construction of the massive stone fortress still known as the Castillo de San Marcos and, in 1683; they initiated a black military service tradition through authorization of the colony’s first free black and mulatto militia companies. In 1683 the government granted freedom to runaway slaves from Carolina, regardless of race, as long as the runaways agreed to convert to Roman Catholicism. This was a crucial step toward the goal of undermining Carolinian slavery. The book also talks about another initiative that involved the authorization of a free black town located north of St. Augustine; this was caused by the founding of Georgia in the early 1730’s. The Patriot War of 1812-1814 involved Georgians teaming with several individuals who had arrived in East Florida from the United States since the Revolutionary War in their attempt to overthrow Spanish rule in the colony; they were unsuccessful. In September 1812, Seminoles and their black vassals, allied with Spain to turn back a Patriot advance. After this, English plans moved toward the introduction of chattel slavery into the colony. This resulted in the dispersal of the majority of its few remaining free black inhabitants to small settlements in the remote peninsula, with many maroons associating with Seminole Indians, who were also recent arrivals from Georgia. In 1784, Spain returned to power which brought reinstatement of the asylum policy, and a rise in Florida’s maroon population. Fort Mose however, remained an abandoned ruin, and for the time being, no equivalent community rose within the colony. After the Patriot War, black refugees hurried themselves into the Manatee River because the site of their black settlement there was located on a point of land at the Braden-Manatee River. At the Manatee, the refugees took advantage of opportunities for trading deer skins, plumes, and agricultural crops for desired goods. There were also relatively easy channels of communication to Spanish officials at Havana and elsewhere at this spot. Records left by two of the Cuban fishermen preserved the name of the black community, Angola. Although these blacks got to the Manatee River in 1812, the book suggests that they may have lived there for years before this; at least on a seasonal basis. There was a letter found from an English merchant that supports the possibility that the maroons had centered their activities in the area of the Manatee River as early as 1772. It described the keys to the south of Tampa Bay as the â€Å"haunt of the picaroons of all nations. As Angola inhabitants built their community, word of their existence spread not just within the Spanish Empire but also to the British. Two officers, Edward Nicolls and George Woodbine, recruited men there for British operations along the Gulf coast during the War of 1812. Following the Battle of New Orleans in January of 1815, Nicolls and Woodbine managed to enlist about 400 black warriors in Florida and returned most of their men to the Apalachicola River area. Upstream at Prospect Bluff, they had facilitated construction of a fortified outpost, known as the Negro Fort. The two officers had also created Florida’s second free-black refuge of the period while likely enhanced Angola’s population. Surviving papers of the merchant concern John Forbes Company hinted at Woodbine’s possible return to that vicinity in 1815 with eighty â€Å"slaves. † There was a raid in 1821 that destroyed the Angola community. Brown talks about records available today that contain subtle references that suggest that the memories of the 1821 raid remained vivid in survivors’ minds just as the recollections of the Battle of the Suwannee did. There was an interview by Jan Carew; with one of the descendants on Andros in 1972 about memories of the battle where she said â€Å"I heard ‘bout the battle of Swannee against General Jackson, my grandmother tell me ‘bout it and her grandmother tell her ‘bout it long before,†. She continued to say â€Å"Stories like that does come down to us with voices in the wind, she tell me how the Old Ones used to talk ‘bout the look on them white soldiers faces when they see Black fighters looking like they grow outta the swamp grass and the hammocks, coming at them with gun and cutlass. Jackson get hurt at the Swannee man. The ancestors brutalized him there. † She concluded by saying that â€Å"My old face beat against eighty-odd years. . . . But when Jesus of Nazareth decide to send Mantop to carry me to the Great Beyond, wherever my blood-seed scatter, they will spread the word ‘bout how Black and Seminole ancestors fight side by side at Swannee. † In 1835 there was a battle between the maroon and their allies known as the Creeks; and the Angolans. The well-equipped Angolans made their stand and this lead up to the Second Seminole War’s outbreak spreading from the Peace River’s headwaters west to Tampa Bay and north to the border of a white settlement. The Creeks were led by Peter McQueen’s nephew Osceol, while Minatti’s war chief Harry carried on the military heritage for generations earlier by Francisco Menendez and others. When battle started in December, it quickly became apparent that it was far more than an Indian war because of the amount of blacks participating. As General Thomas S. Jesup declared in 1836, â€Å"This . . . is a negro war, not an Indian war. † The general added, â€Å"Throughout my operations I found the negroes the most active and determined warriors, and during the conferences with the Indian chiefs I ascertained that they exercised an almost controlling influence over them. † When Andrew Jackson left the presidency in March 1837, the maroons remained in Florida and at war. At one point historians questioned how the Seminoles obtained enough weapons and supplies to launch a resistance campaign in the mid-1830s. It was actually the free blacks and Red Stick Creeks; not the Seminoles, who utilized connections of past days to obtain the necessary equipment for war. There was also a question of how they could do so when their peninsular reservation kept them from the coast? The answer to this question is answered by the fact that many of the same Cuban fishermen who had lived near the Angolans worked at Charlotte Harbor in the early 1830s. In 1835, these old business associates of the Angolans even managed to have the area’s United States customs inspector suspended, leaving the door wide open for whatever transfers were needed. As Second Seminole War expert John K. Mahon noted, â€Å"Every warrior seemed to have a rifle, and a superior one at that. † Brown also noted that future researchers may well discover the origins of those firearms in British or Spanish armories, dispatched to Florida by high-ranking officials in recognition of past valor, imperial promises, and pressures applied by Edward Nicolls, George Woodbine, or their friends. How to cite Go Sound the Trumpet Synopsis, Essay examples

Saturday, December 7, 2019

Red Bull and Beverage Industry free essay sample

What are the underlying drivers of change and how might those forces individually or collectively make the industry more or less attractive? Now energy drink, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced is evolving. Energy drink, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced in the beverage market, external and internal environment under pressure, causing it to change. The energy drink, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced from 2009 began to develop, to grow from $1. 58 trillion in 2009 to nearly $1. 78 trillion in 2014. Market is very rapid. I feel the market underlying drivers the following: 1. The influence of Globalization: the global beverage industry was project to grow from $1. 58 trillion in 2009 to nearly $1. 78 trillion in 2014 as beverage producers entered new geographic markets, development new types of beverages and continued to create demand fir popular drink . These new products to market has generated new creativity and new applications, so as to increase the intensity of competition in the market, the beverage market is booming. Because globalization, lead to product innovation development, Each enterprise according to new market policy undertook a series of adjustment. We will write a custom essay sample on Red Bull and Beverage Industry or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page . Buyers demand increases, resulting in the beverage industry development: Now many of the buyers to pay attention to nutritional balance and complement, so energy drink, sports drinks and vitamin-enhanced have a more broad market. 4. What  does  your  strategic  group  map  of  the  energy  drink,  sports  drink,  and  vitamin-enhanced  beverage  industry  look  like? Which  strategic  groups  do  you  think  are  in  the  best  positions? The  worst  positions? The  Red  bull  energy  drinks  was  created  in  1966. It  became  the  one  of  the  first  energy  drinks  in  the  world. In the fast moving consumer goods, beverage industry belongs to the keen industry, but the huge demand, walk quantity is the most effective way to enlarge its profit, small profits but quick turnover is also the retailers general technique, so the enterprise sales also often in several hundred million, billions of above, but the investment funds is very big, so the new industry enterprise also often be some big corporations. Marketing force, marketing force, it refers to the marketing strategy and the marketing ability of organization. For example in china, , want to stand out in many products, must be competitive marketing strategy and a good marketing organization system. Channel force, it refers to the channel management ability, in the fast pin product, channel for the king, even if you have good products, put a great amount of expenses to do publicity without to channel intensive cultivation, or do bad market, can not reach walk quantity task, meager profit but high turnover pin link will break chain, will give enterprise to bring the serious loss. . What recommendations would you make to Coca-Cola to improve its competitiveness in the global alternative beverage industry? To PepsiCo? To Red Bull GmbH 1 internal Strengthen control of quality and learn more information about requirements for energy beverage in different nation. And I saw that lots of news about Red bull which include illegal composition in recent years. In 2009, Germany check out Red Bull Cola (Red Bull Cola) contains 0. PPM of cocaine 30 may 2 009, Taiwan police check out Austria import red bull energy drinks contain extremely trace level of drug cocaine 1 June 2009 Hong Kong, 11 February 2012 China, Negative news would significant impacted a company or industry, especially Drinking and food industry. Everything about eating. In addition, there are lots of new beverage brand in the world. If Negative news led to lose market, company would very hard to get market back

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Semiconductors Essays - Semiconductor Device Fabrication

Semiconductors Silicon is the raw material most often used in integrated circuit (IC) fabrication. It is the second most abundant substance on the earth. It is extracted from rocks and common beach sand and put through an exhaustive purification process. In this form, silicon is the purist industrial substance that man produces, with impurities comprising less than one part in a billion. That is the equivalent of one tennis ball in a string of golf balls stretching from the earth to the moon. Semiconductors are usually materials which have energy-band gaps smaller than 2eV. An important property of semiconductors is the ability to change their resistivity over several orders of magnitude by doping. Semiconductors have electrical resistivities between 10-5 and 107 ohms. Semiconductors can be crystalline or amorphous. Elemental semiconductors are simple-element semiconductor materials such as silicon or germanium. Silicon is the most common semiconductor material used today. It is used for diode s, transistors, integrated circuits, memories, infrared detection and lenses, light-emitting diodes (LED), photosensors, strain gages, solar cells, charge transfer devices, radiation detectors and a variety of other devices. Silicon belongs to the group IV in the periodic table. It is a grey brittle material with a diamond cubic structure. Silicon is conventionally doped with Phosphorus, Arsenic and Antimony and Boron, Aluminum, and Gallium acceptors. The energy gap of silicon is 1.1 eV. This value permits the operation of silicon semiconductors devices at higher temperatures than germanium. Now I will give you some brief history of the evolution of electronics which will help you understand more about semiconductors and the silicon chip. In the early 1900's before integrated circuits and silicon chips were invented, computers and radios were made with vacuum tubes. The vacuum tube was invented in 1906 by Dr.Lee DeForest. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, vacuum tube s were used to conduct, modulate and amplify electrical signals. They made possible a variety of new products including the radio and the computer. However vacuum tubes had some inherent problems. They were bulky, delicate and expensive, consumed a great deal of power, took time to warm up, got very hot, and eventually burned out. The first digital computer contained 18,000 vacuum tubes, weighed 50 tins, and required 140 kilowatts of power. By the 1930's, researchers at the Bell Telephone Laboratories were looking for a replacement for the vacuum tube. They began studying the electrical properties of semiconductors which are non-metallic substances, such as silicon, that are neither conductors of electricity, like metal, nor insulators like wood, but whose electrical properties lie between these extremes. By 1947 the transistor was invented. The Bell Labs research team sought a way of directly altering the electrical properties of semiconductor material. They learned they could ch ange and control these properties by "doping" the semiconductor, or infusing it with selected elements, heated to a gaseous phase. When the semiconductor was also heated, atoms from the gases would seep into it and modify its pure, crystal structure by displacing some atoms. Because these dopant atoms had different amount of electrons than the semiconductor atoms, they formed conductive paths. If the dopant atoms had more electrons than the semiconductor atoms, the doped regions were called n-type to signify and excess of negative charge. Less electrons, or an excess of positive charge, created p-type regions. By allowing this dopant to take place in carefully delineated areas on the surface of the semiconductor, p-type regions could be created within n-type regions, and vice-versa. The transistor was much smaller than the vacuum tube, did not get very hot, and did not require a headed filament that would eventually burn out. Finally in 1958, integrated circuits were invented. By the mid 1950's, the first commercial transistors were being shipped. However research continued. The scientist began to think that if one transistor could be built within one solid piece of semiconductor material, why not multiple transistors or even an entire circuit. With in a few years this speculation became one solid piece of material. These integrated circuits(ICs) reduced the number of electrical interconnections required in a piece of electronic equipment, thus increasing reliability and speed. In contrast, the first digital electronic computer built with 18,000 vacuum tubes and weighed 50 tons,

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

The lex

The lex Cohen 1Alejandro CohenMrs. WuHistory 8April 18 2013How my character would react to sections 18-2/8After the Civil War many changes had to be applied to the south, and the north. What would the south do with their plantations if they had no slaves? How could they make cotton? Also what problems are occurring in the north and how would they make their clothing without cotton?The North one the Civil war but still had some economic problems. Around 800,000 soldiers needed jobs, and they lost more soldiers in the Civil war than the south did. This would affect my character because he was a commander in the war so it would be hard for him to find a job now. Although the war was mainly fought in the south the north still faced economic problems.Now that slaves were freemen, how would the south make their money.Dred Scott, whose famous case to gain his freedom ...Two thirds of southern railroads were destroyed in the war, the cities of Columbia, Richmond, and Atlanta had been leveled. Almost all southern banks were closed, and people didn't get their money back that they lend the confederacy. This would'n affect my character because he lives in the north.When president Lincoln outlined the Ten Percent Plan my character was somewhat happy. My character did not like the south at all but he did want the union to be together once again. The plan was to reconstruct the south. This included amnesty or government pardon, to Confederates who swore loyalty to the union. This was a good decision by lincoln because it got the Union closer together.When lincoln was assassinated April 14, 1865, my character was very sad and couldn't get this tragedy out of his head. How could someone do such a thing. My character thought...

Friday, November 22, 2019

Arangetram

The music began, the audience fell silent, and it was show time. I was about to give one of the most important performances of my life. For a Bharatanatyam dancer, an Arangetram is a graduation ceremony that marks the transition from novice to professional. From the age of seven, I have been taking classes in this Indian classical dance, and it had all led up to this day. When I made the decision to work towards my Arangetram, I knew that it would take years of single-minded commitment. The grueling preparatory classes tested my dedication and endurance. As I got closer to the day, the mental and physical demands continued to increase. Practices would last for hours on end, and I had to continue putting in the maximum amount of effort day after day. After two years of ongoing practice, the day of the Arangetram finally arrived. The curtains went up and I danced harder than I had ever danced before. All eyes were on me for three full hours. No matter how tired I got, I continued to do my best. All the long hours of practice really paid off. That day, I performed in front of over 300 people. While it was exhilarating, it also felt surreal because I couldn’t believe that something I had worked towards for the past ten years was over. Looking back, I learned many important things along the way. Throughout the Arangetram preparation process, I learned the importance of hard work and dedication. In the end, everything came together as I put on the best show of my life. This experience has taught me valuable life lessons about setting lofty goals and persevering to achieve them. I now have the confidence that when I set a goal, I will achieve it.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Risk Management Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 15000 words

Risk Management - Dissertation Example ...3 2. Review of Related Literature 2.1. Risk Management.........................................................................................................6 2.2. Frameworks in Strategic Risk Management...............................................................11 2.3. Managing Risk through Quality Management............................................................15 2.4. Enterprise Risk Management......................................................................................26 3. Research Methodology 3.1. Procurement Risk Management Framework..............................................................31 3.2. Preview of Procurement Risk Management Experiences...........................................35 4. Results and Discussion 4.1. BraiNet Survey...........................................................................................................36 4.2. Risk Management in Defence Procurement...............................................................41 4.3. Procurement Management in Beef Supply Chains.....................................................43 4.4. Risk Management Experiences by other Firms..........................................................44 5. Conclusion and Recommendation 5.1. Lessons Learned..........................................................................................................47 5.2. ... The global recession has become a focal point when companies start to outline strategies and develop business models. The most important aspect that companies discuss involves risks. These can come in various forms and could affect companies in all fronts. Despite threats coming risks, several companies have been lagging in terms of developing sound risk management strategies. Most risk management plans are conceived as alternatives instead of being main strategies. Some companies even thrive in risky environments and prefer existing where risks prosper. Despite these differing situations, there is no doubt that risk management has come to evolve as a major determinant in business success. The most important point relates to risk management integrated in business models. 1.1. Objectives of the Study The primary goal of the paper is to establish the extent in which risk management is ingrained in business models developed by companies. This is in reference to the Procurement Risk Mana gement (PRM) used at Hewlett-Packard. The process involves analysis of case studies and empirical evidence related to the study. The paper will also tackle various aspects of risk management strategies used in different industries including the services and public sectors. The study specifically will analyse the different procurement risks are identified by Miller and Lessard (2008), Keizer, Halman and Song (2002), Zsidisin and Smith (2005) and Cox, Chicksand and Ireland (2005). There are risks identified in reference to previous studies involving procurement risk management. The summary of each study will be discussed in the succeeding parts of this section. 1.2. Background of the Study

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Corporate Culture of Google Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Corporate Culture of Google - Research Paper Example This brings a sense of belonging to the employees boosting their morale which can be reflected in improved productivity. This has created a tradition of participatory decision making that explores the benefits of the creative and innovative contribution of the workers towards sustainable value creation activities. Firms where top management makes critical decisions, the workers may be constrained to deliver under harsh rules and regulations. In the case of Google, the decisions made are objective rather subjective in the sense that they capture the interest of the majority while taking team goals as a priority (Kandula, 2007). This has the effect of helping the workers to unleash their potential in the overall production and management process a factor that has seen the firm maintain a high standard of quality at an environmentally feasible level. There is a significant amount of perks workers obtain from Google. One of such benefits includes acquiring of the firm’s products at discounted prices which significantly help the workers save. In some instances, the workers are given some services free of charge as an indirect motivational strategy and appreciation gesture towards better productivity (Sofo, 2000). This promotes the spirit of unity and sense of caring for the organization to its employees. By pointing out that the employees are considered invaluable to the firm, it is evident that the wage size and allowances are favorable to sustain the workers hence promoting their overall welfare. Google has put effort towards favorable working environment through organized safety equipment (Walsh, 2013). Google’s human resource department offers free training and development opportunities which are couples with free services during the classes. This saves the workers from spending money and time in a training colleg e hence its preference by workers.  

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Benefits of a Healthy Workforce Essay Example for Free

Benefits of a Healthy Workforce Essay Organisational health programmes are essential to the survival of companies. Undoubtedly, a healthy workforce would work wonders for any business by reducing absenteeism and turnover, and increasing employee motivation, productivity and revenues. Lowe (2004) writes that hundreds of studies have already documented the direct as well as indirect advantages of â€Å"healthy work environments† to employees in addition to their organisations (p. 7). Indeed, healthy workplaces as well as jobs contribute to the well-being of employees. These benefits may be realized by the whole organisation through lower absenteeism, lower turnover, higher job satisfaction, improved performance on the job, lower rates of accident, in addition to â€Å"reduced health benefit and worker compensation costs (Lowe, p. 7). † Moreover, research has revealed that the largest gains in productivity may be realized by the organisation that changes the entire work environment to make it healthier for all employees (Lowe). Research has also revealed that the impact of poor health is keenly felt in the work environment, so therefore managers require an improved understanding of the dangers of allowing minor symptoms to escalate. Four in ten managers who participated in a recently conducted survey related to workplace health complained that they often become angry with others and feel humorless due to pressure. More than fifty percent of the managers complained of physical pain, at the same time as forty four percent reported experiencing frequent headaches. Moreover, fifty five percent complained of constant tiredness, fifty seven percent complained of insomnia, while twenty percent simply stated that they found it difficult to make decisions because of ill health (Poor Health 2006). Unsurprisingly, these results demand organisations to put effective health programmes in place for all employees. Sick employees are not likely to be highly productive in any case. In the United States, businesses are known to spend at least U. S. $450 billion every year on direct health care. Poor health costs around U. S. $225. 8 billion to American businesses each year through absenteeism as well as productivity losses that are related to the health problems of employees and their families. Hence, insurers as well as employers have started to create a large number of health promotion and prevention programmes that have already started to pay handsome dividends. According to a study, American employers may â€Å"reap the average of [U. S. ] $3. 48 in reduced health care costs and [U. S. ] $5. 82 in lower absenteeism costs for every dollar invested in employee wellness (Toomey 2006, p. 13). † Of course, these benefits can be realized anywhere in the world. In the United Kingdom, three quarters of a million workers are known to take time off work each year due to work-related illnesses (Firman 2006). These illnesses are further known to cost businesses as much as ten percent of their total payroll costs. Indeed, by promoting health in the workplace and preventing illnesses through effective health programmes in the organisation, absenteeism and costs related to the same may be drastically lowered. The money that is saved thus may be used by the organisation to update its equipment; on marketing; as well for the provision of training to employees. Organisations may also be able to increase the number of employees with the cost savings realized through effective health programmes (Jim 2006). Indeed, the benefits of health management programmes in the organisation are aplenty. Healthy employees add value to the organisation. The care shown by employers can boost the morale of the workers. The entire organisation benefits from this, as it becomes more efficient with a healthy and therefore productive workforce. REFERENCES Firman, C. 16. 11. 2006 â€Å"Health Matters. † Motor Transport available at EBSCO Host database. Jim, N. 9. 6. 2006 â€Å"Health and Safety Assessments Cut Costs and Boost Productivity. † Electronics Weekly 2256 available at EBSCO Host database. Lowe, G. S. 2004 â€Å"Healthy Workplace Strategies: Creating Change and Achieving Results. † The Graham Lowe Group available at http://www. grahamlowe. ca/documents/93/Hlthy%20wkpl%20strategies%20report. pdf. Poor Health 2006: â€Å"Poor Health Leads to a Humorless, Angrier Workforce† article in Occupational Health (Jun 2006), 58(6) available at EBSCO Host database. Toomey, D. 18. 12. 2006 â€Å"Wellness and Prevention Programs Generate Healthy Outcomes. † Executive Health Wellness Guide available at EBSCO Host database.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Compare the predicament of women in society as described in Cousin Essa

Compare the predicament of women in society as described in Cousin Kate and The Seduction. How far do you sympathise with them? ‘The Seduction’ and ‘Cousin Kate’ are similarly concerned with the predicament of women in society. They are both poems which end up in a negative position, and are following the trails of a young girl, wanting to be loved, in some way. They also similarly carry the theme of betrayal. In ‘The Seduction’, the girl is betrayed by the teenage magazines promising her the romantic love story she always wanted and, in ‘Cousin Kate’, the young girl is betrayed by her cousin, who steals the man she loves. These are the predicaments that both the girls have. Both poems contain lines which question their actions, ‘Why did a great Lord find me out?’ and ‘For where, now, was the summer of her sixteenth year?’. This shows the regret that they had in that period in their lives, and also how betrayed they feel and the problems they have now of losing their childhood. ‘Cousin Kate’ tells us the story of how she was seduced, used and cast away, much like ‘The Seduction’. As ‘The Seduction’ begins, it uses a lot of imagery to prepare the reader for what may happen. ‘Far past the silver stream of traffic through the city, far from the blind windows of the tower blocks’. The ‘blind’ windows portrays an image of not seeing, and that because something ‘bad’ may happen, no-one is meant to see or hear anything. Also, when the poem refers to the girl knocking back the vodka, it shows an uncertain situation, ‘He handed her the vodka, and she knocked it back like water’. Both girls at the start of the poem are virgins but lose their virginity and fall pregnant. The girl in ‘Cousin Kate’, is refer... ...magazines she was reading to have sex, but there was probably pressure from her friends, as I know that there is today, and the poem was not written that far from today. Not only was there great pressure before she had sex, but the shame and feelings that she was put through from society was extreme, and this, in my opinion, should not have been placed upon her. Although similar things happened in ‘Cousin Kate’, I don’t think they did to the same extent, and, at the very least, the ‘Cottage Maiden’ was left with something to treasure and that she was proud of. Although abortions were not a regular occurrence, I still think she was in a better position to keep the baby. Whereas, in ‘The Seduction’, I think she would have been forced to have an abortion, or if she had kept the baby, she would have been under great emotion and also financial difficulties.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Classic Pen Company: Developing an Abc Model

ANALYSIS Background Information: The Classic Pen Company was a low-cost producer of traditional BLUE and BLACK pens with profit margins over 20% of sales. They then introduced RED pens at a 3% premium, and a year later they introduced PURPLE pens due to the 10% premium that they could command. However, they were disappointed with the most recent year; RED and PURPLE pens were not bringing in expected sales (still considering their higher profit margin), and BLUE and BLACK pens profitability was down.Issue(s) Identification There are two main issues within this case: -Profitability -Pricing ?Which involves Production time and effort per unit. -Should they introduce even more variety? Can they keep up with demand and competition? Recommendations: 1. Get rid of RED pens – They are the trickiest to make; their revenue is only $. 03 more than standard pens. 2. Lower the Price for BLACK pens, since they are the most simple to make and require less overhead and direct labour. . Lower price of BLUE pens- they are the most popular, but with the changing market prices must be adjustable. 4. Invest in new equipment (Therefore eliminating time to clean vats in order to make new coloured pens). 5. Focus in only making BLUE and BLACK pens as specialty pens Conclusion: My recommendation to Dempsey would be to invest in new technology to lower the overhead costs (Set-ups, runs) in the future. With a competitive market it is important to adapt.The addition of new colours is crucial to their survival, but with the current machinery it may not be possible. New equipment would mean limited backlog (if any), more options in colour, and meeting customers’ demands. If investment of new machinery is not doable for the company, it would be best to try and cut cost, and focus on standard pens for future investments. BLACK and BLUE pens bring in the most sales volumes and they could potentially cut back to 200% overhead once again.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Who Fired at Lexington and Concord

Who Fired At Lexington? Who fired first at Lexington? This question seems to remain a mystery until now, but after much research, and answer has been decided. After scouring through many affidavits, maps, paintings, and such, I have learned that the most logical answer is that the King’s troops, or the British, were the ones who opened fire unto the colonial troops. There is credible testimony as well as a piece of art that leads to this conclusion. To begin with, there are two witnesses to the Battle at Lexington and Concord that openly admit to the British being the ones to first open fire.John Parker, the commander of the militia in Lexington, accounts that upon hearing that the British troops were approaching he gave orders to his men to â€Å"disperse and not to fire†. He then also recalls that his men were rushed by the British troops who opened fire and killed eight of their party without receiving any provoking from the militia in Lexington. Another man, Simon W inship gives account of his experience on the night of the Battle at Lexington and Concord.He states that he was riding his horse on the public road in Lexington, unarmed, when he was approached by the British troops and ordered to dismount his horse. When he asked why, he was removed from his horse by force from the British commanders. The commanding men ordered Winship to march with the troops. He refused, but somehow ended up marching with them for half of a quarter of a mile. The troops were told to halt, prime and load their weapons. The troops then marched on until they came into contact with Captain Parker’s militia.He then recounts that an officer at the head of the said British troops, â€Å"flourished his sword, and with a loud voice, giving the word fire, fire, which was instantly followed by a discharge of arms from said troops†. Winship accounts that he is positive that there was no discharge of arms from either side until the word fire was given by the sa id officer. A painting also gave credible representation of the events that occurred that night. The painting clearly displays the King’s regiment, marching into the space that was occupied by the colonists.The Colonial troops, dispersed and held their ground without provoking the red coats to attack. The commander of the British troops, is shown atop his horse waving his sword in the air as to commence the attack on the Colonial troops. It is obvious as demonstrated by the evidence, that the King’s troops were the offending party which opened fire on the Colonial troops. Even though there was testimony accounting that the Colonial troops were the ones to open fire, they were discounted as credible due to their biased position.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Student societies Essays - Free Essays, Term Papers, Research Papers

Student societies Essays - Free Essays, Term Papers, Research Papers Student societies Contents 1. The backgrounds of the student societies (history of student societies) 2. The most widely spread student societies 3. Unique student societies Conclusion Literature Introduction Student as a component of youth is a specific social group that characterizes a special way of life, the conditions of academic work and everyday life. A large majority of students live in or near major cities, many of them live in dormitories, thus creating a unified student's life, forming common interests, student traditions, world outlook, etc., quite certain special qualities and peculiar role in the historical development of social relations. [5] Student society is a voluntary association of students, which independently and under its responsibility solves issues related to the interests of students. [5] Student society is independent social activity of students on the implementation of the functions of management of a higher educational institution, determined by the administration, dean's offices and carried out by young people, allows its energy to be involved in improving the educational process and, at the same time, avoid subjectivity in decision-making. [5] In accordance with the Law of Ukraine "On Higher Education", institutions of s tudent societies are created in higher educational institutions, which promote the harmonious development of the student's personality, the formation of his skills for the future organizer, the head. [5] Student societies in a higher educational institution are independent public activity of students on the implementation of the functions of management of higher educational institutions, which is determined by the administration (administration), dean's offices (departments) and carried out by students in accordance with the goals and objectives of the student groups. [3] The subject of the research is American student societies. Consequently the object is the activity of American student socities . The main tasks of the student societies are: ensuring and protecting the rights and interests of students, in particular, with regard to the organization of the educational process; Ensurin g students fulfill their duties Facilitating educational, scientific and c reative activities of students Facilitating the creation of appropriate conditions for students' living and resting; Facilitating t he activities of student clubs, associations, interest clubs organization of cooperation with students of other higher educational establishments and youth organizations facilitating the employment of graduates Participation in solving internation al student exchange issues. [3] This investigation can b used for self - studying, delivering lectures and just for broadening one's outlook. The backgrounds of the student societies(history of student societies) A student society, student association, university society or student organization is a society or an organization, operated by students at a university or a college institution, whose membership typically consists only of students or alumni. Student societies in higher education institutions are mainly focused on: - protection of students' interests at all levels of higher education; - implementation of student initiatives in the educational process, as well as in scientific, professional, cultural and ot her social spheres of activity; - increasing the effectiveness of interaction between students and the university administration; - e nsuring student rights and freedoms in accordance with c ivil norms in force in society; - cooperation wi th state and local authorities; - organization of everyday life, various forms of leisure, travel, employment of students; - creation of a new information space for university students and their connection with world information sources [2, pp. 244-252]. Early notable types of student societies include the medieval so-called nations of the University of Bologna and the University of Paris. Later Modern era examples include the Studentenverbindung in the German speaking world, as well as the evolvement of fraternal orders for students and student fraternities internationally. Aims may involve practice and propagation of a certain professional hobby or to promote professional development or philanthropic causes. Examples of common societies found in most universities are a debate society, an international student society, a rock society, and student chapters of professional societies (e.g. the American Chemical Society). Not all societies are based around such a large area of interest and many universities also find themselves home to societies for many obscure hobbies such as a Neighbours society. Student societies typically have open membership, thus differing from honor societies, secret societies, and certain fraternities that admit

Monday, November 4, 2019

Philosophy vs. Ideology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Philosophy vs. Ideology - Essay Example While these modes of thinking share similar aspects, upon deeper inspection it’s clear that they differ on meaningful and profound levels. With reference to specific examples, this essay examines the difference between philosophy and ideology.   In further articulating this distinction it’s been noted that â€Å"Ideology refers to a set of beliefs, doctrines that back a certain social institution or a particular organization. Philosophy refers to looking at life in a pragmatic manner and attempting to understand why life is as it is and the principles governing behind it† (â€Å"Difference Between†). This distinction indicates that at the fundamental levels, ideology is concerned with advancing a notion of understanding that is linked to a social institution, while philosophy concerns the deep underlining aspects of existence. One example of this distinction can be witnessed in American notions of democracy. In the above context democracy would be unders tood as a Western ideology; conversely, the principle that democracy is an intrinsic value right of human existence would be a philosophical assumption.   While there is the above broad ranging distinction between philosophy and ideology, there is also an understanding that ideology oftentimes carries a sinister element, while philosophy is virtuous. In these regards, it’s noted that â€Å"At issue is an understanding of ideology as a source of manipulation† (â€Å"Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy†).

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Hospitality Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Hospitality Management - Essay Example Consumers who generally like to spend their memorable holidays in the countryside resorts experience more personalized travel experience in terms of lodging, special food dishes and many other benefits. Basically resorts are more expensive than hotels and these are preferred by the niche segment of people with higher disposable income. Therefore, these types of consumers generally prefer to get customized or personalized services especially for their recreation purpose. Taste and preference of customers is continuous changing factor and it is one of the most important areas where the businesses need to focus. In the hospitality industry, the businesses have been identifying gradual change of service expectation from the customers. There are three major drivers behind this change. These three drivers are educated demanding customers, adoption of new technology in hospitality industry and globalization. These drivers stimulate the demand of hospitality service by the customers and also are the main reasons for their new personalized service demand from mainly the hotels and resorts. Resort vacation has becoming more demanding tourism service. It has been identified by many researches in tourism industry that resorts are becoming more preferable by the potential consumers with high disposable income. Therefore, it can be forecasted that in the coming decade, the consumers will prefer resorts vacation more than hotels. This is because resorts vacation is a complete tourism package which including travelling, foods, logging and other entertainment services. Resorts provide more customized and personalized services than hotels. Consumers with comparatively high income level prefer to spent vacation with their families at least two to three times in a year. Therefore, they generally select locations far from the crowded cities like country sides, sea and heal areas. Resorts are generally developed in those areas with natural beauty

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Internet Service Providers Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Internet Service Providers - Dissertation Example In the long-run, making it legal to allow ISPs to charge premium rate for â€Å"priority services† will open new business opportunity for ISPs to earn more money which eventually can be spent on further improvements on their existing Internet infrastructure or the need to build new fibber networks (BBC News, 2010; Blodget, 2010). On the contrary, there are also a large group of people and business organizations who will be negatively affected by implementing differential pricing on Internet services. For this reason, there are a lot of individuals who are against making it legal for ISPs to offer different levels of Internet services based on what the customers are willing to pay for. By allowing the ISPs to offer low market prices for poor quality Internet services, ISPs will have the edge to convince more people to pay more money for faster Internet access. It means that the end-customers will have to shoulder a large amount of money for using more Internet bandwidth (Blodge t, 2010; Jarvis, 2010). Two-speed internet aims to charge premium prices on content makers and customers who are willing to pay more for â€Å"fast lane† access (BBC News, 2010). ... s on YouTube or improve the current Internet services offered Google will negatively affected once the two speed internet connection is implemented (Jarvis, 2010). As a result, the number of audiences these online advertisers are targeting may eventually shrink. Net neutrality is referring to the principle wherein â€Å"data transferred through Internet services are treated with equal priority† (Stair, Reynolds and Reynolds, 2010, p. 275). It means that ISPs are obliged to collect equal payment from each of the Internet users regardless of whether or not the end-users are using more or less bandwidth. Implementing the two-speed Internet policy or differential pricing in UK can lead to the end of the Internet. Since it will be costly on the part of the Internet users to pay for Internet services, the overall expected Internet traffic will decrease. As a result, the business of content providers and online advertisers like Google and Facebook are expected to become less effectiv e. This is the primary reason why Google and Facebook are strongly in support of net neutrality for landline and wireless networks (Maisto, 2010; McCarthy, 2010). Q.2 Discuss the extent to which it is valid and useful to treat all â€Å"data† as being equal in the context of it being transferred across the internet. Net neutrality serves as a guide in terms of preserving the users’ freedom to have access to an open Internet. In other words, the context of net neutrality requires all data being transferred across the Internet should be treated equally provided that these data are legal. As explained by Andersen and Gray (2008, p. 289), net neutrality requires all ISPs to avoid promoting discrimination among its customers by offering speed-up or slow-down access to Web-based contents. Morley (2008,

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Atenism as Related to Henotheism, Monotheism, and Polytheism Research Paper

Atenism as Related to Henotheism, Monotheism, and Polytheism - Research Paper Example It was a peaceful religion with brotherhood and kindness, taking precedence over the activities of daily living. Although many have considered it a type of pre-cursor to monotheism; there is no proof that it was; neither was it polytheism. It was actually a quasi-blend of the two more associated with the New Age religions, also known as henotheism. Atenism as Related to Henotheism, Monotheism, and Polytheism Initially one can say there are elements of monotheism, polytheism, and henotheism intrinsic to the ancient Egyptian religion of Atenism. In taking a closer look, Atenism is not polytheism, the worship of many gods and goddesses, or monotheism, the worship of one close and personal god, exclusive of all others, but more closely related to henotheism, a blend of the two where there is one main deity, either with multiple manifestations and names, or one main deity with many associates. While early Egyptologists felt that Atenism was a predecessor of monotheism, there has been no p roof linking that cult with today’s traditional monotheistic beliefs. (Lawlor, 2007) Atenism is the religion associated with the worship of Aten, the sun disk, who until about the 12th century B.C., was just one of the many gods and goddesses associated with ancient Egyptian religion. ... worship of other gods was permitted; however within five years of its introduction; Atenism had become the supreme religion with only one Supreme Being worshipped. During this time, Amenhotep IV changed his name to Akhenaton, Glorious Spirit of the Aten, beneficial to Aten. He then proceeded to build a new city in honor of Aten, Akhenaten, the horizon of the sun disc; it is near what is known today as Amarna, between Thebes and Memphis in the Valley of the Kings. There is some speculation that since pharaohs were thought to be deity personified that perhaps Akhenaton was, as well, the messenger person for Aten. (Geller,2002) With the installation of Aten, nine years from the beginning of Akhenaton’s reign, all traces of Amun, the previous supreme deity, were erased even to the point of chiseling the inscription off of temples, statues and entering tombs to remove all traces of the former deity. This was a common practice aimed at removing the old and instituting the new as tho ugh the old never existed; it continues with Egyptian history today, as the national history books are re-edited with the installation of new leaders, showing the previous leaders as ineffective and requiring replacement. (Geller, 2002) In Atenism, God is seen as loving and beneficent, protecting and supporting his people through his very presence, which is real enough, though not personally involved. He is not seen as authoritarian, judgmental, and justice-oriented. The worship of idols was banned, and all references to Aten in written form were shown using a sun disk whose rays culminated in upraised hands. Later, Akhenaton permitted it to be written phonetically; a symbol of his radicalism in the new religion.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Communication Strategy Of Next Plc

Communication Strategy Of Next Plc To sustain a business, there must be effective and efficient communication. This means there must be efficient ways and appropriate channels of exchanging information with the stakeholders of the business, which is core to its corporate strategy. This report evaluates the corporate communication strategy adopted by Next Plc, a UK based retailer with over 180 stores spanning continental Europe, Scandinavia, Russia, Middle-East, India and Japan and with international website serving the USA and 30 other countries worldwide. The report highlights the fact that Next has got an established human resource management which continually develops and implements internal communication strategies to enable all employees receive and understand information that is timely, accurate, relevant motivational. In terms of its image, a report by Susannah Streeter(July 2010), a BBC reporter reveals that Next Plc had been breaching consumer law by not refunding delivery charges on online purchases though returned within seven days. This had a damaging effect on the companys image but they were quick to offer apologies to their customers and retrace theirs steps. Also according to a Mintel report(October 2010), Next clothing are also known for qual ity with which it scores with its customers, but the challenge it faces is that as disposable incomes come under pressure, its many young customers might turn to value retailers. However, if it tries to diversify into third party brands, it may erode the image and values of its brand. Hence, the need for effective communication strategies for corporate and brand repositioning. TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2 2 LIST OF FIGURES 3 3 INTRODUCTION 4 4 FINDINGS 5 5 Conclusions and Recommendations 14 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1.0 Nexts Record of Sales 2005-2009 Figure 1.1 Abergs Total Communications Domain Figure 1.2 Argentis Reputation framework Figure 1.3 Cornelissens Stakeholder Model of Strategic Management Figure 1.4 Hofstedes Framework of cultural dimensions Figure 1.5 Mckinseys 7-S Model Figure 1.6 General structure of Corporate Governance. Figure 1.7 Ulrichs 4 roles of Human Resources Figure 1.8 Harvard Map of HRM theory by Beer et al(1984) Figure 1.9 Horizontal/Vertical structure of communication INTRODUCTION According to Cornelissen Joep(2008 p.5), a likely characteristic of corporate communication is that it can turn out to be complex in nature. For small-medium firms, communication complexity is quite minimal but with large corporations, if due care is not taken, communication can turn out to be cumbersome. Cornelissen J.(2008,p.95) also states that managing corporate communication requires a communication strategy that describes the general image that an organisation aims to project through themed messaging to stakeholders. As a result of this complexity, this report will aim to provide insights and explore the corporate communication strategy of Next Plc. A Proquest(2011) report tells of challenges faced by Next in the four year period to 2009 as a result of laxity over its positioning and recession. By the time it realized that trends were changing, it had lost grounds. The targeted young customers were maturing and reduced their spending due to additional responsibilities. Erosion of its brand due to over-diversification was another issue. Next has lost ground since 2005 but seems to be emerging now from the underperformance period according to the graph below: Figure 1.0: Next UK sales as a share of clothing specialists Source: Next Company Accounts and Annual Reports/Mintel 2010 An industry expert, Raoul Shah, CEO of Exposure evoked that Next should develop a higher brand profile and image and senior executives need to plan new communication strategies, be more visible in the media, give more interviews and build deeper relationships with customers and stakeholders.(Proquest, n.d). Essentially there has to be a corporate identity management in place. This report will seek to investigate the corporate communication strategy of NEXT Plc with regards to its stakeholder management, Corporate image and identity, its Human resource management among others. These will be achieved through research, recommendations and conclusions will be made based on findings from the company website, articles on the company and its industry, journals, their annual reports and other relevant materials. FINDINGS What is Corporate Communications? Corporate communication is the ability of an organisation to effectively communicate to its stakeholders. This definition gives a general overview or understanding of what corporate communication is about. Looking into a more complex and detailed definition, corporate communications would then be defined as: an instrument of management by means of which all consciously used forms of internal and external communication are harmonised as effectively and efficiently as possible, so as to create a favourable basis for relationships with groups upon which the company is dependent. (Van Riel,1995, p.26) Figure 1.1 : The total communications domain(Aberg 1990) Source: Van Riel (1995) Principles of corporate communication. Van Riel(1995) supports Aberg (1990) that all communication activities within an organisation must be integrated so as to support the achievement of the organisations aims and goals. This is where care must be taken so to address communication complexity effectively and efficiently. It is about the reputation of the organisation, people being able to identify with the organisation and about the formal systems of communication at the highest level. Please see Appendix 1 and 2 for a history and timeline of Next Plc. Image Identity and Reputation Image is the picture of an organisation as perceived by target groups while identity is associated with the way in which a company presents itself to the target groups, by the use of symbols, communication and behaviour(van Riel,1992). Argenti (2007) also states that image is a reflection of an organisations identity. These definitions shed light on the fact that there is but a thin line between image and identity as the former sees from the outside while the latter projects from the inside. It was reported that Next was breaching regulations by not refunding online delivery costs to customers even if they return goods within seven working days. This would have damaged Nexts corporate image, but the companys executives were quick to offer apologies to redeem its image.(BBC Business News, July 2010). According to Richard R. Dolphin(1999), people learn to identify with a company by noting everything it does. In terms of image, whether Nexts customers decide to use the Next Directory or website, visit a Next retail store, the strength of the brand continues to be a powerful attraction in terms of design consistency, value and quality their customers know they can trust. To support this, Richard R. Dolphin (1999) says organizations communicate with those that they perceive as stakeholders because they desire an enhanced awareness, understanding and appreciation of their identity and their core beliefs as well as of their products and their services. Next has an outstanding record of achievement as a result of continued success of innovative shopping concept. Nexts greatest assets are its exclusive designs and distinctive styling that have given it a strong brand image. Figure 1.2 Reputation Framework Source: Argenti, Paul. Corporate Communications(2007) George Davies, a retail entrepreneur, believed in the 80s that tailored jacket could establish Next, as long as it represented fantastic value for the price and high quality (identity). This was their brand positioning at the time. In February 1982 Next opened its first seven shops and the sales were two and-a-half times what the company had originally estimated. Davies found a ready market for his merchandise(as customers were able to identify with the positioning) providing what he called affordable collectables, which represented good design at reasonable prices(image). (Fashion encyclopedia) Next was able to give the public a better product in terms of their expectation of quality at the price point. Also, Next logo has been changed from time to time in terms of the use of upper and lower case letters and also background colour probably as a brand repositioning strategy. Even the name Next suggests something to look forward to which essentially says a lot about how the company wants to be perceived or positioned in the minds of its customers hence translating into the image as conceived in the minds of its various stakeholders which over a period of consistency earns the company a reputation. This relationship is supported with Argentis Reputation framework (figure 1.2). Management of stakeholders Cornelissen J. (2008, p.42) defines a stakeholder as any group or individual who can affect or is affected by the achievement of the organisations purpose and objectives. Next addresses environmental, social, ethical and business related impacts on its stakeholders as a way of managing and bringing value to them. (Next website) NEXT has a strategy of addressing the issue of the organisations reputation as there are different expectations from different stakeholders. The Board at Next represents and promotes its shareholders interests. The Board gives account of the performance and activities of the Group and then communicates this with its shareholders with respect to the business activities.(Ezine Articles 2009). The company recognizes a need to address every kind of stakeholder it has. Figure 1.3 Stakeholder model of strategic management. Source: Cornelissen Joep, 2008. p.39 Next adopts and implements a code of conduct that delivers benefits for its workers across the globe by which means it fulfils its responsibility to uphold international labour laws with its suppliers. The company sources the products it sells from many countries around the world. It recognizes the responsibility it has to work closely with its global suppliers, and is committed to ensuring its products are made in a clean and safe environment, in accordance with all relevant local and national laws and legislation, and by workers who are treated with respect and paid fairly for the work they do.(Nextplc.co.uk). Every company has got its own reasons for being in business. For whatever reason for which a business might be in existence, it must take into consideration its responsibility to the environment in which it trades which includes its stakeholders (Government, shareholders/investors, suppliers, customers, etc) and the world at large. Please refer to the bibliography for a full statement of Corporate responsibility from Next and how it relates with each group of stakeholders. Role of Culture According to Tourish and Hargie (2004), culture can be defined as a collective (for example society, organisation, group or sub-group) interpreted for its sense of social integration, differentiation, and fragmentation. It is the culture of Next to have the interest of its people(including stakeholders) at the centre of its business. Figure 1.4 Hofstedes Framework of cultural dimensions. Source: Hofstede, G. (1994). Cultures and Organisations, London: Harper Collins As a result, the company had its business strategy implemented within a genuine organisational culture and continuous investment in its employees. This in essence gives employees a sense of security and loyalty towards the organisation and in essence help to relax the power distance(Hofstedes power distance) between employees and their bosses. A multi-national organisation such as Next, by reasons of its geographical dispersion will work with and employ people from diverse cultures, hence the need to possess a sensitive communication strategy. Cornelissen J.(2008, p.71) describes an organisations culture as the values as felt and shared by all employees of the organisation. For instance, to contain the situation of cultural differences and language in its countries of operation, Next has a multi-lingual website for its online home-shopping, Next Directory. This is a good step in the right direction in terms of communication strategy. With regards to Hofstedes concept of individualism, Next plc supports collectivism rather than individualism. It encourages employees to be integrated to a single corporate group rather than individual groups. It has in place a training and development team which designs and implements interventions to drive forward the fun, fair and rewarding culture of working together. Role of Technology According to Tourish and Hargie (2004), a torrent in recent years resulting from the surging river of technology is a key feature of the organisational landscape. Technology has proven to be very dynamic in nature and for an organisation that wants to reach and connect with a vast majority of its stakeholders or even expand its customer base in a competitive world, it must also be technologically pro-active. Tourish and Hargie (2004,p.74) supports the views of Clampitt and Downs()993) and Hargie and Tourish(2000), that communication has been at the centre of successful organisations, causing a challenge to create a communication system that is efficient and effective when it comes to addressing the needs of its customers and external and internal stakeholders. Internet popularity and new media reception offers enormous opportunities for NEXT to improve its communication strategy. According to Tourish and Hargie (2004, p.74), technology alone does not solve problems, it only offers opportunities so it must fit into already existing communication strategy. Next increased its customer base to over 2 million with the launch of the Next Directory internet shopping in 1999. The website also has multi-lingual features which helps to translate to other languages to aid user friendliness. This strategy will help Next to influence its customer behaviour. Next is a people oriented organization. Even employees may have instant access to senior managers via their e-mail address, which in essence reduces power distance as Hofstedes cultural dimension illustrates. Human Resource Management Beardwell et al (2004,p.6) supports Legge(1995) that the analysis of HRM in terms of style has revolved around whether it can be regarded as hard or soft. Soft HRM according to him is often viewed as developmental humanism in which the individual integrates into a process of work that values trust, communication and commitment while Hard HRM emphasizes cost minimization strategies. With regard to the Soft HRM, NEXT employs over 58000 people and sees its employees as valuable assets to the organization and is committed to their development by providing a working environment in which they can to achieve their full potential and accessing opportunities for both personal and professional development.(Nextplc.co.uk). Nexts recruitment is done online via the HR department. Figure 1.5 McKinseys 7-S model. Source: www.Mindtools.com Nexts human resource approach is a mixture of both the Hard and Soft approaches in line with McKinseys 7S model(pictured above). Employees enjoy an environment of support and respect, fair treatment, listened to, welfare and motivated to achieve their full potential, which is the core of its human resource management. Next applies the soft approach of recruitment policies, development and training of employees and is also committed to investment of time and resource for support, engagement and motivation of employees to feel valued, developing rewarding careers and want to stay with the company. There are reward systems for employee motivation as a hard approach. As the business continues to develop, Next understands that effective and committed employees will help to continue delivering excellent quality products and services to its customers. This suggests an output-based HRM. Ulrichs model of HRM can be substantiated with Next in that, most of its top people (executives and non-ex ecutives alike ) have been with the company for many years and this is because Next makes its employees feel valued thereby gaining their loyalty and they, over the years, work through the four roles till they become strategic partners. Figure 1.6 Ulrichs 4 roles of HR Source: Ulrich, D.(1998) Human Resource Champions. The Harvard HRM framework as developed by Beer et al(1984) explains that every organization must recognise all groups of stakeholders. Most of Nexts success can be attributed to its business strategy infused with stakeholder centred HRM strategy which can be confirmed with its statement of social responsibility. (Appendix 3) Figure 1.7 Harvard Map of HRM territory, by Beer et al(1984) Source: Beardwell et al(2004) Corporate Governance An enforced and well defined corporate governance provides a structure that works for the benefit of everyone concerned(at least in theory), by ensuring that the enterprise adheres to formal laws, best practices and to accepted ethical standards. Next has got various committees and officers overseeing its many business units in order to ensure smooth running and effective corporate communication flow. Figure 1.3 below further explains the general order or structure of corporate governance which also explains that of Next Plc. Next has a four-member audit committee which reviews the risk management process thereby refering significant risk issues to the Board for handling. Next Board is responsible for major policy decisions whilst delegating more detailed matters to its committees and officers including the Chief Executive. (Next Plc, Corporate Governance). The Board at Next represents and promotes the interests of shareholders (Ezine Articles, n.d) and also other arms including the HR and PR departments are there to help ensure communication strategies are effectively implemented. Figure 1.8 General Structure of Corporate Governance. Source: Johnson et al (2011) Exploring Strategy. Conclusions and Recommendations In conclusion, the organization has to be sustained and successful so effective corporate communication strategy is very essential in tackling its communication challenges. As a result of the unpredictable nature and diversity of stakeholders, drawing up a corporate communication strategy can in fact be very challenging. Sometimes stakeholders still lack commitment to an organization no matter how the organization tries to keep them informed or involved. The management of Next Plc had trivialised this important fact and went on playing on their customers intelligence by breaking consumer law in failing to refund delivery charges on goods bought online even when returned within seven days. The media got a hold of this activity and then made it public. This singular act could make it difficult for Next to achieve its own objectives with its stakeholders. The effect of it was damaging on the companys image and reputation but the management was quick to offer apologies to their customers before any further damages could be made.. Also with the concept of cultural division, Next as a multi-national organization employs and works with people of diverse cultural orientations and backgrounds who sometimes may see different meanings to the same words or statements. Multi-national companies may not always be able to adapt to all the cultural differences and at the same time maintain consistency in portraying their corporate culture but they would have to make strategies that inculcate cultural common grounds. It is sometimes difficult selecting the appropriate channels as well. For instance, Next plc has a multilingual website, though not all languages are included. This also poses a challenge as some cultures might feel left out. Next Plc is committed to abiding by rules and regulations in countries where it operates. Changes in laws and regulations of different countries are also unpredictable as most of the times they may run counter to an organizations strategic interest. These changes sometimes create difficul ty in maintaining its performance culture; for this reason it is confident but cautious at the same time. Against all odds of adverse circumstances and social rethinking, Next has continually moved forward the high standards of quality and processes of improvement using its keen minds. Thereby managing communication complexities arising in relation to it stakeholders. Hence, its ability to synchronise image, identity, reputation and human resource management.

Friday, October 25, 2019

Mexico Essay -- Mexican Economy, Politics

Mexico is a country that has long been thought of as being an impoverished nation, with many more people who are among the poor that those who can be reasonably be considered to be wealthy. In recent years the Mexican people have had a dramatic change in their demographic outlook, with the largest change being in the fertility rate having dropped from 6.5 in the early 70’s to its current rate of 2.2 – easily the fastest rate of decline in the world today. With the importance of family to the Mexican people it is hard to imagine that these new rates will be sustainable in the future and will have dramatic negative implications for the economies of both Mexico and the United States as the population ages without replacement workers (McGoldrick, Giordano & Garcia-Preto, 2005; Sedano, 2008). The Mexican people are a people who find their roots amongst the Mayan, Aztecan and other Native American people. They also often share an ancestry with the European Spanish who conquered and settled much of what is today Mexico and the American Southwest. Their common language is Spanish and the majority of Mexican people follow the Catholic religion, which interestingly has changed in many ways to include many of the traditions and symbols of the other more ancient religions that were practiced before the Spanish conquest and the forced conversion of the natives. There still runs a deep attachment to â€Å"folk† medicine to cure ailments that are most likely caused by stress or other psychological means such as fright, the â€Å"evil eye† and even indigestion (McGoldrick, et. al., 2005). The family in Mexico is predominantly patriarchal in nature there is also a great deal of respect that is due the mothers of the family. Family types range from nuclea... ...e more educated parents (McCabe, 2002). It was discovered that such factors as income, perceptions of stigma, expectations of therapist directness, therapist-client match and even acculturation had no significant effect of the dropout rates. The greatest predictors were instead, parental belief in strict discipline in reaction to behavioral and emotional problems along with the perception of barriers to getting treatment (McCabe, 2002). While it is seen that acculturation may increase the ability of the client to seek assistance and that the acculturation of the parents may help them better understand the role of therapy in helping with behavioral and emotional problems will help more adolescents with these problems seek help it does was shown that improving the parents expectations and attitudes towards therapy may have beeter retention outcomes (McCabe, 2002).

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Environment, Geographical Location, and its Affects on The Early River-Valley Essay

Food, shelter, fertile land, and trade were essential for early river-valley civilizations. Without food, shelter, fertile land, and trade early river-valleys where doomed for any future success in the land. Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Indus Valley are examples of some early river-valley civilizations that relied heavily on its geographies and Mother Nature. For early river-valley civilizations in Egypt the Nile River played a crucial role. Without the Nile, Egypt would be a bleak and hospitable desert filled with mountains, and rocks. The Nile provided water for the people of Egypt. With the Nile being really the only source of water for all of Egypt, I would imagine that these civilizations cherished the Nile heavily. The Nile also, helped the farming in Egypt improve. Every September, the Nile, overflowed its banks, spreading water out into the bordering depressed basins. When the waters receded, they left behind a fertile layer of mineral-rich silt, and the farmers could easily plant their crops in the moist soil. The early river-valley civilizations of Mesopotamia relied greatly on the Tigris, and the Euphrates Rivers. Mesopotamia means, â€Å"Land between the rivers.† Mesopotamian civilization developed in the plain alongside and between the Tigris and Euphrates, which originate in the mountains of eastern Anatolia and empty into the Persian Gulf. Without the rivers, the civilizations would have struggled greatly to survive. Reed plants, which grew on the riverbanks and in the marshy southern delta, could easily be woven into mats, baskets, huts, and boats. Also, fish from the rivers and marshes were an important part of the people’s diet [http://search.targetwords.com/u.search?x=5977%7C1%7C%7C%7C%7Cdiet%7CAA1VDw]. Another benefit that the rivers gave to the early civilizations was that, herds of sheep, and goat which grazed on the fallow land provided wool, and milk. Finally, the early river-valley civilizations in the Indus Valley relied significantly on the Indus River. Twice a year the river overflows its banks and spreads for as much as 10 miles. In March and April melting snow would melt and feed the rivers. Then, in August, the great monsoon would blow off the ocean to bring rains that swell streams flowing into the Indus. As a result, farmers in this region of little rainfall were able to plant and harvest two crops a year. With a bad environment and a bad geographical location an early river-valley civilization didn’t have much of a chance surviving. Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Indus Valley were some of the lucky locations where their environment and geographical location benefited them greatly. Egypt would have had barely any water, Mesopotamia wouldn’t have been able to trade, and the Indus Valley would have had been deserted without each locations geographical gift.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Nutritional Needs over a Life Span Essay

As we grow older, our nutritional needs begin to change. Not only do they change throughout different stages of life, but they also vary depending on whether you are male or female. The following are nutrient requirements for the lifespan of both men and women: Infants Infants of both sexesleave the mother’s womb and live on their mother’s breast milk for the first four to six months of their life. If breastfeeding is not possible, then the infant should be formula fed.This provides all the necessary nutrients to sustain good health during this time frame. From age six to 12 months, infants can begin eating solid foods such as rice, oatmeal, soft fruits, cooked veggies and meats. After they are a year old, they can graduate to eating larger, raw fruits, vegetables and lean meats. Teenagers Teens have to keep a well balanced diet because they are growing during these years. They also have to be able to concentrate in school and get adequate nutrition to help them play sports, as well. They need sufficient iron in their diet; teenage girls usually do not get enough of this. Protein, calcium and Vitamin D are particularly important during a teenager’s growth spurt. This includes fish, chicken breast, skim milk, cheese and low fat yogurts. Boys usually need more calories than girls because they have more muscle mass and tend to grow taller. Another facet of teenage life, particularly for women is the pressure to stay thin. They are more likely to suffer from eating disorders and inadequate nutrition, than males. Read more:Â  Essay on Nutritional Requirements Adults Adult men and women have different nutritional needs based on their occupation and activity level. Those who have sedentary jobs, can get away with eating a 1500-1800 calorie a day diet, without weight gain. However, those who work in field such as construction, cleaning, fitness instruction, etc..require a greater calorie intake of at least 2000-3000 calories daily. Women of child bearing age, must eat plenty of iron rich foods like cooked fish and poultry products, as well as spinach and other leafy green vegetables. Just before and during pregnancy, women have to pay close attention to the diet, as this can affect the health of the baby. Along with obtaining nutrients from all of the major food groups, she may take folic acid supplements to aid in proper development of the child’s spinal cord. They should also avoid raw foods that may contain poisonous bacteria, like fish, eggs and soft cheeses. Older Adults Older adults are not as physically active as younger adults, so their calorie needs are reduced. Calcium is very important to maintain strong bones. Women are particularly susceptible to developing osteoporosis later in life, so they should increase their calcium intake Fiber rich foods such as multigrain breads and slow cooked oatmeal aid in the digestion of older adults. A variety of B-vitamins plus protein help maintain a healthy central nervous system and protects body tissues from damage.

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Experience That Influenced Your Academic Interests Essays - Surnames

Experience That Influenced Your Academic Interests Essays - Surnames Experience that influenced your academic Interests UT Texas at Austin The prompt is: Describe and evaluate one experience that significantly influenced your academic interests. Be sure to explain how this experience led to your setting the goals you know have for yourself and why you think the academic program for which you are applying will help you to reach these goals. He Opened the Door to Anywhere and Anything Mr. Trimble- the tall, bike-riding Calculus teacher who truly made me realize the value of education. As far as academics were concerned, I believed I had always tried my best in reaching my full potential. That is, until I met Mr. "T." He made me understand that I was not going as far as I was capable of Mr. Trimble offered to help me out on a couple of problems I had been experiencing with Pre-Calculus, and after a short while he became not only a tutor, but a true friend. I cannot even begin to imagine how many hours I spent in his classroom after the last school bell had rung. Posters of music legends and helpful math mnemonics covered his walls. It was a very spirited room for the lively man he stood to be. He went over the math in great detail while also informing me of how eminently important it was for academics to be my top priority. As an avid swimmer and loyal friend, I was greatly dedicated to the sport and my social surroundings, but Mr. Trimble would always be there to tell me to slow down and repeat his key phrase, "Studying always comes first." Although Mr. Trimble's main purpose was to perfect my Pre-Cal, he did so much more that he was unaware of doing. He convinced me into believing that anything was possible if I put my mind to it and had a brain-full of determinat ion. If I wanted to be the first woman President, he would say "Hey, the sky's the limit." After the year ended, my goals had unconsciously changed for the better. I believed in myself, my capability, and accomplishing anything as though the world was an open door to endless possibilities. I did not just want to be a newspaper reporter, my desire was to be sports editor of the New York Times. Since the University of Texas ranks as having one of the best academic curriculums in the nation, participating in such a program will challenge me tothe best of my ability, probably more than anything ever will. Under the mentoring and guidance of Mr. Trimble, I do not fear the intimidation that college puts forth, I welcome and look forward it.

Monday, October 21, 2019

Are all instincts random and arbitrary

Are all instincts random and arbitrary Human instincts are the innate characteristics that determine specific behaviors while instincts are innate abilities of human beings or animals, which enable them to adapt to diverse and changing environmental conditions for survival purposes. Human beings or animals respond to unique environments depending on the instincts that direct them.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Are all instincts random and arbitrary? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More For example, when a baby is born, the instinctive responses are crying and sucking, which enable the baby to attract attention of the mother and satisfy hunger respectively. In animals, young ones of birds display instinctive behavior of flying without prior experience. These instinctive behaviors emanate from innate characteristics. Since instincts are innate and specific to certain characteristic behaviors, not all of them are random and arbitrary. Although environment modi fies some instinctive behaviors, others emanate exclusively from the innate characteristics. According to nativists, â€Å"all aspects of human behavior are instinctive and humans have inbuilt instinctive behaviors that are genetically determined †¦ we are born with certain core capabilities and knowledge that provide the basic the basic structure of learning† (Spink 2). Genes are responsible for the specific instincts that are unique to human beings or animals. Within species, instincts are similar due to the similarity of genetic information. On the other hand, species’ variability of instincts occurs due to the diversity of genetic information. Since instincts are innate and specific to certain characteristics, they can never be random and arbitrary because the genetic information dictates them. The genetic makeup defines specific instincts relative to their application in nature. Human beings portray instinctive behaviors that are not arbitrary. For instance, all babies have instinctive behavior of suckling in order to satisfy their hunger. Spink argues that, â€Å"babies engage in sucking behavior that generally emerges unprompted, although some babies have problems with sucking, it is an innate or instinctive behavior† (1). This shows that sucking is a natural instinct, not arbitrary, because all babies have the innate ability of doing it. If the ability of the babies to breastfeed were a random instinct, then, some babies would be unable to breastfeed while others would learn in order to breastfeed properly. Therefore, the ability of babies to breastfeed instinctively and in a uniform manner means that instincts are specific rather than random in controlling human behaviors.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Language development in human beings is instinctive because children can develop it without learning. An informati on behavior is an instinctive process of language development. According to Spink, â€Å"†¦it is a cognitive process that is not taught, but is innate to humans as people are able to consciously understand that they need to undertake behavior processes of information finding, organizing, and using to make sense of their environment (2). Therefore, language development can never be an arbitrary process since human beings use rational and logical minds to understand their environment and to generate information. Animals also depict that, instincts link intricately with the innate characteristic behaviors. For example, all birds have instinctive ability to fly due to innate characteristics of their genes. A young bird begins to fly when wings’ muscles mature while the instincts drive the bird to fly. If the instincts were random and arbitrary, some birds would not be flying while others would have unique abilities such as walking instead of flying. Therefore, not all insti ncts are random and arbitrary because they are innate and specific in their functions. Spink, Amanda. â€Å"Instinct Versus Environment.† Springer Journal of information  Behavior 11.85. (2010): 1-10.

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Assessing The Corporate Structure Within Lvmh Business Essay

Assessing The Corporate Structure Within Lvmh Business Essay LVMH Moà «t Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.A. (Euronext: MC), usually shortened to LVMH, is a French holding company and the worlds largest luxury goods conglomerate. It is the parent of around 60 sub-companies that each manage a small number of prestigious brands These daughter companies are, to a large extent, run autonomously. The group was formed after mergers brought together champagne producer Moà «t et Chandon and Hennessy, a leading manufacturer of cognac. In 1987, they merged with fashion house Louis Vuitton to form the current group The group is controlled by the Christian Dior group, which owns 42.4% of shares and has over 58% of voting rights. Bernard Arnault, majority shareholder of Dior, is Chairman of both companies and CEO of LVMH. His successful integration of various famous aspiration brands into the group has inspired other luxury companies into doing the same. Thus Gucci (now part of the French conglomerate PPR) and Richemont have also created extended portfolios of luxury brands. The oldest of the LVMH brands is wine producer Chà ¢tea d’Yquem, which dates its origins back to 1593 Corporate structure LVMH is based in Paris, France. The company is listed on the Euronext Paris exchange and isa constituent of the CAC 40 index. As of 2008, the group revenues of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬17.2 billion with a net income of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬2.318 billion. The group currently employs 77,000 people. 30% of LVMH’s staff work in France. LVMH operates over 2,300 stores worldwide. Its current business plan aims to tightly control the brands it manages in order to maintain and heighten the perception of luxury relating to their products. For example, Louis Vuitton products are sold only through Louis Vuitton boutiques found in upmarket locations in wealthy cities or in concessions in other luxury goods shops (such as Harrods in London). This practice contrasts greatly with less exclusive brands which can be bought in shopping malls around the world (http:// en.wikipedia.org) Shareholders At the end of 2008, the only declared major shareholder in LVMH was Groupe Arnault, the family holding company of BernardArnault. The group’s control amounted to 47.42% of LVMH’s stock (with 42.42% held through Christian Dior S.A. and 5.00% held directly) and 63.40% of its voting rights (58.02% by Dior and 5.38% directly). A further 3.4% of shares were declared as treasury stock, with the remainder being free float .(http://en.wikipedia.org) DEPARTMENTS OF LVMH Wines & Spirits Fashion & Leather Goods Perfumes & Cosmetics Watches & Jewelry Selective retailing (Annual report LVMH-2008) MISION AND VALUES OF LVMH Be creative and innovate Aim for product excellence Bolster  the  image  of  our  brands  with  passionate  determination Act as entrepreneurs Strive to be the best in all we do (Annual Report LVMH-2008) Definitions of Human Resource Management Human recourse management is a strategic and coherent approach to the mana gement of organization’s most valued assets: the people working there who individually and collectively contribute to the achievement of its objectives. (Michael Armstrong, a Hand book of Human Resource Management 2003) The HRM models are The Matching model of HRM Harvard model of HRM Best practice model The contingency model