Carrier Corporation

History of the air-conditioner Air-conditioner was invented based on invention of refrigerator. The history was told that the Chinese were the first to store natural ice and snow to cool wine and other delicacies. Evidence has been found that ice cellars were used as early as 1000 B. C. in China. Early Greeks and Romans also used underground pits to store ice. Ancient people of Egypt and India cooled liquids in porous earthen Jars. Ice was produced due to vaporization of water through the wall of these Jars, radiating heat nto the night air.In 18th and 19th centuries, natural ice was cut from lakes and ponds in the winter in northern climates and stored underground for use in warmer months. In early 20th century the same method was used but stored in open ice houses for businesses and to delivered homes to homes. At first, in 1823, Michael Faraday discovered that certain gasses under constant pressure will condense when they cool. Secondly, in 1842, Florida physician John Gorrie used dripping ammonia to produce cooling. Thirdly, in 1856, Australian inventor JamesHarrison, used ammonia on experimental basis but used ether in the equipment that was previously constructed. Then, in 1902, Willis Carrier, the â€Å"Father of Air- Conditioner† designed humidity control for a new air-cooling system and pioneered modern air conditioning. Willis Carrier also originated the carrier equation upon which the psychometric chart and all air conditioning is based. Later, 1906, Stuart Cramer, engineer in North Carolina, invented a ventilating machine that add water vapor to the air of textile plants. The wetness makes the fiber easily spin and ardly to break.He's the first to call this process â€Å"air conditioning†. During 1914, air- conditioner was officially used at home for the first time. Next in 1931, individual room air conditioning that sits on a window ledge was invented by J. Q. Sherman and H. H. Schultz The air conditioner was available to purchase in 1932. Packard invented the first ever air-conditioned car in 1939. The air conditioner controller on the dashboard was invented later. After that, the United States built first power plant to handle development electrical load of air conditioner in 1942.

Granite Apparel- Source of Funding

Presented to: Mr. Kurt Sullivan Subject: Source of funding From: JMSB consultants; Despina Papadopoulos Angela Christopoulos Mathieu Apuzzo AJ Kenth Date: March 2007 Main Issues * Choosing the appropriate source of financing, between Initial public offering, long term debt or preferred shares, to raise funds for the expansion of Granite Apparel. Recommendations * Granite Apparel should use an Initial Public Offering as a source for raising funds. Analysis Quantitative Initial Public Offering The cost of issuing common shares for your company was found by adding the following expenses (APPENDIX ONE):Bridge Financing Rate (Annual)| 10. 25%| Amount of Bridge Financing| 50,000,000| Period| 6 months| Yearly Interest Cost| 2,562,500| Lump Sum Issuance Fee| 4,000,000| Total Issuance Costs| 6,562,500| To issue common shares is very expensive to underwrite and there are also other related costs for a company going public. These costs can be: * More experienced accountants for financial statem ents issuance and high internal compliance * Auditing fees * Dividends Much of the factors are above are very difficult to quantify, but using assumptions we could have an idea of the cost over a 5 year basis to compare with preferred shares.First, let’s find a dividend cost, hoping the company does well and we pay out a 20% dividend rate with a growth of 25% in sales from 2007 – 2012. We get a total dividend amount to be 18. 82 million (APPENDIX ONE). Since dividends are not an obligation but they are a benefit for shareholder satisfaction, we have a range over a 5 year period of costs between 11. 5 million and 30. 4 million. These values take into consideration many assumptions (g= 8%, b = 0. 80 and ROE= 10. 55%) Total 5 year dividend| 18. 82 million| Audit fee (1M per year assumption)| 5 million| Fees/ Bridge Financing| 6. 56 million| Total| 30. 80 million| Range| 11. 5 – 30. 4 million | Another factor to consider for an IPO is the decrease in control for Tay lor and the current shareholders. | Before IPO| After IPO| Total Shares| 20,000,000| 26,000,000| Taylor Ownership| 12,000,000| 12,000,000| Percentage Ownership| 60%| 46. 15%| If Mr. Taylor is comfortable losing total control of his company with 46. 15% ownership (where control is 50%), the IPO can be a very attractive solution. If Mr. Taylor decides to keep full control of his company, he can either purchase himself more shares or the company could issue two types of common shares; Non-voting and voting.Taylor Ownership| 12,000,000| Percentage Ownership| 50%| Total Voting Shares| 24,000,000| Total Non Voting Shares| 2,000,000| Preferred Shares As seen in APPENDIX THREE, the total cost of issuing preferred shares would be $30,200,000 over 5 years. Raised Capital| 50,000,000| Dividend Yield| 9%| Annual Dividend (9% * 50,000,000)| 4,500,000| Repurchase Premium| 10%| Face Value| 55,000,000| Issuance Fees| 2,700,000| 5 year Dividends (4. 5M x 5)| 22,500,000| Repurchase Premium| 5,000,000 | Total Cost| 30,200,000| Long-Term Debt Long-term debt is the second source of financing the company has the option of adopting.Metropolitan life approached Granite Apparel and was prepared to lend them 50 Million dollars at a fixed rate 2% higher than the long-term U. S treasury yield. The term of the loan was 10 years. Exhibit 6 illustrates the U. S treasury yields. Since the loan has a 10 year term, we decided to select the 10 year Risk Free rate, which is 4. 56%. In total the interest rate of the loan would amount to 6. 56%. In order to decide, which alternative is best suitable for the company, we must find the cost associated with borrowing. In addition, we must also add the upfront fee of 1,800,000.The upfront fee is calculated by multiplying 200,000 common shares and the stock price of 9$. We assumed that the value of the firm was equal to 180,000,000 in order to use the 9$ stock price. We also assumed that the loan payments would be done monthly, which gave us a monthly pa yment of 569,267. 46$. Appendix 2 is a loan amortization schedule and indicates the amount of interest and capital is included in each payment. The sum of all interest payments is equal to 18,312,099. If we take the total interest cost and the upfront fee the total cost of the loan would equal to: 20,112,099.However it is also important to note that interest is tax deductible. The loan amortization schedule enabled us to find the PV of the tax shield of 79,712. 24$. In conclusion, the total cost of the debt option is equal to: 20,032,386. 75$ We also wanted to note that paying 10% principal per year for 10 years on the loan is impossible. According to loan amortization schedule, the 10% yearly principal payment would start from year 6. For the first 5 years, most of the payment is attributed to interest, which decreases the principal portion of the payment.Performance and Ratios An important factor in deciding on which way to finance growth is how it affects your financial statement s. Since these tools will be the primary source for investors it is important have them appear strong (APPENDIX FOUR). If the company chooses an IPO, the following ratios would occur in the 2007 financial statements of Granite Apparel. Ratio| Industry| Granite Apparel | Debt/Capital| 15. 1%| 31. 0%| TIE| 41. 2| 57. 75| PE| 22| 12| ROE| 18. 4%| 14. 16%| With an IPO the company’s financial statements would look very strong.Its debt is already higher than the industry average and therefore issuing common shares would decrease the risk of the company. Both the Debt/Capital and TIE ratios express that strength. If the company chooses to issue debt, the following ratios would occur in the 2007 financial statements of Granite Apparel. Ratio| Industry| Granite| Debt/Capital| 15. 1| 61. 52| TIE| 41. 2| 6. 47| ROE| 18. 4| 21. 94| The risk of the company by issuing more debt would be extremely high and way above the industry averages. By demonstrating both Debt/Capital and TIE, we could see a large increase in the company’s risk which is not in the company's favor.They might be reevaluated as a riskier company and therefore would no longer be able to purchase at low interest. The ROE plays in favor, however, because the total Equity is divided among fewer shareholders. It looks good for investors but not for creditors. If the company chooses to issue preferred shares, the financial statements would look very similar to issuing an IPO. This occurs because the preferred shares would be booked in the Equity section of the financial statements due to their â€Å"ownership† qualities. QualitativeGranite Apparel is faced with three financing mediums; initial public offering, long term debt or preferred shares. In the decision process, it is important to weigh the benefits and shortcomings of each financing option. Initial Public Offering (IPO) Benefits * Increase in Shareholder Capital * Increased wealth without dividing authority amongst partners * No div idend obligation on common shares. * Inexpensive method of financing. * Able to maintain control of the company as long as shareholders have less than 20% ownership Drawbacks Granite would need to undergo a thorough assessment of its operations, financial records and legal situation by both Continental Securities and the securities commission. * Three to six month due diligence process. * Minimum requirements in accordance to US GAAP system is very expensive to implement * Decisions based on stock price The public trading of the shares establishes a value for the company and sets a benchmark. This works in favor of the company as it is helpful in case the company is looking for an acquisition or merger. It also provides the share holders of the company with the present value of the shares.Furthermore, once the shares are traded, they carry a market value that is different from the book value depending on demand (volume traded); this can provide Granite with the incentive of offering stock options to employees as an added compensation. Additionally, the investors that are in the company have liquidity on their share of the company, however, if an investor should decide to redeem his portion the company is not entirely affected because the sale is completed on the market. When a company issues common shares, there is no obligation to pay dividends.This can be an immense advantage for Granite as the company is in a growth phase and dividends can be limited in order to compete in an industry with larger players. In turn, this also allows Granite to keep the cost low for the future. In addition, the firm will not go bankrupt if is not able to pay out dividends. More than frequently, management’s decisions may be effected by the market price of the shares and the feeling that they must get market recognition for the company's stock. Often, this can lead to bad decisions and consequently a decline in stock price.As the share price of Granite falls, may lose ma rket confidence, decreased valuation of the company may affect lines of credits, secondary offering pricing, the company's ability to maintain employees, and the personal wealth of insiders and investors. Not to mention if Granite decides to issue most of its shares to the public it may be a target for a hostile takeover, evidently a loss of insider control. Long term Debt Using long term debt will allow granite apparel to immediately acquire the funds, however it will place both financial and operational standard covenants in effect. Operational Prohibited to surpass annual capital budget * Not allowed to acquire without authorization * Cannot change current executive compensation or dividends Financial * Limited to a borrowing to equity ratio of 1. 20 * No possibility to raise short or long term debt without authorization Using long term debt for Granite is very risky if the economy suffers and sales are down. Granite will still have to pay the interest on the principle loan witho ut having the flexibility of acquiring another loan. When the interest payments are not distributed to debt holders, the firm may go bankrupt.As stated, If earnings decrease it might be very risky to carry over 3. 57 million dollars in interest expense as an annual obligation. Moreover, in the event that Granite is presented with the opportunity to merge or outright acquire a competitor, the decision will have to pass through Metropolitan. This can lead to further complications and loss of decision making control for the management of Granite. Preferred Shares Although this method is cost effective, it can also confiscate the ability for management to take important decisions without approval from shareholders. Granite can redeem the shares at a ten percent premium only after five years * Shareholders have no voting right, but receive priority over dividends * Can be given voting rights if Granite does not pay for two consecutive years Similar to long term debt, preferred shares pre sent the drawback for potential loss of control. For instance if there is an economic downturn and Granite is unable to issue payments for two consecutive years to its preferred shareholders, they are granted full voting rights and can potentially control the entire company.Preferred shares can either be placed in the equity or liability section of the balance sheet. In this particular scenario, the preferred shares would be in the equity section because they show evidence of â€Å"ownership†. For instance, if dividends are not paid for two years consecutive, they can exercise their voting rights and consequently allow them to decide on major business developments. Given the three financing methods, Granite would receive the necessary capital in time to fulfill their marketing needs.Given the economic state preferred shares are risky when considering the potential loss of control to the shareholders. Similarly, long term debt caries the interest risk burden without possibilit y of acquiring a new loan. Conversely, initial public offering allows the flexibility to gain capital at any point with the exchange of ownership and still allows the decisions to be made by the board of directors. Although the net income on the expansion is not quantifiable, by the issuance of IPO, Granite remains protected from third party influence and control, interest burden and loss of decision control. Plan of Action Announce the plan to the board of directors and wait for quorum approval or issuing an IPO * If Mr. Taylor and other board members are expressing worries about dilution of ownership, consider issuing two classes of shares; non-voting and voting. * Contact the investment firm to find out potential differences for issuing two classes of shares * Hire and find experienced accountants to prepare the financial statements in accordance to US GAAP for public companies since the company will go public * Select an investment bank with a good reputation and expertise to ad vice and perform underwriting functions. Organize internally for high compliance in accordance to the securities commission Contact and find a reputable auditing firm (KPM, Deloitte, Price Waterhouse or Ernst ; Young) * File with the Securities and Exchange Commission. * Once the request has been processed Granite Apparel should request its IPO on the stock exchange with firm commitment. * Once capital is certain (under firm commitment) and as quickly as possible, search for store locations.These locations should be prime, and in an area where Granite * Apparel can compete strongly with the major players. Time is important, since competitors are catching up to Granite’s innovative products. The company must enter quickly and efficiently into the market. * Prepare for manufacturing increase to supply new stores. * The company should find new innovative products to keep it a step ahead from the competition and become first movers to gain customer loyalty.

Gautama Buddha Essay

The celebration of Wesak which is the annual ritual celebrating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death (parinirvana), provides an opportunity for adherents to reflect on the Buddha’s life and teaching. The Wesak festival is extremely important to the Buddhist adherent and the Buddhist community. The Wesak festival or Buddha’s Day celebrates the birthday of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who was to become Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The Wesak festival is a time for devotion and remembering the important aspects of the teachings of Buddhism. Wesak is a holy day for Buddhists in many countries such as Tibet, Cambodia, Malaysia Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines and Bhutan. Wesak, Buddha day or Buddha’s birthday is the most sacred holy day for those apart of Theravada Buddhism and also important for the insight meditation movement. Wesak is the celebration of the three days significant to the Buddha’s life first was his birth, the second his enlightenment (nirvana) and the third his death (Parinirvana). The date of Wesak varies and is very important and significant as it relies on the lunar calendar, it is usually falls on a full moon of the 5th or 6th lunar month. Wesak on the Gregorian calendar usually falls in April or May. Prince Siddhartha was born on the 8th day of the fourth lunar month or on the day of the full moon in 623 B. C. in Lumbini, Rupandehi District, West Terai, Nepal. Wesak celebrates the Three Jewels. Wesak is important to the adherents to reflect on Buddha’s life and teachings as is acknowledging the ongoing living religious tradition that remains strongly for followers. The main objective of Buddhism is to one day reach enlightenment and this is exactly what Wesak celebrates and reinforces the ultimate goal of Buddhism that Buddha was a human who became enlightened. This is important as it reinstates the fact that it is possible for humans to reach enlightenment. To reach closer to Nirvana and the chance of a better life in the cycle of samara you must perform good acts to receive good karma, through the act of washing and cleaning the hands of Buddhists and monks this symbolises the karma of certain actions. The festival of Wesak, with its emphasis on accepting the responsibilities of the ethical life, is also a celebration of the human spirit. ’ An important part of Wesak to the adherents is Sangha. And a part of this acknowledgement of the Sangha is listening to the wisdom and the teaching of the Dharma from the members of their community. As karma is a central belief of Buddhism there is a strong will for adherents are to donate and show generosity to the less fortunate at this time. â€Å"First of all, Buddhism is neither pessimistic nor optimistic. If anything at all, it is realistic, for it takes a realistic view of life and the world. It looks at things objectively (yathabhutam). It does not falsely lull you into living in a fool’s paradise, nor does it frighten and agonize you with all kinds of imaginary fears and sins. † The middle path what Buddha had preached is important to Wesak as it gives the adherents a time to reflect on his preaching’s of in a world full of suffering there is place for celebration. On the day of Wesak devout Buddhists are to come together in temples before dawn before they have ceremonial hoisting of the Buddhist Flag and do their mantras in praise of the three jewels; Dharma, Sangha, Buddha. Those who attend the festivals may bring flowers and candles as offerings to lay at the feet of their teachers. The symbolism of these offerings are that beautiful flowers eventually wither away, and candles once bright burn out, such as what life it is subject to. The adherents that attend receive good karma for themselves and for their communities. Although there is some parts of Wesak that involve acknowledging then destroying the wrong doings and bad karma of the previous year the Wesak festival is a time of celebrations and coming together. The community play games, listen to music, attend drama performances. Decorations are put up around houses and villages and their neighbours are encouraged to join in on the festivities. An important ritual that happens during the Wesak festival is the bathing of the Buddha. The bathing of the Buddha in fragrant water has been important since the legend of the Buddha’s birth has been told. It is a symbol of inner purification, the ritual is said to help get rid of sins. This ritual highlights the universal message that â€Å"it is simple to wash away physical dirt but it is much more difficult to cleanse one’s inner dirt of greed, anger and ignorance. †

MGT 501 MoD 4 Case Leaders Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

MGT 501 MoD 4 Case Leaders - Essay Example The following entails a discussion of the problem along with suggestions for dealing with micromanagement leadership style. Discussion Stern demonstrated strong creativity skills in her job pertaining to marketing of products. At the same time, she lacked the skills required for management of production and formulation and negotiation of strategies. To this end it is important to note that the creativity in marketing (including public relations and design) that she possesses were difficult to harness and manage from a leader’s point of view. The nature of the job makes it hard to structure the work as various ideas can arise spontaneously which are beyond the supervisor’s control; in other words, micromanagement stifles creativity (Lavinsky, 2012). George could certainly not ask Stern to generate ideas as and when required simply because these ideas would flow in irrespective of time and need. Hence, this job required a greater level of diplomacy on George’s part to supervise Stern. It was crucial to give Stern the authority and autonomy with which she could feel a sense of belonging with the company and have the chance of contributing to the same through her creative ideas. However, George was doing much the opposite. Rather than empowering Stern, he was constraining her which was not conducive to her creativity. In situations where such difficult situations arise, it is the management’s job not to throttle creativity by destructive criticism but by reiterating and reinforcing the vision which provides a direction to work. It is then the task of the creative staff to come up with novel ways of and fulfilling that vision. The case depicts instances where George did not trust Shelly’s decisions and tried to influence them by bringing in ‘his’ version of things (Fryer, 2004). It seems that George wasn’t willing to let go of things; in other words, he was not delegating at all which was hindering Stern’ s creative abilities. Instances where George would abuse press releases or alleging Stern to make sales calls despite her position as the Marketing â€Å"Director† all point to George’s inefficiency as CEO (Fryer, 2004). It is surprising how (with such a mindset) was George able to rise up to this level in the organizational hierarchy. Perhaps, it was his technical skills or software skills that led him to this level. He was certainly not capable of managing the creative side of software project management. Another major issue with George is his preoccupation with and interference in employees’ activities that are insignificant. There are various examples of such trivial issues. Firstly, he was adamant at having managers incorporate his idea during the allocation of advertisements to the company’s products (Fryer, 2004). Secondly, he went as far as suggesting his subordinates to correct their sentences (Fryer, 2004). This is certainly not expected from so meone at the CEO level. George’s focus it seems was not on strategic issues but on operational and tactical issues which kept his mind preoccupied and prevented him from focusing on the bigger picture. This is one of the biggest issues of micromanagement- it does not allow managers time to focus on critical issues that desire the supervisor’s attention (Nadine Mockler, 2002). Recommendations Although Stern is easily offended by criticism, George ought to find a solution in order to control the funds that the company has

Sport and Leisure Management - Portfolio Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Sport and Leisure Management - Portfolio - Essay Example Once that was done we had to pick the day for the event, and we picked Friday 13th March. This is because it was the same day as Comic relief our chosen charity. I would like to thank The Student Union (SU) for providing the  £150 for the event to take place and also for providing us with the prizes hanks to the SU for the free prizes they had provided us with which was T-Shirts for the winners. My allocated weightings were the same for Thomas Rose, Brandon, Liam, Daniel Dinnen and myself. The allocation reflects the fact that everyone had the same involvement on the event day and everyone contributed equally. This was either getting the teams, prizes, refereeing or filling in scores. Unfortunately, one member did not turn up till near the end and didn’t really contribute to the event of the day. This is why I equally distributed everyone else the same weighting. Although Dan did not get the teams he was supposed to, he was there and still helped on the Event Day. My contribution was to fill in the scores at the end of the games and get two teams to play which was more than anyone else. Brandon was on the laptop taking results and ensuring that everything was in place while Tom and Liam refereed. Dan also referred in a few games. Ten teams were needed to break even the  £150 that would be used to hire the pitches. This was not possible since we had only six teams which would not have catered for the break even costs and it meant making a loss. With the turn of events we were, we had to pay the remaining amount from our pockets to supplement the deficit. Sale of raffles did not take place as we had planned and this meant more reduction of the projected profits. Our initial target of minimum eight teams was not possible since teams were pulling out of the tournament, though this was our fault for not gathering money beforehand to prevent them from withdrawing. Brandon Bryan, Tom Rose, Liam

The American System of Criminal Justice - Death Penalty Should be Abol Research Paper

The American System of Criminal Justice - Death Penalty Should be Abolished - Research Paper Example According to this view, the death penalty has been proved, over and over again, as a flawed machine, riddled with errors, besmirched officials, and defective practices. As Jeffrey H. Reiman maintains, the death penalty, in principle, is a just punishment for murder, but it is an unjust penalty in practice, especially in the American context, where it is applied in arbitrary and discriminatory ways. Thus, he makes a strong argument maintaining that â€Å"it is good in principle to avoid the death penalty and bad in practice to impose it.† (Reiman, 1998, p. 68). Therefore, it becomes evident, in a profound analysis of the research evidence, that death penalty should be abolished, sooner or later, because it is morally unjustified and uncivilized practice of punishment today. This paper makes a reflective exploration of the topic in order to identify the major arguments in favour of the view that death penalty should be abolished. Why Death Penalty should be abolished The debate concerning whether or not the death penalty should be abolished has been a long one, and the idea of abolition of death penalty gained momentum across the globe over the last five decades. It is important to recognize that death penalty or Capital Punishment has been practised by almost all the societies of the world during the different stages of their history and it is still observed as the essential form of punishment in various societies across the globe today. Significantly, there have been varied opinions on the subject of Capital Punishment, some for it and others against it. Unquestionably, the question relating to the death penalty has become one of the most engaging issues of debate in the world in the present day, and the world is divided into two parts on the same question. Whereas the supporters of the death penalty argue that the practice of death penalty is essential to maintain decorum and to discourage future crimes, a stronger plea has been made by the critics of d eath penalty according to whom it is an infringement of the basic human rights. According to the supporters of the abolition of death penalty, it is a barbaric act of murder which is not morally, ethically, religiously, or democratically acceptable practice. Citing the declaration by the American Civil Liberties Union, Hugo Adam Bedau argues that â€Å"the death penalty inherently violates the constitutional ban against cruel and unusual punishment and the guarantee of due process of law and the equal protection of the laws. The imposition of the death penalty is inconsistent with fundamental values of our democratic system.† (Bedau, 1992). As Hugo Adam Bedau maintains, the death penalty should be realized as an excruciating refutation of civil liberties to the citizens of a state which does not have the right to kill human beings. Therefore, it is essential to â€Å"seek to prevent executions and to abolish capital punishment by litigation, legislation, commutation, or by t he weight of a renewed public outcry against this brutal and brutalizing institution.† (Bedau, 1992). In a reflective analysis of the arguments for the abolition of death penalty, it becomes lucid that several nations of the world, including Portugal and the United Kingdom, have outlawed the death penalty. The process of abolishing the death penalty around the world started as early as the mid-1800s, and the ethical dimensions of the question have been widely cited as the major reason for the abolition of death penalty.     

Describe the original position. why does Rawls thinks that it is a Essay

Describe the original position. why does Rawls thinks that it is a good device selecting principles of justiceHow does Nozick c - Essay Example The foundation of this principle is that everybody is takes up a position in the society as equal and free in relation to other members of the same society. The people therefore agree to jointly commit to the principles of social and political justice. This position, the original position, is distinguished from other social views by what Rawls terms as the â€Å"veil of ignorance†; an insurance policy that guarantees impartiality of ones judgment. This is done by depriving every member of the society all the knowledge of his or her unique and individual characteristics relative to the other members of the same society based on the historical and social characteristics of the said individual. They therefore operate from a common point of ignorance as to the circumstances and capacities of every member of that society (Rawls, 1999, p. 15). However, as to their knowledge of specific fundamental interests that they all enjoy, nothing is done. This is in addition to information bas ed on biology, economics, psychology and several other aspects of the social sciences. Under the original position therefore, the parties are then given several alternatives of the major conceptions of what justice is based on the common and customary usage of political and social philosophy and given the option to pick the best alternatives of the concept of justice that would be the best means of advancing their interests. These interests are those aspects that would then enable them to pursue their fundamental interests and final ends in the most effective manner. In the best possible justifiable scenario that while ensuring all their interests are catered for, it does not short change the individual member of the group (Rawls, 1999, p. 17). It is the contention of Rawls that it would be most rational for the parties involved in making these choices to select the two principles of justice. The first principle of justice guarantees individual’s basic rights and freedoms tha t are needed to ensure the security of the most basic interests of an individual who is free. It also allows citizens to equally pursue a broad range of conceptions that they consider to be good. The second principle of justice is more sociological. It provides equality in employment opportunities and education. In this way, individuals are enabled to compete at an equal level for the prerogatives and powers of any office. It also secures for everybody the minimum of the all-purpose means, this includes wealth and income that one would require in order to pursue their specific interests and to maintain their dignity as equal and free persons of the society in which they are in. The Original Position and Argument for Justice It should be noted that according to Rawls, the original position is not a situation that involves bargaining. This view does not contemplate that the parties will make proposals and counterproposals so as to negotiate the various principles of justice. It is als o no a free ranging discussion. The parties do not come up with their own constructions of what justice is. The fundamental basis of this position is that the deliberations that may exist between the members of the society are more constrained. They are actually given a specific list of the conceptions of justice that is based on the social and political philosophy of the West. While the list is not exclusive, its principles are basically

Crime Mapping Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Crime Mapping - Research Proposal Example Examination of the disturbance data table confirms occurrence within broken windows the same as the system of entry, signifying that possibly residences are being beleaguered. This implies geographic patterns ought to follow regions of higher family density, moreover temporal patterns are supposed to follow day by day as well as weekly practices. This will be analyzed inside this analysis. Thematic Choropleth The disturbance data is plotted by means of a thematic choropleth so as to overcome the drawbacks of simple point plots. Derived from the prevalent system of entry which is broken windows, we suppose disturbance crime is powerfully associated with building density for this reason we choose to control the crime data through dividing by number of households instead of dividing by tract area. During this matter we have regulated the ranges to emphasize a smaller number of precedence tracts which are able to then turn out to be the focus of our successive analysis. Our plan is to discover opportunities for a besieged policing effort which lessen crime considerably. So, we regulated the ranges so that fewer than 6 tracts stay in the top grouping. The resulting plot is illustrated in Figure 3. Related Geographic Data and Spatial Relationships When the streets layer plus the disturbance crimes are added to the choropleth plot, it in the end indicates the spatial association between crime events plus the urban landscape. Figure 4 illustrates apparent concentrations in the region of definite streets and intersections plus the very remarkable observation that the Inner Loop Road appears to bound high concentration of crime. Grid Map On the other hand, bearing in mind the drawbacks of simple plot charts to demonstrate crime concentrations we will include a grid... The day-of-week chronological analysis confirms predominance in crime for the duration of the week as measured up to during the weekend, significance that targets possibly residential relatively than commercial. This deduction is held up by the hour-of-day examination even though conceivably the trends are not predominantly strong. Perchance not astonishingly a peak is observed on Friday, but fascinatingly another peak comes about on Tuesday. The results shows disturbances tend to raise after 7am that is when individuals have left for work, next they portray an abrupt drop at lunch time, then a sturdy peak mid- daylight that is the time when school comes to an end, and one more strong peak at 8pm that is the time when individuals go out, in addition to a principally strong peak past midnight. This last midnight peak may possibly be the consequence of reporting curbs. The data is anchored in timeframe furthermore it might be that during midnight is the moment that is selected when def inite time is unknown.

Markiting Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Markiting - Case Study Example The paper would make an attempt to explore marketing mix of Sainsbury’s (2011), effect of internet on the same, issues that have arose from cultures or globalisation and Search engine optimisation (Pickton & Masterson, 496-499, 2010). Marketing Mix Product Quite understandably, being a retailer the product of Sainsbury’s (2011) ranges from grocery to home furniture, organic products to frozen foods, sports goods to clothing, from fashion to DVDs, the product line of Sainsbury’s is spread over different products. However, the focus has been to create a product line, which is more inclined towards non-perishable items rather than perishable items. For most of the large sized stores of Sainsbury’s would end up stocking more than 30,000 lines. However, important here to note is that out of these 30,000 lines around 6,000-7,000 product lines would be the company’s â€Å"own label† goods. Important here to note is that Sainsbury has been actively e xtending many product lines as well. For example, there are more than 700 line of the â€Å"basic† product, which the economy product line of the company. Furthermore, the company has also extended to include more than 1100 premium products in its line under the umbrella of â€Å"Taste the difference† category. Moreover, this has also allowed the company to customise its product line greatly. Sainsbury’s is now selling many well-known brands and along with them, it is selling many brands that have been custom made for its customers. Place Without any doubts, the factor of place has great importance in marketing. The company currently holds more than 872 stores all over United Kingdom. The stores appear to be in three formats including the regular stores, convenience and smaller supermarkets and the hypermarkets. In order to satisfy the needs and demand, there are some superstores of the company that operate on a 24/7 basis. The format of the store opened by Sain sbury’s largely depends upon the area and the need of the customers of that locality (Lancaster & Massingham, pp. 264-266, 2010). Important here to note is that how well Sainsbury’s and other retailers have been able to respond to the threat of disintermediation. Critics predicated that with the rise of brick and motor companies, retailers would become extinct. However, Sainsbury has been able to respond well to the challenge of disintermediation by intermediation and setting up new online business. Promotion Sainsbury’s has been an aggressive marketer and promoter for its products. The same is evident with the fact that recently, Sainsbury’s signed a deal with the administration of 2012 Summer Paralympics, which will take place during 29 August and 9 September 2012. Sainsbury’s has taken a bold step by signing a deal, which is the largest in the history of this event. Sainsbury’s also takes the credit of giving the advertising world â€Å" the best known slogan in retail advertising† which is of â€Å"Good Food Costs Less at Sainsbury’s.† Furthermore, since 2000, after being pushed at the third position in the retail industry of United Kingdom, it pursued aggressive promotion strategies. Using Jamie Oliver as the ambassador for the corporation, it has been able to add more than extra 1 billion Euros

The reader Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The reader - Essay Example This is true with respect to The Reader as well. While the movie certainly deserves its acclaim, especially on its technical aspects, there are crucial differences between the two versions. This essay will argue that the movie The Reader fails to capture the central thrust and focus of the novel in terms of capturing the personalities and thoughts of Hanna and Michael in their entirety. As a result of this deviation, it would stand second to the novel in terms of its aesthetic and moral significance to the audience. When evaluating the novel, one has to see it in the context of the burgeoning body of holocaust literature that has been published in the last sixty years. Rather than dealing in dichotomies of good and evil in the characters of Hanna and Michael, Bernhard Schlink does present a nuanced view of the questions confronting an entire generation of Germans post holocaust. While the work of art provides an entry point for further exploration of the moral aspects of the holocaust, it is simultaneously a statement on the limitations of the written word to convey and elicit comprehensive responses. To the extent that this is an accepted fact, not just applicable to the lead characters of The Reader, but for the Novel in general, the author does a satisfactory job of perceiving and probing answers to these tough questions. In other words, the Bernhard Schlink novel succeeds in meeting its set objectives. This is further borne by the fact that the book was translated into 37 languages and incl uded in the curricula of several graduate courses. To take the above mentioned assessment a little deeper, let us take a specific example. Early in the narrative of the novel we come across this memorable piece of writing (the narrator is the young Michael Berg): â€Å"As she was reaching for the other stocking, she paused, turning towards the door, and

African American Outline Essay Example for Free

African American Outline Essay It happens to be common knowledge that throughout history African Americans have been oppressed, segregated, and disregarded as civil human beings. In the dawn of history Africans were regarded as animals and as such they would do the job of animals, however this paper will look at their sacrifices and fights to be treated as equals. United States Congress. (1866, April 9). Civil Rights Act. Retrieved from http://www. digitalhistory. uh. edu/exhibits/reconstruction/section4/section4_civrightsact1. html Amendments to the Constitution of the United States (2007)| Infoplease. It happens to be common knowledge that throughout history African Americans have been oppressed, segregated, and disregarded as civil human beings. In the dawn of history Africans were regarded as animals and as such they would do the job of animals, however this paper will look at their sacrifices and fights to be treated as equals. United States Congress. (1866, April 9). Civil Rights Act. Retrieved from http://www. digitalhistory. uh. edu/exhibits/reconstruction/section4/section4_civrightsact1. html Amendments to the Constitution of the United States (2007)| Infoplease. See more: argument essay format com http://www. infoplease. com/ipa/A0749825. html#A0749838#ixzz2VD3iU0JEhttp://www. infoplease. com/ipa/A0749825. html#A0749838 Abolishment of slavery The abolishment of slavery brought on a war, not between two countries but a war that divided a country, one that is still spoken of today. The southern or â€Å"rebel† states rose against the President of the United States in retaliation of his and many others view that no man woman or child should be a slave. All people were created equal. Amendments to the Constitution of the United States (2007)| Infoplease. com http://www. infoplease. com/ipa/A0749825. html#A0749838#ixzz2VD3iU0JEhttp://www. infoplease. com/ipa/A0749825. html#A0749838 (13th, 14th, and 15th amendments) Africans in politics Although four million African American slaves were now free they had codes placed against them, the Black Codes restricted the lives and movement of these people. In order to override the codes the 13th, 14th and 15th amendments were drafted and passed. Not only was slavery abolished but all slaves were now citizens and in such race could no longer be used to prevent the vote of a person. Africans now had a voice on who was elected and soon they had African Americans running for government offices. Corbould, C. (2009) Becoming African Americans: Black Public Life in Harlem, 1919-1939 Harvard University Press. Cambridge, MA, USA Harlem Renaissance African Americans soon were cast aside again, during the age of imperialism and leading into World War One Africans were struggling to make a life. Some fought in another war, this time not for their freedom but for the freedom from communism alongside their white counterparts. After the war ended blacks started to come together, the Harlem Renaissance was born. King, M. L. Jr. (2010) Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story. Beacon Press. Boston, MA, USA Black power movement 1954 to 1963 America saw a strong struggle for the advancement of civil rights, equality and desegregation. From every day citizens expressing their belief in being equal to their white counterparts to lawyers fighting for the equality all had deserved. These times were pivitol in an unstable America. Not only were there these movements of civil equality and black power but also a war in a far land that many Americans were against at the time. Inventions and impact. From writers, inventors and powerful leaders throughout black history there are some that are household names and some that may be forgotten. I plan on taking a look back on those who through oppression continued to strive for better for themselves and for all. African Americans today Not long ago segregation was prominent, civil rights were abused, racism and hate were common. Today we have CEO’s, congressmen and senators, military leaders and the President of the United States who are all African Americans. No longer considered a minority in many’s eyes, African Americans have literally built themselves from slaves to leaders and teachers.

‘Utilitarianism Is Unsatisfactory as a Theory of Ethics Essay Example for Free

‘Utilitarianism Is Unsatisfactory as a Theory of Ethics Essay Utilitarianism is an ethical theory coined by an English philosopher who lived during the late 1700’s name Jeremy Bentham. Bentham believed in the principle that human beings should be motivated by pain and pleasure; he said â€Å"Nature has placed mankind under the governance of two sovereign masters, pain and pleasure† this meant that every human being’s goal in life should be to pursue pleasure and avoid pain and that these should be defining factors of what is moral. Utilitarianism is strongly based on this principle which is more commonly known as the principle of utility. The principle of utility is that an action is moral if it produces the greatest possible pleasure for the greatest possible number in any given situation. To carry out the theory of Utilitarianism accurately, Bentham devised an equation to calculate the happiness of a moral decision called â€Å"Hedonic Calculus†. I personally disagree with the claim that ‘Utilitarianism is unsatisfactory as a theory of ethics† although Utilitarianism has some flaws, the benefits and advantages of using Utilitarianism in most situations outweighs the disadvantages it has. Some critics say that Utilitarianism is unsatisfactory as a theory of ethics as it has many disadvantages. First of all, the Hedonic relies on knowledge of the consequences for an accurate calculation, however many consequences are hard to predict or may not be apparent till many years in the future. It is also difficult to quantify pleasure meaning it is hard to count pleasure into a practical number for use of comparison. Furthermore, some pleasures caused by situations can actually be morally wrong and likewise, some pains can be actually good for us. One of the most significant arguments against Utilitarianism is the problem of justice; although it produces the greatest good for the greatest number, the pleasure is not evenly distributed among the people affected, instead, a majority can benefit from the pleasure while others suffer. Moreover, in most situations, the minorities are ignored meaning that, in a utilitarian decision which produces the greatest good for the greatest number, the well-being of someone who is not included in the â€Å"greatest number† is not taken into account at all. Another criticism is that Happiness and pleasure is particularly subjective as one’s opinion of what is pleasurable can differentiate to extremes between different people. Lastly, Utilitarianism makes it moral to ignore obvious deontological principles with intrinsic moral value, for example, a utilitarian would say it is moral to kill a rapist, ignoring the fact that murder is immoral. Although Utilitarianism is not perfect, some people believe it is still satisfactory as an ethical theory because recently, philosophers such as Henry Sedgwick and Peter Singer has come up with updated versions of Utilitarianism which included principles which state that we should make moral decision which benefit the best interest of the people affected and that no ones happiness can be considered more valuable that another’s. Despite the flaws, Utilitarianism will always be a logical method of making decisions as it provides a democratic system which promotes general happiness. I personally believe that Utilitarianism is a satisfactory ethical theory as it is teleological and takes into account the consequences of a decision. Happiness and pleasure are also very logical things to base our decisions upon as humans were naturally born to pursue happiness and pleasure in their lives. It also avoids individual pursuits and puts egoism into a universal theory which benefits the majority of the society and mankind.

Urban Walkability and Transit Oriented Development (TOD)

Urban Walkability and Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Introduction The transit oriented development approach is being adopted by many cities around the world, particularly those contested with transforming their car dependent neighbourhoods into more habitable and sustainable developments. The simplest way to describe the principles of TOD according to Calthorpe (1993) is â€Å"moderate and high density housing, along with complementary public uses, jobs, retail and services, concentrated in mixed – used development at strategic points along the regional transit system†. Yet, much as connectivity to regional significance through transit is important, it is the communities’ close interaction, supported by a walkable environment that Calthorpe claims is the â€Å"key aspect† of any flourishing TOD. Over the years, pedestrian friendly design thus generated considerable interests and a significant amount of literature and influential policy on urban walkability in TOD’s were developed in the Western world’s temperate urban zones. Presently, however, many of the world’s fastest developing urban areas are found in subtropical latitudes (O’Hare,2006). Western Australia, and particularly Perth, the urban centre of the region is one such case and serves as the focus of this research. The paper explores the key aspects and physical qualities of built environment related to urban walkability with an intent to encourage further discussion and studies on how subtropical TOD’s can be designed to enhance pedestrian movement as well as question whether the orthodoxy of existing urban design principles require some alterations to better adapt to subtropical regions. The paper establishes the accepted arguments and urban design principles essential to urban walkability and develops from a review of urban design sustainability, a framework that would encourage pedestrians’ movement and transport waiting in a subtropical TOD. A literature review is produced to confirm the growing importance of walkability and ultimately the paper explores, through field observations, how the established urban walkability principles apply in the subtropical regions. It concludes by giving some recommendations that could be applied to Claremont town Centre for an improved pedestrian friendly TOD. Accepted arguments for urban walkability + Literature review Recognised as the oldest form of urban transport, walking is a way of encountering and engaging with the local surroundings and wider society in a manner not quite possible when adopting other means of transport, especially motor transport. Gehl Gemzoe (2003), strongly highlight walking as a solution to bettering the public ground as part of the enhancement of the local neighbourhood and urban rejuvenation. With emerging concerns that car dependent cities will not be sustainable in the future, due to energy costs, fuel availability, congestion, pollution and other environmental impacts, much awareness is being raised about the importance of walking. According to US researches, studies show that there is a 30% more likelihood that compact-mixed use development residents would walk (to a restaurant/park) than those inhabiting vast motor-oriented environments (Cervero Radisch,1996). Hodgson, Page, Tight (2004) also conclude from their research that that TOD’s with appropriate design lead to more pedestrian and transit trips resulting in a decline in non-motorised transportation modes to reduce pollution emissions In conjunction to sustainability issues, the intra-generational equity theory and policy also acknowledge that a major part of the population constitutes of people who are extremely young, old, unhealthy, disabled or needy to have access or control over a private car (O’Hare,2006). Recently, considerable interest in improved walking environments has been generated as a result of the desire to encourage nonmotorized transportation modes to reduce pollution emissions and to improve public health by increased levels of walking (Evans-Cowley, 2006). A large body of research has confirmed that a favorable walking environment is a necessary condition for promoting walking and neighborhood interaction (Clifton, Smith, Rodriguez, 2007). Public health The World Health Organisation (WHO) Charter on Transport, Environment and Health as well as the WHO Healthy Cities Program have recognised the prominence of urban walkability long before the urban design and planning fields. The public health sector recognises that ‘active transport’ (such as walking, including walking to the bus or train) involves incidental physical activity. This incidental physical activity is an important component of active living (O’Hare 2000). Active living, together with a healthy diet, has the potential to reverse current international trends towards sedentary lifestyles and the accompanying health risks associated with obesity. Australia has been rated by different agencies as one of the world’s top four countries for obesity. Given that much of the world’s urban population growth is occurring in the tropical and subtropical zones, it is important to examine urban walkability principles with particular attention to conditions in those non-temperate climatic zones. A Perth study found commuters using public transport accumulated seven times more exercise than private motorists The prevalence of obesity in Australia has more than doubled in the last 20 years: 52% of women, 67% of men, and 25% of children are overweight or obese. Urban walkability principles in TODs: Jacobs (1960) spelled out almost half a century ago that urban design qualities relating to the quality of pedestrian experience are essential to support walkability. â€Å"Active frontages† and â€Å"eyes on the street† were recognised as few of the many crucial aspects. Based on the best practices from around the world, 8 principles vital to creating walkable TOD’s are identified in this paper. WALK Developing attractive pedestrian environment ensures accessibility and mobility for all. PLACE-MAKING Creating a sense of place makes encourages pedestrian activity and liveability. CONNECT Creating dense networks of transit routes results in a high degree of connectivity. TRANSIT Locate land uses so that they are transit supportive and close to high quality transport. MIX Planning for mixed use will promote pedestrian interest, safety, 24 hour activity. DENSIFY Sufficient density and compact form make transit viable and improve walkability. COMPACT Planning for compact areas with short commutes improves efficiency. SHIFT Controlling the amount/location of parking increases mobility. It is however important to understand that although listed individually, for a development to become truly transit oriented, we must be able to blur the boundary between these principles so that they are all interrelated Urban design theory and practice guidelines for walkable places were mostly developed in cities located in the temperate climatic zone. In the subtropics, summer is the season of discomfort for walkers, whereas in temperate cities it is the winter that brings discomfort to urban pedestrians. The coastal subtropical city lacks the icy winds, snow, sleet, frost, and other winter discomforts of the temperate city. The pleasant winter pedestrian conditions of the subtropical city are offset, however, by the summer challenges of heat, humidity and glare. The next section of this paper explores the need for an ‘intemperate’ approach to achieving urban walkability in the subtropical city Urban walkability in subtropical TODs Framework It is important to understand that in the fast growing subtropical urban regions of the world, climate and local topography are influential elements associated with walkability. Moving at a slower pace, pedestrians are prone to observe many more perceptible details and are exposed to the surrounding elements and climatic factors. Protection from sun, rain, humidity or heat must therefore be taken into account when planning a pedestrian environment. Drawing on research and keeping in mind the factors associated with subtropical urban regions, a framework of urban design principles is developed as strategies that would best enhance pedestrian movement or waiting in subtropical TOD’s. The key factors to making walking appealing are grouped in three major categories: SAFETY, ACTVITY AND COMFORT. Figure 1 – Framework Venn diagram, 2014. Figure 2 – A balanced street has ample sidewalks, comfortable bike facilities that connect to a network, and safe ways to cross streets, making active transportation possible even on larger roads. Image by EMBARQ. Stimulating walking necessitates that these travellers can move around efficiency, comfortably, and most importantly, safely. Physical design strategies that could be implemented in the ‘Safety, Activity, Comfort’ framework are discussed below : Safety: Ensuring wider sidewalk can provide for easy pedestrian movement and at the same time promote commercial activity/interaction Removing physical or perceived barriers to ensure that the pedestrian has flat and obstruction free band of sidewalk – â€Å"pedestrian zone† Providing pedestrian oriented quality lighting that illuminated their paths will add to the walker’s sense of safety Responsive walk signs at crossing lights designed with better timing and automatic changing to prioritise the needs of pedestrians, raised intersections, mini roundabouts or speed humps will encourage safe movement. Activity: Well-connected streets ensure that residents can conveniently access all parts of the TOD, thus activating the street use. Developing mixed-use street active frontages promote safety, security and foster vibrant social life in the streets. Attractive spaces with building orientation to the public street, visual interests, building articulation and landscaping encourage pedestrians to gather and linger Way finding aids/proper signage must be implemented to help people orient themselves and encourage movement through open public areas. Transit stations should be activated by cafà ©/newspapers stands or other facilities to make transport waiting wothwhile Comfort: The use of shelters in pedestrian and transit areas/stops allows for discomfort reduction and provides rest for pedestrians. Provision of footpath awnings, arcades, and other weather protection at least at certain intervals will serve as shelter from sun or showers. Providing a high degree of street amenities (benches, garbage cans, drinking fountains) and resting places will heighten the image of the street and attract all demographics to comfortably linger. As well as providing a solution to the heat humidity, street trees shade and protect pedestrians from the rain. Walkers can also be protected from cars when greenery is carefully designed along curbs. Sidewalk with a width proportional to the scale of the TOD area and planned walkability level ensures comfortable walking experiences for everyone. Case studies Subiaco City and Claremont Town centre, selected as case studies for this paper are recent both transit oriented areas developed in Perth region with a railway line passing through. The study area boundaries for each include the area within an 800-metre radius surrounding the train station. Subiaco city -Subiaco, known as Subi is a historic inner western suburb located around 3kms from Perth CBD and is focussed around a lively retail strip of Rockeby road. The Subi Centro project encompassing the North and West of the Subiaco railway station began in 1994 and incorporated many new dwellings, business centres and commercial space. An important aspect was the undergrounding of the railway line which in the past divided Subiaco. As an exemplar of urban regeneration supporting its heritage context, the project achieves a high quality public realm. Claremont Town Claremont Town centre, another western suburb finds itself midway of Perth CBD and Fremantle port on the north bank of Swan River. Claremont Town centre is a significant shopping area concentrated around St Quentin’s Avenue/Bay View Terrace and located south of the Claremont train station. The Claremont North East Precinct project is an on-going project started in 2005 as an initiative to revitalise the Northern part of the town which is currently disconnected from the southern part. It aspires a vibrant mixed used development around the Claremont football oval as a step towards social, economic and environmental sustainability. The purpose of this report, being to assess and enhance the quality of pedestrian environment, 3 methods is used to gather information: Ped-shed analysis is conducted at a 400m radius (5 min walk) and an 800m radius (10 min- walk) SAFETY-ACTIVITY- COMFORT assessment sheet is used to rate physical micro – attributes of the built environment on the streets. Observational analysis of the site – pictures/personal experience DATA ANALYSIS The information collected from these were used to assess to what degree the factors discussed in the framework and considered influential to walkability are either present or lacking in these two study areas. Pedshed ratio Analysis of the connectivity of both TODs was assessed through the ped-shed ratios calculated. A comparison of the two diagrams that Subiaco’s street grid network provides many paths and connected streets, encouraging them to walk and be within short walking distance of the train station. Claremont on the other hand, lacks this degree of pedestrian connectivity and offers limited route choice to the person walking. After analysing the connectivity of each site, visuals were gathered from field observations to compare one to another. The Safety-Activity-Comfort assessment sheet was then used to examine and rate each category. Key findings As seen from the rating, Subiaco city stands out terms of providing certain positive physical street elements that affect walkability. Observation from field analysis showed that street frontages on streets adjacent to the train station were quite lively and highly articulated. Seating areas, lighting, greeneries and shaded spots contributed to attracting pedestrian activity in the area. It was gathered from observations and research that Subiaco’s success as a pedestrian friendly locality was also due to the fact that the City of Subiaco Councillors had established a vision statement of â€Å"The Best Main Street Village in Australia† for the area. Rockeby street, in this regard, was developed as a place to come back to instead of just being a transit street and development trends, opportunities and changes were carefully thought of so as the area’s unique ‘sense of place’ was preserved. Famously advocated by Toderian(2014) as â€Å"streets that are for people to enjoy and linger, not just move through..places that are both initially attractive and ‘sticky’, inviting people to love it and not want to leave it†, positive ideas of sticky street concept seems to have been successfully adopted in designing Subiaco’s main street. With the objective of planning not just for the infrastructure and public transpor t, but also the shops, cafes and the people, Rockeby Street has flourished as iconic community hub of social, civic and commercial activity with public spaces as focal points. On the downside however, field observations also indicated a number of vacant shops or those in the process of closing down in Rockeby road retail strip. High rental rates, competition from nearby precinct and over restrictive licensing policies has caused a decline in cafà ©/retail strips and a 5% retail vacancy rate in the area (Tsagalis2012). It was also found that an alfresco dining licence in Subiaco was more expensive than Western Australia’s average and compared to a survey of local governments in Perth and the eastern states (Law, 2014).Mayor Henderson (2014) has approached this issue stating that â€Å"We are aware that council needs to step up to the plate and make some changes in order to create the vibrancy in the main street in Subiaco†. In an effort to encourage more local businesses to operate street trading/ alfresco dining areas to revitalise a spirited street and safe environment for the community, the council of the City of Subiaco has recently resol ved to amend existing associated fees. As of 31st October 2014, a notable reduction in application/licensing fees, a m2 basis fee and the initiation of low-cost short term options will be available for Subiaco retailers and it an increase in street activity is expected. While Claremont Town centre forms part of a prominent retail area, it comes primarily in the form of indoor malls which attract the pedestrians inside rather than being on the road. The main transit adjacent road, Grugeri Street, has a blank wall faà §ade with limited or no pedestrian activity. The street is also very limited in term of comfort since the awnings size is too small to provide shade or shelter. Bus tops and street amenities also lack variety and enhancement to attract people to linger. Recommendations Apparent from the observational audit and findings is that Claremont Town centre has many physical weaknesses in terms of walkability in a subtropical TOD. Because similar weaknesses may exist other western Australian TOD’s, some recommendations may apply for multiple sites and can be used as a guide for enhanced walking experiences. It was revealed from the site observations and findings of these 2 TOD’s in Perth that there is some way to go before Western Australia can claim to have a truly sustainable approach. Having established that urban walkability is vital to achieve a sustainable subtropical TOD, it is important for TOD planners to be able to adopt a revised framework of principles regarding the physical environment attributes that would work best for subtropical Perth regions and merge them with new innovative design strategies which would further enhance walking in Perth. It is also important for town/city planners to review rules and regulations in order to increase vibrancy in TOD’s rather than being over restrictive. Conclusion Having established that a successful TOD walkability is directly associated with a safe, comfortable and attractive pedestrian environment, this paper demonstrates that careful physical planning and good urban design solutions can very much enhance the pedestrian’s experience. It questions the needs of a subtropical city in term of its climate, topography and identity and then explores a framework of revised walkability principles that can be applied to the subtropical city. The case studies reveal responses and challenges to urban design for walkability in Perth and certain successful elements are recommended as strategies to improve Claremont’s TOD in terms of walking experience. It also questions whether over restrictive planning policies may need to be reconsidered to keep a TOD street alive and vibrant. It also recommends innovative strategies of urban design that other projects may copy or adapt in part for design and place-making approaches to give a unique sense of place to the subtropical TOD. Although each future TOD will deal with the numerous complex design challenges depending on particular circumstances around each project, it is the intention of this paper to stimulate discussion and hopefully more substantial research into the planning of walkable subtropical cities since so many of the world’s most rapidly growing urban areas are now situated in the tropical and subtropical zones.

Toni Morrisons The Bluest Eye Essay -- Toni Morrison Bluest Eye Essay

Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye Toni Morrison’s novel The Bluest Eye provides social commentary on a lesser known portion of black society in America. The protagonist Pecola is a young black girl who desperately wants to feel beautiful and gain the â€Å"bluest eyes† as the title references. The book seeks to define beauty and love in this twisted perverse society, dragging the reader through Morrison’s emotional manipulations. Her father Cholly Breedlove steals the reader’s emotional attention from Pecola as he enters the story. In fact, Toni Morrison’s depiction of Cholly wrongfully evokes sympathy from the reader. The sympathy for Cholly evoked in The Bluest Eye from the reader is not deserved. By definition, sympathy means feeling pity or sorrow for the distress of another, or compassion. The skillfulness of the author manipulates the reader into feeling a certain way towards particular characters. Sympathy for characters – Cholly being no exception – derives from an author’s ability to use words and the construction of the story to lead a reader into a certain emotional direction. The reader is the prime reason the author constructs a story. Because all authors are completely aware that an audience exists for their stories, authors are, in turn, completely aware that their words can manipulate their readers. It is this awareness that allows all sentence structures and idea portrayal to be the product of an author’s manipulation. Because there exists an audience, there exists someone to persuade or influence. Thus, an author, like Morrison, builds a textual relationship between the characters in her story and that of the reader digesting her story. Morrison, like all authors, understands that the reader searches for a... ...ror of Pecola’s first sexual experience: her father rapes her), and a difficult marriage situation (caused by his own drunkenness). The â€Å"bads† certainly outweigh the â€Å"goods† in his situation. Thus, the reader ought not to feel sympathy for Cholly. But, Morrison presents information about Cholly in such a way that mandates sympathy from her reader. This depiction of Cholly as a man of freedom and the victim of awful happenings is wrong because it evokes sympathy for a man who does not deserve it. He deserves the reader’s hate, but Morrison prevents Cholly covered with a blanket of undeserved, inescapable sympathy. Morrison creates undeserved sympathy from the reader using language and her depiction of Cholly acting within the bounds of his character. This ultimately generates a reader who becomes soft on crime and led by emotions manipulated by the authority of text. Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye Essay -- Toni Morrison Bluest Eye Essay Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye Toni Morrison’s novel The Bluest Eye provides social commentary on a lesser known portion of black society in America. The protagonist Pecola is a young black girl who desperately wants to feel beautiful and gain the â€Å"bluest eyes† as the title references. The book seeks to define beauty and love in this twisted perverse society, dragging the reader through Morrison’s emotional manipulations. Her father Cholly Breedlove steals the reader’s emotional attention from Pecola as he enters the story. In fact, Toni Morrison’s depiction of Cholly wrongfully evokes sympathy from the reader. The sympathy for Cholly evoked in The Bluest Eye from the reader is not deserved. By definition, sympathy means feeling pity or sorrow for the distress of another, or compassion. The skillfulness of the author manipulates the reader into feeling a certain way towards particular characters. Sympathy for characters – Cholly being no exception – derives from an author’s ability to use words and the construction of the story to lead a reader into a certain emotional direction. The reader is the prime reason the author constructs a story. Because all authors are completely aware that an audience exists for their stories, authors are, in turn, completely aware that their words can manipulate their readers. It is this awareness that allows all sentence structures and idea portrayal to be the product of an author’s manipulation. Because there exists an audience, there exists someone to persuade or influence. Thus, an author, like Morrison, builds a textual relationship between the characters in her story and that of the reader digesting her story. Morrison, like all authors, understands that the reader searches for a... ...ror of Pecola’s first sexual experience: her father rapes her), and a difficult marriage situation (caused by his own drunkenness). The â€Å"bads† certainly outweigh the â€Å"goods† in his situation. Thus, the reader ought not to feel sympathy for Cholly. But, Morrison presents information about Cholly in such a way that mandates sympathy from her reader. This depiction of Cholly as a man of freedom and the victim of awful happenings is wrong because it evokes sympathy for a man who does not deserve it. He deserves the reader’s hate, but Morrison prevents Cholly covered with a blanket of undeserved, inescapable sympathy. Morrison creates undeserved sympathy from the reader using language and her depiction of Cholly acting within the bounds of his character. This ultimately generates a reader who becomes soft on crime and led by emotions manipulated by the authority of text.

stress and law enforcement Essays -- essays research papers

Management and Dealing with Stress in Officers   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is important that law enforcement officers are able to handle stress and build his or her zone of stability. Officers have a ready-made support system in each other. They better understand the special problems and feelings that come with the job that friends and family members don’t. That doesn’t necessarily mean that this relationship with their fellow officers will cure all. Sometimes, because of the â€Å"macho† image that police officers uphold, they will give back negative feedback in a situation where an officer needs comfort. For example, an officer shoots someone in the line of duty and is having an emotional struggle with it, and a fellow officer (who thinks he is supporting that officer) makes a comment like, â€Å"Good job, that dirt bag deserves it.† In a situation like that, a fellow officer feels worse and more stressed. It is very important for management, whether police or correctional, to make sure that they can prop erly help out their officers when needed. There are many things that happen on the streets and in prison that can severely effect an officer. It is only with a good management system and staff that officers will have the proper support to move on.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  A major stressor is when a law enforcement officer must deal with death. No one is mentally or emotionally prepared to deal with death. When a law enforcement officer has to notify the next of kin, they must pass through stages of notification. The first stage is to prepare by creating a self-protecting sense of social distance for the officer. An experienced officer will be more concerned with containing the emotions of the recipient rather than their concern for how they will cope. The next stage is the delivery. It only takes a few seconds to deliver the news, and the officer will use their badge, uniform, and the formality of the delivery as a way to protect him/herself from this personal situation (Looney & Windsor 1982). Dealing with the pain that you see in other people is a major adjustment. It will take time and experience for a law enforcement officer to cope with this aspect of the job.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The most traumatic event in a law enforcement officer’s job is dealing emotionally with the involvement in a shutting incident. Officers may suffer from pos... ...lp make a team run smoothly and efficiently. Support must always be shown from management to it’s officers. Reducing stress in officers can effectively help the team run better. Especially in times of need, like death, management needs to step up and use the techniques they have been trained to safely help their officers in troubled times. With a management that can properly help out their team, the team can move on and run efficiently and effectively. When officers need help with an aspect of the job emotionally, and management can step in to help, the officer will feel better knowing that management is on their side and that they are based one hundred percent. A good management can make the difference between and O.K. team and an outstanding team. References Jacobson, Edmund (1978). You Must Relax. New York; McGraw Hill. Looney, H. & J. L. Windsor. (1982) Death Notification: Some Recommendations. The Police Chief. March, page 30-31. Solomon, R. M. (1988). Post-Traumatic Trauma. The Police Chief. October, page 40-44. Solomon, R. M. (1990). Administrative Guidelines for Dealing with Officers involved in on-duty shooting situations. The Police Chief. February, page 40.

The Lack of Nutrition In Africa Essay -- Nutrition

In Africa there are about 276 million individuals who are affected by lack of nutrition. Moreover, 399 million individuals live on one dollar a day in Africa. Developing countries carries 90% of the disease burden, yet benefit from only 10% of the resources allocated to health (Kinabo, 2001), even though the majority of the population is located in these countries. Approximately â€Å"43% of the children in the developing countries experience stunted growth due to malnutrition, and 36% of the children are underweight† (Bone and France, 2003). There are many organizations trying to improve the overall lack of nutrition in Africa. Despite the great number of organizations minor changes in the affected population has changed. A few deficiencies have even seen an increase. Malnutrition is increasing â€Å"due to HIV/AIDS epidemic and the changing global environment in socio, politico and economic relations† (Kinabo, 2001, p. 114). Therefore, good nutrition needs to be empha sized due to it links directly with the economic issues within the country. Additionally, the ability to increase the budgets for governments to address health, education and nutrition on account of education is great device to help the population understand the importance of nutrition within their daily lives. The great lack of sufficient nutrition in Africa is outrageous. Malnutrition â€Å"in various forms exist and persists in all countries of Africa† (Kinabo, 2001, p. 103). There is a different problem issue within different countries that is directly linked to the development of the country. For instance, â€Å"the type of malnutrition that exists in Seychelles and Mauritius is that of obesity and associated diseases† (Kinabo, 2001, p. 103). The most common nutritional problems... ...ese deficiencies. Although the main step that should be taken is that of withdrawing individuals who are particularly skilled for another countries benefit, which would reduce the â€Å"brain drain† and allow the individuals to help develop their country within Africa. Works Cited Bone, P. and France, K. (2003). International harmonization of food and nutrition regulation: the good and the bad. Journal of Public Policy and Marketing 22(1): 102-110. Retrieved from JSTOR database. World hunger and poverty facts and statistics (WHPFS). (2011). Hunger Notes. Retrieved from http://www.worldhunger.org/articles/Learn/world%20hunger%20facts%202002.htm#What_are_the_causes_of_hunger Kinabo, J. (2001). Nutrition in africa in a global economy: perspectives challenges and opportunities. African Study Monographs, 22(3): 103-122. Retrieved from ProQuest Database. The Lack of Nutrition In Africa Essay -- Nutrition In Africa there are about 276 million individuals who are affected by lack of nutrition. Moreover, 399 million individuals live on one dollar a day in Africa. Developing countries carries 90% of the disease burden, yet benefit from only 10% of the resources allocated to health (Kinabo, 2001), even though the majority of the population is located in these countries. Approximately â€Å"43% of the children in the developing countries experience stunted growth due to malnutrition, and 36% of the children are underweight† (Bone and France, 2003). There are many organizations trying to improve the overall lack of nutrition in Africa. Despite the great number of organizations minor changes in the affected population has changed. A few deficiencies have even seen an increase. Malnutrition is increasing â€Å"due to HIV/AIDS epidemic and the changing global environment in socio, politico and economic relations† (Kinabo, 2001, p. 114). Therefore, good nutrition needs to be empha sized due to it links directly with the economic issues within the country. Additionally, the ability to increase the budgets for governments to address health, education and nutrition on account of education is great device to help the population understand the importance of nutrition within their daily lives. The great lack of sufficient nutrition in Africa is outrageous. Malnutrition â€Å"in various forms exist and persists in all countries of Africa† (Kinabo, 2001, p. 103). There is a different problem issue within different countries that is directly linked to the development of the country. For instance, â€Å"the type of malnutrition that exists in Seychelles and Mauritius is that of obesity and associated diseases† (Kinabo, 2001, p. 103). The most common nutritional problems... ...ese deficiencies. Although the main step that should be taken is that of withdrawing individuals who are particularly skilled for another countries benefit, which would reduce the â€Å"brain drain† and allow the individuals to help develop their country within Africa. Works Cited Bone, P. and France, K. (2003). International harmonization of food and nutrition regulation: the good and the bad. Journal of Public Policy and Marketing 22(1): 102-110. Retrieved from JSTOR database. World hunger and poverty facts and statistics (WHPFS). (2011). Hunger Notes. Retrieved from http://www.worldhunger.org/articles/Learn/world%20hunger%20facts%202002.htm#What_are_the_causes_of_hunger Kinabo, J. (2001). Nutrition in africa in a global economy: perspectives challenges and opportunities. African Study Monographs, 22(3): 103-122. Retrieved from ProQuest Database.

Reaction to, “My name is Margaret”

This story reminds me of a sad time in our history when the people of this nation thought they could own another human being. I would like to say this time has passed, but we are barely able to hang on. We may have a bi=racial president, but there is still racism among the old south. Margaret was only a child and she was being groomed to be the help. It may have been on different scale verses working in a field, but all the same. She talks about her experience and recalls the events in such a way that you are taken back and can almost see what she is describing. I love the names in the essay, Miss Glory having been named Hallelujah. I felt horrible when Mrs. Cullinan changed her name to suit her friends. I do not even change the names of my animals. If they are named already it seems inhuman to call them by a different name. Mrs. Cullinan wanted to change Margaret to make it shorter, but oh my goodness is that ever degrading. The first time Mrs. Cullinan attempts to call her Mary, Miss Glory asks, â€Å"WHO? †¦ this is funny to me because she is trying to defend Margaret and express as much sympathetic dislike for the name change. Miss Glory even says she felt sorry for Margaret. I liked how Angelou described the old traditions that little ladies were trained in: learning to dance, sit and sip tea, and embroider. It reminds me of spending time to teach my daughters how to perform regular house hold chores and cook. We like to bake together, but soon my nine year old, Elyssa, will be in the kitchen helping with the cooking. I started my son out kind of the same way. He started with how to cook eggs and boil water for ice tea. In this story Margaret is learning how to work and support herself and family for a living. She will be working in the upper class homes for employment and will have to serve a Lady of the House. In this essay, Angelou also speaks of a Mr. Cullinan and his indiscretions, having not one but two children by a â€Å"colored woman. ’’ They are quick to sympathize with Mrs. Cullinan, but still did not excuse her for her mannerisms. She even writes a poem about this, â€Å"pain and loneness. † I would think there would be more understanding, but she is only a child in this story. In the end Mrs. Cullinan did finally agree her name was Margaret and Miss Glory who once felt sorry for Margaret now some what identified with Mrs. Cullinan. Miss Glory must have known before she even asked because she called her Mary. The best part was as Margaret walked out she left the front door open so all would hear the distressed Mrs. Cullinan who married beneath her status.

Corporate strategy Essay

Content Question 1 P.ii-iii Using Michael Porter’s five force model, evaluate the importance of Barriers to Entry to the fast-fashion industry. Support your arguments with evidence from the case study. Question 2 P.iv-vi Conduct a value chain analysis to assess H&M’s capabilities and derive its core competencies. Question 3 P.vii Based on these competencies identify the generic competitive strategy which H&M is pursuing. Question 4 P.viii-ix It is suggested in the case study that the fashion industry is full of companies that have confidently expanded into international markets but later have been forced to retreat. Analyze the international strategy choice being pursued by H&M and assess the extent to which this is appropriate for its future development. Reference P.x Appendix P.xi-xii Question 1 The threat of entry of the fast-fashion industry is relating to its attractiveness, which is how profitable it is. The less new entrants are in the industry, the more stable the revenue of the firms are. Hence, several sources of barriers to entry are setting up in most of the industries to lower the threat of new entrants. Product differentiation of a firm can make themselves being unique from other branches which brings with a certain amount of loyal customers to them. Due to the economic growth, people are willing to spend not only for necessity, but also for stylish life style. The uniqueness of the product become one of the most important advantages to increase their customers’ loyalty. The entry barrier will be higher with product differentiation. Access to channels of supply and distribution is very important in the fast fashion industry. With the rapid development of  Internet, thousands of suppliers in the fast-fashion industry can be found in a second. In order to build up comparative advantage, retailers tend to find out supplier who provide the best quality with the least cost. Since larger firms can build up a good relationship with suppliers easily, due to the volume of orders and reputation of firms, new entrants are difficult to compete with them with their business size and bargaining power. H&M, one of the major retailer in the fast-fashion industry, she worked with 747 suppliers in which 150 of them are long-term strategic partners. It is difficult for the potential entrants to compete with her as they have been cooperate for long time. Economies of scale is an important barrier for the fast-fashion industry. It is because the larger the firm size, the easier the level of efficiency can achieve. The maximum volume of production keeps increasing for factories due to the improvement of technology. Mass production by large firms enables them to fully utilize their production capacity where small stores cannot. Also, they are more capable to outsource their production in low-wage region, like Africa and South Asia, which lower their production cost. Moreover, large firm are easier in building brands in multiple outlets, like GU for UNIQLO. As there are several existing major retailers are in the industry, the expected retaliation makes the new companies difficult to enter the industry. Since the major retailers are in good relationship with their supplier and a greater extent in economies of scale. They are able to attack new entrants with different strategy, like cutting prices. The capital requirement to enter the fast-fashion industry is low. The major reason is that the industry is free to enter. There are a loads of single independent store in the industry which they can choose their products from thousands of suppliers and sell to customers through different ways. The low capital requirement makes new companies enter the industry easier. There are no barriers erected by the government to enter the industry. As it is freely entrance, it enables new competitors to enter the industry easily. In conclusion, although the fast-fashion industry are free to enter with low capital outlay, the entry barrier are still high since the existing major retailer can provide differentiate products with access to channels of supplier and distribution. They also enjoy a greater economies of scale which enable them to attack new entrants in different ways. Question 2 There are many activities involved in running a business, both primary and secondary, which add value to the customer and increases the margin to the organization. In the H&M case, there are also involve several activities which forms core competencies for the firms. Primary activities comprise operation, marketing, service, outbound logistic and inbound logistic. Operation in H&M tends to empower their employees to make decisions. For instance, the window display of each store are guided but each store can have their own style which build up the uniqueness of each store to adapt the characteristics of customers in each region. In the aspect of marketing and social media, H&M promote their stylish design through different social network, like Facebook and Twitter etc. Information will be spread quickly through internet as people used to share their daily lives to public on the net. It strengthens the social awareness of H&M. To enhance their service, H&M develop a smartphone app to promote their new collection and provide information about H&M. it convenient the customers, since most of the people are using smartphone and customer can easily gather information of H&M once they have downloaded the app. It strengthen the relationship between itself and customer. The logistic system of H&M are well-developed. H&M has an integrated logistic system which helps stores not to hold stock in their warehouse and transfer stock internally from different region. The system prevent the situation that stock stuck in stores and enable stores to swift the item they need from other region to satisfy the customer needs. The inbound logistic avoid the middleman which lower the cost. It is, however, the lack of middleman will increase the time for finding the suitable material or supplier. The production cost may increase if a middleman is not hired. Secondary activities include firm infrastructure, human resource management, technology and procurement. The firm’s vision and mission set up an organizational culture which is benefit to the firm. Team work, entrepreneurial spirit and cost conscious are included in H&M’s core values. Each activity are following these values that organizational goals can be easier to achieve. The technology of H&M adds value to the whole operation process of the firms. It builds up a channel between designers and customers which designer can know about the latest trend. It also provides information  to stores to know about the needs of customers for the swift of stock. The production cost reduces with the assistance of the technology. The procurement of H&M reduces cost by diversifying their suppliers in different region around the world. There are about 750 suppliers worked with H&M. They are from some low-wage region, like Far East. To ensure quality of the production, H&M also audit their supplier to stick with their objective of â€Å"low cost, high quality†. The human resource management of H&M cultivate their staff to be responsible as a part of their store. It increases the loyalty of the employees to H&M which they are willing to maximize the interest of H&M. Also, they hire people who fits the core value of the firms. It strengthen the quality of staff and make sure they work with the firm’s core value. Value chain exists if there are linkages among the activities above. As the firm’s infrastructure defined the core value of H&M that they belief in people and team work. As a result, the human resource department have to hire people who has critical thinking and train staff to build up entrepreneurial spirit in their mind. With the assist of the secondary activities, the decentralization in operation can operate smoothly that staff will consider them as a part of the store. IT expert were employed to develop an IT system by the human resources department since H&M values a constant improvement. The development of technology in H&M helps with the outbound logistics. As there is program of is playing the top item in each stores. Managers can follow the data and swift inventory from region that have extra stock of the item. Also, the program can replenish stock when an item are going to be sold out that reduces the lead time and the distribution cost. The technology development in building up a smartphone app enhance the service to customers. It also setting up a channel between designers and store for the latest trend in the market to fulfill customers’ needs. The app also provide an opportunity for the marketing department to promote the new collections. In order to lower the production cost, a g ood procurement is important. The merchandizer finds out many potential suppliers in different region around the world. The IT department is involved in searching and storing the huge amount of information of the suppliers. Once the linkages are well-developed, core competence will be generated. It also can be examined by the VRIN test. The operating style of H&M of empowering staff for decision making is a core  competency of H&M. As it is valuable to the firm since the loyalty of staff ensure the efficiency of them and they are willing to maximize the sales of their store. It is rare, substitution and difficult to imitate for the loyalty of staff since personality cannot be duplicated. The logistic system of H&M is also a core competency of H&M. As the system can reduce distribution cost and satisfy the demand of customer. Thus, it is valuable to H&M. Also, the knowledge of the IT experts cannot imitate. The system is rare in the market as most of the firms transfer stock from warehouse to stores instead of inter-stores transfer. Also, it is no substitutable due to the uniqueness of the distribution process from store to store. In conclusion, there are many activities involved in the business of H&M and they are linked to add value to the company. The operating style and the logistic system become the core competencies of H&M eventually. Question 3 Generic corporate strategy comprises the choice of lowering cost and differentiation. There is a chance for a firm to adopt a hybrid strategy which integrated in both aspects. According to the discussion above, H&M’s are adopting a hybrid strategy. H&M put a huge effort into reducing the production cost. For instance, the logistic system, that is, the core competency, reduce the distribution cost since the internal swift of inventory are more efficient instead of the traditional transfer method from warehouse to stores. H&M also reducing the cost by enjoying the economies of scale since it outsourced to low-cost country in Far East and South Asia. With their mass production, the production cost will reduce. Despite of low cost, H&M also pay attention to differentiate itself from other competitors. Since the management philosophy is being ‘Fashion and quality at the best price’. Thus, there are about 200 in-house designers employed to design to forecast the latest trend and design to meet the customer satisfaction. Also, H&M audit the supplier to ensure the quality. With the high standard of quality for the products, H&M can differentiate from other competitor with a relatively reasonable low price. H&M adopt an integrated strategy to compete in the industry. The constant improvement in technology reduce the production cost and the fundamental value confirms their direction to be different from others. Question 4 The Integrated Responsiveness Grid is a method to help organization to decide their international strategy. Through filling up the score sheet, as shown in the appendix, H&M is able to position their international strategy. For the global factors, it is the score of whether H&M should adopt global strategy. In factor A, since the fashion is a global trend, design across are usually with not much difference. The only factor affects the design is the customs of each region, which have little influence on the design. Thus, a score of 4 in A is awarded. In factor B, there are not much standard for the industry. Thus, a score of 2 in B is awarded. In factor C, customer tends to buy locally in the industry. However, there are also ordering service from other countries. Thus, a score of 4 in C is awarded. In factor D, economies of scale is important to the fast-fashion industry. Since the greater extend of economies of scale the firm enjoy, the lower the average production it is. Thus, a score of 5 in D is awarded. In factor E, due to the nature of the industry, a quick response is needed to satisfy the customers due to the unpredictable fashion trend. Thus, a score of 5 in E is awarded. In factor F, technical requirement for fast-fashion is low. However, there is a little influence on the culture factors for fashion design. Thus, a score of 2 in F is awarded. In factor G, since the market situation in different regions are different. The operating method may not be the same among regions. However, the experience in other region can be as a reference for the new stores. Thus, a score of 3 in G is awarded. In factor H, there are a thousands of small competitors in the fast-fashion industry who are focus the local market. However, there are several major competitors who pursue global strategy that is more influential to H&M. Thus, a score of 4 in H is awarded. In factor I, customer behavior towards fashion is more the less the same in different regions. However, the purchasing pattern may vary due to the different purchasing power in different area. Thus, a score of 3 in I is awarded. In factor J, creativity is important to fashion industry which makes a huge demand in designer that are the experts in this area. Thus, a score of 5 in J is awarded. The global integration score is: (4+2+4+5+5+2+3+4+3+5)/10 = 3.7 Factor K to O refers to the local responsiveness score. In factor K, since clothing is a kind of necessity so price may not very different across country. Thus, a score of 1 in K is awarded. In factor L, distribution channel are the same across countries. Thus, a score of 1 in L is awarded. In factor M, as the industry regulation has little difference in different are. Thus, a score of 1 in A is awarded. In factor N, fashion is about trends and customer satisfaction, customer is the main role of the industry, a high customization is required. Thus, a score of 5 in N is awarded. In factor O, as firms usually produce in low-cost region and transfer to local stores, transportation cost is not so different in different countries. However, a customer interface is needed to adapt customers’ opinion. Thus, a score of 3 in O is awarded. The local responsiveness score: (1+1+1+5+3)/5 = 2.2 According to the score sheet, as shown in the grid in appendix, H&M are suggested to adopt global strategy. Reference Regner, p and Yildiz (2014). H&M in fast fashion: continued success? Exploring strategy. pp. 575-582. Lasserre, Philipe (2007). The global integration/local responsiveness grid. Global strategic management. pp. 25-30 Johnson. G, Whittington. R, Scholes. K (2012). Fundamentals of strategy. 2nd ed. Edinburgh Gate: Pearson Prentice Hall.