The Death Penalty Of Capital Punishment - 1333 Words

â€Å"At 8:30 p.m. the first jolt of 1900 volts of electricity passed through Mr. Evan’s body. It lasted thirty seconds. Sparks and flames erupted from the electrode tied to Mr. Evan’s left leg. His body slammed against the straps holding him in the electric chair and his fist clenched permanently. The electrode apparently burst from the strap holding it in place. A large puff of grayish smoke and sparks poured out from under the hood that covered Mr. Evan’s face. An overpowering stench of burnt flesh and clothing began pervading the witness room. Two doctors examined Mr. Evans and declared that he was not dead.† What you just heard was a horrifying account of just one, of the many terrible mishaps, that have occurred in the history of the†¦show more content†¦It is time to realize that an â€Å"eye for an eye† will, indeed, make the whole world blind. First and foremost, I would like to address the legal and economic troubles that the system of capital punishment bring to the forefront. More specifically, the legal proceedings, and what seems to be a never ending process of appeals and reviews, has shown that even after years of â€Å"experimentation,† this system can’t be patched up; capital punishment has manifested as a costly and ineffective form of punishment. According to the Assessment of Costs by Judge Arthur Alarcon and Professor Paula Mitchell, California has spent $4 billion on capital punishment in 33 years, with half ($1.94 billion) of this going into litigation costs which are mostly borne by the taxpayer. Even more surprising, the authors calculated that if those currently on death row were instead, commuted to sentences of life without parole, it would result in savings of $170 million a year, or $5 billion in just the next 20 years. With cases resulting in death sentences averaging almost $4 million more than those without, an obvious is tradeoff is made with taxpayer funds. Our parent’s and one day our own hard earned money could be put into the executions of 1or 2 criminals or with the savings made by abolishing the death penalty, additional police could be hired to patrol the streets or the root of crime can be attacked by greater

The Reflection of Religious Beliefs in American Politics...

The Reflection of Religious Beliefs in American Politics As many people already know, politicis and religion some times go hand in hand. Recently, president Obama delivered his Inauguration Speech to the world. There were several remarks mentioned that pertained to religion. Many of the remarks can easily tie in with the American culture core values, which include, Americans are among a chosen people, manifest destiny, morality yields prosperity, and the protestant ethic. A Chosen People Chosen People is basically when certain people are pre destined to do certain things, they are among the select. In the Inauguration speech, Obama states various examples of this. One example being, that this nation was set so that everyone were†¦show more content†¦Manifest Destiny Manifest Destiny is similar to a chosen people, but not only is manifest destiny a pre destined thing, it also means to see the light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak. As stated before, christianity was pre-destined to be the nations dominant belief. Christianity has ample examples of seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. One of the many examples are the return of Christ. This is probabl what keeps a lot of chirstians from giving up because they know that Christ will come back. One of Obamas quotes stated,...crossed oceans in search of a new light. This was a good explanantion of manifest destiny and seeing the light. Morality yields Proseperity Morality yields prosperity is defined as if you heads Gods commands, you will prosper. An example of morality yielding prosperity is, the idea of prosperity and freedom. Another good moral idea that was mentioned was that God wants everyone to work together and when we work together, good things will come to us. Obama also said, with faith and determination in which our nation relies.... Our nation relies on determination and faith, which God clearly wants us to have. An idea that was thrown out there during the speech was the idea that God wants this nation to have peace, dignity, power, and strength, all which God has stated in various sources, that each one of us need to helpShow MoreRelatedAmerican Government Final Reflection1136 Words   |  5 PagesFinal Reflection/Position Paper American Government March 10, 2013 Final Reflection/Position Paper The purpose of this paper is intended to summarize my views on what has influenced my understanding of politics and government prior to taking this class, and how my understanding is now since completing this course. Pre Reflection/Position My understanding of politics and government prior to taking American Government came from my family and their beliefs. ItRead MoreCall to Renewal Address: Barack Obama1246 Words   |  5 Pagesfolly† (2). In his speech, Obama recommends a middle ground between these two views, in which â€Å"the religiously motivated translate their concerns into universal, rather than religion-specific, values† (7), as the only way to connect religion and politics in a â€Å"pluralistic democracy† (7). This attempt, motivated in part by the role of religion in his own upbringing, is his way to â€Å"bridge the gaps that exist and overcome the prejudices each of us bring† to debates in which â€Å"faith [is] used as a toolRead MoreTaking a Look at Secular Humanism1267 Words   |  5 PagesGod. Secular humanism is defined as a belief system where humanity is the sovereign of all beings, and where reality and information rests in science and reason. The secular humanis tic worldview started as a substitute among religions. Humanism is not a religious belief system in itself, while secular means â€Å"not religious.† A religion is any system of belief that informs an individual’s worldview. The secular humanistic worldview has a distinctive belief on many disciplines such as theology, ethicsRead MoreResurgence of Conservatism1211 Words   |  5 PagesDBQ 15: The Resurgence of Conservatism, 1964-2005 Liberals had dominated American society for most of the 1900s. The 1960s was widely known for being the age of counterculture, social reforms, and liberals. The era witnessed many advancements like racial equality such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a strong advancement in political liberalism, and a significant increase in the power and influence of government-funded social programs as a result of Lyndon B. Johnsons Great Society reforms. BeginningRead MoreThe Impact Of Christianity On American Voters Essay1143 Words   |  5 PagesPaper 3: The Impact of Christianity on American Voters American voters are swayed heavily by their upbringing. People tend to share the same political beliefs as their parents; however, religious background gives parental influence a run for its money. In the United States, 78.3% of Americans are Christian making it the most common religious affiliation (Hackett Grim, 2012). Christianity is rooted in truth and love— love for yourself and others. So when it comes to voting for the next presidentRead MoreCulture Wars: The Struggle to Define America by James Davison Hunter1287 Words   |  6 Pagesschool prayer, gay rights, gun politics and many more are all a part of the list of controversies that divide our country. A culture war is a conflict between groups with different ideals, beliefs, and issues. James Davison Hunter’s book, Culture Wars: The Struggle to Define America, shows that these issues â€Å"are not isolated from one another but are part of a fabric of conflict which constitutes nothing short of a struggle ov er the meaning of America. Unlike the religious and cultural conflict that historicallyRead MoreThe Revival of Indigenous Movements1862 Words   |  7 PagesMarisol de la Cadena argued that Latin Americas turn to the Left away from neoliberalism in the past few years has been in part due to the revival of indigenous movements (indigenismo) in the Andean countries of Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. Modern politics on the Left can accommodate these movements when they are concerned with capitalist exploitation, protection of the environment, cultural autonomy and land reform, although it shares the same modernist and rationalist assumptions as the liberalsRead MoreAnne Bradstreet Essay1423 Words   |  6 PagesState in the 1600’s In the 1600’s, Puritans living in both England and New England held their views on God rather tightly and lived their lives as good Christians. Puritans were selfless individuals who had escaped and came to America in search of religious freedom and peace. In literature during that time period, it is made very clear that everything the Puritans had accomplished or acquired was a result of God, and that they were forever in his debt. One of the great poets from this time era was AnneRead MoreThe Authors Conclude With A Few Rehashing Comments Related1658 Words   |  7 Pagesof spirituality in the lives of athletes and the work of sport psychology consultants. My reflection Mixing religion and spirituality is a touchy issue in or outside of sport psychology and is a major ethical issue for anyone engaged in sport psychology consulting or counseling, in general. If you have not spent time thinking through how to handle this issue, perhaps my article review and reflection will stimulate and encourage you to do so. Everyone sees these subjects in so many differentRead MoreTheories That Serve As Lenses For Analyzing Society : Functionalism, Conflict Theory, And Symbolic Interactionism1433 Words   |  6 Pagesvalues shared between groups help to strengthen the integration of society. Other functionalist theories state that religion establish guidelines that help to provide moral beliefs and general principles that maintain order and stability for society, or perhaps offer an outlet for the worship of a higher power. Government and politics within the realm of functionalism is necessary for governing society; government sets collective goals for society and thereby allocates resources to help achieve them

Global Mindset Balances Seasonal Fluctuation

Question: Discuss about theGlobal Mindset for Balances Seasonal Fluctuation. Answer: Introduction The purpose of this essay summarizes the importance of a new perspective in leadership that is a global mindset. The different environment of different sovereign countries that have factors that are strange and foreign to the home environment of an organization, but it has the influence on the decision making of an organizations resource use, and capabilities are known as the global business environment. The global business is important because it acts as a backbone of the global economy (Caligiuria Tarique, 2012). It also gives an opportunity to grow outside the domestic market. It creates jobs, balances seasonal fluctuation, increases sales, and provides an array of products and services. For functioning effectively and efficiently, it is important that the companies operating globally understand the environment of the host country. And for that, a company needs a leader with a global mindset. It is necessary that a company operating globally has a leader who can work across multi ple cultures, understand what a hosting company can offer to the organization, and also attain the goals set by the organization in the global market (Cohen, 2010). Effective Global Leadership According to Caligiuri and Tarique the need of international corporations has been created by the global market (Caligiuria Tarique, 2012). Robert Steven says that it is due to globalization the need of leaders possessing global competencies has increased because of their ability to lead the organizations effectively (Terrell Rosenbusch, 2013). As per Stephen the development of global leadership should be according to the global business strategy (Cohen, 2010). Dennis adds to it that competencies of global leadership include personality traits, skills, and knowledge as well as behaviours (Cumberland, Herd, Alagaraja, Kerrick, 2016). Todays world is intercultural, interdependent, and interconnected. Many changes have taken place in the day to day operations for a leader. The expectations are also changed. Today an effective global leader should have an ability to perform outside his comfort zone. Then only it can integrate the complexity of the global business and lead in todays interconnected, interdependent, and intercultural workplace (Cumberland, Herd, Alagaraja, Kerrick, 2016).For being an effective leader one has to have the power to listen to others and understand what they want. There are few competencies that are expected to be in a global leader like overseas experience which demands the understanding of doing business in a flat world. A successful global leader excels in his cultural perspective and also learns the different contexts required to do business globally. Having deep self-awareness is also important for a global leader who helps in understanding the difference of beliefs between two countr ies. It also includes the toleration and adaptability of deep-seated beliefs of others that help in succeeding in the global business environment. Cultural diversity is the first thing a leader has to understand when meeting someone of the different culture. The leader should have an intense interest in the cultures and lives of other and increase the sensitivity towards the cultural diversity. One should always be ready to learn from others which will help him to understand new ways to fight difficulties, which can be related to business or life (Luzinski, 2014). A leader should show humility towards what are others want to share from their life experience. Lifelong curiosity to learn how the world is evolving will help a leader to grab new opportunities. Learning is important in all the aspects of life, and learning never ends. An effective leader follows the rule of cautious honesty in todays business environment, where he should tell the truth but only that much that is required by the other person. A global leader should have good negotiation skills as it is essential in doing business across the world. A global leader should be able to make his presence felt by others. This enhances his leadership effectiveness. If a global leader has the ability to converse in more than one language, then it adds brownie points to the leaders success. And finally, a global leader should have global strategic thinking which will help him in taking the best decision of his company keeping in mind the global requirement (Reis, 2011) Leadership competencies are not just in-born they can be acquired and developed as per the requirement of the organization internally and externally. If a lea.der has a strong motivation to achieve its target and the capability to achieve it than any leader can gain the competencies needed to be a global leader. A leader should be able to identify the competencies needed to be developed in him. Typically there are three levels of competencies required by the leader, and they are Personal Competencies which includes creativity, integrity, emotional balance, self-criticism, determination, and tenacity. The second competency is Interpersonal Competencies that consists of respect, delegation, charisma/engagement, and communication (Longo McMillan, 2015). The third level of competency is Business Competencies which includes negotiating skills, networking, resource management, and business vision. Once a leader identifies the competencies, he requires to work on he can polish it with lear ning and experience. For example, a multinational company is operating in a host country, India. The global leader working in the branch office lacks the competency of resource management. He can always take help of the experience he had with the head quarter office of finding resources and use it in the host countrys office (Segalà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Horn, 1996). Due to the cultural difference, there may be some problems in finding proper resources, but an efficient leader never quits and learns to deal with the situation. Taking a local help can also help the leader to attain his goal in being successful in managing resources well. Leader working as his head can also help in sharing their experiences and teaching him new things about resource management. This way using the internal and the external business environment a leader can enhance the competency quality which he lacks (Mobley, Li, Wang, 2011). A companys vision showing global consistency requires an effective global leader. Though aims and goals are set locally but they are to be fulfilled in another country with different beliefs and culture. A global mindset will be able to provide a new competitive edge to the organization in the global market. Global leaders come from the same trade practices, but they take more responsibilities than a local leader. There are unlimited opportunities in the global market which is necessary to be identified and worked on. Thus, to survive in the global market experience outside the organization is very important (Reis, 2011). An example of the effectiveness of the global leadership is of a famous chain of fast-food restaurant McDonalds. McDonalds allows the host countries to design their own bags, buns, and business practices, to cater the local market. McDonalds would not have been able to manage the local market so effectively without this balanced approach. Summarizing, a global leade rship mindset is a skill or a quality to assume a global view of business and people rather than country specific, and apply this global perspective to a host country considering its cultures and beliefs (Safty, 2007). Conclusion A global leader is one step ahead of a local leader because it has more responsibilities to handle by taking in account the beliefs and culture of the host country. Today every organization is stepping outside its local boundaries and entering the global market where the threats, opportunities, strengths, and weaknesses are totally different from the local country. To survive the competition and diversities of culture and beliefs of the host country it is necessary to have competencies for handling such diversity. There are a number of competencies required to be a global leader which is not necessary to be in-born, leaders can work hard to achieve, and develop all the three levels of competencies required to be a successful global leader. In the end, it concludes that an outside experience is necessary for the global business environment. References Caligiuria, P. Tarique, I. (2012).Dynamic cross-cultural competencies and global leadership effectiveness.(4th ed., pp. Pages 612-622). New Jersy: Elsevier Inc. Cohen, S. (2010). Effective global leadership requires a global mindset: Industrial and Commercial Training: Vol 42, No 1.Industrial And Commercial Training. Retrieved from Cumberland, D., Herd, A., Alagaraja, M., Kerrick, S. (2016). Assessment and Development of Global Leadership Competencies in the Workplace: A Review of Literature.Advances In Developing Human Resources,18(3), 301-317. Longo, N. McMillan, J. (2015). Educating for Global Leadership: A North-South Collaboration.New Directions For Student Leadership,2015(148), 73-86. Luzinski, C. (2014). Identifying Leadership Competencies of the Future: Introducing the Use of Strategic Foresight.Nurse Leader,12(4), 37-47. Mobley, W., Li, M., Wang, Y. (2011).Advances in global leadership. Bingley: Emerald. Reis, G. (2011). Global mindset.Revista De Administrao De Empresas,51(4), 414-414. Safty, A. (2007). A view on global leadership.Leadership In Action,19(1), 1-5. Segalà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Horn, S. (1996). The limits of global strategy.Strategy Leadership,24(6), 12-17. Terrell, R. Rosenbusch, K. (2013). How global leaders develop: Journal of Management Development: Vol 32, No 10.Journal Of Management Development. Retrieved from

The DVD Revolution Essay Research Paper The free essay sample

The DVD Revolution Essay, Research Paper The DVD Revolution Specific Purpose: To inform my audience about the characteristics and advantages of DVD picture. Cardinal Idea: The DVD picture format has superior sound and ocular quality to VHS, every bit good as more particular characteristics, which is why it should finally busy the topographic point of the VCR in American families. Introduction I? vitamin D like to get down things out by taking a study. How many of you remember holding a Cadmium participant in your house 15 old ages ago? Not really many of you, I see. Of class, we all have Cadmium participants now. It took a small over a decennary and some major monetary value beads, but finally we all threw out our old vinyl and cassettes and opted for the first-class sound quality and convenience of Cadmiums. Merely as the Cadmium took the topographic point of cassettes, many people believe the DVD, or digital versatile phonograph record, will shortly take the topographic point of VHS tapes. We will write a custom essay sample on The DVD Revolution Essay Research Paper The or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Many of you may non even cognize what a DVD is, so before I go any farther, allow me demo you what one looks like. ( Take out DVD phonograph record ) It? s the same size as a Cadmium, but it has two sides. Just like a VHS tape, it plays films straight on your telecasting. DVD picture participants were originally released in early 1997, and their first twelvemonth gross revenues were twice that of Cadmium participants, which is strong grounds that the DVD is here to remain. Why is the DVD so popular, and what makes it better than VHS? There are three chief grounds: sound quality, image quality, and particular characteristics sole to DVD. ( Passage: Let? s start with the sound quality of DVD ) Body I. The sound quality of DVD is far superior than that of VHS. A. DVD phonograph record utilize digital engineering, which is the same engineering used by compact phonograph record. 1. This means that you will acquire sharp and clear sound equal to Cadmiums. B. DVD participants are besides compatible with all environment sound formats. 1. For those of you who wear? T know, surround sound is a system of talkers set up across a room that provides a listening experience similar to being I in a film theatre. 2. The combination of a environment sound system and CD quality sound is best realized when listening to musicals like? Singing in the Rain? , or action movies with a batch of sound effects, such as? Starship Troopers. ? C. You have the ability to listen to different sound paths. 1. This means that on merely one phonograph record, you can listen to a film in a figure of linguistic communications, normally English, French, and Spanish. 2. You can besides listen to merely the musical mark, with the duologue and sound effects turned off. 3. Some discs even feature a running commentary by the histrions and manager while a film is playing. ( Passage: Now that you know a small abound the sound, allow me state you about some of the ocular characteristics of DVD ) II. Movies have neer looked better than on DVD. A. The image on a DVD participant is twice as crisp and clear than VCR participants. 1. As Entertainment Weekly author Micheal Glitz put it, ? ( Colorful films like The Wizard of Oz are ) so beautiful you? ll want to stop dead some scenes and leave them on your Television the manner others hang plants of art on their walls. ? 2. The image is already perfect, so you? ll neer have to gull with tracking once more. B. You can wa tch the film from two different screen ratios. 1. You can watch a film in widescreen format, which is when the screen has the small black bars at the top and the underside. This is the manner films are viewed in theaters. 2. You can besides watch the film in? pan and scan? format. This is how things usually appear on a telecasting screen. You won? Ts have the black bars, but you besides won? T be seeing the full image. C. You can watch some films with captions in several different linguistic communications. 1. Subtitles allow the hard-of-hearing to watch films without holding a closed caption characteristic on their telecastings. 2. Many people enjoy watching foreign movies with captions, instead than dubbed voices. This allows them to hear the original histrion? s voice, and non a transcriber. D. Some rubrics allow viewing audiences to set the camera angle on a scene. 1. You can step into the manager? s chair and name the shootings. You get to command the camera and expression at a scene the manner you want. 2. This characteristic is first-class to utilize on athleticss plans. You can watch a drama from multiple angles and size up every move made. ( Passage: In add-on to superior image and sound, you besides get extra characteristics found merely on DVD. ) III. DVD is more merriment and convenient than VHS. A. Each film starts out with a bill of fare screen. 1. From the bill of fare you choose what features you want, such as captions or a widescreen format. B. DVD allows you to jump to any scene in a film. 2. Just like jumping to your favourite vocal on a Cadmium, DVD allows you to travel straight to your favourite scene in a film. 3. You? ll neer have to trouble oneself with fast forwarding through the prevues, or rewinding at the terminal. C. You may besides acquire excess fillips. 1. This can include behind the scenes docudramas, games, original film dawdlers, or interviews with the dramatis personae and crew. Decision Harmonizing to an article by Steve Traiman in the September 5th, 1998 issue of Billboard, there are already about 800,000 DVD participants in North American families, and more than 10 times that sum in is expected in the following four old ages. And why non? In add-on to the characteristics I? ve listed above, participants can be purchased for around $ 300, there are over 1500 film rubrics available, and most of them cost between 10s and 30 dollars. One web site is even selling a DVD version of President Clinton? s expansive jury testimony for merely two cents. The DVD is to the VCR as the Cadmium is to the cassette participant. It may non be today or tomorrow, but finally the DVD will go the primary film format and happen a topographic point in your life room. Bibliography Articles Gallagher, Leigh. ? Global Bottom Fishing. ? Forbes September 21 September 1998: 274. Giltz, Michael. ? Move Over, VCR. ? Entertainment Weekly 25 September 1998: 109- 112. Traiman, Steve. ? DVD? s Steady Climb Mapped Out at Industry Conference. ? Billboard 5 September 1998: 111. Internet Beginnings DVD Centre. ? Warner Announces New DVD Pricing Plan. ? 11 July 1998. Uniform resource locator: hypertext transfer protocol: //web.ukonline.co.uk/s.roberts/wbprice2.htm. 5 October 1998. DVD Video Group. ? What is DVD Video? ? Uniform resource locator: hypertext transfer protocol: //www.dvdvideogroup.com/what/what1.htm. 5 October 1998.

History of the Income Tax essays

History of the Income Tax essays The federal progressive income tax has been an issue that has been argued on the floors of Congress, in front of the United States Supreme Court, in front of television cameras, and around the dinner table. The tax served its purpose in supplementing revenue during the Civil War and World War I, but continued taking from Americans income in peacetime, allowing fewer dollars to be spent on goods and services. When the American government was in a deficit, it was harder to argue for the abolishment of the income tax, but now that Congress is looking at a government surplus for the first time in decades, the question is raised again: Do we have to have a progressive federal income tax? Prior to the Civil War, the vast majority of government funds came from tariffs on imports. The only exception was during the War of 1812, when blockades by the British, as well as the war being with the young countrys number one trade partner, lowered income from tariffs. Government revenues were accompanied by funds from the sale of public lands, such as the Louisiana Territory and the Oregon Country, as well as excise taxes, which were introduced during the War of 1812 (Hansen 62). As Abraham Lincoln, who once said that he had no money sense and never enough money to fret him, came into office with a national debt of nearly $75 million and little to no inflow of customs duties, as well as an outflow of investments to foreign countries by investors who feared war. After attempts to raise money by selling bonds, doubling tariffs, increasing excise taxes, and creating license fees, it was realized that another form of tax was needed (Paul 7-8, Witte 67). The details of the tax, however, were not agreed on easily. The tax was originally proposed to tax land in each state, with revenue to be handed out according to population. The idea of this tax created a congressional rebellion, led by the South and West,...

REFLECTIVE ESSAY EXAMPLES

REFLECTIVE ESSAY EXAMPLES All reflective essays have a number of common rules that must be followed. First of all let’s remind ourselves that reflective essay is a type of writing that reflects on personal experience or event. The personal experience of the author is revealed throughout the paper. The reflective essay examples demonstrate the importance of understanding the connection between people’s essence, their uniqueness and social relations. Some philosophical elements should be applied to this type of writing.   It is important to remember to reflect on specific details like personal character, surroundings, weather, etc. It is beneficial to apply a whole range of possible topic understandings to give the viewer a wide variety of impressions, feelings and thoughts. Reflective essay examples must imply strong essay outline. It includes reflective description, following main facts and environment rules observation. Reflective essay structure is also another element that must be strongly followed. Opening paragraph, middle part and concluding summary. REFLECTIVE ESSAY EXAMPLES If you are looking for reflective essay examples, we are able to provide you with brilliant examples essays today upon your request. We would like to focus on the reflective essay outline and structure. This will give you an understanding of how your reflective essay must look. You will also be able to obtain the comprehension of reflective essay examples structure in order to write your perfect reflective essay today. Reflective essay examples are easily found on the web. We offer you a different path of getting your custom written reflective essay today. Order your reflective essay online and receive your 15 discount today. To start with your reflective essay should answer to these questions. These specific questions will guide you through your reflective essay writing. They are â€Å"What did I experience?† â€Å"What was my major notice about an event or an experience?† â€Å"Did this event change me or my personal point of view?† â€Å"How did this event helped me to grow as a person?† â€Å"What is different about my life perception now?† and/or â€Å"What did I learn?†

Final Exam Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Final Exam - Assignment Example You use the following article from ABI/Inform Complete in your research paper: Teaching Managers to Appraise Performances by Donna L. Mitchell and Esther Green in Nursing Management, Mar. 1996, Vol. 27, Issue 3, pages 48-49. The URL for the journal ishttp://www.nursingmanagement.com. How would you cite it in APA 6th edition format? If you were researching telecommuting and its effect on productivity and your search using the search term, telecommuting, produced too many irrelevant results, how might you change your search statement to cover the key concepts more thoroughly and find the most relevant search results? Your small business is the support unit for various learning software products sold by other vendors and purchased by academic institutions. With the increasing popularity of these software solutions, growing your business requires reviewing current research and information on new products, product performance, and statistics on the market. What type of resource will best keep you up-to-date? You are doing research on the use of mobile technology such as cell phones or PDAs in patient care. Which of the following groups of subject terms would be the best for searching the subject field of a health database like Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition on this topic? You are using a chapter from an edited book in your research paper. Published in 2007, the book is called The Handbook of Mentoring at Work and is edited by Belle Rose Ragins and Kathy E. Kram.

Avoiding sexual harassment problems Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Avoiding sexual harassment problems - Term Paper Example The responsibilities and caution requisite for the achievement of an environment favorable for work and studies is one of the high expectations that the society has laid upon all members (Tatiana 2). The golden rules involved in the process of maintaining a sex harassment free zone is a core duty of all the members of the society (Tatiana 2). For instance at the workplaces, every employee holds a legal obligation to keep their working surrounding free from sexual harassment. In situations where such obligations are less taken into consideration or even ignored, Francis (23) offers a stern warning that low output from work, loss of dignity as well as low quality work may result. Coupled with the golden rule of life stating that individuals should always strictly aspire to do unto others what they would also wish to be done to, Kent State University developed an elaborative policy as regards unlawful harassment and the discrimination based on gender, race and tribe, political or even r eligious differences. Keeping in mind that sexual harassment is an act that may not spare an individual for some special reason, employees at all work places should ensure that they fully acquire a proper comprehension of the various forms of sexual harassment (Francis 20). ... As Francis (45) reports, many office managers have also been reported to instill extreme discomfort to the other office users such as cleaners by making sexually explicit statements in their presence. In times of ideological differences that may naturally arise among employees, others may belittle their coworkers by insulting them through using sexist or demeaning arguments in order to silence them. More frustrating is when employees harass the rest of the university workers by posting sexually oriented jokes such as pornographic pictures or videos on the university’s intranet bulletin sites as others also sends electronic mails to their coworkers that contain sexually oriented language (Linda & Hajdin 7). Similarly, in the higher learning institutions such as the universities, more or less similar cases of sexual harassment forms have been reported either from the male or female students against senior staff members such as the university professors and lectures. Workers with in the university are encouraged to beware of all forms of sexual harassment in the entire university community in order to help curb such vises completely. Tatiana (12) reports in his book that even though the act is gender and superiority neutral, most reported cases have been those against female students by fellow male students and the university professors and lectures. As opposed to the fellow student’s forms of harassment, the professors and the lectures resort their power and academic authority to intimidate the female students in favor of sexual pleasure with them (Linda & Hajdin 3). A professor may blackmail a female student by asking them to choose between either to getting an â€Å"A† in their examinations or fail the

Virtue Ethics Criticsm Essay Example for Free

Virtue Ethics Criticsm Essay The biggest criticism of Virtue Ethics is that it doesnt give clear guidance on how to act in specific circumstances. It cannot tell us what the law should be about abortion, euthanasia, pre-implantation genetic diagnosis etc. It gives no clear answer to questions such as Is the environment intrinsically valuable?. The lack of moral rules or a method of addressing dilemmas is the main conceren here, but there is also uncertainty about how you decide on what the virtues are. Many critics say Virtue Ethics simply doesnt do the job of an ethical theory. There are many responses to this. There are no absolute answers to these questions, MacIntyre takes this view that contemporary ethics has distanced itself from real people and real issues by debating fine legalistic points which they will never agree on. Virtue Ethics asks a much more important question what sort of person should I be? This question may have different answers depending where and when it is asked, but it gives real direction and purpose to people. Nussbaum says that there are absolutes. However, it is virtues that have value, not rules. We should strive for Justice, Wisdom, Temperance etc. rather than looking for absolute rules. When thinking about whether to go to war, there are no absolute rules (You must not kill an innocent person, for example, is seen as impractical as all wars lead to innocent people dying). However, we have elected a leader who we want to act justly, to be temperate, to have wisdom etc. Issues such as Embryo Research depend a lot on answers to questions such as When does an embryo/foetus become a person? These questions cannot be answered by ethical theories. MacIntyre would say that to move forward in these issues, we need to better understand the context. For example, we are a society where thousands of embryos die at various stages of the IVF process. There is therefore a contradiction between our societys comfortable response to IVF and the often violent negative reaction to embryonic stem-cell research. When approaching these issues, we should aim to respond with wisdom, right ambition, temperance etc. Virtue Ethics responds confidently to many of these criticisms by drawing attention to the failings of deontological theories and consequentialist positions (GEM Anscombe coined the phrase consequentialism in her 1958 article Modern Moral Philosophy which attacked contemporary ethical theories for being out of touch with the real world. This article may have been largely responsible for the resurrgence of interest in Virtue Ethics). There are other criticisms, though. For example, Virtue Ethics rejects moral absolutes such as Do not lie, but then values the virtue of honesty. Critics claim that the virtues are really another way of stating moral rules, and that the virtues depend on the existence of these rules. Honesty is precisely a virtue because it is wrong to lie. This sort of criticism can lead to a circular debate, but it is actually the biggest threat to the virtue theorist.

B/M Ratio Essay -- Research Analysis

We can see from regression I of Panel A and B that B/M is highly significant relative to the future returns, which are consistent with the B/M effect theory. The B/M effect for NOA/P^NOAï ¹ ¤1 data also cannot be rejected for the ambiguous t-statistic. Similarly, the enterprise B/M ratio is confirmed by regression II. The testing results for one factor model of financial leverage (ND/M) presents that the financial leverage is not significantly relative to future returns, or even negatively relative to future returns. It is an anomalous phenomenon that the leverage (financial risk) reduces the expected returns, but it may be explained by the negative association between leverage and operating risk. Actually, these results are also consistent with also correlation analysis in Table 2. When NOA/P^NOA≠§1, leverage is positively and insignificantly relative to the NOA/P^NOA. However, when NOA/P^NOAï ¹ ¤1, leverage is negatively relative to NOA/P^NOA. Regression V shows the leverage coefficient under controlling for operating risk (enterprise B/M ratio). For full sample tests, the coefficient is insignificant which means we cannot get any reliable conclusions from this result. And for NOA/P^NOA ≠§1, the coefficient is insignificantly positive, for NOA/P^NOAï ¹ ¤1, the coefficient is significantly negative. If we split the ND/M ratio into financial liabilities/market value and financial assets/ market value like in regression VII, FA/P coefficients are significantly positive in all of three panels, but the FL/P negatively or insignificantly relative to future returns. It indicates that the high future return premium is awarded for the high operating risk rather than financial risk. As the financial leverage is insignificant in some regressions, we u... ...returns, and this association is even insignificant for most NOA/P^NOA portfolios. The only exception is in the highest two NOA/P^NOA portfolios, highest ND/M portfolios give higher returns than lowest ND/M portfolios. Similarly with US evidence, the findings in UK evidence suggest that the UK FTSE 350 stock returns are inconsistent with PRT’s equation 2. In Panel B of table 4, we use similar methods with Panel A to spilt the year-firm observations into 10 portfolios, and sort these observations into five groups by B/M ratio rather than leverage ratio. According to PRT equation 1, if NOA/P^NOA >1, a higher leverage ratio will lead to a higher B/M ratio; if (NOA )/P^NOA 1, a higher return the higher B/M ratio.

Motivations at work Essay

Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Every human experience involves a causative factor that produces a kind of response. In explaining the behavior of people, we start our description with reference to some kind of active driving force: the individual seeks, the individual wants, the individual fears. Various psychologists describe motivation, in other words, as the driving force behind our behavior (Halonen & Santrock, 1996; Atkinson, et al. 1983).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Smith, et al. labels their discussion on motivation as the â€Å"Why† of behavior (1982). Why does the tardy student in mathematics spend the rest of the period outside instead of inside the mathematics classroom? Emotions or strong feelings usually accompany motivated behavior.   Often, emotions direct behavior toward goals (Atkinson, et al. 1983).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Essentially, the role of motivation in a person’s life is crucial to the understanding of human activities. Motivation is never static because in life, there always presents a dynamic and changing pattern of needs. Internal and external motivation provides in brief, an astute way of explaining the â€Å"why’s† of people’s behaviors (Halonen & Santrock, 1996). No wonder then, that in general, educators handle pupils or learners in the light of this ideation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Again the question, why do people behave as they do? How can people account for the workers who are always on time, exceed production quotas, and are polite to the boss, whereas other workers at the same plant who perform the same job under the same conditions for the same pay behave in the opposite way?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is easy to say that there must be an increase the motivation of the employees, but unless people know precisely what factors constitute motivation in this specific instance, changes may not be that feasible.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Human motivation is most complex. People seldom behave or respond to a particular situation because of a single motive. Generally, individuals are driven by a variety of needs and desires, some complimentary and others conflicting (Halonen & Santrock, 1996). Although there is no full and accurate understanding of a human being’s motivational structure, there is a body of knowledge from psychological research, which shows quite a bit about the forces that drive humans. Motivation theory 1 – McClelland’s Achievement Motivation Theory   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This desire to accomplish something, to do a good job, to be the best typifies many people in this society, not only successful business executives(McClelland & Burnham, 1976). Those who possess this need derive great satisfaction from their achievement and are motivated to excel in everything they undertake.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Evidence also shows that the economic growth of private companies and of whole societies is related to the level of the need for achievement among managers in these private companies and members of these societies (McClelland & Burnham, 1976).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Successful business managers generally score higher in need for achievement – need persons have been identified, it is possible to determine what they want and what they need in their work to satisfy this high level of achievement motivation   (McClelland & Burnham, 1976).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The organization for which high achievement-need persons work is not required to generate motivation; these persons already possess the motivation. What the company must do is to provide working conditions that will allow them to achieve. If they cannot satisfy their high drive for achievement, they will become frustrated and will probably look for another job. If they can satisfy this drive, however, they will become happy and productive members of the organization (McClelland & Burnham, 1976).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   McClelland’s research identified three characteristics of high need-achievement persons: They favor a working situation in which they are able to assume personal responsibility for solving problems. If they were not solely responsible for finding the solutions to the problems, they would not have any sense of achievement. They are not happy when the solution depends on chance or on external factors beyond their control. It must depend on their own efforts and ability (McClelland & Burnham, 1976). This is a desirable characteristic for an executive as long as the working situation affords the opportunity for personal responsibility. The organization must provide these persons with challenging responsibility and a degree of personal autonomy. They have a tendency to take calculated risks and to set moderate achievement goals. By assuming tasks of moderate difficulty, high achievement need persons are able to satisfy their achievement needs (McClelland & Burnham, 1976). If the tasks or goals were too easy, there would be little sense of accomplishment. If they were too difficult, they might not succeed and would again have no sense of accomplishment. They must arrange the job and working conditions to face new problems or goals of moderate difficulty constantly. High achievement-need persons must have definite and continuing feedback about their progress. If they did not receive recognition for their work, they would not have a clear idea of how well they were doing (McClelland & Burnham, 1976). Fortunately, companies provide continuing feedback in periodic sales, cost, and production figures. High achievement-need persons feel a greater sense of accomplishment if they have personal feedback from superiors in the form of congratulatory memos, pay raises, promotions, or a pat in the back.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The higher the achievement-need scores of the executives, the more successful were their companies. Other studies show that managers high in achievement-need display a number of desirable managerial characteristics. They tend to have more respect for their subordinates and to be receptive to new ideas and new ways of doing things (McClelland & Burnham, 1976). Also, they are more open to participatory democracy than are managers low in achievement need. High achievement-need managers appear to be better than low achievement-need managers to lead and motivate the new breed of employee.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There are unresolved questions about the need-achievement theory, and not all research supports the findings discussed (Klinger, 1966). However, it seems to be a useful theory of behavior and a plausible explanation for the motivation of some employees. The theory is judged to be high in scientific validity and in its usefulness in application to the world of work (McClelland & Burnham, 1976). Motivation theory 2 – Adam’s Equity Theory   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The notion that people’s motivation is influenced by their perception of how equitably they are treated at work was proposed by J. Stacy Adams. In any work situation, be it a classroom or an office, people assess both their inputs – how much effort they are putting into the work   – and their outcomes – how much reward they are receiving for the work. people then, perhaps unconsciously, calculate the ratio of outcome to input and compare their ratio with what they perceive are the ratios of fellow students or co-workers (Adams, 1965).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Are people getting equal outcomes as a function of their inputs or are they getting less than other people? If they are getting less, a state of inequity exists, which motivates them to create a condition of equity. If people are getting the same, a state of equity exists.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Research shows and personal experience confirms that people do make such comparisons. One may have felt unfairly or inequitably treated in a course for which he worked harder than someone who, ultimately, received a higher grade. Did one work even harder as a result of this inequity?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is generally accepted that a sense of being treated fairly with respect to others can influence work motivation, either by increasing or reducing it. The theory is fairly well supported by research but has a limited application to specific situations at work (Marx, 1976). Motivation theory 3 – Goal Setting Theory   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Developed by Edwin Locke, goal-setting theory also has a common-sense appeal and is clearly relevant to the world of work. Locke argues that a person’s primary motivation in a work situation can be defined in terms of his desire to achieve a particular goal. The goal represents what the person intends to do at a given time in the future. For example, people may have as a goal graduating from college with honors or achieving the highest sales recorded in the company or getting a pay raise to buy a new house (Locke, 1968). Goals are important in any endeavor, motivating and guiding ones’ behavior so that the person performs in the most effective way. Studies of work behavior have shown how goals influence a person’s motivation; for example, having goals results in higher performance than not having goals. Specific goals are more motivating than general goals (Marx, 1976). Goals that are difficult to obtain are more motivating than easy goals. On the other hand, goals that so difficult as to seem impossible to achieve are worse than having no goals at all as far as motivation and performance are concerned.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The goal-setting theory is probably the most thoroughly researched of all the motivational theories that are discussed. The evidence is highly supportive, in case after case goal-setting has been found to produce substantial increases in employee output (Marx, 1976; Locke, et al., 1981). Furthermore, the theory is high in both scientific validity and in usefulness on the job. Conclusion – The problem of employee motivation is critical in all kinds of organizations today and is responsible for the shoddy products we buy and the careless service we receive. It was thought that all that was necessary to produce high motivation in workers was to pay them more; this idea may no longer be valid for a large portion of the work force. Modern workers demand jobs that satisfy their inner needs for fulfillment, expression, and self-actualization. Traditional values involved loyalty to the company and a strong drive for money, status, promotion and security. The new breed of workers focuses on self-fulfillment and self-actualization and demands jobs that are challenging and that allow participation in decision-making. They have little loyalty to the organization and less concern with money, status and security.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Psychologists have proposed several theories of motivation. The need for achievement by McClelland posits the existence to be the best in whatever they undertake. Studies show that good executives are higher in Ach than poor ones. High in ability and take calculated risks and set moderate achievement goals. These individuals constantly need feedback on their progress.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   These theories deal with content of motivation, with internal needs that arouse and guide behavior. Process theories of motivation focus on the psychological processes involved in making decisions and choices about work. This is illustrated in the goal-setting theory, which argues that employee motivation is defined by our intention to achieve a particular goal; and equity theory, which deals with our perceived ratio or outcome to input and how equitably that ratio compares with those co-workers.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Knowing what a person values most, like I do, still these things do not reduce the presence or effects of stressors in my life. Trying to achieve a correct balance of my work and the more important life relationships as well entails a big bulk of decision-making dilemmas and resolutions of what should be followed or not. Whenever other people in the workplace are around us, it is undoubtedly a complicated set-up knowing that these people have values and priorities and desires multiplied over their number. Their motivation at work or in life is impinged upon by their values and priorities which are in turn what makes them motivated. These values are translated into goals that fuel what and how their conduct will be in their field of work.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The workplace today considers any of the perspectives mentioned in this paper. However, what are more reflective at many organizations are their strategies in enhancing the life of the average worker. The understanding of the needs or drives that motivate people is therefore critical in the choice of what â€Å"motivator variables† that the management may employ to encourage their people to do or sustain an excellent job or an efficient performance.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Work-life initiatives are strategies implemented by firms to reduce turnover and increase productivity and overall firm performance. Studies were made to examine the influence and effects of work-life initiatives on employees and the organization in general. Workplace diversity which incorporates the concepts of work-life initiatives does indicate that it is inevitable that when a company introduces work-life initiatives, there is a resulting increase in diversity. Substantial evidence point to the effectiveness of workplace diversity hence, many institutions encourage and promote this in their particular milieu (http://www.cmdronline.com/workshops.htm). This type of strategy caters to the goal-setting perspective posited by Edwin Locke. Although the other two are also very valid in many instances or situations, the applicability of the former (goal-setting) seemed to be more realistic and practical.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It is inevitable that juggling work and family life will be one of a person’s demanding experiences. The rationale for having a job is not only to have a livelihood, achieve personal satisfaction in the expression of his abilities and trainings, and receive his remuneration and perks on the side. Preparation for family stability to be able to provide and thus create an atmosphere of care, for bachelors/maidens, is also the foremost and logical reason for having a job. However, the thin thread that separates between the two polarities becomes blurred, and there lies the tension that pulls a person in different directions. The Center for Mediation and Dispute Resolution opens its website with the following quote: â€Å"Our life is one giant balancing act (http://www.cmdronline.com/workshops.htm).†Ã‚   Perhaps, no person will ever disagree with that statement.   The goal then is to know how to do the balancing act, to gain competencies in achieving a rewarding, flourishing kind of life that holds work in one hand, while maintaining a well-nurtured and healthy family on the other hand.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Every home has its set of beliefs or tradition that they hold in high esteem. This is referred to as family values. Anything that the family believes is important comprises a family values system. Among the values an individual possesses, the most important I believe is that a person must regard most his/her values about family as the most significant. Many people don’t usually pause and contemplate what their values are. They may not know whether these values they already have are still practical or useful in a modern day world. Moreover, they do not think how their values fit in with their kind of milieu that they evolve in. There are families that take time out though to impart to their children what had been passed on to them when they too were yet very young. The values may not be as strong as when were yet children because the person may have adapted to his world and adjusted his values that others may be accommodated. Through the years, a family value system may be a combination of what had been passed on to an individual and the values system of one’s friends or colleagues at work (_______†Values: What are they?† 2007). The primary reason that goals and goal-setting are critical aspects in the role of motivation in people is pointedly because what we hold as important affects how we use time, money and energy or how we interact with people. If a person believes in the importance of education then he tries to save for the schooling of their children. What we set as goals are actually our values influencing how we spend our resources and make decisions. Reference: Adams, J. Stacey (1965), â€Å"Inequity in social exchange†, in   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Berkowitz, Leonard (Ed),   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, Vol. 2, Academic Press, New York,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   pp. 267-299. Atkinson, Rita L., Richard C. Atkinson, and Ernest R. Hilgard. 1983. Introduction to   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Psychology. 8th ed., New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Inc. Halonen, JS and JW Santrock, 1996. Psychology: Contexts of Behavior, Dubuque, IA: Brown   Ã‚   and Benchmark, p.810. Klinger, E. 1966. Journal of Economic Psychology. Fantasy need-achievement as a   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   motivational construct. Psychological Bulletin 66 4 (1966), pp. 291–308 Marx, Melvin H. 1976. Introduction to Psychology: Problems, Procedures, and Principles.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Columbia: Collier MacMillan. McClelland, D. C., & Burnham, D. H. 1976. Power is the great motivator. Harvard   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Business Review, 54(2), 100-110. Morris, Charles G., Maisto, Albert A., 1999. Understanding Psychology.4th ed., Prentice   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Hall: New Jersey, pp.315-  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   316. Smith, Ronald E., Sarason, I.G., and Sarason, B.R. 1982.    Psychology: The Frontiers of   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Behavior.2nd Ed. New York:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Harper and Row Publishers. __________ â€Å"Values: what are they?†2007. Family Works : University of Illinois extension.   Ã‚   Accessed February 18, 2008. http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/familyworks/values-  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   01.html _________Centre for Mediation & Dispute Resolution, Accessed February 18, 2008.in   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.cmdronline.com/workshops.htm

Harley Davidson Case Study Essay

Harley Davidson, established in 1903, is the largest manufacturer of motorcycles in the United States. While Harley Davidson dominates the moto market in the United States, it is very small compared to the international market which is infiltrated with large Japanese firms such as Kawasaki, Honda and Yamaha who produce various categories of motorcycles. Harley Davidson has deep rooted brand equity in the United States and remains loyal in it’s style. It has also remained consistent in manufacturing only heavyweight motorcycles. By showcasing only a single model type, Harley Davidson has established itself as a leader in the United States market. Other international markets, especially Europe and Asia, produce many lines of sports motorcycles (street bikes, scooters etc), as this meets the demands of these markets. Harley Davidson classifies their bikes into three main heavyweight categories (1) Touring Bikes, (2) Custom Bikes, and (3) Sportster Bikes. More than half of Harley Davidson’s revenue is generated from sales from within the United States, with a much smaller presence in Europe, Asia and Latin America. Harley Davidson has tried unsuccessfully to acquire additional motorycle companies twice since its origination but ultimately has continued to keep its product lines simple and focused around a few primary products. Description of Data and Sources Initialal research was conducted on the history of Harley Davidson Motorcycles by researching their website. Data was then obtained from a variety of sources including industry journals, annual sales reports, and company websites. By comparing sales and annual (10k) reports to those of its competitors, we were able to determine market patterns and explain the market structure in which Harley Davidson Motorcycle competes. Sales reports compared units sold by the Harley Davidson , as well as competition among firms internationally displayed by the type of bikes sold and in which geographic areas. Explanation of Methods In order to establish initial market structure and competitiveness, we collected data on the total units of Heavyweight motorcycles sold in 2012 in the United States. We gathered data on the numbers of units sold by Harley Davidson’s top three competitors, which we learned were Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha, respectively. In order to establish a price per unit, we took the median price of each firm’s heavyweight inventory and then took an average based on these figures. The number of units sold multiplied times average price per unit gave us an accurate reflection of over sales for 2012 when cross referenced with annual report data. Our data had some limitations as some firm’s data did not highlight units sold or sales revenue from the heavyweight market. We had to deduce and infer with the data we were given. Another limitation in data collection came when gathering information about price mark up and marginal cost. We sought information from industry experts who had insight in this area. Analysis and Results The C4 four-firm concentration ratio of .880 indicates that there are only a few firms who produce most of the industry’s output. The heavyweight industry is highly concentrated. Most of this industry’s output is produced by Harley Davidson, Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki. The Herfindahl-Hirschman Index (HHI) is 3,586 out of 10,000. This suggests that there are multiple firms in the industry who consume a considerable part of the market share. The top four firms account for almost 40% of the market. This number would deter an investor when considering a possible merger. Demand and Pricing Structure/Lerner Index The Lerner Index for a Harley Davidson is .25 and the mark-up is 1.3. HD charges a price 25% over the marginal cost or 1.3 times the actual marginal cost. In other words, for each dollar paid from the consumer towards the purchase of a new motorcycle, $.25 is markup. Market Structure Harley Davidson (HD) Motorcycles have many different aspects that contribute to the market structure, specifically the classification of motorcycles by size, the number of firms in the market both national and international, brand equity merchandising which includes entry to the apparel, accessories and licensing markets, barriers to entry and various merger attempts in the past. HD Motorcycles are classified into heavyweight classes such as Touring, Custom, or Sportster. In 2011 Touring motorcycle accounted for 92,002 bikes out of a total of 233,117 bikes sold for Harley Davidson (Harley Davidson Inc., 2012). Second leading in sales were Custom bikes at 91,459 bikes (Harley Davidson Inc., 2012). Overall, Harley Davidson sold 152,180 units in the United States and 80,937 units internationally for FY 2011 (Harley Davidson, Inc., 2012). In international markets Harley Davidson sold 83,505 units compared to 151,683 units in the United States (Harley Davidson, Inc., 2012). Outside of the United States, sales in Europe and surrounding regions were the second largest region for Harley Davidson with 44,340 units sold in 2011 (Harley Davidson, Inc. 2012). Units sold in the Asian Region came in third at 21,416 units, and the least number of units sold for Harley Davidson was in the Latin American Region, at 7,247 units. All regions saw an increase in the number of units sold from 2010 to 2011 but the United States still remains responsible for 68% of total units sold (Harley Davidson, Inc., 2012). In 2012 HD experienced continued growth as they sold 145,391 units globally in the first 6 months; this is a 9.3% increase from the year before. Retail sales also increased by 12% in the US with a 16.5% increase in Asia/Pacific and a 58% in Latin America (Harley Davidson, Inc., 2013). Harley Davidson has seen steady growth in recent years. Harley Davidson has not always sustained yearly growth. As the economy was slowing slipping during the recession of 2008, Harley Davidson was forced to make some decisions in order to survive. In 2009 Harley Davidson announced they would discontinue the Buell Motorcycle brand from their line to focus all of their resources on producing their primary products in order for Harley Davidson to stay afloat (Crowe, 2009). In 1994 Harley Davidson became a 49% owner in Buell Motorcycle Company, a company that was founded by a former Harley Davidson engineer, Erik Buell (Autoevolution, 2013). In 1998, four years after entering business together Harley Davidson purchased an additional 49% of Buell Motor Company leaving the creator with only 2% ownership (Autoevolution, 2013). Harley Davidson would continue operating with Buell motorcycle brand for the next eleven years creating over 17 models of innovative motorcycles, however in 2009, as profits decreased, HD made a decision to end business with Buell. In 2008, during these same difficult economic times, Harley Davidson acquired an Italian motorcycle company MV Agusta for $109 million hoping to increase sales and market expansion overseas in an area dominated by Japanese competitors (Barrett, 2010). Shortly after acquisition the market tanked and Harley Davidson had recorded $162 million in losses with the MV Agusta line (Crowe, 2009). The relationship lasted just over a year before Harley Davidson decided to sell the brand in 2009, at the same time it discontinued its relationship with Buell. Finally, accessories and licensing sales is another segment of the market heavily dominated by Harley Davidson. During the economy crash while bike sales slowed revenue generated from the sales of apparel and merchandise helped to contribute to the overall bottom line for Harley Davidson. In 2012 $69.3 million was generated from the sales of general merchandise trademarked as â€Å"MotorClothes† was up 12.8% from FY 2011 (Harley Davidson Inc., 2012). Summary and Conclusion Although Harley Davidson dominates the market in the United States, it has been the smallest in Europe and the 4th in Asia/Pacific region which is dominated by Japanese brands. One reason for Harley’s smaller market share in the Europe and Asia region is that the company cannot produce enough motorcycles to meet the demand and its prices tend to be higher than competitive models. Shortages of Harleys lead many consumers to purchase competitive bikes as there are 2-year waiting lists for some Harley models (â€Å"Company spotlight: Harley-Davidson†). This would lead us to believe that Harley Davidson acts as a leader in a Stackelberg Oligopoly as it chooses its level of output in the market. In the United States Harley Davidson is one of a few firms that create motorcycles for touring or cruising. Harley Davidson produces differentiated products and remains the leader in selling them. Competitor firms such as Honda and Yamaha sell a significantly smaller number of motorcycles in the US markets compared to Harley Davidson. Barriers to entry have been exemplified by companies such as Polaris and Triumph who have tried to enter the market but remain at 2-3% of market share. Market Percentage In United StatesUnits Sold (in K units)Revenue (in M $) Harley Davidson57%161$2,500 Honda17%48$744 Kawasaki9%25$587 Yamaha5%14$217 Other12%34$527 References Autoevolution. (2013). Buell Brand History. Retrieved from http://www.autoevolution.com/moto/buell/history/ Barrett, R. (August, 2010). Harley Davidson takes beating on MV Agusta. Retrieved from http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/business/100759404.html Company Spotlight: Harley-Davidson Motor Company. (2006). MarketWatch: Global Round-up, 5(10), 14-19. Crowe, P. (November, 2009). Harley Davidson and Buell – Unfinished Business. Retrieved from http://thekneeslider.com/harley-davidson-and-buell-unfinished-business/ DATAMONITOR: Harley-Davidson, Inc. (2011). Harley-Davidson, Inc. SWOT Analysis, 1-9. Delmont, J. (2013). LEANING INTO THE CURVE. Dealernews, 49(1), 20. Harley Davidson, Inc. (January, 2012). Harley Davidson Earnings, Retail Motorcycle Sales Shows Continued Strength. Retrieved from http://investor.harley davidson.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=87981&p=irol-newsarticle&ID=1651657 James B. Kelleher, R. (2013, June 30). Harley-Davidson looks beyond the aging white male. St. Paul Pioneer Press (MN) M.L. Johnson The Associated, P. (2013, June 10). Stripped-down Harley-Davidson rebounds from recession. Charleston Gazette (WV). Motorcycle Daily (August, 2010). Victory Motorcycle First Ride. Retrieved from http://www.motorcycledaily.com/2010/08/2011-victory-motorcycles-md-first-ride/ Motorcycle USA. (February, 2008). Victory Motorcycle History. Retrieved from http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/690/2587/Motorcycle-Article/Victory-Motorcycle-History.aspx Muller, J. (2013). Return of the Indian. Forbes, 191(1), 36-38. (2013, February 14). StockCall Study on Polaris Industries and Harley-Davidson: Recreational Vehicle Companies Raise Dividends. PR Newswire Europe.

Evaluate the effectiveness of the responsive regulation model with reference to the regulatory powers and responses available under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. The WritePass Journal

Evaluate the effectiveness of the responsive regulation model with reference to the regulatory powers and responses available under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. Introduction Evaluate the effectiveness of the responsive regulation model with reference to the regulatory powers and responses available under the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. ), 41 Common Law World Review 1. Case Law Esso Petroleum Co Ltd v Harper’s Garage (Stourport) Ltd [1968] AC 269 Lloyd Shuhfabrik Meyer Co GmbH v Klijsen Handel BV [1999] ETMR 690 Lloyds Bank v Bundy [1974] 3 WLR 501 Macaulay v Scroeder Publishing Co Ltd   [1974] 1 WLR 1308 (HL) Office of Fair Trading v Purely Creative Ltd and Others [2011] EWHC 106 (Ch) Tiscali UK Ltd v British Telecommunications Plc [2008] EWHC 3129 (QB) [1] F Sudweeks and C T Romm., Doing Business on the Internet Opportunities and Pitfalls with 39 Figures (United States: Springer, Business Economics) 9. [2] [1999] ETMR 690 [3] P Stokes., ‘New OFT Powers in the Credit Clamp-Down’ (2005) 155 New Law Journal 236, Issue 7164. [4] [1974] 1 WLR 1308 (HL) [5] [1968] AC 269 [6] [1974] 3 WLR 501 [7] M J Trebilcock., ‘The Doctrine of Inequality of Bargaining Power: Post-Benthamite Economics in the House of Lords’ (1976) 26 University of Toronto Law Journal 4, 359. [8] S Brown., Protection of the Small Business as Credit Consumer: Paying Lip Service to Protection of the Vulnerable or Providing a Real Service to the Struggling Entrepreneur?’ (2012), 41 Common Law World Review 1, 59. [9] Office of Fair Trading., ‘Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008’ (2008) Information for Businesses on the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations, oft.gov.uk/business-advice/treating-customers-fairly/protection [Accessed 13 April, 2014].

How to Work With a Recruiter and Build a Lasting Relationship

How to Work With a Recruiter and Build a Lasting Relationship Chances are, at some point in your career, you’re going to need a recruiter. It’s best not to attack them out of the blue when you’re at your most desperate. Instead, try to keep in mind that recruiters are human beings too. Try building a relationship that way, rather than being a job-sucking vampire. Also keep in mind there are different kinds of recruiters. Figure out first if you’re dealing with someone salaried who does this all day every day, or whether you’re dealing with someone who works only on commission. Tailor your needs to match theirs, and vice versa.Here is your 10-step plan to building a good relationship with a recruiter.1. Start with â€Å"the talk†Your recruiter should open your working relationship by asking you a bunch of questions: who you are, where you are, what you’ve been doing, your strengths, your weaknesses, your goals, etc. The more they know about you, the better they can help put you in a good position- both for you and for the company.2. Know thyselfDon’t recruit a recruiter if you don’t already know what you want and need. Figure out what you want to do and be when you grow up before you start soliciting the services of a professional. Make sure that every job they put you up for is one you’d be glad to take.3.  Have all your documents readyGet your ducks in a row before making the call. Up-to-date resume, updated LinkedIn profile, a tasteful and professional headshot, a website, samples of your work, etc. And then go in with the list of companies or titles you’d like to aim for.4. Don’t be needyYou’re not in a position to make demands. The recruiter is not â€Å"working for† you. Hopefully you’ll both come to a mutually advantageous outcome, but your chances of this go down the more you play the diva. Know your place in the food chain, make life easy on your recruiter, and things will turn out right.5. Ask for tipsIf you r recruiter knows a company well, feel free to ask for tips before you interview. There might be some very valuable information to be gleaned that you couldn’t get from the usual pre-interview research session.  6. Think about your salary historyYou aren’t required to share this with your recruiter. But they can (and should) ask. And it might be useful for you both to be on the same page when it comes time to figuring out which applications fit you best.7.  Know the ins and outs of industry salaryIf you want to go for a pay increase, make sure you’ve done your homework and know exactly what the range is for your position or your field. If you’re really being underpaid, you can walk into a meeting with stats.8. Don’t be a pushoverSome recruiters do work entirely on commission. If they don’t place people that month, they don’t pay rent. Don’t let yourself get shoe-horned into a position that isn’t right for you just to please your recruiter. It is okay to say no and push for something more appropriate.9. Hold onto the good onesA good recruiter, with whom you have a fruitful working relationship, is a thing of beauty. Hold onto this relationship with both hands. Trust and goodwill are not to be taken for granted. And they aren’t always the norm.10. Give backIf you get the job, make sure to thank your recruiter. A thank you card goes a long way towards showing your appreciation and bolstering good will all around. And keep in touch! You never know when you might need your recruiter’s services again.

Causal Argument Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Causal Argument Paper - Essay Example The deaths have dropped by 1.8 percent in men and 1.6 percent in women each year. Several causes are attributed to the decrease in the rate of cancer in the United States of America. In this paper, I discuss three causes that have led to the decrease of cancer rates in U.S., which include life changes, change in diagnostic and treatment related aspects and sensitization and awareness programs. The most notable cause of decrease in the number of cancer related illnesses in the U.S is the change in lifestyle of Americans. Today, cancer has been attributed to unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise, more consumption of alcohol and smoking. The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) asserts that about 300 people out of 100,000 people in America develop cancer each year. (American Cancer Society 3) This means that the U.S ranks as the seventh country with the highest number of cancer diseases in the whole world. These numbers were compiled using the World Health Organization†™s estimates. AICR also indicates that the U.S is the tenth country in terms of cancers in men and eighth in terms of cancers in women. Because of the realization of the fact that cancers occur because of the lifestyle people lead, many have decided to change their lifestyles. MedicineNet states, â€Å"Behavioral, lifestyle, and environmental factors contribute to cancer. Cancer prevention involves modifying these factors to decrease cancer risk† (MedicineNet). Many people in the U.S check into fitness facilities or have fitness equipment in their houses that they use to exercise in the morning or evening, or at their appropriate time. Others choose to run distances in order to keep fit. In addition, it has been reported that the smoking rate among Americans has dropped significantly. In addition to this, most people have started eating healthily for instance by consuming less red meat and more whole grains and vegetables that are high in fiber content that helps in keeping a healthy weight. Consuming more fruits and nuts as well as fish and moderation of alcohol consumption has contributed to the reduction in the rates of cancer in the U.S. All these issues are considered as a manifestation of lifestyle change by Americans and have helped in the decrease of cancer cases. However, this is not to say that all people have changed their lifestyles, but the majority who have, experience less risks (MedicineNet). The second cause of the reduction in the rate of cancer cases in the U.S is the change in diagnostic and treatment related issues. This cause is especially tied to certain types of cancers such as breast cancer. It is noteworthy to indicate that breast cancer has been the leading cause of deaths in women, in the United States, in terms of the deaths caused by cancer. The high cases of breast cancer especially in European countries have been attributed to the high prevalence of reproductive factors that are linked to early menarche, late child bear ing, and use of menopausal hormone therapy, fewer pregnancies and increased screening through mammography. However, DeSantis states, â€Å"Breast cancer incidence rates in the United States have decreased since the early 2000s largely due to reduction in the use of menopausal hormone therapy† (Jemal and DeSantis. 1896). Other factors include reduction in the use of mammography and the decrease in the number of preclinical cases found

Answering the Question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Answering the Question - Essay Example The industry must have some factors that may attract the investors. Banks is a quick option to raise start-up capital in collateral presence, but the concept is different in the cases of venture capitalists. The investors in ventures scrutinize the company and asses it growth potential, whether there is a chance of whooping great profits within a short time. In short, the company or business idea must have some great market potential in it. Secondly, its remains fundamental option to put self in the investors shoes. Investors are keen and quick to invest in a company with an assuring management team, growing company with a future. Therefore, a business plan must have a clear indicator of the company’s success elements. The entrepreneur must demonstrate full awareness of the target audience. Any good business idea will always have an aspiring investor willing to cash in his resources. Investors vary in their characteristics. Some analyse possibility of assumption control, executive positions, degree of risks and company maturity. The entrepreneur must be aware of the portfolios and profiles of such investors, and this can be made possible through consistent research. Moreover, the business plan and specifically the executive summary dictate the path the business is likely to take. It does establish a close connection between the potential investor and the business (Choe, pg. 45). No confidential information should be added up in a business plan. The plan should be a summation of not more than five pages, articulating the growth strategies, marketing strategies, definition of the products, funds requirements and market entry criteria. Furthermore, to counter the aspiring investor’s inquisitiveness, explain the team one is working with, financial projections, target clients, major competitors, and strategies to outdo the competitors, usage the profits raised and other

Persecution of Muslims in Burma Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Persecution of Muslims in Burma - Essay Example She remained under house arrest for almost 21 years. However, she was released in 2010 and everybody shifted their focus from Burmese politics to other matters. Burma again caught the attention of humanists all over the world recently because of the ongoing ethnic violence against the minority Muslims by the government and the Buddhists. Majority of the people in Burma are Buddhists even though Muslims constitute a substantial portion of Burmese population. â€Å"The Muslim minority in Myanmar mostly consists of the Rohingya people and the descendants of Muslim immigrants from India and China, as well as descendants of earlier Arab settlers† (Persecution of Muslims in Burma, 2012). It should be noted that financial abilities of majority of the Muslims in Burma are better than the majority Buddhists. This is because of their prominence in business and trades. Buddhists are not at all interested in watching the minority Muslims gaining progress in Burmese politics and business. As a result of that they started violence against Rohingya people to expel them from Burmese territories. â€Å"Credible reports available online suggest that â€Å"It began on 3rd June 2012 when 11 Muslims were killed by the Burmese Army and the Buddhist mobs after bringing them down from a bus† (Hyderi, 2012). Since then hundreds of Muslims forced to sacrifice their lives in front of the fury generated by the Buddhists. One of the most surprising fact about this violence is the stand taken by the humanist and Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Even though neutral observers all over the world expected Aung to condemn this incidents, to their utmost surprise, she justified these massacres. â€Å"Myanmar Noble Peace Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi says she will not back the minority of Rohingya Muslims that have been persecuted and killed by the majority Buddhists† (Myanmar's Suu Kyi says she can not back Rohingya Muslims, 2012). This paper analyses the details of t he prosecutions of Muslims in Burma. Why prosecutions of Muslims in Burma are happening? â€Å"The Myanmar government and its majority population refuse to recognize Rohingya Muslims as citizens and label the minority of about 800,000 as illegal immigrants from neighbouring Bangladesh, an impoverished state that has shown no willingness to help the Rohingyas† (Myanmar's Suu Kyi says she cannot back Rohingya Muslims, 2012). It is a fact that there are plenty of Muslim states in the proximity of Burma. Pakistan and Bangladesh are Muslim dominated countries whereas India’s northern state Kashmir is also a Muslim dominated state. People from these Muslim states are crossing the borders of Burma and settling in Burma. This process started in the past and continued until recent times. As in the case of other countries, the internal resources are getting reduced in Burma also because of the over exploitation and population growth. Burmese people or the Buddhists do believe th at the illegal immigrants or the Muslims are looting their resources. That is why they started violence against the Muslims recently. They argue that Burma is for Burmese people or for Buddhists; not for illegal immigrants or Muslims. Majority of the Burmese people and the administration believe that all the Muslim population in Burma are illegal immigrant

The Basic Tourism System Tourism Essay

The Basic Tourism System Tourism Essay Fennell defined tourism as the interrelated system that includes tourists and the associated services that are provided and utilized facilities, attractions, transportation and accommodation to aid in their movement (Fennell, 1999). 2. Tourism Defined Tourism, according to the Oxford dictionary, is the theory and practice of touring or travelling for pleasure. According to Leiper (1979) the foundations of tourism are thought to have Greek origins, with the term describing a circle, reflecting a key component of tourism, returning to the point of departure (Leiper, 1979: 391). The Leipers model which is also known as the basic tourism system is shown in the figure 1. Figure 1. The Basic Tourism System Source: Leiper (1995) Leiper.N. (2004) Tourism Management (3rd Edn) Frenchs Forest: Pearson p.53 A tourist, as defined by the World Tourism Authority is someone who moves away from home on a temporary or short-term basis for at least 24 hours and less than a year, it can be internal movements within a country (domestic tourism) or going to another country (international tourism) (Law, 2002: 2). McIntosh (1977) described tourism as the science, art and business of attracting and transporting visitors, accommodating them and graciously catering to their needs and wants (McIntosh and Goeldner, 1977: ix). Today, tourism is one of the worlds largest and fastest expanding industries. In 2010, the overall global tourism export exceeded US$ 1 trillion (World Tourism Organization, 2011). Tourism exports are accountable for 30% of the worlds commercial exports and as a category ranks fourth in size after fuels, chemicals and automotive products (World Tourism Organization, 2011). 2.1 Relationship between Tourism and Transportation Transport has a direct connection with the tourism industry. Progression in transportation technology has helped a lot to form the modern tourism industry we are evolving today. Since the beginning of time, people have been traveling by various modes. Tourism and transportation are inexorably linked (McIntosh et al, 1995). Without the element of transport there is by definition, no tourism. This means that, although transport contributes for only a part of the tourism business, without it there is no tourism business. However, transport is essential not only to tourism, it is also essential to the economy and indeed to society (Lockwood and Medlik, 2003). For that when we think of tourism we think of people who travels for main purpose of visiting ,that is, a particular place for sightseeing, visiting friends and relatives, taking a vacation and having a good time (Goeldner et al, 2009). These visitors will use all forms of transportation available. Furthermore, tourism is the entire world industry of travel, hotels, transportation, and all other components, including promotion that caters for the needs and wants of travelers (McIntosh et al, 1995). Thus, tourism can be seen as a whole range of individuals, businesses, organizations and places which works together in some way to deliver a travel experience (Leiper, 1979). In accordance with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism is the worlds largest industry surpassing autos, steel, electronics, and agriculture (McIntosh et al, 1995). Tourism set off important indirect development effects that improve the quality of life of citizens and enhance a countrys overall economic prospects. Crouch and Ritchie (2000) interestingly summarized (Figure 2) the various factors that together make the attractiveness of a tourist destination experience. Furthermore, they emphasized on the importance of the service infrastructure layer, which includes transport services, in the tourist destination experience. The destinations general infrastructure services in this category in fact represent one of the most important factors. The tourism phenomenon relies heavily on public utilities and infrastructural support. Tourism planning and development would not be possible without roads, airports, harbors, electricity, sewage, and potable water. The infrastructural dimension is thus a necessary element for tourism development and the factors below are all basic elements for attracting visitors to a destination. Kaul (1985) also recognizes the importance of infrastructure, more specifically transport as an essential component of successful tourism development meaning that it encourages the creation of new attractions and the growth of existing ones. Figure 2: The tourist destination experience Source: Crouch and Ritchie (2000) Transportation considered as one of the four main categories of tourism (transportation, accommodation, food and beverage services and other tourism goods and services). Dwyer and Forsyth, (1993) said that transport activities are fundamental for tourism because they provide the connection between generating and destination regions and the ability for tourists to move around the destination, that is, by making use of inland transportation services. The transport industry is also recognized as a central factor in destination development. Transportations included items such as ships, airplanes, buses, trains, limousines, taxis (Nariida et al, 2009), car traveling, (Rodrigue et al, 2009), cog railroads, aerial tramways, and similar passenger transportation facilities. Any and all of these modes may be relevant for tourism or recreational travel. Recreational facilities can include parks, stadiums, sporting facilities, and beaches. Furthermore, tourism sites are attractions for tourists as well as local residents and may include recreational facilities as well as cultural attractions (such as historical, musical, or educational facilities). Each type of recreational or tourism facility can have special and specific transportation needs (Petraglia and Weisbrod, 2004). Car traveling is usually an independent mean of transport. The driver is the one who decides where, when and how he is going to get to a destination. It is usually cheaper since roads fees are not directly paid but rather from taxes. It is the only transportation mode that does not require transfers, in the sense that the whole journey, from door to door can be achieve without even stopping (Rodrigue et al, 2009). Consumers choose cars based primarily on convenience and comfort (remote door openers, navigation systems, sound systems and cup holders) rather than maximum speed (Litman, 2007). Improving the quality of alternative modes is important for attracting discretionary travelers and therefore redu cing traffic problems such as congestion, accidents and pollution emissions (Litman, 2008). Ships as we know water travel is a major of tourism and contributes considerably to the development of travel as well as airplanes. Airplanes such as (Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Royal Jordanian) providing the seats which an individual traveler, business person or tour operator may purchase. On the other hand, rail travelers worldwide often prefer rail travel, (McIntosh et al, 1995). The operators of high-speed rail services find reliability and punctuality important factors that contribute to higher market shares (Jorritsma, 2009). Recently, train operating companies are delivering acceptable (and contractual) standards of service delivery in terms of information, comfort, cleanliness and quality of service on trains and at stations (Lyons et al, 2011) which are very important elements that tourists will consider in their decision process. High Speed Rail advantages are many, including getting people quickly and comfortably (Kinstlinger, 2009). But in Mauritius since we do not have tr ains therefore we will not lay much more emphasis on them. Consequently, having adequate taxi, limousine services are essential in a tourist area. Ideally, taxis should have removable and washable seat covers so the car always presents a clean appearance to the passenger. Also the taxi driver to make the best impression should show some courtesy by dismounting from the drivers seat and open the door for the passenger. He or she should assist his/ her passengers concerning their luggage or any other stuff and be courteous all times. Training taxi drivers in foreign language would ease communication and therefore create more foreign language ability (McIntosh et al, 1995). Usually, it is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing a service to those who may have no other form of transportation. Therefore, Taxi service is a very important source of demand response transportation in many communities (Ridley, 2006). Moreover, buses are the most likely transit mode, which inten ded for tour use should have large windows, air conditioning, comfortable seats and rest room facilities. Springs or other suspension systems in the coaches should be designed so that the joggling of passenger is kept to a minimum or eliminated. Personnel assigned to buses should be selected for suitable temperament, courtesy and spirit of hospitality (McIntosh et al, 1995). Bus Rapid Transit is considered a more affordable alternative to rail for improving transit service quality and attracting travelers who would otherwise drive on congested urban corridors (VTPI, 2007). Bus organization, bus industry advocates believe that this form of transportation is particularly well suited to certain needs of tourism, especially one way trips of 150 miles or less. Furthermore, rental cars an important aspect of automobile travel is the rental car industry, whose growth has been paralleling or exceeding the growth in air travel. Taxi and Limousine service companies play an increasingly import ant part in tourism. Local transportation companies perform essential services for airlines in servicing departing and arriving passengers as well as providing similar services for bus, rail, and shipping lines (McIntosh et al, 1995). When taking a look at the position occupied by the various modes of passenger transportation one find that air travel dominates long -distance and middle-distance tourism. The nations economy and the tourism industry need a healthy air transportation system. The private automobile dominates for shorter trips and is the most popular means of travel for most domestic journeys. The auto is also very important in regional and international tourism. Affordability, flexibility, and convenience make auto travel the most popular mode of transportation all over the world. Air is the primary competitor to the automobile when it comes to travel, especially for long trips. The advantages of air travel, the quantity of service, speed and comfort must be weighed by travelers against the automobiles advantages of price and accessibility (McIntosh et al, 1995). But in Mauritius since it is an island, it is mainly accessible from air and the sea, therefore this type of competition does not exist. Furthermore, it is important to consider demand and supply when talking about transportation as they are together forming the transport market (Lockwood and Medlik, 2003). Many of the components of the tourist trip for example, transport and accommodation are demands derived from the consumers desire to enjoy what a destination has to offer in terms of things to see and do (Cooper et al, 2008). So, demand and supply are the main components which made up the transportation industry. 2.2 Transport Supply and Demand It is very important for a country to have the most efficient transport system. Efficiency means to say that the transportation system need to satisfy the transport demand for freight and passengers by using the best systems and the most appropriate balance between public and private transport and between modes of transport (For example; rail or road). The objective is to decrease overall transport costs for the collectively including direct costs (operating costs of the rolling stocks, the costs of infrastructure and the costs of time, security and comfort) and indirect costs (such as noise, pollution, accidents etc.) Transport supply can be defined in terms of infrastructures (capacity), services (frequency) and networks (coverage). Capacity is often assessed in static and dynamic terms the number of passengers, volume (for liquids or containerized traffic), or mass (for freight) that can be transported per unit of time and space is commonly used to quantify transport supply (Rodri gue et al, 2009), and these depend on the four basic elements in any transportation system: the way, the terminal, and the vehicle and motive power (Cooper et al, 2008). Transport demand is expressed as transport needs, even if those needs are satisfied, fully, partially or not at all. Similar to transport supply, it is expressed in terms of number of people, volume, or tons per unit of time and space (Rodrigue et al, 2009), other refers it to the amount of mobility and accessibility people would consume under various conditions (ITE, 2003). There is a demand for tourism products and demand for alternative non-tourism products (Lockwood and Medlik, 2003). Tourism demand and non-tourism demand will not only determine whether we travel but also which travel mode we choose, should we decide to travel, and indeed which particular service and carrier we choose. Principal among these features, other than physical transplant, are the following: speed, frequency, comfort, safety, availability, user information, access and price. For each mode is dictated by the weakest element in the system (Cooper et al, 2008). Speed in assessing the value placed, on speed it is important to take account not only of time saved but also of reduced journey time. For most people the ideal is to travel without any perceptible duration of time, not only because it would give up more time for doing other things (including doing nothing) but also because it would remove the many unpleasant aspects of travel that have to be endured when transiting to other places. This mean that we all display a stronger preference for speed and for paying a premium price for speed, than can be explained by the value place on time saved (Lockwood and Medlik, 2003). Transport system performance is often evaluated based on travel speed and distance (Litman, 2008A), some transport system changes intended to increase travel speeds and save travel time tend to reduce other forms of accessibility and increase travel time costs for other users (Victoria Transport Policy Institute, 2011) So, speed is an important feature to consider when t aking about transportation as people are limited in time and since lost time cannot be recovered tourists will rather prefer to have a rapid transportation system while visiting a destination. Frequency is another feature of transport that is to be considered as a good frequency of transport will mean that there is a greater possibility to use transport. But still if a particular route is not profitable there will be an inevitable decrease in the frequency level. Most public service vehicles notably trains, are so large in relation to expected traffic that economic operation can usually be achieved-except on a few high volume routes only by reducing frequencies to levels that are often unacceptable in the marketplace (Lockwood and Medlik, 2003), and for availability. Service availability trends reflect changes in demand, mileage, taxi fares and to a lesser extent transit fares (Consulting, 2000). Therefore frequency and service availability is mainly based on the demand for transportation. Comfort, safety and convenience significantly influence transportation decisions. Consumers choosing a motor vehicle are as likely to decide base on seat comfort and the ease of using navigation systems as on more quantitative factors such as speed, price or fuel efficiency (Litman, 2011). Tourists will travel in a mode of transport in respect to the satisfaction the will get from it and here when taking about comfort, the tourists will somehow benchmark the product available in their own countries so as to choose a mode of transport they will prefer to travel in. Prideaux (2000) argued that if the ability of tourists to travel to preferred destinations is inhibited by inefficiencies in the transport system such as uncompetitive prices or lengthy and uncomfortable journey, the likelihood that they will seek alternative destinations may increase. The quality of information can affect the functional availability and desirability of mobility and accessibility options. For example, motorists need actual and appropriate information on travel routes, roadway conditions (such as when congestion, construction and accidents delay traffic), vehicle services, and the availability and price of parking. Potential transit users need information on transit routes, schedules, fares, comfort factors (such as whether vehicles will have seats or stations will have washrooms), and access to destinations. There are many ways to provide transportation information, including maps, brochures, websites and telephones systems (Litman, 2008A). Also Information centers, welcome centers, and information displays are all ways in which visitors can be informed and guided to use appropriate travel routes and transportation facilities (Petraglia and Weisbrod, 2004). Finally, Price cost are the final essential elements in transport to consider. As the most price-sensitive user of fuel, airlines are again proving to be the first to suffer. In the case of surface transport, the effects are masked by the unfair taxation which so distorts the market that accurate forecasting requires advance knowledge of how politicians are going to tax as well as subsidize the various competing forms of transport (Lockwood and Medlik, 2003). Price is also a very important feature to consider as tourists will look for competitive prices so as to travel. Therefore these are the main features that are considered so as to travel, whether it is a tourist or not. These features are considered by anyone who needs to travel and these features will determine the satisfaction of the customer. Customer satisfaction is the aim of any industry as satisfied customers are more economical to an organisation as they not only generate repeat business but they also recommend the service or product to others. 2.3 Service Quality, Customer Perception and Satisfaction A review of the existing literature indicates a wide variance in the definitions of satisfaction and service quality. The customer could judge the quality a service delivered as good but they may not have had satisfaction from the experience (Randall and Senior, 1996). Crompton and Mackay (1989) acknowledged that satisfaction and service quality are not the same thing, stating, Satisfaction is a psychological outcome emerging from an experience, whereas service quality is concerned with the attributes of the service itself. Parasuraman et al. (1988) agreed but stated that customers use the same criteria to judge both, as they are interrelated. Customer satisfaction can be experienced in diverse situations and interrelated to both goods and services. It is a highly personal assessment that is greatly affected by customer expectations. Satisfaction also is based on the customers experience of both contact with the organization (the moment of truth as it is called in business literature ) and personal outcomes (Mack and Peter, 1989). Hunt (1977) defines satisfaction as a kind of stepping away from an experience and evaluating it. Oliver (1997) notes that satisfaction is the consumers fulfillment response, it is a judgment of a product or service feature, or product or service itself in its ability to provide a pleasurable level of consumption related fulfillment, including levels of under or over fulfillment. Most of service quality writers have considerable difficulty in understanding how customers judge services. One of the original service quality theories is that customers are satisfied when their judgement of the service they have received (perception) equals or exceeds what they expected: Customer Satisfaction Equation Customer Satisfaction (CS) = Perceptions (P) = Expectation (E) Gap analysis theory (Zeithaml et al., 1990) Olivers expectancy disconfirmation (Anderson Fornell, 1994; Olivier 1997) 2.3.1 Customer Expectation Zeithaml et al. (1990) considered that the factors that influence customers formulation of their expectations are word of mouth, personal experience, external communications and past experience. Parasuraman et al. (1988) tried to set customer expectations to context by suggesting that they are what an organisation should offer. So, a customer should expect the product or service to be in a specific standard. C:UsersnathanielDownloadsMGT613_Handouts_(Lecture_1_-_45)_img_55.jpg Figure 3: Basic Perceived Service Quality Model Based on figure 3, a basic perceived service quality model, we can say that the customers will decide whether they is satisfied by matching their expectation of the service to the perception derived from the service experienced. In an attempt to know the customer satisfaction, we must know what is the perception of the customer. 2.3.2 Customer Perception The final part of the customer satisfaction equation is their judgement of the service they have received: their perceptions. Olivier (cited in Taylor, 1997) defined customer perception as a comparison to excellence in service by the customer. It is often considered that customer perceptions of a service are made at the end of a service encounter. Customer perceptions of a service are a complex series of judgement made during and at the end of the experience but are modified by a range of factors including their mood, importance of the encounter. The tourism and leisure industry has to be aware of these elements, especially when designing methods of receiving feedback from customers. Customer satisfaction therefore needs us to think in a holistic manner by considering various factors that can affect it. 2.4 Transportation services in Mauritius. 2.4.1 Air Transportation Mauritius is an island and therefore the main access to the island is the air. The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, the airport of Mauritius, consists of one runway which cover a distance of over 3,047 m. The airport is situated in plaisance nearly the south of the island. Air Mauritius is the name of the national airline of the island. Air Mauritius Limited, doing business as  Air Mauritius, is the  flag carrier  of  Mauritius. The airline is headquartered at the Air Mauritius Centre in Port Louis, Mauritius. The company is the fourth largest carrier in  Sub-Saharan Africa,  and has an important standing in the  European,  African, and  Indian Ocean  region markets; the airline won the 2011 Indian Ocean Leading Airline Prize, making it the seventh year in a row for it to win the award. Out of a five-star ranking, the carriers inflight service is awarded 3 stars by Skytrax. As of July 2011, the Air Mauritius route network consists of 26 destinations in  Africa,  Asia,  Europe, and  Oceania.  Shanghai  became the 26th destination served by the company in early July 2011.  In February 2012, the airline announced the suspension of some non-profitable routes, starting with  Milan,  Melbourne, and  Sydney, effective May 2012. As of April 2012, Air Mauritius has  codeshare agreements  with the various following companies, which are the actual operators on the routes specified: Air France, on the Port Louis-Paris-Port Louis route and on several  European  routes radiating from Paris Emirates, on the Port Louis-DubaÃÆ' ¯-Port Louis route Malaysia Airlines, on some routes radiating from  Kuala Lumpur South African Airways, on the Port Louis-Johannesburg-Port Louis route   The Air Mauritius fleet consists of the following equipment, with an average age of 8.8 years: Mauritius has well organised its air transport so as to reach the markets that it has targeted for the tourism industry development. 2.4.2 Maritime Transport The Maritime transport in Mauritius is mainly focused on cargoes and merchandising. Tourism is not really at stake when talking about maritime transportation but still there are passenger ships which go to Reunion Island, Rodrigues and also Agalega Island. So these ships take tourists to the island. Cruise ships are another way where tourists can visit the island. The CRO (Central Statistics Office) published statistics for the year 2011 where it can be noted that total arrivals by sea included 29,900 cruise travellers (around 14,220 tourists, 5,500 excursionists, 330 Mauritian residents and 9,850 crews) aboard 18 cruise ships, which visited our port during the first nine months of 2011. Therefore we can conclude that there are tourists who travel to Mauritius by sea. 2.4.3 Public Transport The public transport in Mauritius consists mainly of the buses, the taxis and the car rentals. The most usual way of transport for Mauritian people is the bus. Bus is a quite easy way of transport in the island. The two main bus companies in Mauritius are the NTC (National Transport Corporation) and the UBS (United Bus services). These two companies deserve almost every regions of the island. Here is a list of all bus companies in Mauritius; NTC National Transport Corporation UBS United Bus Service RHT Rose Hill Transport TBS Triolet Bus Service IO Individual Operators MBT Mauritian Bus Transport Another way of transport and more comfortable is the taxis. A taxi  is a  mode of transport  that falls between  taxis  and  buses. These  vehicles for hire  are typically smaller than buses and usually take passengers on a fixed or semi-fixed route without timetables, but instead departing when all seats are filled. They may stop anywhere to pick up or drop off passengers. Often found in  developing countries,  the vehicles used as share taxis range from four-seat cars to minibuses.  They are often owner operated. Taxis are found in almost every corner of the towns, cities and villages in Mauritius. These taxis are individually owned as there are no taxi companies in Mauritius. In spite of those the taxis are well maintained and very comfortable. Mauritian taxis do not use a taxi meter even if they have it in their taxis, so it is usual here before entering a taxi to decide of the price before. A taxi driver knows usually all the interesting places of the island and therefore can help the tourists to go to a destination. Car rental can also be a good mode of transport in Mauritius. A car rental agency generally rents  automobiles  for short periods of time (generally ranging from a few hours to a few weeks) for a fee. In Mauritius it has become quite common to rent cars as various car agencies are offering this service now. Below is a list of car rental agencies that are available in Mauritius; Avis Rent Car Ada ABC Car Rental Budget Rent A Car Hertz Easy Drive Rent A Car Europcar National Car Rental In Mauritius these are the main in land public transport that is available for the citizens and also for the tourists. There are also some companies like Mauritour and Summertimes who offer small buses on rent to tourists who come to Mauritius and these buses are mainly for tourists. 2.5 Importance of Public transportation and inland transportation. Khadaroo and Seetanah (2008) link the importance of an effective and accessible transportation system to the length of time any given tourist would stay in one particular area in a destination. They go on to argue that if the ability of a tourist to travel within a preferred destination is hampered by inefficiencies in the transport system, then the tourist, may seek out alternative destinations. In regards to this identification by Khadaroo and Seetanah (2008) transport to and from the airport is viewed as perhaps the most essential element of a tourist city. This linkage plays an important role delivering visitors from the airport to the main area of accommodation, most commonly in the central city. Law (2002) stated that in the absence of such facilities, as with the city of Florence, it can be a deterrent for potential visitors (Law, 2002: 71). Public transport and other inland transportation services, like taxi or rented cars, provide an important role in enhancing accessibility to the various tourism attractions within a city. Meanwhile, Khadaroo and Seetanah (2008) noted that inadequate public transport provision in an urban environment can result in limiting the amount of attractions visited, resulting in negative implications on the potential tourism revenue of a city. This inability to derive maximum benefits with an inefficient transport network was also emphasised by Kaul (1985). Kaul recognised that transport plays an important role in the successful creation and development of new tourist attractions within a city and also regarded transport as a catalyst for many city transformations. Within this recognition was the fact that transport and accessibility were essential for profitable tourist attractions. Leask et al., (2000) also noted the significant connection between tourist attractions and tourism transportation, stating that transport and tourism have a close relationship due to the need for access (Leask et al., 2000: 212). In the past accessibility to attractions has been based primarily on access by private modes, however, by not providing public transport connections, the number of visitors that can reach an attraction are consequently reduced. Gimeno and Vita (2006) also recognised that the easier it is made for tourists to travel between points of interest, the visitor gains more ability to participate in activities, which in turn will generate enhanced tourism revenue for the destination (Gimeno and Vita, 2006: 14). When talking about public transportation and inland transportation, we should also think of who are those tourists who will travel in the p ublic transportation services available in a destination. Lew and Mckercher (2006) noted that tourists have access to four basic modes of transport within a destination personal vehicle, commercial vehicles in organized tours, public transportation and walking. However, conventional public transport system tends to remain majorly inaccessible/ non-preferred mode of transport to tourists for various reasons (Law, 2002): unfamiliarity with the system and the associated risk of entering terra incognita (unknown territory) should they choose the wrong bus route or get off at the wrong stop (Lew and Mckercher, 2006: pp. 408), need for negotiation with the staff in local language and a system design optimized to cater to everyday needs of the local population (Lumsdon, 2006; Thompson Schofield, 2007) Specialised or custom made tourism transport potentially offers a higher level of accessibility to tourists within the destination. While a large segment of such services is covered under tourist packages offered by private operators, there remains a definitive demand for tourism-specific public transport within the destinations. A large segment of tourists choose not to opt for tourist packages due to lack of flexibility in the choice of both tourist spots and lodging, higher costs and a reduced adventure factor. As such intra-destination public transport can become a vital factor in tourists choice of destination and their ability to access their nodes of interest within the destination. These types of tourists will use the transportation services available in the destination to travel by themselves. Therefore in this research I will aim at categorizing the tourists who prefer travelling by them and not to choose a ready-made package for their travelling at the destination. Another important facto