Tuesday, December 31, 2019
HM Entering Australia - 2778 Words
Executive Summary Table of Contents Introduction ââ¬â Hennes and Mauritz (HM) was first established in 1947 and have since expanded internationally and currently operate in 34 countries (HM, 2009). As HM continues to expand every year, the following report has chosen Australia as the new market, where analysis has been conducted to provide HM with recommendations of which market entry method they should adopt and the threats and issues they must overcome to be able to succeed. 1.0 - Country Analysis ââ¬â Australia For the purpose of this report HM (Hennes Mauritz) has chosen Australia as the foreign country in which they wish to enter and introduce their products. Australia is the largest island, however, is also theâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦Therefore, for the purpose of this report, two specific market segments have been selected and profiled to provide an overview of which segments HM should specially target when launching in Melbourne. 3.1 ââ¬â Profile One ââ¬â Women s outwear segment The foremost market segment that HM should target would be the women s outerwear segment which includes all garments from tops to blouses to jackets (REFERENCE). Main reason being, this market segment is reasonably profitable with a Retail Value of over $3000 million (Refer to figure XX), where women have traditionally been the dominate consumer in the clothing and footwear industry (REFERENCE). However, there appears to be a new social trend where men are becoming more fashion-minded and are also looking for cheaper options (REFERENCE). In recent times, there has been a change in preference for young women, where they do not only demand for high quality yet fashionable products, it must also be low priced (REFERENCE). HM should then be able to target this segment, as the company s core concept coincides with this new trend. Where HM s women s clothing are designed for women of all ages who are fashion minded, where its product line includes ââ¬Å"everything from modern basics to ta ilored classics, sportswear, maternity clothes and cutting-edge fashion.â⬠(HM, 2008, pg. 17). However, for the purpose of this report and to make it easier to target, the primary segment will be young women aged 18 to 24, while theShow MoreRelatedH M : The World s Third Biggest Fashion Retailer979 Words à |à 4 PagesHM Introduction HM is the worldââ¬â¢s second-biggest fashion retailer which first store opened in Vasteras, Sweden in 1947(ThisisMoney, 2015). This essay will demonstrate in terms of the Porterââ¬â¢s ââ¬Å"Five Forces of competition Analysisâ⬠with the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis and a briefly recommendation. These factors will discuss in turn. The PESTEL analysis will be append in this essay. Five Forces of Competition Analysis The Threat of Entry As the suppliers are easyRead MoreEntrepreneurship Case.. the Foreign Proposal1620 Words à |à 7 PagesLECTURERà à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à :à à à à à à à à à à à à DR. WONG WAI NAM EDGARââ¬â¢S BUSINESS What type of arrangement is Edgar using in his business dealings with the firms in Australia, Singapore and Dubai? Be complete with your answers. Edgar sells its products to different parts of the world through a contractual agreement. Edgar has a strong association in Australia, Singapore and Dubai to sell its products on the market. Partnership means a relationship of two or more entities conducting business for mutual benefitsRead MoreEntrepreneurship Case.. the Foreign Proposal1605 Words à |à 7 PagesLECTURERà à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à à :à à à à à à à à à à à à DR. WONG WAI NAM EDGARââ¬â¢S BUSINESS What type of arrangement is Edgar using in his business dealings with the firms in Australia, Singapore and Dubai? Be complete with your answers. Edgar sells its products to different parts of the world through a contractual agreement. Edgar has a strong association in Australia, Singapore and Dubai to sell its products on the market. Partnership means a relationship of two or more entities conducting business for mutual benefitsRead MoreGlobal Business: International Business Concepts Theories - Impact of Globalisation on Retail in Australia2525 Words à |à 11 Pagesï » ¿ESSAY International Business Concepts Theories This paper references two recent newspaper articles, which focus on the rise of online retail in Australia and the decision of global retail giants to enter the Australian marketplace respectively. The paper aims to identify and discuss the implications for the Australian government, Australian businesses, particularly within the retail sector, as well as implications for international businesses which have been highlighted through these articlesRead MoreThe Downfalls of Topshop1059 Words à |à 4 PagesForeign The greatest threat that opposes the continuing expansion of Topshop in the North American market is the already dominant presence of other brands that carry the same fashion consistencies. For instance, HM offer similar clothing styles and are very inexpensive. In comparison to HM, there are many other popular retailers carrying products of similar style, such as Zara, Guess, etc. The industry is highly competitive and highly concentrated. Newly entered foreign competitors such as UnigloRead MoreMichael Attenboroughââ¬â¢s Macbeth at the Playhouse by Queensland Theatre Company1199 Words à |à 5 Pagesreview in The Australian stating that this performance had a ââ¬Å"chilling relevance in a modern world where Machiavellian ambition, political manoeuvrings by the -unworthy and sheer, out-of-à ¬control venality can still be found in public life.â⬠(Buzzacot, M. 2014) Having a cast of up-and-comers and renowned actors definitely added variety to the cast of this piece. Yet, as Attenborough himself noted in an interview with Queensland Theatre Company (2014) that in reference to their roles ââ¬Å"the actor needsRead MoreAn International Student At Swinburne University1615 Words à |à 7 Pagesways, such as age, gender, social status, disability, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity and culture (Kossek, Lobel Brown, 2005). Nowadays, diversity has increasingly become the most valuable aspect of HRM areas. Develop countries such as Australia and New Zealand hold multicultural workforce as one of the most important dimension of diversity, where there are a large number of international migrants with different cultural backgrounds (Shen, Chanda, Dââ¬â¢Netto Monga, 2009). Studies from McLeodRead MoreEssay on Literature Review for Nursing Researh1357 Words à |à 6 Pages12-14. Tzeng, H. and Yin, C. (2009). Relationship between call light use and response time and inpatient falls in acute care settings. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 18(23), 3333-3341. Olrich, T., Kalman, M., and Nigolian, C. Hourly rounding (2012). A replication study. MEDSURG Nursing, 21(1), 23-26. Meade, C., Bursell, A., and Ketelsen, L. (2006). Efects of nursing rounds on patientsââ¬â¢ call light use, satisfaction, and safety. American Journal of Nursing, 106(9), 58-70. Assi, M. et al (2008)Read MoreAustriaà ´s Future Policies on Mandatory Detention579 Words à |à 2 PagesIn Australia, research involving the participation of humans must be conducted in accordance with agreed ethical considerations as set out in the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Research Involving Humans (NHMRC 1999). Research on asylum seekers and refugees has not always been morally neutral. Policies current for Australiaââ¬â¢s immigration are passionately debated in todayââ¬â¢s society. Defining ethical responsibilities for our research is complex when working with exposed populations and differentRead MoreGap In Prisons1034 Words à |à 5 Pagesthat punishment only is not, the important part of criminal justice system. Now, correctional services all around the world is appreciating the importance of providing the prisoners with appropriate guidance and services that can assist them in re-entering the society in a better and more effective way post release fro m the prisons. Rehabilitation is not only a more humane approach toward criminal justice, but also cost effective and beneficial for prisoners and society at a large. (Law Dictionary:
Monday, December 23, 2019
Native Americans And The American Dream - 1640 Words
The United States of America is a country founded on the dreams of foreigners (pilgrims) and a symbol of freedom and a new life. According to the Department of Homeland Security, in 2012, there were 484,072 new, legal entries into the United Statesâ⬠¦ (Batalova, Terrazas). The Times Tribune states, ââ¬Å"There perhaps are no greater dreamers than immigrants, who often leave behind everything to build new lives in the United Statesâ⬠(Lockwood). Like many Americans today, a prosperous life is something many immigrant families endeavor to achieve. Whether you are native to this land or a legal immigrant, many are pursuing the idea of the American dream. Whereas every dream may be different, the journey to each dream becomes a discovery that is bothâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦Viewing her mothersââ¬â¢ breast as a resource of nourishment, Hoganââ¬â¢s reference to her mothersââ¬â¢ breasts reveals the burden and responsibility her mother carried while caring for her f amily. Both Hoganââ¬â¢s mother and father reveal not only their role in the family, but the difficulty in fulfilling their family obligations. Through just a glance of their life, Hogan demonstrates the difficulties through a thorough description of her parents and the visible affects that took place in the family. Though Shteyngart takes a different angle in his text ââ¬Å"Sixty-Nine Centsâ⬠, he likewise shares the hardships of an immigrant life. In love with the idea of America, Shteyngartââ¬â¢s family moved and opened new opportunities. ââ¬Å"Even my parents, however, as uncritically in love with America as only immigrants can be, could not resist the iconic pull of Florida, the call of the beach and the Mouse.â⬠(Shteyngart 54). Seizing a long-established American experience, Shteyngart is pulled into an eye-opening encounter that allows him a moment of reflection. of a former life. ââ¬Å"The Yugoslav motel was an unquestioned paradise, a lucky coda to a set of difficult lives.â⬠(Shteyngart 54). Remembering his former life, Shteyngart delicately describes a rundown motel as paradise and quickly connects his fortunate end as an alternative. He also takes a moment to recognize his growing fear of the old life always looming just around the corner and still soShow MoreRelatedNative Immigrants And The American Dream1488 Words à |à 6 PagesThe 1900s hit hard for the generation of Asians that came to America, and for future generations to come. Many of the immigrants were either Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Filipino, Vietnamese, or Indian. The term Asian American tied these groups of people together for political reasons. After the earthquake of 1906, Asian immigrants were granted access if they were related to a citizen in America. This exception caused records to be falsified. These people were referred to as ââ¬Å"paper sons/daughters.â⬠Read MoreNative American Culture: The Story Behind the Dream Catchers Essay1314 Words à | à 6 PagesNative American Dream Catchers Trashon Pelton University of Central Oklahoma As a unit in social studies I would investigate the culture of the Native Americans. Native Americans have a wide range of art because of the many tribes that make up the Native American culture. Their art ranges from paintings, jewelry making, sculptures, pottery, masks, drums, totem poles, beadwork etc. I find Native American culture interesting. I am Native American myself and I enjoy learning and finding new thingsRead MoreThe American Dream from the Immigrants Perspective1625 Words à |à 6 PagesMy Question, The conception of the American Dream, I believe is different among native-born Americans and immigrants. Everyone desires to become successful in life and many people will stop at nothing to achieve it. In my case, by moving to the United States, I now have the opportunity to live the American Dream, but my definition may differ from everyone elseââ¬â¢s. I believe that The American Dream for Immigrants means getting a good education, working hard, family support, willing to adapt to a newRead MoreRed Convertible1014 Words à |à 5 Pagesthe ââ¬Å"American Dreamâ⬠Word Count: 1013 The ââ¬Å"American Dreamâ⬠, an idea that success, freedom and equality exists according to each mans capabilities regardless of social status and ethnicity, is one that appeals to every American from all walks of life. After the Great Depression, the importance of realizing success, freedom and equality became a priority in the lives of many, including the Native Americans. TheRead MoreCultural Awareness : Native American1349 Words à |à 6 PagesAwareness: Native Americanââ¬â¢s When Christopher Columbus landed in America he thought he landed in the East Indies, but it was the West Indies instead. There were millions of indigenous people when he reached the New World in 1942. He named the indigenous people Indianââ¬â¢s. According to Lehnardt (2015), there are 566 federally recognized Native American tribes. The largest tribal groups in the U.S are the Sioux, Navajo, Chippewa, Choctaw, Cherokee, and Iroquois. In todayââ¬â¢s society, we see many Native AmericanRead MoreChristopher Columbus and the Tenents of the American Dream1158 Words à |à 5 Pagesimpact on each of the tenets of the American Dream. Though not each impact was one that was positive, it was an impact nonetheless, and so I believe that he was able to have a profound impact on the dreams. The first tenet of the American dream outlines that any individual is able to pursue it, and Columbus proves this notion through his upbringings. He was the some of a merchant and was self-educated, and through all of this, he is able to pursue his dream of being a successful navigator by travellingRead MoreThe Lone Ranger And Tonto Fistfight In Heaven Analysis993 Words à |à 4 PagesThe Wrong American Dream: Struggling to Assimilate in ââ¬Å"The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fist Fight in Heavenâ⬠ââ¬Å"Kill the Indian and save the Man,â⬠sounds more like something out of a dystopian novel than an educational campaign slogan, but in 1887 those were the words chosen by Army Lt. Richard Henry Pratt to garner public support for governmentââ¬â¢s attempt to forcefully ââ¬Å"Americanizeâ⬠Native Americans. Native Americans that survived violence were coerced into wearing white manââ¬â¢s clothes, cutting their hairRead MoreSherman Alexie s A Native American859 Words à |à 4 Pagesnegatively affected the Native American peopleââ¬â¢s culture, politics, religion, economy, and population. Sherman Alexieââ¬â¢s This Is What It Means to Say Phoenix, Arizona is a story about the suffering, current social problems, and hope for a new beginning for the Native American people. Alexie, a Native American himself, skillfully narrates Victor and Thomasââ¬â¢s journey to recover Victor fatherââ¬â¢s ashes from Phoenix, Arizona, reflecting on the many challenges and difficulties from Native Americans inside the reservationsRead MoreNative American Education Essay907 Words à |à 4 PagesThe modern American society is best defined by its education. The ââ¬Å"American dreamâ⬠is founded on going to school, getting a good job, and becoming successful. Ironically, the actual native peoples of this country are actually the least likely to attain this dream. The largest obstacle they face is lack of proper education. The standard educational practices being used for the instruction of Native American peoples is not effective. There are many pieces to this road-block, and many solutionsRead MoreNative Americans Ways Can Be Super Spiritual1700 Words à |à 7 Pages Native Americans ways can be super spiritual. I find the Native American one of the most interesting cultural, but it happens they are the least I known about. I want to focus on is the traditions, rituals and mystics as well. Native Americans cultures and traditions are related to specific individual tribes. These are the indigenous people of North America. I will discuss the Lakota Sundance first and the healing rituals scared Native American ways. Native Americans believe in the Great Spirit
Sunday, December 15, 2019
Marriage Is It in Crisis Free Essays
Marriage in America Burin Bianca Ramirez October 11, 2012 Marriage: Is It In Crisis? In America, it is the traditional thing to do to get married to someone in order to spend the rest of your life with. Someone to go through the ups and downs of life with, someone to be there to support you no matter what, and even in most marriages someone to have children with and to create a family. All these are perfect examples of why people get married, so why wouldnââ¬â¢t you want all of these things in your life? Well society as we know it today is declining in all aspects including, economics, the work force, and even health care. We will write a custom essay sample on Marriage: Is It in Crisis? or any similar topic only for you Order Now It is no wonder why people have come to the realization that marriage is in crisis because of everything that is going on around us. In the articles I read, ââ¬Å"The Marriage Crisisâ⬠, ââ¬Å"Pimp My Brideâ⬠and ââ¬Å"Few Good Menâ⬠there are different viewpoints and takes on my marriage is in trouble. The most important points I will be making and elaborating on in this passage about why marriage in in crisis today will be the realization people are coming to about a worthy marriage, how the media portrays marriage, and the economic and emotional state of marriage. While explaining these points we will ask ourselves, is marriage in crisis? In the earlier 1900s people were getting married for usually one reason: Stability. Times were hard back then and the only way people could make a living was if they had a ââ¬Å"partnerâ⬠to help out with a household/farm while the other spouse went out in the work force to earn a living and put food on the table. Having someone help you out with things at home makes things easier and thatââ¬â¢s why they formed almost a business like partnership. In the article ââ¬Å"The Marriage Crisisâ⬠, it explains the declining of marriage and the rising of cohabitation. This brings up my first point which is the realization people are coming to about a worthy marriage. In other words, people can now fend on their own, especially woman. Today, women have more rights and are able to participate in the work force just as much as men are. Woman are more independent now more than ever before and because of this they donââ¬â¢t need to force themselves in a marriage they donââ¬â¢t want to be in just so they are financially stable. This is why cohabitation exists. People want to know a person for a long time before they make any commitment and rush into a marriage without fully knowing the good and bad in a person. In addition to womenââ¬â¢s rights, marriage is declining because women also have the power of education. Women are now getting degrees, making their own money (not having to rely on a man), and gaining a sense of personal fulfillment and to some women personal fulfillment is a lot more rewarding than fulfillment from a marriage. On the topic of marriage and society now, media comes into play. Technology has emerged excessively in the last decade, and with technology comes media. Of course there are many different sources of media but weââ¬â¢ll just focus of television. In the article ââ¬Å"Pimp My Brideâ⬠, the author Judith Halberstam explains the world of marriage on reality television based program. She includes shows like The Bachelor, Average Joe, and Joe Millionaire. All these shows portray one message: how marriage is outside of normal society which includes financial responsibilities, children, families, work, and other outside conflicts that usually affect a normal relationship/marriage. Halberstam explains how these reality television shows are known as ââ¬Å"survival of the cutestâ⬠where these shows are simply based on looks, although they try to mix in personality with it, it usually doesnââ¬â¢t work that way. Shows like The Bachelor are scripted programs that only get our hopes up and make us think that marriage is perfect and nothing gets in the way of that relationship. Well that is totally wrong. What they donââ¬â¢t show is how marriage really is outside of that program. Usually with these shows, once the couple returns back to reality and to their normal lives, the relationship rarely lasts because conflicts that normal couples go through are suddenly hitting them and they realize that the perfect relationship they had before is not going to work in reality. This is why it is important to realize that these are just shows and you need to be smarter than to believe that your relationship/marriage is going to be as perfect as the ones you see on television. Those shows are strictly for entertainment purposes. Stepping aside from reality television marriages, and their ââ¬Å"perfectâ⬠relationships, there is a need to talk about the reality of marriage. Do people get married? Of course they do. Do people get divorced? Of course they do. Why? When you marry someone it is because at that time you can see spending the rest of your life with them, but things can change and people can change and if you canââ¬â¢t seem to accept those changes divorce is usually the answer to get away from that and that is perfectly okay. I am a firm believer that if you are not happy in your marriage you have the right to divorce. I understand the spiritual side of marriage and how that can be a process and that there needs to be an appropriate reason for an annulment but overall people still have the right to break off a marriage that isnââ¬â¢t happy anymore. Why spend the rest of your life with someone you canââ¬â¢t be fully happy with, that is just making yourself suffer and can affect you in many different ways. If you do get divorced, you can always remarry and hopefully find your soul mate. On the other hand, remarrying is not for everyone. In the article ââ¬Å"Few Good Menâ⬠, we notice a focus on single low-income women and their views about marriage. In their eyes marriage is more of a risk than a reward because they feel that nothing is certain or promised in a marriage. With all the hardships they already have to go through now, having a marriage in which the husband beats them, abuses their children, who is controlling, or is unfaithful is just not worth the risk, and theyââ¬â¢d rather stay single and fend for themselves rather than depend on someone who is not suitable for them. Now, they are not saying that they wouldnââ¬â¢t marry a man; he just has to be the right one, and to be completely honest there arenââ¬â¢t a lot of those kinds of men left. Marriages in low-income couples are not likely to last because of affordability, respectability, trust and control. Low-income couples sometimes do not work out because they depend of both the husbands and wifeââ¬â¢s income. If a husband were to lose or quit his job the amount of necessities they can afford is very little. And when you add children to a household with two parents but only one income in an already low-income marriage, there is only enough supplies to go around for the children and very little left for the one providing and the one that is jobless, in this case the husband, is the one that doesnââ¬â¢t get anything which leads to marriages falling apart. In communities that are low-income based you would think that people there would not take marriage seriously but that is not the case. Women in those communities think of marriage as a ââ¬Å"sacredâ⬠thing and they take it seriously. They all want that big, huge wedding that is magical just like everyone else. So they stray away from marriage because theyââ¬â¢d rather not have a marriage in which the partner doesnââ¬â¢t take it seriously enough and doesnââ¬â¢t meet their expectations. Trust is also a big reason why women in these communities arenââ¬â¢t getting married. They simply just cannot trust men enough to marry them. They explain that at the end of the day ââ¬Å"men will be menâ⬠and engage in an outside affair with another woman, and they will not put up with someone who is unfaithful. They also cannot trust them with handling money. It is not fair to the hard working women who are trying to pay the bills when the husband is spending their money on junk when they should be saving up and keeping that money handy for their children. And lastly, women feel that they cannot trust their husbands with their children. In the communities that they live in things like drugs and narcotics are easy to get a hold of and the women fear that the husband could be exposing their children to drugs and sadly, even sexually abusing their children. These make up all of the characteristics as to why poor women donââ¬â¢t marry. Based upon the evidence provided by the authors and their articles, I do in a way think that marriage is in crisis. People have such high expectations in what they want their marriage to be like, and they should aim for something high. In everything that is going on in the world now, people are entitled to be in a happy marriage. Now, I am not totally convinced that marriage is in crisis. For those that do get married usually do it for the right reason: to be with the one you love for the rest of your life. Those marriages, I feel, are not in crisis. They understand the true meaning of loving someone unconditionally and they want to be in a marriage. So I other words, those who marry and donââ¬â¢t take it seriously are the ones that have marriages in crisis, but those who value marriage as a scared union help me believe that a happy marriage is still out there and it can be something to look forward to. In conclusion, society view marriage is in crisis because of all the changes that are going on around us and how it affects the institution of marriage. Economics and the work force take a toll on marriage today and put a strain on some aspects of marriage. People realizing the worthiness of a good marriage and the expectations they have on marriage has affected the decline of marriage and couples found cohabitation as an alternative of marriage. Media has affected the institution of marriage immensely through the works of reality television and how they portray marriage in a ââ¬Å"fantasy worldâ⬠rather than the real world. And lastly, marriage in low-income based communities is declining because of characteristics such as affordability, respectability, trust and control. So in essence, is marriage in crisis? I believe there is not right answer simply because the marriages in which the couple does not take the union seriously does put the institution of marriage in crisis but the few marriages that are perfectly happy are the ones to look up to and strive towards later on in life. How to cite Marriage: Is It in Crisis?, Essay examples
Saturday, December 7, 2019
Product and Marketing Of Metabical Samples â⬠MyAssignmenthelp.com
Question: Discuss about the Product and Marketing Of Metabical. Answer: Metabical is a well-known brand that has produced a revolutionary weight-loss drug. The company has been able to create a niche in the market with its focus on product. The company has been able to develop unique product that is difficult to imitate. The primary target audience for the company overweight females. The company also target male customers who are obese. However, the prime target audience for the organizations is the overweight female customers in the age group of 25 to 65 years. The decision making process in the organization in terms of target audience is driven by the senior leadership team. The senior leadership team in consultation with themarketing team has defined the target audience. The organization, Metabical operates in a niche market and the organization realizes the importance of Segmentation, Targeting and Positioning. There are various ways or variables to segment the market. Some organizations would segment the market on the basis of demographic and some o rganizations would segment the market on the basis of income level of consumers. Metabical has primarily used the three key variables to segment the market. The first variable is the demographic profile of people. The company wants to target the female people who are in the age group of 35 to 65 years. The second variable of segmentation is the income status. The company realizes that not all the consumers would be able to afford the products (Cross Belich, 2015). Therefore, the company has segmented the market on the basis of income level and it want to target the people with the income between $30,000 and $50,000. The third and the most important segmentation variable for organization is the behavioral variable. The company wants to target the people who are conscious about their weight and wants to reduce the weight. The segmentation on the basis of behavioral aspect has enabled the organization to reach the specific target audience that want to lose 10 to 30 pounds. It can be said that the company has been able to create a unique position in the market. This has been possible with its continuous focus in research and development for product development. It is suggested that the company should continue to use the same strategy of unique product development to maintain its differential position in the market (Kim Kumar, 2012). The advantage with strategy is that the competitors would not be able to copy the product and hence Metabical would be able to maintain its leadership position in the market. Once the segmentation and targeting strategy is devised the nest step is to develop the positioning strategy. It is recommended that the organization should have the positioning of product advantage. The consumers should be able to associate Metabical with unique and beneficial products. As far as the communication strategy is considered, it is recommended that Metabical should heavily focus on social media as part of their communication strategy (Kerzner, 2013). The management should realize the fact that its target audience is heavily active on the social media networks like FB and Twitter. Therefore, it would make sense for the organizations to target the audience on social media platforms (Muller Humm, 2014). It is recommended that the organization should slightly change its proposed budget for Integrated Media Communication. The change in the budget should be observed under thedigital marketing (Ramsaran-Fowdar, 2013). It is recommended that the organization should increase its focus on digital marketing. In fact, within digital marketing the company should spend the most of budget towards FB marketing followed by mobile advertisements. The 12 months timeline for the communication strategy can be shown as: M1 M2 M3 M4 M5 M6 M7 M8 M9 M10 M11 M12 Initial Assessment Framework Development Establish Marketing Objectives Marketing Strategies Implementation Specific Focus on Social Media and Digital Marketing The segment for the company to target is the female audiences in the age group of 35 to 65 years that are overweight are cautious about their health and fitness. These audience should be targeted for maximum ROI and should be targeted along the year with digital marketing tools and social media strategies. References Cross, J.C., Belich, T.J. and Rudelius, W., 2015. How marketing managers use market segmentation: An exploratory study. InProceedings of the 1990 Academy of Marketing Science (AMS) Annual Conference(pp. 531-536). Springer, Cham. Muller, H. and Hamm, U., 2014. Stability of market segmentation with cluster analysisA methodological approach.Food Quality and Preference,34, pp.70-78. Kim, D. Y., Kumar, V., Kumar, U. (2012). Relationship between quality management practices and innovation.Journal of Operations Management,30(4), 295-315. Kerzner, H. (2013).Project management: a systems approach to planning, scheduling, and controlling. John Wiley Sons. Ramsaran-Fowdar, R.R. and Fowdar, S., 2013. The implications of Facebook marketing for organizations.Contemporary Management Research,9(1), p.73.
Friday, November 29, 2019
Woman as Leaders an Example by
Woman as Leaders Considerable recent research has been conducted that defines women as leaders manage or lead in a different way from the manners men do. Proponents of the women do lead in a different way proposition hypothesize that women intrinsically own or develop certain characteristics of personality that deviate penetratingly from male leadership uniqueness. For instance, Flynn (1994) developed a supposition that women are professed stereotypically as working from individual vulnerability and oblique power bases, whereas men are found as using strong antagonistic sorts of power. Need essay sample on "Woman as Leaders" topic? We will write a custom essay sample specifically for you Proceed Till near past the general view about business administration was an arrangement subjugated by males whose leadership style was action-oriented, hierarchical, and also quasi-military. The superlative leader was viewed as a sovereign, sturdy, characteristic hero. However at the present a new cohort of women is carrying to business a style frequently explained as more consensus-building, more open and comprehensive, more liable to support contribution by others, and even more considerate than that of several males. The women leaders hardly ever or never gave orders; opting instead to encourage their employees involvement in decision making. Women leaders give confidence to employees to perform together towards the ultimate aims. The finding, female leader as a participative, employee-involved, team-based leader is harmonious with the recent research theories on female authority bases; none of the women refer to her position in the association as a stage for pressurizing nor she uses coercive authority. The considerable recent research led to the growth of a heuristic form of women leadership. This model distinguishes a woman leader as one who favors to function from a reward authority foundation. Under this model female leaders possess an elevated degree of employee participation that characteristically results in a team-based administration approach. In addition, this woman has entrepreneurial visualization, which she is competent to converse efficiently to her team members; this in turn provides as an unexpected inspiring strength to accomplish the objective of the association. (Patricia, 2004) Finally, these female leaders promote mutual confidence and value between her and her team members. Hence I support the statement that considerable recent research has been conducted that defines women as leaders and contrasts the results of female and male leaders. References Flynn, L.P., Shore, L. (1994), "Gender and context: the moderating effect of work group gender composition and occupation sex-type on work attitudes and behaviors ", Proceedings of the Southern Management Association, Southern Management Association, Valdosta, GA, pp.489-91. Patricia S. Parker, (2004), Race, Gender, and Leadership: Re-Envisioning Organizational Leadership from the Perspectives of African American Women Executives, Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Mahwah, NJ.
Monday, November 25, 2019
buy custom Literary Comparison of ââ¬ÅThe Handââ¬Â and ââ¬ÅLove in L.A.ââ¬Â
buy custom Literary Comparison of ââ¬Å"The Handâ⬠and ââ¬Å"Love in L.A.â⬠Literary Comparison Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette and Dagoberto Gilb Abstract The stories The Hand by Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette and Love in L.A. by Dagoberto Gilb have numerous elements of symbolism. At first sight, it seems quite hard to compare such different stories. The first short story was written 69 years earlier than the second one. The similarity of the symbols in The Hand by Colette and Love in L.A. by Dagoberto Gilb is not obvious at first, but after careful analysis one can find a lot of similarities in the use of symbols in these stories. Colette in The Hand tells a story about a young woman that got married not long ago and is in love with her husband. However, one night she notices that the hand of her husband that she likes to kiss is not as perfect as it seemed to her. She understands that love and marriage are not so ideal and do not look like a dream; she realizes that marriage means also diplomacy and sometimes obedience. In the morning, despite her fear and disgust, the wife kisses her husbands hand.
Friday, November 22, 2019
Synopsis of a Contemporary Strategic Issue Essay
Synopsis of a Contemporary Strategic Issue - Essay Example innacle of Japanese innovation, very recently, Toyota has had to recall 8m vehicles due to ââ¬Å"unintended accelerationâ⬠(The Economist, Feb 11, 2010). Toyota Prius (the hybrid vehicle) has developed problem with brake pedals that refuse to open (The Economist, Feb 9, 2010) and 440,000 vehicles would have to be called back. The firmââ¬â¢s reputation for quality on which the organization was built has been shattered. Toyota is busy chasing volumes at almost any price. Its global market share has fallen to 11.8% from 13.1% (Appendix A). The business environment is currently turbulent and according to Ansoff, to survive and succeed in an industry the firm must be able to match the aggressiveness of its operating and strategic behaviours (Thompson & Martin, 2005). The business environment is characterized by several factors and the resources of the organization and the values must be congruent to the needs of the environment. Changeability of the market environment- the current market is turbulent due to global economic downturn. Besides, due to the large amount of vehicle recall, Toyotaââ¬â¢s market capitalization has dropped. The cost of recall is $2bn dollars (The Economist, Feb 9, 2010). Globalization, individualizations, digitalization and increasing competition have increased the speed at which change is taking place in the industry (Jain & Garg, 2010). The car makers can now expand to new markets a fast pace. Fertility of technology: The firm has always prided itself in being leaders in innovation but the cars rolled out recently have problems with brakes. The floor mats are badly fitted. All these suggest that the organization has to rethink its outsourcing policies. Toyota has depended on several layers of suppliers which has helped them to reduce the costs (SD, 2006) but they need to take note that most of the accelerator pedals were supplied by American parts-maker (The Economist, Feb 11, 2010). However, many automakers use the same suppliers and a domino
Wednesday, November 20, 2019
Homo floresiensis or the Hobbit or Flores man, is it a homo erectus Research Paper
Homo floresiensis or the Hobbit or Flores man, is it a homo erectus - Research Paper Example These remains have increased historic researchersââ¬â¢ curiosity of intense research in order to determine if they represent a distinct species from modern humans. This scientific controversy progress has closely been followed by different forms of media. The most remarkable feature of this hominid is that it has a small brain and body. However, it could have survived until the recent past, about 12,000 years ago. Together with the skeletons were archeological horizonââ¬â¢s stone tools. Critics of this species claim that they are HomoSapiens going by their physiology and anatomy. The other hypothesis is that these individuals did have functional thyroids during their birth, and this resulted in myxoedematous, a kind of endemic cretinism. To prove the hypothesis wrong or right, researchers are in the process of finding preserved mitochondrial DNA, so that they can compare it with samples from the same specimens from fossilized HomoSapiens and Homo. The possibility of the similarity between Homo floresiensis and Homo sapiens is a study that needs further research. Though many scientists and scientific groups have shown mush interest on this subject, they still have not yet found the truth. However, the already found research findings indicate that this species is different from todayââ¬â¢s human in several ways like body and brain size. Furthermore, its time of existence is also questionable. Mitochondrial DNA, which is still in the process of being undertaken, might be the only hope that will answer the many questions that scientists want to answer.
Monday, November 18, 2019
The Israel-Palestine Conflict Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words
The Israel-Palestine Conflict - Research Paper Example Generations upon generations of civilians have lived and died amidst this protracted war, victims of and witnesses to the seemingly limitless capacity of human beings for violence. The struggle for peace is indeed an aspiration that the whole world shares ââ¬â and yet, history is rich with examples that tell us that peace without justice is an unsustainable project. The atrocities perpetrated in the context of the conflict must be accounted for, and there must be redress for the injustices wrought to the nameless and faceless victims. However, justice is not a one-size thing that fits all propositions. Efforts towards its introduction in a region as divided ethnically as Kosovo need to include clear-cut and streamlined efforts to address horizontal inequalities ââ¬â defined by Stewart (137) as ââ¬Å"inequalities among groups with shared identities ââ¬â identities formed by religion, ethnic ties or racial affiliations, or other salient ways that bind groups of people toge therâ⬠. Certainly, this includes looking at the broad and multiplex power dynamics that underlie these identities and become the basis for the conferral or denial of economic, political or social privilege. This is of course exacerbated when set against the backdrop of a conflict economy. Kamphuis (185) describes a conflict economy as one ââ¬Å"that leads to the breakup of administrative and social institutions, the flight of human capital through migration, and the destruction of infrastructure for education and health careâ⬠ââ¬â the clear contextual backdrop of the Israel-Palestine crisis. There are also political complexities that come into play. Writers like Danny Rubinstein write that Palestinian nationalism is on the wane and that ââ¬Å"about twelve thousand Palestinians from East Jerusalem have received Israeli citizenshipâ⬠(1). But almost on a daily basis, we are besieged by news report on intensified ââ¬Å"terroristâ⬠attacks by Palestinian figh ters. Indeed, it is hard to make a clinical assessment of the situation. I argue that investigating the extent to which horizontal inequalities were addressed may be done using the multiple dimensions of justice enumerated by Hellsten (79) as analytical tools or criteria ââ¬â (1) justice as the establishment of public safety and individual security, securing the lives of civilians from acts of violence; (2) justice as reconciliation and redress for past grievances, embracing the concept of restorative justice; (3) distributive and social justice, which focuses on social and economic well-being on a more long term period, and (4) political justice, involving participation and inclusion is governance. This means that all these imperatives must be addressed and dealt with, rather than one criterion alone and sacrificing the rest, e.g. reconciliation at the expense of resource redistribution, economic growth at the expense of political participation, governance, without rectifying i ndividual criminal responsibility. In countries fraught with sharply-drawn ethnic lines where political and economic privileges are denied or granted on the basis of ethnicity, satisfaction of the requirements of these dimensions of justice cannot take place without addressing horizontal inequalities. In a similar vein, aspiring to address horizontal inequa
Saturday, November 16, 2019
Game Mechanics In Racing Games
Game Mechanics In Racing Games The very first racing game built by KONAMI was Road Fighter (Konami, 1984). The goal of the game was to reach the finish line without running out of fuel. The interesting part was each time the player gets close to finish line without getting crashed; a superman flies by and the player gets extra 1000 points. If you havent noticed before, the superman has K marked on his dress, which probably stands for Konami. But, if you see from a developers point of view, the superman bonus is the result of reward and feedback game mechanics. This point bonus encourages players to play better. It makes the game more interesting and players concentrate more in order to get the bonus Superman points. Game mechanics is a huge subject. It has been used in many fields today, other than video games. Game mechanics have been used for growing the players interest and involvement in gameplay, but as the area of game mechanics became largely successful, it started being used in other fields for other purposes. With the research on game mechanics, I try to study and understand the vast game mechanics subject and its application in various fields. I have also tried to form up a definition and apply it to study gameplay in various games. At last, a thorough study of game mechanics in racing games is attempted, and I introduce a new mechanics for racing games. Research Context The example above explains the game mechanics at quite brief extent. Here, I present some definitions by various researchers as well as own thoughts, experience and some examples. Game Mechanics Definitions Different researchers provide different game mechanics definitions, most likely related to their research. Here are some of the definitions given by some authors. Miguel Sicart defines game mechanics as: Methods invoked by agents for interacting with the game world. (Sicart, 2008) Here, Sicart offered a formal definition for game mechanics as he exercises this definition with a comparative analysis of Shadow of Colossus (Team Ico, 2005), Rez (United Game Artist, 2002) and Every Extend Extra (Q Entertainment, 2006) to research game context and user experience. One of the game mechanics definitions that Sicart has mentioned in his research is by Lundgren and Bjà ¶rk (2003) as: any part of the rule system of a game that covers one, and only one, possible kind of interaction that takes place during the game, be it general or specific. The definition given by Lundgren and Bjà ¶rk covers traditional board games and puzzle games, rather than video games. However, they mention that most of the mechanics identified in their research can easily be brewed into video games played on PCs and consoles. It would have been easy to describe these game mechanics without starting from traditional games, but, starting from traditional games also opens up a way that allows easy comparison between computer-based games and non-computerized games. Mike stout (2010) explains how to come up with a better game mechanics when the gameplay is repetitive and boring. Stout describes game mechanics as A major chunk of gameplay. He gives an example of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (Nintendo, 1991) and the game mechanics used in the game like: sword combat, block pushing, boomerang throwing, swimming, button based puzzles, Hazard-avoidance, etc. (Stout, 2010) Amy Jo Kim explains game mechanics applied in functional softwares and social media as The system and features that makes games fun, compelling and addictive. Kim also explains how game mechanics is brewed into social media like eBay, Facebook, YouTube etc, (Kim, 2009). Game mechanics is a subject that is used in many fields other than video games like, social media, social games and entertainment, consumer products and services etc. Game Mechanics in Social Media Social media sites like facebook.com, eBay.com, youtube.com etc. Implements game mechanics at a very large scale. Amy Jo Kim (2009) explains how collection, points, exchange, feedback and customization mechanics is implemented in social media. For example, ebay.com gives rating and feedback score to the sellers based on the feedback received from customers or buyers. The feedback is accessible through sellers profile page where any user can check the ratings and score. This mechanics improves the seller services. Tesco PLC has implemented point mechanics to attract more customers. The customer gets certain points for purchases made at Tesco shops through Tesco Clubcard. Later, they can redeem points for other offers of items. Tesco makes various offers available through Clubcard points which drive customers to purchase more products. (Tesco, 2010) Jesse Schell (2010) presented multiple examples of game mechanics used in non-game media in his presentation Design outside the Box at DICE Summit 2010. Schell mentions new Ford Fusion hybrid car that comes with an EcoGuide facility, which is basically an implementation of feedback mechanics. Its a virtual plant in techno meter; the plant sprouts more leaves as your miles-per gallon go up, indicating how green your motoring is. (Goodwin, 2009) Here, feedback mechanics is used in such a way that might affect the way people drive their car and possibly encourage them to drive in an eco-friendly way. MouseHunt (HitGrab, 2008) and other facebook games are mainly based on points, feedback, collection, and customization mechanics and MouseHunt can be the best example of it. The player is required to build a mouse trap to catch mice and when a mouse is caught, the player is awarded with points and gold. The game keeps a track of points and gold on leaderboard. The mice caught by the player are added in his collection. Game Mechanics in Mainstream Games Quake (id Software, 1996) popularized rocket jumping mechanics. Rocket jumping is the technique of firing a rocket launcher or similar explosive pointing at the ground or at wall and jumping at the same time. The explosion propels and accelerates the players jump to large distance. Rocket jumping mechanics was introduced in Marathon (Bungie, 1994) and Rise of the Triad (Apogee, 1994), adapted in Team Fortress 2 (Valve, 2007) Unreal Tournament (Epic Games, 1999) and others. (Wikipedia, 2010) Another popular game mechanics is slow motion. The gameplay of Max Payne (Rockstar, 2001) involves bullet time-based action sequences. Bullet time slows the passage of time down to a certain level and enables the player to perform special moves. Time based mechanics is also one of the main features in later versions of Prince of Persia series (Ubisoft, 2003). This mechanics makes the prince able to slow down or rewind the time and perform special combat moves. Portal (Valve, 2007) is a single player Puzzle-Platformer game that consists primarily of a series of puzzles that must be solved by teleporting the players character and simple objects using the portal gun, a unit that can create inter-spatial portal between flat planes. The game received praise for its unique gameplay and darkly humorous story. Portal seems a perfect combination of Challenge and Skills, though its gameplay consist teleportation based puzzles only. The gameplay contains no combat sequence or rocket jumping or slow motion. Kill.switch (Namco, 2003) introduced cover and shoot mechanics which was adapted into Gears of War (Epic Games, 2006). As described by Miguel Sicart (2008) Gears of War introduced an effective combat tactic where the player takes cover behind a block or a pillar and patiently shoots enemies. This third-person combat design also influenced Grand Theft Auto IV (RockStar North, 2008) and became highly popular. But Grand Theft Auto series is more popular for its variety of gameplay which consist of action, adventure, driving, racing, and stealth elements. The GTA series is also a good example of open world type of video game level design concept where a player can roam the virtual world at any point in the game. It also contains sandbox style nonlinear gameplay where the player can complete challenges in any sequence. The Game sold 2.5 million units in the America on the first day. (Mazel, 2008) The roots of open-world game concept go back to space simulator Elite (Acornsoft, 1984). However, we get to see open-world gameplay implementations in Midtown Madness (Microsoft, 1999), Need for Speed Underground 2 (EA Games, 2005) and Burnout Paradise (EA, 2008) as well. Game Mechanics in Racing Games The main gameplay in racing game is driving the car. However, many racing games offer various gameplay that are unique to the game itself. Need for speed: Underground (EA Games, 2003) has a unique win condition. The player has to finish the race at first place only in order to win the race, even if there are more than two players playing. This finish-first only mechanics deliberately increased the challenge level in the game. Underground emphasis heavily on import racing scene and featured vehicles associated with it. Cars can be customized to increase performance and visuals. Underground also featured EA Trax (EA Games) which is a collection of soundtracks. Overall, Need for Speed Underground contains multiple game mechanics that appealed many racing game lovers. According to VGChartz.com, the game sold 6.49 million units of PS2 version of the game till date. (VGChartz, 2010) Trials HD (RedLynx, 2009) is a combination of puzzle and stunt bike driving. It doesnt have any competitive race, as in the player has to get through a number of obstacles with as few crashes as possible. The challenge in the game is to balance and control the speed so that the player can pass through obstacles successfully. The game uses 3D graphics but the player can only more forward and backwards. However, the player can lean front or back to perform special moves or stunts. With such limited movement, the controls are also made simple. Trials HD also has a leaderboard feature, and when connected to Xbox Live, the player can compare his progress with his friends. Split Second (Disney, 2010) introduced destructive environment, which, when triggered by player it creates obstacles for other players. As a player performs stunts like drafting, drifting or precision driving, the powerplay meter builds up which allows the player to trigger special events like creating obstacles, enabling shortcuts or altering the race track entirely. High speed racing, imported cars, customization, stunts, crashes and motion blur can be noted as features of a racing game required to make it best selling. Burnout (Acclaim Entertainment, 2002) is noted as the initial in a series of high-speed racing games which also includes high risk gameplay mechanics. Burnout paradise (EA, 2008), the recent release in burnout series, features an open world environment called Paradise City, with day-night cycle. Game Mechanics include stunts, car crashes, and motorcycles. A very player favourite and famous gameplay is Crash Mode in which players can cause car crashes. However, in burnout paradise, the Crash Mode is called Showtime and records are kept for players biggest crash. The game contains best time for every street in the game which encourages the player to keep on driving to get the best time. Recently released blur (Activision, 2010) incorporates real world cars with arcade style handling and vehicular combat. It introduces a completely new type of gameplay to the current racing genre. However, it is brewed with the power ups mechanics that has been used in many games. It also uses the ranking and perk system. The race starts without a count-down timer which is currently popular; we can see such game mechanics in Split second and need for speed series. Results and Contribution The Definition I would like to give a brief explanation rather than a definition. It is possible that this has been mentioned some or other way in many articles. Game mechanics is a set of rules that builds a specific gameplay which makes the game more challenging, interesting and player-involving. Game mechanics can also introduce new ideas or variety within a game, which ultimately makes a game fun. Game mechanics can be used to build up such a gameplay that motivates or manipulates human behaviour. The definition explained here has been used to study and understand the game mechanics and gameplay in a variety of games mentioned in the research. Game Mechanics In Racing Genre When it comes to racing games, speed is everything. The faster the gameplay is, the more the excitement, interest and challenge will be. In a racing game, the player is not given a high performance car at the beginning of the game, but as he levels up in the game, faster cars or performance upgrades that can boost up the speed are unlocked. This mechanism creates a need of high performance car, and as the player progresses further, the game feels more rewarding. Free roam mode or open world environment plays a crucial part in racing games. Player gets a chance to explore the environment and start the race whenever he wants to, which gives a realistic feeling to the game. Players usually get attracted towards imported cars. Car customization has become an important feature of racing games. Models of original cars are highly praised by players and. They have a tendency to customize their cars and show off as well. Leaderboards allow players to compare their best times, high score and achievements, which also keeps a player engaged in game. Challenge is not the only element a player is looking for in racing games. A number of games provides stunts and car crash based gameplay. Trials HD (RedLynx, 2009) and Burnout series (Criterion Games) are good examples of it. Player can drive through a signboard or perform a stunt in burnout paradise to gain extra boost, where Trials HD is all about passing through obstacles by performing stunt moves. Such game mechanics inserts the element of fun in games. A few arcade style racing games have been avoiding the use of start up countdown. The round starts with ongoing race and the player gains control of the car after a cut scene. This type of mechanics is seen in triple-A titles like Blur and Split second. However, Simulation style racing games, where the realism is more persistent, follows the traditional countdown start-up of a race. Need for speed underground featured finish-first only mechanics. In order to win the round, the player has to finish at first place and first place only. This increases the challenge at a high degree, but it also seemed to be improving the player skills. Other notable game mechanics or gameplay features includes motion blur, car pursuit, allowing player to create tracks etc. Music and soundtracks also play an important part in making the game more interesting. Who wouldnt listen to hip hop or rock music while driving ones favourite car at top speed? It is believed that EA Trax has played an important part in the success of Need for Speed series. Gameplay is designed by brewing multiple game mechanics together. There is no specific recipe to make a best-selling racing game, but a game with various gameplay is more likely get popular. Developing a new Game Mechanic for Racing Games Whether a player is performing stunts, chasing a car, trying to make a huge crash score, or just playing a normal race, the core element is speed. Wouldnt it be great if a car never lose speed unless it is commanded to? Here, I have attempted to come up with such a game mechanic. During a race, if a player hits an obstacle, the car will lose health points but not the speed; the car will continue running throughout the track without losing its speed. However, massive loss in health points will ultimately result the player lose the round. The game presented here demonstrates the game mechanics with some other features as well. The demo consists of a single straight track. Instead of solid obstacles, the player will face white ghosts on track. On colliding with a ghost, the car will go through it but will lose health points. The race does not start with a countdown; instead it begins with the player car running at minimum speed; which increases the challenge from the beginning. On the other hand, if the player runs out of health, or fails to finish the race at first place, he loses the round. But, if the player finishes at first place without losing any health points, he wins a perfect finish. The demo also features some power ups. If the player picks up a health pack, the car health is restored. Slow motion slows down the game, allowing player to easily move through ghosts. Once activated, the game runs in slow motion for 10 seconds. Another power up is a shield which protects player from getting hurt by ghosts or opponent cars. The shield, once activated, stays active for 5 seconds. Shield provides a great advantage. When activated, the car will run 2 points slower than the real speed. Opponents do not collide or influence the players game; however, if collided with opponent cars, the player car will lose health. Evaluation Game Mechanics The following racing mechanics have been implemented into the demo, speed mechanics, power ups, random obstacle mechanics, competition mechanics, countdown less start up and finish first only. The gameplay was changed regularly as the demo was forming up in order to get the optimum effect of the mechanics. Multiple values were changed to improve the difficulty and challenge. However, it was also ensured that the difficulty is not far above the ground. Besides game mechanics, the gameplay can be improved with better feedback, graphical and visual effects, music and sound, more rewards or other bells and whistles. The Gameplay A game demo or a beta version of a game is made for testing purposes. The developers would test the graphics, frame rate or overall performance. Here, the game demo was made for an identical aim. The game demo was given to a group of game enthusiasts. Afterwards the reaction of the players towards the game mechanics was observed. The demo has a look and feel of classic road fighter (Konami, 1984) and the players did miss the superman bonus point. Random obstacles increased the challenge; it made the demo interesting as well. The demo has proved to be an ideal combination of challenge and skill. The players had to concentrate more in order to achieve the perfect finish; several players attempted more tactical approach to win the race. When asked about each feature of the game separately, the replies were encouraging and prove the success of the demo. User Comments Here are some comments given by players who tried the game demo. The game is quiet good; the ghosts were terrible as they ate up all my health in the first round. I rate it 4 out of 5. Pratik Solanki The concept was different from other games, though the difficulty level was maintained throughout the demo. It seemed easy to win the game, but it was tough to achieve the perfect finish. 3.5 out of 5 Kushal Joshi The game gets addictive as soon as you start playing Dirk Fortmeier The Research Game development is not quite possible without understanding game mechanics. Gameplay is an important factor that attracts a player. The research on game mechanics helped to understand why a particular gameplay is more interesting and player involving. Conclusion
Thursday, November 14, 2019
Harry Potter And The Sorcerers Stone Essay examples -- Essays Papers
Harry Potter And The Sorcerers Stone Harry Potter starts off slow, but gets very interesting near the end. In the beginning, you meet the Dursleys, Harryââ¬â¢s aunt, uncle, and their son Dudley. Then you learn that Harryââ¬â¢s parents were witches, and that they were destroyed by a evil wizard. A good witch, Albus Dumbeldoor, sends Harry to the Dursleys, because theyââ¬â¢re his only remaining family. The Dursleys however, hated Harry and his family, so Harry was mistreated for years. He was forced to live in a cuborrod under the stairs. He had to watch as the fat, stuck up Dudley got whatever he wanted, and then usually broke whatever it was he got. Then one day Harry got a letter. As Harry was beginning to read the letter, his uncle, Vernon Dursley, took it from him. After reading the... Harry Potter And The Sorcerers Stone Essay examples -- Essays Papers Harry Potter And The Sorcerers Stone Harry Potter starts off slow, but gets very interesting near the end. In the beginning, you meet the Dursleys, Harryââ¬â¢s aunt, uncle, and their son Dudley. Then you learn that Harryââ¬â¢s parents were witches, and that they were destroyed by a evil wizard. A good witch, Albus Dumbeldoor, sends Harry to the Dursleys, because theyââ¬â¢re his only remaining family. The Dursleys however, hated Harry and his family, so Harry was mistreated for years. He was forced to live in a cuborrod under the stairs. He had to watch as the fat, stuck up Dudley got whatever he wanted, and then usually broke whatever it was he got. Then one day Harry got a letter. As Harry was beginning to read the letter, his uncle, Vernon Dursley, took it from him. After reading the...
Monday, November 11, 2019
Advertisement Pitch
Good morning/evening, my name Is Blair Holder, and I am a representative from Toto Communications. Before I begin my presentation, I would Like to welcome the CEO of Roger and Hill industries, Mr. Sadden Brown, and the Head of Marking and advertising, Mrs. Julie Walters. It is a pleasure to have you here for the presentation today. Recent marketing attempts to for this product have not been as effectively executed as they could be. Unfortunately, the sales statistics from your previous marketing campaigns have proven ineffective, only decreasing in demand over the past year.With the experience in marketing and advertising of my team at Toto Communications, your sales will undoubtedly Increase and your product will be the best seller in this area of marketing. Following extensive market research, we here at Toto communication believe we have established the ideal target market for your product. Recent studies indicate that 78% of men who are interested in your product range between th e ages of 20 and 25. Of this 78%, 80% are single, middle-class men looking for a suitable companion to accompany him.With this information, the research team have come to he conclusion of advertising your product In ââ¬ËNext Luxury magazine. Next Luxury publications are designed to teach men how to improve their manner and live a better lifestyle. By presenting Perfume in Next Luxury magazine, the product will become Internationally recognizes, and capable of creating a trend-setting phenomenon for all middle-classed men. The advertisement created consists of three colors: black, red and white. Significant colors In an advertisement are essential for selling a product successfully.For Perfume, color black represents power ? a quality all men thrive to possess, and yester ââ¬â a trademark of fantasy which undeniably intrigues women. The color red represents passion and danger; two qualities which, when combined together, are undoubtedly irresistible towards women because of th e contrast between romance and adventure. To complete the advertisements color palette, white font has been incorporated on the black background to ââ¬Ëpop! ââ¬Ë off the page, and capture the viewer's eye.By using these three colors, buyers will commend you on the effective and simplistic understanding of what the product is, and how it can improve their lifestyle. The layout of an advertisement Is crucial when trying to sell any product successfully. Recent studies have shown a pattern forming from viewers when observing an advertisement; majority of the time they will look at the title at the top first, then their eyes scan across the top of the page to finish down to the right hand corner of the page.Therefore, the layout for Perfume's advertisement has been specifically designed to counter these factors. The product has been placed In the bottom right hand corner so that it will be the last thing the viewer will see and member about the advertisement. In the top left hand corner, where they will first read about the advertisement Is the cologne name. The title has been enhanced and bolted so It stands out more than anything else on the page; the title has been selected specifically as the color red to contrast with the black background and link with the significance of color discussed previously. Underneath the cologne title copy. As the reader's eye wanders to the bottom right hand corner, it doesn't matter which way they go, the image of Changing Datum will be inescapable. By using liberty appearance in advertising, majority of people will automatically buy the product due to the fact that, that celebrity wears the product. Changing Datum is an ideal model for your campaign as he represents power, talent, adventure, and romance ââ¬â all qualities in which majority of women look for in a man.It has been proven that advertisements using attractive males as their cover has gained more attraction to their product. Through the use of attention to de tail in the layout, and incorporation of celebrities, Perfume will achieve superb recognition internationally ND raise sales statistics. The final ingredient in successfully creating an advertisement is language. The slogan ââ¬Å"Be impossible to forgetâ⬠is a command.Commands work well in ads as gives the customer an instruction, and does not allow any hint of confusion or questioning towards the product. Similarly, the body copy poses a rhetorical question; ââ¬Å"Want to be the one women want? â⬠Rhetorical questions are a clever way for advertisers to capture their audience in a web. Rhetoric's don't allow for an answer, because the answer is obvious. This forces the reader to become involved in the product and enquire more about its' qualities.By capturing the viewer through the use of advertisement techniques in writing, Perfume will be irresistible to read. Target market, color, layout, and language are Just three key ingredients which Toto Communications has thoro ughly examined in order to make your product the best it can be. By using this advertisement and following these techniques, Perfume will be indestructible globally. On behalf of Toto Communications, I personally thank you for your time, and for considering our advertisement for your campaign.
Saturday, November 9, 2019
Blood glucose regulation Essay
DISCUSSION 1. Explain how insulin changed plasma glucose concentration over the course of the experiment. The insulin changed the plasma glucose levels by raising dramatically from fasting to the one hour mark, but by hour 3 it droped again to almost the same levels as fasting. The glucagon remained almost the same on throughout the levels except that it lowered a bit 1 hour after theà meal. 2. Explain how glucagon changed plasma glucose concentration over the course of the experiment. Glucagon acts on liver cells to promote breakdown of glycogen into glucose and formation of glucose from lactic acid and certain amino acids. 3. Explain what caused the change in plasma ketone concentration over the course of the experiment. Ketones changed from high during fasting to lower after eating and even after hour three because it first they were needed to generate ATP but droped because they were not needed as much for fuel. 4. Explain how negative feedback caused the changes in plasma insulin concentration observed during the experiment. the level of blood glucose controls secretion of both glucagon and insulin via negative feedback. 5. Explain how negative feedback caused the changes in plasma glucagon concentration observed during the experiment. 6. The insulin/glucagon ratio changed over the course of the experiment indicating changes in glucose storage and changes in ability to increase blood glucose concentration via glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis. State when glucose storage capability was highest and why. 7. State when glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis were highest and why. 1 hour post meal because thatââ¬â¢s when there was the highest amount of sugar in the blood. 8. Explain how a high blood ketone level helps the body conserve bloodà glucose. When the concentration of ketone bodies in the blood rises above normal the ketone bodies, most of which are acids, must buffered. 9. Restate your predictions that were correct and give the data from your experiment that supports them. Restate your predictions that were not correct and correct them, giving the data from your experiment that supports the correction. APPLICATION 1. During exercise, epinephrine and norepinephrine are released from the adrenal medulla. Epinephrine and norepinephrine have the same effect on plasma glucose levels as glucagon. Explain how epinephrine and norepinephrine affect plasma glucose and why this is important during exercise. Epinephrine and norepinephrine will be released by the adrenal medullae in response to stress. During exercise the brain will release epinephrine and norepinephrine because it has been told that the body needs to adjust to the new demand that must be met. Which means that the heart rate needs to increase in order to support itself and work efficiently. 3. The symptoms of diabetes mellitus include high plasma glucose levels and ketoacidosis (blood pH decreases due to increasing levels of ketones). Explain how diabetes causes these symptoms. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a dangerous complication of diabetes mellitus because the chemical balance of the body becomes too acidic.
Thursday, November 7, 2019
internal and external negoitating essays
internal and external negoitating essays Internal and External Negotiating .... The Pie Contradiction. When the discussion on this type of topic comes up, it is important to understand several key points. First is the fact that negotiations of this nature are done by one group (or institution) to another group. Now, knowing this it is also safe to assume that groups of people are not a collective of one mind and one thought, and thus the group will not act as one. Inside these groups, many different and sometimes conflicting ideas and interests are bound to hinder a straightforward negotiation. These internal problems creeping into the wood work before the other party has even made in to the table will ultimately create new layers in the bargaining process. This is not to say all internal negotiations are bad. In my opinion if a group will argue between them to smooth out all the potential internal interests and concerns; then it can also be sure that as a group the entire entity was come to the bargaining table with the knowledge that all of its main views have already been addressed. Then as a result the bargainer knows what as a group they would accept and decline. As it was briefly covered in the article the internal bickering within one group does have its downfalls which in the long run hinder the group more then promote it. If certain people within the group have personal agendas such as personal wealth or influence in mind, these views of the few that can go against the optimum deal for the entire group. Then as these people fight to have their views and solutions pushed forward the group may lose more in the long run. (Albeit the few people in the group may come out even stronger.) I believe the key to getting beyond the internal negotiations and out onto the bargaining table with the other party is to as a group not bicker over 1 or 2 minor things, but to look at these deals one pie which may have many different ingredients within it. The pi...
Monday, November 4, 2019
Music Appreciation of Chris Brown Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Music Appreciation of Chris Brown - Essay Example Since Chris Brown ventured in the music industry, he has released several hit songs. Among the songs include the 2005 debut album Chris Brown which produced the top single ââ¬ËRun Itââ¬â¢ and the second album, Exclusive, which was released in 2007 with top singles, such as ââ¬ËKiss Kissââ¬â¢ and ââ¬ËWith Youââ¬â¢. In 2008, Chris produced his third album titled ââ¬ËForeverââ¬â¢. Later Chris started collaborative music with popular artists like T-Pain, Bow Wow, Lil Mama and Rihanna who he became engaged to, but later separated. According to Thompson, in February 8, 2009, Chris physically assaulted Rihanna, then his girlfriend, a crime which he later pleaded guilty. Chris Brown was handed a five -year probation and also on a community service, besides losing most of his fans. From his childhood, growing while seeing his mother being subjected to physical violence by his stepfather. The experience has literally defined the relation between him and women, particula rly the female artists. Maybe it was out of that respect did Chris Brown not involve most of the female artists in his albums. Since his entry into the hip-hop and R&B entertainment industry, only a few female artists including Rihanna who was his girlfriend had been in his debut albums. It was ironically when in 2009 Chris Brown was charged for assaulting Rihanna- his girlfriend. Brown has been determined to shed off the past and the 2009 assault charges have significantly defined his music career.
Saturday, November 2, 2019
The Current System at BAAF Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
The Current System at BAAF - Essay Example In addition, the intranet may be configured to provide email access and web forum that will allow geographically distant office employees to coordinate on the product testing approaches and methodologies. This also entails the establishment of a prompt and organized communication interface for employees to locate and discuss issues with the relevant personnel online. In addition, the intranet may be configured to provide email access and web forum that will allow geographically distant office employees to coordinate on the product testing approaches and methodologies. This also entails the establishment of a prompt and organized communication interface for employees to locate and discuss issues with the relevant personnel online.4.4 Moreover, all the policies, manuals, checklists etc. that are required by employees to carry out their responsibilities, can be kept on the intranet; thus allowing easy access and complete information.4.5 This will enable BAAF to reduce their turn around time for product development; that will ultimately benefit customers and will also result in savings of high magnitude to the company, as it is estimated that for every week saved in R&D, the company gains up to à £ 1 million pounds per year. B) EXTRANET AND ITS LIMITATIONS5. Using Extranet to share information between Pharmaceutical companies5.1 It is estimated that if BAAF works in collaboration with different pharmaceutical companies in the market, they might be able to reduce the amount of work by sharing information with other companies; and eliminating the need to do everything themselves.à 5.2 In order for that to happen, the company can establish an extranet. Wikipedia compares extranets with intranets by stating that an extranet is similar to an intranet with the difference that intranets are generally limited to the employees while extranets can be accessed by outsiders including customers, suppliers and other authorized parties. The detailed comparison can be seen at < http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intranet>.5.3 However, using extranets to share information over the network has some disadvantages that may prove to be critical to the companyââ¬â¢s interests.Ã
Thursday, October 31, 2019
Toxicology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1
Toxicology - Essay Example This paper declares that pleasure can be described as a ââ¬Å"state or feeling of happiness and satisfaction resulting from an experience that one enjoys.â⬠. Pleasure can serve to promote addiction. The process is a complex neurobiological one, which relies on the reward circuitry or limbic activity. These processes involve dopaminergic signalling. Endorphins and endogenous morphinergic mechanisms may also play a role. Addictive drugs are able to act directly on the reward pathways. Reward pathways are linked to the brainââ¬â¢s limbic system. The euphoria induced by drugs enhances the activity of the brainââ¬â¢s pleasure and reward systems. This discussion stresses that various species show differences in the rate of development of tolerance and physical dependence. Even in the same animal, tolerance develops to drugs at different rates, which rules out the possibility of an alteration in drug absorption, metabolism, excretion, etc., as a basis for the tolerance. Although tolerance develops to many of the effects of the opiates, miosis appears to be resistant to tolerance development. The pupil may be always sensitive to opiates because of the existence of different types of opiate receptors whereas the drug receptors on the cells of different tissues become less sensitive to the drug at different rates. ââ¬Å"The most important point is that tolerance and dependence develop to different effects of drugs at different ratesâ⬠.
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
Regional Economic Cooperation Essay Example for Free
Regional Economic Cooperation Essay One of the most important developments in the world trade system in the 1990s has been the emergence of regional cooperation. The end of the Cold War reduced political tensions between countries in Asia as well as globalizing production processes and increasing vertical integration. Cities like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore have been lifting their populations out of poverty in part through cooperative arrangements with neighboring countries. Transnational economic zones have utilized the different endowments of the various countries of East Asia, exploiting cooperative trade and development opportunities. Transfer of technology and manufacturing between nations has allowed them to develop sequentially. Information technology has improved linkages between economies and put remote regions in contact with the world. The private sector provides capital for investment; the public sector provides infrastructure, fiscal incentives, and the administrative framework to attract industry. Regional cooperation is now considered the means of enhancing economic development and providing economic security within the regions. Trade among ASEAN members accounted for more than 23% of all trade by member nations in 1994, topping that of any of the groups major trading partners. Singapore has concentrated on becoming the technology center for Southeast Asia, sending labor-intensive operations to low-cost neighboring countries like Malaysia and Indonesia in special mutual cooperative trade and development arrangements known as growth triangles or growth polygons. The Southern Growth Triangle, also known as SIJORI (Singapore, the Johore state of Malaysia, and Riau Province of Indonesia), was formed in 1989 and covers a population of about 6 million people. It attracted $10 billion in private sector investments during its first five years. Such regional economic cooperation has occurred in other Asian regions as well, spurring economic development. Growth triangles are expected to be a continued driving force for growth in Asian economies throughout the 1990s. Four growth triangles have been established since 1989, involving parts of 11 countries. There are currently eight growth polygons in East and Southeast Asia, with additional triangles being planned. For example, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Chinas Yunnan Province have been discussing ways to develop the Mekong area since 1992. Regional cooperation provides a competitive model to attract investment and technology. According to the secretary general of ASEAN, Ajit Singh, These growth areas will have to be flexible to change where necessary, innovative, and always attentive to the needs of the investors and the businessmen. They also have to be aware that they are competing with much larger countries such as China and India, whose capacities for attracting investors are much greater than their own (Kruger 1996, 17). Asian capital markets are now watching the global economy, and large companies recognize their need to be involved in this fastest growing region in the world. The growth triangles typically group remote regions of the nations involved in an effort to exploit complementary assets within the groupings. For example, the Tumen Delta triangle integrates the capital and technology of Japan and the Republic of Korea with the natural resources of Russia and North Korea (i. e. , the Peoples Democratic Republic of Korea) and the labor and agricultural resources of China. The governments of Brunei, East and West Kalimantan, and North Sulawesi of Indonesia; Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan in Malaysia; and Mindanao and Palawan in the Philippines have given priority to expanding air and shipping routes within the East ASEAN Growth Area, another polygon. Where all parts of the polygon are at similar levels of development, growth is expected to be slower. Singapore has provided capital and technology for developments in Malaysia to support SIJORI. Thailand is expected to provide capital and experience in developing the Mekong polygon. It will encompass a population of over 400 million people offering low wages, rents, and land costs. The Southern China Growth Triangle The Southern China Growth area comprises Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the southern provinces of China (Thant et al. 1994). Because China lags behind Taiwan and Hong Kong considerably in economic development and has a very large population, growth in this triangle has enormous potential. Establishment of this triangle was spurred by market forces and private sector initiatives rather than by policy coordination among the countries. However, government policies have supported the economic links that were instituted. The PRCs economic reforms and open door policy initiated in 1978 laid the foundation for economic success in Guangdong and Fujian provinces. Establishment of Chinas first Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in 1980 provided for tax concessions, expanded land use rights, and simplified procedures for foreign investment. Policies for land use, finance, and trade were designed to reduce transaction costs and to provide greater access to the domestic as well as the world market. Policies formulated within the SEZs themselves have been even more liberal than those in other parts of the triangle. For China, the triangle has provided exports, foreign exchange, and employment as well as access to the larger global economy. Rapid economic growth and higher incomes have occurred in Guangdong and Fujian Provinces with materials and components from Taiwans manufacturing sectors and the support of Hong Kongs advanced services sector. Geographical proximity and common language are the most compelling factors for capital to move across the border from Hong Kong into Guangdong Province, or for investment to flow across the Formosa Strait from Taiwan to Fujian Province. Cantonese is a Chinese dialect spoken in both Hong Kong and Guangdong, while Fujianese is spoken in both Taiwan and Fujian. For Hong Kong and Taipei, the triangle has provided a means of implementing structural changes in manufacturing and export patterns at minimal cost. In spite of recent political posturing on the part of China, economic planners in Hong Kong and Taiwan are optimistic that economic logic will continue to drive regional integration. Low-Cost Sourcing As Japanese and U. S firms seek to reduce the cost of their latest innovations, they are outsourcing production to low-cost contract manufacturers. China has a growing number of low-cost parts and components suppliers. With a minimum of overhead and a large pool of low-cost labor in China, there is a growing list of high-quality vendors in China. The continuing miniaturization of products has lead to joint ventures with companies from Japan, the United States, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and other Asian countries. The success of these firms is dependent upon providing competitive value in a timely manner. Low-cost board assembly operations in China utilize the latest SMT equipment required by new computer and telecommunications products. Capital intensity will increase as IC packaging and SMT assembly operations are installed. In the 1980s, Korea and Taiwan provided the first step in the cost reduction chain by providing the most advanced process capabilities. Singapore and Malaysia became additional sources for contract manufacturing with the establishment of global vendors like SCI and Solectron. Today, further cost reduction is possible by moving production to lower cost regions like China and the Philippines. Wongs Electronics in Hong Kong provides a three-step process for cost reduction that includes low-cost labor, low-cost sourcing, and low-cost production designs. Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, and China are considered the home of lowest-cost manufacturing competitors in the electronics industry today. They offer limited component technology or product design skills, but provide many low-cost suppliers of generic, low-technology components. Since low-cost manufacturing countries generally lack the technologies required to become industry leaders, they must follow the technology trends as quickly as possible. OEM competitors from Taiwan and Singapore are being forced to open branch plants in China or other Southeast Asian countries to produce the most labor-intensive, cost-driven products.
Sunday, October 27, 2019
Practical Application Of Lewins Force Field Analysis Change Model Nursing Essay
Practical Application Of Lewins Force Field Analysis Change Model Nursing Essay The aim of this paper is to to describe practical application of Lewins (1951) force field analysis change model in reducing Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients length of stay (LOS) in a Tertiary Care University Hospital. Introduction: This paper reports on a change from 6.5 days to 4 days reduction in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients length of stay (LOS) in a Tertiary Care University Hospital. The change was embedded with systemic assessment, planning and implementing standardized strategies for all ICU long stay patients and finally evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of ICU bed utilization with multidisciplinary team approach. Change is inevitable for the reason that it ingrained human lives, core processes and system reforms. Day by day many changes have been observed in health care; associated with disease processes explicitly from prevention to rehabilitation, health care norms and nomenclature, infra structures modifications, policy matters, reengineering and system transformation. Different components of health care depends on one another for assembling such changes in order to produce work like from providers to payers, hospitals to suppliers, education to regulatory bodies and research to professional associations; all these are interlinked to perform function. Many of the above stated happening are planned however at times nature takes its own turn to act as a catalyst for change for example natural occurrences like tsunami, some crucial system analysis like break through reports from Institute of Medicine (IOM) on patient safety and the quality of care provided to all the health care customers. Th ese were just simple examples of revolutions in health care taken place on an ongoing basis. Traditionally it is believed that changes are always for the betterment however at times it has been observed that this phenomenon is proven to be cynical and challenging especially when it is not made in a haphazard manner, without pursuing change management principles. Addressing the challenge of change Fetherston et.al (2009) stated that: Managing changing in the health care setting is always challenging, especially when it involves transforming entrenched habits grounded in professional expectations (p.2581). Despite change involves resources like human, material and cost and therefore whatever is proposed for change need to be evaluated for its effectiveness and efficiency, applicability, and consequences. It also depends on the team we are working with and there are times when the team building is so strong and the communication between the team is such that adopting to a new concept is very easy versus if the team members are not on same wavelength and have a lot of differences of opinions failure to reach to a simple consensus. Coch and French (1948) concluded that rate of recovery when learning a new task is directly proportional to the amount of participation. To improve understanding of change dynamics Armenakis and Harris (2011) recommends that readiness for change is distinguished from resistance to change and readiness is described in terms of the organizational members beliefs, attitudes, and intentions. Change agent is a very important contributor to make change happen constru ctively and productively. The personal and professional characteristics, interpersonal competency all these aspects are dependent to an outcome of change. Another factor involved in change process seems to be very crucial is the timeframe require for change. Is it a short term or a long run change which is going to measure and monitor, what about the sustainability of the proposed change etc. In order to have successful change Kotter and Schlesinger (2008) recommends and put idea in practice (Appendix) and suggested that analyze situational factors, determine the optimal speed of change, and consider methods for managing resistance (p1, 2). According to Lippincott-Raven Publishers 1986 Crucial to facilitating change is selecting a strategy that is likely to produce the desired change with minimal time and resistance. Background In todays health care setting, organizational change is essential for growth and development to keep up with the market competition Although health care continues to be enmeshed with ongoing challenges of cost, technologies, access to health care, human resources, quality inconsistent with an arena where error rates are too high there are multiple growing opportunities to improve client care management and service delivery components. Changes have been observed in clinical practice based on evidence based research resulting in application of new technology, diagnostics, drug regimes, treatment profile, care monitoring and finally the patient outcomes. All these are direct provision to a customer and perhaps if we look at the wider base it heavily involves all support functions available for patient care and employees of the organization. How all these are managed with patient flow and activities? Who is accountable? Change has both individual and institutional significance; and addre ssing its importance Watwood et al. (1997) shared that à ¢Ã¢â ¬Ã ¦changes à ¢Ã¢â ¬Ã ¦ bring opportunity for personal and institutional growth and development (p 162). When it comes to an institutional change; it has emphasized that it should complement the philosophy, mission and vision of the organization. Therefore Heller Arozullah (2001) identified four key factors for successful program development and achievement and those were: aligning the program with the strategic goals of the organization; obtaining active senior leadership commitment, including allocated resources; securing the appropriate infrastructure to facilitate integration of recommended actions into daily practice; and setting up systematic communications with all involved stakeholders (p551) Several challenges exists in system when it comes to a revolution however factors define by Heller Arozullah (2001) would help in embarking change in a more structured manner. ICU is a consolidated area of a hospital where patients with life-threatening illnesses or injuries receive round the clock specialized medical and nursing care. Intensive care is one of the hospitals most complex and expensive medical systems. As medical care has improved, the type of patients treated in critical care units has changed from those with acute illnesses to those suffering from complications of chronic diseases. While better technology and better ways of taking care of patients has improved longevity and general health, the patients in the intensive care units of hospitals are getting sicker and globally these beds have a high demand based on the critical needs of patients and it doubles the need in an arena where these resources are very scare and inadequate This would augment medical care required, cost of care and excess use of resources when they are not required. Long stays in the intensive care unit are associated with high costs and burdens on patients and patien ts families and in turn affect society at large. Williamss et.al (2010) states that: It has been estimated that between 2% and 11% of critically ill patients require a prolonged stay in ICU, accounting for 25-45% of total ICU days, and a significant proportion of resources(p 459) The cost of caring for patients in ICUs in the United States has been estimated to account for 1% to 2% of the gross national product shared by (Miller et al. 2000, Seeman David 2004) ) whereby Haugh (2003) stated that 15% to 20% of US hospital costs represents 38% of total US healthcare costs. According to Miller et al. (2003) the total number of hospitals, hospital beds, and inpatient days decreased during the years 1985 to 2000, the number of critical care beds and days in critical care increased dramatically during the same period Whereby Stricker et al (20037) found that only 11% of patients admitted to the ICU stayed for more than 7 days, these patients used more than 50% of ICU resources. Furthermore, in several studies (cited in Ryan et al 1997, Wong et al 1999) the mortality of patients with ICU admissions lasting 14 days or longer was estimated to be nearly 50%. Rosenberg et al. (2001) shared that Mortality rates are higher in ICU than in any other area of the hospital due to the complexity of patients medical condition. Fakhry et al (1996) found that 70% of patients with stay longer than 2 weeks reported less than 50% functional recovery. Esserman e t al (1995) found that 32% of ICU resources were spent caring for patients who survived less than 100 days after discharge from the hospital. In a tertiary care university hospital where I am presently working patients were found to be stuck in the ICU and have longer stays and in the month of January 2009 it was found to be 8.4 days and subsequently in the following quarter 1 it was 6.5 days (refer appendix 1). When explored, multiple factors aroused (refer appendix 2) and therefore to address this concern a multidisciplinary team was formed. It was proposed to undertake the work of reducing patients length of stay in ICU and therefore it the goal was to reduce patients length of stay from 6.5 days to 5.5 days in the second quarter for the year 2009. Rogers and Shoemaker (1971) framework was used to appraise the various component of the proposed change in order to identify its strengths and weaknesses.à Team assessed its relative advantages to current situation and felt that it is worth spending the time and effort for the given scenario, change seems to be appropriate and compatible with existing philosophy of the clinical area, easy to be understood and applicable by all bedside staff. Moreover the project was trialable to a pilot à before going the whole way and relevant to organizational goals. Discussion Changes will continue as an adaptation and at times mandatory in order to survive. Lot of literature is available when it comes to the change management in health care setting. There are models available to address organizational change, system revolution, and human transformations which address many other aspects of successful implementation of reforms. Change process follows the same course as of nursing process and problem solving approaches. According to Christensen a Christensen b (2007) Lewins (1951) theory of transitional change is the most used form of change implementation strategies. The change we were supposed to undertake; this theory appeared to address many aspects of it and therefore the mechanism for identifying the social system within organization for selecting, developing and implementing the strategies to serve as a solution was done by application of this model. According to course notes Lewins widely cited, classic model of the change process, the three changes are: Unfreezing, where faced with a dilemma or disconfirmation the individual becomes aware of the need to change; changing where the situation is diagnosed and new models of behaviour are explored and tested and finally, refreezing where the application of new behaviour is evaluated and adopted. (p53) Huber (2006) states that: The basic concept of the change process was outlined by Lewin A successful change involves three elements: unfreezing, moving and refreezing. (p810) Fetherston et.al (2009) emphasized the importance of major change like this and endorsed that: Where a major change is implemented, models such as Lewins (1951) model of unfreezing, changing and refreezing can be a useful guide Baulcomb (2003) states that This theory places emphasis on the driving and resisting forces associated with any change, and to achieve success the importance lies with ensuring that driving forces outweigh resisting forces. Driving forces tend to initiate change or keep it going whereas restraining forces act to restrain or decrease the driving forces. The intention to reach a state of equilibrium (p277). Unfreezing Lewins change approach fall within three steps and this is the first one where the process of thawing out the system to create motivation for change. Its like getting the team warming up to play their cards; getting everybody on the same wavelength and organizing. Huber (2006) shared that the first stage is cognitive exposure to the change idea, diagnosis of the problem, and work to generate alternative solutions. (p811). Though it was a great challenge for the team however the process of systemic assessment and unfreeze stabilizing the team readiness was initiated for the said change. Different strategies were brain stormed in a multidisciplinary team.ICU patients length of stay was gathered prospectively. Potential predictors were analyzed for possible association with prolonged ICU stay. Driving and restraining forces were studied (Appendix ) Moving Then we proceeded with the second stage of Lewins theory i.e., moving and changing. It involves moving a target system to a new level maintaining equilibrium; viewing the problem from a new perspective, situation is diagnosed and new models of behaviour. This stage was determine through formation of ICU long stay committee with terms of reference, notification of long stay patients stayed in ICU for more than 7days or earlier if deemed necessary to all concerned, holding meeting with primary team everyday to discuss next course of action, identification of patients difficult to wean, patient requiring early tracheotomy to maximize discharge process, initiating daily rounds by multidisciplinary team with primary team. Furthermore, introducing expected admission discharge time (EADT) to facilitate bed identification. According to Hoda (2008) length of stay (LOS) may be influenced by the availability of appropriate high dependency units to discharge patients. Review on daily basis the n eed for bed for inpatients and emergency. Admission /discharge policy was reinforced through multidisciplinary approach. Alternate accommodation in other units like CICU and CCU which has same bed accessories and uniform care provision were identified. Early tentative beds are booked in wards before rounds in order to facilitate early bed arrangement and patient transfer. Refreezing The final stage is refreezing. In this stage new developments are incorporated and improvements are made to stabilize the selected strategies to ensure the sustainability of the project. Daily check at unit and divisional level by bed management coordinator and ICU team. Monitoring on shift bases by charge nurses and nursing supervisors. Interventions involving palliative care, ethics consultations, and early decision about patient transfer and orders writing, family willingness and readiness and other methods to increase communication between healthcare personnel, patients, and patients families were helpful in decreasing length of stay in the intensive care unit. Thus, interdisciplinary communication played a vital role in improving ICU patients LOS whereby its importance is being defined by Pronovost et al (2003) and point out that communication failures lead to increased patient harm, length of stay (LOS), and resource use (p71). Hence to a major extent the daily communication st rategy worked out very well and the team was successful to bring about this change. ICU length of stay was 6.5 days in quarter one and it was reduce to 5.6 days in the second quarter for the year 2009 and consequently to 4.8 and 4 day in third and fourth quarter of 2009. Fetherston et.al (2009) stated that: When change is managed in systematic steps with adequate evaluation and communication throughout the process, it is more likely to result in successful outcomes. (p 2582) Evaluating the Change Project s took place and was received very positively. Following are the most important attributes I have experienced for this successful change like it was logical, efficient, and planned not haphazard then it was based on explanation of reason for a change so that individuals understand it. After that it was very informative and staff supported change when they were involved in assessment and planning. Change agent interpersonal competency and expertise (knowledgeable) of the given task was outstanding and hence the monitoring feedback on timely basis -to ensure that all team members is on same wave length wa carried out in a very sposticated manner.
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