The Human Experience With Technology Essay - 715 Words

The Human Experience With Technology The world is full technology, almost everything you see is the result of technology. Our houses, cars, buildings, streets, lights, even simple things like spoons, pencils, and nail clippers are all examples of technology. We use it everyday without even think about how it affects us. We don?t think about how much a part of our society it has become, or what life would be like without it. We don?t question our technology once we become accustomed to it but maybe we should. We should think about what technology has brought us, and what it enables us to do. Is there anything dangerous about our dependence on technology? Of course there is. Being dependant on anything can be dangerous. The good†¦show more content†¦What rights will a human clone have? Whose responsibility will they be? We face questions and fears such as this when we use technology. These fears will, no doubt, not stop our efforts to make our lives easier and more comfortable because, technology brings us added comfort. Whether it is comfort in our homes or the comfort of knowing that we will not die if we get break a bone, we design most things with comfort as our ultimate goal. Regarding this issue Ms. Rodriguez noted, ?Why would we develop something that make our lives harder. She is right, why would we, were is the survival advantage? Human nature drives us to find ways to make our lives easier, that is part of what makes us human. However, some argue that the technology we design has a serious down side: stress. Has technology really added stress to our lives? I believe that it changed the nature of the stress. Instead of worrying about cave lions and wolves, we worry about traffic on the beltway and, how much money we have. For the most part, life threatening situations do not cause most of our stress. Instead we have lower level stresses that last longer. Stress in both forms leads to serious health problems. Let?s say that you are walking in the woods. Suddenly you spot a very large bear. Your pulse quickens, pupils dilate, you start to sweat, your body releases adrenaline, and your digestion stops: this is stress. Your body prepares you to fight orShow MoreRelatedNegatives About Technology887 Words   |  4 PagesHumans have dominated the Earth for thousands of years, we created a vibrant and wonderful world. However, as we continue developing ourselves, we also created something that slowly takes over humans’ world, technology. Technology is what human’s endeavor to make our lives convenient. Along with the development of human beings, technology is one of the shiniest stars in the human history. The impacts that technology brings to humans are controversial. Some people believe that technology providesRead MoreTechnology Is A Useful Servant, But A Dangerous Master866 Words   |  4 Pagesâ€Å"Technology is a useful servant, but a dangerous master.† – Christian Lous Lange. BrainyQuote.com. Xplore Inc, 2015. 28 October 2015. Technology has been a debating topic since it has become a key part of the modern lifestyle. Technology developed around human life in various ways which have caused diverse effects on people. Despite the fact that technology have done tremendous things that assisted humankind to gain the possibility of developing rapidly an advanced way of life, technology haveRead MoreBusiness Technology Has Revolutionized The Means Corporations Conduct Business1620 Words   |  7 PagesBusiness technology has revolutionized the means corporations conduct business. Tiny businesses will implement business technology and level the enjoying field with larger organizations. Tiny businesses use computers, servers, websites and private digital merchandise to develop competitive benefits within the economic marketplace. Tiny business homeowners ought to contemplate implementing technology in their designing method. This permits homeowners to make operations victimization the simplest technologyRead MoreW endy : A Very Simple Job1488 Words   |  6 Pagestrust to technology at their first chance. It has become commonplace to overly trust technology to give us an opinion, have our private information, and be our memory. By trusting technology with these three important parts of our humanity we force dependency upon ourselves. We then, are no longer in control of our own lives but are at the mercy of technology. This will unfortunately be our downfall. Many believe that the downfall of mankind can be easily prevented by using technology in moderationRead MoreTechnology : A World Where There Is No Afterlife1627 Words   |  7 Pagesomnibenevolence. Today, technology is making strides towards Lennon’s world. â€Å"Biohacking† is the marriage of biology with the hacker ethic. Not defined in mainstream dictionaries, the newly-coined term is used loosely. Biohacking refers to human body-enhance- ment, at-home gene sequencing, and managing the human body with medicine, nutrition, and electronics. â€Å"Biohackers,† also known as â€Å"grinders† or â€Å"transhumanists-in-practice,† seek to im- prove the human condition by manipulating and fusing human biology withRead MoreThe Flight From Conversation By Sherry Turkle1103 Words   |  5 Pagesonce said, †It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our humanity†(Einstein). Everyday, technology is advancing at a rapid pace, improving many lives and making things more convenient. For instance, in Japan, robots have been created by researchers at the University of Tokyo to assist home chores. Although technology has made our lives better, we have lost an important part of our self: t he skills necessary for human communication. In her essay, â€Å"The Flight From Conversation†Read MoreThe Is The Best For The Human Condition996 Words   |  4 Pagesand cultivated ways and processes which they believe are beneficial to human life. Transhumanists want the best for the human condition by improvements of medical technology, economics, medicine, culture, and mental capacities. There are copious amounts of prototypes and ideas that are currently pushing the movement forward and giving hope to those involved. Though naysayers hold the opinion that transhumanism will separate humans into two or more distinct species, that is not the intended goal. InRead MoreThe Time Machine, And The Machine Stops By. Forster1526 Words   |  7 Pagestoday. Written during the Industrial Revolution, a time where technology and human innovation was at one of its highest points in recent history, both stories explore the possible effects of the machinery that was becoming evermore present. Both authors present aspects such as omnipotent technology, decaying human independence, and destruction of real communication, to create the artistic statement that complacency is rising within the human race, and that complacency will eventually lead to the fallRead MoreTechnology and Teacher Readiness According to a recent study by the U.S. Department of Education,1700 Words   |  7 PagesTechnology and Teacher Readiness According to a recent study by the U.S. Department of Education, despite access to funding and equipment, less than 35% of teachers have integrated technology in their instruction at the very least, on a weekly basis. (U.S. Department of Education, 2008) Research has shown that teachers’ beliefs, comfort level and readiness to use technology play a crucial role in its implementation within a school setting. Other concerns such as technological literacy and perceivedRead MoreScience And Technology909 Words   |  4 PagesI will write how the thinking about science and technology implications especially on science education. Currently everything is related to technology, It is worth the technology developed not focus on science education only. should be recognized the connection between science and technology can not be separated. Although technology and science are closely intertwined between the two, certainly can be expanded or developed technology, so no need to rely on science. In this case most people see

Nursing Theories Of The Nursing Theory - 1398 Words

Nursing theories provide a foundation for nurses to professionally base their judgment of care. Florence Nightingale was one of the first nursing theorists. Theories composed by Nightingale were comprised of practice-based theories and environmental theories. Nightingale’s environmental theory is composed of 13 cannons which are fundamental to her theory. Nightingale’s theories continue to be used by present day nurses and nursing students. Theories are incorporated into nursing students’ education to influence students’ decisions regarding patients’ health. Nursing theories remain an important foundation for both nurses and nursing students. Florence Nightingale influenced modern day nursing by forming nursing theories concerning patient care. Nightingale formed her theories during the mid-late-nineteenth century. Nursing theories, â€Å"are guiding structures for reasoning and decision making about the person, as well as about the nursing action indicated.† (Alligood, 2010, p. 50). Nightingale is considered, â€Å"the founder of modern nursing† (MacQueen, 2007, p. 29) because she established the first nursing theories. Nightingale used a practice-discipline theory which was intended to, â€Å"bring order out of what otherwise might be chaos.† (Selanders, 2010, p. 3). Practice-based theories are based directly on the practice and outcome during patient care. Many of Nightingale’s theories involved the relationship between the patient and their environment. Nightingale’sShow MoreRelatedNursing Theories And Theories Of Nursing3078 Words   |  13 Pages Patricia Benner Nursing Theorist Group Five Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences University of Colorado Colorado Springs NURS 3040: Foundations of Nursing Patricia Benner Nursing Theorist Theory, what is a theory? According to Blais Hayes, (2011) â€Å"A theory is a supposition or idea that is proposed to explain a given phenomenon. Theories differ in their scope and have been categorized in different ways. One of those categorizations schemes divide them into categories accordingRead MoreThe Nursing Theory Of Nursing2275 Words   |  10 PagesAn important role and function of nursing is to provide competent and individual centered care. Striving to provide this level of care has lead to the development of several nursing theories focused on care. Nursing theorist Kristen Swanson developed a middle ranged caring theory, which is broad and easily applied in nursing practice. Swanson’s definition of caring is, â€Å"a nurturing way of relating to a valued other toward whom one feels a personal sense of commitment and responsibility† (SwansonRead MoreNursing Theory : Transcultural Nursing Theories1168 Words   |  5 Pages Nursing Theory: Transcultural Nursing Theory Raymonde Alphonse Miami Dade College Nursing Theory: Transcultural Nursing Theory General Perspective to the Nurse, the Patient, the Environment, Health, Illness, and Wellness Transcultural nursing theory by Madeleine Leininger has general perspectives to the nurse, patient, environment, health, illness, and wellness. According to the caregivers, transcultural nursing theory by Madeleine Leininger is one of the most effective philosophies onRead MoreTheories And Theories Of Nursing Essay1211 Words   |  5 PagesMcEwin and Ellis, theory in nursing â€Å"offers structure and organization to nursing knowledge and provides a systematic means of collecting data to describe, explain, and predict nursing practice† (McEwen Wills, 2014, p. 25). Theories in nursing are what distinguish it from other professions and help to create professional boundaries (McEwen Wills, 2014)Click and drag to move. When theories are applied in the nursing process, there are various concepts from the respective theory that are introducedRead MoreNursing Theory : Application Of Nursing Theories4442 Words   |  18 PagesRunning head: NURSING THEORIES 1 APPLICATION OF NURSING THEORIES 2 Application of Nursing Theories Beatrice Mitchell MSN6003 ? Professional Nursing Practice Framework, Scope, and Role Unit 4 ? Assignment 1 8/7/16 Rhonda Hendricks Capella University Application of Nursing Theories Florence Nightingale and four nursing theorists are listed and analyzed in the taxonomy table in part I. A comprehensive summary of the nursing theories and a reflection on how each theory relates to theRead MoreThe Theory Of Nursing Theory812 Words   |  4 PagesTheory is the backbone to nursing as it gives nurses a framework and an idea of what they do and, most importantly, why they do it. Nursing theory means many different things to people and to only give credit to one definition would not be fair. Therefore, the definition of theory alone is, â€Å"the doctrine or principles underlying an art as distinguished from the practice of that particular art† (Theory, n.d). This definition is particularly useful because nursing is an art as well as a scienceRead MoreThe Theory Of Nursing Theory1417 Words   |  6 PagesImportance of Theory There are many ideas about theory in nursing. The definition of nursing theory is a group of concepts that can be tested, changed or used to guide research (McEwen Willis, 2014). This writer was exposed to theory in under-graduate classes and understands the importance of theory to her nursing practice. This paper will review the importance of nursing theory. It will also focus on Patricia Benner’s Novice to Expert Theory. Importance of Theory Many nurse theorists haveRead MoreNursing Theory1516 Words   |  7 PagesApplication of Theory DeepaK USF NR 501 Theoretical Basis for Advanced Nursing Practice Nursing Theories In nursing there are theories that determine how the profession is going to be handled. Scholars and other practitioners of medicines have proved these theories. In our case we will be looking how these theories are applicable in the entire world of nursing medicine. What are nursing theories? Nursing theories are theories that describeRead MoreNursing Theories684 Words   |  3 PagesA grand theory in nursing would be Doretha Orem’s self care theory. This theory encompasses the entire concept of nursing in the fact that it states individuals will strive to meet healthcare needs to maintain health and wellness. This is very broad, can not be tested and is used in a variety of settings and populations. Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory is that all patients want to care for themselves, and they are able to recover more quickly and holistically by performing their own self-careRead MoreNursing Theory1224 Words   |  5 PagesImportance of Theory Paper THE ROY ADAPTATAION MODEL Kandace Wood Chamberlain College of Nursing Course Number: N501 March 2015 Introduction: Theories and models despite not being synonymous are used interchangeably in nursing. In general a theory is considered to be a speculative statement that is concerned with some elements of reality that are not yet proven. There are a number of theories in the field of nursing also which are used to

Management Statistics and Research Methods for Business Decisions

Question: Describe about the Management Statistics and Research Methods for Business Decisions. Answer: Introduction: This document proposes to conduct a research on the factor of relationship marketing and its impact on the customer loyalty. The main topic of this study is that relationship marketing has a strong impact on customer loyalty for Starbucks, Australia. With the emerging global business and increasing competition new strategies have taken an important place besides the traditional strategy of marketing. Every organization tends to expand their market through the most effective marketing strategies. Promotional strategy or product is not enough to achieve stable and successful customer retention. In this regard, relationship marketing has become an integral part of the marketing strategy. To conduct the research Starbucks has been chosen because in the sector of retail food chain, relationship marketing is highly valued by the customers as well as to make the customer loyal to them. With the changed scenario of the global business context, experts have asked to give importance on the relationship marketing. As the main objective of the relationship marketing is to earn more revenue by making the customer happy and satisfied with the standard of the service, a research on this particular topic is absolutely beneficial for every sector . To validate the research literary works done before on this topic have also been included. Moreover, the research methodologies that will be followed during the research have also been mentioned here. Apart from that, operational definitions and measurement are also included here in this research proposal. Moreover, this study has also incorporated the data collection methods and the process for analysis of those collected data that will be conducted during the research. In this regard sampling techniques for the research has been described along with the expected outcome of the research. Literature review: Relationship marketing and its significance have become the matter of studies for last 20 years. As mentioned by, Hollensen (2015), relationship marketing is the approach that influences the development and enhancement of the relationship quality among the customers and business associates. Moreover, Christopher, Payne and Ballantyne (2013), quoted that relationship marketing is the strategy that values the future objectives and profitability by means of committed and loyal relational changes. On addition, relationship marketing evaluates the long-term value of the customer relation and tends to involve better strategies for the communication rather advertising of the products and services (Bejou and Palmer 2013). As per Vivek, Beatty and Morgan (2012), this the age of globalization and internet; people across different parts of the world can be connected with each other. Moreover, the preferences have also been shifted with the time that is why relationship marketing for the custome r retention has become a concerning issue. Research questions and hypotheses: Research questions: Research questions are identified as the foundation of the research as this questions help to obtain the final outcome of the research. The research questions will be: How to align the relationship marketing with customer loyalty for Starbucks in Australia? How can relationship marketing be applied to achieve customer loyalty for Starbucks in Australia? What are the factors that make the relationship marketing feasible to the customer loyalty? Hypotheses For this research proposal, hypotheses are as below: H0: relationship marketing is highly influential for the customer loyalty for Starbucks in Australia. H1: relationship marketing has no impact on the customer loyalty for Starbucks in Australia. Operational definitions and measurement: This is important while conducting a research because operational definition involves the application of perennialization to define a process that is required for the determination of the nature of the variables. As mentioned by, Coleman and Ringrose (2013), maximum operational definitions identify objects with the help of distinguishing it from the background of its empirical experience. Measurement involves evaluation of the variables. Variable can include that has a quality or quantity that varies. There are two types of the variables. One is independent variable and another is the dependent variable. The dependent variable is that one, on which researcher is interested. The change in the dependent variable is the matter focus for the researchers (Ary et al. 2013). For the independent variables, it can be said that it is influential for the dependent variables. Dependent variables are subjected to the manipulation by the researcher as the main concern is to understand whether the change in independent variables is effecting the dependent variables. For this research, the dependent variable is the customer loyalty and the independent variable is the relationship marketing. The researcher can change the relationship marketing to assess the effect of the change on the customer loyalty. Research methodologies: Data Collection and analysis Research methodologies are the theoretical analysis as well as the systematic methods that are applied while conducting any research. Research methodologies encompass the methods and disciplines those are used in the course of a research. Research can be of various types such as basic research, applied research, problem-orientated research, qualitative and quantitative research. Qualitative research is the process where tools like the revision of case studies, surveys, interviews, field studies and observation are followed (Ritchie et al. 2013). Quantitative research is the intervention of the quantifiable data during the research. This approach involves many statistical and numerical explanations (Yilmaz 2013). Sampling techniques: Researchers always follow a particular sampling technique as it is important for the further procession of the research procedures. Choosing of the sample should be done carefully so that maximum valid information can be obtained (Levy and Lemeshow 2013). During the sampling, some ethical considerations must be kept in the mind. Sampling technique, the sample size is very important. For the research, sample will be chosen randomly without any particular criteria. When a random sampling technique is adopted it helps to understand the general opinion, thoughts and expectation (Wilcox et al. 2012). Restricting the sample by gender, age or class can affect the research outcome. As the topic of the research is highly flexible to any kind of sample; random sampling will help in obtaining of real and valid data. However, a smaller sample size will help in maintenance of the budget and time as these are highly influential for the successful accomplishment of a research. The method of analysis: Data is collected prior to the analysis of the information. Data can be collected in two different ways. For the primary data collection, it is required to collect the information from the direct actions like gathering information from survey, interviews, questionnaire etc. Secondary data collection method is the process of taking extract from the works those already exist (Matthews and Ross 2014). For secondary data analysis, articles, journals and books are revised to understand the scenario of the particular topic of the research. For this research, both primary and secondary method of data collection will be adopted so that during the research the present condition on the relationship marketing and its impact on the customer loyalty. Articulation of the opinions and thoughts with the previous finding will make this research more approaching. After the collection of the data, it will be analyzed through qualitative research. Qualitative analysis of the data will help to deepen the explanation of the collected information. Moreover, qualitative research will also involve a critical analysis of the data and identification of the common patterns of the responses. Research process Research process illustrates the steps that will be conducted one after another to reach the conclusion from the research. The research process is important to understand the discipline that will be followed throughout the research. First, the research topic is selected and then the research methodologies. Research methodology should be followed strictly to understand the types of data collection and analysis of that information. A research can only be successful when it is going step by step correctly. The research process can be parted into inquiry, collection, organization a presentation (Bryman 2015). Inquiry involves the searching of appropriate research methodology. For the collection, it indicates the gathering of the information, required for the research completion. The organization is the data analysis and it is a vital segment of a research. The final step is the presentation of the complete research. Expected outcome: The expected outcome of the research will definitely help Starbucks, Australia to make out the importance of the relationship marketing to hold customer loyalty. After revising the result of this research, Starbucks will be able to critical factors regarding the relationship marketing. If the research methodologies are followed accurately it will be helpful in obtaining data with valid information. Revision of this report will help the reader to gain knowledge on the changing context of marketing strategies and their influential factors. Conclusion: This research proposal has been done on the topic of Relationship marketing has a strong impact on the Customer Loyalty for Starbucks in Australia. Ultimate goal of the relationship marketing is to achieve the customer retention and satisfaction. The research will help in the evaluation of this projection. A literature review has also been included to give the research a theoretical consideration. Research questions have been given for a clear idea on the reason behind the research. Apart from that, research methodologies have been described in a detailed account as this part is important. In research methodology, selection of the sampling techniques, data collection from the sample, analysis of those gathering data has been incorporated. Different types of these procedures have been described here. An elaboration of the research process has been given so that the steps can be easily reviewed. A possible outcome of the research and its effect is also included to make this research pr oposal extremely accountable for the conduction of the research. Reference List: Ary, D., Jacobs, L.C., Sorensen, C.K. and Walker, D., 2013.Introduction to research in education. Cengage Learning. Bejou, D. and Palmer, A., 2013.The future of relationship marketing. Routledge. Bryman, A., 2015.Social research methods. Oxford university press. Christopher, M., Payne, A. and Ballantyne, D., 2013.Relationship marketing. Taylor Francis. Coleman, R. and Ringrose, J. eds., 2013.Deleuze and research methodologies. Edinburgh University Press. Hollensen, S., 2015.Marketing management: A relationship approach. Pearson Education. Levy, P.S. and Lemeshow, S., 2013.Sampling of populations: methods and applications. John Wiley Sons. Matthews, B. and Ross, L., 2014.Research methods. Pearson Higher Ed. Ritchie, J., Lewis, J., Nicholls, C.M. and Ormston, R. eds., 2013.Qualitative research practice: A guide for social science students and researchers. Sage. Vivek, S.D., Beatty, S.E. and Morgan, R.M., 2012. Customer engagement: Exploring customer relationships beyond purchase.Journal of Marketing Theory and Practice,20(2), pp.122-146. Wilcox, A.B., Gallagher, K.D., Boden-Albala, B. and Bakken, S.R., 2012. Research data collection methods: from paper to tablet computers.Medical care,50, pp.S68-S73. Yilmaz, K., 2013. Comparison of Quantitative and Qualitative Research Traditions: epistemological, theoretical, and methodological differences.European Journal of Education,48(2), pp.311-325.

Accounting For Manager Cost Management Accounting & Control

Question: Discuss about theAccounting For Managerfor Cost Management Accounting Control. Answer: Introduction: A cost budget is a type of financial plan which helps the company to identify its expenses for the next period. Cost budget is important to the organization internally because it helps in the process of planning and creating internal policies. Cost and expenses are the part of business which reduces our profit, bur on the other hand these help us to manufacture goods and provide services. It is necessary for an organization to plan the level of expenses which it can incur (Guerard, 2013). A cost budget helps us to monitor the expenses and also cut down the expenses wherever necessary. In short, it is of utmost importance to the internal organization and plays a leading role in structuring policies. But we should keep in mind that there can be deviations from the budget we prepare. There are a lot of reasons for deviations from budget. Cost is a very unstable element of a business. All the economic, non-economic factors affect the cost to be incurred by the organization (Kirche Sriva stava, 2005). Few factors are in the hands of the organization, while few are not. Therefore, while preparing a budget one should always keep in mind that the actual results may not come out same as they were budgeted. Orchid Ltd, a furniture manufacturer is considered for the purpose of study and the tool of budgetary control is used to create and have a strong management over the cost control. Variances and Explanation Variances normally consist of differences based on level on activity, that is the output and differences based on cost, usage and efficiency that is the expenses (Maher, 2005). The differences based on level of quantity represent the differences between actual quantities sold and budgeted quantity expected to be sold. It can also be refers to as the difference between the actual sale price and budgeted sale price. In the given case we see that the budgeted sales quantity was 800 units whereas the actual quantity sold was 810 units. The variance was not very large. Still the reason of variances can be creation of market of goods for new customers or the image of the organization was improved or was better than what the organization was affecting. Existence of good economic market also can lead to lead to increased actual sales (Maher, 2005). Sale Variances The budgeted sale price of the good was 95 per unit, but in the actual market it was sold for 93. The reasons for drop in sale price can be increased competition. May be the competitors would be selling the same product at a lower price. Selling the products at a lower price tends to create a difference. The total budgeted sales consideration was 76,000 whereas the actual consideration was 75,330. Even after increased volume of sales from that of budgeted quantity, total sales revenue earned was lower than that expected, it was due to fall in the sale price of the goods. The sale price is a major consideration and leads to a difference. Direct Material Variances Variances can happen for various reasons. The differences based on cost, usage and efficiency represent the differences between the budgeted cost and actual cost incurred. Let us consider individual expenses for analysis of variance (Shim Siegel, 2009). The direct material variances consist of two elements variance in volume and variance in price. Variance in volume can be due to increased output or degradation in quality of the material or increased wastages (Houston Brigham, 2009). Variances in price of the material can be due to changes in economies, change in government policies, change in demand of the material, etc (Lanen et. al, 2008). This can be attributed to the external factors. In the given problem we see that the budgeted consumption of material is 8 m whereas the actual consumption was 8.64 meters, also the price of material which was budgeted was 3 per unit which in the actual production was incurred at the rate of 2.75. The total budgeted cost of materials was estim ated to be 19,200 and the actual expense in connection with material was 19,250, even though the consumption of material increased by 0.64m per unit there was a minimal increase in material expense as the price of the material dropped from 3 to 2.75 per unit. Direct Labor Variances Direct labor refers to the labor that is directly employed or used for the production of goods. It is an important element that helps in production of goods. The elements of variances in labor expenses are efficiency of the labor and the rate at which they are paid (Lanen et. al, 2008). If the labor is not efficient then the organization would require to employ a large number laborers but if they are efficient then the work can be completed a few laborers only. Also idle hours can be a reason of variances. The organization is required to pay for the idle time also where there is no productive work (Houston Brigham, 2009). The idle time should be minimized to a considerable extent so that money is not outflow for the idle time. In short, idle time leads to a loss for the organization as a whole. The rate paid to the labor forces is dependent on union demands, the availability of labor, type of labor that is skilled, unskilled etc. here we see that according to the budget 1 hr was to be consumed but each unit produced but actually 1.05hr was spend on production of one unit (Don Maryanne, 2006). This may be due to inefficiency of the labor. The inefficiency of the labor tends to weaken the position of organization because it leads to slow movement and idle time. If the workers are not efficient it leads to distort the entire proceedings and creates a difference. According to the budget prepared the organization planned to pay 25 per hour, instead it actually paid 27.28 per hour to labor. The budgeted expense for labor was 20,000 but in actual the company had to pay 23,191, this was due to inefficiency of labor and also increased labor rates. Fixed Overhead Variances Fixed overhead is generally not considered in per unit terms, but in certain calculations the actual fixed overheads is divided by budgeted units to be sold in order to determine the recovery rate (Don Maryanne, 2006). The budgeted fixed overheads do not change under normal circumstances because the fixed charges are constant in nature and there it remains constant throughout the reporting period. It is only under recovery and over recovery which creates variances in fixed overhead expenses (Don Maryanne, 2006). According to the budget the fixed overhead expenses was 12,800 but the actual fixed overhead recovered was 13,000, this was majorly due to increased sale units and also increases recovery rates. Conclusion Cost is the most easily effected factor of production, any change inside the organization, or in the government polices or in the economic scenario may lead to great changes in cost of production. A budget is just created to make an overview for the company so that they can arrange materials, funds, goods and other requirements so that they can meet up with the demands of the market. But it is not necessary that the actual figure would be exactly as same as that of budget (William, 2010). There are a lot of forces prevailing in the market which affect the demand and supply forces. The demand and supply are one of the major reasons for variances in actual and budgeted cost and revenues of the organization. A budget is a very effective tool of finance which helps the organization to cut costs, improve production, etc. Therefore if the budgetary control is properly applied, it can provide the organization with a lot of benefits. The benefits can be seen in terms of cost, internal polici es and a better management (Guerard, 2013). Budgetary control provides solidity to the internal organization due to which it gets a strong momentum. References Don R. H Maryanne M. M 2006, Cost Management Accounting Control, Ohio: Thomas South-Western Guerard, J. 2013,Introduction to financial forecasting in investment analysis, New York, NY: Springer. Houston, J.F Brigham, E.F 2009, Fundamentals of Financial Management, Cincinnati, Ohio. Kirche, E. and Srivastava, R, 2005, An ABC-Based Cost Model with Inventory and Order Level Costs: A Comparison with TOC, International Journal of Production Research, vol. 43, no. 8, pp. 44-68 Lanen, W. N., Anderson, S Maher, M. W 2008, Fundamentals of cost accounting, NY: Hang Loose press. Maher, L 2005, Fundamentals of Cost Accounting, McGraw-Hill Shim, J. K Siegel, J. G 2009, Modern Cost Management and Analysis, Barron's Education Series William, L 2010, Practical Financial Management, South-Western College.

The Applications of the Theory of Planned Behaviour

Factors Influencing Organizational Effectiveness

Factors Influencing Organizational Effectiveness Importance of Vision, Mission and Values of an Organization It should be noted that long term goals play a crucial role in any organization’s development plans as compared to short term goals. Consequently, organizations have been known to put in place visions, missions and values to encourage stakeholders focus on a common goal.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Factors Influencing Organizational Effectiveness specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Though visions, missions and values of organizations appear as meaningless statements to some people, they play a very important role in the quest to achieve long term objectives. They provide pillars on which organizations base their day-to-day aims as well as roadmaps on which long term strategies are founded (Hirschey, 2008). By aligning an organization’s vision, mission and values with the organization’s long term strategies, employees and other stakehold ers are given a yard stick to measure their activities. Furthermore, it has been noted that an organization whose strategic plans are in harmony with its vision, mission and values is more likely to succeed in the long run. All organizations aspire to be sustainable in the long run. In this regard, positive organizational culture is paramount in achieving these aims. However, organizational culture can only be fostered if proper vision, mission and values are put in place. In addition, company vision, mission and values are used guiding principals in streamlining projects so as to attain desired outcomes. In a nutshell, vision, mission and values give specific aims that a firm seeks to achieve. Techniques of Environmental Analysis Analysis of business environment is very important in determining success of an organization. Organizations use many techniques in analyzing business environment though cross-impact analysis and expert opinion are more effective. Cross-impact analysis allo ws comparison of variables besides forecasting of events (Freeman, 2010). On the same note, cross-impact analysis does not require extensive knowledge in mathematics for one to be able to use the model. As a result, many employees can be able to use it. Similarly, expert opinion technique is highly beneficial since it involves professional advice. Professionals are well experienced in matters relating to their areas of specialization and will, therefore, be in a good position to forecast future events. Though situations change, it has been noted that there is a tendency of circumstances being repeated overtime (Hirschey, 2008). Consequently, people experienced in various areas will be able to tell the expected trend of events. Incidentally, environmental analysis is crucial in ensuring long term sustainability and should therefore be dexterously handled. It is important to note that organizational effectiveness is influenced by both internal and external factors.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Factors Influencing Organizational Effectiveness In order to achieve long term goals of an organization, various factors have to be in play. To begin with, positive organizational culture should be insisted on since it ensures that all stakeholders work towards a common goal. Additionally, all strategies implemented by an organization should be customer focused, because an organization cannot survive without customers (Freeman, 2010). Moreover, reaction to any changes in the market should be swift in order to gain competitive advantage. In Addition, an organization where decision making process is decentralized is likely to perform better, because it is easy to react to abrupt changes in the market. On the contrary, organizations where top management makes all decisions are ineffective since it takes time to implement policies. Similarly, organizations with high ability of adapting to changes in the environment usually have sustainable growth (Freeman, 2010). References Freeman, R. E. (2010). Strategic Management: A Stakeholder Approach. New York: Cambridge University Press. Hirschey, M. (2008). Fundamentals of Managerial Economics. Stanford: Cengage Learning.

The strong earthquakes happened in Sichuan province, how it influence Essay

The strong earthquakes happened in Sichuan province, how it influence local people - Essay Example It is of great concern that the Sichuan locals and the surrounding inhabitants from the towns like Yunnan and Huizhou were affected in a great extent by the destructive Wenchuan earthquake. It is an understatement to state that the earthquake only disrupted their proper livelihoods. It did more than damage and left the consequences exposed to the surviving population who are bearing the brunt. The Sichuan local authorities will be contacted for their authorization guidance and assistance of the research because of their strong connection and language advantage with the locals. The research will involve interviewing all classes from the upper class and lower class to give their experience from the earthquake and how it has impacted their lives whether positively or negatively. Wang, Li, Yuqing Zhang, Wenzhong Wang, Zhanbiao Shi, Jianhua Shen, Ming Li, and Yong Xin. "Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder among adult survivors three months after the Sichuan earthquake in China." Journal of traumatic stress 22, no. 5 (2009):

Evolution Versus Religion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Evolution Versus Religion - Essay Example The most famous case that dealt with this issue set the scene for the debate that would follow. The Scopes Trial held in Tennessee in 1925 challenged the Butler Act which made it illegal "to teach any theory that denies the story of the Divine Creation of man as taught in the Bible, and to teach instead that man has descended from a lower order of animals." A schoolteacher was charged and put on trial for the crime of teaching Darwin. Although the teacher, Scopes, was eventually found guilty—and made to pay a fine—the Supreme Court of the United States eventually overturned the ban on teaching evolution in 1968, saying that such a ban would violate the constitution since it would be to the benefit of religion. Nevertheless, this trial turned into a circus and was a huge spectacle as it pitted passionate believers of religion and evolution against one another. Amazingly, the debate continues to this day, most recently in the last ten years with the rise of what is called Intelligent Design.The debate between evolution and creationism came back into the public sphere with a vengeance following a big fight on a school board in rural Pennsylvania. Here a number of advocacy groups had gone out of their way to repackage creationism which was seen to be explicitly religious in a format which they claimed was more secular: Intelligent Design, a theory which held that the world is simply too complicated to have occurred randomly without a directing hand. Often proponents of ID would quote scientists to this effect. They were in a manner trying to use science to prove the existence of God. On various school boards across the United States proponents of ID would not ask to ban teaching evolution; instead, they would argue that there was more than one viewpoint on the matter and that schools should also teach ID or â€Å"teach the controversy.†

Acquiring Business Communication Skills Necessary for Business Essay - 5

Acquiring Business Communication Skills Necessary for Business Graduates - Essay Example 112). However, when one delves on communication skills in the context of the business graduates, they need to realize that in the current time when the technology is poised to enhance the speed and urgency of business communication, business communication skills are expected to play a major role in influencing the career graphs of the future managers (Sigmar & Cooper 2011, p. S1). Thereby, this report intends to identify salient general communication skills and the form and scope they acquire in the arena of business communication, while proceeding to elaborate on the value of these communication skills and their role in the world of business. In the light of this analysis this report eventually facilitates recommendations aimed at helping the undergraduate students hone the specific business communication skills. The undergraduate students do need to bear in mind that the discipline of business communication happens to be a subset of the general communication, and hence, the proficiency that the business students acquire in business communication happens to be a great extent subservient to their expertise in the general communication skills. Thereby it will be pragmatic to consider the salient general communication skills, before proceeding to introduce the business communication skills. Verbal Communication- Verbal communication relies on the potency of the spoken word to convey meaning and content (Gallagher 2013, p. 58). They require the ability for using language in a clear, concise and straightforward manner Nonverbal Communication- It is a fact corroborated by many communication experts that nonverbal communication happens to be more important and complex aspect of communication (Gallagher 2013, p. 58). Nonverbal communication comprises of the use of body language and nonverbal cues in communication. Written Communication- Written communication is

Bidding for Event Management

Bidding for Event Management Background/Context Western Australian Football League (WAFL) was first established in 1885 and is based in Perth, Western Australia. WAFL is partnered with the seven network and sponsored by McDonalds. WAFL currently has nine teams competing in a 24 rounds season which commences in March and concludes in September each year. The 2017 grand final will be played on the 23rd September at the Domain in Perth. The celebrity singer proposed to perform four of her most popular songs at the 2017 grand final is the RB and pop singer Jessica Mauboy. Jessica Mauboy will also attending the pre-event activities including meet and greet and promotional events. Jessica Mauboy is one of Australias most successful female artists that rose to fame after competing on the television program Australian Idol. Attendance at WAFL has dropped in recent times however the largest crowd was during the 2010 grand final with 24,638 spectators. Jessica Mauboy popularity will be utilised to not only promote the WAFL but to increase a ttendance of spectators with a maximum capacity of 43,500. The event will be televised on the seven network and broadcast throughout western Australia on several radio stations. Executive Summary The following report indicates on how the event WAFL- Western Australian Football League, will deliver the celebrity performance. The event of music concert will take place in the WAFL stadium only, before and along with the matches. Taking place in Perth on 23rd of September 2017, the WAFL will have a huge amount of spectators. The celebrity will be invited to add an extra buck of fun along with the increase in the number of spectators. The report draws the attention towards the information on who that celebrity is going to be, and all the related tasks those would be included in hiring the celebrity. Along with this, the report includes the information on what is it going to cost to hire the celebrity and conduct the whole event, while taking the safety and quality into considerations. The main problems and their solution will also be discussed in the following report, moreover the further considerations to the risks involved and their ultimate solutions are also included in the report. Along with this information, the report also reflects the detailed information on other minor and sub-projects those are going to be dependent upon this project. The report evaluates every possible aspect related to the event and the event related persons or stakeholders. Objectives The objective of the project is to win the bid for the logistics, event management and coordination for the event at the 2017 WAFL Grand Final. Once achieved, the objective is to organise a smooth-running successful event with Jessica Mauboy performing at the WAFL Grand Final. Another objective is to increase the maximum number of attendance which is within budgets and satisfies all stakeholders needs and expectations. Target Outcomes The target is to sell at least 85% of capacity which is 36,975 tickets sales. This can be measured on the total attendance rate. The target is to meet budgets and success can be measured on the actual expenditure vs. budgeted costs. The goal is to achieve at least 100% satisfaction rate in regards to the entertainment. This goal can be measured through customer surveys and data can be captured from any complaints. How will the success of the project be measured? Customer Satisfaction Within the budget Deliver on time Output(s) Successful and profitable event Excellent time management Planning and executing event in such a way that guest enjoy being at the event Proper management of manpower (to be investigated further) Governance: who is going to be responsible if the event fail? The WAFC attempted a complete audit of its administration techniques to guarantee that best practice frameworks and procedures were consolidated in basic leadership. Commissioners roles and duties Board execution and performance Committees Terms of Reference Delegation of Powers and Authority Approvals HR/Football/Finance Policies Football related contracts and rules register Integrity issues and procedures Review of the WAFC Constitution Key competition has additionally been surveyed and corrected including: WAFL Rules Regulations WAFL Funding Agreement Updating integrity requirements into WAFL and other competitions Reporting Requirements To be investigated Resources TheWestern Australian Football league will be administrated by the not-for-profit association Western Australian Football Commission. The event production company LUX will oversee the artists performance in the WAFL Final. Until 2015 the insurance company AAMI was one of the main sponsors of the WAFL and nowadays McDonalds is the current sponsor of the Western Australian Football league. Supporting the WAFL, McDonalds will sponsor the artists performance. Artists Performance Sponsors: LUX event production company will oversee: Design of the event, which includes marketing. Filming and editing Stage designer. Technical production materials 3 big led screens in the scenario (Left side, right side and behind the artist). Equipment for media server. Operational and controlling lighting system. Sound production. Sound equipment. Microphones. Stage. Backstage (Marquee tent, tables, chairs, sanitary and electrical facilities) Budget Budget To be investigated Stakeholders Communication strategy Objective is to have a transparent and open communication with stakeholders throughout the project life cycle. Communication Plan Six months prior to the event, the event management team will communicate the purpose, objective and share the event management plan with key stakeholders. Direct feedback will be gather from key stakeholders through emails, phone calls and face to face meetings. If required, the project plan will be adjusted or amended to ensure that majority of stakeholders are satisfied and the changes will be communicated. Three months prior to the event the promotional activities will be established and commence through liaising with the marketing sponsors and advertising will be through radio announcements and competitions, and advertisements on social media such as Facebook and Instagram. One month prior to the event, the project team will communicate with key stakeholders on any further changes and how well the marketing campaign is progressing. One week prior to the event, the project team will communicate with the stakeholders the expected attendance numbers and report on the success of the promotional activities. One week after the event, the project team will provide the sponsors with a report on the event and communicate to all stakeholders the overall success of the event. Stakeholders Project Management Team Jessica Mauboy Sony Music Australia Domain Venue Managers Spectators Volunteers Backstage Staff Football Players Makeup Artist/Hair Dresser Sound Engineer Security Sponsors Media Seven Network KIX Country digital 107.3 HFM 91.3 SportsFM 720 ABC Perth ABC Grandstand Digital Fox FM Kix Digital HFM Assumptions and Constraints 2010 WAFL Grand Final was the largest crowd. The final was between Swan Districts and Claremont at Domain Stadium. Celebrity Performance Jessica Mauboy 50K-80K Flights Sydney -Melbourne $439 Melbourne-Sydney $439 Qantas airline Flexible flights Accommodation Length of stay: 6 days (19th September 2017- 24th September 2017) Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne: $760 (5 nights) Food Budget approx.$1500 (6 days) Security MA Security Group Budget: To be investigated. Celebrity Background Second place in Australian Idol I Am World Tour Beyonce and Chris Brown F.A.M.E tour participation. Ricky Martin mentor in The Voice programme Ambassador for the Indigenous Boxing clash event interpreted the Australian Anthem Artists performance songs: Pop a bottle (Fill me up) (Beginning) Burn Inescapable (Youngboyz Mix) Running back ft Flo Rida (Final) WAFL FINAL ATTENDANCE Year Attendance 2009 22,738 2010 24,638 (largest attendance) 2011 15,459 2012 18,612 2013 20,008 2010 WAFL Grand Final was the largest crowd. The final was between Swan Districts and Claremont at Domain Stadium. The total capacity of Domain Stadium is 43500 spectators. The final will be with both or either Swan Districts or Claremont It is expected to overweight the largest attendance in 2010.Jessica Mauboy performance in the grand final will be done to achieve 35,000 spectators. McDonalds and Coca-Cola tickets available in different stores will incentive WAFL grand final sales. Taking approach of the singer boom will be possible achieve attendance goal. Constraints; Budget constraints. Experience and knowledge. Lack of information about past WAFL gran finals. Time for event creation. Major Risks Minimisation Strategies Risk Register Risk Consequences Likelihood Treatments Options/Mitigation Plan Person responsible for implementation Overwhelmed crowd Personal Injury High Permanent volunteers and staff looking after the spectators Western Australian Football Commission Disturbance inside and outside the stadium Personal Injury Low Pre-event, during and post-event police control Western Australian Football Commission Celebrity unable to perform Financial loss and public trust loss Medium Playback due to sickness, performance of another artist due to cancellation. Event board Sound failure Harm to reputation of business community in charge of the sound Medium Sound engineer after and during the event, sound check 2 days after the event, extra sound equipment. Event board Electrical failure Harm to reputation of business community in charge of the electricity Medium Electrical engineer after and during the event, Lights and electricity check 2 days after the event, extra electrical equipment. Event board Communication failure Harm to reputation of business community in charge of the communications Medium Communication staff after and during the event, communication procedures and equipment check 2 days after the event, extra electrical equipment. Event board Extreme weather events. Personal injury and financial loss Low Forecast weather examination prior event. Event board, Western Australian Football Commission Explosion Personal injury and financial loss Low Trained staff able to manage incidents before, during and after the event. Complete evacuation plan approved by the corresponding authorities Western Australian Football Commission Risk Management Event description WAFL Final Date: 23rd September 2017 Time: 2.30pm Venue: Domain Stadium, Perth Location; Perth, Western Australia Running schedule: Colts game kicks: 8.40am Reserves: 11.20am Performance time: 2.00 pm Final league: 2.30pm Issues Management Issues related to the event are to be identified and manage before and at the time of the event. Some of the major issues that should be managed are as follows: Issues related to sponsors Conflicts between staff team Crowd control and security Barriers and concert crowd control Health and safety issues Medical and first aid Restriction on tobacco and smoking during the event Emergency management Management of alcohol Drug related issues Related Projects The following section includes the sub projects those are related to this event in any way. The colts and reserve matches The grand prix finals Guidelines/Standards The main purpose of guidelines is to identify basic standards and measures for organizing an event to satisfy authorities such as government, police department, emergency service organizations and the stakeholders. Guidelines and standards is necessary to satisfy authorities and provide a consistent state-wide approach to event. Quality Control This section of the report will be one of the most important aspect. As this is the only section from where this can be recognized that how efficient the system is going to be designed. The review on how the things are going on so far, would be collected from different sources at different times throughout the whole project. This will allow the managers and event organizers on where they are perfect and where they need to put on more efforts. Basically the quality control is the inspection, testing and checking of the product that we are working on, where the prime moto is to check if something is not okay and then to fix the problems.(Jane Bennett) A few of the sources of these reviews can be: The spectators The event organizers The volunteers The celebrity himself The inspection teams The media Online reviews (Facebook and other social medias) Capturing the lessons Learnt Did we meet the budget? Have we stick to our schedule? Have we had enough time? Actions and decisions taking during the monitoring and controlling stage Is money sufficient Did event run smoothly? Enough Marketing Do we have the right team? Manage Human Resources through KPIs (key performance Indicator) Project Activities and Milestones Project activities and milestones can be divided into 5 phases Phase 1-Pre event approval and application This phase includes all the activities in planning process that enables an event to be held in a safe and proper manner. Approval from the celebrity , sponsors and relevant stakeholders with signed contract Developing a budget The budget should be specific, and include revenue opportunity (sponsorship, ticket sales, donations etc.) as well expenses such as printings, permits, insurance, speakers, food supplies and security. Along with this we also need to plan for the unexpected budget to be on the safer side. Marketing campaign Pre-ticket sales Procurement of necessary equipment Phase 2- Load In This phase includes all the pre event physical activities, delivery and construction of infrastructures and equipment necessary for the event. Setting up a stage, sound systems, lighting systems etc. Arrival of the celebrity Phase 3- Event This phase includes all the aspects from when the crowd starts queuing outside for entry until the last person leaves. Phase 4- Load Out This comprises the breakdown of facilities, clean-up , pack up and departure of the celebrity. Phase 5- Post event reporting An event reporting should be carried out with all the relevant stakeholders. Following the event debrief there should be an evaluation of the event to determine its overall success in terms of minimizing risks and avoiding harm, accidents and disturbances.

Casablanca as Political Propaganda Essay -- Film Movies Cinema

Casablanca debuted in 1942, shortly following the bombing of Pearl Harbor and the United States' entrance into World War Two, although there was plenty of anti-Nazism sentiment, the movie fueled these feelings. There is pro-Allied forces propaganda to support the war, from the scene with La Marseillaise, to the characters of Renault and Rick, and to the last scene. Although the majority of the French patriots were elated to sing their national anthem, it created tension with the German soldiers who imposed their patriotic songs on the crowd, representing the imposition of Germany on France during the war. Captain Louis Renault, who tries to placate who he believes will be the winning side, seems flimsy when compared to Rick, the firm patriot who believes in freedom at all costs. The phrase, "Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship" represents the new strong bond between France and the United States once Nazi-Germany has fallen. Although the film is propaga nda against the Nazis, the political language in the movie does not glorify American courage and valor, nor is it militaristic. The movie presents the facts while emphasizing the poor qualities of the Nazis. The Nazis are not portrayed in a good or friendly manner throughout the entire movie, especially during the La Marseillaise scene. When the German soldiers, led by Strasser, begin to sing their patriotic song, ?Die Wacht am Rhein? in French territory, it does not sit well with the French patriots. This singing represents the German invasion of France in their government, culture and territory because the Germans come into foreign land with their military and control all aspects of society. The movie depicts the soldiers as drunk and tone-dea... ...gain refers to the relationship that America hopes for after the war. It illustrates a strengthened France and America with the collapse of Germany. Entering a war is an effort that is best when it has popular support and enthusiasm. Casablanca is propaganda for the Allied forces to help rally support. There is clear evidence of this idea in the scene with the French national anthem, the character development, and the ending. France and the United States prevail as Germany falls and dies. ?Casablanca.? Variety. 26 Nov. 1942. Variety 100. 22 May 2008 . Crowther, Bosley. "Casablanca (1942)." New York Times. 7 Nov. 1942. 21 May 2008 .

Analysis of Lady Macbeth Essay

When James Brown sings that â€Å"this is a man’s world, but it wouldn’t be nothing, nothing without a woman or a girl† (Brown), this is true for both Lady Macbeth and Bianca. In Shakespeare’s Macbeth and The Taming of the Shrew, Lady Macbeth and Bianca are both female characters who struggle for power in a man’s world, one rejects femininity and the other exploits it. Lady Macbeth consciously attempts to reject her feminine sensibility and adopt a male mentality by calling upon murdering spirits That tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here, And fill me from the crown to the toe top-full Of direst cruelty! make thick my blood; Stop up the access and passage to remorse, That no compunctious visitings of nature Shake my fell purpose, nor keep peace between The effect and it! Come to my woman’s breasts, And take my milk for gall (Macbeth 1.5.41-49), only because she perceives that her society equates feminine qualities with weakness. In this quote Lady Macbeth gives a vivid image of being stripped of her femininity in order to achieve masculine qualities. She is asking for the spirits to take away her compassion and fear so no forces of goodness invade her conscience to stop her from proceeding to murder Duncan. Although she is very loyal, she rejects her subordinate role as wife to Macbeth. Lady Macbeth challenges her husband’s manhood by being more aggressive than he is, taunting him, and suggesting, â€Å"When you durst do it, then you were a man† (Macbeth 1.7.55). Where Lady Macbeth rejects femininity and openly taunts in her relationship with Macbeth, Bianca manipulates men in a whole different way. Bianca is younger and praised daughter of Baptitsa Minola in The Taming of the Shrew. When reading, she is surrounded by doting dad, jealous sister, and suitors that are just begging for a piece of her. Only because she is the ideal 16th-century woman, appearing to be chaste, obedient, and silent, qualities her sister Kate certainly does not possess. Lucentio notes the appeal of Bianca in comparison with Kate when he says â€Å"But in the other’s silence do I see/ Maid’s mild behavior and sobriety† (The Taming of the Shrew 1.1.71-72). Stating that in compare to her sister she is quiet and well behaved, just as she should be. But later on in the book it is revealed that she is just as deceptive, disobedient, and shrewish as she appeared sweet and silent in the beginning.

Iwo Jima essays

Iwo Jima essays Iwo Jima was one of the greatest land battles in World War II. It cost the Americans thousands of lives because of poorly planned techniques by the sergeants and generals of the Navy and Marines. It is located in the Volcano Islands off the coast of Japan. The battle lasted 26 days, and the island was secured ten days later. It was one of the most costly battles in World War II. Iwo Jima is an inactive volcanic island located 660 miles south of Tokyo, Japan (Josephy 93). Its name means sulphur island (Paull 1). It is eight square miles (Iwo 1) and in the shape of a pork chop. Iwos southern tip is composed of an inactive volcano, Mount Suribachi, the highest point of the island (Josephy 93). The land is made of coarse black sand and jagged rock, and the air smelled of rotten eggs from the sulphur emissions. The water circling the island is twelve feet deep only two feet away from the shore. This made it difficult for the Marines to get on the island from boats (Paull 1). Iwo Jima is only two miles wide and four miles long (Josephy 93). The Americans were to fit 70,000 Marines on this tiny island, and would fight 22,000 Japanese soldiers. It took the Marines 36 days to travel four miles on Iwo (Iwo 1). The Americans began bombing on December 8th. They did this to reduce the number of casualties when the troops came on land. The air raids lasted a total of 72 days (Bradly 135). The Navy Bombardments from offshore were to last ten days requested by the Marine generals. The Navy did not comply with this. They were to give them only three days of bombardments, then the Marines were to invade. The shelling took place on February 16th through February 18th. On February 16th bombarding was cut short because of a heavy cloud cover. February 17th was the only complete day of shelling. On February 18th the bombing was cut short because of heavy rains. It was now time for the Marines to move in (Bradly 144-145). ...

Free sample - The Hilton Concept of Quality. translation missing

The Hilton Concept of Quality. The Hilton Concept of QualityAll   employees and franchisees   follow Brand recognition; offer affordable and agreeable hotels and are part of a multi international network of hotels of one to four stars. The network is growing every day as   Hilton Worldwide acquires hotels all over the world. The network promises a facility of reservations, brand recognition and inner controls that are called the Hilton Way . This was the motto of Conrad Hilton forming the corporation in the 1940's. His first Hilton hotel dates back to 1925 in Texas. Hilton Worldwide runs it's corporations under   Total Quality Management (TQM) as they train only their management and the management of each hotel whether it be corporate or franchised managed   to   brand recognition and to be customer focused. All processes done must be done the "Hilton way" (process thinking, proper environment). The internal running of hotels is the responsibility of the individual hotel. For the purpose of this Paper the Embassy Suites and the Beverly Hilton will be used to show how the Hilton way has not always been sufficient in quality assessment and it has been necessary to add additional controls.. Hilton Worldwide has created a complicated in house program of RevPar index, the Balanced Scorecard and Brand Equity. Millions of dollars have been spent in a data network aligning all hotels so that their financial and statistical data can be part of the Hilton Network. Each hotel pays approximately $70 000 to have the system installed. One cannot be called Hilton without adhering to the network.   Everything is measured, quantified and sent back to corporate to judge their level of service and in terms of revenues. (hiltonworlwide) RevPar index (revenue per available room) is a primary statistic used to test the financial viability of a hotel. Hilton Corporation uses the RevPar Index, brand equity and the balanced scorecard. Every hotel in their system from the 1 star to the 4 stars practices what the Brand Hilton preaches "Deliver value for Money" Revenue per available room or the % of occupancy x the average daily rate is to show the financial viability of a hotel compared to another in the same area at the same time and the same type. (strglobal) A four star Hilton Embassy Suite reserved at 90% occupancy during the Christmas season in Los Angeles compared to a four star Embassy Suite reserved at 85% occupancy at a higher rate in San Francisco will not be doing as well. "What gets measured gets managed" is part of Hilton's strategy (TQM) and tactical processes. The terminology they have developed has become to be known as the   "Balanced Scorecard" Corporate management, corporate owned and managed hotels and franchised hotels are affected. It is part of Hiltons long and short term strategy. All quality assurance is based on the data derived from performance measure data established from the type of work, the objectives achieved and the progress made. Nothing is left out. Anything which can be quantified is used for quality. The Scorecard is put into an intricate reporting data system that each hotel is required to have bought and set up in order to maintain the Hilton image. Depending on the results, each person in the organization has incentives as motivational factors. Their performance and expectations are always an important part of the system. Hilton uses the data and statistics to judge results. TQM is based on inward performance and CEM is based on outward performance. RevPar Index, Balanced Scorecard   and Brand Equity have been measured in the Hiltons across the world to judge customer satisfaction. Hilton started with Brand Equity with the use of Hilton Hotel 50 years ago. One of the earliest hotels was the Beverly Hilton. Brands with customer awareness and association with quality or consistency are effective equity brands. A customer knows in any Hilton hotel in the world, he will get the same type of service.   Now they have grown or expanded in using an additional H with   Hilton Hotel, HHonors program, Homewood Suites, Hampton. All under the umbrella of H. Measurements   of brand equity can be made but they are only approximations. Keller K.L., 1993 "Hilton's balanced scorecard   has enabled to quantify the quality of the daily growth and increased brand equity by quality control of the knowledge that one Hilton is the same from another. And in addition to share-of-market growth, non-financial measures show improvement, as well. Among company-owned and -managed hotels, current customer-satisfaction studies reveal strong increases in customers' opinions on overall satisfaction, their likelihood of recommending Hilton hotels, and their likelihood to return to a given property. The three factors comprise a measure of loyalty Hilton tracks closelyand that score recently reached its highest level ever. Hensdill (2009) The scorecard tests cleanliness and conditions. Service standards are left to the individual hotel. ("News Release", 2003) The hotels are kept to the Hilton Way because of the internal data system of check and balance and statistical controls. Whereas service has become an important part of today's industry to differentiate between hotel chains and establish customer loyalty, it is left out of the testing process of the quality assurance .(beverly) Hilton Worldwide created an additional two section of the Balance Scorecard to include quality assurance and guest satisfaction for the Embassy Suites. They have surprise visits, inspections of kitchens, and guestrooms. Guests are asked to rate different services in the hotel. Everything is still quantified and nothing is dealt with on an emotional level. ("News Release", 2003) This is an indication that they rely on Total Quality Management. Beverly Hilton is a privately owned hotel which only uses the point system of HHonors of the Hilton program. It was important to keep the name and have the brand equity of the "H" as the Beverly Hilton is one of the oldest post war hotels. As a private hotel, they are not required to adhere to TQM nor the Hilton Way. They use an external company for Quality Assurance and are   service oriented. Their managerial team uses customer experience management philosophy. Though they rely heavily on testing and auditing, they question every aspect of their operations. The voice of the customer is the priority of the hotel. The external company has their own quantitative tests of quality: research is done throughout the year in customer experience and motivation of   employees through reward and recognition, tools are established to train staff in customer service (experience); emotional audits, surveys, and surprise visits. Preparing for the yearly quality assurance audit, with LRA Worldw ide, the Beverly Hilton is able to respond quickly and on the spot of   any deficiency found. Statistical studies are done using the CEM (customer experience management).("The Beverly Hilton",2005) 1. Comparison of CEM versus   TQM by Hilton Worldwide. Statistics of the effective on revenues between two types of management - Motivation: services or needs - Fidelity: emotional or location - Emotions: necessity or pleasure Control Chart to compare the fluctuation of RevPar per franchises during the holiday season 2. Though Hilton is top of the list in customer satisfaction, more can be done to change the Henry Ford chain line feeling that everything has to be the same. With a more customer orientated managerial system, Hilton hotels will seem more homely and less industrial. 3.   Hilton keeps up to date with the various national tests. They are at the top of the list of most of its competitors: brand equity: (Equitrend study) Guest satisfaction is the highest for the past three years with the Customer Satisfaction index (ACSI)("Big Gains",June 2010) They have internal testing of the higher end hotels and statistical analysis of the whole network: balance scorecards ( The internal functioning of the hotels are up to the owners of the franchisees. As the expectations of the financial goals are high, the entrepreneurial attitude does not allow for a low level of workers' performance. Motivational compensation in financial awards is given for those who meet set goals. The whole system is based on financial success. Though guest satisfaction is the highest in the industry, it is based on American statistics. Brand recognition is becoming more and more important as globalization is without borders.

Not everybody loved the Apollo space program Essay

Not everybody loved the Apollo space program - Essay Example The Apollo’s program size went beyond the Panama Canal in its size as the largest non-military technological activity the U.S engaged in throughout her history. The only comparable project to the Apollo was Manhattan project although from a different perspective as it involved wartime setting. The human space shift imperative served as a direct outgrowth of the earlier projects of Gemini as well as Apollo that had earlier been designed to execute the same goal. The successful accomplishment of the goal was however realized on 20th July, 1969 through the use of Apollo 11 when Neil Armstrong stepped out of the space shift and made contact with the moon’s surface (Walsh 13). Despite the significant achievement, majority of individuals as well as organizations within the federal state criticized the project of the Apollo Lunar Programs. The paper explores the main arguments presented by the critiques most of them based on the amount of money spent and the possible alternati ves that the critiques argued the money would be spent (Bernstein 19). Consequently, the paper examines whether the options presented by the critics of the Apollo Lunar project change over time and if changes occurred, the presented alternatives are brought into perspective. The fight for the balance of power between the US and the Soviet Union remain the primary reason that drove Kennedy to advance with the moon project. The soviet’s Union superiority in airspace exploration remained a significant driver for ensuring the US accomplished her mission of lunar exploration as a sign of pride and again to assume the superiority of the air. According to Kingsley, (29), â€Å"irrespective of the prestige that came about with the achievements; opinions from the public regarding the processes were divided.† When Neil Armstrong and Aldrin set foot on the moon, it marked the beginning of a process that led to the greatest opposition among scientists, scholars, as well as standard public

Understanding Pregnancy and the three Trimesters Essay

Understanding Pregnancy and the three Trimesters - Essay Example The 1st Trimester encompasses the time from the moment of conception to 13 weeks and many experts feel that the 1st Trimester is the most crucial, because it is at this stage that body structure and organ systems are designed (The Regents of the University of California, 2014). During the first two weeks the woman is not technically pregnant, not yet. Conception actually occurs about two weeks after the end of your last menstrual cycle. By the 3rd week fertilization is achieved. At this point the offspring is called a zygote and is made up of the base 46 chromosomes that will account for many of the baby’s future traits, including gender. Week four begins the process called implantation. From here the zygote is now referred to as a blastocyst, which is a ball of multiplying cells. This is also when the placenta begins to prepare itself (Vishton, 2013). Week five begins the embryonic stage of development. The brain, spinal cord, and heart begin to form; inner and exterior skin layers develop, as well as, certain amounts of connective tissue. Week six marks the closing of the neural tube and the embryo’s heart begins to beat independently and buds protrude from the embryos body, which will become arms and legs. The seventh week sees vast change s in the embryo; head develops, including eye sockets, ears, and facial features begin to be defined. However, with all of this change the embryo is no bigger than the end of a pencil’s eraser. During the 8th, 9th, and 10th week the eyelids, fingers, toes, lips, straightening of the torso, and rounding of the head can be seen. By the 11th week the embryo is now a fetus. Red blood cells are forming and genitalia will begin to form. In the 12th week fingernails are forming and the fetus’s profile is clearly human. At this stage the fetus is only, approximately, 2  ½ inches long and weighing a  ½ of an ounce (Mayo Clinic, 2014). Through the definitive 1st Trimester it is not just the baby-to-be that is going

Compare and Contrast Greek and Roman Gods Research Paper

Compare and Contrast Greek and Roman Gods - Research Paper Example He was depicted as a bearded man to symbolize masculinity, where as his body armor symbolized his willingness to go to war for Olympia. He wore golden armor to symbolize his god stature. He was synonymous with the vulture, a bird that preys on dead or decaying animals. It was a symbol for the end of a war or the warning for a coming war. In the case of Roman Mythology, the title of god of war was given to Mars. He was the son of Romulus, who was the creator of Rome. He was in love with Venus, who was the goddess of love. He was considered to be the second most important individual in Roman Mythology, second only to Jupiter (Cartledge, 2002). He was a prominent military god and was admired and respected by the Roman legions. He was considered to be the protector of Rome, and would go to war to increase the power of the Roman Empire. The story of Mars is likened to that of Ares. His story is considered to have been derived from Ares, due to the similarity in their roles and functions in their respective mythologies. The main variation is that the Roman myths is based on the use of humans becoming gods, while in Greek mythology, it is based on the establishment of gods in their own society and group, which was superior to humans in Greek societies. (Dowden, 1992) In Greek Mythology, the king of the gods was Zeus. He was the ruler of mount Olympus as well as the god of the sky, thunder, weather, order, law and fate. He is depicted as a grown man, well built and wielding a thunderbolt. His image is based on royalty, the falcon and the bull which were used to depict or illustrate his character (Wiseman, 2002). The bull was a symbol of Zeus’ strength whereas the falcon was a symbol of his swift nature in judgment, and ability to deal with matters that may concern Olympus. His character was the true definition of a king, and his rule embodied that of a ruthless ruler, who had no

The last supper by leonardo da vinci Essay Example for Free

The last supper by leonardo da vinci Essay In human history, it is hard to find another so gifted person, as Leonardo da Vinci was. He serves as a symbol of Renaissance person, an ideal of harmoniously developed human. His heritage consists of works of art, sculptures, works on mechanics, physics and natural science. Leonardo da Vinci is, undoubtedly, the most prominent representative of Renaissance art period of Italy. This paper is to examine only one of his outstanding masterpieces – The Last Supper. This work of art is made in a form of a huge fresco, performed by order of Louis Moro for refectory of the church Santa Maria della Grazie in Milan in 1495-1497. It began to acquire its unique reputation immediately after it was finished in 1498 and its prestige has never diminished. Despite the many changes in tastes, artistic styles, and rapid physical deterioration of the painting itself, the paintings status as an extraordinary creation has never been questioned nor doubted. It’s fortune is dramatic. The paints started chalking already during Leonardo’s life. In XVII century a door was made in the wall of refectory, which partially ruined the composition, and in XVIII century the room was turned into grain warehouse. Later the fresco was damaged by poor reconstructions. In 1908 certain jobs on cleaning and consolidation of the painting were made. During WWII the ceiling and southern wall of the refectory were ruined by a bomb. Restoration in 1945 saved the fresco from further destruction, however, now we can see only the general shapes of Leonardo’s masterpiece. Much of the detail can be learned from a copy, made with oil and canvas by unknown artist of the XVI century . A huge fresco, which is about 15 feet high and 29 feet long, covers the entire back wall of the refectory. The perfection of this work lies not only in the artistic merits of the painting, but also in Leonardos expressive mastery. Leonardos Last Supper is an ideal pictorial representation of the most important event in the Christian doctrine of salvation the institution of the Eucharist . Leonardo painted The Last Supper on a dry wall rather than on wet plaster, so it is not a true fresco. Because a fresco cannot be modified as the artist works, Leonardo instead chose to seal the stone wall with a layer of pitch, gesso and mastic, then paint onto the sealing layer with tempera. Because of the method used, the piece has not withstood time very well – within several years of completion it already began showing signs of deterioration . Master’s idea was to create an illusion, that the room, where the Last Supper takes place is a part of the refectory itself, and thus to turn a spectator into a participant of one of the most important events in the history of Christianity. Leonardo depicted the dramatic culmination of the Supper, the very moment that Jesus has said to his disciples: â€Å"Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve. And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I? And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me. Matthew 26† Jesus words inspire a number of feelings in His adepts: anger, fear, despair, some of them stand up from their places and gesticulate. In order not to create an impression of a clutter, Leonardo united the characters into four groups with three persons in each of them, symmetrically placed around the Savior. The first group consists of Bartholomew, James the Lesser and Andrew, all of them appearing surprised. Andrew holds both of his hand up in front of him in a frightened gesture. The second group: Judah Iscariot, Simon Peter and John. Judah is holding a bag of silver in his right hand, while reaching for a piece of bread with his left. Simon Peter is leaning over the shoulder of John, a knife held in his right hand, symbolizing his zealous defence of Jesus. John appears to be swooning. In contrast to traditional depiction of Judah opposite to Christ, Leonardo placed him near God the Son, however, the traitor can be easily recognized with his pulled back figure, convulsive gesture of his hand, fastening a purse and dark profile. Da Vinci presented a realistic explanation of Christs prophetic words that the first man to share bread with him would also be the betrayer: Jesus and Judas are shown reaching for the same piece of bread, although everybodys attention is riveted elsewhere. The third group is made of Thomas, James the Great and Phillip. These three appear in different degrees of shock; Thomas, with his hand raised, and Phillip seem to be requesting some sort of explanation, while James the Great, between them, appears to be recoiling from Jesus in horror. The last group of three is formed by Matthew, Jude Thaddeus and Simon the Zealot and theyappear to be discussing the matter with each other, in a rendition of Luke 22:23: They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this. The figure of Christ is not only spacial, but also a spiritual centre of the painting. He is alone in his wise eupathy and acceptance of fate. His figure seems to be the only stable element of the painting, symbolizing the sanctity of faith and imminence of His mission. References 1. Pietro C. Marani. â€Å"Leonardo Da Vinci: The Complete Paintings†, Harry N. Abrams, 2000 2. David A. Brown â€Å"Leonardo da Vinci: Origins of a Genius†. Yale University Press, 1998 3. Roderick C. Morris â€Å"Shock Waves of Leonardos Last Supper†, International Herald Tribune, May 26, 2001.

Schools :: essays research papers

SCHOOLS There are hundreds, if not thousand of schools in this world. In Malaysia, we have seven types of schools. They are Malay schools, Tamil schools, Chinese schools, international schools, private schools, and religious schools. There is only one type of Malay schools and they are the Malay government schools. Malay schools are the most common types of schools in Malaysia. You can find at least one Malay school in a town. Malay schools are divided into two. They are the Malay primary schools and the Malay secondary schools. Malaysians start their primary school education at the age of seven. They will then be in standard 1 and they will stay until they are in standard 6, which is until they are 12 years old. The following year they will go to form 1 in the secondary school and they will continue studying there until they finish form 5 so that they can go to either college or start work immediately or they can continue to form 6 so that they can go to university immediately thereafter. Every student has to sit for the UPSR examination when they are in standard 6, the PMR examination when they are in form 3, the SPM examination when they are in form 5, and the STPM examination when they are in form 6. All the lessons in the primary and secondary schools are, with the exception of the English lesson, are conducted in Malay. There is only one type of Tamil school in Malaysia and they are the government ones. Tamil schools are very much like the Malay schools with the exception that all lessons except English and Malay are in Tamil. Their syllabus is a lot like the syllabus of the Malay schools. The only difference is that they have to enter a Malay school when they go to form one. They normally spend a year in a special class after they finish the UPSR examination so that they can cope with the high standard of Malay in the Malay school they will be going to. Then they will they will continue studying at the school like any other student. Chinese schools are very much like Tamil schools. All their lessons except English and Malay are in Chinese. Their syllabus is a lot like the syllabus of the Malay schools. However, they can choose to continue their education in a Chinese secondary school after they finish their UPSR examination or they can choose to go to a special class after the examination and then continue their education in a Malay secondary school.

Historical/Cultural Analysis

Historical/Cultural Analysis â€Å"Operation of a Medic. † The text, â€Å"Watching a Medic, Sicily, August 9, 1943†, illustrates the occupation of a medic in action during WWII. This text shows a medic helping another soldier in Sicily. In the background of the image there is a poor and deprived family looking upon the medic performing his duty of helping the injured soldier. This image shows what a medic’s lifestyle was like during the war. Medics had to perform their medical duties in places where injuries occurred, making it especially tough in the areas of where war was occurring.The image shows the historical context of the invasion of Sicily that took place during the same time as the picture. The image also shows the cultural context in relation with the lives of the natives living in Sicily. The occupation of medics and their lifestyle, the topic of war and military invasion, and the inhabitants of the homeland of Sicily, can all be accurately embedded w ithin the tangible meaning of what it was like during the time of this visual text. In the image there is a medic performing a procedure on another soldier that is lying injured on the ground.The injured soldier is lying with his uniform open and his eyes closed. His helmet is lying on the ground beside a poor family that watching the operation happening. The family is in the background and is looking upon with a worried and sad look on their faces. These people are watching the scene of a medic in action from their own doorsteps, which brings attention to the fact that these onlookers are natives of the land where the picture occurred. This distinguishes the awareness of the cultural context that is being revealed in the image by the displaying of what the life was like for a family living in Sicily.The occupation of a medic is one that is very tough and challenging. To become a medic one must first have received medical basic training. They must be able to implement the knowledge and tactics learn in that medical training out on the battlefield. A medic must also be able to think and operate in hostile environments. One medic that served in Sicily during the time of the picture was Jerome McMenamy. McMenamy gives his reflections of working as a medic during the war in an interview. He was asked the uestion: what did you use to alleviate your patients’ pain? McMenamy response was, â€Å"One of the things for a medic in combat is morphine in little tubes. You had a quarter-grain of morphine in there, and you just jabbed it into a guy’s arm and squeezed that tube dry. In a few minutes he was feeling better†(Reynolds, Frank A. ). The treatment of pain, wounds, and minor injures are all examples of duties that medics have to perform during the time of the war. In the image it demonstrates the medic completing these duties.A medic’s occupation during the time of World War II was challenging and also life-threating. Personal accounts of the times of being a medic place a first hand understanding of the true lifestyles that medics had during World War II. McMenamy tells of the hardships he had to go through while being a medic in the war, â€Å"My ankle snapped over a rock and got badly sprained. They put me on kitchen police, and the ankle wasn’t getting any better, but I got though the four months of basic training. They just taped it up, and I was marching with a sprained ankle†(Reynolds, Frank A. . This tells of not only the challenging medical practices that medics had to deal with helping injured soldiers, but also the rough encounters that medics had to overcome. In the image the medic is dressed and suited up as a soldier ready for combat. This suggests that all medics must be prepared in the times of attack, and by doing so they must have completed the four months of basic training that McMenamy discussed. Medics have to participate in the same tough and struggling operations that other soldie rs in the war had to try and complete.The accomplishing of these tough tasks and all the requirements of being a medic has given medics the strength and bravery to go into unfamiliar lands such as Sicily in the image, and perform the medical actions that need to be completed. This enduring and lasting obligation is represented in the visual text by the medic helping a fallen soldier in an area that the medic is not familiar with. The medic being in this unaccustomed area of Sicily brings about the cultural context, and how he is able to perform his duties of a medic while having natives of the region stand close by and watch.Medics had many unpleasant and life threatening experiences in World War II. This brings to attention the experiences of medics in trying to complete their duties in a warzone. Medics have to worry about losing their own life everyday in war while trying to save the lives of others. They have to try to help the injured when not knowing what could happen. This co uld be from an opposing soldier coming up and attacking the medic while the medic is performing an operation on an injured soldier. The medic having no knowledge of the people or things around him is a cultural connection, such as that represented in the image.One invasion that occurred was the Allied invasion of Sicily. The image takes place in Sicily, which gives an historical connection to the battle that occurred in the same place as the picture. The historical connection of the image is the battle that was fought in Sicily during the time of WWII, â€Å"Axis forces struck first at Sicily in July in a amphibious landing that was surpassed in size only by the invasion at Normandy, France, year later. After driving German forces off of Sicily, Allied troops, in September, began a long, costly march up the mountainous Italian peninsula† (Moffett, George).The Allied invasion of Sicily was a major World War II campaign, in which the Allies took Sicily from the Axis. The Allies taking control over Sicily puts a means of emphasis on the historical context in the image due to the fact that the medic in the image is a member of the Allied Forces. The invasion that occurred in Sicily was done by the Allied forces, meaning that the carried out actions by the Allied forces were done on its opponents’ homeland. This shows the cultural connection in the image, due to the fact of the family in the background looking upon the unfamiliar soldier.This medic had to perform his duty being military medical personnel in a place that was uncommon to him. He was doing his work in front of a poor family that were living in the area where the picture was taken. The poor family was looking upon the medic that was preforming his medical practices in their territory of where they live. This shows the cultural connection to the image because of how the medic had to adapt to the area to complete his duty of being a medic in the unfamiliar land of Sicily. This image of a me dic performing a medical practice on an injured soldier shows the job of a medic in action.It does not show the threats that could occur to the medic while he is completing his job. Military medical personnel face the daily threat of gunfire, explosives, chemical weapons, and other battlefield hazards. While medics try to carry out their job of being a medic many get injured due to the fact of all these hazards happening around them. This image shows a glimpse of what a medic’s life was like during the war. The life of a medic during World War II was not that of picture perfect lifestyle, it was more life treating and having to deal with the thought of death occurring any second in the time of war.Which brings notion to the cultural context of the medic in the image, by him not having the knowledge of the environment around him and any possible threats that would come about. Works Cited: Moffett, George. â€Å"Celebrating WWII's other front. (Cover story). † Christian Science Monitor May 1995: 1. Academic Search Premier. Web. 6 Nov. 2011. Reynolds, Frank A. â€Å"Field Medic On The Italian Front. † Military History 22. 8 (2005): 54-68. Academic Search Premier. Web. 6 Nov. 2011.

Printing

In the 1430’s a man named Johann Gutenberg created the predecessor to the modern printing press. The level of importance of the printing press is rivaled by few other inventions, so much so that â€Å"the invention of the printing press† is often used as a reference to the social, political, and scientific change experienced by Europe after the press’s introduction. (Wikipedia). Johannes Gutenberg invented a mechanical way of making books. This was the first example of mass book production. Before the invention of printing, multiple copies of a manuscript had to be made by hand, a laborious task that could take many years. Later books were produced by and for the church using the process of wood engraving. This required the craftsman to cut away the background, leaving the area to be printed raised. This process applied to both text and illustrations was extremely time consuming. When a page was complete, often by joining several blocks together, it would be inked and a sheet of paper was then pressed over it far an imprint. The susceptibility of wood to the elements gave such blocks a limited lifespan. When Johannes Gutenberg began building his press in 1436, he was unlikely to have realized that he was giving birth to an art form which would take center stage in the social and industrial revolutions which followed. The most important aspect of his invention was that it was the first form of printing to use movable type. His initial efforts enabled him in 1440 to mass-produce indulgences – printed slips of paper sold by the Catholic Church to remit temporal punishments in purgatory for sins committed in this life, for those wealthy enough to afford indulgences. Gutenberg’s invention spread rapidly after his death in 1468. It met in general with a ready, and as enthusiastic reception in the centers of culture. The names of more than 1000 printers, mostly of German origin, have come down to us from the fifteenth century. In Italy we find well over 100 German printers, in France 30, in Spain 26. Many of the earliest printers outside of Germany had learned their art in Mainz Gutenberg’s Home and where they were know as â€Å"goldsmiths†. Among those who were undeniably pupils of Gutenberg, and who probably were also assistants in the Guttenberg printing ouse. The new printing presses had spread like brushfire through Europe. By 1499 print-houses had become established in more than 2500 cities in Europe. Fifteen million books had been flung into a world where scholars would travel miles to visit a library stocked with twenty hand-written volumes. Scholars argue about the number. It could’ve been as few as eight million or as many as twenty four million all within 50 years of the printing presses invention. But the output of new books had been staggering by any reasonable estimate. The people had suddenly come into possession of some thirty thousand new book titles. While the Gutenberg press was much more efficient than manual copying, the industrial Revolution and the introduction of the steam powered rotary press allowed thousands of copies of a page in a single day. Mass production of printed works flourished after the transition to rolled paper, as continuous feed allowed the presses to run at a much faster pace. Gutenberg’s invention did not make him rich, but it laid the foundation for the commercial mass production of books. The success of printing meant that books soon became cheaper, and ever wider parts of the population could afford them. More than ever before, it enabled people to follow debates and take part in discussion of matters that concerned them. As a consequence, the printed book also led to more stringent attempts at censorship. This was a sign that it was felt by those in authority to be dangerous and challenging to their position. The spread of literacy and the development of universities meant that by the 15th century, despite an assembly line approach to the production of books, supply was no longer able to meet demand. As a result there was widespread interest in finding an alternative means of producing books. Before books could be mass produced, several developments were necessary. A ready supply of suitable material that could be printed on was required. Manuscript books were written on Vellum and this material was used for some early printed books, but vellum was expensive and not available in sufficient quantity for the mass production of books. The introduction of the technique of making paper and the subsequent development of a European apermaking industry was a necessary condition for the widespread adoption of print technology. Although a number of people had previously attempted to make metal type or had experimented with individual woodcut letters, it was not until a technique was devised for producing metal type in large quantities at a reasonable cost. This involved the design of a type-face and the production of molds used for making the individual pieces of type as well as the development of an alloy that was soft enough to cast yet hard enough to use for printing. It was also necessary to develop suitable inks for printing with the new type. The water-based inks used for hand lettering and for block printing will not stick to metal type; therefore a viscous oil based ink was required. Finally, a press was needed for transferring the image from type to paper. Precedents existed in the presses used for making wine, cheese and paper and one of Johannes Gutenberg’s innovations was to adapt these presses for the printing process. An operator worked a lever to increase and decrease the pressure of the block against the paper. The invention of the printing press, in turn, set off a revolution that is still in progress today. Look around wherever you are, and you’ll likely find plenty of printed material, from business cards to brochures to books. Printing words and images on paper may seem like one of the more environmentally benign things that printing does, but that isn’t necessarily the case. If you examine the life cycle of printed matter – from turning trees into paper through the witch’s brew of chemicals involved — professional printing takes on a decidedly non-green hue. Typically, the process involves a variety of inks, solvents, acids, resins, lacquers, dyes, driers, extenders, modifiers, varnishes, shellacs, and other solutions. Only a few of these ingredients end up directly on the printed page. Many of the ingredients are toxic: Silver, lead, chromium, cadmium, toluene, chloroform, methylene chloride, barium-based pigments, and acrylic copolymers. And that’s mot all. Chlorine bleaching of paper is linked to cancer-causing water pollutants. Waste inks and solvents are usually considered hazardous. Bindings, adhesives, foils, and plastic bags used in printing or packaging printed material can render paper unrecyclable. And you thought it was just ink on paper. Not everyone defines â€Å"green printing† the same way and there is no standard of certification for what makes a printer green. There are several things a printer can do to minimize the detrimental effects to the environment. In general, an environmentally minded printer should use the most eco-friendly papers available, reduce or eliminate toxic chemicals, waste ink, and solvents. The printer should also be willing to use soy or other vegetable inks, educate customers about how to reduce a project’s environmental impact. Green printing is on a roll, moving beyond small, do-good companies and activist groups to larger corporations and government agencies that have mandates to purchase greener goods and services. As demand for green printing has grown, so too has the number of printers offering such services. Many printers now days can recycle up to 98% of there wastes and more and more or doing just that. Life magazine called the printing press the greatest invention in the last 1000 years.