Organisational Change in the Oticon Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Organisational Change in the Oticon - Essay Example The above issues regarding creativity appear in all aspects of life including business activities. In the case of Oticon, creativity has been expressed mostly through the initiatives taken by its president, Lars Kolind, who managed to apply an innovative strategy of change in all the company’s sectors within the 10 years that remained in the firm’s presidency. The whole creative management response of Kolind regarding Oticon is presented in Appendix Ia where the most important strategic decisions of Kolind had been summarized in order to create an ‘alternative Creative Management Response Model’ as presented in Appendix I. As shown in Appendix Ia, the main characteristics of change management applied by Kolind were the redefinition of the company’s vision, the creation of the project-based scheme of operation, the enhancement of the trust towards the employees, the development of technology used in all corporate sectors (from the administration depar tment to the production area) and the set of short-term goals rather than the long term plans which were proved to be inadequate for the company’s development in the modern commercial area. On the other hand, the reduction in the number of employees as taken place in the initial phase of change (in fact in the first two years of Kolind’s presidency) was only temporary and the restructuring of the company’s administration, as well as the reassignment of activities, led to the development of company’s performance on a continuous basis. Towards this direction, the enhancement of communication in the internal environment, as well as the promotion of the team work (through the cooperation of groups on a specific project), also supported the effectiveness of the strategy of change applied by Kolind. Every form of metaphor has its particular role in the business strategy (in accordance with the targets set by the organization’s leader) and it can be used along with other tools of strategic management in order to lead to specific results.

Analysis of Women's Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Analysis of Women's Education - Essay Example After women’s right to education were enacted in America, many of them joined schools to pursue their careers. Among them, Mary Lyon, Miss Catherine Beecher, and Emma Willard become the most outstanding and excellent pioneers in education. This is because they struggled in their respective projects of enhancing girl child education (Slosson, 1921). The three found permanent institutions that offered education to women. It is, therefore, clear that American women are very fortunate for having the three as their leaders. This is because their personalities went far beyond lifting women movement to acquire education. In addition, the three women established academies and school to offer education to the girl child. This provided societal conventions that objected superior education to women in America. On the other hand, Mary Lyon, Miss Catherine Beecher, and Emma Willard opened female seminaries around the country. These seminaries were meant to open their expression and intensi on of collecting information for the female education systems. Moreover, their intensions of opening seminaries were meant to enhance reforms and improve education for girl child in the society. Through these seminars, they examined careers in order to expand women sphere in their studies. Their great effort, therefore, played a major role in reshaping school systems that offer education to women (Slosson, 1921). Emma Willard Emma Willard was born in 1787. She acquired her preliminary education at home through listening to her father’s reading. Later in life she decided to quit her domestic chores and start reading essays and passages. She then enrolled at a district school to pursue her formal education. After years of her study, she began her career of teaching young children in various schools around the country. During her teaching career, she contributed adversely to the progression and improvement of the girl child education. In the school, Willard divided studies into higher and lighter subjects. Higher subjects included history, languages and mathematics while light subjects were drawing and music. She did this in order to challenge the idea that young girl’s education was undermined by education. In addition, she also introduced sciences to the school similar to those that were taught in men colleges. Introduction of mathematics and sciences to the school was meant to address male monopoly to such subjects (Maybrey, 1998). Despite great effort in her career, she never gave up advocating for women’s right to education in the society. Her major rule was to enhance reforms in school systems so as to achieve equality in education. This is because of her belief that women are equal with men academically (Maybrey, 1998). She also published a lot of poems and articles that clearly portrayed her support for women empowerment. Throughout her career as an author and an educator, she drew attention of the disparity that existed between men a nd women regarding their education. She did this by devoting her life to revolutionize women’s education. Catherine Beecher Catherine Beecher is well known for her great contribution in enhancing women’s right to education. She first did this by opening a school that offered quality education to women in society. Like other education pioneers, she developed new teaching skills and evolved her own curriculum. This is

Cushings Syndrome: Causes and Symptoms

Cushings Syndrome: Causes and Symptoms The human body is an advance piece of machinery which possesses many organs and systems that regulate the numerous processes that keeps every part functioning to sustain normal life or Homeostasis. In the event that any of these numerous processes occur unchecked with absolutely no controlling limits it results in a physiological disorder, syndrome or disease; each of these syndromes have characteristic effects on the human anatomy which can be manifested physically of which some can be controlled or cured. Cushings syndrome, which is a hormonal disorder caused by the prolonged exposure of body tissues to high levels of the hormone cortisol and is frequently referred to as hypercortisolism. Cushings syndrome is relatively rare and most commonly affects adults aged 20 to 50 years, people who are obese and have type 2 diabetes, along with poorly controlled blood glucose also called blood sugar-and high blood pressure, have an increased risk of developing the disorder. Cortisol is a very important hormone as job is to help the body respond to stress. Most people suffering from depression, alcoholism, malnutrition, or panic disorders also have increased cortisol levels. Causes Physiological The cause of Cushings syndrome is divided into two groups base upon whether the problem is being caused by a defective pituitary gland, which is a small gland located on the ventral side of the brain or by the adrenal glands which are located on the superior lopes of the kidneys. Cushings syndrome is caused when the bodys tissue are exposed high volumes of the hormone cortisol for extremely long durations of time. Many individuals have developed Cushings syndrome as a result of use or consumption of products that contain glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones that are structurally similar naturally produced to cortisol e.g. prednisone, which is contained in most asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other inflammatory disease medications. Glucocorticoids also have properties which also allow them to be used to suppress the immune system after organ or tissue transplants to keep the body from rejecting the new organ or tissue. Some people develop Cushings syndrome as a result of their bodies inability to produce adequate amounts of the hormone cortisol. The normally production of cortisol follows an exact and precise chain of events. In the hypothalamus, a part of the brain the size of a small sugar cube, it releases corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) to the pituitary gland. Corticotrophin causes the pituitary gland to secrete adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH), which in returns stimulates the adrenal glands. When the adrenals, which are located just above the superior lobes of the kidneys, receive the ACTH, they respond by releasing cortisol into the bloodstream. Cortisol is very important to the body because it is required to perform vital tasks in the body which include helping to maintain blood pressure and cardiovascular function, reduction of the immune systems inflammatory response, the balancing of the effects of insulin, which breaks down glucose for energy and the regulation of the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Cortisol is very important to the for its role in many processes but its most important role is to help the body cope with stress and it is for this reason well trained athletes and pregnant women have high levels of the hormone circulating within their blood. In most cases individuals suffering from alcoholism, malnutrition and or panic disorders may also have increased cortisol levels. Under normal circumstances, when the cortisol levels are near normal levels the hypothalamus and pituitary release less CRH and ACTH. This ensures that the level of cortisol in the blood released by the adrenals is the exact balance to meet the bodys normal requirements. There are four common types of Cushings syndrome and each is caused by different factors e.g. pituitary adenomas, adrenal tumors, ectopic ACTH syndrome and Familial Cushings syndrome. Of the four different types of cushings syndrome, cases of familial cushings syndrome occurs more frequently. Most cases of familial cushings syndrome are not are not inherited genetically, however some cases are the result of gene which causes the development of tumors on one or more glands of the endocrine system which releases hormones into the bloodstream. There are some exceptions e.g. with primary pigmented micronodular adrenal disease, which is developed in children or young adults which develop small cortisol producing tumors on the adrenal glands. There are occurrences where multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN), where hormone secreting tumors develop on the parathyroid glands, pancreas and pituitary. In cushings syndrome caused by adrenal tumors, an abnormality of the adrenal glands causes the cushings syndrome. The adrenal tumor develops four to five times more in females than in males and begins at approximately at age forty. Most cases of adrenal tumors involve noncancerous tissues of the adrenal glands and are called adrenal adenomas and are responsible for the release of additional cortisol into the blood. In the case of adrenocortical carcinomas, the cancerous form of adrenal tumors, the cancer cells release additional volumes of several types of adrenal androgens or male hormones which may include cortisol. The adrenocortical carcinomas are usually responsible for very high hormone levels and rapid development of symptoms. In Ectopic ACTH syndrome which is another cause of cushings syndrome, in some cases it is benign and in most caused by cancerous tumors that develop on the external surface of the pituitary and is capable of producing adrenocorticotropic hormone. Lung tumors are known to be associated with increased risks of development of ectopic ACTH as it was present in more than half of all occurrences and is known to be more prevalent males than in females. The most prolific form of adrenocorticotropic hormone producing tumors is minute cell lung cancer and accounts for approximately thirteen percent of all lung cancer cases and carcinoid tumors, which are small, slow growing tumors that develop from hormone producing cells in various parts of the body. There are other less common types of tumors which possess the ability to produce adrenocorticotropic hormone e.g. thymomas, medullary carcinomas of the thyroid and pancreatic islet cell tumors. In most cases of Cushings syndrome seventy percent are caused by the development of pituitary adenomas and these statistics excluded instances where it is caused by glucocorticoid use. This type of benign, or noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland is responsible for the secretion of additional adrenocorticotropic hormone into the bloodstream. In most instances persons afflicted by this disorder have a single adenoma and is referred to as Cushings disease and it is known to affect women five more than men. Biochemical Diagnosis of Cushings syndrome To diagnose Cushings syndrome several factors are taken into consideration; a person medical history, physical examinations and laboratory test. In diagnosing cushings syndrome the most commonly used test are the 24-hour urinary free cortisol test, measurement of midnight plasma cortisol or late night salivary cortisol and low dose dexamethasone suppression test. In some instances an additional test dexamethasone corticotrophin releasing hormone test may be needed to differentiate Cushings syndrome from causes of excess. The 24 hour urinary cortisol level test consists of the collection of several urine samples over a 24 hour period and these samples are tested for cortisol. If the cortisol levels are higher than fifty to one hundred micrograms a day for an adult, this suggests that the individual has Cushings syndrome. From laboratory to laboratory the normal upper limit varies depending on which technique is used. The second test that may be used to diagnose Cushings syndrome is Midnight plasma cortisol and late-night salivary cortisol measurements. This test measures cortisol concentrations in the blood. In normal individuals Cortisol production is normally restricted at night, but in Cushings syndrome, this restriction does not occur. If cortisol level in the individual is more than 50 nano-moles per liter (nmol/L), then the individual may have Cushings syndrome. This test usually requires a 48-hour hospital stay to avoid falsely elevated cortisol levels due to stress. Another utilized I the diagnosis of Cushings is the Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST). In this test, the individual is given a low dose of dexamethasone, which is a synthetic glucocorticoid, orally every 6 hours for 2 days. Urine samples are collected before dexamethasone is administered and several times on each day of the test. The modified Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test uses a onetime overnight dose. Cortisol and other glucocorticoids signal the pituitary to release less ACTH, so the normal response after taking dexamethasone is a drop in blood and urine cortisol levels. If cortisol levels do not drop, Cushings syndrome is suspected. In some instances Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test may not show a drop in cortisol levels in people with depression, alcoholism, high estrogen levels, acute illness, or stress, which will falsely indicate Cushings syndrome. In some instances, drugs such as phenytoin and phenobarbital may cause cortisol levels to drop, fal sely indicating that Cushings is not present in people who actually have the syndrome and it is for this reason, physicians usually advise their patients to stop taking these drugs at least 1 week before the test. The last test used to diagnose Cushings syndrome is the Dexamethasone-corticotrophin-releasing hormone (Crh) test. There are some exclusion to the rule as some individuals have high cortisol levels but do not develop the progressive effects of Cushings syndrome, such as muscle weakness, fractures, and thinning of the skin. These people may have pseudo-Cushings syndrome, which is a condition sometimes found in people who have depression or anxiety disorders, persons who drink alcohol excessively, have poorly controlled diabetes, or are severely obese. Pseudo-Cushings does not have the same long-term effects on health as Cushings syndrome and does not require treatment directed at the endocrine glands. The dexamethasone-CRH test is used to rapidly distinguish pseudo-Cushing from mild cases of Cushings syndrome. This test combines the Low-dose dexamethasone suppression test and a CRH stimulation test. In the CRH stimulation test, an injection of CRH causes the pituitary gland to secrete ACTH. Pretreatment with dexamethasone prevents CRH from causing an increase in cortisol in people with pseudo-Cushing. Elevations of cortisol during this test suggest usually Cushings syndrome. Tests to Find the Cause of Cushings Syndrome Once a positive diagnosis of Cushings syndrome has been obtained, other tests are performed to locate the cause of the abnormality that leads to excess cortisol production. The choice of test depends, in part, on the preference of the endocrinologist or the center where the test is performed. A CRH test is performed, without pretreatment with dexamethasone, this helps separate people with pituitary adenomas from those with ectopic ACTH syndrome or adrenal tumors. As a result of the CRH injection, people with pituitary adenomas usually experience a rise in blood levels of ACTH and cortisol because CRH acts directly on the pituitary. This response is rarely seen in people with ectopic ACTH syndrome and practically never in those with adrenal tumors. A high-dose dexamethasone suppression test (hDDST) may also be used as well. The A high-dose dexamethasone suppression test is the same as the LDDST, except it uses higher doses of dexamethasone. This test helps separate persons with excess ACTH due to pituitary adenomas from those with ectopic ACTH-producing tumors. A high dose of dexamethasone suppresses cortisol levels in people with pituitary adenomas but not in those with ectopic ACTH-producing tumors. Another test that may be used is radiological imaging of the endocrine glands. This test utilizes the use of computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to reveal the size and shape of the pituitary and adrenal glands to determine if a tumor is present. Imaging tools are used to locate the tumor after a positive diagnosis of Cushings syndrome. Imaging is not used to make the diagnosis of Cushings syndrome since benign tumors are commonly found in the pituitary and adrenal glands.

Reconsidering Harcourt in Wycherley’s The Country Wife Essay -- Wycher

Reconsidering Harcourt in Wycherley’s The Country Wife Wycherley’s The Country Wife opens on Horner, the lead, telling his physician about his plan to change his reputation from that of a rake (promiscuous man-about-town) to that of a eunuch in order to gain access to women without anyone knowing. He withholds this plan from everyone but the doctor, who becomes his accomplice by spreading the rumor of Horner’s impotence to the gossipiest women in London. Horner’s sex life constitutes two of the three main plots, in both of which he gains access to a married woman and cuckolds her husband. He comes close to being found out but narrowly escapes discovery when the women of the play and the doctor reaffirm his condition, thus persuading the cuckolded husbands that they have not been made cuckolds. The other plot involves Harcourt, Horner’s best friend, who falls in love with and immediately proposes to Alithea when Sparkish, the would-be wit whom she is arranged to marry, introduces them in an attempt to make Harc ourt jealous and thus win his approval. Harcourt then spends the rest of the play making failed attempts to win Alithea away from Sparkish. In the end, Horner’s plots intersect with Harcourt’s, and Horner slanders Alithea to keep his affairs secret. Sparkish had kept Alithea’s loyalty because ostensibly he was not jealous and seemed to trust her, but he believes what Horner says about Alithea without waiting to hear her defense and shows that he is not really who she thought he was, nor did he ever really care about her. Harcourt, on the other hand, defends her honor and trusts her, despite the slander, and once again offers marriage. Alithea, who had fallen for Harcourt but had to keep her feelings secret, is now free t... ...and his insistence on ignoring Alithea’s warnings. I assume that Harcourt relies on this stupidity and is thus confident and in control. [26] Vieth 343. [27] As Ogden points out, â€Å"His [Horner’s] most serious mistake is to suppose Margery Pinchwife will share his uncomplicated view of sex.† Ogden xxiv. [28] See note 8. [29] See note 10. [30] Pat Gill argues that â€Å"Harcourt steps in to redeem Alithea from obloquy, claiming that his name and his word (his sign) will supply any lack she may have. Like Horner’s confident play with language, Harcourt’s deployment of his name to squelch rumors is a power maneuver, an assertion of dominance over the female domain of gossip.† Pat Gill, Interpreting Ladies: Women, Wit, and Morality in the Restoration Comedy of Manners (Athens: U of Georgia P, 1994) 69. [31] Hume 14-5. [32] Canfield 254. [33] Hume 15-23.

Cisneros’ House on the Mango Street: Beauty Comes from Within

Sometimes it is difficult to live through the travails of what life has to offer for all of us. For some who are unlucky, they have to go through numerous trials and tribulations in order to survive the rigors of poverty, dysfunctional families and societal problems. However, when we learn to see the bright side of everything, we will realize that all these bitter and difficult experiences in life can be beautiful and meaningful for us. Without these, we would not attain success or learn about our mistakes that make all of us better and stronger people. As a quote from Sandra Cisneros’ The House on the Mango Street (1989) goes — â€Å"Butterflies too are few and so are flowers and most things that are beautiful. Still, we take what we can get and make the best of it†, this means that we can all live through seeing things as beautiful and essential. What is important is that we value the things that we have and it is up to us to make our lives better than what we deserve. Sandra Cisneros’ The House on the Mango Street weaves a thought-provoking, coming-of-age tale of a young girl. She is not only struggling to grow up to become a fine lady like usual American girls, but she is faced with shame, guilt and disappointment as her family is embarking on to acquire a new home in America. As the story comes to a full circle, the readers would inevitably commiserate with how the girl dealt with the scenarios she had faced. She did not only have to go through the complicated journey with her family to their new home, but she has to deal with the big disappointment that their new house is not what she hoped for. These difficulties definitely fanned some fire inside her – to become more determined and strive harder in the future. In the end, readers could predict her utter frustration why things are always tough for immigrant people like them in America. In the story, Esperanza’s family has to undergo an awkward transition of looking for a permanent place to live. Readers will immediately infer that the young girl’s family has Chicano roots because the girl enumerated the members of the family in beginning her story — Papa, Mama, Carlos, Kiki and Nenny. What’s admirable about Cisnero’s conversational style of story-writing is that everyone can relate to their experiences. At one point in anyone’s life, we all can identify with the travails of going through a house transfer. Anyone’s initial reaction will be to feel excited of how our new house will look like or who our new neighbors will be. Unfortunately, for the young girl, she is bound to be betrayed by her own expectations. When Esperanza’s father announced that they are getting a new house in Mango Street, she expected that it will be in the usual American neighborhood with homes that have freshly-mown lawns and white picket fences. For the Esperanza, Mango Street is more than street sign — it is her marker that circumscribes the dream that she and her family had brought with them. This new house will simply be one aspect of attaining their dream — to have a more comfortable life in this new place, in this new country. However, when she saw the house in Mango Street, she was disappointed. She becomes aware of her own subjective perceptions as she begins to differentiate her family’s wonderful dreams and society’s ugly realities. Thus, she becomes conscious of her parents’ inability to fulfill their promises of the perfect house. She thought that â€Å"They always told us that one day we would move into a house, a real house† (p. 223). However, the â€Å"real house† the narrator expected would be â€Å"like the houses on TV† Apparently, when the narrator saw the house on Mango Street, it transformed from being a symbol of hope to become a symbol of poverty. The narrator associates this realization with the humiliation she has felt in the past, when her family lived in similar places. However, Esperanza realized that she can go beyond her expectations and she could make herself a better person, despite her roots and the community she’s living in. Esperanza began seeing all the positive things around her to make her a stronger person. You can be poor but you still can do good in your studies and excel to become a successful lawyer. You can be a Latina and not get pregnant to become a young mother, but you can strive to achieve your dreams of becoming a great artist someday. Thus, in the story, we can learn that there is beauty in everything that we have. It is just up to us to use these things wisely to make the best out of it. Works Cited Cisneros, Sandra. The House on Mango Street. New York: Vintage Books, Inc. 1989.

Marketing Case Study with Questions and Answers

CHAPTER 13: THE MARKETING OF SERVICES ADDITIONAL CASE STUDY NEW LINE IN MOBILE PHONES One of the oldest principles of marketing is that sellers may sell features, but buyers essentially buy benefits. This is a distinction sometimes lost on technology led organisations, and the service sector is no exception. Recent experience of the UK’s largest telecommunications company, Vodafone Airtouch, illustrates how crucial it is to see service offers in terms of the benefits they bring to customers.The company was aware of extensive research which had found high levels of confusion among purchasers of mobile phones, with a seemingly infinite permutation of features and prices. With four main networks to choose from, dozens of tariffs and hundreds of handsets, it easy to see why buyers sought means of simplifying their buying process. Throughout the 1990s, Vodafone had positioned its UK network as superior technically to its competitors. Advertising focused on high coverage rates and c all reliability. Vodafone was the UK's most popular mobile phone operator, with almost eight million customers, including 4. million Pay as you Talk customers. It had opened the UK's first cellular network on 1 January 1985and was the market leader since 1986. Vodafone's networks in the UK – analogue and digital – between them carried over 100 million calls each week. It took Vodafone more than 13 years to connect its first three million subscribers but only 12 months to connect the next three million. Vodafone had the largest share of the UK cellular market with 33% and had more international roaming agreements than any other UK mobile operator. It could offer its subscribers roaming with 220 networks in 104 countries.Despite all of the above, Vodafone was aware that although it was recognised as an extremely strong business in the corporate marketplace, it was not so strong in the market for personal customers. Research indicated that personal buyers bought Vodafone for essentially rational reasons rather than having any emotional attachment to the brand. The success of the competing Orange network, which had developed a very strong image, was a lesson to Vodafone that many people did not understand many of the product features on offer, but instead identified with a brand whose values they could share.Vodafone recognised that it needed to be perceived as adding value to a consumer’s lifestyle?. Given the increasing complexity of product features, positioning on technical features was likely to make life more confusing for personal customers. An alternative approach was needed which focused on image and lifestyle benefits. The company decided to hire Identica – the consultancy that originally created the One 2 One brand – to revamp its brand communications and advertising strategy in an effort to make Vodafone more appealing to personal customers.Identica created a new ‘visual language’ for the Vodafone brand. Vodafone became involved in the biggest ever TV, press, poster and radio advertising campaign in its 15 year history. Employing a completely new style, the new advertising centred around the theme: ‘You are now truly mobile. Let the world come to you' and featured a new end-line – Vodafone YOU ARE HERE. The campaign demonstrated how Vodafone's products and services were designed to make life easier for its customers. The campaign, created by BMP DDB, was worth ? 20 million over two months alone and ran for the whole year.Bringing meaning to the Vodafone brand and what it represented, a series of advertisements, through a range of media, showed how Vodafone let the world come to its customers, enabling them to be truly mobile. This portrayed how Vodafone always pioneered to make things more possible for its customers in a wire-free world. In press and poster executions, Vodafone used arrows photographed in various real life situations to depict its flagship services, e. g. a weather vane was used to illustrate the Vodafone Interactive weather service showing how weather information could be brought to customers through their mobile.Each advertisement again had the Vodafone YOU ARE HERE end-line. The arrows indicated the directional approach of Vodafone, letting the world come to the customer. Other executions illustrated cinema listing information, sports updates, share price information, international roaming and the Vodafone Personal Roadwatch 1800 service. The change in emphasis by Vodafone seemed to be timely. The mobile phone industry was facing a new wave of confusing product features hitting consumers, with the development of Wireless Access Protocol (WAP) phones and the newer â€Å"Third generation† phones due to be launched in 2001.It seemed inevitable that all of the competing networks would be offering confusing permutations of features with their service, so Vodafone calculated that, given similar levels of reliability and sophis tication by all networks, a favourable image and lifestyle association would be an important source of competitive advantage. Given the right image with existing technology, there would be a strong probability that consumers would migrate with the brand to the new technology when it arrived. Source: adapted from Vodafone Image Shift†, Marketing, 4th May, 2000 and Vodafone Home Page, http://www. vodafone. co. uk ADDITIONAL CASE STUDY REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. Identify the principal benefits to customers which derive from a mobile phone. What differences are likely to exist between market segments? 2. Is a strong brand identity on its own a source of sustainable competitive advantage? To what extent must this be backed up by real product features? 3. Are goods different to services in the way that a distinction is made between features and benefits?

A Complete Fall Color and Autumn Leaf Viewing Guide

A Complete Fall Color and Autumn Leaf Viewing Guide One of natures grandest color displays - the autumn tree leaf color change - will develop as early as mid-September in the northern latitudes of North America. This annual autumn tree leaf change will manifest itself in living fall color through most of October, then wane toward the end of November in the southern part of the United States. You will have at least two months of quality autumn leaf viewing somewhere in North America. The best part about viewing the fall color is, it wont cost one red cent to enjoy - that is if you are lucky enough to live in or near a deciduous forest or have trees in your yard that express fall color. All others better get ready to pay for the experience. City escapees spend over one billion dollars each season taking in what many consider the splashiest show in nature. Autumn leaf viewing is a major vacation attraction - especially throughout New England, the central Northwoods and the Appalachian Mountains of the Eastern United States.  No forestry site would be complete without some mention of the October tree viewing pilgrimage - and how people can better enjoy viewing the autumn foliage. This quick leaf-viewing reference includes some basic tree leaf science and leaf viewing tips, along with enough information to enhance your next autumn leaf viewing trip. Use this guide as a starting point for your next leaf-viewing vacation. Starting Tips for Viewing Leaves Review the most beautiful trees naturally on display during fall leaf viewing season.Review these leaf silhouettes of common tree species.Get a recommended field guide to enhance the trip.Learn how to organize, build and display an autumn leaf collection.Use this field guide and key  to identify an autumn leaf by tree species. The Science of Leaf Change Fall leaf color change starts very subtly late in September and early October in temperate North America. Trees respond to such factors as autumn drying conditions, temperature change, altered sun position, and light. It takes approximately two weeks to begin and complete the fall color change so timing and a little luck are essential for the perfect view. Fall color change and flow take place as three primary waves in mixed hardwood forests. A simple flow and wave model was designed at the University of Georgia to illustrate what leaf experts call the fall color wave.   Autumn Leaf Color Change, The Anatomy of a Fall Leaf The major factor influencing autumn leaf color change is the lack of water. Not a lack of water to the entire tree, but a purposeful weaning of water from each leaf. Every leaf is affected by colder, drier, and breezy conditions and begins a process which results in its own demise and removal from the tree. The ultimate sacrifice of a leaf-bearing tree is the ultimate in visual pleasure for us. The broadleaf tree goes through a process of sealing off the leaves from the stem (called abscission). This halts the flow of all internal water to the leaf and causes a color change. It also seals the spot of leaf attachment and prevents precious moisture from escaping during winter dormancy. Fall Leaf Color Change Follows a Predictable Process of Chemical Leaf Change This lack of water to each leaf causes a very important chemical reaction to stop.  Photosynthesis, or the food-producing combination of sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide, is eliminated. Chlorophyll must be renewed (by photosynthesis) or be taken in by the tree along with photosynthetic sugar. Thus chlorophyll disappears from the leaves. Chlorophyll is the green you see in the leaf. Once the overwhelming chlorophyll color is removed, true leaf colors will dominate over the receding green pigment. True leaf pigments vary with the species of tree and thus the different characteristic leaf colors. And because true leaf colors are water-soluble, that makes the color disappear very quickly after drying out. Carotene (the pigment found in carrots and corn) causes maples, birches, and poplars to turn yellow. The brilliant reds and oranges in this fall landscape are due to  anthocyanins. Tannins give the oak a distinctively brown color and are the final persistent color most leaves turn before becoming part of the forest floor.   The  Virginia Tech Dendrology  department has two fascinating time-lapse films, one on a leaf turning color and one on a forest turning into autumn gold.   Viewing the Autumn Leaves University of Georgia silvics professor, Dr. Kim Coder, suggests there are ways you can predict how  beautiful a fall leaf color display will be. These simple predictors use known information and apply some common sense to forecast a season with surprising accuracy. By reviewing Dr. Coders key predictors, you will increase your chances of seeing the best leaves at just the right time.   TheFall Color Hotline Probably one of the best resources available online for leaf viewing information is the National Forest Fall Foliage Hotline, though you shouldnt expect to find up to date information until late September of the current leaf season. This federal phone hotline offers you information on viewing leaves in and around the U.S. National Forests and Parks. It is brought to you by the USDA Forest Service and is updated every year to reflect changing conditions and new sites.

A Guide to Ghost Month in China

A Guide to Ghost Month in China The 7th lunar month in the traditional Chinese calendar is called Ghost Month. It is said that on the first day of the month, the Gates of Hell are sprung open to allow ghosts and spirits access to the world of the living. The spirits spend the month visiting their families, feasting, and looking for victims.  There are three important days during Ghost Month, which this article will delve into. Honoring the Dead On the first day of the month, ancestors are honored with offerings of food, incense, and ghost money- paper money which is burned so the spirits can use it. These offerings are done at makeshift altars set up on sidewalks outside the house. Almost as important as honoring your ancestors, offerings to ghosts without families must be made so that they will not cause you any harm. Ghost month is the most dangerous time of the year, and malevolent spirits are on the lookout to capture souls. This makes ghost month a bad time to do activities such as evening strolls, traveling, moving house, or starting a new business. Many people avoid swimming during ghost month since there are many spirits in the water which can try to drown you. Ghost Festival The 15th day of the month is Ghost Festival, sometimes called Hungry Ghost Festival. The Mandarin Chinese name of this festival is ä ¸ ­Ã¥â€¦Æ'ç ¯â‚¬ (traditional form), or ä ¸ ­Ã¥â€¦Æ'节 (simplified form), which is pronounced zhÃ… ng yun jià ©. This is the day when the spirits are in high gear. It’s important to give them a sumptuous feast, to please them and to bring luck to the family. Taoists and Buddhists perform ceremonies on this day to ease the sufferings of the deceased. Closing Gates The last day of the month is when the Gates of Hell close  up again. The chants of Taoist priests inform the spirits that it’s time to return, and as they are confined once again to the underworld, they let out an unearthly wail of lament. Vocabulary for Ghost Month If you happen to be in China during Ghost Month, it could be fun to learn these vocabulary words! While terms like ghost money or ghost month are only applicable to Ghost Month, other words like feast or offerings can be used in casual conversation. English Pinyin Traditional Characters Simplified Characters altar shn tn ghost gu vampire jing sh ghost money zh qin incense xing ghost month gu yu feast gng pn offerings j bi

How to Write a Short Story in 2019 7 Steps to an Unforgettable Story

How to Write a Short Story in 2019 7 Steps to an Unforgettable Story How to Write a Short Story in 2019: 7 Steps to an Unforgettable Story From Rudyard Kipling’s â€Å"The Jungle Book† to the bone-chilling works of Shirley Jackson and Edgar Allan Poe, short stories have always had the power to captivate and profoundly move us. But how to write a short story that makes such an impact - especially when you’ve never done it before?Luckily, this form is an ideal medium for beginners, as well as those hoping to get back in the writing saddle. It allows you to dip a toe into the vast ocean of literary creation without drowning, while also challenging you to be effectively concise. This post will show you how to write a story by taking you through the full process: starting with your basic understanding of the form and ending with the big, beautiful bow you’ll put on your finished piece before sending it out to the world.If you'd like to download our free checklist on submitting your writing, skip ahead to the appropriate section below! Otherwise, read on.  What is a short story?For those unfamiliar with the form, here are some stats to help you out:A short story is a piece of fiction typically no longer than 8,000 words.Most short stories are only 2,000 to 5,000, butMicrofiction might be less than 500, andA longer â€Å"short† story might be as many as 20,000 (novellas start around 30,000 words).â€Å"You become a different writer when you approach or write a story,† says Zadie Smith. â€Å"When things are not always having to represent other things , you find real human beings begin to cautiously appear on your pages.†Writing a w ell-done story means that you've achieved a microcosm for humanity. Regardless of what you write about or how you choose to portray it, your story will be a success if you do so with genuine heart. It could be about aliens or elephants or inanimate objects - as long as it contains that key emotion, other people will find themselves moved by it. You may even end up turning it into a novel or novella someday.But remember: writing short stories is not merely a path to greatness. A truly heart-wrenching short story is greatness in and of itself.Are you a writer of short fiction? What are your tips for writing a story? Leave any thoughts or questions in the comments below!

International Trade Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 2

International Trade - Essay Example The trade is carried out to share the product or service which is very unique to the region and which has more economical price tag. The best example would be the electronics products from Korea or china are cheaper and efficient than the same products manufactured in the US. So, a trade opportunity between national regions provides an opportunity to explore the share the richness of the other region. The gulf countries exchange oil for the food and other essential commodities with other countries to feed their population and in return supply them with the abundant resources of oil. The proportionality relation depends on the kind of product in offer. An agriculture product like rice in future may be in demand as the supply has declined due to the decrement in the production. The demand is in terms of trade opportunities and the production is in terms of the output. According to world trade organizations statistics, over the period of 50 years after 1947 the volume of world trade increased at an annual rate of slightly more than 6 per cent and world output by close to 4 per cent. The changing character of the demand for the finished goods has been increased in developing countries like India. The low production hubs which were supplying the raw materials for the industries in developed countries has smelled the taste of their natural resources and started to be indigenous in developing their own custom made goods. There was sudden raise of talented lot in the developing countries. The countries which were initially the hubs for supplying the raw resources started providing the human knowledge factor with the skilled labor immigration to developed countries. The developing countries political systems were fine tuned to suite the regional market for the other nationalities for investing, thus providing a platform for the foreign direct investments to pour in to

Interpreting the OT Prophets Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Interpreting the OT Prophets - Research Paper Example Prophetic interpretation is a practical matter. Therefore, the interpretations of the contents must be in line with the use of specific insight that is accessible to the society in order for the message to be convincible. This interpretation inspires the faith that is inclined to God and not to the prophet himself. Prophetic interpretation involves basing personal arguments, personal teachings and understandings on what the scripture says. The sayings of the scripture must be in line with what people can see by themselves in translation to commonly available things. It is essential to examine the grammar, words and flow of paragraphs. Prophesy supports more fundamental goals rather than being an end in itself. The purpose of prophesy must be in-line with God’s objective of dealing with humanity. God’s purpose is to reconcile us with him by providing us with salvation through Christ Jesus. This must be the greatest objective of prophesy. It must instruct us on the right channel to follow in obtaining the salvation in faith. In the context of Jeremiah chapter 2 verses 14 to 28; the prophet that the only reason that will cause Israel to fall a prey to its enemies will be as a result of infidelity to her divine spouse. This passage is based on prophetic relationship between God and his people. God relates with his people in a way that is represented in the bible as marriage relationship. God being the head and husband while the people being the church represented as the woman. Therefore, this passage refers to infidelity to illuminate the understanding that the wrong acts of Israelites will be similar to infidelity which in turn has a law that accepts for divorce. 2 This message is easily understood and remembered by the Israelites because it uses the practice aspect of marriage. The marriage practice and its consequences both positive and negative are common and

Business LAw 2 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Business LAw 2 - Assignment Example Introduction General partnership is a business organization in which two or more persons come together to form a business with the aim of realizing profits. In opting for this form of business organization, we considered several factors in the formation of businesses and opted for this form of business given the several flexibility associated with the business. These include; during the formation of the business, the legal requirements are not tedious and lengthy (Dobson, & Stokes, 2008). One undergoes few legal formalities and the business will be granted the permission to legal exist as opposed to other forms of business organization like the limited companies. In the partnership, the partners are directly involved in the daily running of the business and have the opportunity to acclimatize with the requirement of the business and ensure efficient and smooth running of the business (Fletcher, 2002). In addition to these, there are also different expertise brought together in runnin g of the business hence specialization and division of labor. Policies of the Company during Formation During the formation of the company (partnership), we will have to form the reference policies that will be used for the daily running of the business. ... In this sense, the profit or losses realized in the business will be shared according to the assets and capita contributed during the formation of the business. II. Division of Duty and Responsibilities The duties in the partnership will be equally divided given the number of the partners in the business. In the business, there will be no dormant partner and expenditures incurred following outsourced labor will be considered liabilities of the partners of the business (Gage, 2004). III. Dissolution of the partnership Partnership will be in existence until such a time that the following hypothetical situations stipulated in this agreement realized; death of a partner, when the business run into bankruptcy, and when declared by court of law as engaging in unscrupulous business (Hall, 1984). During the dissolution f the partnership, the business assets and the profit or losses will be shared according to the stipulation given by the clause describing Capital and profit sharing. IV. Inco rporation of the new Partners The partnership will remain open for the incorporation of new partnership given they make asset and capital contribution equivalent to those already in the business. The contribution of each partner will be proportionately be determined and profit and losses shared according to the proportion made in the contribution (Lowe, 1999). Policies on the Breach of sale and Purchase of Products In the partnership business and just like any other business, there are sales and purchase of products. These operations in the business require that certain terms and conditions be made and the parties have to adhere to them, failure to

Rhetorical Analysis on a speech Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Rhetorical Analysis on a speech - Essay Example During the federal election in November, Anthony was able to convince the election staff in Rochester, New York to let her and a number of her female friends to register so that they can participate in the electoral exercise. The premise of their argument is that their group of women wanted to claim their right in the said election because it is expressed in the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution of the United States, which supposedly takes precedence over the statute barring women to vote under the Constitution of New York. Four days after she casted her vote, Anthony was incarcerated and let out only after paying $1000 bail. And so triggered the important oratorical piece, â€Å"Is It a Crime for a Citizen of the United States to Vote?†, she would deliver that would contribute its part to the women’s suffrage movement then and later on. The Rhetoric The speech, as previously stated, is an excellent rhetorical piece. It can be classified as such because it was ve ry successful in impressing its audience by appealing to emotions, effectively driving them to action, to take the side of the speaker or change point of views. These are made more significant by the fact that the speech is a composed of a meager 538 words. Anthony took the podium, defending her actions during the elections, stressing that what she did is an assertion of her rights, which should be equal to any of the American citizens regardless of sex and ethnicity. She explained her position eloquently, citing the laws of men and the natural law, craftily steering the discourse on the issue of personhood – of whether women are persons as well. The idea is quite clever since the suggestion of the opposite would make women not persons, effectively relegating the side she was criticizing as unjust, to the point of barbarism so as to consider the female sex incomplete or not entirely human. To demonstrate the efficacy of the persuasive capability of the speech, I would outline three important elements present in Anthony’s persuasive speech – loosely based on the Aristotelian conception of what makes an effective rhetoric. First point is the fact that Anthony’s speech presented strong arguments. As with any form of persuasive text, it has sufficiently outlined several facts and verifiable information that supported each points made. For example, Anthony claimed that the right to vote is applicable to women as much as it covers men. She used excerpts from the American Constitution – a very credible resource that rightfully superseded all legal documents in the US. She was emphatic about the â€Å"we† and â€Å"citizen† words as expressed in the preamble of the Constitution as well as the in opinions of the legal luminaries of her time such as Webster, Worcester and Bouvier. Anthony was able to effectively draft a logical and natural argumentation as if women-voting is the most natural thing in the world and that to deny them such opportunity is like an aberration that could offend the lord Almighty, himself. Anthony, ended her speech with a question: whether women are persons, too. The answer is her most powerful argument, banking on the commonsensical answer that they are, indeed. And so what is the specific reason why women are to be denied the right of other persons –

Blackberry Smartphones and Other Competitors Term Paper

Blackberry Smartphones and Other Competitors - Term Paper Example Consumers are attracted to the features that a smartphone brand exhibits such as touch screen capability, music, fast internet speeds, camera and expansive storage. The opinions that consumers of smartphones provide reveal that there are psychographics that determine the smartphone they prefer such as its popularity among peers. It is therefore reflective that competitive advantage and improved market performance is achieved by mobile phone companies by providing features that meet the needs and preferences of consumers as well as effective marketing strategies. Introduction Advancement in information and communication technology has had a significant impact in the mobile industry. Developments in the mobile industry emanate from creativity, innovativeness and customer needs motivated design of phones (Parsons 2012). More notable is the introduction of the smartphone technologies and mobile applications. This has resulted from the changes in the preferences and needs of consumers. In return mobile companies have demonstrated increased competition which is driving the various strategies in marketing which are employed to achieve a competitive advantage within the market (Strategic Direction 2009). This paper presents an analytical report on the Blackberry smartphone versus Samsung, iPhone and HTC which comprise of its main competitors. ... Blackberry Smartphone versus Competitors When Blackberry was introduced to the market by the Research In Motion Ltd, many competitors sprouted within the smartphone market with an aim of grabbing a significant share of the mobile phone market (Shields 2010). Early brands of the Blackberry such as the 7000, 7100 and 8000 series attracted many consumers with a resultant advantageous positioning of these brands in the market (Woyke 2011). This is attributed to the customer value that was achieved by the innovativeness of the company and the provision of attractive features such as Wi-F, options for memory expansion and in-built cameras (Shepherd 2010). These brand elements as presented by the design of the blackberry is attributed to the strategic and better positioning of Blackberry within the market. More innovation was included within the Blackberry mobile as demonstrated by the mobile applications that are provided within its smartphone brands (Mobile Phones Industry Profile: Europe 2011). The mobile phone industry is characterized by rapid changes in the preferences and needs of consumers. This is attributed to the business competition that Blackberry received from other smartphone brands such as Samsung, iPhone and HTC Mobile (Boost Mobile 2012). The competitor companies provided more innovative features such as fast processing speeds, high megapixel cameras, full touch screen capabilities, android and thousands of mobile software applications for the diverse needs of the consumers (Segan and Jenn 2007). In this sense, the ability of Blackberry to maintain its position in the market would only be achieved through Customer Based Equity (CBE), brand advertising and marketing communication that was

How the Roman Republic decayed and became the Roman Empire Essay

How the Roman Republic decayed and became the Roman Empire - Essay Example The prominence of Rome Rome was a small province town which after many wars became the focus and command center of the vast empire of Rome. However, history tells us that it took hundreds of years and a combat of many wars to rise to this prominence. It gained influence over a significant portion of southern Europe, northern Africa, and Middle East. Rome conquered nearly all the surrounding territories going beyond the Mediterranean Sea. It was this military dominance in the region that helped the Roman republic rise and became a formidable force of influence. The republic had appeasing methods of keeping her citizens happy and content. In this endeavor, Rome respected and protected the people’s local cultures with the sole purpose of keeping the people pacified. The Romans in their quest for improved stability, offered a healthier way of life to her war captives, giving them protection, improved mode of doing business, and the freedom to share in her civilization, like the hi gh quality road network. The import market was enhanced, and more affordable goods were made available to the citizens. Under the roman rule, the public enjoyed better and improved livelihood than in their previous regimes. The Roman social planners developed a plan on how to facilitate distribution of economical products such as food that used to contribute to widespread riots. This proper food allocation to its citizens that spread across the whole regime made it gain prominence. Rome’s geographical location’s place of control was another contributing factor. Its control over the Mediterranean Sea gave the regime sizeable amount of dominance. The Roman Republic The founding of Rome is not conclusively documented, in that there is scanty information on how it was initially conceived to its prominence. Nonetheless, mythical explanations state that Rome was initially ruled by kings as a monarchy for many years. As a republic, it began by the overthrow of the traditional roman monarchy, an event that ushered in the introduction of a government that was headed by two representatives. Annual elections were conducted to elect new representatives to head the government. Subsequently, a constitution representing the will of the people was developed. The enactment of this constitution was largely as a result of the struggle between the Patricians and the Plebeians in the effort of the Plebeians trying to prevent Patricians dominance of power. The constitution enabled the participation and representation of everyone at the national level of public affairs, without dominance of a party or ethical group. The fall of Roman Republic The fall of the republic of Rome was motivated by social reasons, military reasons, political reasons, and economic reasons. The fall began with political rivalry within the ranks of power which spread to the city where rival gangs supporting their leaders furthered the rivalry. The two political leaders were Pompey the Great and Julius Caesar. Their rivalry was promoted by their indifference in political leadership when Pompey was appointed, against the spirit of the constitution, to head the consul alone. This angered Caesar who waged war against Rome forcing Pompey to flee. Military Reasons During the roman republic, the army was comprised of citizen soldiers who went to war in defense for their country for some years. This was the product of Rome spreading its territorial control, where the soldiers were

Blackberry Smartphones and Other Competitors Term Paper

Blackberry Smartphones and Other Competitors - Term Paper Example Consumers are attracted to the features that a smartphone brand exhibits such as touch screen capability, music, fast internet speeds, camera and expansive storage. The opinions that consumers of smartphones provide reveal that there are psychographics that determine the smartphone they prefer such as its popularity among peers. It is therefore reflective that competitive advantage and improved market performance is achieved by mobile phone companies by providing features that meet the needs and preferences of consumers as well as effective marketing strategies. Introduction Advancement in information and communication technology has had a significant impact in the mobile industry. Developments in the mobile industry emanate from creativity, innovativeness and customer needs motivated design of phones (Parsons 2012). More notable is the introduction of the smartphone technologies and mobile applications. This has resulted from the changes in the preferences and needs of consumers. In return mobile companies have demonstrated increased competition which is driving the various strategies in marketing which are employed to achieve a competitive advantage within the market (Strategic Direction 2009). This paper presents an analytical report on the Blackberry smartphone versus Samsung, iPhone and HTC which comprise of its main competitors. ... Blackberry Smartphone versus Competitors When Blackberry was introduced to the market by the Research In Motion Ltd, many competitors sprouted within the smartphone market with an aim of grabbing a significant share of the mobile phone market (Shields 2010). Early brands of the Blackberry such as the 7000, 7100 and 8000 series attracted many consumers with a resultant advantageous positioning of these brands in the market (Woyke 2011). This is attributed to the customer value that was achieved by the innovativeness of the company and the provision of attractive features such as Wi-F, options for memory expansion and in-built cameras (Shepherd 2010). These brand elements as presented by the design of the blackberry is attributed to the strategic and better positioning of Blackberry within the market. More innovation was included within the Blackberry mobile as demonstrated by the mobile applications that are provided within its smartphone brands (Mobile Phones Industry Profile: Europe 2011). The mobile phone industry is characterized by rapid changes in the preferences and needs of consumers. This is attributed to the business competition that Blackberry received from other smartphone brands such as Samsung, iPhone and HTC Mobile (Boost Mobile 2012). The competitor companies provided more innovative features such as fast processing speeds, high megapixel cameras, full touch screen capabilities, android and thousands of mobile software applications for the diverse needs of the consumers (Segan and Jenn 2007). In this sense, the ability of Blackberry to maintain its position in the market would only be achieved through Customer Based Equity (CBE), brand advertising and marketing communication that was

My chosen product Essay Example for Free

My chosen product Essay My chosen product is a Philips Plasma Screen TV. This is my SWOT analysis for this electronic product. Strengths: Flat screen plasma TVs are becoming increasingly popular and as this certain product includes stand and speakers as standard meaning its a bargain. Weakness: There are a large range of different plasma screens available meaning customers are spoilt for choice. This includes competition with rival plasma producers all competing to be sold. Opportunities: Philips are continually producing new quality stands and screens allowing them to offer more products to potential buyers. Threats: Competition posed to Philips by other large organisations such as Sony are the biggest threat. This is due to them both competing for a large share of the same market. Section 4: Stakeholders Richer sounds main stakeholders are: Customers are existing customers. They have a relationship with the organisation as their link is that they buy the products or the services. Employees rely on the business for employment so therefore have a relationship with the business. Suppliers take orders from the business making sales, this they are stakeholders. Sponsors (of the organisation) pay money to associate the name of their product or business with an event or person. The bankers of the business lend money to company therefore making them an important stakeholder within the organisation. All the above stakeholders are interested in the business as they rely on their activities and trades to keep their organisation running. An example of this is suppliers, without taking orders from the business; they will not make any profit, which may lead the organisation to shut down. [M2] When businesses are faced with concerned stakeholders, they have a choice of either taking action, or not. The decision taken will usually depend on the power of the stakeholder group, the issue the group has raised, or the effect of any action taken upon other stakeholder groups. As every business has a main aim to survive, its usually sensible for businesss to respond to stakeholders concerns. Lack of consideration may lead to boycotts, which will decrease profits. An example of this is when Greenpeace called for a boycott of Shell petrol with the result of sales falling by approximately 50%. This is also a problem for Richer Sounds as its part of the large sound and vision market, meaning loss of profit may cause Richer Sounds to fall and become bottom of the market. If this happened Richer Sounds competitors would have an increased profit, making it harder for Richer Sounds to recover. However if the organisation chooses to do nothing about the issue it may at times damage the business by boycotts which eventually lead to profit lose. Taking action against these concerns may benefit the business, however bearing that no business will ever be able to please all its stakeholders all the time. If Richer Sounds was faced with this problem, they could choose to either face or sort the problem, or to ignore it. In my opinion, Richer Sounds should tackle and face the problem, because consequences could be fatal (such as boycotts). An example of this was when Greenpeace boycotted Shells Fuel organisation, resulting in loss of approximately 50% in profit. Richer Sounds keeps up very well with changing technology thus it must also keep up with all other external influences such as, economical factors. Richer sounds are affected by a range of economical factors including exchange rates. This is due to the fact that Richer Sounds buys a large share of their stock abroad. When Richer Sounds makes purchases form Europe, the price usually depends on the value of the pound relating in relation to the euro. Richer Sounds always benefits if the pound is stronger, thus the goods cost less. However if the pound is falling in value, Richer sounds then have to take this into consideration as the goods are then more expensive. Richer sounds might successfully adapt its activities, by simply watching the changes in money rates and the strength of the pound to the euro. Another factor that also affects Richer sounds is the level of prices. If the general level of prices increases, then Richer sounds will be forced to increase there prices as well. When prices are increased then competition also gets heated. However, the prices of electrical goods have fallen over the last few years, thus allowing Richer sounds to become more competitive then ever. To help combat these problems Richer Sounds may choose to keep record of the prices and sales, as it may help them predict whether the prices of certain products may increase or decrease.

Hrm roles in change management issues

Hrm roles in change management issues Identify, Evaluate And Discuss Human Resource Management Roles In Change Management Issues. Executive Summary Change management is the process, tools and techniques to manage the people-side of change to achieve the required business outcome. Successful change addresses both the technical and the people side. Change management focus is helping individual employee make their own personal transition. The organizational viewpoint is â€Å"The Change† to how we do business; whereas the individual viewpoint is â€Å"The Change† from how one does his or her job today, to how one will do his or her job after the change is implemented. Today, the world of human resource management is changing more rapidly than ever changing. Human resource roles in many multinational organizations are facing constant challenges as a result, of constant environmental changes. The emphasis of human resource management is adding value as organizational player, the role of the human resource department becoming more multi-dimensional in many multinational organizations. This paper context will identify and evaluate why human resource management today is taking advantage of gradual yet profound changes in the nature of the field in the current human resource management best practices, and overall human resource management policies, mission and vision. Human Resource Management functions or roles are performed in many organizations by different functional heads independently. The most important challenge in recession period is revolutionizing of the human resource systems to identify, maintain, develop and utilize talents across the organization to their fullest capacities. An organization may claim that it has the best of the systems to identify talents across the organization. Human resource has now a chance again to prove their value creation role in the corporate if it understands what it needs to do now. Some of the basic strategies should be followed by the corporate managers i.e. reduce administrative and establishment costs, hold large bonuses and reward payments, create participative forums for dealing with the difficult times ahead, retaining top talents should be emphasized by the human resource managers to the management and human resource managers need to network with fellow managers to find out how best to visualize the problems and try to solve them. There are basically four distinct human resource roles classified (Kossek and Block, 2000, Pg 3.18) in the human resource activities into four distinct roles: Transactions, Translations, Transitions and Transformations. Generally, the transaction and translation roles are more focused on people and have a short-term view, whereas the transition and transformation roles are more oriented towards improvement or transformation of new processes; where organizational processes are realigned to support ‘customer and market demands, and having a future orientation. In short, the transaction roles include human resource activities such as hiring and firing people, protecting employees welfare, ensuring on-time pay as well as handling employee grievances. The human resource role is building an efficient infrastructure by acting as an â€Å"administrative expert† (Kossek Block p.3.19); however, the translation role of human resource is the communication responsibilities associate d with the listening and responding to employees and customer concerns, as well as explaining to and implementing the policies established by top management to the employees. Today. the human resource role also act as an employee champion and advocate by ensuring that their views and rights are being expressed; such as communicating to employees the human resource policy relating to matters like career opportunities, laws and legislations, business operating objectives and customer needs. Moreover, the transition role simply refers to the execution of human resource activities, policies and best practices making all necessary on-going changes to support or improve the companys business operational and strategic objectives. Typically, such role is focused on the implementation of new or revised human resource practices and long term procedural changes in the human resource policies and best practices. Lastly; the transformation role of the human resource roles acts as an agent and realigns the human resource systems to support Introduction In todays arena the most common word we come across are recession and downturn. Therefore, organizations must make plan for recession or downturns as it does to plan for good, economic times. The management people and employees may experience anxiety around issues during an economic crisis or downturn. This assignment context identifies the possible challenges of human resource management roles in the global recession situation. Beginning with the definition of human resource management and its roles in an organization through analyzing how the human resource activities is adding value and contribute to the organizations overall effectiveness. Basically, change is complex and there is no single solution. Having an effective leadership is a key enabler as it provides the vision and the rationale for change in the organization. Launching a change initiative is not likely to succeed if the organization is not change-ready. During a downturn, human resource role acts as an employee champion and advocate by ensuring that their views and rights are being expressed; such as communicating to employees the human resource policy relating to matters like career opportunities, laws and legislations, business operating objectives and customer needs. Moreover, the transition role simply refers to the execution of human resource activities, policies and best practices making all necessary on-going changes to support or improve the companys business operational and strategic objectives. Typically, this role is focused on the implementation of new or revised human resource practices and long term procedural changes in the human resource policies and best practices. Lastly; the transformation role of the human resource roles acts as an agent and realigns the human resource systems to support massive organizational change. Other than, those above roles stated could also be categorized into administrative experts, empl oyee champions, change agent and strategic approach respectively. It also represents a sweeping attempt to overcome the negative counter images of the personnel function and re-invent a new set of proactive roles for HR professionals (Ulrich, 1998 p.124) Elements Of Change Management Fundamentals Organizational change often presents human resource with a significant opportunity to engage in activities that impact business outcomes, as the Corporate Leadership Council teaching module provides an overview of the fundamentals of change management and the role of human resource. Such teaching module supports business organizations with the following change management fundamentals: diagnosing change-driven business problems; identifying the skills necessary to manage change; selecting the right change strategy; and overcoming barriers to change. Corporate Cultural Change Changing a corporate culture is an ongoing process, which takes time and requires constant monitoring. It is about transforming the organization through continuous influence and the shaping of beliefs, assumptions, values, and patterns of behavior of people towards creating a desired work environment. This Corporate Leadership Council research focuses on the challenges and solutions faced by organizations attempting to change the corporate culture. Major factors in this process in include leadership, timing, and behavior management. Once a corporate culture is in place, there are practices within the organization that act to maintain it by giving employees a set of similar experiences. For example, many of the human resource practices reinforce the organizations culture; such as the selection process, performance evaluation criteria, reward practices, training and career development activities, and promotion procedures ensure that those hired fit in with the culture, reward those who support it, and penalize those who challenge it. Three forces play a particularly important part in sustaining a culture, selection practices, the actions of top management, and socialization methods. Alternatives Of Downsizing For organizations to avoid possible downsizing issues, they can take the following steps as alternatives: Part Time Job – Reduce or cut the number of job hours and pay employee on hourly basis to engage employee with the company, and during his free time he can do any other work for earnings. Work at Home Give access to the employees to work at home rather then coming at office. This step will reduce the operational cost of the organization. Shift of Department One business unit of the organization is not doing well, organization can shift the employees to other business unit. Outsource Employees Organization can provide outsourcing services is specialized domain so their employees can work on other company projects. During these uncertain times, corporate will realize the importance of having competent skilled workforce which will ensure that focus stays on trainings but there may be a major reduction in training budgets. In this time any decision taken by the company impacts each individual personally rumors float around. Its top managements duty as human resource to ensure that the communication channels are kept open, transparency is maintained. We also need to ensure that accurate communication happens on time in full, instead of employees hearing things with details from the grapevine first. Adequate support from leaders and managers in terms of people management processes to find ways to keep up the motivation levels of employees. If the corporate plans are to retrench a portion of the workforce, counseling should be provided to those both employees who will be staying back but also the employees who have been asked to leave, be fair with them. Resistance To Change Resistance to change can be defined as an individual or group engaging in acts to block or disrupt an attempt to introduce change. Resistance itself can take many different forms from subtle undermining of change initiatives or withholding of information to active resistance, for instance through strikes. Similarly, there are two broad types of resistance: Resistance to the content of change; for example, a specific change in technology or introduction of a particular reward system in an organization. Resistance to the process of change. It concerns the way a change is introduced rather than the object of change per se; for example, management re-structure jobs without prior consultation of affected employees. The Strategic Roles Of Human Resource In Organizational Transformation Human resource can and should play a key strategic role in developing and implementing organizational transition and transformation strategies. It can provide help and guidance in analysis and diagnosis, highlighting the people issues that will fundamentally affect the success of the strategy. Human resource can advise on resourcing programmes and planning and implementing the vital learning, reward, communications and involvement aspects of the process. It can anticipate people problems and deal with them before they become serious. If the programme does involve restructuring and downsizing, human resource can advise on how this should be done humanely and with the minimum disruption to peoples live. When the corporate is in turbulence zone, human resource can put its categorical best in ensuring that he guides the corporate successfully. Human resource needs to be very powerful in such situations because they not only have to maintain the people motivation level but has to increase it using non-monetary tools. There are certain points that human resource can opt for in such a situation where people are insecure about their job. Human resource can pay attention to develop the people on key skills and enhance competencies. Human resource has to play an active role in refrain the top talents, act as a caring mother while top performers punished with being rewarded for their performances, get people aligned and developed to fight with this critical situation, develop people on cross functional skills to balance the surplus and shortage of workforce, help the corporate to raise the people performance bar, ensure the fair evaluation of people performance, play an active role in control of communication flow, pass the onus of making the corporate lean, review its minor low cost benefits and contribute to enhance the value addition per employee by maximizing employees inputs. What Can Human Resource Do During A Downsizing? Human resource needs to be proactive and come up with early interventions as for any organization to survive during recession; the ability to retain its best people is must. During these days, human resource people sometimes even take the harsh decision of reducing the numbers and land up at downsizing. The word downsizing is even taken as rightsizing and optimizing but we may not know or ignore the fact that neither the bad situation nor the good conditions lasts long. The organization needs to invest in learning and development by providing appropriate learning opportunities and facilities, but the prime responsibility for learning and development rests with individuals, who will be given the guidance and support of their managers and, as necessary members of the human resource department. Develop and share the vision, belief in a desired and emerging future. Provide employees with a supportive learning environment where learning capabilities can be discovered and applied, for example, peer networks, supportive policies and systems, protected time for learning. When the going is tough, human resource and managers to challenge the challenges and the remedy is to downsizing the dignified way. Moreover, this is the time to implement new ideas; change the Human Resource Management processes and change the procedures. All this has to be done in a way that it cuts costs and motivates people. Human Resources Perspective And Sustaining Role The present challenges of human resource management are corporate reorganization, sustaining companys position and growth, changing demographic workforce, knowledgeable and multi skill workforce, changing mindset of workforce, new industrial relation approach and society based corporate responsibility. There are many more possibilities of sustaining human resources increasing role as not only growth catalyst but sustaining business through greater employee engagement. Therefore, human resource professionals needs to tighten their belts and get ready for some challenging yet meaningful activities which will help to change the perception of human resource forever. The economic crisis is forcing to separate some employee and there is no way around. Do it, but avoid creating a panic around, in employees, in investors, in market and in country by crying loud about the recession. Human resources task is also great, if the human resource manager creates conducive environment through his or her professional approach in achieving productivity, with the support of all teams which is the need of the hour. Business has experienced different dynamics that pose many challenges. Human resource and enforcement authorities together strive for achieving the common goals like compliance and adherence. Human resource makes all efforts to create and sustain an employer and employee friendly atmosphere and responding to the current needs and challenges. Human Resources Responsibility In todays economic melt down where job cuts, loss, pay reduction, last come first go, insecurity of employment atmosphere prevail, human resource has special responsibility to create ease environment to the affected by counseling, displaying care and concern, preparing them for multi skill task, engaging and deploying in other required areas of functions like security, crisis management team. Human resource should engage in more positive side, making and helping employees to reform, perform and transform which will ultimately make a solid impact on business. Conclusion Human Resource Management must be able to address the right kind of demands related to Human Resource functions or roles during the recession. Human Resource Management must play a highly proactive role in managing the issues of global recession by helping organization to enhance their abilities to learn and collaborates, manage diversity, ambiguity and complexity. Human Resource Management is responsible to manage the human resource of the corporate to maximize the productivity, efficiency at minimal cost and maximize profit. During this global recession, Human Resource Management is facing the many challenges and changes in organizational level, workplace and human resource department level itself. The challenges faced by Human Resource Managers effectively if proper strategies are implemented. The recession is the temporary economic climate of the business world. It will be changed through more productivity at minimal cost and maximize profit at moderate price of products in busin ess. Reference Dive, Brain; The Healthy Organization : A revolutionary approach to people and management; Kogan Page Armstrong, Michael; Strategic Human Resource Management 3rd Edition : p.98-136 Emerging issues in Human Resource Management: Pramod Vernia publishes and IBH publish (p) Ltd., Khanka, S.S.;: Human Resource Management Khanka Indian Journal of Industrial Relation Vol.35 No.1 July 1999 Human Resource Development News letter July 2006, Vol.22 issue The ICFAI journal of organizational behavior October 2006 Management trends Vol.2.No.2.April2005- Sept. 2005. Role of HR during recession, HRD News Letter Jan09 Vol.24.iss.10 p.22 HR has to Challenge the Challenges, HRDNews Letter Jan09Vol.24.iss.10 p.22

Free Rider Problem Essay -- essays research papers

The Free Rider Problem   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The free rider issue has become one of the most serious economic issues today. The free rider is a lazy type person who wants the benefits that others bring in without having to do the work. The free rider typically takes advantage of a public good. Living in a civilized society presents many opportunities for free riding, which we have yet to find a way to control. Economists regard the possibility for free riding as a problem for the free market, which usually leads to government intervention. Government intervention is not generally needed in a free market society but in this case if there were no government intervention this problem would not find a solution.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The free-rider issue is often seen as a serious problem because of the assumption that a free rider's best self-interest is that they interact with others by force and fraud. If they can get away with the fraud and begin to gain the benefits of others they have reached their first goal. Their next goal is to make some good money or get credit for someone else's hard work before they get caught. Then they get out and are long gone by the time anyone notices. Life in a civilized society allows each of us the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of the work of people with productive ability far greater than our own, but what happens when people begin doing this? They get used to not having to do much work and become lazy. In some cases people look at welfare in this way. If a person is able to get a good job and chooses not to, but instead, to live on our government, this would be considered free riding. This causes a fluctuation in our market and it can have a negative effect. When the benefits go away people do not want to go back to work and eventually will loose their jobs or quit and become a true free rider. Clearly there is an essential difference between cases in which one can't contribute to the benefits one enjoys and cases in which one chooses not to make a contribution that is within one's power. But apart from this distinction, we can differentiate between harmless free riding and the worthless free riding. The free rider wants anything he can get for free and will think nothing of it if he can get away with it. Free riders take advantage of public goods without having to contribute to them. For example, if s... ...o make up the difference. This difference we have to make up is usually a higher tax. In raising the tax the price of the good goes up and when price goes up demand tends to go down. As the demand keeps falling and the price keeps rising the product usually ends up off the market and filing a chapter eleven. It typically does not go that far but this is an example of what could happen. A free market is a privilege to have and it is a shame people have to take advantage of it because they do not feel the need to work hard or to go out of their way to do something for someone else.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The free rider is a menace in our society and we do not need to let him take our money and put it to his use. We have found ways such as government intervention and price lids to help control the problem but we have yet to find a solution. Once a solution is found we will have fewer worries and possibly a true free market. These are very difficult problems to stop and may never be stopped. It will take a long period of time to begin the process to bring it to an end, but it will be nice to maybe some day have a true free market without the problem of a free rider.

The Consequences of Peoples Obsession with Physical Appearances Essay

In this essay, I will compare people that are obsessed with physical appearance and appearances. It is not strange for individuals to worry about physical appearance. In fact, we could argue that we are living in a culture that weighs the most up-to-date trends or newest fashions more heavily than more pressing issues that affects society. As a result, many people become obsessed with their physical appearance in order to keep up with trends and fashions. People pay too much attention to appearance, it is important in some situations and the general population seems to put more of their focus on how good someone looks or what the newest trends are, instead of concentrating on greater issues at hand, which are often not discussed. For instance, there are problems with our health care system but many people have a greater knowledge of what is going on with the death of Michael Jackson. In our society where image and presentation is everything, it is impossible not to care about our appearance. We find ways to beautify ourselves, such as not eating properly which leads to anor...

Looking for Alaska Essay

In Looking for Alaska by John Green, the protagonist, Miles â€Å"Pudge† Halter, is very dynamic. In the beginning of the book, Pudge had no friends and was looking for what he calls the â€Å"Great Perhaps.† So he goes away to boarding school and meets â€Å"The Colonel†, Takumi, Lara, and Alaska. They were all immediate friends but Alaska and Pudge were drawn to each other. Pudge went from only having his mother and father at his going away party to having lifelong friends that really care about him. An important personality trait Pudge has that helps him grow throughout the story is How does the main conflict in the story impact the protagonist’s development? (Think about how the conflict gets resolved and its influences on the protagonist) Reader’s Discovery In Looking for Alaska, John Green demonstrates that even after tragedy, life always goes on. Connecting Literature to Reality All change is not growth, as all movement is not forward. To me, this quote means that not all changes are for the better. Sometimes things happen that make someone or something worse than before. A change can either be good or bad; a step forward or backward. Examples: 1) If one or both of your parents lose their job, then that could be a bad change for your whole family. You might not be able to afford some things. 2) Failing a grade could be considered a step back instead of a step forward. 3) Having a serious injury could also be a step backward. You might not be able to do as much as before.

Assessment of Health Perception Essay

In the Assessment of Health Perception, Spirituality and Prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Within a Private College Cohort, Sandra Ramey delved deep into the heart of cardiovascular disease perception, status, and risk factors among college students. It discussed in detail the causes of cardiovascular disease in a college environment. Ramey also discussed in this article the possible solutions to the health problems. Throughout the article, Ramey used existing evidences, such as statistics and examples, in analyzing the situations faced by college students. It is written in a way that is easy to understand for college students to be aware of the growing problem involving them and the academe and some possible solutions to their problem. Furthermore, the article can also be a springboard for further research on college student health not only on CVD but other health risks as well. Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors The increased prevalence of several cardiovascular disease risk factors, specifically overweight and obesity, hypercholesterolemia and stress, among college students has gotten the attention of health practitioners across the country. These risk factors are attributed to many root factors that begin during childhood. The article discussed how these conditions worsen during college. It tries to identify how stress and emotional health affect a student’s health condition, specifically eating patterns and behavior. Ramey suggested that knowing these factors better can help diminish the development of chronic disease. Emotional Well-being and Spirituality Among the detriments to emotional well-being and impediments to academic success identified by college students, as shown in the NAPNAP’s Keep your children/yourself Safe and Secure (KySS) campaign, are the following: 1. stress; 2. sleep difficulties; 3. concern for family and friends; and, 4. relationship difficulties. The KySS survey also showed that the top worry for both teens and parents was â€Å"how to cope with stressful things in their life† (Ramey, 2005). Knowing this, Ramey continued to discuss current efforts to curb the growing risk. One of the important findings that were discussed was the effects of spirituality in perceiving emotional well-being (Ramey 2005). A study on 2003 by the Higher Education Research Institute at the University of California was cited to have examined the spiritual life of college students and was showing positive results, including declining levels of emotional health problems in students. This means that spirituality can be used to help prevent further complications such as CVD. Conclusion Ramey provided a content-rich article that was well-researched and provided with statistical data and research findings. It is a good read for college students to be aware of CVD and the risk factors causing it. The article is also a good source of information for health practitioners for further research about the growing health risk among college students. References Ramey, S. L. (2005). Assessment of health perception, spirituality and prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors within a private college cohort. Pediatric Nursing, May-June 2005

Market Research on Luxury Watches Essay

Market Trend There was a slow-down in the growth in sales of premium and luxury watches in India in 2008-’09. It prompted the market leader Titan industries to enter the economy market. Following the footsteps, luxury watch brands like Tag Heuer and Rolex introduced low-price models. But in recent years, mobile phones may also have dampened growth in the penetration of watches in India, as they provide a time read-out as well as alarm and other time-related functions. Watch industry experts believe that their product’s original function is increasingly losing importance, and that wristwatches are now being bought as fashion accessories. Owning more than one watch is like owning different pieces of jewellery. Competitive landscape The economy watch demand is being met for the most part by the unorganised sector and by direct imports. The premium segment is increasingly being peppered by fashion brands such as Esprit, Swatch, Fossil and Tommy Hilfiger. There has also been strong value growth for these brands, with growing demand from middle- and upper-income groups in urban India. Titan, HMT and Maxima are the leading Indian players and Timex, Casio and Swatch are now the strong multinational players in the market. More multinationals are entering the retail market, but no new domestic companies have done so, and the multinationals’ share of value sales has increased over the review period. Premium Brand & Product Perception With the watches market in India now becoming fashion and style driven, especially at the premium end, companies now launch models and designs every six months. International brands such as Fossil launch spring/summer and winter ranges. Titan, on the other hand, times its launches to fit in with the Indian festive season – Deepavali and weddings. Companies like Casio and Swatch and luxury brands like Rolex are exploring a niche market for chronographs, but this is currently negligible. Companies also need to respond to product innovations. The Citizen eco-friendly watch has been well received in India and is reportedly selling well in its price bracket, eliminating the trouble of replacing batteries and encouraging the use of multiple watches. Apparel brands such as Esprit, Tommy Hilfiger, Benetton and Levi’s have all gained familiarity among India’s urban youth, who may become more willing to try these brands’ premium watches. Affluent, urban Indians may feel more comfortable about buying premium watches, while continuing to regard luxury watches as examples of overindulgent or insensitive spending. ‘New’ Rich India : The ‘New’ rich India is now indulging into the experience of owning Luxury Brands. India’s rapidly growing high-end retail market is expected to increase from the around $3. 5 billion in 2008 to $30 billion by 2015. Luxury clothing, fragrances, premium wine, high-end watches have achieved good penetration among male Indian consumers. Among women, jewellery and cosmetics can already boast high levels of awareness, followed by categories such as handbags and mobile phones. These items, while not necessarily being better (in quality, performance, or appearance) than their less expensive substitutes, are purchased with the main purpose of displaying wealth or income or status symbol of their owners. There is a distinct shift from ‘Old luxury’ to ‘New luxury’. Old luxury is defined by the attributes, qualities and features of the product, whilst ‘New luxury’ is defined by the consumer’s point of focus on the experience that their purchase stimulates and not in ownership or possession of the product itself. † The customers Redefined luxury as they believe it to be a sign of self worth – â€Å"They are worth it;† it authenticates the buyer’s success and status; it is a signal to others that the owner is a member of an exclusive group; They require flawless performance in this application, the cost of product malfunction is too high to buy anything but the best. Motivation of Study: The matter of wearing and enjoying fine timepieces is a passion that these days must be justified. We like nice expensive watches even though cheap watches exist to do the same thing. Hence like any other luxury good , today modern shoppers buy luxury goods to reward themselves, to satisfy psychological needs or to make themselves feel good to show off their personality or to boost their self-esteem. Contribution of the research: This study aims to understand the above said consumer buying behaviour which will help the present marketing Managers to better reposition their branding and advertising strategy to capture the correct target market for luxury products to boost the sales in times where economy are at a challenge. Literature Review: Research Objective: This study intends to find out if consumer buying behaviour of young purchasers are influenced by factors such as premium price of luxury watches, perceived quality of luxury watches, societal status and brand loyalty associated with the consumption of luxury brand. This study also intends to evaluate whether perceived qualities of the luxury branded watch have influence on the buying decision of consumer. It is also intended to determine whether the high quality standards of luxury watches are the reasoning consumers opt for the luxury watches. Affiliations of social status of acquiring certain luxury branded goods will also be studied to understand whether consumer buying luxury branded goods just for the matter of being affiliate with certain quarters of people having the same luxury brand of goods. This study also will also evaluate whether brand loyalty of luxury brand will influence the buying decision of consumer. This study also aims to uncover whether a person who has been abroad is a reason for the consumer purchasing a luxury watch Research Question: The purpose of this study is to evaluate what motivational factors encourage consumers into purchasing luxury brand watches . In evaluating this statement , this study aims to answer the following questions : †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ Is it the price or the type of users of the brand that drives the buying behaviour of the consumer for luxury branded goods? Is it the strong emotion of discriminating themselves with the lower class consumers that drives higher class consumers to turn to luxury brands? Is it the tag name of a mega brand that drives the long term demand for that luxury brand? Is gender a deterministic factor in deciding the purchase of a luxury brand? If yes then what factors are important gender wise ? Is it the product utility or the brand perception that is key for luxury watch brands? Will a person’s visit abroad influence his decision to purchase a luxury watch? Previous Research contribution : Findings of overall previous research indicate that individual’s preferences plays a key role in purchasing luxury goods. Individual’s preferences may be based on desire and non-desires, which are based on experience in purchasing luxury items from their satisfaction, or nondesire such as bias towards brand products. Leibenstein (1950, p. 188) classified demand of goods and services consumption in relevant to motivation into two main aspects: functional and non-functional. Functional demand is â€Å"demand for a commodity which is due to the qualities inherent in the commodity itself†. On the contrary, demand of goods consumption that comes from other factors, which is not the product quality, is defined non-functional demand. The outcome from Leibenstein’s (1950) study especially stresses the role of interpersonal effects towards luxury brands consumption, and derived three main effects; Veblen, Snob, and Bandwagon INTERPERSONAL EFFECTS Perceived Conspicuous Value Perceived unique Value Perceived Social Value Ostentation Non-Conformity Conformity VEBLENIAN SNOB BANDWAGON Interpersonal effects (Vigenron & Johnson) (1999 p. 7) Veblen Effect: The Veblen effect can be explained through conspicuous consumption in which people feel that it is necessary to purchase luxury products because they have a high price tag (Leibenstein, 1950). Conspicuous consumption is use by people to show wealth, power and status (Veblen, 1899). Prices of product have a significant aspect in consumers’ opinion of quality (Vigneron & Johnson, 1999). Studies by Erickson & Johansson (1995) have shown that price is used to judge quality of luxury products between a range of brands. Usually people would associate high prices with better quality. Additionally, those who do associate high prices with better quality would also suggest that high prices show a considerable amount of prestige (Lichtenstein et al. , 1993). Snob Effect: The snob effect takes into account personal and emotional desires (personal effects), and the influence of other people’s behaviour (interpersonal effects) towards the purchasing of luxury brand products (see Figure 1). The snob effect can be further explained through two circumstances. Firstly, the launch on new products which creates exclusivity in which the snob would purchase the product immediately because a minor amount of consumers at that particular time would have acquired it. Snob consumers only purchase â€Å"limited items that have a high value, whereas those readily available are less desirable. Rare items demand respect and prestige† (Solomon, 1994,p. 570). Products that are viewed as unique, popular, and expensive causes a higher demand for consumers (Verhallen & Robben, 1994), especially snob consumers. Snyder and Fromkin (1977) support the statement by Verhallen and Robben (1994) suggesting that people have the desire to be unique. India:The Affluent Masses: Luxury volumes have been spurred by a significant growth in the rich in recent past. The new rich come in varied shapes, sizes and style quotients. Exporters, multinational bankers, college kids earning plum salaries at call centers or BPO operations, well-heeled corporate wives, and successful entrepreneurs. What they have in common is that they have very high purchasing power Bandwagon Effect : The bandwagon effect represents consumers who purchase luxury products because they wish to fit in with a particular group. For example, people would consume products that are fashionable and stylish to associate themselves to similar people (Berry, 1994). Dubois & Duquesne (1993) explains that the snob and bandwagon effect are not alike. Although the similarity between the bandwagon and the snob effect is that people wish to enhance their self-concepts, the differentiation is that they purchase luxury items for different reasons. Bandwagon consumers purchase items to be fit in with others, whereas snob consumers purchase items to be unique and stand out. Individuals who fit in with groups that purchase luxury brand products and/ or wish to differentiate themselves from people who do not purchase luxury brands are influenced by the bandwagon effect (Vigneron & Johnson,1999) Luxury is reward :First time/New Purchasers :They use luxury goods as a status symbol to say â€Å"I’ve made it! †. They are motivated by their desire to be successful and demonstrate this to others. Luxury brands that have widespread recognition are popular; however they don’t wish to appear lavish or hedonistic in their appearance. They want to purchase â€Å"smart† luxury that exhibit importance while not leaving them open to criticism. Personal Effects : Consuming luxury products can also be from personal desires and taste. PERSONAL EFFECTS Perceived Emotional Value Perceived Quality Value Self-Actualization Reassurance HEDONIST PERFECTIONIST Personal effects (Vigenron & Johnson) (1999 p. 8) Hedonic Effect The hedonic effect occurs when consumers purchase luxury products and value the item. People who purchase items for self-fulfillment (e. g.inner direct consumers, Riesman, et al. , 1950, or role relaxed consumers, Kahle, 1995), and those who are not affected by interpersonal influences (e. g. conforming to group norms,Bearden, et al. , 1989) represent the hedonic effect. Dichter (1960) explains that motivation of noncognitive and unconscious is able to persuade consumer preference of products. Products that are consumed are known to have an emotional value that is added to their character (Vigneron & Johnson, 1999). When consumers purchase luxury products they expect that the item will offer benefits such as exclusiveness. Dubois & Laurent, (1994) stated that if products create an emotional value for consumers, it represents that the product is beneficial and holds an important characteristic. Perfectionist Effect The perfectionist effect exists when consumers purchase luxury items and expects superior products and performance as well as quality (Vigneron & Johnson,1999). People who represent the perfectionist effect are those who are associated to personal values and judge a product according to their value of a luxury band product. An example of the perfectionist effect is when consumers are purchasing a luxury watch they expect it to be accurate. According to Groth and McDaniel, (1993, p. 10) stated that â€Å"high prices may even make certain products or service more desirable†, because people view products with high prices with great quality (Rao & Monroe, 1989). Additionally, consumers may assess the level of how luxury a product is by its quality (Vigneron and Johnson, 1999). Methodology Research Method: Quantitative data consists of closed end information that includes numerical figures. The study has collected quantitative data by applying closed-end questions towards a questionnaire. Focus Group Discussion to understand attributes both physical and emotional that influence the purchase of a luxury watch. The group comprised of 7 individuals , 3 female and 4 male participants who have been users of luxury watches. Data Collection: Primary Data collection: Gathering information from consumers of luxury watches through online questionnaire survey Secondary Data Collection: Research insights and hypothesis design with the help of previously published research work on luxury goods buying behaviour. Sampling: Non-probability sampling method is adopted. Since the target audience or respondents of interest are consumers of premium or luxury watches, the sampling method adopted here is convenience sampling and snow-ball sampling. Measurement & Scaling: Measurement Techniques used ? Perception map : ? Utility of features in the watch : Chronograph, Double dial, Indicator light etc. ? Stylish Designs that make the watch a fashion statement Respondents were asked to rate the 10 different brands in order to obtain their perception of these brands on the above defined dimensions Based on two predefined dimensions i. e ? ? ? Exploratory Factor Analysis : To understand the underlying factors influencing the purchase behaviour of luxury watch for men & women and overall Regression: To understand which interpersonal & personal effect is critical when consumers make a luxury watch purchase decision Discriminant Analysis: To understand the group behaviours based on the following discriminating variable ? Gender ? Trip abroad ? Work Experience:Purchasing power ? AMOS : Confirmatory Factor analysis to ascertain the Exploratory Factor Analysis RESULT AND ANALYSIS 1. Discriminant Analysis: Work-Ex & Fresher Inference: Wilk’s lambda (0.627) is more than 0. 4 which is not significant; Box M test is also insignificant However based on analysis top 5 attributes discriminating work ex & fresher are Attributes Q5_7_attribute_analog Q5_2_attribute_alarm Q5_12_attribute_torch Q5_9__attribute_calculator Q4_8_attribute_celebrity_endorsement Variable weight of discriminating function -. 366 . 361 . 331 . 271 . 262 2. Discriminant Analysis: Gender Inference: Wilk’s lambda (0. 578) is more than 0. 4 which is not significant; based on analysis top 5 attributes discriminating males & females Attributes Variable weight of discriminating function. Q4_3_attrifashion_statement Q5_3_attribute_dualclock Q5_13_attribute_barometer Q5_8_attribute_motionsensor Q9_2_buy_in_store .329 -. 285 -. 269 -. 259 -. 255 3. Discriminant Analysis: Abroad Visit Inference: Wilk’s lambda (0. 573) is more than 0. 4 which is not significant; however based on analysis top 5 attributes discriminating foreign visited and not visited people Attributes Q5_9__attribute_calculator Q5_6_attribute_color Q5_16_attribute_warranty Q5_11_attribute_straptype Q4_9_attribute_brand_image Variable weight of discriminating function . 228 . 225 . 221 -. 207 -. 205 3) Exploratory Factor Analysis-(Male & Female) Research Question:- Is gender a deterministic factor in deciding the purchase of the luxury watch. If yes what factors are important gender wise? Hypothesis:- Women while making luxury goods purchase give more importance to emotional factors whereas Men go for Physical Utility features Factor analysis for male respndents(58 males) Results:? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Fac1(Ostentation): o o o o o o o o ? ? ? ? ? ? Sth to remmeber, hand gesture, to be unique Fac2(value added feature) Calculator,digital,compass. Fac3(Generic requirements) Shape, water resistance Fac4(Economic requirements) Discounts Fac 5(Tech savvy) Compass, Motion sensor Fac 6(basic) Analog,water resistance Fac 7(Wrist suitability) Strap type Fac 8(extra feautres):Date and day display, brand image Exploratory factor analysis female Respondents (23 females):Fac1(Economical): o o o o o o Warranty, after sales, analog, emotional satisfaction Fac2(Style) Social status, to be unique, fashion statement Fac3(Special requirements) Alarm,altimeter, digital,dual clock Fac4(value added feature) Calculator,compass,barometer, torch Fac 5(Tech savvy) Hand gesture,discount Fac 6(Exclusivity) Motion sensor,alarm,brand image Result Analysis:? Men:o Attach importance to Ostentaion, value added feaures and style(veblenian effect and perfectionist effect are dominating) ? Women:o Style, Economic attributes an generic requirements ( Hedonist and snob effects dominate 4. Checking the Interpersonal and personal effects shown by males and female while purchase of luxury watch in Store Research Question:o Is it the price or the type of users of the brand that drives the buying behaviour of the consumer for luxury branded goods? o Is it the strong emotion of discriminating themselves with the lower class consumers that drives higher class consumers to turn to luxury brands? o Is it the product utility or the brand perception that is key for luxury watch brands? Hypothesis:-Luxury watch purchase is primarily to show off and as an indicator of status symbol: veneblian effect. Users also buy luxury watches due to perceived emotional value or for hedonist reasons Veneblian Effect:- Snob Effect Bandwagon Effect Hedonistic effect Type of effect Veneblian snob Bandwagon Hedonistic Coefficient 0. 517 0. 499 0. 274 0. 305. Inference:- As we can clearly observe from the above table that the veneblian effect is very prominent in all cases of interpersonal or personal effects. That means People tend to buy Luxury watches to show off of their Public and Social Status. Snob and Bandwagon effect follows Veneblian effect. 5. Regression Analysis to check whether long term demand for luxury watches is driven by brand image Research Question : Is it the brand image that drives the long term demand for that luxury brand? Hypothesis : Brand Image for lucury brands is responsible for the long term demand of these watches. Inference : Regression is insignificant with respect to the variables that drive brand image. Even the R^square value is 0. 071. Hence we can infer that brand image is not a good factor to explain the long term demand for luxury watches. 6. AMOS The default model is created based on exploratory factor analysis and taking research literature into account. Model Fit Summary Check: Cmin/DF 2-5 OK GFI > 0. 9 Not OK PGFI>0. 5 OK NFI,TLI,CFI>0. 9 Not OK RMSEA max 0. 1 Not OK Model is comparatively fit as such But Goodness of fit index is not holding well. Validity & Construct Reliability S No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Attributes Q4_1_attribute_social_status Q4_3_attribute_fashion_statement Q4_2_attribute_to_be_unique Q4_6_attribute_emotional_satisfaction Q4_9_attribute_brand_image Q5_9__attribute_calculator Q5_10_attribute_compass Q5_12_attribute_torch Q5_13_attribute_barometer Q5_3_attribute_dualclock Q5_4_attribute_altimeter Q5_2_attribute_alarm Q5_5_attribute_digital Q5_7_attribute_analog Q5_8_attribute_motionsensor Q5_16_attribute_warranty Q4_10_attribute_secon_time_brandpurchase Q4_4_attribute_premiumwatch_collection Q4_8_attribute_celebrity_endorsements. Constructs Error e1 e2 Delta 1. 028 1. 079 0. 608 0. 635 1. 282 1. 323 1. 687 1. 473 1. 793 1. 816 1. 032 2. 133 1. 407 1. 074 2. 078 0. 179 1. 402 1. 367 2. 019 Lambda 1 0. 67 0. 922 0. 884 0. 997 1 0. 912 0. 971 0. 774 1 1. 135 1. 005 1. 258 1 0. 876 0. 84 0. 403 1. 231 1 AVE CR Exclusivity e3 e4 e5 e6 e7 0. 81 0. 81 Tech_Savvy e8 e9 e14 0. 84 0. 68 Value_Added _Feature e15 e16 e17 e21 1. 22 0. 75 Reliability e22 e23 e26 0. 82 0. 69 Brand_Perce ption.