Freight Forwarders Essay

A freight forwarder, forwarder, or forwarding agent, is a person or company that organizes shipments for individuals or corporations to get goods from the manufacturer or producer to a market, customer or final point of distribution. They act as an intermediary between shipper and carriers, that is between exporter and the shipping line either by air, sea, road or rail. It is not unusual that multiple carrier is needed for a single shipment. The freight forwarder responsibilities include advice on documentation and customs requirements in the country of destination. His overseas correspondent looked after the shipment and keeps the forwarder informed about any matters that would affect the movement of the goods. When a business uses a freight forwarding company to move their merchandise, they are outsourcing many activities that are required in international shipping. A forwarder does not only move the goods but acts as an expert in the supply chain management. By outsourcing a shipment to a freight forwarder, there are various advantages for the trader as per below: 1. Outsourcing makes the trader job easier: One of the first benefits of hiring a freight forwarder is that the trader gets to outsource the job. The services offer by the forwarding agent includes customs documentation, risk management, insurance, warehousing, and customs clearing so that takes away the burden of managing these things to transport your freight items. 2. Freight forwarder provides professional services: Shipment of goods need a good planning and organising methods for a proper flow and ensure a good sequence. When hiring a freight forwarder, the trader can be assured of the professionalism in the work. At the same time, every process that is involved in the transportation of goods is duly considered. The freight forwarding company is also familiar with international destinations, custom rules and regulations, which vehicle and equipment are suitable for specific goods transportation. Therefore it is a good practice to hire a professional freight forwarder. 3. One stop solution for transportation needs: A freight forwarder provides various cargo related services to the exporters and importers worldwide. They have link and contact with many other different transporters and can transport your goods by means of air, sea and land. Freight forwarders have vast experience in the transport business and they are the best advisor for export and import business. 4. Time and cost saving: Freight forwarding companies are experienced in the transportation business therefore you get your job done in the shortest amount of time possible with quality service commitment. It can also save you the total cost for freighting your products. These companies have highly-skilled labors that have the sense of quality work and know their duties. 5. Offers the extreme ease: Freight forwarders offer the extreme ease for your transporting needs. You will get your goods transferred with satisfaction and reliability in the easiest way you could ever imagine. Such companies have vast connections with customs and other agencies that get your job done in a timely manner. 6. Avoid the risk of damage or any loss: If you hire a freight forwarding company, you can avoid the risk of damage or any loss of goods. Because the company will be responsible in that case if something happens to your freight items.

The Host Chapter 56: Welded

Ian glared down at the three of us with such fury that Sunny shivered in terror. It was an odd thing-as if Kyle and Ian had switched faces. Except Ian's face was still perfect, unbroken. Beautiful, even though it was enraged. â€Å"Ian?† Kyle asked, bewildered. â€Å"What's the problem?† Ian spoke from between his locked teeth. â€Å"Wanda,† he growled, and held his hand out. It looked as if he was having a hard time keeping that hand open, not clenching it into a fist. Uh-oh, Mel thought. Misery swept through me. I didn't want to say goodbye to Ian, and now I would have to. Of course I had to. I would be wrong to sneak out in the night like a thief and leave all my goodbyes to Melanie. Ian, tired of waiting, grabbed my arm and hauled me up from the floor. When Sunny seemed like she was coming along, too, still joined to my side, Ian shook me until she fell off. â€Å"What is with you?† Kyle demanded. Ian hauled his knee back and smashed his foot hard into Kyle's face. â€Å"Ian!† I protested. Sunny threw herself in front of Kyle-who was holding his hand to his nose and struggling to get to his feet-and tried to shield him with her tiny body. This knocked him off balance, back to the floor, and he groaned. â€Å"C'mon,† Ian snarled, dragging me away from them without a backward glance. â€Å"Ian -â€Å" He wrenched me roughly along, making it impossible for me to speak. That was fine. I had no idea what to say. I saw everyone's startled face flash by in a blur. I was worried he was going to upset the unnamed woman. She wasn't used to anger and violence. And then we jerked to a stop. Jared was blocking the exit. â€Å"Have you lost your mind, Ian?† he asked, shocked and outraged. â€Å"What are you doing to her?† â€Å"Did you know about this?† Ian shouted back, shoving me toward Jared and shaking me at him. Behind us, a whimper. He was scaring them. â€Å"You're going to hurt her!† â€Å"Do you know what she's planning?† Ian roared. Jared stared at Ian, his face suddenly closed off. He didn't answer. That was answer enough for Ian. Ian's fist struck Jared so fast that I missed the blow-I just felt the lurch in his body and saw Jared reel back into the dark hall. â€Å"Ian, stop,† I begged. â€Å"You stop,† he growled back at me. He yanked me through the arch into the tunnel, then pulled me north. I had to almost run to keep up with his longer stride. â€Å"O'Shea!† Jared shouted after us. â€Å"I'm going to hurt her?† Ian roared back over his shoulder, not breaking pace. â€Å"I am? You hypocritical swine!† There was nothing but silence and blackness behind us now. I stumbled in the dark, trying to keep up. It was then that I began to feel the throbbing from Ian's grip. His hand was tight as a tourniquet around my upper arm, his long fingers making the circle easily and then overlapping. My hand was going numb. He jerked me along faster, and my breath caught in a moan, almost a cry of pain. The sound made Ian stumble to a stop. His breathing was hoarse in the darkness. â€Å"Ian, Ian, I†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I choked, unable to finish. I didn't know what to say, picturing his furious face. His arms caught me up abruptly, yanking my feet out from under me and then catching my shoulders before I could fall. He started running forward again, carrying me now. His hands were not rough and angry like before; he cradled me against his chest. He ran right through the big plaza, ignoring the surprised and even suspicious faces. There was too much that was unfamiliar and uncomfortable going on in the caves right now. The humans here-Violetta, Geoffrey, Andy, Paige, Aaron, Brandt, and more I couldn't see well as we jolted past-were skittish. It disturbed them to see Ian running headlong through them, face twisted with rage, with me in his arms. And then they were behind us. He didn't pause until we reached the doors leaning against his and Kyle's room. He kicked the red one out of the way-it hit the stone floor with an echoing boom-and dropped me onto the mattress on the floor. Ian stood above me, his chest heaving with exertion and fury. For a second he turned away and put the door back in place with one swift wrench. And then he was glowering again. I took a deep breath and rolled up onto my knees, holding my hands out, palms up, wishing that some magic would appear in them. Something I could give him, something I could say. But my hands were empty. â€Å"You. Are. Not. Leaving. Me.† His eyes blazed-burning brighter than I had ever seen them, blue flames. â€Å"Ian,† I whispered. â€Å"You have to see that†¦ that I can't stay. You must see that.† â€Å"No!† he shouted at me. I cringed back, and, abruptly, Ian crumpled forward, falling to his knees, falling into me. He buried his head in my stomach, and his arms locked around my waist. He was shaking, shaking hard, and loud, desperate sobs were breaking out of his chest. â€Å"No, Ian, no,† I begged. This was so much worse than his anger. â€Å"Don't, please. Please, don't.† â€Å"Wanda,† he moaned. â€Å"Ian, please. Don't feel this way. Don't. I'm so sorry. Please.† I was crying, too, shaking, too, though that might have been him shaking me. â€Å"You can't leave.† â€Å"I have to, I have to,† I sobbed. And then we cried wordlessly for a long time. His tears dried before mine. Eventually, he straightened up and pulled me into his arms again. He waited until I was able to speak. â€Å"Sorry,† he whispered. â€Å"I was mean.† â€Å"No, no. I'm sorry. I should have told you, when you didn't guess. I just†¦ I couldn't. I didn't want to tell you-to hurt you-to hurt me. It was selfish.† â€Å"We need to talk about this, Wanda. It's not a done deal. It can't be.† â€Å"It is.† He shook his head, clenching his teeth. â€Å"How long? How long have you been planning this?† â€Å"Since the Seeker,† I whispered. He nodded, seeming to expect this answer. â€Å"And you thought that you had to give up your secret to save her. I can understand that. But that doesn't mean you have to go anywhere. Just because Doc knows now†¦ that doesn't mean anything. If I'd thought for one minute that it did, that one action equaled the other, I wouldn't have stood there and let you show him. No one is going to force you to lie down on his blasted gurney! I'll break his hands if he tries to touch you!† â€Å"Ian, please.† â€Å"They can't make you, Wanda! Do you hear me?† He was shouting again. â€Å"No one is making me. I didn't show Doc how to do the separation so that I could save the Seeker,† I whispered. â€Å"The Seeker's being here just made me have to decide†¦ faster. I did it to save Mel, Ian.† His nostrils flared, and he said nothing. â€Å"She's trapped in here, Ian. It's like a prison-worse than that; I can't even describe it. She's like a ghost. And I can free her. I can give her herself back.† â€Å"You deserve a life, too, Wanda. You deserve to stay.† â€Å"But I love her, Ian.† He closed his eyes, and his pale lips went dead white. â€Å"But I love you,† he whispered. â€Å"Doesn't that matter?† â€Å"Of course it matters. So much. Can't you see? That only makes it more†¦ necessary.† His eyes flashed open. â€Å"Is it so unbearable to have me love you? Is that it? I can keep my mouth shut, Wanda. I won't say it again. You can be with Jared, if that's what you want. Just stay.† â€Å"No, Ian!† I took his face between my hands-his skin felt hard, strained tight over the bones. â€Å"No. I-I love you, too. Me, the little silver worm in the back of her head. But my body doesn't love you. It can't love you. I can never love you in this body, Ian. It pulls me in two. It's unbearable.† I could have borne it. But watching him suffer because of my body's limitations? Not that. He closed his eyes again. His thick black lashes were wet with tears. I could see them glisten. Oh, go ahead, Mel sighed. Do whatever you need to. I'll†¦ step into the other room, she added dryly. Thanks. I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled myself closer to him until my lips touched his. He curled his arms around me, pulling me tighter against his chest. Our lips moved together, fusing as if they would never divide, as if separation was not the inevitable thing it was, and I could taste the salt of our tears. His and mine. Something began to change. When Melanie's body touched Jared's body, it was like a wildfire-a fast burn that raced across the surface of the desert and consumed everything in its path. With Ian it was different, so very different, because Melanie didn't love him the way I did. So when he touched me, it was deeper and slower than the wildfire, like the flow of molten rock far beneath the surface of the earth. Too deep to feel the heat of it, but it moved inexorably, changing the very foundations of the world with its advance. My unwilling body was a fog between us-a thick curtain, but gauzy enough that I could see through it, could see what was happening. It changed me, not her. It was almost a metallurgical process deep inside the core of who I was, something that had already begun, was already nearly forged. But this long, unbroken kiss finished it, searing and sharp edged-it shoved this new creation, all hissing, into the cold water that made it hard and final. Unbreakable. And I started to cry again, realizing that it must be changing him, too, this man who was kind enough to be a soul but strong as only a human could be. He moved his lips to my eyes, but it was too late. It was done. â€Å"Don't cry, Wanda. Don't cry. You're staying with me.† â€Å"Eight full lives,† I whispered against his jaw, my voice breaking. â€Å"Eight full lives and I never found anyone I would stay on a planet for, anyone I would follow when they left. I never found a partner. Why now? Why you? You're not of my species. How can you be my partner?† â€Å"It's a strange universe,† he murmured. â€Å"It's not fair,† I complained, echoing Sunny's words. It wasn't fair. How could I find this, find love-now, in this eleventh hour-and have to leave it? Was it fair that my soul and body couldn't reconcile? Was it fair that I had to love Melanie, too? Was it fair that Ian would suffer? He deserved happiness if anyone did. It wasn't fair or right or even†¦ sane. How could I do this to him? â€Å"I love you,† I whispered. â€Å"Don't say that like you're saying goodbye.† But I had to. â€Å"I, the soul called Wanderer, love you, human Ian. And that will never change, no matter what I might become.† I worded it carefully, so that there would be no lie in my voice. â€Å"If I were a Dolphin or a Bear or a Flower, it wouldn't matter. I would always love you, always remember you. You will be my only partner.† His arms stiffened, then constricted tighter around me, and I could feel the anger in them again. It was hard to breathe. â€Å"You're not wandering off anywhere. You're staying here.† â€Å"Ian -â€Å" But his voice was brusque now-angry, but also businesslike. â€Å"This isn't just for me. You're a part of this community, and you aren't getting kicked out without discussion. You are far too important to us all-even to the ones who would never admit it. We need you.† â€Å"No one's kicking me out, Ian.† â€Å"No. Not even you yourself, Wanderer.† He kissed me again, his mouth rougher with the return of the anger. His hand curled into a fist around my hair, and he pulled my face an inch away from his. â€Å"Good or bad?† he demanded. â€Å"Good.† â€Å"That's what I thought.† And his voice was a growl. He kissed me again. His arms were so tight around my ribs, his mouth so fierce against mine, that I was soon dizzy and gasping for air. He loosened his arms a little then and let his lips slide to my ear. â€Å"Let's go.† â€Å"Where? Where are we going?† I wasn't going anywhere, I knew that. And yet how my heart pounded when I thought of going away, somewhere, anywhere, with Ian. My Ian. He was mine, the way Jared never would be. The way this body could never be his. â€Å"Don't give me any trouble about this, Wanderer. I'm half out of my mind.† He pulled us both to our feet. â€Å"Where?† I insisted. â€Å"You're going down the eastern tunnel, past the field, to the end.† â€Å"The game room?† â€Å"Yes. And then you are going to wait there until I get the rest of them.† â€Å"Why?† His words sounded crazy to me. Did he want to play a game? To ease the tension again? â€Å"Because this will be discussed. I'm calling a tribunal, Wanderer, and you are going to abide by our decision.†

Psychology References Essay

Select something you either strongly like or dislike (e.g., reading, competitive sports, flying, snakes, etc.). Write a two to three (2-3) page paper in which you: 1. Briefly describe your like or dislike (one to two (1-2) sentences). 2. Describe the subfield (e.g., cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, psychoanalytic psychology, etc.) you believe is best suited for providing psychological insight into your preference (the fact that you like or dislike the thing you do) and why you believe it is so. 3. Discuss how biological bases of behavior (including sensation and perception) have contributed to your preference. 4. Analyze how engaging in or reacting to your preference (e.g., playing competitive sports or encountering a snake) affects your state of consciousness during that engagement. 5. Discuss the role that learning has had on the fact that you like or dislike the thing you described. Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements: †¢ Be typed, double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides; citations and references must follow APA or school-specific format. Check with your professor for any additional instructions. †¢ Include a cover page containing the title of the assignment, the student’s name, the professor’s name, the course title, and the date. The cover page and the reference page are not included in the required assignment page length. The specific course learning outcomes associated with this assignment are: †¢ Distinguish between the major schools of thought in psychology. †¢ Discuss the biological factors that influence behavior. †¢ Describe the major theories of learning, memory, cognition, consciousness, development, and social psychology. †¢ Use technology and information resources to research issues in psychology. †¢ Write clearly and concisely about psychology using proper writing mechanics. Grading for this assignment will be based on answer quality, logic/organization of the paper, and language and writing skills, using the following rubric.

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Cultural Competence in Social Work Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

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Oedipus The King Research Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Oedipus The King Research Paper - Essay Example ouses in us both pity and fear, Aristotle explains: â€Å"For pity is aroused by someone who undeservedly falls into misfortune, and fear is evoked by our recognizing that it is someone like ourselves who encounters this misfortune.† (51) That powerful combination of emotion made the story so popular that John Dryden, writing in the mid-1600s, said that the story had â€Å"worn so threadbare by the pens of all the epic poets† (170) that â€Å"people so soon as ever they heard the name of Oedipus, knew as well as the poet, that he had killed his father by a mistake and committed incest with his mother, before the play; that they were now to hear of a great plague, an oracle and the ghost of Laius.† (171) And, indeed, modern critics have echoed these opinions: Jennifer Lewin’s aptly titled â€Å"Oedipus Rex: Possibly the Greatest of all Tragedies† argues that the play represents the apex of dramatic achievement for tragedies. Even the chorus of the pl ay itself reflects the tragedy of Oedipus: Even the Freudians acknowledge the tragedy of Oedipus, even as they psychoanalyze his experience. In the 1950s, Charles Rado read the Oedipus myth in Freudian fashion, revealing it to be a battle between Oedipus and his own unconscious urges, culminating in self-destruction. Rado, of course, makes much of the incestuous relationship between Oedipus and his mother Jocasta, pointing to the riddle of the Sphinx as a metaphor for that union: â€Å"The riddle of the Sphinx is thus interpreted: four refers to the primal scene (four parental legs), the result of which is two, the legs of the child, who later develops a third leg, the penis. The Sphinx personifies the mother in her aspect of Medusa; the child splits her into mother and whore.† (233) Still, there appears to be no question that Rado views the conflicted hero who gave his name to the Freudian’s pet complex with sympathy. Still, the insistence on viewing Oedipus the King as a tragedy leaves a very real space of

Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Critique - Essay Example In essence, justified theft can be committed in Buddhist tradition, in a specified circumstance. Justified theft in Buddhist tradition is committed with the objective of countering dishonesty. For example, I have witnessed Sakka commit a justified theft by stealing a stolen relic from Brahmin Dona, which would have resulted to a dishonor of Buddha’s relic. Additionally, the article depicts that, in Sri Lanka, there is a belief that a relic would disappear if it were not properly venerated. Essentially, the article demonstrates that a relic has the power to consent its own theft, and this is better understood as a theft not being a theft (Trainor, 1992: p7). 2. What did you find difficult to understand from the article? I found difficulty in understanding why conflict would arise among the eight territorial clans because they all want to own part of the relic. I also do not understand the reason why the clans, would not settle on establishing a single location in which the whol e of the relic would have been put for to ensure easier veneration. Instead, they settled on dividing the relics among themselves, which resulted in some individuals stealing the relic while other clans became unsatisfied. Moreover, I come short of understanding why the followers of Buddhist tradition would resolve to violate the traditions principles just to own the relic of the traditions founder (Trainor, 1992: p12). 3. What did the author do well, either in her argument or in presentation? The author did well, in the article, by providing a presentation that had an introduction of how the Buddhist tradition came to have a number of venerated relics. He also depicted how the concept of â€Å"theft not a theft† is established by providing various examples in Buddhist tradition and texts. Furthermore, his arguments are based on authoritative scriptural warrants, and thus, his article has arguments that are factual in nature. The presentation is chronological in the sense tha t it entails events that preceded the immediate death of Buddha. The article also enjoys a deep understanding of the Buddhist tradition and relics. Evidently, the author satisfactorily discussed how, in Buddhist tradition, a theft that is not a theft is committed. He shows this by discussing that a relic is powerful in that it can only be stolen from a place where it is not properly venerated. Lastly, the author did well by pointing out problematic areas in Buddhist tradition; firstly, the act of stealing is forbidden in Buddhist tradition, but acts of stealing relics exist. Secondly, the act of being attached to a relic is against the Buddhist teaching of being attached to objects, which can be put under human possession and manipulation (Trainor, 1992: p20). 4. What do you think the author could have done better? The author could have done better by giving the discussion on relics a different approach apart from the concept of â€Å"theft not a theft†. The concept could hav e entailed something like â€Å"honoring a dishonored cause†. This would eliminate the negativity that has been associated with a tradition whose founder had attained a high degree of enlightenment. Additionally, the author would have justified the above premise by providing scriptural warrants from Buddhist tradition and text. This would have resulted in a positive depiction of Buddhist tradition and the idea of veneration (Trainor, 1992: p3). 5. What personal reflections came to mind while reading the

American Politics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

American Politics - Essay Example While the limitations of the President in effecting change can limit a President whose point of view does not reflect that of the best welfare of the United States, the powers of Congress can impede a President whose interests would better suit the welfare of the citizens of the United States. The nature of the three branches of power within the federal government of the United States were set into balance so that no one branch could attain so much power that it could fully countermand those of the other branches. While the President holds veto power and the Supreme Court can discount laws where they do not fall in line with the spirit and intent of the constitution, these powers can too be circumvented by the powers of Congress. The powers of the Presidency, in particular, were limited so that no one man could rule the nature through despotic power. Although, in recent history the nation has experienced events that led to such types of power taken and used inappropriately. This goes to show that vigilence must be attended in order to contain the nation as a truly democratic and free social structure that is defined by its federal diligence at maintaining that integrity (Tucker and Tucker 407). Article II of the Constitutions of the United States sets down the powers of the President of the United States. Section 1 provides the parameters of the term of office, the parameters of who is eligible to be President, and the parameters of how the President will be elected. Section 2 provides initial context to the nature of the powers of the President. The first clause gives the President the command of the armed forces, but implicitly states that it is only through Congressional agreement that war can be declared. The second clause outlines the President’s power to put into effect treaties. He must get a two thirds vote

Tomorrow’s “Smart” technologies will improve everyday life Essay Example for Free

Tomorrow’s â€Å"Smart† technologies will improve everyday life Essay Smart Technology devices would be able to change and improve human life to an extent of having more comfortable home, productive school and a more efficient workplace. Smart Technology devices are systems that used some of the highest level of technology available to man.   These devices are aware of the environment they function.   They are also capable of reacting to certain situations that may arise in the environment (Worden, 2003).   SMART systems are very useful devices, as they would understand the environment they are functioning.    In this paper, we would be looking at how SMART devices could be useful to human beings and make our daily life easier. Let’s now look at the various functions of Smart devices.   It can protect itself from certain eventualities that may arise in the environment.   A car having a smart system is able to detect any vehicle when it gets too close and automatically applies the brakes, so that not only is the car protected, but also most importantly is the user.   Another way in which the smart device would be protecting itself is from a fire.   Several buildings have an automatic fire management system that is able to detect a fire and control it.   Such a system would also be protecting the users (Worden, 2003 Bishop, 2007). A smart device is capable of repairing itself, limiting the damage.   Several smart systems have a repair mechanism that is able to identify damage done on itself, and accordingly repair or limit the damage.   For example, if a computer system has been affected by a virus attack, the systems have embedded software that is able to identify the corrupted files and accordingly isolate or delete them.   In this way, the intelligence of the system would be helping it to work better in the future (Worden, 2003). Another important use of a Smart device is that it is capable of identifying changes that occur in the environment and accordingly adapt to those changes.   The smart device contains several portions, namely the input channels (which may include several sensors), the input system, the interface devices, the central unit or the microcontroller (which contains the microprocessor), the interface, and the output unit.   The input unit contains several sensors to detect the presence of a specific user (Casciati, 2004 Gardner, 2005).    For example, a fingerprint device contains sensors that are able to recognize the user.   Otherwise sensors are able to detect changes that occur in the environment such as temperature changes, pressure changes, stress levels, etc.   A Smart Air conditioner would automatically sense the environmental settings and accordingly change the settings according to the preferences of the user.   The SMART system is in fact similar to the human nervous system.   Like the human parts, it contains sense organs that are able to sense the external data. This is then transferred to the brain or the central processor through nerve connections that carry signals.   When the information reaches the brain or the central processor, it gets processed through several methods such as filtering, organizing, computation, preferences, problem solving, decision-making, scoring, tabulating, and sorting out.   The data, which is processed, may be stored in the SMART system and/or may be transmitted to the connections to the external environment.   The microprocessor present in the system is capable of performing a number of computational tasks (Casciati, 2004 Gardner, 2005). Several of the Smart Devices has several embedded software that enable it to function better and to optimize the functioning.   Nowadays, the development of microchips and microprocessor has been phenomenonal.   They have several algorithms within them, which help to perform the tasks faster and more effectively.   The systems are capable of communicating with the user in a two-way manner.   The process of sending information from one part of the system to another is highly complicated and a refinery would help to transfer the information more efficiently. Some systems also utilize a diagnostics tool to ensure that if any problem exists, the mechanic can be informed immediately of the nature of the problem.   This would ensure that the user does not have any inconveniences if the system goes wrong.   The reporting in a SMART device is of two types, namely predictable (which may occur over a period of time) and unexpected.   As they are able to report both, they are very useful for application (Cougias, 2003 Gardner, 2005).   The smart systems may be very easy to operate and upgrade in case the user wants to have the latest version. Today’s SMART systems are becoming hybrid in nature.   They can perform several tasks rapidly at the same time.   The smart system should be able to function in the predicted manner in real life situations.   It is just not enough for the system to function in the laboratory or the manufacturers office.   It is very important for the manufacturer to know what environment the use would be having, and accordingly test the Smart system.   Research and development would help build a faster, better and a more effective system.   The SMART system should be able to perform several functions simultaneously.   A number of algorithms should be handled. The system should be flexible during functioning.   It should be able to adapt to conditions that prevail in the environment so that the user would be benefited.   Having a Smart system embedded in a device has several advantages.   It could help reduce the amount of energy or power consumed by the device.   Hence, the operational costs could be reduced. It could also help prolong the life of the system, as sensors that would be able to detect non-use and automatically switch of the system.   Only the rightful user can access the system.   The Smart system would permit only the rightful user to enter it, and hence the system would be secure, safe and protected.   In case several users are accessing the device, the system can be setup in such a way that one user would be able to access only the relevant information.   Some of the ways in which the user identity can be recognized includes finger print screening, corneal scans and username passwords (Casciati Hydrocarbon Engineering, 2004). Compared to regular technology, smart technology has several benefits.   The cost of operations is reduced using smart technology.   Smart technology is able to identity any problems that exist during operations and would sort them out effectively.   In this way the cost of operations may be reduced.   Newer technology is more effective than older ones in reducing the costs and processors are becoming more and more advanced and efficient (Hydrocarbon Engineering, 2004 Gardner, 2005). Smart devices are able to save electricity, energy and power.   This is because they have sensors that are able to detect non-use.   If the user is not using the system for a stipulated time, the system is automatically shut down (Casciati).   As the smart system save energy it is also environmentally friendly, preventing unnecessary damage to the environment (Hydrocarbon Engineering, 2004). Smart systems are very flexible and can adapt to a number of conditions that prevail in the environment.   This effectively makes the system more and more user—friendly. The lifespan of the devices or the machine can be extended as whenever it not in use, it is automatically shutdown.   Besides, the system can also maintain itself effectively. It would signal for replacements or care from a mechanic. Another important benefit of a smart system is that it is able to understand its environment.   It employs computational methods and the use of sensors to gain data from the environment.   However, it is very important to know that awareness of the environment and automatically responding to it is not a straightforward task.   It may take sometime to develop this.   As the systems are becoming more and more advance, they are finding it easier to understand the environment they function in.   A system may take time to learn the various situations that prevail in the environment.   Once it is able to do so, it can perform even complicated tasks (Worden, 2003). The smart system helps to reduce the labor cost and the manpower required.   The human resources required to maintain the system would also be minimal (Hydrocarbon Engineering, 2004). It may be very easy to upgrade a smart system.   Nowadays this may be possible by the installation of software and up gradation packs.   They also do not require the knowledge and skills of an expert to upgrade (Hydrocarbon Engineering, 2004). Smart systems can be utilized in a number of situations including schools, home, workplace, industry, space, offices, shopping, roads, hospitals, buildings, vehicles, oil refineries, banks, etc.   It can be said that in all these situations, Smart systems may help to improve overall everyday life.   Within the next two decades, SMART systems would be changing several devices and aspects of our lives including computers, machines, processes, power, vehicles, etc (Cetron, 1997). In the homes, they could be utilized to wash our clothes, prepare food according to the individual tastes and preferences and even perform other tasks daily as required by the user. In the school, the smart system could be utilized in a virtual reality environment to help the student attend classes and interact with the teachers and other students.   They could help students to express their creative skills and learn languages faster and more effectively (Negroponte Papert, 2007). At the workplace Smart system could be utilized in fingerprinting devices, so as to identity a particular staff member and give him/her access to a particular system.   The staff members could utilize the smart systems to perform effective computational tasks, manage the workflow and manage several operational processes that may occur in the organization. Some of the fields in which Smart systems are utilized include telecommunications, banking, education, automobiles, interior decoration, architecture, entertainment, engineering, healthcare, etc.   They find application in almost any device, such as security system, fire detection and control systems, computers, mobiles, cars, motorcycles, microwaves, washing machines, airplanes, etc.   Smart system could be utilized in a traffic management system.   They could be utilized in the healthcare sector to monitor the condition of the patient and inform the doctor of the status.   With respect to vehicles, smart devices, could help control the speed of the vehicle and effectively brake when an accident is anticipated (Bishop, 2007). Voice to text is a system in which the individual is able to offer oral commands to the computer, and the computer would be converting it into a text format.   The computer can be told of the tasks that should be performed, and the individual can be later reminded of what he/she should be doing.   Effectively, voice recognition systems have replaced keyboards.   It may be initially difficult for the system to identify and transcribe the voice of an individual.   However, over a period of time, the computer would do this task more efficiently and rapidly. Voice to text translation systems are very useful in an educational environmental and also to train the staff embers at the workplace.   Studies have shown that the current voice to text systems may be only 90 to 95 % accurate.   However, with time more and more advanced systems are being manufactured, that are able to reach an almost 100 % accuracy rate.   The system would also be useful for individuals with disabilities.   Such a system could easily help to learn a foreign language (Tech Learning, 2007). Another way smart system would be improving everyday life is by the use of compact computing devices such as laptops, pocket PCs, Tablet PCs, PDA and mobiles.   These computing device should possess certain characteristics such as: Compactness Cost effective Security Have a long span Waterproof Should be able to withstand accidents that the child may face whilst playing Should be able to be connected to the network Should be able to access any person across the globe Should have an expandable memory Should be able to make calls Should be light-weight Students and children from schools and colleges would benefit hugely from having a compact computing system.   It would offer a greater amount of mobility and flexibility.   However, there are several problems that exist with the use of these devices, which need to be sorted out.   These include short battery life, ease in decoding the password, extreme costs, and difficulty for current users to use the system. Wireless connectivity would definitely help the system to remain connected to the Internet and other systems throughout the world.   Teachers and students could hugely benefit by having a virtual classroom.   Physicians and doctors are also finding it very convenient to use palm-top devices such as PDA’s to chart the patient’s history and follow-up the cases.   As these devices have smart technology, the physician could be prompted in cases certain extra precautions need to be taken   (Tech Learning, 2007, Negroponte Papert, 2007, Reinsel, 2005). Computers containing smart technology can be utilized to perform complicated tasks know as ‘hybrid computing’.   The size of the microprocessors are becoming smaller and smaller, and the tasks they are performing are becoming more and more complicated.   They are also able to perform several tasks simultaneously.   Virtual reality is an environment in which an individual can perform certain tasks and function. A simple folder of a computer could be considered as a virtual reality.   Virtual reality was first described about 2 decades back.   Several computer organizations are coming up with highly complicated virtual systems.   A Virtual environment could help educate students.   An entire classroom can be conducted in a virtual environment   (Tech Learning, 2007 Gardner, 2005). Several systems contain artificial intelligence that would help them perform several tasks including teaching students, computing input signals and decoding data.   Artificial intelligence has several applications.   They could be utilized to test the intelligence levels of the students.   Some of these systems may be about 99 % reliable   (Tech Learning, 2007).   Microsoft has been thinking of developing user interfaces.   Computers that have better sense systems are being developed.   Eric Horvitz, Researcher at Microsoft Corporation and Jack Breese, Assistant Director of Microsoft Corporation in their interview with Discovery are able to provide more information about new user interfaces and the manner in which it could be utilize to handle emails and other communication methods.   One of their products known as ‘Look out’ is a new SMART system program that informs the user about emails, messages and schedules. It is a very effective tool to sort out messages utilizing a voice-based system (Horvitz Breese, 2007).   Berners-Lee, the Director of the WWW Consortium has developed newer and more intelligent systems to help store, access and transmit over the Internet.   This newer type of Internet would be known as ‘Semantic World’.   It is a highly intelligent system that would use very intelligent software so that the information is more secure.   This has very strong applications for use in banking, healthcare, etc.   This could also help in management of disasters and epidemics.   Several organizations that are utilizing Semantic systems feel this kind of technology could help change human lives (Berners-Lee, 2007). Smart technology could also be utilized to develop and express creative skills of the individual.   Several software such as moviemaker, are able to help one improve their creative skills.   The system itself would suggest ideal changes that would help to improve the quality and the appearance of the picture or the video short   (Tech Learning, 2007). One of the main areas in which smart technology is utilized is in fingerprint technology.   This field is mainly required by law-enforcing agencies and forensics organizations.   Earlier it was a very tough and meticulous job to identify an individual’s fingerprint.   However, nowadays, smart devices can virtually do it in a matter of seconds.   A database containing the fingerprints of several individuals may be stored, and when a given fingerprint is to be identified, it can be compared to various fingerprints that are present in the database   (Tech Learning, 2007). Smart devices could also help students that have certain problems during learn to overcome these difficulties.   During learning some students may experience a difficulty in a portion of the brain.   Utilizing a computer may identify this.   The computer would suggest ways in which this problem could be solved.   Psychologists would be closely coordinating such cases   (Tech Learning, 2007).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Lastly, it can be proved that Smart technology is helping to make human lives easier. At present Smart technology is still in the infancy stage. Soon Smart technology would be able to help human beings much more than they are doing today. They would be more reliable and trustworthy. A lot of research and developments need to be conducted in order to improve and help advance this very useful form of technology. Although, Smart Technology is in the infancy stages it has demonstrated that it could really do unbelievable things. Thus it can safely be said that SMART technology would be able to change and also improve human life to a very large extent, at home, the school, college and the workplace.   It would certainly help to improve comfort and efficiency levels (This answers the thesis question).       References: Books: Bishop, R. (2005), Intelligent Vehicle Technology And Trends, US: Artech.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This book written by Richard Bishop demonstrates how SMART technology can be utilized in cars and other vehicles.   The book shows how SMART technology could be utilized to increase the driver safety, reduce the strain on the driver, etc.   It concentrates on several aspects such as costs, user-friendliness, etc.   As the book concentrates on how to improve driver safety and the strain on the driver, it would certain helps meet the thesis statement of improving comfort levels and making human life easier and safer.   The author concentrates on various aspects such as cost, user-friendliness, acceptance, etc.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.amazon.com/Intelligent-Vehicle-Technology-Trends-Library/dp/1580539114/ref=sr_1_8/002-8224583-7909648?ie=UTF8s=booksqid=1187180326sr=8-8 Cetron, M. Davies, O. (1997), Probable Tomorrows: How Science and Technology Will Transform Our Lives in the Next Twenty Years, St. Mary’s Press. http://www.amazon.com/Probable-Tomorrows-Science-Technology-Transform/dp/0312154291/ref=sr_1_28/002-8224583-7909648?ie=UTF8s=booksqid=1187180609sr=8-28   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This book provides an insight of how technology could affect various aspects, processes and objects that we utilize in our daily life.   The presentation by Cetron is a very good one and needs to form a part of a book collection on SMART Technology.   She concentrates on the technological developments in the field of computers, building technology, power generation and vehicles.   The author makes predictions of the future in SMART technology and also suggests that the technology would have immense amount of benefits for humans.   In this way, it can be said that the author is contributing towards the thesis statement, in proving that SMART could include the comfort levels in various sphere of life. Casciati, F., Rossi, R. (2004), In. Holnicki-Szulc, J. Soares, C.A.M. (Ed), Advances In Smart Technologies In Structural Engineering, New York: Springer. http://books.google.com/books?id=vJPjorqGsIwCpg=PA1ots=TdVRc3L7WTdq=smart+technologiessig=q7drMwwfLh2-rtJuiKa_aFrdAMQ#PPP11,M1   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The chapter throws more light on the use of fuzzy logic and sensor devices to help make lives easier.   The designing of sensor network and fuzzy logic systems have also been mentioned.   Besides, information of embedded microcontroller and microprocessors are also mentioned.   Certain information motioned in the book has been collected from a conference organized in Poland in the year 2003.   This technology is utilized to make Buildings in Europe smarter and user friendly.   In this way, the book is helping to meet with the thesis statement in making our lives more comfortable and easier.

MNC Corporation Production Assignment

MNC Corporation Production Assignment MNC Corporation Production Analysis of MNC Behavior Introduction Multinational corporation (or transnational corporation) (MNC/TNC) is a corporation or enterprise that manages production establishments or delivers services in at least two countries. Very large multinationals have budgets that exceed those of many countries. Multinational corporations can have a powerful influence in international relations and local economies. Multinational corporations play an important role in globalization (Bartlett et al). Multinational corporations can be divided into three broad groups according to the configuration of their production facilities: Horizontally integrated multinational corporations manage production establishments located in different countries to produce similar products. (Example: McDonalds) Vertically integrated multinational corporations manage production establishment in certain country/countries to produce products that serve as input to its production establishments in other country/countries. (Example: Adidas) Diversified multinational corporations do not manage production establishments located in different countries that are horizontally, vertically or straight (Example: Microsoft or Siemens A.G.) The paper deals with analysis of MNC behavior of three popular MNC’s viz. Exxon Mobile, Royal Dutch and BP. These are oil and gas companies from India and China. The paper will explain about how the products of these companies differ or are similar to each other and how their marketing strategies corporate strategies differ. All this will be explained through the Dunning O-I-L framework and Global Integration Local Responsiveness framework. This paper represents the compare and contrast studies of different strategies. About the companies MNC behavior differs across various locations and is different regarding marketing, finance, human resource and other aspects related to the products. The three companies selected for analyzing MNC behavior differ in geographical locations, political conditions, cultural considerations and legal frameworks. The general introduction of the all the 3 companies is as follows: Exxon Mobil Corporation or Exxon Mobil (NYSE: XOM): It is an American oil and gas corporation and a direct descendant of John D. Rockefellers Standard Oil company. Formed on November 30, 1999 by the merger of Exxon and Mobil, Exxon Mobil is the worlds largest company by revenue at $404.5 billion for the fiscal year of 2007. It is also the largest publicly held corporation by market capitalization, i.e. $501.17 billion. While it is the largest of the six oil super majors with daily production of 4.18 million BOE (barrels of oil equivalent). Currently, the company ranks 1st in the world in net income, which was almost $40 billion last year. The Exxon Mobil Corporation global headquarters are located in Irving, Texas. The company markets products around the world under the brands of Exxon, Mobil, and Esso. It also owns hundreds of smaller subsidiaries such as Imperial Oil Limited (69.6% ownership) in Canada, and Sea River Maritime, a petroleum shipping company (Exxon Mobile Corporation 2008). Royal Dutch Shell: It is commonly known as Shell, a multinational oil company of British and Dutch origins. It is the second largest private sector energy corporation in the world, and one of the six super majors. The companys headquarters are in The Hague, Netherlands, with its registered office in London, United Kingdom (Shell Centre). The companys main business is the exploration, production, processing, transportation and marketing of hydrocarbons (oil and gas). Shell also has a significant petrochemicals business (Shell Chemicals), and an embryonic renewable energy sector developing wind, hydrogen and solar power opportunities (Royal Dutch Shell: About Shell 2008). BP (British Petroleum): It was previously known as British Petroleum but now using only the initials, it is the worlds third largest global energy company, a multinational oil company (oil major) with headquarters in London, UK. The company is among the largest private sector energy corporations in the world, and one of the six super majors (vertically integrated private sector oil exploration, natural gas, and petroleum product marketing companies). Though, all these companies are involved in similar business practices, yet there are also certain differences among them. There is a compare and contrast scenario among these companies. To analyze these three MNC’s, the â€Å"Global Integration- Local Responsiveness† framework and â€Å"Dunning’s O-I-L† framework can be used (BP Global: About BP 2008). Similarities and Differences The products of all three companies are similar in the sense that all have natural resource seeking and efficiency seeking products. All three companies produce the same kind of products, so they also require the same kind of raw materials for the products. The products they produce are all location specific. All the companies have their established positions in the international market and are among the six super majors in the oil and gas industry. They possess abundant resource utilization capacity. They have competitive advantage, which helps them to achieve their strategic goals. The products of the companies are globally marketed. The major differences among the products of the companies are the quality and quantity of the products and the capital requirement for the products. The products also differ in the level and type of technology used and the customer demand for the product. The location where the product is manufactured is also important and it makes a big difference for the company. The export and import of the products vary from company to company. The manufacturing and innovation among the products also vary depending on the Government rules, regulations and policies in the countries in which the companies operate. The products also differ on the basis of marketing strategies used to market the product. The reason for these differences can be explained through the â€Å"Global Integration- Local Responsiveness† framework popularly known as I-R model. It is generally related with ideas of value creation. It states that these differences occur because of differences in the competitive advantage of the companies and the strategies used by them. Strategies can be global, international, multinational or transnational (Bartlett et al). The risk handling capability of the companies is also one of the possible reasons for the differences among them. The proportion of the global assets, number of countries in which the company operates in value added activities and the value of the output are responsible for significant differences among the companies of the same industry (Rugman Hodgetts 1995). These differences are not general differences. These differences are responsible for the company’s success and help it in making popular among the general public. The products of the company become known to the customers because of these significant differences and they are responsible for the growth and revenue of the company (Bartlett et al). The marketing strategies also differ between various firms and countries on the basis of the strategies used to market the products. The differences between countries occur because of alterations in the market structures among various countries with respect to the transactional costs. Differences also occur on the ground of capital availability and resource utilization. The difference in the market size is also very important. Marketing strategies differ across firms due to differences in the extent of market diversification and market stability of the firms. They differ according to the number of customers for the product and because of the market allocation for the product. The firms have set up in their respective locations because according to â€Å"Dunning’s O-I-L† framework, the assets which these companies possess are ownership specific and location specific. Though, they are available to all the firms, yet they are unique in nature and help the company to establish a difference for itself. This criterion of Dunning is based on the eclectic paradigm. The assets can be tangible like manpower, capital, etc. or intangible like technology, marketing, etc. Global, International, Multinational Transnational Firms As the companies grow and develop, there category changes and they become international, global, multinational or transnational firms. As time passes, their product category also changes. Global Firms consider the world as a single integrated unit with centralized scale intensive manufacturing. Through world wide diffusion and adaptation, these companies exploit the parent company’s knowledge and capabilities (Dunning 1993). International Firms take the overseas units as offshoots of domestic strategy. Here the core competencies are centralized and others are decentralized. It builds cost advantage through global scale operations (Dunning 1993). Multinational Firms consider the world as a portfolio of national opportunities. They are self sufficient and decentralized. Through strong resourceful national operations it creates a response to national differences. Transnational Firms comprise of all the above three firms. They are dispersed, interdependent and specialized. They have flexibility, global efficiency and great learning capability. Different Corporate Strategies The corporate strategies of the MNC’s differ across different locations as the Government policies and regulations are different in different countries. The goals and the means to achieve them differ according to the customer size and the market adaptability in different countries. The collaborations with the local partners also create a difference in the corporate strategies because they also have their company’s policies and requirements. It also differs according to the company law of the respective countries. The terms and conditions of the local partners differ, which causes significant variations in the corporate strategy (Dunning 1993).. Innovations in MNC’s Innovations are a growing trend in today’s world and MNC’s are successful till they maintain their innovativeness and creativity. Innovation does not necessarily come from the home country but it can also be sourced in the local country. The MNC’s hire the employees of the local country so it can be possible that innovations are from the local country. Government and the MNC’s There are differences among the MNC’s about the Government policies and regulations. Government’s encouragement or inhibition for the oil and gas industry depends on the type of country and the requirement of such an MNC in the country. There are also significant differences across various locations for the involvement of Government in the MNC activities. This depends on the need of the country to grow and develop and also on the economy of the country. This can also be explained with the help of â€Å"Dunning’s O-I-L† framework. The Government involvement depends on the asset availability of the country which is location specific. Social Cultural Factors The MNC’s are also affected by social and cultural factors of the local country. They have to conduct the business according to the conditions in that country. The products should be manufactured according to the needs and requirements of the people. The cultural and social sentiments of the people should be taken care of. For example, when Mc Donald’s started its business in India, it made beef burgers. But this was failed in India, as it was against the cultural, religious and social sentiments of the people of India, because Indians worship cows so they would never prefer a beef burger. But many a times it happens that MNC’s also shape the social, cultural, political and even the legal framework of the local country. The people of the local country many a times adapt to the products of the MNC’s. For example, Pizza Hut, Dominos, etc. have totally changed the eating habits of the people wherever they have spread their business. The dressing style of the people changes, e.g. Indians started wearing western style clothes. They also convince the Government to make its legal policy flexible to suit their business conditions because the country is being benefited by the MNC’s. The role of WTO in MNC activity WTO and regional trade agreements influence the MNC activities in many ways. The fundamental principles of WTO are non discrimination, free trade, encouraging competition and extra provisions for less developed countries. Through non discriminatory trading system, all the MNC’s are provided with their rights and obligations to be used while performing their operations. Each country and MNC receives fair exports and fair treatment in the markets of other countries. It provides responsibilities regarding implementation of agreements, technical cooperation and increased participation in the global trading system. These agreements help in removing trade barriers and duty free access. It also helps in protecting industrial property rights and dispute settlement. The trade agreement system helps in promoting peace, provides more choices of products and qualities (Cherunilam 2005). Export processing zone refers to one or more specific areas of a country where some of the normal trade barriers are ruled out and bureaucratic necessities are let down in the desire of attracting new business and foreign investments. This zone also refers to the manufacturing centers, which are labor intensive involving the import of raw materials and the export of factory products. This zone is of great importance for the operations of MNC’s. Geography of production The linkages in the value chain also differ around different locations. The relationship between the various functional processes is different at different locations. The spread of production differs according to the spatial distribution. This differs according to the elements of the value chain. The working of the functional processes affects the production. It differs from firm to firm because the functional units like finance, marketing, etc. differ across firms and across various locations. So the firm’s production differs according to geography as the resource availability differs from place to place. Also, the human resource management, organizational structure and managerial responsibility differ between the firms and locations. These are not the same at all the places and with all the firms. The manpower availability differs from place to place and from firm to firm. Because of workforce diversity, human resource management differs and is not the same at all places. The organizational structure also differs because of each firm’s policies and regulations. The managerial responsibility is different depending upon the size of the firm and its working. It also depends upon the strength of the organization, type of business it deals with and the amount of work done by the organization (Cherunilam 2005). MNC’s also hire local people for key positions because its not possible for the MNC’s to hire people from the home country as it is a time consuming and costly affair. Instead of doing so, they can spend money on the training of the people in the local country. The Country Subsidiary Manager is responsible for the administration and management of the MNC in the country. He helps the MNC to recruit highly efficient and energetic people. He also helps in the growth and development of the MNC along with marketing its products. Comparison and Contrast between the Indian Market and Chinese Market for Exxon, BP and Shell The strategies in both the countries will be different for all the three companies i.e. BP, Exxon and Shell. The business environment, culture and traditions of both the companies differ from each other. The customer requirements, economic growth, political and social environment and legal obligations for both the countries can be compared and contrasted. Comparison CEOs of global energy giants BP, Exxon Mobil and Shell are thrashing out their plans with Indian companies and state government officials to pump dollars into 5 states Orissa, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal and Gujarat. The oil and gas giants (Exxon, Shell, BP), can enter the Indian market through Joint Ventures with the Indian companies like Reliance or any ONGC. To establish joint ventures with Indian companies for manufacturing, all the 3 companies should track the key trends and survey the competitive environment in the oil and gas industry, which will enable them to maximize their returns in India (BP, Exxon Shell may invest in 5 Indian states 2008). Currently, Indian conversion kit markets are overflowing with duplicate and inferior quality products. Manufacturers must devote adequate resources for research and development to create world-class offerings that stand apart from the competition. Producing less expensive, lighter, and stronger fuel storage tanks could help the companies establish a leadership position in the marketplace. Reinforcing innovative products with strong after-sales service will allow companies to establish a brand image (Indian Automotive Alternative Fuel Conversion Kit Markets 2001). The entry strategy for China will be different. In China, the companies can enter through Merger or strategic alliance with a Chinese oil company. The companies should do a detailed study of the Chinese market to enter into strategic alliance with the Chinese companies, their growth patterns and their position in the market. As the entry strategy in both the companies will differ because of their business environment; similarly, business strategies would also differ on the following grounds. Firstly, the customer ratio and demand differs in both the countries. China has more population than India, so it has a large consumer market than India for these companies. Secondly, as compared to China, the price hike in petrol is more in India, so the companies can earn high revenue in India (Cherunilam 2005). Thirdly, China’s economy is growing at a much faster rate than India’s economy. Fourthly, the income level in both the countries is different. Middle class population is high in India. The per capita income of China is more than India and even the disposable income in China is more. Nowadays, BP is focusing on an eco-friendly campaign, which can be a great success in India where pollution is a major problem. This way, it can easily attract customers and become popular. Fifthly, the culture of both the countries is different, which affects the strategies of the companies. India is a country of diverse cultures and customs, so people with different thinking and values are found in India. But China has cultural unity, so the values and traditions do not differ across the country. This is good for advertisement and publicity to the people. Sixthly, it is also the political and legal environment that plays a crucial role in any business. A company cannot ignore the political situation and legal formalities either in the home country or in the host country if it has to operate successfully abroad. There is a quasi-federal-form of government in India and democracy is the rule of the country. Whereas China is a communist country, so the political setup can make a difference to the strategies. Also, the legal environment differs from country to country. India’s market has easy access and there are no strict regulations for the trade. In India, after the liberalization in 1991, most of the sectors are opened for foreign companies. Foreign Direct Investment is increasing rapidly. FDI policy is liberalized and 100% investment is allowed, whereas in China, there is not so much liberty for foreign companies. Only, a limited number of foreign companies can establish themselves in China. Contrast There are several points of similarities that affect the strategies of the companies in both the countries. Both the countries are in a developing stage and follow collectivism. Collectivistic culture tends to embrace interdependence, family security, social hierarchies, cooperation; and low levels of competition (Cherunilam 2005). As such, the Chinese and Indian society historically focuses on social interests and collective actions, and de-emphasizes personal goals and accomplishments. Also, the people of both the countries are dominated by foreign products and import items. Conclusion Thus, from the above discussion about MNC’s, it is concluded that they differ across different locations in terms of their resources, working, legal framework, etc. They also affect the culture and social life of the people of the local country. References Bartlett et al. Building Layers of Competitive Advantage. Europe: McGraw Hill Companies Inc. BP Global: About BP. 2008. [online]. [Accessed July 19, 2008]. Available from World Wide Web: BP, Exxon Shell may invest in 5 Indian states 2008. [online]. [Accessed July 19, 2008]. Available from World Wide Web: Cherunilam, F. 2005. International Business: Text and Cases. New Delhi: Prentice Hall of India Pvt. Ltd. Dunning, J. H. 1993. The determinants of MNE activity. In Dunning, J. H., Multinational Enterprises and the Global Economy: 76-85. Addison-Wesley Pub. Co. Exxon Mobile Corporation. 2008. [online]. [Accessed July 19, 2008]. Available from World Wide Web: Indian Automotive Alternative Fuel Conversion Kit Markets 2001. [online]. [Accessed July 19, 2008]. Available from World Wide Web: Ramaswamy, V.S Namakumari, S. (3rd ed.) 2005. Strategic Planning Formulation of Corporate Strategy. New Delhi: Macmillan India Ltd. Royal Dutch Shell: About Shell. 2008. [online]. [Accessed July 19, 2008]. Available from World Wide Web: Rugman, A.M. Hodgetts, R.M. (1st ed.).1995. International Business. New York, McGraw Hill Publishing Company. Appendix Generic Value Chain of OPERATION OUTBOND LOGISTIC MARKETING SALES SERVICE FIRM INFRASTRUCTURE HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT PROCUREMENT INBOUND LOGISTIC Secondary Activity Or Supporting Activities Primary Activities Source: Ramaswamy Namakumari 2005.

Creativity and Innovation to Further Developing Countries

Creativity and Innovation to Further Developing Countries The keyword to be an successful country is develop two important abilities that will help you think in a different and intelligent way to develop your ideas and your beliefs. The purpose of this research is to develop the creativity and innovation in developing countries by increasing the systems education in three different ways. Furthermore, this paper discuss about the importance of develop creativity and innovation for the future of countries. Creativity is define like the ideas that come up to your mind to follow anything that you want to do and innovation is the process to became your ideas or inventions in something that help the people or the environment. Finally, the main idea of this paper is to find the best solutions to solve the problem of creativity and innovation by improving the traditional model of system education. Keywords: creativity, innovation, system education, develop. There are so many countries in the world, and this countries are classifieds according to how much developed they are. First of all, we have countries that are developed a lot of because they produces many things like technology, weapons, food, raw material (wood, iron, cotton, crude oil, etc) for the others that doesnÂÂ ´t have this advantages. Therefore, these develop countries are in the top, but how could they develop more than the others? the answer is very simple. These develop countries made a change in their system education by improving so many things that will help students to be prepared in the future because they know that students are the 100% of their future. As a result, the best solution to improve the road of being a develop country in the world is focused in creativity and innovation of each people could have, but how we can improve this skills? We can improve these skills by following the next steps: First, schools should increase hours of extracurricular clas ses. Secondly, students must interact with the environment. Finally, using technology in the process of learning-teaching can help to everyone with innovate ideas. Schools should increase hours of extracurricular classes Currently, schools are an important parts of our lives because there we learn how to front any problem that we could have, and also we learn many skills that help us to develop in the future. But what is wrong with schools nowadays? the problem is that they are killing the creativity and innovation by obligating us to think in the way that they want. The recently model of system education have one purposed, and it is to became students in university professors. They have in mind that if you made less mistakes, you will be a perfect person. So this means, education system just are focused in science subjects such as math, chemistry and physics, and this is a big problem because each person believe that you will be successful if you have lot of science degrees. But no one knows that they could be better if they develop creativity and the capacity of innovate (Robbinson, 2006). Of course we can develop creativity in schools by increasing hours of extracurricular classes because in that classes we learn how to be an artist, and when you said artist everyone thinks in creativity. Scientists says that every person in the world develop the 80% of their brain when they are in the childhood, so what they need? They need classes about science, but they also need extracurricular classes like music or dance because in that classes they will express their creativity in an easily way. For example, a little girl called Gillian was accused that she has a learning disorder because she canÂÂ ´t get focus while she was receiving classes. So her mom took her to the doctor because she was worried, but the doctor was talking with Gillian alone, and while they were talking Gillian was dancing, So he understand that she didnt have any disorder learning. Then he goes to Gillians mom and he said that Gillian doesnÂÂ ´t have problem, he explain that her daughter is a dancer, she needs to move to think. After, GillianÂÂ ´s mom understand that her daughter need to go to learn dance and finally Gilliam became in a professional choreographer and she made important works such as Cats and Phantom of the Opera (Robbinson, 2006). In a brief, people lost their creativity because in schools they just learn mechanically and they donÂÂ ´t learn how to develop their ideas or how to express their opinions. Students must interact with the environment Everyone could become in creativity people if they learn by themselves. Many people in the world are autodidact people because they like o learn by their own methodology. This is an excellent way to became in a creativity people because you find out or sometimes you create your ways to make easily studies. A big example could be scientist because they are always looking for new things, so what they need is a lot of creativity and innovative ideas to get what they want. However, people says that scientist are not creativity people because they use statistics and data, so for the people this is not creative is just like a lot of information (Ossola, 2014). The main idea is to add the option forÂÂ   students that can interact with their environment to understand better and increase their creativity. For example, if students are learning about the nature, they should go outside to the forest and they will be able to learn how everything works in the environment, and also this is an interesting and funny way to learn because is not boring and you will be entertaining. Moreover, you can find another advantage about learn interacting with the environment because when you are outside you will found many information just looking, you dont need search it on the internet or books, is an easily way to obtain real and good information about something. Using technology in learning-teaching process Nowadays, technology is the best sources that humans could created. Technology have many uses in all the world. We could find technology everywhere like in medicine, weapons and even in our houses. Technology is everything and also is an important tool for education because we could use it for teach and also learn in schools or colleges. Furthermore, each school has technology to support the knowledge of students, but while more technology have schools, they will be considerate better than the others. The last step to improve developing countries into develop one is improving all the technology from schools as many as they can. For example, people could use Duolingo platform that teaches language through gaming (Segal, 2016) to learn in a funny way and creative way. Also technology is an excellent way to teach students because they like new things, and they want to discover things. So technology is like a motivated tool that make students want to learn by themselves. In summary, we could improve any developing country by increasing important skills such as creativity and innovation because creativity is process that you develop to make sense any ideas that you have in mind and innovation is the success of created any idea. So there are many steps to develop your abilities like the importance of schools should increase the hours of classes that help you develop your ideas and also it help you to make strongly opinions about any topic. References Ossola, A. (2014). Scientist Are More Creative Than You Might Imagine. The Atlantic , np. Robbinson, S. K. (nd de February de 2006). TED. Recuperado el 15 de February de 2017, de TED: https://www.ted.com/talks/ken_robinson_says_schools_kill_creativity?language=en Segal, S. (2016). The case for disruption in Latin AmericaÂÂ ´s classrooms. Usa Published , np.

Snow White Essay -- Movies Disney Essays

Snow White The film that the Disney Company claim to be the start of it all, the 1937 classic, Snow White and the seven dwarfs, has been one of the most successful theatre releases of all time. Re- released almost every decade since it?s premier, the first ever-animated feature film seems to have appealed to audiences of all generations. Synopsis The story begins in fairytale fashion, as a book opens, and the viewer can read the introduction to the film. A princess (The protagonist) imprisoned in the castle by her evil stepmother, she dreams someday a prince will rescue her. All is well until the stepmother asks her magic mirror ?Mirror, Mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all to which the mirror replies that she is not the fairest for Snow White has grown more fair. Angered by this she sends a huntsman to kill her stepdaughter. Instead he warns the princess and tells her to run away and never return. Snow white runs deep into the Forrest, frightened and homeless she is offered refuge at the Dwarfs cottage. At first the Queen believes Snow White to be dead after the huntsman bought back the heart of a pig, instead of Snow Whites. When she asks the magic mirror again, she is shocked to hear that the Princess is still alive. Enraged with Jealousy she concocts a spell on a red apple which when eaten will send the vict im into a deep sleep only to be awakened by loves first kiss. While the dwarfs are working in the mine, the evil Queen pays the princess a visit, disguised as an old beggar women. She offers the apple to the Snow White who takes a bite and falls into deep sleep. The dwarfs return and chase away the witch, who in desperation to get away falls off a cliff to her death. In believing she is dead, Snow... ...t entertainment went far beyond gags. Audiences had to be taken out of themselves, and transported into a fantasy world. ?At first the cartoon medium was just a novelty, but it never really began to hit until we had more than tricks.. . .until we developed personalities. We had to get beyond getting a laugh. They may not roll in the aisles, but that doesn?t mean that you don?t have a great picture. You have to have pathos in the thing.? Walt Disney Bibliography Understanding Animation Paul Wells Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs DVD Collectors Edition Walt Disney's Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, An art in it?s making Martin Krause and Linda Witkowski Disney discourage, producing the Magic Kingdom Edited by Eric Smoodin Serious Business Stefan Kanfer Charlie Chaplin Theodore Huff Walt Disney, Hollywood?s dark prince Marc Eliot

Technology taking over Parenting Essay -- essays research papers

Technology in the world today is becoming more advanced than ever. Parenting is being made easier and harder for some families because of the new technology. Some families do not have the money for the new additions to the technological world and other families have everything they have ever imagined. Amitai Etzioni is a professor at George Washington University. He has written nineteen books including the article â€Å"High-Tech Parenting.† It appeared in The American Enterprise in January of 1998. Etzioni writes on how a relationship between parent and child is becoming nothing more than a virtual relationship. Time usually spent together at home over a homemade dinner is now time spent on the cell phone. I feel that the technology world is coming up with many new features for the parents to make it easier for them. Parents are being given the advantage of blankets to put their children to sleep instead of them having to do it themselves. The parenting world is getting easier. Too busy parents count on beepers and cell phones to keep their children in reach. Instead of the kids counting on the random talks on the way to the movies, mall, or during a long walk on the beach, they now count on a ring or an upbeat tune to let them know its time to talk. This â€Å"beep-and-ring relation† is what is becoming of the families today. This information is very true and Etzioni makes a good point. These parents do not have time for their kids and they use electronics and other devices to talk to them. All families have different morals and the way they teach their kids to do certain things. Etzioni implies there is only one way to do that, cell phones. The readers are most likely to agree with this statement which then leads them to believe eve... ...er families will not punish their kids, no matter what the circumstance is. They were never taught to punish so their kids are that way too. This is when the kids delay turning off the TV or doing their homework until the last minute. In Conclusion, Etzioni is talking only to the business people of the world and not the everyday mom with four kids in the van. He does not take note that all families are different and that not all families have the same morals. He is one sided and exaggerates on the situation. He may not have grown up in a family where mom or dad was at home and his childhood is what he thinks everyone’s is like. Cell phones conversations are replacing the traditional one on one time with daughter and mother, son and father, etc. Etzioni’s article has very good points made in it. It also has points that could be changed to fit the average lifestyle.

The Action Research Plan to Address Chronic Behavior Problems in Second

Positive Behavioral Supports and Interventions (PBIS) programs were developed to help children learn the valuable social and behavioral skills needed to be successful in school. Most of these interventions address teaching school-wide expectations and a shared vocabulary for reinforcing these expectations. Some students continue to have behavior problems and to create disruptions in the classroom. These students receive specialized interventions to improve behavior. The researcher's plan is to provide an intervention for students in the secondary level of PBIS. These student continue to struggle after they receive instruction in appropriate school behavior. Behavioral instruction alone is not effective for all students. In order to be successful at school children also need to have a positive attitude about themselves, caring relationships with adults, and the understanding that they have the capacity to learn. Unfortunately, many children do not have these things when they come to school. The researcher's aim to provide an intervention that helps to provide an ongoing positive relationship with a school staff member, create a safe environment for children to explore their feeling and discuss problems with a caring adult, and to creative opportunities that allow the students to be successful thereby increasing overall perceptions of self-efficacy. One potential intervention is involving families in behavioral interventions. Reinke, Splett, Robeson, and Offutt (2009) found that parental involvement in all levels of PBIS increases the effectiveness of interventions. The Family Check-up model combines school based PBIS interventions with family supports. This model serves to address home-based factors which have been shown in inf... ...Public Health Perspective. Psychology In The Schools, 46(1), 33-43. Sitler, H. (2009). Teaching with awareness: The hidden effects of trauma on learning. Clearing House, 82(3), 119-123. Sutherland, K. S., Conroy, M., Abrams, L., & Vo, A. (2010). Improving interactions between teachers and young children with problem behavior: A strengths-based approach. Exceptionality, 18(2), 70-81. Sutherland, K. S., & Oswald, D. (2005). The relationship between teacher and student behavior in classrooms for students with emotional and behavioral disorders: Transactional processes. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 14, 1–14. Wills, H., Kamps, D., Abbott, M., Bannister, H., & Kaufman, J. (2010). Classroom Observations and Effects of Reading Interventions for Students at Risk for Emotional and Behavioral Disorders. Behavioral Disorders, 35(2), 103-119.

Best Buy Co., Inc. and Customer Centricity Essay

Best Buy Co. , Inc. is a specialty audio retail company that, through its unique marketing methods and willingness to risk and experiment, has expanded unto numerous subsidiaries across and among continents for providing consumer electronic products and services. It adopts the concept of customer centricity, in which a company’s efforts are designed to align their target and potential clients’ needs, wants, feelings, and behavioral patterns. Though they have incurred considerable challenges and losses along the way, Best Buy Co. , Inc. ’s journey to the business accomplishment has been one that has garnered them extensive experience and strong business disposition that has truly worked not only for their principle and processes but more importantly on their development. Marketing Case Study: Best Buy Co. , Inc. and Customer Centricity Best Buy’s Top Concern: Understanding of Consumer Behavior Best Buy Inc. , Co. has made it of great importance to center their business and marketing trade operations on better recognizing and identifying the how’s, why’s, and what’s behind their consumers’ approach dynamics to electronic retail purchasers. Philip Kotler defines consumer behavior as â€Å"the study of how individuals, groups, and organizations select, buy, use, and dispose of good, services, ideas, or experiences to satisfy their needs and wants† (Kotler, Keller, Ang, Leong, Tan, 2006, p. 179), which Best Buy has made their top priority through and through. With a humble beginning as â€Å"The Sound of Music† during the mid-nineteen sixties, Best Buy initially suffered a disaster blow which they quickly translated to building a sense of customer relations and, in every extent, better brand recall. As Store Service Manager Joe Brandt emphasized, â€Å"When the tornado hit, we decided to market to the community as a whole, and get electronics out there to everybody. We geared our selves up to win by understanding what consumers want in technology,†Ã¢â‚¬â€Best Buy has not only managed to turn the most unfortunate of circumstances into positive output, but they also exuded their willingness to identify who their consumers were, why they purchase from them, and what would make them happy (Author’s Last Name, Year, p. 139). During the steady growth through the mid-nineteen eighties, Best Buy wanted to keep the customer connection they have started. Thus, they broke away from traditional business sales by â€Å"eliminating commissioned sales representatives† (Author’s Last Name, Year, p. 139). Despite having experienced momentary financial woes, the company pushed through furthering circumstances. Amidst many adjustments, significant acquisitions of Geek Squad and Magnolia Audio and Video were made possible. Today, Best Buy is more equipped to depart from individual selling and is capable of providing better, wider, and more customer-focused services, from in-store, home, and office computer services needs. Focusing on the end-users, the development in understanding the various attributes the customers and clients led to the company’s five segment priority. This meant that discovering more about who their clients really are and how their clients shop for their electronics meant that in-store service processes could be further developed to suit their target consumers and those others in between who do get their electronics needs at Best Buy. The five segment priority not only gave them the opportunity for bettering customer service and knowledge, but also with customers’ and their respective segments as the focal point of all operations, personalization even in a the setting of business relations were made possible and sustainable. The process which Best Buy Inc. , Co. started and revolved centrally on different aspects for their customers, of which they were able to maintain through out and has been key their growth and success which translated to â€Å"1,172 stores, 140,000 employees, and $35. 9 billion in revenue† and world-wide business achievement and recognition (Author’s Last Name, Year, p. 139). Best Buy’s Journey through Customer Centricity With the employment of customer centricity as the company’s foremost business principle, Best Buy has learned many business lessons which they had to accept, adjust, balance, and realize as either forms in reward or drawback. The most obviously beneficial characteristic of customer centricity which provided Best Buy with a strong sustainable business advantage is its soaring customer relations. Creating an atmosphere wherein customers are not only comfortable but also confident that all their electronic needs and concerns shall be tended and answered in any Best Buy store. Through building individual customer rapport, Best Buy creates a business situation where brand retention, customer service, quality product, and service offering are all and more associated with their name and reputation. However, in considering the whole process of adaptation, the company underwent some difficulties. In the early-on stages that led to the principle acclimatization, Best Buy experienced an increase of expenses and a decline of profits when they decided to deviate slowly from doing business via sales representatives. Additionally, this move was critically queried by analysts, but more importantly, it was greatly identified and appreciated by the customers. As the market for consumer electronics slowed down, Best Buy continued to differentiate their style of business from the competition. Hence, risk was its key catalyst that brought success, though accompanied by some hardships. In creating the five-customer segment priority—Barry, the affluent professional, Jill, the soccer mom, Carrie and Buzz, early adopters, Ray, practical adopter, and Small business—Best Buy financially endeavored through the company’s vision of centering on the customer and were prepared to incur loses to better understand the inner-workings of their consumer. Within each segment, all had specific needs and features to which Best Buy fittingly offered solutions both product and service-wise. In the process of appreciating and grasping the purchasing techniques of their customers, Best Buy realized the need for financial pre-requisite that the adaptation entails to substantiate the processes and services to better fit the client, via the trialing of â€Å"lab† stores. These lab stores stood as an evidential gauge on who customers would receive, react, and respond to â€Å"product offerings, store designs and service offering targeted at each segment† (Author’s Last Name, Year, p. 140). In the transition of adopting, Best Buy computed costs up to $600,000 to qualify a specific store outlet as customer centric. However, it all paid off since it was positively acknowledged and received by its customers (relatively performing better, compared to the average chain counterpart). Thus, it spearheaded the formal integration of Customer Centricity throughout all its stores. With this, the identification of customer qualities had to be more specific, as they had fleetingly overlooked the differences between men and women as consumer electronics shoppers. Yet, with extensive research and tuning, consumer markets further distinguished their full potential was explored and utilized. Best Buy’s Pursuit to Accommodate Male and Female Market Shopping Qualities The constricting soccer mom segment seemed to limit the female market. â€Å"Research showed that women spend $68 billion on consumer electronics each year and influence 89 percent of all purchases. † This suggests that there is much potential for profits and improving female customer relations for Best Buy (Author Last Name, Year, p. 140). In addition to this, in terms of their shopping style, â€Å"men tend to be independent, whereas women tend to seek assistance while shopping for electronics† (McGraw-Hill Irwin, n. d. ). With these facts in hand, Best Buy opted to gear their processes even more to better answer the needs of their female market. Incorporating the customer assistant program was also premeditated and established for any and every query the customer has to bring â€Å"personal shopping to the next level† (McGraw-Hill Irwin, n. d. ). The personal shopping assistant not only facilitates the discussion of the clients’ electronic needs, but they also thoroughly explain key benefits on how and why certain electronic products would impact the lives of the customers, relating them on a personal level at each transaction, which favors the more dependent shopping style of women. Also, after broadening the Jill segment, Best Buy modified their in-store design for women, from color theme, lay-out, and displays of kitchen vignettes to packages, to house more appropriately their needs and thus, be more â€Å"female friendly† (McGraw-Hill Irwin, n. d. ). Best Buy Co. , Inc. truly adapted a system in which customer comes first, in every possible business and marketing scenario and circumstance. Through centricity, Best Buy elevated their brand and brand of service which put them in a class of their own, above from competition, beyond traditional marketing, and in the minds of their customers. References Kotler, P. , Keller, K. L. , Ang, S. H. , Leong, S. M. , Tan, C. T. (2006). Marketing Management: An Asian Perspective (Fourth Edition). Singapore: Prentice Hall. McGraw-Hill Irwin. (Producer). (n. d. ). Best Buy: Using Customer Centricity to Connect with Customers [Case Study Video]. Retrieved February 20, 2009 from http://www. mhhe. com/business/marketing/kerin9e/video/Ch05_BestBuy. swf. Last Name, First Initial (Author). (Year). Book Title. (Edition). New York: McGraw Hill Irvin.