Poadcast Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Poadcast - Essay Example Smith indicates that his organization is currently working in Honduras and has established a number of sustainable treatment facilities to aid the people in receiving drinking water. Smith indicates that the project originally began as an idea between himself and a Cornell professor. The technology itself is a community scale drinking water treatment plant. The plant, developed through community input, functions to provide clean water for a variety of functions, such as cleaning, drinking, and bathing. The cleansing process starts with coagulation, sedimentation, and disinfection through chlorine. The materials used in the process are all available locally. Smith notes that the program has been working in Honduras since 2006. He believes that technology will have continued potential, as long as the implementation of the project pays enough attention to the educational and operational costs. Indeed, he recognizes that a primary consideration is that the individual community members ar e educated about the technology. In terms of costs Smith notes that the costs are contingent with the size of the operation. For a small-scale community it costs $50,000, for a larger scale community it costs $150,000. In terms of future goals, the team notes that they hope to expand to future regions. Specifically, Nicaragua and El Salvador are areas that are going to be targeted next. One of the most pervasive considerations is the geographical terrain. Additionally, cultural institutions are an important input element, as the team must work directly with government or community leaders as a means of instituting these programs. Although the Aqua Clara project has seemingly achieved a mode of success, there seems to be a number of issues that must be more thoroughly considered. Perhaps most centrally is the organization’s approach to the social and political spectrum. One considers that the organization has

Advantages of television Essay Example for Free

Advantages of television Essay Television is as much a part of everyday life as eating and drinking. It is in fact a very natural part of daily life. 94 percent of European households own a television and make TV viewing an integral part of their day (*). Whether it is together with friends and family, in between and parallel to other activities (while cooking, while ironing etc. ) or as part of a moment alone while relaxing, TV plays a central role in most people’s lives. As such TV advertising is a powerful communication tool and as much a part of television viewing, as the programmes themselves. Television is as much a part of everyday life as eating and drinking. It is in fact a very natural part of daily life. 94 percent of European households own a television and make TV viewing an integral part of their day (*). Whether it is together with friends and family, in between and parallel to other activities (while cooking, while ironing etc. ) or as part of a moment alone while relaxing, TV plays a central role in most people’s lives. As such TV advertising is a powerful communication tool and as much a part of television viewing, as the programmes themselves. Television is as much a part of everyday life as eating and drinking. It is in fact a very natural part of daily life. 94 percent of European households own a television and make TV viewing an integral part of their day (*). Whether it is together with friends and family, in between and parallel to other activities (while cooking, while ironing etc. ) or as part of a moment alone while relaxing, TV plays a central role in most people’s lives. As such TV advertising is a powerful communication tool and as much a part of television viewing, as the programmes themselves. Television is as much a part of everyday life as eating and drinking. It is in fact a very natural part of daily life. 94 percent of European households own a television and make TV viewing an integral part of their day (*). Whether it is together with friends and family, in between and parallel to other activities (while cooking, while ironing etc. ) or as part of a moment alone while relaxing, TV plays a central role in most people’s lives. As such TV advertising is a powerful communication tool and as much a part of television viewing, as the programmes themselves. Television is as much a part of everyday life as eating and drinking. It is in fact a very natural part of daily life. 94 percent of European households own a television and make TV viewing an integral part of their day (*). Whether it is together with friends and family, in between and parallel to other activities (while cooking, while ironing etc. ) or as part of a moment alone while relaxing, TV plays a central role in most people’s lives. As such TV advertising is a powerful communication tool and as much a part of television viewing, as the programmes themselves. Television is as much a part of everyday life as eating and drinking. It is in fact a very natural part of daily life. 94 percent of European households own a television and make TV viewing an integral part of their day (*). Whether it is together with friends and family, in between and parallel to other activities (while cooking, while ironing etc. ) or as part of a moment alone while relaxing, TV plays a central role in most people’s lives. As such TV advertising is a powerful communication tool and as much a part of television viewing, as the programmes themselves.

Unethical Advertisement in the philippines

Unethical Advertisement in the philippines From this phenomenon, advertisers seize the opportunity to maximize its profit, thus increasing competition in finding ways to captivate the attention of millions of potential consumers to buy their products. This competitive environment pressures advertisers to go beyond the tradition and find new ways to mesmerize the potential consumers. Most of the time, advertisers would sacrifice ethics along the way just to reach their goal in persuading people to buy their products. Even big companies like McDonalds are guilty of this. McDonalds would lure kids to buy their unhealthy meal of hamburgers and soft drinks by giving away free toys when kids purchase a whole meal. Advertisement like these, which crosses the boundaries of ethics, is against consumers right. Unfortunately, here in the Philippines, most consumers are not aware of their right. Unlike in America and other liberal countries where even the colossal corporations are not spared from their unjust advertisements, most Filipino consumers tend to see these unjust advertisements as a part of promotions like there is nothing wrong with seeing women posing sexually just to promote a jewelry, women and men wearing underwear only, products promising an exaggerated truth like a 360 degree damage control hair with in 7 days or even asking influential imaged celebrities to promote alcohol. Maybe the consumers are oblivious to the ethics of advertising because of the majority of the Filipino consumers cannot differentiate ethical from unethical advertisement. This research paper will hope to elucidate on the unethical advertising and the status of the consumers against such ads. It will first define the characteristics of advertising and ethics. Then proceed to the ethical boundaries advertisers cross. To support the suppositions of the research, there are statistical figures that would showcase the opinions and stands of Metro Manila Filipino consumers on the dilemma of unethical advertising. In this paper, the most observed unethical factors in the Philippines which majority, if not all, advertisements violate one way or the other is claiming unrealistic promises, using of psychological impact on potential consumers or promoting of harmful products. Advertising in its simplest characteristic is a medium of communication use to inform consumers about a product. Advertisers, agencies, the media and audiences are all part of a larger environment, influencing and being influenced by a network of forces that includes the economy, government, interest groups and society at large (Arens, 2004, p. 55). The general atmosphere created by these external elements is the advertising environment. This environment is a complex and ever-changing dynamo (OGuinn, Allen, Semenik, 2005, p. 125). It has developed from simple statements, in the start of advertising existence, to a multibillion-dollar, global industry. The growth of these industries leads to the increase of consumerism which is one factor of the development of advertising environment. The more products that are available dictate a greater need for the diversity of these products to be known, thus steps in the communication device known as advertising and the advertising practitioner (Spence, Heekeren, 2005, p. 17). This is the importance of advertising. It is the purpose of the advertiser to communicate to the consumer that a particular brand or product is the most worthy of purchase and use (Bovee, 1995). Therefore, the pressure given to the advertisers by the company is enormous. For the positive outlook, this intense pressure for the income of the advertisers brings forth creativity in capturing the interest of consumers. At its worst, it leads to advertising campaigns that not only push the boundaries of societal acceptance but also go beyond acceptable norms, thus creating ethical problems and dilemmas. These ethical dilemmas differ in every place. This is because of the vast interpretation on what ethics is. Ethics can be simply defined as a set of prescriptive rules, principles, values, and virtues of character that inform and guide interpersonal and intrapersonal conduct; that are the conduct of people toward each other and the conduct of people toward themselves (Spence, Heekeren, 2005, p. 2). If this definition taken into consideration, ethics therefore differ from the reasoning of each individual. When the common reasoning of each individual is combined, universally accepted ethical rules and principles are applied by the majority (Jhally, 1990). This is also known as the codes of ethics. The codes of ethics would help in determining if the advertisement would be considered Unethical advertising is a serious issue especially here in Metro Manila because consumers are exposed approximately more than a hundred ads a day through different medium available. In addition, most Metr o Manila consumers barely have a clue on unethical advertising. Therefore allowing such unprincipled acts of advertisers to continue that could eventually harm the society. After all, it has already been mentioned that advertising does have the power to influence each individuals decision and lifestyle and thus the whole society itself. Parent with at least one kid who is not yet of legal age In dissecting further, figure 1.1 exhibits the different segments of Metro Manila consumer awareness on unethical advertising. As shown in the figure above, only 5% of the highschool students and college students know nothing about unethical advertising. Meanwhile, 50 % and more of the single working consumer and the parent consumer recognize unethical advertising. Therefore, it could be said that teenagers below 18 years are still partly innoncent when it comes to unethical advertising. As well as, more than 50% of the population barely knows the essence of unethical advertising. The awareness rate mentioned above is not a good start for consumerism. It is the right of the consumers to be given correct, clear and reliable information (Bovee, Arens, 1986, p. 63). But without the consumers awareness of its right, advertisers can get away with most of the ethical dilemma. The ethical dilemma with commercial advertising of the consumers right to information, is that the persuasion, under the disguise of information, which not only deceptive, in addition, it can have harmful consequences both for the targeted consumers as well as for the community (Spence, Heekeren, 2005). Especially after the expansion of media, targeted consumers as well as the whole community are frequently exposed to advertisements which intensify the probability of the occurrence of the harmful consequences. Unfortunately, an ordinary consumers cannot avoid being exploited to at least a thousand ads per day (Jones, 2000). Portrayed in the figure 2.1, is the opinion of Metro Manila consumers in the array of advertisements they are exposed to everyday. As, visualized in the graph, the color violet representing 150-200 array and the color tortoise representing 200 onwards array has a total of 3 out of 56 participants enlisted in that cluster. While most of the consumer categories have colors red representing 50 -100 array and green representing 100-150 array, which sums up to a total of 41 out of 56 participants claiming to have exposed around 50-150 ads everyday to most of the individual with no discrimination. Insofar, the figure shows that the majority of the consumers assume they are exposed to at least 50 advertisements per day. A range tremendously lower than Jones (2000) claim of consumers exposure to a thousand advertisements. The cause of such claim that most consumers are exposed to a high number of advertisements is advertisers are very skillful in creating advertisements that will be in plain sight of the consumers in their everyday hassle in life, to give it an unavoidable characteristic. Consumers are so well-researched and targeted that they can be covertly seduced by a strategy that surrounds them and that infiltrates their physical and mental space, often without their realization (OGuinn, Allen, Semenik, 2005, p. 88). Hence, most Metro Manila consumers lose track of the number of advertisements they are exposed to, believing its less than 200 and not otherwise. Thus, an ordinary individual is bombarded with more artistic communication than they can handle and most of the time without their knowledge. This frequency of artistic communication existing creates a clutter which is a barrier to effective communication (Parker, 2006, p. 44). This is the reason why advertisers think outside of the box for a breakthrough possibility. In order to stay competitive in this cluttered media landscape, the architects of advertising need to be creating advertising that does not look, feel, smell or taste like the generic advertising that the new media-savvy and sophisticated consumers have become used to (Spence, Heekeren, 2005, p. 17). To achieve that goal, advertisers try to find effective channels of communication. From traditional channels of TV, radio, posters and newspapers, advertisers embrace the new medium of communication, technologies such as internet and other digital media. Although being in the third world country like Philippines, the tradi tional medium is still thriving. Represented in figure 3.1, Metro Manila consumers are exposed to different types of advertising medium frequently. As interpreted by the graph, the predominant medium that most Metro Manila consumers are exposed to is TV leading by 9 marks against billboard the 2nd dominant advertising medium. Notice that through out the different categories of consumers printed ads like posters, flyers and brochures are low. It might also the factor that billboards and TV are almost unavoidable compared to brochures and flyers. So this shows that traditional advertising communication like TV in the Philippines is still a fad. Though, new approaches like online advertisements are still progressing. These three figures that were just shown exhibit the demographics of the Metro Manila consumers in relation to advertising and its ethics. With the results shown Metro Manila consumers need some consumer rights educational background to help understand what the advertisers are getting away with. Out of the two-digit estimate of ethical issues the advertisers face, three commonly violated are unrealistic promises, use of psychological impact and promotion of harmful product (Spence, Heekeren, 2005). These ethical issues are evident almost everywhere, including the Philippines. After all, advertising addresses people primarily as consumers creating a similar advertising environment almost everywhere (Schultz, 1990, p. 28). The first and most obvious unethical line most advertisers cross without second thoughts is claiming unrealistic promises. One of the most common short-term arguments about advertising is that it is so frequently deceptive. For advertising to be effective, consumers must have confidence in it. So any kind of deception not only detracts from the complete information principle of free enterprise but also risks being self-defeating (Bovee, Arens, 1986, p. 68). A most common example seen by the majority is whitening cream; Use this product and get whiter skin in just 7 days! This whitening cream advertisement gave a promise of whiter skin in just 7 days without genuine evidence of its claim. This kind of deception may profit business firms in the short-term but create a greater harm in the long-run (Lane, Russell, 2001). For the short-term, consumers will purchase the product, but once they figured it is ineffective the purchasing will stop and the sales will go down. Advertisement does not have to be literally true, but an advertisement that is designed to deceive or mislead a consumer is a different matter (Belch, Belch, 2007, p. 224). This is the situation in which the use of puffery in advertising comes under inquiry. Puffery, which is a common practice in advertising, is not considered illegal in most countries even here in the Philippines. This is because puffery is an expression of opinion not made as a representation of a fact (Bovee, Arens, 1986, p. 57). It is the key reason why consumers have the expectation that advertising will stretch the truth rather than express the truth. Shown in figure 4.1 is the perspective of Metro Manila consumers on the categories of unethical advertising. As measured in the graph above, advertising on harmful product and exaggerated truths are ranked 1st and 2nd place as the most viewed unethical category in advertising. From a total of 56 consumers who answered the survey, 55 considered exaggerated truths as unethical and 49 considered ads on harmful products are unethical. Confirming, that most consumers, even in Metro Manila, does have the expectation that advertising will stretch the truth rather than express the truth. A dilemma such as this exists because of no legally backing against it. Stated in The Law on Obligations and Contracts under Title 2 Contracts, Chapter 2 Essential Requisites of Contracts, Section 1 Consent, Article 1340, is The usual exaggerations in trade, when the other party had an opportunity to know the facts are not in themselves fraudulent (De Leon, 2003, p. 128). Explained by De Leon (2003), it is the natural tendency for advertisers to resort to exaggerations in their attempt to make a reasonable profit of the business firm. Customers are expected to know how to take care of their concerns and to rely own independent judgment. Anyone who relies on said exaggerations does so at his own risk. So in essence, the notion of puffery refers to exaggerated claims, comments, commendations, or hyperbole for consumers to based on their own subjective views and opinions. It is generally considered to be part of the artfulness and playfulness of advertising and should not be taken serio usly by reasonably consumers (Jones, 2000, p.86). For the second ethical issue the advertisers trespass is playing mind games with the target consumers by using psychological impact on them. It has already been established that the role of advertising is to creatively show potential consumer products or services in a way that persuades them to buy or at least feel positive towards those products or services. Advertising also often seeks to persuade primarily by an appeal to sentiment rather by an appeal to intellect (Schultz, 1990, p.32). Some examples are advertisements that associate products with feelings of well-being, fun, humor, freedom, romance, glamour loved ones and such. Gigantic industries like Coca-cola, Pepsi and McDonalds could be observed using such types of ads internationally. Even though these advertisements are said to appeal the consumers intellectually and emotionally, advertising cannot create primary demand in mature product categories (OGuinn, Allen, Semenik, 2005, p. 125). This theory is also agreed upon by the Metro Manila consumers in their survey. *5 being the highest Figure 5.1 has a graph about the belief of Metro Manila consumers on how advertisements influence their decisions. As proven in the figure, there are more than 50% of the participants in the high-school category who answered 4 and 3 compared to the other categories where at least 50% of their participants answered 2 and 1. This could mean that younger participants are more influenced to ads compared to adults. Therefore advertisements appealing to intellectual are effective especially to the innocent consumers. So, in those cases, the ads are not intended as true representations of reality or as narratives that correspond to the truth, but rather as rhetorical and metaphorical evocations that are designed to appeal to the consumers emotions and aspirations for the purpose of creating positive and alluring images for the products in the minds of the consumers (Lane, Russell, 2001, p. 91). Therefore, truth could be simply not relevant in advertisements. Seventy-four percent of American consumers either strongly or somewhat strongly believe that most advertisements deliberately stretch the truth about the products they advertise, claims Jhally (1990, p. 103). This statistics would not really surprise most consumers, since advertising is a form communication that does its best to stretch the truth in order to create some profit. As communication genre, it wants you to believe and dispel belief in the same breath (Burton, Purvis, 1991, p. 23). The last line advertisers cross to earn millions, is accepting assignments in which harmful products are to be advertised. In particular, advertising for alcohol and tobacco products have been a controversy in most countries claiming to encourage consumers to use unhealthy products. Some countries, such as Canada, Finland and Philippines, have completely banned cigarette companies from advertising their product. While other countries, such as United States and Australia are very successful in anti smoking campaigns in which cigarette advertising is not entirely banned but all public places are banned from smoking (Arens, 2004). The government does possess the right to intercede, when it believes it needs to, in order to restore a health environment for the majority. In most advertising environments, administrators have embraced what they label a self-regulatory model, in effect establishing a situation in which the industry or profession is doing the regulating with varying degrees o f contribution from other stakeholders, including the government (Burton, Purvis,1991, p. 12). In the Philippines, the government, employing Burton, Purvis self-regulatory model, utilized its power in banning cigarette advertisements. Such action is required by the government, the reduction if not absolute elimination, for the benefit of the majority in the society. Exhibited in figure 6.1 are the responses Metro Manila consumers on government banning cigarette companies to advertise. As, portrayed above, around 55% do agree that cigarette companies should be banned in advertising. While around 5% disagree with the majority. The irony is in figure 4.1 49 out of 56 believes that it is unethical for advertisers to advertise harmful products while in this figure only 32 out of 56 believes that cigarette ads should be banned. Advertisements such as these should be effectively self-regulated. Effective self-regulation calls for the development of a commitment to the wider community, no just to a business firms consumers. In this regard, a process of consultation between industry, consumers and government is established as each has a role to play to make the system work (Belch, Belch, 2007, p. 89). Government offers a public policy perspective, whereas business firms offer the alternative view to a regulatory environment (Burton, Purvis,1991). Consumers input are just as important in order to maintain relevance and confidence in the system. Especially now, where the advertising industry gets intense in competing for consumers limited resource of time by seizing their attention to withhold interest in the advertised product, ignoring the moral obligation they have as advertisers to the consumers. Therefore, in this immense competition there is a chance that most, if not all, advertisements have already cro ss the border of ethics. This research paper has discussed on unethical advertising in the Philippines. Unfortunately, in-depth discussion on the Filipino consumers perspective on ethics, advertising strategies and theories practiced in the Philippines and rules and issues of unethical advertising present in the Philippines has not been fulfilled. This is because of the very few past researches done in this topic. The lack of sources on Filipino consumers perspective of ethics gave need of conducting surveys, which results are shown in the figures presented in this paper. However, the sampled used in the survey is not big enough giving a possibility on a significant error percentage. In addition, the survey has not been conducted throughout Metro Manila, the heart of Philippines commerce, but just a part of Metro Manila. So the survey reference is not enough for more in-depth discussion on the issues where the line of ethics would be drawn for Filipino consumers. For the advertising strategies conducted, theories practiced, rules implemented and issues seen on unethical advertising in the Philippines discussed in this paper, the references used were written by foreign authors with a very credible background. They wrote regarding on advertising theories, examples, issues and ideals based on the western countries. Regrettable, most of the authors have not conducted researches on the advertising scenario in the Philippines. Although, some theories are applicable everywhere, the culture and economic position of the Philippines is really different from the western. This research paper selected references consisting of theories applicable ubiquitously so that it could be used to study unethical advertising in the Philippines. Furthermore, the time allotted for this research paper was very limited for a more extensive research. With a two month time allotment, not all useful resources were gathered. Resources were limited to the books available at the university library. Likewise, the time allotted for the survey was approximately two days. Consequently, not much respondents were sought in a very short period, sacrificing the accuracy of the results. The recommendation to improve the credibility of the research paper due to lack of written resources is interviewing credible persons. A well-renowned Filipino anthropologist may give answers on the culture of ethics in the Philippines. Another recommended interviewee are marketing or advertising managers, because they have put into practice the theories and understood which one is applicable in the Philippines. Although, there is lacking written resources about unethical advertising, written resources should not be entirely forgone. Resources such as Advertising Ethics by Spence, E., Heekeren, B. V. and International advertising: Realities and myths by Jones, J. P. , are needed for conducting this study. These resources would greatly help in building the foundation for this research. With the interview and written resources, the survey should also be a part of the research. This research method would gather information from the individual directly involve in the research at hand. It would be best if more time is allotted here, to disperse the survey form different parts of the Philippines or at least the Metro Manila and to increase the number of respondents for lower statistical percentage error of the survey. Over all, the existence of unethical advertising is evident everywhere even here in the Philippines. It is evidently seen in the unrealistic promises made by business firm to promote sales. Even harmful products are being advertised without shame just to profit. The advertisers are also becoming masters in playing with the minds of their potential consumers. This psychological impact on consumers particularly on children is shamelessly used even by big companies like McDonalds. Consumers at the very least should be aware of these unethical strategies.

William Faulkners A Rose for Emily Essay -- William Faulkner Rose E

William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily" â€Å"A Rose for Emily† by William Faulkner is set in a small Southern town during the post-Civil War era. The story revolves around the strange and tragic events of Miss Emily Grierson’s life. At first glance, Emily seems like a lonely woman with little self-confidence and low self-esteem that seems to stem from her upbringing by her father. There seemed to be some kind of abuse by her father and the fact that she had seemed to have lived such a sheltered life. She was brought up thinking that nobody was good enough for her. Her father had even shunned away his own family. Emily was turned into quite an odd character due to this type of upbringing. Emily’s love was controlled by her father, a man that was respected and of high class in the community. After her father passed away, Emily tried to act as if it never happened, and she was actually going to keep her father in the house. It was though she did not want to be alone and she was willing to live with her father’s corpse for company. The town’s people almost had to resort to law and force the issue when Emily finally broke down and came to the reality that her father had to be buried. Emily was a reclusive woman hopelessly clinging onto the ways of the Old South but the town around her was growing with the times. One day when Emily meets a Yankee, Homer Barron, and falls in love with him. Homer was part of the construction company that was responsible for the new building a... William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily" Essay -- William Faulkner Rose E William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily" â€Å"A Rose for Emily† by William Faulkner is set in a small Southern town during the post-Civil War era. The story revolves around the strange and tragic events of Miss Emily Grierson’s life. At first glance, Emily seems like a lonely woman with little self-confidence and low self-esteem that seems to stem from her upbringing by her father. There seemed to be some kind of abuse by her father and the fact that she had seemed to have lived such a sheltered life. She was brought up thinking that nobody was good enough for her. Her father had even shunned away his own family. Emily was turned into quite an odd character due to this type of upbringing. Emily’s love was controlled by her father, a man that was respected and of high class in the community. After her father passed away, Emily tried to act as if it never happened, and she was actually going to keep her father in the house. It was though she did not want to be alone and she was willing to live with her father’s corpse for company. The town’s people almost had to resort to law and force the issue when Emily finally broke down and came to the reality that her father had to be buried. Emily was a reclusive woman hopelessly clinging onto the ways of the Old South but the town around her was growing with the times. One day when Emily meets a Yankee, Homer Barron, and falls in love with him. Homer was part of the construction company that was responsible for the new building a...

Competing with Information Technology Essay

Chapter 2 introduces fundamental concepts of competitive advantage through information technology and illustrates major strategic applications of information systems. Information Technology (IT) professionals must understand how to use IT systems and technology to deliver a competitive advantage to the organization. Information systems and technology should provide more than a cost savings benefit to organizations. Today, IT solutions are expected to provide the means to surpass a competitor’s performance. As discussed in Chapter 1, the role of IT professionals is changing. Currently, there is an evolving term, business technology, which is used to describe the emerging role in IT. IT professionals are becoming more and more integrated with the business operations of an organizations. The Real World Case Study 4, â€Å"IT Leaders: Reinventing IT as a Strategic Business Partner,† describes how one organization is reorganizing to better utilize IT to increase business benefits and contribute to a competitive advantage. It is important for an IT organization to utilize IT to reduce the cost of running the business, grow the business, or develop new services to change the business. To position an organization to better provide its products and services, an understanding of the competitive forces is needed. Michael Porter identifies five threats that require business strategies ensure that an organization can out-perform other competitors. They are: 1. Rivalry of competitors within its industry 2. Threat of new entrants 3. Threat posed by substitute products that might capture its market share 4. The bargaining power of customers 5. The bargaining power of suppliers To counteract these threats, competitive strategies must be developed to address the potential risks an organization may encounter as it strives to maintain its position on the market place. The competitive strategies are: 1. Cost Leadership Strategy 2. Differentiation Strategy 3. Innovation Strategy 4. Growth Strategies 5. Alliance Strategies 6. Other Strategies These strategies can be used either individually or in a combination to position an organization to better compete for the future. An example of an organization that is utilizing IT to change how it does business and remain economically viable in the future is the online magazine Cross Talk. In the 1990’s, Cross Talk was printing and mailing the magazine to subscribers. With a decrease in funding, this organization had to develop ways to reduce costs, deliver its services to its subscribers, grow its subscriber base, demonstrate its value above other on-line content providers, and justify why it should not be eliminated. Cross Talk is now available at its new website in either an online digital flipbook format or PDF version—CrossTalk is now completely electronic. This change reduces their carbon footprint and allows them to bring the journal to their readers in their preferred and most convenient format. This is also CrossTalk’s first step towards reaching new reader devices and enhancing the suitability of the journal for our increasing electronic readership. Customer Value Customer value has become a driving force in the world economy. A key success factor for many organizations is developing customer value by increasing customer loyalty, anticipate their future needs, respond to customer concerns, and provide top-quality customer service. One example is Southwest Airlines. Not only have they automated ticket sales via the Internet, Southwest also sends special offers regarding discounts available at my destination, emails to remind customers that the trip is â€Å"around the corner,† text alerts if a flight is delayed, and offers incentives to fly with them. It seems that Southwest Airlines provides a personal assistant to help make the travel experience more enjoyable. Think about how some of your favorite businesses are creating customer value for you. Internet Technologies Many organizations use Internet technologies to create a strategy to offer fast, responsive, high-quality products and services tailored to a customer’s individual preferences. Internet technologies make customers the focal point of customer relationship management (CRM) and other e-business applications. New technologies such as wikis and blogs are also being incorporated as a means to provide enhanced customer experience. Such communications enable continual interaction with customers by creating a cross-functional collaboration with customers in product development, marketing, delivery, service, and technical support. Television is taking advantage of this capability. TV news shows are reading and answering emails and some reality TV shows allow views to vote for their favorite contestant, preferred ending, or favorite commercial. Using the Internet technologies, business units are better able to shape and offer products and services. Value Chain The value chain is another concept that helps to identify opportunities for strategic information systems. It views an organization as a series of basic activities that add value to its products and services. In this framework, activities are organized into primary and support processes. From the business understanding gained by analyzing an organization’s value chain, the IT organization can determine where to best apply IT systems and technology. The following value chain graphic provides an example of how and where information technologies can be applied to specific business processes to gain a competitive advantage in the market place. Value chain offered by information technologies. Business Reengineering Often times, to remain competitive, an organization must consider more than just where and what IT systems and technology solutions should applied. An organization must look at how it actually does business and then reengineer its business processes. Business reengineering requires an organization to re-design how it does business by eliminating stove-piped, silo organizations and functions, develop an improved understanding for opportunities for information sharing, and instituting enhanced stewardship regarding an organizations data and business processes. Agile Companies The rate of change is increasing and organizations must be able to quickly respond to changing market trends. Standardized, long-lived products and services are giving way to globalized, niche markets which offer products that are individualized and short-lived. To become an agile organization, an organization must consider the following strategies. 1. Provide a solution that customers perceive as a solution to an individual problem. This allows the product to be priced based on value rather than cost to produce. 2. Cooperate with customers suppliers, and other companies to quickly bring the product to market. 3. Thrive on change and uncertainty. 4. Leverage the individuals and knowledge of the processes. Become entrepreneurial in spirit. Knowledge as a Competitive Advantage To remain competitive, organization must become a learning organization. Organizations must be able to capture the knowledge of the organization, learn from this knowledge, and then use it to enhance its offerings. Knowledge Management Systems facilitates an organization’s ability to capture and then utilize its knowledge. Understanding and being able to utilize this â€Å"unstructured date† is key to developing and maintain a competitive advantage. Information capture includes processes, procedures, patents, reference works, best practices, etc. This integration of knowledge helps an organization become an innovative and agile provider of high-quality products and customer services, and potentially a more formidable competitor in the market place. Leaders in information technology are expected to be not only a technology professional but also a business professional. Many are tasked with finding emerging business opportunities, driving growth, encouraging innovation, and engaging customers. This provides a tremendous opportunity for you to step up and co-create and ultimately shape the future business vision. Collaborating with the business will not be enough—you don’t just provide the technology but jointly own the success and failure of business initiatives. IT Portfolio Management and Governance An emerging trend is enhanced IT Portfolio Management and Governance as a means to effectively apply IT systems and technology to business needs. According to Richard Spires, DHS CIO, in his blog post entitled Getting Program Governance Right Helps Ensure Success on the federal CIO Council Web site: Complex IT systems encompass at least a half-dozen stakeholder organizations that must be synchronized, including the strategy organization, the business or mission owner of the system, IT, finance, procurement, security, and privacy. Ensuring all key stakeholders are involved in key decisions is an essential element to assuring genuine alignment. Program Governance Boards provide guidance, decision-making, and oversight of one or more programs. The function of the Program Governance Board is not to usurp the authorities of the Program Manager (PM), but rather to provide a forum by which the PM can bring key issues and trade-off decisions to an informed, empowered body that has a vested interest in that program’s success and views the PM as a trusted advisor and true subject matter specialist. IT organizations must determine where to invest time, people, and money in current and new IT systems and services in order to enhance the value of products and services. To do this, many organizations are categorizing offerings into individual portfolios and establishing a strong governance structure to guide the selection and investment into solutions. Enterprise Architecture Organizations are establishing an Enterprise Architecture (EA) to inform, guide and constrain the investment decisions made by governance boards regarding IT systems. The Federal CIO Council defines EA as: Enterprise Architecture is a strategic information asset base, which defines the mission, the information necessary to perform the mission and the technologies necessary to perform the mission, and the transitional processes for implementing new technologies in response to changing mission needs. An enterprise architecture includes a baseline architecture, target architecture (sometimes referred to an as-is and to-be), and a sequencing plan. An EA identifies which processes and IT systems to standardize and integrate. The benefits of an EA are reduction in IT Costs, improved IT responsiveness, guides the proper selection of IT solutions to ensure the accomplishment strategic business outcomes. The components of an enterprise architecture is described in the figure below: Various layers of an enterprise architecture. (Source: NIST) Conclusion How does your organization determine how to invest in IT? You might see if one of your organization’s senior executives is available for a 30 minute meeting to discuss how the organization determines what technologies to invest in as a corporation. Think about questions to ask. Some examples might be: how is an business need identified? How are IT investments justified? Who are your competitors? If you work for an IT consulting firm, you might as how the company decides what contracts it will bid on. It can be said that our use of IT systems and technology is equivalent to when we were using rotary telephones. As you complete your Masters Program at UMUC, remain watchful of emerging trends in the IT industry, how it will be utilized to gain a competitive advantage, and what impact it will have on the skills needed by an IT professional and the organization structure required to take advantage of the advancements in technology. Trends currently occurring that may be worth watching are: cloud computing, software as a service, virtualization, social networks, and mobile computing. It is through developing learning as a life-long habit, remaining aware of trends in the industry, and understanding the impact that technology has on a company’s ability to compete that you, as an individual, will be able to keep your skills current, agile, and competitive.

Pax Romana essays

Pax Romana essays Aelius Aristides obviously believes there are many benefits to the Pax Romana. Aristides feels that having a centrally run government is the best way for an empire to thrive. Through this government, greater trade is capable and no rebellions will occur. Another benefit is the concept of equality. Everyone living under the Roman Empire has citizenship and is therefore is equal. The governor sets an example of the proper way to be a citizen. In turn, the subjects follow by example, thus, order and peace reign throughout. First of all, this speech was given in front of the Emperor. You cannot speak pessimistically of your ruler to his face. Secondly, Aelius Aristides is living in Greece during a time of peace. This peace is very unique and well received in Greece particularly. Living in Greece, Aristides may not see the flaws of the Republic or he just might not care. He would like this peace to last thus giving him a biased viewpoint. The exaggeration used is a means for propaganda. While Aristides knows there are flaws, the good outweighs the bad. I believe Aristides portrayal of the Pax Romana is a fair one. Nowadays, you cannot open the paper without reading about a hostage situation in Russia or a bomb going off in the Middle East. I am a firm believer that the ends justify the means. Yes the Roman Republic was fairly corrupted. Elections were rigged and the citizens really had no political power. The fact of the matter is, between 27 B.C. and A.D. 180, no major wars were fought. The economy went through ups and downs like it always does, but the governmental system in place was structured around equality and assimilation. This proved to be successful and enduring. ...

Running on Ritalin essays

Running on Ritalin essays Running on Ritalin was written by a psychologist, who finds himself torn over the treatment of difficult children. Dr. Lawrence H. Diller has had the opportunity to work with an array of unique children. He also has witnessed his form of profession evolve into something he is not sure he wants to be a part of. Throughout Dr. Diller's book, he presents many cases along with his opinion and actions on them. Within Running on Ritalin, Lawrence H. Diller, M.D. draws upon many issues that ritalin faces today and in its future. In Dr. Diller's book, the main purpose that is expressed is to show the pros and cons of ritalin. Dr. Diller would bring up an example of ritalin use , then allowing us, the readers, to draw to our own conclusions. Though I found his personal opinion interesting and informational, at times it was over baring with negative reflection. While reading the material in Running on Ritalin, I found that he supported his conclusions and generalizations completely. Dr. Lawrence H. Diller always made sure to let you know what his thought process was that lead to the particular outcome . He achieved this by using clear language and by enplaning any technical terms in common language. Yet the book was not a complete bore. Throughout Dr. Lawrence Diller's book he states many of his personal opinions. Many of them supported with a valid source. Still I would find myself drawing to my own conclusion after reading a situation, only to be persuaded into believing his thought process. Not to say that at a majority of the times I felt that I was on the same page with the ideas of Dr. Diller. ...

Examples of Simple Sentences With the Verb Learn

Examples of Simple Sentences With the Verb Learn As an English learner, youll want to know about the verb  learn.  Learn  is one of the few verbs in English that have two acceptable forms for  the past simple and as a participle.  Learnt  or  learned  is acceptable in both American and British English, but  learned  is more common in American English.   Base Form: ​Learn Use the base form of the verb in simple tenses including the present simple. The base form of learn is also used with the future form and modal forms such as  can,  should,  and  must: I usually learn a lot when I travel.Will you learn anything about math today?ï » ¿You should learn at least one foreign language. Past Simple: Learned or Learnt Use either learned  or  learnt  in past simple positive sentences: The children learnt about squirrels in school yesterday.I learned to play the piano at the age of five. Past Participle:  Learned or Learnt Use the past participle  learned  or  learnt  in past, present, and future perfect forms. This past participle form is also used in passive sentences. Perfect Forms: Shelleys learnt a lot in the United States.Peter had learned to count to ten before he turned one year old.They will have learned their lesson by the end of next week. Passive Forms: Latin was learned by most students in the early 1900s.Patience is a lesson that has been learned by anyone trying to study a language. Present Participle: Learning The present participle  learning  is perhaps the most common form as it is used in past, present, and future continuous forms, as well as with the past, present, and future perfect continuous forms: Continuous Forms: Hes learning a little Chinese this month.I wasnt learning anything new when you interrupted the meeting.Hell be learning a lot of new things this time next week. Perfect Continuous Forms: Shes been learning English for a few years.Theyd been learning a lot from Tom before Alice returned.Tom will have been learning Japanese for two years by the end of next term. Example Sentences with Learn Here are example sentences in each  tense in English. As you study these examples, imagine a timeline on which the actions take place to help become familiar with tense usage.  Please note that passive forms are much less common in everyday English than active forms. Present Simple: She learns languages quickly.Present Simple Passive: Math is learnt slowly by some.Present Continuous: Jack is currently learning Russian.Present Continuous Passive: Russian is being learnt by the students.Present Perfect: Angela has learnt four languages.Present Perfect Passive: Four languages have been learnt by Angela.Present Perfect Continuous: Angela has been learning Arabic for the past few months.Past Simple: Jennifer learnt how to play poker yesterday evening.Past Simple Passive: Poker was learnt quickly by all.Past Continuous: She was learning her lesson when he telephoned.Past Continuous Passive: The lesson was being learnt when he arrived.Past Perfect: She had learnt the song by heart before Jack did.Past Perfect Passive: The song had learnt by heart by the class before the singer arrived.Past Perfect Continuous: Our children had been learning English for two months before we moved.Future (will): She will learn quickly.Future (will) passive: A new song will be learnt soon. Future (going to): She is going to learn a new language next year.Future (going to) passive: A new song is going to be learnt next week.Future Continuous: This time next week we will be learning in a new classroom.Future Perfect: She will have learnt everything by the end of the month.Future Possibility: She might learn something new.Real Conditional: If she learns Russian, she will travel to Moscow.Unreal Conditional: If she learnt Russian, she would travel to Moscow.Past Unreal Conditional: If she had learnt Russian, she would have traveled to Moscow.Present Modal: She can learn easily.Past Modal: She cant have learnt that so quickly! Quiz Conjugate with Learn Use the verb learn  to conjugate the following sentences.  In some cases, more than one answer may be correct. Angela _____ Arabic for the past few months.Math _____ slowly by some.Poker _____ quickly by all.She _____ the song by heart before Jack did.A new song _____next week.She _____ everything by the end of the month.If she _____ Russian, she would have traveled to Moscow.Angela _____ four languages.She _____ languages quickly.Jack _____ currently _____ Russian. Answers: has been learningis learnt / is learnedwas learnt / was learnedhad learnt / had learnedis going to be learnt / is going to be learnedwill have learnt / will have learnedhad learnt / had learnedhas learnt / has learnedlearnsis learning

Ancient hero movie Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Ancient hero movie - Essay Example Ancient hero movies are characterized by extraordinary births, the impossible task, opposition to enemies, and the presence of formidable enemies. Some of the movies are based on myths of Greeks and Romans. They tell the story of individuals who are not deterred by the limits of nature. Extraordinary births, strong feelings, and dedication are among the characters that ancient heroes demonstrated. Many modern movies borrow the concept of a hero from this films. For example, the Batman series, Spiderman, Ironman and Justice League are some of the recent movies that have borrowed some hero motifs from ancient movies. ‘Tears of the Sun’ is a modern war film that tells the story of the elite U.S Navy Seal team that is on a mission to retrieve a U.S. citizen in Nigeria after a civil war breaks (Fuqua). The team is under the command of LT A.K. Waters. In the beginning, the rescue team had a simple task, which is to retrieve a U.S. citizen and leave Nigeria. Unfortunately, L.T. A. K. Waters and his men find the odds against them growing stronger. They are forced to make a number of personal choices, which changes their mission to retrieving more than one U.S. citizen. The SEAL team come out as the heroes in the film because they commit the selfless act of putting their live in danger for refugees they have just met. It would have been easy to stick to their mission, which is to retrieve one person and leave Nigeria. The SEALs give their life to protect those who cannot protect themselves. The refugees are trying to escape Nigeria are running away from the execution being orchestrated by the rebel army. Saving these people is equivalent going against a guerrilla army in their territory. In the same way, ancient hero films are characterized by extraordinary individuals who put their lives on the line to save the masses. The SEALs are saviors and protectors, which is a common motif in ancient hero stories. The SEALs are faced with an

Coca Cola (Coke) Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Coca Cola (Coke) Report - Essay Example Contents Contents 3 1. Introduction 4 1. Introduction Coca Cola boosts of having the highest brand equity in the world. According to surveys, one of the most recognized words in the world is â€Å"Coca Cola†. The product Coca Cola continues to dominate the carbonated drinks market despite sturdy headwinds and is well ahead of its competitor Pepsi. Considering a slow but steady move towards non-carbonated healthy drinks, the product has faced mounting pressure to boost and enhance its promotional activity across the globe in order to maintain market share which has seen a decline from 2005-2010 (Euromonitor International, 2011). This report shall investigate and describe the promotional mix and strategies that have enabled the Coca Cola brand to uplift and maintain the leadership of its carbonated Coke beverage across the globe. 2. Promotional mix From partnerships with renowned international brands to using celebrities in advertisements to keep the youth hooked, Coke has effec tively been promoted through all promotional media. In 2006, for instance, Coca Cola distributed approximately 70 million codes of songs inside Coke’s packs which were redeemable at Apple’s i-tunes store (Telecomworldwire, 2006). ... The diamonds had three shapes namely round, marquise and princess each of which corresponded to personalities attached to Vanilla Coke, Lemon Coke and Coke Light respectively (Hargrave-Silk, 2004). This was one of the most expensive promotional campaigns of its times beating its rival products such as Pepsi. This strategy also reflects how Coke’s lifestyle-oriented promotions aim at aspiring young, exuberant, contemporary men and women. The attributes of the Coke drink are reflected in its advertisements. For instance, one of the ads depicted a confident, bold and sexually appealing customer at a restaurant where Coke was sponsoring a giveaway (Hargrave-Silk, 2004). As mentioned earlier, Coca Cola has effectively used psychological marketing in its promotional mix. The company has also partnered with Parts Connection (a motor trade dealer) whereby a can of Coke is given with every purchase worth $100. The can is worth $1,000 of petrol (Motor Equipment News, 2009). At the end o f a particular period, the labelled cans can be used for drinking Coke (Motor Equipment News, 2009). This has given cash starved customers another reason to purchase spare parts from this dealer. The product has such a huge fan following that some of the company’s promotional efforts have fallen short of its customers’ expectations. As part of its regular line of promotion, the Coke brand has been running an online loyalty program for its Coke fans which has become a source of disappointment for its loyal fans. These fans claim to have collected several codes from bottle caps in return for points only to discover that few of the expensive products (against which the points are redeemable) have run out of stock

Corporate social responsibilty Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Corporate social responsibilty - Assignment Example The program towards social responsibility would include higher job creation and greater products through market action (Steiner, 2009, Chapter 5). The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, for instance, is built to source the fortune of Microsoft towards improving education and helping poor people suffering from neglected diseases (Steiner, chapter 6).Likewise, Ski-in Inc. has plans of having an annual donation scheme for two orphanages in one of the developing countries of Africa. The social costs or the negative externalities on the society are to be minimized through environmental friendly products. A new section of apparels would be launched that would be bio-degradable. Moreover, ways to recompense the pollution and harm inflicted by the production process are in progress. For every bio-degradable apparel sold, Ski-in will plant one tree. Since, our products have a considerably good market; this program is going to benefit our organization and also the environment. However, the mai n function of the corporate is not social charity but profitability. Nevertheless, involving in controversies like that of Nike with respect to its labor practices and social duties and General Electric Company under CEO Jack Welch need to be avoided (Steiner, 2009, chapter 6). Hence, the idea is to make innovations and create profits through environmental protection and social enhancement. Greater production would create jobs in the society and help reduce unemployment. It would also generate higher corporate taxes that would benefit the society. Pumping in more products would serve the consumers and give them greater satisfaction. Thus, the utility of the consumers would increase. Also planting trees would help in the reduction of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere and hence help to curb global warming. However, these programs would take time to materialize and incur costs both in

Epistemology Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Epistemology - Assignment Example Empirical form of knowledge can determine truth based on the actual experience of an individual through events or things that happen around the environment. b.) EMPIRICAL claims there are the four different theories concerning the determination of the truth of empirical claims: Correspondence theory of truth Coherence theory Pragmatist theory Scientific Theory Describe each of these four theories for proving empirical claims to be true. Explain each one. Do not simply list them. Describe them and explain them. This will take more than one sentence for each one. Correspondence theory is an empirical theory of truth that was espoused by Aristotle that holds that truth is what propositions are consequent to a way things in the world are. In other words, this theory claims that a proposition is true as long as there are present and existing facts that correspond to it. Coherence theory accounts for a proposition’s truth that occurs from an association between that proposition and another proposition. In that way, coherence theory will assert that a proposition is true if it fits together and coheres with any other related proposition. Pragmatic theory holds that a proposition is true if it is practical to accept as true.  This concept of truth was formed by the American Pragmatic philosophers such as C.S Peirce, William James and John Dewey who believed that the mark of truth is based on its practical utility above anything else. Beliefs that result to the best outcomes, are justified best from actions, that advance practical achievement, are held as  truths. Scientific truth hold that knowledge can only be sought ascertained through various scientific methods or operations that can lessen the chances of uncertainty since it is generally held by scientists that truth at best can is only approximate and never absolute. For the scientific theory, the method on reaching a close-to-certain result is just as important as the outcome itself. For if a method is based on opinion alone, it would be considered nothing more than just subjective bias. 2.) Critical Thinking c.) What do you think of the theory that there can be simultaneous multiple truths concerning claims? Concerning all types of claims? Does it apply to claims that are semantic, systemic, logical or empirical? Comment on each type. Can there be multiple truths for each type of claim? For any type of claim? Please indicate your familiarity with the readings in your answer -this means use some quotations to support your answers. Subjectivism and Relativism would claim that there are various points of views regarding a certain truth. The reason due to this is because there are different situations and circumstances that happen that are sometimes overlooked, whether intentionally or unintentionally, by the objective forms of knowledge. This could also apply to semantic, systemic, logical and empirical forms of knowledge. Semantic knowledge is knowledge that is the result of learn ing the meaning of words which the knowledge of words is knowledge of definitions, and such definitions are set in dictionaries (Pecorino, â€Å"An Introduction to Philosophy†). It should be taken into consideration that there are various languages around the world, and each language has their own rules or way of inferring

Does the implimentation of the national health insurance program in Research Proposal

Does the implimentation of the national health insurance program in Ghana help reduce HIV AIDS which is prevlant in rural Ghana - Research Proposal Example The government marginalizes sex workers as not of interest, therefore the disease is not given the due consideration in the newly democratized stated (Howley, 2010, p. 367). The prevention of HIV/AIDS through behavior modification has been a primary resource for addressing the disease (Howley 2010, p. 186). According to the International Monetary Fund (2006), HIV/AIDS issues are recognized as a threat to the â€Å"socioeconomic development of the country through its potential impact on human capital development, productivity, and social services deliveryâ€Å"(p. 109). In 2006 the following measures were taken in working towards prevention of the disease within the nation of Ghana: The following table shows the number of people who were benefiting from ART as of December of 2006. At that time, there were 50,942 people in need of services with only 7,338 benefiting from art which represents only 14.4% of those in need(International Monetary Fund, 2006, p. 109). Ghana has seen a decline in poverty from 39.5% in the 1998 to 1999 years to 28.5% in 2006 (African Development Bank., & OECD, 2008). In addition, there has been a concerted effort on the part pf the government to address the needs of their citizens in regard to health care. According to former President of Ghana, Jerry John Rawlings, Ghana suffers from a poor system of health care that is lead by a staff of insensitive and unprofessional medical personal and complicated by poor infrastructure and a lack of equipment. The staffs of hospitals are burdened by a lack of everything, thus leaving them jaded and without motivation (Modernghana.com 2010). In addition, the National Health Insurance Scheme that has been put into place is beleaguered by problems and is not providing the much needed services that the people need in order to have adequate health care. The National Health Insurance Scheme is the product of the administration led by John Kufuor. However, one of the exceptions to

A Prescriptive Agenda for School Restructuring Essay

A Prescriptive Agenda for School Restructuring - Essay Example In their study School Restructuring as a Policy Agenda, Mussoline and Shouse (2001) highlights this relationship - between school restructuring and their consequent effect - by asking, "[t]o what extent should one expect the technical reforms linked to restructuring to produce consistent achievement effects across all types of schools" (p. 45). Taking a similar position, this essay will argue that school restructuring will not be successful, especially in less affluent schools with low socioeconomic status, if restructuring practices are reduced to a list of prescriptive policy agendas imposed upon schools due to the effect contextual factors have on the success and eventual outcome of restructuring. Looking into the literature of school reform, there has been numerous practice identified by different schools of thought outlining ways for restructuring schools. From such literature, it is apparent that each restructuring practice have its own set of requirements for successful implementation. On the other hand, each school also has its own set of organizational and instructional characteristics that determine its ability to implement changes within the overall school structure which affect the effectiveness of school restructuring (p. 47). ... and Murphy's study entitled "The Social contest of Effective Schools," Mussoline and Shouse identifies principal-teacher relations, decision-making, and parental involvement as factors that distinguishes a school's organizational and instructional capabilities (Mussoline and Shouse, 2001, 47). These factors also distinguish schools between high and low socioeconomic statuses (SES). According to Shouse, given the distinction between schools with low and high SES, there are certain kinds of restructuring practices that did not yield the same beneficial results when implemented in low SES schools if compared to schools with high SES (p. 48). Contextual factors therefore have a hand in altering the effects of restructuring practices among schools with low SES. Hence, it is only logical to conclude that prescribing a single policy agenda for school restructuring may not be beneficial for the school system, in general, and for low SES schools, in particular, if not all schools can positive ly benefit from the prescribed restructuring practices. Contextual factors have significant effects on school restructuring in two ways: first, given the lack of social resources among low SES schools, these schools do not have the necessary safety nets present among high SES schools that reduces the risks of flawed, poorly executed, or highly complex instructional practices (p. 49). As Mussoline and Shouse argues, schools with high SES have more responsive students that increases the positive effects from restructured practices, especially those that prescribe constructivist and student-centered reforms. In addition, the academically oriented support structures present in these communities also helps reinforce the restructuring practices being implemented. Together, student

Epistemology Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Epistemology - Assignment Example Empirical form of knowledge can determine truth based on the actual experience of an individual through events or things that happen around the environment. b.) EMPIRICAL claims there are the four different theories concerning the determination of the truth of empirical claims: Correspondence theory of truth Coherence theory Pragmatist theory Scientific Theory Describe each of these four theories for proving empirical claims to be true. Explain each one. Do not simply list them. Describe them and explain them. This will take more than one sentence for each one. Correspondence theory is an empirical theory of truth that was espoused by Aristotle that holds that truth is what propositions are consequent to a way things in the world are. In other words, this theory claims that a proposition is true as long as there are present and existing facts that correspond to it. Coherence theory accounts for a proposition’s truth that occurs from an association between that proposition and another proposition. In that way, coherence theory will assert that a proposition is true if it fits together and coheres with any other related proposition. Pragmatic theory holds that a proposition is true if it is practical to accept as true.  This concept of truth was formed by the American Pragmatic philosophers such as C.S Peirce, William James and John Dewey who believed that the mark of truth is based on its practical utility above anything else. Beliefs that result to the best outcomes, are justified best from actions, that advance practical achievement, are held as  truths. Scientific truth hold that knowledge can only be sought ascertained through various scientific methods or operations that can lessen the chances of uncertainty since it is generally held by scientists that truth at best can is only approximate and never absolute. For the scientific theory, the method on reaching a close-to-certain result is just as important as the outcome itself. For if a method is based on opinion alone, it would be considered nothing more than just subjective bias. 2.) Critical Thinking c.) What do you think of the theory that there can be simultaneous multiple truths concerning claims? Concerning all types of claims? Does it apply to claims that are semantic, systemic, logical or empirical? Comment on each type. Can there be multiple truths for each type of claim? For any type of claim? Please indicate your familiarity with the readings in your answer -this means use some quotations to support your answers. Subjectivism and Relativism would claim that there are various points of views regarding a certain truth. The reason due to this is because there are different situations and circumstances that happen that are sometimes overlooked, whether intentionally or unintentionally, by the objective forms of knowledge. This could also apply to semantic, systemic, logical and empirical forms of knowledge. Semantic knowledge is knowledge that is the result of learn ing the meaning of words which the knowledge of words is knowledge of definitions, and such definitions are set in dictionaries (Pecorino, â€Å"An Introduction to Philosophy†). It should be taken into consideration that there are various languages around the world, and each language has their own rules or way of inferring

A Prescriptive Agenda for School Restructuring Essay

A Prescriptive Agenda for School Restructuring - Essay Example In their study School Restructuring as a Policy Agenda, Mussoline and Shouse (2001) highlights this relationship - between school restructuring and their consequent effect - by asking, "[t]o what extent should one expect the technical reforms linked to restructuring to produce consistent achievement effects across all types of schools" (p. 45). Taking a similar position, this essay will argue that school restructuring will not be successful, especially in less affluent schools with low socioeconomic status, if restructuring practices are reduced to a list of prescriptive policy agendas imposed upon schools due to the effect contextual factors have on the success and eventual outcome of restructuring. Looking into the literature of school reform, there has been numerous practice identified by different schools of thought outlining ways for restructuring schools. From such literature, it is apparent that each restructuring practice have its own set of requirements for successful implementation. On the other hand, each school also has its own set of organizational and instructional characteristics that determine its ability to implement changes within the overall school structure which affect the effectiveness of school restructuring (p. 47). ... and Murphy's study entitled "The Social contest of Effective Schools," Mussoline and Shouse identifies principal-teacher relations, decision-making, and parental involvement as factors that distinguishes a school's organizational and instructional capabilities (Mussoline and Shouse, 2001, 47). These factors also distinguish schools between high and low socioeconomic statuses (SES). According to Shouse, given the distinction between schools with low and high SES, there are certain kinds of restructuring practices that did not yield the same beneficial results when implemented in low SES schools if compared to schools with high SES (p. 48). Contextual factors therefore have a hand in altering the effects of restructuring practices among schools with low SES. Hence, it is only logical to conclude that prescribing a single policy agenda for school restructuring may not be beneficial for the school system, in general, and for low SES schools, in particular, if not all schools can positive ly benefit from the prescribed restructuring practices. Contextual factors have significant effects on school restructuring in two ways: first, given the lack of social resources among low SES schools, these schools do not have the necessary safety nets present among high SES schools that reduces the risks of flawed, poorly executed, or highly complex instructional practices (p. 49). As Mussoline and Shouse argues, schools with high SES have more responsive students that increases the positive effects from restructured practices, especially those that prescribe constructivist and student-centered reforms. In addition, the academically oriented support structures present in these communities also helps reinforce the restructuring practices being implemented. Together, student

Collision Course †NEOs Essay Example for Free

Collision Course – NEOs Essay When looking at the Earth in the Solar System, there are many fascinating objects, and also many dangerous ones. NEOs, or Near Earth Objects are constantly being studied to determine the actual possibility of collision with the Earth. Most NEOs consist of meteors, meteorites, comets and asteroids. Though most of the objects are too small to cause any sort of substantial damage, there are a few that are capable of causing the next major extinction. In order for an object to be considered a NEO, it must be within 1. 3 AUs (or astronomical units) from the Sun. 1.3 AU is the same as about 93 million miles. The NEOs are objects that have been bumped by the gravity of other planets which let them get close to the Earths orbit.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   One of the major groups of NEOs are meteoroids. The term meteor is actually used to describe the streak of visible light after its trip through the Earths orbit. One of the most famous craters, which   is like a giant scar caused by a NEO hitting the Earth, is in Arizona. Meteor Crater, or Barringer Meteorite Crater as it is also known as, is a jarring reminder of what kind of damage a NEO can do upon impact. Most meteors are small enough that once they are pulled in by the Earths orbit and hit the atmosphere, they burn up and disintegrate before they ever get the chance to actually hit the Earths surface.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another group of NEOs are asteroids. One of the largest asteroids that astronomers keep their eyes on is Apophis. This giant is due to hit the Earth in 2036. The size of Apophis is estimated to be a bit larger then the Rose Bowl, and if it were to hit the Earth would cause global damage. If it hits the ocean, the damage occurring from the huge tsunamis by themselves would be catastrophic.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another class of objects that are visible to the naked eye are comets. When speaking of them as NEOs, then they are considered to be old comet nuclei whose perihelia are less then 1.3 AU from the Sun. One comet in particular that has been known through history is Halleys Comet. Also, the trail of cosmic dust, or tail of the comet can also be passed through by the Earth.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In conclusion, NASA is taking steps to try and diminish the risk of being hit by a NEO by continually watching and cataloging the orbits and behaviors of NEOs. What remedies that have been looked at so far to try and deal with the risk of being hit is to explode nuclear weapons near the object to try and change its course. Other considerations that have been looked at is sending high-speed ballistic missiles towards the object to make an impact, or to send a hovering spacecraft to pull the object into a different orbit, thereby allowing it to miss the Earth altogether. The future for watching NEOs is strongly backed now more then ever before. Washington has allowed a $4 million dollar budget for listing potential and real threats to the Earth, and sent a new report to congress in March 2007. Considering the probability that the Earth will be hit again, as it has been hit in the past requires that the scientific community take heed of the risk, and not only be able to prepare the world for such a catastrophe, but be able to prevent it as well. References http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/multimedia/neo/index.cfm http://www.nasa.gov/centers/hq/home/index.html http://newton.dm.unipi.it/cgi-bin/neodys/neoibo?info:0;faq#nea

Nissans Global Strategy

Nissans Global Strategy Nissans global strategy with focus towards its entry and expansion to India Introduction Globalisation in terms of strategy actually makes us aware of to two simultaneous changes, the globalisation of industries and the globalisation of markets. The globalisation of industries refers to the increased integration of business across national borders due to rapid advancement in communications, transportations and the absence of wide spread high intensity world conflict leading to increased international trade flows and foreign direct investment. The technological advances combined with successful implementation of free trade policies by many countries has resulted in companies being able to expand their operations internationally as well as compete itself in multiple countries. The globalisation of markets refers to the concept that demand preferences are becoming more homogenous across national borders which means people are increasingly looking for same product around the world. Both these aspects play predominant importance in a firms global strategy towards its expansio n internationally. (Scott Gallagher, 2005) Nissans Global Strategy Nissan Motors global strategy involves its aim to become an industry leader in zero-emission vehicles and to cultivate developing markets with low-cost global cars. As part of zero-emission environmental friendly vehicles, it would be beginning with the launching of the new electric vehicles (EVs) which would be powered by advanced lithium-ion batteries to be jointly developed with electronic maker NEC Corp. The EV to be introduced will have a unique body style on an all-new vehicle platform which would be compact for the city, yet big enough to carry five adults. Importantly, it will be thoroughly usable with brisk performance and a range of 160kms. It will have the performance of a typical 1.6-litre petrol-engine car while recharging from a high voltage source will restore 80 per cent of the battery capacity in around 30 minutes. The company with its alliance partner Renault, which holds 44% stake in it, has been developing partnerships with various governments and specialist compa nies to build a sustainable mobility network and create public awareness towards EVs as its preparing for marketing them on a mass scale. Various understanding has been signed with electricity companies, charging station suppliers and governments to promote the concept of zero emission mobility and provide infrastructure support, craft legislation or offer incentives such as tax relief, parking or toll rebates for EV buyers (Source: The Japan Times online, May 14, 2008). Cultivating developing markets with low-cost global cars, Nissan is globally launching its new small car on a fresh global platform. The common global platform strategy is part of Nissans endeavour to produce a host of cars, be it hatchbacks or sedans, across five countries in which thus far India, China and Thailand have been identified as key manufacturing locations. The new small car, touted as a replacement for the Micra, will first go into production in Thailand with shipping out key components from India and t hen later on the production would be from India. Nissans Entry Expansion to India As part of its entry and expansion to India, the company is tying up with its alliance partner Renault and stetted up a manufacturing facility in Chennai, India with an investment of INR 4500 crores, which will have a capacity of producing four lakh units. It also has alliance with Ashok Leyland to build Light Commercial Vehicles, with Bajaj to develop ultra-low-cost cars, with Hover for marketing, sales and dealer development support and with Maruti-Suzuki to export A-segment vehicles to Europe (Source: The Hindu Business Line, Sep 30, 2009). Apart from setting up a manufacturing facility, Nissan Motors India Private Limited is also developing a high-tech research and development facility in Chennai mainly used for developing Robotic painting that would help in boosting up the quality, enhance flexibility, increase saving and improve safety for its international business. This R D facility would allow the company to claim the weighted tax deduction of up to 150% for in-house resear ch and R D activities entitled by the government of India, making its product more likely cheaper (Source: Rediff India Abroad, Apr 10, 2009). The company believes that the scope of growth in India is immense since the penetration of vehicles into the markets is less than 50 per 1000 nationals compared to US of 800, Germany, Japan, UK and France of 600 vehicles per 1,000 people. The total industry volume globally increased 6.1 per cent even though Western Europe was flat, the US market was down 3.5 per cent and Japan was down 5.3 per cent in 2008 (Source: Business Standard, May 13, 2008). As part of its marketing strategy, the company, which already has two models ‘Teana and ‘X-Trail for the Indian market from 2004 onwards, is rolling out new sports car ‘Z370 in 2010 and fully redesigned luxury sedan ‘Teana and ‘X-Trail. The ‘Teana which was pitted against the Volkswagen Passat and the BMW 3 Series, won the Indian Executive Car of the Year 2008 for its excellence in driving comfort, performance, design and style, purpose with relevance and value for money. All these three vehicles is brought as Completely Built Units from Japan paying 109 percent duty showing that the company is making all possible efforts to expand its presence in India. Apart from that the company, will increase its product range to nine models by 2012, five of which will be manufactured in the Chennai plant. The first among these, to be launched in mid 2010, will be a hatchback based on the platform of Nissan Micra, expected to be priced close to INR 5 lakhs in t he Indian market (Source: The Economic Times, Sep 27, 2009). The company will begin exporting to Europe by second half of 2010, approximately 110,000 units (expected to grow to 180,000 units in future), manufactured in India per year, for which it has a contract manufacturing alliance with Maruti Suzuki. For exporting from Chennai, India, it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Ennore Port Ltd (EPL), making it the first automaker to utilize this eastern gateway port of India as an export base. EPL will complete development of a berth with space of 140,000m2 for vehicles by the end of June 2010 and would provide dedicated jetty for exports of Nissan cars to Europe (Source: Drive Inside.com, Oct 18, 2008). There is no information on how Nissan is going to price its car in Europe, exported from India, but the company will have to definitely address the import-export tariff rates as the EU-India Free Trade Agreement is still under negotiation and is most likely to be signed at the end of 2010. Regarding the exchange rate issues, it will depend upon which currency the company is going to invoice on. If its in US Dollars, as done for most of the trading between EU and India, then the company would have to look into the exchange rates between Indian Rupee Dollar and Dollar Euro. If its going for Euro trade, then it would have to address the exchange rates between Euro and Indian Rupee. In both these cases, the company will have to come up with fixed exchange values for fixing price and hope that it does not vary drastically on the negative side leading to reduced profit margins. The company wouldnt have problem converting the profit to Japanese Yen as the Indian currency is fully convertible in the current account. Business in India Doing business in India is all about knowing the system, reading the signals (political and economic) as well as understanding the mood of the market before making investment decisions. The country is politically stable having a parliamentary system of democracy, economically growing rapidly at around 8% in spite of economic downturn, culturally diversified and technologically advanced. It has an efficiently structured business enterprise system with regulatory laws in place which are updated regularly, in keeping with the needs of the industrial and management systems. It is the home to a huge middle class population whose purchasing power parity is rapidly growing which itself forms to one of the biggest consumer bases in the world, besides the growth potential, relatively low risk on investment, easy availability of highly skilled manpower, established contract law, developed legal system, modernizing stock markets, national banking system and democratic institutions constitutes t o some of its advantages. Indias return on investment is one of the highest in the world at 19% compared to Chinas at 14% owing to efficient use of capital, the reason for it is the cost of doing business in India is lower than most countries of the world because of the availability of inexpensive labour and advanced telecommunications (Source: Doing Business in India 2009, WB IFC). The business culture of India is a reflection of the various norms and standards followed by its people. It is so diversified that it changes between every province affecting the way business is done. A sound knowledge of Indias cultural practices and business etiquettes is necessary for any trade or business venture within the country. A proper understanding of culture and business etiquette would not only demonstrate a respect for India but will also create a feel good factor amongst the prospective clients. Culturally and as a mark of politeness, Indians have difficulty in saying no, this could be a stumbling block in negotiations and in closing contracts. The notion of time, time management, punctuality is still an anathema in India. It is more to do with the mindset and ingrained in the Indian culture. It would not be surprising if meetings are postponed, re scheduled, cancelled or organized at a very short notice. Bureaucratic hurdles and a laidback approach to work in the gove rnment circles results in delay in processing and overload of paperwork, hence immense patience is necessary for any business transaction. Also due to the lack of infrastructure and inadequate supply chain management, doing business need to be carefully organised and should be ready to overcome such hurdles. The companies follow the hierarchical system and decision making is usually from the top to bottom (Sandy Naidu, 2008). All companies doing business in India must comply with the regulatory laws under the Companies Act, 1956. It is mandatory for every company in India to register its Articles and Memorandum of Association with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) and should accompany Declaration of Compliance which must be duly stamped and signed by an advocate of the High Court or Supreme Court or chartered accountant in whole time practice, Notice of the situation of the registered company, Particulars of Directors and the ROCs letter indicating the approval of the nomenclature of the company in original. Automotive in India The automobile industry in India is the ninth largest in the world with an annual production of over 2 million units. It emerged as Asias fourth largest exporter of automobiles, behind Japan, South Korea and Thailand. Following economic liberalization in India in 1991 which included opening for international trade and investment, deregulation, initiation of privatization, tax reforms and inflation-controlling measures, the Indian automotive industry has demonstrated sustained growth as a result of increased competitiveness and relaxed restrictions. The industry clearly stands out as a significant contributor to the economic growth as it contributes to almost 4% to the GDP, accounting for about 5% of the total industrial output (KPMGs India Automotive Study, 2007). The Indian automobile industry has seen rapid technological change over the last decade in terms of both product characteristics as well as manufacturing processes. At the same time, technological changes and the deepening of technological capabilities have been confined not only to the car manufacturers but also to the auto components industry. The industry has witnessed an unprecedented boom in recent years, owing to the improvement in living standards of the middle class and a significant increase in their disposable incomes added up with easy availability of car loans, affordable rates of interest, smooth repayment facilities and the deductions offered by the retailers (KPMGs India Automotive Study, 2007). Keeping that in mind, most of the major global car manufacturers have established a presence, either through their subsidiaries or through Joint Ventures. These manufacturers have access to the latest technology in product, manufacturing process terms and range of products usin g which trying to make inroads into the Indian market. This has helped transform the technological landscape of the Indian car market by segmenting itself with all varieties of car models like the small cars, mid-size cars, luxury cars, super luxury cars and sports utility vehicles. The constant changes in the existing car models with regard to design, innovation, technology and colours have led to a fiercely competitive market. In spite of all these, the small cars still hold the major market share in terms of sales, making most of the manufacturers to develop cost effective technology to compete in that segment, since the consumers are extremely cost-conscious and have greater awareness towards the latest technologies. Seeing the rapid growth of vehicles in the country, government of India introduced range of policies to tackle vehicular pollution, as a major step towards this, India-2000 norms were introduced, which is Euro-I equivalent. Subsequently Bharat Stage-II (Euro-II equivalent) norms were put into place for passenger cars and multi-utility vehicles and now BS-III BS-IV norms are being adopted in highly polluted cities (Chikkatur, Ananth Sagar, 2007) . At the same time, government has also mandated a reduction of a number of critical pollutants from automobile fuels. Meeting these standards requires the implementation of some combination of technologies such as fuel injection, multi-valve engines, catalytic converters, fixed exhaust gas recirculation and need substantial change in engine design (A.D.Sagar P.Chandra, 2006). All these factors like intense competition, customers price sensitivity, increasingly sophisticated demands and progressively tighter emission standards have acted in concert to place a tremendous pressure on the manufacturers to reduce costs as well as offer an improved and wider range of technological features to their Indian and global customers. This, in turn, has resulted in a series of changes in the technological landscape of the Indian automobile industry. Challenges for Indian Automotive Industry Among the many issues facing the Indian automotive industry, the biggest by far is the poor road infrastructure. Indias road network, comprising of a modest national highway system is woefully inadequate and shabby and can barely keep pace with the auto industrys rapid growth. Most roads are single-lane roads crowded with two-wheelers, bullock carts, pedestrian humans and even cows. Traffic laws are not well enforced leading to one of the highest per-capita accident rates in the world. Secondly, attracting and nurturing talented manpower not only for the creation of better and reliable products but also for servicing and maintenance throughout the life cycle of the product. Thirdly, the massive increase in the cost of input materials like steel which has increased by almost 40%, copper by 45% and natural rubber by 40% and also the significant tariffs imposed on import products and components combined with the inconsistency of currency exchange rates make localization compulsory for c ompanies entering the Indian market. Some of the other issues are like inadequate testing facilities and inspection, maintenance and certification system. Presently the country has testing facilities at the Automotive Research Association of India and the Vehicle Research and Development Establishment, but the need for additional and more extensive test facilities has become clearer in the past few years. The country has Inspection and Maintenance policy but it is widely regarded as having only limited effectiveness and an upgraded inspection, maintenance and certification system with better enforcement is urgently needed (Automotive Mission Plan 2006- 2016, Dec 2006). Challenges for Nissan in India Other than the challenges discussed above, that is existing in the automobile sector in India, Nissan will have to overcome some of its own operational challenges like teaching the mindset of ‘Kaizen to its workers and local suppliers and to constantly and consistently raise their quality standards. Kaizen simply means continuous or constant improvement. In Japanese Kai means â€Å"to take apart† and zen means â€Å"to make good.† Together these two words mean to take something apart in order to make it better. Kaizen is based on the fundamentals of scientific analysis in which you â€Å"take apart† the elements of a process or system to understand how it works, and then discover how to influence or improve it. Continuous improvement is the small, gradual, incremental changes applied over a long period of time that add up to a major impact on business and quality results, the realisation of how important a smallest idea is in attaining greatest results. As part of that, under the guidance of team of engineers from Nissan and Honda, Caparo India, the Indian unit of a British auto parts maker that manufacturers steel body panels and other metal parts, have built up a new assembly lines using the Japanese and Taiwanese factory equipment and have effectively adopted Kaizen management (Source: The New York Times, Jun 26, 2008). The other threat the company has is, entering a market segment that is highly competitive, dominated by old players like Maruti-Suzuki, Hyundai Motors and Tata Motors, which together hold majority of the market share for so many years building the confidence of the customers, making it a late entry. The first car to be revealed by Nissan from the platform of Nissan Micra is going to compete with established and highly selling brands like ‘Swift of Maruti-Suzuki, ‘Getz of Hyundai Motors and ‘Indigo of Tata Motors, two of this brand are also exported to Europe. Conclusion But in spite of all these challenge and threat factors, the company positions itself well and capitalise on its strengths like major global presence making it a reliable and approved international brand, commendable presence in the Europe market, good tie-ups with local Indian manufacturers like Bajaj, Mahindra and Ashok Leyland enabling them the ease of penetration by understanding the needs of customers and customising it accordingly. More than that, since the Indian car industry is expected to grow from 2 Million to 8 Million units by 2020, gives considerable opportunity to all players and Nissan could be one of the main gainers keeping in mind its international reputation and standards. References * Ambuj D. Sagar Pankaj Chandra (2006), Technological Change in the Indian Passenger Car Industry, Indian Institute of Management * AMP- Automotive Mission Plan 2006- 2016 The Department of Heavy Industries, Government of India (Dec 2006), www.siamindia.com/upload/AMP.pdf * Chikkatur, Ananth, and Ambuj Sagar (2007), â€Å"Cleaner Power in India: Towards a Clean-Coal-Technology Roadmap†, Indian Institute of Management * Doing Business in India 2009, World Bank and International Financial Corporation * KPMGs India Automotive Study 2007, ‘Domestic Growth and Global Aspirations, KPMG International, 2007. * Sandy Naidu (2008), A Detailed Pocket Guide To Indian Business Culture, IQebooks.com * Scott Gallagher (2005), Why Does Firm Performance Differ? * Business Standard, May 13, 2008, www.business-standard.com/india * Drive Inside.com, Oct 18, 2008, www.driveinside.com/News/Press-Releases/55XGNS/NISSAN-WILL-BE-FIRST-AUTOMAKER-TO-EXPORT-FROM-ENNORE-PORT.aspx * Rediff India Abroad, Apr 10, 2009, http://www.rediff.com//money/2009/apr/10nissan-micra-in-india-in-2010.htm * The Hindu Business Line, Sep 30, 2009, www.blonnet.com/2009/09/30/stories * The Japan Times online, May 14, 2008, http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nb20080514a2.html * The Economic Times, Sep 27, 2009, http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/ news-by-industry/auto/automobiles/Nissan-to-launch-sports-car-Z370-in-India-in-2010/articleshow/5059873.cms * The New York Times, Jun 26, 2008, www.nytimes.com/2008/06/26/ business/worldbusiness/26iht-nissan.4.14028225.html * www.fleetcar.ie/index.php/news/169-nissan-puts-zero-emissions-at-centre-of-its-global-strategy * www.nissannews.com * www.stylusinc.com/business/india Bibliography * Indian Brand Equity Foundation, www.ibef.org/economy/economyoverview.aspx * Robin John Grazia Letto Gillies (2007), Global business strategy * SIAM -Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, www.siamindia.com * Tilman Altenburga, Hubert Schmitzb Andreas Stamma (2007), Breakthrough  Indias Transition from Production to Innovation * www.carazoo.com/autonews/0603200802/Nissan-keen-on-Indiaas-key-production-centre-for-future-cars * www.mfg-matters.com/kaizen/ * www.nissan-global.com/EN/DOCUMENT/HTML/FINANCIAL/SPEECH/2008/e-20080513.html