Freud’s theory of Psychosexual Development Essay

I will begin my essay by outlining Freud’s theory of Psychosexual Development and I will then go on to evaluate how far this help us to understand a client’s presenting issue. Freud’s theory of psychosexual development begins with the belief that human beings are purely driven by biology, in the form of the libido or sexual energy. The driving force of the libido is divided into five stages, he argues, and our early experiences during childhood are responsible for the development of a healthy personality, or if any individual were to experience trauma during these stages then it would result in disruption in the child’s personal development and the child may become stuck in this stage, resulting in neurosis. This five stages of sexual libido are: The Oral Stage – from birth to about 18 months – is where the child directs all its attention to the mouth in the form of sucking, eating and drinking. If stuck in this stage the client may still like to use their mouth a lot, resulting in the client presenting with overeating, drinking, smoking or talking The Anal Stage – from about 18 months to three years – is where the child directs their attention to the elimination of waste, and of the feelings experienced by the expelling of waste. This is also the stage where the child first experiences an element of control over themselves, as to where they excrete or and indeed whether or not they excrete their waste product. The child learns that he can use his bodily functions to elicit attention from his carer by excreting on the floor rather than in the potty. Clients stuck in the anal stage may be either anally retentive or expulsive in personality. Those that are anally retentive individuals are controlling and like to have everything in order – they may suffer from OCD and have quick outbursts of anger. Anally expulsive individuals tend to be untidy and disorganised. The Phallic Stage – from about three to five years – is where children become aware of their genital regions. This is the stage where the child starts to become aware of the differences between male and female genitalia, and their energy is spent undressing themselves, and perhaps others, in order to explore these differences. It is also the stage  of manipulating the genitals and the discovery of pleasure in doing so. It is during this stage that the Oedipus conflict arises; the belief that a boy has incestuous cravings for his mother and views his father as a rival for this affection. The boy also fears his father, as his father is bigger than him in all ways including his penis. Freud argued that the boy feels castration anxiety at this stage as a result of repressed sexual desire for his mother. If the boy has the correct parenting at this stage, then the boy identifies with the father and comes to have harmless affection for the mother. The Electra complex is the female counterpart. It is based on the view that each girl wants to possess her father and replace her mother. A phallic fixation can lead to an individual with a narcissistic, homosexual, egotistical or overly sexualised personality that may lead to serial marriage, polygamy or polyandry. The phallic fixation tends to use sex to discharge emotional tension and will often have sexual relationships that are superficial and lacking in love and affection The Latency Stage – from five years to adolescence. In this stage, sexual motivated needs subside as the child focuses their attention on developing other skills needed for their survival. A child stuck in this stage may have issues forming sexual relationships and have trouble expressing themselves sexually, leaving themselves and or their partners sexually unfulfilled. The Genital Stage – from adolescence to adulthood. During the onset of adolescence, the child moves from self-love or narcissistic love to diverting this love to others. It is argued by psychotherapists that are advocates of this theory that individuals disrupted during the ‘Genital stage’ may result in sexual disorders such as fetishes and paedophilia. According to Freud, only symptoms can be modified, and not the behaviour of the client – this can be done in two ways: 1. Lessening of the intensity of the unconscious urges, by bringing them to the consciousness or by strengthening the defences against them. An example of lessening the client’s behaviour is by encouraging a client to leave a job where aggressive urges were continually being aroused by an oppressive boss. 2. Alternatively the client can act out their urges in a more acceptable and symbolic way. An example being that anal urges can be expressed through pottery, as an alternative to faecal play. Feminists would argue that Freud’s theory concentrates on male sexual development, and provides little in understanding female sexuality. Freud’s work has also  been criticised for over emphasising sex drive and little else in order to assess a client’s presenting issue. Carl Jung and Fromm, two students of Freud, agreed with this statement, but used Freud’s work to develop their own theories, which I outline below. Carl Jung (1875 -1961) believed that that the libido was not just sexual energy, but instead generalised psychic energy. The purpose of this psychic energy was to motivate the individ ual in a number of ways, including spiritually, intellectually, and creatively. It was an individual’s source for seeking pleasure as well as reducing conflict. Jung placed greater emphasis on the unconscious than Freud; he argued that the psyche was composed of three components. Firstly, he believed that the ego is conscious, because people are aware of their own thoughts, memories and emotions. The unconscious mind, Jung believed, was split into two parts (the remaining two components): The personal unconscious, which is the same as Freud’s belief, in that it consists of repressed memories. Jung explained an important feature of the personal unconscious called ‘complexes’. A complex is a collection of thoughts, feelings, attitudes and memories, which focus on a single concept. The more elements attached to the ‘complex’ the greater its influence on the individual. The second deeper level is the Collective consciousness. This level of unconscious is shared with other members of the human species, comprising of latent memories from our ancestral and evolutionary past (‘The form of the world into which a person is born is already inborn in him, as a virtual image’ Jung, 1953). Jung called the ancestral memories and images ‘archetypes’. For Jung, our primitive past becomes the basis of the human psyche, directing and influencing present behaviour. Important archetypes include: the persona, or our social mask, just like an actor in a play; Anima/Animus, or our male and female sides – this comes from living side by side with the opposite sex for centuries; the shadow, similar to Freud’s ID, comprised of our animal urges or survival and reproduction. Jung argued that the psychological development of both sexes was undermined as the development of western society has led to the devaluation of feminine qualities over the predominance of the persona, leading to insecurity. Jung agreed with Freud that a person’s past and childhood experiences determined future behaviour, but he also believed that we are shaped by our future aspirations too. Erich Fromm (1900 – 1980) differed with the Freudian  emphasis on unconscious drives. Fromm argues that a person’s drives were not purely biological – he believed that man had free choice to decide on whatever action he felt appropriate and therefore gui ded their own destiny. Fromm saw conflict arising within the individual, when they had to weigh up the freedom of choice with the fear of uncertainty, when making these decisions. As a sociologist and psychologist, his theories integrated both psychology and Marxist Historical Materialism. Fromm argued that each socioeconomic class fosters a particular character, governed by ideas and concepts that justify and maintain the socioeconomic system. Fromm believed that the unique character of human existence gives rises to eight basic needs. Firstly Unity, as human beings have lost their original oneness with nature, they need to relate in order to overcome their isolation. Secondly their relatedness with others, care, respect and knowledge. Thirdly humans need to transcend their own nature, as well as their passivity and randomness of existence, which can be accomplished either positively, by loving and creating, or negatively, through hatred and destruction. Fourthly the individual also requires a sense of rootedness or belonging, in order to gain a feeling of security, and sense of identity. Fifthly the sense of identity which is expressed non-productively as conformity to a group and productively as an individual. Sixthly is need is for orientation understanding the wor ld and our place in it. Seventhly is excitation and stimulation or actively striving for a goal rather than simply responding. Eighthly is effectiveness the need to feel accomplished. This Orientation can be achieved either through assimilation (relating to things) or socialisation (relating to people). Fromm identified several character Orientations in Western Society. Authoritarianism – when an individual cannot come to terms with this freedom, he could avoid his responsibilities by withdrawing beneath the protection of someone or something else. Examples of this include God, a specific political leader of party, an institution of even one’s carer. Receptive Orientation – this is common in a society which encourages exploitation of the individual, who then seeks solace in affection and related comforts, such as eating, where the individual can only take and not give. Exploitative Orientation – the defence being the aggressive possession of goods, usually those of others. Examples being the plundering of goods in historical times, or in more modern times, those  nations that seek the territories and chattels of others. Productive Orientation – which donates love and tolerance towards others, and an acceptance of their freedom, with the ability to use this orientation to their advantage, without harming others. Hoarding Orientation – the ‘I want – I need’ society, based on material wealth. If one owns objects, then the individual can be seen, at least in his eyes, as clever and powerful. These individuals are threatened by the outside world and cannot share. Marketing Orientation – this is people copying or being influenced by the media and advertising by wearing the latest fashions. Individual personal qualities are redundant over what looks good. The individual sees themselves as a commodity to be bought and sold. Fromm added two further states: Necrophilous character- attracted to death Biophilous character – drawn to life. According to Fromm, gaining independence from one’s parents leads to a profound sense of loneliness and isolation, which the individual attempts to escape by establishing some type of bond with society through social conformity and submission to authority. By relating both Jung and Fromm’s work to our clients, they have made us aware of the client’s wider world or heritage into which he or she is born. Jung would argue that a Muslim woman may have low self-esteem and isolate herself from others, but these presenting issues are more down to the client’s collective consciousness than their childhood. In this case, Jung helps us as therapist to understand that the client’s neurosis may not arise from bad parenting, but from something primal based upon evolution within the individual. Fromm’s Socio- economic theories also provide us with insight of the client’s wider world, and how neurosis can arise due to external economic forces that dr ive the client’s neurosis in an exploitative and materialistic society that values things over the human existence. Both would argue that it is our environment rather than biology that constrains us, in the form of society and culture. For Jung and Fromm, in order to understand the client’s presenting issue, we must also understand their culture and the way in which they relate to the economic society into which they are born. An alternative view to Freud’s psychosexual development is that of the Behaviourist approach. Behaviourists believe that what is learned can be unlearned. Skinner built upon the work  of Pavlov’s classical conditioning experiments (1927) and his use of dogs as subjects, and the Little Albert experiments of Watson and Rayner (1920). To further these experiments, Skinner (1938) designed a Puzzle box and, by using rats, he showed that by using both positive and negative reinforcements, he could change the behaviour of the rats, as their behaviour is affected by consequences. He called this Operant Conditioning to which he identified three responses: Neutral Operants: responses from the environment that neither increase nor decrease the probability of a behaviour repeated. Reinforces: responses from the environment that increase the probability of a behaviour being repeated – this can be ether positive or negative Punishers: Responses from the environment that decrease the probability of a behaviour being repeated. Punishment weakens behaviour. Skinner concluded that there was a Law of Effect, and that by using reinforcement, behaviour tends to be repeated, while behaviour which is not reinforced tends to die out. As human beings, we often respond to verbal Operants by taking advice, listening to the warnings of others and by obeying given rules and laws. This helps us understand the development of children, as the feelings associated with behaviour are controlled by conditioning. If the child has been positively rewarded, then the child is more likely to repeat those behaviours happily and willingly, feeling that they are doing what they want to be doing. If on the other hand the child avoids these behaviours due to negative reinforcement, they will be inclined to feel that their freedoms are being repressed, resulting in feelings of negativity, which could led to depression or anxiety. The work of Skinner, Pavlov, Watson and Rayner has led to the development of different treatments, such as C ognitive behavioural therapy and talking therapy that will help you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave, commonly used to treat anxiety, depression and phobias but can be useful for other mental and physical health problems. In conclusion, Freud’s work on psychosexual development does help us in part to understand a client’s presenting issue, by understanding that their behaviour may very well stem from how their parents handled the child’s psychosexual development. By accepting this assertion, it also helps us to understand that what we, as society, view as very disturbing or deviant behaviour can arise from childhood trauma. This allows the therapist, and society, to be more  compassionate to such clients. An example of this is that Freud stated that homosexuality is neither a sinful nor a criminal act, but rather a condition that arose from childhood biological and psychological factors, and was just a ‘variation of the sexual function’, and because of this is could not be treated by punishment or therapy, but should just be accepted. Freud’s work, as already discussed, is limited in understanding the client’s total world, however we must understand th at Freud’s work was the first of its kind in understanding human psychological development, and was written at a time when most adults probably were sexually repressed, as well as viewing homosexuality as sinful. The later work of others, including Jung and Fromm, built upon his work, to help us understand the client’s presenting issue in a wider context. They widened our worldly view of the client by demonstrating how neurosis of the individual may also arise due to internal factors of the collective consciousness, arising from cultural and social heritage, or by external factors, such as how the client relates to the economic environment into which they are born. The work of the behaviourists also helps us to understand that any negative social conditioning also plays its part in understanding the client’s presenting issue. As a final note, we must remember that it is the job of the therapist to use the work of others as a tool to understanding the client’s own world in order to get enough understanding of the client’s perspective in relation to their own presenting issue. This understanding helps facilitate the client in coming to their own conclusions as to how best to tackle their own presenting issue, either by managing their condition from the Freudian perspective, or helping them change their own perspective and/or behaviour, as argued by the behaviourists. Bibliography What Freud Really Said – David Stafford-Clark (1996) 1935 – Freud’s letter response to a mother asking him to treat her homosexual son. (1935) Handbook of Individual Therapy – Edited by Windy Dryden (1990) Counselling for Toads – Robert De Board (1998) McLeod, S.A (2008)

How do The Odyssey and The Crucible use the hero in order to explore the concerns of their times?

The concept of what constitutes a hero varies according to the values, culture, context and setting of the society in question. Homer in his epic poem The Odyssey and Arthur Miller in The Crucible through the portrayal of the hero's in their texts; Odysseus and John Proctor, reflect the values of the time in which the text was set but more importantly provide a social commentary on the context of the texts. Both looking to the past to provide answers and draw parallels with the present. The Odyssey was written approximately in 700 BC and was set in twelfth century BC, in what was known as the Bronze Age. The Greeks believed that this earlier period was a more glorious and sublime age, when Gods still frequented the Earth and heroic, godlike mortals with superhuman attributes populated Greece. The Odyssey is episodic in nature and in many ways consisted of nation building myths which were unifying and drew on what was common in Greek culture by detailing the exploits of the classical archetypal Greek hero, Odysseus. Essentially it is an epic tale in which the wicked are destroyed, right prevails, and the family is reunited. On the other hand, The Crucible was written in the early 1950's in America and is set in 1692 in Salem, a small town in colonial Massachusetts. It follows the witch-hunts of 1692 which began when several young girls were stricken with an illness characterized by symptoms of hallucinations and seizures, which were ascribed to witchcraft. This led to the eventual execution of thirty individuals for the crime of witchcraft. They were tried and convicted in an atmosphere of moral absolutism through which Miller alludes to the events which took place in the 1950's before the House of Un-American Activities Committee in Washington. The Crucible can be viewed as allegorical text not for anti-communism, or as a faithful account of the Salem trials, but as a powerful timeless description of how intolerance and hysteria can intersect and tear a community apart. Furthermore, in contrast with Odysseus, John Proctor is a tragic hero, who would rather die then confess and lived with a marred name. This idea of nobility is inseparable from the tragedy genre. Tragedy in many ways enlightens, in that it points the heroic finger at the enemy of a man's freedom. The quest for freedom is the quality in the tragedy which exalts. Both texts are framed by religious imagery. In The Odyssey Odysseus does not question the power of the Gods and in many ways Homers text can be viewed as a moral lesson, through the omnipresent nature of the god's as they guide the wandering hero home. This reflects the Greek notion that the gods exercise absolute power over the mortal world. In the poem mortals are constantly making sacrifices to the gods to earn their favour. Conversely, offending the gods creates immense problems as is illustrated through Poseidon's grudge against Odysseus for blinding his son Polyphemos. Moreover, it is only through Athena's guidance throughout the text that Odysseus can survive his dangerous adventures. This distinguishes an important point as it reiterates not only the all-powerful nature of the gods but also introduces the idea that if Odysseus the hero cannot survive without guidance from the gods then the rest of the members of society must accept their fate as lying in the hands of the gods. What must also be noted however are the characteristics of the gods, which were a mixture of magical, immortal powers and basic human instincts, the gods were not perfect. Through this portrayal of the gods in the text Homer presents a more glorious time in Greek culture in a time when Greece was only a shadow of its former greatness. This however varies in The Crucible which is set in a theocratic society, in which church and state are one and the religion practised was very austere form of Protestantism known as Puritanism. In this form of society there is no room for deviation from social norms, since any individual whose private life does not conform to the established moral laws presents a threat not only to society but also to the rule of God: â€Å"You must understand, sir, that a person is either with this court or he must be counted against it, there be no road between†. John Proctor challenges this religious identity of time and shows how man has used god to manipulate and control individuals and it is ultimately his choice not to confess to witchcraft, which is a true religious and personal stance. In this way The Crucible can be viewed a symbolic of the paranoia of the communism which pervaded America in the 1950s. Several parallels existed between the witch hunts of 1692 and the House Un-American Activities Committee's rooting out of suspected communists. As with the alleged witches of Salem, suspected Communists were encouraged to confess their crimes and to â€Å"name names,† identifying others sympathetic to their radical cause. Miller through the actions of the hero Proctor foregrounds the McCarthyist excesses, which wronged many innocents, making a strong political statement. Furthermore, both Odysseus and Proctor are flawed and fallible and both of them fall into the seductive charms of the ‘seductresses' as is portrayed in the texts. Women are presented as either ‘sainted virgins'; Elizabeth and Penelope or ‘seductresses'; Abigail and Calypso this dichotomy represents the patriarchal structures of the context of the texts. Moreover the texts also highlight the dangers of giving women power and of female sexual potency. Odysseus' infidelity when he is trapped by Calypso serves to reflect gender roles and the double standard in Greek society. Homer does not invite the responder to view Odysseus' infidelity with any disdain or disapproval: â€Å"withdrawing into the cavern's deep recesses, long in each others arms they lost themselves in love† (#250-51). It is somehow acceptable for Odysseus to sleep with another woman, while Penelope is represented as morally dubious for allowing the suitors to remain in the house. It is only Calypso who challenges these gender roles: â€Å"You unrivalled lords of jealously/ scandalized when goddess sleep with mortals†¦ † (#131-32). While Homer portrays these sexist views, he also through Calypso's dialogue brings to attention the double standards of the society and more importantly introduces a new idea which may have been viewed as subversive in Greek culture at the time. On the other hand in The Crucible, John Proctor as the play's tragic hero is honest, upright and blunt spoken, Proctor is a good man however his fatal flaw is his lust for Abigail Williams which leads to their affair. Proctor is very self-critical and this in a way reflects how his moral code is a product of the society in which he exists: â€Å"But I will cut my hand off before I'll ever reach for you again†. Once the trials begin, Proctor realizes that he can stop Abigail's rampage through Salem but only if he confesses to this adultery. This highlights how the hero must face a series of trials and tribulations in order to be redeemed, in Proctor's case these are more physiological battles whereas Odysseus faces more physical challenges. This illustrates the way in which the different contexts result in the formation of varying hero's reflecting the values of that particular society. Finally, Arthur Miller once said: â€Å"Nobody wants to be a hero†¦ but in every man there is something he cannot give up and still remain himself†¦ If he gives that up, he becomes a different man, not himself†¦ It is Proctor's self-critical nature which distinguishes him because he does not set out to be a hero. Normally he would not be considered a saintly individual, and he has not great eagerness to be a martyr due to his underlying guilt at his infidelity, which in turn he projects on Elizabeth: â€Å"I do not judge you. The magistrate sits in your heart that judges you. † Nevertheless when put to the final test, the meaning here of ‘crucible', he will go to his death rather than irrevocably compromise his integrity. Through his representation of Proctor as the tragic hero Miller creates a new post-modern ideology of the hero in which the hero is not extraordinary physically or mentally but rather what is heroic is the individual who stands by his personal principals, he does not set out to be the hero but rather the situation merely reveals the hero within. This notion explores the concerns of 1950 America in which the hero's were not the McCarthyist's as it might seem on outward examination but rather those who only through their personal actions transpired to be essentially heroic. In conclusion, The Odyssey and The Crucible through the representation of the hero in text foreground the concerns of their times. The texts have revealed to me that what constitutes the hero varying according to context and setting and can help us gain further insight into the concerns of the society in question. Essentially the characteristics, which form the hero, are fluid subject to the values and culture of the times.

Advantages Of The Plasma Antenna Information Technology Essay

Advantages Of The Plasma Antenna Information Technology Essay An antenna is a device that sends or accepts electromagnetic waves. It changes electromagnetic waves into electric currents, and electric currents to electromagnetic waves. Antennas are used to send and receive waves from the radio frequency of the electromagnetic spectrum. Antennas are used in radio and television broadcasting, spacecraft communication, point-to-point radio communication like walkie-talkie system, hand phones, radar, and wireless LAN. An antenna is a setup of one or more electrical conductors, also called elements. In the transmission of an antenna, a voltage is applied at the antenna terminals to produce an alternating current (A.C) in the elements, thus causing the elements to produce an electromagnetic field as an effect. In reception, the reverse happens: an electromagnetic wave from an external source induces an alternating current in the elements and a matching voltage at the antenna’s terminals. Some receiving antennas use shaped reflective surfaces t o collect the radio waves hitting them and direct or focus them onto the elements. Heinrich Hertz (1857-1894) built some of the first primitive antennas in 1888 in his experiments to prove that electromagnetic waves exist as inferred by the James Clerk Maxwell’s theory. One of the antennas he built was the dipole antenna, which will be explained in detail in the Supporting Theory section of this report. He published his work and installation design in Annalen der Physik und Chemie (vol. 36, 1889). In 1919, J Hettinger was granted a patent for the concept of a plasma antenna. A plasma antenna is a type of antenna that is currently in development in which plasma is used to replace the metal elements of a normal antenna. A plasma antenna can be used for transmission and reception, just like normal radio antennas. Plasma antennas have only become practical in recent years, where high speed internet connection is an important necessity to all. Currently, Plasma Antennas (a company ) in Winchester of the United Kingdoms have developed a plasma antenna which they named Plasma Silicon Antenna or PSiAN. FINDINGS 2.1 – SUPPORTING THEORY 2.1.1à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ ANTENNA Here is an explanation of how a traditional antenna works. There are many types of antennas that have been designed by humans over the years but for simplicity’s sake, the explanation here will describe how a dipole antenna works. A dipole antenna is an antenna that can be built using a simple wire with a driven element in the centre. It consists of two metal conductors of rod or wire, arranged parallel and in line with each other, with a small space between them. The radio frequency voltage is applied to the driven element at the center, between the two conductors. These antennas are the most primitive practical antennas. They are used mostly in traditional â€Å"rabbit ears† television antennas. 450_wide.jpg How the antenna transmits signals: First, a voltage is applied to the ant enna terminal (in this case, the driven element in the centre) to produce a potential difference in between the opposite ends of the two conducting wires. When a potential difference exists, there will be a flow of electrons, which in turn produces a current. Say that the electrons from end A are moving towards end B at maximum speed. When they reach end B, they will stop instantaneously. End B is now negatively charged whereas end A is positively charged. The electrons are attracted to the positive charges at end A and move back towards A at maximum speed. Now, the charges at both ends are reversed. This back and forth movement of the electrons produces an alternating current in the conducting wires. When there is an alternating current in the metal conductors, electromagnetic waves are produced. These waves are the signals being transmitted by the antenna.

Discussion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 12

Discussion - Essay Example If a family still chooses that their own child needs to work in order for the family to go on, then 13 or 14 is an age where in other countries children have never reached, therefore it will be sort of an accomplishment. Education for All (EFA) was launched in Thailand in 1990 and 10 years later 176 countries were ready to gather to see and compare improves to revise and adjust for the better and for the future. A lot of countries have made it a priority to put education first, and we just need all countries as time goes on to do the same. Yes, I agree with this view. Educated children have better understanding and knowledge about their surroundings, wellbeing and awareness. Children at the age of 13- 14 years are quite aware, they can read and write and can understand the situation and therefore it is the need of time for the developing nations to march ahead and make education essential for the betterment of the children, the future citizens. I think all countries should insist on all children being in school at least to the high school level. Why education is important is due to the possibility of a career change later in life. For those who don’t hold a high school diploma or specialization, the options for a career change are often limited. I understand in most countries they would rather their child to work instead of school, but here in America there are people that work and go to school. Children are directed for education for career that is true and better degrees often provide a better job prospects. If a person has a diploma or a specialization then his/ her chances to procure a job will always be bright as compared to the one who left the school and has started working. No doubt the one who has started working earlier has more experience as a time factor but is not technically sound as compared to the one who possess the qualification. It is therefore

Nordstrom Retail Service Strategy Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Nordstrom Retail Service Strategy - Assignment Example Customers will start talking favorably about the company only when they feel they are given importance and showered attention by the sales staff. So, Nordstrom meticulously ensures that each customer feels important and leaves the store fully satisfied, unlike some other chains stores that focus only increasing turnover without spending much effort on pampering customers. Product assortment: Whether it was shoes which it initially sold or later on apparels which it started selling later, Nordstrom ensures availability of full range of sizes and a wide variety of designs for the customers to choose from. In this way, the possibility that a customer will end up buying something or the other increase manifold. This also means that a customer entering a Nordstrom store will feel assured that there would perhaps be no need to hop from one shop to the other in search of the desired product. All national level chain stores, however, also try to ensure considerable depth and breadth in product types they retail so this is not something that is unique about Nordstrom. Price: While some retailers opt for the discount route to attract customers, others try to project their exclusivity by maintaining high prices. Nordstrom instead fixes its prices in such a manner that convinces each customer that the product they buy is worth its price. This generates a sense of reliability and honesty that goes a long way to enhance its reputation. The company clears its unsold stocks at discounted prices through a separate chain known as Nordstrom Rack Clearance Stores and also has one final clearance store called Last Chance.

The future of electric vehicles Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The future of electric vehicles - Research Paper Example Replacing such vehicles with the ones that use electric energy will bring positive changes in the environment. Electric cars are vehicles that use electricity as a source of energy instead of fossil fuel. It is possible to use the cars since they already exist in some countries (Reddy & Tharun 957). The cars are environmental friendly because they do not emit pollutants in the air. Instead of fossil fuels, they only need to be recharged using renewable sources of energy such as solar energy. The first electric car was introduced in Australia in the year 2008. Each year more of such vehicles are introduced at affordable prices (Reddy & Tharun 957). There two types of electric vehicles entail the battery-electric and hybrid-electric vehicles. The battery electric ones have rechargeable batteries that can be charged at home or at charging stations. The hybrid ones have rechargeable batteries, but they need a small amount of fossil fuel to increase its effectiveness. The distance travelled using electric vehicles varies depending on many factors just like the non-electric ones. For instance, if the road conditions are poor, one will require recharging it more times. In addition, the size of the battery will also determine the distance covered using the cars (Reddy & Tharun 957). The use of electric cars will reduce overreliance of fossil oil that has led to environmental degradation. The use of standard cars leads to the production of polluting gases such as carbon dioxide in the air. The increase in the amount of carbon dioxide and other gases produced cause the destruction of ozone layer. The layer helps in regulating the amount of heat reaching the earth. Due to the high usage of fossil fuel, this layer continues to be destroyed causing the increase in temperatures. The temperature rise has led to the degradation of the natural environment (Davis 4). For instance, temperatures

Interest groups Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 10000 words

Interest groups - Dissertation Example This paper studies how the roles of the interest groups within the modern day American politics has shaped up, and how these roles are translated to bring out a true message for the Americans. What is even more significant here is the fact that this study aims to find which strategies are made use of by these interest groups to achieve their respective goals as far as the lengths and breadths of United States are concerned. Also the due role of the National Rifle Association as an interest group has been detailed within this discussion which only adds meat to it in the long run. ... inquire about the areas where interest groups have been able to provide their services and to see if these areas have any political perspectives present as well To explore the due role of the National Rifle Association as an interest group that has done much for the United States over a passage of time Methodology The methodology used within this paper is entirely dependent on the usage of secondary research which is the research that has been gained through evidence and available resources. The secondary research always comes ahead with the passage of time and is manifested through books, journals, newspapers, magazines, periodicals, TV interviews and reports, etc. The methodology lists down the areas from which information has been extracted for the completion of this study and the manner in which it has been done suggests the authenticity that is much required for this paper. The Role Played by the Interest Groups in American Politics Interest groups within the United States are b uilt up in such a way that they have their respective aims and objectives. The reasons why they exist are difficult to ascertain because they are serving the interests of varied stakeholders. The manner in which they operate is visible to everyone yet they exist to make sure that their interests are met in a priority basis. These interest groups have their own vested interests and they can go to any limit to make sure that they are recognized, their work done in a proper way and the results are such that nearly everyone can see and decipher easily. Now how these interest groups bring success is dependent on how well they have been devised in the first place. If these interest groups are working to satisfy a general audience, then the interests will remain broad but if these interest groups

Business Writing................ INFORMAL PROPOSAL Assignment

Business Writing................ INFORMAL PROPOSAL - Assignment Example The research is importance because it will provide students with a complete picture of the market and will enable them to choose an option which suits their requirements and ambitions. We are planning to assists the SCS in the provision of an insight into the future requirements of the trade and employers exceptions from the fresh the graduates in the major of Human Resource Recruiter. Our feasibility solution will not cause any additional workload on SCS office and will educate and assist students in selecting a major of the degree and future career. UNDERSTANDING THE CHALLENGES Career counseling and research is not a simple undertaking, it has become an art and a wrong decision at an early stage may spoil hard earned future possibilities or may at least cause delays in achieve the desired positions. Following are the few basic reasons which make major and career selection a difficult task; Unfamiliarity with Basic Research Techniques Career research is difficult task now a days and especially graduate students find it quite hard to establish a definite opinion about their future profession and its various prospects. In most of the cases internet is a major source of search but reaching your desired information and establishing its authenticity, accuracy and novelty is not always possible. Therefore, a misleading, incomplete and obsolete information may cause considerable lose of time and effort. Overwhelming Amount of Career Information Internet provide access to gigantic data repositories but tracing out the required information is tough ask from fresh graduates. More often than not you are unable to reach the exact information and even if you are able to find some authentic and accurate information source, it may present you only one aspect of big picture which may be misleading or may not help in decision making process. Lack of Standard to Filter Information Filtering authentic and accurate information from a huge data set is not possible without incorpor ating proper techniques. Often times there very thin distinctions are provided to establish an opinion on two apparently similar but quite different ideas, entrusting an expert to do the job for you is a better idea. Lack of Real Life Examples Books, internet and other source are good but they present an incomplete picture to make a final decision of crucial nature. Arranging a meeting with a trade man and experience person of the field is almost an indispensible requirement to reach conclusion. Student face difficulties in reaching to such experience people through their social networks and most of the time decides of the basis of theoretical information they have randomly researched. PROPOSED PLAN We have sketched out a plan to address these issues in order to provide major and career counseling at the MCCC Career Services Center: Phase I We have determined to provide answers to all of your questions with letting you lost in the heap of information. We aim to offer every piece of formation required to make an educated decision. These may include but not limited to appropriate personality types, required qualifications, market analysis, workplace environment and current salary ranges available for the job of Human Resource Recruiter. The first step towards this educated decision is establishing his personality type through Holland Personality test. The test can be

Case study 2 negotiation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Case study 2 negotiation - Essay Example In this case, the supervisor is fast to dismiss Danya’s application. According to Dwyer (2011), â€Å"Power is a useful tool in the negotiation process; however, if you misuse it or refuse to use it appropriately, the likely result is tension and conflict† (p. 154). The tension between the supervisor and Tanya came about as the supervisor used the power that he had over her to dismiss her application, and made comments that were not pleasing at all. If the supervisor had listened to Danya’s positions and interests, he would have approached her in a calm manner that would not have threatened the relationship between them. This case study looks into the cause of the problem and how it impacted on the main participants. It also suggests and evaluates some solutions, recommends the best solution and explains how to implement it by using the â€Å"negotiation theory ". Analysis of the problem The problem can be analyzed by examining the negotiation approaches of Dany a and her supervisor. The problem occurs because both parties have interests to meet and the two are not keen to consider the other party’s point view. Danya’s interest are visiting her grandchild and wants to do so by taking advantage of the flight promotion so as to pay less for the flight. Danya’s optimism of getting the leave and an addition of two weeks leave get thwarted and she gets devastated because of the rejection. The supervisor on the other hand has a contract that has a limited deadline and needs Danya’s support because she happens to be one of the best worker. The problem ensued as the two parties could not agree on what should happen. The supervisor is stern on his decision and rejects her application without giving Danya a chance of explaining herself as to why she needed to have her break at that time. Furthermore, he acts out of the stress of the contract and allows the stress to overcome his thoughts and emotions and is quick to make n egative comments about Danya. According to Leimbach (2011), â€Å"Paying attention to interests helps uncover the "why" behind a position.† (p. 36). If Danya had listened to why the supervisor was not willing to grant her the leave, she would have understood him and there would not have been any problem. Danya also assumes that her being the best of the employees would definitely make the supervisor grant her, her wants. She was not ready for any outcome and was not flexible to allow herself take in any outcome of the application. She is quick to judge the supervisor’s actions and believes the company does not recognize her excellent performance, which makes her to burst out. She is also frustrated that she will lose the money of the ticket she’d already paid for. She feels disappointed when her request is turned down by the supervisor who tells her that she is not showing any commitment to the company. According to Jenkins (1997), â€Å"with a principled negot iation approach, the salesperson focuses on the problem and how to solve it† (p. 30). In this case, instead of getting frustrated by the way the supervisor acted, she ought to have thought of how the misunderstanding of the supervisor thinking she has no commitment to the company would get settled. Range of solution The problem can be solved by number of ways. First of all, the supervisor should give Danya an offer of paying for her flight if she cooperates with them to meet the deadline. The other solution would be that Danya gets a

Mitt Romney Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Mitt Romney - Essay Example Abortion and gay marriage are two of the most important moral issues in the American society which makes Mitt Romney controversial. It should be noted that his positions on aforementioned issues has been constantly challenged and has remained unstable up to this date. Romney has always advocated equality and non-discrimination thereby protecting the rights of homosexuals in the society. During the 1994 campaign, he won the support of Log Cabin Club which supports the benefits for gay couples. However, Romney takes a conservative view by strongly opposing same-sex marriage. He stresses that, "Like me, the great majority of Americans wish both to preserve the traditional definition of marriage and to oppose bias and intolerance directed toward gays and lesbians" (Gallagher 5). In his statements, his main reason for this opposition is the fact that marriage is not for adult benefits but for the nurturing and development of children. He argues that a home with a male father and a female mother is the best setting to raise a family. Though he generally communicates his disfavor for same-sex marriage, there are also times when he softens his tone on the issue recognizing the need to respect the modern families that come in many forms (Greenberger 1). Currently, Mitt Romney refers to himself as a p

A story About Ghost and Vampires Essay Example for Free

A story About Ghost and Vampires Essay Life of Pi is a story that is mainly focused on the aspect of survival. Being trapped together with Richard Parker, a Royal Bengal tiger, Pis odds seem to have been pulverized to nothing. Yet as the story progresses, Richard Parker begins to give Pl hope and a reason to survive. Pis will to survive returns; If he can survive while living together with a Bengal Tiger, he can survive anything. Although seeming a huge threat to Pl at first, Richard Parker unintentionally takes on the role of ghost and rotects Pl against the vampires that he faces, glvlng him moral support, and thus the will to survive. At the beginning of the story In part two, Pl Immediately faces his first vampire: the hyena. Being trapped on a lifeboat together with an Injured zebra, an orangutan and a hyena, It quickly becomes evident to Pl who stands at the top of the food chain. It does not take long before this vampire starts to rejuvenate Itself by feasting on Pls companions. Right when the hyena has set its gaze on Pi, Richard Parker (the ghost) omes into play and kills Pis first vampire, unintentionally protecting Pi in the process. Though scared at first, Pi learns to deal with Richard Parker over time and eventually even becomes blessed with his presence. It was Richard Parker who calmed me down. It is the irony of this story that the one who scared me witless to start with was the very same who brought me peace, purpose, I dare say even wholeness. Chapter 57, page 204. Richard Parker proves to be Pis motivator again and again throughout the story, especially when Pi encounters his next vampire: the Pacific Ocean. The saying; the ocean gives and takes, can be taken quite literarily in this book. The ocean has given Pi basic offerings, food and water mainly, but seeps the life force out of him simultaneously with its strong razor sharp winds, bone crushing waves, and scorching sun. The ocean tries to break Pis spirit several times. For example when Pi spots a cargo ship, resulting in the slightest of hopes only to have it all taken away again as the ship passes and does not notice him. Richard Parker is yet again the one thing that keeps Pi going by merely being there and giving Pi moral support In the arkest of times. l love you! The words burst out pure and unfettered, infinite. The feeling fluttered my chest. Truly I do. I love you Richard Parker. If I didnt have you now, I dont know what I would do. I dont think I would make It. No, I wouldnt. I would die of hopelessness. Dont give up, Richard Parker, dont give up. Ill get you to land, I promise, I promise! Chapter 86, Page 294. Even though Richard Parker does not know It, he yet again serves as a tremendous motivator to Pl. Last but not least Pl meets his last vampire in Its purest form: the algae Island. Pl becomes enchanted with the Island and It almost seems Ilke he falls under some sort of spell or glamour, luring him Inside with Its delicious edible algae and fresh drinking water. Pl decides to spend his nights on the Island Instead of the boat, yet Is scared that Richard Parker might attack him in his sleep. He therefore decides to sleep In the trees and makes the gruesome discovery that the island feeds on its inhabitants at night.

History and Evolution of Dogs Essay Example for Free

History and Evolution of Dogs Essay Domestic dogs inherited complex behaviors from their wolf ancestors, being pack hunters with complex body language. These sophisticated forms of social cognition and communication may account for their trainability, playfulness, and ability to fit into human households and social situations, and these attributes have given dogs a relationship with humans that has enabled them to become one of the most successful species on the planet today. Although experts largely disagree over the details of dog domestication, it is agreed that human interaction played a significant role in shaping the subspecies. Shortly after domestication, dogs became ubiquitous in human populations, and spread throughout the world. Emigrants from Siberia likely crossed the Bering Strait with dogs in their company, and some experts suggest the use of sled dogs may have been critical to the success of the waves that entered North America roughly 12,000 years ago, although the earliest archaeological evidence of dog-like canids in North America dates from about 9,000 years ago. Dogs were an important part of life for the Athabascan population in North America, and were their only domesticated animal. The divergence date of roughly 15,000 years ago is based in part on archaeological evidence that demonstrates the domestication of dogs occurred more than 15,000 years ago,and some genetic evidence indicates the domestication of dogs from their wolf ancestors began in the late Upper Paleolithic close to the Pleistocene/Holocene boundary, between 17,000 and 14,000 years ago. But there is a wide range of other, contradictory findings that make this issue controversial. Archaeological evidence suggests the latest dogs could have diverged from wolves was roughly 15,000 years ago, although it is possible they diverged much earlier. In 2008, a team of international scientists released findings from an excavation at Goyet Cave in Belgium declaring a large, toothy canine existed 31,700 years ago and ate a diet of horse, musk ox and reindeer. Prior to this Belgian discovery, the earliest dog fossils were two large skulls from Russia and a mandible from Germany dated from roughly 14,000 years ago. Remains of smaller dogs from Natufian cave deposits in the Middle East, including the earliest burial of a human being with a domestic dog, have been dated to around 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. There is a great deal of archaeological evidence for dogs throughout Europe and Asia around this period and through the next two thousand years, with fossils uncovered in Germany, the French Alps, and Iraq, and cave paintings in Turkey The oldest remains of a domesticated dog in the Americas were found in Texas and have been dated to about 9,400 years ago.

E Banking Is Branch Of E Commerce Information Technology Essay

E Banking Is Branch Of E Commerce Information Technology Essay E-Banking is a branch of E-Commerce that deals with the implementation of Information and Communication Technology in Business Financial Management. E-banking has come a very long way with millions spent on preparation of technological change just to make banking services accessible to their customers from anywhere, at anytime by just a click of the mouse. E-commerce offers a level playing ground for large businesses, as well as small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) to operate in the global market-place; and for regional businesses and communities to participate in social, economic and cultural networks seamlessly across international boundaries (Mary-Anne, 1998) E-banking is a remote delivery channel for banking services ranging from opening an account, transferring funds to more complex form of online transactions like financial product sale, like insurance and brokerage to bill payments and direct debits. Making payments for goods and services in cash or non-cash forms as well as depositing money in financial institutions and managing these resources are an inherent constituent of economic life. Banks serve as important intermediates. In recent years, with the development of technologies and techniques, options for communication with banks are expanding for clients. New services are originating such as home banking, phone banking, internet banking and others. Electronic communication means are particularly coming to the forefront. These are more convenient, faster, and often cheaper for clients. Banking experience shows it is suitable to use combinations of several communication means, depending on individual segments, clients, and types of operations, products and situations. Electronic banking is a service that specifically uses electronic communication forms. Table of Content Introduction Definition E-banking Components Forms of E-banking Automated Teller Machine E-cheque Internet Banking Mail Banking SMS Banking Types of Internet Websites Informational Websites Transactional Websites Benefits of E-Banking Merits to the Customers Merits to the Banking Organisation Merits to the General Economy Global vectors of E-banking E-banking Strategies E-Banking Transactions E-banking Scenario Trends in E-banking Traditional Banking VS Online Banking Merits and Demerits of Online Banking Merits and Demerits of Traditional Banking Problems with Computerization E-Banking in Nigeria: A Case Study Concerns of E-banking In Nigeria Adoption of E-banking In Nigeria Research Design Proposed Model Efforts of the Nigerian Government and the Regulatory Authorities. Conclusion References DEFINATION E-banking can be defined as an electronically automated delivery of modified banking product and services via the use of the internet, World Wide Web, technological devices and interactive communicational channels. E-banking consists of systems that enable financial firm customers, individual and businesses, to transact business; access accounts possess financial product services and information through the internet and the web as a whole. E-Banking can also be referred to as Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) which simply implies the transfer or funds from one account to another. Electronic banking focuses on the use of ICT to enable the external activities and financial relationships of group of individuals and inter-organisational affairs easy. E-Banking enables financial and non-financial organisations link their internal and external finance system more efficiently, flexibly and effectively, to work closely and build more sustainable relation with suppliers, customers and partners as well as satisfy their expectations. Banking customers gain access to e-banking product and services with the aid of an intelligent technological device ranging from Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), Touch Tone Telephone, Smartphone, pocket surfer, Automated teller machine (ATM) to the mostly used personal Computer (PC). There are various use of E-Banking, this includes: Payment checks: checking if a payment is deposited in an account. Fund Withdrawal from account with the use of an ATM machine which requires a mode of authorisation for security reasons. Setting up Direct debit/automatic payment setup for paying a company or a person. Account monitoring: 24/7 monitoring of what goes on in your account. Use your computer and personal finance software to coordinate your total personal financial management process, integrating data and activities related to your income, spending, saving, investing, recordkeeping, bill-paying and taxes, along with basic financial analysis and decision making E-BANKING COMPONENTS The Electronic banking system can remarkably vary in their configuration pending on several factors. Financial institutions should carefully select and choose their electronic banking system configuration without excluding their outsourcing relationships based of four distinctive factors namely: The strategic aim for electronic banking Technological know-how The system complexity, scale and scope, equipments and activities; and The internal control and security requirements. The support of internal electronic banking services may be selected optionally by financial organisation but alternatively, organisations may outsource any aspect of their electronic banking systems to third parties. Firms that could host electronic banking-related services for financial organisations are: ISP (internet Service providers) A managed security service provider An internet banking software processor and a core banking vendor Other financial institution Credit sorting firm and a credit bureau A bill payment service provider These elements work together in harmony to deliver a great achievement in electronic banking services and each element representing a considerable point of control. Through a combination of both internal and external solutions, management has various options when shaping the overall system formation for the various elements of an e-banking system. Nevertheless, putting simplicity into consideration, one or more technology service provider can host the e-banking application and various network components. The organisations ISP hosts the organisations internet banking server, firewall, website and all necessary security detection system. There are some processes e-banking rely on in order to work as expected and some, if not all of the processes can be seen in operation anytime e-banking is in services and operation where each element represent a considerable control point. Some of these processes seen in a typical e-banking system include: Internal network server A core processing system Security management Network Administration Website design and hosting Firewall configuration and management E-business application (e.g. lending, bill/goods payment) FORMS OF E-BANKING: Automated Teller Machine (ATM) A stand-alone electronic machine in an open area for public use which is connected to a data system and components and then operated by a financial organisations customer to withdraw cash and other account balance and services via a very secure mode of communication. Most ATMs in the UK allow interbank use sometimes for free or charged a a fixed amount and the machines offers cash withdrawal, balance enquiry with printed receipt, money transfer between accounts, mobile top-up as well as fund deposit either in cash or cheques. Every customer belonging to a banking organisation is issued a plastic smartcard which has a chip on it and the chip contains the customers account details and a PIN (personal Identification Number) is issued with the smartcard as a mode of security for the user to access the account. The PIN gives the user authorisation into the account but the PIN has to be matched with that in the record of the card before access is granted and if upon three unsuccessful trials, the account is locked and has to be reactivated but the authority of the banking organisation. E-Cheque As the name suggests, its an electronic cheque. Basically, its the electronic version of a paper cheque which possesses the information and framework as its counterpart and functions exactly as the paper cheque works. Internet Banking This enables account users handle various banking activities via the use of the internet on their personal computer. These activities ranges from 24/7 account monitoring, balance checks, funds transfer and paying bills. To gain access to internet banking, the user must have to sign-up for this feature and in return, the banking organisation issues the customer some authorisation and security measures only to be known to the account user. This includes: An account number A password A security question (as an account confirmation if account number and password matches) A security answer. Mail Banking This enables the possibility for customer to communicate with their banks by electronic mail and the most used of this service is sending bank statements to account holders at an agreed period to the clients mailbox. SMS Banking (short message service banking) This feature allows customers to request for information either from their banks department or for their account balance information with the aid of a text message sent from the clients mobile phone which as well, can be used as both passive and active operation similar to the classic telephone baking. Information sent on request is mostly about current interest rate or exchange rate sent by the bank and this feature is convenient by the bank due to its simplicity and less-protection involved but a password is used. TYPES OF INTERNET WEBSITES Before the web as a whole was opened to members of the public, research and educational organisations and government agencies were able to view and gain available information to each other by the use of text-only websites but since the embrace of the World Wide Web, there has been more website than ever. There are various types of websites namely: Personal websites Community Building website Informational Website Online Business Brochure Blogs Photo Sharing Websites Transactional websites But in this course, two primary types of financial websites will be viewed: informational website and transactional website. INFORMATIONAL WEBSITES As the name suggests informational from information provides numerous customers access to information about a financial organisation products and services. These websites are unique because it allows visitors contribution to readymade articles and journals for editing information to be shared or sold. A business could setup a website to list product, specification, instructions and review about a certain item. This will serve as a lead for people to discover assistant and essence and this site can be linked to an e-business site for better customer experience and even expose the usefulness of your sites existence. An example of informational websites includes google.com and Wikipedia.org, the online encyclopaedia. There are certain risk issues that has to be examined and reviewed due to the nature of information stored and retrieved in informational websites which include: There is a potential access to private and confidential financial/customer information if the website isnt isolated from the financial organisations internal network. There is a huge risk in spreading virus and other malicious programming code to computers communicating with the organisations website Potential customer violations and liability for wrong and insufficient information about products and services and price listing presented on the website; and A negative public view if the organisations on-line website services are defaced. TRANSACTIONAL WEBSITES These website provide customers with the ability to process transactions through a financial organisations website by initiating banking transactions or buying products and services. Banking transactions can range from basic retail account balance inquiry to a large intra-business funds transfer. E-banking services can be classified based on the type of customer and services they support. Common e-banking retail and wholesale services mostly offered by financial institutions are listed in the table below. Retail Services Wholesale Services Account Management Account Management Bill payment and Presentment Cash management New account opening Small business loan applications, approvals, or advances Customer Wire transfer Investment/Brokerage Services Commercial wire transfers Loan application and approval Business-to-business payments Account aggregation Employee benefits/pension administration Common E-Banking services Due to the nature of transactional websites which enables the electronic exchange and transfer of sensitive customer information and funds transfer, these website expose the services of financial organisations to higher risk than any other type of website. Wholesale e-banking systems typically expose financial organisations to the highest level of risk during each transaction, since commercial transactions usually involve larger currency amounts. The following issues should be considered when reviewing transactional e-banking services: Liability for unauthorized transactions; Verification of both new and existing customers accessing e-banking services with the process of authentication; Law violations, customer privacy, anti-terrorism, anti-money laundering; Security control for safeguarding customer information; Fraud loss due to disproval of individuals identity or business applying for new accounts; and Customer dissatisfaction, negative public view and potential liability resulting from failure to process third-party payments as directed or unauthorized access to confidential customer information during storage. BENEFITS OF E-BANKING Since the introduction of e-banking, there has been a rapid spread in its daily use either to the financial organisation or for the customers all around the globe. All financial organisations are making greater use of the facilities provided by e-banking to better the services and to have an edge in the competitive market. The following points summarize the merits of e-banking. Merits to customers: Customers generally, have been distinctively affected in a positive way by E-banking. Ordinary tasks have now been replaced automatically which results in comfort and stress free. The merits include: With the use of ATMs, customers have access to their account to withdraw funds at any time of the day at any ATM cash point throughout the country. Transactions can be done at any time of the day, seven days a week by just a mouse click away. Increase in the usage of smartcards in different format which is widely used across the globe i.e. credit cards and debit cards. Online banking made easy to customers with an online account. Services available in a banks local branch can all be accessed in the banks website. The customer hardly needs to visit the local bank branch only if necessary due to the flexibility provided by the online service. Attractive interest rates and many incentives given out when accounts are opened online. Consolidated portfolio Interface for customers managing their debit, credit, mortgages and other financial assets. Merits to banking organisation When the use of ICT is been incorporated into any business, there are advantages engraved in it due to the growth of E-banking infrastructure and these are sighted below: The wide reach and delivery capabilities of computer network such as the internet are better off than any other branch network. Enormous paper work in the banking sector has been reduced due to the implementation of e-banking. Financial organisation has become highly competitive amongst each other as a result of increase in e-banking. E-banking has helped the banks in controlling their overheads and operating cost. Huge data warehouse for documentation, storage and retrieval of records, transactions and customer details has been sorted out by e-banking. Banks save money in the long run by not paying for tellers or managing branches. Efficiency and customer satisfaction is improved. Huge customer attraction due to online services offered (see image below). e-bill effect.png Source: Aspen Analytics, The E-Bill Effect: The Impact on Customer Attrition from Banks that Offer E-Bill, Nov. 2007 Merits to the general economy: The invention of the internet and the World Wide Web has triggered an electronic/automatic revolution in the financial banking sector with its flexibility and dynamic nature aided in balancing numerous services of banking activities. The adoption and delivery of electronic banking products and services is existing partly as a product of customer demand and because of the rise in competition within the banking sector but many few banks have succeeded in deploying effective strategies for fully utilize the services of the internet. GLOBAL VECTORS OF E-BANKING E-banking has widely serviced both the members of the public as well as the financial organisation which created a creation of a better enabling society that supports growth and development, productivity and prosperity. Setting aside its benefits in form of cost reduction, delivery time saving, high efficiency, waste reduction, electronically controlled e-banking and thoroughly environment monitoring discourage many illegal and illegimate conducts associated with banking industry like frauds, money laundering and embezzlements. Customer database been closely monitored by e-banking. E-banking has also helped in documentation of the economic activity of the masses. Global E-banking organisation is covered by four primary sections namely: E-banking Strategies: key strategies that all banks must utilise to achieve peak value through the electronic channel. E-banking Transactions: this sector deals with cross border transactions, mobile payment, B2B transactions and E-billing system. E-banking Scenario: the state, prospects and issues relating to e-banking and the impact of e-banking on the banking organisation structure. Trends in E-banking: this section focuses on the creation of new technologies in banks. E-BANKING STRATEGIES A study revealed that less than 15 percent of banks with transactional website will reap profits directly as a result to those sites. Therefore, financial organisation must acknowledge the seriousness of the challenge ahead and come up with a strategy that will enable leverage chances presented by the World Wide Web. E-banking relies on the development of new business strategies based on networks. The world has become increasingly inter-connected through telecommunication networks and computers. These offer fast, flexible, and cost-effective ways of doing business. There is no set appropriate strategy in E-banking that is suitable for every banking industry but whether they embark on a defensive or an offensive strategy, they still have to be up to date with the business trends and technological evolution of the Web space although, not every business has been e-business understood. Like Wells Fargo, early electronic businesses espouse, who firstly- not only entered the electronic banking sector but showed flexibility to change as the market expands. The level of e-banking should be well considered by the financial organisation that will provide numerous customer segments based on their needs and risk management assessment. An approved strategic e-banking broad should be consulted before reaching an agreement or final decision should be made with considerations to the customer demands, expertise, expense implementation, maintenance cost, competition and capital support. Financial organisations often consider the most appropriate mode of overall business strategy in terms of publishing its products and services on informational websites or transactional websites which can sometimes used to determine organisational success and to ensure the delivery of those product and services; the financial organisation may possess multiple pages within a website for different business functions. E-banking is a remote delivery channel for banking services ranging from opening an account, transferring funds to more complex form of online transactions like financial product sale, like insurance and brokerage to bill payments and direct debits. Although internet banking is still the most influential and most widely used, a new challenge has emerged in the form of mobile banking which is an additional opportunity for banks to offer basic urgent request for their new and existing customers. Mobile banking allows financial organisations extend their customer relationship and personalized information with the use of new technologies to their valued customers. E-BANKING TRANSACTIONS With the increasing cost of banking transactions, providing numerous customers with cost effective services; huge volume of e-banking transactions are been processed everyday and this is becoming increasingly popular as the number and value of e-banking transactions in the country have shown a rather impressive growth in years. This is achieved with the aid of new technologies which transformed traditional banking transactions. The traditional means of banking involves physically going to the bank to execute all banking operations from the simplest to the complex transactions which the banks had to employ several staffs to attend to the customers enquiries. Electronic Fund Transfers got introduced and this minimised the average customer waiting times by allowing customers to carry out banking transactions on their own and at anytime. There are several practical services offered by Electronic fund Transfers and this includes: The use of Automated Teller Machines otherwise known as ATM or 24-hour tellers are electronic terminals that allows banking almost at anytime of the day. These machines enable bank customers to make deposits, withdraw cash, or transfer funds between accounts. To use this service, account holders make use of a plastic card with chip and a PIN (Personal identification Number) to access the account and carry out necessary actions in the account. Unauthorized users are declined and the card can be block to avoid fraud. Some ATMs are free and some charge a little access fee. E-check conversion converts a paper check into an e-payment in a store or when a firm receives check in the mail. Using the e-check in stores, the cashier runs the e-check through an electronic system that captures the banking details and amount details on the check and stores the record. Thereafter, a receipt is issued as a confirmation of acceptance for the customers record. The e-check functions exactly as the paper check and all terms and conditions are applied equally. Direct Debit Transactions allows payment to be made with a bank debit card in the name of the account holder which also can be your ATM card. Payments for purchases can be used in business stores, shopping outlets, online and over the phone. The process is fast and easy to transfer funds and make payments provided the amount in the account covers all purchase necessary. It should be encouraged to read through the cards terms of use and conditions of the banking organisation. Direct deposit enable authorization of specific deposits such as Social Security checks, pay checks to your account on a regular basis. Pre-authorize withdrawals may also be set up so as to pay recurring bills such as insurance premium, mortgages and utility bills, paid automatically. Phone banking allows instant contact with the bank society to authorize certain payment, transfers, account balance request and transactional acknowledgements to be sent to the account holder over the phone. Agreement has to be made with the banking organisations to use this feature and is sometimes charged at a stated fee. ebanking_chart_howmake.jpg Bank account information is very sensitive and hence, special care should be taken into consideration when giving out details of debit card or credit card either on the internet or over the phone. Financial organisations should be contacted about any protections offered for these transactional cards. E-BANKING SCENARIO E-banking is mostly used in the financial sectors across the globe and it tends to be the lead master in E-business but studies revealed that e-banking still has a lot to offer. E-banking is adopted mostly in developed nations as a mode of working ethics through the availability of the internet as an online bank branch while the developing nations make use of the internet as information dissemination. E-banking started in the early 1980s in New York, US. According to Banking and Finance on the Internet, which was edited by Mary J. Cronin, distinctive banks offered home banking services to individuals and small-businesses to maintain e-check book registers, check account balances and fund transfers between accounts. Although e-banking was introduced in the mid-1970s so as to reduce back-office check-processing costs, the banks which embarked on the system failed to attract enough customers to break even and were deserted in 1989. In 2001, over 50 percent of the banks were offering E-banking services in the US but however, small banking organisations had no competitive merit over huge banks in terms of services rendered although internet business strategies was been implemented. In the 1990s, large banks awaken to the vast popularity and opportunities of the internet to advertise their products and services heavily. According to a research carried out by Online Banking Report, at the end of 1999, less than 0.4 percent of households in the U.S. were using online banking. Later in early 2004, some 33 million U.S. households (equivalent to 31% of the market) were using a form of e-banking or another and five years after, according to Gartner Group Survey, 47 percent of the Americans bank online. The FDIC statistics published revealed that only 40 percent of US banks offer e-banking facilities worth mentioning. The others may possess an online presence but dont have website transactions to prove their existence on the internet. Hence, the internet was used as a brochure without physical interaction to the customers. This offered entry and expansion opportunities that small banks traditionally lack. E-banking arrived in the UK almost simultaneously with the US. It was introduces by the Nottingham Building Society in 1983 which introduced UKs first home banking service via a computerised information service owned by British telecom. Approximately 60 percent of the UK financial industry was centralised in e-business in early 2001 and with the anticipated 10-fold surge of the e-business market in 2005 in UK, the share of the financial services will further increase. Some bank customers turn to internet banking due to dismay with normal procedures, policies and practices. The total cut of human intervention tends to appeal to some people and some people switch to internet banking for security reasons and convenience. This arises because of the assurance banks give to safe guard transactions and better security. The internet is accelerating hard to reset the banking organisation into three divisions namely: production, distribution and advice. This is due to the combined effect of internet drive: New technological equipments to reduce transactional cost and physical bank relationship The adoption of new and more focused business models High degree of uncertainty posed by new entrants on business models. ebanking.jpg E-banking in Europe as well as the rest of the world is still at the evolutionary stage, its obvious that a huge impact is been felt on the traditional way of banking. Large banks in parts of the developed world will surely have a competitive advantage over small banks due to the competence to implement new technologies but are still not prepared. Hence, medium-sized and small banks have a significant role on the electronic banking front end if strict measures can be implemented rapidly and effectively. TRENDS IN E-BANKING The trends in e-baking varies from time to time although e-banking is gaining huge ground from banks operating through websites enabling customers not only to request account checks, interest rates but also to explore a whole wide range of transactional product and services. Internet banking data seems to be scarce and definitional differences make comparison difficult in cross-countries. Internet banking has gained muck popularity in Korea, Spain, Austria, and Switzerland, where all banks offers up to 75 percent on internet services. ebanking_chart_onlineusage.jpg According to a research carried out by yStats.com, a research company founded in 2005 for the research of objective, demand-based and up-to-date data on markets and competitors for top managers, made key findings on the global use of online payments. The Quantitative information on different payment methods used in B2C E-Commerce markets worldwide quotes: In the US, Credit Card (67%) was the preferred payment method for holiday online shopping in 2009, followed by Debit Card (36%). While German men use credit cards for more than 40% of online purchases, women continue to use the traditional direct debit method. Sella (31%) was Italys preferred online payment company in 2009, followed by Cartasi (19%) and PayPal (15%). Furthermore, iDeal was the most accepted payment method in the Netherlands in 2009, with 89% of merchants accepting it. Money Transfer (43%) was the preferred payment method of B2C E-Commerce consumers in China in 2009. TRADITIONAL BANKING VS ONLINE BANKING There are several differences between traditional banking and online banking although some people are still sceptical about the safety of sensitive information when using online banking so therefore, they stick with their old way of banking. The distinctive feature between both is that one is physical and the other is virtual but they both offer the same products and services. The major difference lies in the convenience opportune by online banking specifically when it deals to making payments, obtaining

Inherit The Wind :: essays research papers

Are You A Man or A Monkey ? A Disturbing Movement of Anti-Intellectualism in America "It’s more valuable to see with the eye in one’s heart, rather than see with the eye in one’s head." The epic crusade of science and technology versus theology, both religions of sorts dating back in time more years than any of us can begin to comprehend. Maybe that is why, as a whole, we have such a difficult time discerning between the two, or rather, why we fail to see clearly the true meaning that lies behind the propaganda of either. The arguments on either side are significant and carry as much reason and weight as the other. Thus, we simply cannot refuse to make a judgment before looking critically into the logistics surrounding the propaganda of each theory. God’s diplomats, the Bible-thumping, prophesizing blow-hards much like Brady in Inherit the Wind, are as much the bigoted and biased, sacrilegious and amoral attention-seekers as they proclaim the evolutionists to be. However, their chosen doctrine cannot be overlooked, as I myself am deeply devoted to it’s teachings. Brady and others like him fight from the backbone of Faith. I don’t believe in the literal deciphering of the Bible, but that it is a book of ideals that we must trust in it’s veracity. It isn’t meant to be explained! Ironically, the thing that people are the most hungry for, meaning, is the one thing that science hasn’t been able to give them. Enter God, the means that mankind has clung to for purpose. If there isn’t a God, does that mean that 95% of the world is suffering from some sort of mass dillusion? There may be a thousand arguments against there being a supreme being that we can think of, but it’s all those reasons that we cannot think of that allow him to continue to exist as a necessity in our hearts and minds. True, in the past Galileo, Copernicus and others have proven that the Church can be wrong -- and I agree. Yet the Church, like humanity, has the right to make a mistake and reassess their beliefs. It doesn’t mean all they say is false, not at all! I couldn’t imagine living in a world where God didn’t exist -- I wouldn’t want to. Turn around 360 degrees and you are back facing the same direction, now science lies in front of you where religion so recently resided. Politics, science, philosophy, theology, technology -- it’s so easy to become confused. Science is a truth, no matter how adamantly we decree it otherwise.

Effects of the Media on the California Recall Election :: Essays Papers

Effects of the Media on the California Recall Election What the Recall Election Means for the Presidential Election From rags to riches, Conan to the Terminator, actor to governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger has lived a very adventurous life recently turning into the political realm. Now, as the governor of California, Schwarzenegger has a tremendous task on his hands. California is currently experiencing a crisis in its budget and economy as well as an energy problem. These issues and others were the reason Republicans pushed for a vote to have an election to possibly recall the former governor Gray Davis. Many factors contributed to the way Californians voted. Some of these factors were the media, name recognition, the other candidates, the local situation, the national situation, and much more. In this paper I will attempt to answer why and how some of these factors had such a huge effect on the recall election. I will especially look into the mechanics of the media the way this influenced the election. I will then use this examination of the California recall election to try to come to some conclusions and offer further speculation about how Americans will vote in the 2004 presidential election. Reasons For Recall Some people will say that the special recall election was a populist uprising against a leader who was ineffective. They say that the recall is an example of democracy at its best, proof that government works for the people and that the ultimate power rests in the hands of the citizens. Other people do not believe the recall was anything so noble. They see it as a dirty tactic waged by a few political extremists, and that it actually dealt a blow to democracy in California. The true reason for the recall was in fact probably somewhere in between. The recall was pioneered by a handful of conservatives that decided to take a chance and try to use the large power given to the California electorate to their advantage. They believed that even though Gray Davis had been re-elected just a few months before, there was enough dissatisfaction with his job performance to potentially remove him from office. They started collecting signatures. By the early summer of 2003, it became clear that they were going to succeed in getting the necessary signatures to mandate a special election and give voters the opportunity to recall the sitting governor.

Essay --

Pendidikan yang sedia ada ini juga tidak hanya terhad kepada pembelajaran kurikulum di sekolah sahaja. Ia juga merupakan sebahagian daripada konsep pembelajaran sepanjang hayat atau lifelong learning bukanlah merupakan suatu konsep yang baru sama ada di dalam sistem pendidikan negara malah di peringkat antarabangsa juga. Konsep pembelajaran sepanjang hayat ini sangat luas pengertiannya kerana ia bukan sahaja terhad kepada para pelajar yang sedang menuntut di sekolah, malah ia juga melibatkan kanak-kanak kecil sehinggalah kepada mereka yang sudah tua. Secara tidak langsung, konsep ini merujuk kepada pendemokrasian pendidikan yang merangkumi program meningkatkan pengetahuan, kemahiran dan kompetensi sama ada ia dilakukan secara formal ataupun secara tidak formal berdasarkan pengalaman dan latihan yang telah dibekalkan oleh pihak pengurusan sekolah kepada para pelajarnya. Setiap individu haruslah menanam sifat suka dalam mereka agar rajin dalam meneroka ilmu pengetahuan secara berterusan tanpa mengira masa, tempat dan keadaan. Sidang dewan yang berwawasan, wacana saya yang seterusnya masih berkisar dengan kecemerlangan dalam pendidikan. Kita tahu betapa pentingnya penyediaan pendidikan bertaraf dunia kerana jika sistem pendidikan kita setaraf dengan dengan insitusi-institusi pendidikan di negara-negara maju di seluruh ini, penghasilan modal insan dan peratus kecemerlangan pelajar di seluruh negara dapat ditingkatkan. Oleh itu, sektor industri pendidikan negara hendaklah melakukan perubahan dan pembaharuan secara dinamis. Matlamat untuk menjadikan Malaysia sebagai salah satu pusat kecemerlangan pendidikan (centre of academics excellence) di Rantau Asia dan juga di peringkat anatarabangsa pada abad 21 ini nanti akan memerlukan negar... ...unyai muhasabah diri, mereka mampu mencipta nama dan berjaya di peringkat global. Tuan-tuan dan puan-puan yang dihormati sekalian, Sedarkah anda bahawa percubaan dan uji kaji ribuan kali telah dilakukan oleh Thomas Adison untuk mencipta lampu yang dapat kita nikmati faedahnya sehingga ke hari ini? Tahukah anda bahawa Colonel Sandera telah bersusah payah siang dan malam untuk mencipta resepi rahsia KFC nya sehingga semua kita yang pada hari ini menjamahnya sehingga menjilat jari? Sikap sebeginilah yang wajar diambilkan sebagai contoh dan panduan sekiranya kita ingin betul-betul cemerlang dalam akademik bahkan kehidupan kita seharian. Antara rahsia kejayaan orang-orang yang hebat ini ialah kepatuhan kepada disiplin. Lihatlah wahai dunia bahawa orang-orang yang berdisiplin ini yang akan menggoncang dunia! Bak kata pepatah, â€Å"siapa yang menuai, dia akan dapat hasilnya†.

Analysis of the Demand for a M&S Simply Food Convenience Store

INTRODUCTION In this report we assess whether an M&S Simply Food convenience store would be profitable when located in Complex Desjardins, Montreal. In the U. K. Simply Food possess a strong brand image and wide-variety of products that emphasize quality. Although considered more expensive than competing stores To see if the chain will have the same level of success in Montreal, we first analyzed the fundamentals and competitive landscape of the industry. Once a gap in the market was identified, we used quantitative research practices to examine each of the marketing mix factors involved in establishing the store.Our findings will indicate whether the location and consumer pool under consideration will RESEARCH OBJECTIVES * Identify the M&S Simply Food products and services, and the factors that drive the chain’s success in the U. K. * Analyze the market fundamentals of the convenience store sector in Montreal, and identify whether a market gap for quality, high-end stores suc h as M&S Simply food exists * Assess whether M&S Simply Food will be profitable in Complex Desjardins based on the following factor: (i) Location (ii) Consumer Demographic (iii) Consumer Preferences (iv) Competition & Pricing Propose key operating and marketing strategies to ensure the success of M&S Simply food in Complex Desjardins. METHODOLOGY Industry Knowledge Exploratory research was employed to gain understanding of the U. K. convenience market and lean how the M&S Simply Food chain is positioned. This involved a review of studies and data made available by leading international research institutions, as well as informal discussions with consumers who previously lived in London and are familiar with the brand. We applied the same methodologies when conducting a similar analysis of the Montreal convenience market.In this stage of our research we were able to apply more formal approaches, such as conducting in-depth interviews with store managers. After all the necessary inform ation was acquired, a qualitative comparison of the industries was made to determine whether opportunities existed for M&S Simply Food in Montreal and whether a repositioning of products would be needed. Target Market From our previous analysis we establish a target market: consumers at the Complex Desjardins. This location is one of the main attractions in Montreal, at a vast 4 million square feet.Roughly 30,000 people come to the complex and its surroundings daily to work, shop, eat and/or enjoy the activities surrounding the Central Square. The Central Square inside the building has a surface of 15,000 square feet and is surrounded by a commercial gallery of 100 stores and restaurants. Thus, this location was chosen because of its notoriety and large exposure to residents and tourists. Survey and Sample Size To determine whether consumers at Complex Desjardins would be willing to purchase M&S Simple Food products we conducted an anonymous survey on food services within the comple x.The survey was a questionnaire made up variety of formats designed to draw out information about the location, demographic, consumer preferences, surrounding competition, pricing comparisons and consumers’ willingness to pay. Interviews were conducted at the Complex Desjardins, as well as within a 500m radius of its surroundings which comprised of Complexe Guy-Favreau, Bleury Street, Place Des Arts and Boulevard Saint-Laurent. We classified qualified respondents as consumers that came through the complex at least 3 times a week.In total, we interviewed 96 people, considering a variability of 50% and a 10% acceptable sampling error at 95% level of confidence. Assuming the total population under observation here is 30,000, it is evident that a 5% confidence interval is well above 96. Thus, no more readjustments are needed due to small sampling size. FINDINGS Convenience Market (1) U. K. Industry The U. K. convenience store market was valued at ? 30. 9 billion in the 12 months to April 2010, representing a 6. 3% increase on the previous year. The value of the market continued to grow despite a 0. 5% in store numbers. With he total U. K. Food and Grocery market expanding at a slower rate of 4. 1% in the same period, it is evident that the convenience sector is accelerating at a faster pace than the overall market. Thus, its market share has risen to 20. 5%. The factors driving the sector are the rising number of single person households, a growing population, increasing number of women in the work place and longer working weeks. The sector is also propelled forward by improved operational standards, greater awareness of shopper trends and more modern, tailored convenience solutions. (2) M&S Simply Food PositioningThe convenience sector is highly fragmented, with store operators divided into the following segments: co-operative, forecourts, multiples, symbols & franchise, and non-affiliated independents. M&S Simply Food is part of the franchise segment, wh ich recorded the fastest growth in the previous year. This expansion was driven by additional stores, increased promotional activity and improved value for money. M&S Simply Food specializes in selling ready-made meals: salads, sandwiches, desserts, snacks, and microwavable dishes. The self-service store also sells fresh produce, possessing wide selection of fruit and vegetables.Being high-end oriented, the franchise targets working professionals not only looking for a fast, healthy meal, but also willing and able to pay an additional expense for high quality food. For the added premium, customers have access to more adventurous recipes, better packaging and fresher ingredients. These value –added services, alongside the modern layout of the stores, give the brand a competitive edge in the market and allow it to capture a significant share of consumers. A negative sentiment expressed by consumers was attributed to the experience of purchasing at M&S Simply Food stores.Due to brand’s high popularity, long queues often form inhibiting browsing by other potential customers and causing feeling of frustrations by professionals that are time-sensitive. (3) Montreal Industry The convenience sector in Montreal is made of Canadian chains and independents. Family-run depanneurs cater to local neighborhoods and immigrant populations, offering specialty foods and discount long-distance calling cards alongside the usual convenience-store fare. Others offer a wider variety of services such as Canada Post, Western Union transfers, Internet access, and home-delivery of groceries.However, the market is dominated by a large Canadian chain known as Couch-Tard Inc. The chain offers a quality assortment of freshly brewed coffee, frozen/iced beverages, fresh sandwiches and other fresh food items that are marked under proprietary brands. Arguing that most convenience stores are too cluttered, the Couche-Tard company introduced a new concept called â€Å"Store 2000â₠¬ . These stores have wider layouts, brighter lighting, modern decor and often have Quick-Service Restaurants (QSR) located within them. The new concept was a success and the results were integrated into upgrades for all stores. 4) M&S Simply Food Expanding to Montreal It is evident from our research that the U. K. has a more diverse group of convenience stores with different positioning catering to all consumer income brackets. However, in Montreal we see that Couche-Tard owns the majority of the market and is designed to target the average consumer, thereby not competing with deppaneurs immigrant pool. This also illustrates a gap in the Montreal convenience market: value-added stores aimed at consumers from a higher income bracket. M&S Simply Food’s positioning in U. K. onvenience markets makes it an ideal candidate. Survey Results (1) Location The statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that over 85% of the respondents visited the Complex Desjardins and its sur rounding area at least 3 times a week. In Table below it is evident that the number of times a week respondents enjoy meals at the complex is greater in frequency towards higher values, with the overall average at 2. 7 times. This illustrates that the location receives a great deal of foot traffic, and is a popular food services venue. Table 1: How Often Consumers Eat at Complex Desjardins   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Never| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 2. 7| | Once a month| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 5. 4| | Biweekly| 4| 4. 3| 5. 4| 10. 8| | Once a week| 7| 7. 4| 9. 5| 20. 3| | Twice a week| 13| 13. 8| 17. 6| 37. 8| | Three times a week| 20| 21. 3| 27| 64. 9| | Four times a week| 16| 17| 21. 6| 86. 5| | Five times a week| 10| 10. 6| 13. 5| 100| | Total| 74| 78. 7| 100|   | Missing| System| 20| 21. 3|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | Furthermore, findings indicate that respondents favor particular designated areas within the complex and its surroundings when ea ting.With response rates of 38% and 34% respectively, the most popular areas are the food court and restaurants/cafes on the adjacent Saint-Catherine Streets. Diagram 1: Preferred Food Locations (2) Consumer Demographic In Table 2 we see the sample size under consideration reflects the social demographic profile of the area: professionals, local residents or students studying nearby. There is a fairly even distribution between male and female respondents, with males slightly ahead at 51%, conveying that the area equally attracts both sexes. Table 2:Social Demographic Profile of Complex Desjardins Based on Sample Statistics| |   | I work at or close to Complexe Desjardins| I live at or close to Complexe Deskardins| I study at or close to Complexe Desjardins| None of the above| N| Valid| 36| 28| 21| 3| | Missing| 58| 66| 73| 91| | Mean| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Median| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Mode| 1| 1| 1| 1| |   |   |   |   |   | I work at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| P ercent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 36| 38. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 58| 61. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   |I live at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 28| 29. 8| 100| 100| Missing| System| 66| 70. 2|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I study at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 21| 22. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 73| 77. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | None of the above| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 3| 3. 2| 100| 100| Missing| System| 91| 96. 8|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | |   |   |   |   |   |Consumers in the area tend to be well educated, with 63% of respondents having completed a college degree. This, alongside results that show 41% of respondents are between the ages18-24, indicates that complex attracts a great de al of young professionals. However, Diagram 2 below also illustrates that another 48% of respondents are between the ages of 25-40. Furthermore, the average household is occupied by 2. 8 residents and generates roughly CAN37,600 a year. These findings highlight another consumer profile, that of local residents; classifying them as small family units in the middle-to-high income bracket.Thus, our findings conclude that the consumer pool at Complex Diagram 2: Income levels (3) Consumer Preferences Our statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that the consumer preferences of the sample pool are aligned with M&S Simply Food’s products and services. Roughly 61% of respondents stated that they would purchase food from a convenience store specializing in quality. Their main justifications for purchase included the reliability of quality food, the convenience of ready-made meals, the ability to enjoy restaurant quality food at lower prices, and the chance to maintain a heal thy diet.Furthermore, the study revealed that when faced between the choices of picking up their own food or having it served to them, respondents were equally divided. These factors encompass the overall message, products and services of M&S Simply Food value-added services. Table 3 analyzes the relationship between price and healthiness of food in terms of their importance to the end consumer. The cross tabulation clearly reflects the two variables are integral in the decision making process of the consumer: the more emphasis placed on the healthiness of food, the more significant pricing becomes.We can also conclude from the chi squared test that the relationship between the two variables is statistically significant. Unfortunately, our findings proved inconclusive when determining whether consumers would be willing to pay more for healthier, higher quality food. This limitation was due to the lack of responses to the particular question in the survey. Table 3: Relationship Betwe en Price and Health in Consumer’s Decision-Making Process Healthy food on the menu * Price Cross Tabulation| Count|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price|   | Least| 2| 3| 5| 6| 7| 8| 9| Most important| Total| Healthy food on the menu| Least important| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| | 3| 0| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 0| 3| | 4| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 0| 0| 1| 2| | 5| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 2| 0| 0| 0| 3| | 6| 0| 0| 0| 0| 2| 1| 3| 2| 0| 8| | 7| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 3| 3| 4| 3| 15| | 8| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 3| 8| 2| 4| 18| | 8| 0| 0| 1| 2| 1| 2| 0| 2| 0| 8| | Most important| 0| 0| 0| 0| 4| 0| 2| 2| 7| 15| | Total| 1| 1| 1| 3| 10| 12| 17| 13| 15| 73| |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Chi-Square Tests|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   | Value| df| Asymp. Sig. 2-sided)|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Pearson Chi-Square| 1. 52E+02| 64| 0|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Likelihood Ratio| 72. 529| 64| 0. 217|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Linear-by-Linear Association| 6. 593| 1| 0. 01|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | N of Valid Cases| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | a. 81 cells (100. 0%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is . 01. |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Correlations|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Price|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Pearson Correlation| 1| . 303**|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | 0. 09|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 74| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price| Pearson Correlation| . 303**| 1|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 009|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 73| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   | à ‚  | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). |   |   |   | How appealing varying food items are to the sample pool is illustrated in the table below through the mean value of each product; with the number 1 representing very little appeal and the number 10 great appeal. The relatively stronger desire for salads and sandwiches over desserts reflects the health conscious nature of the consumer.Furthermore, the high frequency of fruit’s appeal suggests consumers’ eagerness for diversity in menu options. Thus, it is evident that the taste preferences of the consumers are in line with some of the Simply Food products. However, the absence of responses concerning vegetables and microwavable meals suggest a lack of demand for such items. Table 4: Appeal of Food Products |   | Salads| Sandwiches| Desserts| Juices| Fruits| N| Valid| 74| 73| 74| 73| 74| | Missing| 20| 21| 20| 21| 20| | Mean| 7. 35| 7. 95| 6. 41| 7. 37| 6. 95| | Median| 8| 8| 7| 8| 7 | | Mode| 7a| 9| 9| 8| 7| a. Multiple modes exist.The smallest value is shown|   | (4) Competition and Pricing Several questions in the survey were designed to size the level of competition M&S Simply Food would face in Complex Desjardins. Our findings concluded that respondents favored a combination of restaurants and food court stations, with the top two in each respective category being: (1) Eggspectation and Baton Rouge; and (2) A&W and Subway. This gives M&S Simply Food a competitive advantage as its high quality food gives consumers the restaurant feel, while its ready-made, self-service concept mimics the convenience of the food court.Despite the popularity of some competitors, 63% of respondents stated that they do not have a preferred food chain. The results indicated that bad service and poor quality of food were the main deterrents of brand loyalty. However, nearly half of respondents expressed boredom with current food chain alternatives and eagerness to try new venues . When asked about sentiments regarding a new chain called â€Å"Simply Food†, 42% of respondents said that the name appealed to them. Also, Diagram 3 illustrates the styles of cuisines respondents believe are missing in the complex. Diagram 3: Styles of Cuisine Missing in Complex DesjardinsThe frequency below illustrates that 47% of respondents spend between CAN10. 00 to CAN14. 99 on a meal in Complex Desjardins, with the overall average meal costing CAN11. 80. In comparison, M&S Simply Food individual products range on average from CA2. 00 to CAN4. 50. However, in Table 5 below we see that the brand’s luxury meals cost significantly more, averaging CAN22. 00. Taking into consideration the average expenditure of respondents, the findings suggest that consumers in Complex Desjardins are more likely to purchase individual food items, rather than an entire luxury meal.Table 5: M&S Simply Food Prices | Cost in Pounds (GBP)| Cost in Canadian Dollars (CAN)| Average Cost of Salads| 2. 77| 4. 34| Average Cost of Ready-Made Meals| 2. 64| 4. 13| Average Cost of Fruit| 2. 81| 4. 40| Average Cost of Dessert| 1. 31| 2. 05| Average Cost of Luxury Meals| 14. 11| 22. 08| Correlations By running a series of correlation tests, we discover whether the demand for food within the complex is influenced by the income level of the respondents, the price of food, types of food chains available and consumers’ taste preferences.Table 6 below shows that the only 2 variables that are correlated are the number of times respondents eat at Complex Desjardins and the annual income levels. Although the value is not statistically significant to 0. 05, it is significant enough to display a relationship: that the frequency of visits, or rather demand, is determined by and proportional to the income levels of respondents. Table 6: Variables Correlated with the Demand for Food |   | How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Which area do you prefer to eat in| Educational Level| Income Level| How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Pearson Correlation| 1| . | . 343**| 0. 116|   | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | . | 0. 003| 0. 332| | N| 74| 0| 72| 72| Where? | Pearson Correlation| . a| . a| . a| . a| | Sig. (2-tailed)| . |   | . | . | | N| 0| 0| 0| 0| Education| Pearson Correlation| . 343**| . a| 1| . 324**|   | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 003| . |   | 0. 006| | N| 72| 0| 72| 70| Income| Pearson Correlation| 0. 116| . a| . 324**| 1| | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 332| . | 0. 006|   | | N| 72| 0| 70| 72| a. Cannot be computed because at least one of the variables is constant. | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). LIMITATIONS As in any research report, a number of limitations in the execution and analysis of our report occurred. The main issue we encountered was that of missing data, in which a number of questions in the questionnaire were left unanswered. As a result, many of our estimates were found statistically inefficient due to loss of informat ion, while other estimates may be considered biased if the data from questions left vacant are systematically different. In the future, we suggest increasing the sample size to ensure a more reliable and valid data set.Another common limitation is the subjectivity of surveys in that respondents often fail to answer questions truthfully and therefore skew the results. Efforts to ensure data is accurate would have required more expenditure; however budget restrained us from implementing such solutions. Budget constraints limited the sample size, and care should be exercised in the future to general these findings further. CONCLUSION & RECOMMENDATIONS After much assessment, we believe that M&S Simply Food will prove to successful if established in Complex Desjardins.Our findings conclude that the complex and its surrounding are the ideal location to for Simply Food to attract its target market. Consumers that purchase food at the complex are young professionals and local residents who fall into the middle-to-high income bracket, and therefore are able to afford brand’s higher priced products. Furthermore, consumers’ product preferences reflected strong desires for higher quality food and a wider variety of cuisine options. Simply Food prides itself on offering its consumers premium quality meals made from adventurous recipes and fresh ingredients, and therefore will be able to capture this unmet demand.Although there is a great deal of competition in the Complex Desjardins, its consumers are open to change and are ever evolving their taste pallet. The unique style of M&S Simply Food enables it to provide consumers with quality restaurant food at the speed and convenience of food court service, thereby capturing a wider share of the market and competing with both food chain categories. The following is a list of recommendations we believe will ensure the profitability of M&S Simply Food in Complex Desjardins: * Locate the convenience store in the foo d court, as it attracts the greatest number of consumers.The food court also compliments the self-service nature of the store, providing consumers with an adjacent seating area. * Ensure all advertisements of the brand strongly highlight the â€Å"Simply Food† name, as well as key phrases that reflect the stores value-added services: for example â€Å"High Quality Food†, â€Å"Adventurous Recipes†, â€Å"Variety of Cuisine Options†, and â€Å"A Healthy Meal Option†. This well help the brand appeal to consumers’ preferences. * Limit products to ready-made meals, sandwiches, salads, fruits and beverages.Exclude the sale of vegetable produce and microwavable meals, as there does not seem to be a demand for such items. * To encourage the sale of more expensive luxury platter meals, we suggest holding discount promotions during the soft opening of the store. Reduce the price of platters to slightly below the average cost of meals in the complex, in order to entice consumers and build brand loyalty. * To compete with competitors, M&S Simply Food must build up its reputation as a quality food provider at a quick and convenient pace.To ensure this is done successfully, stores must be designed to provide adequate space for browsing, which is to be separated from the pay register. By doing so M&S Simply Food will not have the same queuing problem it encounters in the U. K. , which often deters potential customers. REFERENCES IGD The Food and Grocery Experts. â€Å"Convenience Retailing Market Overview,† [On-line]. Available: http://www. igd. com/index. asp? id=1&fid=1&sid=7&tid=26&cid=91 [20/1/11] Marketing Week (2007, April). â€Å"Assessing the M&S Simply Food Brand,† [On-line]. Available: