Spanish Food Essay - 889 Words

Spain, the third largest country in Europe, has a strong history and diverse culture dating back to when the Iberians first inhabited the land. The country lies between the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean and the land ranges from mountains to meadows. Over hundreds of centuries, many different civilizations have inhabited the land influencing the people there today. From the Visigoths and Celts to the Romans of the Middle Ages, Spain has received a rich history and background. One of the strongest of its cultures is the food. All of these cultures brought a particular type of food and combined and blended with the food that exists there today. Spain is very popular for olives, vineyards, and citrus fruit. Another well-liked food is†¦show more content†¦Jamon Serrano is a type of ham that is eaten throughout Spain in bars as well as restaurants. The ham dangles from the ceiling with its feet and head still attached. There is typically a container used to collect the juic es that drip from the ham. Using a flexible and sharp knife, the ham is placed onto a clamp and cut into very thin pieces. Spain is the world leader in air-dried ham production, making roughly 190,000 tons per year. The hams spend at least three months in the mountain air and are subject to a period of time in salt. The hams are most popularly eaten with bread and a glass of red wine. Sangria, which has grown to be a world-famous drink, is a type of alcoholic punch made from wine, brandy, and mixed fruits. Served in virtually every bar and restaurant in Spain, it is normal for Sangria to have its own homemade recipe at every venue. Some choose to make Sangria with white wine instead of read. This type of drink is called Sangria Blanco, or White Sangria. Mixing together wine, fruit juices, soda water, brandy, and chilling it overnight, is the typical recipe for classic Sangria. Paella, consisting of yellow rice, vegetables, seafood, and the popular saffron, is an extremely popular dish in Spain. Almost every village has its own version of paella, each variety a slight variation of the common â€Å"Paella Mixta† or Mixed Paella. The name of the dish originates from the pan used to prepareShow MoreRelatedThe Languages and Cuisine of Mexico Essays863 Words   |  4 Pagesthe overwhelming majority of Mexicans today speak Spanish making it the largest Spanish speaking population in the world there is no single official national language of Mexico. The colonizers of Mexico forced the Spanish language on the natives, but in the 1990s the government recognized 62 indigenous Amerindian languages, including Aztec, or Nahuatl, and the Mayan family of languages, as national languages. About 6 % of the population is non-Spanish speaking, and some indigenous Mexican words haveRead MoreSpain And South Korea s Food Culture1470 Words   |  6 PagesAlso known as S pain s food is very intense and flavorful. In fact, in a previous block, I wrote an essay about compared with Spain and South Korea s food culture. Food of Spain and Korea deal in common. Both countries have love of the spicy foods, and rice is a main ingredient. So Korean food is often popular in Spain and also, South Koreans are also very fond of Spanish food. Actually, I recently worked in a Spanish cuisine restaurant in Takapuna. I feel like that Spanish food has so fast cookingRead MoreLatin American Music And Its Impact On America915 Words   |  4 Pageshelped build this country since their cultures have been adopted in this country and them also apport help to this country. Latin Americans have made a lot of contributions to the USA such as military, language, fine arts, literal arts, music, politics, food and others. Economic Music Hispanic’s music had a great impact in USA. Nowadays, Americans listen to Hispanics’ music. Hispanics’ music now is part of American’s culture. These changes in USA began around of 19th century, when Hispanics immigrationRead MoreSpan and Puerto Rico Cultural Similarities and Differences Presentation1469 Words   |  6 Pagescultural and distinctiveness. Even though both countries have similarities and differences, they both have one thing in common, and that is they are Spanish-speaking countries with an array traditions, culture, and diversity amongst the people, that will be talked about in this presentation. Spain and Puerto Rico are two of the most cultural Spanish-speaking countries. These countries are similar in the fact that both celebrate the tradition holidays. These holidays include Christmas, Easter, MothersRead MoreThe Spanish Cuisine Of Spain980 Words   |  4 Pageshabits, customs, and differences to American culture. The Spanish cuisine is a mystery in itself. Not only does the food differ from American cuisine, but also the customs of when it is eaten. Lisa and Tony Sierra explain the eating customs of meal time in Spain. First is breakfast, this is the smallest meal of the day, and usually consists of coffee and sweet rolls or toast. Then there is a midmorning snack, which is usually finger food and wine, used for socializing with friends. After that isRead MoreThe Differences Between United States and Puerto Rico825 Words   |  4 Pagesfrom Puerto Rico such as food, education and weather. Puerto Rico has variety of Spanish food that make you go there. Puerto Rico’s food is one of the best reasons to visit the island. It is diverse, rich, and flavorful with a combination of rice, beans, meat and fish fried. Puerto Rico cooking is somewhat similar to both Spanish and other Hispanic cuisines. It’s is a unique blend of influences. In Puerto Rico they cook rice with beans as a weekly menu. Traditional foods remind us of who we are,Read MoreWhat I Have Chosen The Country Spain1180 Words   |  5 PagesAlso known as Spain s food is very intense and flavorful. In fact, in a previous block, I wrote an essay about compared with Spain and South Korea s food culture. Food of Spain and Korea deal in common. Both countries have love of the spicy foods, and rice is a main ingredient. So Korean food is often popular in Spain and also, South Koreans are also very fond of Spanish food. Actually, I recently worked in a Spanish cuisine restaurant in Takapuna. I feel like t hat Spanish food has so fast cookingRead More Compare and Contrast Hispanic Culture and American Culture Essay example1403 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction The Hispanic population has experienced an incredible growth in the past decade in the United States of America. In 2006 it was estimated that the Hispanic cover 11 % of the population in North America. Their Origin is in Mexico and the few Spanish speaking countries in the Caribbean. American culture is derived from people who originated from the European nations like Italy and the Great Britain. Cultural identity is very important for every ethnic group as it shapes the culture of that particularRead MoreWhy Did the Spanish Armada Fail?763 Words   |  4 PagesWhy did the Spanish armada fail? Introduction The Spanish armada started in 1588 and finished around a month later. The Spanish lost dramatically for several reasons. This essay will tell you why the Spanish failed so badly and why England won. Admirals Medina Sidonia the Spanish admiral was not as strong as the English admirals Drake and Howard for a lot of reasons. This will have caused the Spanish a major setback from winning the Spanish armada because they would not have been as strong asRead MoreBenefits Of The Spanish Colonization1409 Words   |  6 PagesSpaniards, a name given to people who came from Spain or from the spanish descendents. These people over the course of hundreds of years, because this specific colonization began hundreds of years ago. Brought upon us many great opportunities and changes for our society today, but one thing in particular are benefits brought by Spanish colonizations. In this essay the reader will learn about what benefits exactly were brought by Spanish Colonization and how some of these benefits, benefit The United

Reasons Why People Use the Internet Free Essays

What is the Internet, and how does it work? The Internet, including the World Wide Web, is perhaps the single most important invention to impact on elementary, secondary, and higher education in today’s world. If parents are to understand how their children use technologies for learning, they must understand some things about the Internet and the Web. This section of the San Diego Public Library site offers information for parents on various aspects of this invention. We will write a custom essay sample on Reasons Why People Use the Internet or any similar topic only for you Order Now What is the Internet? The Internet, in simplest terms, is the large group of millions of computers around the world that are all connected to one another. These computers are connected by phone lines, fiber optic lines, coaxial cable, satellites, and wireless connections. When you log on to the Internet you are given access to many of the other computers that are connected around the world. Internet A global network connecting millions of computers. More than 100 countries are linked into exchanges of data, news and opinions. Unlike online services, which are centrally controlled, the Internet is decentralized by design. Each Internet computer, called a host, is independent. Its operators can choose which Internet services to use and which local services to make available to the global Internet community. Remarkably, this anarchy by design works exceedingly well. There are a variety of ways to access the Internet. Most online services, such as America Online, offer access to some Internet services. It is also possible to gain access through a commercial Internet Service Provider (ISP). The Internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks that use the standard Internet protocol suite (TCP/IP) to serve billions of users worldwide. It is a network of networks that consists of millions of private, public, academic, business, and government networks, of local to global scope, that are linked by a broad array of electronic, wireless and optical networking technologies. The Internet carries a vast range of information resources and services, such as the inter-linked hypertext documents of the World Wide Web (WWW) and the infrastructure to support email. Top 10 Reasons People Use the Internet 1. Information – The Internet is arguably one of the most successful and useful tools mankind has ever created. It is, in fact, the largest library ever created, and is growing daily. Although you need to always be careful of your sources, the Internet is THE modern source of information, delivered in multiple media: written word, visual graphics and images, video, and audio have changed the way that we humans look for and find information. 2. Communication – People use the Internet to communicate with one another. Software has made it possible to stream voice and video across the world with minimal delay, and email has become the main means of communicating for many a modern person. Without the Internet, it would be both more expensive and slower to maintain personal and professional relationships. 3. Entertainment – Many people use the Internet to enjoy themselves and to engage in personal interests. In recent years, multiple player games and virtual worlds have engaged the time and money of many. Plus, video and music are easy to find, stream and download†¦plus, the medium encourages feedback! Indeed, Internet use can go too far. But how can you know if you’re addicted to the Internet? We list the criteria and signs of Internet addiction in the link above. 4. Work – The Internet provides an alternative to 9-5 workdays, as more and more people can work from home, or â€Å"telecommute†. Plus, a growing number of people are making a living from the Internet itself, wither becoming experts in how people search the Internet, providing IT or web development services, or specializing in Internet marketing. 5. School – More and more elementary, high school and university curricula require use of the Internet for school work. 6. Relationships – People use the Internet to find, maintain, or end relationships. But people can get addicted to social networks, too. More on how to know if you’re a Facebook addict here. 7. Market – People use the Internet to research, find and buy services and products. Or to target and sell to the ultimate consumer. In effect, the Internet has become THE best way to buy and sell merchandise, as online â€Å"stores† are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 8. Sexuality – Although it may surprise you, it’s no secret that a real majority of search is centered around porn. So, people [men] use the Internet to view pornography and to engage their sexual instinct. 9. Self expression – People not only consume information on the Internet, they CREATE it. And in doing so, people are able to express themselves politically, artistically, vocally, socially, etc. and give voice to what is important to them. The Internet is the ultimate forum on which you can discuss or monologue as you like. 10. Ask for help – The protocol for Internet use is one of private consumption without need for naming yourself. By virtue of the privacy and anonymity factor of cyber space, Some people use the Internet to ask for help. People ask for help in the form of emotional support, medical advice, or even simply listening. If you think that you may be an Internet addict, there is help out there for you. If you want to explore the deeper emotional and psychological issues for compulsive use of the Internet, first start by asking for help from your family doctor. S/He may refer you to a mental health specialist or center for technology addictions in your area. Or, if there are no specialists that live in your area, you might even consider videoconferencing, a form of distance psycho therapy that is starting to help people, no matter where you are. Whatever the case, you may need help to uncover the real reasons behind your reliance on the Internet, and to learn how to cut back and monitor Internet use for a healthy mind. How to cite Reasons Why People Use the Internet, Essays

If I Could Be Anything Other Than A Human Being, I Would Be free essay sample

If I could be anything other than a human being I would be a Queen’s royal jewel in crested crown. The Queen wouldn’t be the most beautiful thing in the country, I would. As a crown I would never age and would see the world change, I would be complimented on my beauty by people around me, and as the crown on the Queen’s head, I would be taken cared of greatly, and treated with respect.First, as a crown I would never age and would see the world change. Being passed down to Queen to Queen lets me to see the country change. By wars, marriages, and even environment. Even though I would be history myself, I would also see history being made, and being able not to age make it better. Unlike humans I don’t die and turn to dust. For a crown to be taken care of by the Queen’s servile, it would take a long time for me to rust and wither. We will write a custom essay sample on If I Could Be Anything Other Than A Human Being, I Would Be or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page For me to be turned to rubble, that is out of the question. I am priceless. I would feel no pain, only the stares of the disfavored basking in the glow of the jewels on me.Another key point, I would be complimented by my beauty by the people around me. As a crown I would never age, so my beauty stays. Unlike female humans I would need no make-up, just the polisher that the workers would use. I would have hundreds of shiny jewels on me. Diamonds, sapphire, ruby, the ones that are bonanza. An adage used for people, not â€Å"things†, â€Å"Beauty isn’t everything.†, is useless to me. Since that is all that I have, I would still be proud of my beauty. Furthermore, as I am suppose to be on the Queen’s head, I would be taken care of greatly and treated with respect. Almost all of the attention would be on me. I would be in the middle of the citadel, in one of the special rooms in the castle. Heavily guarded and protected by the royal guards, they vigilantly watch me. As precious as I am, people would steal me and sell me for a high price. Some people would say it is ridiculous, but no one would lay a hand on me. That’s how important I would be. I would have respect from disfavored. When they bow to the queen, they actually will take a glance up at me, enraptured by my beauty.In conclusion, if I were to be anything other than a human being I would be a Queen’s royal jewel in crested crown. I would be a crown because I would never age and would see the world change, my beauty would be complimented endlessly, and I would be taken care of greatly, and treated with respect. Even though there are negatives to being a crown, there are more positives overlapping them. This is why, if I could be anything other than a human being I would be a jewel in crested crown that everyone has their eye on.

The Fourth Knowledge Management Dimension

Knowledge management system is a cluster of technologies that aid the collection, arrangement, transmission and circulation of knowledge in an organisation.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Fourth Knowledge Management Dimension specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Some aspects of systems and technology that relate to knowledge management include intranets, data warehouses and data mining tools, applications for brainstorming and help desk, push technologies, workflow systems, document management systems and information retrieval engines (Maier 2004). First, intranets offer a perfect avenue for circulation of information. Nevertheless, most organisations present too much information on the intranet, thus creating data accumulation, which makes it hard for both employees and managers to access information swiftly. This incidence has attracted attention from scholars. While some academicians propose that organisation s should convey their entire knowledge to the intranet, others are of the contrary opinion (Tsui 2005). These scholars feel that the intranet should be separated into the webserver and the technological infrastructure. This separation can boost the pace of integration for application developers and enhance access to data for various clusters of knowledge personnel. These proponents of intranet separation argue that imposing all knowledge assets onto the webserver cannot be compared with letting users obtain the entire business knowledge, via a web browser. Second, document management systems act as stores of crucial company records and are thus central stores of explicit information (Schwartz et al. 2000). Besides, document management systems are useful instruments for crafting and processing intricate documents (Wiggins, 2000). These systems thrive in controlling the course of document formation, processing and evaluation. A number of organisations are using document management to manage enterprise knowledge (Davis et al. 2005). Nevertheless, most users never take part in intricate document formation directly and thus, do not obtain sufficient value from these systems because they never take time to learn how they should be used.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More While most organisations do not use document management systems in knowledge management systems, they act as essential knowledge silos that should be incorporated into the business knowledge network. Third, most organisations use technology to retrieve information comprising legacy matter (Tsui 2005). Such technology can either be in the form of intranet services or business repositories. Dealers of information retrieval continue to add aspects like natural language inquiries and relevancy ranks, which augments the rate and accuracy of finding data, in order to gratify the wants of information searchers. Forth, companies utilise groupware systems for communication among users in units or workgroups (Housel, 1999). This system enables formal and impromptu communications in situations where instant communication is impossible. Hence, groupware is a crucial technology since it facilitates the exchange of implicit information. Nevertheless, groupware databases must be incorporated into the enterprise knowledge construction (Tsui 2005). Processes of knowledge transfer usually happen on an impromptu basis when the call for knowledge crops up somewhere in the business, although, businesses also have many formalized procedures that control information flow (Stankosky 2005). For instance, procedures of creating proposals usually oblige the writer to gather preceding knowledge assets and obtain endorsement on the whole proposal (Stankosky 2005). These procedures require controlled and prearranged information review (Awad, 2007). Fifth, technologies that facilitate transmission of d ata to end-users have obtained substantial attention. While e-mail has played this role for long, novel web-based technologies, have provided an enhanced structure that offers instant information as well as the capacity to push content and applications. Capacities of agents are usually significant in settings that have intense knowledge, where personnel lacks sufficient time to supervise resources with discreet information frequently. Systems of knowledge management must offer a method for users to obtain the precise forms of knowledge assets, which they require to examine, without obliging them to know complicated methods of searching.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Fourth Knowledge Management Dimension specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Also, most institutions utilise help-desk technology to react to both external and internal needs for information (Maier 2004). Nevertheless, the knowledge accrued in these systems can contain many, full applications than responding to certain queries. So as, to obtain this potentially useful information, organisations must amalgamate their help-desk technologies with their knowledge management system. Further, use of brainstorming instruments instigates creative thinking. Such end-user applications facilitate classification and systematisation of knowledge resources. Hence these applications are valuable for knowledge construction. A Company’s knowledge management system should offer a straightforward method for users of these applications to recognize, capture and distribute the outcomes of these activities with others in the industry. Lastly, most organisations have adopted data mining tools and data warehouses because of the need to formulate decisions from complex data collections (Stankosky 2005). Companies have created data warehouses in order to exploit current relationships and establish new relationships amid distributors, consumers an d internal practices. Hence, KM systems should offer significant access to data warehouses through using typical protocols (Thierauf 1999). Besides, organisations with KM systems should offer a method to describe and offer access to general reports to enable users who are not familiar with data mining procedures find and use reports on fields of research (Rollett, 2003). This section reveals that knowledge management should start by choosing knowledge that requires management. It does not make sense amass lots of knowledge in one area, as this will only make it difficult for such knowledge to be assessed. This is so for organisations that present too much information on the intranet, thus creating data accumulation and making it hard for both employees and managers to access information swiftly. A consideration that should be made in knowledge management systems is the nature of the working group, as well as, information that should be conveyed to the working group.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Besides, organisations that use document management to manage enterprise knowledge should offer training on how such systems should be used. Also, users who are not familiar with data mining procedures experience difficulties while using reports in fields of research. Hence, systems of knowledge management must offer a method for users to obtain the precise forms of knowledge assets they require to examine without obliging them to know complicated methods of searching. Similarly, organizations with data mining procedures should offer a method to describe and offer access to general reports to enable users who are not familiar with data mining procedures find and use reports on fields of research. Use of technology and systems enhance the competence of management processes in organisations and offer new ways of improving the ability of reaction to environmental necessities (Jashapara 2004). Technology systems play various roles including making data accessible to persons, storing vas t amounts of data, offering communication modes, creating records of transactions and communications, as well as, computerising activities (Olivera 2000). Use of information systems in order to create knowledge may assume two shapes. The first shape is the ability to integrate knowledge from external sources. The second shape is the capacity to generate new knowledge from the restructuring and reexamination of existing and lately obtained information. Similarly, Information Technology (IT) aids the procedure of knowledge transmission. Technology allows people to synchronize the logistics of face to face conferences. Technology may also be used to record proficiency of members in an organization, thus, promoting knowledge sharing and ensuring access to the right personnel (Barnes 2002). Some systems like groupware offer a virtual space where members can process knowledge and information immediately, providing increased chances of interaction (Lee Choi 2003). Spaces of exchange grow to be the ideal situations to create innovative and ingenious behaviours surrounding issues and circumstances. An essential trait of these virtual communities and exchange spaces is that they depend on the democratisation of information. Therefore, they allow the manifestation of natural flows of the association s and transference, which in turn supports inventiveness and novelty (Narayanan 2001). Further, technology facilitates the process of knowledge organisation and preservation. Technology supports the standardisation and computerisation of some tasks, aiding conversion of implicit information into explicit data (Anand et al.1998). Equally, technology offers the required systems to organise and keep the knowledge. Nevertheless, knowledge stores should be available to organisation members and should be in a shape that will allow every member to make identical interpretations, thus, becoming a component of the knowledge base for the entire organisation. Technology, together with its practices and platform principles, offers an ideal system for connecting dispersed persons through a common system and allowing members in an organisation to have easy access to information that is vestiges in memory bins. This allows new knowledge to be construed and combined with existing information (Tippins Sohi 2003). First, a knowledge management program should be open and distributed. By description, a knowledge management system connects available knowledge silos. Preset procedures and application programming interfaces allow incorporation amid applications like e-mail, groupware and document management services (Tsui 2005). While applying unifying structure, organisations should make sure that the information construction is supple enough to cater for the growing needs of entity organizations. Besides, knowledge management systems must enable system management from every location through using ActiveX, HTML and Javascript that can be accessed through every attuned web browser (Barnes 2002). Second, a knowledge management program should be customisable. Organizations should have a customizable knowledge management system. This system must provide user interfaces through templates for customization by users (Tsui 2005). A well-built knowledge management system must facilitate easy amalgamation of new and available applications. It should have documented APIs that enable the organisation to connect systems. For example, when the system manager connects a screening system to a technical documentation store, he can push the right technical documentation straight to a repair expert in case the screening system discovers that a system is faulty. Third, a knowledge management program, should be measurable. Measurement is a vital feature of any knowledge management endeavor to hit the correct balance between technological and organisational transformations. Organisations can establish whether the systems are producing the preferred outcome, by computing a nd processing the outcomes. Every knowledge management system must have instruments that enable managers to quantify and confirm usage to obtain an image of how the system gets utilised, establish performance obstructions and, most significantly, utilise the information to develop the process of organisational knowledge transmission. Lastly, a knowledge management program should be secure. Whereas conventional applications require the manager to offer access to those who require specific information, applications of knowledge management center on exploiting access to information. Hence, knowledge management applications are apt to necessitate the manager to bar access to certain content parts to staff members or administrators who should not have access. A knowledge management program must protect repositories and safeguard security models that are evident in current knowledge silos, while enabling access to those who require them in the organisation. Generating and controlling the enterprise security construction is a difficult issue. Nevertheless, new principles like Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) seek to fuse distinct systems and abridge their administration (Barnes 2002). LDAP enables the knowledge management system to obtain user rights, without obliging anyone to reconstruct and uphold user directories in the knowledge management system, and all the accessible knowledge bases (Barnes 2002). The Role of Systems and Technology in Knowledge Management There exist different opinions when it comes to the role of systems and technology in knowledge management. Those who denounce the role of technology and systems in knowledge management see this perspective as a disruption from customs, administration and change management (Ruggles 1997). These scholars argue that individual socialisation and organisational conduct stipulate the quantity of knowledge which transfers among individuals and thus, do not see technology as a solution to knowledge mana gement (Stankosky 2005). On the same note, some scholars argue that real knowledge becomes generated and used in the course of externalisation, internalisation and amalgamation, which are outside the sphere of knowledge management technologies (Nonaka Takeuchi 1995). Similarly, Ruggles (1997) bases his argument upon an examination of many corporations and stresses that what counts is the activities that people perform with computers and not the computers themselves. He also stresses the role of users’ inspiration and dedication in IT performance. On the other hand, there are information technology proponents who view technology as the answer to the knowledge management problem. These proponents argue that technology offers the required systems to organise and keep the knowledge. For instance, Olivera (2000) asserts that technology systems play various roles in making data accessible to persons, storing vast amounts of data, offering communication modes, creating records of t ransactions and communications, as well as, computerising activities. Similarly, Stankosky (2005) claims that technology allows people to synchronise the logistics of face to face conferences, and it may also be used to record proficiency of members in an organisation, thus, promoting knowledge sharing and ensuring access to the right personnel. Besides, technology together with its practices and platform principles offers an ideal system for connecting broadly, dispersing persons through a common system and allowing members in an organisation to have easy access to information that is vestiges in memory bins (Tippins Sohi 2003). Regardless of all these arguments, I believe that an efficient knowledge management program necessitates an adjustment in both technology infrastructure and organisational behaviour. While technology facilitates an organisation’s knowledge management processes, it is not the answer to an organisation’s knowledge management requirements. That is to say proficient knowledge management programs necessitate both social and technical skills. Besides, the use of intranets or groupware is not sufficient to provide business performance. Such technologies have to be accepted and operated by humans, incorporated in their work contexts and efficiently employed while getting motivated by the performance results of the business. Most proponents of knowledge management systems concentrate on technology and not how people in organizations obtain distribute and generate new knowledge for the gain of the entire organisation. For instance, Ahmed and Lim (2012) reveal that human aspect of organisational knowledge construction obtains little focus in knowledge management. Proponents of knowledge management systems view technology and systems as vital in an organisation’s capacity to manage knowledge (Ahmed Lim 2012). They see use of intranet technologies as one way that has reduced obstacles to sharing knowledge. Besides, they argu e that Information technology has a vital role in facilitating knowledge transfer processes across many organisations. However, organisations should know that Knowledge management does not just involve setting up new software or modifying a diminutive feature of the business. While this study focuses on the fourth dimension of knowledge management, other dimensions of knowledge management such as learning and culture cannot be ignored, since knowledge management is an integrated topic. The fourth dimension of knowledge relates to learning since it is through learning that humans can be able to operate and share information using technology. Besides, culture relates to the fourth dimension in that it is only through human relationships that use of technology in knowledge management can be possible. Also, Individuals must be flexible and willing to accommodate change In order to embrace the use of new technology. Hence, all dimensions of knowledge management relate to the fourth dimen sion. In conclusion, knowledge management entails sharing knowledge amid people in the organisation, as well as, using technologies and systems to aid the sharing and distribution of knowledge. Failure to acknowledge this fact has caused many incidences of knowledge management systems failure. For instance, some organisations use document management to manage enterprise knowledge without learning how such systems should be used. Also, users who are not familiar with data mining procedures experience difficulties while using reports in fields of research. Hence, systems of knowledge management must offer a method for users to obtain the precise forms of knowledge assets they require to examine without obliging them to know complicated methods of searching. Also, organizations with data mining procedures should offer a method to describe and offer access to general reports to enable users who are not familiar with data mining procedures find and use reports on fields of research. This is because an effective knowledge management system must exploit both technology efficiencies and affluence of human interaction, in order to create a business application that is knowledge-intensive. In other words, knowledge management can only be effective when it involves technology and human integration. Also, technology together with its systems offers an ideal system for connecting broadly dispersed persons through a common system and allowing members in an organisation to have easy access to information. However, knowledge management systems must only contain relevant information. It makes little sense amass lots of knowledge in one area, as this will only make it difficult for such knowledge to be assessed. This is particularly so for organisations, which present lots of information on the intranet, thus creating data accumulation and making it hard for both employees and managers to access information swiftly. This paper further demonstrates that knowledge management is a multidimensional issue that has some elements of interpersonal relations and culture. Hence, while technology and systems offer an ideal system for connecting broadly, an efficient knowledge management program necessitates an adjustment in both technology infrastructure and organisational behaviour. This is because proficient knowledge management programs necessitate both social and technical skills. Lastly, use of technology and systems enhance the competence of management processes in organisations and offer new ways of enhancing the ability of reaction to environmental necessities. Technology systems play various roles including making data accessible to persons, storing vast amounts of data, offering communication modes, creating records of transactions and communications, as well as, computerising activities. References Ahmed, P. Lim, K. 2012, Learning through knowledge management, CRC Press, London. Anand, V., Manz, C., Glick, W. 1998, ‘An organizational memory approa ch to information management’, Academy of Management Journal, vol. 23 no. 4, pp 796–809. Awad, E. 2007, Knowledge management, Pearson Education, Delhi. Barnes, S. 2002, Knowledge management systems : theory and practice, Thomson Learning, South Melbourne. Davis, J., Subrahmanian, E., Westerberg, A. 2005, Knowledge management organizational and technological dimensions, Physica-Verlag Heidelberg :New York. Housel, T. 1999, Knowledge management for the telecommunications industry: strategic analysis report. The Consortium, Chicago. Jashapara, A. 2004, Knowledge management : an integrated approach, Prentice Hall, Harlow. Lee, H Choi, B 2003, ‘Knowledge management enablers, processes, and organizational performance: an integrative view and empirical examination’, Journal of Management Information Systems, vol. 20 no.1, pp 179–228. Maier, R. 2004, Knowledge management systems : information and communication technologies for knowledge management, Spring er, Berlin. Narayanan, V. 2001, Managing technology and innovation for competitive advantage, Prentice-Hall, New Jersey. Nonaka, I. Takeuchi, H. 1995, The knowledge-creating company, Oxford University Press, New York. Olivera, F. 2000, ‘Memory systems in organizations: an empirical investigation of mechanisms for knowledge collection storage and access’, Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 37 no.6, pp. 811–832. Rollett, H. 2003, Knowledge management: processes and technologies, Kluwer Academic Publishers, Boston. Ruggles, R. L. 1997, Knowledge management tools, Routledge, London. Schwartz, D., Divitini, M., Brasethvik, T. 2000, Internet-based organizational memory and knowledge management, Idea Group, Hershey. Stankosky, M. 2005, Creating the discipline of knowledge management : the latest in university research, Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann, Amsterdam. Thierauf, R. 1999, Knowledge management systems for business, Quorum Book, Westport. Tippins, M. Sohi, R . 2003, ‘TI competency and firm performance: Is organizational learning a missing link’? Strategic Management Journal, vol. 24 no.8, pp745–761. Tsui, E. 2005, ‘Technology in knowledge management’, Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. 9, pp1367-3270. Wiggins, B. 2000, Effective document management: unlocking corporate knowledge, Gower, England. This essay on The Fourth Knowledge Management Dimension was written and submitted by user Juliet E. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Business environment case study - Business Advice for Hugos Hats

Business environment case study - Business Advice for Hugos Hats Assumptions: Hugo's Hats produces fashion hats for both male and female customers, price per hat  £100. Trades as a Private Limited Company and started trading as an e-business in 1995.Market Structure is the degree of competition the business faces. There are four market structures as illustrated in figure 1.Figure 1Perfect competition is a theoretical model, it does not exist. It is assumed that there are many buyers and sellers, the goods being sold are homogeneous and there is perfect knowledge in the market.Monopolistic competition is when goods are slightly differentiated in some way, either by advertising or branding or by local production.Oligopoly is when a few suppliers dominate the market.Monopoly is when one supplier dominates 25% or more of output.The following are the main characteristics of Monopolistic competition in which Hugo's Hats are competing:There are quite a large number of firms, as a result, Hugo's hat has only a small share of the market and, therefore, i ts actions are unlikely to affect its rivals to any great extent.Perfectly elastic demandThere is freedom of entry of new firms into the industry. If any firm wants to set up a business of making hats, it is free to do so.Product Differentiation: Hugo's Hats are producing hats and providing customer service that is in some way different from its rivals. The demand curve is downward sloping, i.e. elastic, as customers are given more choice from different suppliers in the market.Profits are maximised: In the short run, Hugo's Hat are producing where marginal costs (change in total costs from one extra hat produced) equals marginal revenue (change in total revenue from selling one more hat).Total cost equals total of variable costs and fixed costs.Total revenue is quantity sold, Q multiplied by price, P.

British Control of the Caribbean and Its Allusion

British Control of the Caribbean and Its Allusion Essay in Caribbean LiteratureThe British have influenced the perspective of the Caribbean people inmany ways. The peoples self awareness, religion, language, and culture hascoped with the influx of British ideals and in coping, the people have changedto appease the islands highly influential British population. Three exceptshighly influenced by the British ideals are Crick Crack Monkey by Merle Hodge,My Aunt Gold Teeth by V. S. Naipaul, and If I could Write This in Fire, IWould Write This in Fire by Michelle Cliff. All three excepts show the amongthe people of the islands, whether native or foreign. In examining the threepassages, each author presents a unique perspective. Hodges story ispresented through the eyes of a black , lower class girl of Trinidad in the1950s. Naipaul uses an unidentified East Indian boy to tell his story. A youngwhite girl becomes the narrator of cliffs excerpt. By using Cliffsperspective to examine the perspective of the other two passages. A uniqueinterpretation of the British influence on the Caribbean people develops. Friction among people of different color is clearly displayed within thewritings; However, looking at the story of Crick Crack Monkey through the eyesof a young white girl, rather than a young black girl, the reader might see theinjustice and the ethnic discrimination that a black person must endure. Shewould not be accustomed to being called a little black nincompoop (Hodge 457),and she would most likely not have to suffer a physical beating with a ruler(Hodge 456). In Lady Aunt Gold Teeth, the issue of color is evident throughthe aunts religious affiliation. Changing the color of the narrator in My AuntGold Teeth might make a difference in the way the person perceives their aunt. For example, the narrator says, I was rather ashamed at the exhibition (Na463), when his aunt appears to have got the spirit (CS 462). The Indian boyis probably more ashamed of the aunts reference to Hail Mary than herphysical exhibition. From the perspective of a white Anglican child at thattime, the behavior of the aunt would be acceptable and understandable, but forthe Indian boy, brought up on Hinduism, such actions would seem foreign andconfusing. Racism is evident in the writings by Caribbean authors, and theirintent to expose the British as the perpetrators of the racism is also apparentwhen looking at it through a white girls perspective. Religious confusion is another result of the British occupation in theCaribbean. Both Hodge and Naipaul use their writing to expose the problemsCaribbean people experience with religion. The influence of the church is madeapparent in the writings by all three authors.A striking example can befound on page 455 in Hodges story Crick Crack Monkey. The narrator of thestory tells how the students made sound at the beginning and at end of eachclass period. The sound were the classic English Our Father, the childrendid not understand the words. The children just memorized the sounds and notthe actual meaning. Hodge writes the sound Mrs. Hind attempt to redeem thechildren; however, this is in the perspective of a adult looking back at herchildhood, at the time the Our Father was just sound.Another example,every Sunday afternoon Tantie dressed Toddan and me and sent us to thePentecost Sunday-school in preference to that of the Anglican church (Hodge455); however, in school under Mrs. Hinds di rection we would recite Childrenof the Empire Ye Are Brothers All (Hodge 454). Hodge wrote of both religiousexperiences to show the confusion that the children were undergoing, In theother passage by Naipaul, a similar confusion exists. Aunt Gold Teeth isconfused by the barrage of propaganda by the various religious groups, andevery day her religious schizophrenia grows (Naipaul 459). In trading thenarrators perspectives, one can assume the young white girl would reactdifferently to the situation than the Indian boy. Assuming the white girlbelieves in Christianity, she would probably be happy, rather than confused,about the aunts conversion in faith. The authors clearly show the peoplesconfusion with religion, and in the process, they show the problem lies in thepeoples lack of self-awareness. READ: Mercutio's 'Queen Mab' Speech EssayIn My Aunt Gold Teeth, Aunt Gold Teeth saw religion as a form of power(Naipaul 458). She was very powerful in her Hindu religion. Aunt Gold Teethsought other religions to gain even more power. Naipaul writes

Mediation Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Mediation Assignment - Essay Example It is this relationship that guides them in any future dealings, and might also assist the summer interns get the Human Resource Department’s support whenever any issue might arise. After both parties arrive at the office, it is vital to assure them that all parties will have their turn to speak and air their views. It is paramount that some of the ground rules are made for all parties to comprehend what might be at stake (Smith & Smock, 2008). I am the voice of reason between the warring parties, thus; confidence, clarity, and conciseness are what I need to make the mediation process a success. At the end of the stabilization stage, I ask for any questions from the warring parties, and then proceed to hearing their views. The mediation room is one place where all the concerned parties become aware of each other’s existence and role in the organization. At this stage, I allocate Ms. Bennett and Mr. Stokes a few minutes to speak about their predicaments, and inquire what their thoughts are, with regards on how to move forward in company dealings. Both parties think they are entitled to what they want, but I remind them of the organization’s policies and what they dictate. Questioning both parties and restating some of their positions gives my position a better chance at trying to negotiate the terms of the agreement (Smith & Smock, 2008). The confidentiality of the meeting makes it possible for both Ms. Bennett and Mr. Stokes to confide in me, and after each parties’ contribution, I thank them both for sharing. After listening to both sides, it is my duty to bring them both to agree on a common ground, where every party might feel like they have a certain measure of control in their respective departments. This ensures that issues which are of more concern find their way to the top of the discussion table, and

Campbell's targets growing make grocery shopping Case Study

Campbell's targets growing make grocery shopping - Case Study Example The role of classical conditioning also comes into play at this stage. The advertisement acts as a conditioned stimulus (role of shopping performed by men) and the target audience is exposed to this advertisement to elicit the conditioned response (men go out to shop). Table A reveals that both men and women tend to buy less variety so as to reduce the number of items purchased. In general, both genders do not make a list of the specific brands they intend to buy. More than half; 56% men and 51% women list only the categories they have to buy. Neither men nor women choose products because they fetch discounts on loyalty cards. However 33% men and 36% women buy store brands to save money. A vast majority of shoppers; 73% men and 78 % women rely on previous usage and experience while selecting brands. Very few shoppers base their choice on product label and packaging. More women (43%) tend to shop for ‘all-purpose’ cleaning supplies than men (31%). Women also have a tendency to look at a store circular (59%) and make additional unplanned purchases (54%). On the other hand, 49% of the males go through a store circular and only 44% make unplanned purchases. List making behavior, especially making list based on ingredients needed for recipes, elicits pretty divergent behavior between the two genders. 46% of the women make such lists as against 33% males. A lot of women (52%) select brands on the basis of coupons picked up from home as compared to 40% of the males who base their purchase decision on this parameter. If a product is requested by a household member, 44% of women pick it up while only 30% of the males do so. The aforesaid discussion suggests that marketers of packaged-goods grocery items should have their products and brands listed on the circulars in the stores since 49% of the men tend to read such circulars. The advertising objective should be to make the brand synonymous with the product category since 56% of the men mention only

I am analyzing a transcript of Jamie’s Dream School Series1 and will be identifying and evaluating language features used Essay Example for Free

I am analyzing a transcript of Jamie’s Dream School Series1 and will be identifying and evaluating language features used Essay I am analyzing a transcript of Jamie’s Dream School Series1 and will be identifying and evaluating language features used Starkey is a teacher and is in a position of authority and has a preconceived notion his students are not serious as such, sees the need to drive home a few key facts which includes the reason for their being in school. He does this by laying emphasis on repetitive pronouns e.g. ‘you’, ‘you’ve’ as he draws into the conversation. Connor interrupts and thus overlaps Starkey by saying â€Å"yeah right’ in response to Starkey’s comment on some animals being faster. Starkey finds this rude and considering his position of authority and preconceived notion of the students not being particularly bright, he responds in an equally insultive manner stating Connor was fat and couldn’t really move. At the point, the conversation changes from formal to informal and he uses ‘you’re† This sparks overlapping laughter and noise from the rest of the class. Connor takes it personal and uses colloquial/slang language ‘yeah’ and ‘man’ in his response and further insults Starkey who uses courtesy items in response â€Å"Yes // now// right in an attempt to change the conversation from informal back to formal and overlaps and repeats by stuttering nervously ‘this is, this is, this is† and â€Å"persona, persona† Connor maintains an informal note as evidenced in his use of contractions and informal words e.g. â€Å"shit†, I’ll†, â€Å"mate†, and â€Å"don’t†. and use of a false start â€Å"don’t start, alright don’t start at all† because he’s clearly upset. Starkey then remarks ‘problem there are wi wi with Jamie’s food they’ll be, lots of dieting opportunities now’. It seems Starkey repeats words when upset. Again here, he’s used â€Å"wi wi† and a contraction â€Å"they’ll† indicates an informal tone. The conversation is still informal because Connor uses ’you’re† IT’S, and addresses Starkey as ’mate’ AND A HEDGE â€Å"d’ya† . He also sarcastic by using polite words â€Å"May I ask’ and immediately follows it by asking if Starkey has always been 4 feet tall. Starkey maintains a sarcastic note by replying ‘from the age of thirteen. This transcript started off on a formal note but turned out to be mainly informal. Connor’s final response :Okay† brings the conversation back to a forma note

The Etiology of Autism Essay -- Psychology Neurology Disorders autisti

The Etiology of Autism Autism is a syndrome that is characterized by the impairment of social interaction skills, verbal and nonverbal communication, and a decreased interest in participating in a variety of activities. In 1943, Kanner, the man who is attributed with the identification of this disease, hypothesized that autism might be a biological disorder as opposed to a psychological one. Numerous studies have been conducted supporting Kanner’s hypothesis. These studies have ranged from examining the effects of rubella to investigating certain purine metabolic disorders as possible etiological agents. Recently, the areas of neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, and genetics have played a crucial role in developing a clearer picture into the etiology of this disease. Upon exploring the biological aspects of autism, the fields of neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, and genetics have offered new insights concerning their association with the onset of this disease. Neuroanatomy is one of the latest fields involved in uncovering the possible causes of autism. Many past studies conducted in this area found that autistic patients had enlarged lateral ventricles, however, this abnormality didn’t reveal any damage to a specific anatomical site. The most recent studies conducted on the cerebella of autistic patients showed much more dramatic results. In one specific experiment conducted by Dr. Courchesne, the cerebellar lobules of eighteen autistic patients were compared with the lobules of twelve subjects within a normal control group. The eighteen autistic patients were chosen on the basis that their autistic state was "... not complicated by severe mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, genetic abnormality, other neurologic dise... ... R. S. and B. H. Herman. A Novel Biochemical Model Linking Dysfunctions in Brain Melatonin, Proopiomelanocortin Peptides, and Serotonin in Autism. Biological Psychiatry, 28:773-793, 1991. Courchesne, E. et. al. Hypoplasia of Cerebellar Vermal Lobules VI and VII in Autism. New England Journal of Medicine, 318:1349-1354, May 26, 1988. Gillberg, C. et. al. Monozygotic Female Twins With Autism and the Fragile X Syndrome (AFRAX). J. Child Psychol. Psychiat., 29(4); 447-451, 1988. Herman, B. H. and Panksepp, J. Effects of Morphine and Naloxone on Social Attachment in Infant Guinea Pigs. Pharmacol. Biochem. Behaviour, 9;213-220, 1978. Lowenstein, P. R. et. al. Effects of Naloxone on the Nocturnal Rise of Rat Pineal Melatonin Content. Eur. J. Pharmacol., 98;26 Reiss, A. L. et. al. Autism and Genetic Disorders. Schizophrenic Bulletin.12(4); 724-38, 1986.

How Common Factors Found in the Synergetic Model Essay

Abstract This paper will discuss how the communication process can be affected by individual forces, societal forces, culture, context, and ethics. It will discuss the importance of understanding how communication is affected by these forces. It is important to understand the way they affect communication so that proper and effective communication can occur. How Common Factors Found in the Synergetic Model Affect the Communication Process Communication is a transactional process that involves more than one person. When an interaction between two or more people occurs, various factors come into play because of the difference in each individual person. Communication can be influenced by different factors and it is important to understand these factors and how they contribute to the effectiveness of said communication. Communication can be influenced by individual forces, societal forces, and by context. It is important to understand how communication is affected by these forces, so that we can properly and effectively communicated in the world today. Communication mainly focuses on the individual. Identity plays an important role in the communication process. A person’s identity is composed of many different individual forces or characteristics. â€Å"The factors that contribute to one’s identity can be demographic characteristics such as age, race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, regional identity, and socioeconomic class. In addition, individual forces include your field of experience, such as your education and experiences.† (Alberts 2012) It is important to understand not only, your identity but also the identity of the person or people you are communicating with. Since each person is unique,  they communicate in their own distinctive ways. Everyone is aware of the change in behavior when we interact with others in different settings. Our communication with other people changes along with our behavior. Our individual experiences and backgrounds influence the ethical competence in communication. We are responsible for how ethical we are in day to day communication. Although we are individuals, our individualism is limited by the society that we live in. A society is made up of different people, which means societal forces and individual forces play a role with each other. Communication is influenced by societal forces. These forces refer to the social structures of a society based on politics, history, and economics. The individual forces that affect communication can also be influenced by societal forces. Behaviors can be perceived differently when dealing with communication between multiple persons of different societies. Nonverbal communication is greatly affected by differences in societies. Many gestures and nonverbal messages vary greatly in meaning when expressed in different societies. â€Å"Participants bring their beliefs, values, norms, and attitudes to each interaction and the cultures they belong to shape each of these factors.† (Alberts 2012) Context plays an important role in the communication process. Context refers to the setting of the interaction as well as the individual participants. Being aware of the setting and situation allows us to choose the proper way in which to communicate. â€Å"When communicating with others we need to consider the way in which we are workings, sometimes we need to adapt to the way we communicate in different situations for example the way we conduct ourselves in a meeting would me a more formal way of communication and different to the way we are when working normally.† Setting plays a strong role in the way we communicate. Typically, if someone is in a public setting, their behavior is more rational than when they are in a private setting. We engage in human communication every day and it is important to understand how different factors affect the communication process. We need to understand them so that our messages are sent and received with a clear understanding. As humans in an age of such technological advancement, we are  faced with the task of communicating with people from different backgrounds and understand this phenomenon is the only way that we can effectively communicate with people and allow for progress to occur in our daily interactions. Works Cited Books Alberts, J., Nakayama, T., & Martin, J. (2012). Introduction to Human Communication. In Human Communication in Society (3rd ed., pp. 17-25). Pearson Education. Internet Kinsey Goman, C. (2011, January 1). How Culture Controls Communication. Retrieved January 1, 2014, from http://www.forbes.com/sites/carolkinseygoman/2011/11/28/how-culture-controls-communication/ Shanahan, P., Elliott, D., & Australian Government Department of Education, E. (2009). Effective Communication with Young People. Australian Government Department Of Education, Employment And Workplace Relations. (2012, 07). Explain How Different Social, Professional and Cultural Contexts May Affect Relationships and the Way People Communicate.. StudyMode.com. Retrieved 07, 2012, from http://www.studymode.com/essays/Explain-How-Different-Social-Professional-And-1057616.html McKeon, R. (1957). Communication, Truth, and Society. Ethics, 67(2), 88-99. Retrieved January 1, 2014, from http://www.jstor.org/discover/10.2307/2378718?uid=3739256&uid=2&uid=4&sid=21105057152463

Purani Jeans Aur Guitar Essay

â€Å"Purani Jeans aur guitar†¦Ã¢â‚¬  a jingle which most of the college going students might never forget. Somewhere in the song a stanza comes which states – â€Å"maangne paise udhaar†. This is a very common incidence happening in college life and the best part is that one gets to have as many resources as she/he requires. But the point is do we actually NEED to ask for the â€Å"Udhaar†? Lot many instances have been found wherein because of this â€Å" udhaar† lot many feuds(Big or Small) has happened between best of the friends. So do we actually want to have â€Å"udhaar† or get rid of this and still continue to enjoy the beautiful and happening ‘College Life’? (This may not seem 100% doable but â€Å"try maarne mein kya jaata hai!!†) So what is the Solution? Very simple – Put the right money in the right pocket in the right quantity in the right time, that’s it! This can be achieved by using the world famous – â€Å"Art of Investment† Investment has its own Oxford Dictionary meaning – ‘the action or process of investing money for profit’. The question is how do we practice this art of investment and make the action work for us. In simple terms – how do we invest, where do we invest and when do we invest? Let’s look out for answers to these questions: a) Where do we Invest? Answer – Avenues for investments have seen a drastic change from yester years till date. Now we have simple formula – â€Å"zarurat jaisi, salaah waisi†. You name your objective of investment and we have a solution available as per your requirements. One may go ahead and invest in a plethora of avenues as per requirement viz. i) Traditional Debt instruments – Bank FDs, Post Office Schemes etc. ii) Tradable Debt instruments – Bonds & Debentures iii) Direct Equities iv) Mutual Funds v) Gold vi) Real estate etc. As per one’s capability, knowledge, resources, risk & time may choose one or more avenues of investments among these. Mutual Funds provide a one-stop solution in all categories. b) How to Invest? Answer – Investment mechanism and procedures have also evolved with time. Now one may invest in most of the avenues in not only a physical mode – filling of application, giving cheque etc. but can also invest electronically viz. using Mobile phone, SMS, online, call centre etc. All that is required is to comply certain regulatory requirements and that’s it. You have enough invest lump sum; you do not have enough invest systematically in small chunks. c) When do we Invest? Answer – Most difficult but again very simple too. A great learner has said – â€Å"You have two options – either time the market or spend time in the market. It is always easier and better to spend time in the market rather than timing the market!!† So, it is always advisable that one invests regularly and systematically rather than trying to capture the highs and the lows. Whenever you think of investment don’t wait but invest – lot many avenues are already available for various needs and timing. Also it has proven record that invest early always yield s better results. â€Å"Papa kehte hain bada naam karega, beta hamara aisa kaam karega† Starting investments at the early ages viz. when in college when you start receiving pocket money definitely adds up a bigger amount to your future life and helps to achieve ones goals and aspirations. Your parents would also feel PROUD.

Explaining Glasnost and Perestroika

Explaining Glasnost and Perestroika When Mikhail Gorbachev came to power in the Soviet Union in March 1985, the country had already been steeped in oppression, secrecy, and suspicion for over six decades. Gorbachev wanted to change that. Within his first few years as general secretary of the Soviet Union, Gorbachev instituted the policies of glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring), which opened the door to criticism and change. These were revolutionary ideas in the stagnant Soviet Union and would ultimately destroy it. What Was Glasnost? Glasnost, which translates to openness in English, was General Secretary Mikhail Gorbachevs policy for a new, open policy in the Soviet Union where people could freely express their opinions. With glasnost, Soviet citizens no longer had to worry about neighbors, friends, and acquaintances turning them into the KGB for whispering something that could be construed as criticism of the government or its leaders. They no longer had to worry about arrest and exile for a negative thought against the State. Glasnost allowed the Soviet people to reexamine their history, voice their opinions on governmental policies, and receive news not pre-approved by the government. What Was Perestroika? Perestroika, which in English translates to restructuring, was Gorbachevs  program to restructure the Soviet economy in an attempt to revitalize it. To restructure, Gorbachev decentralized the controls over the economy, effectively lessening the governments role in the decision-making processes of individual enterprises. Perestroika also hoped to improve production levels by bettering the lives of workers, including giving them more recreation time and safer working conditions. The overall perception of work in the Soviet Union was to be changed from corruption to honesty, from slacking to hard work. Individual workers, it was hoped, would take a personal interest in their work and would be rewarded for helping to better production levels. Did These Policies Work? Gorbachevs policies of glasnost and perestroika changed the fabric of the Soviet Union. It allowed citizens to clamor for better living conditions, more freedoms, and an end to Communism.   While Gorbachev had hoped his policies would revitalize the Soviet Union, they instead destroyed it. By 1989, the Berlin Wall fell and by 1991, the Soviet Union disintegrated. What had once been a single country, became 15 separate republics.

Crisis communications plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Crisis communications plan - Essay Example Hence, appointing an experienced Public Relations Officer to take charge of CCP is vital to its success. A good crisis communication plan will contain the following key elements. First, it should have gotten the endorsement of the Director of Communications. Second, it should contain a list of clearly designated employee responsibilities. The information contained in the plan would have gone through verification and clearance checks. It will include a lits of media contact points and also contain details regarding local public health agencies. The plan will clearly identify who the spokesperson is going to be as well as identifying members of the Emergency Response Team. The efficiency and speed with which the crisis is dealt with is in itself a key element (and the first step) of a good plan. Later, the drawn up plans need to be communicated to the stakeholders through proper Public Relations procedures. This usually involves publication and coverage of the crisis in media outlets s uch as newspapers and television stations. In most instances, a crisis situation never gets covered in the media, probably because the story is not newsworthy.

Accounting (International Financial Reporting) Research Paper

Accounting (International Financial Reporting) - Research Paper Example Up to three members may be part time members. After 2 July 2009, IASB members are appointed for an initial term of five years, renewable for further three years.† (IFRSs in your pocket, 2010) Business firm can present its financial statement in the same format as their counterparts in other countries. It makes comparisons easier. This is especially useful for the investors to make investment decisions. The basic difference between GAAP and IFRS is that GAAP is a rule based accounting system and on the other sense IFRS is principle based system. In rule based accounting like GAAP, one needs to follow the rules specified for each of the business transaction while recording the transaction in accounts. Sometimes, the accountant foresees the effects of the accounting transaction on the end result and tends to interpret the rules with the objective of presenting good numbers to the public. Many scandals including Enron depict the loopholes in the present GAAP system which lacks a transparent system. In IFRS, a principle based accounting systems, which records the transaction in a transparent manner, which shows the true nature of each transaction. Also the consolidation of accounting concepts like IFRS makes the comparison of financial reports easier for the investor community. The transparency provided by IFRS help will them to make wise investment decisions. Mirza, A., Holt, G., & Orrel, M (2010). International Financial Reporting Standers (IFRS) Work Book. John wely and sons. Retrieved November 30, 2010, from

DeVeaux, Scott. Constructing the Jazz Tradition Essay

DeVeaux, Scott. Constructing the Jazz Tradition - Essay Example Jazz history’s linear history came into being through the acknowledgement of its African roots by the American people (i.e., dubbed as a â€Å"rare and valuable national American treasure†), which reinforced the un-ambiguity and clear ‘linear’ path of jazz history (DeVeaux 2). In the process of this history’s unmaking, Tirro (291) pointed out how it lost its â€Å"historical strand that linked contemporary jazz to its roots...† (qtd. in Deveaux 2). On the other hand, it gained more forms or terms such as â€Å"cool jazz, hard bop, modal jazz, Third Stream, and New Thing† (DeVeaux 2). Interestingly, this unmaking story of jazz history is a common pattern among other music history; the original or traditional music has to become obsolete to pave the way for the creation of another music of similar ilk. The bebop era left a series of casualties in the jazz history. First, it successfully caused the dissolution of jazz’s â€Å"evolutionary lineage† through the percolation of different, â€Å"and in some cases mutually hostile styles† (DeVeaux 2). Second, the era pulled the traditional jazz to â€Å"contrasting directions,† through emerging music genres such as free jazz and jazz/rock fusion, and placed jazz music in a very pluralistic standpoint (DeVeaux 3). DeVeaux’s view evidently places the bebop era and influence as the main culprits in obscuring the official jazz

Troubled masculinity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Troubled masculinity - Essay Example The peculiar aspect of this influence lies in the fact that the old forms of social relationship as well as commonly accepted practices are damaged; that is why, according to Zimmer-Tamakoshi, men feel that their masculinity is at risk. No matter now sorrowful it may seem, but one of the most widely practices ways of reinforcing masculinity in Papua New Guinea is manifested in the form of marital violence. All the researchers point out that this is a tremendous problem which heavily affects women. Indeed, Wardlow argues that men do not allow women to fully embrace the ways of modernity and use violence as a tool to control them (147). What is more important is that people of Papue New Guinea were traditionally known to be quite aggressive and impulsive which means that there is a significant history of violence among the local population. As a result, the contemporary rise in marital violence is not seen as something extraordinary: it is regarded as a valid manifestation of the traditional practices. In spite of the fact that this can be seen from different perspectives, it is beyond any doubt that women suffer from such state of affairs. Finally, the authors agree on the fact that Christianity should also be credited for changing the social environment of the region in question. Indeed, various Christian denominations saw Papua New Guinea as a platform to exercise their influence and were quite delighted to find locals there since with their help the congregation will become bigger.

Organizational Analysis of WalMart Store Inc

Organizational Analysis of WalMart Store Inc Introduction and brief overview of Wal-Mart store Inc. Wal-Mart store Inc. is not only the retail giant, but also is the largest grocery chain in the world. Wal-Mart store Inc. was founded in 1962. Samuel Walton and his brother J.L. Walton open their first Wal-Mart Discount City in Rogers, Arkansas (Wal-Mart History, 2010). For Wal-Mart store Inc., their common mission is: Save people money so they can live better (Wal-Mart corporate, 2010). Compared with their main competitors such as Target and K mart, Wal-Marts 2009 sales were almost 50% more. Because of its giant size and buying power, Wal-Mart can buy its products at very low prices, exchanging high purchase volumes for low cost then passing the savings onto its customers (Wikinvest Wal-Mart, 2010). Wal-Mart has 8,900 stores around the world in three different business segments of retail stores that including: Wal-Mart stores, Sams Club and Wal-Mart international. All of them offer different kinds of merchandises including electronic appliances, groceries, furniture, apparel and health beauty stuffs etc. For their business segment, they have over 54% of the companys stores are located in the United States, and the others international stores are mainly located in central and south America and China. The company mainly focuses on offering the lowest prices to attract its consumers. Wal-Mart totally earned $408 billion revenue in 2010, increase 1% compare to 2009 (Wikinvest Wal-Mart, 2010). REVENUE BY GEOGRAPHY  Ã‚  Ã‚   (USD) Annual FISCAL YEAR ENDING 31-1-2006 31-1-2007 31-1-2008 31-1- 2009 31-1-2010 Revenue International 59.2B 77.1B 90.6B 98.6B Revenue US 284B 303B Total Revenue 316B 349B 379B 406B 408B (Source: www.wikinvest.com/stock/Wal Mart_%28WMT%29/Data/Key_Metrics#Revenue_Breakdown) In 2009, Wal-Mart earned $255.7 billion in the domestic segment of the companys revenue. For Wal-Mart stores segment are further categories into three different formats including: Supercenters, Discount stores and Neighborhood Stores. For the Sams club, it is the second largest membership-only retailer club ( Costco is the first largest membership-only retailer) in United States belong to Wal-Mart Inc., their main customers mostly are offices, convenience stores, motels, restaurants and schools etc. (Wikinvest Wal-Mart, 2010). For now, Wal-Mart has total 3,121 international stores all over the world including in Mexico, Japan, Canada, China and countries in central and South America. However, recently Wal-Mart begins to slow down their growth rate in the United State and turn their main focus onto its international stores to develop growth. For international stores locations altogether earned total $98.6 billion revenue in 2009, compared to the sales of 2008, is increased 9.1% (Wikinvest Wal-Mart, 2010). Strategic History of the Industry The whole retail industry in the United States has over $4 trillion annual revenue. The main retail companies are including Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Kroger, Costco, and Target. Some of the large companies dominate some retail sectors such as mass merchandisers and grocery stores, other sectors like auto dealers and convenience stores are fragmented. However, retail industry still has many small and specialty retailers are single-store operations (Hoover, 2011). The economy deeply affects the retail demand. In other words, retail demand depends on the economy. Many different kinds of economic factors such as job growth, recession, personal income, consumer confidence and interest rates can strongly affect consumer spending behavior. When during recessionary periods, the bad economy can affect the retail sales growth rate slow drastically or even sales revenue decline. While the retail spending grows rapidly when in the period of strong economy growth, for example consumers will spend more on grocery when they have more income. However, the rising interest rates will affect consumer purchase behavior and consumer ability to finance large amount of purchase such as purchasing cars (Hoover, 2011). Strategic History of Wal-Mart Store Inc. In the early stage of strategic history for Wal-Mart, they always unchanged their vision always low price for their customers. Until 1990s, Wal-Mart announced that they planned to go global. They wanted to look for international markets for the reasons as following: First of all, Wal-Mart has facing very strong competition in United States such as Target and K mart. These two firms had aggressive expanding their business and had started sharing Wal-Marts market share. Secondly, the market in the United States is already saturated; it was becoming difficult for the company to continue its growth rate. Thirdly, the US population is accounted for only 4% of the worlds population and if they want to expand their global market, China had the potential massive growth due to their huge population of over 1.3 billion people. The last reason is, globalization opened up new markets in China and created opportunities for discount stores such as Wal-Mart (Wal-Marts Cost Leadership Strategy, 2004 ). On the other hand, Wal-Mart is using the strategy that cooperates with local suppliers to purchase their products, even though the organizational culture is standardized with the home country. This strategy is not only use to the products purchasing, but also adapted to the local cultures and stores decoration and designed are also changed to meet local taste all around the world (Wal-Marts Cost Leadership Strategy, 2004). Organizational mission statement As we know, the mission statement for Wal-Mart is every day low price. In order to insist their mission, Wal-Mart implemented three approaches in the market. First, it increased the local purchasing in order to reduce the purchasing costs and also suit consumers needs in different places. Secondly, it maintained a good relationship with their suppliers, satisfied them by paying within 3-7 days during its initial years. Thirdly, it established distribution centers (DC) and computerized its management system to improve efficiency and reduce costs (ICFAI, 2005). Business Level Strategy For these several years, Wal-Mart has been trying hard on expand its stores outside the United States. It through two different to expand their international business market: new store construction and acquisition. Acquisition strategy of supermarket chains had been a part of Wal-Marts entry and store expansion strategy in Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Japan, China and Great Britain (The Wal-Mart Puzzle, 2008). Over all, the Wal-Mart strategies were including: multiple store segments, lower daily prices, lots of name-brand merchandise, reduce operating costs, emphasized customers satisfied service, wide selection products, disciplined expansion into new geographic markets, and using acquisition to enter foreign market (Wal-Mart Store Inc., 2010). However, no matter Wal-Mart are in which foreign country, their company vision always low prices is never changed. The companys low distribution costs and cost-efficient supply chain management are the big reasons why Wal-Mart is so success and at the same time reduce the products prices. Wal-Mart has get into distribution efficiency compare with their competitors because of its rural store locations. Current strategy for the major operations/functions of the company Current strategies for Wal-Mart are including low costs, high volume, increase customer satisfaction and expansion strategy. Wal-Mart creates name recognition and customer satisfaction, and combined the retailer with the reputation of offering the best prices. They also expand their new business segments to different sectors such as pharmacies, automotive repair, and grocery sales to increase their sales revenue. Expansion strategy: The company realized that building a new store will allow for increase market share value. After their success in the rural areas, Wal-Mart moved to urban areas and then moved to surrounding areas. The expansion strategy made Wal-Mart the number one retail store in the United States. As Wal-Mart continue its expansion domestically, the firm decided to go international. Furthermore, Wal-Mart realized that acquiring an existing retail firm is necessary for expand domestic and international markets. Therefore, Wal-Mart by acquire retail store which enable to expand locally and internationally. Always low prices make customers live better strategy is believed the strongest strategy used by Wal-Mart. The firm developed the idea of dealing directly with the manufacturer and with the power control by Wal-Mart will enable it to get the best deal from the manufacturers and suppliers. Organizational structure, culture, and control systems (Source: http://www.theofficialboard.com/org-chart/wal-mart-stores) Saving people money to help them live better was the mission for Wal-Mart. Hence, Wal-Mart negotiates different suppliers and understanding their cost structure in order to reduce the price. Wal-Mart has to be certain that the manufacturers were doing their best to cut down costs. Also, Wal-Mart believed in establishing a long-term relationship with their suppliers. Wal-Mart had 129 distribution centers located at different locations all over the US. Over 80,000 items were stocked in these centers. Wal-Marts own warehouses directly supplied 85 percent of the inventory, as compared to 50-65 % for competitors. Shipping costs for Wal-Mart is about 3 % which is lower than its competitors, 5%. The distribution centers ensured a steady and consistent flow of products to support the supply function (Wal-Marts Cost Leadership Strategy, 2004). Wal-Marts logistics infrastructure was its fast and successful transportation system. The distribution centers were serviced by more than 3,500 company owned trucks. To make its distribution process more efficient, Wal-Mart also uses a logistics technique called cross-docking. In this system, the finished goods were directly picked up from the manufacturing plant from suppliers, and then directly supplied to the customers. The system reduced the handling and storage of finished goods, eliminating the role of the distribution centers and stores (Wal-Marts Cost Leadership Strategy, 2004). SWOT Analysis for Wal-Mart Store Inc.. Strengths Reputation Brand Name: Wal-Mart is a powerful brand and pioneer in the retail industry with the wide spread network of stores. It has a reputation for low price, convenience and a wide range of products all in one store for customers. Wal-Mart has captured about 10% of the retail market in the U.S. and continues to expand. Wal-Mart stores continue to open all over the country making Wal-Mart a household name. Wal-Mart has also been widely acknowledged for its social responsibility actions. The company has donated to a variety of charitable organizations and has been accredited for bringing jobs and wealth to less developed communities. Offer Low Prices: Wal-Mart uses its enormous size and buying power to pressure its suppliers into extremely low prices, offering orders of high volumes of merchandise in exchange for low prices. The good thing about Wal-Mart is that its shifts the low cost advantage to customers and available the products at lower prices. It has loyal customer base because it meets the expectation of customer by always delivering the goods at lower prices at compare to its competitors. Expand Global Market: Wal-Mart has aggressively expands its international market over the past few years and has experienced global expansion. For example its purchase of the United Kingdom based retailer ASDA. Technology: Technology is strength to Wal-Mart with its inventory control system that was recognized as the most sophisticated in retailing. The technology linked all the stores to the headquarters and the companys distribution centers. It also enables the warehouse of which the goods are ordered, and direct the flow of goods to the store and proper shelves. Supply chain and logistics management: Supply chain and logistics management are one of the strengths of Wal-Mart. This allows Wal-Mart to utilize the Just- in-time inventory concept and avoid the pilling up inventory to save the extra cost for maintaining inventories in the warehouses. Human Resource: Wal-Mart always keen to provide training to their employees to improve the customer service level. The firm hire locally, provides training programs for its employees. Wal-Mart also gets its employees involve and encourage them to make use of words like: we, us, and ours. It also provides stock ownership and profit sharing with great contribution from the H. R of the firm. Wal-Mart was named one of the best 100 firms to work for. Cross-docking inventory system: Using the cross-dock technique, Wal-Mart was able to effectively leverage their logistical volume into a core strategic competency. Wal-Mart operates an extensive satellite network of distribution centers serviced by company owned trucks. Its satellite network sends point of sale (POS) data directly to 4,000 vendors. Each register is directly connected to a satellite system sending sales information to Wal-Marts headquarters and distribution centers. Weaknesses Employee turnover: Wal-Mart has high employee turnover which costs more money and time for company to train the new employee. Bad publicity: Wal-Mart is currently facing a gender discrimination lawsuit. Their female employees accuses that they were discriminated against in matters regarding pay and promotions. And also, Their female managers were accounted for the minority group in the company. Lock of flexibility: Wal-Mart sell very wide range kinds of products for example like clothes, food, pharmacy or stationary which lack of flexibility compare with other more focused competitors. Other competitors may have the ability to make changes and improve on a certain product lines when the needs of their customers change. Wal-Mart, however, may have too much merchandise and not be able to focus in on sectors that need to be improved. Some products have poor quality: Although Wal-Mart provides low price of products, however, customers sometimes complain about the poor quality of few products. Facing difficulty in International market: It is hard for Wal-Mart to expand their business out of US to totally different countries all around the world. Moreover, Wal-Mart has to facing different culture and customer behavior in different countries, for example Wal-Mart facing difficulty to expand the market in China. Opportunities Customers: Because Wal-Mart provides low price to their customers, so they are able to attract more customers. Furthermore, customers basically are able to purchasing everything in one store that satisfied their needs. Wal-Mart 24 hours stores also satisfied their customers. Diversified store types: Wal-Marts different store types and new locations provide more opportunities to exploit new market. Stores diversified from local, small-based sites to large super centers. International Expansion: No doubt that continued expand the international market is a huge opportunity for Wal-Mart. Wal-Marts oversea stores have experienced significant growth. There are actually tremendous opportunities for future growth in developing countries and Asian markets than in the United States such as China and India. Creating strategic alliances and licensing agreements with other global retailers are ways to move into different countries. Threats Competition: Wal-Mart faces different strong competitions locally and internationally. Wal-Mart main competitors are including Kmart, Target, Carrefour and Costco wholesale. In 2010, the Net Profit Margin for Wal-Mart is 3.59%, Target 4.22%, Costco wholesale 1.69%, Carrefour 0.38%, respectively (Hoovers, 2010). Target is Wal-Marts direct competitor in the US, offering a range of general merchandise in a similar store format (Wikinvest, 2010). Economy Recession: The revenue for Wal-Mart is affected by economy recession. Good economy is an opportunity for great business, because customers will have more money to spend. If the economy is great, there will be more jobs and people will shop more. However, if the economy is bad, there will be fewer jobs and people will shop less. Also, with the high price of gasoline and its effect on the economy, Wal-Mart will certainly be affected the most. Strategy imitation: Wal-Mart strengthens its competitive advantage on low-cost products. Other competitors may imitate their low-cost strategy to take over their market shares. Low Brand Loyalty: In the retail industry, customers would like to choose the product with the lowest price. In other words, customers do not care about the brand or which retail stores, if Costco has the exactly same chips that sell cheaper than in the Wal-Mart, then customers will choose to buy the chips in the Costco not Wal-Mart. TOWS MATRIX STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES Reputation Brand Name Bad publicity Offer Low Prices Lock of flexibility Expand Global Market Some products have poor quality Technology Facing difficulty in International market Supply chain and logistics management Employee turnover Human Resource Cross-docking inventory system OPPORTUNITIES OPPORTUNITIES-STRENGTHS OPPORTUNITIES-WEAKNESSES Customers Build on its already efficient distribution system to further expand in the U.S and globally. Wal-Mart should be awareness and strict to control of the quality of the product in order to keep their customers basis. Diversified Store Types Expand diversified store types to International market in order to increase profit in International market. Set higher employment standards through enhanced training to keep their employees have best performance. International Expansion Duplicated the successful delivery logistic management and the distribution centers into International market. Continue to build on cost efficient pricing and production due to expansion. Go into new markets and buy out their local retailers to gain market share. THREATS THREATS-STRENGTHS THREATS-WEAKNESSES Competition Buy raw materials or products from local suppliers to hold a better political status within the local community further to compete with their competitors. Human resource department should set a benefits long-term promotion program or standard and training program for their employees in order to decrease the employee turnover. Economy Recession Create their own brand of products and increase the quality of products in order to establish customers loyalty. Establish joint venture partnerships or long-term relationship with local retail companies to get the advantages in the International segment. Strategy imitation Develop strong RD and technology to enhance the competitive advantage and avoid imitation from other competitors. Low Brand Loyalty Five Forces Analysis for Wal-Mart Store Inc. Threat of entrances Low The threat of new entrance in the grocery and discount retailer industry is very low. New entrants have to face with the strong low-price competition among exist giant retail companies like Wal-Mart, Costco and Target. New entrants need to invest large amount of capitals to establish their brand recognition, service, and variety of product offerings that Wal-Mart, Target, and others competitors continue to improve on each day. In addition, existing companies can drop prices lower in order to force a new competitor out of the market. Therefore, the threat of entrances is low. Power of buyer-High Customers have many choosing opportunities and consider about products very details. They want the product now and they want it with the best service, best quality and reasonable price. Customers also enjoy increasing choice of products and choose one product that has the best quality and better price. For example, if customers find out Target sells an exactly product that has better quality and price than Wal-Mart, and then they will choose to buy it in Target instead of Wal-Mart. Power of Suppliers: Low The bargaining power of suppliers is very low. Wal-Mart is very famous on giving pressure to their suppliers to cut their price lower and lower in order to offer the lowest price to their customers. On the other hand, become the supplier of Wal-Mart is a very fierce competition. In 2004, about 10,000 new suppliers applied to become Wal-Mart vendors. However, only about 200, or 2%, were ultimately accepted by Wal-Mart (Gwendolyn Bounds, The Wall Street Journal). Therefore, the bargaining power of suppliers is low. Rivalry High The competition in the US grocery and discount retailer industry is very high. The main competitors for Wal-Mart in the local market are Kmart and Target. These companies also have to face competition from wholesalers such as BJs, Costco and even the international market such as Carrefour. Wal-Mart has adopted a cost leadership generic strategy. In the past, most companies have not been able to match Wal-Marts strategy everyday low prices. However, Wal-Marts barrier to entry (economies of scale) and strength (supply-chain management) can be easily imitated with sufficient resources. Therefore, retailers are in a fierce competition that see who can offer their customers the lowest price. Threat of substitute Low The threat of substitutes in this industry is low because only few companies have ability to offer such a variety of products available instantly and also low prices. One possible substitute is online shopping; however, customers usually do the online shopping for clothes or other stuffs but not for food or grocery shopping. Therefore, the threat of substitute is low. B. Strategic direction Key Strategic Issues Issue #1: Open too many new stores close to existing stores lead to new stores taking over the market shares from existing stores. Status Quo Wal- Mart depends on opens many new stores and expands into new market to increase the long-term sales and income growth. However, because of Wal-Marts large size of expansion, new stores are effects the sales on existing stores. For example, Wal-Mart builds a store relatively close to an already existing store, the new store might take away customers from the old store thus decrease the sales in existing stores (Wal-Mart, 2010). Evolutionary Change (Incremental Improvement) In order to solve this problem, Wal-Mart expands their business segment into international market instead of domestic market. For example, Wal-Mart opened 5 times number of stores in the international market in 2010 compared to domestic stores; most of stores are in Mexico, China, and Central America (Wal-Mart, 2010). Revolutionary Change (Huge/Drastic Change) Wal-Mart is also aggressively to open business segments in India if the country opens up the sector to foreign direct investment. India has retail market more than 1 billion; no doubt India is a huge opportunity for Wal-Mart. However, retailers that carry multiple brands (like Wal-Mart) are restricted to wholesale outlets in India. After Indias policy change, Wal-Mart is allowed to expand superstores and generate revenue in India (Wal-Mart, 2010). Specific tactics to implement the strategy Wal-Mart needs to establish long-term relationship or joint venture with local retail company to get into the market in India. Although in 2006, Wal-Mart announced that it had tied up with Bharti Enterprises Ltd. (Bharti) to get into the Indian retail sector. Bharti was a diversified company, and one of the biggest mobile telephone service providers in India (Wal-Mart and the Indian Retail Sector, 2007). However, because of the government policy, the small retailers groups and the Left parties against allowing the company into India are all the barriers that Wal-Mart has to face it. Issue #2: International competitors Status Quo In order to expand and improve the sales revenue for the economy recession especially in the domestic market, Wal-Mart has been aggressively expand its business segment into international market. However, the local big retailers or small retailers groups are against Wal-Mart to get into their market to take over the market shares because of its low price strategy (Wal-Mart, 2010). Evolutionary Change (Incremental Improvement) Improve its supply chain, logistic and technology segment to lower its delivery and operation costs in order to compete with local big retailers such as Britains Tesco, Frances Carrefour, and Germanys Metro (Wal-Mart, 2010). On the other hand, retail business segment is hard to create products differentiation, because commodity products are all the same for customers. The only way that gains the market shares for retail stores is not only low price but also quality of products. Therefore, Wal-Mart should awareness of its quality of products to attract more customers even in the international market. Revolutionary Change (Huge/Drastic Change) Wal-Mart should acquire and purchase the local retail companies in order to get into the international market. On the other hand, establish long-term relationship with local suppliers to have the win-win situation for their cooperation. Specific tactics to implement the strategy In the beginning of year 1, 2 and 3, Wal-Mart should first focus on improving its supply chain, logistic and technology improvement in order to compete with local big retailers on its lower operation, delivery costs and high quality of products. For the long-term tactics, Wal-Mart should deeply penetrate into the local market, understand different cultures and customers behaviors and then cooperate with local suppliers to establish long-term partnership. Personal assessment SWOT Analysis of myself in relation to the organization (What can I offer to the organization?). Strengths: International expansion (China): Wal-Mart is extremely aggressively penetrated into the market in China. Also, no doubt that China has 1.3 billion populations which accounted for the most majority population in the world, creates a huge business opportunity for Wal-Mart. Therefore, Wal-Mart needs a manager who can speak fluently Mandarin and English, and really understand about Chinese culture and Chinese customers behavior. Hence, I can offer Wal-Mart my knowledge to develop more opportunity in Chinas market in order to maximize the profits. Weaknesses: Lock of working experience: Even though I can speak fluently Mandarin and understand the Chinese culture and customers behavior; however, I still lack of working experiences. I do have some part time working experience such as working in starbucks, but do not have full time working experiences. Opportunities: Because of my professional knowledge (bachelor and master degree are both business management) are expertise on this field which can offer Wal-Mart a professional employees or manager. Moreover, my family also has business in China, Hangchow, which makes me has understanding and interested about China. I can provide Wal-Mart establish partnership with local suppliers and establish long-term relationship with them to compete with local retails competitors. Threats: Many applicants around the world: There is still having many talented applicants around the world apply to get into this company. Some of the applicants have high education degree and business knowledge and also have ability to speak many different kinds of languages. Therefore, I am in extremely fierce competition. Not every business segment in Wal-Mart is my expertise: I have weakened and lower advantages compared to local American because of the speaking and cultural differences. Furthermore, the company does business in many different retail formats, including supercenters, food and drugs, general merchandise stores, cash and carry stores, membership warehouse clubs, apparel stores, soft discount stores and restaurants. However, not every business segment in Wal-Mart is in my field of expertise. Financial Analysis 2010 Annual Sales (Figure2-1) (Source:Hoovers,2011,http://0subscriber.hoovers.com.leopac.ulv.edu/H/company360/competitiveLandscape.html?companyId=11600000000000) As you can see in Figure 2-1, this is 2010 annual sales for 4 main retail stores in the United States. They are including Wal-Mart, Target, Costco Wholesale and Carrefour. Wal-Mart has almost $400 billion sales in 2010. Compared to other competitors, annual sales for Wal-Mart was much higher than other companies. Carrefour annual sale in 2010 was around $100 billion. Annual sales for Target and Costco were just around $50 billion in 2010. 2010 Net Profit Margin (Figure2-2) (Source:Hoovers,2011,http://0subscriber.hoovers.com.leopac.ulv.edu/H/company360/competitiveLandscape.html?companyId=11600000000000) In Figure 2-2, net profit margin in 2010 for Wal-Mart was 2.98%. Target was higher than Wal-Mart which had 3.69% net profit margin in 2010. Other two competitors, Costco and Carrefour were both under 1.84% in net profit margin in 2010. Figure 2-3 (Source:Hoovers,2011,http://0subscriber.hoovers.com.leopac.ulv.edu/H/company360/competitiveLandscape.html?companyId=11600000000000) The Return on Asset ratio is useful in measuring how efficiently a company uses its assets to generate profit. By definition, ROA is calculated by dividing the Net Income by the total asset of a company. Refer to Figure 2-3, ROA for Wal-Mart from 2006 to 2010 are much higher than its competitors. Wal-Marts ROA were around 9% to 10% each year, compared to its competitors which were all much lower than Wal-Mart. This basically means that Wal-Mart utilizes its assets well enough to generate profit in comparison with their competitors. However, ROA in 2007 for Target is higher than Wal-Mart, Target 9.29%, Wal-Mart 9.05%. Targets major competitive advantage over Wal-Mart lies in its customer base: the average household income for Target customers is about $50,000 a year, whereas the average yearly income for a Wal-Mart customer is only $35,000 Figure 2-4 (Source:Hoovers,2011,http://0subscriber.hoovers.com.leopac.ulv.edu/H/company360/competitiveLandscape.html?companyId=11600000000000) The return on Stockholders Equity (ROE) ratio measures the percentage of profit earned on stockholders investment in the company. In other words, return on equity  measures a corporations profitability  by revealing how much  profit a company generates  with the money shareholders have invested.  Ã‚   In Figure 2-4, ROE for Wal-Mart were around 20% from year 2006 to 2010, compared to other competitors which are higher than others. Figure 2-5 (Source:Hoovers,2011,http://0subscriber.hoovers.com.leopac.ulv.ed