Multimedia Systems free essay sample

Video is the technology of electronically capturing, recording, processing, storing, transmitting, and reconstructing a sequence of still images representing scenes in motion. Raw video can be regarded as being a series of single images. There are typically 25, 30 or 50 frames per second. There are two types of video recording systems/formats. Also, the term video (video meaning I see, from the Latin verb videre) commonly refers to several storage formats for moving pictures. These are Analog Video and Digital Video. The world we sense is full of analog signal; electrical sensors such as transducers, thermocouples, microphones convert the medium they sense into electrical signals. These are usually continuous and still analog. These analog signals must be converted or digitised into discrete digital signals that computer can readily deal with. Special hardware devices called Analog-to-Digital converters perform this task. For playback Digital-to-Analog must perform a converse operation. Analog Video Analog Video is usually captured by a video camera and then digitised. We will write a custom essay sample on Multimedia Systems or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Digital Video Digital video is a type of video recording system that works by using a digital rather than an analog video signal. Digital video comprises a series of orthogonal bitmap digital images displayed in rapid succession at a constant rate. In the context of video these images are called frames. We measure the rate at which frames are displayed in frames per second (FPS). Since every frame is an orthogonal bitmap digital image it comprises a raster of pixels. If it has a width of W pixels and a height of H pixels we say that the frame size is WxH. Pixels have only one property, their color. The second half contains only the even-numbered lines. Those halves are referred to individually as fields. Two consecutive fields compose a full frame. If an interlaced video has a frame rate of 15 frames per second the field rate is 30 fields per second. All the properties and formulas discussed here apply equally to interlaced video but one should be careful not to confuse the fields per second with the frames per second. Properties of compressed video The above are accurate for uncompressed video. Because of the relatively high bit rate of uncompressed video, video compression is extensively used. In the case of compressed video each frame requires a small percentage of the original bits. Assuming a compression algorithm that shrinks the input data by a factor of CF, the bit rate and video size would equal to: BR = W * H * CD * FPS / CF VS = BR * T / CF Please note that it is not necessary that all frames are equally compressed by a factor of CF. In practice they are not so CF is the average factor of compression for all the frames taken together. The above equation for the bit rate can be rewritten by combining the compression factor and the color depth like this: BR = W * H * (CD / CF) * FPS The value (CD / CF) represents the average bits per pixel (BPP). As an example, if we have a color depth of 12bits/pixel and an algorithm that compresses at 40x, then BPP equals 0. 3 (12/40). So in the case of compressed video the formula for bit rate is: BR = W * H * BPP * FPS In fact the same formula is valid for uncompressed video because in that case one can assume that the compression factor is 1 and that the average bits per pixel equal the color depth. Bit rate and BPP As is obvious by its definition bit rate is a measure of the rate of information content of the digital video stream. In the case of uncompressed video, bit rate corresponds directly to the quality of the video (remember that bit rate is proportional to every property that affects the video quality). Bit rate is an important property when transmitting video because the transmission link must be capable of supporting that bit rate. Bit rate is also important when dealing with the storage of video because, as shown above, the video size is proportional to the bit rate and the duration. Bit rate of uncompressed video is too high for most practical applications. Video compression is used to greatly reduce the bit rate. BPP is a measure of the efficiency of compression. A true-color video with no compression at all may have a BPP of 24 bits/pixel. Chroma subsampling can reduce the BPP to 16 or 12 bits/pixel. Applying jpeg compression on every frame can reduce the BPP to 8 or even 1 bits/pixel. Applying video compression algorithms like MPEG1, MPEG2 or MPEG4 allows for fractional BPP values. Constant bit rate versus variable bit rate As noted above BPP represents the average bits per pixel. There are compression algorithms that keep the BPP almost constant throughout the entire duration of the video. In this case we also get video output with a constant bit rate (CBR). This CBR video is suitable for real-time, non-buffered, fixed bandwidth video streaming (e. g. in videoconferencing). Noting that not all frames can be compressed at the same level because quality is more severely impacted for scenes of high complexity some algorithms try to constantly adjust the BPP. They keep it high while compressing complex scenes and low for less demanding scenes. This way one gets the best quality at the smallest average bit rate (and the smallest file size accordingly). Of course when using this method the bit rate is variable because it tracks the variations of the BPP. Video can be recorded and transmitted in various physical media: in magnetic tape when recorded as PAL or NTSC or SECAM electric signals by video cameras or in MPEG-4 (Moving Pictures Expert Group-4 format) or DV (Digital Video) digital media, when recorded by digital cameras. PAL, short for Phase Alternate Line, is an analogue television encoding system used in broadcast television systems in large parts of the world such as Europe, Asia, Australia, parts of Africa (Kenya etc) etc. ). NTSC, named for the National Television System Committee, is the analog television system used in most of North America, most countries in South America, Burma, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Philippines, and some Pacific island nations and territories. SECAM (Sequentiel couleur a memoire, French for Sequential Color with Memory), is an analog color television system first used in France, Russia, parts of Africa etc. It is, historically, the first European color television standard. There is also 3D-video, digital video in three dimensions apart from 2D-video. Characteristics of video streams Number of frames per second Frame rate, the number of still pictures per unit of time of video, ranges from six or eight frames per second (frame/s) for old mechanical cameras to 120 or more frames per second for new professional cameras. PAL and SECAM standards specify 25 frames/s, while NTSC specifies 29. 97 frame/s. Film is shot at the slower frame rate of 24photograms/s, which complicates slightly the process of transferring a cinematic motion picture to video. The minimum frame rate to achieve the illusion of a moving image is about fifteen frames per second. Interlacing Video can be Interlaced (Interlace is a technique of improving the picture quality of a video signal without consuming extra bandwidth. Interlaced video was designed for display on CRT televisions. ) or Progressive(Progressive or non-interlaced scanning is a method for displaying, storing or transmitting moving images in which all the lines of each frame are drawn in sequence. ). Interlacing was invented as a way to achieve good visual quality within the limitations of a narrow bandwidth. The horizontal scan lines of each interlaced frame are numbered consecutively and partitioned into two fields: the odd field (upper field) consisting of the odd-numbered lines and the even field (lower field) consisting of the even-numbered lines. NTSC, PAL and SECAM are interlaced formats. Abbreviated video resolution specifications often include an i to indicate interlacing. For example, PAL video format is often specified as 576i50, where 576 indicates the vertical line resolution, i indicate interlacing, and 50 indicate 50 fields (half-frames) per second. In progressive scan systems, each refresh period updates all of the scan lines. The result is a higher spatial resolution and a lack of various artifacts that can make parts of a stationary picture appear to be moving or flashing. A procedure known as deinterlacing can be used for converting an interlaced stream, such as analog, DVD, or satellite, to be processed by progressive scan devices, such as TFT (Thin Fluorescent Tube) TV-sets, projectors, and plasma panels. Deinterlacing cannot, however, produce a video quality that is equivalent to true progressive scan source material. Display resolution The size of a video image is measured in pixels for digital video, or horizontal scan lines and vertical lines of resolution for analog video. In the digital domain (e. g. DVD) standard-definition television (SDTV) is specified as 720/704/640? 480i60 for NTSC and 768/720? 576i50 for PAL or SECAM resolution. However in the analog domain, the number of visible scanlines remains constant (486 NTSC/576 PAL) while the horizontal measurement varies with the quality of the signal: approximately 320 pixels per scanline for VCR quality, 400 pixels for TV broadcasts, and 720 pixels for DVD sources. Aspect ratio is preserved because of non-square pixels. New high-definition televisions (HDTV) are capable of resolutions up to 1920? 1080p60, i. e. 1920 pixels per scan line by 1080 scan lines, progressive, at 60 frames per second. Video resolution for 3D-video is measured in voxels (volume picture element, representing a value in three dimensional spaces). For example 512? 512? 512 voxels resolution, now used for simple 3D-video, can be displayed even on some PDAs. Aspect ratio Aspect ratio describes the dimensions of video screens and video picture elements. All popular video formats are rectilinear, and so can be described by a ratio between width and height. The screen aspect ratio of a traditional television screen is 4:3, or about 1. 33:1. High definition televisions use an aspect ratio of 16:9, or about 1. 78:1. The aspect ratio of a full 35Â  mm film frame with soundtrack (also known as the Academy ratio) is 1. 375:1. Ratios where the height is taller than the width are uncommon in general everyday use, but do have application in computer systems where the screen may be better suited for a vertical layout. The most common tall aspect ratio of 3:4 is referred to as portrait mode and is created by physically rotating the display device 90 degrees from the normal position. Other tall aspect ratios such as 9:16 are technically possible but rarely used. Pixels on computer monitors are usually square, but pixels used in digital video often have non-square aspect ratios, such as those used in the PAL and NTSC variants of the CCIR (Consultative Committee on International Radio) 601 digital video standards, and the corresponding anamorphic widescreen formats. Therefore, an NTSC DV image which is 720 pixels by 480 pixels is displayed with the aspect ratio of 4:3 (which is the traditional television standard) if the pixels are thin and displayed with the aspect ratio of 16:9 (which is the anamorphic widescreen format) if the pixels are fat. EDITING VIDEO Editing videos typically involves: removing frames, inserting frames, mixing audio with video, giving special effects on video, adding transitions between two clips, superimposing clips and adjusting transparency, applying filters to the clips, and adjusting volume of audio. We can also fade-in and fade-out the audio in various frames. In order to edit videos, it is helpful to understand the concept of timecode. Timecode, a unit of measurement, can be used as an address of a frame, and it can also be used as a unit to measure the duration of a video clip. The timecode used by SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) has become a standard and is in the form Hrs: mins: secs: frames. For example, a clip with duration of 00:02:31:15 plays for 2 Minutes, 31 seconds, and 15 frames. At the rate of 30 frames per second (fps), 15 frames will take half a second (0. seconds) to play. This clip will, therefore, play for 2 minutes and 31. 5 seconds. Thus, a fraction of a second is measured in frames, and to know the time with millisecond accuracy, we need to know the fps of the clip. The same code can be used to address a particular frame. For example, 00:1:30:12 is the address of the 12th frame that comes after 1 minute and 30 seconds of playing a clip. There are many software packages which support such editing. Some that are well known among these are Adobe Premiere, Adobe After Effects, Strata Avid Video, Asymmetric M Digital Video.

Sports Gambling and Its Negative Impact on the Games We Love Essay Example

Sports Gambling and Its Negative Impact on the Games We Love Essay Example Sports Gambling and Its Negative Impact on the Games We Love Essay Sports Gambling and Its Negative Impact on the Games We Love Essay In a time of peace – those years in between wars – there is no other activity that can elevate man’s thinking, inspire the average guy, and keeps a man talking endlessly for hours other than sports. In America sports is sometimes treated like religion. And for those who view it this way the more popular denominations are Basketball, Baseball, Football and Golf.Americans are dead serious in following the progress of their favorite teams and to increase their participation they not only subscribe to cable TV programming, buy expensive sports magazines, browse ESPN.com, and buy sports jerseys. A significant number of Americans bet on games. As a result sports gambling in the U.S. have become a serious problem. It is similar to addiction with a banned substance; no one can see its negative impact on the person until more serious self-destructive behavior emerges.BackgroundJust recently I came across this article in Yahoo.com about the highest paid athletes in the world of sports. I cannot remember the title of the said piece, the date it was written and who the author was but I cannot forget the names found on that list. The mention of big money is a sure way of getting somebody’s attention and I took a mental note of the following names, T. Woods, K. Bryant, A-Rod, S. O’Neil, B. Favre, L. James etc.I am sure that even without revealing their full names the reader has a good idea who these guys are. They are global celebrities and the mention of their names signifies the fact that the games they represent are recognized in every corner of this planet. As mentioned earlier sports is treated like religion in the U.S., meaning a considerable amount of time, money and efforts is spent just to participate in these events. And it does not matter whether the games are played by professionals or college athletes for many the thrill and excitement remains the same.There is no explanation needed as to why Americans love sports. For me sports like basketball and baseball are activities that can offer countless benefits. For some it is entertainment, the best way to chill is to sit back, relax and watch a game on a wide-screen TV. One way of releasing all that stress is to buy tickets and watch a game live. Rooting for a home team is like going to war except that everyone comes alive. If the home team wins those who are there to witness the game can come home feeling so good. And the feeling stays even after a few days. For others sports is a component of a healthy lifestyle that encourages exercise and the desire for a fit body.Baseball or basketball for that matter is more than a game for many Americans. Its purpose is more than entertainment or to give an excuse on how to spend the weekends and holidays. For many, baseball and basketball is like religion; one that an avid fan uses to aid him in the path to happiness. It helps get his mind pre-occupied, distracting him from the cares of the world. It gives him respite from the mind numbing repetitive work at the office or the manufacturing plant. For a few moments he does not worry about bills to pay and other mundane tasks. It can even help him forget about the evils in the world like the threat of terrorism.Paul Staudohar explains the effect of sports in the lives of people and he said, The games recall the playful, simpler times of spectators’ own childhoods and help keep them young (1991, p.190). It is therefore important to keep the traditions alive. The survival of this society can be assured if Dads can continually bring their sons to sports stadiums and together enjoy that magical moment. The son grows up to become a father and continues the tradition of bringing sons and daughters to see their sports heroes in action. The bonding between parent and child that occurs during these precious moments could not be described by words.But there is a growing problem that threatens to undermine all that is beautiful and beneficial about sports. This is the phenomenon of sports gambling or sports betting. At the onset one can easily enumerate a few of the negative impacts of sports gambling:1. encourages cheating e.g. game fixing;2. attracts organized crime; and3. bankruptcy and other money problems.Betting on GamesThere are many ways that an athlete can damage his or her career. Some of them would unintentionally harm their career by getting hooked on illegal substances or the practice of illegal activities. Another path that many athletes chose to follow on a self-destructive lifestyle is gambling. Staudohar, stated that There are three basic principal behavior problems in professional sports: violence, gambling and chemical abuse (1991, p.191). With prohibited drugs it is relatively easy to detect those who are suffering under its influence, but with gambling no one can be so sure until bankruptcy is announced and until game fixing is suspected.The difficulty in eradicating this problem can be explained by the pervasiveness of gambling. This is an interesting fact considering that it is illegal to bet on college and professional games in every state in the U.S. except for Nevada. In 1998 alone, $2.3 billion was legally wagered on sports in Nevada where 40 percent of the money was placed on college games. The amount is mind-boggling considering the fact that this is a highly regulated system the only place in the U.S. where betting is allowed. Now, be prepared to be blown away with the figures from the illegal side of sports gambling. With regards to illegal sports gambling made nationwide, it was estimated that the dollar amount soar as high as $ 380 billion (French, 2004, p. 108).With this kind of money floating around it is no wonder that everyone is turning a blind eye and basically ignores the problem. Aside from the overwhelming force of gambling there are other reasons why parents, teachers and even game officials condone the idea of betting. For them it is harmless and they justify gambling as a better alternative to drugs.Furthermore, it does not require the mind of a rocket scientists to understand the excitement that betting brings in to the lives of sports spectators. It is said that nothing becomes important unless something is at stake. And therefore in order to make the game more meaningful friends, family members or neighbors come together and place bets.With this kind of culture it is easy to go from innocent betting among friends into something organized that encourages systematic and regular betting on games that does not even involve the home team. When this happens it is a tell-tale sign of a compulsive gambler. They wager not for the simple fun of it but with the intent of creating a money-making scheme. This is where the problem begins and as mentioned earlier it has become a multi-billion dollar industry.Negative ImpactIn the world of professional athletes the Hall of Shame is littered with names that once were highly respected in their sport but now are ridiculed as a symbol of what is terribly wrong with U.S. sports organizations. These are professional athletes who seem to be never contented with their fat paychecks and continue to dabble in illegal schemes.But the problem concerning game fixing and the involvement of organized crime is not only limited to the pros. Collegiate level sports games is a major part in illegal sports betting in the country. Moreover the problem involves the players, game officials, students and all those who help perpetuate the said illegal activities.Myles Brand of the NCAA remarked that, Sports wagering is a double-threat because it harms the well-being of student-athletes and the integrity of the sports (as cited in Rogers, 2005, p. 52). From this statement one can glean two major results of sports gambling and that is game fixing or manipulating game results to dictate point spread. This can also lead in the rise of gambling junkies among students. Compulsive gambling is like an addiction and instead of getting high, the gambling addict will continually have money problems in order to sustain his or her habit. For a student this is a very bad precedent, one that can seriously affect the rest of his life.The same thing applies to professional athletes. Game fixing and compulsive gambling are two major problems that needed to be eradicated to ensure the integrity of the sport. This can be fully understood by looking at high profile cases where careers where placed in jeopardy because of the lack of self-control when it comes to gambling. As a result the public slowly begins to lose interest and if things will continue to slide then there is a possibility that more and more people will abandon the game they once love.In the Major League Baseball and the National Basketball association two cases involving illegal gambling will be discussed. For basketball the recent headline-grabbing scandal of a referee involved not only in game fixing but possible collusion with the criminal underworld has created some major disturbances in the league.In baseball, the legendary career of Pete Rose was flushed down the toilet when he could not control the urge to gamble. It is a terrible waste to be sure but sometimes it is hard to understand why someone would give up something special in exchange for a few moments of exhilaration from placing a wager.Gambling in the NBATim Donaghy is a member of an elite group of referees. He works for the NBA. At the time that he was fired from the league he was only 40 years old and at the peak of his career. There is no doubt that that he is pulling in substantial paychecks considering that he is part of the crew that works on playoff games. Moreover, ESPN.com reported that he lives in a gated community.Without even considering the amount of money he pulls in every year from his dream job, Donaghy is in a position of influence being an NBA referee. But he literally gambled it all away, not only his job but his life and his family. He will live the rest of his life in ridicule and there are only a few places in this planet where his misdeeds will not be recognized. He will live the rest of his life with a negative label.His actions seriously damaged the credibility of the league and many are shaking their heads in disgust. One could just imagine what a die-hard fan would have felt after receiving the news that Donaghy influenced the outcome of games. There are a number of controversial games where Donaghy was part of the officiating crew. One could not help wonder if Donaghy played a part in manipulating the results.It really pisses me off thinking about those games. For a true basketball fan a crucial game involving his favorite team will be followed with much gusto and every possession and every play made during the course of the game is savored like an expensive Cuban cigar. Now, here comes Donaghy admitting to having a hand in influencing the outcome of games; it makes me feel like a fool, like a puppet on a string. It may have been better for me if I just watched WWF wrestling, at least I know from the onset that the game was scripted and rehearsed.Gambling in Major League BaseballIn the infamous Black Sox Scandal that shocked the world of baseball Stanley Teitelbaum in his book Sports Heroes, Fallen Idols, recounted the impact of the scandal:In September 1920 the world of organized baseball was rocked by the news that eight players on the Chicago White Sox had conspired with gamblers to throw the 1919 World Series against the Cincinnati Reds. The White Sox were the stronger team on paper and were heavy favorites to win the series, but before the opening game in Cincinnati the odds had shifted drastically in favor of the Reds. It is likely the word has gotten around to the bookmakers that a fix was in the works. (2005, p. 33)One can just imagine the negative impact the scandal had on the game and it seems that the players had learned their lessons well. But less than sixty years later, news of impropriety once again stunned the Major League. Cincinnati Reds player and manager Pete Rose was banished from the game of baseball. There is nothing crueler that could be done to a future hall- of-famer.Pete Rose: All Time Hit KingWriters find no difficulty in praising Pete Rose’s talents. Fred McMane heaped this compliment on Rose:As a baseball player, Rose is the perfect example of the individual who made the very most of what he had. Although limited in natural skills, he worked hard to become one of the sport’s all-time great players. In addition to most hits, he owns the career records for games played (3,562), most at-bats (14,053), most singles (3,315), most seasons of 200 or more hits (10) [†¦] Not only was Rose baseball’s all-time hit leader, but he was a catalyst on three world-championship teams. (2000, p.4)Addicted to GamblingThe same tenacity he displayed every time he is in a baseball diamond, is the same passion he exhibited in his gambling. Apparently the habit got so serious that in the twilight of his career, after becoming the all-time hit king by breaking Ty Cobb’s record, Pete Rose got the surprise of a life time. On February 23, 1989 the commissioner’s office officially began the investigation into the gambling problem of Pete Rose. They hired the services of John Dowd, a tough, hard-nosed attorney who spent ten years in the U.S. Justice Department running after mob-related cases (Ginsburg, 1995, p. 243).Integrity of the GameMcmane wrote that Giamatti – head of Major League Baseball at that time – held a news conference a day after banning Pete Rose, where he said:The matter of Mr. Rose is now closed. It will be debated and discussed. Let no one think it did not hurt baseball. The hurt will pass, however, as the great glory of the game asserts itself and a resilient institution goes forward. Let it also be clear that no individual is superior to the game. (2000, p.9)It was not only that Rose participated in illegal gambling; Rose exposed the beautiful game into the dark world of game fixing. Ginsburg explains the severity of his offense that according to baseball rules the penalty for betting on games involving your own club was permanent expulsion from baseballStaudohar was able to explain it succinctly by saying:Virtually all productive enterprises depend on consumer markets for their viabilit y and economic growth. Industries tat produce goods and those that render services to the public tend to rise and fall in accordance with the consumer image of the attractiveness and reliability of their performance. Public image is especially crucial to the success of sports, because the consumption of this service is based on a derived joy from entertainment rather than biological need to sustain life. (190)In other words, the moment the fans suspect that there is something wrong with the system and that they are not getting what they are supposed to be getting – which is the pleasure of witnessing two teams competing at the highest levels, then they will stop coming to the stadiums and arenas. No one would spend his hard earned money for a farce such as a fix.Adam Epstein has this to say as to why league officials must uphold the rules against athletes betting on their own team, At the heart of sports gambling is the concern that games fixed by players, coaches, trainers, or others defeat the ideal that the outcome of a sporting event is left to chance and skill. A disturbing issue [] is the role that the athletes, coaches, and even sports officials themselves might play in altering the outcome of a game in order to profit from betting on a loss, or point spread (96).ConclusionSports gambling is like a two-headed monster that could not be easily slain. It is part entertainment and part money-making scheme. On the basis of these two factors alone, the fight against gambling is an uphill climb to say the least. Others may argue that betting on games is part of the whole spectator experience. There are even those who are saying that it is harmless and just done for fun.But the discussion made in the preceding pages points to another end result. Sports gambling is not as innocent as it may seem. It can lead the way for game fixing, other forms of cheating, addiction to gambling, and will result in a host of problems relating to money. There are two high profile cases that were reviewed, Pete Rose lifetime ban from Major League Baseball and Tim Donaghy’s expulsion from the NBA serves as a warning to the destructive effects of sports gambling.There is not enough space to show that this problem does not only happen to professional athletes and in the professional leagues. Student-athletes can be drawn into the vicious world of illegal gambling and their well-being can be seriously affected by compulsive gambling. Furthermore, sports gambling is not only limited to the misuse of funds. When game fixing or manipulation of games becomes the byproduct of athletes betting for or against their teams, the sport will be seriously affected.This disturbing issue will surely drive the fans away and if no action is taken every time an athlete or sports official tries to play around with the rules to serve his own selfish motives then it will surely bankrupt the Major League or the NBA. Pete Rose represented the world of the athlete and spo rts official while serving as a player and manager of the Cincinnati Reds. Therefore he must be made an example. It was too bad that he was a future hall-of-famer; it was too bad that he was the all-time hit king, but what was worse was that he gambled it all away by deliberately breaking the rules that was placed there to ensure the longevity of the game he loves so much.The same is true with Tim Donaghy. His actions placed the entire league in peril. An organization like the NBA was established after decades of painstaking work from the athletes and officials. With an act of impropriety Donaghy succeeded in tarnishing a professional basketball league and a game loved by millions all over the world.

Marks and Spencer is one of the leading and the most recognized name Research Paper

Marks and Spencer is one of the leading and the most recognized name in the fashion industry - Research Paper Example The company, by applying prudent marketing techniques, has been able to grab market share of around 11.7% by value and 12.4% by volume. Marks and Spencer has also been actively involved in the business of marketing and selling edible products which has earned the company immense revenue in the past few years. Through its unmatchable food quality, Marks and Spencer is now regarded as one of the finest when it comes to quality food products. The financial outlook of the company also looks quite stable. During the financial year of 2012, the company has been able to increase its revenue by an impressive 2.0% to a striking ?9.9 billion though the operating profit of the company took a slight downward plunge of about 1.2%. In addition, the financial ratio analysis of the company and the comparison of the company with its competitor also show that a positive financial outlook can be forecasted. INTRODUCTION The paper presents evaluates the financial performance of Marks and Spencer, a high ly recognized name in the fashion market. Marks and Spencer is a listed company and has been operating lucratively for the past many years. The company operations have been highly successful in the past many years and it portrays sound and stable financial outlook. Following is a brief and recent financial highlight of the company Financial Highlight of the Company The paper primarily discusses the financial outlook of the company as evaluated through its financial statements. The initial section of the page discusses the key operations of the company and under what conditions it is operating in the UK market. The paper briefly discuses the historical financial performance of the company focusing group revenue and profit before and after tax. Moving forward, the paper presents a comparison of the current and last year financial performance of the company through financial statement ratio analysis. The primary reason to conduct a ratio analysis is to quantify the results of the opera tions of a company and compare them with that of the prior year(s) in order to assess different aspects of the financial feasibility. The ratios are divided into profitability, liquidity and gearing ratios. The paper identifies the areas, through ratio analysis, where the company is performing well and where it needs improvements. In conclusion the paper presents a comparison of the financial and operational performance of Marks and Spencer with one of its primary competitors, Debenhams. Major financial ratios are compared and in addition, historical share prices are also analyzed of both companies in order to identify which company has a better market capitalization and better reputation from investor’s perspective. For the purpose of the financial analysis, the historical financial information from the financial year 2012 till 2008 has been used. RECENT ANALYSIS OF UK RETAIL INDUSTRY During the current financial year 2012, the UK retail industry witnessed a mix trend. As re ported by the Marks and Spencer in its press releases, the start of the current financial year was better than expected and the company reaped great profit. However it was observed that later half of the current year proved to be more difficult for doing business, especially the month of August and September. During that particular period, the share price of Marks and Sp

Religion in Colonial Society Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Religion in Colonial Society - Assignment Example In Massachusetts Bay, Winthrop led a colony that he believed he was called by God to lead. He exercised authority with a divine perspective and entrenched democracy in the church. The churchmen were the only people allowed to choose their colonies leaders. In his sermon ‘A Model of Christian Charity’ Winthrop outline God purpose for the Massachusetts Bay (Winthrop). The church has a big role to play in the way the colony was governed. Consequently, the group that settled in Plymouth had a similar system in governing it people. Bradford had come out of the Church of England with the aim of reforming the church values to its primitive ways. The earlier Christian believed the bible to be the ultimate reference book in governing and others ways of life (Halsall). The Maryland Act of Toleration made profound announcement to God similar to the Puritan writings. However, the ‘Plantation Agreement at Providence expounded on the freedom of men in running out the resources in the new found colony (The Maryland Toleration Act 1649). The influence of the early religion in America has continued to influence the majority of the population. People have aligned them self to policies that have been run down through history. The Christian life of American is shaped by the ideas of the Pilgrim and the

Lands and Forestry (general topic) How cutting trees can affect water Assignment

Lands and Forestry (general topic) How cutting trees can affect water streams and fish therefore the chain of food - Assignment Example In addition, cutting trees reduces the likelihood of cloud and rain formation leading to lower volumes of rainfall or precipitation thus reduced water quantities for plant life and other animals that live in areas with trees and even those that depend on other animals that depend, extensively, of trees (â€Å"Indiscriminate Cutting of Trees†). In addition, another common effect of cutting trees to life in the water that affects fish is the issue of temperature in the water and even in the air surrounding a forested area (â€Å"Deforestation†). This is because trees assist in keeping the temperature of the earth at a regulated level; which is crucial for the sustenance of life on earth, which is why desert lands are known to be either extensively hot or even extensively cold. With this in mind, temperature changes affect life drastically in relation to migration and the likelihood of animals and other plant facing extinction and even elimination from their natural habita t. Concerning this, fish in the water are known to feed mainly on planktons that grow in warm water that translates that increased temperatures due to tree felling results in increased plankton growth. As a result, there is bound to be a higher population of planktons than the fish that can feed on them, which makes it grow to excessive levels and die. The death of planktons requires decomposition in order to clean it from the water, and it takes oxygen to eliminate it. This, in turn, leads to reduced levels of oxygen in the water, which is bad for the fish and leads to their death and reduced numbers. Due to this, the food chain is placed under pressure to find alternative sources of food, as is the case for humans who feed on fish and even birds. This turns them against other animal population in order to fill in the deficit left by the reduced number of fish in the water. This might even cause some animals to migrate from their natural habitat in search for more suitable sources of food, as is the case for alligators and other animals that feed on fish as their primary source food. This is all due to increased temperature levels that affect food growth in the water. In addition to increased water temperature levels, fish tend to migrate to areas that have lower or suitable temperatures in order to alleviate the likelihood of extinction (McKewon 82). Other than these two effects of cutting trees, affecting streams and fish and finally the food chain, erosion also factors. In this case, cutting trees allows room for erosion of soil into water bodies such as streams since trees protect the soil from being washed away (â€Å"Why Is Clearcutting†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ). Erosion raises the streambed to higher levels than it should be leaving fish susceptible to predators due to hunting with ease. Through this, the fish face extinction thanks to high levels of being taken out of the water and even the population of the predators’ increases drastically putting the f ish more at risk. This directly translates into pressure on the fish population and even that of the predators meaning that there is a gap in the food chain, which requires to be filled. The predator population increases and seeks other foods to meet the large population; thus putting more pressure on other population both plant and animal. This can be seen in the case of humans and other omnivores that feed on fish

Concept of E Marketing

Concept of E Marketing Introduction: In todays business world Marketing is everywhere in different forms. In ancient time when people may have started business or trading, no matter what business or trade they have done, possibly in any form marketing would be there. Marketing could be there when they may have told some stories to make their business or trade to other people. With the passage of time human generation changed and along with that marketing may also have changed too. The ways of marketing may have improved and modified with the period of time and possibly it will changed with change in future generations, and now people are become more smart and intelligent to tell those stories while making their business and trade today. The concept of E Marketing can be considered as an instrument that works on old age marketing norms and fundamental with the use of modern technologies of communication. What does E marketing means? As mention above that the concept of E Marketing can be considered as an application that works by implementing old age marketing norms and fundamental with the use of modern technologies of communication specifically internet. There are different name of e-marketing, it can also be refer as online marketing, internet marketing and sometimes electronic marketing but this all terms are used as synonym of each other. In this study e-marketing is refers to internet marketing only. In E-marketing a brand is promoted or advertised via internet. As per the above elements online marketing is a mixture of all the activities that marketer adopts to promote product and services through world wide web by keeping aim of attracting attention of new firms, retaining existing firm and exploring their brands identity. (www.quirk.biz.com) Aim of this research: India is a developing country with significant rate of poverty and illiteracy. The use of technology is very limited. The main aim of this research is to critically evaluate e-marketing of Indian banking industry. In todays world internet is everywhere. Internet marketing ties together creative and technical aspects of the Internet, including design, development, advertising, and sale. Internet marketing also refers to the placement of media along different stages of the customer engagement cycle through search engine marketing (SEM), search engine optimization (SEO), banner ads on specific websites and e-mail marketing. In 2008 The New York Times working with comScore published an initial estimate to quantify the user data collected by large Internet-based companies. Counting four types of interactions with company websites in addition to the hits from advertisements served from advertising networks, the authors found the potential for collecting data upward of 2,500 times on average per user per month (Louise, S, 2008). Through internet marketing companies can approach their customers anywhere in the world. It is like boundary less marketing. Now with an internet marketing companies does not need to put more efforts to enter other countries to promote their products. Internet marketing has had a large impact on several previously retail-oriented industries including music, film, pharmaceuticals, banking, flea markets, as well as the advertising industry itself. Internet marketing is now overtaking radio marketing in terms of market share (Holahan, C 2006). In the music industry, many consumers have been purchasing and downloading music (e.g., MP3 files) over the Internet for several years in addition to purchasing compact discs. By 2008 Apple Inc.s iTunes Store has become the largest music vendor in the United States (www.bbc.co.uk). Developed countries are using more technologies than under develop and developing do. Therefore an inspir ation has been taken to critically evaluate e-marketing of banking industry in India as a developing country. To accomplish main aim of these research four objectives has been located which are as below: Comparison of e-marketing and traditional marketing of Indian banking industry To evaluate an advantage and disadvantage of e-marketing of Indian banking industry. To find out factors affecting effectiveness of e-marking of Indian banking industry. To predict future of e-marketing of Indian banking industry. The first objective is to compare e-marketing and traditional approach of marketing in terms of Indian economical and demographical conditions. Second objective is to evaluate benefits and limitation of e-marketing of Indian banking industry. In this objective benefits and advantages will be focused on both the side i.e. banks and their customers. In third objective factors affecting effectiveness of e-marketing of Indian banking industry is been determined. In other words, this objective is up to some extend relates to second objective. In these objective reasons of advantage and disadvantages of e-marketing of Indian banking industry has been evaluated. Finally, last objective is to predict future of e-marketing of Indian banking industry. This objective is a sort of conclusion. The nature of this objective is conclusive with future prediction.

Secularism Essay -- essays research papers

Secularism The world today is filled with a variety of religions. Different religions cause conflict because of the dissimilar beliefs as with secularism. Secularism is the indifference to or rejection or exclusion of religion and religious considerations according to the dictionary. The religious civilization acknowledges secularism as any movement in society directed away from the otherworldliness to life on earth. No matter which way it is defined the main point is that God is excluded from all human affairs. There is no God in secularism. It is just the world and nothing else. If there is some form of a God, then it is perceived to be too far for our understanding. Modern cultures have changed a lot in the world in which we stand, but secularism can be found everywhere in the past, the present, and it will be there in the future.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Secularism has been around for over five hundred years and the process of science and psychology is slowly picking up speed along with development. Science and psychology play a big role in how we view things including our religious beliefs and our views of God. God created this beautiful world around us, and he watches over us and speaks to us. Unfortunately, science has become very popular and scientists are constantly searching for the â€Å"truth†. God created the world and put Adam on it with Eve, yet science will state that the Big Bang created the world and constantly search for inconsistency in everything from Jesus to the Bible. Science is distorting our view of the modern world. This has become a big problem because it seems as though secularism has become a political movement, instead of a philosophy or religious belief. It is more serious because our view of the world has changed as well as our view of God and what he did and didn’t do. T he scientific move towards the world develops into a problem because it is now a philosophy or ideology that contradicts the truth of morality and faith. The beliefs and claims of secularism is â€Å"a form of opinion which concerns itself only with questions, the issues of which can be tested by the experience of this life. More explicitly, secularism is that which seeks the development of the physical, moral, and intellectual nature of man to the highest possible point, as the immediate duty of life – which selects as its methods of procedure the promotion o... ...ses down and down and became more secularized then ever. It is hard to try to separate or compare a religion to secularism. Islam can be interpreted harshly or liberally. If Islam was very open-minded then there would be no problem with it being secular. The Qur’an can actually be quoted as having strong supports for secularism. However, one must remember that it only supports liberal secularism not atheistic secularism. Liberal secularism does not believe in atheism; furthermore, it only promotes pluralism. There is no doubt that today in modern society there is a big emphasis on human rights and the freedom of the conscience. Secularism can be viewed as good or bad. One thing is certain, and that is that many people fear secularism will take over. Instead of everyone being conservative they will have a secular view. It is much easier for society to understand secularism. Civilization wants to be free and they want the right to have their own beliefs. No one is going to agree with everyone and no one is going to have or follow the same God or beliefs. Unfortunately, religion will be what separates and divides us as individuals and as a nation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  

Lean Thinking Model and Its’ Positive Effects on Manufacturing Processes

Running Head: Lean Thinking Model Lean Thinking Model and its' Positive Effects on Manufacturing Processes June 11, 2009 Table of Contents Introduction4 Steps of the Lean Manufacturing Process5 Step 1:Identify the Value to Customers in Specific Products and Services5 Step 2:Identify the Business Processes the Delivers this Value to Customers8 Step 3:Organize Work Arrangements around the Flow of the Business Process8 Step 4:Create a Pull System that Responds to Customer Demands9 Step 5:Continuously Pursue Perfection in the Business Process10 Summary12 References14 Abstract The lean thinking model has many positive effects on the manufacturing process. The model aids companies in the significant reduction of both human and natural resources by removing waste from all aspects of the manufacturing process. Establishing sound processes will in turn help to eliminate waste in production, workforce, and management resources. The lean thinking model is a process with multiple steps involved to ensure effectiveness for a company. These steps are guidelines that do not fit every organization exactly since there are so many differences between businesses. The function of lean is to seek and find the value of your business. This process will determine the customer’s needs, allow for the removal of non-value added functions and tasks, and materials to become a lean business machine. Henry Ford and the Toyota Company depict an example of the lean thinking model. They invented, re-invented, and added to the lean thinking model over the years and have demonstrated that the model does elp create an efficient business. Introduction The Lean Thinking Model (or lean) falls directly in line with expectations of customers needs for a particular product line by totally reducing excess waste out of the process. A company using lean must optimize the flow of production processes in order to make it cost effective and an efficient process. The philosophy of lean is to remove all waste in the manufacturing process, prov ide reasonable pricing to the customer, which in turn will result in company profits and stability. Toyota is the forerunner of the Lean manufacturing process and has been utilizing, improving and perfecting this method since 1902 (Becker, 2009). Toyota’s hourly wage including benefits such as health care and pensions plans is significantly less in comparison to their other competitors. Toyota’s rate is $48. 00 dollars an hour where GM’s rate is $69. 00 dollars an hour (Hirschfeld Davis, 2008). With both the current economic crisis and government bailouts, some of Toyota’s automobile competitors obviously did not follow the lean manufacturing process. Therefore, Toyota is one of the top automobile companies today. The Toyota Production System is credited for Toyota because of their â€Å"sustained leadership in manufacturing performance† (Johnsoton, 2001). Toyota has adapted to changes within the automobile industry with excellence. They drive towards â€Å"continuously improving the micro levels of manufacturing processes through identification and systematic reduction or elimination of non-value adding activities† (Sullivan, 2008). Dennis Sowards stated it very well when he said, â€Å"For lean construction to be truly successful, it requires a cultural change in the company, not a few random uses† (Sowards, 2009). Not only must a company participate in a cultural change, they must develop a plan to change their processes and their way of thinking. Company programs lacking support and participation from employees’ typically are unsuccessful. There are five management steps contained within the Lean Thinking Model. This management step approach works well when applied to organize a company’s resources such as equipment and personnel. These resources are incorporated â€Å"†¦around the flow of business processes†¦Ã¢â‚¬  and the products are â€Å"†¦pulled through this process in response to customer orders† (Garrison et al. , 2008, p. 13). A company will see many benefits from this process, which could include â€Å"lower inventories, fewer defects, less wasted effort, and quicker customer response times† (Garrison et al. , 2008, p. 13). Shown below are the five lean steps along with descriptions of each demonstrating the significant of how these steps contribute to the success of a company. Steps of the Lean Manufacturing Process Step 1:Identify the Value to Customers in Specific Products and Services In order to sustain business, a company must identify what the customer values in a product and service which will bring that customer back to buy again. A prime example where customers were disappointed by a product change is when the Coca Cola Company © released their new product called The New Coke ©. This occurred in 1985 after the Coca Cola Company © researched and marketed a new product formula, which they initially intended to replace their orginal Coca Cola © Classic formula. Have you seen New Coke © product invending machines or on the grocery shelves anywhere today? No. Because customers hated the new product and wanted their original Coca Cola © back. The Coca Cola © company did not find out what their customer wanted prior to changing their formula and their customers were highly offended. Lessons learned: The organization found out very quickly that their customer found absolutely no value in their new product. Coca Cola Company © spent four hundred million dollars for research, development and marketing of the new formula (Unknown, 2009). After 87 days of bad press, customer letters and phone calls with complaints against the new formula, the Coca Cola © Company pulled the New Coke © product off the shelves (Unknown, 2009). The organization could have prevented this issue. They could have sent out Coca Cola © samples to millions of customers rather than the initial two hundred thousand of taste testers (Unknown, 2009). The reason for this anology is that the target group of Coca Cola © lovers is in the millions, not in the thousands. To keep prices as low as possible, and create a sustainable competitive advantage, waste must be removed from the manufacturing process (Baker, 2006). This includes the office worker who wastes time with two hours of cooler talk, the shop worker who is standing idley by waiting for the production line to gear back up, or there are missing steps to the design flow process. For an organization to be lean, the idea must be implemented from top down, not from the bottom up. It must include support from all levels. When individuals are standing around and others are working excessively, there is an imbalance in the work flow process which could be corrected by implementing cross-training throughout various departments (Baker, 2006). Part of the waste reduction process is identifying all pocesses or business elements that create waste and then modifying them to reduce that waste. Most organizations think that the lean process is to clean and organize an office, for example, or shift personnel around without any thought to reduce non-value added functions. By pulling out those steps that do not add value from the customers point of view and by removing waste, a company may just have a sustainable product on their hands (Baker, 2006). A business that understands the customer’s values will be able to provide that customer with a product that they need. Remember, the lines of communication must remain open. Customer’s feedback for products is extremely important. The customer feedback provides an invaluable tool to maintain existing quality and steps to improve a product line if needed. The customer interaction is a part of the lean process. This step in the lean process takes constant maintenance and interaction between both parties on regular bases (Baker, 2006). Company’s that value their customer opinions helps the organization improve product lines, reduce waste, and adds value for success. What causes a customer to remain loyal to a particular brand and purchase it repeatedly? It is often that a customer finds value in a specific brand name, not just the item. For instance, some people will only wear Nike © tennis shoes, this is specific brand loyalty. The value of a reasonable priced item is typically a good second indicator, but not always. Product price versus the quality of the product is another comparison the customers will make prior to buying. It has been my personnel experience that a cheaper product of lesser quality will often need to replaced because it worn out too soon. If the quality of the product lasts as long as the customer feels it should based on the price of the item, then when it is time to replace it, they are more likely to venture back to the same brand. What the customer values in a particular product must be identified to meet their budgets need and keep them coming back as a repeat customer for the company. Customer loyalty is free advertising for the manufacturer. When customers are happy about the products or services that they receive from a business, they brag about the product and the organization. Bragging is free advertising of products or services. By acknowledging the value of customer feedback, making the customer feel good while using a particular product, the company may gain a loyal friend for life. Step 2:Identify the Business Processes the Delivers this Value to Customers After a business identifies what products and services the customer wants, needs and values, their business processes that deliver these products and services must be identified as well (Garrison, et. al, 2008, p 14). The next step is to lean out those processes to make them more efficient. During this step of the lean process, there are no departmental boundaries in the company’s organizational chart when determining what business process will deliver the identified value to the customer (Garrison, et. l, 2008, p 14). This element removes waste from both manufacturing and human resources. This ensures effective processes. Each business department has the opportunity to be lean. Step 3:Organize Work Arrangements around the Flow of the Business Process Effective layout for business flow is essentional to an efficient production line (Sullivan, 2008). The Lean Manufacturing system organizes process and p laces them in manufacturing cells based on the product that they are creating. The cellular approach takes employees and equipment from departments that were previously separated from one another and places them side-by-side in a work space called a cell† (Garrison, et. al, 2008 p 14). Every aspect from the equipment process line to the employee running the machines is organized in a cell. Training the employees to perform all the steps in their manufacturing cell ensures accurate and consistent skill training. This step ensures that the manufacturing of the product is completed in a sequential manner that follows detailed process steps. By applying this step, time reduction for an employee in the overall process will take place. For example, the employee would no longer have to run clear across the two-mile plant to obtain the nut for the bolt that was produced in their cell. The bolts and nuts would be in the same cell since it is part of the new process cell. This is a significant cost savings for the company, which is passed directly to the customer. Step 4:Create a Pull System that Responds to Customer Demands Creating a pull system to respond to customer demands starts by a customer placing a product or service order. A company reduces inventories to bare minimum levels because production will only occur after the customer orders something from the organization. â€Å"In an ideal situation the company would only purchase the raw materials needed for each day or shift of operation, with none left at the end of the day and immediately ship the finished goods to the customer† (Garrison, et. al, 2008 p 14). This sometimes can cause a problem. This type of workflow pattern can cause work stoppages because when orders are not coming in, workers are waiting for customer orders to perform work (Garrison, et. al, 2008 p 14). This problem can be alleviated by ensuring that cross training is conducted with those employees that may have to wait for orders. Just-in-Time (JIT) is another example of a pull system and is used at many large manufacturing companies such as Northrop Grumman, Ford and Toyota. When the JIT System is applied to a manufacturing process, materials are purchased for what is needed, when they are needed, and the quantities produced are based specifically on what customers order. The JIT system made Henry Ford and Toyota famous in their efforts to minimize waste and organize their manufacturing process successfully. For example, Toyota to this day does not start production on their vehicles until there is an order from a customer for a vehicle. Another excellent example of a company that uses the JIT process is Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding. They are located on the James River in Newport News, Virginia and are the only manufacturer of nuclear aircraft carries for the United States Navy. Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding developed the Nimitz class carrier for the Navy with the famous slogan of 90 tons of steel. The painting of all that steel is amazing to witness. In 1990, the Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding environmental department estimated the waste paint volume at nearly 60% of the paint purchased. Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding decided that something needed to change to reduce this double cost of extra paint purchased and waste. They began working with paint manufacturers and applied a JIT system with all paint purchases. The paint manufactures signed teaming agreements with Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding to supply all paints JIT. The environmental department estimated a 25% reduction in waste from this JIT application. Only 25% reduction was seen as a great feat, but it was also disturbing. The environmental department with Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding was concerned that there was not a 60% reduction. This led the company to further investigation of the painting application process. Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding discovered that the paint distribution and application process was the culprit for the missing 35%. Their next lean step after discovering this problem was to eliminate it and they have since created processes to do just that. Step 5:Continuously Pursue Perfection in the Business Process A company must continuously review all aspects of their business in order for it to improve in the pursuit of perfection. This is not just production line review (Garrison et al. , p. 14). Quality control is a vital attribute in this step as well. Raw materials and parts are inspected for defects, including finished products manufactured in the shop and raw materials received from supplies to produce those products. Business and suppliers must work together to ensure each has a quality program that will enhance their product line, not hurt it with inadequate materials or products. The company’s production workers will inspect a second time since they are directly responsible for spotting defective pieces. A worker who discovers a defect immediately stops the flow of production and start working on trouble shooting a solution to correct it. Supervisors and other workers in the area will assist in determining the root cause of the problem and correct it before any further defective units are produced (Garrison et al. , p. 14). This way of thinking allows the company to ensure quick problem identification and solutions in their business process. It is not a common philosophy in manufacturing processes where the production line worker can stop the production line because they found an error in a part. Typically, the worker is required to inform their supervisor, the supervisor will inform the shop production manager and then perhaps senior management all while the production line is still running and generating defective parts. This entire succession of informing all those in the management chain can take hours or even days to accomplish. With lean manufacturing and the Jidoka system, the worker would stop production immediately, resolve the issues before any more defective parts are produced and subsequently scrapped as waste (Brodek, 2009). A very interesting aspect of lean is that the process relies on those working the deck plate to find defective or wasteful processes and solve the problem. Traditionally, an individual would go up the chain of management and those in upper management would make the corrective action decision. The Jidoka system is a process established by the Japanese that provides front line workers the ability and responsibility to stop the production line immediately when they find a problem (Brodek, 2009). They are then required to alert their fellow workers and problem solves the situation. If they are inexperienced in this problem solving process, other works or supervision may make suggestions for correction, but not before the individual that stopped the process attempts to solve it. This forces the new employee to acquire learned problem solving skills, which is invaluable in a manufacturing process line. Permanent and perfect solutions are expected result of the Jidoka system. Employees must understand that the Band-Aid approach is not acceptable in correcting company production or process problems. The entire company must pull together and problem solve, because by using the lean process, repeat defective parts are not acceptable. In 1926, Henry Ford could manufacture a car in four days and at that same time, Toyota and General Motors needed ten weeks to produce just one vehicle. Henry Ford’s Jidoka system vehicle manufacturing process is a great example of how reducing waste worked for Ford. Toyota studied the Ford process and applied lean manufacturing to their processes and reduced their vehicle manufacturing process from ten weeks to just two days (Brodek, 2009). That is impressive for any company. Another Application for the Lean Thinking Model â€Å"The lean thinking model can also be used to improve the business processes that link companies together. The term supply chain management is commonly used to refer to the coordination of business processes across companies to better serve end consumers† (Garrison et al, 2008, p 14). For example, Costco teams with their suppliers to ensure materials and products that they need are available based on customer demand. Both Costco and the supplier understand that their mutual success is highly dependent upon them working together as a team. Summary The significant benefits of the Lean Manufacturing Model include many different aspects. The first is the reduction of resources, human and natural. By removing waste from work scopes, production lines and management, the company will save money. Another significant benefit is the reduction of time for an employee and a given product on the production line will result in additional cost savings. By leaning out an organization’s processes, human resources, and materials in the production process, this elimination of non-value added steps would add the benefit of saving the company time and money. Other examples of the reduction in resources used include electricity, natural resources (metal, gas, electricity, and fabric) and personnel. Truly honing in on what the customer wants, needs and values will help create a process that defines those values. This is a key function of lean manufacturing. References Baker, W. H. (2006, May). Profit Online. Retrieved June 7, 2009, from Five Steps to the Lean Enterprise; creating a sustainable competitive advange: http://www. oracle. com/profit/features/p26lean_3. html Brodek, N. (2009). Mold Making Technology. Retrieved May 13, 20069, from Five Rules to Problem Solving in Your Shop: http://www. moldmakingtechnology. com/articles/010508. html Becker, R. M. (2009). SAE International. Retrieved May 16, 2009, from Lean Manufacturing and the Toyota Production System : http://www. sae. org/manufacturing/lean/column/leanjun01. htm Garrison, R. H. (2008). Managerial Accounting (12th edition). New York, NY: The McGraw-Hill COmpanies, Inc.. Hirschfeld Davis, J. a. (2008, December 11). USA Today. Retrieved June 7, 2009, from Auto bailout talks collapse in Senate over union wages : http://www. usatoday. com/money/autos/2008-12-10-house-approves-auto-bailout-bill_N. htm Johnsoton, S. J. (2001, November 26). Working Knowledge, Harvard Business School. Retrieved May 13, 2009, from How Toyota Turns Workers Into Problem Solvers: http://hbswk. hbs. edu/item/3512. html Sowards, D. (2009, March 01). snips Magazine. Retrieved May 15, 2009, from Lean and Mean: http://www. nipsmag. com/Articles/Feature_Article/BNP_GUID_9-5-2006_A_10000000000000539426 Frost and Sullivan. (2008, January 3). Frost and Sullivan Market Insite. Retrieved June 7, 2009, from Cellular Manufacturing : http://www. frost. com/prod/servlet/market-insight-print. pag? docid=116843703 (Sullivan, 2008) need to fix this one. The authors are Frost and Sullivan†¦no first names, but the citation is wrong Unknown. (2009 , June 9). Building Brands. Retrieved June 7, 2009, from Cost-effective promotions can build the brand too: http://www. buildingbrands. com/didyouknow/08_new_coke. php

Conquest of Aztecs

Conquest of Aztecs Introduction Conquest in history. The conquest of Mexico can be considered one of the events in the world history that can be perceived in accordance with the literary sources available on the conquest. As such, two reputable sources Five Letters of Cortà ©s to the Emperor: 1519-1526 by Hernan Cortà ©s and The Broken Spears: The Aztec Account of the Conquest of Mexico by Miguel Leyn-Portilla advocate different perspectives on this historic phenomenon with detailed descriptions and evidence.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Conquest of Aztecs specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More However, to have a full picture of what has happened in Mexico in the era of the Aztec empire, it is necessary to take into account both perspectives and analyze views of both sides of the conflict. Disparities in Amerindian and Spanish versions. The main portion of disparities in the versions reported by Spaniards and Amerindians concerns the ro le of both sides in the conflict and the position they advocate. Thus, Spaniards, whose version has been regarded as the only documentary source of the conquest, perceive this conflict as an ordinary thing when they told the inhabitants about their friendly intentions but razed the city to collect gold and other riches. At the same time, Amerindians’ perspective reflects the culture of the Aztecs and lack of knowledge about the real plans of Spaniards. Though these two sources are completely different, they have a lot in common as they demonstrate the same events from different perspectives and seem t complement each other. Comparison of Sources First reports about the contact of Spaniards and Aztecs, mission of Spaniards, and perception of Aztecs. The first encounters of Spaniards and Aztecs are perceived in different ways by the two authors. As such, Cortà ©s claims that Spaniards were friendly to the natives and wanted to establish commercial relations with the representa tives of the Aztec empire in order to trade with them while the natives welcomed them in a hostile manner and many Spaniards were killed or wounded: Cortà ©s, replying by means of the native interpreter whom he had with him, informed them he was going to do them no harm but admonish them and bring them to the knowledge of our Holy Catholic Faith, that they might become vassals of your Majesty and serve and obey him, as had the Indians and peoples of those parts which are already peopled with Spanish subjects of your Majesty (Cortà ©s Five Letters 4). At the same time, this event was described in a completely different way by Leyn-Portilla.Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The Aztecs were terrified when they came to know about the arrival of strangers but though them to be of divine origin. So, â€Å"Prince Ixtlilxochitl of Tezcoco †¦ left his city with a group of follow ers to greet Cortà ©s in peace† (Leyn-Portilla II-330). This means that the Aztecs were ready to welcome the strangers and share everything they had with them because they believed Spaniards to be the gods that returned to their country to rule it. In other words, the perception of Aztecs was widely marked with their religious traditions and cultural peculiarities whereas the perception of Spaniards was marked only with a desire to serve the crown of his Majesty, spread Christianity at all costs, and enrich themselves and the Spanish rulers with the gold they noticed in the continent. The difference occurs due to the varieties in the perception of the conquest as a concept by both sides as for one party this was a massacre and destruction of the empire while for another this became a source of wealth. The image of Aztecs by Spaniards, and image of conquistadors by Aztecs. The image of each party differs greatly from another. This happens due to the disparities in their views, background knowledge of both sides, ability to infer from what they see, and use the information acquired for further development. At the same time, both authors emphasize the divine origin of Spaniards as perceived by Aztecs. For instance, Amerindians thought Spaniard to be their gods and were ready to accept whatever they say due to their desire to be helpful for their gods. The first contacts of Spaniards and Aztecs reflect the admiration of both parties, â€Å"the prince was astonished to see a man with such white skin and with a beard and with so much courage and majesty† (Leyn-Portilla II-331) as well as Cortà ©s openly admired the people he saw. This means that friendly relationships could be the basis for future cooperation, commerce, and partnership. The main reason for Spaniards to attack the Aztecs included their desire to serve the Spanish crown and â€Å"bring the natives of the land to the knowledge of our Catholic faith† (Cortà ©s The Fifth Letter 4) and collect the riches of the land in order to bring those to the mainland for their rulers. As reported by Townsend, â€Å"The belief was part and parcel of their [Aztecs’] cosmology and does not by any means indicate that they were lacking in intelligence or that their culture was ‘less developed’† (para. 4).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Conquest of Aztecs specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The main reason for their differences was the way they wanted to cooperate because it was important for Aztecs to remain a state with its own ruler and culture whereas the Spaniards tried to spread their faith by any means and retrieve as much gold and other riches from this abundant land as they could using violence to persuade people take their side. Tenochtitlan and Cortà ©s razing the main city of Aztec empire. The aspect of cooperation is viewed differently by the two authors who provide eviden ce to support their perspectives. At the same time, this aspect appears to be decisive for both parties as they have different missions and have different means for their accomplishment. As such, it is necessary to review the source by Chaliand who cites an excerpt from the book Letters from Mexico by Hernan Cortà ©s where the captain Cortà ©s reports the rulers of Spain about the victory over natives and the results of their campaign and the city they have captured. Moreover, the author enumerates the cities they have destroyed and other ‘successful outcomes’. On the contrary, this situation with the main city of the Aztec empire called Tenochtitlan was perceived as the cruel and unfair action of Spaniards toward the native inhabitants of this land. Leyn-Portilla describes: â€Å"When the Spaniards entered the Royal House, they placed Motecuhzoma under guard and kept him under their vigilance† (II-334). This means that they pretended to be friendly only to rea ch the gold and were not interested in commerce with these people. Spaniards used Aztecs to reach their goal and performed their tasks with special cruelty; they â€Å"gathered all the gold into a great mount and set fire to everything else, regardless of its value† (Leyn-Portilla II-334). This means that Spaniards did not care about the cultural heritage of the native people of Mexico because they wanted gold and they received gold – the goal was attained. However, the razing of the city of Tenochtitlan is not described by Cortà ©s as something inappropriate which should not have been done or special needs of soldiers or aggression from natives that could have caused such violent response. The more interesting is the question why the natives allowed Spaniards to capture their chief and burn their houses and deprive them of their riches and other valuable issues. Warfare: Gap in technological issues. The gap in technology made the Aztecs unable to conquer the Spaniard s and defend themselves and their princes. IfAdvertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Cortà ©s writes that the Aztecs â€Å"many enclosures, pits and ditches, and many kinds of weapons† (131); however, these weapons were mostly for fighting with other people from other settlings and for hunting. Such perspective helps to analyze the entire concepts of the conquest and its success for Spaniards because they could use their more advanced weapon to conquer these people with spending minimal human resources on this. The weapons of Aztecs are described in another way by â€Å"The most important offensive weapon of the Aztecs was the Macana, a sort of paddle-shaped wooden club edged with sharp bits of obsidian†¦during the Conquest warriors beheaded Spanish horses at a single stroke† (Leyn-Portilla II-328). Besides, the rituals were an integral part of the Aztec culture and they did not start a war without declaring it to the enemies. In fact, the tradition to declare war explains everything as the Aztecs were not ready to fight because they welcomed Spa niards as their friends. At the same time, both perspectives include description of weapons and warfare skills of the Aztec warriors contrasted to the lack of knowledge about the territory possessed by the Spaniards. In other words, the main technological advantage of the Spaniards can be considered the way they started the war without declaring it and caught them unawares. Though Spaniards had indigenous allies among natives, they suffered from endemic diseases which were one of the main drawbacks of their army whereas natives were less vulnerable in terms of their health and endemic diseases but truly believed in respect and other virtues typical of noble men (as you remember, they admired the courage and majesty of Cortà ©s when they first saw him). Conclusion The controversy that arises after reviewing the sources on the Mexican conquest can be directed into another way. After accurately analyzing the evidence provided by Hernan Cortà ©s and Miguel Leyn-Portilla in their books suggesting quite opposing accounts of this historic event, it is possible to advocate the idea that these two sources complement each other because it is inappropriate to infer after regarding the perspective of only one party of the conflict. This means that the differences in the description of first contacts, razing of Tenochtitlan, and analysis of warfare peculiarities can be smoothed with the help of dual perspective. In other words, the importance of objective idea about the main historic events is the key way to success and this approach should be used every time certain controversy over the issue arises. Chaliand, Gà ©rard. The Art of War in World History: From Antiquity to the Nuclear Age. Los Angeles: University of California Press, 1994. Print. Cortà ©s, Hernn. The Fifth Letter of Hernan Cortes to the Emperor Charles V, Containing an Account of His Expedition to Honduras. Elibron.com, 2001. Print. Cortà ©s, Hernndo. Five Letters of Cortà ©s to the Emperor: 1519-1526 . New York: W. W. Norton Company, Inc., 1991. Print. Leyn-Portilla, Miguel. The Broken Spears: The Aztec Account of the Conquest of Mexico. Boston, MA: Beacon Press, 1992. Web. Townsend, Camilla. â€Å"Burying the White Gods: New Perspectives on the Conquest of Mexico.† The American Historical Review 108.3 (2003): 56 pars. Web. https://historycooperative.org/journal/burying-the-white-gods-new-perspectives-on-the-conquest-of-mexico/.

Drug and Substance Abuse

Drug and Substance Abuse Introduction Drug and substance abuse is an issue that affects entirely all societies in the world. It has both social and economic consequences, which affect directly and indirectly our everyday live. Drug addiction is â€Å"a complex disorder characterized by compulsive drug use† (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2010).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Drug and Substance Abuse specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It sets in as one form a habit of taking a certain drug. Fulls of commonly used stimulants include; cocaine, caffeine, nicotine, amphetamines and cannabis. Cocaine, which has a tremendously high addictive potential, was in the past used as anesthetic and in treatment of depression before its profound effects were later discovered. On the streets, cocaine is either injected intravenously or smoked. Within a few minutes of use, it stimulates the brain making the user feel euphoric, energetic and increases alertness. It has long-term effects such as seizures, heart attacks and stroke. Cocaine’s withdrawal symptoms range from anxiety, irritability to a strong craving for more cocaine. Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is the most often abused drug familiar in almost every corner of the world, from the streets of New York to the most remote village in Africa. Although its addiction potential is lower as compared to that of cocaine, prolonged use of cannabis results to an immense craving for more. It produces hallucinogenic effects, lack of body coordination, and causes a feeling of ecstasy. Long-term use is closely associated with schizophrenia, and other psychological conditions. From a medical perspective, cannabis is used as an analgesic, to stimulate hunger in patients, nausea ameliorator, and intraocular eye pressure reducer. Insomnia, lack of appetite, migraines, restlessness and irritability characterize withdrawal symptoms of cannabis. Depressants Unlike stimulants, dep ressants reduce anxiety and the central nervous system activity. The most common depressants include barbiturates, benzodiazepines and ethyl alcohol. They are of great therapeutically value especially as tranquilizers or sedatives in reducing anxiety. Depressants can be highly addictive since they seem to ease tension and bring relaxation. After using depressants for a long time, the body develops tolerance to the drugs. Moreover, body tolerance after continual use requires one use a higher dose to get the same effect. Clumsiness, confusion and a strong craving for the drug accompany gradual withdrawal. Sudden withdrawal causes respiratory complications and can even be fatal.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Drug and Substance Abuse specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Narcotics Narcotics have been used for ages for various ailments and as a pain reliever pain. They are also characterized by their ability to induce sleep and euphoria. Opium, for instance was used in ancient China as a pain reliever and treatment of dysentery and insomnia. Some narcotics such as morphine and codeine are derived from natural sources. Others are structural analogs to morphine and these include heroin, oxymorphone among others. Narcotics are highly addictive resulting to their strict regulation by a majority of governments. Narcotics act as painkillers once they enter the body. They are used legally in combination with other drugs as analgesics and antitussives but are abused due to their ability to induce a feeling of well being. Their addiction potential is exceptionally high due to the body’s tolerance after consistent use, forcing the user to use and crave for more to get satisfaction. Increase in respiration rate, diarrhea, anxiety, nausea and lack of appetite are symptoms common to narcotic withdrawal. Others include; running nose, stomach cramps, muscle pains and a strong craving for the drugs. Hallucinog ens Hallucinogens affect a person’s thinking capacity causing illusions and behavioral changes especially in moods. They apparently cause someone to hear sounds and see images that do not exist. Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), which commonly abused hallucinogen, has a low addiction potential because it does not have withdrawal effects. They also affect a person’s sexual behavior and other body functions such as body temperature. There are no outright withdrawal symptoms for hallucinogens. References Isralowitz, R. (2004). Drug use: a reference handbook. Santa Barbara, Clif.: ABC-CLIO. Print. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2010). NIDA INfoFacts: Understanding Drug Abuse and Addiction. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/understanding-drug-use-addiction Peele, S. (1998). The meaning of Addiction: Compulsive Experience and its Interpretation. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More

The Coca-Cola Company Financial Results Analysis Essay

The Coca-Cola Company Financial Results Analysis - Essay Example The first one being sales volume growth, structural changes, positive price/mix approximated at 3 percent and most important acquisition of the Great Plains Coca-Cola Bottling Company (â€Å"The Coca-Cola Company†, 2012). North American segment is a very sensitive market taking into consideration that the consumers have become highly health conscious owing to the escalating cases of obesity and other lifestyle diseases associated with high sugar and calories diet and beverages. This claim can be justified that â€Å"still beverages† recorded a 7 percent volume gain in North America segment while traditional sodas volume was flat as from the previous year (Choi Ap, 2012). This means that most Americans have found a new and better taste in less sugary beverages such as Powerade sports drinks and Fuze teas. North America is an important growth segment for Coca Cola Company and this explain the reasons why the company has become more innovative to find better ratio and alte rnatives to consumers who are health conscious (â€Å"Emerging markets†, 2012). For instance, Coca Cola Company came up with a mini-cans targeting consumers watching their diet. Coke Zero is another example of an initiative by the company to tap into the highly health sensitive north America segment as the drink stands out to the best alternative to traditional soda brands provided by the company. It is noteworthy that Coke Zero recorded a 9 percent volume gain in the North America segment. 2. The drivers of profitability Notable drivers for profitability during the third quarter were the global volume gain in developed and emerging market. According to Ziobro (2012), the coca cola company recorded volume boom in almost all its segments with significant volume growth in emerging markets such as India and Thailand. The company recorded a global volume gain of 4 percent in its third quarter earnings(Zacks Equity Research, 2012). Similar characteristics marked by growth in sales volume was evident in geographical operating segments considering that the developed and the emerging markets recorded a 2 percent and 7 percent growth respectively. Data from each geographical operating segment were as follows; Eurasia and Africa Group +11%, Europe Group +1, Latin America Group +5, North America Group +2, and finally Pacific Group +3 (â€Å"The Coca-Cola Company†, 2012). It is believed that the strong volume growth in different markets segments will play an important role in boosting coca cola company earnings in future despite the growing competition from key competitors such as PepsiCo. 3. Earnings per Share results Coca Cola Company reported $0.50 Earnings Per Share (EPS) in its third quarter report while the Earnings Per Share (EPS) of the previous financial year was $0.48 which demonstrates a growth in EPS though the company claims that it met the analyst expectation of$0.51 (Zacks Equity Research, 2012). The comparable EPS for the current third quarte r was $0.51 meaning that it fell short by $0.01. The increase in EPS in the current financial year (third quarter) is attributable to increase

The Age of Enlightment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Age of Enlightment - Essay Example The history reveals that Britain remained the most flourishing point for the movement as provided with new, energetic and leading views at that time. The independence, susceptibility to change and flexibility of Britain helped in the development of this movement from a small struggle to a more powerful and unite movement of great thinkers of that era. The key enlightenment figures, which Porter discusses about the most, are Locke, Newton and Hume. The other leading figures which influenced the thoughts and perceptions of people of their times involved Kant, Hobbes, Arouet, Rosseau, Wollstonecraft and so on. The goal of the Enlightenment thinkers was to help people in developing the ideas which were reasonable and logical although new and completely different from the older ones. Their aim was to change the human beings’ current state in order to make the world a better place for whole of the humanity rather than certain groups. They believed more in reason than in beliefs and concepts which were adopted from predecessors or current society. They emphasized on reasoning and rejected the older norms of superstition and emotional thoughts. They proposed intellectual understanding and concept of modern sciences to expose certain realities about life, world and nature. They proposed to sue science and logical modern ideas to solve issues and influence the nature. They offered to increase human wealth using scientifically rich ideas but not to compromise humanity for the sake of increasing wealth and gaining power. They emphasized on the goodness of men rather than superstitious ideas about the bad instincts. The Enlightenment thinkers emphasized, greatly on the power of individuals. They developed and strengthened the concept of individuality as a way out to their limited life circle. They provided with a concept of a person as a powerful figure of society rather than groups relying on each other without any personal opinion or efforts placed in order to chan ge their present and future life. The emphasized on public discussions and called for actions which were strong as per the reasons supporting them. The Enlightenment thinkers were greatly opposed and criticized for years. Their philosophies and ideas were opposed by romantics of the era as they felt that their ideas were against humanity or moral values of unity. Another distinct feature of the Enlightenment thinkers was their views on religion. Their concept of God was different in a fashion that He created a masterpiece in the shape of the universe but they do not believe in any further changes or miracles from Him anymore. According to their view, God has created the world and left it on us to understand it, make changes for the rest of the time we stay here. There are many veiled secrets in the universe which human beings are created to find out and make this world a better place for their lives. Their religious views diverted towards finding the reasons behind everything in the world. Their faith lies in the fact that everything in this world is created for a reason and human being can discover those reasons by struggles and new ideas. Their belief is that human beings can find out ways to understand the nature and change the course of humanity by continuous struggle, careful assessment and an enthusiasm for a change. Newton’s strive led to the discovery of Laws of physics and the