Apple: Competitive Strategies and Government Policies Essay

Abstracts For every profit oriented industry to survive in the globalize market; they must employed competition strategies that suit their operations and also keep in mind their competitors and target set to be achieved. This makes every company feel the pressure to be successful and to maintain leading the industry. This pressure plays significant role in the survival of industry in the competitive market. The effect of pressure faced by industries can either positive for the leading industry or negative when overpowered by rivals. Apple has gone into the technological mobile devices industry with a blast and imparted apprehension into contenders inside the same business. In spite of the fact that Apple costs their items/products at a higher offering value, their products are regularly alluded to as first class and worth the additional expense. The expense of Apple’s stock, which was seen as a shortcoming to competitors, has demonstrated to help support in their prosperity Introduction Competition and Mergers As market become globalizes and new companies enter the competitive market, there is always a desire to be one of the leading manufacturers in the field of production for both the entrants and the existing companies. Apple is one of the companies that strive to be excellent in the field of its manufacture products. Being a multi-billion dollar industry in technology that has over 30 years of experience that can teach any new business how to be successful. Moreover, Apple has gained from past missteps like valuing an item too high furthermore constraining the color of a product to one color. Case in point, when the IPod first turned out in the mid 2000’s it was valued at $999.99 one penny shy of one thousand dollars. The IPod was valued as of right now on the grounds that they needed to appear like a select product. The ruin to their new product was that it  just adjusted with Apple PCs confining the adaptability of the select product Apple can show another new entrants organization about globalization, in light of the fact that they are a worldwide business that has made billions of dollars and will keep on making billions. Apple conceives brand new ideas by making their products quicker and with more limit than contenders. Likewise, Apple has a tendency to be the first to make an item before contenders. The IPad was a unique making of Apple that was in front of contenders. After the arrival of the IPad contenders took after with their own particular structure called the tablet. Apple has yet to converge with another organization and ought to never need to do as such. Apple makes the greater part of their items themselves and has ended up being a standout amongst the best organizations in the innovation business. However Apple has purchased a rate of Beats which is organization that creates e arphones for music gadgets. One accepts that Apple purchased a rate of Beats in light of the fact that they needed to differentiate their portfolio Government Policies and Regulations The business electronic gadget industry is convoluted. Concerning matter of laws, regulations, duties, and government regulations, various variables apply. With such a significant industry, different relationship at the neighborhood, state, and even government level collaborate to administer the business. Additionally, impressively more affiliations exist that are secretly run help to control the business. As a rule, when referencing systems and regulations, the Commercial Electronic gadget Industry is subject to different sorts of administrative laws and regulations. These laws may fuse the laws that relate to security. You moreover have a couple of governments that deal with the neighborhood substance, charges and tolls; they may constrain duties or other exchange obstructions too. At the point when there are new institutions or any sorts of changes to existing authorizations it can bring about those in the business electronic gadgets industry needing to take care of an additional expense. Reliably administrators are getting the chance to be stricter with the laws and regulations administering the business electronic gadgets industry. The present and expected government policies and regulations fusing expenses and regulations set up to convey issues related to externalities. By and  large the administration arrangements towards the environment and expenses, has control measures for regulation and enactment. Through your organization, the plans are planned to accomplish more profitable use of the advantages that are made open to the clients. To propel a substitution between the advantages that is present and gives a spark from the organization procedure. While the assembly decreases to present natural evaluations so the present costs are regarding natures with the understanding of the essential issue in setting obligations for the state. â€Å"Our commitment to customer privacy doesn’t stop because of a government information request†(Apple, 2015). Government information requesting is a result of cooperating in the advanced age. Apple has trust in being as clear and straightforward as the law allows about what information is requested from the affiliation. Moreover, Apple has never worked with any governing body office from any country to make a â€Å"roundabout access† in any of their products. Apple has similarly never allowed any administration access to their servers, and communicates that they never will. Global Competition and Management Decisions Apple, Inc.’s change from the organization it was grinding a way’s initiation to the organization it is in the present day is an aftereffect of numerous vital administration choices. These choices help them focus on shopper needs while expanding piece of the pie. As showed by showcasing magazine (2010), â€Å"Apple has built up itself as a family unit name in a business sector where innovation is continually advancing, and customers energetically anticipate the following huge thing† (p. 18). Notwithstanding the expanded rivalry in the versatile correspondence and individualized computing industry, Apple has kept up its position as the business leaders. While Apple keeps on endeavoring to give inventive items to customers, contenders compass to surpass Apple’s achievement in the business. Carare (2013) expressed that mobile phone makers get generally high benefits. Indeed, even under these circumstances, a few business visionaries make utilization of out of line exercises to draw in clients, which brings about benefit. Apple picks to use reasonable exchange practices even while contenders have the capacity to duplicate their items accordingly  lessening Apple’s preference over competition. Apple products are outlined in California, however keeping in mind the end goal to keep up their competitive edge; they lessen generation costs by having their items collected in production lines the world over. While this could open them up to liabilities in regards to uncalled for work rehearses, Apple lives up to expectations nearly with its suppliers to guarantee moral strategies as to remote specialists. Around the world Apple workers are united in bringing correspondence, human rights, and admiration for the earth to the most profound layers of our inventory network†. Preparing projects mean to instruct and engage laborers while trying to energize security of our common assets Jeff Williams, Senior Vice President of Operations at Apple, (2015). Local Competition Apple has a wide range of difficulties in the distinctive competitive markets particularly with their local competition. A major test is the Research and Development which they generally need to remain focused of to appear as something else all through their operation. There will dependably be bugs that they will need to alter yet they must keep focused of it. Another test for Apple is that with a specific end goal to remain focused of their position with Windows Operating System around the globe and being even more extensive spread contrasted with the mackintosh operating system. Windows operating system is on MacBook’s and I-Mac(Desktops) of Apple, they need to move in the direction of across the board accessibility of Macintosh, it is free from infection not at all like Windows where consistently some or alternate infection is found making issues in equipment and programming. Advancements in the Windows platform, incorporating those included in Windows 98 and Windows NT, or those normal to be incorporated in new forms of Windows to be presented later on, have added elements to the Windows stage/platform that make the contrasts between the Mac OS and Microsoft’s Windows operating systems less significant. Mac has and is at present taking and will keep on making moves to react to the focused weights being set on its PC deals as an aftereffect of the late advancements in the Windows operating system. Apple’s future combined working results and monetary condition are all that much reliant on the capacity to continue to create changes to the Macintosh stage to keep up saw utilitarian  preferences over competing stages. As clients become globalized, they constrain companies to consider globalizing their plan of action. A contender like Apple who globalizes promptly can have an extraordinary chance to make financial aspects of scale and scoop and the upper point of preference. The game changers picked up by an early participant into a business sector. With regards to developing markets, Apple does and will represent a danger now and later on inside of the group of their rivals. Conclusion Apple has demonstrated during the time to surpass with meeting all commitments through legitimate maters, exceeding expectations inside their industry, opposing mergers, and emerging to local competition. Macintosh is an effective organization that has stood out with the arrival of items like the IPad, IPod, and IPhones. Apple is by all account not the only organization that exists inside of the versatile innovation industry, yet Apple has made a point to be one of the top contenders inside the business. The fate of Apple is hinting at no easing off in their triumphs References Apple. (2011, Aug 10). Marketing 18. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/887273428?accountid=458 Apple, Inc. (2015). The 2015 Progress Report. Retrieved from: https://www.apple.com/supplier-responsibility/progress-report/ Carare, P. M. (2013). Unfair competition: Samsung versus apple. International Journal of Innovations in Business, 2(3), 293-297. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1438426517?accountid=458

Towards an Understanding of Human Resource Management

Aim: With today’s rapid economic development, human resource is the only major success in continuing operations. In fact, my parents are engaged in furniture retail industry in south of China, Guangzhou. In the company’s daily operations, we found a lot of issues about human resource management. Employee’s demission and training, and the negative attitude become major obstacles in the way of our company’s development. Through HRM study, I want to understand what factors affect staff movement behavior and loyalty to the company, in order to deal with the staff situation in the company more efficiently. Method: In this thesis, the case study approach was used. Case study research is suitable for explanatory, descriptive and exploratory. Our research chooses two in-depth case studies that base on the interviews with human resource managers. The information that we collect is from qualitative interviews. Through loyalty and movement theory, to identify which factors are affecting staff movement behavior and loyalty to company, as well as analyze how to solute the issue in my family company. Result & Conclusions: After discussion and analysis, the study found: high wages is not the only way to retain employees. Money as reward can cost a lot, and it’s impersonal. Workplace, leadership style, enterprise potential, training opportunity and promotion space also can affect employee loyalty. According to Motivator-Hygiene Theory, to establish motivation system, exciting staff’s enthusiasm for the work. Let staff realize that the successes of the company are directly connected to their performances; staff have responsibility for company’s successes. This is a powerful way to keep employee motivated. For company development of long standing, organization should command constantly more new technology. Staff as the work of actors, to learn more work skills is essential. Employees and the company’s desire is the same. Companies focus on their own development, but also to enhance staff capacity. For development of the company, it should give staff more training and promotion opportunities. Suggestions for future research: It has to note that the limitation of this study is the small number and the limited scope of interviewees. Contribution of the thesis: In this study, I mainly find the solutions that the issues in my family company. After discussion and analysis, I am cognizant of the long-term relationship between staff and organization is important for company development. The rewards for the employee are not just money, but also can be other. That effect and help my family firm staff management.

African American Heritage Paper Essay

This paper explores the African American heritage and also identifies the significance of nurses being culturally aware, sensitive and competent when caring for people of African American heritage. Although these terms mentioned above are used interchangeably, they have different meanings. Cultural awareness is appreciating the external or material part of the culture, such as the music, arts, and physical characteristics, and dress. Cultural sensitivity is the personal attitudes toward the culture, such as not saying things that is offensive to someone from a different ethnic or cultural background (Purnell,2013, p. 4). Cultural competence is putting it all together; by using your knowledge to provide culturally congruent care and to be able to work effectively with people in cross- cultural situations. African Americans are the second largest ethnocultural groups in the United States; however, it is one of the most misunderstood cultures. This culture is so unique because they have mixed their cultures from their different homes of origin in Africa, along with American culture. This paper overviews the history, communications, family roles, workforce issues, biocultural ecology, high-risk behaviors, pregnancy and childbearing practices, spirituality, health care practices, nutrition, and death rituals in the African American culture. It is important that nurses see themselves as becoming culturally competent when caring for African Americans, and this involves incorporating cultural desire, cultural awareness, cultural knowledge, cultural skill, and cultural encounter with the people of African American heritage (Campinha-Bacote, 2009). 2 A NURSING METHOD TO AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE One of the largest minority groups in the United States, African Americans culture includes the various cultural traditions of different African ethnic groups. â€Å"Data from the U. S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census (2001) reveals that there are approximately 34,333,000 African Americans residing in the United States, representing 12. 1% of the total population† (Campinha-Bacote, 2009). They were forcibly imported into the United States as slaves from 1619 to 1860 (Purnell, 2013, p. 21). During slavery, they incorporated their culture from their homes of origin, and as a result, their culture included several cultural traditions of African ethnic groups. Many African Americans live in poverty due to discrimination and lack of proper education. Most families of African American heritage value education, but they still struggle to have equal representation in the workplace, and are more likely to work in a hazardous environment, resulting in job related diseases and illness. Due to the lower-level positions and the difficulty in achieving higher opportunities in the workplace, some African Americans continue to feel discouraged. Nurses need to address discrimination and also issues that create ethnic or racial tension in the workplace. English is the language spoken by African Americans, however, people of lower socio economical status communicate in an informal language known as African American English (AAE) (Purnell, 2013, p. 22). According to Campinha-Bacote (2009), the major problem that AAE speakers face is prejudice. Most people believe that AAE is inferior to Standard American English. As a result, African Americans who speak AAE are sometimes misinterpreted as being uneducated. Nurses should be aware not to stereotype African Americans as only speaking AAE, and also not to stereotype them as uneducated based on the way they communicate. African Americans are expressive when 3 A NURSING METHOD TO AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE communicating and often use body languages to convey their feelings. Their expressive language and body movement can be misconstrued as anger or provocation. Nurses need to be familiar with these characteristics and not misinterpret them. As a nurse, when interacting with African Americans for the first time, be sure to address them formally, until given permission to use other names, such as their first name. The African-American family has evolved over the last two decades and still continues to evolve. A person that is brought up in a traditional nuclear family is more likely to continue that tradition. Whereas, a person that is brought up in a single parent home is more likely to continue that same tradition. Although these situations are more likely, they are not always so. To provide the most competent care, the best thing for the nurse to do would be to ask the patient in a non-judgmental way about family dynamics and also ask them what they would feel the most comfortable with when it comes to decision making for their care. The nurse should then accept this decision. Being knowledgeable about this cultural group’s family values and beliefs are crucial for providing care for the African American patient (Revell & McGhee, 2012). A high percentage of African American households are matriarchal and fall below poverty level. With that being said, it is wise for nurses to make a point of including women when discussing health care issues. Nurses also should take note when dealing with homosexual individuals in this ethnic group, not to break confidence by sharing their lifestyles with others. This information can jeopardize and cause conflicts within the family and ruin relationships. Romantic relationships of the same-sex are not totally acceptable within this culture. 4 A NURSING METHOD TO AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE As in many culture, social status is important in African American community. African Americans are often met with negative atmosphere and prejudice attitudes based on their cultural background and skin color. Assumptions are made based on AAE spoken by some as an indication of unintelligence and the lack of education. These assumptions sometimes affect employment opportunities and job promotions. Nurses should be cautious not to fall into the stereotyping African Americans based on these characteristics. African American skin color ranges from light to very dark due to the combination of a gene pool of more than 100 racial strains (Purnell, 2013, p. 25). When assessing for cyanosis in dark-skinned African Americans, be sure to pay attention to the oral mucosa or conjunctiva. When assessing for pallor, note the absence of the underlying red tones that give the skin it’s glow. Lastly, when observing for jaundice, be sure to look at the sclera of the eyes, the soles of the feet, and the palms of the hands for any yellow discoloration (25). Health care is a luxury that low socioeconomic African Americans may not be able to afford. Meeting their daily needs takes priority over what they believe to be minor health issues. Consequently, diseases that could be treatable might end up being a life- threatening situation. African Americans are family orientated, because of this; some tend to initially seek medical attention from family members rather than going to a health care professional. Health care professionals need to be aware of this and work toward teaching and distributing health information via church and community centers. Most African American women are against abortion due to religious, cultural, and moral beliefs. As a result, there is a delay in making a decision until it becomes too late. 5 A NURSING METHOD TO AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE Family support is crucial for pregnant African American women. Gichia (2000) studied and found out that African American women look for role models such as older female relatives, or if they have none, they look for someone who seemed like a mother to them, such as a neighbor. These role models can provide the pregnant woman and new mother with needed support. According to Abbyad & Robertson (2011), nurses caring for pregnant African American women need to be informed about the variety of ways in which childbirth preparation can occur, as in any other group of pregnant women. Moreover, nurses need to consider the ways in which their attitudes and behaviors send unwelcoming messages to African American women seeking prenatal care or childbirth classes. These attitudes can discourage the African American woman in seeking further care. â€Å"Culturally competent care for the childbearing African American woman includes addressing all components of care including the use of complementary and alternative medicine† (Revell, 2012). The childbirth nurse that is providing culturally competent care should be aware that the perceived norm is different for every family. African Americans are spiritual and are usually affiliated with some religious order. Historically, the church has played a major role in the life of African American culture. The church is a place where they can meet on common grounds. Faith and prayer is one of the most important attributes of Christian African Americans. They believe that God has the power to heal them, and he also has the power not to. They believe that whatever happens to them is according to God’s will. Food is very valuable in the African American culture. It symbolizes health and wealth. It is derived from African descent. When food is offered to someone, it means that the person is valued; and by offering food, they are given you something that is 6 A NURSING METHOD TO AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE valuable to them. When it comes to nutrition, some African American diets are high in cholesterol and fats. According to James (2004), â€Å"African Americans will need information on basic nutrition topics such as serving sizes and reading food labels†. Nurses that work in African American communities should be involved in programs that promote healthy food choices. These programs can specifically be developed for churches, neighborhood grocery stores, and local restaurants. â€Å"Health disparities among the African-American population include life expectancy, heart disease, hypertension, infant morality and morbidity rates, cancer, sickle cell diseases, HIV/AIDS, violence, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and asthma† (Campinha-Bacote, 2009). Unfortunately, they have the tendency to see a health care professional only when absolutely necessary. â€Å"Health is viewed as harmony with nature, whereas illness is seen as a disruption in this harmonic state due to demons† (Purnell, 2013, p. 33). Recognize and support your patient cultural behaviors and believes to promote healthy interactions. In addition, always provide factual information about health practices that may not be understood due to their cultural believes and cultural differences. In conclusion, it is recommended that nurses familiarize themselves with cultural specific information in order to provide cultural competent care in African American community. Nurses should consider the following question: â€Å"In caring for African- American patients, have I asked myself the right questions. † It is important for nurses to be aware of their biases and prejudices toward African Americans. In addition, they should possess the needed skills to conduct a cultural assessment while possessing knowledge of this cultural group (Campinha-Bacote, 2009). Lastly, nurses should always 7 A NURSING METHOD TO AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE have the desire to become culturally competent not just with African American patients, but any patient that has been placed in their charge. 8 A NURSING METHOD TO AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE Resources Abbyad, C. , & Robertson, T. (2011). African American Women’s Preparation for Childbirth From the Perspective of African American Health-Care Providers. Journal Of Perinatal Education, 20(1), 45-53. doi:10. 1891/1058-1243. 20. 1. 45 Campinha-Bacote, J. (2009). Culture and diversity issues. A culturally competent model of care for African Americans. Urologic Nursing, 29(1), 49-54. Gichia, J. E, (2000), Mothers and others: African-American women’s preparation for motherhood. The American Journal of Maternal Child Nursing, 25(2), 86-91, James, D. (2004). Factors influencing food choices, dietary intake, and nutrition-related attitudes among African Americans: application of a culturally sensitive model. Ethnicity & Health, 9(4), 349-367. Purnell, L. D. (2009). People of African American Heritage. Guide to culturally competent health care (2nd ed. , p. 21-35). Philadelphia: F. A. Davis Co. Revell, M. A. , & McGhee, M. N. (2012). Evolution of the African American Family. International Journal Of Childbirth Education, 27(4), 44-48. Revell, M. A. (2012). Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the African American Culture. International Journal Of Childbirth Education, 27(3), 55-59.

Geology Volcanoes&Earthquake Assignment8 Assignment

Geology Volcanoes&Earthquake Assignment8 - Assignment Example An inevitable tide was moving red-hot lava onshore and people watched helplessly. However, a small crew led by Thorbjorn Sigurgeirsson squirted the lava in the front with fire hoses producing vapors of steam (John A. McPhee. 102). The courageously watered and cooled the advancing lava until they stopped the lava flow (John A. McPhee. 107) The gas content in magma or lava determines whether a volcanic eruption will be explosive or effusive. These gases include sulfur dioxide, water vapor and carbon dioxide. A gas highly dissolves in magma that is situated deep underground, where pressure is very high. The rate of dissolution decreases as the lava moves up to the earth’s surface due to reducing pressure, thus, the gas form bubbles that drag magma to the surface. The eruption is explosive if more bubbles form and effusive when there are few bubbles. A cinder cone forms when lava with more bubbles is expelled and cools in the air (Gates and Ritchie p.157). Magma comprises of solid minerals, liquid rocks and gas. The amount of the silica mineral in lava or magma determines a volcanic rock to be formed. The mafic rocks include all basalts and some andesites: have lower silica content, intermediate rocks such as some dacites and most andesites with intermediate silica content, and silicic rocks. Silicic rocks have higher silica content and include all rhyolites and some dacites. Apart from silica, volcanic rocks have other minerals such as titanium, aluminum, iron, manganese, magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. These chemicals are mix with oxygen to form their respective chemical compounds (Park, 2001, p. p.177). A magma viscosity determines a volcano shape, texture and shape of lava, and whether a volcano erupts effusively or explosively. A less viscous lava forms shield volcanoes with wide sloping sides while more viscous lava builds conical volcanoes with steep sides.

Walmart recruitment Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Walmart recruitment - Research Paper Example The recruitment and selection process should not be biased on the basis of age, gender, sex, religion and heredity among others. Biased recruitment leads to inefficient leaders which often create chaos in the whole organization. Similarly, the retrenchment process must be based on sound ground. The hiring of the new employees must be steadfast. Recruitment should be done only after careful consideration. Any wrong recruitment will lead to the organization’s downfall in the long run. Any recruitment process should be carried out only when the firm anticipates the need of additional labor. Careful Human Resources (HR) planning considers the complete organizational growth. Recruitment process begins only after the elimination of all the alternatives (Cooper, Robertson, and Tinline 6-10). With these considerations, the paper intends to evaluate the recruitment process at Wal-Mart, one of the globally leading retailers. Moreover, the way in which the organization can improve its re cruitment practices with the aid of best HRM practices will also be evaluated. OVERVIEW OF THE COMPANY Sam Walton bought a store from Luther E. Harrison in Bentonville, Arkansas, and started Walton's 5 & 10. In 1962, Sam Walton financed 95% of the capital to start the first Wal-Mart store. Wal-Mart has 4100 stores in the United States and 3100 in 27 other countries across the world. In accordance with the present day context, it is ascertained that Wal-Mart’s sales were US$374 billion in 2008 which is somewhat low than Denmark’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This signifies the enormity of the extent of dominance of the company in the global platform (Guardian News and Media Limited or its Affiliated Companies, â€Å"It All Began in a Small Store in Arkansas†). Wal-Mart has always remained committed to one mission that is helping â€Å"save people money so they can live better† (Minimum Theme on Genesis Framework, â€Å"A Brief History of Wal-Mart†) . Sam Walton is that retailer who always managed to get bargain from its wholesalers. Sam Walton thought that he could do better by passing his savings to his customers and this unique business strategy facilitated him to become one of the largest and powerful retail industries in the world with a competitive advantage (Minimum Theme on Genesis Framework, â€Å"A Brief History of Wal-Mart†). There are three basic competitive strategies for any company, (1) competitive strategy (2) differentiation strategy and (3) focus strategy. Every organization uses these strategies to gain competitive advantage. Wal-Mart takes the cost leadership strategy to gain a competitive advantage over their adversaries (Thomson Reuters. â€Å"Wal-Mart Stores Inc.†). RECRUITMENT PROCESS OF WAL-MART The recruitment process of Wal-Mart starts by offering online application to the interested candidates. There is no other option apart from online application. One more alternative is to go to the store and hire the information kiosk. The next step starts with the assessment test where the presence of mind and problem solving capability of a person is examined. The test consists of a number of question where one has to select choices extending from strongly agree to strongly disagree. It is advisable to choose either strongly agree or strongly disagree and nothing in the middle because the main motive is to check the strong decision making capability in the

Are Writing Deficiencies Creating a Lost Generation of Business Essay - 1

Are Writing Deficiencies Creating a Lost Generation of Business Writers - Essay Example Quible and Griffin (2007) explore most prevalent reasons for writing deficiencies. Based on their research, Quible and Griffin (2007) recommend solutions to the challenge of writing deficiencies. They propose three major approaches to addressing the challenge. First, they propose the modified context-based approach. Second, they recommend the glossing approach. The third proposal to addressing the challenge is the rules-based approach. Because of the necessity to have employers who are competent in oral and written communication, businesses meet various costs in upgrading such employees. American firms spend as much as 3.1billion dollars annually in making remedies for the writing deficiencies among their employees (Quible & Griffin, 2007). The move is justified by the need for businesses to keep a pool of employees with good writing skills to boost their competitiveness. Success among employees, among other factors, relies on effective communication skills. Consequently, communication deficiency among employees may cause losses to businesses. Businesses organizations that have employees with writing deficiency experience communication breakdown. In situations where there is writing deficiency, business clients find dissatisfaction in service delivery. Quible and Griffin (2007) cite a report by the NCW in their research. According to the report, students in schools lack essential communication skills due to writing deficiency. The research shows the students are today less effective than fifteen to twenty years ago (Quible & Griffin, 2007). The ineffectiveness resulted from teachers’ failure to teach standard grammar as evidenced in the report. English teachers focused on promoting context-based approach as they showed Traditional School Grammar as they termed it ineffective. Consequently, businesses fail to get a generation of good writers. According to Braddock as cited in Quible

Individual strategic management report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Individual strategic management report - Essay Example It will aid WRSX to respond to the industry. A SWOT analysis, on the other hand, is beneficial in determining WRSX’s internal environment, evaluating the threats, strengths, opportunities and weaknesses inherent in the firm. Corporate strategy and business level strategy will be used for the strategy choice part. External Analysis WRSX can carry out an analysis of their external environment via the use of a PEST analysis (Crossan & Fry, 2013: p23). The external environment of WRSX includes the US, EU, and the Asia-Pacific region, which are the areas that they currently operate in and hope to expand in to. For these regions, a PEST analysis was done Political Factors In the EU and U.S. region, there are stringent laws regarding employment that governments have put, in place, to protect employees. The governments have also sought to encourage their citizens to increase their birth rates. Finally, there are very stringent data protection laws. This contrast with the political fac tors in the Asia-pacific region that include the loose implementation of laws aimed at data protection. In addition, the Chinese government has been encouraging the entry of international firms with provision of favorable tax rates. Economic factors In the EU and U.S. region, Interest rates are relatively low with the UK the only country with comparatively high interest rates, which, however, are expected to fall with the slowdown of the housing market. The U.S. also has approximately half of the global advertising revenue with a 4% forecasted increase in the next year. In the Asia-Pacific region, especially China, there is growth of powerful Chinese-owned multinationals while their economy is increasing at a rate of 8% of GDP each year. Social Factors In the Asia-pacific region, India and China have over 2.5 billion people, although only approximately 150 million of them in China use the services that are provided by WRSX. However, this is slightly more than half of America’ s population, making it a dynamic market, especially as it is expected to keep growing. In the EU and U.S., there is a shift in values with more workers attempting a work/life balance and community work. The population in the west of Europe is in decline, especially the youth. Technological Factors In both markets in the EU/U.S. and the Asia-Pacific region, digital media is becoming increasingly important as a part of the advertising industry. This is especially so because of the growth of internet and improvement of connection. Based on the results, WRSX group could take various options, including management of generation Y, a sustainability policy, expansion into China, and exploitation of the digital opportunity. When these actions are taken, their share prices spiked to ?2.50 from ?2.28, as well as an increase of PBIT index, profits, and revenues, as well. WRSX group has the capability of using its resources to achieve more financial stability, as well as respond to its social r esponsibility requirements. The group possesses experienced and talented staff that is equipped with excellent creative and innovative capabilities for the production of services. However, this is not the case at their New York offices because some of the experienced and t

Adult Aging & Development Media Log Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Adult Aging & Development Media Log - Article Example The article has covered pretty much all the points on nutrition and gives a good information oh healthy eating. The authors have PhD qualification and have done justice to the article in providing needed information about different nutritional requirements.Although it would have made the writing more better if it explained how these foods helped different parts of body in their maintenance. The introductory paragraph of the article could have been more attractive and detailing in order to catch the attention of the readers. The writer has given a wide view on stress but it would have been better if the effect of stress on mental health was mentioned more. stress but if vitamin supplements were suggested it would have been more beneficial. Care givers can be also advised in the article to know the elderly people more intimately which would allow them to take better care of them. One thing which was attractive about the article was that the author has given some reference where the caregivers can resort for assistance. The article could have been more elaborative as it seems to be a bit short with information. The writing should also suggest how counseling will benefit them in overall performance of their profession. The article could have suggested to the readers how elderly people can avoid dementia .The age group of people if provided would have given information about the people who are more prone to this disease. The writer should have mentioned whether diet and lifestyle has any affect on developing dementia. The information on the disease could have been more detailed as people have less knowledge about such illnesses. The article can explain the experience of people suffering from this illness and how they are coping up with life. The various treatments available for the same could have been mentioned in the article. An

Summarize the banking system Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Summarize the banking system - Research Paper Example Institutions that are concerned with this type of economic interest are the investment banks. Then there are those banks that deal with the monetary policies and the change in the value of a specific currency since trade cannot happen without the presence of currency. Such institutions are called the national central banks (Mullineux & Murinde, 2003).   A trustworthy banking system is important since it assures individuals that their finances are safe and that banks are trustworthy. If an individual is going to trust the bank with their money, then the system might as well be secure, trustworthy and reliable. The banking system has evolved with time. With the presence of technology, it has become more secure, safe, trustworthy, efficient and reliable (Mullineux & Murinde, 2003).   From the time there was the presence of goldsmiths to the current time where there is the modern federal banking system; there has been much change in the system. There was a time that the main piece of trade was metal; gold, silver and bronze (Apel, 2006).  Presently, the main item of trade is money. Banking in the United States is considered best since when it comes to the banking structure, it is consisted of a number of regulators. Compared to other countries like Japan, in the U.S, banking is regulated at two levels; the federal level and the state level (Apel, 2006).   In Japan, the regulation of the banking system is combined into a single financial agent. For the United States, the advantage is that the state maintains separate services ranging from security, insurance, commodity and all this is different from the banking services (Apel,

A Discussion of the Copyright Industrys Assignment

A Discussion of the Copyright Industrys - Assignment Example The internet has been famously defined as a network of networks, and the denser these networks become; the more complicated it becomes to prevent the bane of copyright infringement and other intellectual property violations from occurring. 2Even though the courts have been willing to intervene where there has been an infringement of copyright, the practical difficulties of managing copyright violations arise whenever the "sheer scale" and "speed" of the internet causes high-speed reproduction of the material to be achieved without actually being detected. The development of copyright law can actually be traced back to a time when there was no technology or mechanism by way of which it would be possible to replicate copies of written material. It was not possible to achieve any large scale infringement of copyrighted material as it is today from the comfort of our homes on the internet. Within British legal history, it is said that the King used the Royal Prerogative as far back as 1662 to pass the Licensing Act of 16623. The first real Copyright Protection Act, however, came as the "The Statute of Anne" giving the author copyright privileges for a fixed time period. On an international level, the Berne Convention in 1887 defined the scope of copyright protection and is still an important part of international intellectual property law.4 The advent of the photocopier followed subsequently by, home audio recording, video recording, and finally, the Personal Computer (PC) allowed digitized and rapid copying. The modern Copyright Infringer does not need a large factory of copying machines to create illegal copies of, copyrighted material.5 All in all the challenge for copyright holders has never been greater. The law provides legal remedies available to copyright owners to prevent others from copying the product and to protect original works involving some degree of skill, effort, and judgment. In England, The Copyright Designs and Patents Act 1988 gives protection to books, films, videos, plays, music, and drawings, all of which can make it onto the internet in some form or another.This law protects computer software as a form of literary work and even large databases form copyrighted material have been given protection under the Copyright and Rights in Databases Regulations 1997. Under the Rules, the copyright owner can apply for an injunction to prevent misuse of his copyrighted material and to order the infringer to return the infringed "intellectual property" and maybe a grant for damages. All this, however, looks very nice in the Statute books but the power of the internet to disrupt Copyright mechanisms has often been compared to a force which is always connected and is everywhere and anywhere all of the time.Very often copyright owners feel helpless in the face of technologically sophisticated infringements. For example in the famous case of Napster music files were created in MP3 format and Peer to Peer file sharing began. Within months 50 million people were using a service which was a blatant violation of copyright laws.

Cultural differences and similarities between Russia and Tunisia Essay Example for Free

Cultural differences and similarities between Russia and Tunisia Essay The countries of Tunisia and Russia are two very different nations with two very different peoples. Though the countries do share certain similarities, the culture there and the cultural specifics of the people in the two nations are quite different. The main differences between the two nations come as a result of lifestyle and religion, which trickle down to impact the rest of the culture in the countries. Tunisia is the northernmost country in Africa, but it is different from many of the African nations that surround it. The culture there is dominated by religion, as it is a highly Muslim country. The majority of the people not only follow the religion, but closely adhere to the cultural conditions that the religion mandates. There is little room in the nation for people who are different, as homosexuality is considered a crime and women are discouraged from wearing anything other than extremely conservative clothing. This is, in short, the Tunisian way and it must be adhered to by residents and visitors alike. The cuisine there is highly based upon the religion, as a lot of Arab food is present. It all conforms to the Muslim standards. In Russia, there is an emphasis on religion, but because the nation is so large, the people are not controlled by only one religion. In fact, many different religions permeate the population and most co-exist peacefully. One can draw some similarities between the two cultures in at least one regard. Art is very important to the people of Russia, just as it is to Tunisians. In Tunisia, one can find many different art museums and festivals. This can happen in Russia, as well, as there are some of the finest art displays in the entire world there. All in all, this is one of the strongest similarities for two nations that are separated by a strict religious difference barrier.

Literature Review Format Essay Example for Free

Literature Review Format Essay Literature Review This packet details the steps necessary to produce a literature review that may be required for work in various disciplines, including English, history and psychology. This packet is not intended to replace instructor guidelines and should not be used in that manner. The packet’s intended use is as a supplement to classroom instruction on assembling a literature review. Therefore, it contains only general information that must be tailored to fit specific guidelines as required by your discipline and by your instructor. This packet is subdivided into six sections: I. General Information States what a literature review is and what purpose it serves. II. Process Gives step-by-step instructions on how to get started on your literature review. III. Organization Explains the two most common ways of arranging information in a literature review. IV. Format Provides descriptions for two of the most common formats used in a literature review, the item to item comparison and contrast (Format A) and the criteria to criteria comparison and contrast (Format B). V. Checklist Allows appraisal of your completed literature review to assure that it follows all necessary guidelines. VI. Resources Lists helpful resources used to compile this packet so that you may obtain further information. General Information Definition Literature reviews can have two roles: In their first role, they function as a stand-alone paper. At other times they will actually be part of a larger research thesis. In this handout, literature reviews will be referred to in the stand-alone sense. As a stand-alone paper, literature reviews are multi-layered and are more formal and detailed than book reviews. As the author of a literature review, you must become familiar with a large amount of research on a specific topic. You will then develop your own thesis about the topic related to this research. After this, you will classify and critically analyze research on the topic by making a comparison between several different studies and by emphasizing how these studies and their comparison relate to your own thesis. In effect, a literature review is a paper that compiles, outlines and evaluates previously established research and relates it to your own thesis. It provides a context for readers as if they  Email at [emailprotected] edu University West, room 129 (361) 570-4288 were researching the topic on their own. Just from reading your paper, readers should be able to gain insight into the amount and quality of research on the topic. Your thesis and the literature reviewed serve several important functions within the paper: †¢ Your thesis creates a foundation for the literature review because it helps narrow the topic by providing a sense of direction; however, you will have to conduct some initial research and reading before deciding on an appropriate thesis. Your personal thesis may be a statement addressing some of the following situations: â€Å"why your research needs to be carried out, how you came to choose certain methodologies or theories to work with, how your work adds to the research already carried out† (Brightwell, G. and Shaw, J. , 1997-98), or it may present some other logical perspective. †¢ Reviewed literature is organized in a logical manner that best suits the topic of the review and the hypothesis of the literature (see Organization and Format). The selected method of organization and style of format should draw attention to similarities and differences among the reviewed literature; these similarities and differences are based on specific criteria you revealed in the literature review’s introduction. According to Brightwell and Shaw (1997-98), your goal in the body of the review â€Å". . . should be to evaluate and show relationships between the work already done (Is Researcher Y’s theory more convincing than Researcher X’s? Did Researcher X build on the work of Researcher Y?) and between this work and your own [thesis]. † Additional information on these topics can be found in the Organization and Format sections of this packet. Therefore, carefully planned organization is an essential part of any literature review. Purpose Although literature reviews may vary according to discipline, their overall goal is similar. A literature review serves as a compilation of the most significant sources on a subject and relates the findings of each of these sources in a rational manner while supporting the literature review author’s own thesis. A literature review establishes which sources are most relevant to its author’s point and which sources are most credible to the discipline at hand. In a literature review, the results of previous research are summarized, organized and evaluated. Discipline-Specificity A literature review’s organization, format, level of detail and citation style may vary according to discipline because different disciplines have different audiences. Examples here pertain to the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities. †¢ Natural and social sciences The author of a literature review in the natural or social sciences must pay close attention to measurements, study populations and technical aspects of experimental findings. Typically, a portion of the natural or social sciences literature review is set aside for reviewing sources on the primary topic. Then, a comparative analysis or discussion section is used to analyze the similarities and differences among the sources, tying them in with the literature review author’s original thesis. †¢ Humanities The author of a literature review in the humanities usually does not set aside a special section for reviewing the sources; instead, citations may be found randomly throughout the paper. The literature being reviewed is arranged according to paragraphs based on the author’s points, which in turn, support the author’s thesis. The paper itself may not be called a literature review at all. It is more likely to be called a critical analysis. Remember that the best bet for determining what type of literature review is appropriate for your course is checking with the instructor prior to beginning research. Email at [emailprotected]hv. edu University West, room 129 (361) 570-4288 REVIEW 1. What is the purpose of a literature review? What is the connection between the author’s thesis and the literature being reviewed? 2. What discipline will your literature review be classified in? Process 1. Find several articles that deal with your research topic. Sometimes it is helpful to review the bibliography of one of the first scholarly sources that you encounter and compare it to the bibliographies of other sources on the topic. If the same source is listed within several of these bibliographies, it is probably a fundamental, credible source that will aid you in your review. 2. Before you begin reviewing literature, realize that you are looking to accomplish two things: A. Defining your research problem/thesis (examples: finding a flaw in research, continuing previous research, etc . . . B. Reading and evaluating significant works that are relevant to your research problem. You will be conducting Steps A and B simultaneously because the two form a circular pattern. As you read related sources (Step B), you define your problem, and as you define your problem (Step A) you will more easily be able to decide what material is relevant enough to be worthy of reading (Step B). 3. Once you begin reviewing, make an entry with complete bibliographical information and comments for each work that you are going to include in the review. 4. Compare the articles by evaluating the similarities and differences among them. This will be the initial stage in the formulation of your thesis. 5. Form a thesis that is clearly written and can be logically supported by the literature you will include in your review. 6. View the articles briefly again and jot down any notes that seem to relate to your thesis. 7. Decide which organizational pattern and format are best for the topic of your review. 8. Construct an appropriate outline for the literature review. 9. Write an introduction that introduces the topic, reveals your thesis statement, and arranges key issues. 10. Organize and write the body of your paper according to the appropriate format: topical or chronological. 11. Write a conclusion that reconciles similarities and differences on the topic and reemphasizes the criteria used to arrive at this conclusion. 12. Complete the final draft of the literature review. Email at [emailprotected] edu University West, room 129 (361) 570-4288 13. Check over the final draft for grammar and punctuation errors. 14. Use the checklist provided here to make sure that all parts of the literature review are addressed and focused. Establishing a Critical Response for a Literature Review You may find this section helpful at Steps 3, 4 and 5 of the process. When reviewing your sources, explore the following areas to help develop your critical response: What is the purpose of the research or work? What research or literary methods are used? How do the major concepts operate? In a research study, how accurate are the measurements? In a literary work, is the author’s position objective or biased? What are the different interpretations of the results of the study or of the literary work itself? REVIEW 1. What do you consider to be the most crucial step(s) in the process of your literature review? Why? Justify your response(s). Organization A literature review can be arranged either topically or chronologically. Topical organization occurs in reviews where previous research being evaluated is divided into segments with each one representing a part of some larger issue. In a topical review, the author begins by describing the characteristics of research shared by several studies and then moves on to analyze their similarities and differences. For more information, see the example below. Example The organization of a literature review begins in the introduction. For example, in the introduction of a literature review about the effect of seating arrangements on peer tutoring communication, you would first introduce the topic and what your literature review will attempt to assess: †¦Writing centers can set the table for collaborative tutoring sessions through a careful consideration of spatial arrangement . . . Then state what angle is going to be explored: †¦These studies will be used to support the author’s claims that spatial arrangement is instrumental in encouraging collaborative environments in the writing center†¦ Then, arrange key issues that will be addressed in this review by answering questions that you have personally developed and are tailored to fit your topic. In the introduction, give the audience a clear picture of how you will organize your paper: Email at [emailprotected] edu University West, room 129 (361) 570-4288 In the following, I1 first review some relevant research concerning spatial arrangement and then discuss some recommended and alternate seating arrangements to encourage a collaborative environment in the writing center. Finally, I include some other considerations. In the body of this literature review, you would organize the information topically around each point (or question) that you asked yourself: -Research Review -Recommended Spatial Arrangement -Alternative Spatial Arrangement -Other Considerations. Then, write a conclusion that explains the significance of your findings: †¦While the seating arrangements outlined above are generally a good ‘setting’ for peer tutoring sessions, we should remember that each tutoring session is unique. Not all students will be comfortable with a side-by-side spatial arrangement at a round table. Tutors should be perceptive of and receptive to students who may have other spatial needs†¦ Chronological organization occurs when a review is organized in time order and is most often used when a historical context is needed for discussing a topic from its beginning to its current state; chronological organization is  especially helpful when discussing inactive periods and shifts in perspective on a given topic. Example The organization of a literature review begins in the introduction. For example, in the introduction of a literature review entitled Development of Social Science Research on Attitudes Towards Gender in America, you would first introduce the topic and what your review hopes to assess: †¦This literature review will assess the development of research designed to uncover gender attitudes in America during the latter part of the 20th Century†¦ Then state what angle is going to be explored: .. As research progressed throughout the 20th century, the methods that social scientists use for measuring these attitudes developed and changed as well†¦ Then, chronologically arrange issues that will be addressed in this review: Gender stereotypes still exist today, and varying attitudes can be traced over the past fifty years. Survey instruments used to gather data on these varying attitudes have also changed drastically over the course of time. In the body of this literature review, you would organize the information chronologically, adressing each point (or question) that is being asked for a particular time period: -Stereotypes and Survey Instruments of the 1950’s -Stereotypes and Survey Instruments of the 1960’s -Stereotypes and Survey Instruments of the 1970’s -Stereotypes and Survey Instruments of the 1980’s -Stereotypes and Survey Instruments of the 1990’s -Current Advancements Always clear the use of I with your instructor. An alternative to this would be the use of third person wording, such as â€Å"This paper reviews some relevant research concerning spatial arrangement and then discusses some recommended and alternate seating arrangements to encourage a collaborative environment in the writing center. † 1 Email at [emailprotected] edu University West, room 129 (361) 570-4288 Then, write a conclusion that explains the significance of your findings: Although the survey instruments used in the 1950’s and 1960’s developed an obvious bias when surveying Americans regarding gender attitudes, the 1970’s brought about great change. Today social scientists are more careful than ever about testing the quality of a survey instrument before using it on the general public. Format There are also two suggested formats for composing your literature review. Format A is used when comparing several studies that have similar hypothesis but different findings. Each piece of research is summarized individually. Format A is good for reviews with a small number of entries; however, this format may confuse the audience when used with a large number of reviews because descriptions of so many studies may get in the way of the analysis. Keep in mind that each piece of research usually will not receive equal attention in the review. Format A Outline I. Introduction consists of four parts that are usually discussed in one paragraph. a. Identify the general topic being discussed. b. Mention trends published about the topic. c. State thesis establishing the reason for writing the literature review. d. Explain criteria by giving a description of each of the criteria used in evaluating the literature review and rationalizing its organization II. Literature reviewed section is divided up according to study. a. First study is summarized and discussed. b. Second study is summarized and discussed. c. Third study is summarized and discussed. III. Comparative analysis acknowledges the similarities and differences between studies. a. Similarities (if any) among the studies are evaluated and discussed. b. Differences (if any) among the studies are evaluated and discussed. IV. Conclusion/Summary effectively wraps up the review. a. Summarize points of comparison or contrast among the works based on Section III of your review. b. Provide insight of relationship between the topic of the review and a larger area of study such as a specific discipline or profession Format B  organizes the literature review according to similarities and differences among research rather than by literature studied. In a review organized according to Format B, little background information on the literature being reviewed is given outright. Instead, it is worked into the body paragraphs of the sections on similarities and differences. The conclusion then uses these two sections (similarities and differences) to tie in points of comparison and contrast between the works. Format B better suits papers that are topically organized. Format B is outlined below. Email at [emailprotected] edu University West, room 129 (361) 570-4288 Format B Outline I. Introduction consists of four parts usually discussed in one paragraph. a. Identify the general topic being discussed. b. Mention trends published about the topic. c. State thesis establishing the reason for writing the literature review. d. Explain criteria by giving a description of each of the criteria used in evaluating the literature review and rationalizing its organization II. Similiarities within the research are discussed. a.  First similarity among research is discussed. b. Second similarity among research is discussed. c. Third similiarity among research is discussed. III. Differences in the research are discussed. a. First difference between research is discussed b. Second difference between research is discussed c. Third difference between research is discussed IV. Conclusion/Summary a. Summarize points of comparison or contrast between the works. b. Provide insight into relationship between the topic of the literature and a larger area of study such as a specific discipline or profession. The most important thing to remember when organizing a literature review is that it is not a list summarizing one work after another. The review should be organized into sections according to theme that are set apart by subject-related headings. REVIEW 1. Which format have you chosen for your literature review? Why? A Literature Review Checklist: Did I . . . . . . ? ? Establish a valid thesis based on the examined research ? State this thesis clearly in my introduction ? Define unfamiliar terms ? Incorporate background information to define the problem ? Begin each entry in the review with a complete bibliographical reference ? List and describe the hypothesis/thesis in each work reviewed Email at [emailprotected] edu University West, room 129 (361) 570-4288 ? Describe the outcome of the work or the research ? Develop and incorporate my own comments, including response to the research, similarities and differences among literature reviewed, and reservations regarding author’s methods or conclusions ? Avoid overquoting ? Check for grammar and punctuation errors ? Correctly cite all references in uniform documentation style Resources Brightwell, G.  and Shaw, J. (1997-98). Writing up research. Retrieved August 20, 2002 from Languages and Educational Development at the Asian Institute of Technology’s Web page at http://www. languages. ait. ac. th/EL21OPEN. HTM Central Queensland University Library. (2000). The literature review. Retrieved July 22, 2003 from http://www. library. cqu. edu. au/litreviewpages/ Cuba, L. (2002). A short guide to writing about social science. New York: Addison-Wesley Publishers. Leibensperger, S. (2003). Setting the table: Encouraging collaborative environments with spatial arrangement in the writing center. Unpublished literature review. Northern Arizona University. (1999). Electronic textbook A blast from the past: Your literature review. Retrieved May 30, 2002 from http://jan. ucc. nau. edu/~mid/edr720/class/literature/blast/reading21-1. html Taylor, D. , Procter, M. (2001). The literature review: A few tips on conducting it. Retrieved June 17, 2002 from http://www. utoronto. ca/writing/litrev. html Trinder, L. (2002). Appendix. The literature review. Retrieved August 27, 2003 http://www. uea. ac. uk/~w071/teaching/ppf/Appendix%20Lit%20Review. pdf The University of Wisconsin-Madison Writing Center. (2001). Academic writing: Reviews of literature. Retrieved May 30, 2002 from http://www. wisc. edu/writing/Handbook/ReviewofLiterature. html *In traditional APA style, this section would be entitled â€Å"References† and would be listed on a separate page double-spaced. Due to space constraints in this packet, it has been formatted differently. Copyright 2003 by the Academic Center and the University of Houston-Victoria. Created 2003 by Candice Chovanec-Melzow. Email at [emailprotected] edu University West, room 129 (361) 570-4288.

Think Global, Act Local Agenda

Think Global, Act Local Agenda In this assignment, I will present my views on Think global, act local by giving different examples from different companies. Globalization means developing standardized products marketed world wide with a standardized marketing mix, Essence of mass marketing. Global localization means mixing standardization and adaptation/ customization in a way that minimizes costs while maximizing customer. Product adaptation means customer tests differ, inadequate customer purchasing power, Poor maintenance standards, Local labour costs, General level of technical skills and Product standardization these are the main factors of Think global, act local agenda. 2. Executive Summary :- As example if we see Honda company worlds largest motorcycle Company since 1948 by Soichiro Honda. It produces a broad variety of products ranging from scooters to sports car, and remains on the important edge by providing products of the highest quality that generate new values, at a reasonable price, for international customer satisfaction. In addition, the company also produces cleaner. In its aim to protect the environment, Honda has long-lasting their line up of mixture models, by hire of Japan and the United States of the FCX, which is fuel cell vehicle developed in -house, incorporating the companys inventive next-generation fuel cell stack. Honda increased its sales by introducing new models in the light truck sector in the China, United Status and Europe. Honda responding to the high requires of diesel-powered vehicles, and continues to make bigger and achieve remarkable development with the high profile of the Honda brand. As mentioned, Honda has a huge number of suppliers. Honda continually builds and maintains their relationship for the profit of the company and the consumers. This relationship also leads to supplier development, in terms of perceiving their work and in doing business with Honda. 3. Body Paragraphs :- 3.1 ) Resources Required for Globalisation : Excess capacity : Financial Physical Knowledge Resources 3.2 ) Concept of Think global, act local : There are lots of new things that company have to do to be stable in competitive global environment. People who works in company must be give confidence to become more practical and more globally oriented. Global purchaser must be met at their home local, to find out specific local needs. And the company must respond by adapting products to meet those local requirements. In present situation, markets are global, and the resources to serve those markets have to be global. The companies those are able to design globally for contracted local requirements will produce their growth and success. Presently, customer in different parts of the world doesnt want unfocused products, but rather, products that meet their basic needs. The vision of Honda includes Value Creation and sets them apart from other companies by following their beliefs. It aims to focus on the customer, being artistic, respecting fresh ideas and considerate that change is good. Hondas philosophy is different from other companies. It is based on the concept of the challenging spirit in the company chief. It intends to maintain an international viewpoint, in dedication to supplying products of the highest capability at a reasonable price for worldwide customer satisfaction. This goal of Honda is achieved by setting high expectations for its suppliers. This viewpoint is being perpetuated by evaluating the total cost of their product, improving its excellence by extensive research and cooperation and focusing on the needs of their customers. 3.2 ) Examples of Think global, act local : In March 2000 Douglas Daft, CEO of coca-cola, announced that the next big evolutionary step for the company would be going limited. Coca-Cola popular all over the world and became global company at a time when the market was challenging greater flexibility, responsiveness and local sensitivity. Coke is instituting a strategy of Think local, act global by putting bigger decision making in the hands of confined of local managers. MC Donalds corporation is the major chain of fast-food restaurant in the world. MC Donalds specializes in hamburgers, French fries, and soft drinks. MC Donalds is famed in 119 countries of the world. The method which used by MC Donalds in entering overseas market was Think global, act local describes the aim which MC Donalds follow in overseas countries. For example, in Germany, some MC Donalds outlets offer beer to adult customer. A Maggi noodle is a brand instant noodle pretend by nestle. The brand is popular in India, South Africa, Brazil, Nepal, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Pakistan and the Philippines etc. It is also known as magi mee. Maggi noodles are part of the Maggie family. A Nestle brand produces immediate soups, stocks, and noodles with more than 15 flavours in stock. It is widely tasted well-liked is Original Maggie flavour. It is still one of the most extensively eaten flavours of Maggi. There are some other flavours like Chicken, Cheese, Ata, Rice, Masala and Tomato which are very accepted. In fact in India Maggi Noodles is recognized as a sort of products known as Instant noodles. Starbucks is a global company of coffee chain based in Seattle, Washington, United States. Starbucks is the biggest coffeehouse company in the world. There are 17,133 stores in 49 countries. Starbucks sells drip brewed coffee, espresso-based hot drinks, coffee beans, salads, hot and cold sandwiches, pastry, snacks, and items such as mugs and tumblers. From Starbucks beginning in later forms in Seattle as a local coffee bean roaster and retailer. The company grow rapidly. In the 1990s, Starbucks was opening a new store all over workday, a pace that continued into the 2000s. Starbucks has been a target of protests on issues such as fair-trade policies, labour, relation, ecological collision, political views, and anti-competitive practices. These are the different companies examples which followed Think global, act local strategy and by the time they become popular globally. These companies researched local cultures needs, test and they modify their product according them so these companies become popular world wide. There are so many companies in the market which follows this agenda and growing by the time. 3.3 ) Global Strategy : The company chooses to treat the different markets in the whole world as a single market, with the postulation that consumers in different countries are similar regardless of the geographical locator and the culture. Global strategy is a translation of the concept of standardization of marketing strategy across different markets around the world. But the culture differences between countries and the existence of country specific factors must not be ignored by the company. Hence, adaptation is still necessary for effective global. Therefore Think global, act local is suitable. A global strategy makes no distinction (that is, standardization) between domestic and foreign markets. The global marketing company treats all the target markets of the world on an equi-distance basis. This is a geocentric orientation. 3.4 ) Benefits Of Global Strategy : Use of the global strategy levers can achieve one or more of four major categories of potential globalisation benefits: Cost reductions Improved quality of products and programs Enhanced customer preference Increased competitive leverage 3.5 ) Localization : Localization is the procedure of adapting a product to a particular language, culture, and desired local look-and-feel. Ideally, a creation is developed so that localization is easy to achieve- for example, MC Donalds serves only non-vegetarian is available all over the world but still in India MC Donalds serves vegetarian. This is called localization. Internationalized manufactured goods are easier to localize. In localizing a product, in addition to natural language translation, such detail as time zones, money, national holidays, local colour sensitivities, product, gender roles, and geographic examples must all be considered. A productively localized service or product is one that appears to have been developed within the local culture. 3.6) Standardization : A marketing strategy that is standardized for use throughout the world by customers feedback and response. The strategy assumes that the behaviour of many consumers in the world has become very similar, so general positive things which is most likely attract the all customers they have to critical analyse and take care so that the demand of product will increase and thats the reason these days the every organization have its own research and development (RD) department so that after the customer feedback they will try to maintain the product standards and modify as per their suggestions and feedbacks. 3.7) Adaptation : The adaptation strategy is actually different components of their marketing strategies in foreign markets compared with their domestic markets and how such adaptation decisions influence the firms competitive positions and performance in global markets. It also helps to conceptualize that adaptation of a marketing-mix component is a determined process that is influenced by a firms pervious history of adaptation strategy, and they investigate the significance of that marketing-mix component to the firms success. The adaptation process helps also define a firms competitive advantage, which in turn affects its performance in the foreign market and globalization markets. This also increases the productivity and demand of the product. 3.8) The Four Drivers Of Global Marketing : Fall in tariffs (import taxes) and removal of non-tariff trade barrier (quota/maximum import quantity) encourage more exporters around the world to market their goods overseas. E.g. WTO ( World Trade Organization) encourages import and export trade among countries. Competition expands beyond national boundaries (within one country) to global competition as each exporting competition seeks a bigger market. Consumers needs across the globe have increasingly become more similar. For example, more consumers in Asia need Korean products like movies, TV shows, music videos, cars, food, etc Investment by a company in I.T. (Information Technology) to produce products is more economically viable for products that are marketed globally. It is simple too costly for a company to use expensive I.T. in production just to market the product in one country (domestic market) E.g. Producing the Hollywood movie Avatar that was a hot worldwide. 3.9) The Factors Which Competitive Strength : The application of latest technology. The contribution to total profit margin. The ability to effectively conduct market. The service quality of distribution channels. The quality of the product and related services. The extent to which the product fit the needs of customer. The positioning and image building of the products. 3.10) Factors Which Make a Potential Foreign Market : Favourable economic conditions. Promising market growth potential. Stable political situation. Total market size is sufficiently large. There is limited or no competition at present. Rules and regulations set by the local government are acceptable to the company. There is no strong barrier to entry in to the foreign market. 4. Conclusion :- In conclusion, I would like to conclude that the globalisation, based upon a multicultural mixture of diverse groups and social movements. It is reshaping the world. Public relation professionals need to prepare to work globally. Support globally and understand the big global picture. Globalisation renders extraneous traditional borders, boundaries and marketplace definitions for most businesses and non-profit. If the local markets getting better and better in operations that ultimately effect globally, so the general perspective from all the mentioned above examples like MC Donalds, Coca-cola, Maggie, Starbucks etc they work on Think global act local strategy which makes them a top rent in their respective categories like food, cold-drinks etc.

understanding diabetes and its complications :: essays research papers

Understanding Diabetes and Its Complications   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  An estimated 16 million people in the United States have diabetes-more than one third are not aware that they have the disease. This year alone, more than 798,000 cases will be diagnosed. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death by disease in the United States; this year alone, more than 187,000 Americans will die from this disease and its complications (CDC). Education about diabetes is essential to understanding the disease and preventing its complications.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Diabetes mellitus is a chronic, systemic disturbance in the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and fat (ADA, Medical Management 3). The term diabetes derives from the Greek word which means â€Å"to go through a siphon.† Thus diabetes refers to the overproduction of urine known as polyuria. Mellitus comes from the Latin word mel (honey) and describes the sweet odor of the urine. Diabetes occurs when the beta cells of the pancreas fail to produce or secrete an adequate amount of insulin. Diabetes also effects the vascular and nervous system.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In order to understand diabetes, it is important to understand how we normally metabolize food. Our bodies are composed of millions of cells, and in order to function, these cells must create energy. This energy comes from glucose. Glucose is mainly obtained from food.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When we eat, food enters the digestive system and is broken down into glucose. The three components from which glucose is made are carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Carbohydrates convert 100% into glucose; protein converts 50-60%; and fat converts 10%. Once food is broken down into glucose, it can be absorbed in the blood and carried to the cells of the body. However, for glucose to enter the cells, insulin must be present.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Insulin is a hormone that regulates the entire absorption process. It acts like a key that can unlock the doors of the cell. Cells have receptor sites, like keyholes, that receive insulin. When insulin attaches to a receptor site, a passageway is created that enables glucose to enter the cell. Once glucose is absorbed in this manner, it can be immediately used for the use of energy or it can be stored as glycogen in the liver and muscle cells for future use. Excess glucose is converted into fat. The normal fasting glucose level is 70-100 mg/dl; after meals is 70-140 mg/dl.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  There are two classifications of diabetes. These are Type 1 and Type 2. In Type 1 diabetes, individuals have no insulin secretion, therefore they are prone to breaking down fat and having high ketone levels, which requires insulin injections to maintain life.

Extinction of Dinosaurs due to Asteroid Impact Essay -- Exploratory Es

Extinction of Dinosaurs due to Asteroid Impact Nobody knows for sure exactly how the dinosaurs became extinct. However scientists have speculated for decades about possible events that caused the dinosaurs to die out. Possibilities range from asteroids, to volcanoes, to climate changes. One of the more popular or well-known extinction theories involves the belief that an asteroid struck the Earth, causing devastating effects, and triggering mass extinctions around the end of the Cretaceous period. The asteroid impact extinction theory began in 1980 with Luis and Walter Alvarez, a father and son team. They theorized that an asteroid struck the Earth at the close of the Cretaceous period, causing devastating effects and mass extinctions (Botzer 2004). Then, in the early 1990s, Alan Hildebrand, an associate professor at the University of Calgary, discovered the Chicxulub crater on the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico. This crater was 186 miles in diameter and six miles deep, and it was created when an asteroid hit the Earth approximately sixty-five million years ago. This asteroid is said to have strike the Earth with a force of 100 million to 300 million megatons of TNT (Recer 1993). With the discovery of the crater came the theory that this particular asteroid killed the dinosaurs and caused other mass extinctions. It was believed that the impact of the asteroid increased temperatures to above 20,000 degrees, sent massive tidal waves and earthquakes across the Earth, and fill ed the atmosphere with dust and chemicals, which blocked the sun. It was then hypothesized that the blocking of the sun led to drastic climate changes, allowing the Earth to cool, and creating a climate too cold for the warm-blooded dinosaurs (Re... ...me 300,000 years after the impact. We still don’t know for sure what happened to the dinosaurs, and there is a possibility that we never will know. However, several signs indicate that the Chicxulub asteroid probably created conditions that begin the decline of the dinosaurs. This was most likely followed by a second large impact, or several smaller impacts that caused drastic changes in the environment and resulted in the mass extinction. Works Cited Botzer, Angela. â€Å"That Asteroid Didn’t Kill Dinosaurs, Study Says.† National Geographic News. 9 Mar 2004. 31 Mar 2004 http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news Keller, Gerta, et al. â€Å"Chicxulub Impact Predates the K-T Boundary Mass Extinction.† PNAS Online. 2 Mar 2004. 5 Apr. 2004 http://www.pnas.org/cgi Recer, Paul. â€Å"Crater Theory: Big Space Rock Did in Dinosaurs.† Times 17 Sep. 1993: National.

Influential Characters in The Trial and The Stranger :: essays research papers

Influential Characters 'The Trial' and 'The Stranger': How one character can influence the life of another character. The Trial and The Stranger were both critically acclaimed since their published debut, though the books have their many differences they both deal with imprisoned lives going against society. In both novels K and Meursault had characters that influenced them in a negative and positive way, although none these characters had as much influence as the religious figure (the priests) did in both novels. However the priests in each novel influenced the protagonists differently. In The Stranger the chaplain is sent to Meursault before he is faced with his death sentence to have him repent for his sins and change his religious beliefs, in other words, covert him to Christianity. However Meursault stands strong and tells him that he has nothing to repent, for he has not sinned. He does not belief in God and he believes that he is already receiving his punishment, there is no afterlife or higher judgment in Meursaults? beliefs. The chaplain is able to change Meursault?s mind, when he mentions ?how even the hardest of criminals stare at something at one pointing their lives and imagine a divine face in it? (Stranger, p.121). Although Meursault does not see a divine face he sees the face of Marie. This marks the turning point of Meursault?s life, for he starts to care for life something he has never done before. He is now aggravated to know that is going to die and cannot accept that which explains his rage with the priest. Camus? creates characters such as Meursault and the chaplain to contrast each other. Meursault represents an outsider and shows how life is, society does not accept those who do not act as expected even if it means that they would have to bend the truth or hurt others in the process. The idea that Meursault does not care of his death sentence, as he shows little or no emotion of his mother?s death or of Marie proposing matrimony to him was of course is completely against the rules and ethics of society. Consequently he creates the chaplain to show Meursault how society expects him to behave, implementing the chaplain in the novel demonstrates how society acts upon those who do not meet the expected behaviors by society, it tries to change or covert them to the norms of society.

Last Sacrifice Chapter Fourteen

THE KEEPERS HAD MIXED REACTIONS to us leaving. They were usually glad to see outsiders go, especially since we had Sydney with us. But after the fight, they held me up as some kind of superhero and were enchanted by the idea of me marrying into their â€Å"family.' Seeing me in action meant some of the women were beginning to eye Dimitri now too. I wasn't in the mood to watch them flirt with him–especially since, according to their courtship rules, I would apparently have to be the one to battle it out with any prospective fiancee. Naturally, we didn't tell the Keepers our exact plans, but we did mention we'd likely be encountering Strigoi–which caused quite a reaction. Most of that reaction was excitement and awe, which continued to boost our reputations as fierce warriors. Angeline's response, however, was totally unexpected. â€Å"Take me with you,' she said, grabbing a hold of my arm, just as I started down the forest path toward the car. â€Å"Sorry,' I said, still a little weirded out after her earlier hostility. â€Å"We have to do this alone.' â€Å"I can help! You beat me †¦ but you saw what I can do. I'm good. I could take a Strigoi.' For all her fierceness, I knew Angeline didn't have a clue about what she'd be facing if she ever met an actual Strigoi. The few Keepers who bore molnijamarks spoke little about the encounters, faces grave. They understood. Angeline didn't. She also didn't realize that any novice at St. Vladimir's in the secondary school could probably take her out. She had raw potential, true, but it needed a lot of work. â€Å"You might be able to,' I said, not wanting to hurt her feelings. â€Å"But it's just not possible for you to come with us.' I would have lied and given her a vague â€Å"Maybe sometime,' but since that had led Joshua to thinking we were semi-engaged, I decided I'd better not. I expected more boasts about her battle prowess. We'd learned she was regarded as one of the best young fighters in the compound, and with her pretty looks, she had plenty of admirers too. A lot of it had gone to her head, and she liked to talk about how she could beat anyone or anything up. Again, I was reminded of Jill. Jill also had a lot to learn about the true meaning of battle but was still eager to jump in. She was quieter and more cautious than Angeline, though, so Angeline's next direction caught me off guard. â€Å"Please. It's not just the Strigoi! I want to see the world. I need to see something else outside of this place!' Her voice was pitched low, out of the range of the others. â€Å"I've only been to Rubysville twice, and they say that's nothing compared to other cities.' â€Å"It's not,' I agreed. I didn't even consider it a city. â€Å"Please,' she begged again, this time her voice trembling. â€Å"Take me with you.' Suddenly, I felt sad for her. Her brother had also shown a little longing for the outside world, but nothing like this. He'd joked that electricity would be nice, but I knew he was happy enough without the perks of the modern world. But for Angeline, the situation was much more desperate. I too knew what it was like to feel trapped in one's life and was legitimately sorry for what I had to say. â€Å"I can't, Angeline. We have to go on our own. I'm sorry. I really am.' Her blue eyes shimmered, and she raced off into the woods before I could see her cry. I felt horrible after that and couldn't stop thinking about her as we made our farewells. I was so distracted, I even let Joshua hug me goodbye. Getting back on the road was a relief. I was glad to be away from the Keepers and was ready to spring into action and start helping Lissa. Lexington was our first step. We had a six-hour drive ahead of us, and Sydney, per usual, seemed adamant that no one else was going to drive her car. Dimitri and I made futile protests, finally giving up when we realized that if we were going to be facing Strigoi soon, it was probably best we rest and conserve our strength. The address for Donovan–the Strigoi who allegedly knew Sonya–was only where he could be found at night. That meant we had to make it to Lexington before sunrise, so we wouldn't lose him when he went to his daytime lair. It also meant we'd be meeting Strigoi in the dark. Certain that little would happen on the drive–especially once we were out of West Virginia–Dimitri and I agreed we could doze a little, seeing as neither of us had had a full night's sleep. Even though the lulling of the car was soothing, I drifted in and out of restless sleep. After a few hours of this, I simply settled into the trancelike state that brought me to Lissa. It was a good thing too: I'd stumbled into one of the biggest events facing the Moroi. The nomination process to elect the new king or queen was about to begin. It was the first of many steps, and everyone was excited, given how rare monarch elections truly were. This was an event none of my friends had expected to see anytime soon in our lives, and considering recent events †¦ well, we all had especial interest. The future of the Moroi was at stake here. Lissa was sitting on the edge of a chair in one of the royal ballrooms, a huge sweeping space with vaulted ceilings and gold detailing everywhere. I'd been in this dazzling room before, with its murals and elaborate molding. Chandeliers glittered above. It had held the graduate luncheon, where newly made guardians put on their best faces and hoped to attract a good assignment. Now, the room was arranged like the Council chamber, with a long table on one side of the room that was set with twelve chairs. Opposite that table were rows and rows of other chairs–where the audience sat when the Council was in session. Except, now there were about four times as many chairs as usual, which probably explained the need for this room. Every single chair was filled. In fact, people were even standing, crowding in as best they could. Agitated- looking guardians moved among the herd, keeping them out of doorways and making sure the bystanders were arranged in a way that allowed for optimal s ecurity. Christian sat on one side of Lissa, and Adrian sat beside Christian. To my pleasant surprise, Eddie and Mia sat nearby too. Mia was a Moroi friend of ours who had gone to St. Vladimir's and was nearly as hardcore as Tasha about Moroi needing to defend themselves. My beloved father was nowhere in sight. None of them spoke. Conversation would have been difficult among the buzzing and humming of so many people, and besides, my friends were too awestruck by what was about to happen. There was so much to see and experience, and none of them had realized just how big the crowd would be. Abe had said things would move fast once Tatiana was buried, and they certainly had. â€Å"Do you know who I am?' A loud voice caught Lissa's attention, just barely carrying above the din. Lissa glanced down the row, a few seats away from Adrian. Two Moroi, a man and a woman, sat side by side and were looking up at a very angry woman. Her hands were on her hips, and the pink velvet dress she wore seemed outlandish next to the couple's jeans and T-shirts. It also wasn't going to hold up so well once she stepped outside of air conditioning. A glare twisted her face. â€Å"I am Marcella Badica.' When that didn't get a reaction from the couple, she added, â€Å"Prince Badica is my brother, and our late queen was my third cousin twice removed. There are no seats left, and someone like me cannot stand against the wall with the rest of that mob.' The couple exchanged glances. â€Å"I guess you should have gotten here earlier, Lady Badica,' said the man. Marcella gaped in outrage. â€Å"Didn't you just hear who I am? Don't you know who your betters are? I insist you give up your seats.' The couple still seemed unfazed. â€Å"This session is open to everyone, and there weren't assigned seats, last time I checked,' said the woman. â€Å"We're entitled to ours as much as you are.' Marcella turned to the guardian beside her in outrage. He shrugged. His job was to protect her from threats. He wasn't going to oust others from their chairs, particularly when they weren't breaking any rules. Marcella gave a haughty â€Å"humph!' before turning sharply and stalking away, no doubt to harass some other poor soul. â€Å"This,' said Adrian, â€Å"is going to be delightful.' Lissa smiled and turned back to studying the rest of the room. As she did, I became aware of something startling. I couldn't tell exactly who was who, but the crowd wasn't composed entirely of royals–as most Council sessions were. There were tons of â€Å"commoners,' just like the couple sitting near my friends. Most Moroi didn't bother with Court. They were out in the world, living their lives and trying to survive while the royals pranced around at Court and made laws. But not today. A new leader was going to be chosen, and that was of interest to all Moroi. The milling and chaos continued for a while until one of the guardians finally declared the room to be at capacity. Those outside were outraged, but their cries were quickly silenced when the guardians closed the doors, sealing off the ballroom. Shortly thereafter, the eleven Council members took their seats, and–to my shock–Adrian's father, Nathan Ivashkov, took the twelfth chair. The Court's herald yelled and called everyone to attention. He was someone who'd been chosen because of his remarkable voice, though I always wondered why they didn't just use a microphone in these situations. More old-world traditions, I supposed. That, and excellent acoustics. Nathan spoke once the room settled down. â€Å"In the absence of our beloved queen †¦' He paused looking down mournfully to offer a moment of respect before continuing. In anyone else, I might have suspected his feelings were faked, particularly after seeing him grovel so much in front of Tatiana. But, no. Nathan had loved his prickly aunt as much as Adrian had. â€Å"And in the wake of this terrible tragedy, I will be moderating the upcoming trials and elections.' â€Å"What'd I tell you?' muttered Adrian. He had no fuzzy affection for his father. â€Å"De- lightful.' Nathan droned on a bit about the importance of what was to come and some other points about Moroi tradition. It was obvious, though, that like me, everyone in the room really wanted to get down to the main event: the nominations. He seemed to realize that too and sped up the formalities. Finally, he got to the good stuff. â€Å"Each family, if they choose, may have one nominee for the crown who will take the tests all monarchs have endured since the beginning of time.' I thought that â€Å"beginning of time' part was a bold and probably unverified exaggeration, but whatever. â€Å"The only exclusion is the Ivashkovs, since back-to-back monarchs from the same family aren't allowed. For candidacy, three nominations are required from Moroi of royal blood and proper age.' He then added some stuff about what happened in the event more than one person was nominated from the same family, but even I knew the chances of that happening were non-existent. Each royal house wanted to get the best advantage here, and that would involve a unified standing behind one candidate. Satisfied everyone understood, Nathan nodded and gestured grandly to the audience. â€Å"Let the nominations begin.' For a moment, nothing happened. It kind of reminded me of when I'd been back in school, when a teacher would say something like, â€Å"Who'd like to present their paper first?' Everyone kind of waited for someone else to get things going, and at last, it happened. A man I didn't recognize stood up. â€Å"I nominate Princess Ariana Szelsky.' Ariana, as princess, sat on the Council and was an expected choice. She gave a gracious nod to the man. A second man, presumably from their family, also stood and gave the second nomination. The third and final nomination came from another Szelsky–a very unexpected one. He was Ariana's brother, a world traveler who was almost never at Court, and also the man my mother guarded. Janine Hathaway was most likely in this room, I realized. I wished Lissa would look around and find her, but Lissa was too focused on the proceedings. After everything I'd been through, I suddenly had a desperate longing to see my mother. With three nominations, Nathan declared, â€Å"Princess Ariana Szelsky is entered as a candidate.' He scrawled something on a piece of paper in front of him, his motions full of flourish. â€Å"Continue.' After that, the nominations came in rapid succession. Many were princes and princesses, but others were respected–and still high-ranking–members of the families. The Ozera candidate, Ronald, was not the family's Council member, nor was he anyone I knew. â€Å"He's not one of Aunt Tasha's â€Å"ideal' candidates,' Christian murmured to Lissa. â€Å"But she admits he's not a moron.' I didn't know much about most of the other candidates either. A couple, like Ariana Szelsky, I had a good impression of. There were also a couple I'd always found appalling. The tenth candidate was Rufus Tarus, Daniella's cousin. She'd married into the Ivashkovs from the Tarus family and seemed delighted to see her cousin declared a nominee. â€Å"I don't like him,' said Adrian, making a face. â€Å"He's always telling me to do something useful with my life.' Nathan wrote down Rufus's name and then rolled up the paper like a scroll. Despite the appearance of antique customs, I suspected a secretary in the audience was typing up everything being said here on a laptop. â€Å"Well,' declared Nathan, â€Å"that concludes–‘ â€Å"I nominate Princess Vasilisa Dragomir.' Lissa's head jerked to the left, and through her eyes, I recognized a familiar figure. Tasha Ozera. She'd stood and spoken the words loudly and confidently, glancing around with those ice-blue eyes as if daring anyone to disagree. The room froze. No whispers, no shifting in chairs. Just utter and complete silence. Judging from the faces, the Ozera family's nominee was the second-most astonished person in the room to hear Tasha speak. The first, of course, was Lissa herself. It took a moment for Nathan to get his mouth working. â€Å"That's not–‘ Beside Lissa, Christian suddenly stood up. â€Å"I second the nomination.' And before Christian had even sat down, Adrian was on his feet. â€Å"I confirm the nomination.' All eyes in the room were on Lissa and her friends, and then, as one, the crowd turned toward Nathan Ivashkov. Again, he seemed to have trouble finding his voice. â€Å"That,' he managed at last, â€Å"is not a legal nomination. Due to its current Council standing, the Dragomir line is regrettably not eligible to present a candidate.' Tasha, never afraid of talking in a crowd or taking on impossible odds, leapt back up. I could tell she was eager to. She was good at making speeches and challenging the system. â€Å"Monarch nominees don't need a Council position or quorum to run for the throne.' â€Å"That makes no sense,' said Nathan. There were mutters of agreement. â€Å"Check the law books, Nate–I mean, Lord Ivashkov.' Yes, there he was at last. My tactful father had joined the conversation. Abe had been leaning against a wall near the doorway, dressed splendidly in a black suit with a shirt and tie that were exactly the same shade of emerald green. My mother stood beside him, the slightest hint of a smile on her face. For a moment, I was captivated as I studied them side by side. My mother: the perfect picture of guardian excellence and decorum. My father: always capable of achieving his goals, no matter how twisted the means. Uneasily, I began to understand how I'd inherited my bizarre personality. â€Å"Nominees have no requirements concerning how many people are in their family,' continued Abe jovially. â€Å"They only need three royal nominations to be confirmed.' Nathan gestured angrily toward where his own wayward son and Christian sat. â€Å"They aren't from her family!' â€Å"They don't need to be,' countered Abe. â€Å"They just need to be from a royal family. They are. Her candidacy is within the law–so long as the princess accepts.' All heads swiveled toward Lissa now, as though they were suddenly just noticing her. Lissa hadn't twitched since the startling events began. She was in too much shock. Her thoughts seemed to move both fast and slow. Part of her couldn't even start to process what was happening around her. The rest of her mind was spinning with questions. What was going on? Was this a joke? Or maybe a spirit-induced hallucination? Had she finally gone crazy? Was she dreaming? Was it a trick? If so, why would her own friends have been the ones to do it? Why would they do this to her? And for the love of God, would everyone stop staring at her? She could handle attention. She'd been born and raised for it, and like Tasha, Lissa could address a crowd and make bold statements–when she supported them and was prepared. Neither of those things applied to this situation. This was pretty much the last thing in the world she had expected or wanted. And so, she couldn't bring herself to react or even consider a response. She stayed where she was, silent and shell- shocked. Then, something snapped her from her trance. Christian's hand. He'd taken Lissa's, wrapping his fingers with hers. He gave her a gentle squeeze, and the warmth and energy he sent brought her back to life. Slowly, she looked around the room, meeting the eyes of those all watching her. She saw Tasha's determined gaze, my father's cunning look, and even my mother's expectation. That last one proved most startling of all. How could Janine Hathaway–who always did what was right and could barely crack a joke–be going along with this? How could any of Lissa's friends be going along with this? Didn't they love and care about her? Rose, she thought. I wish you were here to tell me what to do. Me too. Damned one-way bond. She trusted me more than anyone else in the world, but she realized then that she trusted all of these friends too–well, except maybe Abe, but that was understandable. And if they were doing this, then surely–surely–there was a reason, right? Right? It made no sense to her, yet Lissa felt her legs move as she rose to her feet. And despite the fear and confusion still running through her, she found her voice inexplicably clear and confident as it rang out through the room. â€Å"I accept the nomination.'