Athenian audience Essay

Examine and compare the motives and actions of Orestes and Electra. To what extent will an Athenian audience admire and approve of them?  Electra is the central character in the play. Her main purpose in this play is to achieve the motive of a typical Greek person, which is to be noble to the gods, family and cherish their homeland. This is why tries as much as possible to kill the murderers of her father and why she thinks by doing this, she is obeying the gods. These murderers happen to be her mother and her lover; Aegisthus.This makes her hate her mother without considering the circumstances to which she was subjected to before killing Agamemnon. Electra describes her as ‘the queen of falsehood†. Pg 77. And a â€Å"worthless slot†. She expresses the hatred for her mother freely. She also hates Aegisthus as he has taken the place of her father. â€Å"Aegisthus sitting in my father’s chair, wearing the clothes he wore, pouring the same libations at the altar where he killed him’. Pg 76. This shows Aegisthus’ lack of respect for Agamemnon, the tradition of the Greeks and the Gods. As a result of the situation she denies herself of the privileges and luxuries of being a princess because she doesn’t want to live of f the means of her worst enemies. She describes herself as ‘an alien slave, a menial†¦dressed like a slattern in coarse and ugly garments’. The death of her Father and the exile of her brother, Orestes makes her mourn helplessly and continuously, as she cannot do anything. â€Å"So I can do nothing but wait in misery†. Pg 77. Mourning in the ancient Greek sense here meant tearing off your hair, crying and all sorts of self-harm. ‘I bring my sad s ongs here and tear my breast till it bleeds†. Pg 71. In addition, Electra also loves her father very much. Her love for him is more of an obsession, which has been seriously affected, as he is now dead. She is subjective to him and is ready to do anything for his sake though he is dead. † I will fall, if need be, for my father’s sake†. Pg 80.She also loves her brother, Orestes who has been exiled. She refers to him as â€Å"her darling† and her â€Å"darling’s own son†. Pg 92 &107.Her feelings towards her sister Chrysothemis is ambiguous as it changes according her actions. At a particular time she can adopt a harsh tone when addressing Chrysothemis â€Å"You ought to be ashamed, if you’re our father’s daughter†. Pg 78. Later on, she refers to her with a much more caring approach. † Listen to me my dear†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Pg 81. Furthermore, Electra has an aggressive approach towards issues. She lacks patience and is unable to consider the consequences of her actions before s he does them â€Å"Prepare fit punishments and turn their pomp to ashes!† This portrays her aggressiveness’ Pg 75. On the other hand we have Orestes who is one of the main male characters. He is the son of Agamemnon and his main aim is also to revenge the death of his father who has been killed by his mother and her lover, Aegithus as explained earlier, as he feels it his responsibility to the gods, which he is trying by all means not to disobey. â€Å"I would not have come back but in the gods’ good time; they brought me back to you†. Pg 108.It is important I note that Orestes expresses a bit of doubt after killing Clytaemnestra. â€Å"All right†¦if Apollo was right†. Pg 114. Also, unlike Electra, Orestes is a more calm and reserved. He does not pour out all his emotions and is more cautious in his actions. He is coordinated and plans his actions before carrying them out. For example, he tells the tutor to deceive his mother, Clytaemnestra and sister, Electra that he is dead in order to set a calm mood in the palace for his mother and also to make his sister lose all hopes that he’ll be coming back to revenge the death of their father. The result of this will be that Electra will calm down. Even when she eventually finds out he is her brother he cautions her. † I would not curb you; but there is danger in too much happiness†. Pg 108. He then comes disguised to kill the murderers of his father. In addition, Orestes contributes to the use of irony. For example â€Å"Which of you, I wonder, would be so good as to tell them within that a long expected visitor is here?† Pg 102. This is an irony as it is true that he has been long expected. Electra also makes use of ironies in the play. â€Å"Yes I see†¦you have it there in your hands†¦there is no doubt, then†¦O my brother†. Pg 103.This is an irony as she is actually talking to her brother. Lastly, Orestes main objective is more of justice and duty than personal hatred for the murderers of his father, Clytaemnestra and Aegisthus or his great love for his father unlike Electra .He believes that killing his father’s murderers is a responsibility given to him by the gods. â€Å"I could not have come but in the gods’ good time; they brought me back†. Pg 108. One can still say that Electra believes it is her duty but her motives still have an implement of her personal love and affection for her father. â€Å"You admit you killed my father; and that is the most monstrous admission you could make, whether you had justice on your side or not†. In conclusion, I personally think that the Greek audience would have sympathised with both Electra and her brother, Orestes as they both present the actions of a Greek person if he or she was in a similar situation, though it might be in different styles. In Electra, I think the audience would have loved the way she cherished the main priorities of a typical Greek person which, is to be loyal to your family and homeland. They would also have admired this in Orestes as he also does the same. The Greek audience would have also loved how she portrayed the regular tradition and culture through her mourning. In Orestes, I think the Greeks would have admired his ability to think of good ideas and his ability to make good use of his sense, as it was regarded as a very important characteristic in the society. They would also have loved the use of irony used by the two characters. The main shortcoming of this play is that the intrigue and suspense is limited, as it would have been more if the audience did not know the story..

Fraternal and Identical Twins

Not all twins act the same, even the ones that are identical. They may come about the same way. Fraternal and Identical Twins have some of the same traits but are definitely not the same. All twins, whether fraternal or identical, are truly two separate unique individuals.There are four different types of twins. The first is fraternal twins that either never divided or divides within the first four days and have two separate amniotic sacs and placentas. This is included for almost all fraternal twins. The second is Identical twins that share the same placenta, but have two amniotic sacs.This occurs when the embryo splits in 4-8 days and is most likely to occur in 60-70% of all identical twin pregnancies. The third is also identical twins that share the same amniotic sac and appear when the embryo splits after 9 days.The last and most uncommon type of twins are the conjoined twins, which occurs when division takes place later than 12 days after fertilization. This can cause the embryo ’s to become joined together on some part of their body. Identical Twins are most unique. They are the most admired and sometimes the most notable.It is believed by most that this is the most common type of twin. This is not a proven fact because fraternal twins have become the norm, while identical twins have become somewhat of rarity. There are 3 different ways that identical twins can develop and be carried:The first case is where there is only one placenta that feeds the babies, but there can be two amniotic sacs. When there is 1 placenta and 2 amniotic sacs then the pregnancy is referred to as having an identical pregnancy. Twins may also occur from invitrofertilization.This is when several  fertilized eggs are placed inside the mother, with the hope of one of them becoming an embryo. This can sometimes lead to one or more of the eggs becoming an embryo. Identical twins share a single egg but are fertilized by one sperm. The egg splits into two identical halves.This us ually takes place within the first few days of fertilization. Identical twins share the same DNA and are always the same sex and same blood type. However, they do not have the same fingerprints. This is somewhat a shocker since most of the TV detective shows often portray identical twins that are identical in every way.Scientists believe that the reason that this is not prevalent is because they often don’t have the same exploratory pattern as the opposite twin. While in the womb, they do share the same placenta. Identical twins are similar in appearance and are relatively easy to tell apart.They also seem to occur randomly, three out of 1000 births. This is why they less common as fraternal twins. Fraternal twins come about when a woman releases two separate eggs at the same time. The eggs are fertilized by two separate sperm. Fraternal twins can be the same sex and blood type.They have become more common among older women over the age of thirty-five. There is still a lot of research as to why this is so for mature women. Fraternal twins also have separate placentas and don’t share the same of anything. They have the most distinct features but you can be able to tell them apart.Some of the most recognizable fraternal twins would be Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. They look identical but are fraternal twins who look so much alike in appearance. This can cause the person with keen eyes to be easily deceived into thinking that they are identical twins.Scientists also think that fraternal twinning may be due to hereditary influences. It has been studied that more women commonly have several sets of fraternal twins throughout many generations in the family. It is a common misconception that twins only come from the mother’s side.This is found only to be true when the father is the one with twins in the family or is a twin himself. The male’s parent can have several sets of twins and still may not be in indicator as to where they will actual ly have twins themselves.The male only provides the sperm. The female is the only one who releases two eggs at the same time. This is where the mother’s genes become the one that has created the twins. The female can inherit the gene from the grandmother or aunt on her father’s side. Some people have the misconception that the mother inherits the twin gene from the mother’s side. Clearly, this isn’t the case. It also is more common in women of African descent to have twins and less in women of Asian descent. It is easier to tell the differences after the twins are born.Fraternal twins are about as alike as a brother and a sister. Most people have heard or even actually seen an episode of Maury Povich where some women are certain that their fraternal twins share the same father. It becomes a shocker when Maury announces that one man â€Å"is the father† of one child, while he is not the father of the other. Talk about a jaw dropper. That means that the mother had sex with two different men, in a small time frame. Development issues can also indicate whether your babies are twins or not.Identical twins usually have very similar developmental patterns. They do things often within days of each other, which means you might see them speaking and walking at different times but within days. Fraternal twins may have wide differences in these patterns.There may be one twin who is equal to the developmental stage that is recommended at their age and the other one who may   need a little more time to grow. This doesn’t mean they will have developmental issues down the line but rather they need more time to develop.In conclusion, fraternal twins are composed of two separate eggs and sperms, while identical twins come from the same fertilized egg that has been split in two. Fraternal twins vary in their appearance, while identical twins tend to look the same.Fraternal twins may grow at different rates, but identical twins will fol low the same pattern of growth. It almost makes you wonder if what researchers believe to be true, everyone is born with a twin. If that is the case, there are one more of you running around the world. This could be a good or bad thing, which are you?

What will be the hot jobs in the next decade Research Paper

What will be the hot jobs in the next decade - Research Paper Example Consider the typesetter: the printing press has been around since the mid-1400s, and the people who knew how to work these types of machines enjoyed steady employment until the 1990s when desktop publishing came around. Thus the concept of â€Å"hot jobs†, which is used to describe the best selling jobs in the near future, is not only misleading but also difficult to define. Indeed, predicting the jobs or skills that will be in demand in the future is as tricky as is challenging. Fortunately, information abounds on the internet, literature and from career counselors that enable one to make a good-to-excellent choice. The richest source of job information is the United States Labor Department's 10-year forecast for demand, pay and competition for more than 300 jobs in 45 categories (Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor). The department's latest biannual compilation, published last month as the "Occupational Outlook Handbook," is great for sizing up the long-term outlook for most fields. The forecasts have often been prescient—accurately predicting this decade's fast growth in special-education teaching jobs and the widening range of hot health-care careers (Farr and Shatkin, Best Jobs for Your Personality 1; Farr and Shatkin, Best Jobs Without a Four-Year Degree 7; Farr and Shatkin 3). As helpful as the information in these sources may be, predicting the hot jobs for the next decade is still as daunting task. This is more so given that unquantifiable factors such as location, the people you are work with, work condition, and opportunities for growth are very important in job selection. In fact a recent survey by Nature in determining the factors that influence job satisfaction among scientist shows that money is not all that matter (Russo 1106). Indeed, the survey reveals that the â€Å"Degree of independence† at the place of work matters to scientist more than salary. Thus the concept of hot jobs based strictly on quantifiab le parameters such as pay, employment outlook, and job openings may not work for all people (Smaglik 131). However, there is still room for generality. So the question is: generally speaking, what are the hot jobs of the next decade? Are these jobs really â€Å"hot†? This article is an attempt to answer this question. Discussion As unpredictable as the labor market is, figures from the United States Department of Labor can guide us in predicting the hot jobs of the next decade. In the coming decade, engineering, already known for paying college graduates some of the highest starting salaries, is expected to offer the fastest-growing area: biomedical engineering (Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor). A job in this field, which centers on developing and testing health-care innovations such as artificial organs or imaging systems, are expected to grow by 72% and offers an annual median salary of $115,270 (Bureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor). Th is is closely followed by network systems and data communications analysts with a projected growth rate of 53.36% and an annual median salary of $112, 000. In fact, Farr and Shatkin (2010) ranked network systems and data communication analytes higher than biomedical engineering given that the network systems and data communication analytes has more annual job openings than biomedical engineering (Farr and Shatkin). Network systems and data analytes perform a number of tasks in relation to data communications systems, like the Internet, including designing, analyzing, testing, and assessing systems and their performance. Analysts might also supervise computer programmers and work as specialists who handle the interfacing of computers and communications

Company Resources and Capabilities of Abercrombie and Fitch Case Study

Company Resources and Capabilities of Abercrombie and Fitch - Case Study Example In the following intangible assets i.e. human assets and brand and image assets of company are described.Human assetsAbercrombie and Fitch as a big retailer of clothing recruit the young boys from colleges, as they look like the catalog models. American look is used to judge the personality of a new candidate. Shoppers prefer to buy the products from stores where staff looks as they act in the advertisements. In some respects hiring a good looking person is not illegal but discrimination is found in regards of sex, age and ethnicity. People having retail experience complain as they are not hired; instead of that young good looking people having no retail experience are recruited (Barlow and Stewart, 2006). Brands and imageCompany focuses on the customers’ demands and continues moving along the customers’ value chains. Company targets the youth people aged between 14 and 22 years old to sell the sports and other products. Some important brands of company include as Aberc rombie & Fitch, Ruhel No 924, Hollister Co., Gilly Hicks and Abercrombie. All of these brands are produced ensuring the focus and engagement of customers. Company operates at different segments and caters to potential and existing customers at different stages.This part is focused to see the distribution capabilities and strategic flexibility as capability resources of the company. Distribution capabilities of company to fulfill the orders of its customers as well as other companies are an enhanced feature.

Impact of Globalization Wal-Mart Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Impact of Globalization Wal-Mart - Essay Example It is feasible that the increase of the internet and the process that starts with liberalization will continue such movement in trade in the 21st century or otherwise. Globalization can be define as â€Å"the act of globalizingâ€Å"; from the word mention â€Å"globalâ€Å" means â€Å"involving the whole world pertaining to/ â€Å", â€Å"wider worldâ€Å"; â€Å"universalâ€Å". Globalization is present worldwide drive towards a globalized economic system governs by supranational organizational trade and banking institutions which are not accountable to democratic process or national governmentâ€Å". â€Å"Globalization is the historical stage of expansion of market capitalism, in similitude to the experience in the 19th century with an industrial revolution. It is a central transformation in societies reason of the recent technological revolution which has led to a recombination of the social and economic forces on a fresh territorial dimensionâ€Å". â€Å"Globalization says it as the growing integration of societies and economies around the world...â€Å" â€Å"The definition of UBPD relies on the contextual analysis but generally means to an accelerating interlinking across national boundaries affecting the so many aspects of life; socialization, cultural economic along with political. In this context of study, the focus is only on economic aspects, with emphasis on the role of I-C-T. [information and communications technologies]. Therefore, globalization narrowly means growing economic interdependence of worldwide countries. This covers increases in the international division of labor effected by swelling international flows of F-B-I [foreign-based investment], along with an increasing volume and variety of cross border transactions in products and services, international migration, international capital flows and the rapid or widespread diffusion of technology. It does not Imply that social, cultural and other types of globalization are unimportant, only that they are less applicable to discussions of economic development and sec urityâ€Å" World Health Organization   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Globalization, or the boosting interconnectedness and interdependence of countries or people, is generally thought to include two interrelated elements:   the freeing of borders to increasing fast flow of finance, people, goods, services, and ideas beyond international borders; and the alterations in institutional and policy regimes at the national and international levels that promote or facilitate such flows.† Globalization As Define by Few Authors: As Douglas Kellner notes, â€Å"the term globalization is a theoretical construct that in it contested and open for different meanings and inflections.† Globalization, in eyes of some pundits or scholars and policy

International Terrorism (Answer the questions) Scholarship Essay

International Terrorism (Answer the questions) - Scholarship Essay Example 4. Explain each of Samuel Huntington's 8 cultural paradigms. What does this model for culture and civilization around the world have to do with terrorism What are the implications for law enforcement if terrorism has deeper roots-namely, rooted in a clash of civilizations Also, what are the implications for American foreign policy efforts to thwart terrorism 5. Describe anarchist and socialist movements of the 19th Century. Which activists within those movements were most pivotal in giving us terrorism as we know it today Also, in your own opinion, how should modern America deal with fomenters of political violence when they do so while in exile through writing and speaking Should America "go after" such people given the observation from history that other exiled thinkers/revolutionaries have had great influence with violent and long-standing consequences Terrorism comes from the Latin word for "terror" or "fear", but an objective and universally accepted definition of the word is difficult up to the present moment for the simple reason that what may be seen as frightening or terrifying by the victims of terrorist acts may be seen, from the side of the terrorists and those who support them, as acts of daring, courage, and heroism. This issue of three different perceptions of an act - the terrorist, the victim, and the public - that leads to different understandings and definitions of the act is part of our common experience (Schmid, 1997). For example, a triathlete may see his/her punishing dietary and exercise regimens as forms of discipline to attain success and glory, but a non-triathlete would simply view it as pointless vain masochism. Definitions range from the simple: "the use or threatened use of force designed to bring about political change" (Jenkins, 1985); to the concise: "policy intended to strike with terror those against whom it is adopted; the employment of methods of intimidation" (OED, 2002); and the complex: as in the Patriot Act definition (U.S. Congress, 2001, Sec. 808). The most balanced among the wide range of definitions is proposed by the FBI (1999): "Terrorism is the unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives." The FBI definition includes the key elements that characterize terrorist acts (Schmid, 1983): (1) use of unlawful violence or force, (2) a political aim, and (3) the main targets are civilians. The point against all other definitions is that these are too specific and contain too many details that clutter understanding (how violent acts are carried out, which systems are used, motives and intentions of perpetrators, etc.). It is unavoidable that in any society, some have grievances they want addressed by observing due processes to preserve social order. The terrorist disrespects the process and performs acts to intimidate society and the ruling power, thinking that the end justifies the means. This mentality is rooted in Machiavelli (1997) and, based on centuries of experience, leads to more intimidation, oppression, less freedom, and more violent

Hot house song Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Hot house song - Essay Example There is trading depicted where the four; Dizzy Gillespie, Parker, George and Stan Levy change turns from trumpet to piano then to trumpet as the drums are being played at the background. The role of the guitar is to give a fast tempo to the melody as the drums gives the transition sound change from trumpet to piano. The piano and trumpet are the main instruments giving the harmonic structure of the melody. The sequence of events in the melody begins with Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Parker introducing the melody at the same time as Stan Levy plays drums in the background. Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie play alto sax and trumpet in turns respectively. Later George Shearing play the piano alone after the trumpet and finally the melody is concluded by Dizzy and Parker. Dizzy appear to be the main soloist. His participation is impressive since he shows facial expressions implying he is filling the melody within himself. The solo is successful in the melody since his facial expression attracts the audience attention and interest.

Keflavik paper company Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Keflavik paper company - Case Study Example phasize only on one or two criteria; instead, it should take holistic viewpoint to achieve overall synergy with the available resources and ability to create new capabilities while embarking on a new project. (Seeber 2011) Organizations do best on their core competencies and identifying the core competencies is an essential task. Core competencies could be in new process innovations or marketing expertise to have an edge on competitors. Mere cash flow analysis or favorable NPV cannot make the project a grand success. Aims at finding the benefit derived versus the cost of the project and the risk involved. The risk involved should not be such that it can put the company into negative territory from where it cannot recover. Financial analysis is a part of this evaluation criterion. While selecting any project, it is important to delve into exploring the future market growth prospects. It is like exploring the threats and opportunities with a project in consideration in the given market place. A niche with high market growth prospects is always preferred over lower growth areas. (Seeber 2011) Poor project screening methods have a direct bearing on firms capacity to manage its project effectively. A firm is deployed with finite resources on finance, and manpower. When they are not put to use judiciously to achieve synergy among its operations, it is certain to affect the project immensely. Positive cash flows are worked out on paper and it takes considerable skill to achieve those in reality. Selection of a project is thus, a strategic decision for an organization and that should be done screening through several criteria. Project prioritization is a necessity and has been a new learning for the decision makers in the case of Keflavik. Selecting a most favorable project in the beginning that passes through all laid down criteria reduces the firefighting work later on considerably. (Seeber

Human Resources Management Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Human Resources Management - Research Paper Example These conventional incentives are inexpensive to the company and yet the result in increased loyalty, engagement, and willingness to do more than what is expected of them. Additional data suggests that a mix of flexibility, recognition, and allowed breaks during working hours as the leading nonmonetary motivators among employees. Top-tier employees want to work in companies that allow for reduced hours, staggered hours, and remote work arrangements. Regular appreciation of accomplishments is a very effective nonfinancial incentive. Employees who feel appreciated for their accomplishments and efforts at work create huge returns for the company as a result of the recognition. Additionally, allowing employees to take short breaks in-between work has been shown to increase productivity at work. The result of nonmonetary incentives is increased employee satisfaction and performance, while maintaining low costs for the company. One observer argues that external equity should always be the primary concern in compensation, noting that it attracts the best employees and prevents the top performers from leaving. Do you agree? The effectiveness of external equity in enticing and retaining top-tier employees is somewhat questionable. This is because the wage rate is determined by the labor rates in external markets. Since there is no uniformity in the demand and supply of labor across the board, no single labor market exists for the same job. This makes assessment of fair compensation difficult as over narrowing of the market can lead to overcompensation of the employees. On the other hand, over broadening the market definition may lead to low wages being set by the company, which may not be enough to appeal to and retain top performing employees. How can a pay-for-performance system increase the motivation of individual employees and improve cooperation at the same time? In order to improve employee motivation and cooperation, companies should evaluate whether the employe es have control over their performance, and if there exists a relationship between the performance of the employee and the effort put it. The company must implement a suitable performance measure that takes into account that job effectiveness can include several aspects not captured by the produced units, sales revenue, or cost. In most cases, employee cooperation influences organizational effectiveness. In a bid to increase motivation, a company may choose to indirectly tie all or some part of an employee’s salary to their performance. Alternatively, to promote team work, the company may link some incentives to group performance, and/or it could opt for a productivity or profit sharing plan across the board. Plans based on sharing the gains of a company thrive in situations where there is a participation climate in the organization. Here, employees are involved in making decisions that increase the performance of the company resulting in a companywide bonus. List and discuss three ways the HR department can contribute to positive employee relations in a company. i. Equity – employees want parity and the HR department should ensure that all employees feel respected in their capacity in the company. They should ensure fair treatment in areas concerning salaries, job security, and the benefits being issued by the company. ii. Achievement – the HR department

U.S. One China Policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

U.S. One China Policy - Essay Example Before focusing on the one-China policy, it is important to discuss first the history of relations between Taiwan and the PRC. Prior to the 17th century, aborigines from Taiwan mainly inhabited the Island of Taiwan. However, with the successive waves of migration by the Han Chinese, the demographics of the island started to change. In 1662, Taiwan was brought under Ming loyalist Zheng Chenggong’s control, prior to incorporation in 1683 into part of the Qing Dynasty (Tunsjà ¸ 92). The Dutch also briefly colonized Taiwan between 1624 and 1662, while the Spanish ruled Northern Taiwan between 1626 and 1642. Between 1895 and 1945, Taiwan was under colonial rule from the Japanese with the French also briefly ruling Northern Taiwan between 1884 and 1885. Under the Qing Dynasty, Taiwan existed as a prefecture of the province of Fuji as part of the Chinese government from 1683 up to 1887. In 1887, Taiwan became a separate province of China. It remained a province of China until 1895 a t which point the Treaty of Shimonoseki ceded authority over Taiwan to the Japanese (Tunsjà ¸ 92).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After Japan had surrendered in Taipei in 1945, The Republic of China took over the role of governing polity in Taiwan under the KMT in a period that was characterized as a military occupation. However, the government of the Republic of China lost control in 1949 over the Chinese mainland after the Civil War on the mainland (Tunsjà ¸ 93)o 93). Since this was prior to the implementation of treaties made after the Second World War, the KMT withdrew to Taiwan that was still technically a territory of the Japanese. This exiled government under Chiang Kai-shek took over authority of Taiwan and avowed the Island was under martial law. After the renunciation of rights to Taiwanese territory through a peace treaty signed in San Francisco by the Japanese, Taiwan’s sovereignty was put under question. Neither the Treaty of San Francisco nor the Japanese-Chinese treaty dealt with the issue of Taiwan’s territorial sovereignty and its awar d to the KMT representing the Republic of China (Tunsjo 94). The governing body of the Republic of China is still the government in Taiwan with a transformation in the 90s towards democracy as the government lifted the martial law it had imposed in 1949. Since then, the political and legal status bequeathed on Taiwan has become an issue of contention and controversy with sentiments of Taiwan’s independence become more public and gaining some level of international support. At this point, it becomes important to discuss the role of the US in PRC-ROC relations, especially given that Taiwan is the second highest buyer of American made products after Canada. With the tensions between the PRC and the ROC, the United States has had to come up with a policy that allows it to continue relations with both territories. The one-China policy in the United State’s case was initially drafted in 1972 through the Shanghai Communique

Unethical Business Research Conduct Essay Example for Free

Unethical Business Research Conduct Essay Ethics and the behaviors associated with them have the highest significance for different reasons within a business organization. Companies must ensure they follow all levels of ethical behavior when any activity is performed at their premises; especially activities related to business research. Business research is the systematic inquisition that provides information to direct managerial decisions (Cooper Schindler, 2011). Its purpose is to allow companies access to valuable information on company policies, customer service and consumer buying habits. Business owners can use this information to discover which products and services are important to the public, worker morale and behaviors, as well as what they can do to set themselves apart from the competition. However, wrong methods and/or unethical research conduct can obscure results and lead to the damage of a companies’ process, financial statue and image. An example of unethical business research can be found in the 2004 discrimination lawsuit against the restaurant Cracker Barrel. A number of bad research methods contributed to the courts’ order to convict and discipline the retailer for a number of consumer accusations. The leading cause of the court’s decision was the companies’ bad research and investigations into the basic problems and the flawed information that was turned into the Department of Justice following said investigation. Cracker Barrel Restaurant and Old Country Store, a nationwide retail chain, underwent random testing of its facilities and stores to monitor the possibility of racial bias in customer service. This research and observation was not only to screen for the possibility of racism, but to expand culture and diversity training to employees as part of a settlement with the Department of Justice on May 3, 2004. This agreement was made after a number of African Americans (and other minority groups) customers of the establishment came forward with complaints through the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People or NAACP, stating â€Å" they were made to wait longer for tables, were seated away from white patrons, received inferior service and wer e otherwise discriminated against at Cracker Barrel restaurants† (Fears, 2004). As part of a court agreement, Cracker Barrel conducted its own corporate research into the accusations against its company. They concluded that no wrongdoings were committed, asserting that its company has always maintained anti-discrimination policies to all consumer no matter what gender, race and sexuality they are. Upon the reception of Cracker Barrel’s results, the Justice Department decided to hire an independent auditor to check their claims. The Justice Departments investigation included interviews with approximately 150 persons, [of which consisted] mostly [of] former Cracker Barrel employees; and found that 80 percent stated that they experienced or witnessed discriminatory treatment of customers at a Cracker Barrel restaurant,† according to R. Alexander Acosta, Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division. The conclusion suggested that some managers directed, participated in, and/or encouraged stereotyping and discrim inatory behaviors from employee, Acostas added (Schmit Copeland, 2004). Though this suit ended with the court’s judgment for Cracker Barrel to pay fines and damages to a number of customers and their attorneys, the company’s reputation for discrimination is continuously being investigated a number of private and federal groups, including the Department of Justice, NAACP, and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or EEOC. The first issue with the company began with management not taking customer complaints seriously, however, the major issue is how the company went about resolving the issue. Had they taken the time to actually brainstorm and come up with a logical way to resolve the issue, the accusations probably wouldn’t have turned into a class-action lawsuit. And when the Department of Justice demanded the company conduct a private, internal investigation, they should have gone about doing it the right way. However the company and managerial lack of interest in proper investigation and research skills lead them to produce questionable results of value to the case. With this, the Department of Justice chose to proceed with its own investigation to prove or disprove the case and integrity of the company. Reference Cooper, D., Schindler, P. (2011). Business research methods (11th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw- Hill/Irwin. Retrieved from the University of Phoenix eBook website: https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/content/eBookLibrary2/content/TOC.aspx?assetid=8e4d9544-fa8b-4402-8f2d- 624db889e46dassetmetaid=179f7507-93d0-431c-826f-d663a33b6057 Fears, D. (2004). Crackle Barrel, Government Settles Discrimination Suit. The Washington Post Company. Retrieved January 21, 2012 from http://www.washingtonpost.com/wpdyn/articles/A639242004 Schmit, J. Copeland, L. (2004). Cracker Barrel customer says bias was flagrant. USA Today. Retrieved January 20, 2012 from http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/money/companies/2004-05-07-cracker- barrel_x.htm

Airbus A380 And Boeing 747

Airbus A380 And Boeing 747 Airbus A380 and Boeing 747 are the new generation of aircraft for long haul and bulk passenger flights. The Airbus A380 holds 525 passengers whereas the Boeing 747 holds up to 452 passengers The feat of flying is a giant leap forward as well as flying with a huge passenger load. The project is to produce a conceptual design of a large civil aircraft using advanced computerised aircraft methods. The mission profile defined for this aircraft is long haul, matching the Airbus A380s range of 15km [6]. Also, the aircraft to be designed is to carry 550 passengers, even more passengers than the Airbus A380. This can only be made possible by a number of criteria but the biggest problem comes from keeping the aircraft airborne under an increased passenger and structural load. The required lift for an increased load of this magnitude mainly comes from the combination of the lifting surfaces and lifting control surfaces of the wing. Wings (SA) Aircraft wing designers have drawn their inspiration from birds. Even in this day and age, engineers are still finding ways to improve design based on examples found in the ornithological (branch of zoology that deals with the study of birds) world [14]. Wings are airfoils that are attached to each side of the fuselage of an airplane and are the main lifting surfaces that support the airplane in flight [13]. Wings can be of different designs, sizes, and shapes. Different types of wings are used by manufacturers depending on the mission of the aircraft. A variety of wing shapes are shown in Fig.1. Each fulfils a certain need with respect to the expected performance for the particular airplane. Wings may be attached at the top, middle, or lower portion of the fuselage. Passenger airplanes usually have low wings. The number of wings on an aircraft can vary, for example airplanes with a single set of wings are called monoplanes and those with two sets are known as biplanes.[13] Fig.1: Examples of wing planform [12] Planform styles Wings have evolved over the years from simpler designs as well as the Canard configuration (a configuration in which the span of the forward wing is substantially less than that of the main wing) and straight wings to futuristic designs such as oblique and morphed wings. The Canard configuration was founded by the Wrights brothers where the tailplane is in front of the straight wing. Many years of research have been carried out to improve the aerodynamic efficiency and performance of wings in aircraft and evidence of this can be found in the more futuristic designs for aircraft. For example, the oblique wing is a wing of large span fitted about a pivot that rests on the top side of the fuselage and the wing can rotate about this pivot giving one side of the aircraft a forward swept wing and the other, an aft swept wing and vice versa. The varying sweep angle and configuration was the pinnacle point of research and development for this aircraft and was created to give the pilot more f reedom into how the aircraft can be flown at different speeds. [8] Variable sweep wings allow the aircraft to take advantage of the greater lift and handling qualities that come with straight wings during low speed phases such as takeoff and landing and can also benefit from the reduced drag and improved aerodynamic efficiency that comes with swept wings during high speed phases such as the cruise phase. However, this wing configuration is more likely to be found on high performance aircraft like military aircraft rather than transport maybe due to the unpleasant flying characteristics that come with the extreme wing sweep angles which could have discouraged transport aircraft designers from adopting this configuration in their designs. [8] Evolution of aircraft wings (SA) There were few large aircraft in the 1950s. In those days, some aircrafts wings were built by using wood instead of metal. One reason wings were built using wood is because there were a shortage of metal at that time [17]. This is due to various reasons. One factor in favour of the wood wing was the quality of the ride in turbulence. The ride of a wood wing was better than a metal one. The quality of the ride in a metal wing was harsher and stiffer than the wood wing [17]. Also, the stall characteristics of the wood wing were much better than the metal ones. A disadvantage of wood wing was that it would have to be replaced early due to rot. In1961, wings were no longer made of wood [11]. Instead metal wing was introduced. The reasons for this were for marketing aspects, that is, metal wing last longer than a wood one. People think of rot when they think of wood. When they think of Aluminium, they think it will last forever. Morphed wing (SAJ and SA) The morphed wing started as a conceptual design when then a prototype was eventually built to test the proposed idea. It works by using in-built shape memory alloy actuators which deforms into a different pre-proposed shape when heated. This new shape gives the wings a new set of aerodynamic characteristics adapting to different flight conditions or for a change in mission. [9] Airbus is trying to use similar principles to morph aircraft wings to make them highly adaptable. A bird glides for maximum lift and folds its wings for reduced drag and this is the principle that is adopted from birds which made Airbus focus on wing planform. Professor Meguid of University of Toronto believes the technology behind the UAV morphed wing design could eventually be applied to civil aircraft. Meguid also states that some big airplane manufacturers are already interested in this technology and current research is being done to implement morphed wings [14]. On the other hand, Airbus senior manager of flight physics research, David Hills, disagrees with the idea of using morphed wing in commercial aircraft. He points out that unlike military aircraft, commercial airliners do not need to drop like a stone, therefore do not need morphed wings. [14] Morphing aircraft are multi-role aircraft that change their external shape significantly to adapt to a changing mission environment during flight. This in turn creates superior system capabilities which are not possible without the shape changes of the wing. The objective of morphing activities is to develop high performance aircraft with wings designed to change shape and performance substantially during flight to create multiple-regime, aerodynamically-efficient and shape-changing aircraft. Different Wing configurations (SAJ) Braced wing They are normally used in transonic aircraft designs just like the aircraft the group is designing. This truss braced wing configuration proved better than the normal cantilever because of its reduced fuel consumption and improved aerodynamic performance. The configuration can be altered to maximise different performance criteria for example if minimum fuel emission is desired then the wings have a lower thickness-to-chord ratio (are a lot thinner) and if the maximisation of the lift to drag ratio is desired then the wings are in contrast a lot thicker. The main desirable outcome from the use of having supporting truss wing configuration is the result of lower span wise bending moments for given loading. However, having this means a lighter wing structure, which results in needing an increased span (therefore greater lift to drag ratio), thinner wing and a reduced chord. The outcome is a more thin and slender looking wings that would therefore hold less fuel. If the wing could then in turn be designed with a high aspect ratio, it could minimise induced drag and as the wing is thinner, it will minimise the production of wave/form drag. [1] However, this configuration is not desired because of its high wing. Biplane Configuration (SAJ) Having two wings on each side aligned vertically from each other, all wave drag that is caused by the thickness of airfoil is eliminated. However, at small angles of attack, the flow is similar to flat plate except for a small wave drag penalty. When the flow becomes choked, a lot of wave drag can be produced and this is controlled from the use of hinge slats. However, this is not an ideal configuration for the transport aircraft to be designed as this configuration is mainly used in supersonic aircrafts, not transonic. [5] Joint wing configuration (SAJ) Joint wing configuration is when the tail is attached to the wing on both sides. The advantage of this configuration is greater control when pitching the aircraft and that the tail provides adequate structural support of the wings. It also produces less drag and has an overall reduced structural weight compared to structural aircrafts of same span. Reduced structural weight is due to the tail acting like a truss in support of the wing and relieving bending moment. Disadvantages of this configuration are that it needs a far greater wing span for it to cope with the take-off field length and constraints. [2] Also, with a greater wing span, there is greater drag and weight compared to conventional configurations as shown in Fig.10. Therefore a conventional low wing cantilever design is preferred for the design of this aircraft. Winglets (SAJ) Winglets are the small vertical structures at the end of the wings to reduce the effects of leakage of flow from the under surface of the wing. The effect of different taper ratios (SAJ) Small taper ratios ensure that the wing is strong enough so that all vortex shedding ceases. However, increasing the taper ratio will result in less induced drag so therefore, the aircraft can take advantage of a greater flight range from less drag, larger taper ratio. Lower taper ratio wings are lower in weight but can hold an increased fuel volume. So the preferred design of the wing will be to have a small taper ratio to keep the weight of the wing low without causing excessive variation in CL and stalling characteristics of the wing. [3] Dihedral / Anhedral Angles (SA) The dihedral angle, that is, the wing tip chord raised above the wing root chord, assists roll stability. Dihedral angle is normally between 2 and 3 degrees and rarely exceeds 5 degrees. The figure below shows the dihedral angle of a low-wing configuration. An advantage of a low-wing is it permits more ground clearance for the wing tip. The opposite of a dihedral angle is an anhedral angle. Anhedral angle lowers the wing tip with respect to the wing root and is typically associated with high-wing aircraft. (Aircraft Design, A. Kandu) (a) Dihedral (midwing low tail) (b) Anhedral (high-wing T-tail) Effects of dihedral angle (SA) The dihedral angle affects the lateral stability of the aircraft. The greater the dihedral angle, the more stable it is during roll. However, having a small dihedral angle can mean that it is less stable, but it can increase the manoeuvrability. When an aircraft is disturbed from upright position, that is, rolling, the aircraft sideslips towards the downgoing wing; the dihedral angle increases the angle of attack to lateral flow producing additional lift to restore straight and level flight. [4] Leading edge strakes (SAJ) Leading edge strakes is a component just in front of the wing and provides usable airflow over the wing at high angles of attack, delaying stall and consequently loss of lift. LEXES, another abbreviation for the stakes are very highly swept lifting surfaces that generate high speed vortexes at high angles of attack and attaches itself to the top of the wing. This is not really needed on a transport aircraft and is more apt for military aircraft which flies at high angles of attack at times and therefore not required. [4] Wing size/ wing loading (SA) Wing size or wing loading affects the following characteristics of an aircraft: Take off / landing field length Cruise performance (L/D) Ride through turbulence Weight of aircraft Take off / landing field length (SA) To achieve short field length, large wings (low wing loading) are better than small wings (high wing loading). The wing can be kept small by using flaps. Flaps provide the possibility to obtain high values of CLmax. Pilot uses flaps or slats to modify the shape and surface area of the wing to change its operating characteristics in flight. (Roskam, 1985) Cruise performance (L/D) (SA) To achieve cruise flight close to (L/D)max a high wing loading is needed so that the cruise lift coefficient can be close to that at (L/D)max. Weight (SA) The larger the wing area, the greater the weight of the wing and therefore the weight of the airplane. High, Middle or Low wing (SA) The choice of high, mid or low wing configuration depends on the mission of the airplane (passenger, cargo). Hence the type of airplane that is considered plays a vital role in deciding the vertical location of the wing. Low wing (SA) Low wing aircraft, as shown in Fig.14 are planes with the wing mounted below the main fuselage of the aircraft. Aerodynamically, there is not much difference between the two wing locations. [16] Advantages (SA) A Low wing aircraft provides superior visibility above and to the sides of the aircraft. The visibility advantage shows in turns when the pilot can see where the turn will go, even in a steep bank. On the other hand, a high wing aircraft will block the view in the direction of a turn. [16] Low wing aircraft are thought to be easier to land in a crosswind. The reason for this is more to do where the landing gear is placed rather than its aerodynamics. On a low wing airplane, the gear is fixed and can be spaced wider apart than on a high wing airplane where the landing gear must be attached to the fuselage. Also, the landing gear of a low wing plane can be mounted straight up and down, which allows a more effective shock absorption system. [16] Most planes carry fuel in the wings. The fuel ports of a low wing aircraft is easy to reach compare to a high wing aircraft. High wing airplanes require climbing up on the plane to re-fuel it. Low wing aircraft uses (SA) A low wing allows commercial jets to have the wing spar go through the fuselage below the passenger cabin. This leaves a lot of room in the passenger cabin with full headroom from front to back. Low wing commercial jets have their engines mounted quite close to the ground. These planes need to fly and taxi on airports where the pavement is kept clean of any debris that could be sucked up by those big jet turbines. This is one reason why military cargo planes use a high wing design, to mount the engines higher off the ground. [16] High wing (SA) A high wing aircraft is when the wing is mounted above the fuselage. High wing is where the wing crosses the fuselage at the top. Advantages (SA) A high wing aircraft provides the best visibility below the aircraft. High wing airplane is also safer in a descent because it avoids the possibility of coming down on another aircraft, especially on approach to the airfield or in the traffic pattern. Planform Tailoring (SA) Many airplanes end up with significant planform irregularities. This is where the use of planform tailoring comes into play. Some reasons for using planform tailoring are: stall behaviour, pitching moment behaviour at high mach, aileron buzz and aerolastic behaviour. [Roskam, 1985] To improve stall behaviour of wing, that is, delay stall to higher angle of attack, leading edge extensions and/or droop may be used. Aileron buzz can occur if the wing sections at the aileron stations develop shocks close to the aileron hingeline. If the aileron is cable controlled then the aileron can develop a severe vibration which is known as aileron buzz. Such problems can be relieved by leading edge extensions. References Gur, O. (2010). Design optimisation of a truss braced wing transonic transport aircraft. Journal of aircraft. 47 (6), p1907-1917. Gallman, J.W.. (1993). Optimisation of joint wing aircraft. Journal of aircraft. 30 (6), p897-907. Ng, T.T.H.. (2002). Application of genetic algorithms to conceptual design of a micro air vehicle. Engineering applications of artificial intelligence. 15 (1), p439-445. Roskam, J. (1985). Preliminary configuration design and integration of the propulison system. Kansas: Roskam avaition and engineering corporation. p141-162. Kusunose, K.. (2011). Supersonic biplane a review. Progress in Aerospace Sciences. 47 (1), p53-87. Airbus A380 presentation. Boeing 747 presentation. Curry, M.. (2009). Past Projects AD-1 Oblique Wing. Available: http://www.nasa.gov/centers/dryden/history/pastprojects/AD1/index.html. Last accessed 11th October 2012. Stubbs, M.D. (2003). Kinematic Design and Analysis of a Morphing Wing. Virginia: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. p1-72. Tsai, D.. (2011). University of Washington Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics Senior Capstone Project 2011. Available: http://www.behance.net/gallery/Aerospace-Engineering-Senior-Capstone/1553987. Last accessed 11th October 2012. http://www.mooneypilots.com/mapalog/woodwing.html http://www.centennialofflight.gov/essay/Theories_of_Flight/airplane/TH2G5.htm http://engg-learning.blogspot.co.uk/2011/03/introduction-to-aeroplane-airplane-is.html http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/aircraft-engineers-look-to-bird-world-for-new-and-improved-wing-designs-345832/ http://www.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?AD=ADA479821 Airplanes: Low Wing Aircraft Buyers Beware, Mooney M-20A and Bellanca Cruiser Wing Preliminary Calculations Size and wing area (S) Similar aircraft to the specifications we have made for our aircraft is the Airbus A380 and the Boeing 747. Using the Roskam volumes, the aspect ratio of the Boeing 747 is 7.0 (Roskam, page 374) and 7.53 for the Airbus A380-100 (1). The wing span of the Boeing 747-400 is 229ft and the airbus A380 has a wing span of 261ft 9in (1). The reference wing area of the Boeing 747-400 is 6824 square feet and the reference wing area of the Airbus A380 is 9095 square feet (ft2)(1). The takeoff weight for our proposed aircraft is around about 1300000lbs (1221267.35lbs or 553957.5516901kg). The wings of the aircraft generates most of the total lift of the aircraft so in order for the aircraft to take flight, the lift would at least have to equal the weight of the aircraft. The lift equation is as follows: The velocity can be calculated through the equation where a= the square root of the product of Gamma (1.4), R (287) and the Temperature. The cruise Mach number specified for this aircraft (A380) is 0.89. The temperature at 35000ft, which is the cruising altitude proposed for this aircraft, is -54.23 Celsius which is 218.93 Kelvin. Hence, a = à ¢Ã‹â€ Ã… ¡1.4 ÃÆ'- 287 ÃÆ'- 218.93 = 296.59 Therefore the V = 0.89 ÃÆ'- 296.59 = 263.97 The coefficient of lift for takeoff is 1.6 -2.2, for cruise it is 1.2-1.8 and for landing it is 1.8-2.8, so take the coefficient of lift to be 1.8. The stall speed of an airbus A380 is 121kt (224 km/h) = 60.5 m/s and the 747X Stretch is 128kt (237 km/h) (1) So, say the stall speed of the proposed aircraft should be 128kt, or 65.792m/s Knot (kt) m/s 1 0.51 ft2 m2 1 0.0929 Rearrange, the lift equation to make the wing area the subject: = The density of air is taken at sea level to be 1.225 kg/m3 50 kt = 25 m/s Therefore, wing area = 553957.5516901/ 0.5 x 1.225 x 252 x 1.8 = 803.929 m2 Since the proposed aircraft is to be designed to carry more passengers than the airbus A380 and the Boeing 747-400, a larger wing span is proposed to create more lift, so b = 265ft. The aspect ratio can be calculated by: Aspect ratio= b2/S where S = Reference Wing Area and b = Wing Span A (Aspect ratio) of A380 = 7.53 (550 passengers) New A = 8 (an assumption based on having more passengers, 600) Aspect ratio= b2/S= 280^2/6824=10.29 Sweep Angle The sweep angle of the Boeing 747 is 37.5 degrees, the taper ratio is 0.25 and the dihedral angle is 7 degrees (Chapter 6, part II, page 146, Table 6.7, ROSKAM). In terms of the mission profile, size and configuration this aircraft is comparable to the A380. The sweep angle of the A380 is 33.5 degrees and taper ratio is approximately 0.3. (http://www.dept.aoe.vt.edu/~mason/Mason_f/A380Hosder.pdf). For the proposed aircraft, the sweep angle should be 30 degrees. Thickness Ratio the thickness ratio of the airbus a380 is 6%. (http://www.dept.aoe.vt.edu/~mason/Mason_f/A380Stephens.pdf) The thickness ratio of the boeing 747 is Airfoils http://www.allstar.fiu.edu/aero/wing31.htm http://www.allstar.fiu.edu/aero/images/pic3-1.gif A deep camber should be used which gives high lift and low speeds. Suitable for transport planes. http://www.allstar.fiu.edu/aero/images/fig18.gif http://www.ae.illinois.edu/m-selig/ads/afplots/sc20610.gif Airfoil for the wing root (http://www.ae.illinois.edu/m-selig/ads/afplots/sc20610.gif) http://www.ae.illinois.edu/m-selig/ads/afplots/sc20606.gif Airfoil of wing tip (http://www.ae.illinois.edu/m-selig/ads/afplots/sc20606.gif) (6) Taper Ratio The taper ratio of the Boeing 747 is 0.25 The taper ratio of the A380 is 0.3. For the proposed aircraft, the taper ratio should be 0.25. (7) Incidence Angle and Twist Angle Incidence angle of the Boeing 747 is 2 degrees. (Roskam) (8) Dihedral angle The dihedral angle of the Boeing 747 is 7 degrees. (9) Lateral control surface size and layout

E-Governance in Indian Banks: ICICI Bank

E-Governance in Indian Banks: ICICI Bank Before the start of my second year of PGDBM, I got an opportunity to have a corporate exposure at ICICI regional bank. In addition to this exposure, it also allowed to implement some of our course learning to real business world situations. My internship with ICICI regional bank started on 28th June and extended till 9th august. ICICI Bank is Indias second-largest bank with total assets of Rs. 3,634.00 billion (US$ 81 billion) at March 31, 2010. The Bank has a diverse network of 2,016 branches and about 5,219 ATMs in India and presence in 18 countries. They offer a wide range of banking products financial services to corporate and retail customers through a variety of delivery channels (www.icicibank.com). At my very first day, I got the opportunity to talk to some of the senior managers at my office, and they suggested me that I should see the working on their different departments and then select my department after one week. During this week, I interacted with almost every department personnel. They told me what their general day is like and what they do and how their part is important for achieving companys strategic goals. In my second week, I chose government banking group of ICICI bank, which comes under corporate banking group. Government Banking Group of ICICI bank offers world-class banking services leveraging on state of art technology platform and to meet complete financial needs of the government and its enterprises.  Their aim is to lever their advanced technology platform and ability to deliver customized solutions to meet the specific needs of each and every client emerge as the preferred banker for all government departments and corporations.(www.icicibank.com) My mentor Mr.H; relationship manager at the same department, gave me an overview about their department and how the functions. In my 2nd week of working as a management trainee to GBG, he assigned me a live summer internship project, where I was required to contact government authorities, which were falling under national E-governance plan and offer them our bank services. Route map of my project E-GOVERANCE: Foundation for better and acceptable institution mechanism Use e-governance to fight corruption- Kalam INRODUCTION E-government is the use of information and communication technology (ICT) to promote more efficient and cost-effective government, more convenient government services, greater public access to information, and more government accountability to citizens (www.adb.org). It goes beyond providing provision of online services and also, covers the use of IT for strategic planning and reaching governments development goals. It is a way by which governments use the new technologies to provide people with more convenient and reliable access to government information and services, to improve the quality of the services and also, providing greater opportunities to participate in democratic institutions and processes. E-Government provides with some tremendous opportunities to move forward in the 21st century with better quality, cost-effective, government services and a better relationship between citizens and their government. (Aggarwal, mittal et al, 2007) E-Governance is no longer an Option It is a reality and a necessity of Governance- S. Lakshminarayanan E-Governance Its relevance One click is deemed good enough to cut the much-dreaded Indian red-tape to shreds. Another one takes the wind out of all those touts hanging around public offices. Public accountability and responsive services seem suddenly just a blip way. (www.dqindia.ciol.com) Good governance is based on the premise that the laws and procedures are transparent, clearly defined understood by those governed and the implementation is also quick without any hurdles. However, the governance in a developing country like ours is a challenge, as majority of the governed (citizens) are educationally socio-economically challenged. Moreover in developing countries, the governments are formed through democratic means, the challenge of governance is much larger as the governors themselves are at times not very clear about the various rules and procedures. Also, at times, the rules and procedures are explicitly defined in the constitution or statutes, but they themselves creates hindrances in the path of governance due to lack of procedural clarities. In such a state, the answer lies in providing a mechanism that is quick, interactive, transparent and has a clear repository of rules and regulations, which provide support in decision making for both the governors and t he governed and this mechanism is e- governance, providing the benefit of being clear cut, transparent, interactive, easy to implement and aiming to provide solution in the quickest possible time frame. E-Governance, at ground level will provides three basic change potentials for good governance for development: Automation: Replacing (at least, to some extent) current human-executed processes, which involve accepting, storing, processing and transmitting information. Informatisation: Supporting current human-executed information processes. Transformation: Supporting new human-executed information processes. These change potentials, in turn, can bring five main benefits to governance for development: Governance that is cheaper: Producing the same outputs at lower total cost. Governance that does more: Producing more outputs at the same total cost. Governance that is quicker: Producing the same outputs at the same total cost in less time. Governance that works better: Producing the same outputs at the same total cost in the same time, but to a higher quality standard. Governance that is innovative: Producing new outputs. E-Governance origin The Global shifts towards increased deployment of IT (Information technology) by governments emerged in the nineties, with the coming of World Wide Web. The e-governance initiatives have come a long way since then. With the increase use of internet and mobile connections, the people are learning to exploit new mode of access in wide ranging ways. Today generation expect more information and services to be available online from government organizations to further their civic and professional lives, thus creating abundant evidence that the new e-citizenship is taking hold. E-governance originated in India during the seventies with a focus on developing in- house government applications in the area of defence, economic monitoring, planning and the using IT to manage data intensive functions related to elections, census, tax administration etc. The efforts of National Informatics Center (NIC) to connect all the district headquarters during the eighties led to a significant development in this field. During early nineties, IT technologies were supplemented with ICT technologies, for wider sectoral applications .Primarily the emphasis has been on automation and computerization, the state governments have also endeavoured to use ICT tools into connectivity, networking, setting up systems for processing information and delivering services. At a micro level, it ranges from IT automation in individual departments, electronic file handling, and access to entitlements, public grievance systems, service delivery for high volume routine transactions like payment of bills, tax etc. The thrust has varied across initiatives, while some focusing on enabling citizen-state interface for various government services, and others focusing on bettering livelihoods. E -Goverance Intiatives in India The notion of e-governance has its roots in attempts in many countries to modernise government in response to perceived citizen dissatisfaction or disengagement.(Sihna, 2006) India is a developing country with a population of about 1.2 billion spread over 28 geographically uneven states. Interestingly, transparency and citizen-centric government, expected broad outcome of e-Governance, is not new to India. The rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka, 3 Century BC provides an excellent example of this interface unambiguous and  Transparent government information was available at public place for people convenience. In most of the states in the India, people speak different languages and dialects; having varying literacy levels and distinct socio-cultural attitudes that have affected not only economic progress, but also our legislature. However, over and above, these fragmented population, there is an overlying layer of information technology professionals or knowledge workers, who seem to have indirectly pioneered e-Governance initiatives.(Aggarwal, mittal et al, 2007) The Central and State administrations, ports, customs, public tax system and education system of our country has been pioneers in e-Governance India. A number of state governments has already implemented e-Governance initiatives, which are aimed at being cost effective, while offering various facilities to citizens. National E-Governance plan The Government of India (GOI) has formulated a national program the National e-governance Plan, which is an attempt to cover all the important areas relating to e-Governance Policy, Infrastructure, Finances, Project Management, Government Process, Finances, Reengineering, Capacity Building, Training, Assessment etc. across the Central and State Governments. The plan seeks to lay the foundation and provide the impetus for long-term growth of e-Governance. Their plan seeks to create the right governance and institutional mechanisms, setting up the core infrastructure and policies and implement a number of Mission Mode Projects at the centre, state and integrated service levels to create a citizen-centric and business-centric environment for governance. The vision of this plan is to make sure that all Government services are accessible to the common man in his/her locality through common service delivery outlets. The implementation strategy envisages clear definition of service goals and metrics for each project and structured stakeholder consultations with all stakeholders including citizens and civil society organizations before the service goals of each project are firmed up.( Das Chandrashekhar, 2007). (Source: Das Chandrashekhar, 2007) The above diagram give E-Governance framework that includes back-end (databases of different government agencies, service providers, state governments etc.), middleware and front-end delivery channels (PCs, mobile phones, kiosks, integrated service centers etc) for citizens and businesses. The middle-ware comprises of communication and security infrastructure, gateways and integrated services, aimed at facilitating integration of inter-departmental services. Challenges of e-Governance in India Sharma (2002) points out that the culture of governance in India has been characterized by secrecy, seniority and corruption. These need to be addressed with a vengeance if the grand vision of e-Governance across India has to become a reality (Agarwal Mittal et al,2003). The initiatives taken are more focused on government department, automaton rather than anything to do with the citizens. They might solve a number of problems of government employees but not even a single solution is totally focused on citizen thathas come up in India. Indian citizens are still forced to move from one department to another,and from one table to another in order to get their work done. In lieu of this, the National Task Force has also made several recommendations. The fundamental strategic challenge faced is e-Readiness for e-Governance It is a multifold challenge posing basic questions like: Is required Data Systems Infrastructure Ready? Is required Legal Infrastructure Ready? Is required Human Infrastructure Ready? Is required Institutional Infrastructure Ready? Is required Technological Infrastructure Ready? Is required Leadership and Strategic Thinking Ready? Role of banking in E-goverance Indian banking sector through its network of over 74,000 branches provides efficient and swift cash management and payment mechanisms ensures timely availbility of the funds to the ultimate beneficiaries.- RP Sihna, Deputy Managing Director (IT), State bank of India E-goverance goes beyond provision of online services and includes,the use of IT for strategic planning and reaching development goals of the government to the citizens. Government prime concern is that the revenue deposited at various branches of banks throughtout the country are collected expeditiously and every rupee spend on the social sector plans schemes reaches the intended beneficiaries quickly and directly. It is therefore, imperative that the indian banking sector which have a wide network af over 74,000 branches provides efficent and swift cash management system and payment mechanisms to ensure timely availability of the funds. Banks apart from taking the technology beyond urban centers to remote areas,that are still unbanked and underserviced,but also serving as a channel for credit delievery and innovative products to the poor and underprivileged sections of society. With an efficent deployment of technology, banks can step in and provide access to banking facilities like opening of accounts, money transfer services,payments of bills etc. Banks provide payment solutions to conduct E-payments with government departments using smart cards/credit cards or making a direct debit from their account (Internet banking) when the due date falls. In short, bank can help in the process of E-Goverance by 3 methods: ICICI government banking group its E-Goverance intitatives The government banking group of ICICI,falls under their corporate banking group and it specifically cater to the government entities and institutions. We ensure compliance of specific regulatory requirements while customizing these products and services for the government. Our constant endeavor is to fulfill the specific objectives of the government at various district, state, and national levels.(www.icicibank.com) Agency Function Their are the accredited Banker to the Ministry of Civil Aviation. All payments and receipts of this Ministry across the country are routed through their network. They are the approved banker to collect direct taxes as well as indirect Taxes for the central Government and states sales taxes/ VAT in the States of Delhi, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. Approved bank for disbursement of pensions for central government and defense employees. E-Goverance Intiatives Online Collection of fees for Director General Foreign Trade (DGFT) Online collection of fees and Stamp duty under MCA-21 Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) E-ticketing initiative for Indian Railways Online Funds Disbursement and Tracking System for Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) E-goverance intitative undertaken by me as a summer trainee (live) in ICICI bank My mentor gave me a project where I was required to study different government authorities and departments falling under E-Goverance plan of government of India,to select one authority where ICICI bank can fit in and offer them their services and also, explaining how it will be benefical to not only them , but also to the citizen on the receiving end. As I was placed in Delhi corporate office, I thought it will be good idea to start exploring the authorities which wall under Delhi. My mentor, Mr.Hitesh Setya, also considered it as a good idea as it was easy to talk and even meet these authorities. Delhi Government Departments cover health, revenue tax, audit, arts culture, transport, administrative reforms, health and family higher education, IT, Gurdwara elections, administrative reforms agricultural marketing, Fire service economics and statistics,health and family,industries and many others. (A comprehensive lists of the department has been given in the appendix). All the departments of Delhi government works for enhancing the socio-economic viability of the city. Each and every Delhi department is entrusted with a separate set of responsibilities and duties. I studied almost every department falling under delhi government authority and saw the scope of E-goverance in those departments.After working on this for a period of 2 weeks,I came down to the following authorities names: Transport department Delhi Development Authority Delhi tourism Delhi passport authority After contacting these agenices and meeting their respective officals ,I narrowed with DDA (it looks after the orderly-yet-rapid development of Delhi),as they are already in the process of making their database and this department has a bad reputation when it come to red tapism and bureaucratic attitude .Under this department,a number of activities are taken care of ranging from tenders, housing,buildings ,various registrations etc.I needed to select one major activity which will become my reports focal point.I selected DDA procedure for conversion from leasehold to freehold . DDA-SCOPE FOR E-GOVERANCE Delhi Development Authority (DDA), time moves at its own sweet, slow pace. And in order to get your work down, you need an athletes stamina and a monks patience (Roy,hindustan times,2010) The Delhi Development Authoritys (DDA) was established in the year 1957,and nearly after 50 years of existance ,it has come out with a grand vision for 2010: to become a high performance and people friendly organisation. This mission comes not a year too soon for the land development agency.The authority referred itself as the citys ninth builder, touches the life of almost every second Delhiite.Since its initiationin 1957, DDA has worked towards the development ofthe city and has created or facilitated about 1 million dwelling units to date. including allotment of more than 3 lakh flats, plots to Cooperative Groups and residential plots .Apart from the construction of 600 big and small commercial centres and allotment of industrial and institutional plots.DDAs dreary and dusty file-laden headquarter, Vikas Sadan, gets nearly about 700 visitors daily.(Roy,hindustan times,2010) The crowd thronging at the the DDA offices explains that it is not easy to own a DDA flat or plot,which the authority sells at affordable rates.Whats even tougher than this ,is getting the possession letters, conversion from leasehold to freehold or even changing the title deeds. Add from sumwhere else In the labyrinthine corridors of the DDA office, files journey begins from one table and then meanders through at almost all the tables of the office and this journey in the can take anything from a month to years. The DDA babus take ages to move files and the smallest lacunae in your documents can slow the process by months. DDAs citizens charter promises disposal of transactions a specific time frame of between 15 and 90 days. These promises, however, remain cosily embedded in the glossy booklet. This is where the touts come in. For a handsome feeanything between Rs 40,000 to Rs 1 lakhdepending on the `complexity of your case, touts can speed up the process of getting your job done. Thanks to DDAs initiatives to curb the tout menace, these assistants-for-hire can now be found lingering in the parking lots and small photostat shops and eateries outside Vikas Sadan. We can get any job done as we have a `setting with officials inside the building, says a tout, who doesnt wish to be identified. The rates have gone up though as DDA has become stricter about these things now. Unless you have deep pockets, getting your application approved from the DDA is next to impossible, says Umesh Sharma (name changed on request), who has been trying to transfer his flat from his fathers name, who died many years ago, to his own for the past six years. Every official expects to be bribed and you have to grease many palms. The officials say the property we bought for a few thousands decades ago will now sell for lakhs but they dont stand to gain anything from it, he said. If you are transferring a property to your name or converting it from leasehold to freehold to sell it, they want their share, Sharma said. TOMORROW The passport office is a riddle. Theres paperwork, there are meetings and a single error can deboard your plans. COVERAGE E goverance in India has touched various areas like income tax,passport,pensions,company affaris, police,municpalities ,ariculture ,central excise and many more.In my report ,we will be dicussing three main areas namely, Sales/Commercial Tax Department(VAT),MCD (Municipal Corporation of Delhi) NDMC(New Delhi municpal council) , income tax department. B.MCD NDMC The National Capital Territory of Delhi (NCT) comprises three local bodies, MCD, NDMC and Cantonment Board. The MCD comprises of about 96 per cent of the area and population of the Union Territory (UT)of Delhi. The Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, 1957 was amended in August, 1994 to bring it in tune with the Constitutional provisions of Part IXA. In respect of New Delhi Municipal Council, which consists of only 3 per cent of the area and 3 per cent of the population of National Capital Territory of Delhi.( http://www.ndmc.gov.in/AboutNDMC/NAboutus.aspx) (ii) NDMC 1. Grants: 2. Public: 2.1 Property tax :The Property department is one of the tax revenue-earning departments of NDMC. Revenue is realized as (i) property tax from about 12,000 private properties and Government properties constructed prior to 26th January, 1950 and (ii) service charges from the government properties constructed after 26-01-1950. Property tax is an obligatory tax levied on all lands and buildings in New Delhi. It is a percentage of the rateable value of lands and buildings. The rates of taxes are determined by the Council from year-to-year basis. Facilities available online: Application Procedures http://www.ndmc.gov.in/services/PropertyTax/Images/img_bullet.gif Download-Forms http://www.ndmc.gov.in/services/PropertyTax/Images/img_bullet.gif Rate List/ Method of Calculation of Property Tax APPENDIX transport department irrigation and flood control department planning department SC/ST/OBC/Minorities welfare department informations and public relations department industries department land and building department police department forest department administrative reforms department directorate of audit economics and statistics department chit fund department art, culture and language department directorate of education directorate of training and technical education environment department development department health and family department excise, entertainment and luxury tax department public works department weights and measures department sales tax department tihar prisons services department directorate of prevention of food adulteration directorate of agricultural marketing labor department social welfare department

College Admissions Essay: Man of the Year :: College Admissions Essays

Man of the Year "You have just been named the 2015 Man/Woman of the Year. For what achievement are you being honored, and how did your college education help you reach your goal?" A well-dressed sell-out crowd fills the enormous auditorium: an auditorium with gigantic spotlights that rival the energy and luminosity of the sun. My eyes follow the lights to the well-dressed host on the stage as he exclaims: "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 2015 Man of the Year Awards!" The audience erupts into an applause that shakes the walls of the building, and I add a few whistles and hollers of my own. As the roar dwindles into silence, we take our seats and the host presents last year's winner, who will in turn present this year's award to the Man of the Year. My eyes dart around the room spotting celebrities, professional athletes, CEOs, and other overqualified applicants, and previous winners, but my envious search ends as the host passes on the microphone to last year's winner. "Ladies and Gentleman," begins the speaker, "here is the moment you've all been waiting for." The speaker takes a step back, responding to the force of the innumerable silent eyes now turned on him. He begins opening the envelope... "This year's winner is..." a final tear, and out comes the coveted document, "Sam Cosby!" Like the silence before a sneeze, a hush falls over the crowd before a riotous cheer fills the air. I stand up and my legs begin to carry me toward the stage as the announcer continues, "Many of you may not know Mr. Cosby, but he has made remarkable advances in the realm of biotechnology. He has received this award for his development of a revolutionary prosthetic limb repair system that can replace not only a lost appendage, but synthesize the lost nerves, creating a new fully functional arm or leg." I completed my journey to the stage and shook the speaker's hand before taking my place at the microphone. "I would like to thank my family for all of their support," I began, kicking myself for my lack of originality, but I continued, "and all of my teachers. I never would have made it this far had I not been pressured to continue in my studies by my professors.

Satirical Patterns in Jonathan Swifts Gullivers Travels Essay

Gulliver’s Travels:   Satirical Patterns  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Jonathan Swift wrote a novel in 1776 called Gulliver’s Travels.   This novel along with all of his other writing followed a satirical pattern.   Because of Swift’s vast knowledge in politics he was capable of creating a masterpiece completely ridiculing the government found in England.   In Gulliver’s Travels, Swift brings us, the readers, to join him on journeys to worlds of complete nonsense.   These worlds are different ways that allow for Swift to mock the old European government.   In our reading, we followed him to a land called Lilliput, and then later to a land known as Brobdingnab.   Swift uses humor and knowledge to completely ridicule European politics in these two imaginative worlds.   Although Swift wrote this novel to satirize politics in his time, we are able to understand the matters presented because of their over-abundance in today’s governmental world.     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Political divisions have been taking place all through history, no matter where, or when.   In the first book, Swift describes two types of Lilliputians, those who wear high heels, and those who don’t.   In the text it describes how the high-heeled Lilliputians are very much in favor of absolutely no change in the constitution.   And accordingly, the low-heeled favored change in the constitution.   This type of situation is still going strong in America.   We are blessed with two types of people as well, those who favor donkeys, and those who favor elephants.   Now those elephant lovers go right along side those who wore the high heels in Lilliput.   Both of the high heels and republicans had achieved dominance and wanted to preserve their position.   They didn’t want anything to do with a change in their go... ...any holes in the scheme that make it impossible to support a so-called perfect government.     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Swift successfully completed his goal in completely and utterly belittling the political aspects of government in his day.  Ã‚   He has proven to us that the government has gone unchanged (except for a few bills here and there) for some two hundred years or so.   The same problems back then are still present now which causes for the same ideas as Swift.   The reader is able to leave his or her seat after reading the novel and understand all of the little annoyances there were about the political scheme in society in those days and compare them to today’s world.   After those comparisons, the reader finds that the problems are the same as they were in Swift’s time. Works Cited Swift, Jonathan.   Gulliver’s Travels.   New York: The new American Library Inc., 1983.

snow faliing on cedars racism Essay -- essays research papers

In a community of â€Å"five thousand damp souls† (Guterson 5) as described by David Guterson in his novel, Snow Falling on Cedars. A community that concentrated a variety of ethnicity, among them was both Whites and Japanese. As a result of the racial differences, racism has came into existences and have impacted the life of both children and adult in that isolated island called San Piedro. It is responsible for the internment of Kabuo, Hatsue, and their families, the breakup of Hatsue and Ishmael, Kabuo's loss of his land, and perhaps for his indictment for murder. Before the war years, Kabuo's father, Zenhichi made an illegal agreement with the victim's father, Carl Heine senior. It was an agreement to an eight-year â€Å"lease-to-own† contract. Money changed hands, land was promised and terms were set. Unfortunately, the war came and the Japanese Americans were sent away to internment camp. Nothing was quite the same at wars end. When the Miyamoto has returned to claim their land, they had found out that the victim’s mother, Etta, cheated them. She sold their seven acres of strawberry land to another farmer, because of lack of the last payment during their removal. This disreputable action she took, was caused by her racist thoughts that she had toward Japanese. This has been demonstrated out in her conversation with her husband, she said, â€Å"We’re not such paupers as to sell to Japs, are we? For new clothes? For a pouch of fancy pipe tobacco?† (Guterson 119). Because of her being racist, it had cost the land of the Miyamoto and raised tension between the two families and created a motive for Kabuo to commit murder to Etta’s son as for revenge and to release his anger. Snow Falling on Cedars opens up in the middle of Kabuo Miyamoto’s trail. A trail that deals with a first degree murder case, that Kabuo was being accused of murder of a white fellow fisherman by the name of Carl Heine. In this murder case, racism has played a very important role in affecting the judgement and outcome of the trail. As being Japanese, Kabuo has been placed under a very unpleasant circumstance. The evidences founded had lead the investigator, Sheriff Art Moran to believe that Kabuo was somehow suspicious. Together with the judgement made by the coroner of the wound on the victim’s head, which was predominantly affected by his racist thought toward Japanese.... ...their son and daughter to date or have interracial marriage. Despite the racial differences and their parents' disapproval, they still carry on their relationship in behind their parents’ back. But as time goes, their relationship could no longer be sustained. The exposure of the secret letter that Ishmael wrote to Hatsue had led to the end of their relationship. When Fujiko, Hatsue's mother discovered the letter, she told herself, "She would put an end to this business." (Guterson 227). As a matter of fact, racism has played a big role in the novel. It has affected the life of Hatsue, Ishmael, Kabuo and their families, and it is responsible for the loss of Kabuo’s seven acres of strawberry land, and made Kabuo being accused of the murder of Carl Heine. If the people were not racist, things would not have happened as the way it has been. The murder trail of Kabuo would have never taken place. Hatsue and Ishmael would have been a happy couple together. As for Kabuo himself, he would have inherited the strawberry field and continue on to be a farmer like his father. But this is how things are in this world. Nothing is perfect. There is always a negative side to everything.

Marketing Plan for Book Publisher Essay

‘Knowledge Hub’Publishers is a provider of latest academic and research material, the best literary material in Urdu and English by quality writers both local and international. Our customers rest assured that when they purchase a publication of Knowledge Hub they receive the optimum value for their money or as we call it ‘your money well spent’. Our publications are free of plagiarism and we endeavor to stay a step ahead in providing academic material which is the most recently proven by researchers instead of re-publishing the same material in a different manner. We are a sole proprietorship and our office is located at Urdu Bazar, Lahore. Being a startup in an industry already being served by a huge number of brands, we shall initially target the Lahore market with intent to move into other cities throughout Punjab within 5 years time. Our focus shall remain to continually research and analyze customer needs, wants, reading trends and preferences to ensure that we provide only the most needed and sought after books with the latest content. Knowledge Hub shall provide its client authors with editing, proofreading, layout and design, promotion and authentication services. Whereas, we shall be outsourcing the printing and distribution of our books. Our long term focus is to motivate the culture of e-books and printing on demand in order to safeguard our natural resources for our future generations. Print on demand (POD) is a printing technology and business process in which new copies of a book (or other document) are not printed until an order has been received, which means books can be printed one at a time. Rationale of this Product: Books are priceless source of knowledge, wisdom and education the best company in times if solitude. Our affiliation with books and knowledge is further promoted by our religion which encourages us to gain knowledge and preaches us to respect books. In today’s fast paced world, where information and knowledge is continually increasing and modifying, the need for books containing the latest of information are always required. As soon as a book or article is publishes a chain of evaluation, testing and research on the published material starts which eventually leads to modified material ready to be published and the cycle continues. This causes a never ending need for high quality books available at easy to access touch points and at affordable prices. And this is exactly what we offer our customers as our product. Strategic Focus and Plan Mission: Knowledge Hub is the premium publisher of academic and illustrated books, novels, best sellers and e-books in Pakistan. We at Knowledge Hub believe that knowledge is a service to be provided to our nation so that we may progress in this fast paced world. The purpose of our affordable and easy to access products is to ensure availability of knowledge to all Pakistanis who seek for it. Goals: Non Financial Goals: Knowledge Hub seeks ensure availability of knowledge to all Pakistanis who seek for it. We at Knowledge Hub believe in a cleaner, safer tomorrow and in a ‘Paper Free World’ in which our natural resources are savored for our future generations to enjoy. Knowledge Hub’s comprehensive website holds the key to a better tomorrow. Our online e-books, research articles, audio and visual resources provide you easy and instant access along with it being environmentally beneficial. Financial Goals: We have targeted to publish 70 books by authors within a year’s time. Moreover, to a customer base of at least 200,000 readers at the end of year one which is approximately 10 percent Market Analysis: International Book Publishing Market: The worldwide book industry has been forecast to exceed revenue of $90 billion. The industry recorded yearly growth of 1% over the past four preceding years, and is expected to accelerate to a yearly rate of almost 4% between 2011 and 2016. Sales by music, video,books and stationery retailers represented the leading segment of the global book market in 2011, generating more than $50 billion and representing 56% of the overall market. Pakistan Book Publishing Market: Book publication is a business very closely related to the literary scenario since books are nothing if they don’t get a publisher or a printer. Like every other thing in Pakistan,the printing industry is with its own sets of problems the initial ones being the unfavorable socio-economic conditions, lack of mass education and the development of local languages. Constraints: Low Literacy Rate: The publishing industry in Pakistan is hampered both by a low literacy rate (48%) and the fact that the national language, Urdu, is written in the right-to-left Arabic script unlike the official language, English, which is written left-to-right. Pakistan has had its share of poetry and prose writers in Urdu, English and other regional languages. Incentives for Writers: Those who don’t reproduce work and are genuinely interested are hardly encouraged. The government, the NGOs and the intellectuals hardly ever take the initiative to encourage young and budding  writers of the country. These results in most of the young authors getting their works published under foreign publishers. At least they get the recognition they warrant in foreign waters. Yet, there are a few committed souls who work tirelessly to make a place for themselves in the literature-deprived country. Market Growth: The publishing industry has been steadily growing despite the many hurdles like the low purchasing power of the masses and the lack of facilities. The principle centers of publishing are Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar. Lahore stands out with its numerous publishing houses and has been the hub of the industry from the pre-independence era. Even now, getting a book published from Lahore is much easier than elsewhere. Pakistan’s publishing industry has a lucrative market for Urdu and religious books abroad. A considerable number of books and periodicals are exported to countries like Malaysia, East Africa and the Middle East. Also, a very large number of books is imported in Pakistan mainly from UK and USA. The Inter-Media Growth program of Pakistan and USA have signed an agreement whereby Pakistan can import books and still pay for them in its local currency. Market needs: In the Pakistan scenario, there is need for up-to-date information available at affordable prices and easily accessible via easy to access retail outlets and via e-books. Trends: The following trends are emerging in the publishing industry: E-books Online book stores Reading clubs Book fairs Mobile bookshops Print on Demand These trends are discussed in detail in the ‘Opportunities’section. Customers Analysis: Following is a detailed description of Knowledge Hub’s client authors, intermediate customers and ultimate customers: Client Authors: Our client authors shall include all local authors who have quality material to offer and who fall within in our product range. Intermediate Customer: Our Intermediate or trade customers include: Wholesaler Book Stores Ultimate Customer: Out ultimate customers include: 25534400 school/ college going children in Pakistan 1,349,000 university going individuals in Pakistan 57. 7 % of our adult population which is literate in Pakistan Needs of the Target Customers: Knowledge Hub endeavors to cater to these basic needs of the target consumers: Academic needs Literary/ information needs Entertainment needs Consumer Touch Points: Our target consumer shall purchase our product via the following channels: Book Stores: Knowledge Hub shall have its products available at book stores including academic and literary book stores book shops in schools, colleges and universities. Gift Shops: Our books shall also be made available on gift shops. Libraries: One of the major sources of contact with the target market are libraries. We shall endeavor to establish relations with the local libraries to allow the usage of our products there. Website: Our comprehensive website will also serve as a major source of interaction with our customers. Our website will display our catalogue of books and shall provide the viewers with an option to get access to our products in the form of both paper editions and electronic versions on-line. Customers would be able to be directed to bookstores for the paper version and they may send an order directly to us. They would also be able to unlock and access an on-line edition instantly by making an online payment. Our website viewers would also be able to opt to receive periodic catalogs of our products online via e-mail. Customer Value Proposition: Like they say â€Å"A book is man’s best friend†, Knowledge Hub shall serve to provide its target consumers with books that serve as their best friends in all their walks of life. Knowledge Hub is a provider of latest academic and research material, the best literary material in Urdu and English by quality writers both local and international. Our customers rest assured that when they purchase a publication of Knowledge Hub they receive the optimum value for their money or as we call it ‘your money well spent’. Our publications are free of plagiarism and we endeavor to stay a step ahead in providing academic material which is the most recently proven by researchers instead of re-publishing the same material in a different manner. Knowledge Hub believes in a cleaner, safer tomorrow. We believe in a ‘Paper Free World’ in which our natural resources are savored for our future generations to enjoy. Knowledge Hub’s comprehensive website holds the key to a better tomorrow. Our online e-books, research articles, audio and visual resources provide you easy and instant access along with it being environmentally beneficial. Constraint: The long term vision of Knowledge Hub is to provide all of its resources online so that the environment and our natural resources can be saved. However, due to low levels of computer literacy in Pakistan, this is not possible immediately and shall take efforts from our end to promote education and reading so that our country can move forward past its literacy barriers. Competitor Analysis: Our competitors include: Local Competitors: Sang-e-Meel Publications Ferozsons Awesome Publishers Association for Academic Quality AFAQ Fact Publications Idara-e-Islamiat Kiran Publications Azeem Academy Publishers & Book Sellers Hassan Publishers 2 The Point Publishers 7th Sky Publications A to Z Publishers A-One Publishers Adara Talifat Khatm-e-Naboat Adara-Ul-Tahreer Adara-e Saadad Advanced Publishers A. H. Publishers Affaf Publishers Al Raza Publishers Al Quraish Publications Al Mashriq Publishers A. S. Publishers Adabistan Publishers Adan Publications A. N. Publishers Al-Asad Publications Al-Badar Publications Al-Bilal Publishing House Al-Hamd Publications Al-Madina Publications Al-Mezaan Publishers & Book Sellers National Competitors: Iqbal Sons Educational Publishers – Karachi, Pakistan New Century Education – Karachi, Pakistan Baitul Qalam – Karachi, Pakistan Electronic Journals of Academic Research and Reviews(EJARR Publishing) – Islamabad, Pakistan Library Promotion Bureau – Karachi, Pakistan World Trade Publishers – Karachi, Pakistan U. S. Publishers (pvt) Ltd. – Karachi, Pakistan Children Publications – Karachi, Pakistan Jumbo Publishing – Karachi, Pakistan 3KBioXML Publishers Pakistan – Haripur,Pakistan Strengths of Competitors: Our competitors have the following strengths: Well established brand names. Extensive market experience. Widely available and accepted products. Strong relations with distributors. Huge chains of retail outlets. Weaknesses of Competitors: Our competitors have the following weaknesses: Most of them are obtaining very high profit margins. They provide less incentive for local authors. Re-publishing of material similar to the one already in the market. Low on-line presence. Most of them do not have their own websites. Well established chain throughout Pakistan. Some competitors are also exporting books. Mahwish: SWOT Analysis: Strengths: Well established relations with authors,editors and media personnel Comprehensive website Up-to-date content of book Our mission is in itself a strength Weaknesses: New brand name thus requiring massive promotion Yet to establish credibility with the target customers Initial focus which is only on the Punjab market Opportunities: The emerging trends are opportunities which Knowledge Hub seeks to take advantage of: Time and Technological Advancements: Time and technological advancements play a pivotal role in shaping the trends over the passage of time. As Pakistan is also entering the digital age, traditional distinctions in media become blurred. It can be seen as furthering the book culture. E-books: The biggest contribution of the internet in the book industry would be to digitize books and grant them a wider readership. A number of online websites have sprung up in the last few decades. Quite a lot of these sites are free and others charge a very nominal fee and provide unlimited access to e-books. They can either be downloaded or read on screen. These obviously have become popular because of easy accessibility and the low cost. In Pakistan,a huge majority of people cannot afford the expensive original foreign titles. Hence,these customers can download the electronic versions at much cheapers rates. Some Urdu websites have started to offer online versions of books for foreign readers. This helps in promoting one’s culture as well as to help the expatriate Pakistanis and is a viable opportunity that Knowledge Hub can take advantage of. Online Book Stores: Closely related to e-books are the online book stores, another wonder of the internet and an opportunity for Knowledge Hub. An extension of the traditional book stores, online book stores give the option to search and read reviews of books, browse through categories, view the covers, author information, reader ratings and then order these books online. Although they are not free and even charge a shipping fee, it’s very convenient to search and order books online saving the hassle. Reading Clubs: Reading clubs are a breath of fresh air into the dying book culture. There are a number of book clubs/reading clubs online and offline. People sit and discuss their favorite books or simply talk about what they are reading these days. Readers’ Club is an exemplary example is of a â€Å"Readers’club† at the University of Karachi, which is moderated by a teacher who is Lecturer at the Department of the International Relations. This is also an opportunity that Knowledge Hub seeks to avail in the future. We plan of starting our own reading club in different cities throughout Pakistan to encourage the reading culture amongst the people of Pakistan. Book Fairs: The first International Book Fair was held in Karachi and Lahore last year at the expo centre and it was well received by the public at large despite the fact that all the books were originals and were highly priced. Knowledge Hub also seeks to participate in such book fairs at both national and international level in the future. Mobile Bookshops: The concept of a Mobile Bookshop was first used by the Welcome Book port some years back. Recently, Oxford started its own mobile book shop and it has been touring the city for quite some time now. Set on a truck, with the back converted into a small book shop with shelves and a counter set snugly at the end, the book shop attracted people outside various schools and universities. Threats: Threat of New Entrants: The threat of new entrant is always present in our industry and Knowledge Hub shall endeavor to keep track of the latest practices and customer trends and preference in order to stay ahead of our game ahead of competition. Plagiarism Another threat is the problem of plagiarism. That is, either simply copying out whole extracts or stealing the idea or characters. Plagiarism is an old problem and a big worry for authors who spend time and money on writing a piece of good writing and then someone else copies it and sells it at a lower cost. Then there are one-time authors who just reproduce material from some international author and make money by claiming it as their own. Incentives for Writers: The government, the NGOs and the intellectuals hardly ever take the initiative to encourage young and budding writers of the country. This has resulted in most of the young authors getting their works published under foreign publishers. Decline in Reading Habits: There has been a visible decline in reading habits in last few decades. This can be attributed to a number of factors like television, internet and other means of entertainment. Product Market Strategy: Segmentation: Our initial target market for the first five years of operations includes: 10623380 school/ college going children in Punjab 3,683,920 college going individuals in Punjab 3034350 individuals going to universities or acquiring diploma in Punjab Literate individuals above the age of 25 in Punjab This overall customer base has been divided into segments on the following bases: Step No. 1- Geographic Segmentation: As of now we are catering to the consumer base in Lahore. Step No. 2 – Segmentation on the Basis of Consumer Age and Needs: From within this customer base our market is further divided into the segments on the basis of the ages and needs of the different customers. Books needs of consumer vary with age and needs such as academic, literary, entertainment or information, etc. Hence we have divided our Lahore consumer base into the following segments: Children below the ages of 10 for their academic, literary and entertainment needs. Children between the ages of 10 – 18 who seek to cater to their academic, literary/ information or entertainment needs. Individuals between the ages of 18 – 25 who seek to cater to their academic, literary/ information and entertainment needs and for research purposes. Individuals and professional from the ages of 25 and above for their academic, literary/ information and entertainment needs and for research purposes. Targeting: Knowledge Hub is provider of books to all the mentioned segments. The reason being that the market is already filled with book publishing brands that have had their names recognized and sought after. If we chose to cater to a narrow segment, chances would have been that our brand would not have attained quick popularity in the overall Lahore Market. Hence, Knowledge Hub is catering to all these segments. We shall target the abovementioned segments with the following products: Academic books for primary level Academic books for secondary level Academic books for university level Illustrated books Novels Best Sellers Our focus shall remain on the publishing of quality and up-to-date material. Positioning: Knowledge Hub will position itself as provider of latest academic and research material, the best literary material and best sellers in Urdu and English by quality writers i. e. both local and international. Knowledge Hub endeavors to position itself as a provider of high quality material at affordable prices. Brand Name: ‘Knowledge Hub’ represents the firm as being a provider of various different sources of knowledge, be it academic or in the form of beautiful pieces of writing to enrich our minds and groom our personalities. Marketing Mix: Product: Our products include: Academic Books for Primary Level: These further include English and Urdu language, mathematics, science, general knowledge, geography, national and international history, Islamiat,social studies and arts and crafts. Academic Books for Secondary Level: These further include English and Urdu language, advanced mathematics, biology, chemistry, physics, geography, national and international history, Islamiat, social studies, sociology, business studies and arts and crafts. Academic Books for University Level: These further include books for business studies, information technology, social sciences, media studies, engineering, commerce, law, pharmacy and medicine. Illustrated Books: These books include books on history, local and international cultures, wildlife, politics, etc. Novels: These include prices of writing by local, national and international writers. Our focus always remains to ensure that only quality material which does in fact impart some type of knowledge or provides quality entertainment and grooming to the readers. Best Sellers: This category includes the best selling stories and novels of today’s age and over the decades. E-Books: All of our publications shall be available online in the form of e-books. Price: High Value but Varying Purchasing Power of Consumers: Books are of tremendous value to readers. Readers of the same types of book belong to drastically varying income levels. Competitors’ Pricing: The prices that prevail in the market are not rigid. It an original book is priced high; its copy is prices at very low prices. Our competitors vary in terms of their size, market shares and prices. Consequently their prices also vary. Some competitors are charging premium pricing with tremendous profit margins due to attractive designing, book cover and page and printing quality. Penetration Pricing Strategy: Since the purpose of the creation of Knowledge Hub is to ensure availability of knowledge to all Pakistanis who seek for it, we use penetration pricing strategy. Knowledge Hub believes that knowledge is not a product to be sold but a service to be provided to our nation so that we may progress in this fast paced world. Knowledge Hub has priced its products so that they are easily purchased by the masses. Knowledge Hub will use penetration strategy to penetrate in the market which is already filled with numerous providers. Knowledge Hub has made a point to publish original books at affordable prices and only attain profits sufficient to achieve our vision of making knowledge accessible to all. The attainment of our vision requires periodic expansions first with in Punjab then throughout the country. Since, Knowledge Hub is a sole proprietorship; the profits shall be retained and reinvested in the expansion of the business. Knowledge Hub has priced its products a bit cheaper and more affordable as opposed to its competitors while maintaining high quality in terms of designing, book covers, page material and printing. We strive to position ourselves as the provider of high-quality material at reasonable prices. The prices of our products shall fall in the following ranges: Sr. No. Product Line Price Range (Rs). 1 Academic Books for Primary Level 200  Ã¢â‚¬â€œ 500 2 Academic Books for Secondary Level 250 –800 3 Academic Books for University Level 300 –1200 4 Illustrated Books Up till 1500 5 Novels 200 –1500 6 Best Sellers 300 – 1800 7 Primary Level Academic E- Books 150 – 400 8 Secondary Level E- Books 150- 650 9 University Level E- Books 200 –850 10 Illustrated E- Books Up till 850 11 E- Novels 150 – 900 12 Best Seller E- Books 200 –1000 Price Sensitivity of Customers: In the Lahore market, the customers are highly price sensitive. The customers shall most willingly opt for a provider of quality books at low prices. Distribution Strategy: Our office shall be located near Urdu bazaar, Lahore. Our products shall move from us to our distributor who will supply our books to retailers and from these retailers our books shall reach our consumers. Our distribution network is as follows: Distributors: Since book stores no longer order directly from most publishers and prefer fewer vendors and quicker service. We shall enter into a contract with our distributor and allow us to reach the book trade (independent bookstores, chain bookstores, wholesalers and libraries) is with a distributor. Our Distributor will have sales reps who visit book stores and libraries, show your book catalogs and take orders. We shall use the following touch points to provide our products to the target market: Book Stores: Our products shall be made available in book stores throughout Lahore. Initially our books shall be available at the following book stores: Defence Book Store Readings Classic Book Store Ferozsons Kitabistan Liberty Books Readings The Last Word Variety Books Books Bank and Gift Shop Ravi Book Store Mavra Books. Libraries: We shall also have our books placed in the following libraries throughout Lahore: Quaid-e-Azam Library Environment Data Resource Centre (EDRC) Defence Public Library Complex Punjab Public Library Atomic Energy Minerals Centre Library Islamia College Library, Islamia College Government College Library, Government College University Lahore University of Management Sciences Library, Lahore University of Management Sciences National Library of Engineering Sciences Dyal Singh Trust Library Provincial Assembly of the Punjab Library, Lahore People’s Bank Library, Lahore Pakistan Administrative Staff College Library, Lahore The Ewing Memorial Library Babar Ali Library – Atchison College, Lahore Punjab University Library, Lahore Dr Baqir’s Library, Lahore Gift Stores: Gift stores will also be a touch point of Knowledge Hub. It is often noticed that people gift good illustrated books, novels and best sellers as gifts on various occasions. Hence placing our products in gift stores shall cause an increase in the number of sales and the popularity of our brand name. Places like Illusions will serve as an ideal place for placing our products. Gift Baskets: We shall also enter into mutual agreements with gift shop owners to form ‘gift baskets’ which will include different items to be placed in the form of a gift basket and including one of our books. An example of this can be a pen/ a diary or note pad along with a small teddy bear and a novel or best seller placed in a beautiful gift basket and covered with a net and tassels. Fiction and Poetry Books: Fiction and poetry can be sold better in gift stores as opposed to book stores. Website: Knowledge Hub shall maintain a comprehensive website containing electronic versions of all its books. We will use this website to display our catalogs of books and to sell those books in both paper editions and in electronic versions on-line. Customers would be able to be directed to bookstores for the paper version and they may send an order directly to us. They would also be able to unlock and access an on-line edition instantly by making a online payment. Our website viewers would also be able to opt to receive periodic catalogs of our products online via e-mail. Retail Outlet: By 2014, we plan to open our own retail outlet in H – Block Defence with the name of Knowledge Hub. Our outlet shall contain all of our publications. Tahira: Promotion Strategy: Knowledge Hub will use the following promotional techniques to promote its products: Newspaper and Magazine Advertisement: Knowledge Hub shall have the following print advertisement placed in the newspapers and magazines including Sunday Times, Zarnigar, Weekly Pulse,Pakistan Textile Journal Magazine ,Herald ,Defence Journal Magazine (DJ),etc. Book Promotion: Knowledge Hub will use tools like book reviews, news releases and a limited amount of highly targeted direct mail advertising. Book reviews and news releases result in free (editorial) publicity while direct mail (Postal and email) delivers your sales message directly to potential customers. Book Reviews: Book reviews are editorial copy that is far less expensive and much more credible than space advertising. The huge number of magazines, newsletters and newspapers columns that are in the market will receive review packages. These reviews will be published for the trade wholesalers and bookstores and libraries. These reviews tell the trade what is coming so they can order the books before the public reads the post-publication reviews in the popular magazines and newspapers. News Releases: We shall follow the review copies with news releases and articles every month to the very same magazines, newsletters and newspapers. These news releases allow opinion-molding editors know what you are doing and why your book has the information their readers need. Direct Mail Advertising: Direct mail advertising of our catalog and books will provide us with the opportunity to get our complete sales message to a specific potential buyer. Our mailing list for direct mails shall remain selective and include only our main buyers. Broadcast E-mail to Main Buyers: This method will is even better than direct postal mail and eliminates printing, stuffing and postage while getting a quick response. Knowledge Hub will assemble email addresses from customers and potential customers and alert them pertaining to our books. Radio & TV Interviews: Radio/TV interviews are an easy way to have the masses asking and searching for an upcoming book. Knowledge Hub shall arrange radio and television interviews of authors hose books are about to be published with us. If the book gains popularity so do we. Radio and television talk shows need interesting guests to attract listeners and viewers. Most people feel that authors are experts and celebrities, so most of the guests booked on such shows are authors. While advertising products on the air is expensive interviews are an editorial matter. People listen to editorial matter. Interviews are more effective than advertising and they are free. Hence, they will serve as an inexpensive way to sell our books. Autograph Parties: Knowledge Hub will arrange autograph parties or book signings in our client bookstores, both chain and independent to draw potential customers into their stores. Best Sellers: Knowledge Hub will endeavor so that its books are labeled as bestsellers. This would drastically improve our brand image. Book fairs: Knowledge Hub will organize book fairs are where publishers traditionally show their books but there are several different kinds. There fairs will be for bookstore buyers, libraries, the general public and so on. Initially these book fairs will be local but they will be replaced with book fairs in other cities as our business expands. Specific Category Promoting: From time to time Knowledge Hub shall also indulge in specific category book promotion. Where we shall promote our different products like children’s books, illustrated books, etc in schools, universities, etc. Audible Books: Some of our potential customers may commute or travel a lot and hence will not have time to read our book. This constraint can be overcome by forming audible books. E-Books: One of the very rapidly emerging trends in the book publishing industry is that –f electronic books. Knowledge Hub shall take complete advantage of this means of reaching to the targeted audience. Public Relations: Knowledge Hub will endeavor to maintain good relations with the distributor, retailing chains,gift stores, editors who write book reviews and leading authors. Sales Promotions: Knowledge Hub will provide sales promotions to retailers and libraries such as books at discount prices when purchased in huge bulks to motivate them to purchase our products and help the company penetrate into the target market. Implementation Strategy: Our primary function as book publishers is to procure books and make them available for sale. Procurement of books will involve soliciting and accepting marketable manuscripts, contracting with the author for selling rights, and getting them copies printed and distributed. The selling of our books will involve making contacts with industry retailers and distributors, and selling directly through your own website. We shall make a percentage of each sale and pay the balance to the author. Operational Plan: For works written independently of the publisher, writers shall first submit a query letter or proposal directly to a literary agent or to a publisher. Submissions sent directly to a publisher are referred to as unsolicited submissions, and the majority come from previously unpublished authors. We shall accept these unsolicited manuscripts, and place it in the slush pile, which our readers will sift through to identify manuscripts of sufficient quality or revenue potential to be referred.