Saturday, August 31, 2019

Australian English

1. Australian English (AusE, AuE, AusEng, en-AU) is the name given to the group of dialects spoken in Australia that form a major variety of the English language. Australian English began to diverge from  British English soon after the foundation of the  Colony of  New South Wales in  1788. The history of Australian English starts with kangaroo (1770) and Captain James Cook’s glossary of local words used in negotiations with the Endeavour River tribes. The language was pidgin. 2. Varieties of Australian English. Most linguists consider there to be three main varieties of Australian English.These are ? Broad; ? General; ? Cultivated Australian English. General Australian English is the  stereotypical variety of Australian English. It is the variety of English used by the majority of Australians and it dominates the accents found in contemporary Australian-made films and television programs. Examples include actors  Russell Crowe, Hugh Jackman,  Nicole Kidman. 3. Broad Australian English is the  archetypal and most recognizable variety. It is familiar to English speakers around the world because of its use in identifying Australian characters in non-Australian  films  and  television  programs.Examples include television personalities  Steve Irwin and  Dame Edna Everage, Pauline Hanson. 3. Cultivated Australian English has many similarities to  British  Received Pronunciation, and is often mistaken for it. Cultivated Australian English is now spoken by less than 10% of the population. Examples include actors  Judy Davis, Robert Hughes,  Geoffrey Rush. 4. The aboriginal vocabulary, which is one of the trademarks of Australian English, included billabong (a waterhole), jumbuck (a sheep), corroboree (an assembly), boomerang (a curved throwing stick), and budgerigar (from budgeree, â€Å"good† and gar, â€Å"parrot†). . The number of Aboriginal words in Australian English is quite small and is confined to the namings of plants (like bindieye and calombo), trees (like boree, banksia, quandong and mallee), birds (like currawong, galah and kookaburra), animals (like wallaby and wombat) and fish (like barramindi). 6. As in North America, when it comes to place-names the Aboriginal influence was much greater: with a vast continent to name, about a third of all Australian place-names are Aboriginal. The Aborigines also adopted words from maritime pidgin English, words like piccaninny and bilong (belong).They used familiar pidgin English variants like talcum and catchum. The most famous example is gammon, an eighteenth-century Cockney word meaning â€Å"a lie†. 7. Non-aboriginal Vocabulary. In the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, the Australian population were either convicts, ex-convicts or of convict descent. The convict argot was called â€Å"flash† language, and James Hardy Vaux published a collection of it in 1812, the New and Comprehensive Vocabulary of the F lash Language. Most of the words and phrases Vaux listed remained confined to convict circles and have not passed in the main stream of Australian English.There are a few exceptions, of which the best known is swag meaning â€Å"a bundle of personal belongings† in standard Australian. Swagman, billy, jumbuck, tucker-bag and coolibah tree are early Australianisms. 8. The roots of Australian English lie in the South and East of England, London, Scotland and Ireland. To take just a few examples, words like corker, dust-up, purler and tootsy all came to Australia from Ireland; billy comes from the Scottish bally, meaning â€Å"a milk pail†. A typical Australianism like fossick, meaning â€Å"to search unsystematically†, is a Cornish word.Cobber came from the Suffolk verb to cob, â€Å"to take a liking to someone†. Tucker is widely used for â€Å"food†. Clobber has Romany roots and is originally recorded in Kent as clubbered up, meaning â€Å"dressed u p†. 9. Some elements of Aboriginal languages, as has already been mentioned, have been incorporated into Australian English, mainly as names for the indigenous flora and fauna (e. g. dingo, kangaroo), as well as extensive borrowings for place names. Beyond that, very few terms have been adopted into the wider language.A notable exception is Cooee (a musical call which travels long distances in the bush and is used to say â€Å"is there anyone there? †). Although often thought of as an Aboriginal word, didgeridoo/didjeridu (a well-known wooden musical instrument) is actually an onomatopoeic term coined by an English settler. 10. Australian English has a unique set of diminutives formed by adding -o or -ie (-y) to the ends of (often abbreviated) words. There does not appear to be any particular pattern to which of these suffixes is used.Examples with the -o ending include abo (aborigine – very offensive), aggro (aggressive), ambo (ambulance office), arvo (afternoo n), avo (avocado), bizzo (business), bottleo (bottle shop/liquor store), compo (compensation), dero (homeless person), devo (deviant/pervert), doco (documentary), evo (evening), fisho (fishmonger), fruito (fruiterer) 11. arbo (garbage collector) vejjo (vegetarian) gyno (gynaecologist), journo (journalist), kero (kerosene), metho (methylated spirits), milko (milkman), Nasho (National Service –military service), reffo (refugee), rego (vehicle registration), Salvo (member of the Salvation Army), servo (service station/gas station), smoko (smoke or coffee/tea break), thingo (thing, whadjamacallit), 2. Examples of the -ie (-y) ending include aggie (student of agricultural science) Aussie (Australian) barbie (barbeque), beautie (beautiful) bikkie (biscuit), bitie (biting insect), blowie (blowfly), bookie (bookmaker), brekkie (breakfast), brickie (bricklayer), Bushie (someone who lives in the bush), chewie (chewing gum), chokkie (chocolate), Chrissie (Christmas), exy (expensive) 13 . reenie (environmentalist), kindie (kindergarten), lippy (lipstick), vedgie (vegetable) mozzie (mosquito), oldies (parents), possie (position), postie (postman), prezzie (present), rellie (sometimes relo – relative), sickie (day off sick from work), sunnies (sunglasses), surfy (surfing fanatic), swaggie (swagman), trackies (track suit), truckie (truck driver), 14. Occasionally, a -za diminutive is used, usually for personal names. Barry becomes Bazza, Karen becomes Kazza and Sharon becomes Shazza. There are also a lot of abbreviations in Australian English without any suffixes. Examples of these are the words beaut (great, beautiful), deli (delicatessen), hoon (hooligan), nana (banana), roo (kangaroo), uni (university) ute (utility truck or vehicle) 15. American Influence.In the middle of the century, the hectic years of the gold rush in Australia drew prospectors from California to the hills of New South Wales, bringing with them a slew of Americanisms to add to the Aust ralian lexicon. The invasion of American vogue words marked the beginning of tension in Australia between the use of British English and American English. 16. Should an Australian say biscuit or cookie, nappy or diaper, lorry or truck? The answer seems to be that Australian English, like its British ancestor (and like Canadian English), borrows freely according to preference, but on the other hand the British influence is much greater in Australia than in Canada. So Australians get water from a tap not a faucet, but tend to ride in elevators as well as lifts. 17. Their cars run on petrol not gas, but they drive on freeways not motorways.American influence is evident in such words as caucus (in politics), sedan (BrE saloon), station wagon (BrE estate car), truck (BrE lorry), high school (BrE secondary school). On the other hand British English influence is evident in class (AmE grade), cinema (AmE movies), boot (AmE trunk). With foodstuffs Australian English tends to be more closely related again to the British vocabulary, e. g. biscuit for the American cookie. 18. However, in a few cases such as zucchini, snow pea and eggplant Australian English uses the same terms as the Americans, whereas the British use the equivalent French terms courgette, mange-tout and do not care whether eggplant or aubergine is used.This is possibly due to a fashion that emerged in mid-nineteenth century Britain of adopting French nouns for foodstuffs, and hence the usage changed in Britain while the original terms were preserved in the (ex-)colonies. (For some uncertain reason, Australia uses the botanical name capsicum for what both the British and the Americans would call (red or green) pepper. ) Finally, the oddest of all borrowings from America is kangaroo court. 19. Australian English Worldwide. In the 1980s Australian English has hit the international headlines. Films like Gallipoli and My Brilliant Career have won critical acclaim and found large audiences in the United Kingd om and the United States. The â€Å"New Australians† (Turks, Yugoslavs, Sri Lankans and Italians) influenced on the language (pizza, kebab).There is not and cannot be any doubt that there is a great respect for Australian English in the English-speaking world. 20. [pic] 21. Australian Vocabulary These are the best-known Australianisms in the English-speaking world. [pic] 22. [pic] 23. Australia, Great Britain, and America all speak the same language, but you simply have to visit each country to realize that, while they all speak English, it is far from a universal language. The English spoken in Great Britain, America, and Australia has many similarities, but a surprising number of differences as well. The main reason for this is the vast distance between each country.Here are some of the common differences you will find between these three versions of English. Pronunciation between the three types of English is very dissimilar. †¢ In American English the â€Å"r† at the end of the word almost always affects its pronunciation, whereas in Australian and British English the â€Å"r† is often silent. 24. Also, the emphasis placed on the syllables of the word varies from British, Australian, and American English. In Britain, the world adult has the emphasis on the first syllable, whereas in America it is placed on the second half of the word. Australian English is unique in the fact that many words have sounds that are eliminated. †¢ Instead of saying good day, the Australian speaker says g'day.The main pronunciation difference between the three, however, is the pronunciation of the vowel sounds. 25. Differences in Spelling Not only do the three types of English sound different, but they are also spelled differently. In some ways, the spelling reflects the difference in pronunciation. o For instance, Americans use the world airplane to refer to a flying mode of transportation. o In Great Britain, the word is aeroplane, and it is pr onounced with an audible â€Å"o† sound. o Another common difference in spelling is aluminium, which is the UK spelling, and aluminum, the US spelling. Again, the difference shows the difference in pronunciation of the two words.In this instance the Australian spelling is the same as the UK spelling. 26. Another common spelling difference between UK English and American English is the use of -our verses -or at the end of the word. ? For instance, in the UK, colour, flavour, honour, and similar words all end in -our, whereas in America they are spelled with the -or ending (color, flavor, honor). In Australia, the -our spelling is almost universal. 27. Similarly, the endings -re and -re are different between the different English dialects. In America you will go to the theater or fitness center, whereas in Britain you will visit the theatre or fitness centre. Again, Australian English follows the British pattern. 28.There are other common spelling differences as well. For insta nce, in American English, words that sound as though they end with an -ize will always end in an -ize. However, in UK English, they typically end in ise (i. e. realize, realise). Also, British English often doubles consonants when adding a suffix when American English does not, such as in the world traveller. 29. Interestingly, the three languages also have distinct vocabularies. For instance, the â€Å"hood† of a car is called the â€Å"bonnet† in Australia and Britain. Australia has several terms that are not used in either of the other countries, such as â€Å"bloke† (man) and â€Å"arvo† (afternoon).Also, Australians use some phrases that are combinations of British and American terms, such as â€Å"rubbish truck. † Rubbish is commonly used in the UK, and truck is commonly used in America. 30. Grammar As with American English, but unlike British English, collective nouns are almost always singular in construction, i. e. the government was unab le to decide as opposed to the government were unable to decide. Shan't and the use of should as in I should be happy if†¦ , common in British English, are almost never encountered in Australian English. 31. While prepositions before days may be omitted in American English, i. e. She resigned Thursday, they must be retained in Australian English: She resigned on Thursday. Ranges of dates use to, i. e.Monday to Friday, as with British English, rather than Monday through Friday in American English. 32. River follows the name of the river in question as in North America, i. e. Brisbane River, rather than the British convention of coming before the name, e. g. River Thames. When saying or writing out numbers, and is inserted before the tens and units, i. e. one hundred and sixty-two, as with British practice. However Australians, like Americans, are more likely to pronounce numbers such as 1200 as twelve hundred, rather than one thousand two hundred. As with American English, on th e weekend and studied medicine are used rather than the British at the weekend and read medicine. [pic] [pic]

Friday, August 30, 2019

Navratri

Navratri is one of the most significant and awaited Hindu festival. The zeal and excitement of the festival is evident all over India way before the actual festival starts. Navratri celebrations in India are grand and everyone wants to be a part of them.Meaning of NavratriNavratri literally means ‘Nine Nights’ in the Sanskrit language. There are various myths associated with the festival and different religions and communities in India have a different way to celebrate the festival but the festival is primarily dedicated to goddess Durga (symbol of power) who is worshipped in nine forms during the nine days of Navratri. The festivities last for nine long days and people indulge in prayers & dancing and singing among other things to appease the goddess Durga.Navratri in IndiaThe Navratri celebrations in India also vary from state to state. Each state has something unique of its own to add to the celebrations of the festival. The Navratri celebrations in the state of Gujar at, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Kerala and Kashmir are popular all across India for being reflective of true Indian culture through traditional dances and pujas (prayers) among numerous other activities.If you wish to travel to any place in India to enjoy the fun and frolic of an Indian festival, then the best option would be the time of Navratri. The interesting rituals associated with the festival contribute to making the celebration a fascinating one.Why is Navratri celebrated?Navratri is celebrated in the honor of goddess Durga who is an impersonation of Shakti (power). The festival celebrates femininity in all its forms. There are several myths associated with the festival incuding the killing of a demon named Mahishasura at the hands of goddess Durga.Which places in India are famous for Navratri celebration?Indian states like Gujarat, West Bengal, Kerala, Kashmir, Mysore and Tamil Nadu are popular for their Navratri celebrations. The Garba of Gujarat and Durga Puja of West Benga l are highlights of Navratri festival in India.What should one eat during the Navratri fast?There are specific food items that one should eat during the Navratri fast. Fasting during Navratri was never as good as it is nowadays. Sabudana, kuttu, Singhade, Aloo (potato) are some of the foods which are consumed in different forms by those who are fasting.What are the main events of Navratri?Goddess Durga is worshipped on all the nine days of the festival in different forms. Different states in India have their own way of celebrating the festival. In West Bengal Durga Puja is held in the last four days of Navratri where larger than life pandals of Durga are decorated and people wear new clothes on each day. Similarly in Gujarat people have dandiya and garba nights where they dance and celebrate.What are the colours of Navratri?There is a custom of wearing a different colour on each of the days of Navratri especially in Gujarat and Maharashtra. The idol of Goddess Durga is also decorate d in different colour of clothes on all days.How is the Navratripooja performed?After taking an early morning bath, a kalash (pitcher) is filled with water and a moli is tied around it. Then the deity is worshipped with vermilion (sindoor), Kumkum, rice, flowers, beetle leaves, beetle nuts, Gulal among other things. The ghee is added to the burning clay pot of fire and people sing Aarti or praises of goddess along.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Occupational Stress suffered by Anesthesiologists Essay

Occupational Stress suffered by Anesthesiologists - Essay Example In which case, physical and emotional stress are natural and cannot be avoided (Alves, 2005). This situation is called occupational stress. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services (1999), occupational stress refers to the unsafe physical and emotional responses that surface when the abilities, resources or needs of a worker do not match the latter’s abilities. In other words, this is felt when the demands on a worker become too much for such worker’s ability to fulfill those demands (Lazarus, 1991). In a survey conducted by the US Department of Health and Human Services (1999), 40% of the American workers see their jobs as enormously stressful which made the healthcare expenditures of US increased to as much as 50% (Sauter & Hurrell, 1999). According to the study of Dickson (1996), the main sources of occupational stress for anesthesiologists were overload in work, professional relationship and lack of control. The study of Nyssen (2003), on the same note, identified the lack of control over work, risks and time factors, the lack of supervision, and communication within the organization, particularly with the surgeons, as the major sources of stress for anesthesiologists (Nyssen et al, 2003). The studies conformed with the study of Kinzl (2007) that lack of control, especially for female anesthesiologists, is really a major contributor of stress. A different set of factors have been elicited during the ASA Annual Meeting in Orlando Florida in October 1998 wherein the attendees of the ASA Resident Component House of Delegates responded to an anonymous questionnaire about stress factors. However, it has to be noted that the respondents are anesthesiologists undergoing the residency programs. The answers identified were t he insufficient support given by the residency program, lack of contentment with the teaching given during the residency program, the lack of time for reading and the small chance to recreate

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Marks & Spencers Dividend Policy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Marks & Spencers Dividend Policy - Essay Example This paper evaluates the different ways a firm pay out cash to its shareholders such as dividend payout, stock repurchase and new stock dividends as practiced by Marks & Spencer. The first step toward understanding dividend policy is to recognize that the phrase means different things to different people. A firm's decisions about dividends are often mixed up with other financing and investment decisions. Some firms pay low dividends because management is optimistic about the firm's future and wishes to retain earnings for expansion. In this case the dividend is a by-product of the firm's capital budgeting decision. Another firm might finance capital expenditures largely by borrowing. This releases cash for dividends. In this case the firm's dividend is a by-product of the borrowing decision. There is one possible source of the firm's investment outlays and borrowing which is an issue of stock. Thus dividend policy is defined as the trade-off between retaining earnings on the one hand and paying out cash and issuing new shares on the other. (Brealey & Myers, 2003) There are many firms that pay dividends and also issue stock from time to time. They could avoid the stock issues by paying lower dividends. Many other firms restrict dividends so that they do not have to issue shares. They could issue stock occasionally and increase the dividend. Both groups of firms are facing the dividend policy trade-off. In short, companies can hand back cash to their shareholders either by paying a dividend or by buying back their stock. (Carlson, 2001) Most companies pay a regular cash dividend each quarter, but occasionally this regular dividend is supplemented by a one-off extra or special dividend. Dividends are not always in the form of cash. Frequently companies also declare stock dividends. Both stock dividends and splits increase the number of shares, but the company's assets, profits, and total value are unaffected. The distinction between the two is technical. A stock dividend is shown in the accounts as a transfer from retained earnings to equity capital, whereas a split is shown as a reduction in the par value of each share. (DeAngelo, DeAngelo, & Skinner, Special Dividends and the Evolution of Dividend Signaling, 2000) Many companies have automatic dividend reinvestment plans (DRIPs). Often the new shares are issued at a 5 percent discount from the market price; the firm offers this sweetener because it saves the underwriting costs of a regular share issue. Sometimes 10 percent or more of total dividends will be reinvested under such plans. Sometimes companies not only allow shareholders to reinvest dividends but also allow them to buy additional shares at a discount. In some cases substantial amounts of money have been invested. (Scholes & Wolfson, 1989) There is an important difference in the taxation of dividends and stock repurchases. Dividends are taxed as ordinary income, but stockholders who sell shares back to the firm pay tax only on capital gains realized in the sale. However, the Internal Revenue Service is on the lookout for companies that disguise dividends as repurchases, and it may decide that regular or proportional repurchases should be taxed as dividend payments. (Jagannathan, Stephens, & Weisbach, 2000) Stock Repurchase There are three main ways to repurchase stock.

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

How will professional organizations play a role in your professional Assignment

How will professional organizations play a role in your professional life as Network System Administrator - Assignment Example IEEE is also involved in accreditation of professional courses in computing and engineering (IEEE, 2014). ACM and IEEE are two professional organizations that have some great impact on the life of a professional network systems administrator. In computer networking, IEEE 802 is a standard that governs local and metropolitan area networks. The standard defines a set of services and protocols that need to be adhered to in day to day networking thus being an indirect effect to the daily life of a network systems administrator. A more direct responsibility of IEEE to network administration is through membership. The memberships assist the relevant professionals with relevant technology updates. Such updates assist the technician in keeping at bay with any technological improvements relevant for proper maintenance and possible upgrade of their work stations. ACM is directly responsible for the advancement of computing profession through delivery of resources to members thus enabling professional development. ACM has a vast library of resources that serves the members with relevant publications, journals, magazines, workshops and forums. Such materials are very essential for an up to date trending with the current technology. For a network administrator, such information will help him minimize the major threats affecting the work environment, as well keep at pace with any emerging trends that might act to boost the efficiency of the systems under their power. The professional organizations are also responsible for assisting the network administrators as well as other similar professionals with a standard code of ethics that acts as a necessary guide in their routine. A clear code of ethics is requisite in any vocation as it guides the users on what to do and what to steer clear of in order to maintain responsible workmanship. The professional organizations are also protective to workers in legislative and other legal

Monday, August 26, 2019

Dividend Valuation Model Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Dividend Valuation Model - Essay Example Brown & Medoff, (1988), stated that the dividends that have not become ex dividends are not required for forecasting because they have just been announced. The forecast are also based on the detailed financial models running over 2 to 5 year. This model also assumes the constant growth rate. The method is useful when evaluating then value of a company in the short and medium term, however, in long term valuation, it may not be suitable but the management can only use this model if the shareholder agree to accept the assumptions that the dividend payout policies will be maintained for future calculations ( Jensen, &, Ruback, 1983, pp5–50).. The model has limitation that makes it less appropriate. For example, the model has imitations making it difficult to use for short term forecasting as opposed to the long run because the system dividends on the ability to while the order details of host companies have an attitude while most companies use the links because it is not subscribed. Most companies also understand that the models Is dependent on the input data. Finally, the divided discount model is also not preferred by other companies because the model omits cash flows (PWC, 2007, 1-50).

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Individual assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Individual - Assignment Example After a thorough discussion the group members converged in common inference that communication among employees is vital in an organization in order to maintain a proper work flow. In an organization each employee is a part of a bigger employee network. The work allocation must be communicated among the employees in order to have a clear idea of the work progress in the desired direction. Communication among employees has evolved over the years, from verbal and written communication to email and instant messaging. Even though the mode of communication has changed to ease off our efforts at workplace, it also has put a significant effect at our personal life. This essay reflects on the concept of checking work emails all the time and how email communication has changed the way we communicate at our workplace. I will also discuss about the group members’ individual contribution in the discussion and how I have inferred my opinion from the group activity. In order to collect relevant theories regarding organizational communication and the use of email communication in work place, the group members collected several articles from relevant journals. From the collected data, we tried to highlight the important factors and outcomes related to a proper organizational communication. One of my colleagues pointed out that Spaho (2011) has emphasized on the importance of organizational communication, and how it is an important factor for the organization’s success. He mentioned that miscommunication or poor communication can lead to poor relationship between the managers and the employees, which in turn can result in internal conflicts. I further added my opinion that a proper communication from the managers gives the right direction to the employees, which results in increase in their efficiency. Likewise, regular communication from the employees’ end also

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Is corporate social responsibility just a new trend or is it the Essay

Is corporate social responsibility just a new trend or is it the modern business modus operandi - Essay Example The author reckons that the best practices in modern business, variably referred to as â€Å"dominant coalition† play an important role in the identification of the appropriate combination of practices such as a strong and informed management. Great strides have taken place in ensuring that contributions in the social process are central in the definition of corporate goals. Corporate responsibility has therefore evolved to accommodate corporate social responsibility, which is more responsive of the social needs of the workforce as well as the surrounding society. Making the needs of the society an integral part of wealth creation in the modern corporate world shapes business at the highest community involvement level, by responding to social process in a sensitive approach. In this discourse, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is analyzed in terms of its modern and future usage in the corporate world, paying a special interest on its origins, applications, approaches, and interpretation. Flanked by a clear view of its impacts on decision making, the discourse ends by making inferences from the various perspectives (Money 2007, p1). In view of the basic observations contained in the paper, it is clear that CSR and its related business applications in the corporate world is perhaps one of the most dynamic machineries at the disposal of management. CSR can be traced back into the 1960s as a modification of corporate responsibility, which was an approach taking a corporation’s business targets off the usual and direct business players. In light of the roles of the philosophy behind establishment of CRS practices, it is clear that business objectives had to be shifted from purely business nature to incorporate some social aspects. According to Salzmann (2008, p8), contribution from scholars in the 1960s gave momentum to the CSR field as an emerging discipline in the corporate environment. The author reckons that the Bowen and McGuire through their contributions

Friday, August 23, 2019

Air Astana and Alliances Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 14750 words

Air Astana and Alliances - Dissertation Example It has been informed and increasingly taken in to account that the airline does not have any collaboration or tie up with regards to the fleet management or route management, with any other airline in the world. Air Astana being one of the most efficient and largest operators of airlines basing out of the Kazakhstan region is increasingly taking into consideration, the relative advantages and disadvantages that the company can have in terms of forming a chain of collaboration or network for the purpose of fleet management as well as route management. The project has been approached by giving a general overview of global airline industry that is operating in every part of the globe. The next part moves on towards the process of giving a brief insight in terms of airline industry operating in UK and Kazakhstan as well as providing vital information and insights on the airline Air Astana. The next part of the project provides an analysis of the external as well internal factors pertaini ng to the macro and micro economic conditions that can propose a series of threat and benefits to the working strategies and operations of the airline company. The next parts comprises of the research methodology as well as the relevant findings and discussions in line with the research methodology.... the relative advantages and disadvantages that the company can have in terms of forming a chain of collaboration or network for the purpose of fleet management as well as route management. The project has been approached by giving a general overview of global airline industry that is operating in every part of the globe. The next part moves on towards the process of giving a brief insight in terms of airline industry operating in UK and Kazakhstan as well as providing vital information and insights on the airline Air Astana. The next part of the project provides an analysis of the external as well internal factors pertaining to the macro and micro economic conditions that can propose a series of threat and benefits to the working strategies and operations of the airline company. The next parts comprises of the research methodology as well as the relevant findings and discussions in line with the research methodology. The last comprises of the conclusions and discussions which have be en found, determined and or identified as a part of the research analysis of the project. Chapter 1: Introduction 1.1 Background of the Study 1.2 Objectives of the Study 1.3 Research Questions 1.4 Significance of the Study 1.5 Research Structure 1.1 Background of the Study Aviation is regarded as a highly important and critical management process which is followed actively in the sector of airline industry. The prime and fundamental responsibility and objective of the aviation industry is to strategically manage and overlook the entire operational performance as well as business related performances in the airline sector. The secondary objectives comprises of overlooking and encouraging necessary technological developments for the purpose of increasing of operational and business

Entrepreneurship - Portfolio Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Entrepreneurship - Portfolio - Essay Example â€Å"The entrepreneur is the innovator who implements change within markets through the carrying out of new combinations. The carrying out of new combinations can take several forms; 1) the introduction of a new good or quality thereof, 2) the introduction of a new method of production, 3) the opening of a new market, 4) the conquest of a new source of supply of new materials or parts, 5) the carrying out of the new organization of any industry†(Kukoc and Regan, 2008, www.treasury.gov.au). The modern resurgence in the interest of investigating entrepreneurial culture and its attendant socio-economic dimensions has shed new light on its many ill-explored facets. This portfolio will briefly focus on some of these aspects and make insightful comments on its varied, complex and seminal conceptual dynamism. However, its primary objective is to profile its foremost elements in a manner for easier understanding. The modern business organization requires entrepreneurs who are not only farsighted but also shrewd strategists. Thus the challenge faced by modern entrepreneurs is not based merely on ‘risk’ but also on a more complex, fluid and hostile environment Strategic challenges include such factors as risk involved in making decisions about the nature and dimension of threats posed by competitors and the probable response to such threats. Schumpeter’s concept of creative destruction plays here a significant role by enabling the daring entrepreneur to innovate. Thus continuous innovation is a preemptive strategy that forestalls rivals’ anticipated moves (Eggert, 1998, p.209). Next there are functional challenges such as problems associated with production, marketing, finance, quality management, technology, public relations and communications. Each functional area needs the entrepreneur’s attention. Strategic approach enables the entrepreneur to integrate

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Comparison of Heroin Lies with The Basketball Diaries Essay Example for Free

Comparison of Heroin Lies with The Basketball Diaries Essay Heroin is a deadly drug, which kills approximately one million people every year. In this essay I will be comparing two dramatic acts. Heroin Lies, which I acted out. The other is a 1995 hit called The Basketball Diaries. I chose this particular film to compare with my act because they have several similarities but also a number amount of differences. The beginning of the film The Basketball diaries starts with an ordinarily boy waking up in bed on a normal day. Instantly you see that he has got a type of book in his hand, which later on we see that it is his diary which he occasionally writes in. In the block opposite him we see a strong religious woman constantly shouting out what seems to be a prayer. We then witness the boy by the name of Jimmy Carroll change from an innocent being to a horrifying beast as he tells this religious woman to Shut up! We now see that Jimmy has a horrible side to him. As we watch on we see that Jimmy Carroll is a star basketball player on his New York City Catholic school team. Fellow basketball team mates Mickey and Neutron and unofficial cheerleader Pedro are Jimmys closest friends, and whenever trouble stalks one, it invariably affects them all. So, when the drug cycle starts, it quickly spreads to each of the four corners of the friendship. What begins as casual use first becomes a weekend habit, then an everyday obsession. Grades plummet, on-court performance becomes unreliable, and crime looms as the only means to pay for a seemingly endless supply of uppers, downers, cocaine, and heroin. Heroin Lies is a play written by Wayne Denfhy. The story is about a young teenage girl that is having problems with friends. Later on she finds her self addicted to heroin and soon after dies at an early age. We chose a scene from the play and we made changes to the scene as apart of our task, for example we added monologues and dialogues. I learnt a lot about the characters in our scene. Vicki was a young stubborn teenager who had a lot of confusing things going on in her life, although she finally decided to make a decision and start taking drugs to solve her problems. Mandy had been involved with drugs longer than Vicki. So obviously Mandy would be more confident about it. Mandy can easily loose her temper as we showed in the play when Vicki hits the drugs all over the floor. Mandy ends up slapping Vicki. This implies that Mandy is quite violent and doesnt know how to control her emotions very well. My character (Jason) wears corded trouser and an old knitted woollen jumper to sho w that he bought them from Oxfam, since what he wears is mentioned in the script. I believe that Jason is quite immature watching playschool and pretending to grow into a big tree. However this end scene Mandy got what she came for. Jason, my character, was an older brother of Vicki, as it says in the script however I had played him younger then Vicki. As Mandy was flirting with me I used a stuttering voice to emphasize the fact that I was shy. This tells us that Jason is growing up as the tree is growing, and Vicki is stuck, still having problems with friends and drugs. This scene Mandy probably would like to know more about Jason. Not only does the relationship between Mandy, and Jason but the relationship with Vicki later on in the scene. Vicki seems more dominating with Jason since she scares him off. I dont believe that Vicki feels very comfortable having Mandy in her house. This results in Vicki snatching the drugs off Mandy and Mandy hitting Vicki. After Vicki has been hit. Mandy comes to her senses and tells her she regrets hitting her and asks Vicki to take some drugs. I believe that this is the most important part of the scene because this is the first step of Vicki ending her life. Heroin Lies and The Basketball Diaries in my opinion had interesting but defiantly very similar characters. Vicki Brown (Heroin Lies) who is a drug addict who gets thrown out of her house. Jimmy Carroll (The Basketball Diaries) is a drug addict and like Vicki Brown gets thrown out of his house. This is an example of a similarity. However after becoming a drug addict Vicki Brown then leads to a tragic ending. Whilst Jimmy Carroll then realises his mistakes, then fights his addiction to drugs. I have researched Heroin to find out more about this drug. Heroin is a highly addictive drug, and its use is a serious problem in America. Recent studies suggest a shift from injecting heroin to snorting or smoking because of increased purity and the misconception that these forms of use will not lead to addiction. (From a website discussing drugs) The play that I did Heroin Lies and the film The Basketball Diaries had several similarities and differences. The main similarity that I picked up was that these two plays were based on drugs. This is also the main reason I chose to compare these two plays. Heroin Lies was set in the 90s, which is modern time. These days it tends to be teenagers that are addicted to these drugs. The film The Basketball Diaries was also set in the 90s, which again the teenagers are pushed towards Heroin.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Major Turning Points In Wwii History Essay

Major Turning Points In Wwii History Essay One of the major turning points in World War 2 was when allied forces landed in Normandy, France on a day of great battle. About 175,000 allied troops landed on June 6th, the day that got to be known as D-day. The allied forces landed in Normandy, on Tuesday, 6 June 1944, beginning at 6:30 in the morning of British time. The two main operations on D-day were known as Operation Neptune and Operation Overlord. D-Day was the name that was used for the day of Normandy landing, which was not approved formally of. The code name given to the famous Allied raid of France planned for June 1944, was Operation Overlord. The commander-in-chief of Operation Overlord was General Dwight Eisenhower. Other leading commanders for Overlord included Air Marshall Leigh-Mallory, Air Marshall Tedder, Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery and Admiral Bertram Ramsey. Operation Overlord required the sort of logistical issues that no armed forces or military had ever had to manage. The most important preparation was for the Allies to have landed an immense amount of both men and equipment by the end of D-Day itself. The preparation and logistics behind Operation Overlord were beyond comparison in United States history. The Allies had to guarantee that no part of the entire plan was leaked, as it was very valuable and above all, the desire to fool the Germans was at a great height. The measly assembly of equipment required for the raid was a matter itself. The allies had a hard time figuring out where the weapons could be stored without attracting the awareness of German spies. Some of the other concerns were about how to transport them without the neighboring people discuss about them would and how a hefty sum of boats could be gathered and readied. During the actual incursion, more than 6,000 ships were needed for the invasion of Normandy and for future cross-Channel trips transporting troops and equipment. During the initial three days of the offense, Overlord intended to shift more than 100,000 men and practically 13,000 vehicles. The plan furthermore incorporated the movement of a synthetic harbor so that people and resources could be landed with extra ease once the main beaches had been held by allied forces. Operation Neptune was the cross-Channel passage segment of the much important Operation Overlord. Operation Neptune positioned all issues related to the navy and the marines under the command of Admiral Bertram Ramsey whose command skill had already been tested in 1940 with. Admiral Ramsey played a major role in the evacuation of troops from Dunkirk, which was another major operation. He knew that such an immense attack would leave huge damage on the Royal Navy merely in terms of the number of boats and ships required. The directorial and organizational issues were also immeasurable like operation Overload. About 6,000 ships were required for Operation Neptune, as this many posed major problems. They did not know where so many ships could be placed or if they could open a bombing raid on Germany or not, or how they would measure up against German U-boat attacks. It is perhaps a platitude that the triumph of D-Day (June 6th 1944) was built upon the quality and the type of sand. If the preferred beaches in Normandy were fabricated of the wrong sand, then the Allied protective coverings and transport vehicles would not have landed successfully. If there was no support from the tanks and armored trucks, the men on the beach would have had to cover a lot more resilient to a German counter-offensive. For that reason, the Allies required to know what sort of sand was on the selected beaches in Normandy prior to any planned invasion. The true alarm was that the beaches were made up of a mixture of sand that compromises peat, which is an assortment that would approximately contain any hefty military means of transportation from moving along normally. Â   So before the actual mission the allies had to risk the lives of two brave British soldiers, to help strengthen the actual D-day mission. On December 31st 1943, Sergeant Bruce Ogden-Smith and Major Logan Scott-Bowden landed in Normandy in the middle of the night. Their task was to collect sand and peat samples for scientists back in the United Kingdom, who would then come to a decision whether the potential landing beaches were competent to hold heavy military vehicles. At hand was a real concern that a great deal of troops may be submerged in the peat and be exposed to yet additional hazard. The two men that were selected for this risky task were experienced British officers. If they were caught both these men would face anguish and both would have been instantly killed due to Hitlers Commando Order. This order declared that any captured commandos ought to be killed out of hand. These men succeeded the mission and brought back samples of the sand and peat samples to the United Kingdom on New Years day (January 1st 1944). The English Channel, which is nearly ninety miles wide connecting Portsmouth, England, and the Normandy beaches, was a dreadful barrier for the armed forces. Near the start of the previous century it had upset Napoleon and in the 1940s it blocked the successful conquering of the Germans. By the spring of 1944, the Allies needed many hundreds of ships and aircrafts to convey their armies transversely across the Channel and instigate the emancipation of France. A storm postponed the operation, which was initially planned for the 5th of June. Many of the invasion forces had gone from their embarkation points, forcing all the vessels to get back to the seaport, where their crew and soldiers had to wait through packed and painful circumstances. Offered with a improved forecast for the sixth of June, General Dwight D. Eisenhower concluded to a cautious judgment late in the evening of June fourth, to get the transportation on their way, and gave his final decision to go at 4 A.M. on the fif th. Many minesweepers were defraying through transportation lanes throughout a fifteen mile wide radius. A numerous amount of vessels towed bombardment balloons, which were used as defense against German bombing attacks which didnt appear, since their frail atmosphere exploration kept them badly informed of what was happening. The route across was everything except smooth, particularly for infantry and tank landing vehicles, several of whose passengers had hard times, and suffered hours of seasickness throughout the nights of June 5th and 6th. As the convoys arrived at Normandy, their courses differed out to some extent, taking them to staging areas off the individual landing beaches. The majority of ships were in their ready places a long time prior to dawn. Deeper inshore, the hectic minesweepers sustained their work, opening secure, or at least moderately safe channels and functioning areas for landing boats and firing support ships. Above the darkness, a firm demonstration of hundreds of conveyer planes and gliders moved over Normandy, dropping U.S. paratroopers domestically, just west of the Utah beach. British parachutists came down south of the assault zone, but quickly got back into their planned locations. Following the preliminary waves of ships and planes came more, in a flood of troops that would continue to come, reinforcing the original landings and giving logistics support for the armies as they took over the beachhead, moved and battled their way across Europe. Led by the General of the U.S. Army, Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Normandy assault stage, with the code name Operation Neptune, as the whole maneuver itself was called Operation Overlord, which was launched after weather news predicted reasonable weather settings on the 6th of June in Normandy. Many large ships and aircrafts, supported by means of enemy warships, crossed the English Channel following dozens of minesweepers and traps. Most of the allied forces equipment, and warships arrived off the beaches prior to the crack of dawn. Three different divisions of paratroopers consisted of two American and one British, had previously been dropped locally. After a brief assault by ships and guns, soldiers of six special divisions three American, two British, and one Canadian, stormed ashore in five main beach landing areas, named Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. Following many tough fights, in particular the one on Omaha Beach, by the end of the day, traction had been very well established. As the German counterattacks did not get through as they have expected, the Allies poured men and materials into France to take an advantage. Towards the end of July, reinforcements and steady battles made it possible for a getaway from the Normandy outskirts. An additional landing, in southern France in the middle of August, helped facilitate the liberation of France. While the Soviets were coming from the east, Hitlers army was pushed away, occasionally haltingly and constantly bloodily, back en route for their native soil. That was when the Second World War had entered its climactic stage. The number of Allied combat casualties on D-Day is approximated at about 10,000, of whom 2,500 died. D-Day resulted in the deaths of about 2700 British troops, 950 Canadians troops, and 6,600 American troops. In total about 15,000 to 20,000 French civilians died with an unidentified amount of casualties.

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Analysis of Indian Food in the UK Food Industry

Analysis of Indian Food in the UK Food Industry EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Eating out in U.K has become a haute gastronomical adventure with lip smacking results. Curry houses are a British institution, as much a part of the national fabric as the local pub. Surprisingly there are more Indian restaurants in London than in Delhi (Capital of India) (Hemisphere Magazine, 2005). The study was aimed at discovering the various problems that besiege the industry in UK. The dissertation weaves through various problem scenarios and the search to find it solutions. The three main problems which were discovered through face to face interviews were Problem of retaining customer through Service Quality Problem of retaining customer due to limited workforce Problem of promotion policy: advertising and sales promotion For these problems two theories of Hospitality marketing were chosen. These two theories i.e. Theory of Service quality and Promotion policy in restaurant industry were taken in conjunction with the fieldwork analysis of the restaurants in London. Problems were then discussed in parallel to the theories. The discussion gave rise to some hypothetical situations which were again tested in further research. The methodology used in the study was selected after careful consideration of the research question and the limitations. Using the appropriate research tools, an in-depth study was done and it was known that all three problems were not isolated in themselves rather they were well connected. The concept of Service Quality was seen missing extensively in the philosophies of the Restaurateurs. In a nutshell, it can be mentioned that nearly all problems seem to stem from deficiencies in service quality. However at this point, it should be noted that no single problem can be the main culprit nor a particular solution, a panacea for all ills. It is with this in mind that this study should be viewed. CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION For the purposes of this research, the term Indian food covers food from the Indian, Bengali and Pakistani traditions. The market includes sales through restaurants, pubs and takeaways. ready meals (both frozen and chilled) sauces pastes, accompaniments and curry powder. The introductory part of this research contains Present Scenario The largest ethnic minority group in Britain are Indians (approx 10,000,000 people) (Crown,2004) with over 40% of them (approx 800,000) living in the Capital i.e. London which contribute to 6% of the total population of London (LFC,2004). These facts justify the existence of over 1000 Indian restaurants in UK and 4000 only in London and the South east (Grove International,2004). The survival of these Curry Houses is a blessing for the true Indian food connoisseur. But recently the Indian Food Industry in UK have undergone some major structural changes. With the popping up of Giant restaurants in the Capital like the Cinnamon Club (Westminster), Tamarind (Queen Street) and Zaika (Kensington High Street) in the past couple of years, this has invited the interest of lot of the professional bodies like Time Out Guide, Evening Standards, Daily Telegraph, Financial Times etc. The various reviews (Iqbal Wahab,2004) given by them to the acclaimed Indian restaurants in London speak of their v aried interests. ‘Indian food is a  £3.2 billion industry in Britain, accounting for two-thirds of all eating out (Geraldine Bedell, May2004). This modern evolved Indian Cuisine in London has sparkled since the time when Tamarind and Zaika, Indian restaurants in London, were awarded the Michelin star. The famous dish ‘Chicken Tikka Masala is now an authentic English national dish (Robin Cook,2004) All these facts about this Industry makes it big and at the same time it evolves many prospects and problems in itself. Importance of Indian Restaurants In the last half-century, curry has become more traditionally English than English breakfast. Some fitting facts in this milieu are According to Mintel reports, Indian restaurants is  £ 1733 million industry in Britain which is more than two third of the total food industry in Britain.(Appendix 1) In an exclusive consumer survey commissioned by Mintel, 42% of the respondents stated that Indian/Bengali/Pakistani food was among the types of food that they most enjoyed, up from 38% in 1999. Indian food is most popular with 25-54-year-olds and, in contrast to Chinese food, shows a strong up market bias (Mintel, 05/2004) It is one of the biggest industries in Britain employing over 60,000 people (menu2menu, 2005) There are over 8500 Indian restaurants in UK and 3500 only in London (Grove International, 2004). Indian restaurants are the major players in Brits ethnic cuisines overshadowing Chinese outlets which are around 7400. (Mintel,2005) Indian restaurants serves 2.5 millions Brits every week besides David Beckham celebrated after scoring the goal that qualified England for the World Cup, at Manchesters Shimla Pinks, with his favorite chicken korma. Madonna, more and more the Anglophile, has apparently taken to ordering the taxi curry takeout from the Noor Jahan restaurant near her London home in Westbourne Grove (Guardian,2004, Issue 2). Every high street has its Star of India or Taj Mahal. Surprisingly twice as much Indian food is sold in Britain as fish and chips (Economist, 1999) and McDonalds have had to adapt their British menus to include â€Å"curry and spice†. These ubiquitous curry houses are coming up in the world. They are no longer consigned to the ranks of post-pub grub besides there is a gradual growth rate in the Indian restaurant market since 1999. (Appendix 1) Also the fact that Indian restaurants have a strong influence on the retail sector is undeniable. They have provided most of the recipes and are the sole benchmark for authenticity for products like Indian ready meals, sauces, pastes and accompaniments. UK Food Industry The food industry in the UK has undergone dramatic change over the last few decades, a phenomenon which has been named the consumption revolution [Ritson, C. and R. Hutchins (1991)]. Fragmentation of demand has been coupled with concentration in supply, so that the majority of food expenditure is now channeled through five major supermarket groups [Waterson, M. J. (1995)]. This has posed threats to the small agrifood producer, who is typically unable to meet the volume and consistency of supply requirements of the large retailers. However, opportunities have also arisen: many small producers have successfully targeted niche markets, often through direct marketing or distribution through independent outlets. Their offerings commonly carry the typical characteristics of niche products, in that they possess added value, are differentiated from competitive offerings and charge a premium price. With such characteristics it is possible for small producers to succeed within a highly competi tive environment [Phillips, M. (1994)]. However, recent opportunities have also arisen in the food multiple sectors, as supermarket groups show an increasing interest in stocking specialty and value-added food products. This interest stems in part from a desire to improve product range and enhance consumer choice. However, it could also be viewed as a response to public criticisms of the negative social and environmental effects of concentration in food distribution: in particular, the development of centralized distribution systems which mitigate against the use of smaller, local suppliers by food multiple chains. Some supermarket groups in the UK are now attempting to improve links with such suppliers, by, for example, devolving decision-making power to store managers, improving purchasing technology and creating opportunities for buyers and producers to meet and discuss one anothers needs [Carter, . Shaw (1993)]. There was a Greek community in Greek Street, London as long ago as 1677 so Greek cuisine is not exactly new to Britain. The influx of Cypriots started in the 1920s and 1930s and they began opening restaurants after the Second World War. Greek Cypriots tended to settle in Hackney, Palmers Green, Islington and Haringey and Turkish Cypriots in Stoke Newington. Greek Cypriots appeared in Soho in 1930s then Camden Town after the war and then Fulham by the mid 1960s. The main influx of Turkish Cypriots was in the 1960s and by 1971 the Greek Cypriot community had turned its attention to Wood Green, Palmers Green and Turnpike Lane. Only around one third of the 550 or so Greek restaurants in Britain are in London, most of these being in North and West London. Some 40% of the 150 or so Turkish restaurants are in the capital with a heavy concentration in North London. Turkish cuisine is also well represented in Scotland. One of the earliest Greek restaurants was not in London at all but Georges in St Michael Street, Southampton in 1940, slightly pre-dated by The White Tower in Londons West End in 1939. Kalamaras in London W2 opened in 1966 and remains popular today. The most successful of the Turkish restaurants at present is the Efes Group which started in London but is now in several locations throughout the country. Aims and objectives of the research The mechanisms of globalization has made the world a `smaller place and, while this has helped to introduce various cuisines to new regions, it has subsequently resulted in the development of `fusion foods, which has implications for the Indian restaurant market. The image of men behaving badly, gulping downing super-hot curries with several pints of lager, are long gone. Today, a trip out for a curry is a posh affair, with some of the countrys top chefs cooking up sophisticated dishes of complexity and variety. (LFC,2004) With these growing fashion of globalization, there is a huge threat to Indian restaurants which are traditionally managed by the family members. According to the Economist:- But once trends become clichà ©s they have a way of nose-diving. Open the pages of the â€Å"Good Curry Guide, and you will discover that all is not well. According to the guide, last year there were at least 300 closures of Indian restaurants in Britain, compared with just over a hundred openings. Indian restaurants, while still the biggest players in the industry, are losing market share eastern cuisine, such as Thai and Japanese food. (Economist, 2005) The main aim of the research is:  · To assess the major issues that determines the performance and efficiency of the Indian foods/restaurants in UK. The Objectives are to  · To Assess the Service quality and the Supply Chain Management.  · To Assess the consumer Perception towards Indian Foods and the relevant Marketing Mix to exploit the opportunities Rationale Indian Cuisine which the westerners commonly call ‘Curry is highly popularized by the Indian restaurants in UK. These restaurants which are generally owned by Indians reflect the specialty of every region of India. The spread of curry beyond its home in the sub-continent is inextricably linked to the presence of the British Raj in India. Army personnel and civil servants acquired a taste for spicy food whilst in India and brought their newly found dishes home. Since then spicy Indian dishes are highly liked by the people in UK. London is a hub of Indian foods and restaurants. With the growing area of specialization and people trying new and creative things in their restaurants in London the problems have started increasing. Problems of not only external environment like increasing competition , strict food and health policies or inflation, etc but also the internal problems which relate to the marketing strategies, sourcing of raw materials or inefficient management, etc. This study will explore SCM issues with reference to market fragility and market access; purchasing power; purchasing decisions and relationships; understanding of customer needs; barriers and frustrations; and strengths and successes. This report is premised on the belief that supply chains are important for maximizing efficiency. But supply chains are far more important than that: the management of supply chains increasingly influences the nature, scale and participation in enterprise development and sustainability. In other words, supply chains are re-structuring the lines of business development in knowledge-based economies. This study will further high light the consumer perception and the Marketing mix. CHAPTER 2 Literature Review 2.0 Chapter Overview As Indian Restaurants are a part of the hospitality industry, this chapter contains the literature taken from the subject of marketing in hospitality industry. Two main theories are used to analyze the three main problems stated in the previous chapters. They are * Service Quality and Supply Chain * Promotion Policy: Advertising and Sales promotion The two theories are then analyzed in light of the problems. A relationship is developed between the industry and theories by researching the trends. These theories are then used for drawing conclusions and recommendations in further chapters. For the reader, this chapter will be the base of understanding the ongoing trends in the Indian Restaurant industry. 2.1 Introduction to Hospitality Marketing in Restaurants Nowadays marketing isnt simply another function of business rather its a philosophy, a way of thinking and a way of organizing your business and your mind. The customer is the king (Iverson, 1989). According to Kotler (2000, Ch. 1), satisfying the customer is a priority in most businesses. But all customers cannot be satisfied. There has to be a proper selection of customers which enable the restaurants to meet its objectives. In the Restaurant industry, many people confuse marketing with advertising and sales promotion. It is not uncommon to hear restaurant managers say that they do not believe in marketing, when they actually mean that they are disappointed with the impact of their advertising. In reality, selling and advertising are only two marketing functions, and often not the most important. As Kotler said in his book, Marketing for Hospitality and Tourism (1996, Chapter-1), advertising and sales are components of the promotional element of the marketing mix. Other marketing mix elements include product, price and distribution. Marketing also includes research, information systems and planning. The aim of the marketing is to make selling superfluous. The aim is to know and understand customers so well that the product or service fits them and sells itself.(Drucker,1973,p. 64-65) The only way selling and promoting will be effective is if we first define customer targets and needs and then prepare an easily accessible and available value package. The purpose of a business is to create and maintain profitable customers. Customers are attracted and retained when their need are met. Not only do they return to the same restaurants but they also talk favorably to others about their satisfaction. Customer satisfaction leading to profit is the central goal of Hospitality Marketing. (Kotler Bowen Makens, 1996, Chapter- 1) Fewer repeat customers and bad words of mouth are deeds of the manager who interprets profits above customer satisfaction. A successful manager will consider profits only as the result of running a business well, rather then its sole purpose. So in this service based industry (Indian restaurants) the entrance of corporate giants with mesmerizing marketing skills have increased the importance of marketing within the industry. Now lest see how far these Hospitality marketing stunts can save the appalling scene in the industry. 2.2 Service Quality Daryl Wyckoff has defined service quality as, â€Å"Quality is the degree of excellence intended, and the control of variability in achieving that excellence, in meeting customers requirements.† ( Wyckoff, 1984, p 81) This theorem of quality is however not accurate as experts says ‘Quality is whatever the customer says it is and the quality of a particular product or service is whatever the customer perceives it to be (Powers,2000, p 179). So the main emphasis is on the customer and perceived quality. A more professional way of looking at quality is by conceptualizing it broadly along the two critical dimensions i.e. technical quality and Interpersonal quality. Technical Quality is generally the minimum expected from a hospitality operation.(Did things go right, Was the food hot) (Powers, 1997). This dimension of quality is relatively objective in nature and is thus measurable. Interpersonal Quality is a comparatively difficult dimension (Was the waiter friendly? Did the service staff go out of their way to be helpful? Did the customer feel welcome or out of place?) As Gronroos (1980) points out â€Å"Even when an excellent solution is achieved, the firm may be unsuccessful, if the excellence in technical quality is counteracted by badly managed buyer-seller interactions.† And vice versa the charm in this world will not make up for bad food or a lost reservation. So each dimension is critical. 2.3 Concept of building customer satisfaction through quality The fundamental strategic decision to be taken by the Indian Food manufactures at the outset is to consider the service system either standardized or routine/customized. In the former, more importance is given to technical quality, operation goes by the book and little importance is paid to employees discretion. While the later gives importance to both qualities and more discretion is given to the employee. Customized system of service is recommended to the restaurants as consumers go to the restaurant that they believe offers the highest customer delivered value or customer satisfaction i.e. the difference between total customer value and total customer cost: * The customer derives value from the core products, the service delivery system and restaurants image. * The costs to the customer include money, time, energy and physic costs. Quality is made up of two components viz. technical and interpersonal. Managers must keep in mind that in the end the customer perceptions of the delivered quality are what is important. Customers assess delivered services against their expectations. If perceived service meets expectations, they view the service as good quality. If perceived service falls short of expectations, they view the service as poor. Expectations are formed by past experiences with the restaurants, word of mouth, the restaurants external communication and publicity. A widely used model of service quality is known as the five gap model. This model defines service quality as meeting customer expectations. The principle behind the formation of this model was to discover the expectation of the customer which is possibly the most critical step in delivering service quality. This model is closely linked to marketing since it is customer based. This model has five gaps, Gap 1: Consumer expectations versus Management Perception Gap 2: Management Perception versus Service Quality Specifications Gap 3: Service Quality Specifications versus Service Delivery Gap 4: Service Delivery versus External Communications Gap 5: Expected Service versus Perceived Service The detail study of this 5 gap model is out of the boundary of this research. But the question is whether this aspect can solve the issue, can it benefits the industry? The answer is discussed in Chapter 4. 2.4 Supply Chain Most Important aspect for increasing service Quality performance is Supply Chain Integration. Effective Supply Chain Management can:- * Cut Down The Total Cost Significantly. * Increase the productivity and Performance. * Improve time and labour economy. * Can differentiate Service quality. * Can provide optimum Speed and comfort in quality Service delivery. In other words it provides better economy of scale and competitive advantage. The Value Chain Source: Johnshon and Scholes, 2004 The Value Chain will be discussed in the essence of the Supply Chain Management Issues. These elements of a brand are illustrated in 1. It has long been recognized that products have meanings for consumers beyond providing mere functional utility. Symbolic consumption was recognized by Veblen (1899) in his Theory of the Leisure Class and termed conspicuous consumption. Noth (1988) quotes Karl Marx and his metaphor of â€Å"the language of commodities† in which â€Å"the linen conveys its thoughts† (p. 175) while Barthes (1964) discussed a semiotic threshold with the semiotic existing above the â€Å"utilitarian or functional aspects† of objects. Given the symbolic usage of brands it is no surprise that semiotics, as the study of signs in society, is increasingly being used in understanding consumer behavior. Initially used in facilitating understanding of the consumption behavior surrounding cultural products such as film and other works of art (Holbrook and Grayson, 1986) and fashion (Barthes, 1983), its widespread usage to interpret symbolic consumption in all aspects of consumer behavior is anticipated (Mick, 1986). The theory behind this research technique is that brand equity is built on consumers perception of the emotional benefits or brand affinity, combined with physical or Concrete benefits The performance delivered by the product or service offered. The technique attempts to evaluate each of these two aspects in detail, providing a clear understating of its importance for the category under investigation as well as for the brands in that category. During the development of this technique we identified and coded the emotional factor that repeatedly appeared in all markets in the study, allowing us to conclude that They are valid for virtually any product or service category when the subject is brand equity evaluation. These aspects can be classified into three groups: brand authority, level of identification that the user or consumer has with its positioning, and level of social approval it offers to its user or consumer. Authority might be defined by the brands heritage or long-standing reputation and leadership, by the trust or confidence it inspires to consumers, and by aspects associated to innovation or technological development as perceived by consumers. Thus all the branding theories leads to the consumers Perception. 3.2 Consumer Perceptions Of Foods Investigation and analysis of food purchase and consumption is well-documented within the discipline of consumer behavior. Studies in this area tend to stress the complexity of factors which drive food-related tastes and preferences, and some authors have proposed models which attempt to categories and integrate these factors and so offer insights into the formation of food preferences and choices. Shepherd. R, (1989) provides a review of such models, from Yudkin, J. (1956), which lists physical, social and physiological factors, to Booth and Shepherd (1988) which summarizes the processes influencing, and resulting from food acceptance, and lists factors relating to the food, the individual and the environment. However, none of these models incorporate a consideration of the role of place in food, and consumer perceptions of this attribute. It may be noted that, by their very nature, food products have a land-based geographical origin (Bà ©rard, L. and P. Marchenay 1995), which would suggest that people readily make strong associations between certain foods and geographical locations. On the other hand, the process of delocalization of the food system in the twentieth century, as described by Montanari , (1994) has weakened the traditional territorial and symbolic links between foods and places. The inference is that the concept of Indianity in foods may no longer be important or attractive to the modern food consumer, who is faced with such a wide array of exotic and international products all year round. Thus it may be that in the mind of the consumer, specific names, production methods or presentational forms of particular foods are no longer associated with the geographic areas from which they originate. An opposing view is taken by Driver, (1983) however, who describes resurgence in the interest in traditional Ind ian dishes in the UK, which perhaps reflects the symbolic importance that particular foods have in our lives and culture. These debates highlight the need for empirical investigation of peoples perceptions and understandings of Indianity in food. Linked to this debate of the perceived meaning of Indianity in foods is the concept of authenticity. If Indian foods are linked in some way to origins and tradition, it implies that producers of Indian foods are involved in providing and communicating intangible attributes of heritage, tradition and authenticity in their product offerings. These require careful management, particularly in view of authors such as MacCannell [1989], Hughes, (1995) and Urry, (1995), who, in relation primarily to tourist experiences, point out the difficulty in defining what is authentic, and in communicating this to an increasingly sophisticated and diverse audience of consumers. In relation to Indian foods, information is needed on consumer perceptions of app ropriate attributes of products, which are the most attractive and why. CHAPTER 4 METHODOLOGY A-RESEARCH PHILOSOPHY APPROACH In the previous chapters, author has outlined research aim and objectives with examining the relevant literature review. However, the successful completion of any study is heavily dependent on the choice of an appropriate research method and approach. Moreover, the appropriate research methodology provides guidance for the development and evaluation process of study. Wit the appropriate methodology the author can justify the achievement of the objective. Research process The research process adopted is based on exploratory approach, but prior to that it is necessary to highlight upon the methodological frame work. The recognized exponents in this field are Hussey Hussey (1997), Zikmund (2000), Saunders et al (1997, 2000) and others who presented different methodological framework from which researchers can conduct their research. Most of these frameworks follow certain similar central theme. The author has adapted the below-illustrated methodological framework to fulfill the research aim and objectives. This is chosen, as it supports the author research design and process, Furthermore, methodology has been designed where data is collected and interpreted. The findings and analysis with conclusions and recommendations at the end follow this. METHODOLOGY Research aim The main aim of the research is:  · To assess the major issues that determines the performance and efficiency of the Indian foods/restaurants in UK. Research objectives  · To Assess the Service quality and the Supply Chain Management.  · To Assess the consumer Perception towards Indian Foods and the relevant Marketing Mix to exploit the opportunities Research Philosophy Easterby-Smith et al (1993) states three reasons why it is useful to state the research philosophy about proposed research before collecting data: * To clarify the research design-the method by which data is collected and analyzed-taking a holistic view of overall configuration. * To help recognize which designs will work and which will not * To help identify and create research design to adopt research approach according to the required research aim and objectives. There are two main types of research philosophies in existing literature. They are Positivism and Phenomenological. â€Å"They are different, if not mutually exclusive, views about the way in which knowledge is developed and judged as being acceptable. They have an important part to play in business and management research†. (Saunders et al, 2005, p 83) The positivistic philosophy which â€Å"seeks the facts or causes of social phenomena†(Hussey Hussey,1998) is more objective, analytical and structured and the researcher is independent of the subject. (Remenyi et al., 1998:33). In addition, the quantitative data should be collected and statistical analyzed when test the certain theories.(Saunders et al, 2005, Hussey Hussey,1998) On the other hand phenomenological philosophy which â€Å"understanding human behavior from the participants own frame of reference† (Hussey Hussey, 1998) is more subjective and the researcher is dependent on their mind. Qualitative method can be used such as a case study. It is important that which philosophy is better for my project. Saunders et al. (2005) state that no philosophy is better than others so choosing philosophy depends on the research question. Having considered the aims of this research project, I will choose phenomenological philosophy because this research question is â€Å"How the Supply Chain helps the Indian Food Industry in UK in achieving efficiency and the significance of Consumer perception to the marketing mix†. The research will be qualitative. In order to answer the research question, I would do case study on Chinese and UK textile and clothing firms and collect data by using interviews. Research Approach Inductive or Deductive Research Undoubtedly the research approach is very important for the project. There are two research approaches, which is the deductive approach and the inductive approach. As mentioned in Saunders et al (2000), the major differences between the deductive and inductive approaches to research are as follows: Deduction emphasis Induction emphasis Scientific principles Gaming an understanding of the meaning humans attach to events The need to explain cause and effect relationship between variables A close understanding of the research context The collection of quantitative data The collection of qualitative data The application of controls to ensure clarity of definition and highly structured A more flexible structure to permit changes of research emphasis as the research progress Researchers independence of what is being researched A realization that the researchers is a part of research progress The necessity to select sample of sufficient size in order to generalize conclusion Less concerned with the need to generalize Deductive approach aims to develop a theory and or hypothesis and design a research strategy to test it. Deductive approach is a rigid methodology, which not permits alternative explanation. It emphasizes on scientific principles and moving from theory to data. It is a highly structured approach and need more operationalisation of concepts to ensure definition. Oppositely inductive approach is which the researcher would collect data and develop a theory as a result of data analysis. It is an alternative approach and theory building followed data collection. In addition, it is the better way to study the small sample because of concerning with the context in which the events are taking place. (Saunders et al, 2005, p 85) Easterby-Smith et al. (2004) state that if the researcher have interested in understanding why something happening the inductive approach is more appropriate. Having considered the aims of this research project, it seems that inductive approach is more suitable. First ly, according to Saunders et al (2005), inductive approach is closely related to phenomenology. Secondly, although there are many author contributed to theories about international branding but not specifi

Monday, August 19, 2019

The Struggle in George Orwells Nineteen Eighty-Four (1984) :: Nineteen Eighty-Four 1984 Essays

The Struggle in Nineteen Eighty-four (1984) In a world controlled by a higher power, constantly living in fear of doing or saying something wrong, thoughts can be incriminating. Even worse, any unpure thoughts may make you disappear. Constantly being watched, and observed without knowing. A telescreen watching every facial expression and recording any abnormal body language and movement everywhere you go. Even in your home there is no escape. You are unable to get away or turn off the power of the Telescreen and "Big Brother". This novel is of a man's struggle against a totalitarian government that controls the ideas and thoughts of its citizens. In the novel 1984 by George Orwell the government used advanced mind reading techniques to discover the thoughts of the people and punish those who show signs of rebellion against the government. The novel is supposed to be a prophetic story, however, it was somewhat wrong in predicting the date when this government would rein. Although some themes described in the book are now realities, some are not going to happen for some time to come and this is why this novel continues to be overwhelming to us today. Perhaps Orwell's purpose for writing 1984 was to express his feelings of how the governments would come to control everything and anything they wished to do. It is also possible that he wanted to tell of how mind control and torture techniques could be used to make an individual or an entire nation do what the government wanted. This story shows the danger of a world in which the government has too much control. The novel shows how the government controls its people, eliminating their individuality and the essence of everything that makes a human a human. "And if all others accepted the lie which the Party imposed-if all records told the same tale-then the lie passed into history and became truth. 'Who controls the past' ran the Party slogan, 'controls the future: who controls the present controls the past.'" (Page 37) Though this society is efficient, it means little since the people cannot enjoy freedom and therefore have no rights. This quote emphasizes how if you don't recall anything about the past you will be easily controlled by the government and you will no longer have any concrete evidence. In this novel, Orwell used the image of a man who stood in a shadow that covered his face.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Ideal Family: Defining the Ideal Family Throughout American History Es

The ideal American family was transformed in the 19th century in large part due to the great changes taking place in the American society. Many family groups fit this changing mold while some did not. In this essay I will show how this concept of the ideal American family changed. I will also try to explain which groups of Americans followed this concept and why. The end of the 18th century was a turbulent time in American history. The country had just won its independence from Great Britain and was attempting to find an identity for itself. Up to this point families in America were similar to British families. The father was the head of the household, but lived in harmony with his wife. The children were seen as part of the family’s labor force, helping to produce food and supplies for the family. The church ruled the family as much as colonial law in the late 18th. A change in the general economy paved the way for the emergence of a new type of family. The market economy arose in the 1800’s in America. Goods were no longer being produced solely for family consumption. The families of this period were producing goods in excess to sell at markets. Goods able to be purchased at a market as well as the slave trade in the south helped to lessen the amount of household production for the average American family. With a market economy now in place in America, the door was open for the factory system and industrialization. This factory system created two main types of families in America: Middle Class and Working Class. Middle class families were better off economically than their working class counterparts. In these families men worked in jobs considered to be middle class white-collar occupations. Women were therefore staying home and surviving on the man’s salary. With these middle class women staying home along with the smaller amounts of household production, a new type of labor arises. Women in this early 19th century time period become more and more involved in child rearing. The household work for these middle class women is task-oriented and unwaged. This makes them more and more dependent on their husband’s salary and more responsible for the children who were also out of the labor force. Working class families were different in some ways from middle class families. Often in a marriage, the man’s wages were not enough... ...y are allowed to do. Although the Irish were oppressed in this country I feel that they were proud to be Irish. Possibly more so in relation to the surrounding social order. The two cultures, Irish and Protestant, held such different ideals that I believe that the Irish were as proud to be who they were as the Protestants were sure of the virtue of their own ways. The idea of an ideal American family seems ridiculous today. Two hundred years ago many Americans may not have thought twice about the idea that there was a correct form that a family should follow. In the 19th century our country was young and was one of a few to have to come up with its own national identity in such a short period of time. In hindsight and with a bit of anachronism one could say that America dealt with its immigrant population with a great deal of hypocrisy. Instead of being a haven for immigrants America was almost a factory, attempting to take in different people and create a melting pot in which everything becomes alike. Every ingredient eventually loses its uniqueness. Bibliography: christine stansell "women children and the uses of the streets" Femenists studies 8 (sep.82)

The Direct And Indirect Impact Of Rhetoric Essay -- essays research pa

The Direct and Indirect Impact of Rhetoric   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the world that we live in, rhetoric always affects and is a part of everything that happens. Rhetoric, in its broadest sense, is communication, and how people relate to each other. The movie The Color Purple is about relationships. Therefore rhetoric plays a very important role in this movie. Throughout The Color Purple the impact of rhetoric can be seen in two groups of people, the communicator, or rhetor, and the audience. Celie, the main character of the movie, shows the impact of rhetoric in almost every aspect of her life. The effects of rhetoric in Celie's life are apparent through her relationships with Mr. Johnson, Shug Avery, and Sofia.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The relationship that Celie has with Mr. Johnson is unbalanced from the first time they meet. Celie's complacent and gentle nature leave her at the mercy of Albert Johnson's more dominant attitude. The rhetoric that she expresses to him, of innocence and always complying to his orders, forces her to live a large portion of her life sheltered and overshadowed by Albert, who continuously beats her into submission. Celie also passes on what she learned from â€Å"Mister† to his son Harpo, the rhetoric of â€Å"the importance of a man giving his wife a good beating.† Albert Johnson does not even realize how important Celie is to him until she is gone. At that poi... The Direct And Indirect Impact Of Rhetoric Essay -- essays research pa The Direct and Indirect Impact of Rhetoric   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the world that we live in, rhetoric always affects and is a part of everything that happens. Rhetoric, in its broadest sense, is communication, and how people relate to each other. The movie The Color Purple is about relationships. Therefore rhetoric plays a very important role in this movie. Throughout The Color Purple the impact of rhetoric can be seen in two groups of people, the communicator, or rhetor, and the audience. Celie, the main character of the movie, shows the impact of rhetoric in almost every aspect of her life. The effects of rhetoric in Celie's life are apparent through her relationships with Mr. Johnson, Shug Avery, and Sofia.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The relationship that Celie has with Mr. Johnson is unbalanced from the first time they meet. Celie's complacent and gentle nature leave her at the mercy of Albert Johnson's more dominant attitude. The rhetoric that she expresses to him, of innocence and always complying to his orders, forces her to live a large portion of her life sheltered and overshadowed by Albert, who continuously beats her into submission. Celie also passes on what she learned from â€Å"Mister† to his son Harpo, the rhetoric of â€Å"the importance of a man giving his wife a good beating.† Albert Johnson does not even realize how important Celie is to him until she is gone. At that poi...

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Regulation and deregulation of business logistics

It is important to distinguish these two types of state intervention, since the policy of deregulation aimed only at the economic aspects of the industry, while measures on traffic safety and protection of the public interest only increase. Let's see these questions in detail. Regulation of business life is one of the oldest forms of government regulation. Federal and state governments have actively used economic regulation to ensure the reliability of the transport system and to create conditions for economic development.More than 100 years the state intervention in the economy is aimed at to make transport services equally available to all users without exception in the U. S. Measures to strengthen competition between private transport companies are the basis of the regulatory policies. The government invested money in creating and improving infrastructure in building roads, airports, channels and ports. The state supported and regulated system of private commercial carriers for us ing these communication and actually providing transport services.Deregulation began in the sass, and in 1980, when the basic laws adopted deregulation, the situation has changed radically. In the sass and sass were tightened security measures in the transport and protection of the public interest with weakening economic regulation of transport. In 1966, it was created by the Ministry of Transport (Department of Transportation, DOT), and from the very beginning in the center of his attention were transportation and materials handling hazardous substances, limiting working time of drivers and reliable vehicles.In 1974, the Law on Transport Security (Transportation Safety Act). Were taken effect several laws on transport, significantly influenced the practice of logistics in the next 20 years. Movement for the protection of the environment caused further strengthen attention to transportation safety and liability for environmental harm. Regulation of entry into the industry. Such regu lation shall be subject to the rules of entry into the industry (market) and exit, as well as a list of markets that are allowed to serve a particular carrier.Restrictions aimed at reducing competition in major markets and maintaining an adequate level of logistic service to small. Transport rates. Transportation rates are the second object of economic regulation, in particular, their establishment, modification, tariff subsidies and actual tariff rates. There are efferent types of transport tariffs. There are legal procedures to change (increase or decrease) in transportation tariffs. The most industries, firms are free to change prices, and limits their only competitive pressures.Prior to deregulation, carriers had to prove the need for changes in tariffs to the Commission on interstate commerce. Carriers had to demonstrate that their costs have increased (or decreased) for justifying such a need to increase (or decrease) the price of the services. Temporary change of tariffs in r esponse to rising fuel prices in the form of allowances allowed he tariff rate. Carriers are getting the right to change rates within a certain range without any Justification annual (typically 7-15%) after deregulation. Tariff subsidies – are the practice of support (subsidies) one carrier routes through higher tariffs on others.That is considered that the high costs are associated with servicing small markets, subsidized by revenues from services to large markets where the level of costs are relatively lower. Strictly speaking, 42 states regulate transport on its territory, and only eight do not. There was have never been regulating the activities f public or contract carriers in Delaware and New Jersey. Nevertheless, in 1994 Congress passed and President signed a law abolishing the right of states to control the rates, routes, and composition of services provided by the carriers.While states retained the right to regulate the size and weight of vehicles, as well as transpo rtation routes of hazardous materials and the financial liability of carriers. In addition, Carriers retained the right of participation in the tariff committee. Costs of intrastate regulation and the difficulties in its abolition are quite significant. Postal impasses aspired to avoid regulation. But in response to these efforts of companies Federal Express and UPS power only some states have strengthened their positions. For example, several states attempt to subordinate Federal Express truck traffic on its territory in 1991. But in 1992 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that California has no right to regulate road transport operations airlines that have a federal license. Other cities and states have tried to limit transport at a certain time of day or the transportation of hazardous materials (Donald, 2008). All these things considered, we include that creating the conditions for free market competition, although from time to time there have been calls for stability to return to a m ore extensive regulation – primarily it concerns air transport and road transport with incomplete transit normally – is the main aim of the legal state regulation in the transport industry.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Identify how you would beta test a multimedia project for delivery Essay

Beta testing is a test for a computer product prior to commercial release may it be an application software, an operating system or a multimedia product. It is a stage where in the product is put into a larger community after a rigorous in house test. To some, it is also a way of knowing how well the community responds to the product. Beta testing is the last stage of testing, the last possibility to correct errors that would render a product priceless to customers. And because of this, beta testing of multimedia products is in essence a difficult task. PURPOSE The purpose of this document is to present a strategy to beta test a multimedia product. It presents possible alternatives that would yield the best result. BETA TESTING STRATEGY In the past, beta testing is used to be a secret. Beta testing is given to a group carefully selected by the company who owns the product to be tested. The fear that finding a considerable amount of bug might diminish customer interest was the old belief. Now, the perspective has changed. Beta testing is already considered an important marketing tool (Nelson & O’Connor, 2004). It increases the popularity of the multimedia product. The best strategy therefore is to make it available for free in the beta testing phase. The first step is to advertise the beta software and provide links to beta version download. Then provide a feedback center for them to comment on observable bugs. Providing the beta version free has many advantages. First, it is very cost effective because you do not have to spend money for hiring a group of people to beta test the software. You may have to spend a certain amount to accelerate interest by providing rewards to people with most important bugs found or by advertising the beta download locations, but these are small compared to hiring an entire group. Second, it is the best way to reach the most number of beta testers. The number of beta testers is directly proportional to how effective the beta testing would be. Third, providing it for free is a way of advertising the software to gain more users. The finding of bugs is just one part of beta testing, there should also be a way for users to provide suggestions. Suggestions are very important to make the multimedia product more acceptable to the market. The suggestions and reported bugs should be monitored on daily basis. Suggestions should be evaluated of whether there is a plan to include it or not. Reported bugs should also be evaluated of whether it is connected to some other bugs or it is really a bug. Then an update release should be available on a periodic basis, for example a monthly update until the reported bugs are already tolerable or it is already completely bug free. The end result of this methodology should produce a very robust multimedia product. If the multimedia product gains public acceptance, the number of users who will beta test this product would also be many. This will give the developer an early view of whether the multimedia product would become profitable. Although there are some possible drawbacks, the beta software should also be given some licensing limitations to prevent users from simply using the beta version instead of the final version. An example would be a pop-up of the reminder to purchase license when the beta period expires. CONCLUSION Multimedia products undergo beta testing to ensure good quality. The best approach in beta testing is to make it free and available for public download at the beta version stage. This would increase its popularity and the cost of beta testing would be minimal. References Nelson, T. and O’Connor, M. (2004). Beta Software: Get In the Development Process. Retrieved from the PC Today website: http://www. pctoday. com/Editorial/article. asp? article=articles/2004/t0205/20t05/20t05. asp&guid= , on January 24, 2007