Tuning a guitar Essay Example

Tuning a guitar Essay Musicians are known to be people of a musical knowledge. Whether it may be playing guitar, drums, or piano, we all know that in order for the instrument to sound good it must be tuned to its right notes. The guitar would be the perfect instrument when it comes to a constant repetition of tuning. In order to be a great musician, there are certain steps that must be taken. If some steps are not followed, the outcome of the sound most likely will not match what you are looking for. A better way for musicians or beginners to follow up on is to make sure that the instrument is clean, strings are in good condition, and tuning device is present to help assist in your process. To avoid damage to your guitar thefirst thing to keep in mind is its maintenance. Electric guitars are usually easier to keep clean, but for acoustic guitars, different supplies are needed because of its material. Acoustic guitars are made of wood. Depending on the kind of wood, your sound may vary with others. Thefir st step to cleaning your guitar is to buy the cleaning solution. Water and a piece of clothe are usually used by most people but you will always find smudge marks and scratches on the surface. A scratch less cleaning cloth and solution is the basic thing you need. Wipe the front of the guitarfirst, followed bye the back, and ending with the neck. Since the solution is different from water you will need to rest the guitar for at least an hour before you begin to play. Well condition strings would be the second most important thing for a musician. Depending on a Spanish guitar or a steel string guitar, there is a big difference of the two. With a Spanish guitar, if you were to closely examine them you can see that out of the six they are bigger and have a plastic feel to them. On the other hand, a steel string guitar requires a little more inspection. Steel strings, if not properly taken care of can rust, stretch, or even snap apart. The most popul

Investigating the Effect of Lipase Concentration on the Breakdown of F

Investigating the Effect of Lipase Concentration on the Breakdown of F Investigating the Effect of Lipase Concentration on the Breakdown of Fat in Milk INTRODUCTION: Enzymes are proteins which can catalyse chemical reactions without changing themselves. The enzyme lipase breaks down the fat in dairy products such as full-cream milk for people who are lactose intolerant. Lipase acts on its specific substrate, lipids produces fatty acids. If enzyme concentration increases, random collisions between the substrates and active sites of enzyme increase due to the increasing amount of active sites which allow more collisions to happen, so the rate of breakdown of lipids to simpler substances will increase. During the experiment, sodium carbonate solution and pH indicator phenolphthalein will be added ahead of lipase enzyme; when the pH is below 8.2, phenolphthalein will turn from pink to colourless. Sodium carbonate solution is added in order to turn the solution alkaline and the indicator pink then back to colourless after lipase is added to catalyse the chemical reaction and speed up the breakdown of lipids into fatty acid in the milk. Fatty acid prod uced then is going to neutralise the solution with sodium carbonate solution added previously; phenolphthalein will finally turn from pink back to colourless. AIM: In this experiment I will investigate the effect of increasing enzyme concentration on the activity of the enzyme lipase that will be allowed to act on the same amount of milk and the time taken for the phenolphthalein to turn from pink to white compared. HYPOPTHESIS: With higher lipase concentrations, there will be more active sites in the solution to be fit in by the substrates, which means more collisions between the active sites and the substrates and quicker breakdown of lipids in the milk within shorter period of time. At enzyme concentration of 1% or 2%, reactions can happen at a relatively slower pace, with lipids broken down and phenolphthalein turning from pink to white over a relatively longer time period. At 3%, enzyme activity will speed up with lipids broken down and phenolphthalein turning from pink to white over a relatively shorter time period. At 4% or 5%, enzyme activity will happen significantly faster. APPARATUS: 1. Lipase solution at concentration 5% 2. 1 test tube 3. 5 dropping pipettes 4. full-fat milk 5. 4 measuring cylinders of 10ml (0.5ml) 6. 1 stopwatch (1s) 7. 1 stirrer 8. phenolphthalein 9. sodium carbonate solution at 0.5 mol dm3 10. Marker pen 11. distilled water 12. 4 beakers of 200ml (5ml) VARIABLES: Independent Variables: 1. Enzyme concentration- effectiveness of enzyme concentration will be tested at 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5%. Enzyme lipase at the concentrations of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% will be made by mixing lipase at 5% and distilled water; all these solutions will be contained in different beakers to keep them pure. In order to make 1% lipase, for each 1ml lipase, 4ml distilled water will be added and poured into a beaker; to make 2% lipase, for each 1ml lipase, 3ml distilled water will be added; to make 3% lipase, for each 1ml lipase, 2ml distilled water will be added; in order to make 4% lipase, for each 1ml lipase, 1ml distilled water will be added. Controlled Variables: 1. Volume of the milk used for every test will be kept constantly at 5ml; substrate concentration will be kept the same since full-cream milk will be used. Different volumes of milk will allow different amount of substrates to be contained in the milk. Therefore, more substrates contained in the milk will take it more time for the enzyme to break all the fats while the amounts of lipase and sodium carbonate solution stay the same. 2. pH of the substrate the identical amount of 7ml sodium carbonate solution, which is alkaline, will be added in the test tube; if not, more or less fatty acids will be produced and needed to neutralise the solution and for the phenolphthalein to turn from pink to colourless. 3. Volume of lipase solution 3ml lipase will be added to for each test. By keeping this the same, the amount of active sites of enzyme will be equal in all the cases, therefore allowing results to be fair. If more were placed in one of the test tubes, then the rate of activity of the enzyme at different concentrations will be wrongly judged, leading to incorrect conclusion. 4. Temperature

Critical review a paper concerned with change Essay

Critical review a paper concerned with change - Essay Example The case study focuses on the beer distribution system and the structural inertia as a result of a long serving CEO. The case study also dwelled on the problems encountered in the company as a result of subsequent CEO successions and how these problems affected different levels of management. Organizational change is introduced so as to move the organization from the current state to a desirable state (Ragsdell, 2000). This can be achieved in several ways such as radical change and incremental change. The interaction between these two models can be evaluated using the punctuated equilibrium model of change. This is helpful for identifying two shapes of organizational change and elaborating on the link between these shapes. It also helps identify the role played by the top and middle management in implementing the two types of organizational change. A case study of Heineken can be used to illustrate the shapes of organizational change and the application of the punctuated equilibrium model. The company is ideal for identifying the factors determining a particular shape of organizational change. The research method was a case study of the Dutch beer brewing company. However, the findings of the case study cannot be generally valid since the research did not provide any general results. Further research is necessary before the findings can be extended to other companies in other industries. Heineken was selected due to the long history that is well documented with numerous sources of information regarding the company. On the other hand, the long history means that the company has dealt with several challenges of organizational change. The available sources have detailed information regarding the challenges experienced by Heineken when dealing with organizational change. In the late 1980s, the CEO of the company was changed, which had a large impact on the organization. Therefore, the choice of the case study was ideal since there were several journals and reviews that provide information about the company. The levels and changes in management make it easy to apply the punctuated equilibrium model of organizational change. Tushman and Romanelli (1985) developed the punctuated equilibrium model that proposes an interaction between incremental and radical organizational change. They argue that convergent periods experienced in an organization cause reorientation that demarks and sets the bearing for the coming convergent period. Long time spans of incremental change are referred to as convergent periods, and short periods of radical and discontinuous change are called reorientations. Organization change occurs in five domains: organization culture, structure, strategy, power distribution, and control systems (Romanelli and Tushman, 1994). These domains are central to activities of the organization and important for its survival. Activity domains interact in different levels of performance and inertia, which are the basic factors for organizatio nal change. Inconsistent activities lead to low performance and organizational failure. High performance is achieved when activities are consistent and coupled to each other. Although the punctuated equilibrium model suggests a distinction between radical and incremental change, Stace and Dunphy (1996) propose four types of change. The first type is fine tuning where change is a continuous process characterized by a match between strategy, structure, processes, and people. The second type is incremental

Nature versus Nurture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Nature versus Nurture - Essay Example erived from the review of the theories, it has been observed that deciding whether the behavior of exhibited by human are genetic or learned is quite difficult. Nevertheless, it has been clearly observed that the impact of environment on the behavior of human being is largely apparent in many of the theories conducted in the filed of human growth and development. Human growth and development is an integral part of human life cycle. In order to describe the human growth and development, it is extremely important to acquaint with the concept of development. In this regard, development is a conception of continuous process. It is also describes that the growth and development is a periodical process, which changes over the time as human beings are matured. The process of growth and development helps human to think logically and perceive things rationally which will influence human to maintain all the responsibilities towards the society. The development process starts when a child is born and continues throughout the life (Ruffin, 2013). With this concern, the easy analyzes the seven theoretical perspectives of human growth and development and draws three inferences explaining on going debate of Nature versus Nurture related to lifespan. The human growth and development is a conception, which mainly depends upon several theoretical approaches. In order to explain the importance of the theoretical approaches it has been stated that the theories mainly works as a supportive factor to judge the world with the proper logic as well as in a balanced way. Besides, there are several theories that help people to understand that process of development of human personality as well as the nature and reasons behind the behavioral approach of a human. The theoretical approaches of human growth and development also describe the influence of human action on the environment. It has been also describes that the several theories are based on critical approaches of social and

Discuss the role of magistrate and jurors in the legal decision-making Essay

Discuss the role of magistrate and jurors in the legal decision-making process - Essay Example Consider the disadvantages of the services that the magistrates and jurors provide in the legal decision-making. The contribution of magistrates and jurors to the legal decision-making will be assessed based on the consideration of the advantages and disadvantages of the services they provide in the legal decision-making. Courts and Legal Services Act 1990- includes provisions on appointments of District Judges and the courts’ procedure, specifically in respect to distribution of civil business between the County Courts and High Court. The Contempt of Court Act 1981- states that disclosure of anything that took place in the jury room amounts to a contempt of court and is therefore a criminal offence. Juries Act 1974- consolidates particular enactments relating to jury service, jurors, and juries with improvements and corrections made under the Consolidation of Enactments Act 1949. The Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007- contains fundamental legal procedures and courtsà ¢â‚¬â„¢ structure Condron v UK (2001) 31 EHRR 1- provides an example of how magistrates and jurors legal decision-making process can lead to breach of human rights. ... Summary of the arguments that point out that, indeed, the magistrates and jurors play a very critical role in the legal decision-making process. Question 2 Introduction The magistrates and jurors play a very important role in the resolution of both criminal and civil cases (Elliott and Frances, 2008, p. 12). For over 1000 years, jurors have formed a fundamental part of the English Legal System and have played very important role in the legal matters’ resolution for many centuries (Slapper and David, 2001, p. 35). Similarly, magistrates have also been playing a very instrumental role in resolving criminal and civil cases and have in recent years become extensively important in many of the cases in the English Legal System. The jurors form a jury an arrangement that is made up of a specific number of ordinary individuals who are called for service on any legal matter (Forsterlee & Horowitz, 1997, p. 307). Jurors’ main role is to bring their perspective to a case as lay pe rson with no knowledge of law. Jurors combine their common sense, wisdom, and experience to decide the facts relating to a particular case in order to reach a verdict (Cownie et al, 2007, p. 51). It is worth noting that jurors simply decide the verdict and not the law; the jury decides the question of the defendant guilt while the judge decides on the point of law. In respect to magistrates, they are local people volunteering their services. Magistrates do not have formal legal qualifications and are chosen based on their local knowledge. They sit in the magistrates’ court as a bench of two or three magistrates (Sanders and Young, 2004, p. 97). The court trial involves several processes. The initial process within

Ford Motor Company: Challenges and Opportunities

Ford Motor Company: Challenges and Opportunities The purpose of the following report is to identify the most significant problems facing the Ford Motor Corporation and recommend a course of action that most adequately resolves the challenges of todays marketplace. It begins by outlining three of the major challenges facing the Ford Motor Company: Fords current business plan is not as financially and environmentally sustainable as it could be. Global economic markets are performing far worse than Ford had expected in prior planning. Fords market share in developing foreign markets is lower than desired. The report recommends that Ford should focus on creating a more financially and environmentally sustainable business model by developing energy efficient and environmentally sustainable automobile models in every vehicle class. These models should be developed without significant increases in consumer cost or decreases in overall performance. This is to be accomplished by revamping Fords research and development program. Some potentially promising areas of research include hybrid electric vehicles, natural gas vehicles, and electric vehicles. Ford has the opportunity to make the most progress by focusing on hybrid vehicle research and development. This is to be done by redirecting other RD expenditures and efforts, scaling back production to free up additional funds, initiating a new public relations campaign to inform consumers about the new sustainable Ford plan, and creating partnerships with leading technology and engineering firms. The report then presents an ethical screen outlining the moral considerations this course of action entails. While the creation of a more sustainable business model builds upon Fords ethical commitments, the loss of jobs resulting from proposed production and retail facility closures conflicts with these principles. And while a course of action that brings about greater job losses to Ford employees is less than ideal, it arises from market conditions. Lack of action may result in even greater job losses on a long-term scale. In this way, the recommended course of action resonates with the ethical commitments outlined in Fords Mission Statement. A feasibility report discusses Fords ability to achieve these goals. As of 2007, the Ford Motor Company maintained the second highest RD budget in the world, with a hybrid vehicle program already well underway. In the year 2000, Ford unveiled the first U.S. made hybrid-vehicle, an accomplishment that sets Ford apart from its U.S. competitors. This report concludes that Ford possesses adequate resources and abilities to reach these new goals. A cost-benefit analysis then weighs potential losses against gains that may arise from this plan. The proposed course of action is high-risk is cost-intensive, however the potential benefits of increased income outweigh the expenditures Ford stands to lose while pursuing this goal and the equally high-risk option of failing to act on this pressing challenge and opportunity. Finally, the report outlines a preliminary budget, timeline, and a step-by-step course of action. Overall, the proposed plan is intended to cost Ford little in terms of net expenditure, and should be completed in its entirely by the year 2015. Position The Ford Motor Company is one of the largest automotive manufactures in the world (OICA). Founded in 1903 by Henry Ford, Ford Motor Company is currently one of Americas Big Three auto manufacturers, along with Chrysler and General Motors (Datamonitor 13). As of 2009, Fords net worth in assets was $222.977 billion (Ford 67). Fords market capitalization in 2006 was reported at just over $13 billion (Kiley), and the companys total equity as of 2009 stands at negative $17.311 billion (Ford 67). Debt notwithstanding, Ford stands apart from Chrysler and GM as the only Big Three manufacturer to not seek bankruptcy or government bailout since the onset of the current financial recession. Ford has incorporated Lincoln Mercury, Volvo, Aston Martin and one-third of Mazda into its brand roster. Fords Mission Statement is titled the One Ford Mission. It is divided into three parts One Team, One Plan, One Goal and is included in this reports Appendix on page 17. Ford strives to be one of the leading automotive manufacturers in the world, and to sustain this position for generations to come. Furthermore, Ford strives to provide its consumers with an affordable, ethical, and quality product. There are a number of key stakeholders that rely on the Ford brand, including financial investors, consumers, and large companies and government organizations that depend on Ford to maintain reliable fleets of vehicles (Datamonitor 14). Challenges to Ford While the Ford Motor Companys influence on the automotive industry is undeniable, a wide variety of challenges are preventing Ford from capitalizing on the opportunities presented by todays shifting economic and social landscapes. Three of these challenges will be outlined in the following section. They are listed in order of priority. Fords current automobile models are not as energy efficient, environmentally friendly, and sustainable as they could be. William Clay Ford Jr. echoes the sentiments of Ford Motor Companys Mission Statement in a recent interview: For us, sustainability is not just about the environment if you dont have a sustainable business model, none of the rest matters (Bonini and Kaas). Ford prides itself as a company built both on innovation as well as ethical responsibility. Yet Ford trails significantly behind Toyota in terms of hybrid technology and GM in terms of larger-class hybrid vehicles (Carr-Ruffino and Acheson 21). With no hybrid or alternative energy models of its own in several vehicle classes, Ford has much ground to cover in becoming a leader in environmental sustainability. Global economic markets are performing far worse than Ford had expected in prior planning. This poor planning has resulted in a $34.3 billion debt that strains Fords already tight budget (Ford 28). Compounding these problems, consumer confidence is, in turn, exasperatingly low (Datamonitor 9) with most consumers unwilling to make large purchases until markets improve. While government incentives such as the so-called cash-for-clunkers legislation and tax-credits for hybrid vehicle owners have helped American auto manufacturers weather unusually low sales figures, these fixes are temporary (U.S. Department of Energy). Fords market share in developing foreign markets is lower than desired. While Ford posted a 1.1% gain in domestic market shares this year (16.1% up from 15.0% at the close of 2008), the company remains fourth in total global sales behind Toyota, GM, and Volkswagen (OICA) and possesses only 2.0% of all automotive sales in the companys South Asia Africa sector, which includes the rapidly emerging markets of China and India (Ford 19). While Ford ultimately must address all of these challenges to remain competitive and fulfill its Mission Statement, the remainder of this report will focus on how Ford can create more energy efficient, environmentally friendly, and sustainable automobiles. In so doing, Ford stands to develop consumer acquisitions and brand loyalty by addressing rapidly changing needs of consumers and other stakeholders. Consumer Needs Research is showing that more and more consumers do not want to own cars that are not fuel-efficient. This is due to financial as well as ethical considerations (Prickett 29). Rising gas prices are increasing the importance of fuel-efficiency for consumers (Bonini and Kaas) and governments are willing to offer incentives to consumers in exchange for their purchases of more fuel-efficient vehicles. As the U.S. economy is based largely on fossil fuel usage and as increasing scarcity is beginning to characterize fossil fuel sources worldwide there is social interest vested in increasing overall reliance on sustainable energy sources. To remain competitive, Ford must not only acknowledge this future, but embrace it. Domestic and global auto-manufacturers stand to gain a competitive edge if Ford does not act on this changing consumer need quickly. More and more hybrid models emerge every year, with GM leading the way in larger hybrid vehicle models (Carr-Ruffino and Acheson). Chinas government and domestic auto-manufacturers have made it clear that they intend to make China the next center of hybrid and light vehicle construction (Gallagher). The clock is ticking and Fords window of opportunity is closing. Sustainability at Ford Ford must work to create sustainable models in all vehicle classes. These models must compare to conventional counterparts in terms of ticket price. On top of this, Ford must ensure that public infrastructure can adequately support these innovations so that consumers are not burdened with new operating complications, costs, or maintenance issues. Potentially promising areas of development include hybrid vehicles, natural gas vehicles, and electric vehicles (Bonini and Kaas). Hybrid vehicles present the least complicated fix in terms of infrastructure and consumer familiarity compared to other alternative fuel types. And while all options must be explored, Fords first step is to focus on developing and expanding its hybrid program. Fords hybrid program is already well underway, and would require less allocation of resources to build upon in comparison with other areas of research and development. Revamping Fords hybrid program will require significant financial commitments. In markets that already leave little breathing room for addition expenditure, this report recommends that Ford funnel all research and development funds into innovating Fords hybrid program. Ford must also develop cooperative RD facilities with leading energy firms, government research groups, and NGOs to save on costs and consolidate resources and knowledge. In addition, Ford should continue scaling back production to meet the lower demands of recession markets (Canis and Platzer) and redirect most of these savings into an expanded RD program. By making these changes in tandem with a massive PR campaign, Ford stands to gain considerable market shares both domestically and abroad (Byron). And while this recommendation is high-risk, the history of the Ford Motor Company demonstrates that Ford functions best when setting itself apart from competitors and taking risks. The Ford Motor Company was build on big thinking and technological innovation (Wren and Greenwood 73), and it is through these methods that Ford will overcome the most pressing challenges of todays market. Benefits to Sustainability Ethical screen. The notion of a more environmentally friendly Ford Motor Company is not only ethically compatible with Fords Mission Statement, it reaffirms and builds upon it. At the same time, there are consequences to this course of action that contain further ethical considerations. Due to the proposed closing of several production and retail facilities, a number of Ford employees stand to lose their jobs. This move is extremely unwelcome in a nation with an unemployment rate already averaging 9.7% (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Ford stands to suffer from bad publicity and to potentially contradict the ethical commitments outlined in its mission statement. This course of action, however, is necessitated by recession markets and does not represent the ultimate intentions of the Ford Motor Company. The strategy of creating a more sustainable Ford is intended to protect the job security of all Ford employees on a long-term basis (i.e. the creation of a more sustainable business model). It is the conclusion of this report, therefore, that this course of action complies with and upholds the ethical commitments outlined in Fords mission statement. Feasibility analysis. In terms of pure research, hybrid technology is fairly well understood and is already utilized by the Ford Motor Company. Focus must be placed on improving hybrid efficiency, performance, and reliability, as well as maintaining affordable costs to consumers. Furthermore, Fords RD facilities are top-notch and already working to develop Fords hybrid program. As of 2007, Ford had the second-largest research and development budget in the world at approximately $8 billion annually (Vijayenthiran). Additionally, Ford was the first auto-manufacturer to offer a U.S.-made hybrid vehicle (in the year 2000) (Carr-Ruffino and Acheson). Based on this information, it is entirely feasible that Ford can produce additional landmark models in the near future provided that adequate resources and proper strategies are applied towards revamping its current hybrid RD program. Cost-Benefit Analysis. There are a number of initial costs that Ford must account for in order to properly execute this course of action. Costs must be covered immediately and will rely on the success of several preliminary budget-saving steps. That said, the total price of developing hybrid models for all vehicle classes is intended to be accounted for through internal budget recoveries; reductions in production costs are meant to reduce the need for increased net spending. The potential benefits of these investments far outweigh initial costs, but are long-term and may not bring significant returns until the entirety of the plan is completed. And while this proposal is financially risky, the current problems facing the Ford Motor Company its potential inability to respond to the challenges and opportunities of a changing marketplace are dire enough that the competitiveness of the company itself is at risk. In this sense, these costs should not only be considered investments, but preventative measures. Costs: public relations campaign: $300 million annually includes costs due to advertising in print, television, radio, and internet media, partnerships with non-profit organizations, market research, and product promotions; revamped RD facilities: $700 million annually includes costs due to equipment, larger research/design staff, new/upgraded facilities, fair-use of patents and other legal expenses, materials, and partnerships with technology firms, government research groups, and NGOs. Total costs: approximately $1 billion annually for the next five years. Monetary benefits: A report from 2009 estimates that by 2015 the global hybrid vehicle market will have risen by 31.3% and be valued at around $67.7 billion (Global Markets Direct). In 2009 the U.S. market comprised 47.5% of all hybrid vehicles sold worldwide (or a predicted $32.16 billion annually in 2015, if the U.S. market share remains the same). Of these 2009 sales, Toyota has currently sequestered the highest market share of 72% percent (R.L Polk Co.). If Ford succeeds in obtaining the highest U.S. market share in prospected hybrid sales by 2015 and if this market share is roughly the same as Toyotas first-ranked share in 2009 Ford could earn up to $23.15 billion in hybrid vehicle sales in 2015 in the U.S. alone (72% of $32.16 billion). While this estimate is extremely rough and represents a very high performance in terms of Fords future hybrid sales, it illustrates the potential monetary benefits that may result from focusing on hybrid development over the next several year s. Other benefits: Financial and environmental sustainability should be considered tremendous benefits in their own right. It is through both that Ford ensures future competitiveness and remains true to its Mission Statement. Recommendations for Ford This report recommends the following steps to achieve success in its goal of creating a more sustainable Ford Motor Company. First, Ford must begin a PR campaign focused on educating consumers about the current status of the automotive industry and to raise awareness about the future Ford is helping to build. The campaign should focus both on consumers who, in general, already look favorably on hybrid vehicles, as well as those who may be skeptical about hybrid performance, cost, and feasibility on a larger scale. Ford must use this campaign to unveil to consumers its five-year plan to create a more sustainable Ford. This should begin immediately and be fully operational after a transition period of no more than four full quarters. Ford should continue this campaign until the Ford brand is synonymous with sustainability. A total of around $300 million per year (from an estimated $1 billion gleaned annually from facility closures) will be allocated towards the development and maintena nce of this new PR campaign. Market research teams will evaluate the success of this campaign twice per quarter. The PR campaign will be considered a success once the Ford brand is recognized above all global competitors as the leader in sustainability and hybrid vehicle production. Second, Ford must begin to significantly scale back production. This should be completed within the next four quarters. While the PR campaign should begin immediately, it may take several months for Ford to assess which production and retail facilities are most extraneous. Qualified workers can be transferred to different positions at RD facilities and public relations departments (Ford will begin recruiting internally). This step will be considered successful once Ford has reduced its production costs by a goal of around $1 billion annually. Managers will monitor the progress of facility closures with goals set at reducing operating costs by about $250 million annually per quarter for the next four quarters. Third, Ford must immediately direct newly acquired funds towards revamping its RD program and focusing this program upon the development of hybrid technologies. This should be completed within the next four quarters and will utilize an additional $700 million annually (gleaned from the estimated $1 billion in reduced annual operating expenses). Achievement teams will assess the growth of Fords hybrid RD program twice per quarter, ensuring that a gain of at least $175 million in addition annual RD funds are available at the end of each quarter. Fourth, Ford must begin to develop relationships and partnerships with leading energy firms. By creating cooperative RD facilities where research tasks, budgets and innovations are shared Ford stands to make significant strides at lower costs and accelerated rates. By sequestering their cooperation early on, Ford stands to gain a competitive edge against competitors. Ford must gain cooperative relationships with the majority of leading energy and engineering firms such as General Electric and Lockheed Martin as well as non-government organizations and federal research groups like the EPAs National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory (NVFEL) in Ann Arbor, Michigan (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency). Costs and evaluations will be incorporated into expanded RD departments. Fifth, Ford must unveil several new models of hybrid vehicles in all vehicle class types. This should be accomplished completely by 2015, followed by the eventual discontinuation or transformation of existing conventional-engine-models in years to follow. Hybrid models should cost no more than current conventional counterparts, and perform comparatively. Vehicle design budgets will be incorporated into expanded RD departments. The challenges facing the Ford Motor Company are great, but will be overcome through innovation and an increased dedication towards environmental and financial sustainability. Ford has repeatedly acted as a revolutionary force throughout history, and it is only through equally radical revolutions and innovations that Ford can help usher a new era in the global automotive industry.

Marajuana: Effects And After Affects Essay -- essays research papers

One of the most common illegal drug in the United States is marijuana. There are mixed views about this drug, some people want it legalized, other people don't. In this essay, I hope to display the facts about this illegal narcotic, and explain many vie Marijuana has many different names such as "kif" in Morocco, "doggo" in South Africa and "gangi" in India. There are many slang terms for this type of drug such as "grass," "pot," "weed," "reefer," "mj," "boo," "broccoli," "ace'', "joint," "Colombian" Tetrahydrocnnabinal(THC) was not found until the mid 1960's. Marijuana can be used medically or for an intoxicant. Doctors prescribe it to relieve pain for people in chemotherapy, or with other diseases. During the 1960's and 1970's mainly teenagers used marijuana. In the 1970's 11% said they used it daily, but recently, only about 5% use it daily. In 1975, 27% of people said they used it that previous month, and in 1978, that figure grew to 39%, but dr Rapid, loud talking and bursts of laughter are in the early stages of intoxication and sleepy or stuporous is in the later stages. Forgetfulness in conversation, inflammation in the whites of the eyes and the pupils unlikely to be dilated are in the la &nb...

The Social Issues in China

The social issues in China are in point of fact varied and wide ranging. There are some problems that have affected the nation for quite long and a permanent solution has never been obtained. However, some have been affecting the nation, yet they do not hinder the citizens from growing economically. Because of the vast number of these social problems, the government has faced considerable difficulties in trying to come up with solution to them. Most of these issues are addressed by the media. In so doing, some that are sensitive to the political issues may be considered. Some professionals hold that the China's fragile social balance when combined with the bubble economy, contributes to instability of the country. On the same plinth, others argue that the societal trends in China have actually created a balance to sustain it. For this reason, the paper will examine some of the social problems affecting the nation. By and large, it will majorly delve on employment and elitism and discrimination majorly affect the country socially. Moreover, it will examine on the causes of the problems, the effort made by the government to help solve the problems, the outcomes from the manner in which the problem is solved. Most importantly, some possible ways that can help reduce or solve the problems so that they do not inflict emotional and psychological pain to the recipients.Causes of UnemploymentBecause there is difficulty in the state enterprise development, there is a reason for the laid off-off workers within most cities in China. Old state owned enterprises are facing serious losses and liquidating sine they do not have the capability to sustain a wide range of masquerading unemployment. On the other hand, the newly owned states leaders in most cases tend to unload themselves from the burden of outmoded workers. They do this so that they can expand their profit margin. Moreover, there are some significant changes that have taken place in the industrial structure, and this has caused a lot of joblessness too many people. On the same regard, a number of large old and huge enterprises of the capital of goods produced are found to be increasingly difficult to bid for more orders because there is massive change for the demands of goods on the customers' side, because of the new facilities. Another major cause of unemployment worth pointing out is continued increasing of the surplus work force. The population growth of the country is increasing at an alarming rate and this makes the level of employment to go down. There are new entrants into the labor market hence makes the job opportunity to go down. As the population increases, the firms to absorb them reduce in number hence making the majority to become idle, because they do not have anything to keep them busy. Another cause of is inadequate skills at workplace and lack of education. This has affected the great percentage of the China's population. In an ideal world, there are quantities of people who cannot get jobs because of their little knowledge. Most of the companies in the country need enhancing, and must therefore get quality employees lest they stop operating. Furthermore, another data shows that educational backgrounds of many people are directly intertwined to unemployment. Most of the unemployed people are those with little knowledge as far as the job they want is concerned. From the analysis it is inherent that the three are some of the major causes, and it is not only in the private sectors, but also a national problem which needs proper solution from both the labors and the government at large.Government Effort to Solve the ProblemDespite the fact that these problems have affected the country both economically and socially, the government has tried at all cost to device methodologies to help curb the problems. First, the government has come up with the enrollment expansion plan. For the past twenty years, China's college enrollment rate has stood to about three percent, which is much lower than most of the developed countries. On the same pedigree, the education department also sensed the need expand the enrolment rate in the college s. Also, the central government tried all ways out to deploy many measures in a bid to expand the rate of enrolment in school. This has been achieved through building of schools, hiring more professors from and outside the nation to help in impacting knowledge to the learners. Above all, offering scholarship to the poor students. By and large, the processes have greatly improved the illiteracy level in most of the people within the country and today, majorities are employed. There has been increase in the demand and supply of the goods produced. In real essence, supplies do not only outweigh demand, but many of the employers have questioned the education that the college students have received. Because many learning institutions have been started, most young people are able to access, education in their line of specialization, and this has helped them a lot in their line of specialization as far as job market is concerned. On the same line, students are made aware of the unemployment issues as early as they get into schools. Through this they are encouraged to work extra hard so that they evade the problem when they come out of school. In point of fact, one who does not have outstanding papers finds it difficult to secure job because of the competition in the job market. The local government has made plans with the enterprises to help those in colleges and universities by enhancing a plan which gives graduates work and training experience. The local government does the contact work and convinces most of the enterprises so that they can provide job opportunities and internship programs for the graduates for a period of one year. During this period, the government supports the interns by providing for them a small allowance on a monthly basis. After the end of the internship, the enterprise can either decide to absorb the interns depending on the effort made during the period of placement. Also, the government suggests that the graduates can stay in colleges and do research as co workers, and they get paid by the research funds. Through this, they ultimately get good pay that sustains their economic wellbeing so that they become responsible people in the society. Most importantly, during the training sessions, the students are made aware that there employment market is flooded and they should try as much as possible to get self employed. Because of this, most of the graduates have started their own businesses to help them generate income for themselves without necessarily depending on the employment from the government.Outcome of UnemploymentGenerally, unemployment crisis is social, economic and political problem that affect every society. When the society is not empowered economically, it fails in all aspects. For example, unemployment creates social disparity between the rich and the poor. The rich, in most cases, does not find it comfortable associating themselves with the low class earners, which should not be the case. Because of the problem, most of the many people who are employed in China do not have time to spend with the unemployed citizens because they actually do not merge at any aspect. The poor has their own shopping centers, lanes, rentals, slums, as opposed to the high class. The economic and social aspect unemployment is that it leads to high dependency ratio. When most of the youth are not employed, they will entirely depend on their parents to provide for them everything including basic needs. On the other hand, the parents may feel overburdened, hence loosing the good social relationship and bond between themselves. On the same line, the families that are well of economically find it difficult to interact with the families that are not stable hence causing discrimination. For example, those from rich families take their children to good schools where they can attain proper education and eventually succeed in life. On the other hand, the poor takes their children to slum school where the children cannot attain good education. This scenario widens the gap between the rich and the poor because there is no point where they meet social, hence widening their social inconsistency. Unemployment leads to unethical stay in the society. When the citizens are not working, they become idle along the streets. They do not think positively in most cases. The fact that they have to eat shelter and socialize and the money factor to support them is a problem, they end up in ethical practices that can make them get money to support themselves. Theft cases have been reported in most cases from young and old people who are not employed. It is not due their likeness, but the fact that they do not have what to generate for them income, they end up in such acts. On the same plinth, the government finds it difficult to manage the poor youths. This comes in the sense that that high number of them engages in malpractices which is against the government law, which eventually subjects them to physical torture. When the government is not in good terms with the youths, it is very difficult for the political stability to be in the nation.Possible ways to Solve the ProblemsIn the real essence, the problem should be addressed amicable so that it does not affect both parties. The government should understand that they need the young people who are jobless for the peaceful movement in the nation. On the other hand, the young unemployed should understand that they require the government to help them in most of the problems they face. Both p arties should be beneficial to one another for peaceful coexistence in the society. First, the government should device various modalities to improve the employment issue. There should improved infrastructure to enhance people to move to every part of the nation to solicit for job opportunities. On the same note, the government should improve the housing system so that it can accommodate all the citizens without barrier. For example, those living in slums should be considered and be constructed for building that accommodates them peacefully. On the same pedigree, the charges of the rent should be accommodating to all so that many do not suffer when it comes shelter coverage. Similarly, the government should encourage e-commercial business and logistics to help in boosting then youths who are economically down. Most importantly, the government should provide funds to the young people who are jobless so that they can start their own business operation. In so doing, they will be dependant to themselves because they will be doing their own businesses and will not seek for employment. On the same dictum, it will be an advantage to the government too because there will revenue generated back to the government and peaceful coexistence will be maintained because the youths will no longer engage in the malpractices activities that can dent their image in the society. On the other hand, it is important for the youths to understand that they are the leaders of tomorrow and whatever thing they do today, affect their life to come. In so doing, they should be focused minded in everything they do. They should work hand in hand with the government so that they realize their goals by the end of the day. People should also live in harmony with one another without discrimination of age, sex, race or social class. When God created us, He was never discriminative and so we should emulate. The rich should embrace the poor and take care of them in most situations. They should be helped to get out of their poverty situations and make them stable. Most importantly, there should be peaceful coexistence between everyone living in the society, because when there is peace, there is love and harmony and it makes people to love and care for each other both socially, economically and even politically.

mirranda essays

mirranda essays The Supreme Court of the United States of America often makes decisions, which change this great nation in a great way. Often there is a disagreement over their decision: the court itself is often split. The impact of the Courts decision creates discussions and on occasion, violence. This is what happened in the case of Miranda v. Arizona in 1966, this case proven to be one of the most controversial cases in the history of this great nation and its people. This case changed history of this country and left a tremendous impact, which many tried to revisit and change in some way or another. Ernest Miranda was born in 1940 in a little town Mesa, Arizona. His father had emigrated from Mexico and now was supporting the family of tree as a house painter. In 1946 Ernest Miranda lost his mother. His mother's death seemed to mark the end of the happy childhood and the beginning of the troubled youth ("Miranda v. Arizona" 14). It was in the elementary school were Mr. Miranda a chose his way, his discipline was not acceptable his attendance record shows more absences then days present. He was able to finish the 8th grade but his latter education was stopped by his growing criminal activities his first serious arrest was for car theft, he was convicted and received probation ("Miranda v. Arizona" 14). From then on his criminal record growth to inorams size, it shows that he was arrested and convicted for crime such as burglary for which he was convicted and sends to State Industrial School for Boys at Fort Grant. Only a month after his release he arrested and charged with atte mpted rape and assault. He was found guilty and returned to Fort Grand in January 1957 Miranda was released from Fort Grant two month latter he was arrested in California for curfew violations and Peeping Tom activities five month after hi was arrested for armed robbery. He was released because the state did not have enough evidence to convict him ("Miranda v. Arizona" 14...

Feeling Like a Fraud

Feeling Like a Fraud Every time I begin a new book, I doubt my skills to make it happen. Just last week I told my husband as we cooked dinner: I keep wondering if my first books were chance, luck, my best ideas used up. He shook his head, marveling at my silliness, telling me as always that I think too hard. But invariably when I write, I wonder, Am I pretending to be a writer or am I really a writer, and how do I know the difference? Any writer who thinks they have arrived are not writers to read. Ive learned that much in this crazy business. The biggest names in the business continue to improve on their craft, their brand, their storytelling ability. We start as novices, then we advance to mid-level where weve learned a few things, but we arent masters. We make some money, but not enough to crow about. Many of us quit along the way, because that doubt takes hold and wins. Others weather through that insecurity over and over, dying at a higher rung on the ladder or choosing to climb higher. But nobody is immune to the feeling that they are trying to be something they are not. Just like were supposed to turn off our internal editor as we write, we should invest ourselves in a story for the sake of storytelling, not for the dream of fame and wealth. Its those who continue writing, those who write because they simply enjoy the experience, those who fight to be better without putting a dollars and cents measurement on the investment, who wake up one day after writing day after day and realize theyve actually done something decent and earned a degree of respect. Its not a flash in the pan. It sneaks up on you . . . assuming youre still around. The legitimate reward of writing is the writing itself. Your job is to write and make it a part of your being. Of course you want people to appreciate your work, but thats the gravy, people. Improve, improve, improve. Then after years of daily diligence, someone just might recognize you as an overnight wonder. But if not, no big deal. Writing is what you would do with your life anyway.

W 4 OIS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

W 4 OIS - Essay Example Clearly, architecture is needed for a number of reasons, two of which are for the purposes of integration and standardization of an organization’s operating model (Blunt, Jones and Richard, 2003). At every point in time within the organizational development, the enterprise business model and the enterprise strategy are seen to lie apart as two independent components of the organization, that must be developed; one devoid of the other in order to bring change and success. Through architecture, there is a bridge developed between the two components of the organizational development agenda, making it possible to effectively integrate the two components into a single variable. On the issue of standardization, Blunt, Jones and Richard (2003) observed that at every point within the enterprise process such as planning, analysis, implementation, monitoring, and closure phases, it is important that a common scope of objective, aim and goal be carried out. This is necessary in ensuring that any completed enterprise or system development will be done according to a set scope. Through architecture, all these phases are given a common standardized scope to ensure that the system satisfied a uniform code (Wager, Lee and Glaser,

Capstone Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Capstone - Essay Example When promoting their products, they make extensive use of celebrities as product ambassadors, which lends to their products and hence their consumers a sense of glamour and makes the consumer’s feel like some part of the celebrity’s skills rub off on them with the product usage. Nike target’s the common man who is interested in sports and fitness and banks on his skills and has a winning attitude. The brand also promotes hard work and competition and this is reflected through their promotional advertisements. Nike’s vision is â€Å"to  carry on the legacy of innovative thinking, whether  to develop products that help athletes of every level of ability reach their potential, or to create business opportunities that set Nike apart from the competition and provide value for our shareholders†. According to Nike’s vision for the future, they keep introducing innovative products in the market. Like, recently, they are going to launch the Nike à ¢â‚¬Å"Studio Wrap† in 2013, which are fashionable ‘barely there’ shoes, designed for people who are more into modern studio workouts like dance, Pilates and yoga. These shoes are the picture perfect mix of innovation, style and athletic requirements. Products like these by Nike help everyday and professional athletes the support and motivation to stick to a healthy lifestyle and to excel in their chosen field of sports. Nike products create additional value for its customers by adding style to the equation; all Nike products are aesthetically pleasing, yet high quality, innovative sportswear. 2. Analyze the five (5) forces of competition to determine how they impact the company. A big job to be done by the company’s strategists is to deal with its competitors; however that’s not all that their duties encompass. According to Porters’s theory there are four other forces that need to be taken into consideration. Following is a diagram outlining t he relationship between these five forces of competition. (Harvard Business Review Magazine, 2008) Originally published in 1979, Porter’s article talks about external forces that a company has to consider when planning competitive strategy. Namely, these include the bargaining power of producers, the bargaining power of consumers, indirect competition by substitute products, threat of new entrants due to barriers of entry and the rivalry between the existing players in the market in the specified category. (Harvard Business Review, Magazine, 2008). In Nike’s specific case, the business is lucrative and highly profitable and thus new entrants are common. This would reduce market share and profit levels but Nike stays on top of its game due to its immense goodwill in the market, its reputation, product quality and innovative techniques. However strategists have to remain on their toes to make sure that the company’s strategy doesn’t lag and allow new entran ts to gain on Nike’s expense. This requires them to continually innovate product design, establish strong customer relationships and loyalty, invest in research and development, invest in employee training, improve distribution and most importantly patent their designs and products to protect them from competitors. Using these precautions will mostly eliminate the threat of new market entrants. Threat from substitutes is low, because Nike provides essential gear for athletes and sports men and women which cannot really be substituted by other product, especially in the shoe category. Other sports gear