Film and music Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Film and music - Essay Example In this essay "Film and music", the author compares and contrast the two film Noir films The Lost Weekend and Spellbound. The idea here is to bring out the relationship between the two films. They highly emphasize on the influence of the Theremin and experimental music for the scores. The composers of â€Å"The lost weekend† and â€Å"Spellbound† have made use of theremin all through the film from the start to the end. Rà ³zsa has made use of theremin as a way of integrating boldness and creativity in the recording. The composer has also used the two films to emphasize on the psychological impacts on the characters. Spellbound is an American Thriller which tells a story of the new mental asylum head who later turns out to be what he does not claim to be. The purpose of the film is to highlight psychoanalysis virtues which come with the banishing of restoring reason and mental illness. The lost weekend film shows the life of an alcoholic writer and particularly on a wee kend alcoholic binge. The use of theremin by Rà ³zsa showed just how bold and creative he was in integrating novel approaches. He wanted to use it in The Lost Weekend because he had successfully used it in Spellbound and he thought that the two somehow related. This is alcoholism, which [the character] cannot resist†. The theremin is cued every time Don gets the urge to drink alcohol and is overwhelmed by his longing. As we can see at the start of the film, Don is silent, but he does not have to say anything silence all we need to know we can read from the look on his face. We can tell from the expression on his face that he is absorbed as he stares at the bottle that is hanging from the window of his dwelling. The â€Å"Alcohol Theme† is cued as he looks down at the alcohol bottle and the theremin has the melody. Music starts to fade as he and his brother Wick begin to talk and is later heard once again as Dons’ brother and Hellen leave the apartment after disc overing the alcohol bottle hanging by the window. When Don goes to the bar and asks for a drink, he is given, but he hesitates to take it knowing that once he does he will not stop. The â€Å"Alcohol theme† plays once more, but it stops when he takes the shot. A

Centrifugal fan failure Essay Example for Free

Centrifugal fan failure Essay Research conducted by (Reddy Gartling 2002) have historically illustrated that concurrence of towering order aural modes and occurrences within the fan housing and structural modes and occurrences of the impeller perform an integral aspect in vibrant loading of the impeller. Long understanding has proved that concurrence of the structural and aural dual joint diameter mode facades and frequencies is fastidiously lethal to the vibrant quivery loading of the impeller. The observable fact here is that a dual nodal diameter mode shape with its affiliated structural occurrence corresponds to the lowest shaft-self-sufficient impeller disk form considered most susceptible to pulsation. This report presents proof that the fan impeller was unsuccessful structurally owing to structural-acoustic blending, which emanates from a match in a dual nodal diameter form silhouettes and concurrencies. In the event to precluding such anomalies, overt happenstance, i.e., harmonizing of form prototype and concurrencies, ought to be shunned. The brunt of the compartment is not altering the acoustic concurrencies to any basic degree although, moderately, to deform the acoustic fashion figures adequately to lessen the extent of structural-acoustic pairing. (Reddy Gartling 2002) The composition forms of the impeller disk could interact in a special way with acoustic modes within the machine housing and, consequently, causing the disk to vibrate hence leading to a potential dysfunction. Nonetheless an exceptional condition of great apprehension is the state of absolute concurrence of composition and acoustic modes. The central structural forms susceptible on the impeller disk include; the plane diametral modes m, where m stands for the amount of complete structural brandish of the numeral of nodal breadths, the diametral form is collectively assimilated with the perimeter as well as the radial manner n, in addition to a complete mode order of m, n. the acoustic modes within a tube like machine housing are identified with diametral p, perimeter as well as radial q, and axial r mode orders, where p as well as q stands for the number of nodal diameters and nodal circles, repeatedly and r demonstrating the nodule hierarchy in the canister axial bearing. (Reddy Gartling 2002) Basis and Remedies of heat rise Functional temperature is a variable to consider in optimizing the viability of fan bearings. The functional temperature of wave bearing ought not to elongate far ahead of 200 degree centigrade. Uncharacteristic hotness smashes up bearing components, particularly the enclosure and fastens, and demeans the oil. Employing of comparatively stumpy thermal conductivity material could help to curtail the heat. Stainless steel for instance has low conductivity than carbon steel, hence could be the best material in minimizing the heat. Embedding a heat flinger; a diminutive centrifugal fan veer constructed from material with optimum thermal conductivity like aluminum to the tube flanking the fan housing and non drive end bearing also dissolves heat. (Kelecy, F 2005) Padded fan housing can also preclude heat emissions from blistering fan as well as heat shield. Insulation curtails on the exterior temperature of the casing perimeter, hence reducing radiation. A radiation guard, nonetheless, accumulates between the bearing and housing, securing the bearing assembly from direct emissions. The housing could be integrated into a protection for the flinger. Poorly maintained or even non-existent, insulation is a common anomaly visible in higher temperature applications. (Kelecy, F 2005) Other factors Low viscosity oil could be employed to curtail the heated emitted by friction within the bearing. However, the viscosity preclusion needed to lower the hotness proficiently could bring about an increase that is too light for adequate greasing. By and large, the lowest required (Kelecy, F 2005) viscosity at the bearing functional hotness is 70 SUS for sphere bearing and 100 SUS for spherical roller bearings. In conclusion, the functional bearing temperature differs almost directly measure for measure with ambient temperatures. Strategic fan positioning is the best way to control temperatures. Placing the fan in a cool region is preferred. Ceilings and corners should be avoided by all means possible since heat is highly concentrated at these points. (Eck S 1999) Maintaining proper lubrication Lubrication is an imperative aspect that maintains a proficient bearing operation. It’s important in the sense that is reduces friction at contact points in the bearing, protects the interior components from oxidation, thwart dusts as well as other impurities. (Eck S 1999) Monitoring vibration Vibration is also a supplementary aspect that could lead to fan dysfunction. Vibration hampers the fan rotor as well as the tube, creating fissures and eventually disastrous impairment. Bearing wear is also increased. Additional vibration is symptomatic (Eck S 1999) that the bearing may be supporting an excessive load and is put under hardships that finally break about the breakdown. References: Eck S (1999) Fans: Architecture and function. Oxford; London Press Kelecy, F (2005) Review illustrations and Model in Predicting Fan Behaviour; journal of articulate programme end users; Princeton University Press; Reddy Gartling (2002) The Finite Element Formulae in Radiation Transfer and Liquid Dynamics. Harvard University Press.

SWOT Analysis | What is SWOT Analysis? | Examples of SWOT Analysis

SWOT Analysis | What is SWOT Analysis? | Examples of SWOT Analysis SWOT analysis was originally conceived and developed in the 1960s and its basic organising principles have remained largely unchanged in the field of strategic management since that time (Kotler et al., 2013). It is, as Ghazinoory, Abdi and Azadegan-Mehr (2011) comment, a systematic framework which helps managers to develop their business strategies by appraising the internal and external determinants of their organisation’s performance. Internal environmental factors include leadership talent, human resource capabilities, the company’s culture as well as the effectiveness of its policies and procedures. In contrast, external factors include competition, government legislation, changing trends, and social expectations (Johnson, Scholes and Whittington, 2008). The SWOT analysis framework involves analysing the strengths (S) and weaknesses (W) of the business’s internal factors, and the opportunities (O) and threats (T) of its external factors of performance (Ghazinoory, Abdi and Azadegan-Mehr, 2011). Through this analysis, the weaknesses and strengths within a company can correspond to the opportunities and threats in the business environment so that effective strategies can be developed (Helms and Nixon, 2010). It follows from this, therefore, that an organisation can derive an effective strategy by taking advantage of its opportunities by using its strengths and neutralise its threats by minimising the impact of its weaknesses. Moreover, SWOT analysis can be applied to both a whole company as well as a specific project within a company in order to identify new company strategies and appraise project feasibility. Hollensen (2010) asserts that the strengths and weaknesses of a company relate to its internal elements such as resources, operational programmes and departments such as sales, marketing and distribution. More specifically, a strength is an advantageous – or even unique – skill, competency, product, or service that a business or project possesses that allows it to create competitive advantages. This may include abstract concepts, such as its possession of strong research and development capabilities. A weakness on the other hand is a strategic disadvantage, such as a skill that the business or project lacks which limits it and creates potential risks in negative economic conditions. Achieving a balance between such positives and negatives is therefore a necessary pre-requisite for any company and it is also imperative that a company continues to review its strengths and weaknesses to take account for changes in its internal environment (Kotler et al., 2013). An opportunity is, as Henry (2011) comments, a desirable condition which can be exploited to consolidate and strengthen a strategic position. Examples of this phenomenon would include growing demand for a trendy new product which it could consider selling, such as that announced by Burger King relating to the introduction of a black cheeseburger (Molloy, 2014). A threat on the other hand, is a condition that creates uncertainties which could potentially damage an organisation’s performance or market share (Henry, 2011). Threats include the introduction of new competing products or services, foreign competition, technological advancements, and new regulations. Examples of the fear of such external factors can be noted in the comments of companies planning to relocate their headquarters and registration bases from Scotland to England in the event of a ‘yes’ vote in the Scottish referendum in September 2014 (Wright, Titcombe and Spence, 2014). Therefore, a company needs to develop strategies to overcome these threats in order to prevent the loss of its market share, reputation, or profit. It must be noted, however, that opportunities and threats exist in the environment and therefore are often beyond the control of the organisation – but they do offer suggestions for strategic direction. SWOT analysis, as a result, demands a great deal of research into an organisation’s present and future position (Johnson, Scholes and Whittington, 2008). The results of SWOT analysis provide a useful source of information from which an organisation can go on to develop policies and practices which allow it to build upon its strengths, diminish its weaknesses, seize its opportunities, and make contingency plans or measures to eradicate or curtail threats, as Kotler et al. (2013) observe. SWOT analysis is widely used by managers because of its simplicity (Hollensen, 2010). It is used as a planning tool that can be adapted to a range of situations and projects. Whilst it is not the only technique available to managers, it can often be the most effective if used properly (Henry, 2011). The basis for a SWOT analysis is usually drawn from an audit review as well as from independently carried out interviews with staff and customers. Data is then analysed to arrive at a list of issues which can be categorised into strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The key issues and company activities are then reassessed through protracted discussions between managers and reduced further to identify the most important issues and the potential impact that they could have on the organisation. If too many issues are included in the analysis, there will be a lack of focus in the development of a new company strategy and thus it is important to ensure that such discussions focus on a limited number of factors (Ghazinoory, Abdi and Azadegan-Mehr, 2011). Additionally, the issues considered should be made in view of customer opinions and perceptions, which would therefore require objectivity. Ideally, a company should carry out a SWOT analysis on a regular basis in order to assess its situation against its competitors in a constantly evolving market environment (Fernie and Moore, 2013). According to Stalk, Evans and Schulman (1992, p. 62), â€Å"the essence of strategy is not the structure of a company’s products and markets but the dynamics of its behaviour†. It is also recommended that an organisation should develop and undertake SWOT analysis on its competitors so that it is able to take into account consumer perceptions and determinants of their buying behaviour. This is particularly the case with issues such as quality, in which perceptions may be more powerful than reality (Kaplan and Norton, 2008). In today’s highly competitive and fast changing market environment, managers may make a grave error when evaluating their company’s resources; that is, not to assess them relative to the competition (Kotler et al., 2013). A competitive analysis as part of the SWOT framework is always necessary in order to determine an organisation’s position in the wider market. Thus, for example, if a project or business strength is the amount of capital it has to invest in improved IT functionality, this may not be the case if its competitor is investing double this amount to improve its own IT functionality. Thus, it is no longer a strength but rather a weakness for the company. The same competitive analysis should also be taken into account when assessing opportunities and threats, as it depends on the relative situation of the competing businesses (Johnson, Scholes and Whittington, 2008). McDonald (1989, p. 16) states that the â€Å"SWOT device†¦ whilst potentially a very powerful, analytical device, is rarely used effectively†, and recommends using a summary from a marketing audit to arrive at a sound SWOT analysis; the analysis must be conducted rigorously so that it prioritises the issues of paramount importance. Further, McDonald suggests keeping it focused on critical factors only and to maintain a list of differential strengths and weaknesses in comparison to competitors, concentrating mainly on competitive advantages. Additionally, only critical external opportunities and threats should be listed with a focus on the real issues. Finally, according to McDonald (1989), the reader of the SWOT analysis should be left with the main issues encompassing the business to the extent that they are able to derive and develop marketing objectives from them. At the end of the analysis, the organisation is left with reasons behind their choices as well as their potential impacts, which provides them with a stronger basis from which to form future strategic decisions. Example of a SWOT analysis of the McDonald’s Corporation Strengths Open door policy to the press Ceres guidance and co-ordination and active CSR Selective supply chain strategy Rigorous food safety standards Affordable prices and high quality products Nutritional information on packaging Decentralised yet connected system Innovative excellence programme Promoting ethical conduct Profitable Weaknesses Inflexible to changes in market trends Difficult to find and retain employees Drive for achieving shareholder value may counter CSR Promote unhealthy food Promoted CSR meat imports in error Opportunities Attractive and flexible employment Positive environmental commitments Higher standards demanded from suppliers Corporate responsibility committee Honest and real brand image Threats Fabricated stories about the quality of chicken Unhealthy foods for children Health concerns surrounding beef, poultry, and fish Labour exploitation in China CSR at the risk of profit loss Contributor to global warming Local fast food restaurants Political instability (e.g. Russia) Strengths Open door policy to the press At times of wider national food scandals, for instance those related to BSE, McDonald’s operated an open door policy, allowing the press into a limited number its restaurants and suppliers (Vrontis and Pavlou, 2008). This was done as a deliberate measure to reassure the public of the safety of McDonald’s. Ceres guidance and co-ordination, and active CSR McDonald’s, as Valax (2012) notes, co-ordinates with employees, investors, environmental and corporate social responsibility (CSR) organisations, such as Ceres, to improve its social and environmental programmes. As a result of such policies, McDonald’s can be seen to be continually updating its profile to take account of changes in consumer preferences – keeping the firm relevant and allied to the desires of its customers. Selective supply chain strategy McDonald’s works to ensure that its suppliers meet or exceed safety and quality standards as well as complying with best practice with reference to a sustainable food supply and animal welfare (Deng, 2009). Indeed, its recent advertisement campaigns have laid a premium on the traceability of products used. Rigorous food safety standards McDonald’s, as Vrontis and Pavlou (2008) observe, works hard to ensure that high food safety standards are met through training, food, safety and quality and menu development in each restaurant. This filters through to its partners, ensuring that they operate ethically and meet social responsibility standards. The high training required can also be noted by reference to its endorsement of specific qualifications and training for staff – thereby adding value to its workforce (Valax, 2012). Affordable prices and high quality products McDonald’s is an efficient provider of high quality foodstuffs and always seeks to offer the best value to its customers, as noted by its 99p ‘value’ range (Harnack et al., 2008). Nutritional information available on packaging McDonald’s was one of the first fast food restaurants to disclose nutritional information on its packaging and continues to seek new ways in which it can provide nutrition and balanced active lifestyles for its customers (Harnack et al., 2008). Indeed, there are sections of the corporate website specifically tailored to this data. Decentralised yet connected system McDonald’s provides a core system of values, principles and standards which managers adhere to in combination with its â€Å"Freedom within the Framework† programme, which provides them with the flexibility to respond to the diversity of its customers and local markets (McDonald’s Corporation, 2013). Innovative excellence programme McDonald’s employs an array of mystery shoppers who visit premises pretending to be customers. They inspect the premises as customers and rate them accordingly. Many restaurants provide customer comment contact numbers and employee satisfaction surveys. It may also be noted, though anecdotally, that the firm responds quickly to mistakes and problems raised with area managers. Promoting ethical conduct McDonald’s works hard to maintain its integrity with its shareholders through open channels of communication (McDonald’s, 2013). Profitable McDonald’s is profitable, as Wallop (2014) comments, with sufficient capital. This allows it to grow and realise gains on its investments. Thus, McDonald’s is able to offer help to charities as well as itself when in need. Weaknesses Inflexible to changes in market trends If customer trends move towards eating in a more eco-friendly or organically-oriented manner, McDonald’s would be unable to follow this trend without changing suppliers and incurring significant financial losses (Wallop, 2014). McDonald’s could consider the introduction of new products with the aid of market research, in coming years, to prepare them for such potential change. Difficult to find and retain employees McDonald’s has had hostile relationships with unions and, although this has been controlled, the company does find it difficult to find and retain good employees (Valax, 2012). The company can build on its reputation for developing top level managers by further increasing its graduate recruitment portfolio. Drive for achieving shareholder value may counter CSR When McDonald’s profits fall, its stock price often falls as well; as a consequence, it is often forced to take drastic action to resolve the problem. (Wallop, 2014) This often relates to issues of social and environmental responsibility. McDonald’s could be more proactive in finding more long-term CSR suppliers and processes that provide lower costs and higher profit margins, rather than being reactive. Promotion of unhealthy food Despite providing healthier product varieties, McDonald’s continues to sell burgers that have 850 calories in them. . This could continue to harm its reputation as an unhealthy fast food provider. McDonald’s could research ways to reduce the calories in its products whilst still maintaining their taste, or at the least provide low calorie burger options. Much progress has been made in this arena – but it is suggested that more needs to be done (Harnack et al., 2008). Promoted CSR meat imports in error McDonald’s claimed to provide meat from socially and environmentally responsible sources, but a court case found that meat had been imported from Latin America, where rainforests were cleared to create green fields for cattle (Deng, 2009). Where McDonald’s carries out CSR processes or investments, it may wish to consider carrying out random checks to ensure their standards are continually met, to minimise embarrassing press. Opportunities Attractive and flexible employment McDonald’s offers a variety of job opportunities and is proud to say that 42% of its top managers first started by serving customers (McDonalds, 2013). That the company offers a selection of different shift patterns as well as employee benefits can be seen as further reasons as to why McDonald’s attracts employees. Positive environmental commitments McDonald’s incorporates environmental commitments in its daily operations, from the use of environmentally friendly products in maintaining daily ‘drive-thru’ cleaning, to providing sustainable fish sources, to using recycled packaging (McDonald’s, 2013). It was also a pioneer of using bio-diesel and recycling fat from its fryers into a form of fuel. Higher standards demanded from suppliers McDonald’s sets the standards it demands from suppliers for low cost high quality, socially responsible supplies, in return for a long-term business commitment (Yuece, 2012). Corporate Responsibility Committee McDonald’s has a standing Corporate Responsibility Committee that acts as an advisor to its Board of Directors (McDonald’s, 2013). Honest and real brand image McDonald’s has built and maintains a trusting relationship with its shareholders and customers through truthful marketing and communications (Harnack et al., 2008). Threats Fabricated stories about the quality of chicken Emails and websites have published fabricated information that McDonald’s is using ‘monster-chickens’ in its products. McDonald’s could build on its open door policy with the press and apply it to the web, to combat false distribution of information (Kaplan and Norton, 2008). Unhealthy foods for children If competitors begin to offer premium healthy alternatives for children with small gifts to encourage them to eat healthy, this would be a significant threat to McDonald’s (Kotler et al., 2013). McDonald’s positive strategy to provide a range of healthy products could include further healthy products for children in addition to its present offering of carrot sticks. Health concerns surrounding beef, poultry, and fish There are various initiatives working against hormone induced cows and other issues such as bird flu epidemics and heavy metal levels in fish that could reduce McDonald’s sales and cause profits and its share price to fall (Johnson, Scholes and Whittington, 2008). McDonald’s could use its purchasing power to its advantage to source supplies that have proven health benefits. McDonald’s greater work with local farmers in the UK with regard to the sourcing of beef and eggs can be seen as a step in the right direction in this regard. Labour exploitation in China Chinese manufacturers exploit labour in their production of ‘Happy Meal’ toys (Valax, 2012). McDonald’s could use its purchasing power to its advantage to demand that manufacturers provide toys without exploiting labour. CSR at the risk of profit loss If share prices and profitability are under pressure, managers will inevitably seek to resolve it at the risk of a CSR issue (Ceres, n.d.). Contributor to global warming McDonald’s is the largest consumer of beef in the world. Greenfields used to supply this beef comes at the expense of rainforests, heavy use of chemicals, fertilisers and pesticides (Ceres, n.d.). McDonald’s could use its purchasing power to its advantage to source CSR suppliers. Local fast food restaurants Local restaurants which are less environmentally threatening than McDonald’s and have less purchasing power may have better reputations with local suppliers and customers (Wallop, 2014). Political instability Political instability can be a threat to the secure and continued operation of a business. Even if local staff are employed, a tense political situation can cause areas of operation to be closed, in the short- or long-term. An example of this relates to McDonald’s in the Crimea and in Russia; for the foreseeable future, McDonald’s restaurants are closed in the Crimea as a result of the Russian invasion. In retaliation, Russia has temporarily closed a number of McDonald’s restaurants in Russia (Wallop, 2014). From the above SWOT of McDonald’s and the summary that follows it, it can be seen how, by highlighting its position, an organisation can identify areas that could be strengthened, seize opportunities, minimise threats and diminish or eliminate weaknesses. In summary, a SWOT analysis provides a systematic framework for appraising an organisation’s internal and external position. It is a useful tool but it must be constantly updated to enable the company to keep abreast of developments and change its strategies accordingly. Whilst it may be difficult for management to resolve all of the weaknesses and threats highlighted, the company is at least made aware of them through the conducting of a SWOT analysis and can refer to them when implementing future strategies. The McDonald’s SWOT analysis case study highlighted several CSR threats and weaknesses whilst simultaneously highlighting strengths, such as its strong purchasing power which could potentially be used to demand more socially responsible production techniques from its Chinese manufacturers and meat suppliers. It also showed how a more proactive and longer-term approach to its strategies can help it to anticipate changing consumer tastes and demands (Yuece, 2012). Bibliography Ceres (n.d.). Mobilizing business leadership for a sustainable world. Boston, MA: Ceres. Collins, R. (2010). A graphical method for exploring the business environment. Oxford University Working Paper 956. Coman, A. and Ronen, B. (2009). Focused SWOT: Diagnosing critical strengths and weaknesses. International Journal of Production Research, 47(20), pp. 5677-5689. Deng, T. (2009). McDonald’s new communication strategy on changing attitudes and lifestyle. International Journal of Marketing Studies, 1(1), pp. 37-39. Fernie, S. and Moore, C. (2013). Principles of retailing. Abingdon: Routledge. Ghazinoory, S., Abdi, M. and Azadegan-Mehr, M. (2011). SWOT methodology: A state-of-the-art review for the past, a framework for the future. Journal of Business Economics and Management, 12(1), pp. 24-48. Harnack, L.J., French, S.A., Oakes, J.M., Story, M.T., Jeffery, R.W. and Rydell, S.A. (2008). Effects of calorie labelling and value size pricing on fast food meal choices: Results from an experimental trial. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 5(1), 63-81. Helms, M.M. and Nixon, J. (2010). Exploring SWOT analysis – Where are we now?: A review of academic research from the last decade. Journal of Strategy and Management, 3(3), pp. 215-251. Henry, A. (2011). Understanding strategic management. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Hollensen, S. (2010). Marketing management: A relationship approach. Harlow: Pearson Education. Johnson, G., Scholes, K. and Whittington, R. (2008). Exploring corporate strategy: Text cases (8th edn). Harlow: Pearson Education. Kaplan, R.S. and Norton, D.P. (2008). The execution premium: Linking strategy to operations for competitive advantage. Cambridge, MA: Harvard Business Press. Koen, P.A., Bertels, H.M. and Elsum, I.R. (2011). The three faces of business model innovation: challenges for established firms. Research-Technology Management, 54(3), 52-59. Kotler, P., Armstrong, G., Harris, L.C. and Piercy, N.F. (2013). Principles of marketing (6th edn). Harlow: Pearson. McDonald, M.H. (1989). Ten barriers to marketing planning. Journal of Marketing Management, 5(1), 1-18. McDonald’s Corporation (2013). Annual report, 2013. Oak Brook, IL: McDonald’s Corporation. Molloy, M. (2014). Burger King introduces black burger with charcoal cheese in Japan. The Telegraph, 11th September. Stalk, G., Evans, P. and Schulman, L.E. (1992). Competing on capabilities: The new rules of corporate strategy. Harvard Business Review, 70(2), pp. 57-69. Valax, M. (2012). Beyond McDonalds CSR in China: Corporation perspective and report from case studies on a damaged employment reputation. Asian Business Management, 11(3), 347-366. Vrontis, D. and Pavlou, P. (2008). The external environment and its effect on strategic marketing planning: A case study for McDonalds. Journal for International Business and Entrepreneurship Development, 3(3), pp. 289-307. Wallop, H. (2014). Has the world fallen out of love with McDonald’s? Daily Telegraph, 23rd July. Wright, B., Titcombe, J. and Spence, P. (2014). Scotland’s biggest companies reveal ‘Yes’ exodus plans. The Telegraph, 11 th September. Yuece, I. (2012). SWOT analysis of McDonald’s and derivation of appropriate strategies. Munich: GRIN-Verlag.

Alone, by Lisa Gardner :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Alone, by Lisa Gardner, is a story about a police sniper, Bobby, who was called to a hostage situation and ends up taking actions he will later regret. What you see at first glance is not always what it really is. Bobby thought he saw one thing happening in the house on that night, but the truth was something he could never imagine. In November 1998 Catherine Gagnon had reached her final string. Lives were about to change with just the pull of a trigger. Bobby didn’t know that when he pulled that trigger he was going to be pulled into a whole tangle of lies and secrets. Bobby and Catherine’s lives are about to collide and become their worst nightmare.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Bobby Dodge had been out for another night on the job when they got the call from Catherine Gagnon. Bobby was a very well respected member of the Massachusetts State Police Special Tactics and Operations (STOP) Team for six years. He was good at his job and this call was just another routine night for him, or so he thought. Catherine Gagnon had a very disturbing childhood. She was kidnapped and kept in a man-made four-by-six prison built just for her. She stayed in the silence and in the dark for twenty-eight days wondering when her keeper would come back and she would be tossed around and played with like a rag doll. She was rescued on November 18, by hunters, and was dubbed the Thanksgiving Miracle. Catherine grew up but keeping this deep secret with her all along. She married Jimmy Gagnon, the son of a very powerful judge in Boston. Their marriage had not been all it was made out to be. When Bobby arrived at their house it appeared that Jimmy had been holding C atherine and their son, Nathan, hostage in their house and had a gun. Bobby was good at his job; he saw the signs of danger and fired. The threat was over. But for Bobby, the trouble was just beginning. Judge Gagnon was not very happy with the news of his son being shot and was going to try to press charges on Bobby for murder. He did not like his daughter-in-law and was convinced she was hurting his grandchild, Nathan. Nathan always seemed to be sick. Bobby had no idea who he was shooting when he pulled that trigger, he just knew he was saving a life.

Physics of Superconductors Essay -- physics superconductor

As most people know (or don't know, whichever is the case) the component of an electrical circuit that causes energy loss is called "resistance," which can be defined as a materials opposition to current being passed through it. Usually, this resistance results in the production of heat, sound, or another form of energy. In many cases, this transformation of energy is useful in such applications as toasters, heaters, and light bulbs. Even though it is a useful property, resistance often gets in the way of performance in such cases as high voltage transmission wires, electric motor output, and other cases where internal system energy losses are unwanted. This is where the phenomenon of superconducting materials comes into play and may present the solution to this energy loss problem. Superconductors are materials that display zero resistance under certain conditions. These conditions are called the "critical temperature" and "critical field," denoted Tc and Hc respectively. The Tc is the highest temperature state the material can attain and remain superconductive. The Hc is the highest magnetic field the material can be exposed to before reverting to its normal magnetic state. Within the substances currently known to superconduct, there is a divide between what has come to be called type I and type II superconductors. Type I are composed of pure substances, usually metals, and type II are composite compounds, usually some sort of ceramic. Additional differences between type I and type II exist, mainly that type II display superconducting qualities at much higher temperatures and can remain superconductive in the presence of much higher magnetic fields. While type I have Tc's that hover just a few degrees from absolute zero, t... ...e the track and is propelled by the magnetic forces caused by the induced currents. Another use of superconductors is in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, in which the superconductor helps in creating a non-invasive method of looking at a persons brain activity. Yet another area where superconductors would be especially helpful is in the power and electronics industry where power losses arise from a systems internal resistance. If a power generator was constructed with superconducting components the efficiency of the motor would be greatly increased. The electronics industry would benefit from faster switching times, smaller components, and greater circuit efficiency. The world of superconductors is expanding at a tremendous rate. As the uses and possibilities for their use become more apparent, our society might see them more and more in everyday life.

Contrasting rich and poor in Hong Kong

I have learnt many words by reading books. I have never enjoyed reading but if I find a book I like, I'll read it. This is how I learn new words and hence, I have a better English education. Ever since I was a toddler I have never enjoyed reading books apart from when I choose them. I always chose the books with with loads of words on a page with hardly any pictures. Therefore, it has become a habit in my simple life as I was sailing in the pool of words since I was 6 years old. The favorite play that captivated me the most is called â€Å"Educating Rita†. The play â€Å"Educating Rita† is written by Willy Russell. It is based on contrast as the main characters Rita and Frank have very different backgrounds. Frank is well educated (academic background) and he is a professor who teaches English in a university but Rita is a hair-dresser (working class background) who has not been well educated. Rita called herself a â€Å"freak† and â€Å"half caste†. She wants to be educated because she says â€Å"I wanna know†. She knows she is not ‘educated' yet and dimly realizes what ‘education' is. What Rita wants is to be out of her social class. For her, education is a means of achieving this and she is probably right. She instinctively knows she lacks something and thinks a university degree will fill the gaps in her life. Rita is eager to learn everything and she is energetic. It affects me as it reflects the sharp contrast between the condition of poor as well as middle class and rich people. The reason why I thought in this way is because that's what I see every day in the streets and my feelings. In Hong Kong, poor people are living in a confined space. They are living in houses that are surrounded by tons of rubbish. Whenever I walk pass the area with this types of housing, I could always hear the â€Å"sizz†¦.sizz†¦sizz† sound, and I am not sure if it comes rats or other insects. It has a foul smell too, and yet, people are living in this kind of environment. In contrast to the poor, the rich and middle class people are living in houses and mansions where rooms are air conditioned; it is clean and is relatively comfortable. At night the poor housing area is overwhelmed by darkness, but I know there are people living on the side of road and of that area. We are staying in a cool area but they are suffering from heat from the sun. We sit on comfortable chair but they sit on the ground with germs. The contrast is a little uncomfortable for me. Thus, sometimes when I cannot sleep, I will start to wonder ‘what if I am one of them who live on the street? Will I survive?† People living in that area have no money. In addition, they have to fear and tolerate what might happen to them every day. Sometimes, I think the poor have more courage than I do. What could I do for them? Most of the time, I could only feel sad for them, and usually we will forget about them and live on with our own life. It is vitally important to me because their experiences instill a certain fear in me. I told myself I don't aspire to be a very rich person, but I am really afraid to be poor. I don't think any amount of money is ever enough to help the poor who live below the poverty line but every penny counts! We must also accept the fact that corruptions has add on more problems to this major issue, but we must always tell ourselves â€Å"Can rescue how many are how many†. This is, we must always save as many lives as we could because every life counts. The existence of poor and rich in the society is unavoidable, but the disparity and gap between them should be reduced as much as possible. The rich may have the right to spend as copiously as they like to live in comfort, but the poor should also have the right and means to keep the body and soul together. Embracing the poor, engaging the rich.

Positioning and Repositioning

Positioning and repositioning Before positioning companies has to do segmentation and targeting. Segmentation is dividing the market into segments upon some set of criteria and evaluating the profitability of each segment   Targeting is selecting one or more segments and going after them Positioning is how do you want your brand to be considered by consumers when compared to other competing brands. Positioning is based on product features such as color, price, fluffiness, quality of service, innovative approach, etc.Re-positioning is when you want your brand to be considered/associated with different features. For example, KIA cars has repositioned themselves from being some brand into being a cool brand .. Cadillac has repositioned themselves from being classical car for the rich and old into more affordable elegant car †¦ Oldsmobile has tried to reposition themselves as â€Å"not your father's car† but it was unsuccessful repositioning. Re-positioning is quite lot mor e difficult and expensive compared to initial positioning.You know the saying ‘only one chance to make first impression' also applies to the world of branding. Repositioning Strengthens Lifebuoy’s 107-Year Heritage 12-02-2002  : Lifebuoy is no longer a carbolic soap with cresylic perfume. It is now a milled toilet soap with a new health fragrance. The new formulation has an ingredient, Active-B, which offers protection against germs, which can cause stomach infection, eye infection and infections in cuts and bruises. The new health perfume has been selected after one of the most extensive perfume hunts in the industry.The new milled formulation offers a significantly superior bathing experience and skin feel. The new formulation, new health perfume and superior skin feel, along with the popular red colour, have registered conclusive and clear preference among existing and new users. Lifebuoy is already used by about 600 million consumers, with about 2 million tablets sold every day. The relaunch strengthens this equity by repositioning the brand. Lifebuoy was previously targeted at the male user with an individual-oriented â€Å"success through health† positioning.The new Lifebuoy is targeted at today’s discerning housewife with a more inclusive â€Å"family health protection for my family and me† positioning. Introducing the new Lifebuoy Introducing the new Lifebuoy, Mr. Sanjay Dube, Category Head – Mass Market of HLL’s Detergents Profit Centre, said, â€Å"Launched in 1895, Lifebuoy, for over a 100 years has been synonymous with health and value. The brick red soap, with its perfume and popular Lifebuoy jingle, has carried the Lifebuoy message of health across the length and breadth of the country, making it the largest selling soap brand in the world.It is to maintain its leadership, and further strengthen its benefits of health to larger sections of consumers, that we have researched and developed this new mix. We have repositioned Lifebuoy and have made a deliberate shift from the male, victorious concept of health to a warmer, more versatile, more responsible benefit of health for the entire family. â€Å"The significant changes in formulation have registered a clear consumer preference. The new perfume has been selected after one of the largest perfume tests in the industry to ensure a universal appeal without alienating the 600 million loyal users.We are confident that this mix will deliver an enjoyable bath experience and also deliver on the core Lifebuoy properties of health and value. This will restore the brand’s growth by expanding its consumer base, † Mr. Dube added. Lifebuoy Range Lifebuoy is among HLL’s power brands, which the company is focussing on, selected on the basis of their absolute size, brand strength, brand relevance, competitive advantage and potential for growth. The new Lifebuoy range now includes Lifebuoy Active Red (125gm, 100 gm and 6 0 gm) and Lifebuoy Active Orange (100gm).Lifebuoy Active Orange offers the consumer a differentiated health perfume while offering the health benefit of Lifebuoy. At the upper end of the market, Lifebuoy offers specific health benefits through Lifebuoy International (Plus and Gold). Lifebuoy International Plus offers protection against germs which cause body odour, while Lifebuoy International Gold helps protect against germs which cause skin blemishes. In 2001, HLL’s soaps & detergents turnover was Rs. 295 crores, which is approximately 39% of the company’s net turnover of Rs. 10972 crores. HLL’s power brands in soaps registered an overall growth of 5. 3% in 2001. HLL has been significantly increasing investment behind its power brands, in innovation, quality improvement and marketing. These have been backed by major sales initiatives. In rural India, the focus is to further extend reach, which has resulted in direct coverage of about 46% of the rural populatio n as of now. In urban markets, the objective is to improve customer service.Dedicated sales teams have been formed to service key accounts and wholesalers in larger towns and cities. A cell has been set up to attend to the modern trade, comprising chain stores. Repositioning Strengthens of Maggie positioning Maggi noodles is a brand of instant noodles manufactured by Nestle. Maggi has been the highest sold noodles in India. It is a product of Nestle Brand. It took several years and lots of money for nestle to establish its noodles brand in India Maggi was invented in Europe by a person named Jullius Maggi.In India it was launched in 1980s by Nestle group of companies. Maggie had merged with Nestle family in 1947. Maggie has faced lot of hurdles in its journey in India†¦. The basic problem the brand faced was the Indian psyche. i. e Indians used to be conservative about the food habits so noodles faced a lot of problem in promoting sales. Initially nestle tried to to position th e Noodles in the platform of convenience targeting the working women. However, the sales of Maggi was not picking up despite of heavy Media Advertising.To overcome this NIL conducted a research,which revealed that it was children who liked the taste of Maggi noodles and who were the largest consumers of the product. so they came up with Maggi- 2 minute noodles with price of Rs. 2. 10 with a close of 100% margin. NIL shifted its focus from working women and targeted children and their mothers through its marketing. NIL's promotions positioned the noodles as a ‘convenience product', for mothers and as a ‘fun' product for children. The noodles' tagline,  Ã¢â‚¬ËœFast to Cook Good to Eat' was also in keeping with this positioning.They promoted the product by   1. Distributing free samples. 2. Giving gifts on return of empty packets. 3. Dry sampling-distributing Maggi packets 4. wet sampling – distributing cooked Maggi. 5. Availability in different packages 50gm,100 gm,200gm,etc.. and 6. Effective Tagline Communication. Through its ads, NIL positioned Maggi as a ‘fun' food for kids which mothers could prepare easily. Taglines like ‘Mummy, bhookh lagi hai' (Mom, I'm hungry), ‘Bas 2-Minute,' and ‘Fast to Cook Good to Eat' effectively communicated the product's benefits to target consumers.These ads had become so popular that the tagline ‘Bas 2-Minute' immediately reminded Indian consumers of Maggi noodles even several years after the ads were taken off the TV. Maggi's first product extension was Maggi instant soups launched in 1988. With the launch of Maggi soups, NIL had become a pioneer in the organized packaged soup market in India.. since then Maggi has been successful in India and launched ketch ups sauces and soups in India, which was very successful in grasping market.Though NIL tried to extend to other ready to eat products like pickles, cooking aids and paste, It was unsuccessful so dumped those products. Ma ggi is competing with Heinz Sauces and Ketchup, Knoor Soups, Kissin Sauces and Ketchup, Top Ramen, Sunfeast Pasta Wai Wai and 2 PM in corresponding categories of products and variants. Market position of Maggie: 1. No. 1 in instant noodles and sauces. 2. No. 2 in healthy soups. 3. Market share of noodles- 80% 4. current sales-5. 5crores boxes in India. Repositioning