MODEL UNIT IV TEST EC202 MICROECONOMICS Essays - Labour Economics

MODEL UNIT IV TEST EC202: MICROECONOMICS 1. The term "derived demand" refers to the idea that a change in the A. demand for one good, say, tennis racquets, will affect the demand for related goods, say, tennis balls. B. demand for a good is affected by the supply of that good. C. demand for a good will affect the demand for the factors used to produce that good. D. supply of a factor will affect the demand for that factor. E. price of a factor will affect the price of the good produced with that factor. 2. The price of the product multiplied by the marginal physical product of the factor is the definition of the ______________ of that factor. A. value of marginal product B. marginal factor cost C. marginal physical product D. total factor cost E. marginal revenue product 3. The economist says that in order to maximize profits (minimize costs), any firm should hire a factor of production up until the point where: A. VMP = MRP B. MRP = MFC C. W = MFC D. W = VMP E. VMP = MFC 4. If MRP = VMP, we can conclude that the firm in question is A. maximizing profits B. minimizing costs C. a perfect competitor in the factor market D. a perfect competitor in the product market E. all of the above 5. The effect of an increase in the wage rate that causes the amount of labor supplied by the individual worker to decrease is called the _________ effect. A. complement B. substitution C. income D. normal E. inferior 6. If W = MFC, we can conclude that the firm in question is A. maximizing profits B. minimizing costs C. a perfect competitor in the factor market D. a perfect competitor in the product market E. all of the above 7. Which of the following changes would cause a firms demand for labor to increase (the labor demand curve shift to the right)? A. an increase in the price of the product being produced B. a decrease in the wage rate C. an increase in the marginal physical product of labor D. all the above E. A and C but not B 8. Applying the least-cost rule to two factors, a firm will A. maximize profits at the output at which MRP = MFC. B. minimize costs when the MPP of factor A equals the MPP of factor B. C. minimize costs when the MRP of factor A equals the MRP of factor B. D. minimize costs when the MPP of factor A divided by the price of A equals the MPP of factor B divided by the price of B. E. do none of the above. 9. A firms demand for labor will be less elastic under which of the following conditions? A. the more good substitutes there are for labor B. the larger is the ratio of labor costs to total cost C. the less elastic is the demand for the good being produced D. all the above E. none of the above 10. Accountants can either work at accounting firms or they can teach accounting at a university. The supply of labor in the market for accountants who teach at universities would increase (the supply curve would shift to the right) as a result of which of the following changes? A. a decrease in the fringe benefits for accountants working at accounting firms B. an increase in the fringe benefits for accounting professors C. a decrease in the wage rate for accountants working at accounting firms D. all the above E. none of the above 11. If, at a particular wage rate in a competitive market, the quantity supplied of labor exceeds the quantity demanded of labor, then A. the supply curve will shift to the left, the demand curve will shift to the right, and the surplus of labor will be eliminated. B. since wages are so high, the quantity supplied of workers will increase further, and the quantity demanded will decrease further. C. some workers will begin to accept lower wages and, as a result, employers will begin to hire more workers, and the wage will decrease until equilibrium is reached. D. the supply curve will shift to the right, the demand curve will shift to the left, and the shortage of labor will be eliminated. E. none of the above would happen. 12. The marginal productivity theory states that A. as variable inputs are added to a fixed quantity of other inputs eventually the additional output produced by each additional variable input will decrease. B. inputs will be used most efficiently when the additional output gained from

American History Colonists of New England and Chesapeake

American History Colonists of New England and Chesapeake Introduction This paper attempts to answer three questions regarding the history of America. These questions include motivations of New Englanders and Chesapeakes; causes of America Revolution; and the differences between Republicans and Federalists.Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on American History: Colonists of New England and Chesapeake specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Colonists of New England and Chesapeake The primary reason for emigration to America in the late fifteenth to early sixteenth centuries was frantic search for a new life beyond the oceans. However, the secondary reasons for this emigration differ from one party to another. The group that settled in New England, for example, had different motivations altogether from those of Chesapeake, Caribbean, and Restoration colonies.[1] The Puritan Separatists from England who had ideological commitments to the colonized land principally colonized New Engla nd, thus, perpetuating their religious practices there. To that extent, it can be inferred that their motive was religious freedom. The colonists’ dissatisfaction with the structure of the Church of England prompted them to call for the purification of the Church to be more congregationalis, hence the name Puritan Separatists. They sailed to the America’s to freely practice their Puritan faith, settling in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1620s before spreading to Maine, Connecticut, New Hampshire, et cetera. Given that their motivation was not economic, they copied much of the England’s economy with little variation. Accordingly, they relied on artisan-industries like shipbuilding, carpentry, and printing instead of growing staple crops in large scales.[2] The early colonists of Chesapeake, on the other hand, were driven by economic motives to settle in the region, which included Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey. These colonists were looking for silve r, gold, a cure for syphilis, a northwestern passage to Asia, among other valuables to sell in Europe and make profit. Consequently, they ended up venturing into corn and tobacco growing in expanse plantations. Therefore, the region boomed with tobacco industry where plantation owners relied on cheap slave labor and/or indentured servants. In fact, slave trade became a leading business in this region due to high labor demands in the plantations. The thirst for economic prosperity was also replicated in the colonists who settled in the Caribbean and the Restoration colonies. The different motivations of settlers in these two regions shaped their population composition, religion, economy, and politics. Whereas New England had white population, Chesapeake had black and white population with its economy based on tobacco industry. The former was content with its artisan-industry based economy and prioritized religion not profits as their counterparts.Advertising Looking for asses sment on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Debates on the causes of American Revolution The debate regarding the causes of the American Revolution takes two broad schools of interpretations from historians. While one school sees it as an ideological difference, the other considers it a result of economic phenomenon. In the writer’s perspective, arguments for economic causes hold much water compared to ideological standing. According to Carl Becker, the revolution was a product of a two-pronged question of home rule and the person to rule at home.[3] His thesis formed the basis of economic arguments for the revolution that revolved around social and economic tensions. The prevalence of mob activities in colonial cities, economic pressures on colonial merchants, the growing aura of economic distress; combined with transformation of the American culture and society to catalyze the revolution.[4] Other historians h ave argued that the changing aspects of the American culture brought increased interest in the experience of Native Americans, workers, women, and slaves who were marginalized; further stoking the embers of revolution. The writer thus, dismisses arguments of ideology because economic interests always takes precedence over ideological interests and that since the latter was at stake, it fuelled the revolution. Differences between Federalists and Republicans The point of dispute between the Federalists and Republicans was on side to support between the warring French forces and British forces. While Federalists wanted to support Britain, Republicans rooted for France using the Franco-American Alliance of 1778 as their basis. Federalists were avoiding war at all cost as a way of continuing the country’s economic growth. Britain was considered a trading partner that could not be lost. Republicans appreciated the help of France in gaining the American Revolution and wanted to reci procate. Republicans supported foreign policy issues and wanted the United States to firmly assert itself in the international arena. Federalists, on the other hand, strongly favored internal issues and especially a strong economy. Therefore, they supported commerce based on manufactured goods in contrast to the agrarian-based trade favored by the Republicans. Moreover, Federalists enlisted, as party members, those who were rich and learned as opposed to Republicans who cared little about the economic and educational backgrounds of its members. Lastly, Republicans differed with the Federalists’ loose interpretation of the law, since they advocated strict interpretation. A case in point was the issues surrounding Alexander Hamilton’s proposal on the national bank.[5] Conclusion The different motivations of the early colonists who settled in America were reflected in the regions they occupied. The Puritan Separatists who sought religious freedom settled in what they call ed New England; while the group that settled in Chesapeake had economic motivation, embarking on large-scale tobacco growing.Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on American History: Colonists of New England and Chesapeake specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Historians’ debate around ideological and economic causes of the American Revolution leaves the latter factors stronger in the explanation. The argument is that, ideology presupposes economic interests. Finally, the difference between Federalists and Republicans started because of loose interpretation of the Constitution, shaping the two parties in different ideological structures. Bibliography Brinkley, Alan. American History: A Survey, Volume 1. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2008. Brinkley, Alan. â€Å"The Unfinished Nation: A Brief Interactive History of the American People.† The Unfinished Nation. Web. The Chesapeake and New England Colonies. â€Å"A Comparison.† 123HelpMe.com. Web. Footnotes The Chesapeake and New England Colonies: A Comparison.123HelpMe.com. Ibid. para. 4. Brinkley, A. The Unfinished Nation: A Brief Interactive History of the American People. Brinkley, A. American History: A Survey, Volume 1. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2008. Brinkley, op. cit. para 7.

The HR Role in Transformational Period in the Health Care Sector in Ab Essay

The HR Role in Transformational Period in the Health Care Sector in Abu Dhabi Emirate - Essay Example Moreover, a satisfied workforce is an integral element of an effective CRM strategy. In a very competitive society, these elements are even more important. To understand this concept, it must be realized that the number of patients increases by small amounts whereas new facilities sprout up every other day. Thus there is a very important relationship between sound human resource practice and successful hospital management. The recent government has taken many measures to improve the quality of health care being provided to citizens of UAE. The flag of change on this front has basically been carried by two organizations. The ministry of health in association with SEHA has taken many different initiatives to improve the healthcare system in UAE. There is always a primary theme behind every change process which defines the vision of change. The primary theme of health sector reforms by SEHA and Ministry of Health has been ‘standardization’. This change process aimed at standardization has three primary strategies: (QPR) for Health Care Professionals is to ensure that all Health Professionals of the Health Authority –Abu Dhabi (HAAD) meet and maintain qualification and experience standards as required to ensure a quality health care, within University accepted health care standards. The achievement of JCI accreditation is accepted for the purposes of initial licensure in the specific areas covered by the accreditation process. Professional Standards, regulations, and guidelines related to Health professionals should be produced in HAAD. This functions as an inspection and quality control mechanism which ensures that changes are aimed at the long run. Al Corniche was built as a maternity hospital, with the sole purpose of providing health care to women and children. In 1970’s the time of its inception it was the only hospital providing such services on a public  level.  

Personal statement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 37

Personal statement - Essay Example Also, some employers want workers who they can indoctrinate in their ways (Niles & Bowlsbey, 2013). The success of in-house training depends on employees’ self-awareness. A know-it-all attitude reveals a lack of self-awareness. Self-awareness reflects humility and character, two attributes valued by employers. I have learned my understanding of my strengths, weaknesses, core attributes, and motivation is not as deep as it should be. I need to develop a comprehensive awareness of my attributes so that I can create a sound blueprint to guide my personal and professional growth. I have also learned that I need to improve my presentation skills so that I can communicate clearly and concisely. For example, I noticed from the feedback that some of my points were not well-articulated despite covering them in detail. Some points were overemphasised, and this led to vagueness in some sections. The feedback has shown me I need to convince my audience in the shortest time possible but still maintain relevance. I could have provided better evidence by reflecting on my experiences. I could also have provided better evidence by employing the SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) technique of communication. All examples, arguments, and supporting statements should have been constructed to relate to the wider context of my paper. The paper should have had a flow to it so that the content in the first section complement the other parts of the paper and give it a solid core that any audience can quickly identify with. Finally, I should have provided included statements and phrases that keep readers engaged as they study the paper. Firstly, I plan to interact with as many practitioners as possible so that I can build a professional network of contacts that I can refer to when looking for employment. Networking has been proven to be a highly effective method of improving employability.

Information Technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 3

Information Technology - Essay Example The telephone, as defined by the Merriam-Webster dictionary, is an instrument for reproducing sounds at a distance. In the process sound is converted into electrical impulses for transmission. According to Anderson and Johannesson (2005), the telephone evolved rapidly due to its instant nature. The predecessor of the telephone, the telegraph is hardly present or even heard of today, but the telephone has persisted for more than a hundred years. This is due to the fact that the absence of intermediaries made the two parties easily exchange information in real time without much delay, just by talking on both ends of the line as compared to the telegraph. For the later part of the 20th century, the telephone has come a long way. From originally being connected in a wired network, the originally analogue system of transmitting signals in telephone lines became digital, to accommodate more customers. Also, since the data being received and sent are rather bulky, high-speed transmission is important, which needs the digitizing of data being exchanged (Lee, 1997: 3-4). Due to the perceived promise of the telephone technology in accommodating and innovating its functions to fit the continuously improving information technology system, it became one of the key elements in the present era of communication. The mobile phone’s origins can be traced from the mobile two-way radio, which were used in fire trucks and police cars. Soon, mobile telephony for the general public grew, and eventually a system of using transmitters that covered small patches of land that could hand off transmissions as a user moves around became the forerunner of cellular technology (Anderson & Johannesson, 2005:24). Eventually, the use of analogue frequency modulation became replaced by digital telephony, by the introduction of GSM, or Global System for Mobile communications. There are numerous technologies along the line of these

The strategic planning of Marks and Spencer

The strategic planning of Marks and Spencer Marks and spencer started from small stalls becomes one of the uks leading retailers with over 15 million people visiting every year. It is giving to its customers great value clothing, high quality, stylish products as well as outstanding quality of food from different authenticated suppliers. The whole of the report revolves around the strategic planning of well renowned company marks and spencer, it will explore the external environment, its existing business plan, major factors affecting it and the strategic option is also given in this report through which it can overcome the predicted barriers. Companies overview Marks and spencer is come to existence in 1894 by the partnership of Michael with Tom Spencer. They employ over 65000 people, running 450 stores and also flourishing international business. In 2007 Marks Spencer (MS) was the UKs largest clothing retailer with a market share of 11.1%. Food sales accounted for 49.8% of its UK business and had a market share of 4.3%. The groups international business accounted for 7.1% of turnover and had grown to 219 franchise stores in 34 territories worldwide as well as 8 wholly-owned stores in Hong Kong and 13 in the Republic of Ireland. During 2007, it opened 36 new stores including the groups largest ever franchise store in Dubai at 52,000 sq ft. and also opened its first store in Taiwan under a joint venture with President Chain Store Corporation. Strategic management provides overall direction to the enterprise so Johnson and Scholes define strategy as follows: Strategy is the direction and scope of an organization over the long-term: which achieves advantage for the organization through its configuration of resources within a challenging environment, to meet the needs of markets and to fulfill stakeholder expectations.   PEST Analysis Pest analysis is concerned with the environmental influences on a business. The acronym stands for the political, economic, social and technological issues that could affect the strategic development of a business. Political European Committee decision to permit free flow of trade among themselves and other countries under foreign trade regulations makes companies to import their products over time easier than before. MS competitors took advantage of its higher cost structure and bit off some its market share. Economic MS competitors are specialised in niche markets and consumers focus which make them to provide a much better consumers satisfaction. They prefer to import their products from abroad for cost savings, this fact puts MS in a cost disadvantage for a perceived higher quality. Social Consumers concept in the marketplace has changed; they do not sense British products as of high quality. There is a shift in demand for more fashionable clothing. Moreover the price sensitivity of the majority of the consumers has increased leaving MS in a less competitive position. Technological Media played major role of communicating new fashions to the customers. This knowledge can be communicated to the designers and producers, so a manufacturer in Thailand or China can be aware of the current fashion trends in UK. Technology theses days are even more quickly copied than before. Moreover due to the transportation speed a shipment of stock from a country in far Asia will only take a few days instead of a preview time period of over a month. Environmental (Ecological) Selling products produced by suppliers has a much greater affect on the environment on how these products are used and disposed by consumers. Retailers use a huge range of raw materials to produce their goods. Because of this, it is critical to manage the use of these materials sensitively and pay proper regard to how they affect natural habitats and bio-diversity. Legal Offering customers high standards of quality product are essential to meet their requirements. MS are known for delivering world class quality products. Porter 5 Forces Analysis The five force models is basically industry specific within which the firm exists and operates. The rationale behind this model is that industry profitability is not determined by the product quality, nor it embodies high or low technology. It is determined by the structure of the industry. M. Porter, Competitive Advantage of Nations, Macmillan, 1990 Porter explains that there are five forces that determine industry attractiveness and long-run industry profitability. Threat of new entrants New entrants to an industry can raise the level of competition, thereby reducing its attractiveness. The threat of new entrants largely depends on the barriers to entry. High entry barriers exist in some industries whereas other industries are very easy to enter. The most common form of entry barriers are usually the scale and the investment required to enter an industry as an efficient competitor. In consumer product industry this dimension of competition is well prominent. All the existing domestic companies are well set up, reputed, organized and stable manufacturers in the industry and have their own distinct places in the market. A potential entrant may find it uneconomical to take on existing occupants and if it does the gain of market share at the cost of large capital investment besides powerful retaliation of existing manufactures. It may take years (at-least 5 6 years) for an entrant to build reputation for product quality no matter how large its initial advertising campai gn is. Threat of substitutes The presence of substitute products can lower industry attractiveness and profitability because they limit price levels. The threat of substitute products depends on: Buyers willingness to substitute the relative price and performance of substitutes the costs of switching to substitutes The product category Marks and Spencer has is subjected to great threat as different other companies of UK like Primark deals with the same kind of products. Bargaining power of suppliers Suppliers are the businesses that supply materials other products into the industry. The cost of items bought from suppliers (e.g. Raw materials, components) can have a significant impact on a companys profitability. If suppliers have high bargaining power over a company, then in theory the companys industry is less attractive. The bargaining power of suppliers will be high when: There are many buyers and few dominant suppliers there are undifferentiated, highly valued products suppliers threaten to integrate forward into the industry. Bargaining power of buyers Buyers are the people who create demand in an industry. The bargaining power of buyers is greater when there are few dominant buyers and many sellers in the industry products are standardized buyers threaten to integrate backward into the industry suppliers do not threaten to integrate forward into the buyers industry. At the same time Pull strategy is followed as bottom up approach where end users pull the preferred product. Intensity of rivalry The intensity of rivalry between competitors in an industry will depend on: The structure of competition for example, rivalry is more intense where there are many small or equally sized competitors; rivalry is less when an industry has a clear market leader The structure of industry costs for example, industries with high fixed costs encourage competitors to fill unused capacity by price cutting. Degree of differentiation industries where products are commodities have greater rivalry; industries where competitors can differentiate their products have less rivalry. Switching costs rivalry is reduced where buyers have high switching costs i.e. there is a significant cost associated with the decision to buy a product from an alternative supplier Strategic objectives. Swot Analysis SWOT analysis is an important tool for auditing the overall strategic position of a business and its environment. Once key strategic issues have been identified, they feed into business objectives, particularly marketing objectives. SWOT analysis can be used in conjunction with other tools for audit and analysis, such as PEST analysis and Porters Five-Forces analysis. SWOT ANALYSIS OF MARKS AND SPENCERS Strengths Marks and Spencer is a powerful brand. It has a reputation for value for money, convenience and a wide range of products all in one store. M S has grown substantially over recent years, and has experienced global expansion. The company has a core competence involving its use of information technology to support its international logistics system. For example, it can see how individual products are performing country-wide, store-by-store at a glance. IT also supports M S efficient procurement. A focused strategy is in place for human resource management and development. People are key to M S business and it invests time and money in training people, and retaining a developing them. Weaknesses M S is the Worlds largest retailer and control of its empire, despite its IT advantages, could leave it weak in some areas due to the huge span of control. Since M S sell products across many sectors (such as clothing, food, or stationary), it may not have the flexibility of some of its more focused competitors. The company is global, but has a presence in relatively few countries Worldwide. Opportunities To take over, merge with, or form strategic alliances with other global retailers, focusing on specific markets such as Europe or the Greater China Region. The stores are currently only trade in a relatively small number of countries. Therefore there are tremendous opportunities for future business in expanding consumer markets, such as China and India. New locations and store types offer M S opportunities to exploit market development. They diversified from large super centers, to local and mall-based sites. Opportunities exist for M S to continue with its current strategy of large, super centers. Threats Being number one means that you are the target of competition, locally and globally. à ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¢ Being a global retailer means that you are exposed to political problems in the countries that you operate in. à ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¢ The cost of producing many consumer products tends to have fallen because of lower manufacturing costs. Manufacturing cost has fallen due to outsourcing to low-cost regions of the World. This has lead to price competition, resulting in price deflation in some ranges. Intense price competition is a threat. Stakeholders Expectation Stakeholders Expectation are those without which our strategic analysis will remain incomplete is about the expectation of stake holders. Stakeholders are those individuals or groups who depend on the organisation to fulfil their own goals and on whom the organisation depends. Share holders expectation includes, Corporate governance chain, Formal requirements and boundaries within which strategy is developed, Organisational stakeholders, Other groups (internal and external) which have expectations and potential influence The expectation of the stake holders of M S conflicts between, Short-term profitability versus growth, Family control versus professional managers, Financial independence versus share/loan funding, Public share ownership demands openness and accountability, Cost efficiency may mean job losses, Mass markets may compromise quality, Mass public service provision versus specialist services Generic models for strategic plan According to Porter, Marks and Spencer is followed by a strategic generic model and the main categories are: Cost leadership Diffferenciation Focus Marks and Spencer is a fascinating case of a company that has lost its strategic focus. Its story illustrates how even the strongest of businesses cannot afford to take their eyes off the competition.   MS lost its way as the UKs leading retailer in the late nineties. Its profits, which had peaked at over 1bn [pounds sterling]. fell by hall as consumers rejected its clothing. In response to competitive pressure from new and existing players, MS made major changes to its strategy in 1998-2000. These included decisions to more away from its St. Michael brand  and to accept credit cards.   By 2004 the company was lacing a huge number of issues, including problems with service standards, dated store formats and the alienation of its traditional customer base. MSs stock was falling sharply. The share price, which had been as high as 650p in 1997, had declined to 270p.   By this time, Rose had unveiled his recovery strategy: selling MS Money: buying the Per Una brand: refunding around 2.5bn [pounds sterling] to shareholders: closing the new Lifestores concept and some Simply Food stores: improving products and services: and broadening MSs appeal and customer base.   Green stated that his offer was final, which meant he would not increase it again for six months unless another bidder appeared. The shareholders decided to back Rose. Green withdrew his offer and the share price fell back to 340p, which was 60p (or a total of 1.3bn [pounds sterling]) less than Greens final offer.  He faced following challenges while doing this right. Increase sales and market share without losing margins. (Rose has been  coy  about this, putting the emphasis on cost savings.)   Cut costs without undermining quality or service. In 2004 MS planned around 300m [pounds sterling] of cost savings, but clearly a proportion of these in 2005-06 would be needed to cut prices to competitive levels.   The recent history of MS highlights the need to manage shareholder value and deliver quickly, especially during turnarounds. In this situation, Rose might find the strategic option grid helpful.   This grid has been used by number of major companies, including Tesco and Diageo, to develop strategies. The options for MS include:   Incremental  strategy This would not really improve MSs long-term competitive advantage and it would be a high-risk approach, because the business would become even more exposed.   Float off food This would make shareholders better off, since the business is probably  undervalued. It would not be inherently hard to do this.   Close more stores This would focus the company on its key outlets, but it might damage the brand and decrease customer loyalty in the process.   Rationalise  the product For example stop selling mens shoes. This would declutter the business and provide an opportunity for growth.   Increase franchise space This would allow in other products, which would create more interest.   Strategy of Marks and Spencer to Improve Performance Marks Spencer plans to spend  £200 million over the next five years on going green strategy as the battle to become the most environmentally friendly retailer steps up. The high street giant, which launches its strategy with an advertising campaign in March, has set some challenging targets, including a pledge to stop sending all waste to landfill and to reduce CO2 emissions by 80 per cent. However, the aspirations will be closely scrutinised by non-governmental organisations, which will want to see if MS will be able to maintain its commitment to them in future years as the deadline to meet its targets near. Stuart Rose, the chief executive, said that he hoped that the cost of the programme would be offset by increased sales. Last year the retailer launched a Behind the Label campaign, which highlighted Marks Spencers environmental and ethical business practices and was one of the retailers most successful advertising schemes. Mr Rose said: We think this is the right thing to do because our customers, employees and, increasingly, shareholders are asking us to. We believe those people will embrace a responsible business. MS has worked on the project for six months, taking advice from Jonathon Porritt, the former director of Friends of the Earth, who said: This plan raises the bar for everyone else not just retailers but businesses in every sector. MSs detailed 100-point plan covers climate change, waste, raw materials, fair trade and healthy living. Elements also include reducing the amount of food imported and labelling those goods flown in, opening a model green factory and four stores and using 50 per cent bio-diesel in its lorry fleet. The retailer also wants to reduce packaging by 25 per cent and to use recycled plastic bottles to make polyester for use in clothing and home furnishings. Rosemary Byrde, global Fairtrade policy adviser at Oxfam, said: Marks Spencer is to be applauded for leading the way. We look forward to seeing the difference this will make and to other major retailers following suit in the near future. Robert Napier, chief executive of WWF-UK, the conservation organisation, said: Such bold aspirations as outlined by Marks Spencer can only help to drive other supermarkets and the retail sector towards supplying products in a way that protects our planet and sustains the natural resources we depend upon. The first change that MS shoppers will notice is a range of fair trade cotton T-shirts. About 20 million garments will be produced over the next 12 months, accounting for about a third of the worlds supply of fair trade cotton. Retailers fought to seize the green agenda throughout last year as environmental and fair trade issues had become increasingly important to shoppers and regulators. Marks and Spencers Mission, Vision, Values and Objectives Marks and Spencers corporate objectives are incorporated in its mission statement. This outlines what the business is and what it should be. Mission statements set out in writing what the firm wants to achieve and often include information on the values of the business. MS outlines its core business as clothing and Food. Its financial objectives is to deliver shareholder value in terms of increase returns, but also in terms of increase sales and market share in retailing. It beliefs and values are outlined as Our customers continue to see Marks Spencer as the place to shop for special food, produced to exacting standards. MS also sees its workforce as an important part of its plan and also considers modernising its stores as a key corporate objective. Vision: The standard against which all others are measured Mission: Making aspirational quality accessible to all Values: Quality, value, service, innovation and trust MS also outlines its corporate social responsibility in its mission statement and considers the needs of other stakeholders too. We have a strong tradition of corporate social responsibility (CSR) but we want to make sure CSR is integrated into our operations at every level Finally, MS also outlines its strategic intent (vision) in its corporate objectives. MS wants to continue its differentiation strategy by delivering freshness, quality and innovation. Strategic Implementation This process involves distribution of resources (financial, personnel, time, and technology support). The next step involves assigning tasks or responsibilities to specific individuals or groups to make the environment clean and it needs to disseminated into the company effectively and efficiently, monitoring the progress and results. Careful assessment of the process, controlling for variances and making the required adjustments form vital components of this process. Strategy Evaluation As the term suggests, this process includes evaluation of the efficacy of the organizational strategy implemented. Therefore, successful strategic management must include clearly defined objectives, careful assessment of both the internal and external situation to formulate the strategy, implementing the strategy and making the required adjustments as and when required. The company must possess a clear vision of its long term plans or a clear business vision. This also includes assessing the financial and strategic objectives. Financial objectives involve measures such as sales targets and earnings growth. Strategic objectives are related to the firms business position, and may include measures such as market share and reputation. (quickmba, 2007). The Environmental scan includes the following elements: Internal analysis of the firm, Analysis of the firms industry (task environment) and External macro environment (PEST  analysis). After deriving and inferring the information from the environmental scan the company should be able to carefully identify and address its weaknesses and external threats and evaluate its strengths. A competitive edge in the market in the market can be based on cost or differentiation.   The stage of implementation essentially involves distribution and organization of the companys resources and staff motivation to achieve the set objectives or goals. Evaluation and control includes monitoring the strategy and fine-tuning it as required. CONCLUSION After mid 1990s MS began to experience internal problems such as information flow breakdown and together with the fact that top management was concerned with international expansion MS was drifted away from its core values such as consumer care and customer satisfaction. MS failed to recognise that consumers were becoming wiser and its competitions much stronger. Most of consumers consider MS to be old fashioned company, this image has to be changed to be in line with the market demand and regain its lost customers to other competitors. Based on the analyses, the author feels that MS requires to be focus on its strategic plan therefore, in formulate a strategy envirmental analysis is required, which will be analysed through pestle, the current situation of Marks and Spencer is also captured then a strategic plan is constructed to overcome the barriers, then it is implemented and evaluated to ensure long-term success. Business must try and use as many tools as possible in order to come out with the best strategy for the organisation. However, firms must try and evade the limitations of these tools so as to formulate the best strategy.

The Influence of Greek Thought on Modern Science and Mathematics Essay

The Influence of Greek Thought on Modern Science and Mathematics Parallels can be drawn from Greek thought and compared to today’s modern world views. This comparison also brings forth the influences of the Greek philosophies to the world’s contemporary aspects. More specifically, mathematics and science elicit the relationships of the ancient Greek beliefs and the existing theories and truths. Mathematics, as it relates to the Greek era and the present time, had created and still creates a very new approach to the thoughts of the mechanics of nature. For instance, Pythagoras, the Greek mathematician and philosopher, believed the physical world would be explained by numbers. He used his theory of numbers and applied them to the phenomena of â€Å"harmony.† Using the strings of a lyre, Pythagoras explained his theory through his application of mathematical ratios for the principles of musical intervals. He also believed that there was a â€Å"perfect† number, 3, defines Harmony and the â€Å"All,† while the â€Å"virtue of a number† is 10, for it â€Å"perfects and realizes all things . . . ...

Catfish in the Bathtub

Catfish in the Bathtub Response As you walk in past the brown hazelnut colored door, the aroma of Chinese herbs fill your nose and like every other Asian house, there’s a shoe rack right when you walk in the door. Around dinner time, the meter long table would be filled with food—some looking edible while some makes you want to feed it to the dogs. Sometimes the food would be pig blood and liver made into a soup or chicken feet.To me, I don’t eat that stuff and if I had a decision you would see me running to the nearest fast food restaurant for something I considered â€Å"normal†. But it’s one of my parent’s favorite dishes, so it’s usually made often and thus giving me the feeling of wanting to throw up every time I see it. However, to every else that’s just like me; Americanized, it would probably be gross. I mean who would want to eat pig liver and blood or even chicken feet—where it looked like a legit foot chopped s traight off from a chicken just seasoned, cooked, and flavored.But to top it off, being from a Chinese family also meant that anything that was considered â€Å"weird† was not accepted, so since being a left-handed person/writer, have multiply piercings, and so many other things was thought to be weird. For my sister, she started off being a left-handed person, so my mother would slap her hands when she was little to make sure she would write with the proper hand. Of course nowadays, being a left-handed person is normal, but before my parents didn’t believe so.But now that my parents have been living here in the United States for some time now, they have become more Americanized and have let go of some of their cultural traditions—which, at times I am glad of because now I don’t have to worry about being the straight A student or being perfect at everything. But in the end, despite all these weird traditional food and Chinese culture this is who I am. No matter if it’s having dishes like pig liver and blood for soup or chicken feet on the kitchen table, this is my family’s catfish in the bathtub that I end up living and abiding by.

A local conflict Essay

Q) With reference to a local conflict over the use of a resource that you have studied, discuss the extent to which all interest groups involved can be satisfied with its outcome. (40) The local conflict I have studied was the expansion of Heathrow airport, although the conflict itself ended in 2010 when it was legally resolved. However there are still effects that were created from the plans to expand Heathrow that have upset many different groups. In this essay I will discuss how the groups involved were either satisfied or dissatisfied with the outcome. There was a debate to whether or not the expansion at Heathrow was necessary. Here BAA (the airports directing company) pointed out that Heathrow was currently operating at 99.2% capacity utilisation meaning that even small incidents would create major delays, such as the ability of Heathrow to cope in extreme winter conditions such as snow. But the Greater London Authority and Hillingdon council argued saying there were alternativ es such as expanding Gatwick airport. Labour parliament also intervened stating the huge increase in passengers should be met by London’s most efficient and largest airport should be developed into the UK’s air hub. However the conservative party suggested more alternatives such as improving rail infrastructure to allow extra capacity to spread to other airports such as Manchester. This would benefit the north of England especially with the struggling economy. Arguments then arose over the impacts that would come from the expansion of Heathrow and there were many mixed attitudes towards this. A positive outcome economically would be that 140,000 new jobs would be created meaning that more people would be earning a decent wage paying taxes that would contribute to the government in funding public services such as hospitals. And if the expansion didn’t go ahead then it was estimated the UK would lose potentially  £4.5 billion GDP growth and  £1.6 billion of its existing GDP to other nations around the world. But the protest groups ‘Plane Stupid’ said that jobs would only benefit the south east as this is where Heathrow is located, it was also pointed out that the GDP figures are miniscule when compared to the UKs total GDP of  £2.435 trillion. In terms of the environment, the labour government at the time presented schemes whereby extra greenhouse emissions would be offset. This included involvement in the EUs new Carbon Permit Trading Scheme. However many environmental groups and  charities argued against this. Greenpeace produced information showing that Heathrow’s post-expansion carbon footprint would be a similar size to that of Kenya’s. The National Trust pointed out that regardless of whether CO2 was being offset around the UK, London air quality would fall. Also, the impacts on local communities came into question. A village on the expansion site known as Sipson would be destroyed if the expansion of Heathrow was granted. This would involve 700 homes being demolished as well as several a listed buildings. BAA claimed it would relocate and reimburse the whole community displaced. They also said they would not destroy but in fact repair and maintain the listed buildings on the site. However Sipson village council, the Greater London Authority and the conservative party argued against this. They stated that significant proportions of Greenbelt land would be destroyed and the sound levels in the area wou ld expand by several km2. In January 2009 Heathrow’s proposal for expansion was granted by the Labour Government. But this was put to a standstill as the demonstration groups opposing the plans for Heathrow appealed the decision to the Higher Court. It took a whole year of a legal battle but it was decided eventually in March 2010 that the Labour government’s decision was invalid and it was placed under review. That year in the general election the Conservatives and Lib Dems came to power and cancelled all the plans and proposals of extending Heathrow. With this outcome many groups were satisfied such as the Royal Society for the protection of Birds as the habitat of many birds around the airport shall not undergo any more destruction. However it is notable that the expansion won’t occur in the medium term. This is due to the whole process shall have to be reran if the plans are to risen again. Therefore it could be argued that in the short term the opposition groups will be satisfied. But in the long term the decision may be overturned and these groups left dissatisfied. For example Sipson Village Council are now being brought into another conflict as an alternative to the expansion of Heathrow the government have begun developing the HS2 as an infrastructure project. Supposedly it will link up with Heathrow, meaning the land will be built upon again destroying thousands of homes in the process. So now local communities are having to campaign in another conflict leaving them still dissatisfied. In conclusion, protest groups have been awarded for their hard work and efforts in avoiding the plans for Heathrow expansion going  ahead which has been very satisfying. But in the long term more problems have arisen as the HS2 is said to be in motion which would just cause the same problems to local communities. It seems that no matter what the decision some groups will always have different feelings towards them of satisfaction and dissatisfaction.

Habits and Traits of Millipedes, Class Diplopoda

Habits and Traits of Millipedes, Class Diplopoda The common name millipede literally means thousand legs. Millipedes can have a lot of legs, but not nearly as many as their name suggests. If you compost your organic waste or spend any time gardening, youre bound to find a millipede or two curled up in the soil. All About Millipedes Like insects and spiders, millipedes belong to the phylum Arthropoda. This is where the similarities end, however, as millipedes belong to their own class- the class Diplopoda. Millipedes move slowly on their short legs, which are designed to help them push their way through the soil and vegetative litter. Their legs remain in line with their bodies, and number two pairs per body segment. Only the first three body segments- those of the thorax- have single pairs of legs. Centipedes, in contrast, have single pairs of legs on every body segment. Millipede bodies are elongate and usually cylindrical. Flat-backed millipedes, as you might guess, appear flatter than other worm-shaped cousins. Youll need to look closely to see a millipedes short antennae. Theyre nocturnal creatures that live mostly in the soil and have poor sight when they can see at all. The Millipede Diet Millipedes feed on decaying plant matter, functioning as decomposers in the ecosystem. A few millipede species may be carnivorous as well. Newly hatched millipedes must ingest microbes to help them digest plant matter. They introduce these necessary partners into their systems by feeding on fungi in the soil, or by eating their own feces. The Millipede Life Cycle Mated female millipedes lay their eggs in the soil. Some species lay eggs singly, while others deposit them in clusters. Depending on the type of millipede, the female may lay anywhere from a few dozen to several thousand eggs in her lifetime. Millipedes undergo incomplete metamorphosis. Once the young millipedes hatch, they stay within the underground nest until theyve molted at least once. With each molt, the millipede gains more body segments and more legs. It may take many months for them to achieve adulthood. Special Adaptations and Defenses of Millipedes When threatened, millipedes often curl into a tight ball or spiral in the soil. Though they cannot bite, many millipedes do emit poisonous or foul-smelling compounds through their skin. In some cases, these substances may burn or sting, and may even discolor your skin temporarily if you handle one. Some of the brightly colored millipedes secrete cyanide compounds. Large, tropical millipedes can even shoot a noxious compound several feet at their attackers eyes.

Exploring the need for Department of Homeland Security in USA Essay

Exploring the need for Department of Homeland Security in USA - Essay Example This directorate is responsible to bring the operations of the major border security and transportation under one command , including: office of the domestic preparedness, Us customs service, immigration and naturalization service, federal protective service, federal law enforcement training center and animal and plant health inspection service. This directorate was made responsible to overseeing the preparedness for domestic disaster training and coordinating government response to disasters. This directorate was also responsible to bring the federal emergency management agency, the national disaster medical system and strategic national stockpile under unitary command. This directorate was made responsible to seek and utilize all scientific and technological benefits when the need for securing the homeland of USA is felt. The following assets accrued to this directorate included from the Environmental Measurements Laboratory (Energy), National BW Defense Analysis Center and Plum Island Animal Disease Center of Agriculture. This Directorate is made responsible to analyze intelligence and other relevant information from agencies, including the CIA, FBI, DIA and NSA. That involved threats to homeland security. This directorate was to bring together the federal computer incidence response centre, national infrastructure protection centre, national security and assurance program and critical infrastructure assurance office. Directorate of Secret Service and Coast GuardThis directorate had to be located in the headquarters of the department of homeland security and to remain directly reporting to the secretary of the department. The coast guards were responsible to protect the US maritime boundaries. The Secret Service had to remain intact and its fundamental mission would remain to be the safeguarding the President and other key government officials. The Secret Service was also to continue to consistently provide security for important national events. This is interesting to know that the DHS is a strong bureaucracy within itself. The functions performed by the directorates within DHS have to go through a lot of red taps. The emergency response and preparedness, remains, so often, questionable (Noam, Chomsky, 2005).The mission statement, objectives and real functions can only be realized, when there is democratic decision making process and, swift and easy response process. After establishment of the DHS, no

BP Case Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

BP Case - Essay Example As a result, he outsourced and collaborated with Burmah Oil Company. Together, the two companies made their first successful oil discovery in 1908. Numerous transformations and ownership details alterations followed this incidence. During this stage, the name was Anglo-Persian Company. The British government secured several shares, propelling the company’s progress (Kim and Marques 1). The British influenced the initial interest of the company. The primarily aim for searching and mining of oil was the need to fuel British aircrafts and vehicles in the world war I and probable future wars (Kim and Marques 2). Claims that the company neglected workers’ safety were common during the early stage in the company’s development. The manual workers and the surrounding communities experienced food shortage and health crises despite establishing the largest oil refinery in Iran, and becoming a superior fuel supplier to the Allied forces in Second World War. The infrastructu re remained a concern for the community, while the company, now referred as Anglo-Iranian Oil Company (AIOC), played â€Å"a blind eye†. The failing national trust made the Iranian government to kick out the company. Following a coup, the AIOC returned and rebranded to British Petroleum (BP) (Kim and Marques 7) After its come back, the Middle East public still resented the company despite establishing environmental-friendly oil pipeline-network to several refineries. The pressure mounted until BP finally decided to take action. It rebranded the logo from British Petroleum to Beyond Petroleum and the management swore to explore other eco-friendly energy sources as a new measure of conserving the environment. However, the pledges of transformation did not reflect in the ensuing BP operations. A number of separate accidental disasters followed until the most recent disaster, Oil Spill in the Gulf of Mexico, 2010 (Kim and Marques 1-7). Communication process A strong internal comm unication system reassures the public and makes them confident ambassadors of the organization. The principles outlined below establish effective internal communication processes and systems according to the professional analysis. The surveys check on employee’s views, interests and opinions. The management will not establish system, rules and policies that will effectively enhance internal communication unless it understands its staff accordingly. Fulfilling promises The management should ensure that promises made to the staff are met in time. This reduces the risk of losing trust in the employees that ultimately leads to reduced regard for official or upstream communication. Celebrating success and communicating the brands’ value. Some employee performs their tasks devoid of motivation. These staff members do not believe in the organizations goals. Consequently, they may create a negative attitude in other staff members. Awarding members who perform exceptionally sho ws that the firm is focused. Communication diversification Diversification involves incorporating other communication channels and forms that differ from usual ones. For example, the management team may take tea with the subordinate staff to improve informal communication and interaction within organization. This process eventually promotes motivation and confidence among workers. Reassuring the staff Reassuring the staff especially when the media attacks the organization is vital.