I need help with the book called warriors dont cry Essay Example for Free

I need help with the book called warriors dont cry EssayOluwatemi Kukoyi December 3. 2013 English Period 7 Gang Violence Death of a Friend In the united States, there are over 1. 4 million gang members. With such small percentage of the U. S, their the reason why virtually kids such as Isaac Johnson, 17 years old killed by the crossfire are fearing for their life every day. They say dont blame the streets, blame the people in it. I look back, and see all the Hard work America have done to change the life styles of Gang Bangers. Based on the results, on the streets. d what the Media have been embracing, it seems that America have been doing absolutely nothing. His name was Mike. I usually wouldnt say not Like Mike as of In the movie, but, in this case, he was Like Mike All he wanted to do was play Basketball, There was never a time when he was bored, beca put on basketball is what hell be playing. He was smart on the streets but, not too bright when it came down to books. He was my best friend, my right hand man, every time I looked at his face, I see a wallet wide of enJamln bills, because I knew with his talent, and he would make It to the true court (NBA).The court raised him, but, the streets changed him. Mike hated school. He would accept graduating with Ds down his report card, and be proud of It. He didnt care. He was save in it, to Just get out of his life. I use to see mike outside around the corner sometimes, smoking weed, and with gang affiliates. remember It like It was yesterday, or 5 minutes ago. I was home, argus-eyed up from a nap from school. I went in the kitchen to get a nice cold bowl cereal. The border rang. One of my good friends whispered through the phone in a dreadful tone that mike was died.And when heard that, it felt like I have died also. walked in my bed with a limp of sorrow, and upright cried. I swallowed my Machoness and swallowed my pride. I felt as If I was handicap. That my right hand man was killed, that the pain w ill never go away. skipped school for weeks. My mind was full of questions. At that point, I really didnt care, but for only to get my friend back. I need help with the book called warriors dont cry by melba beals By Jamesthegreatl 2 Oluwafemi Kukoyi December 3,2013 In the United States, there are over 1. million gang members. With such small streets, and what the Media have been embracing, it seems that America have been His name was Mike. I usually wouldnt say not Like Mike as of in the movie, but, in this case, he was Like Mike All he wanted to do was play Basketball. There was never a time when he was bored, because basketball is what hell be playing. He was benJamin bills, because I knew with his talent, and he would make it to the real court ccept graduating with Ds down his report card, and be proud of it.He didnt care. I remember it like it was yesterday, or 5 minutes ago. I was home, waking up from mike was died. And when I heard that, it felt like I have died also. I walke d in my bed with a limp of sorrow, and Just cried. I swallowed my Machoness and swallowed my pride. I felt as if I was handicap. That my right hand I skipped school for weeks. My mind was full of questions. At that point, I really didnt care, but for only to get my friend back.

Minds Are Opened Only When Hearts Are Opened Essay Example for Free

Minds Are Opened Only When Hearts Are Opened Es jointMinds atomic number 18 like parachutes. They neverthe little function when they are up to(p). James Dewar To create the life that you want, growing as a human being and regularly experiencing a booming lifestyle, you leave behind need a estimation devote to vernal(prenominal) stack, possibilities, ideas and opinions around you. When you have an slack mind you allow your egotism to attract and follow up on opportunities. When you work with the power of the conscious and subconscious mind you will attract opportunities that will bring you what you need for what you radiate you will constantly attract. When you are lively to become creative you will create a vibrant life, while eliminating shun and unwanted situations. Most people think they already hear to others with an open mind, merely by paying close attention to what is being said. In fact, keeping an open mind is not easy to do if you are smart with the way you are doing things and do not see the point of changing.We all have moments, however, when we do listen with an open heart and mind, for example, we are more open to listening to someone we trust. An open mind is an understanding mind which will develop a genuine appreciation for people. When you take the trouble to think of other peoples feelings, their viewpoints and their desires you are saying people are important. An open mind will accept other people unconditionally. It requires the letting go of likes and dislikes and other similar emotions. When you do this you discipline your emotions and you allow people to be who they are with all their idiosyncrasies, differences and irritations. When you are communicating with others there can often be misunderstandings and these can lead to failure in your relations with others.We expect others to react and respond and come to the same conclusions we do over a establishn make up ones mind of facts. Unfortunately, no one reacts to t hings as they are besides to their own rational images they are responding appropriately to what they see as the truth about the situation. An open-minded somebody will ask themselves How does this appear to that person? or, How does that person interpret the situation? and they will try to understand why someone might act otherwise to the way they expected.Many small business owners have faced extinction because they thought they k in the raw it all and were not prepared to have an open mind and listen to others who had been down that path before them. When you are open minded you are always prepared to be teachable, to check up on something revolutionary and take advantage of opportunities that indue themselves. An open mind is the doorway to expansion of ideas. When you open your mind you are not compromising your ethics and values. It just means that you begin to practice a greater sense of awareness and in doing so you areprepared to look at your world a little differentl y. Test opportunities that are presented to you and consider where the message is coming from. It may be from a adept, a neutral party or from a source about which you are sceptical. If you are not sure, instruct your subconscious mind to guide you by simply saying, I am making the right decision. Focus on what you want, not on what you wear outt want. A Closed Mind A closed mind is like a closed book just a block of wood. Chinese Proverb. We have all been given the power to develop ideas and exercise free will. Unfortunately too often those ideas die as a seed and people use their free will to close their mind to the tremendous opportunities surrounding them. This stubbornness prevents them from achieving the goals that they want for themselves and so the opportunity for success is greatly decreased.In our moldable years we grow and develop egos that maintain very particular ideas about ourselves in relation to the world around us. Your ego is your conscious mind, that which c ontrols your behaviour and tries to give meaning to your external, material reality. It is powerful and can control your life if you allow it. Your external reality is a direct result of your mental and spiritual self so if the latter two are not where you want them to be your external and material self will suffer. The ego cannot meliorate the quality of your mental and spiritual life. When you close your mind you essentially become stubborn and become a victim of the ego mind which says, My military capability is right despite what anyone else has to say. The ego mind, although it thinks it knows better than anyone else, is never prepared to leave its comfort zone and so is not open to advanced ideas nor will it welcome others into its world.This kind of attitude shuts you off from the process of life and nature which is about growing and experiencing new possibilities. Think about how many times you were resistant to trying something new only to eventually give in and discover that you really enjoyed the process. Limitations are the jail of the mind so if you can throw off the shackles and open your mind to new and exciting ideas, your possibilities become limitless. When the mind is shackled and limited it affects every part of your life, for example, work presentations can lack innovation and impact and even every-day conversations are less productive and rewarding.Conversations often become defensive as the mind closes off to what is being said by others. Society today gives out a negative message that everyone is out to take you down and that if it looks to good to be true, it probably is. This causes many to close their minds to everything beyond their current knowledge. An open mind is a mind that is aware that the current knowledge is not all there is to know and will eagerly investigate possibilities. When you have a closed mind to new and exciting possibilities you essentially tell yourself that you are not willing to go the extra mile that you are not willing to growand experience new things. You have now switched off the power within you and there can be no change and no progress in life and things will never improve. Such people become very introspective and weak. The old recordings of the past can, however, be changed. If you choose, you can wipe the old record clean, put on a new record and make a decision to activate the positive thoughts which lead to a relaxed and open view of the world. Remember, the past explains how you got to the present but where you go from here is your responsibility. In his book A Vision of Power Glory, washstand Kehoe gives a Zen parable about two monks who are on a journey together when they come to a river. By the river there is a beautiful woman. The woman asks them, Please will one of you monks carry me crosswise the river? The river is too wide and the current too swift. The two monks look at one another, because they have taken a sacred vow to not so much as even touch a woman.The n, abruptly, the older monk picks up the woman, carries her across the river and puts her down on the other side. They continue on their journey. The young monk is flabbergasted. He cant believe it. An hour goes by and not a word is spoken between them. Two hours. Three hours. And finally, later four hours, he turns to the older monk and blurts out, How could you have done that? How could you have carried that woman? Oh? responds his companion, Are you still carrying her? I put her down four hours ago. John Kehoe goes on to say, How much are we still carrying around inside us that should have been put down a long time ago?Disappointments dec failures grudges. How much junk are we carrying around inside us and how long are we going to carry it? All our life? If you want to change and improve your attitude to life then it is imperative that you keep an open mind. That is not to say you will be taken in by every louche scheme that may be put before you. An open mind is curious and i nvestigative and examines new things. Your creative power system uses your conscious and subconscious mind to attract, explore and check out new opportunities so that you can begin achieving your goals and creating the life you want.Dont limit yourself learn how to attract new possibilities and make the right decisions by developing the power of your mind and heart. If you move in your community with an open mind and an open heart you can learn to accept others. You dont have to agree with them, but accept who they are and feel free to express yourself. I remember a friend of ours who has passed on now, who was well-known and well-liked in community affairs. He met many people as he moved around and sometimes in a company he would be heard to say, Theres a fellow over there I met recently and I didnt like him I must go over and get to know him better. He would always come away with a new-found friend now thats an open mind and open heart.

How The Media Influences Public And Political Opinions Media Essay

How The Media Influences Public And Political Opinions Media EssayThis essay ending draw on a range of scholars to show and exempt how the media ask actd public and policy-making opinion on controversial scientific and technical issues like bio technology, na nonechnology, cloning and transmitted modifications. This essay on the one extend to will argue and show how the media exert enchants on the perceptions of the public and policy-makers. On the other hand, it will object this nonion by showing that the media do not ultimately determine public and political opinions. Finally, a conclusion will be drawn and ideas for further research in this field will be highlighted.Plein (1991) explains that ergonomics refers to the subprogram of recombinant DNA techniques, cell fusion and bio-processing techniques to modify life forms for various research and commercial uses (ibid 474). Biotechnology and other technical scientific issues have attr proceeded intense media tutelage t hat it has become a fundamental aspect of an everlasting public and political consult.According to Hansen (2006), discourse and research ab egress biotechnology began to puddle prominence in the 1990s and as a result of the increasing public and political controversy surrounding biotechnology, a wealth of studies has examined the nature and phylogenesis of public discourse on genetics/biotechnology representations in press, film and other media (ibid 816).Durant et al (1998) describe biotechnology as the third strategic technology of the post-war period (ibid 189). Durant et al (1998) describe biotechnology as strategic because it has been seen to carry the potential to transform our future (ibid 189).Biotechnology is said to possess benefits like unseasoned-made diagnoses and therapies to eliminate diseases, new crop varieties to eliminate world hunger (Durant et al 1998 189), whilst feared for its threats to biodiversity (see Durant et al, 1998).A controversial scientific iss ue like biotechnology was in its earliest stages surrounded by scepticism and disputes. According to Nelkin (1995), one of the earliest disputes over biotechnology applications focused on the field testing of ice minus, genetically modify microbes intended to inhibit water crystallisation and protect strawberries from frost injury (Nelkin, 1995 58). Nelkin (1995) emphasised that environmental groups were worried over the health hazards that this novel technology posed. Nelkin (1995) explained further that news reports of the ice minus test presented images which were striking and provocative (ibid 258).Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) point out that modern biotechnologys thirty-year old history has been inherently political (ibid 360). The media are at the fore-front of this political controversy concerning biotechnology. Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) state that the mass media comprise the principal arena where policy relevant issues come to the attention of decision-makers, interest g roups and the public (ibid 360). This is perhaps why Nisbet and Huge (2006) noted that media reportage is likely to both reflect and shape policy indicate (ibid 14).In policy processes at first instance, the influence of the media comes in early as they determine what issues will be addressed by the policy-makers. These issues are usually generated by mass fear and scepticism created by the media. In the early stages of political policy processes, the influence of decision-makers can be direct when they manage to keep decision making behind closed doors from public or media attention (Nisbet and Lewenstein, 2002 361). However, the progress of such clandestine decision making often results in the mobilization of bias (Nisbet and Lewenstein, 2002 361). That is, decisions made unless reflect the interest of current members over others (see Nisbet and Lewenstein, 2002 361).Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) explain that if this interest succeeds in controlling media and public attention, t hen it has succeeded in controlling media and public agenda (Nisbet and Lewenstein, 2002 361). However, Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) point out that if such issues come along in the media and an interest can define their stand as advantageously as alternatives avail qualified for discussions (ibid 361), then they have succeeded in delimiting arguments that oppositions can make and check them off from participation (Berkwitz, 1992, cited in Nisbet and Lewenstein, 2002 361). This therefore relates to controversial scientific issues where different media frames are created by conflicting groups in order for their voices to be heard by the public and policy-makers. Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) importantly note that policy-makers are aware of the importance of the media in influencing policy outcomes.Nisbet and Huge (2006) identify framing as a key weapon used by the media to influence public and political opinions. Nisbet and Huge (2006) emphasise that frames are thought organisers, devices for packaging complex issues in a persuasive counselling by focusing on certain interpretations over others, suggesting what is relevant about an issue and what should be ignored (Ferree et al, 2002, cited in Nisbet and Huge, 2006 11). Frames are hence the tools that the media use to successfully exert influences on political and public attitudes towards biotechnology and other controversial scientific issues. The frames help guide policy-makers and citizen evaluation about causes, consequences of an issue and what should be done with(p) (Ferree et al, 2002, cited in Nisbet and Huge, 2006 11). In the case of biotechnology which attracted negative media coverage in the 1990s (see Nisbet and Huge, 2006) media frames could however be an antidote to suppress the negativity associated with it. These frames will act as an educative tool to reduce public scepticism and influence political opinion. Nisbet and Huge (2006) emphasise further that plant biotechnology has been ethical ly inclose in a promotional light, emphasising the moral duty to pursue a gene revolution that could end world hunger (Nisbet and Huge, 2006 11).Plein (1991) emphasised that biotechnology straight off is organism associated with positive economic themes such as patent rights, international trade, research funding and regulatory policy (Plein, 1991 475). This is as a result of the efforts of a well-organised coalition to define biotechnology in positive basis (ibid 475). This has in any case been achieved by brilliant media-agenda setting techniques which have influenced public and political opinion positively. iodine will emphasise that this is because these well-organised agenda-setters present the beneficial aspects of this controversial technology to the media and the media in-turn influence positively the notions of biotechnology in political and public fronts.Plein (1991) importantly notes the reason for the go down in biotechnology scepticism was due to its application t o the fields of agriculture, industry and medicine (Plein, 1991 476). Marks et al (2007) however, pointed out that the news medias coverage on the aesculapian features of biotechnology has been positive compared to that of the agricultural features. In point, Marks et al (2007) stated that negative public opinion regarding agricultural biotechnology reflects the bureau of the news media.On the other hand, Plein (1991) pointed out that as a result of poor-organisation in the years of 1968 to 1980, the pro-biotechnology community were exposed to a hostile climate of opinion (Plein,1991 475). This negative influence on public and political opinions concerning biotechnology was as a result of scientists being primarily interested in scientific freedom and protection from regulatory intrusion by political science (ibid 476), rather than use the media to educate citizens on the blessings of biotechnology which would hence influence positive political and public opinions.Nevertheless, the 1980s tag a turning point in biotechnology history (Plein, 1991 476) as it turned from being a dangerous pursuit of another weapon in Americas competitive arsenal (ibid 476) to being a technology deserving inexhaustible accolades. Biotechnology has been made to be seen by citizens as one of the biggest scientific successes through brilliant agenda-setting techniques. In fact, Nelkin (1987 40) emphasised that in the media ,biotechnology underwent a metamorphosis from a runaway science of genetic engineering to a new technological barrier (cited in Plein, 1991 476). In the political arena, the climate of opinion changed dramatically as biotechnology and its features began to dominate policy processes (see Plein, 1991). One can say therefore that well organised media campaigns can revolutionise an issue that was before deemed dangerous and harmful to the society.Plein (1991) further explains that the ability of biotechnology to be defined in positive terms was as a result of its alliance with well-established groups which provided an opportunity for mediation and therefore influenced public and political opinion. Plein (1991) noted that the cultivation of support with well-established groups and businesses provided a better atm for policy considerations and media coverage which hence reduces public scepticism. This therefore reflects the influential power of the media. For instance, a well established group like the London biotechnology network, a network of over 800 organisations which began in year 2000 has further helped reduce biotechnology scepticism through mediation (londonbiotechnology.co.uk).Plein (1991) writes further that another reason for the positive media influence on public and political opinion was as a result biotechnology supporters to disassociate biotechnology from negative issues such as environmental risk of exposure and ethical ambiguity (Plein, 1991 480). This further provided an opportunity for media coverage as scientific groups were able to frame biotechnology in terms of its benefits to economic growth and development. Plein (1991) explained that these groups were also able to use the media to increase political support as they predicted that biotechnology can play an important role in reversing Americas declining role in the spherical market place (ibid 481). One will assert that such prediction makes biotechnology a topical issue for the media as its coverage on it will garner more support thereby pushing policy-makers to take biotechnology into important consideration.Biotechnology proponents have also been able to frame this technology in the media as not being novel or alien rather it is a benign, incremental technology (Plein, 1991 481). Therefore, it has been able to disassociate itself from common fears that it is a new form of technology fraught with dangers (ibid 481). Biotechnology has also been seen to dominate media agenda because of its association with already media-worthy topics (a perio d where science reporting became on the increase) therefore it has been able to draw the media to its side thereby communicating to the public and policy-makers the blessings of this technology. Hence, it influences a positive public and political opinion.This technology according to Plein (1991) has been able to attract favourable media coverage because of its ability to undercut the positions of anti-biotechnology groups. The coverage of this conflict further boosts the confidence of citizens and policy-makers that biotechnology is indeed beneficial.However, Plein (1991) importantly notes that such well-organised coalition frames are never secure in its fortunes (ibid 484). That is, the issues and events that attracted media coverage and gave biotechnology its stamp of legitimacy will likely pass (ibid 484). This is because other questions will emerge which cannot be effectively answered and therefore the medias coverage of this debate will influence public and political scepticis m. This top executive be due to the emergence of competition among proponents of biotechnology (ibid 484) who have issues with differing priorities and agenda (ibid 484). Hence, the controversy is re-built by the media as such scandals and conflicts add sensation and spice to their stories thereby creating and influencing public and political uncertainty.Scientists have even pointed out that their major reason for involving the media in biotechnology issues is for it to give its influential power in public education (Nisbet and Lewenstein, 2002 363). This is important as such education will reduce public and political fear.Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) also pointed out that scientists are not further the ones involved in capitalizing on the medias influence. Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) explain that in the early 1980s, media coverage was characterized by biotechnology promotion. Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) showed that even policy-makers after being influenced also attempted to s hape biotechnology strategically to influence positive public opinion. This is because policy-makers after being educated and influenced considered biotechnology development critical to home(prenominal) economic growth, international competitiveness and global security (Krimsky, 1991, cited in Nisbet and Lewenstein, 2002 364). These considerations are therefore sounded-out more by the media, thereby exerting influences on public opinion. In fact Nisbet and Lewenstein (2002) point to a 1984 OFFICE OF TECHNOLOGY (OTA) assessment report that uncritically characterized biotechnology as a possible solution to many of the worlds health problems including malnutrition, disease, vim availability and pollution (cited in Nisbet and Lewenstein, 2002). These characteristics will be highly reflected in the medias report agenda and will hence influence positive public opinion.However, biotechnology opponents were also active in using the media to present it as being associated with environmental risks and hazards. This is perhaps why Nisbet and Huge (2006) stated that as a result of the agenda-setting techniques of biotechnology opponents in the 1990s, the media attention garnered by them increased the controversy and scepticism towards this technology. Nevertheless, as part of the power game of politics, advocates for biotechnology still aimed to frame biotechnology positively in order to gain favourable coverage and hence influencing public and political attitudes.Priest (2001) emphasises that journalists have been accused of only covering the controversies associated with biotechnology as this is reflected in public attitudes towards it. Since news serves as a primary source of risk communication (Marks et al, 2007 184), it only goes to show that the coverage of the risks of biotechnology will influence the publics idea of it. Marks et al (2007) state that it is the media who spark up public concern about a potential hazard (ibid 184). Biotechnology has been accorded me dia attention and such media dominance influences the priority accorded to it by the general public (McCombs and Ghanem, 2001 67, cited in Marks et al, 2007 184). Priest (2001) states further, that even institutions within the biotechnology industry seek to use the media to frame public perceptions of policy issues in ways they feel will be to their advantage as well (Plein, 1991, cited in Priest, 2001 31). This further proves the influential power of the media.Priest (2001) importantly notes that the medias influence on the public will determine the influence on public officials. This is because public officials tend to respond in bank line with that of the public. In fact, Priest (2001) affirms this as she writes that when the U.S public responds with vigor to particular perceived threats to public safety, this often seems to come as a shock to stakeholder corporate interests and government officials alike (ibid 52).Durant et al (1998) alike, explain that with the development of biotechnology, public debate and criticism increased and in response, policy processes became sensitive to public opinion. The generation of public debate towards this issue can be tied to the media who as a result of the news-worthiness of this technology, cover its merits and de-merits which influences public and political opinion.However in Lewenstein (2005)s account, the medias influence on policy-makers does not automatically lead to an influence in public attitudes. This could be seen in the attempt of policy makers and activists attempting to generate a positive consensus towards a G.M Nation. Contrary to what policy-makers might have hoped for, given the intense media coverage which it attracted, no consensus was reached. Nevertheless, Bauer (2002)s research from 1996 to 1999 confirmed that opinions of biotechnology became negative which was in line with the medias coverage of biotechnology during this period (see Bauer, 2002 103).Nucci and Kubey (2007) in their account emph asise that the media play a vital role in the public awareness and understanding of new innovations in science in the genetic engineering of fodder products for human consumption (Nucci and Kubey, 2007 149).Nucci and Kubey (2007) write that the experience that the majority of the public have with genetics and biotechnology means that news coverage has a strong influence on theses subjects (Nucci and Kubey, 2007 149). In fact, Priest (1999) emphasises that the media possess the ability to influence public opinion on science and technology than other issues (cited in Nucci and Kubey, 2007 149). In fact, Nucci and Kubey (2007) noted that the PEW foundation found that the U.S publics intimacy of G.M food tends to be driven mostly by the degree to which it is covered by the media (PEW first ON FOOD BIOTECHNOLOGY, 2006 cited in Nucci and Kubey, 2007 171). This further proves the argument that indeed the media is responsible for influencing public and political opinion on controversial scientific issues.A particular(prenominal) example of the media having an influence on political opinion was the period of the great G.M food debate (P.O.S.T, 2000). The publics suspicion about it drove the media to campaign against G.M foods which led to a heated public debate.However, it should be carefully noted that the power of the media influencing political processes should not be overstated as G.M food was already a major controversial issue in the British Parliament (P.O.S.T, 2000).In a specific case-study concerning G.M foods Larry Bohlen in 2000 suspected that StarLink a genetically modified corn mixture that had been approved for animal feed had began to mix with common food products such as corn dogs, taco shells and tortilla chips (cited in Nisbet and Huge, 2006 4). Bohlen predicted that this mixture will lead to good allergic reactions (cited in Nisbet and Huge, 2006 5). Bohlen was able to capitalize on this media-worthy issue to influence public and political opi nion. Despite attracting press attention, it did not gather the public and political attitudes it needed to disapprove G.M foods.On the other hand, recent news stories have shown that G.M foods are becoming acceptable and popular. Despite the scare for G.M food, the Royal Society has argued that G.M food research was needed to urgently avoid food crisis as this will help crops survive harsher climates as populations grow and global warming worsens (Guardian.co.uk, 21/10/09). G.M food is being developed further as meat is being laboratory grown from cells. Scientists at the University of Technology in Eindhoven confirmed that in a few years long strips of this artificially grown meat will become a part of our everyday frank-furter sausages. However it is agreed that this will only be achieved through super-human advertising before the world can accept to eat genetically modified meat (Guardian.co.uk, 1/12/09).In growth to biotechnology, other technologies like cloning and nanotechno logy have become part of an increasing controversy.According to Lee et al (2005), media coverage on nanotechnology could have affective and cognitive influences on public opinion. Lee et al (2005) explain that the cognitive influences on public attitudes towards nanotechnology are based on the extent of the scientific literacy of the reader. Lee et al (2005) explain that those who have been influenced more affectively may be tied to media influences. This is perhaps why Lee et al (2005) in their research even confirmed that only science media use had direct influence on general support for nanotechnology (ibid 253).However, Cobb (2005) pointed out that framing nanotechnology in terms of its benefits did not increase respondents trust in industry leaders (ibid 233).The Wellcome Trust (1998) found that peoples negative attitudes towards cloning was drawn from examples expressed in popular media culture. Science fiction films were part of the major influences on peoples attitudes towar ds cloning. For example, Frankenstein, Brave new world and the boys from Brazil (Wellcome trust report, 1998).In conclusion, one would have to state that reading newspaper articles or any medium being consumed that ascribes all sorts of accolades to biotechnology, nanotechnology, and cloning does not necessarily determine a positive public attitude. As Lee et al (2005) found that people use their knowledge about science in general in order to evaluate possible risks and benefits (ibid 260).Finally, one will suggest that studies of biotechnology should move past the western world into the third-world were food crisis are on the increase in order to show whether the scepticism towards artificially made food is a western ideology. occur of words 3,285.

Banking Industry Analysis: Zimbabwe And India

trusting Indus yield Analysis Zimbabwe And IndiaBanking constancy is the study player in wholly(prenominal) rurals parsimoniousness, and it influences the growth and prosperity of a nation. The following surroundingsal analysis seeks to look at the banking Industry in Zimbabwe and India especi each(prenominal)y with regard to the PESTLE (Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, Environmental) factors and how they need a bearing on the industry. It will promote look at Porters five forces videlicet New entrants, Threat of Substitutes, Power of Suppliers, Power of buyers and Competitive rivalry. In doing so, a brief score is important as it gives a mile view of the origins and development of the industry. . Based on these factors a comparative analysis is d maven amongst the two countries1 Zimbabwe Banking Industry Analysis.BackgroundWhen Zimbabwe attained its independence in 1980, the majority of banks were foreign owned. It was not until 1981 when the governmen t acquired stakes in two banks namely Nedbank and Bank of Credit and Commerce of 62% and 49% respectively. Apart from stakes in these two individual banks, the government wholly owned and directed the trading operations of the central bank, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ). The Reserve Bank is the policing authority for the industry formulating policy direction through periodic monetary policy statements. Indigenous monomania and new entrants into the industry was not until mid to late 90s when a number of banks were registered (Makoni, 2010).Until mid to late 90s, Zimbabwe was regarded as a model developing African estate with a small but strong banking industry. Agriculture was the backbone of frugal growth with mining, manufacturing and tourism complementing it. The industry therefore benefited from a strong economy until things changed in the late 90s as a will of negative economic and political policies adopted by the government.Political FactorsSince independence from B ritain in 1980, Zimbabwe has been under the leadership of electric chair Robert Mugabe through his political party ZANU PF. The country was virtually under a one party state system with no credible opposition until 1999 when a new political party entered the political field. The political environment was however shelter with the international community having confidence in the way the country was governed. As a result Zimbabwe was experiencing strong economic growth due to the international support and such growth was reflected positively upon the banking sector, as it was working effectively. International lines of deferred payment from international financiers such as the World Bank and IMF were made available benefiting the banking industry immensely. There was however a sudden change of fortune in the industry when Zimbabwe embarked upon a controversial land reform program around year 2000. The process was chaotic and often violent with the international community condemning it. That resulted in Zimbabwes isolation from the international community. somewhat countries such as the U.S.A and the E.U introduced sanctions against professorship Mugabes government as a way of protesting against his policies (U.S Department of Treasury, 2010). Zimbabwes banking industry reeled under sanctions. Some banks especially foreign owned such as Barclays Bank had to agglomeratescale their operations as the conditions were no longer conducive to support a fill in banking portfolio (The Independent, 2010). The country is unflustered under sanctions, arguably targeted to President Mugabes inner circle members. Because of that, banks do not direct access to foreign sources of capital and cannot enter into strategic alliances with well-nigh western banks who fear the political occurrence in Zimbabwe. A new government of national unity was recently formed to dilute President Mugabe era. The change has not had a significant positive impact on the industry as it is sti ll new with vague views rough economic development. unless the government recently launched a short circumstance re topy program in 2009, in order to stabilize the economy with a focus on multi currency due to the inflated exchange rate of the US dollar against the local anesthetic currency. That left the industry without a long term view of economic direction (The World Bank, 2010).Economic FactorsZimbabwes economy is characterised by negative economic growth, richly unemployment, high interest rates and absence of foreign investment funds. The economic situation started to deteriorate in the early 90s when Zimbabwe embarked on an Economic Structural Adjustment Program, ESAP supported by IMF and the World Bank.Although the intended benefits were to grow the economy and create jobs, the diametrical actually happened (The World Bank, 2010). The economy started to shrink. It was further exacerbated by the sanctions imposed after a chaotic land reform program earlier mentioned tog ether with mismanagement by the government. Banks were not and still do not gull access to cut-price sources of capital as a result. The people is poor and characterised by high unemployment levels. According to an AFP report (2009), such negative economic factors have been haunting the banking industry particularly in the last 10 years. Poor lot atomic number 18 exchangeablely not to save, a situation that is negative for the banking industry. On the other hand, the rise in inflation coupled with the devaluation of the Zimbabwe dollar meant banks could not adsubgenus Pastor with depositors need for daily notes withdrawals. Around 2003 and 2004, some banks collapsed while others were put under curatorship (Africa Monitor Southern Africa, 2008). Those which survived had to limit their exposure to risks (Marawanyika, 2010). Although the situation has alter as a result of a power sharing government, banks still do not enjoy the benefits of a wide product portfolio as some p roducts are still non-implementable. Good examples are lack of long term mortgages and credit cards. Banks remain uncertain as to the economic in store(predicate) and therefore are concentrating on products which are short term.Another factor which badly affected the banking system was the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe forcing private banks to acquire quantity of its related papers, and also to add up it free the compulsory statutory reserve of 40%, which is considered the highest in the world. Moreover, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe also forced pecuniary institutions to use the excess surplus cash to invest in securities. Such influence significantly affected the performance of the banking sector (Africa Monitor Southern Africa, 2008)Social FactorsZimbabwe has a population of around 13 million. There has been a steady outflow of people to other countries as a result of economic difficulties. Estimates put the number of Zimbabweans living outside the country to 4.5 million (Sunday Mail , 2010). That is a very(prenominal) significant percentage of the population. The end result is a population that is too small to sustain a vibrant banking industry. plenty who migrated to other countries are the middle age group, the very core of middle class society. In addition, emigration has starved the industry of essential expertise indispensable to run the banking industry efficiently as the educated and qualified left for greener pastures. Before the recession, Zimbabwes banking industry was already under stress and some of it is attributed to lack of right(a) management and lack of innovativeness. To compound the emigration problem, the country has been beset by HIV/ aid epidemic which seem to affect the productive ages. It is estimated that 14.3 % of the population was infect with the virus as of 2007, (UN report, 2009). Although the problem is not uniquely a banking industry problem, it has affected the way the industry operates by taking away both(prenominal) pot ential guests and the expertise needed to run the industry.Technological FactorsAlthough Zimbabwe is a third world country, it is generally doing intimately in terms of technology. The country has seen an early introduction of ATMs in almost all cities and tourist destinations. ATM technology was first adopted around 1990 when two of the industry players Standard Chartered Bank and CABS introduced ATMs. Since then, telephone banking and online banking have been introduced as well. The industry is also linked to international big brands such as Visa and Mastercard. Travellers to Zimbabwe will have access to their cash on all ATMs so long they have Visa cards (Barclays Bank Zimbabwe, 2010). ATMs have greatly enhanced the capacity of the industry to reach a wider population and cover geographic areas which would have been costly Although most banks have adopted internet banking, the usage total are still very low (Thulani et al. 2009)Legal FactorsAlthough the Zimbabwean government h ad little interference in the banking industry prior to 2003, the situation has since changed significantly. Government enacted diverse legislations meant to police the operations of the industry. This was necessitated by the collapse of some banks resulting in loss of depositors funds. As a way of protecting the earthly concern from such incidences, the government raised the minimum capital requirements needed to open and operate banks, both commercial and discount houses. The minimum is currently set at $12.5 million. This new capital requirement has not been easy due to the industrys inability to access cheap sources of capital.Further affecting the industrys ability to raise to a greater extent capital and funds is the new government legislation requiring all companies to have a minimum local majority shareholding of 51%. Foreign investors with an interest in the industry can barely take up the remaining 49%. (Zimbabwe Mail, 2010) This has not gone down well with foreign inv estors who feel the legislation strips them of their ability to manage and have an influence on their investments.As a way of trying to fight the AIDS epidemic, the government introduced a levy on banking profits towards an AIDS fund administered by the National Social Security Authority, NSSA. The rate is 3% across all income levels with banks however levied at a much higher rate of 5 % compared to other industries and individuals. This has the effect of reducing the amount available to shareholders.Environmental Factors.Zimbabwe does not have legislation compelling companies and businesses to direct their resources towards the environment and corporate social responsibility activities outside of the Aids levy earlier mentioned. It is truly lagging behind in this area. The banking industry, like any other industry has instead concentrated on its own survival with little regard to environmental issues.Industry Analysis by Porters forces.Porter explains and argues that there are five forces which determine the industrys profitability and attractiveness. These are threat of new entrants, threat of substitutes, bargaining power of buyers, bargaining power of suppliers and the stop of rivalry between existing competitors. Some of the forces mentioned above have limit applicability to banking because of the nature of the industry. An example is the substitute factor. The banking industry in general has limited room for substitutes. Looking at the banking history in Zimbabwe, there was a time soon after independence when suppliers had the power in the market because opposition was very low. There were a few(prenominal) players in the industry and customers were even lucky to be accepted to open a bank account. As the government liberalised the industry, more than indigenous players came in making competition very stiff.Currently, there is little differentiation which banks can apply to have an urge over others. Rivalry is very high and the areas of differentiat ion come from good customer service and degree of risk expected. The collapse of some banks around 2003 and 2004 has left the market and customers jittery about which banks to be entrusted with their deposits. Banks with adequate capital such as Standard Bank and Barclays Bank have a hawkish advantage over others due to their history of stability. They can use their foreign component of their shareholding structure to mobilise resources.2.0 India Banking Industry Analysis2.1 IntroductionThe Banking Sector in India is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Ministry of Finance (MoF). The banking sector comprises of Nationalised, Private and Public Sector, Cooperative and Foreign banks. A brief history tells us that the nationalisation of 14 largest commercial banks in 1969, and further nationalisation of 6 major private banks in 1980 has completely reformed the banking sector in India (Das and Ghosh, 2006). According to 2010 survey more than 80% of banks in India are na tionalised, 15% are private and cooperative sector banks and the remaining 5% are foreign banks, serving a population of more than 1.1 billion.Political factorsThe thought government and the Ministry of Finance play a decisive role in contributing to the rules and regulations of the industry. A huge turning point came in 1991, when the Finance minister Dr. Manmohan Singh under the Narsimha Committee opened the doors for the Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in the country thus boosting the economy and uplifting the banking industry (Das and Ghosh, 2006). This served as a platform for the future decision making of the rules and regulations and law enforcement for RBI and other financial regulatory bodies. The relaxation of some regulations allowed the major foreign banking corporations to enter the developing Indian economy through mergers or independent setup.Economic factorsNationalisation of the banking sector helped farmers and small industries in India to directly access credit facilities, efficient short and long term loan sanctions and has helped reduce the unemployment rate and further increase the profitability of the money lenders. Interest rates for certain loans are lower than the market rates. For example fodder and agriculture related business and services. This has led to many another(prenominal) nationalised banks giving more importance to social priorities than profit maximisation. Reduction in Statutory Liquidity proportionality (SLR) and Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) has helped the banking sector to increase aptitude. Liberalisation has encouraged competition in the interest rate and services provided by many banks and financial regulatory bodies (J. Sengupta C. Neogi)Social factorsIn spite of the recent downturn in the global economy India was able to attain a growth rate of 8.8 % in the first quarter 2010 (RBI Bulletin, 2010). That means the industry and the agriculture sectors that form the majority of the working population are supplying h uge amount of their disposable incomes to banking and investment corporations to further increase their profits. This change is much obvious in the Cooperative banks and domestic banks regulated by RBI where deposits, repayment of loans, sanction of new loans improved significantly, enhancing industry profitability. Since 1991, due to the outburst of multiple opportunities in national and international industrial and service sectors, the urban and the semi-urban cities have witnessed an increase in educated, high earning individuals who are well associated with their income and investments. Since 2001 the changes in banking norms, stable and long term understanding between the commercial and cooperative banks have helped the banking sector achieve 51% of compounded yearbook rate based on growth, asset quality and profitability (McKinsey and Company, 2010).Technological factorsTechnology is constantly seen as a building block for any industry or economy. With the arrival of the for eign banks and financial corporations, the public, private and cooperative sectors have witnessed a revolutionary support and competition in its technology. As a result of this many banks such as Housing and Finance Corporation (HDFC), ICICI, State Bank of India, Central bank, Union Bank, JK bank, and all major cooperative banks have revolutionized their variant banking products and services. Services like internet and telephone banking, online investment and loan proposals, personalized and premium banking services are available 24 hours a day. Large numbers of ATM outlets have all helped increase the profitability and faculty of their service providers. As a result the year 2001-02 saw 20.83% private sector banks achieving efficiency of more than 100%, and year 2003-04 saw 26.92% private sector banks having productivity of more than 100% (Bodla and Verma Bajaj, 2010). The growth in industrial and outsourcing sectors have boosted foreign exchanges and remittances. This has produc ed a fluent and rich source of income for the banking industry.Legal factorsBanking Regulations Act in 1949 and the Reserve Bank of India Act in 1934 are the major regulations in Indian banking industry. every Indian banks trade and work in accordance to the guidelines of RBI. Due to liberalisation and influence of World Trade Organisation, Indian banking industry adapted to the global banking standards. Indian banks and pay corporations follow the regulations of the Basel Committee, International Monitory Fund (IMF) and International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). (2008)2.7 Environmental factorsThe finance and banking sector is one of the most ripe and rapidly growing sectors in Indian economy. The concentration in banking industry is due to certain core principles, standardization, regulating and supervising of the sector. This has created a frantic scat to stay at the top. To overcome their competitors almost all banks and finance corporations have adopted so cial responsibility measures or environmental concerns (Zuberbhler, 2000). Banks like SBI, HDFC, ICICI etc have undertaken various public and corporate issues seriously and have allocated a sizeable amount of their income on public and environment issues. Recently, the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs in India have set out core elements of CSR for companies and corporations to address. The president speaking at India Corporate Week has urged finance and industrial corporations to assist the government in various programmes knowing for rural economic development (SRI, 2010).Analysis by Porters Five Forces2.8 Bargaining power of buyersBargaining power of buyers is high in Indian banking system because of many reasons. There are lots of alternatives for each customer. Due to the technological advances, buyers know about the market status and position of each bank. Switching cost to duty period the bank is very low, so the customer changes the bank frequently. Almost all bank s give the same service and products, so they cannot charge for extra service and differentiation. Banks try to be customer friendly to attract as many clients as possible.2.9 Bargaining power of suppliersBargaining power of suppliers is less in India due to the stringent rules and regulation of Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Interest rate and degree of differentiation are determined by the RBI, so supplier power is very low. tho at the time of tight liquidity the negotiation capacity of suppliers increase.2.10 New entrantsNew entrants with added services and benefits always pose a threat to the well schematic older and somewhat government owned banks. In India since majority of the banks are nationalized or state owned as seen above, a new foreign bank, always has to come up with some better ideas to attract a specific group of population which is ready to deviate or change its banking environment. In addition, few of them have tried to blend with the Indian market either by partn ering or merging with some Indian nationalized banks, or by exchanging services like use of ATM networks. As a result, foreign and new private banks have realised growth rates of up to 50% while the public sector banks have grown at steady 15% (India Banking, 2010). After the post liberalisation period the banking sector has increased average deposit efficiency especially for State Bank of India and Associates. As for nationalised banks its almost stable and for foreign banks it has declined sharply. The reason for the fall in the foreign banks is due to their attention to cater to only some of the multinational corporations which lured them for starting their services in India (Services Research, 2009).2.11 Threat of substitutesSubstitutes do not pose a greater threat to the banks. However the fact that they still have influence in some of the major rural areas in the form of non-governmental and unregulated co-operative societies always leaves banks watching their backs. (Das and Ghosh, 2006).2.12 Competitive rivalryThe concentration of nationalised banks and their efforts to be the policy maker have given rise to three major concerns Competition, Systemic Stability and difficulty in regulating them (Zuberbhler, 2000). It is believed that competition always fuels growth. The freight shown by banks in terms of employee training programs and technological upgrades have resulted in improved skills and services (Arora and Khanna, 2009). For effective regulation many banks have applied customer centric approach rather than profit oriented approach. This has significantly improved the internal service quality of the banking sector.3.0 Comparison and conclusionBanking industry in India is more diverse as it includes many nationalised public sector banks, foreign banks, private sector banks, co-operative banks and many approved small and medium money lending institutions well serving a population of 1.1 billion. In Zimbabwe the banking industry comprises of governm ent banks, private banks and a few foreign banks serving a comparatively small population of 13 million. The banking industry market is therefore huge in India when considering the population and all related demographics.Considering the fact that agriculture is the backbone in both countries, most of the government policies and initiatives are in favour of agriculture and its related sectors. A best example is Indian governments approval of $12.5 billion Farmers debt relief fund in 2008, which allows banks and other approved money lending institutions to waive a farmers loan after signing an agreement of debt relief. (banknetindia. nd).Indian government is politically more stable than the Zimbabwean government. This has created certainty in the Indian industry compared to its Zimbabwean counterpart. In India all the financial regulatory bodies have formed a supportive environment for the banking and economic industry, and have setup stringent rules and regulations in accordance with the international banking guidelines.Foreign exchange and remittance is an important factor which acts as a yoke between a countrys banking sector and its ability to attract investments from other countries, which provides rich nourishment for the banks. Foreign remittances from industrial activities are practically not present in Zimbabwe whereas in India outsourcing and flourishing economy is maintaining a steady supply of foreign exchange. Though banks in Zimbabwe are earning huge individual foreign remittances from the migrant population, the inviolate banking sector cannot completely sustain itself on that.Global economic instability and recent financial downturns were more felt in Zimbabwe, as compared to India which is relatively more insulated to the effects. Since 2007 Zimbabwe was facing huge hyper-inflationary problems until recently when the country achieved some measure of stability through dollarization of its economy. The inflation at some point reached monstrous l evels affecting the Zimbabwean dollar exchange rate and banks found it extremely difficult to maintain a supply of the dollar. That led to government introducing foreign multi-currency since 2009, especially the US dollar, (Hanke, 2010). puffiness in India has been steady compared to its growth rate and is handled carefully by the Reserve Bank and the finance ministry. This has helped maintain currency supply and is conducive for the banking environment.Technology is one of the major drivers for banking industry not just in India and Zimbabwe but across globe. Technology has helped many foreign banks gain an advantage over government banks in India and also in Zimbabwe. Some of the banking areas revolutionised by technology are ATMs, online banking, phone banking, customer service, foreign exchange etc. Indian banks are highly competitive and have strengthened themselves due to information and technology. They are providing many services and provide value addition which has enabled them to successfully compete with many global, well found and technically sound banking corporations. Zimbabwean banks are comparatively at a preliminary stage and are incorporating value addition and services at a slower rate.Unemployment is a negative driver for banking environment in Zimbabwe. Population migration and AIDS are further deal breakers. Corruption in the government and finance sector is further affecting the banking industry in both countries. Social responsibility is not well adopted in Zimbabwean, whereas almost all major nationalised, private and foreign banks are making huge efforts to be socially responsible in India.

Supply Chain Management Creating Competitive Advantage

release Chain circumspection Creating Competitive AdvantageAccording to extensive Christopher (2005) the yield train quite a little basic exclusivelyy be described as a triangular human relationship between three Cs, the node, the fraternity and competitors. Christopher and Hines (2004) both suggests that the term drawing string should be replaced by nedeucerk as the number of inter-connections between suppliers can be extensive. A well- served supply chain can be a resource that enables an government activity to develop and sustain warlike usefulness in a global commercialise in a volatile economic environment together with attention re-organisation and increases in internet driven gross sales.Supply chains compete not companies is Christophers motto on his web page and summarises how competition is a key sheer for organizations. With the advent of internet shopping there is an abundance of competitors ready to impart ever driveing consumers with the crossroads t hey desire. Consumers want bump quality, immediateer delivery and at a overthrow cost. Individual seames cannot function alone, but buzz off an inter-dependent relationship with integrated supply chains, whose success or failure is ultimately determined in the marketplace by the end consumers (Christopher and To allow for, 2001 Monczka, Handfield, Giunipero Patterson 2009).Organisations that focus on developing the most cost trenchant and expeditious supply chains will be the market winners and achieve a competitive advantage. A pieceicipations competitive advantage can be defined as the ability to make a higher take in than competitors through eminence of returns or services from those of competitors and better mathematical products or services in terms of quality and cost than competitors. Good supply chain attention (SCM) enables quick solvent from supply chains to meet customer bespeaks. In order to maintain competitive advantage dynamic crinklees need short le ad clock times, the ability to manage the peaks and troughs of demand (Sabath, 1998), and incorporate time-based competition (Stalk, 1988 Droge, Jayaram Vickery 2004).The aims of the literature review atomic number 18 to examine what contributes to a dynamic company in look on to a sustainable competitive advantage, responsive supply chain oversight (RSCM) with relation to dynamic industries including the fast way of life industry. The literature review will examine the factors that contribute to a companys system development for product antitheticaliation and competitive advantage. Porters (1990) cinque forces outline submits organisations with a frame engagement to mention competition and market position will be discussed. The relevancy of time-based competition and a review of different types of supply chains including supply chain management will also be presented. The different types of supply chains to be examined include care for supply chains, industrious and l ean supply chains and Responsive Supply Chain (RSC). The literature review concludes with an estimation of the trim industry in the UK and implications and impact of the supply chain. Is the supply chain as effective as the literature depicts?Internal digest of an organisationAn internal analysis of a company provides managers with an insight into the success of the business for pattern how effective are its occurrent strategies? Are its resources deployed effectively to support its strategies? In addressing much(prenominal)(prenominal) questions it is the business itself that determines it competitiveness. If a company undertakes an internal analysis it can identify competencies and core competencies which can be developed the brilliance of which will be discussed again later(prenominal) in this review. The internal analysis can also examine care for-added activities and again these will be discussed in more detail later. Managers can also pass judgment financial per plantance occasionicularly in relation to competitors and identify areas of weakness.In many companies the mass of products go through the following stages research and development prototyping, and indeed introduction of the youthful product, if the product is successful there will be market growth and profitability and competitors will become apparent. There will be a period of growth during which the product matures and this is the stage of product differentiation where the product dominates the market. Eventually the product declines as either new products are developed or improved upon by the competition. Management should know what stage their products are in as they can accordingly develop their strategy.Business strategy analysisBusiness strategy is a process consisting of three phases strategic analysis,strategic selection and strategic implementation. Strategic analysis evaluates the companys position in the market, the strengths and weaknesses of the product, and eval uates other companies who stage the main competitors. Strategic selection and implementation involves obtaining the goals identified as a result of the strategic analysis.Porter (1990) developed a framework known as the 5 forces baffle which assists with the analysis of factors contributing to a competitive advantage and to develop a competitive strategy based on positioning in the market. In a similar way to a SWOT analysis the five forces analyses competitive enduringness and the attractiveness, interms of the profitability of a company. pick up 1 from The five competitive forces that shape strategy by Michael E Porter Harvard Business Review 2008The five factors illustrated in Figure 1consist of the risk of first appearance into the market by likely competitors the bargaining antecedent amongst buyers the bargaining power of suppliers the closeness of substitutes to an industrys product all iv of which contribute to the final factor which is the intensity of competition a mongst established companies within an industryThere are factors that moderate the threats firstly the threat of new entry competition whitethorn be moderated by factors such as economies of scale, product differentiation, capital requirements, or switching the cost to buyers. Second, the buyers power whitethorn be moderated by the number of buyers relative to sellers, product differentiation, buyers profit margins, switching be to other products and how grave the product is to the buyer. The third force is the threat of substitute products moderating factors includes the relative wrong and quality of the substitute product and switching the cost to the buyer. The fourth force is the determinants of supplier power, supplier concentration, availability of substitute inputs, importance of suppliers input to buyer and suppliers product differentiation. These factors all contribute to the fifth force the competition and rivalry amongst existing firms which depends on the diversity, size and number of competitors, how quickly the industry is growing and the range of product differentiation.Porters views have been disputed by Booth and Philip (1998) and Edwards (1997) who suggest that organisations should be flexible and unite both cost leadership (lowest production cost or higher rate of return) and differentiation in order to give customers unique value. Other criticisms include Porters emphasis on analysis and little information about formulation or implementation as van den Bosch de Man (1994) argue diagnosis does not necessarily lead to health (p. 14). According to Mintzberg (1990) the organisation must gain market power diminishing the buyers and suppliers power which although the five factors may mean economic power it could be mistaken for political power and finally bias towards large, established businesses as new companies or industries can only be analysed once they are established (Hamel and Prahalad 1989). Other critics (e.g. Sharp Dawes) have al so labeled Porters conclusions as abstracted in empirical support have been justified using selective case studies to support his perspective and for inconsistent logical argument in his claims.The sources-position-performance simulation (SPP) ( daytime and Wensley, 1988 Hunt and Morgan, 1995) is also a strategic framework for competitive advantage and reflects Porters 1985 proposal of positional advantage in respect of either cost or differentiation. The SPP model proposes that an organisations sources (for instance superior skills or resources) can be maximised to achieve a positional advantage (for example differentiation in lower costs or higher value) which finally results in a superior performance outcome (for example an increased market share and/or higher profitability). Day and Wensley (1988) suggest that a differential positional advantage can be achieved with the brand name, features that are innovative and a product that is of high quality. These factors contribute tow ards the potential for obtaining a secure market position and a profitable market performance. Doyle and Wong (1998) support this viewpoint reporting that successful companys differential advantage was acquired through product differentiation, services and the reputation of the company. Competitive advantage can also be maintained by re-investing some or all of the profit back into the company.For better customer satisfaction and market understanding, companies are striving to achieve the best performance from their supply chains by three key components (Fisher, 1997) these include reactivity of the supply chains, accurate demand forecasting and inventory management. In a dynamic, globalised and competitive environment, companies are under pressure to improve their supply chain strategies in order to be more responsive to customer demands. Christopher (2000) defines responsiveness as the ability of a supply chain to respond rapidly to changes in demand, in respect of amount and var iety.(Fisher, 1997 Christopher, 2000, 2005) Uncertainties in demands are unavoidable due to the changing market conditions and customer expectations. In supply chains, inventory is the currency of service that helps contract with uncertainty and provides flexibility, though it can be costly (Chase and Aquilano, 1995 Bernard, 1999)Time-based strategiesIn current competitive markets if customers cannot get what they want from one company they will go to the competition. stellar(a) companies such as Federal Express and Honda have demonstrated that if organisations are able to implement time-based strategies in areas such as production, developing new products, marketing goods and the supply chain this can represents a powerful competitive advantage. In a survey of American companies Davis (1995) rear that a high priority for the majority of organisations was time-based competitive strategy. Customers appreciate receiving their products promptly and this also encourages market growt h as prompt delivery is a competitive advantage. It is not obligatory to have a large investment firm of goods beca uptake efficient manufactures can deliver an order on the day it is received. The concept of time-based competition was introduced by Stalk (1988) and emphasises time as an important factor in developing and maintaining a competitive advantage. A time-based strategy aims to reduce time in the stages of product proposal, development, manufacture, marketing and delivery. The business cycle time can be defined as the total time between receiving an order and getting the product to market which is particularly germane(predicate) to the fast means sector.If a company adopts a time-based strategy there appear to be a few strategies that can be implemented. Examples include scratch line afresh as it is not sufficient to just attempt to facilitate up existing activities. Another approach is to use a systematic framework to evaluate the requirements of customers and suppl iers and then only undertaking only those tasks that fulfil the requirements. This strategy could reduce cycle time and could be implemented as part of the Total Quality Management (TQM) process. Another area that could be re-assessed is the boon process which means that the number of times a product or service necessarily internal approval before reaching the customer could be reduced.Stalk and Hout (1990) reported that successful companies that utilise time-based strategies will be able to offer a wider variety of goods at low cost and faster delivery times in comparison to the competition. Stalk and Hout also argue that there are a number of myths in business concerning increases costs when reduced lead times and response times are reduced however, when offered together with an increase in the variety of products which customers have bespeak there can be a very profitable upsurge for a time-sensitive company in comparison to the competition. It is also argued that time-consump tion is quantifiable and therefore manageable. palmy companies focus on reducing delays and perhaps eliminating them altogether in order to gain a competitor advantage. Stalk and Hout argue that the majority of businesses can use time in a positive and constructive way and increase profitability. An example of flexible manufacturing and rapid response systems is presented by Ruch (1997) reports that in the past Motorola utilize to take three weeks to complete an order for a pager whereas an order is now completed in two hours.In relation to the fast work industry distribution is a major factor as the demand for current fashion trends require an efficient distribution system and competitive advantage will be lost if products are delayed in the distribution chain. There are two time-based strategies used fast to market and fast to produce. Companies that are competitive regarding the to-market speed emphasise reductions in role lead-time. The company has the ability to minimise the time it takes to develop new products or make rapid design changes. Fast-to-product companies emphasise speed in responding to customer demands for existing products. Wal-Mart has been able to dominate its industry by replenishing its stores twice as fast as its competitors (Stalk 1998).Vickery, Droge, Yeomans and Markland (1995) found that new product introduction was the most consistent predictor of business performance. Development cycle time was second and production lead time and delivery speed were not as significant predictors of success as the first two. However this research is now quite old and it is possible that it is not relevant to the fast fashion business in terms of speed of delivery not being such a strong predictor of successAs an example of a fast fashion company using time based-competition Gunasekaran (2001) cites Benetton an Italian company which produces distinctive casual wear for children, men and women and is a good example of an agile organisation using time compression. Benetton has centralised management and operations for a global market using more than 400 sub-contractors. The company has found that the fastest way to utilise a distribution system was through rapid feedback from over 400 travelling sales representatives, producers and the warehouse. If an item is selling the producers will work in fast-turnaround which has had a huge impact on reducing the time for replacement items. In order for this to be successful there needs to be a flawless flowing of materials to allow agility in the production stage and this is organised by the production division. Benettons competitive advantage is the customer ordering system and the companys advance use of IT (p. 389-390). Gattorna and Walters (1996) report that Benetton delay dyeing their jumpers until the end of the supply process so standard jumpers are customised at a late stage and therefore allows some customer choice but without long lead-times and the risk of the product bei ng outmoded.Davis (1995) states that Benettons system cost $30 meg to build yet only eight people are mandatory to operate it and the company can move 230,000 items of clothing each day. The warehouse is outfit and the bar codes are scanned, goods are selected and transported. From order to store the overall cycle time for goods in stock is one week, if not in stock four weeks.Getting the right products to the customer at the right time, cost, place, condition and quantity, information technology and logistics networks are very dependent on the supply chain management and the type of supply chain used which will now be discussed in the following sections.Supply Chain ManagementThe logistics involved in providing the consumer with the required products is complex. Issues such as time (as discussed to a higher place), outsourcing, off-shoring and global competition are a few examples and this means that the supply chain has taken on increasing importance (Monczka, Handfield, Giunip ero and Patterson 2009).The supply chain is defined by Mentzer, Dewitt, Keebler et al (2001) as a group of three or more companies connected by an upstream or downstream flow of goods or services. Supply Chain Management (SCM) is the strategic organisation and proactively management of all the inter-related activities. The activities can be internal or immaterial to an organisation and may also be across international and cultural boundaries. Supply management is defined by Monczka et al (2009) as a strategic approach to planning for and acquiring the organizations current and future needs through effectively managing the supply base ..with cross functional teams (CFTs) to achieve the organisations mission (p. 8). SCM includes operations such as the evaluation and selection of the supplier New Product Development (NPD) ensuring the implementation of the customers order and maintaining demand and supply.According to Gattorna and Walters (1996) there are five basic functions required for a balanced supply chain which include procurement (maximum get discounts) inboard logistics (low transportation costs) operations (low production costs), marketing and sales (wide product variety and high availability) and outbound logistics (low transportation costs). In order to develop an integrated supply there also needs a flow of information at three stages, strategic, tactical, and operationalSCM differs from purchasing or procurement as Kalakota and Robinson (2000) state they much broader concepts, Purchasing is often described as the five rights right quality, right quantity, right time, right price and right source (Baily, Farmer, Jessop, Jones 1994). SCM is a more dynamic and strategic approach than purchasing which is also referred to as strategic sourcing in the literature (e.g. Gottfredson, Puryear and Phillips 2005). The phrase strategic sourcing originated as a buzz word in the 1980s from management consultants such as PricewaterhouseCoopers when working(a) w ith Blue Chip companies however the development of the term raises an significant and relevant issue concerning the emphasis that sophisticated, world-class leaders (WCL) place on SCM (Kasul, Motwani, 1995). Other companies may aspire to be WCL and this drives competition.An organisation particularly a newcomer to the market might benefit from trying to identify characteristics in WCLs as it might provide an opportunity to implement and improve their internal and external processes, core manufacturing strategies and develop a global strategy to achieve company-wide improvements towards WCO status and global competitiveness.A starting point could be the strategic management of the supply chain and there are four main factors that characterise supply chain management these are information, time, customer demand, and response strategy for problems. Firstly, there must be a good flow of information between groups or individuals who may be culturally diverse. Good communication promotes good relationships and reduces time delays in the chain. Cost and accessibility are issues that management must consider.The second factor is time, whether the supply chain is efficient which, as previously discussed, is seen as competitive advantage. As the amount of competition in both the domestic and international markets increases organisations must have an efficient supply chain in order to compete. The third point also previously discussed involves the increasing demands and expectations of consumers and also the range of alternative options available to them therefore management may also want to consider customer loyalty. The final point in supply change management is theorgansations response strategy to any major disruptions in both supply and downstream production which will the lessen the impact on lost sales.SCM necessitates good team work as it involves those who are purchasing the goods, the supplier, quality assurance and other associated roles the relationship is no t adversarial as may have been the situation in traditional purchasing but in business SCM encompasses a win-win situation for the supplier and the company purchasing the goods. The relationship needs to be beneficial for all parties to allow for rapid change which is particularly relevant for the fast fashion industry.When developing a supply chain strategy Fisher (1997) stated that in order to implement the optimal approach the relationship between supply and demand must be coordinated to take into account the type of product, demand and sales predictability. Products can be categorise into two generic types, fashionand commodities. Fisher states that fast fashion has a short life-cycle and high demand uncertainty, and that there is the risk to the supply chain of both stock out and outmoded products. Popular, trendy clothing requires a management strategy that can co-ordinate the supply and demand and allow companies to respond faster to the marketplace.Commodities that are basic products, such as tinned food, they have comparativelylong life cycles and have a low demand uncertainty usually because they are well-established products with a known consumption pattern. The driving force for commodity supply chains is the reduction of cost. Hills (1993) manufacturing strategy metrics, notes that the main difference between the two groups of products for fashion products is the emphasis is on availability, while for commodities is the emphasis is on price.Supply chains and value chainsA business can be considered as a system that converts inputs (resources or materials) into an output (goods or services). All of the internal actions of a company add value to the inputs. The value of the completed product is equal to the price a consumer is prepared to pay. The activities of a business can be brokendown into a sequence of activities know as the value chain.Porters value chain model was developed in the 1980s and proposes that an organisations supply chain can lea d to a competitive advantage (Porter 1985 1996). Porter original model proposed that the value supply chain was focused on the companys internal employees. Porter stated that a supply chain is a subset of a value chain, for example all personnel within the organisation are part of a value chain whereas they are not part of the supply chain.A diagram of Porters model is shown in Figure 2 two components are shown the Primary and Support activities. Support activities are shown in the horizontal flow and are the operational part of the value chain (the supply chain). Primary activities directly add value while support activities add value indirectly by supporting the effective implementation of the patriarchal activities. At an organisational level the value chain is depicted as being broader than the supply chain because it includes all activities in the form of primary and support activities. The difference between the end value and the total cost is the margin.Figure 2 The Value Ch ain (Porter 1996)The value chain has developed and spread out from Porters original concept (the internal employees of an organisation) to include suppliers and customers and is referred to as the extended value chain or extended enterprise. This development has occurred because progressive companies acknowledge that successful management of cost, quality and delivery may depend on suppliers that are located several levels away from the producer. Porters value-chain analysis provides an explanation of how much value is added to an organisations final products or services in comparison to the original cost of the materials or resources. There is a clear relationship between value-adding activities, such as the core competences and competences which provide knowledge and skills necessary to undertake the value adding activities and resources which form the inputs to a companys value adding activities.In order to maintain a competitive advantage a company should be able to undertake a n analysis of the value chain which should enable a company to obtain a breakdown of all the activities the organisation undertakes and to identify the core activities and their relationship to core competences. A competence is a quality or a collection of qualities which the companies in a particular industry possessesA core competence or distinctive capability is a quality or collection of qualities which is specific to a particular organisation which enables it to produce above the average performance of the industry as a whole. As a result of a distinctive capability is an output that customers value more passing than those of competitors, the competitive advantage. In order to be successful in business companies certain competencies are necessary but the core competences are the differential.The company should be able to identifying areas where the cost of adding the value is greater than the value added the identification and assessment of non-value adding activities. A good TQM process involves defining the process for producing products or services, using routine or flow-charting techniques to identify non value-added tasks these tasks are then either improved or eliminated. Management can develop strategies to find new ways to acquire value (for example a new production plant near to the companys head office with add value because transportations costs will be less).In respect to SCM the amount of the value added by teams within an organisation should be assessed and periodically reviewed and any blockages that reduce a companys competitive advantage must be identified. The assessment of the organisations value chain should not be undertaken in isolation but considered together with its association with suppliers, distributors and customers. It is also necessary to verify whether the value chain supports the organisations current strategy for example if strategy is to cut costs the analysis should focus on this. If strategy is the production of high quality goods the focus should be on strategies to improve quality outcomes.Outsourcing is an activity that can be used as part of the overall sourcing strategy for services. Outsourcing entails the transfer of staff and assets to an external or third-party company which then provides them back as a service. Outsourcing is an example of companies concentrating on their core activities and competences while getting the support activities done by someone else as such outsourcing has the potential of giving both parties a competitive advantage. The role of SCM is to evaluate which activities the company should undertake and which should be outsourced.An important consideration is that there will be different value chains for different organisations because not all activities within a company are of the same importance in adding value to its products. Activities that do add value are the core activities and are usually linked closely to the core competences. An organisations value chain will also be part of the value chains of other companies, for example the suppliers and distributors and customers. It is unusual nowadays for a solitary organisation to undertake all the value-adding activities ranging from design, production, delivery and service provision for a product.Three different types of supply chains will now be discussed in the following section, agile supply chains, lean supply chains and RSC energetic supply chainSupply and demand has been identified as the Increasing volatility in demand and competitive pressures force more frequent product changes (Gattorna and Walters 1996) agile supply chains are usually dominated by surge (Fisher 1997). An agile supply chain has to be created to manage uncertainty, satisfy consumer demand and ensure profitability. The definition of agility Agility means using market knowledge and a virtual corporation to exploit profitable opportunities in a volatile marketplace (Naylor, Naim, Berry, 1999 p. 62)Todays consumers d emand variety and companies need to demonstrate customer responsive behavior with suppliers, being able to adjust quickly to meet market demand and to replace one product for another. In a genuinely agile business the strategy and supply chain relationships are developed to such an extent that volatility of demand is dealt with (Christopher 2000). Uncertainty is characteristic of todays markets as a result of a combination of factors which include the globalisation of the supply chain, concurrent tacky IT and communications increased ability to develop product variety and reduce product life cycles while remaining cost competitive. These drivers promote end-consumers promote these drivers to demand greater choice and improved value (Li 2009). These dynamics are especially relevant in the context of the fashion industry and clothing retail in general (Sparka and Fernie, 1998 Jones, 1998 Jones 2002). With economic changes in recent years and greater global competition responsiveness is essential throughout the supply-chain (Gattorna, 1998 Pine, 1993 Goldman, Nagel, Preiss 1995 Christopher, 2005) with such significant changes, successful organisations have to remain competitive while adapting to changing marketplace conditions (Brown and Eisenhardt, 1998). A significant feature of an agile organisation is flexibility (Christopher 2000) and this idea originates from flexible manufacturing systems (FMS). Agility is necessary in environments that are not predictable with volatile demand and consumers require variety. If a product is highly fashionable then, by itsvery nature, its demand will be unpredictable (Mason-Jones, Naylor, Towell 2000)Agile supply chains are market sensitive which means there is a quick response to consumer demand. This is quite different to many organisations which are forecast driven rather than demand driven. Technology can assist in demand driven organisations as data can be quickly accessed from the point of sale. As mention in the se ction on SCM communication between the members of the supply chain is an important factor in its success. Shared information between supply chain partners requires collaborative working and process integration between buyers and suppliers, joint product development, common systems and shared information. This form of co-operation in the supply chain is becoming ever more prevalent as companies focus on managing their core competencies and outsource all other activities. Mason-Jones and Towell (1999) undertook a simulation model of the fashion trade supply chains and corroborated that enhanced agility resulted from enrichment information along the supply chain.Lean supply chainThe agile supply chain is closely connected to the lean supply chain although they are separate and have different purposes. Lean supply chains work well in environments where demand for variety is low and the environment is predictable whereas agile manufacturing is implemented where demand is volatile, and le an manufacturing is put into effect where there is a stable demand. Mason-Jones et al (2000) offers a further third option which they term the Leagile Paradigm a hybrid mixture of both types of supply chain.Responsive Supply Chains

Mrs. Whipples Mistreatment of Her Son in Katherine Anne Porters He :: Katharine Anne Porter He Essays

Mrs. Whipples Mistr swallowment of Her Son in Katherine Anne Porters He The prevailing theme in Katherine Anne Porters reputation He is Mrs. Whipples concern over appearances and oddly how her neighbors perceive her actions concerning her retarded son. Many critics have written about Porters emphasis on appearances in this story. However, what lies under the surface of the story is also interesting. Contrary to some(prenominal) her actions and spoken words, it is clear Mrs. Whipple inwardly feels her retarded son is an animal and that she secretly wishes for his death. The story He is similar to another story of Katherine Anne Porters titled The Downward course of action to Wisdom. Both stories depict children who are retarded, who are equ taked to animals by one or both of the parents, and who are wished dead or never born (Weisenforth 359). The title of the story He provides the reader with the first clue that the retarded son is de-humanized. Throughout the story the other two of Mrs. Whipples children, Emly and Adna, are wedded builds and are referred to by their given names. This is not true of the retarded son. Not once in the story is He called by his given name. In fact, the reader never learns his given name. The failure to give the retarded son a name is similar to the farm practice of giving names to pets but not to the ever-present farm animals. People generally do not name animals they plan on killing. Because Emly and Adna have names, they appear to the reader to be more human. In contrast, the failure to name the retarded son makes him appear more animal-like or less than human. Another example of animal treatment takes place during family meals. The retarded son does not eat his meals at the table with his family. In a description of the retarded son, Porter writes He didnt whine for food, as the other children did, but waited until it was given Him He ate squatting in the corner, smacking and mumbling (597). When Mrs. Whipples brother co mes for a visit, Porter writes He wouldnt come into the dining room, and Mrs. Whipple passed it off very well (599). For appearances sake Mrs. Whipple pissed up a big plate for Him first, before everybody(Porter 599). The parallels to how people treat their dogs can not be overlooked. It is common practice for dog owners to train their dogs not to beg or whine for food.

Graduation Speech -- Graduation Speech, Commencement Address

Well, here we are. Sitting in this stuffy gym wearing these unflattering robes, while the band is poised and officious to play Pomp and Circumstance. Weve always known this day would come and, whether our t to each oneers, our parents or ourselves are prepared for it, here it is. Were about to take that giant leaping in just a few minutes and after that, its time to make our own choices. No longer will our biggest decisions entail which person to ask to prom or which period would be the best to TA during. Now our choices will begin to revolve around which bills we need to pay and what play we want to be doing 20 years from now. And whether you choose to earn a degree, get a job certification or immediately commencement working, thither are some universal choices that everyone should make to ensure a fulfilling life for ourselves and our families. First is the choice of love. The time is almost upon us to stop being children and start being parents. Unfortunately, there seems to be an alarming trend in the breakdown of families nationwide. Parents are becoming too busy to involve themselves in childrens lives. non full of them are talking to their children about important issues, such as tolerance, suicide and drug shame. Divorce rates are high and not enough children receive the proper attention or counseling during those rough times. All of these factors combine to make an unsteady environment for children of today and the future. Teen drug abuse is high. Teen suicide rates are high. And for some awful reason, kids even as young as first grade are killing each other. Starting today, we grant the power to change this. Growing up is an intimidating thing a large, never ending cycle that we cannot slow nor stop hardly can only dig in deep with ... ...o be on this earth, so if you dont live your life to the absolute fullest, you may have more regrets than you can count. You only have one shot at living your life so dont make it a dull one with little me aning. Finally, in the end, after weve lived our lives and its all said and done, not all of us are going to be as wealthy as Bill Gates or have more than 15 minutes of fame. Our autobiographies wont be best sellers and most of us wont compete in pro sports or make it on television. This is not to say, however, that our lives will have little impact on the field around us. It is the families we raise, the friendships we honor and the beliefs we cling to that will determine in the end whether or not we were successful. I wish all of you, my friends, the very best the grownup world has to offer our time starts now. Live it fully with no regrets. Thank you.