Brita Marketing

Contents Introduction1 Background1 Situational Analysis1 P. E. S. T. L. E Analysis2 S. W. O. T Analysis3 Porter Five Forces Analysis3 STP Analysis4 Possible Options Available5 Do nothing5 Manage decline5 Develop and implement a marketing strategy for growth5 Short term – Expand existing market5 Long term – Increase Market Share6 Conclusion6 Introduction This document represents The i-Fusions Consultant’s Report on BRITA. The company’s current business situation is analysed and various options for action considered.The report aims to identify a clear marketing strategy for Brita in order to address the current issues facing the company the associated falling sales. The report is broadly comprised of three main sections: 1. Background 2. Situational Analysis 3. Options open to Brita 4. Recommended Strategy Background Brita, after an extended period of success and dominance in the filtered water market is facing increasing competition, new market entrants and falling sales. After various failed initiatives to reverse the resultant decline, the company is seeking a new strategy that will restore double-digit growth.History In terms of product history, Brita has been very successful with 2 key water filtration products, Pitchers and Faucet Mounted filters. On launching the filtration pitchers, initial efforts to build awareness and create a market were successful, teaching consumers the benefits of filtered water and creating awareness. Subsequent efforts to develop and broaden the market based on taste were also successful (Tap water Transformed campaign). Brita was the market leader for many years and defended that market share successfully for some time.However, the market is now made up of more than 70 competitors and more recent strategies are failing to deliver growth and profits and Brita sales are now actually falling. Situational Analysis The documentation provided can assist in identifying various problems. The key business issu es identified by i-Fusions are: * Brita failed to recognise and correctly identify the competitive market they are in * Brita were too slow to innovate and more agile competitors have entered the market and taken share * The company reaction has been overly product-focused Brita has considered and/or launched various reactive advertising campaigns based on competitor action, rather than considering a holistic marketing strategy built on market analysis. * Brita’s organisational structure is top-heavy with multiple reporting lines and no clear chain of responsibility. The result is a lack of clarity as everyone is responsible yet nobody is responsible. * The net result of all of the above is that Brita sales are falling. P. E. S. T. L. E Analysis Political: There are no significant external political issues affecting Brita’s business.Economical: The Economy during 1980s & 1990s showed no indications of recession and the emergence of the Internet and the evolution of the global economy generated unprecedented economic prosperity in the United States that lifted consumer purchasing power to better standards. The mid-2000’s marked the end of this boom cycle and the economy is starting to contract. Social: The primary social trends in the late 1980s and 1990s, as faced by Brita were: * People shifting towards a more healthy lifestyle * Workers working longer hours to gain more salary Shift of workforce from Agriculture to Industry & IT Sectors Technology: The beginning of the 1990’s marked the beginning of the Internet revolution and this has affected people’s lives and lifestyles significantly. The impact on business is that communications are faster and customer expectations are for a more personalised approach (e,g, Emails, Mobile Phones etc). Legal: During 1980s & 1990s, Public Water Hygiene laws & regulations were not enforced effectively to prevent water-borne diseases outbreaks that occurred during that period of time.Durin g the 12 year period (1991 – 2002), Public Water contamination outbreaks came from community & non-community water supply (78%) compared to 22% from private/individual water supply systems as report by the â€Å"Journal of Water and Health† published in 2006 Environmental: During the late 1980s and 1990’s, Environment Friendly organisations & NGOs (such as Greenpeace) were not creating an influential awareness of drinking water health issues. As a result, people were not possessing self-awareness of dangers contributing to drinking impure & contaminated water. Porter Five Forces AnalysisRivalry: The market is very competitive and the threat of competition is high. Many companies are present and they are more successful than Brita. It seems to appear a rivalry both in terms of product and location Barriers to Entry: The entry barriers in the market are relatively low, making it easy to access. However, as the market is saturated it could be unlikely for new compa nies to decide to start new enterprises in this field. Threat of substitutes: This represents one of the main threats for Brita. Both tap water and soft drinks are potential substitutes for the product that Brita offers.Supplier power: The suppliers do not play a major role for Brita growth. The product offered is relatively simple and its components are easy to procure. Buyer power: The consumers have a high decision power which can drastically affect the performances of Brita. Depending what type of drink they decide to consume (filtered water, tap water or soft drinks), the sales will increase or decrease. The Five Forces analysis tool highlights that Brita has to focus its attention on what consumers want in order to achieve success (appendix A ).The product is neither significantly unique nor essential to ensure success on its own and taken in the context of a large number of substitutes, consumers therefore hold significant purchasing power. Simultaneously, Brita has to take i n consideration the highly competitive nature of the market. If Brita does not update its product benefits, and then position themselves in such a way that they offers customers a unique benefit vis-a-vis competitors, it is likely further lose market share. Therefore, customers and matching their lifestyle choices should be the focal point of Brita strategy if double growth has to be gained.S. W. O. T Analysis STP Analysis Segmentation Using Behavioural Segmentation, i-Fusions have considered 6 predominant market segments. See Appendix B and C Tap Traditionalists: Slow to change, like the convenience and cheapness of tap water. Weary Tap Users: Low involvement in their water drinking decisions. Like tap water and unlikely to change. They are also the lowest consumers of total water per day. Principled Filter Fans: High involvement in their water consumption decisions and believe filtered water is more healthy.Affluent Fridge Fans: Highly involved in their water consumption decisions and associate water with health and weight control. Assertive Self Improvers: Highly involved in their water consumption decisions and drinks a lot of water for health. This group has the highest overall daily intake of water and drinks most of their water at home. Bottled Water Indulgers: Highly involved in their water consumption decisions and use bottled water as a reward for effort. They are highly attached to bottled water. Of the 6 categories of consumers, 3 have been pointed as the target market – PFF, ASI and AFF.Target Market Analysis In terms of water consumption patterns, tap water is still the most utilised (35. 4%) with filtered water also popular (33. 3%). Bottled water is increasingly popular and currently holds 21. 7% of the market. See Appendix D The main perceived issues customers have with Tap Water are Quality and Portability. Most consumers believe that using water filters improves the taste of the water  and using fridge filters makes it more convenie nt to consume filtered water. Out of a total of 59. 6% people owning the Pitcher Filter system, 50. % own the Brita product standing higher in comparison to the PuR Product. Brita faces some perception challenges as the Faucet Mount and Pitcher do not currently have any stand out features for customers and the Filtering Pitcher is seen as time-consuming and less simple when compared to Bottled water. In terms of good flavour of the water, 77% consumers support BW whereas only 32% support Pitchers. In terms of pureness, 63% consumers support BW and 44% consumers support Pitchers. Positioning Analysis Brita has strong brand recognition and is currently viewed in the key segments as a healthy water option.There is a loyal customer base dedicated to filtered water which represents a growth opportunity if Brita can meet the changing consumer needs. i-Fusions would therefore recommend that Brita builds on this brand strength with a marketing strategy that highlights health and wellness an d sustainability and believes that Brita has strong advantages over its competition to fulfil these targets. Possible Options Available Brita faces a difficult market and there are three broad business options they can consider. 1. Do nothing 2. Manage decline 3.Develop and implement a marketing strategy for growth Do nothing i-Fusions recognise that occasionally it may be acceptable for firms to take a â€Å"wait and see† approach† to their business but we do not recommend this as a course of action to Brita. The risk of inaction is too great in a market with such high competition and falling market share. Brita’s cautious approach to date is reflected in their current situation. Manage decline Brita could continue with their current emphasis on pitchers and faucets and manage decline – cutting costs aggressively as sales fall.It is the view of i-Fusions that, given the high number of competing brands, there is a risk that adopting any low cost/low price strategy would merely lead to a race to the bottom. In any case, Brita is unlikely to be able to undercut its smaller, more nimble rivals due to its size and structure. Additionally, this strategy does not fit with the stated requirement for double-digit growth. However, the current product mix and their current specification are in the mature stage of the product life-cycle so Brita needs to seek ways to add value to maintain current sales and to consider new products to drive growth.Our recommendations are therefore predicated on the value that the brand has in the eyes of its customers and to leverage the reputation for quality that the company has built up. Develop and implement a marketing strategy for growth The advice of i-Fusions is for Brita to follow a growth strategy, focused on meeting the needs of key identified market segments with clear product offers, consistent messaging, via the optimal distribution channels and at the appropriate price. Short term – Expand existing marketProduct: Existing users – Brita should aggressively target existing filtered water users (Principled Filter Fans and Assertive Self Improvers) with Pitchers and Faucets with improved ability to remove impurities and taste. Brita should therefore focus R&D effort on improving the purity capability of its filters, reinforcing the key brand messages of health and purity. Price: Maintain existing pricing strategy Place: Brita should continue with the mass distribution strategy as changes in the past have quickly translated in lost sales.Promotion: Find new uses – Brita can create new uses of existing products through promotion of additional activites such as using filtered water for cooking, an activity that is important to key segments Strong single brand messaging around Health/Purity/Sustainability using a mix of targeted TV and radio, social media, lifestyle magazines (home, food, well-being), demonstrations and tasting instore and at gyms/yoga-chains et c Brita is in a position to add complementary messaging around its green/sustainable credentials, which fits with target segment values and has the additional benefit of reaching other segments in the water consumption market. Long term – Increase Market Share Product: Change product mix in the longer term. Brita should look at expanding its product mix to better meet the behaviour patterns of its identified segments.For example, developing a filter for fridge water dispensers is highly advisable. Form alliances: i-Fusions strongly recommend that Brita forms strategic alliances with quality white goods manufacturers in order to jointly develop a product that meets the needs of the key market segments identified. It is recommended that quality brands are identified and targeted in order to maintain Brita’s brand image and support the growth strategy. Additional alliances with yoga-chains/gyms for joint marketing opportunities should also be explored. Finally, alliances with home-builders/plumbing providers was considered as an option but i-Fusions do not recommend this for Brita as it is effectively a new and very different market.Price: Reduce costs: Information on reducing overall capital costs is scarce but spend on R&D is likely to increase in the short/medium term. In terms of Fixed Costs, Brita should review its organisational structure, both to clarify reporting lines and reduce management overhead. Finally, it would make sense for Brita to have a single brand, with clear associated brand messages, managing their product lines within that brand. Promotion: New users – Brita should aggressively target consumers in the Affluent Fridge Followers category, given the high consumption of water at home and their fit with the key Brita health messages. Maintain green credentials with targeted messaging.Place: Brita should continue with the mass distribution strategy as changes in the past have quickly translated in lost sales. People: Brita should implement clearer communication channels with clearly identified lines of authority. Conclusion On analysing the information available i-Fusions believe that Brita needs to refocus its attention on the market, using short and long term strategies that target appropriate segments with specific products, messaging and distribution channels to best meet their requirements, aspirations and life-styles. We believe that the marketing strategy recommended will assist in driving double-digit top line growth.

Computer Thesis

BOUND MANUSCRIPT FORMAT Font: Bookman Old Style, Size 12 Margin: L – 1. 5†, R – 1†, T – 1†, B – 1† Spacing: Single Space (Title Page, Approval Sheet, Executive Summary, Abstract, Appendices) Double space (Body, Table of Contents, Acknowledgement) Page Number: Top-Right of the Page (No page number on the first page of each chapter and on appendices) Table Number and Name: Before the table (left alignment) Figure Number and Name: After the figure (center alignment) TITLE PAGE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY iii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY iii APPROVAL SHEET ii APPROVAL SHEET ii Title (Bold, ALL CAPS) A Project Study presented to the Faculty f the College of Computer Science In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Proponents: First Name MI Last Name (arrange alphabetically – Last Name) October 2012 Title (Bold, ALL CAPS) A Project Study presented to the Faculty of the College of Computer S cience In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Proponents: First Name MI Last Name (arrange alphabetically – Last Name) October 2012 LIST OF TABLES v LIST OF TABLES v TABLE OF CONTENTS iv TABLE OF CONTENTS iv 2 Introduction Objectives General SpecificScope and Delimitations Review of Related Literature (Implemented previous studies— international, national, local,) Technical Background Existing System Hardware Specifications| Software Specifications| | | Proposed System Recommended Hardware Specifications| Software Requirements| Description 2 Introduction Objectives General Specific Scope and Delimitations Review of Related Literature (Implemented previous studies— international, national, local,) Technical Background Existing System Hardware Specifications| Software Specifications| | | Proposed System Recommended Hardware Specifications| Software Requirements| DescriptionChapter I INTRODUCTION Proj ect Context Present scenario/settings/procedure with the existing system Problems encountered with the existing system Purpose and Description Features of the Proposed System that will solve the problems encountered Benefits that can be derived from the Proposed System Chapter I INTRODUCTION Project Context Present scenario/settings/procedure with the existing system Problems encountered with the existing system Purpose and Description Features of the Proposed System that will solve the problems encountered Benefits that can be derived from the Proposed System Chapter II METHODOLOGYWindows 7 Check Your Understandingcom/windows-7-check-your-understanding/embed/#?secret=Mu8qhiqAyO" data-secret="Mu8qhiqAyO" width="500" height="282" title="â€Å"Windows 7 Check Your Understanding† — Free Essays - PhDessay.com" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no">A. Requirements Specification Operational Feasibility Fishbone Diagram (Add Description Below) Schedul e Feasibility Gantt Chart Cost-Benefit Analysis Data and Process Modeling (Diagrams for the Proposed System) * ERD * Context Diagram * DFD * System Flowchart B. Design * Screenshots (forms), Sample Reports Chapter II METHODOLOGY A. Requirements Specification Operational Feasibility Fishbone Diagram (Add Description Below) Schedule Feasibility Gantt Chart Cost-Benefit Analysis Data and Process Modeling (Diagrams for the Proposed System) * ERD * Context Diagram * DFD * System Flowchart B. Design Screenshots (forms), Sample Reports 8 Methodology C. Development Hardware Specifications Software Specifications Programming Environment * Front End * Back End D. Testing Plan (Testing plan during the development) E. Maintenance Plan * Gantt Chart (Description after the figure) 8 Methodology C. Development Hardware Specifications Software Specifications Programming Environment * Front End * Back End D. Testing Plan (Testing plan during the development) E. Maintenance Plan * Gantt Chart (Descri ption after the figure) BIBLIOGRAPHY Trajano, Emily, â€Å"Visual Basic: An Introduction to Object Oriented Programming†, 2008APPENDICES A. Source Code B. User’s Guide C. Grammarian Certification D. Other Relevant Documents CURRICULUM VITAE (Personal Information, Picture, Educational Background, Seminars/Trainings Attended) BIBLIOGRAPHY Trajano, Emily, â€Å"Visual Basic: An Introduction to Object Oriented Programming†, 2008 APPENDICES E. Source Code F. User’s Guide G. Grammarian Certification H. Other Relevant Documents CURRICULUM VITAE (Personal Information, Picture, Educational Background, Seminars/Trainings Attended) Chapter IV IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Description Implementation Contingency Schedule of Testing (Gantt Chart) testing plan during deployment) Project Implementation Checklist Activities| Finish| Not Finish| On-going| 1. Installed IS| v| | | Chapter IV IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Description Implementation Contingency Schedule of Testing (Gantt Chart) ( testing plan during deployment) Project Implementation Checklist Activities| Finish| Not Finish| On-going| 1. Installed IS| v| | | Chapter III RECOMMENDATIONS Chapter III RECOMMENDATIONS Samples†¦ Table 1. Distribution of Middle Level Managers in terms of Age, IFSU 2011 Age| Frequency (F)| Percentage (%)| MEAN| SD| 26 – 30| 1| 4. 5| 47. 55| 9. 16| 31 – 35| 0| 0| | | 36 – 40| 5| 22. | | | 41 – 45| 3| 13. 6| | | 46 – 50| 6| 27. 3| | | 51 – 55| 1| 4. 5| | | 56 – 60| 4| 18. 2| | | 61 – 65| 2| 9. 1| | | TOTAL| 22| 100. 0| | | Figure 4. Gantt Chart of Schedule of Activities Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION Project Context Every organization is concerned with the modernization of their firm to become competitive. Our environment and its usefulness, in business transactions operation, education and others, already know computerization. It supported the success of each individual to gain benefits as the time period, less energy to exert and less number of person involve in processing such job.For this reason many-concerned citizen continue to contrive and investigate various type of applications that they aim to gain advantage of the adoption of modern technology gives big improvement in a company. It will show in a certain firm that there is development. The researchers observed that their recording and other operation are slow when done manually. Purpose and Description The success of an organization depends on its ability to acquire accurate and timely data or information about its operations, manage data effectively and use it to analyze the organizations activities and operations. sample format of citations) According to Earls M. Awad, â€Å"System is an organized group of components or elements linked together according to a plan to achieve an objective†. Information is needed in virtually every field of human thought and action. It generally supports that computerization of information system is considere d a great advantage in an organization. The job performance of management graduates employee and non-management graduates as computerized and is a student profile system operator.Both of them are with computer operations background. She compared the ratings given by the administrators in the performance of the both. One of the clients’ findings of the study was that there is a significant difference between the job performance of the management graduates employee and non-government graduates as assessed by the administrators and the big difference is in favor of management graduates employee for the reason that records is more fast and easy. (http:www. Sourceface. commanagement_1 ote35. html) Computer Thesis BOUND MANUSCRIPT FORMAT Font: Bookman Old Style, Size 12 Margin: L – 1. 5†, R – 1†, T – 1†, B – 1† Spacing: Single Space (Title Page, Approval Sheet, Executive Summary, Abstract, Appendices) Double space (Body, Table of Contents, Acknowledgement) Page Number: Top-Right of the Page (No page number on the first page of each chapter and on appendices) Table Number and Name: Before the table (left alignment) Figure Number and Name: After the figure (center alignment) TITLE PAGE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY iii EXECUTIVE SUMMARY iii APPROVAL SHEET ii APPROVAL SHEET ii Title (Bold, ALL CAPS) A Project Study presented to the Faculty f the College of Computer Science In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Proponents: First Name MI Last Name (arrange alphabetically – Last Name) October 2012 Title (Bold, ALL CAPS) A Project Study presented to the Faculty of the College of Computer S cience In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Proponents: First Name MI Last Name (arrange alphabetically – Last Name) October 2012 LIST OF TABLES v LIST OF TABLES v TABLE OF CONTENTS iv TABLE OF CONTENTS iv 2 Introduction Objectives General SpecificScope and Delimitations Review of Related Literature (Implemented previous studies— international, national, local,) Technical Background Existing System Hardware Specifications| Software Specifications| | | Proposed System Recommended Hardware Specifications| Software Requirements| Description 2 Introduction Objectives General Specific Scope and Delimitations Review of Related Literature (Implemented previous studies— international, national, local,) Technical Background Existing System Hardware Specifications| Software Specifications| | | Proposed System Recommended Hardware Specifications| Software Requirements| DescriptionChapter I INTRODUCTION Proj ect Context Present scenario/settings/procedure with the existing system Problems encountered with the existing system Purpose and Description Features of the Proposed System that will solve the problems encountered Benefits that can be derived from the Proposed System Chapter I INTRODUCTION Project Context Present scenario/settings/procedure with the existing system Problems encountered with the existing system Purpose and Description Features of the Proposed System that will solve the problems encountered Benefits that can be derived from the Proposed System Chapter II METHODOLOGYWindows 7 Check Your Understandingcom/windows-7-check-your-understanding/embed/#?secret=Mu8qhiqAyO" data-secret="Mu8qhiqAyO" width="500" height="282" title="â€Å"Windows 7 Check Your Understanding† — Free Essays - PhDessay.com" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no">A. Requirements Specification Operational Feasibility Fishbone Diagram (Add Description Below) Schedul e Feasibility Gantt Chart Cost-Benefit Analysis Data and Process Modeling (Diagrams for the Proposed System) * ERD * Context Diagram * DFD * System Flowchart B. Design * Screenshots (forms), Sample Reports Chapter II METHODOLOGY A. Requirements Specification Operational Feasibility Fishbone Diagram (Add Description Below) Schedule Feasibility Gantt Chart Cost-Benefit Analysis Data and Process Modeling (Diagrams for the Proposed System) * ERD * Context Diagram * DFD * System Flowchart B. Design Screenshots (forms), Sample Reports 8 Methodology C. Development Hardware Specifications Software Specifications Programming Environment * Front End * Back End D. Testing Plan (Testing plan during the development) E. Maintenance Plan * Gantt Chart (Description after the figure) 8 Methodology C. Development Hardware Specifications Software Specifications Programming Environment * Front End * Back End D. Testing Plan (Testing plan during the development) E. Maintenance Plan * Gantt Chart (Descri ption after the figure) BIBLIOGRAPHY Trajano, Emily, â€Å"Visual Basic: An Introduction to Object Oriented Programming†, 2008APPENDICES A. Source Code B. User’s Guide C. Grammarian Certification D. Other Relevant Documents CURRICULUM VITAE (Personal Information, Picture, Educational Background, Seminars/Trainings Attended) BIBLIOGRAPHY Trajano, Emily, â€Å"Visual Basic: An Introduction to Object Oriented Programming†, 2008 APPENDICES E. Source Code F. User’s Guide G. Grammarian Certification H. Other Relevant Documents CURRICULUM VITAE (Personal Information, Picture, Educational Background, Seminars/Trainings Attended) Chapter IV IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Description Implementation Contingency Schedule of Testing (Gantt Chart) testing plan during deployment) Project Implementation Checklist Activities| Finish| Not Finish| On-going| 1. Installed IS| v| | | Chapter IV IMPLEMENTATION PLAN Description Implementation Contingency Schedule of Testing (Gantt Chart) ( testing plan during deployment) Project Implementation Checklist Activities| Finish| Not Finish| On-going| 1. Installed IS| v| | | Chapter III RECOMMENDATIONS Chapter III RECOMMENDATIONS Samples†¦ Table 1. Distribution of Middle Level Managers in terms of Age, IFSU 2011 Age| Frequency (F)| Percentage (%)| MEAN| SD| 26 – 30| 1| 4. 5| 47. 55| 9. 16| 31 – 35| 0| 0| | | 36 – 40| 5| 22. | | | 41 – 45| 3| 13. 6| | | 46 – 50| 6| 27. 3| | | 51 – 55| 1| 4. 5| | | 56 – 60| 4| 18. 2| | | 61 – 65| 2| 9. 1| | | TOTAL| 22| 100. 0| | | Figure 4. Gantt Chart of Schedule of Activities Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION Project Context Every organization is concerned with the modernization of their firm to become competitive. Our environment and its usefulness, in business transactions operation, education and others, already know computerization. It supported the success of each individual to gain benefits as the time period, less energy to exert and less number of person involve in processing such job.For this reason many-concerned citizen continue to contrive and investigate various type of applications that they aim to gain advantage of the adoption of modern technology gives big improvement in a company. It will show in a certain firm that there is development. The researchers observed that their recording and other operation are slow when done manually. Purpose and Description The success of an organization depends on its ability to acquire accurate and timely data or information about its operations, manage data effectively and use it to analyze the organizations activities and operations. sample format of citations) According to Earls M. Awad, â€Å"System is an organized group of components or elements linked together according to a plan to achieve an objective†. Information is needed in virtually every field of human thought and action. It generally supports that computerization of information system is considere d a great advantage in an organization. The job performance of management graduates employee and non-management graduates as computerized and is a student profile system operator.Both of them are with computer operations background. She compared the ratings given by the administrators in the performance of the both. One of the clients’ findings of the study was that there is a significant difference between the job performance of the management graduates employee and non-government graduates as assessed by the administrators and the big difference is in favor of management graduates employee for the reason that records is more fast and easy. (http:www. Sourceface. commanagement_1 ote35. html)

New York Times Annotated Bibliography Essay

6 September, 2008. â€Å"U. S. Jobless Rate Rises Past 6%, Highest Since ‘03. † Uchitelle, Louis. New York Times. This article informs about the fact that the unemployment rate reached its highest level since 2003; causing workers to worry about the fact that many of them will be jobless and also centers on the high unemployment rate became one of the centers of the presidential debates. This article relates to our course since it suggests how unemployment can affect the economy as a whole and how inflation impacts the job status of a society. The article is also relevant to our course because it also gives the opinion of both McCain and Obama on the unemployment escalation and gives a glimpse of what both candidates would do about it. 9 September, 2008. â€Å"Who Else Can Pile on for a Federal Rescue? † Schwartz, Nelson D. New York Times. This article informs about the federal rescue of the companies Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. The article also informs about the automakers worries and the bailout plans that Washington D. C. has proposed to help automakers out of the same financial crunch. It further opens a debate of whether or not we should allow companies to fail or if we should bail them out as has been proposed by some. This article relates to our course since it suggests that in our market economy we should be realistic enough to realize that at times companies do fail and that economic bail out plans are good as a quick fix but they fall short in the long term. Often we like to think that big business is above the common failings, but as we see from the recent events, big business is no longer an elite thing. It is just what it has always been, businesses that have been built over years with the hard work of the owners. Big business is no different then the small company and in this tough economic times this is spelled out clearly. 13 September, 2008. â€Å"Off the Charts: The Return of the Misery Index. † Norris, Floyd. New York Times. This article informs about the â€Å"misery index†. The misery index is the sum of the inflation rate and the unemployment rate over the preceding 12 months. The misery rate hasn’t been seen since the Carter administration, but yet in this year both rates have seen to be rising. The article also looks at how the misery index has risen in the past during the past presidencies. This article relates to our course since it suggests unless something is done, we are likely to not see an improvement in either the inflation rate or the unemployment rate. The article also is relevant to the course since it suggests by looking at this index we can have a very good gauge of how our economic atmosphere will fare in the coming months. 15 September, 2008. â€Å"A Video Contest To Illustrate Democracy. † Cohen, Noam. New York Times. This article informs about the International Democracy Day and the video contest that was created in conjunction with this day. The video contest offers students and people around the world the chance to say what democracy means to them. This article relates to our course since it talks about the importance of democracy on the global and business stage. Democracy is not just an American concept but one that transcends our country. The article also talks about the companies that are helping with this contest. The companies include NBC and YouTube. The partnership between these companies act as a hallmark for all of us because they are showing that everyone from all walks of life cars about democracy and through democracy we can work together. 18 September, 2008. â€Å"As Fears Grow, Wall St. Titans See Shares Fall. † White, Ben and Dash, Eric. Contributed reporting by Sorokin, Andrew R. New York Times. This article informs about the failing of Wall Street titans like Morgan Stanely and Goldman Sachs. The fear that other company could face the same fate as these giants has spread through Wall Street in the last few months. It is estimated that globally there are losses in the 100 billions as far as stocks are concerned. This article relates to our course since it suggests that the failure of investment firms such as Morgan Stanley affects not only the market here in the United States but also has an impact on the global market as well. We tend to forget when we think about our own economic bad times, that other countries the world over are also experiencing the same economic crunch. 23 September, 2008. â€Å"With Politics in the Air, a Freedom Free-for-All Comes to Town. † Cotter, Holland. New York Times. This article informs about an art exhibit that was going on at the Park Avenue Armory during the middle of September. This exhibit is a tongue-in-cheek look at the political system and demonstrates the true meaning of democracy: the right for people to express their views, no matter how differently they do it, and to show other people a different side to every subject. The art exhibit used speeches, music and silly hats to give people another side to the political elections. This article relates to our course since it suggests that elections and democracy can be talked about in a completely non-partisan, non-electoral but still intensely political way. People who went to the exhibit also got a first hand look at how the freedoms of our country allow for people to express themselves in the ways that they want to, which is what democracy is all about. 25 September, 2008. â€Å"Criticizing Capitalism From the Pulpit. † Pfanner, Eric. New York Times. This article informs about how even religious leaders have joined the crusade in criticizing America’s rogue style of capitalism. World religious leaders have taken the fall of Wall Street icons and used that as a means for criticizing the cowboy style of economics that America has been globally portrayed to utilize. This article relates to our course since it suggests that even a pulpit is a place where economics and business standards can be discussed from. Religion is as far from economics as one can get yet this article clearly shows that the global economics pictures is something that is on everyone’s mind, no matter where they live or what they do. We tend to forget that all things are connected and this article clearly shows us that everything in life is connected and has a more far reaching affect then we first may think. 1 October, 2008. â€Å"Brother, Can You Spare a Loan? † Tarquino, J. Alex. New York Times. This article informs about the credit crisis that the small business and individuals have faced in the last few months. The article also talks about the speculation of many in the business world that the escalation towards the credit crisis will only get worse and will eventually be the death of the small businessman. The article ends by saying that the saddest day for America will be the day that small business does die in this country. This article relates to our course since it suggests that in these frightening economic times we could see the end of the small business. American was founded on the ideals that anyone could make their dreams come true and if the credit crisis totally obliterates the small business it will be a sad day indeed for America. 3 October, 2008. â€Å"As Economy Weakens, Federal Reserve Officials Consider Lowering Rates. † Andrews, Edmund L. New York Times. This article informs about the Federal Reserve’s feelings on the Bush administrations economic bailout plan. According to the Fed, even if the bail out is approved it is too little to late and will do hardly nothing to stop the economic slow down from happening. The reason, in the Fed’s eyes, is that financial institutions are fearful of lending out cash and making bad investments. This article relates to our course since it suggests that the economic slow down affects everyone in our economic atmosphere. It also allows people to see how the Federal Reserve is interpreting what is happening so that the average citizen can gauge what they should do in this economic turmoil. 4 October, 2008. â€Å"End of an Era on Wall Street: Goodbye to All That. † Arango, Tim and Creswell, Julie. New York Times. This article informs about theft of a bronze bust of a saloon owner on Hanover Street. The saloon was a frequent favorite of Wall Street execs and the theft happened just as Wall Street was swept up in the financial whirlwind of economic troubles. This article isn’t about a theft of a statue, but more indicative of the times that we are living in when someone would take a well loved art piece, bound with tradition, to perhaps make a quick buck. This article relates to our course since it suggests that the traditions and ideals of Wall Street are slowly falling by the wayside as the economic crunch gets tighter. Wall Street has always been steeped in economic traction, but the theft of this well loved art piece shows that even tradition can be trampled in the hopes of making some money to pay your bills. 12 October, 2008. â€Å"Finance Students Keep Their Job Hopes Alive. † Leland, John. Contributed Reporting by Fairbanks, Amanda M. ; Koppel, Niko; and Zezima, Katie. New York Times. This article informs about the current job outlook for those who are thinking of making finance a possible career. The article talks about how for many business majors law school seems a viable option now more then ever. Others look at the current economic situation as just something they shouldn’t worry about since they have already figured that they will change jobs five or six times in their careers. This article relates to our course since as people who have made business our major (or for those who this is a first class and they haven’t made up their minds on this as a major) it is important to take a look at the job outlook that we will have to look forward to in the coming years. 14 October, 2008. â€Å"Commodity Prices Tumble. † Krauss, Clifford. New York Times. This article informs about how the global financial panic and economic slowdown has lead an end to the commodity bull market that we have seen in the last seven years. This ending of the commodity market has sent prices on the raw ingredients (such as oil) of the world economy tumbling to an all time low. This article relates to our course since it suggests that we don’t just have economic worries here in the United States, but that other countries are also worried about the current state of the economic situation. The United States is part of a broader wide sweeping world economy and the economic slowdown is not just affecting things here at home but also globally. This article clearly gives the reader a better idea of how the United States fits into the broader global economy. In our own economic hard times we tend forget that we are not alone, but are facing the same issues that other countries are. 19 October, 2008. â€Å"The Guys From ‘Government Sachs’. † Creswell, Julie and White, Ben. New York Times. This article informs about how Treasury secretary Paulson used his former firm of Goldman Sachs as a means to investigate what was happening on Wall Street prior to the financial difficulties. It also raises eyebrows and speculates about the amount of participation Goldman Sachs is being perceived to have in the Treasury Department. This article relates to our course since it speculates on corporate interference in a governmental department. In the world economics, such speculation is something that we have to watch carefully so that the economic system is not stained in anyway. When companies interfere with the running of government departments, it makes all actions that have sprung out of that suspect. By bringing Goldman Sachs into the Treasury, Paulson has created a suspicious circumstance that we all should learn from. That above all else is what should be learned from this article. 22 October, 2008. â€Å"China, an Engine of Growth, Faces a Global Slump. † Yardley, Jim and Bradsher, Keith. New York Times. This article informs about the slump in economic level of China. Always seen as the world’s workshop, the threat of global recession has many wondering if the prevailing Communist Party has the wherewithal to stop the further economic decline of China. The article makes a nice point in saying that China is the world economy gauge for how the economic slowdown will eventually affect everyone. This article relates to our course since it informs on how one country is dealing with the long reaching effects of the global financial slowdown. It is interesting to see how one country is going to deal with this global issue because then other countries have a blueprint by which to also take action. 28 October, 2008. â€Å"Denmark Is Rethinking It’s Spurning of the Euro. † Dougherty, Carter. New York Times. This article informs about looking closely at one country and the effect that the global financial situation has on it. Denmark, a country formerly against the euro, now is rethinking things because of the ice cold credit situations of the banks of Denmark. As it stands now a bare majority of Danes do back the adoption of the Euro. This article relates to our course since it suggests that countries that were previously opposed to a financial idea may now have to rethink their opposition as the global economy faces this slowdown. Every country has to figure out ways in which they are going to deal with the global financial crunch. It also relates to this class because it shows us how as a global economy we are all in the same boat. 29 October, 2008. â€Å"Paterson Sees a Budget Gap $47 Billion. † Hakim, Danny and Peters, Jeremy W. New York Times. This article informs about the deficit that the state of New York is facing and the loss of job in the 100,000 in the private sector. The article also suggests the ways in which the state plans on fixing the deficit. Deficits are something that we as a society have to watch carefully especially in these economically unstable times. This article relates to our course since it suggests that everyone, from the state level to the private sector, is affected by the financial crunch that is being seen globally as well as here at home. We tend to forget when we look at big businesses that the private sector is just as affected and this article gives us a glimpse into this fact. We all tend to forget that big business is run by people and people do make mistakes. 31 October, 2008. â€Å"Economy Shrinks With Consumers Leading the Way. † Goodman, Peter S. ; contributing reporting by Norris, Floyd and Zeleny, Jeff. New York Times. This article informs about how the drop in the economy is a bad precursor to the coming holiday seasons. Consumers who are being laid off and having their hours cut have less to spend this holiday season and this is being reflected in the economy more then ever. This especially hits home as we think about the upcoming holiday season, a time when consumer spending is at a high point. This article relates to our course since it shows how the economy is really a circular relationship. The consumer has to work to make money, but no job or less working hours leads to zero money to be spent. This article is important because everything in the world of business and life are interconnected and this article is a very good example of that idea. 4 November, 2008. â€Å"Wall Street’s Extreme Sport: In Modeling Risk, the Human Factor Was Left Out. † Lohr, Steve. New York Times. This article informs about how the risk models that have been used on Wall Street for years have failed due to not being applied, managed, or even understood. Technology that has been made use of on Wall Street has gotten ahead of our ability to act responsible. Often, we forget that technology is only as good as the people that run it, and as such has the capacity for many risks. This article relates to our course since it suggests that risk factors that are associated with the economic downturn come from every sector and that they have a more far reaching concern then we first thought. Risk factors are important to look at since by seeing where the risks have been in a situation, we can hopefully in the future prevent the same economic situation from happening again. 8 November, 2008. â€Å"Colleges Rich and Poor Strain to Respond in Tough Times. † Lewin, Tamar. New York Times. This article informs about how colleges are more then ever struggling to meet the financial needs of students. In the past, the majority of college students were able to fund their education through scholarships that the colleges and universities offered. In this tough economic time, that no longer looks like it will be an option. Students will have to rely more on grants (which may be just as limited), loans and paying out of pocket. This article relates to our course since it hits close to home about how the financial crisis that we are seeing everywhere even affects those of us in college. Previously, being in college meant all you had to do was study hard for finals. Now, though, even college students are feeling the economic burden. 9 November, 2008. â€Å"Remember That Capitalism is More Then a Spectator Sport. † Blinder, Alan S. New York Times. This article informs about the daunting tasks that are ahead for president elect Obama. Among these tasks are to restore a sense of fairness in and faith to our economic system. This article relates to our course since it gives a nice overview of how President-elect Obama needs to go about restoring the faith of he American people in the tattered economic system that has failed us time and again. In watching the elections, President-elect Obama made a lot of nice speeches about what he plans to do, and this article gives us a first glimpse of rather he will be successful or not. I think it is also a nice all inclusive article that sums up the ideals that we have been studying in this course.

Breast cancer- human diease- epidemiology Dissertation

Breast cancer- human diease- epidemiology - Dissertation Example The term ‘cancer’ refers to an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, which are known as malignant cells that proliferate until they form a tumour, which is an abnormal mass of tissue or can be described as a swelling. This causes the malignant cells to break away from the tumour and travel through blood or the lymphatic system to other organs such as the lungs, where the uncontrolled growth cycle repeats itself. The report of a working group to the Department of Health defines breast cancer as a â€Å"primary malignant neoplasm of the breast excluding those arising from connective tissue† (Breast Cancer: Report of a Working Group to the Department of Health, 2000). This being a major problem that affects a considerable percentage of the population, it gains significance as a public health issue and needs to be addressed from that perspective. In this context, the following data published by the NHS, National Institute for Clinical Excellence, appended below in ta bulated form, is relevant: Country No of Registrations (1998) Incidence: Crude Rate Per 100,000 (1998) No of Deaths (2000) Mortality: Crude Rate Per 100,000 (2000) England 32,908 131.0 10,609 41.9 Wales 1,914 128.05 731 48.7 (Guidance on Cancer Care Services: Improving Outcomes in Breast Cancer, 2002). ... Thus, the data reveals that the problem of breast cancer, though it affects female population largely, has to be recognized as a serious public health problem. Detailed region-wise graphical data has been appended as Annexure-I to VI to this paper. The Information Centre for Health and Social Care of the NHS has published data relating to current status of breast screening programmes in heir publication titled, Breast Screening Programme, England 2009-10 as under: (Breast Screening Programme, England 2009-10, 2011) From the above it transpires that 76.9 women in England, who fall within the age group of 53-70, have undergone the screening process for checking breast cancer. On the other hand, the percentage in London shows a downward trend at 67%. Remaining regions also show the rates around 80. While this is a good percentage, considering the issue’s relevance as a major social problem, efforts need to be made to provide coverage to more women through such programmes. The rep ort further projects data for 2002-2010, with the breakup of women into three categories based on age, as under: (Breast Screening Programme, England 2009-10, 2011) From this data, it emerges that the coverage for women in the age group of 53-64 has varied by a mere 1.1% from 76.1 in 2002 to 77.2 in 2010, while that of women 65-70 has increased considerably by 44.5% from 31.7 in 2002 to 76.2 in 2010. The average coverage of both groups put together registers an increase of 16.4% from 63.5 in 2002 to 76.9 in 2010. Thus, the overall trend is encouraging while there is still scope for including more women in the purview of breast screening programmes. This growth of cancer is classified as metastatic spread as the cancer cells leave an area and form a tumour in another body

Marketing Mangement - T.J Maxx's money saving aspect Case Study

Marketing Mangement - T.J Maxx's money saving aspect - Case Study Example The other main thing that T.J Maxx is highlighting in its advertisement to affect consumer perceptions is the claim that these products are branded and hence they are no quality issues with these products as they are endorsed by famous brands. This will make many consumers think that since these products are being supplied to T.J Maxx by some well-known brands, they can trust these products without fearing that they are of inferior quality. They will also think that maybe T.J Maxx is buying in large quantities from these brands and hence it is able to supply these products at a cheaper price than T.J Maxx's competitors. Hence, T.J Maxx's advertisements are hitting the two aspects of consumer's perceptions that product may be offered at lower prices but all the same that it is being endorsed by brands, so consumer can expect no quality issues with the products. Price: The price charged is lower than other competitive firm's and hence it may lead to negative perceptions.

Criminal Behavior and the Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Criminal Behavior and the Law - Essay Example Finally, the paper will discuss the differences between index-one and index-two crimes under the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, as well as which of the two is classified under violent crime and the one classified under property crime. To begin with, criminologist and criminalists are terms more than often used interchangeably, according to Williams and McShane (2004). However, the two terms have some distinct differences that are worth noting. Williams and McShane (2004) note that criminologists deal with the study of behaviors of an individual in relation to crime, individuals who commits the crimes being studied, as well as the correctional facilities for criminals such as jails and prisons. This falls under criminology, which covers various fields of criminal justice, with emphasis on social behavior. Criminalists, on the other hand, are professionals charged with the responsibility of analysis criminal evidence at the scenes of crime such as bullets and bloodstains (Williams and McShane, 2004). They are also charged with the responsibility of recreating crimes scenes, work at crime scenes, laboratories, and courtrooms. Criminologists engage mainly in teaching and research, where they apply the knowledge to the administration and policing, study of public policy, drug addictions, correction, juvenile delinquency, correctional administration and policy, and victimology. Other areas of study include criminal ethnography, theoretical criminology and models or criminal behaviors (Williams and McShane, 2004). Criminologists also assist in analyzing psychological, sociological, and biological evidence such as finger and footprints, body fluids, and blood plaster using their skills and knowledge to establish the link between the suspect and the crime. Criminalist, on the other hand, is a professional who employs scientific techniques to identify and separate vital evidence from the scene of a crime (Williams and McShane, 2004). The evidence gathered is analyze d and interpret, establish the truth as regards the crime. Forensic psychologists are professionals who by virtue of their training apply psychology in a criminal investigation and law (Fulero and Wrightsman, 2009). Forensic psychologists play a big role in assisting fact finders or courts in arriving at a just and precise conclusion of a criminal case. They are often involved in insurance claims, custody disputes, and lawsuits, according to Fulero and Wrightsman (2009). Legal justice system uses forensic psychologists in analyzing the mental status of the accused before, during, and after the trial proceedings. For instance, criminal cases whose verdicts may be death penalty always require that before the accused is handed the sentence, a forensic psychologist is called to analyze the defendants mental status before, during and after the crime to establish whether the defendant was insane at the time of the crime or not. The analysis of mental status of the defendant in a case is i mportant since it aids in just and accurate decision making by the jury. White-collar vs. Blue-collar crimes Crimes are committed by different classes of people. In this regard, O'Hear (2001) defines the white-collar crime as a financially motivated crime committed by respected people with high social status in society. This crime is committed by high-class individuals who have inherited or earn a lot of money at the upper level jobs such as corporate bigwigs (O'Hear,

Marketing Foundations and Applications Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Marketing Foundations and Applications - Essay Example New product development often entails modifying an existing product or creating totally different offerings to satisfy a current need. In these product developments, business organizations may encounter hardships in identifying features which adds value to the customer. There are cases when current products cannot be enhanced because of shortage of ideas that can improve the offering. A good example of detergent soaps. Companies may be hindered in developing new detergent products which can boost the satisfaction of customer in this particular product. Next, product development can be unlikely because the business organization is operating in a fragmented market which implies that they need to aim their new products at smaller market segments thereby generating only meager profits and revenues. When developing new products, companies should take into account all of its current market and not just a segment of it. If not, the new product developed will completely change the positioning of the business organization in the industry and may also discourage their current customers in purchasing the new product. With the increasing clamor for being socially responsible, companies are often under the scrutiny and regulations of social organizations and the government. New product development can be critised because of the hazard that these products can bring to the consuming public. An example of this is the growing concern for obesity in the global arena which forces business organizations to modify their products and add only those which have more health benefits. Another criticism of product development is the large cost associated in the process which cannot be adequately provided for by the business organization. New product developments are investments which companies undertake. It should be noted that as investments, the greater the possible gain, the greater the risks which should be incurred. Product development can bring adverse financial impact to business organizations if gains are not realized. Another criticism of product development is the faster required development time which is needed in order to account for shorter product life cycle. It should be noted that the key to the success of a company is often linked to its ability of bringing products to the market at speed faster than its competitors. 2. What are the features and characteristics that differentiate business-to-business markets from consumer markets Illustrate your answers with examples. Since marketing deals with the identification and provision of customer needs, companies are intensifying their efforts in knowing their customers. Business organizations often cater to individual buyers which are collectively called consumer markets and other commercial

Life of John D. Rockefeller and his legacy Term Paper

Life of John D. Rockefeller and his legacy - Term Paper Example One may criticize John D. Rockefeller for many things, like being one of the first to have started a monopoly or oligopoly businesses, yet when his services or assistance to communities and nations are taken into accounted, one can also say that his legacy of sustained philanthropy is probably unmatched for longevity and volume of assistance of assistance rendered. Yet not only is his own life is criticized for his role in history but the role of his descendants. John D. Rockefeller’s Standard Oil John D. Rockefeller Sr. , former school dropout and who became perhaps the richest person during his time, is the Rockefeller patriarch or the seed that produced other Rockefellers of great significance and who have equally created their own legacy by sustaining the legacy of John D. Rockefeller Sr. (PBS, 2000). The other Rockefellers who have contributed their important legacies or who have sustained the John D. Rockefeller Sr. Legacy are John D. Rockefeller, Jr. (1874-1960), son of John D. Rockefeller, Sr., and the Rockefeller brothers John III (1906-78), Nelson (1908-1979), Laurance (1910-2004), Winthrop (1912-1973), and David Rockefeller (1915-?), sons of John D. Rockefeller, Jr.The patriarch was â€Å"twenty-three years old and already a success in his profitable commission business when he decided to risk $4,000 in a speculative oil refinery operation in Cleveland† (Armentano, 1981, p. 58). This was probably in 1862. When John D. Rockefeller began his business, both the Petroleum industry and the Standard Oil Company were â€Å"inchoate† (Montague, 1904, p. 4). ... 4). However, according to Armentano (1981, p. 58), â€Å"the firm quickly prospered under the technical direction of Samuel Andrews, and a second refinery was constructed in 1866.† In a short while, â€Å"Maurice Clark, one of the original partners in the firm, was bought out (for $72,500), and Rockefeller brought in his brother William for entrepreneurial know-how and his shrewd and wealthy friend, Henry Flagler, for additional capital† (Armentano, 1981, p. 58). It was only in 1868, however, that John D. Rockefeller deployed his â€Å"complete and undivided attention† to the petroleum business (Armentano, 1981, p. 58). Armentano (1981, p 58) asserted that â€Å"the firm of Rockefeller, Andrews, and Flagler prospered quickly in the intensely competitive industry by the economic excellence of its entire operations.† The firm implemented a business that is relatively unique in the industry during the period. Armentano (1981, p. 58) revealed that â€Å"inste ad of buying oil from jobbers, they made the jobbers’ profit by sending their own purchasing men into the oil region.† Further, â€Å"they made their own sulfuric acid, their own barrels, their own lumber, their own wagons, and their own glue† (Armentano, 1981, p. 58). Armentano documented that that firm â€Å"kept minute and accurate records of ever item from rivets to barrel bungs† (1981, p. 58). In short, what Armentano has tried to narrate is that the firm organized by John D. Rockefeller Sr. implemented vertical integration as well as good management practices. Breakup of Standard Oil and Development Larson (1969) explained that from 1882 to 1950, the Standard Oil Company founded by John D. Rockefeller had been keen on vertical integration. Luck and shrewdness mattered but the oil firm

Advantages and Disadvantages of GMO Cotton Essay

Advantages and Disadvantages of GMO Cotton - Essay Example The countries that we know for producing GM cotton are the USA and India although the product also has production in China, Argentina, Australia, Mexico, South Africa, among others. The major advantage of genetically modified cotton is that the plant is resistant to insect pests. More than 68% of the genetically modified cotton in China produces a substance that helps it to become resistant to insect pests. It is known as "Bacillus thurengiensis" toxin. There are a few problematic pests such as caterpillars that bore the cotton itself thus hard to fight. The European Union is yet to approve submissions made for the growth and use of modified cotton. There are problems that farmers in India are experiencing as the Bt toxin failed to work. The Bt cotton yields declined significantly as secondary pests invaded the cotton. The trouble led to the use of more pesticides on the plant plus the price for the cotton seeds went up by a large number.   Scientists suggest that the Bt cotton pro duces a number of beneficial insects which help the small-scale farmers in the production of cotton. China was the leading country in the study of the benefits of having genetically modified cotton. The toxin that is used is lethal to the bollworm that is usually a major problem for the cotton growers. There is a significant decline in the use of insecticides because of the reduction in the bollworm pest. The reduction in the number of pests means that the cotton produced in good health increases.

Functions of packaging Essay Example for Free

Functions of packaging Essay The functions of packaging range from safety, information to its aesthetic aspects. Bill Stewart, (1996) has defined basic functions of packaging as follows: â€Å"product packaging must contain the product, protect the product from degradation, and identify its contents†. Stanley Sacharow, (1982) state that ‘although new dimensions of packaging are being investigated but until about 1900, a package had to perform only two functions: (1) To ensure safe delivery of the product to the consumer, and (2) To protect the product and ensure its shelf life. Apart from its functional attributes several researchers have explored the distinct roles of packaging and its growing importance is demanding to investigate its potential power in greater detail. (Thomas Hine, 1995) suggests Packaging as a tool for simplifying and speeding consumer buying decisions as packages promise, and usually deliver predictability. (Herbert M. Meyers and Murray J. Lubliner, 1998) sustain packaging functions that contribute to product differentiation, brand identification, appealing presentation, information, and enhancement. A package must literally shout attention to the product (James Pilditch, 1973). Forming an overall personality of the product is an integrated function stated by (Herbert Meyers and Richard Gerstman, 2005). â€Å"†¦.. Offered one example of the importance of package Colour. When 40 consumers were shown the same yogurt product in both an attractive blue cup and in an unattractive brown cup, only one consumer said the yogurt in the brown cup was superior to the same product in the blue cup. Those selecting the blue cup preferred it because it was sweeter, softer, definitely the best, Caron reported (Orloski, 1999) Packaging is no doubt an integral part of the offering of any organization to its consumers and stakeholders. It has to perform basic functions relevant to its attributes like size, Colour, graphics and shape. Various product strategies, designing and technologies can be used to achieve competitive advantage out of it. I. i. a. Components of Packaging Packaging is important component of the product business world. There are various factors which are important while making packaging decisions. With regard to main components of packaging, many different points of view have been expressed (Sonsino, 1990; Vidales Giovannetti, 1995; Hine, 1995; Underwood et al. , 2001; Cervera Fantoni, 2003). Generally speaking, a distinction is made between two blocks of components: (1) Graphic Components: Colour, Typography, Shapes/ Pictures (2) Structural Components: Shape, Size, Material (Olga Ampuero and Natalia Vila, 2006) In an article appeared in The Birmingham Post. (2005) have following lines which indicate the importance of packaging in the promotion and communication part of the business as well. â€Å"The bottle blends vintage and modern elements, while the packaging uses Williamsons signature Colour combinations of delicious pink and purple. † In other newspaper a product in children’s category has been mentioned. Here packaging is also mentioned as one of the importantly features of the product offering. â€Å"It is made with the gentlest ingredients for childrens sensitive skin, and has a delicate aroma of chamomile tea and baby powder. Included in the range is a shampoo and shower gel at pounds 15, body lotion pounds 17. 50, set of animal shaped soaps pounds 14, and a fragrance without alcohol pounds 25. The packaging is cute, decorated with drawings of animals. † (Sunday Mirror 1997) I. i. b. Multi-Faceted Dimension of Packaging Role of packaging is multifaceted. It functions to protect the product. It provides information like manufacturing date, expiry date, cautions and many others depending on the product. It is important for the storage and inventory management. Packaging plays a multi-functional role in the marketing of different products. Packaging not only protects the content of the product during physical distribution and storage in supply chain but also displays the product on the shelf in order to grab customer attention to make a choice among many competing products. Hence, packaging mainly plays a role of a silent salesman. (Sara, 1990). Designs of packaging have become one of the most important aspects of the product and it has been challenge for designers to develop packaging which can have all the attributes required. Numbers of products are sold in outlets where self service is practiced. According to Sonsino (1990) who has studied the buying behaviour and pattern within self service retail outlets, â€Å"Self-service has transferred the role of informing the customer from the sales assistant to advertising and to packaging. In an average supermarket the typical shopper passes about 300 items per minute. So it is quite obvious that a customer would be willing to pay little more for the convenience and prestige of better package. Therefore, packaging provides manufacturers with the last opportunity to persuade possible buyers before brand selection (McDaniel and Baker, 1977). This becomes even more important as nine out of ten purchasers, at least occasionally; buy on impulse (Welles, 1986). Sara (1990 p. 30) argues that â€Å"it is consumer’s subjective perspective that counts in his or her purchasing decision, not the product’s objective reality, and this in fact highlights the importance of packaging in the marketing mix. Consumers assess all the benefits of a product or supplier before making the final choice. The fact is that 95% of all retail purchased are made at prices higher than lowest possible†. (Bo Rundh, 2005) The point of purchase and impulsive shopping increases with good packaging strategies. Importance of packaging in the product mix can not be ignored for various reasons from the basic needs it fulfils safety and security of the product to the appeal and presentation of it. Greenman (2003) explains his expectations about buying behaviour. â€Å"it was my hope that their chosen treats would not only be to their liking, but would also have the creative packaging, Colours, patterns, shapes and attractive font that would make an interesting composition. † There is a need to understand consumer attitude and behaviour towards the packaging on special occasions will be investigated in greater detail. Understanding of the factors influencing consumers during special occasions will help marketer to serve target market effectively. I. ii. Cultural Implication on Packaging The increasing internationalization and globalization of business has forced many firms to reconsider different aspects of packaging that contributes to their competitive advantage. For some companies the package can make the difference example a superior design of a bottle like the export success of absolute Vodka (cap, seal, text and form of the bottle), which has become the second largest brand in the Vodka market (Bo Rundh, 2005, p. 670). An innovative packaging can even change product perception and create a new market position. Pringles potato chips are such an example whose innovative packaging differs from most competitive packages. I. ii. a. Culture Culture has been defined and described differently by various researchers, anthropologists and sociologists. The findings related to various cultures have been inputs for the business and economics sector in order to serve the mass with the products and services of their choices. Any business organization before investing or starting its business operations to any particular area within its country or other nations studies the socio-cultural background of that area. There is various definition of culture. Some of the definitions are discussed below: Culture has been defined as the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members of one human group from another by Hofstede G. H. (1980), whereas Van Maanen J. and Schein E. H. (1979) defined culture as values, beliefs and expectations that members come to share. According to Kroeber A. L. and Kluckhohn C. (1952) culture is defined as transmitted patterns of values, ideas and other symbolic systems that shape behaviour, while Hall E. T. and Hall M. R. (1987) defines culture as a primary system for creating, sending, storing and processing information. (Lisa Hoecklin, 1995, p. 28) In researchers view, there is a commonality reflecting in the views of all these different authors that- culture is a set of values, beliefs, customs, behaviours and expectations which is shared by members of a society and is passed on from generation to generation. Values and beliefs of an individual develops through his family background, social set ups and his own level of understandings. Individual follows customs and rituals which have passed to him from generations to generations. His behaviour is a result of the combination of his personality, customs, believes and value systems. There are certain levels of expectations from each and every individual in the society. These expectations can be personal to the individual or family or society’s expectations to him. The result of the collective behaviour of people comes in the form of culture. Culture is something where the past of the society have impact on its present. As rightly stated: Culture can neither be separated from individual and nor from the historical context. Its importance to society is equivalent to the importance of memory to an individual. As said by (Grunert, S. C. ) language, time and place help define culture. (Mooij and Marieke K. de, 2004, p. 26) I. ii. b. Hofstede’s Five Dimensions of Culture A Dutch cultural anthropologist, Geert Hofstede has developed a model of five dimensions of national culture that helps to understand basic value differences. Figure II. 2 HOFSTEDE’S FIVE DIMENSIONS OF CULTURE †¢ Power Power within a society plays vital role in its culture. Different culture has different frameworks for power and it has different implications as well. As described in Mooij and Marieke K. de (2004, p. 33) Power distance can be defined as â€Å"the extent to which less powerful members of a society accept and expect that power is distributed unequally. † Different countries can be divided by the power distance it has within its society. The high power society countries have centralized and top-down control while in the countries with low power societies are more independent and equal distribution of powers. For example: Japan can be described as high power distance cultures. Japanese people accept and give authority. Various factors constitute power within the society form the age of a person specific to the status and ownership. Within a family there are strong dependency relationships between parents and children. In the organizations bosses and subordinates show the distinct relationship due to the power. In the educational institute, professors and students share different relationship. Japanese people are least likely to change their job due to values they have developed and culture it has. On the other hand western countries have low power distance cultures. For instance Denmark people stress on equality of rights and opportunity. Within a family parents support their children to be independent at a young age. Dependency within the members of the culture is least. †¢ Self Approach of people can be different from each other from culture to culture. Within a society when majority of people are self conscious and think about their own interest first it is called individualism. People want to differentiate themselves from each other in such societies. They have private opinion about all the issues and problems and for them self actualization becomes an integral part of their life. In such cultures people are â€Å"I† conscious. Individual decisions are higher valued than group decisions. Most of the western countries display individualism culture where people are universalistic, share more explicit views and open communication and think about themselves first. On the other hand Asian and Latin American countries’ cultures show altogether different culture. This culture is known as collectivism. People are â€Å"we† conscious and think about their society or social network for each of their decisions. People have harmony among them and their cultural identity depends on the social network they belong.

Definition of Community in Community Health Nursing

Definition of Community in Community Health Nursing Give a definition of what a community is it is not solely geography, but includes factors of culture, ethnicity, age, etc. Consider principles of community care and critically discuss how a PHN in Ireland could ensure that care provided in her particular community is both inclusive and comprehensive. Introduction A community may be defined in many different ways. Community care can also be defined differentially, maybe in relation to a fundamental philosophy, may in terms of imposed limitations and definitions of community delineation. Discussion One definition of;community’ is â€Å"A social group of any size whose members reside in a specific locality, share government, and often have a common cultural and historical heritage† (http://www.sustainablemeasures.com/Training/Indicators/Cmmunty.html). This notion of community identifies the key elements of community in relation to healthcare that concern healthcare service providers and policy makers. Communities can be defined in terms of their location, but it is not enough to delineate communities in terms of specific areas, because communities are not simply collections of people who are in close proximity with each other by happenstance (Webb, 1986). Communities occur because of features which bring people together, often because of need, such as family support, or because of common interest, such as healthcare support groups. However, not all groups which share a common interest are communities (Trevilion, 1993). Location and purpose seem to be aspects of com munity, sharing not only common interest but common activities and common purposes, common concerns and common needs (Sines et al, 2005). Culture, ethnicity, age, gender, sexuality, all of these can be characteristics which define a community, but they could also be different elements of identities and needs within a particular community. For example, it is possible to talk of traveller community health, traveller women’s health, gay men’s health, and the like, and thus we are referring to communities which may exist within geographical communities, or despite geographical boundaries (McMurray, 2003). Within the United Kingdom, issues surrounding community health and wellbeing have concerned healthcare providers, particularly in defining distinct communities or sectors of communities, in order to identify health needs and develop and mobilise services in order to meet those needs (Lewis, 1999). However, these needs and the communities focused on have been traditionally limited to government-defined communities or definitions of who belongs to what community (Lewis, 1999). More recently, the re-orientation of UK healthcare services towards a more patient-centred model has led to the upsurge of service user involvement in design, development and evaluation of services (Pickar et al, 2002; Simpson et al, 2006; Tait and Lester, 2005; Telford and Faulkner, 2004; Humphreys, 2005). This could be viewed as a means of breaking down the traditional hierarchical barriers between ‘the community’ or communities being served by healthcare providers, and the providers themselves (Telford and Faulkner, 2004). Addressing community needs can be informal, local, or national and formal, and seems to form part of governance strategies in the UK and Ireland (DoHC, 2001). Such strategies also now seem to focus not only on the service user information role, through gathering feedback and through service user involvement (Poulton, 1997), but also the need for greater collaboration, within and between healthcare and community/ social care/ voluntary sector agencies (Cumberledge, 1986; Fisher et al, 1999). These are all very good ideals, but in order to make user involvement and collaborative approaches work, information needs to be applied to practice, and practice needs to be changed for the better. This requires staff at some level to enforce these changes. It might be that the Public Health Nursing role within the Irish community healthcare context could be viewed as one of the loci for the enforcement of community-oriented healthcare provision. However, more information is needed on how this ‘enforcement’ of change could be achieved through this role. For example, collaborative care planning, needs assessment and care provision has existed for decades (see for example, Webb, 1986), but this kind of joined up working is still not a reality of practice, with failings in communication and challenges of interprofessional working still dogging the footsteps of primary healthcare providers (Poulton and West, 1999). If healthcare providers cannot work well with each other, they set a poor example for joined up working with community-focused or community-derived groups, as well as individuals who identify themselves as belonging to certain communities. Community services within the Irish context cover both health services –primary, secondary and tertiary – and social care services, all of which are supposed to meet the needs of the individual and the community. However, provision and suitability of services can vary by location. Because of the diverse nature of communities, it might be difficult to provide services which meet all community needs in any given location. This would suggest a need for flexibility of care provision, and again underlines the need for good inter-professional, inter-disciplinary, and inter-agency working. Public Health Nurses are accustomed to working with multiple professions and agencies, but there is a need to re-evaluate concepts of diversity in relation to the communities which occur within their sphere of practice. Conclusion Community is a term which encompasses many aspects of social life. Healthcare services which have a community focus would have to be very flexible, adaptable, and even creative, because of the increasingly diverse nature of communities. This diversity emerges not only from social changes, some of which are driven by economic, media and technological changes, but also by new understandings of communities and their inherent components, differences and similarities. Community focused models of service design and provision are those which would involve service users in design, planning, governance and evaluation of services, but such involvement must be representative of the increasing diversity of the communities concerned. Public health nurses are in a good position to access and support all sectors of the community within the Irish context, and to support service users to provide input into all levels of health and social care provision, even into healthcare professional education. However, understanding communities is an ongoing issue and services must be designed to reflect the true needs of each community. As such, they must be responsive rather than prescriptive. References Cumberlege, J. (1986) Collaboration. London: Centre for Advancement of Interprofessional Education Department of Health and Children (2001) Primary Care: a New Direction. Available from: http://www.dohc.ie/publications/pdf/primcare.pdf?direct=1 Accessed 10-11-08. Fisher, B., Neve, H. Zoe, H. (1999) â€Å"Community development, user involvement and primary health care: community development has much to offer primary care groups.† British Medical Journal 318 (7186) 749-750. Humphreys, C. (2005) Service user involvement in social work education: a case example. Social Work Education 24 (7) 797-803. Lewis, J. (1999) The concepts of community care and primary care in the UK: the 1960s to the 1990s Health and Social Care in the Community 7 (5) 333-341. McMurray, A. (2003) Community Health and Wellness A Sociological Approach. 2nd Ed. Elsevier, Australia Pickar, S., Marshall, M., Rogers, A. et al (2002) â€Å"User involvement in clinical governance.† Health Expectations 5 187-198. Poulton, B.C. (1997) Consumer feedback and determining satisfaction with services. IN: Mason, C. (ed) Achieving Quality in Community Health Care Nursing London: Macmillan Press. Poulton, B. and West, M. (1999) The Determinants of Effectiveness in Primary Health Care Teams. Journal of Interprofessional Care, 13:1 Simpson, E.L, Barkham, M, Gilbody, S. and House, A. (2006) Involving service users as researchers for the evaluation of adult statutory mental health services. The Cochrane Library 3 Sines, D., Appleby, F. and Frost, M. (2005) Community Health Care Nursing 3rd Ed. Bath: Blackwell Publishing. Tait, L. Lester, H. (2005) â€Å"Encouraging user involvement in mental health services.† Advances in Psychiatric Treatement 11 168-175. Telford, R. and Faulkner, A. (2004) Learning about service user involvement in mental health research. Journal of Mental Health 13 (6) 549-559. Trevillion, S. (1993) Care in the Community a Networking Approach to Community Partnership. London: Longman Van Teijlingen, E.R., Hundley, V., Rennie, A.M. et al (2003) Maternity satisfaction studies and their limitations, Birth 30 (2) 75-82. Webb, A. (1986) Collaboration in Planning a pre-requisite of Community Care. In Webb, A. and Sistow, G. Eds. Planning Needs and Scarcity. Essays on Personal Social Services. London: Allen and Unwin

Decline Catholicism :: essays research papers

Picture this if you will. In the beginning (being 1945) god created a shepherd (the Catholic Church) in which we the sheep followed blindly. Everywhere the shepherd took us, we would follow without complaint. A sheep dared not question the Shepherd or stray from the flock in fear of being labeled a bad sheep (catholic) and suffering the consequences of eternal damnation. But as time went on and the sheep modernized, however the shepherd was stubborn and conservative in his ways and refused to change. So the sheep began to stray from the shepherd with little fear, scattering, going to other pastures and other flocks with other Shepherds. The Shepherd realized his flock was depleting so he began to modernize as well and changed his ways. With this now modern shepherd, the modern sheep began to gradually come back. But living in a modern pasture the relationship between the two had changed. Mr. Houston fellow students, â€Å"What were the reasons for the decline of Catholicism in America since 1945†, this has been the topic of my research for the previous three terms. The previous analogy, although being far fetched, if you put it into perspective outlines my opinion on the development of Catholicism since 1945 to the present day. That initially we followed the Catholic Church unquestionably and devoutly, mass on Sundays, fish on Fridays (etc). But as society modernized and became increasingly secular in education, the media and politics, people began to question some of the church teachings and the church authorities. Though the church, lead by conservatives initially would not change. As Catholics began to move away, the church realizing the situation reassessed their position at Vatican 2, which resulted in the modernized Catholic Church. Consequently from here catholic membership began to increase, however the nature of Catholicism changed. This leads me to my hypothesis: In our modernized secular society, catholic membership began to drop initially, due to the conservative views of the church. As a result of Vatican 2 Catholicism was modernized and membership within the religion was re-established. Although the nature of Catholicism has changed in this age of materialism and consumerism, this does not necessarily indicate direction of decline. Before I begin my findings I would like to define the nature of secularism which is a word you will hear throughout my research. Secularism: rejection of religious and sacred forms and practices in favour of rational assessment and decision-making, and civil institutions of government

Human Nature in The Prince by Machiavelli and Utopia by Thomas More :: Papers More Machiavelli Prince Utopia Essays

Human Nature in The Prince by Machiavelli and Utopia by Thomas More It is difficult to determine Niccolo Machiavelli?s and Thomas More?s view on human?s nature. Each took a different approach to the topic. Through Utopia, Thomas More attempted to change man?s thinking by creating an ideological society. Niccolo Machiavelli, through The Prince, attempted to teach man how to deal with human nature. With this in mind, Machiavelli?s concept is much more realistic than More?s; therefore Machiavelli better represents human nature. Machiavelli?s view of human nature in The Prince, presents, on the surface, a view of governing a state drastically different for his time. Machaivelli believed that the ruling Prince should be the sole authority determining every aspect of the state and put into effect a policy which would serve his best interests. With this, Machiavelli uses the prince as man, and the state as the man?s life. These interests were gaining, maintaining, and expanding his political power. Though in some cases Machiavelli may seem harsh and immoral , one must remember that his views were derived from concern of Italy?s unstable political condition in the 1500s. Machiavelli seems to be teaching the common man how to live his life so that their life is good and prosperous. Machiavelli generally distrusted citizens, stating that since men are a sorry lot and will not keep their promises to you, you likewise need not keep yours to them? (Machiavelli 651). Furthermore, ? a prince never lacks legitimate reasons to break his promises? when, ?such an observance of faith would be to his disadvantage; and when the reasons which made him promise are removed? (651). Machiavelli did not feel that a Prince should mistreat the citizens. This suggestion once again to serve the Prince?s best interests. If a Prince can not be both feared and loved, Machiavelli suggests, it would be better for him to be feared by the citizens within his own dogma. He makes the generalization that men are, ungrateful, fickle, simulators and deceivers, avoiders o f danger, greedy for gain; and while you work for their good they are yours? (649). He characterizes men as being self-centered and not willing to act in the best interest of the state,? and when it (danger) comes nearer to you they turn away? (649). Machiavelli reinforces the Prince?s need to be feared by stating: men are less hesitant about harming someone who makes himself loved than one who makes himself feared?

Drought and Global Climate Change :: Environment, Climate Change

Drought is a multi-causal and complex environmental issue, and can have serious socioeconomic consequences. Recently, IPCC (the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) in Fourth Assessment Report (AR4) concluded that South Asia and the Middle East would experience sever, prolonged droughts as a result of global climate changes, explicitly the increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere (IPCC, 2007). Drought is a weather-related natural disaster whose effect is aggravated by human activities. Sometime drought affects large regions and even several countries for a long period of time. Drought has a serious impact on food productivity of a land, and even on the life expectancy of inhabitants. The aftermath of drought involves in socioeconomic, ecological issues (WGA, 1996) (Jeyaseelan, 2005; Pongracza et al., 1996). Iran encompassing drylands has been periodically jeopardized by drought events, which have devastatingly affected society and environment (Shamsipour et al., 2008). Therefore, the study of drought needs several sources of datasets. In other words, the design of a planning project for a region for sustainable development, the acquisition of updated data is critical, particularly for countries with arid to semi-arid climates. The recent innovations in remote sensing methods have brought new solutions to study of environmental problems in geosciences. In the assessment of natural hazards like drought, remote sensing provides rapid, instant spatial data about the natural phenomena; they are useful in decision-makings as well as weather forecasts (Sunyurp et al., 2004). The monitoring of drought via remote sensing depends on the factors that cause drought (Jeyaseelan, 2005). Drought indicators and variables, obtained through remotely sensed data, can carry some uncertainties, which is induces by the sensitivity of factors, or their dependency to weather and environment conditions. Additionally, some non-standard algorithms might lead to wrong estimation of drought intensity. More effective methods for increase accuracy of assessment and analysis of remotely sensed data are applying models which can combine in data layers. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are used to combine the layers of data in the modeling of drought. Recently, space technologies, such RS and GIS, and the numerical modeling techniques have been developed as powerful tools for the ecological assessment of environment (Krivtsov, 2004; MacMillan et al., 2004; Store and Jokimà ¤ki, 2003). Utilizing these technologies not only supply a platform to support multi-level and hierarchically integrated analysis on resource and environment, but also integrate the obtained information in a comparative theoretical ecosystem analysis. Meanwhile, Plummer (2000) argued that perspectives of combining ecological models and remotely sensed data would focus on the estimation of accuracy, the issues of spatial and temporal scale, and long-term comprehensive datasets.

Disc Jockey

My idea of a professional life may seem glamorous and perhaps non-conventional. It is not the type of job that children grow up dreaming about. In fact, I am not exactly sure when the obsession or desire to become a disc jockey came up but I am sure of the fact that I do want to become a successful one. To begin, it is not so much the lifestyle, though it would be impossible to admit that there was not a single part of me that wanted to enjoy the same type of lifestyle, but the music. Having the professional career of a disc jockey is ideal for many reasons.It allows one to work with various artists and also exposes one to the different talents in the music industry. One’s creative talent is also allowed to grow and improve as a disc jockey. The exposure to all sorts of music that one is able to create with and blend makes a career as a disc jockey very desirable to myself. Before discussing this chosen profession, however, it is important to first discuss what exactly a disc jockey is. A disc jockey is basically defined as a person who selects, programs and plays music. This music is usually from a prerecorded/preselected track or selection.This is then mixed and played for any selected audience who can either be live or on the radio or even recorded in a studio for album sales. While the disc jockey profession has typically been considered as merely supplementary, it has been greatly developed over the years with the developments in the music and recording industry such as the introduction of digital formats, which DJs use to create live mixes and incorporate sound samples and thus creating a unique new sound. Income Income wise, DJs make a fairly decent amount of money.The highly sought after disc jockeys usually earn anywhere from US$100,000 to US$250,000 on average every year. There are of course exceptions depending on how sought after the disc jockey is. Starting out, a decently skilled and equipped disc jockey can expect to haul in around US$50,0 00 a year just from hosting events and parties in bars and other functions. There is no certification or educational attainment required to become a successful disc jockey as even the most famous ones never really received any sort of formal training but instead trained themselves.Neither is race a factor as a disc jockey can come from any racial background and still become succesful. Perhaps the only factor that figures when determining the income of a disc jockey is popularity and demand. Working Conditions The job of a disc jockey pays well but also demands a lot from the disc jockey. First off, the working hours are quite different from the normal shifts that other professionals have. Being a disc jockey, one must be willing to work long late hours in the evenings until early mornings.The demand for a disc jockey is usually during party hours which may begin as early as 9 in the evening and last until the wee hours of the morning of the next day. These working hours necessitate that a disc jockey must be able to adapt and have sleeping hours that allow for this type of work. The stress and burn-out rate is very high among disc jockeys because of this. For disc jockeys who are in high demand, the stress is even greater and any type of family time is very difficult. Disc jockeys also constantly travel in search of better opportunities and to play at concerts.This means that there is very little time to carry out the day to day affairs. The most important factor is the health factor as disc jockeys are constantly exposed to excessively loud levels of music. Being in such an environment lends to the deterioration of one’s hearing and the different hours may also have an effect on the long term health of any disc jockey. That is why most disc jockeys make sure that they are physically fit and well rested before any concert or event. Personality/Skills Being a disc jockey does not require a college degree, much less any educational degree. Though, it is i mportant to receive an education.There is no requirement for a disc jockeys personality although recent studies have shown that good communication skills and pleasing personalities always perform better in any professional endeavor. A disc jockey must, however, be able to properly gauge the mood of the crowd at the event in order to know what type of music to play. The basic skill a disc jockey needs is the musical skill. A disc jockey must be able to blend the music and tracks seamlessly. He must be able to know when to insert a certain track or know what type of beat and tempo to add to another song to create an entertaining atmosphere.2. ) The most important part of becoming a disc jockey is getting enough real life experience in order to know the crowds and events scene. There is no course or educational program that can adequately prepare someone to become a disc jockey. The best teacher for this type of profession is experience and musical inclination. Music is similar to fash ion and in order for one to become successful it is important to be able to adapt and develop a unique musical signature that crowds enjoy. Education/Training As previously mentioned, there is no requisite degree for a disc jockey.Perhaps the only education a disc jockey needs will come from a professional disc jockey training school which is starting to abound in the United States. It does not hurt of course to have a good musical background. One can enroll in the many music courses in any of the colleges and receive a proper background in order to develop one’s skill and learn what types of sounds can blend well. There is no certification for being a disc jockey since professionals in the entertainment industry generally do not require professional studies in order to practice their profession.Equipment The most important part of being a disc jockey is having the proper equipment, not only to perform better during events but also in order to be able to practice and improve in one’s profession. Basic equipment The equipment needed to DJ consists of: Sound recordings in a DJ's preferred medium (eg. vinyl records, compact discs (CDs), computer media files) A minimum of two devices to play sound recordings, for alternating back and forth to create a continuous playback of music (e. g. record players, compact disc players, computer media players such as an MP3 player)A sound system for amplification or broadcasting of the recordings (e. g. portable audio system, PA system) or a radio broadcasting system. A DJ mixer, an electronic two-channel mixer with a crossfader used to smoothly go from one song to another (using two or more playback devices) A microphone, so that the DJ can introduce songs and speak to the audience, and headphones or a monitor speaker, which is used to listen to one recording while the other is playing, without outputting the sound to the audience). Advanced equipment Other equipment can be added to the basic DJ set-up (above) p roviding unique sound manipulations.Such devices include but are not limited to: Electronic effects processors (delay, reverb, octave, equalizer, chorus, etc). Some club DJs use a sub octave effect which creates a very low bass sound and adds it to the mix. A computerized performance system, which can be used with timecode encoded vinyl/CD content to manipulate digital files on the computer in real time. Multi-stylus headshells, which allow a DJ to play different grooves of the same record at the same time. Special DJ digital controller hardware can manipulate digital files on a PC or laptop, by using midi signalsSamplers, electronic musical keyboards (synths), or drum machines. Length of Time In order to become a successful disc jockey, one needs to have enough experience or at least have enough talent. There are certain disc jockeys who have gained overnight success by landing an excellent gig. There are also those who have apprenticed under the more successful disc jockeys and sl owly worked their way up to stardom. There is no fixed length of time required in order for a person to become a disc jockey as success in this profession is determined by many things such as popularity and quality of events performed.The best time line for this will be five years from the beginning of training to eventual success. Courses offered for professional disc jockey training last for around sixty (60) days and apprenticeship under a good disc jockey may range anywhere from sic (6) months to one (1) year. Under the normal circumstances, one will be able to gain enough experience and develop a sufficient amount of contacts in the entertainment industry in a span of five (5) years.