Ceremony of marriage in Islam Essay

In Islam, marriages are a very important event most Muslim weddings are arranged, in order for an arranged marriage to take place both the boys/girls side must give consent, with arranged marriages both families make sure that the boy’s/girl’s (and their family’s) reputation and history is accepted in society and that they have no flaws which would bring a bad name on their family all this is checked before the husband/wife enters into their family. A Muslim boy/girl have to choose their partners very carefully as it is an arranged marriage and they are expected to spend their whole life with a stranger they have to get to know them and know all their ways of living and habits etc†¦ before they agree to marry them although sometimes the parents of the girl/boy are very strict and may not allow this to happen they may just decide for their son/daughter to get married to someone without asking their opinion this may be a problem sometimes as the married couple may not get along or there may be other problems, another problem with arranged marriages is that if the parents of the Muslim girl/ boy agree to the marriage without the daughters or/ sons consent then it is like they are deciding the fate if their child without the child having a say in it, but mostly this is not the case and the girl/boy is asked their opinion about the person they are going to marry because Muslims believe that a marriage which is forced is doomed t o failure. In Islam getting married to a member of your family whether its intermediate or distant family is very common. The majority of Muslim marriages are arranged although there are a few love marriages but in the Muslim community love marriages are not really an option and it seen as a very dangerous thing to do sometimes muslims regard being under the influence of love’ as a intoxicating state of mind that could easily cloud judgement. Parents are thought to find good compatible partners for their children and sometimes they do no agree to give consent to love marriages. Muslims are encouraged to have an arranged marriage although sometimes people have a mixed marriage this is allowed as long as it is a Sikh, Indian, or a Christian person. If an Muslim gets married then the wife has to follow the husbands religion and convert the children have to follow their fathers religion but it is preferred to get married to another Muslim because this way their community expands and Islam as a whole expands. When the marriage is decided upon (arranged) before the wedding many other celebrations and ceremony’s have to take place. Such as the engagement where both the girls and boys family gets together and have an engagement ceremony where the bride and groom get together and exchange rings the other event is the Mahr (dowry) The Mahr is the dowry paid by the husband to the wife. It is a sum negotiated by the husband and wife, which she can keep when or if they later get divorced, if the wife wants to get divorced without the consent of her husband she can but only if the mahr is returned. It is against, the sunnah of the prophet to demand high dowries or not give to give a dowry at all or pay the brides father in compensation for his daughters services at home. After this follows the actual Nikah (wedding) the Nikah is a simple affair the ceremony is plain and simple consisting of readings from the Qur’an and vows are exchanged in front of witnesses. There are also a few prayers recited for this happy occasion the imam is present and no religious official is necessary. The bride does not have to be present as long as she sends her ‘wali’ or marriage representative and also two witnesses of agreement to the wedding and she can be at home. The signing of the Nikah (wedding) contract’s can be changed the original date by weeks or even months or years just like with the prophet and his wife Aishah. If the girl is at home they declare three times that she accepts the wedding. Nikah is not considered to be a sacred contract or ‘made in heaven’ but is a binding contract giving the husband and wife both equal rights and responsibilities. Due to the fact that ‘ love’ is not necessarily present at the time a bride can include into the contract certain conditions that would help her if she later wished to have a divorce she could also make it clear that she does not give permission to allow her husband to have a second wife. After the Nikah follows the Walimah this is the actual wedding party the bride may not dress up for the Nikah but she will certainly dress up for the Walimah. The walimah usually consists of the actual wedding feast it can take place within three days of the couple living together. Presents are usually given presents given are usually money. It is a tradition to have huge expensive parties in some societies but this is not religious or part of Islam, the prophet disapproves of lavish especially if it causes problems between the husband and wife.

Bmw Swot Analysis Essay

Logo-BMW’s white-and-blue logo is recognizable worldwide, and recalls the company’s start as an aircraft engine manufacturer. It symbolizes a pilot’s view through a propeller as alternating white and blue segments. †¢Most successful multi-brand premium car manufacturer-BMW has three brands, BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce. They delivered 141,952 BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce automobiles in 2007 and sales increased by 7. 4% from the previous year. †¢Super luxury Rolls Royce car-The Rolls-Royce phantom holds the number one position in the super-luxury car segment. The Phantom was launched in 1993, and the final assembly, as well as all-wood and leatherwork are custom made for each customer’s individual specifications. The plant where they are produced, the Goodwood plant in England, contains only two robots to paint the space frame body; all other work is done by hand, in keeping with the Rolls-Royce tradition. †¢Spends one of the highest revenues on R;D-BMW Group employs about 8,000 people worldwide within the research ; development (R;D) network and has invested millions of dollars over the years. They employ engineers, designers, model builders, computer experts, and scientists of various disciplines FIZ co-ordinates and optimize research activities across the group to create the BMW cars of the future. †¢Brand-BMW ranked in the top 20 most recognized global brands. BMW is now the only multi-brand automaker that utilizes a pure, premium brand strategy. The objective behind this strategy is to generate higher income per vehicle on the basis of products with a high intrinsic value and a strong brand image. Their brand ranked number 15 in 2006. Longevity-Bavarian Motor Works (BMW) was formed in 1916 after two small aircraft engine manufacturers merged. In 1923, BMW began to build motorcycles, then its first car in 1928. †¢Driving School-Many manufacturers have associations with driving schools; BMW runs its own. The BMW Performance Center, adjacent to the BMW Manufacturing facility in Spartanburg, attracts owners and prospects from around the country for an ultimate br and experience. †¢Sales-BMW is one among the leading players in the premium cars segment. It achieved a record sales volume of 1,373,970 units in 2006. BMW is ranked among the ten largest car producers globally. Awards/Recognition-Reflecting BMW’s commitment to developing quality and innovative products, the company has been honored with several awards in the past. For example, BMW was presented with the ‘Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany’ in February 2006 for the BMW 6 Series Coupe and Convertible models. Presented by the German Design Council, the award was the highest official German design award. Following this, the MINI model of the company won the Golden Steering Wheel 2006 award in seven out of 15 categories, ten days ahead of its official market launch in November 2006. Formula 1-BMW won its first Formula 1 championship in 1983 using a four cylinder, 1. 5-liter production based engine. Of course it was turbocharged and could develop well over 1,000 horsepower, some say over 1,500 for short periods of time. BMW continues to field a Formula 1 team because it provides the ultimate in competition and thus the ultimate in learning for BMW. †¢Excellence through quality & innovation-BMW Group’s success is its strategic focus on developing customer-friendly innovations, coupled with an approach to innovations management that is unique within the motor industry Customize your own car-BMW has the option of seeing a sample of the car you’d like by selecting different options such as the color of interior design and exterior design, the wheels, the model etc. †¢Intelligent processes-the COSP(Customer oriented sales and production process) bases production on the customer’s customized version and not by company standards. They employ 70,000 workers in 23 different locations to build the customized cars. A customer can change or alter the options and style of the car right before it goes into production. †¢Environment-friendly-BMW considers environmental and recycling requirements. They use recycled products to build cars. They have environmental standards for all the plants throughout the world. They build cars that lower the amount of fuel consumption. †¢Superior technology and development of new products – BMW is doing this is by developing a hybrid engine as part of a global alliance. The aim of this development is known as a â€Å"two-mode† hybrid vehicle, combining a combustion engine with two electronic engines. This design is aimed towards improving the performance, fuel consumption, emissions and range of conventional hybrid vehicles. The primary goal of modern hybrid systems is to save fuel. †¢Commitment to customers – BMWs’ main goal is to focus on getting the product to the customer as quickly as possible. BMW has a program known as the â€Å"Customer oriented sales and production process. † This way, the customer is able to make any last minute changes to the equipment and accessories they’ve ordered shortly before the vehicle goes to assembly-without delaying the date of delivery. †¢Design Work – design process of building vehicles is done by California Innovation Triangle. This state of the art firm uses computers to help aid the process of design. The highlight of this facility is what the industry has begun to call â€Å"the model plate. † The model plate is a measurement system that transfers the contours of the object being scanned to computers where a 3D model is produced. The designers can then go in and make changes to the object through the computer in order to make the part as suitable for its intended use as possible. What makes this machine so rare is the size of object that can be scanned. The model plate can scan very large object, up to the size of an omnibus. With the use of this technology BMW and California Innovation Triangle are able to layout and design entire vehicles piece by piece. †¢Involvement in community – South Africa serves as good example of BMW’s social commitment. BMW works to bring change from within by enacting equality in the workface, and investing not only in the business, but also in education, healthcare and recreational facilities for employees. The factory at Rosslyn, near Pretoria, evolved from a CKD facility to serve the old South Africa, into a sophisticated facility that is now part of BMW’s international production-distribution network. This risk BMW took provided South Africa the ability to export. And in 2002, the South African factory captured the J. D. Power and Associates gold award for initial production quality. †¢Environmental commitment – BMW factories meet the demanding ISO 14001 environmental standards worldwide. This is not only true for the oldest BMW factory in the city of Munich and at 10 year old American plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, but also with new factories in emerging and less regulated markets like Thailand and Russia. Excellence through quality & innovation-BMW Group’s success is its strategic focus on developing customer-friendly innovations, coupled with an approach to innovations management that is unique within the motor industry. From features like the twin-flat motorcycle engine, V-shaped overhead valves, and hemispherical combustion chambers introduced on the classics of the 1920s and 30s, to modern technology including ABS brakes, Xenon lights, smart airbags, the head protection system, Valvetronic and iDrive, BMW constantly reinforces its credibility as a premium manufacturer Management-Chief executive, Norbert Reithofer, who took office on September 1, will be seeking to build on the Bavarians’ global momentum. Reithofer has a brilliant track record as head of production, such as combining lean manufacturing and Japanese-like continual improvement with benchmark flexibility for a premium automaker which gives BMW a big cost advantage over leading competition and making it tough for competitors like Mercedes to gain any ground. †¢Young customer base-With the Mini and series 3, BMW has a significant dvantage of gaining younger and first time purchasers over other luxury brands. The youth market is critically important because if a young buyer chooses a particular brand for a first car, he or she is more than likely to buy others with the same name plate as they mature and move up in the market. Even though buyers in the 16-35 age category only accounted for a small percentage of overall sales it is important to gain there sales because as the old marketing principle goes it is easier to keep a customer than to gain new ones. WEAKNESSES †¢New Models-Is it really worth developing new models? It entails expenses along with shipping prices. Each day BMW is striving to produce and develop new cars to satisfy the customers. In the long run, who actually knows if these cars are going to be a big hit. The company might actually be wasting their time and money in producing a model that will not be worthwhile. When developing and producing cars it is important to decipher whether or not the car will become one that is popular on the market. †¢BMW’s heavy cost German base. -More and more competitors are shifting product development activities to lower cost countries. BMW could be forced to negotiate a way to maintain cost competitiveness and its reputation for German engineering excellence made in different countries. †¢Price-Another weakness of the BMW industry is getting the customers to buy these cars. Yes, the hybrid vehicle will save you fuel, but it will be so expensive that it might be hard trying to find customers to buy them at such a high price. Another reason the price of the vehicle is so high is because they are shipped across the United States and also come from a factory in Germany. The expenses of the vehicles and the shipping rate are two key weaknesses that many companies must work with. †¢Motorcycle Sales-The European market accounts for more than 60% of BMW’s motorcycle sales on an average. The group is heavily dependent on this region with Germany being one of the largest markets for its motorcycles business. With the demand in Germany being highly inconsistent in the past six years, this high dependence on a particular region can have an adverse effect on the company’s sales, during periods of demand stagnation in the region. For example, BMW’s motorcycle sales in Germany declined by 9. % to 24,064 units in 2005, which further declined to 23,617 units in 2006. †¢Corporate image-too serious ad tradition-bound. †¢Hybrid Prices-These types of cars will save you a lot of money on fuel, but the problem BMW is having trouble with is pricing the hybrids. It would be hard for BMW to find customers that would buy the hybrids at a high cost. †¢Shipment Cost-Most of the cars are shipped from Germany to the United States. The shipping cost would affect the price of the car. This is one the expenses that the BMW company’s would have to deal with in pricing their vehicles for the customers satisfaction. Online Strategies-BMW is not winning the â€Å"information war† in the market place about its own customers, their attitudes, complaints, wishes, etc. BMW is not operating in a manner, which acts to â€Å"include† its customers including their meeting and information sharing sources. Existing online efforts do not meet consumer needs. There is a lack of â€Å"human intelligence† and an over-reliance on visual marketing in BMW’s on-line strategies. †¢Dealer Networks-BMW’s dealer network is in the midst of great change. Overall basic product margins are down while business infrastructure requirements are up. Many dealers do not feel that the field reps are there to help them build their business but rather just to comment arbitrarily and deliver business change requirements from BMW headquarters. There is a problem with two way information flow in the distributor-dealer relationship. Dealers feel that they are not being listened to and are also not being serviced in critical areas of their business by BMWNA staff. †¢Management-Dealers want to be able to discuss key elements of their business given their limited capital resources. Given the size and nature of he motorcycle market many dealers feel that BMW’s current policies are overly restrictive to the healthy development of their business and that BMWNA should operate in a more flexible manner which could be seen as co-development of a dealer’s franchise not just top-down management by memo. †¢Changing Consumer Environments-Also, as it appears that BMW’s dealer strategy is to move to larger centralized â €˜corporate style’ stores, many of the smaller ‘mom and pop’ dealerships that historically or currently serve a key segment of the BMW owners/riders are being alienated and/or eliminated. By following this policy of upgrade or be eliminated BMW is removing both the habitat in which the consumers live as well as the knowledge base and support structure from which they engage in BMW oriented motorcycle commerce. OPPORTUNITIES †¢India-The Company has been launching several new initiatives and has been widening its product base since 2001. The company expects ample growth opportunities in India, and it is keen on expanding its bases in these countries. †¢The expansion of the euro. -In May 2004 more countries adopted the euro making it the world’s biggest trading block. This offers ample opportunities for BMW to leverage its strong European position in the premium car segment to gather more market share across new and expanding markets. †¢A Chinese luxury car market-Rigorous attempt to get into the Chinese luxury car market signifies an increase in the earnings of the company over the coming years. China already ranks as the third largest market for BMW’s 7 Series luxury limousines. BMW predicts that vigorous growth will place China among the company’s seven largest markets in a few more years. †¢Diesel Power-BMW foresees an immense opportunity in the diesel-powered cars segment. Tourism-the Zentrum building is located in South Carolina. This gives tourists the opportunity to take a look at the history of BMW, also at the cars, the speed and innovation free of charge. It is the only BMW museum in the United States. It is also located next to the only BMW manufacturing plant in the United States. BMW should take a look into bu ilding more museums throughout the world. †¢Expansion-although BMW is very successful they should think about expanding their manufacturing plants throughout the United States and other countries. They only have one location in the United States which is in South Carolina. †¢Have the best and most current technology-It is important for BMW to have the best research and development staff where they can keep the company up-to-date with technology. With the latest technology and supplies, BMW can create the best cars the fastest and most efficient way possible. †¢Broaden information sharing -BMW should broaden information sharing amongst their dealers, distributors, and factory. This will improve product repair knowledge resulting in improved customer service and satisfaction. Improve and run their business based on their business plan-Improving the capabilities of dealers to sell more BMW products in the marketplace through refinement of their business plan †¢Utilize the Internet more-Multiply the value of the ‘human capital’ in the BMW network by â€Å"e-knowledge† and â€Å"e-training. † †¢Better training of their salespeople-Deve lopment and implementation of business practices that harness the best of each individual dealer and make their unique market position/skills a valuable part of the entire network. Partnering with Sirius Radio-In 2005, BMW partnered with Sirius Satellite Radio to promote its new 3-serious car for 44 days. BMW used Sirius to promote its new car because the radio station had 1. 24 million subscribers and still growing. On the final day of promotion it broadcasted a live concert with various artists. †¢Acquiring Volvo-The chairman of BMW, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, is plan on expanding the business with a fourth brand name, Volvo. Although sales of Volvo has been slow in the North American and Europe, its brand name focuses mainly on safety and its fashion appeal is not attractive to the eye. BMW could help out by acquiring the company to make it a more global brand, also in the Asian Market. †¢Apple iPhone-The new Apple iPhone is one of the next best things of phones. It is a touch screen phone with a built in iPod. This would give BMW the opportunity to integrate the iPhone into their cars. †¢China market-An opportunity for BMW is the increase in the luxury automobile market in china. The most significant growth of the luxury market can be attributed to Jiangsu province which has created an 84 percent increase. Next to Jiangsu is Guangdong, making 79 percent recorded growth in the market. On the other hand, Zhejiang province also bagged a 54 percent increase. THREATS †¢Demand Patterns-BMW operates in an industry that is prone to cyclical demand patterns due to consumer wants and needs. †¢Currency-Any unfavorable trend in Euro valuation against major currencies can hurt BMW’s performance. †¢Fuel Efficiency-While BMW continues to work on high performance, clean and efficient gasoline engines, the company is also committed to a green-house-gas- free hydrogen powered vehicle as a long-term strategy. At this time we have an active development program that will enable us still to bring to market a full size automobile, propelled with hydrogen, before the end of the decade. †¢The continuing decline of the dollar against the euro-This threatens to undercut BMW’s top-line thereby tempering its profitability. The euro to one-dollar ratio has dropped from 0. 702626 euros to 0. 690376 euros from October to November. †¢The rising price of raw materials -Materials such as steel threaten to offset the company’s earnings. BMW continues to face the rising cost of raw materials as the key challenge to maintain and improve their growth performance. The annual average market price of aluminum, copper and plastic rose by 34%, 76% and 13%, respectively, in 2006. Likewise, the price of industrial raw materials also increased by more than 30% in 2006. †¢Rising gas prices – with a weak U. S. market, steadily rising gas prices and gaining popularity in non-luxury vehicles there is the temptation to move down market.

Hrm Assessment

â€Å"(HRM is) a strategic approach to managing employment relations which emphasizes that leveraging people’s capabilities is critical to achieving sustained competitive advantage, this being achieved through a distinctive set of integrated employment policies, programmes and practices. † (John Bratton / Jeffrey Gold; Human Resource Management Theory And Practice, 2003) Although the terms Human Resource Management and Personnel Management are commonly used interchangeably, research has shown there are substantial differences between the two.Personnel Management focuses more on the management of employees and dealing with administrative tasks such as employment laws, contractual obligations and the payroll of the company, encompassing the range of activities to do with managing the workforce rather than resources. Human Resource Management takes a strategic approach to the overall management of not only workers, but their workplace and environment, focusing on aspects s uch as the safety, wellness, benefits, motivation, development and organization of employees.It can be said that Personnel Management is workforce centered; being largely about mediating between management and employees, while Human Resource Management is resource centered; concentrating on the planning, monitoring and control aspects of resources. There are four major stages in the evolution of Personnel and Human Resource Management as we know it today; social justice human bureaucracy consent by negotiation organization and integration Social justice Social justice was the budding stage in Human Resource Management, dating back to the 19th Century, when the work of social reformers such as LordShaftesbury and Robert Owen led to the appointment of the first personnel managers. Lord Shaftesbury was the leader of the Factory Reform Movement in the House of Commons and a key contributor to the Factory Act of 1847, which minimized the working hours of woman and children in factories t o 10 hours per day and made it illegal for kids under the age of 9 to be employed in textile factories. Robert Owen was a social reformer of the Industrial Revolution, who assisted the working class of England by helping ease labour hours and conditions, and the use of child labour. He also assisted in the employment standards of England.By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, some large employers started appointing welfare officers to manage new initiatives designed to make life easier for their employees, leading to higher productivity, improved retention of the workforce, and more applicants for each job. Notable welfare initiatives promoted by employers today include employee assistance schemes, childcare facilities and health-screening programmes. Human bureaucracy The term â€Å"bureaucracy† means â€Å"rule by office†. Bureaucracy is an organizational form used by sociologists and organizational professionals.The Industrial Revolution contributed to the devel opment of bureaucracies, and modern bureaucracy emerged around 1850. In the 1930's, German sociologist, Max Weber, studied new forms of organization being developed to manage large numbers of people in complex activities, his studies and work led to the popularization of the term. He discussed topics such as uniform principles, structure and hierarchy, merit system and specialization of job-scope. Weber described many ideal types of public administration and government in his work and many aspects of modern public administration go back to him.His research showed that large scale organizations were similar in specific ways and shared many similar features, concluding that each was a bureaucracy. Webster described bureaucracy as being the ideal way of organizing government agencies, and key in the continuing rationalization of western society. Websters principles were used throughout public and private sectors. He noted seven major principles; specification of jobs with detailed righ ts, obligations, responsibilities and scope of authority, system of supervision and subordination, unity of command, xtensive use of written documents, training in job requirements and skills, application of consistent and complete rules, assign work and hire personnel based on experience Another concept found largely in Weber's theories is rationalization, a process into which a person enters and applies practical knowledge to achieve results. While Webster believed bureaucracies were well organized machines that could accomplish any goal, he also noted disadvantages, one being that power shifted to only those individuals at the top, and could result in monocracy.Weber also discussed authority and sought to learn what gave power to an individual to be able to claim authority over another, such as man over woman. The success that bureaucracy produced during the industrial revolution and up to the late twentieth century, makes it the most relevant type of organisation for such indust ries. Weber's thoughts on bureaucracy have influenced modern thinking and many still hold true. The main ideas of his seven principles are still relevant to many bureaucracies that exist, making Weber a truly innovative thinker, who continues to influence society and business today. Consent by negotiationNegotiation means bargaining between two or more parties, each with its own aims, needs and views, seeking to discover a common ground and reach an agreement to settle a matter of mutual concern or resolve a conflict. Consent by negotiation helped develop Human Resource Management between the years 1935 and 1950, when a large increase in union membership in the United States drew more emphasis on labour relations and collective bargaining within personnel management. The importance of aspects such as compensation and benefits also increase, as unions negotiate paid holidays, vacations, and insurance coverage.HRM practices in firms are still regularly influenced by Unions. Companies which are unionized have to follow contracts which have been negotiated between the company and its union. These contracts control many HRM practices, including promotion, grievances, discipline, and overtime. Firms which aren't unionized can also be influenced by the threat of unions. For example, some companies make their Human Resource Management practices more equitable, treating workers more fairly, to avoid the chance of union representation by employees.Organization and integration The integrated phase of human resource management dates to the early 1970's to 1980's. In this period, it was focused on changing environment, such as individual experts in organization, specific areas, recruitment and training. In the late 60's, there was a change in focus among personnel specialists, from dealing mainly with the rank-and-file worker on behalf of management, to dealing with management itself and the integration of managerial activities.The development of career ladders and opportu nities for personal growth within organizations characterised this phase. â€Å"As the 1960's and 1970's unfolded, a more personable group of managers emerged, and their interest in people and feelings influenced all facts of business, including the growth of market research, communications and public relations. This group of managers, emphasized the relationship between employers and employees, rather than scientific management. Programs to increase wages and fringe benefits continued to be developed.New studies linked greater productivity to management philosophies that encouraged worker ideas and initiatives† (Losey, 2010, online) Opportunities for personal growth is still a concern of personnel managers to this day, with time and resources being spent on the recruitment and development of people who obtain expertise which the future of the business. Workforce planning and manpower techniques have also been developed by Personnel managers, focusing on the conceivable need for employees with various skills in the future.

Ethics as an un-necessary consideration to be successful in a Essay

Ethics as an un-necessary consideration to be successful in a competitive business environment - Essay Example Ethics as an un-necessary consideration to be successful in a competitive business environment Some of theorists has different ideas they said that self interest would require for a business to fulfil the law and adhere to essential ethical rules, because the cost of fading to do so might be extremely expensive in fines, loss of licensure, or company status. The economist Milton Friedman was an important advocate of this vision. Other theorists argue that a business has ethical duties that expand well past serving the comfort of its owners or stockholders, and that these duties consist of more than just following the law. They think a business has ethical responsibilities to supposed stakeholders, people who have a concern in the manner of the business, which might comprise employees, customers, vendors, the local community, or even society as a whole. They would state that stakeholders have firm privileges with regard to how the business works, and several would even propose that this even comprise rights of governance. The confirmation and fraction of the problem is the scarcity of data is varied. Surely, people are more aware of ethics in business. There is extra conversation between managers, and a few high-profile cases of companies doing their top to do the correct thing. But what is mainly astonishing is how little things have in reality changed. As ethics codes are commonplace, ethical mores remains all too uncommon. Information on whistleblowers specifies that for the most part are still disliked by their company and aristocracy, with many anguish relegation or absolute job loss. Accounting and responsibility have been the main concerns for restores belief, yet as recently as last quarter, the central accounting supervisory body in the U.S. reported that up to half of the yearly reports for 2004 had severe indiscretion in them. Clients are too sending diverse signals. They are usually smarter regarding ethical reflections yet do not essentially pursue through their concerns or morals in getting decisions. In the U.K., which has perhaps the most developed methods and trainings for business responsibility, sales for ethical brands are exploding, albeit from a tiny base. Corporate social responsibility Corporate social responsibility in general designates an enterprise's actions health and safety, ecological protection, customer security, society development, dealer relations, labour protection and personnel practices, as well as strategy sort such as production authority, business morals and stakeholder privileges. Stakeholders and the community in general are more and more aware of the impact of decisions by corporations on community and the surroundings. People recompense or penalize venture according to the means corporation's address commune's challenges. For their part, ventures are even more reaping the profits of corporate social responsibility in terms of enhanced status and branding, superior assessment by the investment community and stronger monetary act and profitability, for instance through eco-efficiency. Milton Friedman Friedman "was the most powerful economist of the second half of the 20th centurypossibly of all of it". (Alan Greenspan) "There are incredibly not many individuals over the generations who contain ideas that are suitably unique to significantly change the way of

Creating Your Dream Job Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Creating Your Dream Job - Essay Example According to Mike Myatt of N2Growith.com, â€Å"In order to meet increased consumer demand many businesses are attempting to expand their geographic footprint and extend their value chain to an international level.† (2013). Xcell is looking to expand into developing countries like India and China where workers endure harsh conditions and little personal safety. In the 21’st century, there is no room for cutting corners at the risk of human life. Just recently a collapsed building at a manufacturing plant in India claimed the lives of over 500 workers. Reports from Ethirajan, A of the BBC stated, â€Å"A total of eight people have been arrested, including factory owners and engineers, and they have been accused of negligence† and â€Å"Cracks had appeared in Rana Plaza, in the Savar district, the day before the collapse but the staff were reportedly told to continue work† (2013). This incident is sad reminder to many businesses regarding their workers and i s one of the main reasons Xcell LLC is working with host governments and business owners to avoid another similar event. According to the International Labor Organization (ILO) â€Å"An estimated 160 million people suffer from work-related diseases, and there are an estimated 270 million fatal and non-fatal work-related accidents per year† (2013). Many of the goods made in factories around the world fill the shelves of department stores here in the USA and those workers who provide them deserve to work in a safe environment. The incumbent must be able to negotiate and have a passion for safety and be willing to fully articulate the cost vs. benefit ratio to prospective clients and be comfortable speaking in front of large crowds. He or she must identify areas of concern and how they can be met by Xcell LLC security measures. Xcell LLC currently has several established relationships with businesses and government agencies in foreign countries and the incumbent must foster and develop these

Executive Summary on Technology Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Executive Summary on Technology - Research Paper Example As such, the potential of saving business costs and increasing its efficiency while at the same time offering reliable services to the clients cannot be overlooked. The benefits of adopting cloud computing are numerous though there are also some risks that may be incurred. But given the increasing benefits of this technology that a company can utilize, adopting it will be essential. The company will benefit from faster deployment of new business capabilities, lower-risk business innovation, global scale outreach, more intelligent IT spending and easier automation of IT services and information from the relevant sites. Some of the risks to be incurred include outsourcing to an external provider which gives the flexibility but does not eliminate the risks incurred; storage of data outside the company may be of great concern and the probability of vendor lock-in due to the different services provided by each vendor. With such details, the company can make better decisions on how to deve lop the technical ability of the company. Introduction The main aim of this report is to explore the benefits of adopting a different strategy on the technological front. ... Interactions within and without have become easier, faster and more secure with each party expressly meeting their demands with such minimal supervision but with constant communication being core. Thus, speed, cupped with technology adds flexibility and responsiveness to interactions. It also allows for far-reaching collaboration with different applications connecting larger business networks. This allows for the blending of talents and abilities which makes innovation quite an important aspect of the company. Adopting cloud will be important in realizing these goals and the report herein will look at all these important attributes that make up this important technological drive. Therefore, the benefits herein will ensure that the reasons behind such a proposal will be adequately addressed with each point being explored further to ensure all risks and benefits are addressed before a conclusive decision can be made regarding the same. Each decision has to be viewed in relation to the business core policies, goals and objectives with the best decision made in favor these rather than individual interests. What is cloud computing? Globalization has made it important for every company to seek ways of reducing the costs while increasing its flexibility, versatility and innovation to capture more clients. Cloud computing describes the storage of data through internet connections. This creates virtual data storage capacities which are virtually unexplored in many cases due to the huge capacity that they possess. This reduces the manual storage capabilities, making it easier to automate services and archive them with ease. This may be done via a private cloud where services and infrastructure are maintained and managed by a third party or the company;

Strategic Analysis Report on a company Research Paper

Strategic Analysis Report on a company - Research Paper Example The criteria on which these initiatives are based can be differentiated under the influence of the internal and the external organizational environment. Current paper focuses on the strategic positioning and decisions of a specific company: Macquarie Group, a leading Australian bank. The firm has managed to keep its competitiveness despite the pressures of the global economic crisis. The examination of the firm’s environment but also of its strategies led to the conclusion that the company’s growth has been mainly based on the continuous update of its strategic decisions and the close monitoring of its strategies’ development. It is concluded that through the above strategies the firm has achieved the continuous increase of its competitiveness towards its rivals in the Australian and the international banking industry. 1. Introduction Banks have a key role in the development of Australian economy; in fact, in accordance with a report of the Australian Bankersâ₠¬â„¢ Association, in Australia banks are ‘the third largest contributor to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product’ (Australian Bankers’ Association, 2011). It is for this reason, that in these institutions, ‘the staff enjoy excellent pay and flexible workplaces’ (Australian Bankers’ Association, 2011). ... has been kept high mostly because of the support offered by the country’s banking industry – the shares of which achieved a high increase (Banking Industry Today, 2011). In order to minimize the potential threats from the global crisis, the Australian government has announced in December its intentions to support the specific industry in case that such need emerges (Bloomberg, 2011). Moreover, in the report published in June 2010 by ‘Austrade’s Financial Services division’ (GovMonitor, 2010) it is noted that banking industry in Australia is facing a significant growth while ‘its collective financial wealth is predicted to surpass that of North America by 2013 and be worth US$13.5 trillion, accounting for 28 per cent of the world’s total’ (GovMonitor). 2. Macquarie Group - Overview Macquarie Group is one of the leading firms in the Australian banking industry; the firm was first established in 1970; currently, it operates in about 28 countries and the number of its employees has been estimated to ‘14,600 people’ (Careers, in the firm’s website, 2011). The alignment of the firm’s strategies with the business ethics and values is ensured and controlled through a detailed code of conduct; moreover, the monitoring of organization’s operations has been delegated to specific groups of persons, ensuring that all business practices follow the principles described in the firm’s corporate governance statement and its Goals and Values statement; the latter emphasizes on the promotion of six principles/ values through the organizational activities: ‘a) integrity, b) client commitment, c) strive for profitability, d) fulfillment for our people, e) teamwork and f) high standards’ (Goals and Values, in the firm’s website, 2011). The firm’s key

Power and Politics in Canada Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Power and Politics in Canada - Essay Example In addition, the Canadian Heritage oversees affairs relating to the royal family members’ visits in and outside Canada. The department of Canadian Heritage funds various native cultural objects namely languages, women’s programming, friendship centers, action Canada, arts presentation, scholarship for post-secondary students and language assistant part time package. The department also funds athletic activities, book publishing, broadcasting projects, multipurpose youth centers and museum initiatives. One of the Canadian Heritage Minister’s obligations would be to make provisions for funds in enabling institutions in other countries associated with Canadian national heritage. Also, institutions intending to purchase objects but for which export permits remain not granted would be funded by the department. Public funding follows the attainment of public authorities and designation of institutions requirements with a movable cultural property grant (Ivir, 2005). Ca nadian cultural objects remain significant in preserving Canadian traditions. Also, the activities for which public funding remains allocated have considerable contributions to the economic and social domains of the country’s economy. ... Furthermore, certain instances such as a sale from private entity and auction purchases may necessitate full funding after successful price negotiations have become achieved. Taking these requirements into consideration, it would be recommended that public funds be used to create and support Canadian cultural objects (Ivir, 2005). Canadian cultural heritage exists as a mosaic society continuously progressing into a more culturally assorted society under the influence of native Canadians as well as the Anglophone and francophone populaces. Constitutionally, the Canadian federal government shares the obligation for developing culture at the national level. In order to facilitate integrated planning and policy along with enhancing partnerships with Canada’s cultural society and the private sector in relation to cultural development, public funding for Canadian cultural objects becomes necessary. In addition, public funding would promote cultural involvement, encourage philanthrop y and voluntarism, and facilitate professional development and training in the arts. Most Canadian based arts establishments such as public galleries, museums and performing arts firms remain entirely nonprofit establishments thus making them eligible to become charitable establishments when tax considerations become considered (Ivir, 2005). Similarly, Canada’s corporate sponsorship for arts continues to grow dramatically in the previous decades thereby causing a proportionate increase in the demand for federal funding. However, only few foundations exist in Canada with the capability of supporting and developing arts activities. Additionally, the

Small Group and Team Communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Small Group and Team Communication - Essay Example Effective group decision making is based on cooperation and mutual agreements, trust and effective communication between team members. Salaman (2001) underlines that the ideal decision-making (group or individual) is unrealistic because change leads to uncertainty, and there is less uncertainty in the short run than in the long run. He uses examples of business failures to portray ineffective decision-making processes based on decision-making norms rather than careful analysis of the situation. Salaman (2001) states that: "central to decision-making is the notion of rationality. Rationality refers to the quality of thinking and decision-making" (p. 2). Organizations can be pretty sure that whatever long-term guesses they make will be wrong. Unfortunately, most worthwhile achievements are carried out in the long run and consequently require a long-term outlook (Fitzsimmons & Fitzsimmons 2004). Also, the ideal decision-making is impossible because of substantive rationality. Following Weber: "[decision-making] conveys only one element common to all the possible empirical situations" (Salaman 2001, p. 3). The departure often leads to painful changes in the project requirements, which are in turn important contributors to time and cost overruns. In this situation, long-term considerations are sacrificed to short-term exigencies. The corporate culture must extol the virtues of a long-term outlook. ... The best way to let people know the importance of this outlook to the organization is to create incentive systems that reward long-term behavior and to develop organizational structures that make it difficult to be a short-termer. A customer-focused culture requires a new attitude toward customers. Team and group decision making involves co-acting members with specialized knowledge, interacting to arrive at some valued decisions or outcomes. Teams have accountable membership, often work in unpredictable ambiguous environments, and process information (or enact various functions) for variable lengths of time. Team decision making is further complicated when it is supported by technology, such as decision support systems that are comprised of decision aids, informational data bases, computers, intercoms, telephones, video, and so forth. Decision making, as a term, no longer adequately fits the expanded activities that the team undertakes to solve a problem or reach an intended goal. In tellectual teamwork is possibly a better term to describe team decision making in technologically supported environments (Jeynes, 2002). Within this process, ethics becomes a crucial part guarding and controlling decision-making process. Ethics is as a set of moral principles that govern the action of an individual or group. Business ethics are concerned with truth and justice and include aspects which society expects. Two themes which emerged in literature are the role of the victim in the criminal justice system and the use of the criminal law as a resource. Decision analysis is a set of models and methods for helping people deal with difficult and stressful decisions (Hicks, 2004). The operating assumption of decision analysts is that a decision maker wishes to select the

Irony in the drama Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Irony in the drama - Essay Example Sophocles makes use of both of the mentioned ironies in order to present the story of Oedipus while on the other hand, Shakespeare also takes support of both of the mentioned ironies in the lieu of literary techniques. Both the protagonists of the plays are destined to their downfall. Even if they make decisions, they make it in order to support the prophecies made. In addition, the playwrights were interested to take their heroes towards tragic endings due to which, they enabled them to make their decisions that were in the interest of the tragic ending. If they had decided differently, still they were to meet their prophecies as structured by both the playwrights. In Oedipus the king, dramatic irony is employed at various locations such as the prophecy about Oedipus that he will murder his own father and marry his own mother is revealed at the beginning of the play and the audiences of the play are aware of the prophecy and the ending of the play. On the other hand, Oedipus is quite ignorant about the prophecy and its implications. Even, when he gains knowledge about this prophecy, he tries to change the prediction by moving away from the parents who adopted him (Knox 1998). Oedipus thinks that he will change the prediction by means of getting away from his parents and by leaving his state but in actuality, he moves towards his real parents and kills his father ignorantly. Later on in the play, Oedipus tries to find the murderer of Laios, his real father, unknowingly that he, himself is the murderer (Knox 1998). Oedipus ironically announces that he will avenge the murderer by saying: The example of verbal irony can be seen when Oedipus promises that he will avenge Laios like his own father and will take his murderer in chains. Here, Oedipus is not aware that he is the murderer for whom he is searching. Also in the above mentioned quotation, Oedipus not knowingly announces that he will avenge the murdered king as he would have avenged his father, which is a

Free

Free Will vs. Determinism Essay PHI/105 August 2010 Week 1 – Checkpoint 1 Arguments and Logic Free Will VS Determinism Free Will and Determinism are two separate beliefs, contradicting one another. Determinism is the idea that all matter in this known universe is created for a specific purpose; a specific action. Therefore, the behavior of all atoms are governed by their physical law; their purpose. Free Will is simply defined as humans having free will. Humans have the ability to choose their next action, thereby choosing their path to their future. In the excerpt given these two beliefs are in contradiction with one another and therefore cannot exist. One must believe in a single belief, not both. The arguments given for Determinism is that whatever an atom does, it must do in a given circumstance. By laws of nature and physics, it must behave in a specific manner. Following this argument, an atom must behave in manner â€Å"A† when in circumstance â€Å"Z†; therefore, if present in circumstance â€Å"Z,† the atom must behave in manner â€Å"A† in accordance with its physical laws. A behavior as a result of free will; however, is an event that did not have to happen, thereby contradicting the argument for Determinism. Free Will is an event that is the direct result of my actions because of my choices. Therefore, if an event were to occur as a result of Free Will, this event did not have to happen. For example, let us imagine that I am walking along a path and I choose, of my own free will, to pick up a rock and throw it. I could easily have chosen not to throw the rock; therefore, when I threw the rock, the atoms in my arm did not have to move even if this situation. Given this example, we will assume that Free Will is the correct belief, thus illustrating that it is not true that an atom must have done what it did, given the situation. If Determinism is true, then my arm would have moved and the rock been thrown, regardless of my choices and actions. The arguments for these beliefs seem logical in the fact that Determinism is relating to science and physics to illustrate the structure and behavior of atoms; the core component to all known matter. This argument provides a solid base for the Determinism belief, explaining that everything is preordained by its physical properties, and the Free Will is an illusion. Free Will, on the other hand, is given no scientific argument and is more common sense based in its belief. Free Wills argument is not to illustrate that it is true, but to show that Determinism is not true. While the arguments for both beliefs seem valid, I found there to be more weaknesss is the Determinisms logic. To say that all matter has a given physical law is correct and that is must behave in its intended manner. Atoms that compose the chemical makeup of fire will in fact burn you if too close; this is what fire does. The weakness in the Determinisms argument is saying that because you were burned, the atoms in that fire were designed to burn you. Nature has a set of principles in place. Gravity causes object to fall towards its pull, and the movement of two objects against one another creates heat the form of friction. These events are localized in their behavior, but not preordained. A rock that is thrown will glide through the air and descend towards earth again. My arm can throw a rock, or remain at my side. The atoms of the rock, make it a rock, but do not make it fly. The atoms in my arm are what bind muscles, bone, and skin, and make it my arm, but they do not make my arm throw the rock. Determinism is true to an extent, as is Free Will. Each of them play a part in our world. If I wish to throw a rock at a window, and not break the glass, my will alone is not enough to make it so. Determinism will then take over and act accordingly to the density of the glass, and the velocity of the rock. Both beliefs exist together, working together.

Oedipus Fate and Outline Paper Essay Example for Free

Oedipus Fate and Outline Paper Essay The play Oedipus the King, translated by Robert Fagles, is a story of drama and tragedy. Oedipus’ pride and morals cause him to take fate into his own hands and it ends up blowing up in his face. He was abandoned as a baby and was raised by the king and queen of Corinth. When he reached manhood, he was informed by an oracle that he would one day kill his father and marry his mother. He left Corinth forever and along his way he came to cart carrying his real father. Out of rage, he killed everyone including his father. In Thebes, he defeated the Sphinx. His reward was kingship and the dead king’s wife, his mother. Oedipus tried to change his future but eventually fate caught up with him. Oedipus, as a king, was both caring and conceited. He talked as though everyone should know his name but at the same time worked to solve the illness that plagued his people. As an investigator, he was harsh, determined, and at times mean to the ones that he interrogated. As a husband and father, he was loving and caring, and as an arch-criminal, he was humble and accepting. His most predominant characteristic is being moral. He ran when he was told that he destined to kill his father and marry his mother. He gouged his eyes out when he found out that he was married to his mother and fathered her children. The characteristics that soften his as being moral were that he was prideful and determined. His pride and determination caused the events of his life to be brought to light and made him look unmoral. His personality causes him to continue with the investigation because he is prideful, determined, and in denial. His determination drives him to push the investigation into who killed King Laius. His pride keeps him from being the royal scapegoat when asked to be. His denial that he actually killed his father, married his mother, and fathered her children kept him investigating the death of King Laius. Eventually in the end he accepts his fate which he tried to avoid for a long time. He accepted his fate which was a humble and noble act by a king. That’s what makes his act the greatest act of kingship of all. He sacrificed himself for the betterment of his people knowing that he had done wrong and needed to be punished. In this play, Oedipus tried so very hard to control his own fate from the time he reached manhood to when it caught up to him. His fate caught up with him. Everything he didn’t want to become and tried to avoid came true in the end. It was a tragic ending for a man who tried so hard not be who ended up being. Oedipus Fate Outline Thesis: Oedipus the King tries to take fate into his own hands and it backfires. I. Discuss the character Oedipus as king, investigator, husband, father, and arch-criminal A. King is caring, investigator he is determined, as a husband and father he is loving, and as an arch-criminal he is reluctant to give up power II. What seems to be his predominant characteristic A. the King’s predominant characteristic is that he moral III. Under what circumstances does he exhibit this characteristic A. He feels for his people and tries to find a cure for them to heal their suffering IV. What additional characteristics does he have that soften this predominant characteristic A. Pride and Determination, they were the down fall of Oedipus V. How does his personality essentially force him to first begin his investigation A. He is caring and determined to find a cure for his people, which turned into an investigation into who killed King Laius VI. In what way is this final acceptance perhaps the greatest act of kingship of all, thus showing forth his arà ªte in the best light possible A.

Public Opinions of UFOs and Previous Research

Public Opinions of UFOs and Previous Research DO THE OPINIONS PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT UFOS PROVE THAT UFOS ARE THERE? Introduction Edward U. Condon, 1968, defined UFO (short for unidentified flying object), as an object seen in the sky and thought to be capable of flight , which observers could not identify. Most scientists studying UFOs adopt such a definition. According to Ruppelt,1956, the first reported photograph of a UFO was made on July 4th, 1947 in Seattle, Washington. Edward U. Condon, 1968 presented a scientific study on UFOs, which influenced the research of UFOs. Since that time, Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), Center for UFO (CUFOS) Centre Nationale d~tudes Spatiale Studies (CNES) Group d~tude des Phhnom5mes Ahrospatiaux Non-Identifiis (GEPAN) has emerged to carried out UFO research. (P. A. Sturroc, 1987). The UFO phenomenon has puzzled the public and the scientist for almost half centuries. According to Patricia B. Corbett, 2015, about 70% American believed that UFOs were real at the beginning of the 21st century. Literature review Don Berliner, 1995, UFO was reported in Government Statements, some was discovered by Radar , some was witnessed by narrator , some was observed by telescope. The Air Force Environmental Technical Applications Center released 3,200 UFO reports received during 1947 -1952. According to Menkello, F.V.,1969, Most UFOs could be observed in daylight with simple geometric shapes: spheres, discs, cylinders and triangles. Gillmor, Daniel S.1969 reported two witnesses observed UFO, silvery, metallic disc-shaped ,10m diameter as well the geometric, psychological and physical factors investigated . The purpose of this study is to establish whether the opinions of the public in regards to UFOs prove the existence of UFOs. Nearly all of the world’s populaces that have held in reserve written accounts of epochs gone by havedocumented the hearings and sightings of weird objects and illumination in the firmament. These objects have often been depicted as gleaming wheels, colored orbs light beams, and diskshaped bits and pieces. In the present day, inexplicable airborne phenomena are in general known as or rather christened- unidentified flying objects (UFOs) or flying saucers. Innumerable accounts of UFO sightings are present and are properly acknowledged in the literature of the study of the class of UFOs. This area of study is extensively known as ufology (Jacobs, 1975). I will discuss various literary works on whether the opinions people have about UFOs prove that UFOs are there. This paper will critique the literary works as well as answer questions like whether there are really UFOs in existence? Whether the reports on the existence of UFOs are conclusive? Different literary works will be examined and critiqued to make a final conclusion on the farfetched ideology of UFOs. The author’s individual records consist of the prime case papers of various past literary works. There are also almost certainly a few aural discussions with key onlookers to the apparent existence. This is a minor primary data base matched up to with the bona fide long-standing case investigators in the field. Some of them are in possession of or have ready contact to the USAF Project Bluebook microfilms consist of all accessible project exploratory papers from the year 1947 to the year 1969 recording almost thirteen thousand sightings. Informal readers would be implausible to encounter an opportunity to interpret such documented documentation even if they aspire to. The closest that such a booklover can get to such data is to interpret either a comprehensive exploration of an exact case assembled by a key case investigator or compilation of facts (Menzel Tavez, 1977). An immense pool of scientific information on UFOs can mostly be found only in the published accounts of witnesses. In addition to it, it can be tapped by the vigilant investigation of particulars in distinct well-documented proceedings or in the amalgamation from many analogous instances. Legitimacy of the facts is guaranteed when the records comprise of scientific information that possibly will not probably have been acknowledged to the witnesses. Oddly enough, evidence from uncomplicated, normal people can as a result be the most priceless. It is necessary to put one’s interest upon the observable fact documented rather than the personality of the witness or supplementary diversionary matters. At the time a UFO generates some noticeable outcome in our surroundings, it should be acquiescent to methodical investigation; that is, it is supposed to have a rational elucidation. As a consequence, proficient examination of UFO sightings and stories will more often than not unveil t he precise mechanism that generates the pragmatic effect, or at least recognize one that may be dependable. All experimental consequences of UFOs, apart from entirely mechanical procedures and objects, carry propositions of gravitational and electromagnetic fields in their locality. The impacts that the sightings of extra terrestrial beings or rather objects can bear an unfavorable influence onthe populace if predisposed in the wrong way. There is no concrete attestation that shows that UFOs arein existence, nevertheless scores of the reported sightings cannot be verified otherwise. The facts from the mainstream media, stories, ora person’s own understanding may time and again manipulate what someone perceives to be true. Various administrations had onceavowed that they had gotten a hold of some extra terrestrial beings and objects. On theconverse, a good number of scientists currently seem to be in agreement that approximately all sightings and accounts ofextra terrestrial beings and objects are not bona fide. Since the year 1948, the United States of America administration has proceedingsof many UFO sightings, including photos of alleged UFOs andinterviews with people who claim to have seen them. In view of the fact that UFOs were cut out as an impendin g security threat the details on these sightings were in the beginningtaken as state secret. As soon as the report was soon after declassified itgave evidence that 90 percent of each and every UFO sightings could be explained without any difficulty (Craig, 1995). The past accounts of UFO sightings and their societal and opinionated perspective and consequences comprises of the extensive subject matter of this study and offers a position for scrutiny of how experts deal with both in public and in confidence, incongruities that come out in relevance to science. The systematic appraisal of unidentified flying objects, specially undertaken by the Air Force in the year 1968 and christened as the Condon Report; accords a multifaceted case for the investigation of how the results and conclusions of the exploration were predisposed by all that had transpired on before in the area of ufology (Hauck, 1976). As per the deductions of this case study on how experts conduct themselves when faced with uncharacteristic phenomena, one could investigate substitute models that may be productive to the study of contentious research topics. One may carry out a textual investigation of Air Force intelligence of UFOs and evaluate them with sighting accounts of the public. The proof concerning UFOs incidental and sprouts from individual authentication and eyewitness stories, which are not approved as conclusive evidence; the witnesses act as the tool of breakthrough. In ufology, the most important researchers are proletarian; as a consequence the proof is indefinite and colored by the standpoint and structure of allusion of the individual researcher. Currently, there are many accounts on diverse aspects of the UFO phenomena based on people’s opinions but this does not validate their existence. Don Berliner et al, 1995 presented case history of UFOs during the period 1944-1994.These cases were from thousands of unexplained UFO reports. Some were witnessed by expert, some were described in detail. Some were authenticated . they formed the basis of the UFO mystery. These case histories offered clear patterns for research and should not be consider as collection of disparate observational errors. Each of the cases represented one or more characteristics of UFO reports: physical traces, radar/visual detection, air-to-air sightings and multiple witness observations etc. Most of these cases involved government activity to some extent. Research  Questions The question in studies of UFO photographs is â€Å"does the report have any probative value in establishing the existence of UFO?† and the secondary question is â€Å"what is the final explanation of each photograph?†(Edward U. Condon, 1968) Don Berliner et al, 1995 said the primary question â€Å"if UFOs are so different from all known phenomena, what are they?† still remained. Patricia B. Corbett ,2015 give his answer to the two question â€Å"What is needed to change the prevailing view of mainstream science concerning UFOs?† and â€Å"what do scientists need to conduct a serious investigation of the UFO phenomenon?† Paul Hill,1995 discusses the question Why UFOs Tilt to Maneuver? in his book â€Å"Unconventional Flying Objects: A Scientific Analysis† CUFOS, 2015, gave the public the answer of the following question:† What are UFOs?†,† Who sees UFOs?† , â€Å" What do UFOs look like?† and â€Å"How fast do they move?† Sturrock, Peter A., 1999 answered the question â€Å"If UFOs are real, shouldnt they produce some real physical effects?† Methodology Edward U. Condon, 1968, carried out a UFO research base on convincing case of photographic evidence and scientific investigation, but Hynek, J. S. (1972) and P. A. STURROC (1987) make specific criticisms on the methodology. A panel of the national academy of sciences, 1968 pointed out that the methodology and approach in were in accordance with accepted standards of scientific investigation. Hynek, J. S. (1972) developed the Close Encounter classification system which was considered as scientific analysis methods for UFOs. Jacques F. Vallee, 1990 carried out A survey of ten cases of UFOs. According to P. A. STURROC, 1987, investigation with one or more considered Extra-terrestrial Hypothesis was carried out in most scientific research. Scientists need conduct a serious investigation of the UFO phenomenon as the following steps :firstly to observe a physical phenomenon by their own eyes; secondly to formulate a hypothesis about the phenomenon; thirdly to carry out experiments to test the hypothesisv fourthly to draw a conclusions based on the results of the tests. Although today’s scientists are interested in UFOs, they refuse to look into the telescope and unwilling to become involved publicly. (Patricia B. Corbett ,2015). The scientific method should be open minded in the data collecting and analysis without prejudice. Sturrock, Peter A., 1999 represented a reasonable overview of the physical realities of UFOs.Sturrock, Peter A. began his study with a review of the historically important Condon Report and considered it scientifically flawed. Sturrock, Peter A’s The UFO Enigma addressed the presentations based on substantial evidence. Sturrock also addressed trace evidence which reported landings of UFOs. References A panel of the national academy of sciences,1968 ,review of the university of colorado report on unidentified flying objects, retrieved on Feb,15th ,2015 from http://www.dod.mil/pubs/foi/homeland_defense/UFOs/nas_re1.pdf Craig, Roy. UFOs: An Insiders View of the Official Quest for Evidence. Denton, Texas: University of North Texas Press, 1995. CUFOS , What are UFOs? Center for UFO Studies , retrieved on Feb,15th,2015 from http://www.cufos.org/faq_english_p1.html Don Berliner, Marie Galbraith and Antonio Huneeus UNIDENTIFIED FLYING OBJECTS BRIEFING DOCUMENT ;THE BEST AVAILABLE EVIDENCE , CUFONS, FUFOR, MUFON ,December 1995, retrieved on Feb,15th,2015 from http://www.openminds.tv/wp-content/uploads/Rockefeller-Briefing-Document.pdf Edward U. Condon, 1968, Scientific study of unidentified flying objects, released in 1999, retrieved on Feb, 15, 2015, from http://www.avia-it.com/act/biblioteca/libri/PDF_Libri_By_Archive.org/AVIATION/Final report of the Scientific study of Unidentified Flying Objects Condon E..pdf Gillmor, Daniel S., ed., Scientific Study of Unidentified Flying Objects, New York Times Books, 1969. Hauck, Dennis W., Editor, â€Å"Pilot Experiences Electromagnetic Effects,† The MUFON UFO Journal, No. 107, p.11, October 1976. Hill, Paul R.1995, Unconventional Flying Objects: A Scientific Analysis , Hampton Roads Publishing Company, Inc., Charlottesville VA. ISBN 1-57174-027-9 Hynek, J. S. (1972). The UFO experience. Chicago: Henry Regnery Jacobs, David M. The UFO Controversy in America. Bloomington, Indiana: Indiana University Press, 1975. Jacques F. Vallee, Physical Analyses in Ten Cases of Unexplained Aerial Objects with Material Samples Journal of Scientific Exploration, 1990 Menzel, Donald and Ernest Taves The UFO Enigma: The Definitive Explanation of the UFO Phenomenon. New York, 1977. Menkello, F.V., Quantitative Aspects of Mirages, USAF Environmental Technical Applications Center, 1969. P. A. Sturroc, An Analysis of the Condon Report on the Colorado UFO Project, Journal of Scientific Exploration, Vol. I, No. I, pp. 75-100. 1987 Patricia B. Corbett , UFOs A Challenge to Mainstream Science, retrieved on Feb,15th, 2015, http://www.ufoevidence.org/documents/doc569.htm Ruppelt,1956, F.J., the report on unidentified flying objects, Garden City, N.Y. doubleday, 1956. Sturrock, Peter A. The UFO Enigma: A New Review of the Scientific Evidence New York: Time Warner, 1999

Responsible Executive Compensation for a New Era of Accountability Essa

Compensation and the Chief Executive Officer Executive compensation has come under increasing scrutiny in recent literature in the wake of the growing publicity surrounding managerial failures and executive self-interest. Financial experts have long been examining the problem of aligning the performance of executives with their salaries and benefits. Public discontent with the visible top-heaviness of the compensation structure has brought this issue into the spotlight throughout the business world. Experts point to the flaws of traditional payment schemes and offer a number of different solutions. Shareholder value and the success of the firm can be significantly affected by executive performance. Hence, understanding the advantages and costs of the current trends in executive compensation is crucial to the compensation committee of a Fortune 500 corporation. The compensation committee has a difficult task upon its shoulders. It must construct pay programs that attract and retain the best talent to address the individual organization’s needs. It must design a strategy that generates superior returns for investors, appropriately measure managerial performance, and institute a pay practice which is fair to both employees and shareholders and which really drives business results (Mercer p.4). There is abundant theory and research on the strategies thought to accomplish these goals, and the emerging trends in executive compensation seem to be highly successful. The growing public criticisms of ultra-high executive pay are not unfounded. According to Mr. Meizhu Lui, â€Å"the ratio of CEO pay as a multiple of average worker pay has grown tremendously, from 41 to 1 in 1960 to 411 to 1... ...an Resource Consulting. (Jan. 26, 2004). â€Å"Responsible Executive Compensation for a New Era of Accountability.† Perspective. Retrieved October 14, 2006, from http://www.mercerHR.com/responsibleEC Mercer Human Resource Consulting. (Aug. 9, 2004.). Tackling the Challenge of Aligning Pay with Performance. Perspective. Retrieved October 14, 2006, from http://www.mercerHR.com/perspective. Parrino, Robert. (2002). Rewrapping the package: Managerial incentives and corporate governance. Texas Business Review, 1(5). Retrieved Sept. 27, 2006, from the Business & Company Resource Center database. Traichal, Patrick A., George W. Gallinger, and Steve A. Johnson. (1999). The relationship between pay-for-performance contracting and external monitoring. Managerial Finance, 68(21). Retrieved Sept. 27, 2006, from the Business & Company Resource Center database.

Essay --

Sigrid Axelsson SP3A Philosophy 1 Philosophy of language; Essay Question # 4 This essay will specifically try to answer question number; 4) What is the meaning of ‘in the head’ (ideational)? How does Wittgenstein’s beetle box through experiment suggest otherwise? The meaning â€Å"in the head† is ideational and the Wittgenstein beetle box theory supports that everything is created in the head and is ideational, but not that everyone has the same concept of reality. Is the meaning â€Å"in the head† (ideational)? Ideational is when an idea pops up in one’s head and a light bulb is switched on within the person who has the ideational moment in the mind. Yes, â€Å"in the head† is referring to the ideational theories where a sentence or a word is, as an example â€Å"in the head† is referring to the metal image of the inside of the head that is created in the brain when the word or sentence of â€Å"in the head† is seen and heard by the human being. This is seen with Locke’s explanation, that when the word red is seen or heard, the brain portrays redness as the metal image within the brain, and th...

The right to live, the right to die. Essay -- Euthanasia Essays

Euthanasia, along with all other forms of medical involvement concerning the ending of human life has been a subject of great controversy for some time, dating back to the times of Socrates, and is a topic which has long attracted the attention of both medical and legal professionals, ethicists, and is often brought up in general public debate (Huxtable & Campbell, 2003) The term euthanasia derives from the Greek 'eu', which means 'good', and 'thanatos', meaning 'death' (Ladd, 1979). In a medical context, the Hippocratic Oath popularly believed to be undertook by all practising physicians suggests all medical practitioners will endeavour to ensure all patients' well being, it is all too easy to misinterpret the oaths' meaning in order to manipulate and justify actions that would otherwise be deemed unethical; specifically for the act of euthanasia. This essay will discuss the arguments both for and against euthanasia, with careful consideration given to all aspects related to the debate. Perhaps the most well known arguments in the euthanasia debate are that of the sanctity of life, of which holds palpable religious connotations which will be further discussed; the ending of suffering or 'low quality of life'; and the respect for patient autonomy (Huxtable & Campbell, 2003). In terms of extremities of the euthanasia debate spectrum, the Church of England (2000) have published a document greatly opposing euthanasia, whilst on the other hand, Otlowski (1997) has thoroughly researched and published an analysis of the law with the ultimate aim of ensuring euthanasia as a legal option. In terms of a religious perspective, and for purposes of extended clarity; Christian views, there is much contradiction to be found regarding euth... ...ts will invariably disagree with utilitarianists, and visa-versa, thus deeming all cases as requiring ethical investigation on an individual scale. Seemingly similar cases may have entirely different circumstances altogether, and may or may not have different outcomes. Although religion can play a major role in many cases of euthanasia, it is unlikely witnessing a relative suffering chronic untreatable pain will override any alleged desire to prolong life longer than required; however, certain circumstances often provide members of some religions with no other choice, for example, as in the case of Jehovah's Witnesses, where blood transfusion is not allowed. In conclusion to the available evidence, case studies and theoretical aspects of euthanasia, it can be argued that whilst people have the inherent right to live, they also have the right to die with dignity.

Are the government officials good stewards of public funds? Essay

The parliament should play an active role in ensuring the availability and credibility of fiscal information. There should be clear procedure for budget execution, monitoring, and reporting. The accounting system should provide a reliable basis for tracking revenues, commitments, payments, arrears, liabilities, and assets, writes M S Siddiqui A budget is a government’s plan on the use of public resources to meet the citizens’ needs. Budget Transparency (BT) means that ordinary citizens can access information about how public resources are allocated and used. Budget Transparency is defined as the full disclosure of all relevant fiscal information in a timely and systematic manner. â€Å"BT is a precondition for public participation in budget processes. The combination of BT and public participation in budget processes has the potential to combat corruption, foster public accountability of government agencies and contribute to judicious use of public funds† (OECD, 2002). BT enables citizens to assess whether the government officials are good stewards of public funds. BT is a fundamental precondition for accountability and public participation in governance processes. Representatives of civil society and social organizations in our country have long been demanding ofthe government to initiate budget formulation from the district level to make the national budget a democratic and pro-poor one. The government has also promised to decentralize the authority to district level but has yet to initiate the process. The Washington-based Open Budget Initiative is a global watchdog of budgets of different countries of the world. The Open Budget Index (OBI), prepared with the help of local partners, provides ratings of the openness of budget materials of different countries. The Department of Development Studies of the University of Dhaka was the local partner for OBI for the Bangladesh budget for the fiscal year 2010-11. The Index assesses the availability of key budget documents, the quantity of information they provide, and the timeliness of their dissemination to citizens in order to provide reliable information on each country’s commitment to budget transparency and accountability. The average OBI score of the countries surveyed in 2010 is 42. According to published reports, only 20 of the 94 countries included in the 2010 Open Budget Survey had OBI scores above 60 and can be characterized as providing their citizens with enough budget data to enable them to develop a comprehensive analysis and understanding of their national budgets. About one-third of the countries (33) provide some information and scored between 41 and 60. In a plurality of countries (41), the amount of information provided was acutely inadequate. Of these, 19 countries provided minimal information and scored between 21 and 40), and 22 countries provided little to no budget information and scored 20 or less. The 22 countries are: Algeria, Bolivia, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Cameroon, Chad, China, Democratic Republic of Congo, Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Fiji, Honduras, Iraq, Kyrgyz Republic, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome e Principe, Senegal, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Vietnam. Only 17 of the countries surveyed provided comprehensive budget information on policies intended to alleviate poverty. 41 countries provided no information on extra-budgetary funds in their budget proposals even though extra-budgetary funds account for nearly 40 per cent of central government’s expenditures in transitional and developing countries. In 52 countries, the legislature had no power to prevent the executive from moving funds between administrative units. Legislatures in only 26 countries provided the public with formal opportunities to provide testimony during budget discussions. In 35 countries, all discussions about the budget between the legislature and theexecutive , including hearings, were entirely closed to the public, including the media, and no public record of such meetings was subsequently provided. Bangladesh scored 39, 42 and 48 in 2006, 2008 and 2009 respectively. Bangladesh’s performance indicates that the government provided only some information to the public in its budget documents. Bangladesh would greatly strengthen public accountability by producing and publishing pre-budget statements, citizens’ budgets, mid-year reviews and year-end reports, and empowering the audit institutions to publish summaries of audit reports. The government enacted a law titled ‘Public Money and Budget Management Act 2009’. As per clause 15(4) of the law, the finance minister shall place a quarterly report before parliament explaining the budget status effective from FY 2009-2010. Two quarterly reports have already been published. These reforms have apparently increased transparency of the budget and this will hopefully improve Bangladesh’s score in the next Open Budget Survey. In terms of adequacy and availability of eight key budget documents, Bangladesh now publishes only three documents -executive’s budget proposal, enacted budget and in-year reports. A non-transparent budget can neither be properly analyzed nor can its implementation be effectively monitored. Transparency allows citizens to provide inputs into the budget process and to assess whether a government executed the development plans in accordance with budgetary allocations. There is no practice of disclosure of information about implementation of the budget and the administration can transfer fund from one account to another account and legalize such actions through ‘approval’ of supplementary budget at the end of the year. The parliament and civil society must have the opportunity to influence the budget and assess whether the government executed what it planned. The control over government finances is complicated in part by the exclusion of the local governments from fiscal management system. The central government has full control over the administration in all tiers causing weak administrative capacity at the local levels. Moreover, the structure of intergovernmental fiscal relations in Bangladesh has served to discourage local governments from raising their own revenues. The situation has aggravated due to recent amendment of laws giving more authority to the law makers over supervision and policy matters of upazilas. The authority of local governments are shared by law makers, bureaucrats and local public representatives making the process almost ineffective. Under these circumstances, the opportunities for duplication of responsibilities and unclear assignment of authority and revenue income and expenditures make the development function difficult and complex. Decentralization of government has become a popular strategy based on the premise that lower levels of government can better respond to local demands and needs at lower cost. A proper decentralization may introduce new legislation regarding tax sharing and intergovernmental transfers to address complex authorities and inequalities in development programmes. The effectiveness of this strategy critically depends on the ability of citizens to hold local government officials accountable. The more decentralized the revenue and spending decisions, the more important it becomes to ensure that lower levels of government also follow good practices on fiscal transparency under direct supervision of local governments. The Constitution of Bangladesh defines the roles of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the government clearly. Articles 81-92 of the Constitution lay down the basic principles of fiscal management and Articles 127-132 the role of the Comptroller and Auditor-General (C&AG). The Additional Functions Act of 1974 (as amended in 1975 and 1983) allocates the accounting function to the C&AG. The accounting function has now been transferred to the Finance Division of the Ministry of Finance. However, in practice, the relationship between the different branches ofthe government, particularly between the executive and legislature, is widely seen as confrontational. Non-financial public corporations provide non-commercial services, usually by being required to charge less than cost recovery prices (e.g., pricing electricity below cost to domestic consumers). These non-financial public corporations have also been required to provide social services. These non-commercial activities may be financed by cross-subsidization between different groups of consumers and/or by incurring losses that are financed from the budget or by borrowing. There are three categories of the prices of electricity, gas and water based on domestic, commercial and industrial consumer segments. In some instances, certain non-financial public corporations may charge excessive prices and transfer the supernormal profits to other corporations or to the budget. This practice confuses the fiscal responsibilities of government and the commercial role of non-financial public corporations, makes relationships between government and non-financial public corporations nontransparent, and creates difficulties in holding managers of non-financial public corporations accountable for their performance. The government remains heavily involved in commercial and financial sectors of the economy and provide support to the enterprise sector through a complex nexus of direct subsidies and quasi-fiscal activities of non-financial public enterprises and the nationalized commercial banks. Lack of clarity in reporting either direct or indirect support to enterprises makes it difficult to assess either the industry policy or the sustainability of fiscal policy. In addition to lack of transparency in reporting, the lack of clarity of managerial roles between commercial activity and provision of subsidized services or goods to the public is a major factor contributing to widely acknowledged failures of management, corruption, and poor industrial relations in these sectors. The fiscal powers of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the government should be well defined. The powers and limits of each branch with respect to changes in the budget during the fiscal year should be clearly specified in the legal framework. The draft budget submitted by the executive to the legislature as well as the final budget approved by the legislature should be made public to enable the people to hold each branch accountable for its part in the budget process. The parliament should play an active role in ensuring the availability and credibility of fiscal information. This would include having an active committee of the legislature to oversee the conduct of fiscal policy and to facilitate civil society input into budget deliberations. The relationship between the government and public corporations should be based on clear arrangements. Fiscal transparency requires that the financial relationships between the government and public corporations be clearly stated. In particular, because public corporations are owned in whole or in part by the government, there should be clear expectations of how profit transfers or dividend payments to the government will be determined. The annual reports of the public corporations should provide details on total profit, retained earnings, any other uses of profit, and the amount transferred to the budget, and this information should also be included in the annual budget documentation. For purposes of fiscal transparency, all payments by public corporations, including taxes, royalties, dividends, or profits, should be reported in the annual report of the corporations as well as in budget documentation. Any payments in kind should be valued at their market value in the budget. Conversely, if the government makes transfers to the public corporation, they should be included in the annual budget. Again, both the budget and the annual reports of the corporations should identify transfers from the government to the corporation. For instance, financial or commercial institutions may be asked to undertake lending at subsidized rates, the subsidy component representing a loss to the institution. However, if the government directly subsidizes the activity, it should appear as subsidy in the government’s budget and the policy cost should be transparent. The fiscal powers of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the government should be well defined. The responsibilities of different levels of government and the relationship between them should be clearly specified. The relationship between the government and public corporations should be based on clear arrangements. Government’s relationship with the private sector should be conducted in an open manner, following clear rules and procedures. There should be a clear and open legal, regulatory and administrative framework for fiscal management. The collection, commitment, and use of public funds should be governed by comprehensive budget, tax, and other public finance laws, regulations, and administrative procedures. Laws and regulations related to the collection of tax and non-tax revenues, and the criteria guiding administrative discretion in their application, should be accessible, clear, and understandable. There should be clear procedures for budget execution, monitoring, and reporting. The accounting system should provide a reliable basis for tracking revenues, commitments, payments, arrears, liabilities, and assets. A timely midyear report on budget developments should be presented to the legislature. More frequent updates, which should be at least quarterly, should be published. Supplementary revenue and expenditure proposals during the fiscal year should be presented to the legislature in a manner consistent with the original budget presentation. Audited final accounts and audit reports, including reconciliation with the approved budget, should be presented to the legislature and published within a year. The public should be provided with comprehensive information on past, current, and projected fiscal activities and on major fiscal risks. The government should publish a periodic report on long-term public finances. Fiscal information should be presented in a way that facilitates policy analysis and promotes accountability. A clear and simple summary guide to the budget should be widely distributed at the time of the annual budget. During budget formulation, the executive should issue two documents with at least a one-month gap between them: the pre-budget statement, which presents the assumptions used in developing the budget, such as the expected revenue, expenditure, and debt levels, and the broad allocations among sectors; and the executive’s budget proposal, which presents the government’s detailed declaration of the policies and priorities it intends to pursue in the upcoming financial year, including the specific allocations to be made to each ministry and agency. All Ministries should hold pre-budget consultative meetings with their stakeholders. These meetings should be presided over by the concerned Ministers. These meetings should be held before they start consultation on budget with the Ministry of Finance. All standing committees on different ministries should hold on a regular basis pre-budget consultation with stakeholders. Decentralization process should be strengthened for empowerment of local governments. The writer, a part-time teacher at The Leading University, is pursuing PhD in Open University, Malaysia. He can be reached at e-mail: shah@banglachemical.com

Modern Drama Essay

Eddie tells Beatrice (his wife) that her cousins have arrived. This pleases Catherine and Beatrice. Beatrice is worried about the arrangements and this is because of Eddie. She says ‘I am just afraid if it don’t turn out good you’ll be mad at me’. This shows that Eddie must have shouted at Beatrice before. This also shows that Eddie takes charge around the house with everything. Eddie has power over everyone in the house. Catherine interrupts and says ‘Well didn’t tell him about me yet. ‘ Beatrice tries to distract Eddie from what she says. But Eddie becomes interested and starts asking questions straight away when he hears Catherine mention herself. Catherine says that she will leave school for a job. Eddie is angry but gets interrupted by Beatrice, Beatrice sticks up for Catherine, and Eddie doesn’t like this. Catherine explains the detail and yet Eddie finds another excuse. He ‘don’t like that neighbourhood over there’. He explains how he wants the best for her and how the men are with young women. The problem is that Eddie thinks that the best thing that Catherine could do is to stay at home with him at home and see or speak with no other men. Beatrice tries to reason with him over the job but Eddie refuses to give in until she confronts him with his desire. She says ‘ you gonna keep her in the house all her life? ‘ Eddie is insulted and disgusted. He becomes angry but when Catherine enters he changes his mood. He doesn’t want to let Catherine see that he does not get along with Beatrice. He gives her what she wants. He agrees with her going to work. This soon gets out of hand and Eddie becomes upset. He uses reverse psychology on Catherine. He tells speaks the opposite of what he wants. He says to Catherine, ‘And then you will move away. That’s life. And you’ll come visit on Sundays, then once a month, then Christmas and New years finally. ‘ This upsets Catherine and without knowing she tells him what he wants to hear. This automatically changes the mood of Eddie. Eddie knows in a way that he has got what he wanted. He changes conversation straight after as before. They start to talk about the day gone by whilst eating their meal. After the meal Eddie asks Catherine when she starts her new job. Catherine knows Eddie is uncomfortable with talking about this. Eddie shows a tear in his eye. Catherine tries to make Eddie feel better by saying that she is not going far. Catherine tries to comfort him. Eddie enjoys this and tries to gain sympathy from her a lot of the time. To settle himself he looks for a cigar. Catherine goes to get one for him and then offers to light it. Eddie feels close with her while she is doing this; he enjoys it while she lights the cigar. Their faces are close and they gaze into each other’s eyes. This shows Eddies true feelings; this is the point where his deep love for her is shown. He looks at her no longer as a relative does but as a lover does. Eddie takes some time to think while Catherine and Beatrice are in the kitchen.

Exploring Internet Sites Essay

Nowadays Internet became primary informational source for overwhelming majority of people around the world. That is why, in order to earn customer goodwill, enhance the market and promote own goods or services, it is necessary for any enterprise at any market to place easy accessible, correct and comprehensive information about the company, its policies, strategies, products, prospects and so on, into World Wide Web. Official sites of such known companies, as Procter & Gamble, Nestle and Unilever are great examples of using advantages of Internet as an effective tool of marketing and promotion. It is remarkable, that these successful companies openly inform their customers about their financial situation and the results of specific researches, offer new career or investment opportunities for any visitor of the site. This definitely works for strengthening their image on global level. To my mind, the most attractive and interesting features for the customers are the sections about the products of the companies and some related fields like nutrition, beauty and style, etc. It is principally important to make information on the site practical and useful for any average or prospective customer. With this purpose, for example, P & G is using a very effective slogan â€Å"Expert Advice for Everyday Life†, which really works well, I believe. Undoubtedly, all three sites are very up-to-date and competent. I could not help noticing one obvious disadvantage of them all: extreme overload of information. It makes navigation more complicated for an average customer, who can be an average Internet user as well. Besides, I suppose that the sites of P & G and Unilever have too very bright and colorful designs. This can take customer’s mind off the site content and the product itself. Besides, to my mind, it affects seriousness of these companies to some extent. Certainly, Internet sites play important role and significantly contribute into forming consumer preferences and attracting new customers. The main advantage of such sites is making customer- producer communication much faster. When a customer wants to get some information, there is no need to make long phone calls and wait for consultations anymore. Now it is possible to find all necessary data on the site just with a couple of mouse clicks. Bibliography: Nestle. Nestle S. A. 2004. 06 Nov. 2006 . Procter & Gamble. P & G Everyday Solutions. 2006. 06 Nov. 2006 .   Unilever. Unilever N. V. 2006. 06 Nov. 2006 .