Q&A Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Q&A - Essay Example It is an efficient and usually an extremely effective way to test for certain antibodies. The indirect ELISA approach is typically applied in medical testing because it looks for antibodies present in a given sample. Samples are taken from an individual and then these are tested for the presence of antibodies. This helps to determine if the individual’s body is already producing antibodies against certain antigens. After the sample is taken, antigens are introduced. If antibodies are present, they will form a bond that is invisible to the naked eye. An immunuoglobulin is added to the sample in order to verify if a bond was formed or not. The bond between the antibody, antigen and immunuoglobulin will remain on the plate after rinsing. The immunuoglobulin added must be of the same species. Finally, a colour indicator is added so that the bond between the antibody and antigen are identified properly. The accuracy of an ELISA test does rely on certain factors. If these factors ar e in any way compromised or overlooked, the ELISA test results may be unreliable. These factors may also contribute to a false positive or a false negative. The design of an ELISA test may sometimes affect its outcome, and an ELISA test is either direct or indirect. When using the single antibody approach, the laboratory must used a specific, enzyme-labelled reagent. The assay sensitivity affects both the direct and indirect ELISA tests because it measures the amount of accurate positives that are found. There are four types of sensitivities possible in an ELISA test: true positives, false positives, true negatives and false negatives. Whether or not a patient receives a false positive or a false negative is dependent upon how accurately the ELISA test was conducted, and whether a variable important to the outcome were compromised in some way. A false positive indicates that a person who does not in fact carry the antibodies against a specific type of antigen is tested as positive f or those antibodies. Similarly, a false negative indicates that a person who does in fact carry those antibodies against a specific type of antigen, tests negative for them. This may or may not occur with an HIV-1 test if the standard protocol for the ELISA test is correctly or incorrectly followed. Unquestionably, it is of the utmost importance to follow standard ELISA test protocol. ELISA test errors may occur when the reagents used are mishandled or if their integrity is comprised in some way. The reagents for specific antigen tests are usually specific- they may not be interchangeable between different species. Additionally, certain antibodies require certain reagents in order to be effectively read; substitutions cannot be made. Temperature, preparation, preservation, and shelf-life of the reagent affects how its performance. Commercial availability limits the use of some reagents, and therefore the potential for testing for specific antigens. The handling of samples and the re agents used are extremely important to the outcome of the test. Checking expiration dates and properly storing reagents according to their individual requirements is imperative. Reagents must also be checked for signs of disintegration prior to their usage in an assay; examples include precipitation and discoloration. The substrates should always be colourless. The plates where the experiment is conducted must be properly handled. The plates must be large enough to

Red Bull Marketing Strategy Essay Example for Free

Red Bull Marketing Strategy Essay Business Unit 3 Marketing Of ‘Red bull’ Introduction As part of my marketing assignment, I will be looking at the marketing of a consumer product or service. Therefore, my chosen product is ‘Red bull’, which is an energy drink. I have assumed that my product is targeted at people that have similar situations to the ones used in advertisements for red bull. I will be looking to spot if the strategy used is based on the principles of marketing: O Understanding consumer wants: to become successful, it is vital for a business to understand the wants and needs of its target audience. For example the needs and wants of a target audience for a high street retail store depend upon the age, style and income of its customers. O Understanding and keeping ahead of competition: businesses must consider their competitive markets as well as the products and prices provided by their competition in order to gain customers and provide a better standard of services and goods than other companies. This can be done through devising strong, different marketing strategies and by selling a product that is unique and efficient. O Communicate effectively with its customers to satisfy customer expectations: communication with customers is vital for a business to understand the wants and needs of their customers. A good relationship must be continuously created between a business and its customers to maximise its success. O Co-ordinate its functions to achieve marketing aims: co-ordination of functions is key to efficiency and therefore success. To maximise the success of a business, all of its marketing aims should be met. O Be aware of constraints on marketing activities. I will be also looking at the external impact on the marketing decisions, how the appropriate strategy is decided upon and how they are developed in order to meet consumer needs and the reliability of the different marketing models. â€Å"Red bull comes in two types, original and sugar free. This can be purchased at ? 1. 15 for 150ml† Features of Business Marketing†¦ O Consumers are of vital importance. Red bull has a far greater chance of being a success if it satisfies consumers’ needs. Marketing must be aimed at finding out what these needs are and making sure that Red bull meets it requirements. O Marketing is a business philosophy; it is not just a series of activities such as advertising or selling, but more a way of thinking about how to satisfy the consumers’ needs. O Marketing affects all aspects of a business. A production department would not continue making a product that does not satisfy the needs of the consumer at whom it is aimed. O Marketing is not just about selling. Selling is only one part of the marketing process. Before selling Red bull, they must carry out market research. O Marketing and advertising are not the same; advertising is just one of a number of tactics used by marketing departments. O Many businesses regard profit making as their main objective. Firms in competitive markets must make a profit in the long run to survive. Marketing must therefore satisfy their customers wants profitably. O Marketing involves building relationships with the customers of Red bull; profitable businesses are often built upon good customer relations. This may be dealing with their complaints in a careful and considerate manner. O Marketing is a process that is on going all the time, it does not have a start or an end as you can see below. Red bull must be prepared to respond to the changes that take place. The marketing process†¦ Red Bull Gathering Market Information†¦ AO1 My reason for choosing Red Bull is because the drink has become incredibly successful at a very competitive advice. By choosing Red Bull I will find out what marketing strategies has made Red Bull so successful. What is Red Bull? Red Bull started off as an energy drink that stimulates mind and body. After becoming an international icon, Red Bull went on to sponsor extreme sports such as F1, sailing, surfing, bmx-ing, and many other extreme sports. Red Bull is a non-alcoholic drink with key ingredients, which have a proven revitalising effect on mind and body. Red Bull is a functional energy drink and therefore unjustly classified among the soft drinks. The Red Bull effect results from a combination of two natural substances and vital metabolic transmitters the amino acids taurine and glucuronolactone with stimulating caffeine, vitamins and carbohydrates. The effectiveness of Red Bull has been proven by a large number of scientific studies. Its function is not to quench thirst, but to improve endurance and alertness, to increase feelings of well being, to support the metabolism in short: to stimulate body and mind. The History In 1982, Dietrich Mateschitz came up with the idea of marketing energy Drinks, which were then already quite widespread in Southeast Asia while sitting in the bar at the Mandarin Hotel in Hong Kong. In 1984, Mateschitz founded the company known as Red Bull. In 1987, he started selling the energy drink Red Bull on the Austrian market. Red Bull got off the ground in no time, giving people ‘wiiings’ right from the start. In 1992, Red Bull touched down in its first foreign market, Hungary and in 1995 it was launched in the UK, which is now one of its largest markets.

Today’s America Versus World War II America Essay -- patriotism, libert

There is a fine line between what American society looked like during World War II and contemporary America. The dilemma is that society has gone from patriotism and a fight for liberty to â€Å"everyone walking around with a chip on his or her shoulder† (Carr 2). This two distinct differences on America culture and society is manifested in, Howie Carr’s â€Å"Take $2000 and Call Me in the Morning† and Ronald Reagan’s speech, â€Å"The Boys of Point du Hoc†. Carr’s â€Å"Take $2000 and Call Me in the Morning† illustrates and criticizes the abuse of legal defense by citizens of the United States of America and how people feel like they are entitled to a lot of things. In contrast to that in Ronald Reagan’s speech, â€Å"The Boys of Point du Hoc† takes us back to a time back in American history where people fought and died for what they believed to be a just cause; while reiterating that America’s goal was to avoid what and conflict with the Soviet Union. In these two pieces of writing, both authors use different tones to get their message across to the public. Carr’s uses a sarcastic and humorous tone to poke fun at how American society and his humorous but important analogies to support his argument that people are abuses the legal system to get money. Regan’s main argument is that peace with the Soviets can be made, but war will always be an option if needed. Regan supports his argument w ith a serious tone, emotional words that evoke memories of America’s strength and determination. Using a humorous and sarcastic tone, Carr addresses how serious this â€Å"emotional distress† that the American people know seem to suffer from. Carr uses this sarcastic tone to show the people how pathetic and chronic this situation has become. Carr starts out the essay by, â€Å"Alm... ...ntouchable, and whomever touches America will not live for long. Life in America society is different, and while reading the two texts from Carr and Reagan, it becomes apparent that the society has evolved to the worst. Society went from a courageous â€Å"bagpipe player in the middle of a bloody battle†(Reagan ) to â€Å"A guy suing after his dog confuses a restaurant for a fire hydrant† (Carr 2). The two authors show a huge contrast while using different tones and analogies to catch the attention of the people they are trying to reach. Has American society decline that much from the World War II era? Carr seems to think so and reading Reagan’s speech shows how there is a clear difference. Works Cited Carr, Howie. â€Å"Take $2000 and Call Me in the Morning.† Boston Herald (March 1995): 1-2 Reagan, Ronald. â€Å"The Boys of Point du Hoc†. Course Packet. (June 6, 1984) 26-29

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Essay -- Essays Papers

Sexually Transmitted Diseases Sexually Transmitted Diseases are an intimate part of many people’s lives. These diseases, one could say, represent a conflict between human and nature. It is a part of nature that humans are inclined to engage in sexual activity . Yet, humans are endangering themselves with the spreading of these diseases. Also, a human oriented disease can take on a life of its own, so to speak, and even turn deadly when nature takes it course. Humans have created antibiotics and other drugs to cure the diseases and help with the symptoms of these diseases, but the complications that can arise from these diseases sometimes have no cure, and it is at this time that nature takes over. Sexually transmitted diseases are a part of history. Some have been around since the beginning of the United States. During times like the Industrial Revolution, the Depression, and WWI, sexually transmitted diseases have flourished because of the conditions of the cities and the living areas of citizens. Sexually transmitted diseases, of STDs, are a growing concern among people of all ages. Some are less severe and dangerous than others, but none of them are to be taken lightly. Some of the most common diseases are Acquired Immunity Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which is caused by the HIV virus; Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes Simplex, and Syphilis. These facts from the STD Homepage (http:// med-www.bu.edu/people/sycamore/std.) further explain the diseases and what one can expect from them. Sexually Transmitted Diseases are serious and can have lifelong effects; however, most are easily prevented and treatable. AIDS The disease AIDS, which is a set of disease... ...elids, face, chest, fingers, breasts, anus, and on the perineum. After the chancres disappear, the disease continues to inhabit the body. Syphilis is completely curable with antibiotics. Some complications of the disease that can not be cured but that may arise are flu-like symptoms, fever, skin rash, swollen glands, spots on the tongue, and warts on the genitals. In the last stage, the syphilis eats away at skin and bones. It can cause blindness, heart disease, and brain damage. Therefore, the Humanities Base Theme of Human Vs. Nature is prevalent in the topic of sexually transmitted diseases. Although there are drugs to lessen the effects and cure most of the actual diseases themselves, some complications that may arise are not curable. These complications, which arise mainly from nature taking its course in the body, are not curable by humans.

Dabur India Limited

Pillai’s Institute of Management Studies and Research Project Report On â€Å"Dabur India Limited† Submitted To: Prof. Momita mam BY: 29-Rashmi Gawand 37-Priyanka Jagtap DABUR INDIA LIMITED Dabur India LimitedDabur India Ltd. is the fourth largest FMCG Company in India. Dabur deals in Health care and Personal care products. Today, Dabur has a turnover of Rs. 1899. 57 crores. The market penetration of Dabur is of about 1. 5 million retail outlets all over India with 47 C& F agents and more than 5000 distributors.Dabur India is divided into 2 major strategic business units: * Consumer Care Division * Consumer Health Division Dabur has 3 subsidiary group companies: 1. Dabur Foods 2. Dabur Nepal 3. Dabur International- Further divided into Asian Consumer Care in Bangladesh, African Consumer Care in Nigeria and Dabur Egypt. | | Dabur has 13 ultra-modern manufacturing units in:? Jammu & Kashmir ? Uttar Pradesh ? Himachal Pradesh ? Madhya Pradesh ?Rajasthan ? Uttaranch al ? West Bengal ? Silvassa ? Nepal Dabur Health CareDabur's Health  Care range brings for you a wide selection of Ayurvedic and natural products that offer complete care for varying individual needs. Our products are derived from the time-tested heritage of Ayurveda, and backed by the most modern scientific test ;amp; trials that ensure unfailing quality and safety in anything you pick. Dabur's Brands * Activ Juice * ActiveAntacid * Active Blood Purifier * Amla Flower magic * Amla Hair oil * Babool Mint Fresh Gel * Babool Toothpaste * Badam Oil * Balm Double Action * Balm Strong * Burrst * Capsico * Chyawan Junior * Chyawanprash * Chyawan Prakash * Dazzl * Glucose D * Gripe Water * Hajmola * Hajmola Candy * Hommade * Janma Ghuti * Gulabari Face Freshner * Gulabari Rose Water * Gulabari Moisturising cream * Honey * Honitus Cough Syrup * Honitus Lozenges * Lal Dant Manjan * Lal Tail * Lemoneez * Meswak Toothpaste * Odomas * Odonil * Odopic * Promise Toothpaste * Pudin Hara * Real * Red Toothpaste * Sanifresh * Shankha Pushpi * Shilajit Gold * Super Thanda Oil * Uveda 2 in 1 Moisturising cream * Uveda Clarifying Face Wash * Uveda Complete Fairness Cream * Uveda Moisturising Face Wash * Vatika Black Shine Shampoo * Vatika Conditioner * Vatika Dandruff Control * Vatika Enriched Almond * Vatika Enriched Coconut * Vatika Root Strengthening * Vatika Smooth & Silky Exports ? United Kingdom ? Egypt ? Bangladesh ? Dubai ? Nigeria ? Nepal Dabur has its offices and representatives in America, Europe, and Africa. It exports Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients to Latin America, Europe, Africa, and other Asian countries. Dabur also exports herbal products to Middle East, Far East, and several European countries. Today Dabur is marketing its products in more than 50 countries. | Dabur Herbal and AyurvedicDabur presents a range of Herbal & Ayurvedic Personal Care products, created to make you look and feel good. Bringing together the gentle touch of nature and Ayurveda 's wisdom, the range covers categories like Hair Care, Skin Care and Baby Care, and is backed by the unfailing quality stamp of Dabur. Dabur Home Care Dabur India Ltd has a portfolio of superior products that help take care of your home. The range of Home Care products have been carefully developed to ensure that your living space not only looks good, but also smells good, all day long. And more importantly, they help keep your family healthy. Odonil keeps your home fresh and smelling great.Odomos protects your family from disease causing mosquitoes while Odopic leaves your dishes clean and smelling fresh. Sanifresh Shine keeps your toilet sparkling clean and free from germs while our latest innovation Dazzl gives a mirror like shine to your floors, kitchen and glass surfaces, while keeping them germ-free. Building on a legacy of quality and experience for over 125 years, Dabur India Ltd has introduced a slew of Ayurvedic over the Counter (OTC) products, offering traditional Ayurved ic remedies in ready-to-use formats. This is part of the company’s strategy to make Ayurveda more contemporary for the modern day consumer. Dabur, with its roots in Ayurveda, has been involved in bringing this age-old science within everyone’s reach.Dabur's Consumer Healthcare business is the Company's oldest business, and today has a growing portfolio of OTC products to address a variety of problems ranging from Women's Health to Baby Care and  Cough & Cold to Rejuvenation. Ayurveda The ancient Indian system of medicine based on natural and holistic living, derives from two Sanskrit words – Ayu or life, and Veda or knowledge. This Science of Life analyses the human body through a combination of the body, mind and spirit. Originating nearly 5,000 years ago, Ayurvedic texts were researched by Dabur in its quest for natural remedies. Today, its application in modern life has been renewed through the scientific research and validation undertaken at Dabur. Rea l Active Juices ContainsReal Activ is a range of unsweetened juices that contain NO ADDED SUGAR, COLOURS OR PRESERVATIVES. Real Activ juices are made from concentrated juices. After the juice is pressed from the fruit, the water is removed to reduce transportation load. At our factories, during the manufacturing of juices/ juice blends, we add back the equivalent quantity of water. Thus, Real Activ Juices have as much juice as present in respective fruit. Real Activ Juices contain * 0% Added Sugar * No Added Colour or   Preservatives * Naturally rich in antioxidant Nutrients * Helps meet 1  serve of your 5-a-day Dabur's Real Activ range includes: Antioxidant Rich JuicesAntioxidants are substances that help protect the body by neutralizing free radicals that cause cell damage. Antioxidant Nutrients like Betacarotene ;amp; Vitamin C are known to neutralize ‘Free Radicals’ and help strengthen the immune system. * Real Activ Orange Carrot Juice is a 100% juice made from Oranges and Carrots which provide the natural goodness of antioxidants nutrients like Betacarotene ;amp; Vitamin C * Real Activ Orange Carrot 1 Glass (250ml) equals: 100% RDA of Beta-carotene* 40% RDA of Vitamin C * Real Activ Orange Juice is an ideal breakfast juice rich in antioxidant nutrient like Vitamin C Activ Orange 1 Glass(250ml) = 100% RDA of Vitamin C*Refreshing Cooler Real Activ Apple Juice * Real Activ Apple juice provides you the goodness of Apples. Apples are packed with nutrients and anti-oxidants and are Very low in sodium. * 1 Glass (250ml) of Real Activ Apple juice provides juice of 4 Apples. So pick up a pack of Real Activ Apple juice for a refreshing break   Fruit-Vegetable Delight Real Activ Mixed Fruit Spinach Cucumber Juice * Real Activ Mixed Fruit Spinach Cucumber juice is a refreshing ;amp; nutritious blend of fruits ;amp; vegetables with the goodness of 8 delicious fruits (Apple, Orange, Passion Fruit, Guava, Pineapple, Mango, Apricot ;amp; Banana) and V egetables like Spinach, Cucumber.This helps you meet a serve of fruit ;amp; vegetable * 1 Glass (250ml) of Mixed fruit Spinach Cucumber is Very Low in Sodium. As per USFDA, diets low in Sodium may reduce the risk of Hypertension or High BP Real Activ Mixed Fruit Beetroot Carrot  Juice * Real Activ Mixed Fruit Beetroot Carrot juice is a refreshing ;amp; nutritious blend of fruits ;amp; vegetables with the goodness of 8 delicious fruits (Apple, Orange, Passion Fruit, Guava, Pineapple, Mango, Apricot ;amp; Banana) and Vegetables like  Beetroot ;amp; Carrot * It also provides you 1 serve of fruit ;amp; vegetable Start your day with Real Activ Juice which is deliciously tasty ;amp; gives the natural goodness of fruits ;amp; vegetables without the burden of added sugar.No wonder, with Real Activ in your life you can Say NO to all things artificial and Stay Fit the Natural Way. Dabur Chyawanprash Dabur Chyawanprash has anti-oxidant properties ;amp; strengthens your body's internal defe nse mechanism, the immune system, thereby protecting you from everyday infections, cough, cold & stress etc. At a time when flu and viruses are everywhere, your immunity system provides the best prevention from these deadly diseases. Chyawanprash, a time-tested, age-old formulation has a number of herbs like Amla, known to be one of the best antioxidants, Giloy (Guduchi) known to have immuno modulatory properties, and has more than 40 other natural ingredients, to boost immunity. |Dabur Chyawanprash, The Health Giver * Derived from 2,500-year-old Ayurvedic formula * Totally chemical-free, natural and safe * Powerful combination of herbs and plant extracts in a base of Amla fruit pulp * Refined by Dabur to provide traditional goodness with best quality * Reinforces the immune system & helps fight disease * Trusted health provider of a majority of Indian households| Hajmola Pop a Dabur Hajmola and enjoy the chatpata flavour that stimulates your digestive power. Take it regular ly, especially after a meal. The popularity of this Ayurvedic digestive can be gauged by the fact that almost 2. 5 crore Hajmola tablets are consumed every day in India. An Ayurvedic digestive medicine, Dabur Hajmola was the first to be branded as a product.It has a mix of traditional Indian culinary herbs, spices and edible salts. Dabur Hajmola is a market leader with 60% share of the digestive tablets segment in India. Dabur Pudin Hara Dabur Pudin Hara gives quick relief from stomach ache, gas and indigestion. It is a trusted, fast-action remedy for stomach disorders. Pudin Hara is completely natural and safe. Dabur Glucose D Get a jump start on your day by filling up with the extra energy of Dabur Glucose-D. Enriched with Vitamin-D and Calcium for easy assimilation and quick replenishment of essential vitamins, minerals and body salts, Dabur Glucose is a ready source of energy to fight tiredness. It refreshes you instantly.Besides helping in quick recovery of energy lost due to f atigue, Dabur Glucose also provides essential nutrients that refresh and energizes you to fight tiredness and fatigue caused by summer heat. Extremely good for growing children and sportspersons, Dabur Glucose also helps in all-round development of kids. Dabur Honey Honey has been used for its medicinal and therapeutic value for centuries in India. Dabur India Limited saw the potential of honey beyond its remedial value, helping every household imbibe the goodness of this natural wonder liquid in their day-to-day life * Dabur Honey launched as a food product * Largest player in the branded honey market, commanding over 75% of the total share   * Recently launched in convenient, easy-to-use squezee pack * Focusing on promoting food-led usage.Dabur Vatika Black shine Shampoo Vatika Black Shine shampoo is packed with the goodness of Black Olives and Amla that help maintain the black colour of your hair and give it incredible shine. Unlike normal shampoos, Vatika Black Shine Shampoo d oes not have any harmful chemicals. Its active natural ingredients help maintain the black colour of your hair without damaging them. Dabur Vatika Smooth & Silky Shampoo Vatika Smooth & Silky Shampoo is a natural shampoo that conditions from deep within, while gently cleansing and nourishing your hair. Its offers the gentle & caring touch of nature that leave your hair soft, silky and radiant.It has the perfect balance of natural ingredients like Henna, Green Almonds and Shikakai that turn your dull & lifeless hair into smooth & silky without damaging them. Dabur Vatika Dandruff Control Vatika Dandruff Control Shampoo removes dandruff without being violent on hair. Discover non-violence, the new beauty mantra captured in Vatika Dandruff Control Shampoo range. Enriched with the goodness of nature, Vatika gently removes 100% dandruff and prevents recurrence, without causing any damage to hair. So what you get is dandruff-free, beautiful hair. That's the power of no n-violence. Dabur Vatika Conditioner Dabur now  presents a range of natural conditioners under brand Vatika.The Vatika range of conditioners is packed with active natural  ingredients that nourish your scalp and hair to ensure that your crowning glory shines with health. Dabur’s in-depth knowledge of nature ;amp; natural ingredients has helped us create a range of conditioners that offer the goodness of nature without any side-effects, and give you problem-free hair. These nourishing conditioners from nature come in two SKUs of  100ml and 200ml, and are available in two variants: Vatika Smooth ;amp; Silky Conditioner Vatika Smooth  ;amp; Silky Conditioner has active natural ingredients   like  Henna and Amla that ensure natural conditioning of hair,   and Green Almonds, which  help nourish scalp and hair. Vatika Root Strengthening ConditionerVatika Root Strengthening Conditioner is packed  with natural  ingredients like Coco Milk, which  provides conditi oning, and  Almonds that  help strengthen the hair from root to tips. Dabur Hair Oil Dabur's range of natural Hair Oils have an array of specialized products that offer you problem-free hair, making your crowning glory grow healthy, lustrous and full of life. Give hair the nourishment of Amla (Indian gooseberry) with Dabur Amla or add the magic of white flowers to your mane with Dabur Amla Flower Magic. Enrich your hair from root to tip with Vatika Enriched Coconut Hair Oil, or  up your hair's style quotient with Vatika Enriched Almond Hair Oil. Dabur Uveda 2-in-1 Moisturiser 24-Hour soft and hydrated skin that glows from within Dabur Uveda 2-in-1 Moisturiser presents an alternate way to skin moisturising.It has unique Ayuredic ingredients that help build a reservoir of moisture in the inner layers of the skin that keeps skin hydrated for 24 hours and also protects the skin from damages due to the sun's radiation. Complete Fairness Cream Fair skin that glows from within Dabur Uveda Complete Fairness Cream presents an alternate way to fairness. With unique Ayurvedic ingredients, it works on the inner layers of the skin, making it lighter, nourishing it with every use to give complete fairness that glows from within. Moisturising Face Wash Dabur Uveda Moisturising Face Wash presents an alternate way to skin cleansing. Its Ayurvedic ingredients not only help clean your skin but replenish moisture in the inner layers, giving you clean, soft skin that glows from within.

How to Create a ServiceScape Profile That Gets Results

How to Create a ServiceScape Profile That Gets Results When you enlist your services as an online freelancer in todays digital age, you have to go above and beyond to outshine the competition. With more than 35% of Americans participating in the gig economy to some degree, its safe to say that youre competing against some top-tier talent out there.Thats why it is important to optimally present yourself and your skill set so that clients can be convinced of your worth. We are going to focus on your profile, which is the starting point for every interaction on ServiceScape, and delve into how to clearly communicate what clients want to hear.Your ServiceScape profile contains the following information (in no particular order):DescriptionHeadshot PhotographPortfolioVideo IntroductionCredentialsUsernameRatings and ReviewsPricesThe more effort you put into each and every one of these profile elements, the more successful you will be at attracting clients.A shopping experience always begins with presentation. Think of it this way: when clients come to ServiceScape, their initial interaction is similar to going to a bookstore and browsing book covers that catch their eye. As design expert Sabrina Smelko puts it:They say not to judge a book by its cover, but who are we kidding? Its undeniable that the cover of a book affects your decision to either read on or put it back on the shelf. In todays visual culture, this can be even more true for anyone who runs any kind of business, whether online or brick-and-mortar.With so many visuals coming at us from our computers, phones and various feeds - let alone the world outside our doors - it seems were almost expected to have a cool logo and visually-rich branded content in order to even be noticed. And regardless of whether you want to succumb to this fact or not, as exhausting as it can be, its hard to deny that a first impression can have a huge impact and influence on your business; which, much like a book cover, can determine the number of customers who open the door.Sabrina Smelko, Tips Tricks for Creating a Customer-Catching Storefront DisplayEssentially, your profile is your book cover and is the first step for convincing clients to learn more about you and what you have to offer. We are going to break down each element of your profile, why it is important, and how to curate it to your personal advantage.Lets get started.DescriptionYour description is the brief paragraph that communicates who you are, what you can offer, and what clients can expect from working with you. Equipped with a character limit, its up to you to fit as much information as possible into a concise, witty, and informative blurb. If you are not a writer/editor, its worth considering editing services to ensure your description reflects proper grammar, syntax, and spelling.We recommend, at the very least, that you include the following:Three areas of your expertiseWhat you can promise clients every single timeYour own personal catchy tagline. Something like Lets get to work.After writing your description, you should reread it from the perspective of a client. Is the description written with enthusiasm and energy? Does it connect with you and what you need as an imaginary client? In other words, would you hire yourself? If the answer is no, keep working on it until you are satisfied with the results.Tip #1: Check out other professionals descriptions. See whats working for them. Although you cannot plagiarize, theres no harm in getting a little inspiration from the other people in your field.Headshot PhotographNext, although your description will communicate exactly what it is you can offer clients, your headshot photograph will be the first piece of media they glance over when they discover your profile. Humans are visually oriented, which means headshots can make or break your profile.Here are our tips for what you should consider when picking a headshot:Every headshot must be high resolution; grainy quality automatically tells a buyer that you are unprofes sional.Smile and look pleasant; relatability is important and no one wants to work with a grouch.Here is an example of a good headshot photograph. The photo is high resolution and the individual is friendly and engaging.Although headshots may vary depending on your area of expertise, its worth it to see a professional photographer and to get a real headshot taken. Blurry photos taken by phones and laptops will be noted, communicating to clients that you are not serious about how you present yourself or your freelance business.Be sure to check out the competition. What seems to be the best headshot move for the most successful professionals? This is a good indication of where you should go with the headshot.Tip #2: A little analytics testing is an easy way to find a photo that works best for you. Compare your inquiry results over a 3-month period, with a different photo each month. Which photo performed the best?PortfolioNow that you have a brilliant headshot and descriptive blurb in place, its time to focus on what demonstrates your skills and expertise. Compiling a portfolio that accurately reflects what you can offer clients will take time. Be sure you have approval from past clients to include their works in your public portfolio – its not always proper to go ahead and plaster business names from past projects.Remember: people dont have a lot of time today. They are going to sift through your profile quickly before they decide to choose you. That means that quality over quantity is what you want to focus on here. If you provide three different types of writing services, highlight just one piece from each area of expertise. Obviously, spend time reading over the piece extensively to ensure that there are no typos before you use it in your profile.Lastly, as time goes on, one, two, or three years can fly by while youre freelancing online. Update your profile to reflect your most recent work. If you keep showcasing work from a few years ago, clients wil l start to wonder if you are hiding something. Never get complacent!Tip #3: Remember, humans are visual creatures. Try and make your portfolio fun to look at, with eye-popping color and contrasting fonts. You dont want to make freelancer shopping feel like a mundane chore for clients.Here is an example of a great portfolio. You should make your portfolio stand out by uploading sample files that are captivating and attention-grabbing.Video IntroductionThis is a great place to let your personality shine through. In many cases, buyers might skip over the portfolio and description and go straight to the video. Why? Because they are on the go, hoping that you will speak to them so they dont have to read about you. Its just the way of the digital world today.Video introductions dont have to be Hollywood masterpieces. They can be you at a desk, providing a background on your services in just 30 seconds. Whatever you send over, well do our best to improve it on our end before we add it to y our profile. Well edit your video and add music so that it is entertaining and informative. However, bonus points for those who can edit their own videos to create a more professional setting.At the very least, in your video introduction, try to include:A simple introduction: Hello, and thank you for looking at my profileWhat you can do for clients on ServiceScapeHow long youve been freelancing (only if you are not a new freelancer)A couple of interesting facts/tidbits that make you seem charismatic, funny, or interestingIts definitely worth investing in video production services to get this video introduction just right. An impressive video can boost your profile popularity tremendously.Hiring a video production service is a smart idea. High-quality video content will allow you to build trust by providing a face and a voice to your freelance venture within a professional setting.CredentialsIf a video introduction represents one side of the selling yourself spectrum in which charism a count for a lot, credentials definitely represent the other side. This is where clients will learn about what you have specifically done and how that specifically applies to what they need.A ServiceScape credential contains just the name of a position/degree and the institution where you held that position/received that degree. Nothing more and nothing less. This allows a client to quickly glance though your experience and expertise without any sales pitch and to get to the core of what you do best.You should select your credentials carefully, making sure that each one makes a case for why you are an expert in your field. The listed order of your credentials is also important. If you have a Ph.D., dont have your B.A. degree as your first credential.UsernameYour username is the brand name for your freelance business. This is going to be the largest piece of text within your profile, so making it stand out is a priority. The catchier and more creative your username is, the more like ly it is that you will capture the interest of potential clients. As Arun Bhati, CEO of Orahi, stated in Entrepreneur.com:Good names, like good logos, evoke a strong passion for your brand, while bad names elicit distaste or worse still, indifference. A great brand name can be a solid competitive advantage for your company, especially when feature sets between two or more brands are roughly the same. A brands value is what it offers its customers and what it promises to do for them in the long run and must convey its uniqueness in a way that the customer is drawn to use it just by the mention of its name.Arun Bhati, Why Brand Name is Important for Start-Ups?Some professionals use their first names as their usernames. Though it does make your profile more personable, a username can also convey your professional capabilities. When deciding on your username, take a look at your competition first and see how they approach this issue.Tip #4: Coming up with a witty username can be difficu lt. Even if you find a username that you like, the idea could already have been taken by another ServiceScape professional. The best thing to do if you are out of ideas is to try a business name generator. There are many generators out there that you can try. After using a few of them, you should be able to find a username that is a unique and memorable representation of your services.Ratings and ReviewsThis is where your client interaction skills will shine through, whether you want them to or not. Thats why its so important to practice proper customer service with every single client, no matter how you feel about them. At the end of the day, they get to review you publicly, and that goes on your profile. Other clients will be able to read it. Go above and beyond, especially during your first few projects, to impress your clients. A stellar review can easily grab you another five projects.Review volume will give veteran freelancers an advantage. However, if you are new to ServiceSc ape dont worry. Building a client base takes time. With enough commitment and dedication, you can rack up the same number of reviews as those ahead of you today.PricesLastly, your profile is where clients can mull over your prices. If you dont know how to price a service, we recommend the following suggestion:Find five sellers in your field who seem to be dominating. Add up their rates and divide by five. Use that number as your initial rate for starting out.As time goes on, you can always increase your prices. You never want to come in so high that no one wants to buy from you, though. But, do be careful of coming in too low and giving off the impression that your work is sub-par or that you are desperate for clients.What you get out of your ServiceScape profile is entirely up to youNo, you dont have to cross your fingers and pray that a client comes your way. You can actually lure them to your services if you follow our tips for curating a professional profile. Spend some time, re search the competition, and remember to never get too complacent! Its normal to fine-tune things every few months.Need more help? Here are some great resources which I would recommend:Alex Fasulo – Learn How to Make Money from HomeDiana Marinova – Freelance Coach Marking ConsultantFreelancer Profile: 5 Steps To Making A Killer Impact

How the HUD Anti-Flipping Rule Protects Homebuyers

How the HUD Anti-Flipping Rule Protects Homebuyers In May 2003, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued a federal regulation intended to protect potential homebuyers from potentially predatory lending practices associated with the process of flipping home mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Thanks to the rule, homebuyers can â€Å"feel confident that they are protected from unscrupulous practices,† said then-HUD Secretary Mel Martinez. â€Å"This final rule represents a major step in our efforts to eliminate predatory lending practices,† he said in a press release. In essence, â€Å"flipping† is a type of real estate investment strategy in which an investor buys houses or property with the sole intent of reselling them for a profit. The investor’s profit is generated through increased future sale prices that occur as a result of a rising housing market, renovations and capital improvements made to the property, or both. Investors who employ the flipping strategy risk financial losses due to price depreciation during declines in the housing market. Home flipping becomes an abusive practice when a property is resold for a large profit at an artificially inflated price immediately after being acquired by the seller with little or no appreciable improvements to the property.  According to HUD, the predatory lending happens when unsuspecting homebuyers either pay a price far higher than its fair market value or commit to a mortgage at unjustly inflated interest rates, closing costs or both. Not to Be Confused With Legal Flipping The term â€Å"flipping† in this instance should not be confused with the completely legal and ethical practice of buying a financially distressed or rundown home, making extensive â€Å"sweat equity† improvements in order to truly raise its fair market value, and then selling it for a profit. What the Rule Does Under HUD’s regulation, FR-4615 Prohibition of Property Flipping in HUDs Single Family Mortgage Insurance Programs,† recently flipped homes are not allowed to qualify for FHA mortgage insurance. In addition, it allows FHA to require persons attempting to sell flipped homes to provide additional documentation proving that the home’s appraised fair market value had truly increased significantly. In other words, prove that their profit from the sale is justified. Key Provisions of the Rule Sale by Owner of Record Only the owner of record may sell a home to an individual who will obtain FHA mortgage insurance for the loan; it may not involve any sale or assignment of the sales contract, a procedure often observed when the homebuyer is determined to have been a victim of predatory practices. Time Restrictions on Resales Resales occurring 90 days or less following acquisition will not be eligible for a mortgage to be insured by FHA. FHAs analysis disclosed that among the most egregious examples of predatory lending was on flips that occurred within a very brief time span, often within days. Thus, the quick flips will be eliminated.Resales occurring between 91 and 180 days will be eligible provided that the lender obtains an additional appraisal from an independent appraiser based on a resale percentage threshold established by FHA; this threshold would be relatively high so as to not adversely affect legitimate rehabilitation efforts but still deter unscrupulous sellers, lenders, and appraisers from attempting to flip properties and defraud homebuyers. Lenders may also prove that the increased value is the result of rehabilitation of the property.Resales occurring between 90 days and one year will be subject to a requirement that the lender obtains additional documentation to support the value to add ress circumstances or locations where HUD identifies property flipping as a problem. This authority would supersede the higher expected threshold established for the above-mentioned 90 to 180 day period and will be invoked when FHA determines that substantial abuse may be occurring in a particular locality. Exceptions to the Anti-Flipping Rule The FHA will allow waivers to the property flipping restrictions for: properties acquired by an employer or relocation agency in connection with the relocation of an employee;resales of foreclosed, bank-owned property by HUD under its real estate owned (REO) program;sales of property by other U.S. government agencies;sales of properties by nonprofit organizations approved by HUD to buy single-family properties at a discount with resale restrictions;sales of properties that are acquired by the seller by inheritance;sales of properties by state and federally-chartered financial institutions and Government-Sponsored Enterprises;sales of properties by local and state government agencies; andsales of properties within Presidentially Declared Major Disaster Areas (PDMDA), only upon issuance of a notice of an exception from HUD. The above restrictions do not apply to builders selling a newly built house or building a house for a borrower planning to use FHA-insured financing.

the Six day war essays

the Six day war essays "Throughout the war, the Israeli's were out numbered by the other nations; millions versus thousands, and yet they carried through," Prime Minister Eshkol remarked, concerning the events of the Six Day War. During the Six Day War, when Israel was attacked by the surrounding Arab nations, it was a young, inexperienced and demographically diminutive country, containing a population of only 650,000 people. Whereas, the Arab nations collectively amounted to over 44,250,000 people. However, in spite of these hindrances, Israel managed to miraculously defeat the extremely powerful and strong Arab nations surrounding them. Zionists declared Israel a state on May 14, 1948 when the British rule over Palestine had been put to an end. The following day, armies of Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Transjordan, totaling 800,000 combat forces attacked Israel. During the war, Israel lost control of the Old City of Jerusalem. The Israelis fought back and captured much of the territory, which had been set aside for the Arabs. By August of 1949, Israel and all five surrounding Arab nations had agreed to end the fighting. In 1950, the Jordanian military led by King Abdullah, became known as the West Bank in the kingdom of Jordan. Egypt set up an all Palestine government under the Mufti of Jerusalem, who had led Palestinian opposition to the British. After the war the Arabs and Israelis fought for many years about the 600,000 to 700,000 Arab refugees who left Israel as a result of the war. The Arabs claimed that Israel forced them out of Palestine. The United Nations attempted to aid the refugees to settle into Arab countries, but the Palestinians refused help. In 1954, Gamal Abdul Nasser became President of Egypt and a representative of Arab nationalism. He soon became the leader of all Arabs. In Egypt, the free officers who staged a military coup in 1952 disposed of King Farouk. Nasser had been one of these officers. ...

Two Tail Hypothesis Scholarship Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Two Tail Hypothesis - Scholarship Essay Example The analysis can be used by the manager to study if there is the significant difference between position and extrinsic job satisfaction in the company. This would enable the manager to make a plan on which strategy to use either Hourly Employee or Salaried Employee in respect of job satisfaction. Since ÃŽ ±=0.05 and confidence level is 95%; t- statistic=-54.60, the critical value is  ±1.96 we reject null hypothesis because p-value 1.67 E-91 is less than 0.05 and adopt alternative hypothesis. The t-test is used when the sample is small; it can be used to test the difference in population mean, that is when the population is n≠¤30 and the standard deviation of the population is estimated from the standard deviation of the sample. Whereas z-test is used when the population means is known together with standard deviation. Researchers do not have enough time to study the whole population. To study the entire population would be tedious and time-consuming; therefore, representative sample from the population is appropriate in the data collection. In statistical inferences, conclusions are drawn about the attribute of the population, e.g. the standard deviation or mean based on sample data analysis. Supposing there was a need to calculate the average weight of the population of youths in America, it would be unreasonable except at massive cost to weigh up each individual and calculate the mean weight. Another scenario is that testing process may be very destructive such that sampling becomes the only sufficient way.

Look through comments and fix all problems with paper submitted Essay

Look through comments and fix all problems with paper submitted - Essay Example Though there were similar thoughts and reactions to certain aspects of what they witnessed, the exact reasons why Dickens and Tocqueville both were disillusioned with America and became so critical of its society differ in ways which were favorable to each writer's nationality and particular social upbringing. Dickens traveled to America already well versed in the available travel literature that had been produced both to help reforms at home as well as in America as each social structure was examined and compared. Prior to his departure, Dickens had high expectations for the new country as a source of information regarding how best to fix the social ills in England at that time. Prior to his first visit to America, Dickens was active in the suffrage movement as well as the anti-slavery movement, but that he had changed his mind, at least somewhat, by the time he returned home (Dickens, Charles. American notes. 1842). In many ways, this change of heart has been linked to the type of treatment Dickens experienced while visiting and touring the prescribed route between historical or picturesque vistas and places of social reform such as schools and jails. Dickens' unhappiness in America arose, in part, from the enthusiastic reception he received from America's public. This is a case of too much of a good thing creating something unspeakably bad. During his tour, he wrote to Thomas Mitton, "I am so exhausted with the life I am obliged to lead here If I go out in a carriage, the crowd surround it and escort me home. If I go to the Theatre, the whole house (crowded to the roof) rises as one man, and the timbers ring again. You cannot imagine what it is" (Grass, 2000). No matter where he went, Dickens was to experience the invasiveness of constant surveillance, while he slept and no matter what he did, as well as constant requests for the most personal items - locks of hair, pieces of clothing, knick knacks left behind, etc. That he recognized the damaging psychological ramifications of this type of constant surveillance can be found in his writings regarding his tours of the American prisons. Although they do not focus on this effect on the psyche of the prisoner, Dickens unmistakably writes from an informed position regarding some of what these men must endure during their years under the watchful eye of the guards (Claybaugh, 2006). The torment of the situation was not lost on him as he found it agreeable to recommend constant surveillance through such structures as the Panopticon model for Britain's new prisons. Meanwhile he criticized the relatively light treatment of prisoners who were permitted to perform useful work during their daytime hours. An examination of his writings regarding the prisons are helpful in discerning Dickens' psychological experience of America's practices. One of his strongest criticisms regarding the American prisons had little to do with the psychological effects of constant surveillance and instead focused on the effects of constant isolation from the company of others and the dehumanizing effect this had on them. This dehumanized individual undergoes his change from prisoner at admitting to cowed subhuman after the course of several years precisely because his horrors to go to prison have haunted him through the years. Despite the changes this necessarily brings about in the

Business Management Literature review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Business Management - Literature review Example In the current study, the focus will be on role of power in the organisation. The objective will be to find out what constitutes power, what are the several external and internal influences and how power in related to the overall performance and success of an organisation. Critical Review of Literature The relationship between organisation and power is critical and intimate. The organisations exist to the degree to which they are powerful. This power, in turn affects beliefs, behaviours as well as opportunities of groups, individuals, businesses and societies. Organisations endure as a result of various social practices especially those which are repetitive, socially constructive and controlling. As a result power has become an increasingly influential tool to control and manage societies as well as organisations. The relationship between organisations and power can also be called as bi-directional. ... Incorporation of power is critical in understanding how organisations operate in society and how they are interrelated. Workplace is a setting where individuals show a working relationship as well as are independent in accomplishing present as well as future outcomes. Power in organisations is critical as individuals often need particular influences in order to accomplish their objectives and goals. Researchers have also found slight variation on the perspectives of power in workplace and study approaches. The literature has suggested that power can be seen from various perspectives such as structure or system, individual or dyadic relationship. The existence of power in an organisation is the result of its structure or system and its mechanism to control and influence behaviour. According to this approach, power can be described as the capability to mobilise resources and people to get the work done (Katz, 1998). Thus, perceived capacity of the power can be examined against its real influence on the productivity of employees. According to Second, Lawrence and Robinson (2007), organizational power reflects the actions of an individual or an organizational system controlling the beliefs or behaviour of organizational members. This perspective is considered to be more complete as it recognizes organizational power as well as importance of personal power. According to this view per has the ability to get the work done without the occurrence of any resistance. It is believable that leaders can use these perspectives in order to be able to counter resistance from employees and workers during various workplace situations such as takeover, downsizing and union disputes. This perspective also concludes

Environmental Issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 4

Environmental Issues - Essay Example Roberts who believes that the hazards of DDT are misrepresented by the activists while in fact it proves to have saved the lives of many. Three Main areas of Disagreement between Anne Platt McGinn and Donald R. Roberts are as follows - McGinn states that the toxic DDT should only be used in an emergency to treat diseases while more environmentally friendly methods such as bed-nets, anti-malarial drugs, improving living conditions and eradication of insect breeding sites should be used. Roberts claims that the steps to eradicate Malaria by proper drains and larviciding only happen in principal cities, while the mainly affected rural areas remain vulnerable. McGinn claims that insects became resistant to DDT when ingested while Roberts claims that DDT acts only as a repellant. McGinn says ‘In order to control a disease, why should we poison our soils, our waters and ourselves?’ (Pg.289) Donald reacts by stating Science Magazine that species did not go extinct and DDT level s had declined after its use was stopped. DDT only reaches a concentration in water of 1.2 parts per billion, so the claim that it causes the death of algae is false. Birds and sea lions have not declined due to DDT as claimed, while in reality statistics have proven their increase during the use of DDT. c) After a lot of research done on the subject, I comply with the Donald’s ideology and therefore prefer the use of DDT to save humans because all other claims against DDT have no solid proof of its dangers. ISSUE 17 – Environmental Hormone Mimics a) Environmental Hormone Mimics are ‘Xenobiotic’ chemicals that have been found to mimic or disrupt the reproductive hormones such as estrogen. These chemicals are known to alter the reproduction of wildlife along with creating severe health problems like cancer in humans. The controversy is whether these claims are true or are magnified falsifications. b) According to Professor of Biological Sciences, Michele Tr ankina, ‘hormone mimics’ disrupt ‘everything from fish gender to human fertility’ (World & I Journal, 2001) (Easton, 2011, Pg.319) while Michael Gough, a biologist argues that these claims are only supported by â€Å"junk science†. (Endocrine Disrupters,Politics,Pesticides, the Cost of Food and Health, " , 1997) Michele Trankina states that there has been a radical decrease in ‘sperm count’, an increase in testicular cancer and defective genetalia in men due to this. Gough states that these claims ‘fell apart’ when scientists found large geographical variations in sperm counts that did not change over time. Trankina points out to the increase in breast cancer in women as a result of exposure to the hormone mimics, while Michael Gough dismisses these claims by stating that there was no proven evidence to any of these claims even though many researches had been carried out. Puberty in girls has decreased from the age 12 and 13 to 7 years of age due to exposure to xenoestrogens in water, food, creams and plastics according to Trankina. But Gough states that results of the Tulane paper researched by Dr. McLachlan himself on the toxicity levels of pesticides came back as negative. c) Due to lack of evidence and proof on the role of hormone mimics in the environment, I support Gough’

Management accounting- R-11 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Management accounting- R-11 - Assignment Example Private organisations tend to have smoother management control process whereas public organisations experience more turbulence, conflicts and interruptions. Many scholars attribute these differences to the roles and purpose of private and public organisations in the society. Private organisations produce and sell products to consumers in the markets with objective of creating shareholders’ wealth. On the other hand, public organisations, such as state health centers and public schools undertake their operations for public interests. The distinct roles mean that there are diverse kinds of expectations and accountability that may can call for distinctive management control and decision-making processes (Ring & Perry. 1985). The problem of exercising management control in private sector versus public sector The contextual influence in the exercise of management control arises from the role of an organisation in the society. Whereas private organisations are means for creating sha reholders’ wealth, public organisations are instruments of public policy. The functions of each sector dictate the governance and leadership arrangements that are necessary to exercise management control for different diverse types of owners and shareholders. The approach to governance adopted in each sector subject general managers in each sector to different demands and expectations, which have far-reaching impact on exercise of management control. The role of each sector dictate ways of dealing with clients and users of services or goods offered in different ways, and this may also influence how management control is exercised. Public organisations are constrained in ways that limit how they exercise their management control and strategic choices being made. In most cases, discussions of how management control should be pursued in public organisations are subject to public disclosure. The government passes legislative mandates which tend t affect budgets and budgeting proc ess in a public organisation. As cited by Ring and Perry (1985), managers or leaders of public organisations are required to conform to budgets and legislative mandates passed by the state. As such, this is likely to limit the amount of money available for research on how to exercise management effectively. These mandates may even limit managers of public corporations from spending money on data collection and research thus influencing decision making process negatively. Management team of most public corporations must report to oversight committees, whose occupants are often political appointees, who are prone to leaking organisation’s undertakings and progress. This influences planning and management process in a negative way. These influences make management control problematic in public corporations than in for-profit organisations (Nutt, 2005). The external environment influences any organisation. Some of the attributes of external environment include cooperation, compet ition, political influence, cooperation and data availability. Private organisations can assess market situations through consumer buying behavior thereby enabling them to effectively manage their actions. Public organisations lack markets which can be source of revenue. As such, they depend on funds from oversight bodies that have tendency of setting reimbursement rules for the products or services offered by a public organisa

Environmental Issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 4

Environmental Issues - Essay Example Roberts who believes that the hazards of DDT are misrepresented by the activists while in fact it proves to have saved the lives of many. Three Main areas of Disagreement between Anne Platt McGinn and Donald R. Roberts are as follows - McGinn states that the toxic DDT should only be used in an emergency to treat diseases while more environmentally friendly methods such as bed-nets, anti-malarial drugs, improving living conditions and eradication of insect breeding sites should be used. Roberts claims that the steps to eradicate Malaria by proper drains and larviciding only happen in principal cities, while the mainly affected rural areas remain vulnerable. McGinn claims that insects became resistant to DDT when ingested while Roberts claims that DDT acts only as a repellant. McGinn says ‘In order to control a disease, why should we poison our soils, our waters and ourselves?’ (Pg.289) Donald reacts by stating Science Magazine that species did not go extinct and DDT level s had declined after its use was stopped. DDT only reaches a concentration in water of 1.2 parts per billion, so the claim that it causes the death of algae is false. Birds and sea lions have not declined due to DDT as claimed, while in reality statistics have proven their increase during the use of DDT. c) After a lot of research done on the subject, I comply with the Donald’s ideology and therefore prefer the use of DDT to save humans because all other claims against DDT have no solid proof of its dangers. ISSUE 17 – Environmental Hormone Mimics a) Environmental Hormone Mimics are ‘Xenobiotic’ chemicals that have been found to mimic or disrupt the reproductive hormones such as estrogen. These chemicals are known to alter the reproduction of wildlife along with creating severe health problems like cancer in humans. The controversy is whether these claims are true or are magnified falsifications. b) According to Professor of Biological Sciences, Michele Tr ankina, ‘hormone mimics’ disrupt ‘everything from fish gender to human fertility’ (World & I Journal, 2001) (Easton, 2011, Pg.319) while Michael Gough, a biologist argues that these claims are only supported by â€Å"junk science†. (Endocrine Disrupters,Politics,Pesticides, the Cost of Food and Health, " , 1997) Michele Trankina states that there has been a radical decrease in ‘sperm count’, an increase in testicular cancer and defective genetalia in men due to this. Gough states that these claims ‘fell apart’ when scientists found large geographical variations in sperm counts that did not change over time. Trankina points out to the increase in breast cancer in women as a result of exposure to the hormone mimics, while Michael Gough dismisses these claims by stating that there was no proven evidence to any of these claims even though many researches had been carried out. Puberty in girls has decreased from the age 12 and 13 to 7 years of age due to exposure to xenoestrogens in water, food, creams and plastics according to Trankina. But Gough states that results of the Tulane paper researched by Dr. McLachlan himself on the toxicity levels of pesticides came back as negative. c) Due to lack of evidence and proof on the role of hormone mimics in the environment, I support Gough’

Search on Mechatronic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Search on Mechatronic - Essay Example Mechatronics may also be referred to as "electromechanical systems" or less often as "control and automation engineering" (Wikipedia, 2007). Mechatronics meant a mechanism that is electrified until the early 1980s. Where as in the mid-1980s, mechatronics came to mean engineering that is the boundary between mechanics and electronics. In this 21st century, the term mechatronics encompasses a large array of technologies. However, each technology still has the basic element of the merging of mechanics and electronics but now it also may involve software and information technology (IEEE/ASME, 1998). For instance, many early robots resulted from mechatronics development. As robot systems became smarter, software development, in addition to the mechanical and electrical systems, became the main focus of mechatronics. To give some of the common examples where mechatronics systems are used include: the design of robots, washing machines, cameras, microwave, motor vehicles, DVD, etc. and other machines where an integrated engineering design is being adopted. Integration involves subjects such as mechanical, electrical, electronics and control engineering. In other words, mechatronics combines together areas of technology that involve sensors and measurement systems, drive and actuation systems, analysis of the behaviour of systems, control systems and microprocessor systems. In general a mechatronic system consists of the following basic items. The product or production process involves a mechanical structure containing actuators (generally it may be a motor to make things move), a microprocessor to control the overall operation of the system, sensors to allow the microprocessor to monitor the state of the system and electronics to connect the other parts together (fig 1). Mechatronics in the 1970s, was concerned by and large with servo technology used in

Commentary on Wilfred Owens Dulce Et Decorum Est Essay Example for Free

Commentary on Wilfred Owens Dulce Et Decorum Est Essay In this commentary, we will take a deep look into this poem that Wilfred Owen wrote. In the poem, a group of soldiers are described, and their emotions. Using three guiding questions, this will be an introduction into the way Owen writes his poems. Answering these guiding questions will give the reader the full package that the poem has to offer. The first guiding question that is to be answered is: How are the feelings amongst the soldiers described? First of all, one can say the soldiers all feel as if they were torn apart. This is notable in the way the soldiers ‘cursed through sludge’, and how the ‘men marched asleep’. Despite their fatigue, the group of men still have a strong bond, as they did not think only of themselves while shouting ‘gas! GAS! Quick, boys! ’. This explains they are prepared to share their senses, and not keep them to themselves only. The bond between the soldiers is also notable when they all watch their mate slowly die, while they can do nothing about it. The way the soldier feels while seeing his friend’s death, makes him (and probably his mates) feel that dying for their country, and seeing others die, isn’t all that honourable. The second aspect of the poem that needs to be looked at is the atmosphere that the writer calls up. This atmosphere can be described as a dynamic one. It goes from the gray and darker mood to a fast-paced one, while ending in the depressing situation of a friend’s death. The gray and dark atmosphere is found in the way the soldiers ‘limped on, blood-shod’ through the land. The group was ‘drunk with fatigue,’ and didn’t have the energy to walk in a faster pace. In line 9 however, the mood shifts as the ‘green sea’ of gas approaches the soldiers. Described as an ‘ecstasy,’ the men fought against the time and put on their helmets as soon as possible, to avoid death. The poem starts it’s depressing atmosphere in line 15, where the soldiers behold the death of their friend. They want to do anything to save him, but were hopeless, so they ‘flung him in’ the wagon, and watched ‘the white eyes writhing in his face. ’ Owen leaves the reader with the same emotions the soldiers felt, the fact that they felt betrayed by their country. Lastly, a look needs to be taken into the poetic devices in the poem, and how they contribute to the message. The most notable thing in this area is the way Owen shocks the reader. The message itself describes ‘the old lie’ that dying for your country would be sweet and fitting. Owen wants the readers to understand how many people really care for one soldier’s death. In the last paragraph it’s almost clearly stated how one would feel while dying for their country. The dying soldier leaving behind ‘his hanging face, like a devil’s sick of sin’ would give an image of how he would be dying his painful death. The reader could imagine the pain the soldier has, and how the other soldiers around him would feel. These three given answers on the guiding questions should give you a more in depth look into the poem, and give one understanding to the questions the reader might have himself.

Forecasting Inventory Needs For Home Depot Stores Nationwide Commerce Essay

Forecasting Inventory Needs For Home Depot Stores Nationwide Commerce Essay Forecasting is one of the most important aspects of any business that wants to maintain its competitive advantage. The Home Depot uses the gross national product (GNP) to forecast its demand for inventory. Due to the current state of the housing market, The Home Depot is finding it difficult to properly forecast inventory stocks resulting in a surplus of unsold goods and missed sales opportunities due to lack of other merchandise This paper will briefly describe some of the different techniques and methods used to forecast. There will be two courses of actions (COAs) developed. One will be recommended over the other and an implementation plan will be presented. Forecasting Inventory Needs for Home Depot Stores Nationwide Introduction The Home Depot is a multi-international organization with brick-and-mortar stores in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and China. The current state of the United States economy has been detrimental to many organizations. The Home Depot bases its inventory needs on the housing market. Recently the housing market has been fluctuating in an unpredictable manner. This becomes a concern for organizations that base their inventory needs on it. Improper inventory stocks can be a detriment whether it is overstocked or under stock. If inventory is under stocked organizations may lose potential business to competitors due to an inability to keep up with demand. Overstock causes an issue with costs associated with storage of unsold merchandise and can tie up much needed capital. Problem Statement Due to the current state of the housing market, The Home Depot is finding it difficult to properly forecast inventory stocks resulting in a surplus of unsold goods and missed sales opportunities due to lack of other merchandise. NOTE: BACKGROUND CONTENT SHOULD BE THE LITERATURE REVIEW. LIT REVIEW CONTENT SHOULD BE THE BACKGROUND. IM NOT SEEING MANY OF THE MANAGEMENT TOPICS INTEGRATED INTO EITHER SECTION. YOU MENTIONED SEVERAL OF THE TOPICS JUST AS YOU STARTED THE LIT REVIEW, BUT YOU ONLY MENTIONED THEM THIS IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH. YOU HAVE TO WRITE SOMETHING ABOUT THEM THAT WOULD BRING VALUE TO THE SUBJECT OF YOU PAPER. Background A forecast is a statement about the future. Many businesses use forecasting in an effort to squeeze every last drop of profit out of a situation. The Home Depot, for example, bases sales forecast on mortgage refinancing rates. Usually the smaller rates are at any given time in history will equate to higher sales. There are many different uses of forecast. Forecast can be used for accounting, finance, human resources, marketing, management information systems, operations, and product or service design to name a few. While forecasts are instrumental to an organizations financial future they are rarely perfect due to the randomness of the variables involved. The accuracy of forecasts themselves decrease as the time horizon of forecast increases. For example, the Home Depot can forecast sales for this year more accurately than they can for next year. There are many different elements of the forecast that would be considered good. In order for a forecast to be considered good the forecast would have to be timely, reliable, accurate, meaningful, and easy to use. According to Stevenson, there are two main uses for forecasts. The first is to assist managers with planning the system and the second is to assist them plan the use of the system (Stevenson, 2001). What is meant by planning the system is just that. It is a means to plan the system that involves long-range plans such as what products or services to offer as well as what equipment to buy and where to build facilities and things of that nature. According to Stevenson, planning the use of the system generally refers to the short-range and intermediate range which typically involves things such as planning the budget, scheduling, short-term goals, the needs of the investor, inventory, etc. Forecasting for business goes far beyond just forecasting the demand of products and services. It also includes being able to predict profits, revenue, availability of raw materials and many other variables. The Home Depot, being a home improvements store, must also be able to predict things such as th e housing market. There are certain features that are common to all of the different forecasting techniques. One of the main commonalities of forecasting is that no one has a crystal ball, and no one can see into the future; therefore forecasts are far from perfect. No one can predict precisely how often a large number of related factors will impinge upon the variable in question, this, and the presence of randomness, preclude a perfect forecast (Stevenson, 2001). Another commonality to all forecasting techniques is that forecast accuracy will become less accurate as time moves on, an example of this is given above, due to the fact that forecasting errors for group items will have a canceling effect upon themselves. For example, the Home Depot can forecast the sales goals of a particular department better than the sales goal of an individual product. According to Stevenson (2001) six basic steps are involved in the forecasting process shown in Table 1. Note: I would put these steps in a Table. Label it Table 1. Paraphrase the content. Step One Determine the purpose of forecast (Stevenson, 2001). One must know the reason behind forecasting in the first place. If a person is forecasting how many individuals will show up to a bake sale as opposed to how many pallets of shingles need to be urgent in order to facilitate demand at any given time, knowing the purpose will justify the level of accuracy that is necessary. Step Two Establish a time horizon (Stevenson, 2001). One must have a time horizon in their forecast, one must also realize that the accuracy of the forecast will diminish as the time horizon increases. Step Three Choose a forecasting technique (Stevenson, 2001). Once again there are numerous amounts of forecasting techniques that are being used today. It is extremely important for the forecaster to choose one that will best suit the needs of the forecast. Step Four Gather and analyze relevant data (Stevenson, 2001). Before beginning any daunting task one must gather all relevant information that one needs in order to put it all together and make sense of it. In this stage the forecaster must also identify any assumptions that are made while preparing using forecast. Step Five Prepare the forecast (Stevenson, 2001). In this step one would use whichever technique that was decided in order to prepare the forecast for monitoring. Step Six Monitor the forecast (Stevenson, 2001). The forecast is similar to that of any automated program and therefore will need to be monitored. The reason that the forecast needs to be monitored is because it is not performing in the way that it should be, the forecaster needs to go back re-examine the data and make any relevant changes in order to keep the forecast on the straight and narrow path. If the forecast is not performing in a satisfactory manner certain assumptions couldve been overlooked or completely wrong. In either case the forecaster must then prepare a revised forecast Literature Review Inventory management is one of the key issues faced by managers that deal with seasonal products. It is important to understand how product forecasting has been previously used. As technology advances and globalization continues to be on the rise, keeping up with supply and demand becomes a challenge. Businesses need to learn how to create a supply chain advantage. In this section demand forecasting, demand learning, and product lifecycle forecasting methods will be discussed. Six rules for effective forecasting will also be included. Demand Forecast According to Huang, Chang, and Chou (2006), the first step in finding precise demand forecast is to collect and organize complete and applicable historical demand data for any given product. Demand of this nature can be issued daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly depending on the time within the planning window. The process of modeling demand and determining demand forecasts is as follows: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦demand data, demand analysis, demand forecast model, perimeter estimation, demand simulation, demand forecast, and expected demand (Huang et al, 2006). There are two aspects of forecasting that are vital. The first is the expected level of demand, the second is the degree of accuracy that can be assigned to a forecast. Demand Learning Demand learning is one of the inventory models that has received considerable attention in the literature. Herbert Scarf is one of the first authors to incorporate demand learning in an inventory modeling context. In his literature, Bayes Solution of the Statistical Inventory Problem, he developed an interesting inventory model that uses observed demand information and a current stock level together in the decision process. It is his assumption that demand is generated from an exponential class of distributions, and a collaboration of prior distributions are used for the unknown parameters (Scarf, 1958). For seasonal demand forecasting a Quick Response policy was adopted by many manufacturers. This procedure was developed in an effort to reduce a manufacturers production time to respond to orders in a timelier manner so that forecast can be improved by collecting more information about the future demand. Suri (2004) studied the Quick Response policy extensively. According to his lite rature, there are four core concepts of quick response manufacturing: The Power of Time, Organizational Structure, Understanding and Exploiting System Dynamics, and Enterprise-wide Unified Strategy. Product Lifecycle Forecasting Method Burruss (2002) describes the product lifecycle forecasting method. He used this method to propose a way to more accurately forecast products with high uncertainty and a short lifecycle. According to Burruss, a short lifecycle ranges anywhere from 9 months to 18 months. According to the literature, products forecasted using this method, should have well defined lifecycle phases from introduction to maturity and then to end-of-life, a high demand spike during the introduction phase, which is then followed by a gradual downward leveling off during maturity, and a steep end-of-life drop-off that is usually caused by planned product rollovers (Burruss, 2002). Six Rules for Effective Forecasting Paul Saffo describes the difference between prediction and forecasting. He says that prediction deals with future certainty while forecasting looks at how events in the present are influential to the possible changes in direction (Saffo, 2007). In his literature he describes six simple rules for effective forecasting that managers should observe as they develop forecasting policies (Saffo, 2007). The first rule is to define a cone of uncertainty. According to the literature, the cone of uncertainty is used to help managers exercise strategic judgment. The most important part of the cone of uncertainty is defining its breadth, which is a measure of overall uncertainty (Saffo, 2007). The second rule is to look for the S-curve. Saffo explains that change does not usually follow a straight line. It is important to see and identify an S-curve pattern once it begins (Saffo, 2007). Rule three is to embrace the things that do not fit. A successful forecaster will be able to look to the left of an S-curve inflection point and notice indicators of what is to come. However, sometimes there are items to the left of the S-curve inflection point that simply do not fit. It is the job of the forecaster to recognize those items and adjust the forecast appropriately. The fourth rule is to hold strong opinions weakly. Here, Saffo is saying that one of the largest mistakes a forecaster will make is to rely on one piece of information, which at the time seems extremely strong due to the fact that it reinforces the conclusion that the forecaster had previously. According to the literature, more weak information, bits and pieces, put together is more trustworthy than a single source of strong information. Rule five says look back twice as far as you look forward. This rule is a continuation of rules two and three. One must know ones history before they can effectively expect future outcomes. One of the hardest parts of looking in history is to know when it does not fit. Rule six, the last rule, is to know when not to make a forecast. There are certain times when forecasting is easy and sometimes when it is just not possible. Saffo uses the dot com bubble of the 1990s as an example of this rule. Forecasters suggested that at the time that old rules did not apply when in fact they were extremely prevalent and the old economic imperatives bursts the dot com bubble (Saffo, 2007). Discussion As stated above there are many different types of forecasting methods that may be used. Moon and Mentzer (2004) describe a time series technique as only looking at patterns of the history of actual sales. The time series technique will look and determine whether the patterns that are prevalent at the time can be projected into the future. This will be the basis of the forecast. All time series techniques examine one or more of four time series patterns, which include level, trend, seasonality, and noise (Moon Mentzer, 2004). Research by Moon and Mentzer (2004) suggest that the level is a horizontal sales history, or what the sales pattern would be if there were no trend, seasonality, or noise. Most forecasters use the level as the starting point for the time series and look at the other patterns later. In Figure 1 that follows, the data follows a horizontal pattern around mean. Figure 1. Title (Note: All tables and figures must carry a number and a title. This does not mean anything because you gave no legend. What is the X axis? What is the Y axis? What do the numbers represent. ) The way the line moves up and down as sales increase or decrease or curve or remain a straight line is what is considered the trend. Most businesses will prefer a trend that is always increasing; however, this is usually not the case. The trend is essentially the bread-and-butter of any forecast. It allows forecasters to be able to determine what is working and what is not, and present this information to management in an effort to mitigate future loss. In Figure 2 that follows, the data is progressively increasing which shows a trend. Note: So trends are based on data? You never really said that. Here you have to introduce Figure 2 and title it. You cannot just stick a graphic in and say nothing about it. Figure 2. Title (Note: You need to include a legend.) Seasonality is described by Moon and Mentzer (2004) as a repeating pattern of sales increases and decreases that occurs within a one-year period or less. For example, the Home Depot experiences high sales every fall for snow blowers, high sales of lawnmowers during the spring, and high sales every summer for air-conditioners. The pattern of these high sales during those periods within the year typically repeat themselves every year and therefore, the seasonality line can be seen as a regular pattern. Figure 3 that follows represents a seasonal pattern. The data exhibits a regularly repeating pattern. (Note: Same comment. You need to title and provide a legend.) Figure 3. Title Noise is the unexplained phenomena that occurs in forecasts. These phenomena usually seem unexplainable until a regression analysis or similar has been conducted. For example if the Home Depot were to have high sales of lawnmowers in the winter months, that would be considered noise. The high sales of lawnmowers can be explained possibly by global warming (unusually warm weather in the winter months), a fire sale of lawnmowers during these months, or some other explanation. The fact is that high sales of that product are unusual and have not happened consistently in the past years and therefore is considered noise. The Figure 4 shows how noise would appear on a chart. There is an inconsistency in the pattern. Figure 4. Title Insert Legend Management Concepts There are many different techniques and approaches when it comes to management. However while dealing with a forecast, managers are faced with more decision-making attributes. In order for any organization to be successful it all starts with being able to properly manage not only personnel, but also the other aspects of the business. In the military, soldiers are taught to lead by example. They are taught very early on to Be, Know, Do. Be the individual that you want your soldiers to be, know all of the required information before presenting it to a subordinate, and do what is morally and ethically right at all times regardless of the situation in which one might find themselves (Hesselbein Shinseki, 2004). You need a citation for this information. Not sure the military example is relevant. Li (2007) describes supply change management as a set of synchronized decisions and activities utilized to efficiently integrate suppliers, manufacturers, warehouses, transporters, retailers, and customers so that the right product or service is distributed in the right quantities, to the right locations, and at the right time, in order to minimize system wide costs while satisfying customer service level requirements. The Home Depot is an industry that ranks inventory in the top five business costs. Oversupply and undersupply of inventory at any given moment could have an extremely detrimental impact on the corporation. Establishing the right amount of product through effective forecasting will ensure that the Home Depot has the products customers need when they want them. This will also mitigate the overstock costs for storage of unsold goods. Economic Environment The current economic environment in the United States is bleak to say the least. As of the writing of this paper there is a high unemployment rate of 7.9% and a slow growth of the United States economy. Growth in the previous year has been at an extremely slow pace. Home sales directly impact inventory needs of the Home Depot. Total sales of homes in the United States have declined 1.7 percent since August of 2012 (realestateabc.com, 2012). Figure 5 shows . . . Figure 5. Title What year? You need to state the year. If home sales continue to decline it could mean that mortgage rates will increase. Increase in mortgage rates would mean that home improvement stores such as the Home Depot would take the brunt of the impact in the hike of the rate. Improvement in the economic environment is crucial for retailers like Home Depot (Steverman, 2009).. The housing bust in the United States hit the Home Depot hard. Due to the state of the economy, the Home Depot had reduced the square footage growth plans in an effort to improve free cash flow and provide strong returns for the company. (Home Depot, 2012). In 2009, the company was forced to exit its EXPO, THD Design Center., Yardbirds, and HD Bath businesses in an effort to focus solely on the brick-and-mortar stores (Home Depot, 2012). According to the five-year summary of financial and operating results of the Home Depot, the company is slowly regaining its previous financial success. Its total net sales are still lower in 2011 than they were in 2007. However, the trend indicates that the company is poised to regain its momentum and bring sales back to what they were previously. Table 1 is a five-year summary of The Home Depots financial and operating results. Table 1. Title Quantitative Tools and Techniques There are many different tools and techniques that are commonly used to support business decision-making. Arguably, decision trees are one of the best tools to assist managers in choosing between several courses of actions. Decision trees take information directly from the managers and allows them to see the outcomes of different courses they might take. According to Mind Tools, there are five steps to creating a decision tree, as shown in Table 2. The first step is to draw a decision tree. This will be the outline to which the manager would fill in the information related to each course of action. Second step will be to evaluate the decision tree. In this step the manager would decide which options have the greatest worth (Mind Tools, n.d.). The third step would be to calculate the values in the tree. Mind Tools suggest to start on the right-hand side of the tree and work backwards to the left. The fourth step is to calculate the value of uncertain outcome nodes. When calculating th e value of uncertain outcomes, one would do this by multiplying the value of the outcomes by their profitability. The total for that node of the tree is the total of these values (Mind Tools, n.d.). The fifth step of creating a decision tree is calculating the value of the decision nodes. In this step managers will have to write down the cost of each option and then subtract the cost from outcome that would give managers a value that represents the benefit of that particular decision. Figure 6 is an example of a decision tree that was retrieved from the Mind Tools website. (Note: It should be Figure 6, not Figure 4) Figure 6. Marketing Concepts As a home improvement warehouse store, the Home Depots customer base are the average do-it-yourselfers, do it for me, and professionals. The Home Depots competition not only includes big-name stores like Lowes but the local hardware stores. The Home Depot uses multiple social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. On these sites they reach out to customers through videos depicting how easy it is to do-it-yourself with the right tools and support from the store. They bring customers into the store by hosting how-to seminars. They do these things in an effort to increase brand loyalty, interaction with customers, and customers comfort level when doing projects on their own. In this day and age there are many outlets that companies can utilize an effort to reach maximum customer base. Chantal Tode (2012) wrote an article on how Home Depot decided to do an iPad app in an effort to integrate a customer experience that would get them more involved in home decor. Home Depot launched the Home Depot Style Guide Spring 2012 app around mid-March (Tode, 2012). This iPad application for the Home Depot has proven to be a huge success. The Home Depot will attempt to optimize Home Depot.com in an effort to provide iPad users with the best experience. Matt Jones, general manager of mobile for HomeDepot.com, Atlanta, Georgia said it has outperformed our expectations in terms of downloads, page views per visit and time spent in the app (Tode, 2012). Global View of Business Marketing. Success in international markets depends on a number of different things. When thinking about marketing for an international organization one must consider the wants and needs of that particular market. What works in Houston may not be the same in China. The Home Depot entered Chinas market in 2006. Unfortunately, the company did not do due diligence and study what the market demanded in that country. The Home Depot attempted to market in China the same way as it did in the United States. As a result the Home Depot will close the last of the seven stores in that country. Further research shows that the market in China is more of a do it for me culture (Burkitt, 2012), in part due to cheap labor and the fact that most individuals live in apartments. This means they have less need for items such as lumber and gardening tools. The closing of the stores will cost the Home Depot approximately $160 million after-tax in the third quarter 2012 (Burkitt, 2012). The Home Depot has a YouTube channel dedicated to Spanish speaking customers. This is a strategic marketing plan that should assist the Home Depot with its Spanish-speaking customers and improve its brand with. Management. Same comment as above. International management is one of the key things that brings success when working in a global economy. It is important to understand the culture of the country in which the business will operate. The Home Depot has stores in Canada, Mexico, . Canadian business is improving performance in the fourth quarter (Home Depot, 2012). Mexican business has 33 consecutive quarters of positive comp growth (Home Depot, 2012). Economic and Business Operations. Same comment as above about format. As previously discussed, the Home Depots economic and business operations are going quite well in the international market with the exception of China. The international businesses are operated similarly to those based in the United States. Nextels for the Home Depot outside of the United States were $8 billion for fiscal year 2011 (Home Depot, 2012). Social, Cultural, and Behavioral Foundations of Human Enterprise The Home Depot is very involved in community outreach programs. They have an organization known as The Home Depot Foundation with a mission to ensure that every veteran has a place to call home (Home Depot Foundation, 2012). In 2011 this organization completed more than 1000 projects with more than 400 of them focused specifically on veterans. They worked on projects such as painting local schools, community gardens, and refurbishing needy familys homes while working with local nonprofit organizations. The Home Depot also helps when disaster relief is needed. They assist local governments and organizations by providing supplies and resources needed to clean up and rebuild neighborhoods. The organization also contributes $500,000 to the American Red Cross annual disaster giving program (Home Depot Foundation, 2012). Business and Economic Principles Organizations such as the Home Depot need to understand that basic business and economic principles are of the utmost importance. This paper has discussed many different business and economic principles to include demand, economies of scale, opportunity costs and exit strategies. Critical Thinking The Home Depot solves problems and makes decisions more quickly due to the development of common vocabulary that is used throughout the organization. It utilizes a cross functional relationship approach by mixing the different strengths of the creative, teamwork, and rational approach to problem solving. The Home Depot also empowers its employees to think critically by taking courses offered through the employee website to enhance current skills and learn new ones. They also provide web-based seminars to help their employees learn how to resolve problems efficiently and effectively when they occur. Elements of the Environment That Influence Management Activities This paper has already presented many of the elements that affect management. Elements such as economic conditions, competition, and international environment have been discussed. Other elements that affect management, especially in a home improvement environment, would be things such as weather and social environment. The weather plays a large role due because it directly impacts customer flow to the store. During seasons that involve multiple days of inclement weather, management must make the decision as to what hours the store will be open, what conditions would cause the store to close early, and what items should be brought to the front of the store in an effort to catch the eye of customers. The Home Depot is already answering the question to social environment. When society changes so should business, and the Home Depot has done just that. One can find the Home Depot on many social media outlets such as Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube. Courses of Action (COA) The Home Depot currently uses microeconomic data and economic theory to forecast the levels of demand for its products through the Gross National Product (GNP). The problem is that its demand is closely based on the housing market. As of late the housing market has been unpredictable and therefore the Home Depot should utilize a different forecasting technique. Below are two different COAs to take in consideration. Course of Action One The first course of action would be to implement the Delphi method to forcast inventory needs. This method is a combination of qualitative and quantitative processes that are derived from qualified experts opinions and are used to develop possible theories for the future. There are five steps in the Delphi method (Chong, Adnan, Zin, 2012). The first of his two identify the problem. Administrators will design questionnaires and evaluate total costs before starting the actual procedures. Upon completion of this step the expert selection will begin. Step two is actually selecting the experts. The actual size of the project that needs to be completed will be the determining factor as to how many experts will sit on the panel. The size of the panel actually depends on the budget allotted (Chong et al., 2012). The next step is to administer the questionnaire to the experts. In this step the members of the panel will draw conclusions from their own personal experiences and any other sort o f data or research that is available to them at the time (Chong et al., 2012). The fourth step is actually broken down into different parts. The first part will be to evaluate the responses that were generated from the original questionnaire. The responses that are evaluated from the first questionnaire are used by the director to develop more in-depth questions to be used in the second questionnaire. The second part of the fourth step is to redistribute the questionnaire with more focused questions in an organized list of the responses to these questions on the first questionnaire (Chong et al., 2012). The fifth step is to interpret the results. This final step will continue until all the experts said on the panel comes to a consensus (Chong et al., 2012). The reason this process works relatively well is because the experts are not together. This allows administrators to get a true consensus without prejudice or bias. Figure 7 shows how the Delphi method is used. Figure 7. Delphi Method. Course of Action Two The second course of action would be to implement the Holt-Winters Method for Seasonality Technique. This method utilizes the seasonality factor in order to account for seasonality associated with a product (Gelper, Fried, Croux, 2008). For example, the Home Depot sells many lawnmowers in the springtime and many air-conditioners when the temperature rises in the summer. This particular method needs to estimate three components of a forecasting equation (Gelper et al., 2008). The first component is the current level of sales. This component is achieved by removing noise and all seasonal aspects of the level. The second component is to use the current trend. This is the difference between the levels that are expected to happen between any two given seasons. The third is to add the seasonality. For example, if the Home Depot wanted to forecast sales for August and it is June, the following equalization could be utilized: [level (100) +2*trend (10)]*seasonal (1.4) = 128 units The Holt Winters method estimated that the current level is 100, the trend is five, and August has the seasonal index of 1.4. Figure 8 shows an example of the Holt Winters exponential smoothing. Figure 8. Holt Winters Exponential Smoothing. (Note: I see you have a legend on this one. Good) Recommendation Given the choices between the Delphi method and t