Level 5 Leadership

Jim Collins creates a sort of guideline for companies that are mediocre or have had mediocre performances who want to make the leap to becoming a great company. The way Collins came up with these guidelines is by studying 11 great companies that were selected from a list of Forbes 500 companies and deemed great companies using a criteria created by Collins' research team. These 11 companies were than each compared to a company in the same industry with similar resources but who did not perform as well as the â€Å"great† companies in the 15 year time span in which the companies were studied.Collins was able to create the flywheel concept out of his studies which is broken down into 6 parts. The one that is the focus of this paper is the level 5 leadership. Through the study of the â€Å"great† companies and through comparison with other companies, one of the major factors of the success of those companies was the type of leadership in place in the company. It takes a le ader with two characteristics to lead a truly great company to that success and those are: personal humility and professional will.The way a company can truly be great is by utilizing a level 5 leader who exemplifies the qualities that Jim Collins describes in his book, Good to Great. A leader is at his or her best when they are able to challenge the workers in the company and to inspire them by the way they lead. What is different about the level 5 leader that Collins describes is in the paradox of it all. A leader is quiet, laid back, almost to the point of being considered shy yet at the same time there is this incredible drive to be the best not for the sake of oneself but because that is what is best for the company.The leader is put in that position of the company to shake things up and change the company culture but the leader does not have to be some hot shot from a different company here to save the day. No, this leader is from within the company, he knows everything there is to know about the company and he improves it everyday. No matter what the company always comes first before oneself and long after the leader is gone the company will continue to be great, in fact, a level 5 leader would consider themselves a failure if their successor and the company is not more successful than before.Along with that the leader creates a culture of accountability while at the same time forming a mirror window effect; when things are going great the leader looks out the window to give credit but when things are going bad the same leader looks in the mirror to give himself blame. in essence he is taking the fear away from his employees in order to make them more invested in the company, by doing these simple steps the employee moral is kept high both during the good times and more importantly during the bad times. This quiet yet extremely driven individual is what makes a good company into a great company.This idea that a leader has to be quiet and driven in order to be a part of a great company cannot be true. As a prime example there was Steve Jobs, he was a co founder of Apple, then left and co founded Pixar, all before returning back to Apple to make it one of best companies in the world today. He was charismatic, he was egotistical, he was given credit for the success of Apple and he graciously took it, he was a celebrity. When people think of Apple they think of Steve Jobs, he created Apple and brought it to its greatness. He was not a level 5 leader. He was extremely driven but he was not the quiet type.He would not be the type of leader to just blend in with the crowd, instead hundreds of thousands would watch him during a new product release and hang on his every word. The fact that he was successful as the CEO of multiple big name companies while taking a large amount of the credit, that was well deserved, is one of the best counterexample to Collins level 5 leader. Steve Jobs was extremely devoted to the companies he worked for an d he worked tirelessly to make sure they were the best that he could make them but he did all of this by going with his own style that contradicted the teachings of Collins.There is no clear choice between a leader like Steve Jobs and the one that Jim Collins describes, a level 5 leader. There are too many factors in the business world and there are too many different industries to try to create description of the perfect leader. What Collins managed to do was to select 11 companies that he deemed great and he found similarities between the companies, one of those similarities being with the type of leaders those companies had in charge.For those companies and the practices the companies had in place, that type of leader with personal humility and professional will was what was necessary. For Apple and Pixar it was a different type of leader that thrived, and in other companies it will be that same Steve Jobs type of leader that will lead them to greatness. It is not possible to cre ate a prototype leader and companies should not try to do so they should put their efforts on finding the leader that fits their need the best whether that leader comes from within the company or from the outside.

Dementia awareness Essay

The learner can: 1. Explain what is meant by the term ‘dementia’ 2. Describe the key functions of the brain that are affected by dementia 3. Explain why depression, delirium and age related memory impairment may be mistaken for dementia. Outcome 2 Understand key features of the theoretical models of dementia The learner can: 1. Outline the medical model of dementia 2. Outline the social model of dementia 3. Explain why dementia should be viewed as a disability. Outcome 3 Know the most common types of dementia and their causes The learner can: 1. List the most common causes of dementia 2. Describe the likely signs and symptoms of the most common causes of dementia 3. Outline the risk factors for the most common causes of dementia 4. Identify prevalence rates for different types of dementia. Outcome 4 Understand factors relating to an individual’s experience of dementia The learner can: 1. Describe how different individuals may experience living with dementia depending on age, type of dementia, and level of ability and disability 2. Outline the impact that the attitudes and behaviours of others may have on an individual with dementia. SUGGESTED GUIDANCE ANSWERS OUTCOME 1 For a start what does dementia mean? Very simply for such a complex area, it is an illness of the brain. What is the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia? The word dementia is an umbrella term, which covers all the various dementias including Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is the one widely recognized, and accounts for about sixty per cent, of all the dementias. Dementia is a term that is used to describe a collection of symptoms including memory loss, problems with reasoning and communication skills, and a reduction in a person’s abilities and skills in carrying out daily activities such as washing, dressing, cooking and caring for self. Memory loss – this can be one of the first symptoms that people notice. The observations people report include – noticing their loved ones forgetting things that have happened earlier in the day, getting confused about messages and who people are, getting lost whilst out and about, repeating themselves, and appearing not to be paying attention or following conversations. Problems with communication – Some people experience problems with expressing themselves, talking and understanding things. They get confused about words and might use the wrong words for common things and mix words up. Reading and understanding written text can become problematic. There are a number of different types of dementia the most common being Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Fronto temporal dementia and Dementia with Lewy bodies. Some people get diagnosed as having mixed dementia; this is when the presentation shows the person to have elements of more than one type of dementia. Dementia is a progressive condition, which means the symptoms will gradually get worse. This progression will vary from person to person and each person will experience dementia in a different way. Although the person will have some of the above symptoms, the degree to which they affect an individual will vary and not all people will have all of these symptoms. 2. Areas of the brain affected by dementia are shown in the diagram below: [pic] The temporal lobe of the brain if affected by dementia will mean the sufferer will ‘forget’ every day functions, and how to perform them, relatives names and faces, their ‘past’ life, and friends they have known for years. Simple tasks that they used to perform with ease, become difficult to perform, and they have to ‘learn’ how to do them again. Sufferers can forget conversations and instructions, and need to be reminded on a regular basis, and given ‘prompts’ to remind them the topic of conversation, or what they are supposed be doing next for example. The frontal lobe of the brain if affected by dementia can mean that the sufferer is ‘unaware’ that their behaviour is unacceptable, or not the ‘norm’. The sufferer can become agitated very quickly, and suffer from depression. They may be unaware of apparent dangers, and unable to recognise what is ‘acceptable’ or ‘unacceptable’ behaviours. They may have violent outbursts, and exhibit ‘threatening’ behaviour to others. The parietal lobe of the brain if affected by dementia affects language skills. This means that communication skills could be reduced. The person may not be able to ‘find’ the appropriate words to use, or may not understand questions asked of them. They may not relate ‘words’ to the correct ‘objects’ for instance if they pick up a cup, but call it a ‘pot’. 3. Depression, memory problems, and delirium may be mistaken for dementia because these are often the onset symptoms of dementia, and therefore may be mistaken for the start of dementia in the elderly. Some symptoms of dementia are similar to symptoms of some mental health conditions. It is important that a comprehensive assessment is carried out if service users start to display symptoms such as confusion, poor memory or apathy. These could be indicators of dementia, but they could also be symptoms of depression, or other mental health conditions. OUTCOME 2 1. The medical model of dementia is of mental decline. This approach makes it hard to focus on maximising a person’s abilities and improving their quality of life. Putting physical problems and emotional states down to brain damage, the medical model overlooks the social world of people with dementia, and concentrates on the illness, rather than the person. 2. The social model of dementia sees the ‘person’ rather than the illness or disease. It puts the focus on what a person ‘can do’, (positives), instead of focussing on what the person can no longer do (negatives). The social model looks at ways to improve the quality of life, and experiences of dementia, and provide techniques for the dementia sufferer, to live a fulfilling and rewarding life. The social model recognises and includes the individual’s social, recreational, spiritual needs, instead of just their medical or personal care needs.

Bone and Joint Histology

* It is a specialised connective tissue. * Osteogenic cells ⇒ osteoblast (makes matrix, active when young, and after fracture) ⇒ osteocyte ⇒ osteoclast (functions in resorption, breakdown of bone matrix) (makes cavities) (from blood monocyte) Bone Functions * Framework for support of the skeleton * Protection: brain, spinal cord, lungs and heart * Levers for muscles attached to them via tendons * Reservoir for minerals e.g. calcium, magnesium, phosphates etc. Bone Matrix * Components * Extracellular matrix (ground substance and fibres) consists of inorganic material (65%) e.g. calcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, magnesium, sodium, potassium, bicarbonate, fluoride, citrate, sulfate, and hydroxide. * Minerals give bone hardness and rigidity * Organic component (35%) mostly type I collagen (95%)- gives bone slight flexibility; and ground substance e.g. GAGs with proteoglycans, which contain chondroitin and keratin sulfates which give bone resilience * Development 1. Bone starts as osteoid, which is collagen and GAG’s with no minerals 2. Bone becomes mineralised (immature, primary, or woven bone). It is the first bone to appear in development and in repair after fractures 3. Bone starts to remodel as the adult form (mature, secondary, lamellar) Bone Cells 1. Osteoprogenitor (osteogenic) cells: from embryonic mesenchyme, which differentiate into osteoblasts. Found in inner cellular layer of the periosteum, lining Haversian canals, in the endosteum (lining medullary cavity) 2. Osteoblasts: derived from osteoprogenitor cells, form and grow new bone by synthesis of organic components of bone matrix. Found on the surfaces of existing bone tissue where they deposit new bone matrix (osteoid) which contains no minerals. Later mineralization occurs, tissue is new bone. Osteoblasts extend processes with neighbouring osteoblasts for molecular transport. Sit on the edge of bone. 3. Osteocytes: flat cells with small cytoplasmic processes. Aid in the maintenance of bone tissue and storage of minerals. Each osteoblast becomes surrounded by secreted matrix, once this occurs, the cell is known as an osteocyte (mature bone cell), and the space it occupies is a lacuna. Radiating out in all directions from the lacuna are tunnel-like spaces (canaliculi) which house the cytoplasmic processes of the osteocytes. The canaliculi allow transfer of nutrients, wastes between the osteocytes and blood. They are very active cells. Communicate via cytoplasmic processes in the canaliculi, metabolic communication. 4. Osteoclasts: large motile, multinucleated cells (150 um diameter) which contain up to 50 nuclei. These cells break up and resorb bone. Osteoclasts occupy shallow depressions (Howship’s lacunae). The ruffled border (infolded plasma membrane) is that part of the cell that is directly involved in the resorption of bone. It removes bone enzymatically, mineral deficiencies then the osteoclasts become active to release the minerals that have been stored in bone, hence the person becomes fracture prone. The multinuclear nature of the osteoclasts is a good identifying factor Periosteum and Endosteum * Vascular, fibrous layer surrounds bone except over articular surfaces. * 2 layers * Outer layer is collagen with some elastic fibres. This layer distributes vascular and nerve supply to bone. * Inner layer is cellular (osteogenic layer, osteoprogenitor cells), gives rise to new bone. * Central cavity of bone is lined with endosteum- thin CT composed of osteoprogenitor cells and osteoblasts. * From the outer layer of periosteum, fine bundles of collagenous fibres (Sharpey’s) penetrate the underlying bone at intervals to attach the periosteum, especially at the sites of attachment of tendons and ligaments. * The periosteum contains blood vessels, nerve endings, and ligament and tendon attachments. Mature bone Organisation * Dense (compact) at the edge * This type has Haversian systems (osteons) which is a complex of 4- 20 concentric, bony circular lamellae surrounding a central (Haversian) canal (20- 100 ÃŽ ¼m diameter) * The canal contains blood vessels, lymphatics, with a few unmyelinated nerve fibres, loose CT and flattened osteogenic cells and osteoblast cells that line the lumen of the canal * Osteocytes are in lacunae (in the concentric lamellae) located within or between the lamellae * A second arrangement of lamellae is found between the osteons (interstitial lamellae- formed by the collapse of old Haversian systems). These are remnants of older, partially resorbed Haversian systems. * A third arrangement (circumferential lamellae) are rings of bone around the entire bone, beneath the periosteum * Radiating from the lacunae are tiny channels (canaliculi). Processes of the osteocytes enter these canals and communicate with adjacent osteocytes where an exchange of gases occurs, nutrients are supplied to the cells and metabolic wastes are eliminated. * The Haversian canals communicate with the marrow cavity, the periosteum and with each other via the transverse Volkmann’s canals, which run at right angles to the long axis of the bone. Each osteon has a cement line of calcified ground substance with some collagen fibres. * Spongy (Cancelllous Bone): * This type is not organised into Haversian systems but is a meshwork of thin bars (lamellae) or trabeculae of bone lining the marrow cavity * The spaces within this latticework are filled with bone marrow. The trabeculae house osteocytes in lacunae that are fed by diffusion from the marrow cavity. Blood and Nerve Supply * Bones have periosteal vessels, which penetrate the bone of the diaphysis of long bones and divide into branches that enter the Haversian systems. These vessels supply the osteocytes embedded in the calcified matrix. * Larger vessels pierce the epiphysis to supply the spongy bone and the midshaft to supply the medullary cavity. * Small myelinated and unmyelinated nerves go into the Haversian canals. * The periosteum contains many pain fibres which makes it sensitive to injury e.g. blow to the tibia Bone Development and Growth Histogenesis (differentiation) * Bone development is mesodermal in origin and if the tissue is membrane like (a sheet of mesenchyme or loose CT), it is intramembranous bone formation * If bone replaces cartilage that is largely resorbed before bone is formed, this is endochondral (intracartilaginous) bone development. Intramembranous Bone formation * The process involves mesenchyme to bone directly (osteoblast laying bone) * Locations: flat bones, e.g. the skull, mandible, clavicle Endochondral bone formation * The process in this type of bone formation occurs in 2 steps: 1. A miniature hyaline cartilage model is formed in the region where the bone is to grow within the embryo 2. The cartilage model grows appositionally and interstitially and serves as a structural scaffold for bone development. It is then resorbed and replaced by bone (all the cartilage is replaced by bone) * Locations: long, short bones, pelvis and vertebrae Developing bone region at epiphyseal plate * Area between shaft and epiphysis is the epiphyseal plate. * Proliferation occurs at the epiphyseal aspect and replacement by bone takes place at the diaphyseal side of the plate * Growth at both ends of the bone is hormone regulated * There are a series of 5 zones beginning at the centre of the disc and go towards the diaphysis: 1. Zone of reserve cartilage (resting zone) : chondrocytes through the matrix are mitotically active producing hyaline cartilage 2. Zone of proliferation: chondrocytes proliferate and form stacks of cells that parallel the direction of bone growth. (Cartilage dies- lose blood cells- hence the bone invades the space) 3. Zone of maturation and hypertrophy (Expanding): chondrocytes mature, hypertrophy and accumulate glycogen in their cytoplasm. No mitosis occurs 4. Zone of calcification and cell death: Chondrocytes die and the cartilage matrix becomes calcified impregnated with calcium and phosphorus 5. Zone of ossification: blood vessels invade spaces left by the dying chondrocytes carrying osteoprogenitor cells from the periosteum and differentiate into osteoblasts which elaborate matrix that becomes calcified on the surface of calcified cartilage. As the matrix calcifies, some osteoblasts are entrapped as osteocytes and bone trabeculae are formed. Coalescence of trabeculae creates spongy bone. Resorption of spongy bone by osteoclasts in the centre of the diaphysis enlarges the medullary cavity. Summary of histochemical processes for both models of bone formation * Osteoblasts secrete osteoid with no minerals * Formation of primary bone whereby osteoid is mineralized * Formation of secondary bone as compact or spongy bone Growth in length of long bone * Due to interstitial growth of epiphyseal cartilage * Growth continues until around 20 when the epiphyseal plate closes (cartilage is replaced by bone) and growth in length stops Growth in width of long bone * As a result of appositional growth from the surface and resorption by osteoclasts of the inner shaft so that the marrow space can be enlarged Bone Remodelling * Continual remodelling occurs in response to forces (e.g. teeth growing jawbones). Bone is deposited due to traction and resorbed due to pressure. * In young, bone deposition exceeds bone resorption. In the adult bone deposition is balanced with resorption. Joints * Joints are classified according to the degree of movement between the bones of the joint: * Synarthroses: little or no movement. There are 3 types based on the tissue making up the union: * Syndesmosis is the union of bones by dense CT e.g tibiofibular and radioulnar joints * Synchondrosis is a junction by cartilage e.g. IVDs and symphysis pubis * Synostosis is a joint united by bone e.g. skull sutures (Starts off as fontanelles) * Diarthroidal (synovial) e.g. knee, hip, shoulder have great freedom of movement and have a CT capsule around a joint cavity held by ligaments. * The joint has an articular cartilage (hyaline) with no perichondrium. The capsule is lined (except over the articular surfaces) with a cellular, vascular, folded synovial membrane made of loose CT which secretes a viscous lubricating, synovial fluid. The viscosity of the fluid varies with temperature. *Fibrous- collagen- little to no movement- interosseous ligament *Gomphosis- tooth joined by cartilage

Air Carrier Safety; History, Statistics, and Forecast Essay

Air Carrier Safety; History, Statistics, and Forecast - Essay Example The first laws that deal with commercial aviation were passed during the 1920’s. One specific act that was critical in the development of the aircraft safety is the Air Commerce Act of 1926 (McDougall, 2007). This act required pilots and aircraft to be examined and licensed for accidents and crashes to be sufficiently investigated. Moreover the establishment of safety rules and navigation aids were established under the Aeronautics Branch of the Department of Commerce. Given these advancements in the policy arena, over the course of 1926 and 1927, there were a total of 24 dangerously fatal commercial airline accidents (Bamber, 2009). Furthermore, the following 2 years resulted in a total of 67 accidents which is a record in terms of the worst period of time for accidents in aviation history. The calculated accident rate was about 1 for every 1,000,000 miles flown. If converted to the current rates of travel, such numbers would translate into 7,000 fatal incidents per year (McD ougall, 2007). Though 1927 is the most fatal year in terms of airline travel, ever since that year, the number of annual accidents have steadily declined. Furthermore, after 1997 the number total number of fatal airline accidents dropped less than .2 percent of its previous rate with less than 1 for every 2 billion miles flown per person. Consequentially air travel has become one of the most safe methods of travel. It seems as if most accidents are not caused by human error but rather by external conditions that effect travel such as weather (Bamber, 2009). This is empirically proven by the fact that a disproportionate number of all U.S. aircraft crashes occur in Alaska, largely as a result of severe weather conditions. Between 1990-2006 there were 1441 commuter and air taxi crashes in the U.S. of which 373 (26%) were fatal, resulting in 1063 deaths (142 occupational pilot deaths). Alaska accounted for 513 (36%) of the total U.S.

Tesla Motors Combate Air Pollution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Tesla Motors Combate Air Pollution - Essay Example The big question is, will Tesla motors and their electric cars save the world? Since an emission free engine was required, electricity was the appropriate fuel to be used in the car (Simioni, 2012). Many companies have in the past only managed to get hybrid engines of electricity and organic fuel. However, this does not solve the emission issue as organic fuels are still involved. However, based on Harvard Business School (2008) Tesla motors have found the solution by producing a fully electric engine for vehicles. Their engines only use motors that re driven by magnetic fields generated by electric coils thus driving the car, and in the end an emission free engine is achieved. One only needs to plug the car into a normal electrical socket and the vehicle will get charged. Jupp & Sapsford, (2011) have it that in order to fully discuss this issue, it is pertinent that appropriate data collection through qualitative method be done. This is the best choice for the expected data should be in figures and pictures. In the analysis of the data. The content analysis method will be employed, so that the full picture of the adverse effects of air pollution be captured and how electric vehicles from Tesla motors will help do away with air

Critical assessment and measurement of costs involved in the operation Essay

Critical assessment and measurement of costs involved in the operation of JIT policy - Essay Example In this report, we will try to identify the hidden costs of implementing JIT system and assign monetary value to them. The purpose of this report is not to reject the effectiveness of JIT, but to evaluate the exact benefit derived from this system and whether the effectiveness of this system will be universal for all business concerns or not. 90% of this work is original and is based on primary research in form of Focus Group, Interviews. The deductions, implications and examples quoted are original. References are used only for definitions and the various components for the JIT theory. Survey Research Method: The second method used is the Survey Research method, which according to Kotler "Surveys are best suited for descriptive research". In our case, the survey comprised of a sample of Production/Operations Managers in different industries. At present, almost all management schools of thought are in favour of JIT system. Due to the success of its implementation in Toyota Motors and Japanese companies the tendency of all Production/operations managers is towards implementing JIT. In this regard, a paper retrieved on 20th December 2007 from www.wikepedia.com was particularly useful resource material since it gave insight onto the problems built into the JIT system and problems faced with implementation of the JIT system. In the "Critical Assessment of JIT, costs associated with JIT" section of this report, some points are included form the work on www.wikipedia.com/critical assessment of JIT. The second most useful secondary Internet resource material was collected from www.1000ventures.com. This gave a detailed insight into the components of JIT. These components are included in table form in this report. The detailed knowledge of these components has given me an insight into what can be the cost components or hitches in implementing and practicing JIT. Other than this,

Closing the Border between the United States and Mexico Research Paper

Closing the Border between the United States and Mexico - Research Paper Example One of the major law and order problems, which take place at this border, is that of illegal immigration. This problem raised many issues, such as public hostility towards the immigrants and decrease in property values. According to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) data available, the US Border Patrol catches thousands of illegal immigrants every year. Furthermore, it is important to note that this number only indicates the immigrants who failed while trying to enter illegally (Huffman and Torok, 1986). Undoubtedly, a much larger number of people have attempted it altogether, counting the failed attempts as well as the successful attempts. These illegal aliens are the cause of several economic and social problems in the US. One major problem is traceable to the reason why the Mexicans choose to immigrate to the US. Some of them do so in hopes of better job prospects and better living conditions. The ones, who choose to do so illegally, do so due to shortage of time or patience that is required for a legal immigration. Either way, they arrive in the US to face a lot of competition in the job market, as here the supply for their labor exceeds demand. Still, they manage to acquire jobs meant for low-skilled, manual workers. This creates resentment for the US citizens who are also only qualified for such jobs. They also resent these immigrants due to cultural and ethnic differences. All these factors combine to form a rather negative opinion about immigrants from Mexico. The fact that a large proportion are illegal immigrants, and thus not justified to be living in the US to begin with, further fuels the hostility, thus leading to violence and hate crimes (Espenshade, 1995). This is a major reason why the US government should consider closing down the US-Mexico border. Another problem, which arises due to this illegal migration, is the decrease in property value. The

Managing Products and Services Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Managing Products and Services - Assignment Example banking, insurance, communications, transportation, travel and entertainment. Today, more than 60% of economy in developed countries depends upon service industry and more than 74% in United States alone. Therefore, today the experts seem to be more interested in focusing how to manage and market their services instead of products. This essay will help to understand the main features of this rapidly growing industry of present era. [1] Before the advent of service industry, the definition of product used to encompass the functionality of service as well because that service was particularly related to those products. This type of service is known as 'after-sales service'. But now due to increased interest in pure service industry, the scholars and professionals have begun to point out the differences between the two. Both product and service are offered to the customers with the aim of fulfilling their needs and demands and earning profits in return. But the literature tells us that it is the 'characteristics' of service which make it different and configurable in comparison to product. Those characteristics are explained as follows: [1] Intangibility: A service is intangible because it cannot be touched, seen, possessed, owned etc. Before using the service, a customer is unknown about its quality. And the service provider cannot assess and control the quality of service until and unless it receives the feedback of customers. It totally depends upon client expectations. So the customer is always uncertain about the value and quality of a service that he/she can experience after its use. Inseparability: A service is inseparable from its provider. That's if the provider is not present the customer cannot use the service e.g. A patient cannot be treated until and unless a physician is present to examine him/her. It also poses that often a customer wants the service to be provided in a specific way or by some specific individual __ it enhances the pressure of perfection in that particular individual that directly provides the service. Perishability: The service cannot be stored for future use or to present to someone as the specimen of quality. If the customer does not avail it, he cannot expect it to be there in the same condition, value etc in future as well e.g. if a client misses the appointment with lawyer that time can never be captured again. At one time the rooms in the most renowned hotel of the city are available but after a few days you might not get a single room vacant there. It means service greatly depends upon supply and demand. Variability: The quality and consistency of service is subject to greater change because it is delivered by 'people' and the behavior of human beings cannot be controlled. They can be in good temperament at one time and in a depressed mood the other. Thus, the quality of service greatly depends upon experience, knowledge, attitude, style, personality etc of the provider e.g. in a restaurant one waiter provides excellent service but another hardly knows how to please a customer. These characteristics show that provision of service or 'service production' is totally based upon 'personnel contact', also called 'people contact'; while a 'product manufacturing' does not need people (customers) for its completion. Both product and service are of two types in nature. [2]

Tell me about the relationship of religion and science Essay

Tell me about the relationship of religion and science - Essay Example This cannot be denied that both religion and science contradict each other in many important ways. There has been fierce completion between the two since the time of Galileo. This essay aims to illustrate the extent to which this statement could be held true that religion and science are mutually exclusive. To achieve this end, religion and science will be compared to each other on different levels discussed in following section of the essay. It will be explored why science and religion appear to be at odds with each other and if there is any chance of creating harmony between these two entities or not. It is important to mention the name of Ian Barbour when exploring the relationship between religion and science. This is because Barbour is an expert of demonstrating the position of religion in an age of science. He has explored many troubling issues in science and religion. He also demonstrated how science promotes secularity which is inhibited by religion. Religious societies do everything in their capacity to uphold religion and smother secularity. It is not as if they disregard science, rather they accept it. But, too much science can be dangerous for religion as one of the most important scientific concepts like evolution questions the religious significance of Adam and Eve. According to Barbour, there are four ways of relating religion and science namely conflict, independence, dialogue, and integration. Each of these ways helps to understand the relationship between religion and science. On a level of conflict, it has to be understood that there are many conflicts between cl assical religious dogmas and modern science. Differences are not respected by either school of thought. Modern science swallows religion and religion does the same to science. Barbour stresses that fight between the two groups â€Å"can be avoided if they occupy separate territories† (Barbour). On a level of

Depression in adolescents Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Depression in adolescents - Essay Example Some researchers have suggested that "even among psychiatrists . . . the extent of the disability caused by depression is vastly underestimated." (Empfield, 2001) Further, it is logical to argue that "major depression causes more long-term human misery than any other single disease." (Empfield, 2001) Diagnosing and treating such a disease as early as possible in an individual's life may enable it to be effectively eradicated for their later years. While some early childhood depression does occur, the condition mainly appears in the teenage years. It will remain with the patient, become episodic or cause drastic symptoms such as suicide if it is left untreated. The causes of depression in general are still somewhat controversial within the medical community: situational and biological theories often conflict, while those that argue for a situational and biological cause are perhaps gaining ground. The physical features of the brain of person suffering from depression/who are liable to depression. As Cynthia Haines puts it, "there is absolute proof that people suffering from depression have changes in their brains . . . the hippocampus, a part of the brain that is vital to the storage of memories, is small in those people." (Haines, 2005) A smaller hippocampus has less serotonin receptors, and it appears that serotonin is important for the brain to communicate with the body, as well as a regulator of mood. A lack of serotonin appears to cause depression. There are also genetic causes of depression, or at least the propensity to become depressed seems to run in families. As Haines (2005) puts it, "children, siblings and parents of people with severe depression are much more likely to suffer from depression than are members of the general population." However, despite current searching, scientists have yet to discover the gene that may cause depression. (Alpert, 2005) The fact that both psychosocial and biological factors cause and maintain depression seems accepted, but the exact manner in which they combine is not certain. One reason that teenagers appear to suffer from more depression than other groups may be the 'quality of life' estimates that individuals constantly make. As Miller et al (2005) suggest, "quality of life reflects the patient's overall perceived satisfaction or quality. . . ". Teenagers often have a much lower perception of their lives than other age-groups, due to the physical, emotional, psychological and economic changes that are occurring to them. Teenage depression may express itself in different ways than adult depression. Thus teenagers may exhibit "additional psychiatric disorders, such as behavior disorders or substance abuse problems." (www.focusus.com) Often these additional symptoms seem to swamp the signs of depression and so the teenager may be treated (and/or disciplined) for the symptoms of depression when in fact the cause is not looked at. Thus a teenager who is suffering from depression may drink alcohol excessively, indulge in highly risky behavior or take drugs. These acts will be more visible than the underlying depression, and so are easier to latch onto for parents, school authorities and the police. Another complication is the fact that parents need to be able to identify the

Conflict in Sudan Essay Example for Free

Conflict in Sudan Essay There have been many conflicts in different regions of the world, causing a lot of effects to the humanity and the natural environment, which has always remained a silent victim. Many people have been killed because of these conflicts, while causing lot of devastating effects to the environment. During the war, a lot of pollutants are released to the environment which ends up affecting human beings and the natural resources. Other resources are depleted in the ensuing conflicts. The major concerns on the current issues about conflicts, both internal and regional are found in the developing countries. These countries do not have the economic capacity to deal with the conflict situation, hence making the problems even worse (IRIN, 2007). Africa has had along time history of civil war from the colonial times, and many are still evidenced today. Â  Most of the African nations fight over borders, which were mostly demarcated by the colonialists. These are regional conflicts, while internal conflicts arises due to the people fighting for scarce natural resources, for instance fertile farming land, and water. The Sudanese president is a wanted man on the list of the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity in the conflict that has been taking place in the country for almost 20 years, leaving hundreds of thousands of people dead (Goldberg, 2009). Causes and Effects of War in Sudan There has been a long civil war in Southern Sudan that has led to the international community through the United Nations and the African union to try and broker peace. The war witnessed in the region is considered as a fight between the different ethnic and tribal groups (IRIN, 2007). The mostly known conflicting groups are the government side and the Janjaweed rebel group. There is however other smaller rebel groups that have complicated the matter further. The major cause of the war in Sudan has been attributed to fighting for water between the Baggara nomads who moved to the South (an area occupied by the farming community), in search of water. This conflict has led to many deaths in the region, despite the presence of the peace forces. There are other reasons that have been cited as having contributed to the conflict, although the major reason has been the increase in population which the natural resources are not able to hold, hence making the groups to fight over the scarce resources. On the other hand, there have been claims that the Arab dominants, who are Muslims, have been fighting the Black Africans, who are mostly Christians to wipe them from the region. This is what has led to the US declaring this to be a form of genocide, which has taken place under the watch of President Al Bashir who the ICC wants arrested for the crimes (Goldberg, 2009). As already mentioned, the war was triggered by fighting for scarce resources, which was water. However, considering the continued fights, the environment is even endangered more, making it more impossible to support the population. This on the other hand aggravates the situation when the natural resources are not able to support them. The conflict over resources in Sudan started at a local level in Darfur region, but developed into becoming a national issue whereby economic and political marginalization has been heightened. The situation has been made worse because of ethnicity differences. Therefore, despite economic and political and religious factors contributing to the conflict in Darfur Sudan, the major problem has surrounded the environment. The Sudanese Arabs who are nomads moved southwards in search of greener pastures and water for their animals and entered the territory of the Black farmers, leading to the two groups to conflict. The Black farmers complained to the Khartoum government, but on realizing that the government was not keen on solving the problem, the Black farmers rebelled against the government. This rebellion led to fighting between the people, destroying a lot of property, both manmade and naturally (Borger, 2007). The two groups fighting each other have distinct life styles, hence through their fights; each tries to destroy the strategic areas that the other depends on, as a way of weakening them. For instance, the nomads usually would graze their animals on the crops of the farmers, destroying their source of livelihood. On the other hand, the farmers set the grazing land for the nomads on fire so that they lack animal feeds. Furthermore, as the nomads are known of moving from one region o another in search of greener pastures, the farmers have blocked their migration paths, forcing them to overgraze in one region, hence also affecting their source of livelihood. Such actions from both camps have made the situation to be worse as the conflict continues. Many of the refugees from Sudan have fled to the neighboring countries like Chad. The asylums in the neighboring countries have not made the refugees completely safe, but have even put the lives of the residents of the host country in danger. This is because the Janjaweed rebels have been following the refugees to their camps, and attacking them from there. This has made the residents in the host country who live near the refugee camps to move away from them to areas that are more secure. In essence, the citizens have been made insecure in their own land. This on the other hand might thus cause conflict between the refugees and the citizens of the host country, which again might rise to the national level (Gouroukoun, 2006). Conclusion The major effect of the Sudan’s conflict has been on the number of the people who have been killed. This is basically a major concern to everybody, including the humanitarian groups that are mostly found in Sudan, and the international community. However, it has to be understood that since the Sudan conflict is directly linked to the natural resources, which is an environmental, issue, the conflict has continued to affect the environment even to higher magnitude. The Arab Sudanese have always been cutting trees which the farmers have planted in their farms, as well as grazing on the farmers’ crops. On the other hand, the farmers have been burning the grazing land for the nomads. All these actions have got detrimental effects to the environment. The nomads moved southwards in search of greener pastures, yet they are cutting the trees that are important in rain formation, then it is obvious that a dry spell would be in the region for a long time. On the other hand, as the Black farmers burn the grazing ground, this also affects their farming activities since important macro organisms are killed. Therefore, all these environmental impacts would make the conflict to remain for a long time as long the involved bodies are only concerned with solving the immediate humanitarian crisis, rather than looking at the root cause of the problem, and how to avert it occurring in future. Reference: Borger, Julian (2007). Darfur conflict heralds era of wars triggered by climate change, UN report warns. Retrieved on March 24, 2009 from http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2007/jun/23/sudan.climatechange. Goldberg, M. L. (2009). The President of Sudan to be a Wanted War Criminal, retrieved on March 24, 2009 from http://www.undispatch.com/node/7698. Gouroukoun (2006). Chadians Increasingly Feel Impact of Darfur Conflict, Retrieved on March 24, 2009, from http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2006-04/2006-04-21-voa44.cfm. IRIN. (2007). Sudan: Climate change only one cause among many for Darfur conflict, retrieved on March 24, 2009 from http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2007/06/mil-070628-irin03.htm.

Steel Economics Commentary Essay Example for Free

Steel Economics Commentary Essay Around the world, steel suppliers are cutting production levels as demand for the commodity is rapidly decreasing. Due to the recent global recession, people are delaying buying cars and houses, both of which are products that are predominantly made of steel. More specifically, ArcelorMittal, the worlds largest steel producer will be cutting production by more than 30% in Europe and U.S.A, resulting in an estimated $2.5 billion loss in the fourth quarter. Companies like Steel Authority of India Ltd. were forced to reduce their prices by 6000 rupees ($126) a ton in order to increase demand for the commodity, as people do not have the money to buy steel anymore. The extent of this issue has risen to the point where some steel producers are temporarily shutting down factories, and stopping the purchase of raw slabs of steel, like ThyssenKrupp AG, who is Germanys biggest producer. Thus, as a result of the leftward shift in demand for steel, due to reduced consumer incomes, supply has been forced to the right. Price Quantity Due to the decreased demand for steel, there is an excess amount of the commodity (Homogenous goods that are raw materials in critical industries)1. One solution for dealing with this excess amount of steel is by controlling supply (the quantity of goods and services that producers are willing and able to produce for a given time period, ceteris paribus)2 to fit the new level of demand (the quantity of goods and services that consumers are willing and able to buy at all prices, for a given time period, ceteris paribus)3, which some large firms, like ArcelorMittal, are already doing. Although, another solution for steel producers is to manufacture the commodity at the same level at which they were before the global recession, and store the surplus product until the demand and price of steel rise. This solution is based around a buffer stock scheme (A form of intervention to try to stabilize the price of a commodity. Stocks of the commodity are kept and sold when the price is high to try to reduce it. When the price is low further stocks of the commodity are bought)4. The marginal social benefits (incremental benefit of an activity as viewed by the society and expressed as the sum of marginal external benefit and marginal private benefit)5 of implementing a buffer stock scheme would be price stability, and economic growth. By storing the extra steel, if in the future, when the world comes out of the recession, there would ever be a shortage (which would result in high prices and lower demand), prices would stabilize as the large firms would then be able to sell the stored steel back into the market. This would not only benefit consumers, as the price of steel would lower, but also firms, as the quantity demanded for steel would go up (resulting in a rightward shift of the demand curve), due to the previous deliberate increase in quantity supplied thus creating more revenue. Price Output Also, since the demand for steel will eventually rise, and the firms will have a plentiful amount of it stored, steel producers will be able to make a greater profit off the commodity, as compared to the present situation where the steel is being sold for much less than its actual value. This will result in economic growth for steel companies, and the world, as people will start to invest in these companies again, due to the ready amount of steel on the market. These advantages, price stability and future economic growth, both contribute to a firms main goal, to maximize revenue. In conclusion, the marginal social costs (the cost incurred by both the firm and society in producing each extra unit of a good)6 of setting up a buffer stock scheme would be, the hefty amount of start-up capital, the costs of storage, and the fear of scare buyers when the recession ends. Although these MSCs are all major financial concerns, the MSBs outweigh them, as people will be eager to invest in the steel companies, buy new houses and cars, and begin new construction projects (eliminates the fear of scarce buyers). These actions all require steel, meaning thereby that the total revenue generated through this surplus of steel will be greater than the start-up capital, and the storage costs. 1 Notes: Commodity Markets 29th September, 2008 2 Notes: The law of Supply September 24th, 2008 3 Notes The Law of Demand: September 17th 2008 4http://www.bized.co.uk/cgi-bin/glossarydb/browse.pl?glostopic=0glosid=1121 5 http://www.bized.co.uk/cgi-bin/glossarydb/browse.pl?glostopic=1glosid=653 6 http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/marginal-social-benefit.html

Comparison Of The Eu And Asean Regional System Politics Essay

Comparison Of The Eu And Asean Regional System Politics Essay The Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, stated: The EU and ASEAN are two successful examples of regional integration in the world [] ASEANs integration is advancing. It is developing its institutions and organise experience.  [1]  Todays new regionalism intends to provide solutions to developmental problems, but many believe that these problems are also the source of many internal conflicts. This new regionalism is based on territorial size and economies of scale as the traditional one, but it also explains new fears from the new century.  [2]  The European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are seen as examples, because both of them are part of the regionalism approach.  [3]   Some academics consider the EU as a world model in miniature or even as a blueprint for other regions,  [4]  while others believe that this model can be transferred to areas such as the ASEAN. Thus, the European Commission (EC) has stated that the EU supports those regions that want to emulate us.  [5]  However, many non-Europeans have insisted on how difficult it is to transfer the European model, because of the disparities in their history and socio-cultural background, their values and ideas, rule of law,  [6]  degree of institutionalization, objectives and praxis, and so on.  [7]   Despite these differences, there are some commonalities; for instance, both regions emphasize integrity and respect of national sovereignty. Although, they differ in level and channels, the European region applies the subsidiarity concept, while the Asian area believes in the principle of non-interference. In addition, both regions must tackle the new concept of security, like growth, stability, poverty alleviation, uncontrolled migration flows, energy, climate change, etc., based on their historical development, systemic geopolitical and economic constraints, and finally their domestic organisation and consensus.  [8]  For this reason, the analysis of issues, such as the uncontrolled flows of migrations in ASEAN and the EU, would increase our understanding of the different measures adopted in many areas as well as the features of their integration. At this initial point, some questions arise: how can we compare the different regionalization processes? To what extent is it interesting to compare these two regions? Is new regionalism an opportunity to solve social problems? Thus, the goal of this research is to understand their commonalities and divergences of these two regions based on two episodes at sea involving immigrants. These episodes are not referred to the political or economical field as they used to be; by contrast, they are based on immigration policy. I chose this example because it also reflects degrees of integration, relation with social policies, human rights, and international law. It is not only a good example to understand their different integration processes, but it is also a polemic situation for both regions. This study is divided into five sections. The first section will introduce the theoretical framework in which this study is supported. The second one will examine selected cases about immigration problems in the area of the Mediterranean coast within the EU area. The third section will explain the problems involved with the Burmese refugees in the South East coast within the ASEAN framework. The fourth part will compare both integration processes. These cases will help to exemplify the differences and similarities of both regions, and at the same time, they will allow us to explore how effective are regional systems to benefit or protect their population. Finally, the conclusion will open doors for further research and improvement in the systems. 2. Theoretical framework Different theoretical approaches have been applied for this kind of studies. On one hand, realist, constructivist and liberal approaches have been applied for the study of the role of ideas and interests.  [9]  For instance, the constructivist approach states that in heterogeneous and newly formed regional groupings interregionalism may stimulate regional identity-building.  [10]  The realist approach, however, highlights power and balances as essential characteristics of inter- and transregional relations  [11]  . On the other hand, in the last two decades new theoretical approaches have been developed, namely globalisation and regionalisation.  [12]   Globalization is part of a process of internalization, and it is related to governance, since it implies the need to find alternatives for sustainable development, efficient and transparent government, as well as civic participation. Moreover, it has respected the rule of law and a system of rights.  [13]  Many scholars understand it as a reform of the international system since the end of the Cold War,  [14]  a phenomenon which in some way undermines the power of the states and their territorial dimension. Some governments are reluctant to reduce the impact of globalization to protect their territorial control. Regionalism is thus one of the best formulas,  [15]  because Some issues can best be handled at the regional level among states that are heavily involved in overlapping interests.  [16]  Although the traditional economic model, through its dialogue and cooperation  [17]  in economy, trade  [18]  and binding arrangements  [19]  among States, has fav oured regionalism as a means of stabilizing the area, some scholars have emphasized a series of differences which are significant for the development of this paper: Old regionalism New regionalism Formed in a bipolar Cold War system Formed in a multipolar world Created from above (superpower intervention) Spontaneous process from the regions. Need of cooperation to tackle new global challenges Inward oriented and protectionist in economic terms Open, compatible with an interdependent world economy Specific objectives Comprehensive, multidimensional process Concerned with relations among nation states Global structural transformation, non-state actors are active and operating at several levels. Harmonization of trade policies leading to deeper economic integration, with political integration as a possible future result. Transformation of a region from relative heterogeneity to increased homogeneity in regard to: culture, security, economic policies and political regimes. Source: Own elaboration (based on Bjà ¶rn Hettne, Globalization, the new regionalism, and East Asia) The New regionalism expanded the regional framework beyond European borders. Today, ASEAN has become the second most advanced regional system,  [20]  and its general purposes are: (1) to secure peace; (2) to provide external security; (3) to carry out economic tasks; (4) to address environmental issues; and (5) to secure human rights.  [21]  Brian Dai argued that the EU is the best example to demonstrate that regional integration is the best solution to regional peace and security as well as bringing common welfare to the population.  [22]   European integration: the case of immigrants at sea and their rights The EU is the oldest regional system; although it is still changing, not only in structure, but also deepening its policies, it is a unique supranational institutional entity with specific characteristics: (1) collective memory of the devastation of WW II; (2) overcrowded region in terms of population and the number of states; (3) similar political system; (4) alike social welfare systems; and (5) relatively similar culture and religion.  [23]   In 2004, the Hague programme, called Strengthening Freedom, Security and Justice in the EU, was adopted; it is based on one of the main objectives of the EU: to create an area of freedom, security and justice. It adopted common legislative instruments and improvement of coordination of national policies, practical cooperation, and regular information exchange between Member States (MSs) and the Commission.  [24]  In this context, it is important to clarify the definition of illegal immigration given by the Commission: it includes third-country nationals who enter the territory of a MS illegally by land, sea and air.  [25]   MSs accepted to create a common immigration policy at EU level. The Commissions proposals had become EU legislation; in 2005 a debate was re-launched with the Green Paper on an EU approach to managing economic migration; later that year, a Policy Plan on Legal Migration was adopted listing the actions and legislative initiatives. In September 2007, the Commission presented the Third Annual Report on Migration and Integration, which monitors the process of admission and integration of third-country immigrants in the EU.  [26]   The EU developed a Global Approach to migration which supports general principles such as subsidiarity, solidarity, human rights, fundamental freedoms, access to asylum, and Geneva Convention,  [27]  thourgh which foster cooperation with third countries, particularly in the Mediterranean. This approach is within the European Neighbourhood Policy framework through bilateral dialogues. However, the approach and adoption of those general principles sought to be endured by strong political committeemen, particularly because resources should be mobilised to fight smuggling and trafficking networks, and protect the immigrants asking for asylum.  [28]   There are some cases described below in which immigrants have been found in waters of the Mediterranean sea. Initially, they were not rescued because of MSs national interests. Additionally, many other cases have been reported during recent years.  [29]   The first case took place in May 2007: an Italian news agency informed that 27 men coming from Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Sudan, Ivory Coast, Niger, Senegal and Togo asked for help to a Maltese trawlers tuna fish pen, Budafel. The ship-owner did not provide assistance to the immigrants. In the meantime, Maltese and Libyan authorities were engaged in diplomatic dialogues to clarify who had to take responsibility for the immigrants; the Italian Coastguard was notified about the incident and took the responsibility for them.  [30]   The second case also was in May 2007: 26 people were recued by the Spanish tug Monfalco. This boat was between Libya and Malta waters. The ship-owner did not have space on board for all the immigrants, but Maltese authorities refused to allow the people to disembark. The Spanish government thus made the decision to bring them to Spain. They claimed that they could be possible applicants who appear to have come from the Ivory Coast, a country at war.  [31]  However, this humanitarian argument is not always used by the Spanish government, as was the case of the two ships Marine I and Happy Day. In both cases, Maltese authorities did not rescue the immigrants or arrange a safety place. Although there always is another side of the coin and Maltese officials declared and provided documents to defend themselves from these accusations. Despite this fact, Maltese authorities knew that Libya had not ratified the 1951 Geneva Convention, thus their practices towards immigrants or asylum seekers did not respect their rights. For this reason, Malta government violated art. 2 and 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), art. 33 of the Geneva Convention, art. 3 of the UN Convention against Torture and art. 7 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In addition, Malta authorities also infringed the International Maritime Legislation, which is related to the non refoulement principle.  [32]   These incidents prompted the Council to discuss a system of sharing responsibilities (COREPER).  [33]  In May 2008, COREPER drafted Return Directive, which stated that MSs were not obliged to assist the immigrants without legal costs. It was adopted by the European Parliament (EP) and Council at the end of the year, covering common standards and procedures for returning illegal immigrants.  [34]  The same year, the Joint Operation Nautilus was launched, which enhanced the control in Mediterranean borders.  [35]   By contrast, the EP did not share the same opinion and declared that MSs should respect the International Law on Human Rights, Asylum and Refugee Law, and ECHR, and that new legislation should be passes to fill the holes in the current law,  [36]  especially on the the rescue and detention operations of the immigrants.  [37]   4. ASEAN integration ASEAN integration started with abstract ideas, asymmetric national interests and competing for hegemony and born within a communist threat period.  [38]  Its members wanted to establish a new period outside the Cold War paradigm. The ASEAN was not created to solve conflicts among members, but rather to become a forum based on the non-interference principle where members could discuss issues not related with sensitive matters.  [39]   In this context, a new concept appears to support the economic integration, Confucian capitalism, but after the financial crisis in 1997 it lost supporters.  [40]  However, the economic integration originally was not the aim, a growing global competition forced ASEAN should pay more attention to these issues.  [41]  After the Free Trade Area (AFTA) was created, their cooperation has been deeper and covers service, finance, investment and monetary sectors.  [42]  Some scholars agree that ASEAN+3 process is even a more important and complex cooperation than ASEAN itself.  [43]  In 1998, during the 6th ASEAN Summit, the Hanoi Plan of Action (HPA) was adopted promoting social development. The same year, ASEAN ministers on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication established the Action Plan on Social Safety Nets in Jakarta.  [44]   During the 3rd Meeting of ASEAN, Maung Htay, ASEAN Director-General of Immigration Department, stated that an improvement of the cooperation on immigration issues was required and accepted the idea of creating an Ad hoc High Level Experts Group on immigration issues organized in the Philippines 2000. In addition, Htay also declared that ASEAN Vision 2020 and HPA will contribute to conduct this matter.  [45]  Steps forward were undertaken when, during the 6th Meeting, a work programme was launched entailing practical initiatives and measures, and also the Plan of Action established in the Philippines 2000.  [46]  Moreover, in October 2007, during the 6th ASEAN Peoples Assembly (APA), the question of Myanmar and human rights was tackled, and the implications of the Human Rights Body in the ASEAN Charter, were discussed.  [47]   The situation of refugees and human rights are of concern, especially the Karen or Karenni, a Muslim ethnic group in Burma. Thailand shares about 2000 km of border with Burma with a great flow of refugees,  [48]  and around 140.000 refugees live in nine camps in Thailand,  [49]  a situation shared by countries like Malaysia, Bangladesh and India. The subhuman conditions of these refugees is complicated, because new generations have been born in the camps and they are forbidden to leave,  [50]  and suffer harasment and abuses from smugglers, detention, discrimination.  [51]  The Thai government, however, pays no attention to international organizations and wants to send them back to Myanmar, allowing no more boats to disembark on its coasts.  [52]  The main problem is that neither Thailand nor other asylum countries for Burmese refugees had not signed the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees or the 1967 Protocol.  [53]  To them, refugees are illegal immigrants.  [5 4]   ASEAN has a policy of constructive engagement, but it is more complex since it has semi-supporters as China and India, interested in its natural resources. ASEAN members failed to tackle this question in March 2009,  [55]  and in the Bali Process in Indonesia. The issue was not discussed at the plenary session or in the concluding statement.  [56]  The Working Group for ASEAN Human Rights Mechanism remind the Myanmar Government that it should respect the fundamental rights of its citizens. It also recalls that its entrance in 1997 compromised a long-term plan towards democratization. In fact, Myanmar has to achieve the ASEAN Vision 2010 as well, in which its Working Group declared, a peaceful and stable Southeast Asia, where the causes for conflict have been eliminated through abiding respect for justice and the rule of law.  [57]   Comparison This comparison is based on Bà ¶rzells model  [58]  in which similarities and differences in regard to values and identity, institutional design, nature of rules, domestic level actors, and conflicts among them are identified. This section will discuss the differences which are subdivided into five components: ideas, institutionalization, domestic level, political field, and economic field. The cases we saw above illustrate these disparities and similitudes and this comparison should shed some light to better understand the reactions, mechanisms, channels, behaviours, further steps, etc. Similarities Despite controversial opinions, the EU and ASEAN have several similarities, which have been pointed out by Underhill.  [59]  But in spite of these similarities, Park and Kim  [60]  added that both regions have a sense of Community and experienced similar difficulties during the current financial crisis, while some academics would rather suggest that the ASEAN Economic Community is an idea inspired by the EEC and expressed in similar wording.  [61]   Both regions had to tackle similar security issues which raise new challenges. A holistic approach is required in order to face these new matters, and particularly to enhance immigration law and cooperation. The differences can be observed in the following figure (Franck et al., pp. 306-307): Differences Ideas European Union ASEAN After WW II, ideas generated by politicians Today politicians + intellectuals + society Project based on idealistic concepts from intellectuals France and Germany alliance China and Japan still working Germany recognized its war crimes Japan did not recognized them: reluctant to join ASEAN+3, proposals ASEAN+6 Horrors of WW II, origin of the integration in Europe Members do not have a common history Clear concept of Europe 27  [62]   Unclear concept of Asia: lack of clearly defined borders, common culture and religion Western values: democracy, respect of universal human rights, rule of law. They are codified and legally-binding Asian identity, Asian family, Asian Values: community, capitalism, and relativism Decoded and not legally-binding Identity based on 50 years of integration Asianism based on Sino-center world, protectionist tendencies, for centuries Cleavages based on social welfare between west and east are decreasing. There are not latent conflicts Strong cleavages based on ideology maintain latent conflicts between north and south EU is a contiguous landmass It is an enormous archipelago: difficulties for contacts, transport, mobility, etc. Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Kim, Berkofsky, Park Kim, Rà ¼land, Franck, Defraigne, Moriamà © et al. Institutionalization EU ASEAN High level institutionalization Low level institutionalization Common institutions built on treaties and rule of law. E.g. OSCE, Council, ECHR, etc. No common institutions built on voluntary commitments and weaker tradition of law. E.g. APEC, ASEM, ASF Democratic structure precondition for integration Network-style: interpersonal and informal relations US supported integration multilateralism US did/do not support integration, preference of bilateralism Philosophy: more complex issues, deeper institutionalization Philosophy: informal contacts and negotiations Alliances between official and civilian actors Civilian organizations started to be involve Lessons: formal and informal practices should coexist as well as strict and flexible tools Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Dong Heidul, Cuyvers, Berkofsky, Park Kim, Franck, Defraigne, Moriamà © et al. Domestic Level EU ASEAN Strong normative principles Need a set of normative principles, e.g. Myanmar is not only about HR Mix of Supranational and Intergovernmental structure: Commission (propose), Council and EP (pass or reject), and MS implement or sanction. Intergovernmental structure Decision-making process: unanimity, co-decision, assent, consultation Decision-making process: consensus and unanimity Harmonisation with strict legal basis Building harmonization, not legal basis Treaties Agreements Charter adopted 2007: propose framework and legal foundation, restructure mechanisms and improve decision-making process. Strengthen institutions.  [63]   Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Underhill, Laursen, Franck, Defraigne, Moriamà © et al. Political field EU ASEAN Far from a single political actor, but some consistency High level of fragmentation MS pool sovereignty in some areas = EU disposes deeper and more powerful mechanism of solidarity MS reluctant to pool sovereignty = national approach = less mechanism European Structural Funds Sub-regional cooperation, e.g. Informal and facilitated by ADB, who supplies technical, administrative and logistical support Fixed exchange rate system on macro-economic solidarity. E.g. wealthier countries support weaker Floating exchange rate system on macro-economic solidarity. E.g. contribution to erode social attainments Free movement of goods, services, people, labour, etc. Not free movement: goods, labour, etc. Social policies and cooperation: European Social Fund. Subsidiarity principle Lisbon Treaty sets up a social agenda, but not concrete progress National approach, far away from the development of social policies. Some actions: 1998, Hanoi Plan Action: poverty reduction 1998, Action Plan on Social Safety Nets Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Underhill, Laursen, Park Kim, Ruelan, and Cuyvers. Economic field EU ASEAN Monetary Union Single market unclear notion, especially for business and consumers Transparent and accountable financial and banking system Need to create transparent and accountable financial and banking system EU relies on its own institutions Need to rely on non-ASEAN institutions, e.g. 1992, ADB assisted Greater Mekong Sub-region for economic cooperation Successful EMU: needs political willingness EU is the only successful single market AFTA is still unclear, deadline 2010. AEC is far away from the EU single market, e.g. it does not have common external tariff policy to create customs union. It has two main preconditions: high level of economic integration and independent judicial institutions Custom Union, no need of border inspection Need border inspection, restrictions. European Monetary Union 1999: weak mechanism due to the monetarist mandate of the ECB Chiang Mai Initiative  [64]  of ASEAN+3: creation of a network of bilateral swap arrangements Exchange rate fixed and stable influences financial integration Exchange rate volatility, e.g. during financial crisis caused more economic problems, reduced economic growth. Source: Own elaboration based on the following authors: Laursen, Dong Heidul, Plummer, Underhill, Berkofsky, and European Policy Center. Conclusion As we have seen along the paper, regional organisations are important for the international system and embrace a multilateral approach, which tries to solve problems with different means other than military solutions. Regionalism is a good formula to provid

Planning Retirement Essay -- essays research papers

People of all ages should begin planning for retirement and managing their money well so they are ensured enough income when they do retire. Retirees estimate that people will need 71% of their pre-retirement income to maintain their current lifestyles. Stocks and 401(k) plans are recommended.FactsNonretired Americans with household incomes that average more than $50,000 assumes they won't be able to retire until age 59.More than a third of affluent retirees with children and grandchildren are helping to support them financially, as are 29% of all retirees. Also, nearly a quarter of all retirees whose parents are alive are helping them financially.Fully 48% of the affluent who aren't retired as well as of all people surveyed who aren't retired believe they have to work part time in retirement. Only 23% of well-off retirees and 16% of all retirees polled are working today.Affluent nonretirees estimate they'll need only 53% of their pre-retirement income to support their retirement lifestyles. But well-off retirees say they actually require fully 71%. Fully 25% of affluent nonretirees think it's likely they will run out of money before they die vs. only 12% of well-off retirees.Affluent retirees single biggest regret is failing to put more money in tax-deferred retirees said they invested the maximum the law permits, compared with only 48% of the affluent nonretirees polled.Strategies1. Figure out how much income you'll need in retirement. Retirees told us that to support ... Planning Retirement Essay -- essays research papers People of all ages should begin planning for retirement and managing their money well so they are ensured enough income when they do retire. Retirees estimate that people will need 71% of their pre-retirement income to maintain their current lifestyles. Stocks and 401(k) plans are recommended.FactsNonretired Americans with household incomes that average more than $50,000 assumes they won't be able to retire until age 59.More than a third of affluent retirees with children and grandchildren are helping to support them financially, as are 29% of all retirees. Also, nearly a quarter of all retirees whose parents are alive are helping them financially.Fully 48% of the affluent who aren't retired as well as of all people surveyed who aren't retired believe they have to work part time in retirement. Only 23% of well-off retirees and 16% of all retirees polled are working today.Affluent nonretirees estimate they'll need only 53% of their pre-retirement income to support their retirement lifestyles. But well-off retirees say they actually require fully 71%. Fully 25% of affluent nonretirees think it's likely they will run out of money before they die vs. only 12% of well-off retirees.Affluent retirees single biggest regret is failing to put more money in tax-deferred retirees said they invested the maximum the law permits, compared with only 48% of the affluent nonretirees polled.Strategies1. Figure out how much income you'll need in retirement. Retirees told us that to support ...

The Turning Point in Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare :: Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

In this essay, I will be explaining how act 3 Scene 1 is a turning point. ?Romeo and Juliet? is a tragic love story based on two passionate lovers, Romeo and Juliet. However, their families dislike each other, forcing the young couple to only painful end. William Shakespeare made this story full of betrayal, love, jealousy, anger and death. In act 3 Scene 1, it shows the turning point of the whole account as one of Romeo?s best friend, Mercutio, is stabbed by Tybalt and died. Therefore, guilty Romeo decided to seek revenge and killed Tybalt. The author then introduces the prince of Verona who once said that if anyone ever disturbs the peace again, they will be executed. This shows that Romeo must suffer the consequences by being banished from Verona. In this essay, I will be discussing about seven turning points of the play. This story is mainly a comedy because there are the three playful friends who are Benvolio, Romeo, and Mercutio joking around and teasing the nurse mercilessly in Act 2 Scene 4. This phrase proves that the following statement is true: tis no less, I tell ye, for the bawdy hand of the dial is now upon the prick of the moon?. After that, the nurse scolded the three young men for teasing her and called them a spoil brat, which makes the plot a little more humorous. After the turning point, the play becomes a tragedy. This is because Tybalt wants to kill Romeo but ends up with Romeo killing Tybalt looking for revenge and justice for Mercutio. Now that he committed a serious crime, he is a wanted person. He is a murderer and criminal in Verona, he is banished and he is not allowed to go back to Verona or else he will be executed. The main theme of this plot is love, like the relationship between Mercutio and Benvolio. They are both looking after each other, to prevent from something bad from happening. In the beginning of Act three scene 1, Benvolio wants Mercutio to withdraw because the Capulets are about and looking for trouble. This shows that Benvolio doesn?t want Mercutio to get in trouble since he is a troublemaker. After that, the main theme changes into death as two of the main characters died. As Romeo went to the Capulet?s party, which is an insult to Tybalt, there would be more hatred and misunderstanding between both of the family.

Gun Control in Canada :: Second Amendment The Right To Bear Arms

Part I:Introduction The issue of gun control and violence, both in Canada and the United States, is one that simply will not go away. If history is to be any guide, no matter what the resolution to the gun control debate is, it is probable that the arguments pro and con will be much the same as they always have been. In 1977, legislation was passed by the Canadian Parliament regulating long guns for the first time, restructuring the availability of firearms, and increasing a variety of penalties . Canadian firearms law is primarily federal, and "therfore national in scope, while the bulk of the firearms regulation in the United States is at the state level; attempts to introduce stricter leglislation at the federal level are often defeated". The importance of this issue is that not all North Americans are necessarily supportive of strict gun control as being a feasible alternative to controlling urban violence. There are concerns with the opponents of gun control, that the professional criminal who wants a gun can obtain one, and leaves the average law-abiding citizen helpless in defending themselves against the perils of urban life . Is it our right to bear arms as North Americans ? Or is it privilege? And what are the benefits of having strict gun control laws? Through the analysis of the writings and reports of academics and experts of gun control and urban violence, it will be possible to examine the issues and theories of the social impact of this issue. Part II: Review of the Literature A) Summary In a paper which looked at gun control and firearms violence in North America, Robert J. Mundt, of the University of North Carolina, points out that "Crime in America is popularly perceived [in Canada] as something to be expected in a society which has less respect for the rule of law than does Canadian society..." In 1977, the Canadian government took the initiative to legislate stricter gun control. Among the provisions legislated by the Canadian government was a "Firearms Acquisition Certificate" for the purchase of any firearm, and strengthened the "registration requirements for handguns and other restricted weapons..." . The purpose of the 1977 leglislation was to reduce the availability of firearms, on the assumption that there is a "positive relationship between availability and use". In Robert J. Mundt's study, when compared with the United States, trends in Canada over the past ten years in various types of violent crime, suicide, and accidental death show no dramatic results, "and few suggestions of perceptible effects of the 1977 Canadian gun control legislation". The only positive effect, Mundt, found in the study was the decrease in the use

Africa Since 1940

The colonization of the African nation has played an important part on the world and how blacks were treated. What they endured as a people, showed the high element of inequality and injustice brought on by a group of people on to another. This period in time brought a change in a nation rocked with pain and anguish. Intervention and invasion from other countries saw the decline in the wealth that Africa once possessed. The notion that Africans were uncivilized was the mindset of the Europeans as they made their presence known. What they did was to manipulate the minds of the African people to gain what they set out to attain. Their goal has always been to rob them of their livelihood, to destroy and steal what were rightly the Africans. Ignorance and defiance became the downfall of many, as they trusted the words of the whites. The destruction and atrocities that Africans faced was indicative of the cruel way in which European invaded the nation and took control in the name of colonization. Many books made note of the colonizing of the African nation. Three of those great books are: African Since 1940 The Past of the present by Frederick Cooper, The Nigerian Civil war by John de ST. Jorre and African Perspectives on Colonialism by A. ADU Boahen. However, of the three books Boahen provides more supplemental materials that support my thesis. The most important economic change that occurred in Africa was during the period 1880-1960. This period marked the colonization and the scramble for African colonies. Boahen writes â€Å"The first and the most important of the economic changes that had occurred in Africa by 1880 were the abolition and suppression of that most inhuman and abominable of all trading activities- namely, the slave trade-and its replacement by trade in natural products, which has become known in typical Euro- centric terms as legitimate trade† (Boahen pg. 1). Slave trade exemplified the harsh cruelty that Africans faced. They were sold into slavery and beaten and many die during that time. The middle passage journey of slaves that were sold across the world to work on plantations proved to be the worst journey in history. Slave trade only profited the European as slaves were an aspect of making money for their masters. Not only were the African people forced to leave most of the power countries’ economies weak and on the brink of collapse. They needed new ways to generated money which they did by overflowing Africa and retaining most of the Natural resource such as ivory, diamond, and gold. The scramble for Africa open door to a new way of thinking: the county did not just change economically but socially. According to Cooper by the 1700s the era in, â€Å"Pan- Africanist was at its highest point of mobilization in African political history†. (Cooper 24) . For the first time westerners such as Marcus Garvey from African decedent who was captives of slavery, began to challenge imperialism. They launch organizations: International African Service Bureau based out of London. Regional linkages were established between countries and hybrid culture was form. People of western African coast began referring to themselves as nations. Black influential understood the gravity of slavery and knew that the change has to begin with them. The 1880 was a better time period in Africa because Slavery was abolished and therefore, the old African country way of life have been abolish to some degree in that now people were no longer under bondage. These individuals were free to live a life in less fear and with a more renew sense of hope for the future. It was good that a new Africa was emerging because this means that individuals will be more incline to want to strive for a better life for themselves and their families and to make a better future for their children. Moreover, after the abolition of slavery the formation of legitimate trade means that individuals could have a source of gaining employment to help to support their family. Boahen mentioned that in the 1880 (African had become more deeply integrated into the capitalist world-economy than before, a development which the ensuing colonial system was to intensify,) which exemplify the fact that Africa was become more stabilize as an economy in of itself where job can be provided for its citizen. (Boahen pg 5). The economy development of Africa in the 1880 meant that the qualities of life for the people were going to improve over time. With the economy improving this would open up individual access to job opportunities. The invasion of European forces into Africa brought a division among the African people. Elements that were formulated such as governmental, educational and their religious system were imposed in a cruel manner as many Africans throughout that time in history were brutally harmed by the Europeans. This abuse was due to the fact Different language religion and other aspects of life were enforced by the Europeans colonization. So, with the abolishment of slavery individuals learn both the language of their ormer ruling countries and the original language of their ancestors through parents teaching of their children. Language plays a crucial part in an individual culture as it is the mean through which communication took place. Cooper mentioned that â€Å"At any one moment, Africa appears as a mixture of diverse languages and diverse culture; indeed, linguistically alone, it is the most varied continent on earth† (Cooper pg11). This mean linguistically speaking Africa came out of the slave trade become a more diverse country. This diversity is obvious in more than one language that which is spoken by individuals from the continent of Africa. The African people depended on their cultural languages to bind them together. This help them to confuse their colonizers in their intent and goal of enforcing slavery. African understood the importance of language and how they could use it to their advantage. Additionally, the 1880 was a period in which the Christian missionary was also experiencing dramatic change. The change in the Christian missionary mean that individuals where having a renew view of religion and how it should be practice. Boahen also mentioned that change in the religion in African societies resulted in stratification, which means that there were different groups of individuals in the African society; therefore, the further stratification of African societies into a relatively small Christian educated elite, particularly in western and southern Africa, and a large traditional and illiterate group† (Boahen, 17). So, it is obvious that as people were becoming more educated they were more able to view religion from a different perspective. The 1880 was also a period in which there was changing political trends that were towards a sense of greater centralization. Boahen mentioned that even though there was a change in some of the empires in terms of disintegration such as empires such as Asante and Oye empires some empires became even stronger (Boahen, 2008). So, there were the emerging of new empires such as the Sokoto empire and the Tukulor empire of Masina that were in much larger existence especially in certain area state as the century in West Africa begins to emerge. New political change in Africa was evident in Nigeria such as constitutional experimentation (Boahen, pg 12). So, the constitution help to lay out the foundation for how individuals in the new African, societies wanted to be treatment by their government in making sure those individuals in the societies was educate. So, with modernization there came a renew way of engaging in political activities as it will benefit the country of Africa. However the prosperity and flourishing of the countries of economy depended on the mobilization of African leaders yet this did not come forth. Cooper writes â€Å"The development effort of late colonial regimes never did provide the basis for a strong national economy; economies remained externally originated and the state’s economic power remained concentrated at the gate† (Cooper 5). He was also concern about where the blame for the wars lie cooper writes â€Å"By looking at the post-war era as a whole, one can begin to explain the succession of crises that colonial and postcolonial states faced, without getting into a sterile debate over whether a colonial legacy or the incompetence of African governments is to blame† (Cooper 6). The African nation had many crises to deal with mainly poverty that resulted from the war. Colonization of the African people drove them deeper into poverty many regions had to sell their labor. Cooper writes â€Å"In parts of African, colonization drove rural dwellers into deepening poverty, sometimes as a deliberate policy to create labor reserves where people had little alternative to selling their labor cheaply, sometimes as a result of actions which made difficult ecosystems worse† (21). Poverty is one of the worst elements of people’s lives and this epidemic led the African people to seek for help. War is the most dreaded and the resulting effect of break-down of laws and orders in a civilized society. The Nigerian civil war which is known as the â€Å"Biafra War† took place on July 16th 1967 to January 15th 1970, political conflict was caused by the attempted secession of the southern providence of Nigeria as the self-proclaimed republic of Biafra. The conflicts accrued when Great Britain invaded Africa and divided up the some of it colonies causing a great separation among the African people; where people in the north were Muslims and in the south were Christian. However due to the division it ended in economic, ethnic, cultural and religious tension among the various peoples of Nigeria. During the war millions died and many were displaced leaving the colony in a state of distress. Due to the war hunger and starvation arose in Biafra many young children died; soldiers were out raged and they decided to take matters into the own hands St. Jorre writes â€Å"hungry soldiers tried to hijack a food convoy, and he beat them to a pulp† (St. Jorre pg. 251) this provided the severity and level of starvation that was felt in Biafra that even those responsible for aintaining the law put their needs above the people. Starvation does not respect anyone and during this period it evident that hunger claimed many lives. The depth and continuance of the war resulted in more deaths as starvation continued and no help was evident. As the Biafra’s people would look for help from the western world it was eminent that something needed to be done. The starvation was not ending and if they could only receive a little help it could go a long way this could be attain by pricking the conscience of the western world. ST.  Jorre writes â€Å"By striking at the heart of the Western world’s moral conscience with the real threat of millions starving to death if the war continued, backed up the imagined one of genocide if they surrendered, they succeeded where all their other tactics intensive lobbying, signing the oil away repeated appeals to the religious, ideological and the political sensibilities of the outside world had failed† (ST. Jorre pg. 241). This sad way of life was the start of new recognition for other African countries that had to deal with the epidemic of starvation. ST. Jorre writes â€Å"The immediate benefits of such concern were useful enough, especially the money, the lobbying publicity and public support that followed each new starvation newspaper story or television film† (ST. Jorre pg. 242). Even in such distraught moment in history something good came of it as the Western nation would become aware of it and help to prevent an occurrence elsewhere. African people endured the worst life possible due to greed from their European colonizers. Their lands were invaded and lives were destroyed as many were taken as slaves to work on plantations to make money for them. What the Europeans did not only hurt the African people physically but emotionally too they have never recovered. This led to war on the Continent as poverty took over and the means of survival was as the height in the minds of all Africans. Many aspect of their lives were taken away their culture, their language and their believe were destroyed. The European brainwashed the African people and took over and kill many in the process.

PriceLine Essay

The number of Internet users has multiplied manifolds in the past few years that have influenced business strategies across the globe. The travel industry too has undergone significant changes with companies utilizing online platform to reach out to millions of customers at a given point of time. E-commerce has emerged as the new marketplace where travel package sellers provide prompt service to customers looking for holiday packages, flight ticket bookings, hotel reservations and sight seeing trips. The online travel industry has equipped the customers with access to vast information related to travel plans, cost of tickets, options and alternatives available to minimize costs and make more effective travel plans. This proves not only convenient to the customers allowing them to make better decisions but also saves a lot of time in commuting to the local travel agent or making reservations on phone. The flexibility offered by this mode of transaction has induced most people to venture online to book flights and make travel plans. The industry has witnessed widespread growth due to increasing consumer demand for online services. Many firms have entered the industry owing to the low cost of setting up virtual operations and increased market accessibility. PriceLine. com was one of the pioneers in this field owing to its unique business model â€Å"Name Your Own Price† that set the cash registers ringing for the company. Eventually many companies followed to adopt the demand collection business model to achieve increased sales and growth. Company overview Priceline. com was founded in the year 1997 and is an online travel service provider with its headquarters in Connecticut, United States. Priceline. om currently provides online travel services to over 60 countries in Europe, America, Asia, Middle East and Africa. It operates under the banners booking. com – an online hotel reservation service serving European markets, priceline. com – an online travel booking service operating in United States, and agoda. com – an online hotel reservation service in Asia. Additionally the company operates other travel websites that include travelweb. com, lowestfare. com, rentalcars. com and breezenet. com. The company also provides personal finance services that offer home mortgages, refinancing and home equity loans. Priceline. com offers its customers various alternatives to plan their vacations in a cost effective manner. The various services provided by the company allow the customers to save on their airline tickets, hotel reservation charges, renting cars, vacation packages and cruises. In addition to discounted prices and cost effective travel packages the company provides its customers with Name Your Own Price service that enables the customers to bid for tickets and reservations, car rentals and cruises at their own specified price that is accepted or refused by the company based on booking availability. The company generates revenue on the margin between the customer paid price and the price paid by the company to the airlines, car rental agencies or hotels for bookings. Priceline. com soon expanded to other areas of servicing including car rentals, hotel reservations, car sales, vacations packages, and cruises. The sales of the company increased from only US$ 35 million in 1998 to US$ 480 million in 1999. In the year 2007 the company reported a gross sale of US$ 4. 8 billion that was almost 45. 5 percent increase over the previous year sales (Priceline. om). Priceline – The Business Model Advancing technology and rapidly changing business application scenario has made a deep impact on the way organizations are adopting innovative ways to reach the customers and increase profit margins. E-commerce is the latest business strategy that has provided greater competitive edge to industries across the globe. The online travel business is one of the most rewarding aspects of rising e-commerce applications. Consumers now do not need to visit the ticketing or booking office to make their travel plans. All they need to do is log on to the Internet and access websites that offer online flight ticket bookings, hotel reservations, car rentals and host of other travel related services such as arranging local sightseeing trips and avail special tour packages. Priceline. com is one of the pioneers in providing its customers with cost effective travel services introducing a novel approach to online travel sales. The business model â€Å"Name Your Own Price† became a huge hit with the customers and Priceline made headlines in the forthcoming years. Priceline. om was the brainchild of Jay Walker, an entrepreneur, who developed a new business model where the customers could bid their price for a specific product. The seller would then decide if he is ready to sell at that price or not. This model enabled the sellers to offload their old and excess stock at a discounted price. In 1996 this model was applied by Jay Walker to an airline industry where unsold extra seats were sold off to customers at a discounted price. This formed the origin of an Internet-based software â€Å"name your own price† ticketing service for airlines. Customers placed bid on tickets for specific destinations of their choice. Priceline would match the available airlines bookings for the specified destinations and decide on accepting price bids placed by customers. The company discarded requests for unreasonably low prices quoted by customers. Moreover, the customers had the limitation of choosing airlines, exact time of travel and if needed, take a connecting flight. This business model was not readily accepted by major airlines since they had plans of launching their own website services. Walker had entered into agreement with only two partners – TWA and America West. Priceline. com was launched in April 1998. Initially the company faced losses and but in August 1998 the company signed agreement with one of the major airlines – Delta, and this turned the fortunes of the company. Other airlines followed suit and the company’s business model gained rapid acceptance among the consumers. There are three steps to PriceLine sales strategy online using the â€Å"Name Your Own Price† model. The website collects consumer demand for a specific product or service at a desired price level. The company then communicates this demand to the available sellers’ database and decides on a specific dealer who is willing to sell at that particular consumer-mentioned price. Once the seller agrees to sell at that price, the company communicates this offer to the consumer who finalizes the sales process. In case the consumer does not respond to the offer within a specified time period the offer is declared null and void. Company Growth Strategy The company’s management has ambitious growth plans for the future and is focused on growing and expanding to new emerging markets in Asia and other corners of the globe. The company is experiencing extraordinary growth rate and this is evident in its positioning in the Top 50 hot growth company list on the Business Week magazine. Jeffrey H. Boyd, president and Chief Executive Officer of Priceline claims â€Å"Internationally, we believe that our wide geographic reach, new market initiatives and extensive inventory are providing sustained impetus for growth. We believe that in the United States, our value positioning and brand promotion through offline and online channels is driving above-category growth rates in an uncertain economic environment. † The â€Å"Name Your Own Price† business model launched by PriceLine became the stepping stone to success. The company adopted this model effectively in the travel bookings industry and then re-applied this theory to other segment of customer service that included financial mortgages and car sales. PriceLine has evolved as a reputable brand in the past few years in the area of online travel bookings. The company utilized this brand name to promote franchisees across various geographic regions. The market expansion strategy through appointing licensed operators to offer similar kinds of services to customers using their business model was very effective. Richard S. Braddock, the CEO and chairman of PriceLine had stated â€Å"We believe that priceline. com has the two most important ingredients in place to make our travel growth strategy a success. One is our industry leading travel brand and the other is our customer franchise, which provides a steady average stream of 4 million visitors who come to priceline. com each month looking to make travel purchases. † Prompt query processing and customer service is another area of marketing and sales strategy that is emphasized by the company management. The effectiveness of travel booking companies is measured by their capacity to provide host of cost effective travel packages and prompt customer servicing. Ron Rose, the Chief Information Officer at PriceLine observes in priceline. om â€Å"Our goal is to lead the industry as a world class customer-centric company, with an infrastructure that delivers the best, personalized customer service experience is absolutely fundamental to our company’s long term success on the Internet. † PriceLine started its initial operations with airlines ticket booking services and the wide popularity and acceptance that their business model experienced during the first few years prompted them to move to new areas of operations related to travel market. The online booking of airlines services was extended to hotel reservations, car rentals, vacation packages and cruises. The number of sellers associating with PriceLine. com also increased owing to their rapid market expansion and growth strategy. Major airlines, hotels, car renting agencies and cruise companies entered into agreement with PriceLine to meet the growing consumer demands. PriceLine has adopted aggressive outdoor advertising and online advertising campaigns to generate interest among potential consumers on a global scale. It has set up physical locations at strategic market locations to increase accessibility and provide a more effective customer service. This step was taken to attract customers who are not Internet savvy and prefer to transact offline. Technology The launch of the Internet applications and e-commerce in the 1990s made a deep impact on the business world. E-commerce business models revolutionized the way businesses are conducted today leading to increased opportunities that challenged traditional business outfits to accept new challenges. Low cost operations business models made an entry equipped with technology that had extensive global reach and the potential to generate higher profits. The appropriate use of this technology in the online travel sales business provided Priceline with an edge over its competitors. It became a leading service provider in the industry owing to the ways it enabled its customers to save on their airline tickets, hotel reservations, rental car bookings, vacation packages and cruises. The company applied an advanced search technology, TripFilter that allowed the travelers to narrow their searches and create their own travel packages that were most cost effective using the lowest price booking services offer. Application of e-commerce technologies and applications have made significant impact on the sales of the company. The company website has been ranked as one of the most available e-commerce site in the past four years according to Keynote systems (www. keynotesystems. com). Technology has been a great enabler of changes in modes of business practice and models adopted by the entrepreneurs to maximize gains. The company realizes that it needs to maintain a strong database and advanced technology features in terms of data storage capacity to accommodate its growing customer base online. The management implemented a system that took care of its growing backend processing needs without compromising on the speed of customer request processing. PriceLine utilized the technology platform to provide a base for new means of marketing, revenue earning model, and communicating with existing and potential clients. The online market penetration strategy adopted by PriceLine offered huge economic benefits in terms of extensive market penetration, easy access to consumers and wide scale accessibility of products and services. Market Expansion Strategies The globalization of the market owing to the extensive reach of the Internet, information, and product details accessible to consumers across physical borders translates to increased sales and revenue figures for the sellers online. They can now reach any corner of the globe to display and sell their products ensuring wider scale of operations and greater market share. This owes to the millions of people globally who now have access to the Internet and with telecommunication service providers facilitating the broadband services; the quality of access has improved considerably. The online travel market demand is increasing in emerging Asian economies and most reputed travel brands are establishing their presence in these countries to tap the enormous market potential. The United States market has the maximum number of users online to meet their travel demands. Online ticket bookings and travel related purchases are one of the primary contributors to e-commerce revenue. The markets of United States and Europe are more matured compared to the emerging Asian markets that hold a lot of promise for the industry in the future years.