Information Technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words - 2

Information Technology - Essay Example In this part an analysis will be performed on the case study of a specific organization in order to determine the usefulness of an enterprise resource planning system in improving the supply chain. OZS (Odlewnia Ã… »eliwa Ã…Å¡rem) is the leading Iron foundry among three major foundries of Poland. More than 1,450 employees are working with this organization and approximately 50 thousand castings are being produced each year. It has faced many challenges during the last twenty years that resulted in an extreme level of re-structuring processes for achieving process efficiencies. For this purpose, it began to employ a new system in 2000 within the firm that was Enterprise Resource Planning or in short, â€Å"ERP†. The decision of employing ERP had some strategic reasons. It was supposed to bring about two major effects. One effect would be the considerable decline in inventory cost and enhancement of production volume by re-organizing the business procedures more proficiently. Another effect of improvement in the management ways and business procedures would be the result of decreasing ambiguousness in operations (e-Business Watch, 2008). OZS is involved in the export of its partial yield to different countries, such as the Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, France and all around the Scandinavian Countries. It has occupied nine percent market segment in the steel market of Poland. Steel industry of Poland had faced many contests over the previous years and so faced by OZS too. The reasons for such challenges were the emergence of Globalization and being a member of the European Union. It created such a trade area for OZS that was free from the restrictions which enhanced the competition with foreign companies. In addition to this, privatization of OZS in 1999 created an extra burden for enhancing the production volume and downsizing the employees that was only possible by restructuring the company’s processes. So, this pressure

Soul mate A myth or reality Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Soul mate A myth or reality - Research Paper Example Subsequently, this paper explicates whether the laws of attraction makes the concept of soul mates realistic. In terms of the Greek mythology, the notion of soul mates originates from Zeus, the king of gods (Salemo 153). The soul mate allegory in Greek mythology follows that Zeus at one time was infuriated by the intrepid and audacious conduct of human beings and as a consequence, he resolved to bestow a punishment upon them (Salemo 153). The audacious attitude of human beings as portaged in the Greek mythology originated from the fact that human beings had eight limbs i.e. four arms and four legs, and dual faces. The gods felt that their authority would be challenged by human beings and to prevent this, Zeus split or separated humans into two parts. Initially, Zeus plan appeared to have been an excellent and ingenious plan. Subsequently, his plan resulted to unanticipated problems. Therefore, as postulated by Salemo, he resolved to allow or make possible each one of the two parts to get together with the other matching part (153). Regardless of the fact that this mythology is acceptable, t here are issues that make the mythology unfeasible. For instance, Salemo notes that the two matching parts may be located far from each other and hence make it impossible for the individuals to meet or get together (154). The concept of soul mates as a myth is supported by Thibodeau. He supports his notion through a theory presented by Aristotle that "Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies" (22). In his argument, Thibodeau notes that Aristotle failed to consider the fact that every human being exists to develop his or her own soul (22). It is true that finding a soul mate translates to two individuals building a flawless relationship characteristic of mutual interests and attractions. However, it is important to note that each person, according to Thibodeau, is complete

Challenges to the UK Building Industry Regulations

Challenges to the UK Building Industry Regulations Literature Review The Building (construction) industry is complex in nature. It involves several stakeholders with different procedure, process and perception; therefore, there are bound to be conflicts and disputes amongst them. Jaffar et al. [Jaffar, Abdul Tharim, et al. 2011] noted that a study undertaken by Kumaraswamy and Yogeswaran [Kumaraswamy and Yogeswaran 1998] provided a good reference of the common sources of construction disputes that are likely related to contractual matters, including variation, extension of time, payment, availability of information, quality of technical specification, administration and management, failure to meet clients expectations and determination. Conflict may be as a result of difficulties in communications between individuals, barriers between personal and professional relationships, informal agreements etc. Conflict are also known to produce tension and distraction amongst team members or stakeholders, from performing their agreed task. Gould [Gould] explained that conflict may arise in construction project, and taking adequate steps in avoiding them is very important. Effective communication, identifying objective solutions and avoiding conflict can help in achieving a hurdle-free project lifecycle. In the construction industry, commercially based settlement is frequently used, either in negotiation or by mediation. Time and money can be saved by using a mediator or other ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) process. The literature review of this research will cover the UK building Industry; the building regulations applicable in the UK; causes of conflict and how they can be managed. The UK Building Industry The UK construction industry employs 2.9 million people, approximately 10% of all jobs (in over 280,000 businesses). It contributes nearly  £90bn to the UK economy, 6.7% of the total. The global construction output is expected to increase from around $8.5 trillion today to $12 trillion in 2025. The UK is considered to be the sixth largest green construction sector in the world, with around 60,000 jobs to support the insulation sector alone by 2015 [HM Government]. As stated by HM Government [HM Government], the population of 2.9 million people is divided into the following trades: Executive and managerial 11% Painters and decorators 3% Civil, mechanical, electrical engineers 5% Bricklayers, masons, roofers, tilers 3% Metal, electrical and mechanical trades 10% Architects, town planners, surveyors 6% Carpenters and joiners 7% Plant and machine operatives and drivers 7% Plasterers, glaziers and other trades 5% Plumbers and heating ventilation engineers 5% Other occupations 37% Building Regulations in the UK In the United Kingdom, Building regulations are statutory instruments that ensure that the policies set out in appropriate regulations are carried out as required. Building regulations that are applied across in Scotland are set out in the Building (Scotland) Act 2003 while across England and Wales, Building regulations applied are set out in Building Act 1984. The Building regulations for the UK are generally divide into three: England and Wales; Scotland; and Northern Ireland. In England and Wales, the department for Communities and Local Government (CLG) is responsible for Building Regulations. The Building regulations legislative framework principally made up of the Building Regulations 2000; and the Building (Approved Inspectors etc.) Regulations 2000. The aim of these regulations is to provide standards for most aspects of buildings construction, including its structure, fire safety, thermal efficiency, sound insulation, drainage, ventilation and electrical safety. Furthermore, Electrical safety was included in January 2005 to reduce the number of fatality, injuries and fire caused by faulty electrical installation [KnaufInsulation]. As stated by England and Wales Planning Portal [UK National Archives], the Building Act 1984 is the primary legislation under which the Building Regulations and other secondary legislation are made. The many powers of the Building Act 1984 include those for: Setting the status of Approved Documents Setting the status of Approved Documents Dangerous structures Demolition of buildings The role of Approved Inspectors Enforcement of Building Regulations Powers of entry to premises etc. As noted in the Building and Buildings, England and Wales The Building Regulation 2010 [Legislation.gov.uk], the regulations covers the following: Control of Building work Notices, Plans and Certificates Supervision of Building Work Otherwise than by Local Authorities Self Certification Schemes Energy Efficiency Requirements Water Efficiency Requirements Water Efficiency Information to be provided by the Person Carrying Out Work Testing and Commissioning Miscellaneous In Northern Ireland, the department of Finance and Personnel (DFPNI) for Building regulations. The Building regulations (Northern Ireland) Order was enacted in 1972, which was subsequently amended in 1978 before finally replaced by the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) Order 1979 (as amended 1990). The current regulations are the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009. The Building Regulations set the requirements and standards that can be attained reasonably, having regard for the health, safety, welfare and comfort of people in and around buildings and others affected by buildings or building matters [KnaufInsulation]. The Scottish Building Standards Agency (SBSA) is responsible for the Scottish building standards system. The Building regulations legislative framework in Scotland is principally made up of the Building (Scotland) Act 2003 and the Building (Procedure) (Scotland) Regulations 2004. The Scottish Building Standards Agency will work on behalf of Scottish Ministers to [KnaufInsulation]: Promote the health, safety, welfare and comfort of people in and around buildings; Encourage the conservation of fuel and power; and Encourage the achievement of sustainable development. Planning permission are different from Building regulations; they are concerned with appropriate development, the neighbourhoods appearance, and nature of land usage while Building regulations control how buildings are designed and construction (building specifications). Definition of conflicts Most people do not recognise the difference between conflict and dispute. Many scholars have differentiated between the two terms. As defined by Burgess et. al [Burgess and Spangler], Disputes are defined as short-term disagreements that are relatively easy to resolve. Long term, deep-rooted problems that involve seemingly non-negotiable issues and are resistant to resolution are referred as Conflicts. A dispute can result when a claim or assertion made by one party is rejected by other party and that rejection is not accepted [Kumaraswamy and Yogeswaran 1998]. This shows that a dispute is more likely to occur when the conflicting parties exhibit an action or arguments to a controversy. Jaffer et al. [Jaffar, Abdul Tharim, et al. 2011] noted that according to Thomas [Thomas 1992], there are three themes among the definitions of conflict. The first, it is regarded as a perception issue, whether conflict exist or not. The perceived difference may not be real but conversely if the difference is real but not perceived, there is no conflict. The second, there is interdependence among parties (i.e. each has the potential to interfere with the other). Thirdly, there are issues of opposition, blockage and scarcity. Resources (money, power and prestige) are limited. Their scarcity creates blocking behaviour. Conflict and dispute are two distinct notions. Conflict tends to exists where there is incompatibility of interest, and it is pandemic. Conflict can be managed to an extent at which a dispute is avoided to occur from the conflict. Dispute require resolution, and it is associated with defined justiciable issues and third party intervention [Fenn and Lowe 1997]. Costintino and Merchant [Costintino and Merchant 1996] defined conflict as the fundamental disagreement between two parties, of which a dispute is one possible outcome (conciliation, conflict avoidance, or capitulation are other outcomes). Furthermore, conflict is a state rather than a process. Participating parties with different interests, values, or needs may be in a state of conflict, which may be considered to be latent (meaning ignored) or manifest resulting in a form of dispute or disputing process. Therefore, a conflict can exist without a dispute, but a dispute cannot exist without a conflict [Yarn 1996] Conflict can be defined as a social phenomenon which can arise when people interact and pursue common goals. The beginning of a disagreement if often when two people or parties have differing interests and work against one another in order to achieve their set objectives. Furthermore, conflicts only carry destructive potential, they can also offer many opportunities for change, development and innovation [Proksch 2016]. Gorse [Gorse 2003] defined conflict as any divergence of interest, objectives or priorities between individuals, groups or organisation, or non-conformance to requirements of a task, activity or process. Conflict is not only inevitable in the construction industry, it is often desirable. The numerous definitions shows that scholars look at conflicts and disputes from different angles. However, most researchers are of the opinion that conflict and disputes share the same definition that is generally involve disagreement regarding interests or ideas [Kumaraswamy and Yogeswaran 1998]. This research adopts the view that conflict and dispute are the same. Types of Conflicts Identifying what type of conflict that exist is very important, as it will reduce the risk of tackling the wrong problem. Each conflict has a multitude of different facets. In resolving a conflict, it is often necessary to determine the root cause before solving the actual problem. Depending on the causes, there are six different basic forms of conflict, namely [Proksch 2016]: Circumstantial conflicts Circumstantial conflict are referred to those conflicts that are caused as a result of differing, insufficient or incorrect information, as well as differing interpretations of this information. An example is A car accident resulting in damage to property. Solution to such conflict is normally on factual level: obtaining all required information, clarify all facts, establish agreement on facts assessed and if necessary, employ the assistance of independent experts. Circumstantial conflict is more about who compensates whom for the damages caused and in what amount. Emotions that arises in this type of conflicts usually disappears after clarification of the issue. Conflicts of interest This type of conflict is not about facts but differing interests. For example in a neighbourhood, conflict between a bar owner and a resident due to noise disturbance, the former has a legitimate right to have as many customers as possible. In this context, the bar owner may be required to play loud music. The resident also has a legitimate interest in peace and quiet. It is advisable to identify the respective interest and requirements. These are sometimes not clear by the positions of the parties involved. Once legitimate interest are revealed, it makes it easier to resolve, as requirements are often broadly-based. Consequently, these increases the possibility of various options. Relationship conflicts Relationship conflict is caused by problems of an emotional nature. These conflicts are as a result of feelings like fear, frustration, similar emotions, envy, unmet expectations or reoccurred misunderstandings. Something of value to one person may not be of interest to the other person e.g. punctuality. A relationship conflict may arise amongst parties where one perceive the unpunctuality of the other as a gesture of contempt. The parties involved should be given the opportunity to express their feelings; and the underlying aspirations and needs of each individual should be understood by parties. Conflicts of values Differing ideals and principles clash may result in Conflicts over value. A classic example of this form of conflict is disparate religious norms, but a more general example is when values such as seniority on one side and performance orientation on the other come into conflict. In some cases, both principles in varying degree are valued. Establishing a common value footing will aid conflicts of values resolution. In an event where a common basis for discussion cannot be determined, a decision should be taken at a higher instance or by a court. Structural conflicts This form of conflict does not result from difference between people but from differences in structural factor. There is typically an area of tension between sales and construction areas of a company, a latent conflict, because they set definite priorities and pursue different goals. Another example is the tension that exist between two opposing lawyers in a trial, they engage in conflict with one another based on the logic of the legal system. In search of a solution, It is advisable to focus on the development of regulatory and coordination processes, in a view to constructively manage the permanent tension. Inner conflicts This form of conflict is the world of thoughts and feelings of one person. Everyones desires, goal or role requirements varies; therefore, contradict one another. For example, the thought of Shall I finish the assignment today and get home later, or put it off until tomorrow and have dinner with my family? In this instance, the role of a family person and the role of a professional come into conflict. Open conversation with someone may help in dealing with serious inner conflicts. Figure 1: Types of Conflicts As explained by Gorse [Gorse 2003], conflict can be perceived to be natural, functional and constructive or unnatural, dysfunctional, destructive and unproductive. Challenges, disagreements and arguments relating to tasks, roles, processes and functions, may result from functional conflict which often involves detailed discussion of relevant issues. The advantages of function conflict are: Helping to expose problems; Reduce risks; Integrate ideas; Produce a range of solution; Develop understanding; Evaluate alternatives; and Improve solutions. Unnatural conflict can be defined as where a participant enters into encounter intending the destruction or disablement of the other party. Dysfunctional conflict can be as a result of personal insults, criticism that encourages self-ego and comments that lack regards for others feelings. This type of conflict is not aimed at improving task performance [Gorse 2003]. Causes of Conflict in Construction Industry Conflict develops in multidisciplinary building teams as group members tend to impose their team objectives on others, in order to change others beliefs or actions. Furthermore, conflict may result due to a failure to develop and manage peoples expectations. For example, the inexperience of some clients means that when explaining the construction process, it has be detailed. Explanation should broken-down to their level of understanding. When problem arises and decision need to be made, clients require unbiased and professional responses but this is often inconsistent because information or responses are offered from different professionals. Information from professionals may differ even if they provide the same service because they tend to concentrate on aspects closely associated with their profession, training and experience [Gorse 2003]. Conflicts are often not conspicuous, they are mostly recognisable by their symptoms which may include [Proksch 2016]: Opposition, rejection: The conscious or unconscious attempt to prevent the opponent in achieving his objectives, in the work that is carried out carelessly or information is not communicated. Withdrawal, indifference: The parties involved loses motivation to work as well as the need to open up emotionally. This often referred to as inner resignation. Kumaraswamy [Kumaraswamy 1997] identified 20 common causes of construction conflict and disputes, which are as follows: Failure of respond to issues on time Lack of communication among the team members The mechanism is not clear in providing information Poor management, control and coordination Failure to determine responsibility in accordance with the contract Estimation error Delayed in providing information Design errors and specifications Pictures and specifications are incomplete Calculation of incorrect work progress Lack of experience of consultants Lack of contractor management, supervision, and coordination Delay of jobs Failure of plan and implement change of work The failure to understand the price of the work or the offer price correctly Lack of understanding of the existing agreement in the contract Employment contracts and the complete lack of construction documents The lack of clarity of document in the distribution of work flow Non clarity of terms in the contract documents The big difference in understanding of contracts in foreign languages within the same contract As noted by Jaffer et al. [Jaffar, Abdul Tharim, et al. 2011], Hohns [Hohns 1979] opined that construction disputes have their instinct nature and characteristics; therefore, the sources of disputes will vary from one project to another. In his study, he identified five primary sources of construction disputes that includes existence of errors, defects or omissions in the contract documents, failure of someone to count the cost of an undertaking at the beginning, changed condition, consumer reaction and people involved. Jaffer et al. [Jaffar, Abdul Tharim, et al. 2011] explained that conflict causes identified by researchers are summarised into three categories, namely: causes due to behavioural, contractual and technical problems. Conflicts causes due to behavioural problems Human interaction, personality, cultures, perception and professional background amongst team members are common behavioural problems. Other causes of conflicts in human behaviour are individuals ambition, frustration, dissatisfaction, desire or growth, communication and level of power, fraud and faith. It is one thing to lose money in a contractual issue, but it is a lot to lose face. People tend to protect their integrity and pride no matter the cost. Once ones ego involved can survive, disputes tend to be more easily resolved. Everyone wants a better future and the opportunity to increase the self-recognition; therefore, goal realisation and increase of authoritative power will help in resolving disputes. Conflict causes due to contractual problems The stakeholders in a project are governed by a contract which defines their obligation to each other, and also the exchange of construction materials and services for money. MacNeil [MacNeil 1974] defined contract as a promise or the set of promises for the breach of which the law give a remedy or the performance of which the law in some way recognises as a duty. As indicated in a study undertaken by Kumaraswamy Yogeswaran [Kumaraswamy and Yogeswaran 1998], the sources of construction disputes are mainly related to contractual matters including variation, extension of time, payment, quality of technical specification, availability of information, administration and management, unrealistic client expectation and determination. Standard contract documents in the building industry are guided by codes and regulations. They provide common ground for contractual definitions clarifications, thereby making conflict less likely in construction operations and specific project requirements. Conflict causes due to technical problems Projects come with uncertainty, most times surrounded around the technicality of the project. Technical disputes due to uncertainty are considered as the most common issues. Technical disputes include engineering clarification which is considered as a part of engineering making processes. For example, Request for Information (RFI) which is a tool used for clarifying differences in understanding during project operation, is used to resolve issue onsite before they develop to technical dispute. Such dispute can be resolved by project personnel with appropriate expertise. The engineering decision making process is quite straight forward and reasonably justifiable for all participants. The ways of resolving technical disputes in project management is different from the resolution of contractual disputes during project operations. The design deficiency is generally regarded as being beyond an error of omission. Design error significantly alter the means, methods, environment, duration, or the conditions of the construction process. In the construction industry, design errors are common in foundations, frame and enclosure, and in space utilisation. As explained by Rauzana [Rauzana], Susila [Susila] opined that on one hand the contractors attention is on project completion in accordance with specified schedule and attempt to gain financially, while on the other hand the owner needs excellent asset at economical prices. Each party goal contradict with another; therefore, it may result in circumstances which could lead to conflict. The factors of conflicts are owner, consultants, contractors, contracts and specifications, human resources and project conditions Conflicts in the building industry: Negatives or Positives? Proksch [Proksch 2016] explained that conflict has its negatives and positives, and may consumes valuable resources: time and money. When conflict escalate and develop into power struggle or paralyses an organisation, this becomes a commercial problem. The risk that arises from conflicts in an organisation affect various areas, which are as follows [Ref. 6]: Stress and pressure on employees: Conflict experienced by participant are often stressful and are associated with anxiety, aggression, excessive demands, lack of esteem and similar feelings. Decline in productivity may be as a result of stress, which may further cascade to demotivation, inner resignation and absenteeism spread. Fragmentation of teams: Communication behaviour between opponents is passive or aggressive. Participants are disparaged and increasing value may be placed on allies. Avoiding or insulting each other arises. In some cases, it may result in deception, theft, sabotage and hostile behaviour. Unproductive usage of time: The time that should be spent on carrying out work is taken up by conflicts. Colleagues focus more on talking about the conflict, speculating about causes and relationship, people blaming each other or scheme, seeking information, inflict agony on one another, etc. Staff turnover and sick leave: Lengthy conflicts results in higher levels of absenteeism due to stress or sickness. Chronic unresolved conflict are suggested to cause up to 90% of dismissals as well as in at least 50% of employee resignations. Running costs increases as a result of staff losses, recruitment and training of new employees. The comments above does not mean that conflicts are principally negative. As earlier noted, conflict has its advantages as well. Conflicts are perceived as the rule of human co-existence; the way it is being manage determines how successful organisations are in solving their problems, and consequently in protecting their future. Conflicts have positive aspects, which are as follows [Proksch 2016]: Conflicts indicate problems: Problems or misunderstandings become visible and noticeable through conflicts. Tension between participants is an indicator of Need for Action. Conflicts trigger change: Conflicts provide opportunity for change. At this point, actions or decisions are taken to trigger change and thereby prevent deadlock. Conflicts arouse interest and curiosity: Conflicts encourages great enthusiasm to human co-existence. They would lead to tension, curiosity, fostering interest and stimulating the search for creative new solutions and innovations. Conflicts strengthen relationships: When conflicts are successfully overcome by both sides, they provides enduring relationships. Friendship tend to get stronger when they go through through and thick and finally settle their differences. Conflict free relationships are often cursory. Frictions will produce understanding amongst participants which will improve trust. Conflicts strengthen group cohesion: Having constructive debate will result in knowing preferences, strengths and weaknesses of colleagues or participants. Making it easier to develop trust and to recognise ones weaknesses. Conflict Management in Organisations Proksch [Proksch 2016] noted that the survey carried out by the working group Internal Mediation concluded that methods of conflict management can be reduced to four basic forms. In attempting to settle conflict, the parties to the disputes can be separated or brought together. However, attempts can be made to resolve the conflict on an issue-related or individual -related basis. The four basic forms of conflict management are as follows: Separative measures Issue related measures Integrative measures Individual related measures TraditionalComplementary Figure 2: The four forms of conflict management [(Proksch 2016)] Separative Measures Separative measures are focused on separating the parties, thereby eliminating the conflict. Examples of this are dismissal or transfer of an employee or employees from their work base to other locations of the organisation. Another example is where the Project manager in a conflict with the site engineer, one of them is transfer to another location to avoid issues. These forms are often used and constitute a classic form of conflict management, whereby existing conflicts are made to vanish from the face of the earth relatively quickly and effectively [Proksch 2016]. Proksch [Proksch 2016] suggested that if a similar conflict arises frequently, that means it is probably a structural conflict. Therefore, the conflict is not related to the person but to his/her organisation and the management system. On this occasion, it is advisable to apply an integrative form of conflict management to get to the root cause. Issue-Related Measures Issue Related Measures is implemented where the organisational or technical solution is sought independently of the conflict participants. First step is to identify the mistake and analyse it; then draw up regulations, guidelines or standards aimed at preventing the recurrence of the same conflict. In the construction industry, regulations, guidelines and standards that are in relation to the industry and tasks should be consulted. Effective tools such as work procedures, organisational chart, procurement procedures, business process models and so forth should be used to organise the way in which people work together. An example of issue related measure is increasing scarce resources, and they are a frequent cause of conflict. The basis of the conflict is eliminated as result of the lower degree of mutual dependency when the bottleneck is removed. These methods are bound to be successful if the conflict is caused by unclear guidelines or boundaries or when assignment are not explicit thereby resulting in misinterpretation. Method fails when the causes are perceive to be only a pretext, and other underlying problem such as personal issues or organisational culture are the main causes. Individual Related Measures Individual Related measures focuses on seeking solution at an individual level. Sometimes personal discussions are conducted or coaching offered to the affected individual. If the conflict cannot be resolved through discussions, the task of resolving the conflict may be delegated to someone. Disagreements by the categorisation of events into good or bad, right or wrong make it easily to resolve. The judicial system operates on this principle in order to ensure order and security. In the professional context, this approach has its shortfall because conflicts do not only arise on individual level but a large number of influencing factors play a role together that result in conflict: organisational frameworks, customs, power structures or limited resourc

lord of the flies :: essays research papers

The Lord of the Flies Essay   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In The Lord of the Flies, the three main character all have different characteristics and temperaments. Ralph shows the Guardian temperament, Jack has the characteristics of the Artisan temperament, and Piggy has the Realist temperament. This is important to the novel because it plays reason why everything ended up breaking apart on the island.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ralph is the nearest to being the Guardian in the story. Throughout the book, Ralph wants to be the one is charge and the one that Jack also respects. Most Guardians want to have membership and belonging as well. Guardians are also negative about the future, Ralph has is moments of when he does not think he is going to be rescued and gets depressed. A major difference about Ralph and his Guardian temperament is that he has many times when he feels he is not respected by the other boys. Guardians are supposed to have a lot of confidence with themselves because they are respected. The Artisan in this story is most likely Jack. Artisans are proud of themselves because they are graceful in action, and Jack has a huge ego because he is a skilled hunter or at least thinks so. Jack is a live in the moment now, or fly by the seat of your pants character he is just worried about now and not the past or future. The major difference is that Jack’s objectives on the islands are not normally the smartest things to do, he just does what he thinks he sound do now or wants to do.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Piggy is the Realist in The Lord of the Flies. Piggy is confident in himself because he knows he is smart and has a lot of wit and back at home Piggy always got his way. Realists seem to always have a quest to search in further truth and knowledge. A major difference between Piggy and a Realist is when it comes to the future. Piggy is, most of the time, hopeful about being rescued someday. Most Realists are negative when dealing with the future.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When you put these very different temperaments on one island you can see how disaster is going to happen. lord of the flies :: essays research papers The Lord of the Flies Essay   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In The Lord of the Flies, the three main character all have different characteristics and temperaments. Ralph shows the Guardian temperament, Jack has the characteristics of the Artisan temperament, and Piggy has the Realist temperament. This is important to the novel because it plays reason why everything ended up breaking apart on the island.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ralph is the nearest to being the Guardian in the story. Throughout the book, Ralph wants to be the one is charge and the one that Jack also respects. Most Guardians want to have membership and belonging as well. Guardians are also negative about the future, Ralph has is moments of when he does not think he is going to be rescued and gets depressed. A major difference about Ralph and his Guardian temperament is that he has many times when he feels he is not respected by the other boys. Guardians are supposed to have a lot of confidence with themselves because they are respected. The Artisan in this story is most likely Jack. Artisans are proud of themselves because they are graceful in action, and Jack has a huge ego because he is a skilled hunter or at least thinks so. Jack is a live in the moment now, or fly by the seat of your pants character he is just worried about now and not the past or future. The major difference is that Jack’s objectives on the islands are not normally the smartest things to do, he just does what he thinks he sound do now or wants to do.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Piggy is the Realist in The Lord of the Flies. Piggy is confident in himself because he knows he is smart and has a lot of wit and back at home Piggy always got his way. Realists seem to always have a quest to search in further truth and knowledge. A major difference between Piggy and a Realist is when it comes to the future. Piggy is, most of the time, hopeful about being rescued someday. Most Realists are negative when dealing with the future.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  When you put these very different temperaments on one island you can see how disaster is going to happen.

Environmental Factors Role in Obesity Epidemic Essay

Are Environmental Factors the Main Reasons for Obesity Epidemic? In her essay† What’s to Blame for the Surge in Super-Size Americans? † Tori DeAngelis discusses the various factors that lead to obesity. DeAngelis reminds us that obesity is getting worse and worse by the day. According to the current government estimate, about 65 percent of Americans are obese or overweight. DeAngelis states three factors that contribute to obesity. These are environmental factors, stress and gene factors. The author gives mainly two causes, environmental and gene factors. The other factor is the gene factor. In this essay, it is said that gene factors may also have an effect in causing people to be overweight and obese. I strongly believe that environmental factors are the major factors which play a great role in obesity. As DeAngelis stated in her essay, easy access to fast food is one of the major environmental factors that contributes to obesity (Page 291). Today, there are close to 160,000 fast food restaurants in United States. These restaurants are fast, fun, inexpensive, and can be found almost everywhere. When people look a quick, easy meal to grab on the go, fast food is the common solution. It’s far too easy to choose fast food over cooking a healthy meal at home and when it comes to eating out, temptation often wins. Fast food is the driving force behind the epidemic of obesity. It contains large amounts of fat accumulates in your body. You will gain weight and that could lead to obesity. The more weight you gain, the more you will be at risk for serious chronic illnesses such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease and debilitating conditions. The second environmental factor which DeAngelis states on her essay is lack of physical activity (Page 292). Lack of physical activity is a major environmental factor that contributes to obesity epidemic. The lack of physical activity is one reason why people get obese. The remote control, video games, automobiles, televisions and to some extent computers are all parts of the environment which discourages people from being physically active. Some people live in neighborhood where they can’t go outside because walking and running is too dangerous. Plus, given that we are becoming fatter, it becomes less interesting to exercise. As you know, weight gain occurs when calories consumed exceed calories burned. Physical activity plays a key role in energy balance because it uses up calories consumed. The third environmental which DeAngelis state on her essay is stress (Page 292). Stress is another major environmental factor that contributes to epidemic of obesity. When people are really stressed, they tend to crave comfort foods that are high in fat or sugar. They may eat often even when they are not hungry. People learn to eat as a way to cope with stress. They may be too exhausted to exercise regularly when they are under a lot stress. Once a friend told me obese people are often embarrassed about their weight and appearance. This leads to more depression, so they turn to food to feel better, which makes the problem even worse. So everybody should try not to stress themselves in order to keep their body fit and to live a healthy life. In conclusion, as DeAngelis states the rate of people getting obese is increasing. And she tells us the factors that are causing this problem. I think this is happening mainly because of the environmental factors. We all have to realize how damaging obesity can be to the body and for our overall health. Obesity is something that is increasingly on the rise today and will continue to rise unless we do something about it. Informing people how bad it really is and encouraging people to live a health enhancing lifestyle is one way to reduce the growth of obesity. A healthy diet and exercising are the keys not to become obese. Last but not least both the people and health professionals have a critical role compelling the fast food industry to change the way it does business.

Marketing of Burj Al Arab in Dubai Essay

Abstract: This paper discusses the marketing of Burj AlArab hotel in Dubai. It contains a brief description of the hotel and his history. It describes about the culture in Dubai and how it affects the hotel. A SWOT analysis has been discussed in the paper to know about its situation in Dubai. It also shows you the competitor of Burj Al Arab in Dubai and the marketing audit shows that how the hotel is positioned in the market .It concludes by stating how Burj Al Arab can maintain and develop its policies to keep it top in competitive market of Dubai. BURJ AL ARAB – The Arabian Tower of the Jumeirah Beach Resort. With 321 meters, this is the world ´s tallest hotel, only 60 meters shorter than the Empire State Building. This all-suite hotel stands 27 double-height storeys high and comprises 202 duplex suites. Your transfer to the hotel may be arranged by one of the world ´s largest fleets of Rolls Royce. Reaching new heights of luxury and service levels, Burj Al Arab offers a choice of 142 1-Bedroom DeLuxe Suites, 18 1-Bedroom Panoramic Suites, four 1-Bedroom Club Suites, 28 2-Bedroom Suites, six 3-Bedroom Suites, two Presidential Suites and two Royal Suites. The finest materials have been sourced from around the globe for your luxury and comfort, coming together in exclusively designed and handcrafted interiors. All suites feature floor to ceiling windows and are of course equipped with the latest technology like interactive television (with a camera that views all visitors to the suite – and you can give access to them without leaving the comfort of your bed or the armchair), all-purpose office equipment, laptop computers and internet access(First class travel 2006)Dubai :-Dubai is the most populous and second largest emirate (in terms of size) in the federation after Abu Dhabi.Dubai is distinct from other members of the UAE in that revenues from oil account for only 6% of i ts gross domestic product. A majority of the emirate’s revenues are from the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZ) [2] and now, increasingly, from tourism. Dubai is currently the second largest developing city in the world after Shanghai.With enormous construction and development in various industries.Dubai has attracted world attention through innovative real  estate projects, sports events, conferences and guiness records.(Wikipedia 2006)SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS:-To know marketing strategies, it is essential to know as much as possible about the market place or environment in which the property operates. A situation analysis researches the properties current position in the marketplace and reveals potential opportunities to promote the property. (Abbey1998,pp54-55)Cultural Influence:The cultural environment holds deeply influence on marketing behavior. Hotel industry needs to be sensitive to cultural variation in the environment and grasp opportunities for expanding. For instance, In Dubai there is 80 percent foreigners who have investments, businesses and employments. Over 1100 staff members from 50 different nationalities work in different areas of Burj AL Arab hotel. Therefore, they bring the diverse cultures from all different home countries such as religions, values, and social behaviors, etc. There will be slight or even severe varies between different guest groups, product suppliers, and hotel employees. It is crucial important for the managerial level to treat people with equal respect and revere different cultural norms.(sevenseashotels 2006). SWOT Analysis :SWOT defines the desired output from the formal analysis which must precede the selection of the strategy and the formulation of the plans to implement it.(Baker 1998,p139)STRENGTHS :†¢The infrastructure of the building which is like a sail boat which gives the guest a very fine and different experience. †¢All the restaurant , bars has a different outlook and are very famous world wide. Ex:Al Mahara – seafood restaurant accessible by a three minute virtual submarine voyage. Magnificent oval aquarium visible throughout the restaurant. Al Iwan – sea view restaurant. Finest Arabian hospitality with dà ©cor of dramatic gold, red and black†¢Member of the leading hotels of the world.(sevenseas hotels 2006)WEAKNESS:†¢Dubai is promoted as a tourist destination but is more of a commercial destination which have a great impact on the hotel. †¢The rigid climate and the culture of Dubai does not help the hotel to stay flexible. †¢The major economy of Dubai is based on oil and gas so the Dubai government does not stress on hospitality and tourism sector. OPPORTUNITIES:†¢Dubai as slowly developing as a commercial destination which will help the hotel to attract lot of business travelers. †¢Dubai is pressurizing more on building lot of theme parks and sports activities which can help the hotel to attract lot of international tourist. THREATS:†¢Lot of new entrants as Dubai is developing in to one of the best commercial cities. †¢High prices of the accommodations which gives advantage to the other hotelsCOMPETITOR ANALYSIS:As Dubai is one of the biggest developing commercial centers there is a lot of competition in the hotels to attract the tourist. The detail comparison for product differentiation Burj al arab and its competitors are as follows:Burj Al Arab : world class duple suites-non smoking rooms-data ports-complimentary news paper-hair dryer-room service-spectacular views-bar-spa-jaccuzi-sauna-shopping center-private health and fitness facility-theropy rooms-Aerobic room-restraunt. (Burj Al Arab 2006)Sheraton Jumeira Beach Resort And Towers :cabletv-hair dryer-child care-wake up service-see view -spa-sauna-bar-shopping center-outdoor tennis-water sports-squash courts-golf course. (Star wood hotels 2006)Hyatt Regency Dubai : Non smoking rooms-cable Tv- complimentary news papper-roomservice-child care-spa-sauna-bar-shopping center-fishing-tennis-restraunt. (Regency hyatt 2006)Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Resort :Wheel chair-free news papper-child care-modem lines-room service-TV with cables-Hair dryer-Mini bar-outdoor pool-spa-tennis-fitness center-shops-restraunt. (Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Resort 2006)PORTERS 5 FORCES APLICATIONS TO BURJ AL ARABRivalry Among Existing Firm:HIGHIt has a lot of competitor as above mentioned which have strong brand names among the local and international travelers. In order to leverage brand equity, Burj Al Arab hotel must possess better quality of service facilities more than its competitors. Threat Of New Entrants:HIGHBurj Al Arab has got many loyal customers but a small mishandling in customers expectations may cause the loyal customers to switch to another property. Dubai being a commercial developing city there are lot of hotels coming in. Bargaining Power Of Buyers:LOWMajority of the customers always pay close attention to the hotel price .It has all suite rooms which in all is different from other hotels so the people which the hotel target is specific so the bargaining power of customer is less. Bargaining Power Of Suppliers:LOW The hotel has to face a pressure from their suppliers; however the hotel can reduce it by partnering with travel agencies or big market chains purchasing high volume of products. Threat Of substitute:LOWBeing a very high class property and having a great brand name there are almost no threats to the beautiful property of Burj Al Arab. MARKETING AUDITS:A marketing audit is a systematic and thorough examination of a companies marketing position. (J.Baker1998,p237). POSITIONING:In the case of BURJ AL ARAB hotel Dubai, due to great occupancy rate and high industries growth rate , it experienced the high market growth and strong competitive advantage. Burj A Arab have a lot of competitor like Le Meridien Sayahi ,Hyatt Regency Dubai, Sheraton Jumeira Beach hotel And much more ,Which have a strong brand reputation among local and international travelers. In order to leverage  brand equity , Burj Al Arab hotel must possess better quality of service facilities above its competitors. CONCLUSION:The above report provides detail report on the market analysis of Burj Al Arab in Dubai and reviewing the marketing strategies, influence of the culture on the hotel, its position in the market and its competitors. The city of Dubai is a highly developing commercial centre, with many new hotels coming up with recognized brand names. In order to develop a competitive advantage the hotel should maintain and develop the following points:1)To emphasise propagating the architectural miracle and there unique suite rooms. 2)To continue implementing high quality of service. 3)To persist in high price and standards strategy. 4)To promote sports events, and Dubai shopping festival. REFERENCE LIST: Abbey.J.R(1998)Hospitalaity Sales And Marketing,Educational institute of the American Hotel & Motel Association. Baker.M.J(2000)Marketing Strategy And Management, Palgrave MacmillanKotler.p,Keller.k(2006)Marketing management 12e,Pearson Prentice Hallhttp.//www.firstclasstravel.de/burjalarab.htm (last visited 16/4/06)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/dubai (last visited 16/4/06)http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/search/hote_detail.html?propertyID=1326(last visited 16/4/06)http://dubai.regency.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/(last visited 16/4/06)http://www.lemeridien-minaseyahi.com/-14k(last visited 16/4/06)