.

Saturday, August 31, 2019

Broadband Methods

There are several broadband methods that can be used to provide high speed internet access at home. The selection of the method is determined by the requirements, the availability of the hardware which is determined by the location of the user and the installation cost. Some of the most common methods include digital subscribers line (DSL), cable internet and satellite internet among others (Lemke, 2001). Due to its availability and speed relative to other options, I would prefer satellite internet for home use. Digital subscriber line is the most common home internet access method and provides network over the telephone lines.The main advantages of DSL that the subscriber is always connected, the hardware can have multiple uses (it is used as a phone and as an internet access devise at the same time), it provides a wide range of prices depending on the speed and a wide range of service providers. However, its use is limited by varying speed, availability, download limits and the spe cial equipments that must be installed by the telecom company. Cable internet on the other hand uses other coaxial cables other than telephone cables such as the television conduits. This broadband method has the basic advantage of being inexpensive and higher availability.On the other hand, it has the disadvantage of congestion and security problems associated with sharing of the network. Moreover, it is more suitable for multiple computers in home use (Steve Internet Guide, 2010). Satellite internet consists of a mini satellite disc mounted by a service provider. It has the advantage of always being connected and high speed. It is however more expensive compared to other options (Gustafson, 2005). Reference Gustafson, C. J. (2005). Disgusted With Dialup? – Compare DSL Providers, Cable and Satellite Internet to See If One Is Right for you, retrieved on July 9, 2010 from:http://www. buzzle. com/editorials/1-27-2006-87484. asp. Lemke, T. (2001). Cable, DSL or satellite? High-s peed internet connections can download information 50 times faster than a standard 56-kilobyte modem. But technology hasn't caught up with demand, retrieved on July 9, 2010 from: http://findarticles. com/p/articles/mi_m1571/is_47_17/ai_80900393/? tag=content;col1#comments Steve Internet Guide (2010). Broadband Internet Connection Methods, retrieved on July 9, 2010 from: http://www. steves-internet-guide. com/Broadband-Internet-Connections. php

Friday, August 30, 2019

How atmosphere is created in Victorian ghost stories Essay

â€Å"Discuss and compare how atmosphere is created in three Victorian ghost stories† Atmosphere is created in Victorian ghost stories by using a few main factors- -Characters -figurative language -setting -themes -Era (period of time) The majority of Victorian ghost authors use these factors because they are best to create atmosphere in any story, i.e. for a theme you can use fear, and for a setting you can use an old abandoned mansion, a story can easily be set around this because the two factors fit together as the same genre. The first author that will be used as an example will be using as an example will be Charles Dickens, he was born in 1812, He had a marvellous photographic memory which helped him base some of his characters on people he had met earlier on in his life. The story I will be focusing on by dickens will be â€Å"THE SIGNALMAN†, this story is a good choice because its atmosphere is built up as soon as you read the story, â€Å"THE SIGNALMAN† is being narrated by the gentleman in the story, he is a means for creating atmosphere because he puts in a first person perspective, he gives opinion and tells you what the scenery looks like, characters are almost a part of the setting, they create a mood, for example the protagonist in the story spends most of his time learning from the signalman- â€Å"how I ought to act, having become the recipient of this disclosure? I had proved the man to be intelligent, vigilant, painstaking, and exact†, at first the protagonist sees the signalman to be a solitary, ghost of a man, but getting to know him, he sees him as a man waiting for something to come (this is now figurative language), what the author is trying to tell you is that he is not waiting to change the train track, but is waiting for the warning (or signal) towards his death. One of the themes is either death or hell, for example, in the start the signalman was shocked when the narrator yells at him â€Å"halloa, below there†, the signalman thinks that the protagonist is a ghost (the signal man is waiting for death). A quote that can support the theme of hell is: â€Å"just then there came a vague vibration of the earth and air, quickly changed into a violent pulsation and an oncoming rush that caused me to start back†, this shows that this character is not use to trains (most likely because of the era (period of time) , in which trains are relatively new and many people are scared of them), he may find them monstrous, figuratively, the ground quivering and the protagonist going down into the trench may possibly mean the earth is opening, and he is descending into hell. The era (period of time) also helps with the building of the atmosphere for the reason that the story is set around trains, and in Victorian times the general public were scared of trains which would add to the eeriness of the account being told. The author will use characters as a tool to build atmosphere by explaining what he or she looks like, how they act and what they do, for example, â€Å"And drawing nearer to him, saw that he was a dark sallow man with a dark beard and rather heavy eyebrows†, the narrator is describing the signalman as a person who does not interact with others and as if he is already dead because of his pale skin, deep voice, and in another part of the story he is described as having â€Å"an infection of the mind†, adding to the theme of death. The setting in the signalman is dim and creepy, this is explained by the protagonist, â€Å"down in the deep trench, and mine was so high above him, so steeped in the angry sunset†, the trench described in this quote is intended to represent the protagonist on earth, looking down into his grave, it could be that the point of the story is to represent the protagonist’ death. The next Victorian ghost author that will be used is Abraham stoker (Bram stoker); he is best known as the creator of the fictional character Count Dracula. The story which will be used is â€Å"THE JUDGES HOUSE†. One of the themes in this story is fear, this is mainly created by using setting and characters, for example, the protagonist, Malcolm Malcolmson needs a place of solitude to do his scientific research and so he finds † an old shambling, heavy built house of Jacobean style , with heavy gables and windows, set higher than normal, customary houses† he finds the perfect house for his research, this is also the perfect house to build suspense, horror and the theme, fear. This particular story brings different eras(periods of time) to it because the house that malcolmson takes residency in has a history, as malcolmson asks to stay in the house to the landlady, she replies â€Å"not in the judges house!, she said, and grew pale as she spoke†¦ the abode of the judge who was held in great terror because of the harsh sentences and his hostility towards the prisoners at assizes†, this makes the plot, and in turn it creates a negative atmosphere towards the house. This quote can also explain how the characters create atmosphere by use of their language , another example of this would be † mercy on us†, said Ms. Witham â€Å"an old devil, and sitting on a chair by the fireside , take care sir, take care†, Ms. Witham the woman speaking, sounds as if she is nervous just talking about the judge. In this story a setting can also represent a character i.e. the rats are meant to represent the judge, because it keeps catching the attention of malcolmson, â€Å"he raised a book in his right hand and taking careful aim, flung it at the rat, it sprang aside like a missile, he took another book and repeated his action, and a third, until he had only one book left, the rat squeaked and seemed afraid, malcolmson more eager to strike, the book flew with a resounding blow†. The book that hit the rat was the bible, usually in any Victorian ghost story the protagonist will have to use a religious object to get rid of the villain, i.e. in Bram stokers â€Å"Dracula† the protagonist (van Helsing) uses a cross to fend Dracula. So the rat (the judge) will have to be scared of the bible. The rats are also meant to representing the judges evil spreading like a plague, and ruining everybody’s lives around it. The last author that will be used to answer the question is Herbert George wells (h.g wells) he was a Victorian sci-fi writer most famous for his novel â€Å"war of the worlds†. The story he wrote that will be used is the â€Å"THE RED ROOM†. This will give good examples of how atmosphere is created by using characters; in the beginning of the story there is a conversation between the protagonist and the pensioners, the pensioners help create atmosphere because they are all somehow crippled, for example, â€Å"its your own choosing†, said the man with the withered arm once more†¦ a second old man entered, more bent, more wrinkled, more aged than the first. The reason these characters are like this is because they keep having to lecture the protagonist about not going to the red room, he won’t listen because no one would like to believe two senile old pensioners over their own opinion. The setting of the red room is a slightly different to other ghost stories because it is less secluded (there are more characters in the key building). It seems bizarre that the antagonist would only appear when a character is alone, as if it is shy: â€Å"as I stood undecided, an invisible hand seemed to sweep out the two candles on the table, with a cry of terror I dashed to the alcove†. The example of era (period in time) that happens in the story is more of a thought than it being existent: â€Å"an older age when things spiritual were indeed to be feared, when common sense was uncommon, an age, when omens and witches were credible, and ghost beyond denying†. This creates an Atmosphere of wickedness because it reminds you of the period in which everything was religious (religion can get rid of evil) and the church led the public to be against witches, demons and the devil. In all three of the stories there will be a person(s) who has experienced or witnessed the horrors that have happened before, they create atmosphere by giving the story a history.` Conclusion: Atmosphere is created in Victorian ghost stories by using some of the factors said before -Era (period of time) -Theme -Characters -Setting These factors are HOW atmosphere is created in these three Victorian ghost stories because they are best to put what is needed for a ghost story in the plot: suspense, history, death and a mystery to be solved.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

The Significance of Marketing Communications Essay

The Significance of Marketing Communications - Essay Example Consequently, the company must communicate with the existing and potential consumers. Communication takes the form of sales promotion strategies and advertisements. Marketing success only comes when a company has a comprehensive understanding of consumers’ demographic structure. Nike Company, for instance, used catchy word â€Å"just do it† to attract customers for its products (Foster, 2011). Despite establishing attractive and quality products for consumers, a competitive market would demand that there exist goodwill between the company and consumers to foster hope that the product on sale will succeed. Such hopes help in building loyalty that keeps consumers to company in question products (Hill, 2014). Marketing communication strategies, therefore, are vital in building good image between it and the citizens as a leading corporate. The image building process becomes a reality when company publicizes its charitable activities. Communication also improves the competitive advantage of the company over competitors (DahleÃŒ n & Lange, 2009). The company maintains a superior advantage over its competitors. The company in question can use communication effectively to expose the competitor’s weakness to its customers. Communication also helps companies to attract talents that the company need to by demonstrating to employees that the company provides the best work environment. Through publications, annual awards provide for the list of best companies to work. Ashton, J. K., & Pressey, A. D. (2011). The Regulatory Challenge to Branding: An Interpretation of UK Competition Authority Investigations 1950-2007. Journal of Marketing Management, 27(9/10), 1027-1058.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

The Emotion of Frustration in High School Essay

The Emotion of Frustration in High School - Essay Example I realized that eating by myself every day and spending my weekends watching Full House re-runs wasn’t the ideal way to be spending the glory days of my youth. I became frustrated. When I would sit alone I would imagine the life I wish I had. I’d watch the football players laughing with cheerleaders at their table and think they were just lame anyway. I was smart. I thought about things like philosophy and books and Ernest Hemingway. So I’d continue eating my sandwich and watch other groups. One day as I was sitting there, observing people, I noticed two guys walking quickly away from the cafeteria, looking around like they were going to escape from prison or something, and then quickly disappear into the woods. I had no idea where they had gone but I was curious.The next day, after I went through the lunch line and got my hamburger, tater tots, and milk, I walked around and then saw them standing by the vending machine talking. I had to figure out where they kep t going. I sat near where they were standing and put on a happy demeanor. After a moment they stopped talking and one of them asked me what was being sold for lunch.â€Å"Tater tots,† I said.He laughed and then they walked off. A few moments later, to my great surprise, they came back and sat at the table with me and joked around for a bit.

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

A research proposal with a project management plan Essay

A research proposal with a project management plan - Essay Example The council does so by ensuring that the registration system of nurse is not compromised as well as necessary guidance and intervention in the nursing discipline. However, this is on the technical bit. Availability of personnel will be the prerequisite for the application and the effectiveness of this council’s effort in meeting their mandate. But availability is the main problem in the whole nursing profession in the globe. This raises the need for a workable plan that Nursing Council of Hong Kong can apply to ensure that the available RN is well utilized and is able to meet the raising need for health care in Hong Kong society. The scope of this research project is to develop a nursing program that will be implemented through Nursing Council of Hong Kong. Therefore, all the registered nurses as well as upcoming nurses form the scope of this project. The nurses to be interviewed and the focus group discussion groups will be developed from the already existing list of registered nurses in Nursing Council’s database and nursing students emails in the universities data base. Among the issues to be considered when sampling will be nursing experience level of the respondents, cost and time constraints as well as accountability and program orientations. Nursing is the main pillar of any health system in the world (Jamison, 2006, p.1). The nature of training and the kind of work done by nurses’ makes the core of patient’s healing and recovery. Nurses remain with the patient long after the doctors have left to ensure that the patients are comfortable as well as are able to take medication prescribed by the doctors. Healthcare thus needs more nurses than any other healthcare practitioner. Hong Kong nursing workforce is majorly dominated by female (Chan, 2012, p. 15). These nurses are required by law to be enrolled and registered for practice. However, the levels of nurses’ registration in Hong

Monday, August 26, 2019

World Trade Organization Information Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

World Trade Organization Information - Essay Example The legal documents of the WTO explore this idea and the individual obligations of member countries. From 1947 until Jan. 1, 1995, when the WTO formally came into being, the main body for settling international trade disputes was operated under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Before World War II the United States had entered into a series of bilateral trade negotiations. In the 1920s and 1930s, a series of protectionist measures, including congressional approval of the Smoot-Hawley tariff law, harmed international trade and, experts say, deepened the worldwide recession. After the war, the United States and other export-dependent countries tried to establish a trade body parallel to emerging international financial institutions, such as the World Bank. Efforts to form an international trade organization foundered, with many countries raising the same objections later leveled against the WTO: fear of lost sovereignty. In 1947 in Geneva, however, 23 nations formed the GATT. Until 1994, the GATT was the forum for resolving trade disputes and launching negotiating efforts. There were eight trade rounds in 50 years, and they resulted, according to the U.S. trade representative's office, in a 15-fold increase in international commerce. But the GATT came under increasing criticism from nations and exporters who said it was too cumbersome and its settlement process was too open-ended. Under the GATT system, the losing party could simply block a decision. As long as no one did it, the system worked...but more and more started doing it, in 1986, when The Uruguay Round was launched in Punta del Este, 74 nations attended the conference. The final agreement, reached in 1994, was designed to reduce tariffs and trade barriers by 40 percent. It also, nearly 50 years after the idea was broached, created the WTO to oversee international trade. Operation How and Where World trade organization operates in the following functions: It administers organization trade agreements, Handles trade disputes. Monitors national trade policies. Provides technical assistance and training to developing countries, cooperates with other international organizations.( www.geocities.com/letoconsulting/wto_accession.htm) Serves as a forum for trade negotiations. The World Trade Organization is designed to create the rules involved with trade. These trading rules include all countries, not just the US, and can therefore be a little tricky at times. "The WTO establishes a structure for trade policies; it does not define results" (Bagwell &Staiger p80). As we can see, the rules of trading are simply set as guidelines and cannot guarantee a certain outcome for each individual agreement between countries. There are five main rules that the WTO depends on to operate smoothly on a daily basis and they are as follows: unbiasness, reciprocity, enforceable commitments, simplicity, as well as security valves. 1. The WTO shall make possible the implication , administration as well as operation, and promote the objectives, of this Agreement along with the Multilateral Trade Agreements, and shall also give the structure for the implementation,

Sunday, August 25, 2019

College Life Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

College Life - Essay Example Associating with clubs and social activities during college life can be enriching but demanding in terms of time and attention. College student life is an enriching experience as it involves not just exclusive devotion to education but also lifelong learning experience and structures (Huang & Carleton, 2003). Club and social activities are activities that students participate in during their leisure time. Leisure plays a significant role in the modern world although in the past very little attention was given to leisure and leisure activities. College life is the most important part in any person’s life. Leisure activities undertaken during college life, influences students in many areas of life including job and life satisfaction. Studies have shown that there is a significant relationship between leisure participation, leisure satisfaction and life satisfaction. Activities such as participation in social clubs on campus help mould an individual towards handling larger respon sibilities. This stems from the changed mission of colleges and universities as they strive towards holistic development of an individual. Participation in activities during college life falls under extra-curricular activities which plays an integral role in collegiate experience (Tenhouse, 2011). These activities complete the college’s academic curriculum and thereby augment the student’s educational experience. Students get an opportunity to interact with other students apart from class interactions. Students are at their natural when they interact at the social level. Student peers are an important source of influence on the overall development of an individual. It also influences the affective and cognitive development of the student. Participation in clubs and social activities leads to well-rounded development of the individual, which is the principal focus of such activities. Involvement in such activities impact the emotional, intellectual, social and inter-per sonal development of students. Participation stimulates their thinking and analytical skills, enhances their organizational ability. It also helps students to learn to manage conflicts, negotiate and communicate effectively. It fosters team spirit and enhances leadership qualities. They adapt other skills such as time management and academic competence as they also mature socially. It enhances their self-esteem and self-confidence as they gain autonomy and learn to appreciate others’ similarities and differences. As pointed out by Huang and Carleton (2003), participation in social activities and membership in college groups can be enriching. It helps students develop skills specific to their career path which leads to job success. Job success implies job satisfaction and ultimately satisfaction in life. Social activities enable the students to link the academic knowledge with practical experience which helps them understand their own talents and abilities. Experiences of this kind prepare a student for the first job as these reflect in the curriculum vitae and students often receive placements while still on campus. Tenhouse finds that participation in clubs and activities has a positive impact on attaining a bachelor’s degree and on educational aspirations. Such students also develop higher ambitions and aspirations than students who do not involve themselves in extra-curricular activities. Campuses have become diverse and hence students desire

Saturday, August 24, 2019

United States v. Leon, 468 U.S. 897 Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

United States v. Leon, 468 U.S. 897 - Case Study Example y afforded to law enforcement officers, and on the other a deviation from well-established rule against illegal searches and seizures diminishing a commonly accepted constitutional right. Cruikshank (1986) thus ascertains that â€Å"The inquiry no longer is whether the fourth amendment was violated but whether the deterrent effect of the exclusionary rule outweighs the potential cost of losing valuable evidence† (p. 417). There is now a shift from individual rights to the duties of police officers in establishing the correct application of the Constitution as determined by the judiciary. This is a far cry from the basic premise of any constitution as the fundamental law of the land. It must serve as a limitation on the powers of government and a reminder of the supremacy of the people. The inclusion of probable cause in the criterion for the issuance of a warrant was a definitive statement as to the powers that may be accorded in the proper disturbance of a person in his rights. The defense of good faith seems as an easy enough loophole to violate what I ardently believed to be a constitutional right despite how the Supreme Court ruled otherwise. Cruikshank, C. (1986). Dismantling the exclusionary rule: United States v. Leon and the courts of Washington-should good faith excuse bad acts? University of Puget Sound Law Review, 9. Retrieved from

Friday, August 23, 2019

A critical exploration whether Gandhi was primarily a political figure Research Paper

A critical exploration whether Gandhi was primarily a political figure or a social reformer - Research Paper Example This involvement with the emergence of India brings Gandhi the fame as a political figure. He spent a significant part of his life as a political activist in the Congress, one of the two major political parties of India under the British rule. Though he had been an active political figure, his political activities were bordered on the verge of social reformations which could successfully bring him the landslide faith and support from the common Indians. Indeed the question whether he was primarily a political figure or a social will continue to engender debate till one fails to pursue the true Gandhian nationalist zeal. The son of a senior British Government clerk, Gandhi adamantly believed in the soul of democracy and the formal democratic politics.1 Therefore, Gandhi, once the devout British patriot who once worked publicly to earn the Indians’ support for the British Army’s war against Zulu Kingdom in 1906, could not call for the violent liberation war that, causing much bloodshed, could have destroyed the British-induced political reform in India.2 Prior to his experience of successful civil-disobedience or non-violent protest against the segregation Act of the Transvaal Government in 1906, he became familiar with British democratic political culture, while he was studying law in London. Later his experience of the success of ‘Satyagraha’ further provided him a political insight into the non-violent public protest against the tyranny of a political system.3 Indeed Gandhi’s political insight and experience urged him to assume the role of a social reformer. His pose as a social reformer only served his political purpose of uniting the Indians to emerge as a strong political force. Also for the same reason, he did not have his own pure political or social philosophy. His personal philosophy was more of a loose collection of ideas that a strict structure of thought. Indeed Gandhi was a great political leader under the apparel o f a social-reformer. Brief Background of Gandhi’s Concept of Satyagraha Gandhi, once the Barrister in South Africa was inspired to put his wholehearted faith in Satyagraha, the heart of his civil-disobedience.4 This barrister was sagacious enough to perceive the power of public unity and support in a modern democratic state. He adopted the Civil-disobedience policy as a means of political protest which could simultaneously sustain the state and create pressure on it toward the intended end. Indeed this protest policy of civil disobedience could sustain the basic form of a government through non-violent defiance, while forcing her to compromise with the defiant civil group.5 But the success of civil disobedience crucially pivots on the weight, of the defiance of protesters, which in democracy is considered as the volume of support. With this new insight, in 1915, Gandhi returned at a critical moment when India was rolling into a democratic political environment from the shadow of the British colonial rule. Gandhi the barrister with his new political insight was wise enough not to jeopardize the prospect India, then, the child of democracy.6 During the 1910s the democracy was budding through the National Congress Party; it was the age when the literate Indians had already adapted with the democratic environment and the rural underdeveloped Indians were waiting for a leader who could lead to the light of democracy. Indeed Gandhi fulfilled this very need of a leader who could raise political awareness among the common Indians only to strengthen the Indians’ voice for independence.7 If Gandhi had called for violent resistance

Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 2

Research Paper Example Likewise, information contained in â€Å"Today’s Job Seeker Report† published by Simply Hired (2012) revealed that from among the American job seekers surveyed, 70% revealed that they use mobile technology to search for job opportunities (Simply Hired, 2012, p. 5). Also, other relevant information disclosed was that 40% of companies rely on social networking sites, particularly Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and even MySpace for recruitment purposes (Kwoh, 2012). A much higher rate of 60% in 2012, as compared to 54% in 2011 was actually reported by Simply Hired (2012) for job seekers to have resorted to social networks. Regardless of the accurate figure, it is evident that job seekers have significantly relied on social networking sites as potential sources of employment; and employers have likewise sought information from these sites to gain more information about prospective applicants and candidates. The currrent discourse hereby aims to present the benefits and costs of using social media during job search. The next section provides relevant and crucial statistical information that identifies the use of specifically identified social networking sites and the users that rely on these for employment. Subsequently, the benefits and disadvantages of using social media would be presented in detail prior to a recommendation and concluding portion. Statistics Use of Social Media in Job Search The information revealed by the Pew Research Center in 2012 has disclosed that the general profile and landscape of social networking site users fall under the following gender and age categories, shown as Table 1, below: Table 1: Profile and Landscape of Social Networking Site Users Social Networking Sites Percentage of Internet Users Demographic Profile Facebook 67% Women, 18 to 29 years old Twitter 16 African Americans, urban residents, 18-29 years old Pinterest 15 Women, white, under 50 years old Instagram 13 African Americans and Latinos, women, urban residen ts, 18 to 29 years old Tumblr 6 Adults 18 to 29 years old Source: Duggan & Brenner, 2013, p. 2 The percentage of internet users identified to be using social networking sites are shown below: Figure 1: Percent of Social Networking Site Users As noted above, both potential applicants and employers utilize these sites for employment purposes. Since Facebook leads in social networking site users, it was reported in the Huffington Post (2012) that â€Å"a survey commissioned by the online employment website CareerBuilder has found that 37 percent of hiring managers use social networking sites to research job applicants, with over 65 percent of that group using Facebook as their primary resource† (37 Percent Of Employers Use Facebook To Pre-Screen Applicants, New Study Says, 2012, par. 1). More interesting are the findings from a survey conducted by the Corporate Executive Board cited by Kwoh (2012) that provided explicit insights from the perspectives of employers which revealed that since employers are making their respective research on potential candidates for employment, those who apparently lie on their resume, provide fake references, and seek unrealistic salaries were found to be the top three pitfalls that should

Thursday, August 22, 2019

The Great Gatsby in the American Dream Essay Example for Free

The Great Gatsby in the American Dream Essay The 1920s and 1930s represent two decades in our countrys history that were very much connected to one another but extremely different in the economy. The Great Gatsby takes place during the roaring 20s, a time of extravagant parties and attempts at finding happiness after World War I. On the other hand, The Grapes of Wrath takes place during the 30s while America is suffering from the Great Depression and people are leaving their homes and lives to find success and work in California. Although the times were very different economically, both were taken over by people striving for the American Dream of wealth and social status in an attempt of getting happiness, success, and a better life. During the 20s, people wanted to escape the terrors of the war and during the 30s they were attempting to survive during the devastation of the Great Depression. Both The Great Gatsby and The Grapes of Wrath do an amazing job of representing peoples desires for the American Dream and more specifically the failure rather than success that came as a result of their efforts. The American Dream depicted by The Grapes of Wrath is very different from the dream of the 20s and The Great Gatsby. For one, money and wealth is much scarcer and extravagant parties are far from peoples minds. In The Grapes of Wrath there is a very distinct line between the rich and the poor and this separation increases as those who are rich go to all lengths to ensure that they remain in the upper class. Many of the upper class seem to live in California where there is land and opportunity, while much of the lower class consists of dust-bowl farmers who have been forced to leave their land and travel to California in search of work. The land owners in California are afraid that these dust-bowl farmers will eventually take over their property and make it their own, so they are doing everything in their power to ensure that the poor farmers are not successful. Even still, they hire them for their dirty work and treat them poorly as there are many more to take their place. Many of the poor farmers begin turning their backs on their families and friends in an attempt at succeeding as individuals. This selfish attitude is the same attitude held by the California land owners who are unwilling to share their fortune with anyone else due to fear and lack of trust. The Grapes of Wrath builds up several different dreams for the American depending on their background. The California land owners dreams consist of eagerness for wealth and greed to remain in a position of power over the dust bowl farmers that are working their land. On the other hand, many of the poor farmers have simple dreams of just keeping their dignity and not allowing themselves to give up on their families. In the end, it is the Joad familys ability to keep their dignity and hold together as a family that helps them to rise above all of the tragedies they encounter. The Grapes of Wrath concludes with a much more hopeful tone than The Great Gatsby and passes on to the reader the importance of men joining together and doing what is right for all of mankind as opposed to what is most beneficial to the individual. Jim Casys death in Chapter 26 is a perfect example of how the California land owners are threatened by the idea of the poor farmers joining together and revolting. His death is also an example of how a man or woman can make an unselfish decision and risk what is best for them individually to do what is best for all of mankind. Tom is very struck by Casys bravery and finds the power within himself to follow in Casys footsteps and help unite people to fight the injustices of their current situation. His own dream becomes an attempt to do all he can to better life for the common American man. The American Dream was not only different in the 20s than it was in the 30s, but it has continued to evolve and change up through today. Despite the differences in these dreams, there is a central goal to all of them: the pursuit of happiness. In both of these books and much of the world today, people seek and dream of attaining just utter happiness. For centuries, lots of people have been trying to obtain money, careers, success, and more. Although these dreams are separate from one another, they are all just a means by which people feel they may hopefully obtain their dream of being happy. The question is when will people begin to realize that it is not these materialistic goals that will provide them with happiness, but rather things like humility, love, family, and religion? These are true sources of happiness and real answers to the American Dream.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Corporate social responsibility in Tesco

Corporate social responsibility in Tesco Abstract This research seeks the concepts of corporate social responsibility in terms of present business world. Here I want to analyse the necessity and importance of CSR for an organisation to running a better business in all around the world and how an organization can achieve a competitive advantage over his competitors being socially responsible to his community. Here this study will analyse the argument of CSR as well. For the above objective of this research, I will look at one of the best worldwide retail company which is based on UK by the name of Tesco. This paper will also look at the CSR activity of Tesco and try to look at that is the CSR activity for his community within the Tesco is really profitable not only for them but also for their stakeholders and community as well? Objective The foremost objectives of this research are as follows: I would like to discuss the necessity of corporate social responsibility. To look at the importance of CSR. To achieve a greater knowledge that how can a company get a competitive advantage by following CSR activity throughout the community as a whole. To analyse the dispute of CSR Introduction According to the MACMILLAN Dictionary, Corporate social responsibility is a belief that a company should consider the environmental and social effect of its activity on its employee and the community around it. However CSR while a situations where the firm goes further than observance and engages in actions that appear to further some social good, beyond the interests of the firm and that which is required by law. (McWilliams and Siegel; 2001) .lying on a broad array of issues corporations are encouraged to behave socially responsibly (Welford and Frost, 2006; Engle, 2006). Even though businesses have underway to recognize the significance of CSR and a extensive varieties of initiatives have come to light (Nelson, 2004).CSR should be good for business for not only long term success, it also useful for society, community, employee and environmental as well. In UK, most of the company (government and private) are very concern about CSR activities and now UK is one of the leading contributors internationally in CSR thinking and practise. (CSR Government update, 2003) Now a days we are living in a complex and unconvinced world. Corporate scandal, uncertain economy, threat of terrorism, stock market downturn etc is the major causes of reducing trust and stability in corporate sector and its leaders. For example, A historic environmental disaster caused by BP where they spent the past decade using splashy ads to promote itself as a green company (Rachel beck; 2010). In UK, 44% of the British public consider that it is very important for company to shows a high Degree of social responsibility when they buy the companys product where 58% of general public in all around the Europe believe that commerce and industries do not pay enough attention to the society and environment. (Arthur D Little; 2003) In those cases, the concepts of CSR are increasing its value and necessity in the global business and corporate sector. In this research I want to discuss the significance of CSR in UK Retail Company. I want to investigate that the impact of CSR on the businesses and I want to discuss that what the retail companies are doing for covering their CSR activity within the community. Here in UK, some of the multinational retail company operating their business. Tesco is one of them who operating his business successfully. In every financial year, Tesco publish their CSR report which includes their present CSR progress and their aims and objectives. In this research, I want to look at Tesco`s CSR activity and is those activity really making any profit for their business and for community and environment as well. What is Corporate Social Responsibility? Corporate social responsibility (CSR) resources the task of a business in a reciprocally responsible approach whereby the business is: undertakes moral practices in employment and labour by convalescing workplaces concerned in building local communities and communicates with apprehensive communities concerning the consequences of its policies and products invests in building community infrastructure contributes to a cleaner environment, its security and sustainability Contributes via its corporate governance to monetary development at a bulky. (Gopal K. Kanjia and Parvesh K. Choprab; 2010) However One of the prime purpose of corporate social responsibility programme is outwardly  ´to build goodwill as a sort of business policy to be redeemed in case something goes badly wrong in the main part of business ´ (Smith and Cohon; 2004, p.21). As per Husted and De Jesus Salazar (2006) stated that CSR from a clearly cost benefit investigation under three scenario relating to the firm want to involve in CSR activity. The first one is Altruism which means that firms genuinely wishing to be socially responsible without observe to the bottom line. The second one is Coerced egoism where the firms performing in a socially responsible approach only when obliged by regulation. The third and final one is the Strategic use of CSR where there is clear benefit to the firm for engaging in CSR. Geoffrey P Lantas (2001) include some authors view about position in business role in society. Here Albert care and Milton Friedman stated their view for economic CSR- pure profit making view. On the other hand R Edward Freeman told about ethical CSR- socially aware view and Archi Carroll stated about altruistic CSR- community services view. Finally we can say that, CSR involves some kind of standardized reporting that allows the business to assemble information on how it is building evolution on different fronts. Businesses that connect in CSR characteristically centre on some or all of the subsequent: Environment: The requirement appears at the green impacts of products and services, with what the business does external the company to recover the environment. Employees: Its significant to certify that all employees are cared for effectively. Businesses habitually spotlight on workplace circumstances, benefits, living wages, and training. Communities: Engaging the immediate communities is an important part of not just creating good human capital that can serve the business, but also securing a standing that can further establish the business. Regulations: relating to regulations to the fullest and frequently exceeding them is part of being communally responsible. Definition of CSR The characterization of CSR is often debated. The UK government summarise the definition of CSR is that- Ê ºThe government sees CSR as the business contribution to our sustainable development goal. Essentially it is about how business takes accounts of its economic, social and environmental impact in the way it operates- maximising the benefits and minimising the downsides. Specifically, we see CSR is the voluntary action that business can take, over and above compliance with minimum legal requirements, to address both its own competitive interest and the interest of wider societyÊ º (Source -www.csr.gov.uk). Some other definitions are as follows: Figure 1: Persistent matrix of corporate social responsibility (Gopal K. Kanjia; Parvesh K. Choprab (2010) Carroll (1983) stated a definition of CSR which is Corporate social responsibility involves the conduct of a business so that it is economically profitable, law abiding, ethical and socially supportive. To be socially responsible Then means that profitability and obedience to the law are foremost Conditions when discussing the firms ethics and the extent to which it supports the society in which it exists with contributions of money, time and talent (p.608). European Commission (2006) stated that -Ê º The concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and in their interaction with their stakeholders on a voluntary basisÊ º The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) (2000, p. 10) gave a clearer definition of CSR is Ê ºcommitment of business to contribute to sustainable development, working with employees, their families, the local community and society at large to improve their quality of lifeÊ º. Kivuitu Yambayamba and Fox (2005, p. 1) once more illustrated that The concept of CSR is sometimes used as shorthand for business contribution to sustainable development. Coleman (2006, p. 1) understand that CSR as division of business principles And defines it as the managerial obligation to take action that protects and improves the welfare of society as a whole and promotes the interest of the organization. Starbucks, CSR report in 2004 stated that A responsible company is one that listened to its stakeholders and responds with honesty to their concerns Those are the few definition of CSR. Basically it is very difficult to give a specific and accurate definition of CSR in terms of present competitive word. If I look at above those discussions, there is some key word which is clearly involved with the fact of CSR. For example -to achieve sustainable goal, voluntary action for society, promoting green environment etc. Basically CSR is the way to improve the quality of life by working with employees, society, stakeholder, community and should be responsible for promoting a green and safer environment for present and the next generation as well. Could do with for Corporate Social Responsibility In this global economy, a business firm should be socially responsible if they want to survive in this competitive market. A growing number of shareholders and investors began to accept the idea that CSR can lead to financial return on the long run (Min-Dong Paul Lee; 2008). Pratima Bansal in (2002) gave an explanation that why firm should become socially responsible. She stated three reasons behind this. Those ares- It immediately makes a good business intellect for the firm. If every company is doing this, we have to do it. On a top management team within an organization, there sometimes an influential person who really cares about those issues and looking for an opportunity for making the way the company is run as an extension of his or her commitment to society. Pratima Bansal (2002) also noted that there are a number of agency that make ranking for firms based on their corporate social responsibility and a number of mutual firm who meet their standard of socially responsibility. Such as Fortune Reputation Index and The Dow Jones sustainability Index. Business weeks climate groups make climate change ranking based on multinational company by their total reduction of greenhouse gases ( Michael Bowfield; 2007) There is a clear link between corporate social responsibility and financial performance of an organization. Geoffrey Heal (2004) stated in annual conference of the Monte Paschi Vita a wide-ranging list of the benefits that commentators have linked to CSR programmes. Those are: Reducing risk Reduced waste Improving dealings with regulators Generating brand equity Improved human relations and employee productivity Lower cost of capital. A news item from Business Respect in 2007 published about a survey between business leaders about their view towards CSR. From this investigation, business leaders understand and settled strong beliefs That CSR can increase profit and the confidence that having good environmental management is more than purely public relation focused. Philip Kotler and Nancy Lee (2005) told that company have understanding a range of bottom line reimbursement for adopting CSR policy. For example, better sales and market share, add to corporate reflection and clout, strengthened brand positioning, boost ability to create a centre of attention, motivate and retain employees, decline operating cost, increase demand to investors and financial crisis. There are several situations where social responsibility of a business becomes obligatory. Some of these situations which demonstrate the requirement of Corporate Social Responsibilities are discussed below. A societal move towards to business is the existing business viewpoint, which demands business organizations to be receptive to the social exertion. As a consequence of globalization of business, global companies activate in a big way in their host countries. To facilitate ascertain a good corporate illustration; they include social responsibility as a corporate purpose. Native companies are strained to follow outfit for maintaining their corporate uniqueness. In the terms and conditions of collaborations agreements, very often, social welfare stipulations are included which necessitates the collaborating company to take up social responsibility of business. On account of legal requirements, companies have to deliberate on social problems. Corporate contributions of social welfare projects of permitted NGOs are exempted from income tax in UK. An organizations obligation to social responsibility creates a good corporate representation, and there by a enhanced business environment Community responsibility of business enables the organization to pick up its product positioning and thereby advance its market share. Extremely time and again situations insist due to natural calamities, accidents and so on. Consequence of Corporate Social Responsibility In 2005 poll, 81% executive said that corporate social responsibility is indispensable for their business. They have a different view that what the exact meaning of Corporate social responsibility but the majority of them believe that business should serve as a steward in society and that it has a duty to investor, employees, consumers, community and the environment ( Michael Blowfield and Alan Murray; 2008). Commencing a documentary on BBC, in the year of 1996, 267 companies publish CSR report. But nowadays this sum is in excess of 3000.The another business reporter Will Smale(2006) stated that now a days it is very hard to find a multinational company that doesnt articulate a commitment to CSR. Maturana and Varela define the CSR by saying is that when two or more human beings generate a relationship, they have an ethical responsibility to the other humans in that relationship. Corporations are gradually more adopting socially responsible actions, conduct, policies and processes. A corporate social responsibility (CSR) policy is beneficial not only for a corporations bottom line but also for its employees, stakeholders, consumers and for communities, the environment and the social order. In 2003, 1in to fortune 500 firms had a board committee enthusiastic to environmental issue which is now 1 in 4. The number of business school those are offering green courses 34% in 2001 which is in 2007 is 63%.However CSR focused jobs increased 37% from 2005 to 2008. Furthermore, 97.3% people are agreeable to make a financial give up for working a socially responsible company. (Sources: DevelopmentCrossing.Com) William, Medhurst and Drew (1993, p.10) settled some payback for company who connect in CSR movement, those are: Superior access to capital Diminish operating cost Bounce back financial performance Enhance image Lets have a look importance of CSR to the community. Bob Manteau (2007) stated that now-a-days company have the responsibility to help the community where they make their money and it is become the requirement of present business. As per Moon and Muthuri (2006) corporate community involvement means that corporations need to support the community by providing Financial, material, or human skills through modes such as corporate contributions, strategic philanthropy, employee volunteering and community driven development. CSR to the community not only profitable for the community, it is profitable also for the company as well. Ben Cohen and Mal Warwick (2006) stated some of the significant benefits which may help to strengthen the business which are as follows: Employees moral will rise. Even if they take part in community activities where the company to be found rather than where they live, the co workers will be gratified by an opportunity to add meaning to the efforts they make to build the business. Business can come across that the word-of- mouth buzz about the company is assembly momentums. So it can be easier to find and attract the skill and highly enthusiastic new employees for the business. Community involvement activities increase the reputation among the customer and client around the local community. So business can expect greater customer loyalty and personal referrals for new business. Community oriented business can attract the civic leaders in all fields and it will be increase the chance to get access to community decision maker . If the reputation grows around the communities mind, it is very easier to get to know compatible business leaders which will be open the prospect for exchanging the ideas and experience, expanding the breadth of suggesting new ideas for business and for employees as well. Now we can look at the corporate community voluntary activities by some of the multinational company: Company Illustration of grounds supported Exemplar of Activities Tesco Being a good neighbour Bolstering local economy, Engaging people in their community. Asda Asda foundation Charitable work Co-operative Affinity products and services: raising awareness and funds for development Fairbourne Springs Oxfam mobile phone recycling scheme Charity cards in support of international development and human rights Ford Motor Company Affordable Housing Participating building homes for habitat for humanity Detroit IBM Mentoring school age-youth. One-on-one mentoring of students by volunteer employees. FedEx United way, National Safe kids Campaign and American Red Cross Participating in United way Day of Caring Morrison Taking good care of our shoppers, our colleagues and their Communities. Work, communities And healthy balanced lifestyles. Health, safety and wellbeing, skills training, education through Lets Grow programme and Customer service. Sainsbury Providing great service, quality products and being a good neighbour Creating jobs, Charitable work, fundraising etc. Waitrose Investing in local initiatives and encouraging Partner involvement. Charitable, involve partner and employees to volunteering work (Sources: Tesco, Waitrose, Sainsbury, FedEx, Morrison, IBM, Ford motor Company, Co operative and Asda website) Above this discussion, importance of CSR not only benefited for the community, it can bring the value for the company as well. Gaining competitive advantage by Corporate Social Responsibility Michael E. Porter and Mark R Kramer (2003) settled that a business organization can bring into play their philanthropy efforts to pick up their competitive context, such as the excellence of their business environment in that location where they operate. They also agree with that, this can be help to gain social and economic goal and improves a companys long term business prospects. Take an example from Tescos annual report which is published in 2010. Tesco donated 61.6m to cover their philanthropy activities. Philanthropy efforts can time and again be the most cost effective way for a company to look up its competitive context (context for strategy and rivalry, demand condition, related and supporting industries and factor condition) enabling companies to influence the efforts and infrastructure of non returns and other organization. (Michael E. Porter and Mark R Kramer; 2003) Ronclinelli and Berry (1999) also construct a statement that Socially responsible environmental practise may also lead to stronger sales and customer loyalty, increase productivity and quality, an enhance ability to attract and retain employees and in some cases, to reduce regulatory oversights or more favourable treatment by regulatory agency. (Bob Manteaw; 2007) Competitiveness around the companies depends on productivity with which company can use labour, capital and natural resources for producing high quality goods and services. Productivity depends on having workers who are educated, safe, healthy, decently housed and motivated by a sense of opportunity. A British business features many hurdles in the great effort to compete. A few of which, scheduled below: Stable need for modernization Problems recruiting and retaining high quality, stimulated staff Low down efficiency levels in evaluation with the UK, USA, Europe and China Expensive promotion campaigns to build brand reputation and responsiveness Legislation that is progressively more demanding and persistently changing Ever more selective customers both individuals and supply chain It is well acknowledged that contribution in ones community has delicate benefits and that corporate responsibility and community involvement initiatives are increasingly having noteworthy positive contact for many companies. Apart from generating substantial public goodwill, the undeviating effects of CSR for business are the subject of increasing research and analysis. Here is an outline of what this research is indicating: CSR can support companies to put together links with public policy makers, aid modernization, involve, motivate and retain employees, build corporate reputation and improve competitiveness. An upward number of companies have sky-scraping profile ethical projects and marketing campaigns. CSR is helping these companies to show the way the field and gain a competitive advantage . Progressively more the public see a companys ethical profile as a determining factor as to whether they will buy products or services. A strong company that engages in high profile CSR will be more tempting to a growing sector of the population. Some local establishment are philosophy about introducing an ethical element into their purchasing and procurement tender processes. Genuine CSR help you to stand out from the crowd when you are showcasing your company. Powerful environmental vestibule groups are overseeing to change UK legislation the Companies Act 2006 has corporate responsibility implications for company directors and publicly listed companies due to be implemented in 2008. The movement is likely to continue and early accomplishment would prepare you and your company for the future Argument of CSR Different perspectives on corporate social responsibility (CSR) live, each with their own outline. Michael Blowfield (2007) assured that there is diverse confirmation about the CSR. A number of citing evidence of consumer indicate that consumers can willing to pay higher prices for improve working condition within the firm where others emphasize the customer satisfaction and financial performance eventual have more control on company reputation. Some highlight management responsibilities towards stakeholders, others dispute that companies should actively contribute to social goals, and yet others reject a social responsibility of business beyond legal compliance. Michael Blowfield and Alan Murray (2008) fixed that CSR criticism goes down into four key areas. They are following: CSR is an outline forced on business by general society organization that damage profitability and therefore business ability to generate wealth for society. CSR at present dominated by business which be capable of shape the agenda in its own narrow concern. The current concerns of CSR are too narrow and avoid many of the key issue for which the public expects that business to take responsibility. CSR, to date, has failed to achieve its goal and CSR need to be more accurate and ground-breaking in the future. The Economist published a series of article in 20 January of 2005 where they presented that corporate social responsibility is a risk to the effective implementation of capitalism and free market and consequently to global prosperity. This article also stated that business can serve to people good if only they will concentrate to their long term profitability. Ethical Corporation (2005) make a comment against The Economist article. Their view is companys principle is to make a profit, whereas profit should be seen as an accurate derived from rewarding a social function. Geoffrey Chandler of Amnesty International also argue with The Economist and he told that corporate social responsibility doesnt begin with the belief that capitalism fails to serve the public images where CSR belief that unprincipled capitalism inflicts collateral damage on its entire stakeholder, including ultimately its stakeholders. There is another author Manheim (2004) stated about a different aspects of the damage done by CSR. He argues that CSR is a part of anti corporation strategy. Here is some common argument about CSR which is settled below: Businesses are owned by their shareholders money spent on CSR by managers is theft of the rightful property of the owners The leading companies who report on their social responsibility are basket cases the most effective business leaders dont waste time with this stuff Our company is too busy surviving hard times to do this. We cant afford to take our eye off the ball we have to focus on core business Its the responsibility of the politicians to deal with all this stuff. Its not our role to get involved I have no time for this. Ive got to get out and sell more to make our profit line. Corporations dont really care theyre just out to screw the poor and the environment to make their obscene profits Arguments offered in favour of CSR can be broadly split into two camps- Moral Economic. A moral argument for CSR As per Ben Cohen and Mal Warwick (2006) the true purpose of business is to add value- not just by transforming raw materials into goods and providing services but also by adding value to the lives of employee, community and for the sake of future generation by treading as lightly as possible to the planet. While recognizing that profits are essential for any business article to exist, all groups in society should try hard to add value and make life better. Businesses rely on the society within which they operate and could not exist or prosper in segregation. They require the infrastructure that society provides, its foundation of employees, not to declare its consumer base. CSR is appreciation of that inter-dependence and revenue of delivering on that obligation, to the common benefit of businesses and the societies within which they are based. CSR largely represents the affiliation between a company and the wider community inside which the company operates. It is acknowledgment on the part of the business that for profit entities do not exist in blankness, and that a large part of any success they enjoy is as much due to the context in which they operate as factors internal to the company alone. Charles Handy makes a convincing and logical argument for the purpose of a business laying beyond the goals of maximizing profit and satisfying shareholders above all other stakeholders in an organization: The purpose of a business is not to make a profit, full stop. It is to make a profit so that the business can do something more or better. That something becomes the authentic justification for the business and It is a moral issue. To mistake the means for the end is to be twisted in on oneself, which Saint Augustine called one of the greatest sinsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.It is salutary to ask about any organization, If it did not exist, would we invent it? Only if it could do something better or more useful than anyone else would have to be the answer, and profit would be the means to that larger end. An economic argument for CSR An economic disagreement in favour of CSR can also be through. It is an argument of economic egotism that there are very real economic benefits to businesses pursuing a CSR strategy and is planned to persuade those businesses who are not positive by the moral case. Proponents of this argument believe that CSR represents a holistic approach to business. Therefore, an efficient CSR policy will introduce all aspects of operations. They believe the conduct corporations take today to integrate CSR throughout the organization signify a real point of segregation and competitive market advantage on which future success can centre. Introduction about Tesco Tesco is one of the worldwide largest retailers which are based on UK. It has 4,811 stores around the world. It is operating in 14 countries with 4, 72,000 people in worldwide. Tescos group sales are  £62.5bn in 2010. Their underlying profit before tax is  £3.4bn. The total revenue in UK, 2010 is  £38,558m. There are 2,482 stores in UK with 2, 87,669 employees. Gross Profit (Sources: www.tesco.com) Group sales  £bn (Source: www.tesco.com) As per annual report in 2010, Tesco is the most profitable online grocery retailer in the world. Tesco has moved into areas such as clothes, consumer electronics, consumer financial services, internet services, consumer telecoms and gas stations. Tesco now controls over 30% of the grocery market in U.K. As of March 2008, Tesco have a store in every postcode of the UK. Tesco has a strong strategy which consists of five elements reflecting their four recognized areas of heart added to Tescos commitments on community and the environment. Those are follows: Becoming a successful international retailer Growing the core UK business Becoming as strong in non-food as in food. Developing retail services To put the community at the heart of what they want to do. Some of the supermarkets percentage of share is stated below. SUPERMARKET SHARE Tesco: 30.6% ASDA: 16.6% Sainsburys: 16.3% Morrisons: 11.1% Somerfield: 5.4 Waitrose: 3.7% Iceland: 1.8% (Source TNS cited by BBC 2006) Tesco core UK strategy is earning customer loyalty by helping them for spending less with low price and affordable new product. For example- Discount brand. Corporate Social Responsibility in Tesco The Chief Executive of Tesco Terry Leahy made a statement about their vision towards CSR is that By supporting our customers and our staff, and by remaining focused on tackling

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

SWOT Analysis of Starbucks

SWOT Analysis of Starbucks 1. INTRODUCTION The following content is a case study on Starbucks company one if the famous and well known coffee shop in the world. This case study highlights about the:  · SWOT ANALYSIS  · PESTLE ANALYSIS  · PORTERS FIVE FORCES The history of Starbucks takes us back in the year 1971. It is a trade mark of (SBUX) in Seattle. In the start it was a purchaser and roaster of whole coffee beans. In the year 1970 the first Starbucks out let opened which used to provide finest coffee and coffee related products to the thirsty people of Seattle. In the year 1990 Starbucks went global expanding in the United States and soon become a publicly traded company. In 2000 the company expended in more than 15000 outlets in around more than 15 countries. Starbucks mission statement is simple; to inspire and nurture the human spirit— one person, one cup, and one neighbourhood at a time 2. Swot analysis for Starbucks 2.1 Strength * The Starbucks has a strong ethical values and also a strong ethical mission statement ‘Starbucks is committed to a role of environmental leadership in all facets of our business a positive approach towards had made Starbucks one of the no1 specialty retailer. * The market share and capitalization Starbucks owned  £4596.6 million and sales growth by 20.9% * Starbucks holds a strong position in the market wherein they have 8,500 shops owned by Starbucks directly and also around 6,500 shops on franchises and licences with excellent workforce and management that provide excellent service to the customer * In 2005 Starbucks was one of the fortunes in 100 companies to work for this was mainly because of the well efficient organisation resource management. 2.2 Weaknesses: * The key weakness of Starbucks is their weakened innovation and creativity that has limited them to coffee and coffee related products * As competitive pressure increases the lower price rivals such as Mc Donald or costa coffee can undercut the company profits as the Starbucks has premium brand with premium prices. * It only depends on coffee and coffee related products that give them a limited growth this criticises them from not using free trade products and a bad reputation from pressure group. * Since Starbucks is a US based company it mainly focuses on the domestic markets of US though Starbucks had grown worldwide none planning on the markets outside the US can affect the targeted profits. 2.3 Opportunities * Starbucks is global cooperation which sells coffee to about 16,000 coffee shops in over 35 countries, established relation with pepsi-co, barners and nobles, dreyrers ice cream and other major brands this gives them a opportunity to diversify. * Addition of more coffee products and expanding the menu gives them an opportunity to grow * Outside the domestic US markets there are a lot of opportunities for joint ventures.thr planning restrictions can be considered by reducing costs by relocating at super market chains, pubs and restaurant. * Become more of social and environmental responsible brand by better public relation activity,fair trade policies and ethical sourcing practices * Licensing its name through ambient coffee through super market that gives them an opportunity to increase their revenue. 2.4 Threats * Downturn in the economy affects consumer spending, with less income to spend this has been the threats in the recent years. * Criticizing on the web site about companys fair policies, labour relation and environmental hazards had a bad effect on the companies goodwill and has hence affected the revenue * The threats have been increasing by competition from national brands and new entrants, this putting pressure on profit margins. Companies seeks new way to differentiate to retain customers. * Saturation in the coffee market can be the worst threat as the Starbucks in very much linked with coffee and coffee related products 3. Pestle analysis for Starbucks 3.1 Political-Current tensions in the Middle East and boycotts of American made products are strategic concerns for Starbucks globalization plans. Starbucks also imports their coffee beans and thus any changes in import laws should also demand special attention. 3.2 Economic- Economic factors basically concern the nature and direction of the economy in which a firm operates. Current recession has forced people to limit their spending hence this has affected the sales of Starbucks. Also the price hike in the commodities e.g. coffee beans which are used to make coffee in Starbucks has forced them to increase the prices of the coffee. Consumers dont find as much worth in spending $4.35 for a cup of coffee when they can purchase the same size coffee at 7-eleven for $1. 75 3.3 Social- Promoting the health benefits of coffee remains a challenge for the industry and consumers are often confused with the myths propagated by the media. Social concerns regarding caffeine and it addictive properties also need to be considered these days the people are so environment concern that the company should learn how to reduce their plastic waste and use recyclable items. 3.4 Technological Factors -Starbucks has been continually looking for ways to enhance the customer experience. They have also expanded their partnership with ATT. ATT offered consumers Wi-Fi service in more than 7,000 Starbucks locations in the U.S. in spring of 2008 also the use of latest technology in brewing coffee beans to enhance the taste and flavour of the coffee served. 3.5 Legal Labour laws( for e.g. increase in the minimum wage of employees) Environmental law (e.g. ban on non recyclable cups and bottles used for take away drinks). 3.6 Ecological Factors- Starbucks also has a strong environmental mission statement. Starbucks promotes ethical sourcing as well and encourages the use environmentally friendly products. Starbucks uses key performance indicators to be sure they are measuring the degree to which they fulfil their social and environmental responsibilities. Starbucks should maintain abreast of any changing environmental legislation that could impact their corporate strategies. 4. Porters Five Forces Analysis The Porter 5 forces analysis is a framework by Michael E. Porter in 1979 for industry analysis and business strategy development to achieve its organisational goal. According to Michael porter there are 5 major factors which influence the business. * Bargaining power of suppliers * Bargaining power of buyers * Threat by substitute products * Rivalry between competitors * Threat of new entrants to a market. Starbucks should consider the following: 4.1 Power of Suppliers: Starbucks prides itself on its guiding principles one of which states, â€Å"Our Coffee-It has always been, and will always be, about quality. Were passionate about ethically sourcing the finest coffee beans, roasting them with great care, and improving the lives of people who grow them.† Therefore, in keeping with their mission and principles, Starbucks must ensure that the type and quality of coffee it offers is always the same. This means they would use the same suppliers that integrate their standards. An over-populated market could also give the suppliers more bargaining power. Starbucks needs to be aware of supplier power and potential price increases. 4.2 Power of Buyers/Customers: A buyer group is powerful if the industrys product does not save the buyer money (Pearce and Robinson, 2007) This is a plus for Starbucks as their coffee products are higher in price and considered a luxury brand. Starbucks is much more concerned with the quality of their product versus price. However; the other consideration is small local coffee companies that were around before Starbucks took over the marketplace. These smaller coffee shops may have their core customers who will not give their business to anyone else. 4.3 Available Substitutes: Starbucks must be aware of substitute products. Given the current grave economic crisis, consumers are vying towards less expensive alternatives than the luxury coffee Starbucks provides. This effect could alter Starbucks current pricing strategies. As more substitutes become available, the current pricing model would become more elastic since customers have more alternatives. Potential substitutes include bottled water, healthy water/juice drinks, and at home espresso machines. 4.4 Current Competitors: While companies like Dazbog and Caribou Coffee appear to be the most obvious competitors, McDonalds and Dunkin Doughnuts are Starbucks tops competitors. Both these organizations can compete with Starbucks in terms of sandwich items and coffee related products. More of a concern with these two competitors is their pricing modules. Both competitors are priced less than Starbucks products. 4.5 Threat of New Entrants: Starbucks provides a luxury good that consumers often scale back on when they want to save money. In 2007, Starbucks saw its shares fall more than 30% partly down to customers deserting it for cheaper rivals. As McDonalds and other chains like Dunkin Doughnuts realize the money in luxury coffee more companies will begin to enter the marketplace offering similar product lines for less cost. 5. Reference To conclude the Starbucks has done very well in the terms of business they have managed to grow within the industry in few years. Ill say this because from a single privately owned coffee house Starbucks was able to expand as a well known coffeehouse internationally and they managed to keep their position in the market. Starbucks needs to keep a close watch on its competitors because of the risk for competitive pressure. Also it needs to develop new types of coffees to sustain the threats for subistutes and also from competitors. They also need to utilize their opportunities to greater extant to be more successful in the future. 6.REFERENCE * Information and financial management, swot analysis, pg 23,10th edition ( Trowbridge, Wiltshire, 2005) * Bob Nelson and Peter Economy, Managing for Dummies, 2nd ed. (New York: Wiley, 2003) * Forbes Magazine. Forbes, S. (2005, December 12). Whoda Thunk It? Coffee Is Hot. Forbes, pp. 33, 33. Retrieved May 15, 2009, from Business Source Premier Database * Starbucks. (2009b). Company Profile. Retrieved May 10, 2009, from http://www.starbucks.com/aboutus/Company_Profile.pdf * Moneyweek Magazine. Which firms can survive a storm? Tim Bennett, Nov 27, 2007 http://www.moneyweek.com/investment-advice/how-to-invest/which-firms-can-survive-a-storm.aspx * Brewing Battle: Starbucks vs. McDonalds, from http://www.time.com/time/business/article/0,8599,1702277,00.html * Starbucks. (2009c). Our Starbucks Mission. Retrieved May 10, 2009, from http://www.starbucks.com/mission/default.asp * Starbucks 2007 Annual Report. Corporate Social Responsibility Brochure * Howard Schultz: Chairman of Starbucks Corporation. http://www.marketingcrossing.com/article/220025/Howard-Schultz-Chairman-of-Starbucks-Corporation/ * Regis University (2009). Strategic Management and Financial Ratio Analysis. Columbus, OH: McGraw Hill/Irwin

Monday, August 19, 2019

Kant Essay -- essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Utilitarianism is a consequential perspective, in that, a decision in based on the effects it ----will have on society and what it will generally lead to. Also, the utility or usefulness of an action is determined by the amount of happiness that will result. Therefore, no action in itself can be deemed wrong; consequence alone are the important matter. Using this principle, one should consider the possible results of each potential action.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One clear flaw of the utilitarian perspective is there that there seems to be a lack of the concept of justice. Their moral principles would justify doing experiments on a single man with no friends or family. The justification would still exist in a case in which the experiments would cause a man to die, yet benefits occurred because substantial medical knowledge was obtained. There also seems to be no intrinsic value placed upon human life, yet the value is placed upon the happiness of the greatest of people.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Utilitarianism follows one of two categories; act and rule. With Act Utilitarianism, all possible actions are considered and one must determine which action would yield the most happiness or benefits for the greatest number of people. However, with act utilitarianism, there really is no way of determining if the right choice of actions was carried out. Also, there is no clear way to be certain on what the results of the actions will be. For example, there is no way to be sure that a severely impaired infant will not recover enough to live a better life that what was predicted.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  However, acting morally doesn’t mean acting omniscient. A reasonable effort must be made to get relevant data to predict the possible consequences of all actions involved.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Another form of utilitarianism would be rule utilitarianism. This moral standard suggest that an action is right if it follows a specific rule that has been structured and validated while keeping the principle of utility in mind. A rule utilitarian would not concern themselves with the utility of specific or individual cases, but would follow a set of particular rules. One would not have to go through the process of calculations involved in determining maximum utility, but a particular rule would... ...th Ross’ ethics.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Even in the case involving Alice Nuvo and her not wanting treatment my moral intuition came into play. Under most circumstances, my position is strictly to say that human life can never be allowed to pass if there is a reasonable means of preserving it. However, there can be no rules for me to follow because I find exceptions to this, and the case of Alice Nuvo would be such a case. I ruled that her autonomy surpasses any medical judgment. If she wants to be allowed to live out her life with her family and inevitably die, it should be her choice. Especially in a case such as this, I really have no way of reviewing my actions and seeing what rules I followed or what past cases I referred to. Once again, my moral intuition lead me to decide for her autonomy. However, moral intuition does not instantly occur when deciding on a case. There must be careful review of every aspect, action, and possible consequences before your moral intuition can decide upon anything. Af ter reviewing my decision scenarios, and taking into account the beliefs of utilitarianism, Kant’s ethics, and Ross’ ethics, I. without a doubt, that I am a follower of Ross.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

William Shakespeare :: essays research papers

William Shakespeare was born in 1564, in Stratford, located in the center of England. His dad, John, was a trained glove maker, who was married to Mary Arden. She was the daughter of Robert Arden, who was a farmer in a nearby village of Wilmcote. John was also served on the town council for many years, becoming mayor in 1568. He was also involved in money lending and he traded wool. After 2 tries of having a child, and failed, William was born. He had 5 other siblings, but one of them died in their early life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Shakespeare was well set in the year 1592. His high reputation was in London. His earliest plays were â€Å"Henry VI†, â€Å"The Two Gentlemen of Verona†, and â€Å"Titus Andronicus†. In 1594, Shakespeare joined other people, creating a new theater company. Having Richard Burbage as lead actor, for almost twenty years they performed two shows a year on average. The plays included â€Å"Hamlet†, â€Å"Othello†, and â€Å"Lear†   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1597, Shakespeare’s successes lead him into a wealthy state. His massive income let him purchase the biggest home in Stratford. Even though his career was spent in London, he stayed close to his native town. In 1602, he bought 107 acres of land, also in Stratford.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Shakespeare plays were performed only in London, where the buildings were designed specifically for performing plays. Most of the theaters were tall, and circular in shape. They would be open to the sky, and roofs protecting the galleries. The performances took place in the afternoon, where lighting was at its peak performance. All the roles in the plays were male performers. Even the female role’s, were guys. But the audience was always a mix of the sexes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1599, Lord Chamberlain’s company built the Globe Theater. This theater was mainly associated with his plays, and it was on the south bank of the Thames, in the suburb of Southwark. Two of his plays â€Å"Henry V†, and â€Å"Julius Caesar† were performed here from the time it opened to 1613. During a performance of â€Å"Henry VIII†, a fire broke out and destroyed the theater. It was rebuilt the following year.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Some of Shakespeare’s best work came out in the 1600’s. They included â€Å"Hamlet†, â€Å"Cymbeline†, and â€Å"The Tempest†. He died in his Stratford home on April 23rd, 1616; he was fifty-two. He was buried at Holy Trinity Church, where now, his rest of his family rests in peace.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  William Shakespeare led an exciting life, becoming one of the most famous play writers of all time.

For Your World :: essays research papers

For Your World A story consists of many small parts. When these parts are put together they create a piece of literature that conveys a message. This message can be about almost anything. Literature can tell a story about happiness or an experience of love. It all depends on what pieces and how they are placed together which makes a story. Anton Chekhov has written a wonderfully pieced together short story titled â€Å"Misery†. The elements which allow me to understand â€Å"Misery† are narrator point of view, setting, character, and theme.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Setting is the only other device, besides the title, which can set a mood for the story before any characters are introduced. When you place any character in a setting, that setting reflects onto the character. â€Å"Iona Potapov, the sledge driver, is all white like a ghost†¦ His little mare is white and motionless too†¦She is probably lost in thought. Anyone who has been torn away from the plough, from the familiar gray landscapes and cast into this slough, full of monstrous lights, of unceasing uproar and hurrying people†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (69); this quote allows for the reader to build a picture of the scenery. No one would want to have to sit on a sledge for many hours and be covered in snow waiting for someone to come by. The words used to describe Iona’s setting are very carefully picked to create this powerful imagery at the beginning of the story. The city is described as a slough. Slough is defined as a state of deep despair or moral degrada tion. With this deep pit of despair called a town, â€Å"monstrous lights† and â€Å"unceasing uproar† continue all round these two characters. With this as the opening paragraph the story has already started an emotion or feeling inside the readers mind.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  How a story is told can alter the meaning of the story. Finding the right combination of who tells the story if very difficult. When the right order of voices are found it makes the story come alive. It allows for the imagery of the person’s actions and the characters thoughts to be read at the same time. â€Å"Misery† has found this great combination.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Narrators are used show or place a given mood in the story. â€Å"It is a long time since Iona has budged. They came out of the yard before dinner-time and not a single fare yet.† (69) At the start of the story the narrator has started the emotion of sympathy for the main character.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Caribbean Literature 1900-1929 Essay

In the Caribbean, specifically Jamaica, during the year of 1900-1929 there were two poets whose work truly stood out and made a statement. Those poets were Thomas Redcam (1870-1933) and Claude McKay (1878-1972). Thomas Redcam was a Jamaican poet who came from Irish ancestry. Throughout his life he promoted Jamaican literature and was a notable poet. He was seen as helpful and encouragement to younger poets during that time period including Claude McKay. Both poets had such a love for their country and made it clear in their poems. They spoke about the beauty of Jamaica, how through thick and thin Jamaica would always be their heart and homeland. The themes of nature, faith, and love are very present within the six poems we read. In Thomas Redcam’s poem â€Å"My Beautiful Home† is where we first see the predominant themes of nature, faith, and love. In this poem he speaks of Jamaica in such vivid terms, making mention of the land only using words such as beautiful. He al so speaks of how the beauty of his homeland is the main reason he loves his land. He speaks of this love as being like none other, a love that is strong and rooted in heart and faith. He makes the idea clear that even when not there his love will always be there and living strong â€Å"Whenever I wander, for thee my love is abiding and strong† (Redcam, 45). This idea for love of country and nature continues in his next poem â€Å"O’little Green Island. Far Over the Sea† In this poem he speaks of the English rule throughout Jamaica and how it affects the people in one aspect but not at all in the other. Not once does he speak negatively about England but rather Redcam glorifies and praises their rule, â€Å"For England is England, brave, patient, and true.† (Redcam, 46) He speaks of how no matter who is ruling they are themselves and their love will always be for their own land Jamaica, â€Å"But my little Green Island, far over the sea, At eve-tide Jamaica, my heart turns to thee.† (Redcam, 46). Redcam makes it clear through his statement that living under the English rule does not change them but rather strengthens their love for their own homeland, Jamaica. Lastly but not least once again the themes of love and nature continue in Redcam’s last poem, but the theme of faith also becomes present in â€Å"Jamaica’s Coronation Ode†. Here more than in his other poems we find the idea of love for the country and how our love along with the idea of a strong faith helps us stand true to our country. He speaks of the war and hard times the people of Jamaica went through during this time period and although he speaks of hardship not once does he mention the idea of negativity. He speaks of positive thoughts and how their love and faith in Jamaica will carry them through the war and as a matter of fact anything in life. He speaks positive thoughts of the moving forward and the future to come after the war â€Å"We are marching to conquer the Future, We are sons of Jamaica the free, We are true to our King and our Country, We are heirs of the ages to be† (Redcam, 47) . This quote is mentioned throughout the poem which really shows the true faith and how they truly believed they could conquer it all with their strong love for Jamaica. Although in this poem the idea of faith in love is more predominant Redcam still mentions the nature he always speaks so highly of. A few years after the poems of Redcam came those of Claude McKay. Claude McKay was a Jamaican- American poet who inspired and guided by the work of Redcam. He was the author of four novels during the time of the Harlem Renaissances. During that time he also wrote short stories and poems, which he is noted for all around the world. McKay being under the guidance of Redcam had the same predominant themes in his poems which were that of nature, love, and faith. In McKay’s first poem â€Å"My Native Home Land† the theme of love is instantly noticeable. He speaks of his love and how he feels Jamaica has made him the man he is. He speaks of how through thick and thin he will stand by his country and defend her. â€Å" Though you cas’ me from your breas’ An’ trample me to deaf; My heart will trus’ you none de less, My land I won’t forget† (McKay, 64). McKay makes it clear that he will never lose his faith in Jamaica as well. In this poem Jamaica McKay believes that his country Jamaica is one that can do no wrong. Once again the ideas of nature, faith and love continue in his next poem â€Å"Flame Heart† but this time the idea of nature becomes the more predominant one. In this work Mckay speaks how he returns back to Jamaica. Throughout the poem he mentions aspects of nature in the land that he can not recall but then mentions the one part of the land he remembers so vividly. McKay speaks of poinsettia plants he remembers so well. He speaks of their beauty and color, â€Å"I have forgotten much, but I still remember The poinsettia’s red, blood-red in warm December† (McKay, 70). He speaks so vividly of this one aspect of nature and not only does he mention the beauty of it, he dives even deeper when mention of climate comes in. This statement about the poinsettia is mentioned a few times in the poem giving off a strong vibe and conviction. Everything to the speaker is a blur but through his blurs he is able to remember that red-blood poinsettia plant in warm December month. In his last poem â€Å"I Shall Return† McKay touches upon all three themes in such strong points. This poem speaks of someone who has left Jamaica but has intentions of returning. It speaks of how their love for their country has encouraged them to return, but also their faithfulness. It speaks of how they truly miss the nature and beauty of their homeland. The speaker believes that when they return they will save themselves pain. â€Å"I shall return, I shall return again, to ease my mind of long, long years of pain† (McKay, 71). Jamaica is their home and they feel it is where they belong no matter where life takes them. Their faith and love will always bring them back home. These 6 poems are the perfect example of the three themes mentioned. Not one of them speaks of negative thoughts of Jamaica but instead glorifies all its beauty and the faith and love the Jamaican people truly have for their land. Both poets have such strong and impacting words when speaking of their land and truly believe that there is no land like theirs. They speak from the heart and truly give their readers vivid ideas of what things were like. These poets are have left a good impact on not only the people of their homeland but of people around the world through their poems. Works Cited Donnell, Alison, and Sarah Lawson Welsh. Routledge Reader in Caribbean Literature. London: Routledge, 1996. Print.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Injuries in hockey Essay

In hockey you need both general fitness and specific fitness. You need good strength, stamina, speed, agility, balance, co-ordination, fast reactions and many more. All these can help every individual become better at their sport and have better health. These fitness needs can also prevent many injuries as you are less agile to your sport. Fitness levels can also be affected by many things such as illness, weight, alcohol and drugs, dieting and psychological factors. You should always warm up before physical workout and cool down afterwards. There are many factors that can cause injury but also many ways to prevent them. Injuries are both internally caused and externally caused. Internal injuries are self caused where you over use the muscles and external injuries are caused equipment, environmental conditions or opponents. Injuries can occur due to the weather (environment), being overweight causing heart problems, breathing problems, joint and foot problems etc, physical ability, the wrong equipment and facilities. These can be prevented by setting realistic targets, pre participation screening, carrying out fitness programmes in pre season, using appropriate equipment, do not over train or train while hurt. Enforcing rules helps prevention of dangerous use of sticks and careless play of the ball. Also seek medical attention sooner rather than later and get adequate nutrition. Injured people should not be moved unless they them self say that it is ok. If more attention is paid to extrinsic and intrinsic risk factors, injuries can be a lot less frequent. The same injuries can occur in many different sports in different situations but there can be more common injuries in each individual sport such as legs in football, shoulder or arm in javelin and hands or ankles in netball etc. Environmental injuries are things such as frostbite, hypothermia, exhaustion and heat stroke. Injuries can also occur due to physiological reasons making the person become fatigue, have muscle soreness and depletion of energy reserves. Before carrying out a session in the individual sport, a risk assessment should be preformed as there are others risk factors that should be identified such as slippery surfaces, equipment left out, food or drink that may be tipped in the training area. You can outline whether or not the area is suitable for that sport or the right age group and if not, how the safety issues could be improved. You also have to take into consideration the age of the sportsperson as already mentioned. In hockey, it is important that the right equipment and footwear is worn to prevent injuries and to have a pre game warm up and stretching. Overall, a hockey team needs to wear gum shields to protect their mouth and teeth from hockey balls and sticks, shin guards to protect their legs from sticks also, body protection such genital protectors, gloves to protect hand and knuckles from sticks, Astroturf trainers to get better grip when running and a goalie needs a goalie kit which includes a hard hat, body protectors like abdominal protectors, knee pads, shoulder and elbow pads, chest pad, throat protector, padded shorts and thigh protectors, kickers etc to protect them from flying balls etc. All this equipment should be regularly checked including hockey sticks to ensure they do not put any other player in danger while they are in use. Most injuries in hockey are mainly down to being struck by a hockey stick or hockey balls. Injuries in hockey can be very serious and as it is played in over 132 countries, injuries are very common. Overuse injuries to the ankles and lower back are very common in hockey and can be treated mainly by rest. The face is normally injured by the stick or ball, the lower limb includes injuries to the ankles, knees and feet, and upper body injuries such as hands and forearms. These injuries are pretty serious and the player may need to be hospitalised. There are eight physiological effects of ageing which obviously decrease your playing capability and metabolic rate etc. There would also a decrease in number and size of fibre muscles, a decline in the person cardiac output and muscles. In general, injuries have said to affect people of different ages, such as young children aged between six and nine should not train at such a high level and it should be more fun and lots of variation. People aged ten to twelve should include a lot more technique and co-ordination exercises as this is the right age to improve mobility technique and reflexes. As each child gets older and closer to puberty, they then should be playing sport to suit their maturity and ability. From the age fifteen onwards is when children could begin anaerobic training and strength training as this is more often or not when the muscles and skeleton allow an increased load. Injuries in hockey can be very serious and as the sport is played in over 132 countries, injuries are also very common. Some common injuries apply to most sports such as shin splints, sprains, fractures, pulls etc. Hockey is known as a hard-hitting, collision sport. Players risk injury from high-impact collisions with each other. The knee is frequently injured, with sprains to the medial collateral and capsular ligaments being fairly common. Cruciate ligament tears are less common in hockey and seen more in turf sports, such as football. This is a hospitalised injury which may need ice and bandage to reduce swelling and rest after operation. The Acromioclavicular, or AC, joint separation (separated shoulder) is a common injury. This could be caused by various things such as a hard fall, swinging of stick or hard knock by opposing team. This is also a hospitalised injury which needs support and rest. This is also a common injury where the stick of another player may hit the hand or if the player is to have an awkward fall etc. All these injuries need support and in many cases bandaged up. Most injuries include fractures and torn tendons. It has been said that as many as one-third of injuries are caused by foul play. Many have observed a need for increased vigilance in this area, mainly in adolescence and high school. The enforcement of effective rules has lead to fewer injuries. Players have been said to demonstrate a high level of body dissatisfaction and an elevated drive for thinness. These have been associated with risk of osteoporosis which have been linked to an increased risk of stress fractures, especially in the lumbar region of the lower back. If injuries are left or ignored after so long, they can only get worse. If you look below, you can see a bone scan showing a low-intensity lesion abutting the expanded area of the posterior cortex. A CT scan shows what appears to be an osteoid osteoma or Brodie’s abscess. This is what started off to be just a twisted ankle and not the right treatment. Injuries to the adductors are muscles that run from the inside thigh. These are active while running, twisting and side stepping activities. An injury can occur at any time during these activities or a fall. Pain may begin and aching on the inner thigh. Bruising that appears may track down to the knee at times. The treatment of RICE is rest, ice, compression and elevation. This treatment should be applied immediately. This is reducing more damage by keeping off the injury, applying ice, to compress injury be using bandages etc to reduce swelling and elevate the injured, in order to get blood flowing away from injury to stop internal bleeding and bruising and to speed up recovery. This will assist the resolution of pain and minimise inflammation. Following the RICE solution, you should walk only when really needed. A calf strain is also well known in sport. The two main muscles make up the back of the lower leg (Calf). One is attached above the knee joint. This is the Gastrocnemius and the other one below called the Soleus. These make one thick Achilles tendon that is attached to the back of the heel. Their main action is to raise the heel from the ground, but also assist to bend the knee. They act during walking, running and jumping. The calf can be injured by running and jumping in hockey or when you overload the muscle. Pain may start in the tendon attachment at the back of calf. The RICE treatment could also be applied to this. Players should allow enough time for adequate rehabilitation of injuries, especially full recovery of ankle function, before returning to pre-injury levels of play. There are lots more common injuries in hockey such as Gilmore’s groin caused by running, coughing, kicking etc, hamstring strains, Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease, shin splints, cartilage injury, runners knee and many more. There are less serious injuries such as rubbing causing blisters, cramp, concussion, stitch, groin strain etc. These are mainly bandaged up and use of plasters helps and basically rest is needed. shin splint Sprain and strain of the joint and surrounded tissue are one of the most common sports related injuries (sprain involves the ligament and strain involves muscle or tendon). The typical inflammatory response may include swelling of the injured area, redness, skin discoloration, and reduced range of motion of the joint. R.I.C.E treatment, many athletes have found acupuncture treatment to be very useful in suppress inflammation and swelling fast. Muscles injuries can be caused by muscle damage by direct trauma or indirect trauma. These injuries can be divided into ruptures and haematomas. Ruptures can be total or partial and subdivided into distraction and compression ruptures. Haematomas- inter and intramuscular . Major differences between the treatment and prognosis of the two types. Distraction ruptures are caused by over stretching or overloading. Compression rupture is direct impact which is the muscle pressed against underlining bone. Another solution which is often used to treat injuries is SALTAPS. This is known as: Stop- stop game Ask- ask injured person what happened Look- Look at injury Touch- Feel for any differences e.g. uninjured knee and injured knee Active movement- see what sort of range of movement they have Passive movement- move injured area with hand Stop and start again- rest and come back to sport when ready. Cold treatment with use of ice, decreases sensitivity of painful areas and relaxes muscle spasms. The cold slows nerve impulses to the muscle and decreases blood circulation which helps reduce inflammation. There is also the heat treatment. This treatment should not be started until at least 48 hours after the injury occurred. Same applies to massage. Heat therapy relaxes muscles, relieves pain and accelerates healing by increasing blood flow to a targeted area. Application of heat has many forms, from simply taking a hot shower to sophisticated methods such as ultrasound. Heat should not be used immediately after injury but after swelling has gone down. The RICE treatment should be applied to soft tissue injuries during the first 24-48 hours. Injury at its acute stage, the blood vessels expand and blood clotting procedure may be disrupted. Ointments, liniments and medicines are also used along with muscle training of isometric and static muscle work. There are many different methods of treatment that help injuries repair a lot quicker with the right amount of care. They are all fairly successful but have slightly different procedures applied and some work better than others depending on the server ness of the injury. SALTAPS is immediate treatment to an injury, where as RICE treatment could last up to a few weeks. In many cases, RICE treatment will continue through a player’s career therefore is a more common source of treatment and more well known. Research indicates that nutritional factors, or the lack thereof, can play a significant role in healing and recovery. Three nutrients vitamin C, bioflavonoid and glucosamine sulphate appear to be particularly important. Vitamin C possesses anti- inflammatory properties and can help control the damage that often accompanies tissue injury. Vitamin C is required for collagen fibre synthesis, a process essential for tissue bone repair. Adequate amounts of vitamin C are therefore critical for the stimulation of that process. Each treatment has a different amount of effectiveness on injuries but one or all can often be used through the period of injury in most common sporting injuries. Further ways to reduce and prevent injuries are to apply certain bandaging before play, apply ointments, and reduce length of pitch for younger children. Hockey injury data at all levels should be collected to compare and improve participation. There should be more research and findings on sporting injuries to ensure less likeliness of injury. Coaches should be taught principles of sport-specific conditioning and fitness as part of their training. Other ways to improve sports and prevent injuries is to ensure the right foot wear is worn, equipment is safe and appropriate and that the rules set are followed.