University of Maryland Application Essays Short Questions free essay sample

I guided and took charge of place selection, dance rehearsal and the design of the final stage effect. When we selected the place where the performance would be given, the most difficult problem we encountered was that the money we had for the activity was too little to satisfy the expenses of the party. Therefore, we combined it with the budget of the evening party. I proposed that tickets be sold to get more money rather than have it performed free. In addition, the hosts were chosen from the associations and we undertook undertake stage decoration rather than hire. After negotiating with the assembly hall manager, they accepted advance rent payment in part, and the rest after the event. After rehearsing the performance many times, it was time for rehearsal. However, the problem about lighting coordination and synchronization ensued. In case of a little negligence, the effect would be adverse. I had to require the lighting of each program to be as accurate as possible to match with each second of music. We will write a custom essay sample on University of Maryland Application Essays Short Questions or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Therefore, I wrote a detailed guideline for the lighting engineer to practice. With coordination, we succeeded finishing the performance of the evening party. The evening party was presided by all leaders, teachers, and students of our school. However, the activity led me to understand the importance of teamwork. It made me understand that through proper coordination teams can achieve great success. If there was no encouragement from school leaders, other associations’ support, group members’ hard work, we could not have had such a successful party. If I have a chance to attend GWU, I will be an important member of the cheering squad and participate in welcoming new students to the school. Topic #5 Write your own question and respond to it. Please be sure to tell us why you think this essay represent you well. (Maximum 300 words) My Question: Who has had the most impact on your life? My parents have had the greatest impact on my life and growth. Both of my parents practice in the field of accounting and finance; my mother is involved in accounting at a bank and my father works in the finance department. As such, I have been sensitive to numbers since I was young. Due to this, my mathematics study has been the focus of their attention all the time. There exemplary capability and love for mathematics earned them good performance in mathematics when they were students, and they always personally coach me to do mathematics homework. They inspire and guide me in solving mathematical problems. This led me to applying for training lessons about Olympics Math Competition, insisting on learning it for six years. On my 12th birthday, my father sent me an extremely delicate notebook whose title page had a sentence: ‘Record the money that you obtain and spend every day’. At the very beginning, I thought they aimed at checking my accounts monthly, so I recorded some income and expenses. Later, I gradually found that they did not check my account book at all. The wanted me to establish a stronger character on money so that a culture of proper management of money matters could be cultivated. In addition, my father’s persistent struggle in business has made me appreciate the value of hard work and persistence in all that I do. There was a period in my middle school when my parents were not with me, this was a hard time away from them. After my father sharing his story with me, I regained courage of study and confidence of myself. People who want to learn financial economy must have splendid ability of Mathematics and excellent personality trait in business. Nevertheless, the later is more important for businesspersons. Thus, I hope I can learn financial economy and get some development in business like my father. Short Answers 1. In addition to my major, my academic interests include (Characters available 160) Economics, Business, and Mathematics 2. I felt like a mentor when Characters available 160) I felt like a mentor when I took part in dance lessons and activity planning. I felt that my suggestions and activity schemes were helpful to others and my activity plans always produced good results. 3. My favorite thing about last Tuesday was (Characters available 160) Use the latest and the simplest way to answer a common IMO question. 4. My career goals are (Characters available 160) Have a job related to finance and economy and eventually either a global business or a multinational finance corporation. . My favorite place I have visited is (Characters available 160) Wall Street 6. When I hear about the environment I think (Characters available 160) I want to affect more people to have the sense of environmental protection by my hard work, hoping I can protect the environment by my practical actions. 7. One time I led a (Cha racters available 160) †¦ dancing party of my school. I developed my team skills. Every  team member contributed  to our success, but I felt that my leadership unified the group. 8. The most interesting fact I ever learned from research was (Characters available 160) †¦ that a one-day weather forecast requires about 10 billion mathematical calculations. 9. The one thing I never expected to gain from doing community service was (Characters available 160) Pleasure that resulted from help I offer for others. According to community service, I learn more about our community environment and people in the community. 10. I am unstoppable when (Characters available 160) †¦I answer questions about mathematics; I cannot help finding answers to such questions.

Different Places Essays - Baseball Rules, Baseball Field

Different Places Essays - Baseball Rules, Baseball Field Different Places Jac Crocker November 14, 2000 AP 11 Contrast Essay The noon day sun beat down on the red clay infield at Harry Harris Park. Runners on first and second squinted from the glare as they watched the pitchers mound for the opportunity to run. Advise for the runners as well as the batter was screamed and from the stands of spectators. Adding to the din of noise was the chant of the infield and outfield, Hey, batter, batter! The smell of popcorn and barbeque permeated the air. Water bottles emptied as players sought to stay hydrated from the suffocating source of heat that surrounded them. The ball field was alive with action! The midnight moon lazily lit the ball field. The red infield clay reflected a rusty tone lightening ever so slightly at the pitchers mound. The moon light on bases lit up their lonely abandoned positions. Dew on the grass of the outfield announced the outer limits of the game area. Silver spectatorsstands invited the moon light to bathe them. All was still, stationary, secluded. The night blooming jasmine mixed with the salty sea breeze and perfumed the air. Still all was so spectacularly serene. Yet, pause, listen carefully, this is the place where hopes and dreams can be heard. Bibliography none

International People Management Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

International People Management - Case Study Example On some of these occasions, I was also able to improve matters. The "Forming" phase is when the team members first meet, introductions are made and the team members start to get along (or at least try to do so). I saw my contribution here as being strong, because I like to make acquaintances and it is a natural thing for me to make the first contact. The second phase, "Storming", is when the team starts to move towards a defined result. This is where differences of opinion may arise, for example about what result is in fact required or how to get that result. Sometimes personal preferences or even tempers may slow down progress, and the polite behaviour of the first phase ("Forming") may give way to open confrontation. My contribution at the beginning was neither strong, nor weak. I have my own opinions and at times did not agree with other members of the team. However, the experience of working with colleagues and understanding that two people can have different points of view without necessarily being wrong on either side was a good one for me . It prepared me better for the third phase of "Norming". In "Norming", team members have got to know one another and can get down to doing productive work. Thanks to the "Storming" phase, I was much better able to contribute to the "Norming" phase, and to accept and make best use of the differences in background and approach of the different team members. As we had all selected different papers to critique as one of the exercises in the "International People Management" module, there was healthy discussion and exchange of information on the different subjects that team members had chosen. There is always room for improvement, but I felt that I had strength in this phase. My personal disappointment was not being able to fully participate in the fourth phase of the team interactions, that of "Performing". In this fourth phase, Tuckman defines the team working together efficiently and in cooperation to move to a common goal. Not participating as I might have wanted to in the presentation with the critique that I had done on Harzing's paper on international management transfers was a shame. I felt that I had strength in this area, but I also understand that part of the strength of team working is to understand when the team is better served by letting other people take the lead. In this sense, I believe that I learnt something and further improved my capabilities and experience here. Although Tuckman' model is probably best-known in its version with four phases, he also added a fifth one later, which he called "Adjourning" for the break-up of the team, for example at the end of a project. We did not really accomplish such a fifth phase (or really only ve ry informally). The Belbin role model This second model defined by Belbin deals with the different roles that team members can take within a team. The Belbin model is quite detailed and a team member may play several roles at the same time. This is often the case for teams with a small number of team members. Dr Meredith Belbin defined nine separate roles, each role being "a tendency to behave, contribute and interrelate with others in a particular way." I describe the roles below and

Change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Change - Essay Example In business, resistance is the obstacle to surmount or conquer, especially when it comes to introducing new ideas, policies, protocols and products. This paper seeks to highlight resistance as a natural condition, and its application in successful product change in business with special emphasis on sales personnel. A business’ sole purpose is to make a profit at the end of the day’s activities, and when market conditions change, it requires businesses to formulate new ways of conducting business. Most businesses have a sales perspective that involves designated individuals who carry out the task of marketing and actualizing product(s) sale. According to Jaramillo et al, sales persons are more predisposed to resist change if they think it will increase their workload. For a business entity to achieve a successful product change, especially where its sales team is concerned, it needs to ensure that the team maintains its self-efficacy and autonomy (Jaramillo et al. 549). This would ensure that these individuals continue to maintain a harmonious and beneficial relationship with their customers. According to research conducted by Jaramillo et al, resistance to change exerts a negative influence on a salesperson’s performance and customer responsiveness. Managers in all business levels can help reduce resistance by explaining how proposed changes positively affect their workload. Businesses can also provide greater job autonomy to sales persons, which give them the opportunity to implement these changes according to the nature and situation of their respective fields of service. Positive reception of change by a sales team in a business translates to effective and efficient achievement of goals that prompt the need for a change. Jaramillo, F., Mulki, J. P., Onyemah, V. & Pesquera, M. R. Salesperson Resistance to change: An Empirical Investigation of Antecedents and Outcomes. London: International Journal of

President Obamas' Verbal and Non-verbal Communication Essay

President Obamas' Verbal and Non-verbal Communication - Essay Example Therefore, in order to communicate effectively with the public the governmental figure must show various characteristics that are essential to do so. In this paper, we shall be analyzing how the President Obama communicates as well as whether he takes correct steps and procedure when passing his message to the public. The first thing that can be noted when Obama is communicating is that he shows a great deal of confidence while speaking. This serves to give the public the opinion that he is confident in what he is saying and that he actually believes it to be true. It is a known fact that the public is more appreciative of listening to a confident person than to a person without confidence because a message delivered with confidence is always better received. Confidence also gives the impression of the speaker is telling the truth because all his words are said without anything that might suggest that he is lying to his audience. Furthermore, confidence ensures that the audience give s the speaker their utmost attention throughout his speech and because he has their attention, the message he is trying to communicate will be received with little or no distortion (Denham, 1998). The second thing, which is notable in Obama and most if not all governmental officials when communicating with the public is their being well, versed in the subject matter of what they are trying to communicate. It can be seen that they have studied the history of what they are communicating and have made their own personal analysis of it before coming to make their speech to the public. It seems that the public is more receptive of the speaker and what he is saying because of this and this may ensure that the speaker has the undivided attention of the public. The knowledge of the subject matter ensures that the speaker is able to communicate well with the public and that what he says is comprehensible (Sam, 2003). His understanding of the subject also ensures that the speaker is able to i nterpret and simplify the message for his audience so that they are better able to understand what it is he is trying to pass on to them. A result of having prior knowledge of what he is communicating is that it gives the governmental figure the necessary confidence to not only pass on the message he wishes to the public, but he is also able to add on to it his own opinions and relate them to the current situation. When communicating to the public, it can be noted that President Obama pauses often to let his message sink in. these pauses often occur immediately after the speaker makes an important point or when there is an ovation from the public after he has stated what has pleased them. These pauses are important not only to allow the audience to receive the message well, but it also ensures that the audience does not lose track of the speech itself while making their ovations. A good speaker should take note of where and when make these pauses in his speech so that he does not lo se his audience (Trahant, 2006). In addition to making pauses in his speech, the governmental figure also seems not only to be serious throughout the speech but his facial expression follows the mood of his audience. However, he does not allow the audience to control completely the process, and in fact, he is the one who controls the mood

Marketing Communications Plan For Diageo Marketing Essay

Marketing Communications Plan For Diageo Marketing Essay For the company to achieve these objectives, there needs to a situation analysis which will give an overview on the companys currents position. This will be done through analysing the PEST factors that will affect the proposed marketing communications strategy, evaluating White Horse Whiskys performance in the market currently and also identifying the competitors actions. The report will further give an overview of the companys objectives by highlighting the desired position for White Horse whisky through giving a detailed business mission and communication objectives. The communications plan will also give an overview of the how the company will get to its set objectives through the use of the segmentation, targeting and positioning of White Horse Whisky. At the end of the report, the implementation of the plan through the communication tools and messages, the way through which it will be implemented and tracking the progress of the strategy will be discussed to ensure a suitable plan was put into practice. 2.0 SITUATION ANALYSIS (Where are we now?) 2.1 Current Company Performance Diageo is the brand owner of two whisky labels (Bells and White Horse) in the whisky market. White Horse Whisky has a market share of 2.3% in the market as of 2005. The brand has had a downward trend over the past years and wishes to relaunch it in July 2010 to a younger population. The company has a weak distribution chain as Whit Horse Whisky is only available at off-licences and major supermarkets. 2.2 Distinctive Competitive (Marketing) Advantages White Horse Whisky is an established brand which was created in 1890. It has been know as a quality whisky brand especially with the current owners who manufacture global drink labels. 2.3 Marketing Mix (4Ps) Product The product is a blended Scotch whisky which is currently at the decline stage. Price The current price of White Horse whisky is  £14.99 per litre for the squat bottle. Place The brand is available only at super markets and off licences shops. Promotion Diageo has ceased advertising support for White Horse whisky. This has made the brand have little competitive advantage in the market because consumers especially the new drinkers will not be aware of the brand and the old drinkers who need constant reminders and reinforcement might think the brand has died if they are not constantly given information. This could also have been the cause of the gradual decline in the market share of White horse whisky with consumers choosing competitor brands over it. 2.4 Current Customer Segments The brand has 2million consumers over the age of 50years. This accounts for over 50% of the brand consumption. This age group is the ageing population and if the trend continues with them, the brand will eventually die off. 2.5 Uncontrollable Event(s) That Can Impact on the Marketing of White Horse Whisky (Macro Environment) PEEST Analysis Political/legal Whisky brands may be advertised on TV now. Economic The Scotch whisky market has been in decline for over 15years. Ecological/physical environment Increased environmental awareness and the need to treat and respect the world. Socio-cultural Drinking patters have moved away from traditional dark spirits in favour of white spirits, wines and lagers. The number of people in their twenties and thirties drinking whisky has declined over the years. Whisky has always been acknowledged as an acquired taste that was unlikely to appeal to novice drinkers. Whisky is regarded as a spirit that is difficult to mix. Current image of whisky is seen as outdated and largely irrelevant. Binge drinking amongst young people which is seen currently as a serious social problem in UK. Technological Growing rate of internet use among the population in UK. 2.6 Micro Environment MARKET In 2005, the overall whisky market had 3.9m consumers. Size Growth rate White Horse whisky had a decline of 0.6% from 2004 -2005. Market trends The advent of drinkers moving from traditional dark spirits to chilled, long, lighter drinks. Table 1: The market in the microenvironment 2.7 SWOT Analysis for White Horse Whisky Strengths Strong brand name and rich heritage. Diageo has a budget of  £3 strictly for marketing of the brand which will promote awareness and change the way it is perceived by the target audience. Weaknesses Lack of advertising of the brand over the years. Small distribution networks. Opportunities Young people who are being targeted enjoy going out and having fun during their spare time. Recent relaxation of the voluntary code for whisky advertisements on TV. Threats Current whisky image is seen as outdated and largely irrelevant which gives it an old-fashioned image. The Scotch whisky market has been in decline for over 15years Drinking patterns have moved away from traditional spirits like whisky to wine and lagers. Whisky has been known to have an acquired taste that was unlikely to appeal to novice drinkers. Binge drinking by young people. Table 2 : SWOT Analysis for White Horse Whisky 3.0 SET OBJECTIVES (Where Do We Want To Go?) 3.1 Marketing Objectives To increase the brands market share from 2.3% to 6% to consumers under 50years within 3years. 3.2 Marketing Communication Objectives To reposition White Horse whisky from being an old fashioned drink for old age groups to a contemporary and authentic drink for 20-28year old male and females within 3years. 4.0 STRATEGY(How Do We Get There?) 4.1 Segmentation The youth and young people who are upwardly mobile in the UK. 4.2 Targeting The target market will be women and men aged 20-28years who are still experimenting with spirits with no brand loyalty yet. 4.3 Positioning White Horse whisky will be positioned to the target market as a contemporary, fun and quality drink. This position resonates with the values of our target market and our brand values. 4.4 ATR Model for Buying Decision The purchase of whisky is a low involvement decision. This is because it has a low expenditure and cant be viewed as a personal risk. ATR model which is Awareness, Trial, and Repurchase is suitable for this product. The consumer becomes aware of the brand- White Horse whisky through the proposed marketing communication strategy and will make a trial purchase to assess the drink. If taking of the whisky produces favourable results, the consumer will become interested in White Horse whisky and will therefore repeat the buying of the whisky at a later time. This will gradually increase the brand share of the product. The plan will give a devise on how to create the initial awareness of the brand to the selected target market. This can be used to determine the product adoption process. 4.5 Pull Strategy The pull strategy will be adopted to achieve the communication objectives. This strategy involves focusing our communication directly at our target market; this in turn would stimulate a desire, demand and eventual purchase of White Horse Whisky. 5.0 TACTICAL PLAN (How Do We Implement the Strategy?) 5.1 Communication Tools to be used and how they will be used Communication tools Medium Reason for choice Media Vehicles Advertising Type of media selected channels White Horse Target Group Use age Television The target audience have a heavy exposure to TV Specific programmes on ITV: It is an effective tool to reach our target audience on a large scale 1. Prison break This can create a strong brand image for White Horse whisky 2. Gossip Girl TV has a high visual and strong impact that can easily attract the audience because it influences multiple senses. 3. Vampire Dairies The target audience relax by watching these entertainment programmes 4. 24 5. Sports shows Magazine There is high selective readership for magazines. It is easy to communicate with our chosen target audience knowing their choice. Cosmo Girl British Vogue Mens Vogue The magazine can also be passed on to friends and this can be read not necessarily by only the purchaser It will show good quality and pictures and have high information content Billboards and posters This will give a strong impact with a simple message. This helps to connect with the audience less is more attitude.   To be placed strategically near: City centres, malls   Billboards and posters The billboards have a high frequency exposure and will be easily grab attention.   The posters will in addition be placed in bars and clubs The placed location will reach the target market. This will make the target audience aware of the brand as they will be exposed to the advert continuously and frequently.   Advertising Internet This medium is very attractive to them and they spend lots of hours a day on the internet. Low production cost which will reach a potential audience at any time of the day. Web banners on social networking sites (Face book and MySpace) Cinemas The target audience enjoy having night outs especially at the cinema Odeon and Cineworld cinemas across the country when showing:   Action and Science Fiction films in 3D, Romantic Comedy and Thrillers. Spotify This music streaming service has become popular among the target audience. This will be placed for listeners of: rock, RB, hip hop, pop and rap. It has be ability to reach the audience by postcode because there is a registration for the service Its a perfect medium to reach the target audience who love to listen to music. Sales Promotion Free trials Consumers appreciate offers and love to have value for their money. Selected clubs and pubs across the country.   Sales Promotion   Free trials It is quick and easy to implement and will have an immediate impact on the sale of the brand It will encourage retrial Free gifts This will encourage purchase Supermarket chains, off licences There will be a small white horse attached to each white horse whisky bottle There will be free t-shirts distributed to consumers at clubs and bars. Sponsorship Fashion show This will change the perception of it being an old generation drink These sponsorship of youth events will build awareness for the brand The target audience use this as a means of relaxing and will be great fun for them which can easily to reach them. The fashion show and valentine part will hold at selected regions Valentine party 5.2 Message(s) We Wish To Communicate White Horse is approachable, light- hearted and sociable. 5.3 Consistency across Different Tools and Messages The messages are consistent and they all carry the message that the brand is of quality and is a drink for the younger generation. 5.4 Necessary Resources/Budgets There is a  £3 budget for the marketing communication strategy for one year. The budget will be sufficient to implement the strategy in various vehicles for the duration chosen. 6.0 ACTION PLAN (Who, What, When?) Please refer to Appendix 1 and 2 for detailed communication spending. 6.1 Responsible party for implementation This communications plan will be executed by a top advertising firm in the UK. The marketing department will have the responsibility of communication with the advertising agency to ensure all communication is placed as at when due and also make appearances at the sponsorship events. The department will also be responsible for the appropriate quantity distribution of the soft toys (The White Horse) and t-shirts to the regions. The accounting department ensures vouchers raised for the advertising agency are paid on time. Diageos IT department will also make sure the website is always up and running to appeal to consumers who will be visiting the site. 6.2 Time frame of plan implementation The plan will be implemented between July 2010- June 2011. 6.3 Resource Allocation for the Action The communication plan has been done and will cost  £2,899,335. This amount is exclusive of the allocation of  £ 100,000 which will be paid to the agency for creatives production and services. 7.0 CONTROL ( Keeping Track Of Progress) The brand will be monitored through sales analysis. The marketing department will obtain the sales figures weekly that will be used to compare the actual sales of White Horse whisky to the target sale. Information will also be gathered from the distributors of the brand on customers perception of the drink. The sales report should be gotten by region and if any extraordinary low sale is received from any region, their communication should be restructured. Within the first year, the brand share should increase by 0.7% to 3% and the profile of young drinkers should increase to 37%. This will make the overall brand share increase of 6% and 60% of young drinkers by 2013 will be achieved. Depending on the first year figures, the marketing manager should be able to forecast and evaluate the communication strategy being used and make corrective actions where necessary. If there is an exceptionally low increase in the first year period which will essentially where a lot of money will be spent on communication, the communication plans should be revisited to avoid massive failures in 2013. Each person/ department in Diageo should be clear on their responsibilities to enable the company meet the expected target. 8.0 THE 3Ms These are the key resources 8.1 Men This is not mentioned in case study. 8.2 Money   There is a budget of  £3m for the repositioning of White Horse whisky for one year. 8.3 Minutes   The deadline to achieve the 3.7% brand share increase is 3years. The plan will be solely for the 1st year while recommendations for the next 2years will be provided. 9.0 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE NEXT 2YEARS From July 2011- July 2013, the following should be done to reinforce the brand in the mind of the consumers: The television adverts should be aired in alternative months. The use of posters at bars and clubs should be continued. The online adverts on Facebook, MySpace and Spotify should continue every month. Other sales promotions should be introduced to give room for another exciting support to the consumers from the brand. The brand should also explore opportunities in celebrity endorsements which the target audience fancy. Quarterly shows should be sponsored at selected clubs around the country. Possible production of shot glasses with the White Horse logo can be distributed to bars and clubs. Appendix 2 (Cost Analysis) TV adverts: Coverage within the UK REGION COST FOR 30 ADVERTS ON ITV LATE PEAK DRAMAS Central  £10,313 London  £16,730 Yorkshire  £3,827 Scotland  £3,169 Total Cost  £34,039 Number of shows to place adverts: 4 Frequency: 4 times weekly, for 20 weeks. Monthly cost:  £344,624 Cinema adverts:  £23,000 per month Magazines: Number of magazines: 4 Frequency: monthly Monthly cost:  £73,200 Outdoor adverts: Billboards and Posters:  £15,000 monthly Online adverts  £37,500 monthly Sponsorships A total of  £150,000 was budgeted to sponsor specified events across the four regions. Sales Promotion 1000 t-shirts and soft horses, free trials over the year:  £ 96,500. 10.0 Creatives to be sent to agency Appendix 3 (Advert for Television and Cinema) This will be a 30 seconds advert which will make our target audience associate White Horse whisky as a fun drink. Scene 1 Nice music playing in the background The advert starts at a bar scene with a couple of people ordering drinks at the bar. In a distance, people can be seen dancing. The camera zooms in on a young man and lady (Lady 1). They exchange pleasantries and the young man leaves shortly as he gets his drink Scene 2 The young man is seen with two others men chatting and looking around. He spots a young lady (Lady 2) in a corner sitting by herself and he walks up to her to ask for a dance. Lady 2 agrees and they move to the dance floor. Scene 3 The young man and Lady 2 are seen dancing and having a good time. Lady 1 walks up to them with two drinks in her hand. She hands a drink over to Lady 2 and turns to face the young man. She says to the young man: I see youve met my mother. The young man has a confused face and says: your mother? Scene 4 The three of are sitted at a table and are seen chatting, laughing and having White Horse whisky. The advert closes and a screen showing the White Horse whisky bottle and a glass with the contents. The tag line: White Horse.Surprising fun is shown below this screen This advert is to make the target audience know that even though the label is old, it still has the right mix and quality to appeal to them. . Appendix 4(Advert for Magazines, Billboards and posters) A picture of a group of four young adults (two men and two women) wearing casual and fashionable outfits. They are smiling at themselves and each person is seen holding a glass that contains White Horse whisky. The caption underneath the picture states: White HorseSurprising fun. Appendix 5(Design for t-shirt) The shirt is a black cotton Polo shirt. At the centre of the shirt in front, there is a White Horse. The back of the shirt carries the caption:Surprising fun.

Why History Is Important :: essays research papers

Why History is Important   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Study of history is important because we learn from our mistakes, we share a common experience with people that binds us together, our minds store our experiences, and society can build upon past accomplishments. The first, and most significant reason history is important is because we learn from our mistakes. If there were no history then everyone would make the same mistakes over and over. In any job, if you can avoid mistakes you or someone else made in the past then you would run a more efficient working place. An intelligent person would not make the mistakes themselves but learn from other people’s mistakes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The second reason history is important is because we share a common experience which binds us together as a country, society, and people. We can relate with our neighbors, peers, or even someone off the street. We often share the same hardships or happiness as these other people. If we didn’t have history than we would not have any thing to share with one another. The third reason history is an important factor in our life is because our minds are store our experiences. Everyone is born with a part in the brain that stores all of the history that you see, hear, and feel. If we didn’t have history, it would be like having amnesia and we would not know what was what. For example, when we have a certain experience like going to the beach for the first time; it’s the first time you touch the sand, see waves crashing, or feel the cool salty breeze against your face. That is an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. If you didn’t have history or memory then every time you go somewhere it would be like the first time since you don’t remember, and you would not have experience in life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The fourth reason history is important is because society can build upon past accomplishments with out having to re-achieve them. We as people make inventions and discoveries. If there were no history then people would not be Why History Is Important :: essays research papers Why History is Important   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Study of history is important because we learn from our mistakes, we share a common experience with people that binds us together, our minds store our experiences, and society can build upon past accomplishments. The first, and most significant reason history is important is because we learn from our mistakes. If there were no history then everyone would make the same mistakes over and over. In any job, if you can avoid mistakes you or someone else made in the past then you would run a more efficient working place. An intelligent person would not make the mistakes themselves but learn from other people’s mistakes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The second reason history is important is because we share a common experience which binds us together as a country, society, and people. We can relate with our neighbors, peers, or even someone off the street. We often share the same hardships or happiness as these other people. If we didn’t have history than we would not have any thing to share with one another. The third reason history is an important factor in our life is because our minds are store our experiences. Everyone is born with a part in the brain that stores all of the history that you see, hear, and feel. If we didn’t have history, it would be like having amnesia and we would not know what was what. For example, when we have a certain experience like going to the beach for the first time; it’s the first time you touch the sand, see waves crashing, or feel the cool salty breeze against your face. That is an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. If you didn’t have history or memory then every time you go somewhere it would be like the first time since you don’t remember, and you would not have experience in life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The fourth reason history is important is because society can build upon past accomplishments with out having to re-achieve them. We as people make inventions and discoveries. If there were no history then people would not be

IT Strategy and the Overall Business Strategy Essay

I-  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Introduction Business strategies were basically developed as weapons in the competition. However, with the rapid change in business environment, competition roles have changed forcing companies to redefine their way in order to compete. With the evolved role of IT, organizations started to think to use IT as a strategic weapon either as a competitive advantage or even as an enabler for growth. However, unfortunately IT solely was not enough to take that role. So, organizations needed to rethink and reinvent new management or business best practices in order to maximize the obtained IT value. As a result, organizations adopted best practices such as IT business alignment to align IT with their business strategic goals in order to survive and succeed in the competition. The aim of this paper is to determine whether an IT strategy focused on maintaining a cutting-edge position is the most effective way to support any kind of overall business strategy or not. The main hypotheses of the research are that (1) IT strategy focused on maintaining a cutting-edge technology position isn’t enough (or isn’t the most effective way) to support the overall business strategy because (2) it has to be aligned with the overall business strategy. The paper first of all defines the term â€Å"IT business alignment†, then analyzes the current situation, and finally it ends with a conclusion. II-  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Definitions Before analyzing the current situation, it is necessary to define an important term such as â€Å"IT Business Alignment†. Tapia, R. S. (2006) gives a simple straight-to-the-point definition for the term ‘IT Business alignment’ â€Å"the problem of matching services offered by IT with the requirements of the business†. (p.1) III-  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Situation Analysis In order to test the research hypotheses or to prove that an IT strategy focused on maintaining a cutting-edge technology position is not the most effective way to support any kind of overall business strategy, this section will analyze the current situation of IT projects and the relationship with their business strategic goals and requirement. 1.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   IT projects fail to deliver a value Research showed that the gap between IT and business strategic goals still significantly exists. A significant percentage of IT projects fail to deliver a value as shown in figure (1). According to Needmuchwala, A. A., [2008], â€Å"41% of IT projects failed to deliver the expected value†. And he presented another interesting fact such as: â€Å"more than  ¼ of IT projects were canceled† (p.3) not to mention that â€Å"only 11% of organizations consider technology as a strategic weapon† (p.3) Figure (1): Failure types of IT projects (Sample size: 800 IT managers in 8 countries) Source: Dynamic Markets Limited (2007). IT Projects: Experience certainty (cited in Needmuchwala, A. A., [2008]. Evolving IT from ‘Running the Business’ to ‘Changing the Business†)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another survey conducted by Shpilberg, D. & Berez, S. & Puryear, R. & Shah, A. (2007) showed that a hug percentage of IT projects (three-quarters of companies as shown in figure: 2) â€Å"failed to deliver as expected and drifted in the ‘maintenance zone’ where IT projects were disconnected from the overall strategic goals and objectives’. (p.52) Whereas the 11% companies in the alignment trap shown in this survey even failed to deliver results on time or on budget and spent 13% more than the average and had 14% lower revenue growth.† (p.52) Figure (2): IT alignment Survey results (Sample size: more than 500 senior and IT executives worldwide) Source: Shpilberg, D. & Berez, S. & Puryear, R. & Shah, A. (2007). Avoiding the Alignment Trap in Information Technology   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Now, the current situation tells us that IT strategies focused only on maintaining cutting-edge technology position, away from business strategy, are not the effective way to support the overall business strategy. Another way to prove that is to prove that the strategic alignment between IT strategy and business strategy is the effective way to support the overall business strategy and to deliver a business value. 2.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   IT Business alignment proved to deliver value 2.1 The Need for Strategic Alignment Before mentioning any facts about IT business alignment, Figure (3) shows levels of relationship between IT and business strategy and the value offered in each alignment level. These development stages were suggested by Wyatt-Haines, R. (2007) and are chosen here to explain the necessity of the engagement between IT and business strategy. Facts show that â€Å"many IT functions fail to deliver even at the first basic level ‘following the business’† (Wyatt-Haines, R., 2007, p.6) and this is obviously happens when IT simply fails to understand ‘business needs’ or in another word, the basic engagement with business strategy. Figure (3): Levels of Relationship Between IT and Business Strategy Relationship with business IT Development Stages (Levels of Alignment) 1. Following 2. Enabling 3. Leading Goals/Functions of IT in each development stage/ alignment level Reacts to business needs Maximizing value  Ã‚   predicting, resourcing priorities    Extremely aligned, a key player in leading thinking and planning Relationship with business strategy    Understanding of business needs Understanding of business strategy Understanding of business environment Business Results/Value (Alignment Impact) Delivering value Strategic success Creating strategic opportunities    Source: Development Stages (Following-Enabling-Leading) were adopted from: Wyatt-Haines, R. (2007). Leadership Impact Through IT    Also, Jahnke, A. (2004) assured that â€Å"the full participation and engagement of the business is the only guarantee to turn IT capabilities into business benefits†. So, the strategic alignment in this case is considered to be a necessity not a luxury. Now, after realizing the fact that IT alignment is a necessity to obtain a business value, it’s time to analyze the IT business alignment current situation. First of all, research findings showed that â€Å"management practices such as strategic alignment contributes to higher levels of IT business value†. (Tallon, P. P. & Kraemer, K. L. & Gurbaxani, V., 2001, p.1: Sample size: 304 business executives worldwide). Also, according to CIO update (2004), â€Å"96% of IT executives predict a positive impact of aligning IT strategy with the corporate strategy†. (As shown in figure: 4) 2.2 The ROI or the value of the Alignment To make sure that IT business alignment is an effective way to support the business strategy, this section also will focus on the situation of the successfully aligned companies to make sure that the strategic alignment enables companies to obtain a value or ROI. First, Holmes, A. (2007) found these companies who succeeded in aligning IT with the business strategy generated â€Å"a new revenue stream more than twice as often as other companies who said they were not aligned†. Figure (4): IT alignment survey results (Impact and Challenges) Source: CIO update (2004). Aligning IT & Business Strategies Still Elusive Also, the survey –mentioned before- conducted by Shpilberg, D. & Berez, S. & Puryear, R. & Shah, A. (2007) showed that the successfully highly aligned highly effective companies (7% of respondents as shown in figure 2) â€Å"recorded a compound annual growth rate –over three years- 35% higher than the survey average†. (p.53) These companies successfully -as the authors described them- â€Å"have put IT where it belongs ‘at the heart of the business processes’ that define organization’s position in business environment or the marketplace†. (p.58) So, IT in these companies didn’t focus on the cutting-edge technology position but it focused on how to support the business strategic position by aligning IT strategy with the overall business strategy. IV-  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Conclusion Now, after analyzing the current situation of IT projects, it is obvious that an IT strategy focused only on maintaining a cutting-edge technology position is not enough (or not the most effective way) to support any kind of overall business strategy, because facts say that IT disconnected and isolated strategies failed to support business overall strategies and even became a heavy burden on their organizations. On the other hand, aligned IT strategies proved to deliver a value and this value differs and are maximized depending on the engagement level with business strategy. In another word, the first success factor is to strategically align IT with the business goals and requirements meaning to support the business strategic position and not the cutting-edge technology position. Finally –upon these findings- the crime –as described by Jahnke, A. (2004) is the lack of alignment because â€Å"the lack of alignment represents a waste of money, a waste of effort, and wasted opportunities.† References CIO update (2004). Aligning IT & Business Strategies Still Elusive. CIO. Retrieved April 29, 2008 from http://www.cioupdate.com/insights/article.php/3328551 Holmes, A. (2007). The ROI of Alignment. CIO. Retrieved April 29, 2008 from http://www.cio.com/article/27969/The_ROI_of_Alignment/ Jahnke, A. (2004). Why is Business-IT alignment So Difficult?. CIO. Retrieved April 29, 2008 from http://www.cio.com/article/32322 Needmuchwala, A. A. [2008]. Evolving IT from ‘Running the Business’ to ‘Changing the Business†. Retrieved April 29, 2008 from http://www.tcs.com/SiteCollectionDocuments/White%20Papers/DEWP_05.pdf Shpilberg, D. & Berez, S. & Puryear, R. & Shah, A. (2007). Avoiding the Alignment Trap in Information Technology. MIT Sloan Management Review, Fall 2007, 49(1) pp. 51-58. Retrieved April 29, 2008 from http://sloanreview.mit.edu/wsj/insight/pdfs/49102.pdf Tallon, P. P. & Kraemer, K. L. & Gurbaxani, V. (2001). Executives’ Perceptions of the Business Value of Information Technology: A process-oriented approach. Journal of Management Information Systems, 16(4), 145-174. Retrieved April 23, 2008 from http://repositories.cdlib.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1057&context=crito Tapia, R. S. (2006). A Value-Based Maturity Model for IT Alignment in Networked Businesses, Netherlands. Retrieved April 29, 2008 from http://eprints.eemcs.utwente.nl/2778/01/Subprojectproposal.pdf Wyatt-Haines, R. (2007), Leadership Impact Through IT, Business Leadership Review IV:IV, October 2007. Retrieved April 29, 2008 from  Ã‚   http://mbaguide.mbaworld.com/downloadblrarticle/1047/index.htm

Megapnosaurus (Syntarsus) - Facts and Figures

Megapnosaurus (Syntarsus) - Facts and Figures Name: Megapnosaurus (Greek for big dead lizard); pronounced meh-GAP-no-SORE-us; also known as Syntarsus; possibly synonymous with Coelophysis Habitat: Woodlands of Africa and North America Historical Period: Early Jurassic (200-180 million years ago) Size and Weight: About six feet long and 75 pounds Diet: Meat Distinguishing Characteristics: Large size; bipedal posture; narrow snout; strong hands with long fingers About Megapnosaurus (Syntarsus) By the standards of the early Jurassic period, about 190 million years ago, the meat-eating dinosaur Megapnosaurus was hugethis early theropod may have weighed as much as 75 pounds, hence its unusual name, Greek for big dead lizard. (By the way, if Megapnosaurus sounds a bit unfamiliar, thats because this dinosaur used to be known as Syntarsusa name that turned out to have already been assigned to a genus of insect.) Complicating matters further, many paleontologists believe that Megapnosaurus was actually a large species (C. rhodesiensis) of the much better-known dinosaur Coelophysis, the skeletons of which have been unearthed by the thousands in the American southwest. Assuming that it does deserve its own genus, there were two distinct variants of Megapnosaurus. One lived in South Africa, and was discovered when researchers stumbled on a bed of 30 tangled skeletons (the pack had apparently been drowned in a flash flood, and may or may not have been on a hunting expedition). The North American version sported small crests on its head, a hint that it may have been closely related to another smallish theropod of the late Jurassic period, Dilophosaurus. The size and structure of its eyes indicates that Megapnosaurus (aka Syntarsus, aka Coelophysis) hunted at night, and a study of the growth rings in its bones reveals that this dinosaur had an average life span of about seven years.

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buy custom Language and Identity essay In life one has a sense of identity and therefore he or she identifies himself to a particular group maybe because of gender, age, language or a particular race among others. People will always a have a strong sense of belonging and attachment to a group and speaking similar language makes it possible for easy socialization while on the other hand language barrier may hinder people identifying themselves with certain groups. People have a unique way of identifying themselves and this attracts them to each other, growing up in certain neighborhoods also develops sense of identity and may also result in developing of a language that may be unique just to them. People will always aim at having a positive identity because it gives them the courage and to co-exist with other people freely. In a working environment people are judged on how well they can communicate with each other and not on the basis of their origin or race. Education helps people to have a smooth transition from their comfortable backgrounds such as families or communities. By understanding that we are not all alike and we speak different languages the issue of communicating with a single language that we all understand arises. Language may refer to specific human capacity for acquiring and using complex systems of communicating with each other. Human language is unique when in comparison to others such as the communication of the animals because it only allows human beings to use an endless utterances from a given set of elements and this can only be acquire through social interactions. Human language can be used in different situations to mean different meaning. Individuals who are bilingual have higher affinity to associate themselves with people that share the same language. Language plays a significant role in helping individuals decide for their identity. Different people may argue that language does not determine much in the identity of an individual but in real sense it shape an individual identity and how he/she relates with other people, knowledge of a certain language makes one free to socialize with those who can understand him without the involvement of an interpreter. Language is not only used to communicate but also to express the emotions and feelings. This research is based on the question; what is the role of language in an individuals identity? Role of Language in Identity According to Benjamin Whorf he notes that language shapes the way we think and our emotions, it determines ones perception of reality while Lionel Groulx says that language is the light of mind. Edward Sapir says that language is not only a vehicle for the expression of thoughts, perception, sentiments and value character of a community; it also shows the social identity of a group. A common language serves as a symbol for social solidarity and identity; he goes ahead to summarize that language retention helps maintain feelings of cultural kinship. For a very long time, language and dialect has been the key pillar of information about identity. During this same period for one to become a member of a certain community it involves acquiring the information of the functions, social attributes and their language (Ochs et al). When one is able to speak two or more languages it becomes a symbol of identification and a way of communication and he may be more privileged than other people. A dialect acquired by belonging to a certain group for instance the minority makes one comfortable when in their midst as they feel they are part and parcel. (Heller, 1982, Pp.308). In todays world, language intersects well with the nature of subjectivity (Henriquez et al. 1984), in the postmodern era identity has been based on several, dynamic and conflicting issues found on a permanent self sense not the individuals choose while in different circumstances. Despite the fact that is deeply based on social and historical backgrounds, it allows for greater flexibility than either of the two i.e. race or ethnicity when an individual is able to express dual identity either consciously or unconsciously by the linguistic choices they make. In such circumstances people will stress their cultural heritage and they base on their language. According to( Collins Kuczaj, 1991)While there exists some limits such as color, gender, ethnicity or the age one can find a deep affection on self-identification and self-presentation, most of them become flexible in a cyberspace. Language increases the flexibility of the role they assume and their personnel (Calvert, 2002). Language attitudes has been studied as an vital area in identity (Cargile et al. 1994), in the past 40 plus years where language speakers are judged by ttheir linguistic and paralinguistic variations as they communicate, this process affects the way we relate to one another but it also extends to the way communities react to people who speak different languages. Language can be described as knowledge and in todays world it is one of the major factors of competitiveness of an individual in the job market. Despite the fact that our knowledge and brains being the centre of development we cannot ignore ones ability to use different languages. People who have common interests all over the world can find a sense of identity if they can understand each other and this is actualized with a similar language. Over time English has proved to be that language that brings people together all over the world and it has been used in conference for the United Nations and other meetings that have brought people from all over the world. The official language is used in the meetings of the United Nations and acts as an identity to member states Most academicians claim that language plays a crucial role in both internal and external perception of ethnic races by those from outside. Most academic papers have mentioned that language has a role in ethnic identity. Although language plays that crucial role, academicians are keen to mention that it is not the only aspect of a minority group identity. As noted above, language is key to identity of individuals and groups as it increases the level of belonging. People are more confident when one speaks the language you understand and therefore you are able to communicate, even the academicians who share common interest and views can identify with each other through the same language. Language plays a significant role in helping individuals decide for their identity. When one is capable to express himself freely, it will have an extra advantage in socializing with his peers. This will makes it possible to choose a reference group and express inner feelings in most efficient ways. Through expressing your inner feelings and emotions one relaxes and becomes more comfortable when in a group and it is true when one says that true emotions can only be expressed through a language he/she truly understands. The whole world can develop first if it can have unity in way they communicate and this has been shown through the need for people to un derstand and learn multiple languages. Buy custom Language and Identity essay

Death Epitomizes American Dream, Society and Time (The Great Gatsby) Essay

Death Epitomizes American Dream, Society and Time (The Great Gatsby) - Essay Example This paper will discuss the significance of Gatsby’s death based on the three points: death of American dream, death defines the decayed or rotten society, and death conveys the limitation of time. Hard work, success, and prosperity symbolize the American dreams, which are grounded on their aim for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Gatz is presented as a man filled with spirit: aspiration, commitment, braveness, and faith. This is evident in his longing for Daisy when Gatsby stated that he seemed closer to Daisy similar with the distance of the star to the moon. He further exclaims his proximity to his dreams -- the green light on a dock (Fitzgerald). Gatsby once believed that his dream is impossible to achieve because of his distance to Daisy, but he realizes that his hope and faith never vanish. The commitment of Gatsby to Daisy is apparent in the years that have passed. For five years, they were separated, which inspired Gatsby to accumulate wealth that could mak e her proud of. Fitzgerald wants to emphasize the authentic American dream, which is not adulterated by wealth. The only visible value in the life of Gatsby is the American spirit embedded on his heart through representing his love and commitment for Daisy. Nick ascertains in his observation that Gatsby possesses an exceptional quality that is hope in which he will never find in others (Fitzgerald). This represents the death of American dream, which Fitzgerald aims to restore. He sees it as the authentic American dream that has a substance, which is far from what the 1920’s projection that wealth is an answer in order to belong in the upper strata or to buy love and happiness. It is proven by Fitzgerald that wealth accomplishes nothing. Furthermore, Fitzgerald wants to retrieve the lost American dreams through the death of Gatsby. Its ending serves as a warning to Americans that when the 1920’s perspective continues, the American’s vitality or spirit is lost. We must stop deceiving ourselves that green will lead us to a valuable and significant future in order to restore the American spirit. The unhappy ending of The Great Gatsby symbolizes the decayed society. We all know that society comprises of individuals or group of people; hence, the rotten society is represented by the characters of Tom Buchanan and Daisy Buchanan, Myrtle and George Wilson, Jordan Baker, and Jay Gatz. Nick concludes the story represents west because they are Americans that have common flaws that are not compatible with the Eastern life (Fitzgerald). This line indicates the commonality in Westerners, which depicts lies, carelessness, inhuman, self-centered, hypocrite, and pretentious. Jay Gatsby erases his past, and he is driven by his dream to accrue wealth through the easy money or illegal activities. Furthermore, Gatsby deceives people in his family and educational background by telling that he comes from an affluent family in the middle-west and obtain his educa tion in Oxford because of a family tradition (Fitzgerald). Fitzgerald points out the desire of Gatsby to be accepted in the higher strata, so he devises story. Tom and Daisy Buchanan are an epitome of selfish, inhuman, and careless human beings. Fitzgerald identified them as careless people -- they break things and individuals, then easily escape with their money, and allowed other people to resolve their problem. Tom and Daisy symbolize the new American dream, w

European Works Council Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

European Works Council - Essay Example However its main function is to consult and inform the employees about the organizational change. Also it has high resemblance with the way multinational companies manages their ethical standards. Table of Contents Introduction 4 Discussion 4 Conclusion 6 References 7 Introduction A work council is also a form of organization that represents the employees of several organizations. The principal function of a work council is to look after the welfare of the employees. A work council exists in several forms and names. Especially in European countries like Austria, Britain, German, Netherlands, Luxemburg, and Spain work councils have strong presence. However the most commonly used implementations of such bodies took place in Germany. In this German model, labour agreements were made by the union and employer association at the national level, local firms and plants. The councils mainly meet with the employees for the purpose of adjusting local agreements and local circumstances. There i s a representation from the member countries to the works councils. In general the members of work councils get elected for a period of four years. There are a number of works councils are present in Europe. Some of them are ABN-Amro European Staff Council, ACNielsen European Works Council, Abbott European Employee Forum, Cadbury Schweppes Confectionery Stream Eur.Empl.Inf.& Cons.Forum, Aer Lingus European Central Representative Council, Arkema European Works Council - negotiations ongoing, Bord na Mona European Forum for Information and Consultation, Agco Corporation European Works Council and Alcatel-Lucent European Committee for Information and Dialogue among many others (Ewcdb, n.d.). However European Works Councils (EWS) is one of the more noteworthy works councils of the European Union. Towards the unprecedented growth of European Works Councils information technology played a crucial role (Whittall, Knudsen and Huijgen, 2009, pp.167-185). The implementation of the dictate on the formation of European Works Councils in order to notify the employees about the organizational decisions can be portrayed as one of the significant decision of European Union in the field of social policy. It has also opened the pathway towards the materialization of EU level and transnational industrial relations. There were political barriers for more than twenty years on the workers participation in MNCs. However it changed with the inception of European Workers Council directive. With its inception the idea of harmonization departed, and it moved towards the Dutch model of employee participation (Muller and Platzer, 2003, p.58). Discussion What are European Works Councils? European Works Councils are the bodies that represent the European employees of an organization. With the help of European Works Council employees are consulted and informed by the management of an organization. The communications and consultations are basically for the purpose of important business decisi ons that can impact the working conditions of the employees. European Works Councils play a very important role regarding the industrial relations in Europe. It represented the first legitimately European institution at the enterprise level. During the mid half of 1994 a directive regarding the formation of European Works Councils (EWC) was passed by the Council of the European Union. European works councils also plays an important role in