Saturday, August 31, 2019

Managed Care

The article seeks to identify the problems that face managed care organization (MCOs) in contemporary competitive environment which include broad public opinion, competitive realities, need for cost reduction. The article also notes that there has been an increase in health care cost despite the establishment of the managed health care systems implemented through the managed care organizations. Increase in cost remains to be a major concern for patients/consumers. Due to this, patients are ready to switch from one plan to another in which cost difference in premium is as little as $15. 0 per month. The article also claims that there has been concern from the society as far as quality of managed healthcare service is concerned. Such concerns encompass: accessibility, and the verification of what is ‘medically necessary’ including the diagnosis tests and referrals. Other concern is freedom of choice. Additionally, perceived quality which is increasingly valued by contempor ary patients/consumers has been lacking in the managed care organizations. (Entrepreneur 1998). Strategies or techniques are used to solve the problem or address the issue. This article proposes application of institutional theory to MCOs performance as well as strategic planning. Over emphasizing of institutional theory at the expense of strategic planning will not help the managed care organization to survive in the contemporary competitive environment. The article proposes a strategy that will respond and conform to the needs of the patients and the society at large. Being cost efficient and conforming with socially accepted norms will lead to superior performing of MCOs. Thus, a strategy that encompasses technical requirements as well as conforming to needs of the patients/consumers is very critical for success of any MCO. Only emphasizing or dealing with cost issue is not a strategy for long-term MCO superior performance and success. The article also proposes that all MCOs must demonstrate what contemporary consumers/patients and society expects. These expectations include accessibility, freedom of choice, and perceived quality i. e. always provide value for all patients. ( Entrepreneur1998). My conclusions and recommendations It is clear that the establishment of managed care and the managed care organizations have not been a panacea to all problems facing patients/consumers. Instead, what the patients would like to have is more accessibility to health care services, freedom of choice, better services emphasizing on perfect diagnosis tests, reduction in cost of this services as well as flexibility of managed care systems. This is yet to become a reality. To ensure this, responding to consumers/patients needs will be of great importance. This should include training the health care workers on the best way to serve the patients better, and carrying out perfect diagnosis tests before treating the patients. Increase in number of medical practitioners in MCOs so as to ensure accessibility of these services should also be considered. The managed care plans should also employ modern technology that will improve the quality of health care services. This should encompass better disease diagnosing equipments, and establishing better information systems. Reduction of cost is also very imperative. All inefficiencies and wastage should be checked through a well planned compliance system that should work closely with the human resource department. (Harris, J. S. 1994; Morton-Cooper & Bamford 1997; Alexander & Amburgey. 1987) Contribution of the article to helping practicing healthcare managers This article is of great help to many practicing healthcare managers. First, it point out the importance of being market oriented i. e. responding to the needs of the patients/consumers and society at large. Factors that determine patients choice of particular health care provider i. e. accessibility of the service, cost of the service, perceived quality such perfect diagnosis test for appropriate medication and so on are also enlisted. The article also emphasis on need of employing a strategy that ensures adherence to technical requirements, cost reduction, high quality, and also freedom of choice to the patients/consumers. Such insight is of great importance to any practicing health care manager who wants to succeed in this career. Managed Care The article seeks to identify the problems that face managed care organization (MCOs) in contemporary competitive environment which include broad public opinion, competitive realities, need for cost reduction. The article also notes that there has been an increase in health care cost despite the establishment of the managed health care systems implemented through the managed care organizations. Increase in cost remains to be a major concern for patients/consumers. Due to this, patients are ready to switch from one plan to another in which cost difference in premium is as little as $15. 0 per month. The article also claims that there has been concern from the society as far as quality of managed healthcare service is concerned. Such concerns encompass: accessibility, and the verification of what is ‘medically necessary’ including the diagnosis tests and referrals. Other concern is freedom of choice. Additionally, perceived quality which is increasingly valued by contempor ary patients/consumers has been lacking in the managed care organizations. (Entrepreneur 1998). Strategies or techniques are used to solve the problem or address the issue. This article proposes application of institutional theory to MCOs performance as well as strategic planning. Over emphasizing of institutional theory at the expense of strategic planning will not help the managed care organization to survive in the contemporary competitive environment. The article proposes a strategy that will respond and conform to the needs of the patients and the society at large. Being cost efficient and conforming with socially accepted norms will lead to superior performing of MCOs. Thus, a strategy that encompasses technical requirements as well as conforming to needs of the patients/consumers is very critical for success of any MCO. Only emphasizing or dealing with cost issue is not a strategy for long-term MCO superior performance and success. The article also proposes that all MCOs must demonstrate what contemporary consumers/patients and society expects. These expectations include accessibility, freedom of choice, and perceived quality i. e. always provide value for all patients. ( Entrepreneur1998). My conclusions and recommendations It is clear that the establishment of managed care and the managed care organizations have not been a panacea to all problems facing patients/consumers. Instead, what the patients would like to have is more accessibility to health care services, freedom of choice, better services emphasizing on perfect diagnosis tests, reduction in cost of this services as well as flexibility of managed care systems. This is yet to become a reality. To ensure this, responding to consumers/patients needs will be of great importance. This should include training the health care workers on the best way to serve the patients better, and carrying out perfect diagnosis tests before treating the patients. Increase in number of medical practitioners in MCOs so as to ensure accessibility of these services should also be considered. The managed care plans should also employ modern technology that will improve the quality of health care services. This should encompass better disease diagnosing equipments, and establishing better information systems. Reduction of cost is also very imperative. All inefficiencies and wastage should be checked through a well planned compliance system that should work closely with the human resource department. (Harris, J. S. 1994; Morton-Cooper & Bamford 1997; Alexander & Amburgey. 1987) Contribution of the article to helping practicing healthcare managers This article is of great help to many practicing healthcare managers. First, it point out the importance of being market oriented i. e. responding to the needs of the patients/consumers and society at large. Factors that determine patients choice of particular health care provider i. e. accessibility of the service, cost of the service, perceived quality such perfect diagnosis test for appropriate medication and so on are also enlisted. The article also emphasis on need of employing a strategy that ensures adherence to technical requirements, cost reduction, high quality, and also freedom of choice to the patients/consumers. Such insight is of great importance to any practicing health care manager who wants to succeed in this career. Managed Care The article seeks to identify the problems that face managed care organization (MCOs) in contemporary competitive environment which include broad public opinion, competitive realities, need for cost reduction. The article also notes that there has been an increase in health care cost despite the establishment of the managed health care systems implemented through the managed care organizations. Increase in cost remains to be a major concern for patients/consumers. Due to this, patients are ready to switch from one plan to another in which cost difference in premium is as little as $15. 0 per month. The article also claims that there has been concern from the society as far as quality of managed healthcare service is concerned. Such concerns encompass: accessibility, and the verification of what is ‘medically necessary’ including the diagnosis tests and referrals. Other concern is freedom of choice. Additionally, perceived quality which is increasingly valued by contempor ary patients/consumers has been lacking in the managed care organizations. (Entrepreneur 1998). Strategies or techniques are used to solve the problem or address the issue. This article proposes application of institutional theory to MCOs performance as well as strategic planning. Over emphasizing of institutional theory at the expense of strategic planning will not help the managed care organization to survive in the contemporary competitive environment. The article proposes a strategy that will respond and conform to the needs of the patients and the society at large. Being cost efficient and conforming with socially accepted norms will lead to superior performing of MCOs. Thus, a strategy that encompasses technical requirements as well as conforming to needs of the patients/consumers is very critical for success of any MCO. Only emphasizing or dealing with cost issue is not a strategy for long-term MCO superior performance and success. The article also proposes that all MCOs must demonstrate what contemporary consumers/patients and society expects. These expectations include accessibility, freedom of choice, and perceived quality i. e. always provide value for all patients. ( Entrepreneur1998). My conclusions and recommendations It is clear that the establishment of managed care and the managed care organizations have not been a panacea to all problems facing patients/consumers. Instead, what the patients would like to have is more accessibility to health care services, freedom of choice, better services emphasizing on perfect diagnosis tests, reduction in cost of this services as well as flexibility of managed care systems. This is yet to become a reality. To ensure this, responding to consumers/patients needs will be of great importance. This should include training the health care workers on the best way to serve the patients better, and carrying out perfect diagnosis tests before treating the patients. Increase in number of medical practitioners in MCOs so as to ensure accessibility of these services should also be considered. The managed care plans should also employ modern technology that will improve the quality of health care services. This should encompass better disease diagnosing equipments, and establishing better information systems. Reduction of cost is also very imperative. All inefficiencies and wastage should be checked through a well planned compliance system that should work closely with the human resource department. (Harris, J. S. 1994; Morton-Cooper & Bamford 1997; Alexander & Amburgey. 1987) Contribution of the article to helping practicing healthcare managers This article is of great help to many practicing healthcare managers. First, it point out the importance of being market oriented i. e. responding to the needs of the patients/consumers and society at large. Factors that determine patients choice of particular health care provider i. e. accessibility of the service, cost of the service, perceived quality such perfect diagnosis test for appropriate medication and so on are also enlisted. The article also emphasis on need of employing a strategy that ensures adherence to technical requirements, cost reduction, high quality, and also freedom of choice to the patients/consumers. Such insight is of great importance to any practicing health care manager who wants to succeed in this career.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Pretax accounting income Essay

On January 1, 2010, Ameen Company purchased a building for $36 million. Ameen uses straight-line depreciation for financial statement reporting and MACRS for income tax reporting. At December 31, 2012, the carrying value of the building was $30 million and its tax basis was $20 million. At December 31, 2013, the carrying value of the building was $28 million and its tax basis was $13 million. There were no other temporary differences and no permanent differences. Pretax accounting income for 2013 was $45 million.On January 1, 2010, Ameen Company purchased a building for $36 million. Ameen uses straight-line depreciation for financial statement reporting and MACRS for income tax reporting. At December 31, 2012, the carrying value of the building was $30 million and its tax basis was $20 million. At December 31, 2013, the carrying value of the building was $28 million and its tax basis was $13 million. There were no other temporary differences and no permanent differences. Pretax accounting income for 2013 was $45 million.On January 1, 2010, Ameen Company purchased a building for $36 million. Ameen uses straight-line depreciation for financial statement reporting and MACRS for income tax reporting. At December 31, 2012, the carrying value of the building was $30 million and its tax basis was $20 million. At December 31, 2013, the carrying value of the building was $28 million and its tax basis was $13 million. There were no other temporary differences and no permanent differences. Pretax accounting income for 2013 was $45 million. On January 1, 2010, Ameen Company purchased a building for $36 million. Ameen uses straight-line depreciation for financial statement reporting and MACRS for income tax reporting. At December 31, 2012, the carrying value of the building was $30 million and its tax basis was $20 million. At December 31, 2013, the carrying value of the building was $28 million and its tax basis was $13 million. There were no other temporary differences and no permanent differences. Pretax accounting income for 2013 was $45 million.On January 1, 2010, Ameen Company purchased a building for $36 million. Ameen uses straight-line depreciation for financial statement reporting and MACRS for income tax reporting. At December 31, 2012, the carrying value of the building was $30 million and its tax basis was $20 million. At December 31,

Hibernation

Arieana Koonce Ms. Stephens Biology Honors March 9, 2013 True Hibernation vs. False Hibernation Hibernation is when a mammal has a low body temperature, slow breathing and heart rate, and low metabolic rate. A ground squirrel hibernates in their dens. These dens allow them to sleep for a long time. They rarely wake up. Their hearts beat about 1-2 times per minute. Ground squirrels actually sleep through the entire cold winter. Their body temperature dips down so low that there body is only a couple degrees warmer than outside.It could reach below freezing. These animals prepare for this five to six month period the rest of the year. Hibernation is the animal's way to adapt to thing. Compared to ground squirrels, who hibernate in dens, and other true hibernators however, the hibernation arrangement of bears is only a sequence of long naps. Since the body temperature of bears remains high and their breathing remains at a normal rate, their winter naps can easily be bothered or woken up .Some bears even wake up during their winter nap and search and walk around for hours, occasionally possibly days. Therefore that makes bears mammals that are not true hibernators. In conclusion, false hibernation is a way for the larger mammals to stay warm throughout winter without having to do all the things the smaller ones do. It is not the same thing as true hibernation because their body temperature only drops a couple of degrees. Although they are very different mammals do whatever they can to survive the tough winter.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Stock Market Anomalies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Stock Market Anomalies - Essay Example In finance, anomalies are market activities not in agreement with the forecasting of the efficient market hypothesis (EMH). In detail, these anomalies seem to breach premises of mean-variance ratio or no-arbitrage. If a multifarious adaptive scheme approach better depicts markets, the supposed anomalies investigators have keyed out may not be abnormal after all. The modern EMH model can be summed up in the "three P's of Total Investment Management" (Lo, 1999): prices, probabilities, and preferences. The three P's have originated from one of the most fundamental and vital estimates of modern economics, the rationale of supply and demand. This precept submits that the price of any goods and the quantity sold are fixed by the intersection of supply and demand arcs. The intersection of these two arcs influences "equilibrium" comprising the pair of price-quantity which might satisfy both the user and the producer at the same time. How or why do markets fail Several reasons can be attached to this question. But the simplest reason is the heterogeneity of the investors which breaks down and the every capitalist starts to act in harmony which leads to either extreme optimism which is greed or pessimism which is fear. The teachings of social psychology are that people like to imitate one another thus giving weightage when being in group rather than to individual's own reflections.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Australian Trade in India and China Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Australian Trade in India and China - Essay Example The rapidly expanding Chinese economy has steadily resulted in solid infrastructural development. This in turn has allowed for the increased prosperity of many within mainland China. With rising personal disposable incomes, comes increased consumption demand and thus growing domestic expenditure. Chinese imports are gradually increasing, thus presenting a myriad of opportunities for suppliers of raw materials and products in various stages of production. Political relations between China and Australia have significantly improved in recent years. An example of the bilateral co-operation includes the Sino-Australian parliamentary exchange conference held in May 2007. The Chinese economy - a renowned net exporter - boasted a current account surplus of $359 billion in 2007 and a net figure of Foreign Direct Investment of $83 billion. All in all, the Chinese foreign reserves stand at $1.5 trillion for the year ending 2007. (Sino-Australian parliamentary exchange conference. Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Australia) This bodes exceptionally well for investment opportunity. With such rapid development and a large and economically powerful buying market, the Chinese sector presents immense profitable opportunity potential to Australian investors. The Chinese housing market; share markets and general government reluctance to allow inflationary pressures to impact on the economy have resulted in an investor safe-haven in the Chinese domestic market. Few economies can lay claim to such robust growth rates as the Chinese economy. With rising prices, spurned by the inflationary pressures of petroleum supplies; food prices and general dollar w eakness, the Chinese government is intent on protecting the domestic economy from global pressures. Investments in Chinese infrastructure allow for significant benefits to International Donor Financiers. The following statistical data was compiled by the World Bank regarding China 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 A. Real Expenditure Growth 1. GDP at market prices 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.7 9.6 2. Private consumption 6.6 7.0 7.0 9.0 8.5 3. Government consumption 6.4 7.2 9.0 8.8 8.0 4. Fixed investment 17.0 11.6 8.8 8.9 8.2 5. Exports, GNFS 26.8 28.4 24.3 23.6 19.1 6. Imports, GNFS 24.8 22.5 12.0 19.5 18.8 B. Contribution to GDP Growth 1. Private consumption 2.9 3.0 2.9 3.6 3.4 2. Government consumption 1.0 1.1 1.4 1.3 1.2 3. Fixed investment 6.1 4.4 3.4 3.4 3.1 4. Net exports 1.3 2.8 5.3 3.8 2.5 C. Price Deflators 1. GDP at market prices 2.6 6.9 2.1 3.1 5.6 2. Private consumption 1.4 4.9 2.9 4.5 6.8 3. Exports, GNFS 4.7 5.3 1.7 3.7 0.9 4. Imports, GNFS 9.7 10.3 4.9 7.2 0.4 D. Share of GDP 1. Private consumption 41.8 39.9 39.1 39.0 39.0 2. Government consumption 15.2 14.5 14.6 14.7 14.6 3. Fixed investment 39.4 40.7 41.3 41.6 41.4 4. Change in stocks 1.8 2.5 0.0 -1.1 -1.2 5. Total investment 41.2 43.3 41.2 40.5 40.1 6. Exports, GNFS 29.6 34.0 38.1 42.8 44.4 7. Imports, GNFS 27.4 31.4 32.8 36.8 38.0 E. Memo 1. Nominal GDP (USD billions) 1640.4 1930.9 2171.7 2477.4 2867.6 2. Population (millions) 1300.0 1308.0 1315.8 1324.1 1332.4 3. GDP per capita, current USD 1261.8 1476.2 1650.4 1871.0 2152.2 4. Real per capita GDP growth 9.3 9.4 9.5 10.0 8.9 5. USD Fx rate 8.3 8.3 8.2 8.0 7.6 6. Current account balance (% GDP) 2.8 3.6 7.4 9.3 9.2 7. General government bal. (% GDP) -2.5 -1.5 -1.7 -0.5 -0.8 India presents with multiple challenges notably generally

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Christianity and Hinduism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Christianity and Hinduism - Essay Example According to the essay findings  Christianity is one of the oldest religions in the world. It dates backs thousands of years. The beginning f the Christianity is the 1st century A.D. in the Roman Empire. Christianity is also monotheistic religions. It focuses on the teaching and life of Jesus Christ. Nowadays Christianity is the largest religion in the world. Their early history is of one origin. Christianity is subdivided into Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Protestantism. Christian views are still considered to be the most widespread in the world.   These are views about the one God in the Universe, which are represented in three forms: God the father, God the son and God the holy spirit. The God created the Earth and people, he was working for six days and had rest on the seventh. Adam and Eve were the first people and they lost the heaven. Christians tend to believe that their religion explains the origin of the world in a best way. Thus, many people have been sharing the Christian v iews.  This paper highlights that  the principles of Hinduism are often criticized for the lack of an exact system of beliefs and ideas. Paganism and metaphysics are believed to be the basis of Hinduism. People, who believe in this religion, are pacified and calm people. They do not look like Westerners. Still, this is not an unquestionable advantage of Hinduism. Hindus follow different rituals and they have to oblige to the principles of Hinduism from birth to death.  

Monday, August 26, 2019

Objectives and Implications of the Organization Essay

Objectives and Implications of the Organization - Essay Example A new business organization initially has to strengthen it hold on the market by with standing the challenged faced. A small company or new company will have less of public recognisition, more expenses on enhancing the public visibility to make their products popular. So the objectives initially will be to enhance the sales turnover, to acquire the investment for aggressive growth strategies. Sustainability depends upon the competition, the type of products at offer and the distinctiveness of the products. As the seasons changes the products marketing strategies may place the product in a better position. Revival of sales plans: The sales of the products reflect the growth of the organisation. The more the sales the more will be the revenue generated. So, companies strive to keep up the sales margins high even in the competitive environment. A series of steps are initialed to reach the sales targets by ripping on the seasonal demands like in the festive seasons the electronics or garments industries comes out with discounted prices, more incentive programs to entice the consumers and peg up the sales. Aiming at new markets: Organizations at times develops strategies to enter new markets by market research on the new regions where there can considerable customer base ignored by the local competitors and has a chance to unleash. Market research explores the market value and the profitability of the products thus giving a clear idea for investments plans.

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Advertisement and marketing communication Essay

Advertisement and marketing communication - Essay Example The new economy has brought success to e-bay and other organizations that use technology to apply marketing concepts like customer focus, good value, quality service and efficient exchange mechanisms for satisfying customer needs and wants. Basically marketing deals with identifying and meeting human and social needs. One of the shortest definitions of marketing is "meeting needs profitably (Kotler, 2003). Whether the marketer is Procter & Gamble, which created crest white strips in response to people's desire for whiter teeth; or Monster.com, which developed an online resume databank so job-hunters and employers can find each other more efficiently; or CarMax which invented a new way to sell used cars because people want more certainly when buying such vehicles, all illustrate a drive to turn a private or social need into a profitable business opportunity. Companies must carefully monitor their customers and competitors, continuously improve their value offerings, carefully define t he target market and value proposition, and take a long term view to satisfy customers, stockholders, employees, suppliers and channel partners. Modern marketing calls for more than developing a good product, pricing it attractively, and making it accessible. Companies must also communicate with present and potential stakeholders as well as general public. For companies it is not important to communicate but rather what to say, to whom and how often. The marketing communication mix consists of advertising, sales promotion, public relations and publicity, personal selling and direct marketing (Kolter, 1997). Advertising is any paid form of non-personal presentation and promotion of ideas, good or service by an identified sponsor. Ads are a cost effective way to disseminate message, whether to build brand preference. In developing an advertisement programme, marketing mangers start by identifying the target market and buyer motives. Then they make 5 critical decisions known as five M's i.e. Mission (objectives) Money, Message, Media & Measurement. An advertising objective is a specifics communication task and achievement level to the accomplished with a specific audience in a specific period. Advertising objectives can be classified according to whether their aim is to inform, persuade, remind or reinforce. The international charity recruiting business school playing the major role through providing students who are voluntarily help small business to grow in the developing market. We are required to show in the advertisement that it conveys goodwill and image of the organization. So this advertisement could be categorized as institutional advertisements, which advocates its act and show its pioneer work. To develop an effective advertisement one has to identify the target audience. Here we have an organization, which has some genuine motives. Our target audience is the people, who are young, willing to be the part of society and work for the betterment of the society, people and organizations. So seeing the target audience of the advertisement we selected red color, which, depicts vibrant, energetic and highly self-motivated nature of youth and this color attracts people immediately. Here picture is showing the two basic domain of people or society that is haves and have-nots. There is a path, which is very difficult, but it can take the people from the category of have-nots towards who have. In between the path there are lots of roadblocks and potholes, which makes journey very difficult but our business school graduates have the capacity to make the transition mu ch easier and he/she is right there to help voluntarily. Specifying the objective of the message plays a crucial role in deciding the nature. Simple and humorous massages which could be able to convey the message effectively will play the trick. It's an advertisement about voluntary service so it must contain some motivating message, which could easily attract

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Letter of Intent Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Letter of Intent - Essay Example During this time, I have not only met numerous persons requiring my attention as a Practical Nurse but I have also worked closely with other well-informed Practical Nurses. This exposure in the field of healthcare has molded me into an approachable, sociable, dynamic, and a resourceful person in addition to equipping me with negotiation and interpersonal skills. Moreover, I have become an open minded and hard working person, an outstanding team player as well as a person who is open minded and excellent in networking. I believe that my working background as a CNA has equipped me with proper knowledge and experience that places me in an advantageous position to be eligible to pursue this course. My strong will to deliver relevant results, curiosity, attention to details, and willingness to learn are additional strengths that would be important assets as I study. I am also initiative, well-organized, have a genuine interest in people, have the ability to work independently with minimum supervision, and have good work habits. I have no misgivings that pursuing a course in Practical Nursing would give me the opportunity of sharpening these skills further as well as increasing my knowledge in the same, which would improve my performance greatly. One of my greatest weaknesses is that I have a tendency of getting too focused on whatever I am doing such that I find it hard to stop doing something until I see the desired results. This has oftentimes left me without any time for myself. However, I am working on these weaknesses by asking for help from colleagues in backbreaking issues, following a schedule, going for occasional breaks and coming up with after-hours hobbies. Upon completion of the nursing program, my goal is to continue working in nursing homes and provide and promote patient care to the best of my ability as well as being actively involved in helping patients regain their physical

Friday, August 23, 2019

The Death of Socrates Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Death of Socrates - Assignment Example â€Å"The Death of Socrates† was completed in 1784 by Jacques-Louis David. David’s painting is a fine example of academic art which was a prevalent form in his day and age. The work was commissioned by the Tredaine de Montigny brothers, both of whom were active supporters of open public discussions and the free market system. This work of David’s would, ultimately, become an image of inspiration during the French Revolution.("Boston College") Academic artists rely on some very specific elements in order to qualify within the discipline. Firstly, it must contain historical relevance. The major subject of the work must contain a â€Å"sense of universal experience† within heroic terms; and nothing is allowed to distract from the subject or events that are being represented.(Goldstein 103) Socrates was a man of differing ideals and inspiring orations that earned him the accusations of being disruptive and of corrupting the Grecian youth. He was, ultimately, p ut on trial for this â€Å"crime† and found to be guilty. He was given the option of banishment or death by the consumption of hemlock. He accepts death rather than give up his principles. ... There are six people on either side of the philosopher. This includes the three individuals, one of which is Socrates’ wife, that are exiting up the distant stairs. The balance uses perspective that prevents the small, confining cell space from becoming overcrowded and helps keep the overall focus upon the main subject. The use of the neutral brown wood and gray stone has little texture, the majority of texture, as well as, color come from the people presented. Blue, rust, and yellow fabric is being worn repeatedly throughout the work, including by those exiting on the stairs. This retains the connected nature of everyone in the work. After all, in this style nothing can detract from the subject. This color continuity guarantees the perception that everyone is there or was there because of Socrates. The people on the stairs are not mistaken for people visiting another condemned prisoner. The only other character present that is even remotely distinguishable from the rest is, P lato, who is, also, wearing white robes. However, his robes remain more heavily shadowed. The light does not reflect as brightly upon his robes nor upon his skin as it does upon his mentor. Unity is extremely important within academic art, as well as, relevant in any piece of art. Unity is responsible for achieving an air of commonality within the end result and provides a sense of harmony of all the elements present.(Jirousek ) We know that all the individuals in â€Å"The Death of Socrates† belong there. We can look upon the environment and wardrobe and we accept that a moment of Grecian history has been captured. Everything appears and feels right. The intended function of the work and the artist’s purpose in creating it plays a huge role in the overall unity of the piece, as well.

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Strategics management Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Strategics management - Research Paper Example Evaluation of a strategy is also an inherent part of strategic management because without knowing whether the current strategy is working or not, no firm can set and achieve goals. In this essay we will discuss how strategic management skills can be applied by managers. It is important for managers to define the purpose of the organization. Vision of a firm informs the employees and the customers about the purpose and value of the firm (Mind Tools, 2011). It is an essential part of application of strategic management skills to design vision of a firm so as to guide employees regarding their behavior. Customers can also learn through vision of a firm about how can they be benefitted by the firm. Usually vision of a firm is defined in a sentence or a statement commonly known as the vision statement. It entails the long term purpose of the firm and how employees are supposed to operate in the company. Strategic management is all about taking strategic decisions and strategic decisions have certain characteristics. Strategic decisions are of high magnitude, they have a long term focus, and they require high level of commitment (Haberberg & Rieple, 2007). Vision statement is also a strategic decision because it has all above three characteristics. Objectives of the firm are more specific short term targets. Strategic management skills are applied to define short term targets for the firm and short term targets are important for a firm because they serve as steps that can lead the firm to the long term targets. Firms also require regular assessment of their position and for that short term targets serve useful. Vision of a firm is a broadly defined purpose of the organization, on the other hand objectives are short term targets that can be measured empirically and are specific. Managers should always check whether the firm is treading on the right path or not, and vision and objectives help managers in

Tech Writing Essay Example for Free

Tech Writing Essay As you may have recently heard, lately we received news from the corporate headquarters that it would be in the best interest of the entire company to pay more attention to matters of preventing accidents and any other safety-related measures that affect the workplace, including both office and field activities related to all types of jobs that we complete. Every single employee in each office at every branch needs to be mindful in this regard so that he/she is most efficient and effective in the daily performance of his/her everyday tasks that relate to their job responsibilities so that safety is always of paramount concern. With this goal of safety ever present in our minds, I believe the bottom line of the emphasis on safety could be considered to be the training that each of us receives in his/her first initial weeks on the job as well as the training provided on a regular basis throughout each year of our employment with M-Global, so that we are always aware of how to operate in a safe manner. The training video gives the company the mechanism to provide each of you with the means to become aware of the elements of safety that relate to the specific needs and requirements of your own particular job. Therefore, at this point in time I have come to the conclusion in the process of contemplating the relevance of the new corporate emphasis on safety to our particular branch that we need, as a branch, to give much greater scrutiny and analysis to the way we can prevent accidents and emphasize the concern of safety at every stage of our operation for every employee. Toward the end I have asked the training coordinator Kendra Jones to assemble a written training program that will involve every single employee and that can be implemented beginning no later than June of this year. When the plan has been written and approved at the various levels within the office, I will conduct a meeting with every department in order to emphasize the major and minor components of this upcoming safety program. It is my great pleasure to announce to all of you that effective in the next month (February) I will give a monthly safety award of $100 to the individual branch employee at any level of the branch  who comes up with the best, most useful suggestion related to safety in any part of the branch activities. Today I will take the action of placing a suggestion box on the wall of the lunchroom so that all of you will have an easy way to place suggestions for safety into the pipeline and to be considered. As an attachment to the memo you are now reading from me, I have provided you with a copy of the form that you are to use in making any suggestions that are then to be placed in the suggestion box. On the last business day of each month, the box will be emptied of the completed forms for that month, and before the end of the following week a winner will be selected by me for the previous month suggestion program, and an announcement will be placed by me on the bulletin board in the company workroom. If you have any questions in regard to the corporate safety program as it affects our branch or about the suggestion program that is being implemented here at the Denver office at M-Global, please do not hesitate to make your comments known either in memorandum form or by way of telephone response to this memorandum.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

History Of Luxury Goods Industry Marketing Essay

History Of Luxury Goods Industry Marketing Essay In late 1996, after collaboration ended between BBL (Bharat Bijlee Ltd), a Mumbai (India) based elevator Business Company and Schindler, a Swiss-based elevator and escalator manufacturer. Schildler started planning to operate and expand the business fully own subsidiary. In 1874, Robert Schindler established the company in Switzerland. The company starts manufacturing the escalators in 1989 and by 1998 the company had worldwide presence and revenues of 6.6 billion Swiss Francs. The company employed over 38,000 in 97 subsidiaries and looking to start own operation in India. Alferd N. Schindler, Chairman of the company felt that India had a large emerging market and the company had great growth potential. He himself spent several weeks in India and travel in different cities to understand the market and potential. India is not relatively a new market for Schindler; in 1925, first elevator was installed in India. In late 1950s Schindler appointed local distributer to increase the market presence and agreement done with ECE, an Indian Company which was later ended in 1958. In 1985 Schindler entered into a technical collaboration with Mumbai-based Bharat Bijlee ltd (BBL) to manufacture and sell its elevator. Silvia Napoli, a Harvard MBA graduate; joined Schindler in Sept 1994 as head of corporate planning in companys headquarters in Ebikon, Switzerland. Napoli had been appointed vice-president of South-Asia and Head of the India INTRODUCTION The luxury goods industry is well established in Italy around the region in Europe. Most of the family- controlled luxury good brands and few of the company still run by 5th generations. The customer segment are high end-rich customers basically middle aged but the trend was changed and the companies also targeted youths. The profit margin of the luxury goods is very high i.e. up to 70% so there is large amount of revenue spent on marketing and publicity. Luxury goods are a matter and current fashion trend and maintaining of high status in the society. Middle income groups customers have a dream to buy the luxury goods one day in future and join the elite club. HISTORY OF LUXURY GOODS INDUSTRY In 1837, Thierry Hermes founded a company manufacturing especially luxury leather goods. Later 1923, Gucci established in Italy and there are many more companies established in between and after in Italy and around the Europe. 150 years of luxury goods manufacturing history roots in Europe. ANALYSIS (BASES ON PORTERS FIVE FORCE OF COMPETATIVE POSITION) MARKET ENTRANTS: About 75% luxury goods are manufactured in Europe and there is a huge demand of these products in Europe and overseas especially in North America, Japan and other Asian countries. The global market for luxury brands in 2001 is around $70 billion. LVMH commands the largest market share of 15% compared with 6% of the next largest group. Geographic distribution of global wealth, the market is divided into 3 geographical areas such as Europe, North America, Japan and other Asian countries: approximately 40% of sales are made in Europe, 28% in North America and 24% in Asia, with the remaining 8% scattered amongst the remaining regions. YSL Couture generates 60% of its revenue in Asia, as does 35% of Hermes, 40% of Christian Lacroix sales, more than 50% of Leica sales. Overall luxury goods market segment: Sl No. Luxury Goods category Percentage Fragrance and cosmetics 24- 37% Ready-to-wear and fashion 14-30% Leather and shoes 13-16% Watches and jewelry 08-32% Wines and spirits 15-22% Others 05-09% COMPETATIVE RIVALRY: The fashion luxury goods companies are basically located in Italy or in Europe. So their cultural background is same and almost all brands are family-oriented luxury goods business. Few companies are acquired by public, and Gucci was one of them. There are advantages and disadvantages for both family farm as compared with public company and vice versa. The basic competition is not the price war its about product design and brand image. Guccis creative director Tom Ford is an advantage edge for the company who give a new direction to the company i.e. fashion-oriented approach, which makes Gucci truly a luxurious brand. In 1998, sales by product figure (please see case notes exhibits 2) gave an idea that Gucci was 3rd position of leather goods sales, 4th in Jewelry and watches and 5th in apparel. It gives a negative picture to the stakeholders that Gucci is not become a leading luxury brand in any specialized category of goods. However, at the beginning Gucci specialized for leather goods. The positive point is that Gucci doesnt need to depend on a specific category of good which was a good sign. The company balanced overall sells figure and not dependent on a specific category of goods. In 1998 sales by region (please see exhibit 1), Gucci was doing overall good business and balanced the sales figure almost same in North America, Europe and Asia. Whereas the other brands such as LVMH and Bulgari is close to Guccis sales distribution. It was a good indication for Gucci that during regional economic downturn the company compensates overall sells in another region. Recent days natural disasters and terrorists threats increases, which affects the regional economy ant time e.g. 9/11 attack in U.S., 26/11 in India, Gulf war, war against Taliban, volcano eruption in Iceland tsunami in east Asian countries etc. PRODUCT AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT: There are no real substitutes for the luxury goods buyers. Cost is not a big factor for luxury goods, customers look for elegant design. Customers might not be so found of particular designer unless the designer famous likes Tom Ford who associated to Gucci. Technology plays a big role to shape the products and increase volume of the production. With use of the latest technology the quality of the product will be high standard and production will be faster so that easy to balance the production and demand. Gucci understand this important step of the business so De Sole helps the supplier to provide latest technology and financial support for up gradation of the equipment for e.g. If Gucci uses the latest technology to cut the leather and results cutting will be better, faster and wastage of materials will be less. High quality leather is very costly so lot of savings for Gucci and ultimately production is cost less and high profit margin. SUPPLIERS Suppliers are backbone of a company and without cooperation of suppliers a company will be paralyzed any time. So the relation between the supplier and the company should be close and good for future success of the company. Specially, when companies outsource the goods. Guccis success is because of the quality craftsmanship and which all-time low in 1993 because unable to pay. De Sole visited every individual suppliers and selected best of them and cut the rest and pushes them hard to reach the parameter of Guccis expectation. Suppliers have clear vision after discussion with De Sole that what they have to continue the relationship with Gucci. The relation was better and transparent, which help to improve the brand image though quality products and on time delivery. CUSTOMERS There are two types of customers: The super-rich The middle-market customers The super-rich customers (or high net worth Individuals) seem not subject to the world economic cycles. In addition, they are a growing number. The middle-market customers are those that are willing to buy luxury goods, but they want the hottest, trendiest design, which increasingly have to be marketed in creative and expensive ways. They can potentially expand the market quite dramatically, as they are part of the upper-middle class. They are considered to be both a great opportunity. Gucci understand this and changed their strategies from classic image to fashion-oriented approach where they can attract large middle-market pool of customers. While the price is less and no of customers is more. Hence, the cash flow is more; the sales figure in 1994 (please see exhibit 1) total revenue was $263.6 million and in 2001 the sales figure reached to $2,285.0 million. GICCIS POSITIONES AND DE SOLES CRITICAL MOVES Gucci was a family controlled business and from the beginning has experienced many changes since it founded in Florence in 1923. In 1950s Guccis first opened outside Europe DOS store in New York. Very fast the products attract the famous celebrities around the world. As celebrities are using the luxury goods Gucci gets publicity through the media and Gucci become a luxury global brand. The brand expands their stores in 1970s UK, Japan, Hong Kong and other Asian countries. In the 1980s after Rodolfo Gucci died, the family-run company faces new challenges internally from their own family members. In 1989, InvestCorp Int. acquires a 50% share in Gucci and forms a 50-50 joint venture with Maurizio Gucci. Later in 1993 the Gucci family sold rest of the share to InvestCorp Int. and InvestCorp Int. gains full ownership of the company. After acquired by InvestCop Int. Gucci become a public company and listed on various stock exchanges respectively. In early 1990s, the entire luxury goods industry was going through downturn because of gulf war, the US recession and reduced no of tourists around the world because lots of economic uncertainty and anti US sentiment after the Gulf war. In 1994-1995, the first professional managers team took charge of Gucci group by Domenico De Sole as a CEO of the company and Tom Ford, creative director of the company. De Sole was appointed by Maurinzio Gucci as a legal adviser, president and managing director of the company of Gucci America. He was associated with the company for few years and he has cultural and geographical knowledge of Europe as he is native of Rome and he completed his higher study in US. When De Sole took over charge as a CEO in 1995 the company had $500 million net revenue and in 2001, the total revenue of the company is $2,285 million (please see exhibit 1). The operating cost was high $121.1 million and the figure changed to $355.1. The growth of total revenue and the operating cost gives a clear picture that there are lots of initiative had been taken to improve the image and expansion of the brand. Mr. De Sole had been taken various critical majors to repositioned Gucci and he did some fundamental moves or withdrew some family plans and transformed the family-based mono brand to a multi brand. He restructured the organization results he took decision and fired few old employees and appointed new managers who have deep retail experiences. Its a great move to regenerate new energy and strength to the pool of employee, which helped to redistribute the work force. It also helped to translate the companys goal (corporate level) to execute the job in the business and functional level. It gave more power to the individual stores to take decisions for day to day task without wasting time to get approval from corporate or business level. The decision of distribution control and whole sale distribution moved to in-house. It helped the company to improve distribution channel whereas earlier the distribution was disorganized and delay in delver the goods. It also helped to deliver on time and centralized inventory system to monitor the stocks of goods and supply. Stopped licensing to the new products helped to improve quality and to improve the brand image. Gucci also looses the luxury brand image and decided to outsource limited to Italy based suppliers and reduced the no of suppliers drastically. De Sole selected few trusted suppliers and helped them financially and technology to improve the overall quality of the products. Uses of latest technology helped to improve quality of goods, and cost effective as well volume increased. Only 5% premium range of products manufactured in-house to maintain high quality standard and brand image. A very crucial decision had been taken to move from classic image to fashion-oriented approach. Basically Guccis customers are 30-50 years womens. With globalization and competitive market Gucci need to rethink the position to be competitive in the market. The companys new strategy was fashion-oriented approach to attract both sex average age of 25 years customer segment. So the decision was taken to spend more to attract youth customers so an average of 10% spent on the advertising. The companys new strategy fashion-oriented, which increased customers expectation and they expected new fashion goods in every seasons result the company had to invested more to designing and production. It was also decided that Gucci group products should be primary shells through direct operated stores (DOS) (please see exhibit 2). It is very important for a brand that when a customer buys a luxury product the customer must get an essence of luxury treat, good presentation and high class service which is not possible to maintain for franchises shops and merchandising dealers. DOS also contribute and anticipate the brand image and brand publicity. Right strategies planned in the corporate level lead by De Sole and well supported by his executive group and all together their effort to transform Gucci from a moribund brand into a billion-dollar company (please see exhibit 2). In 1998, the Gucci group become a one billion-dollar company; Maurizios dream comes true. DE SOLES STRETIGIC MOVE TO BUY YSL AND SR The family oriented single-brand firms were facing challenges due to close competition with the luxury multi-brands companies. To overcome the challenges in 1998-1999 there were a sharp rate of increase in mergers and acquisitions. LVMHs portfolio continuously increased and in 1999 company spends around $2.9 billion on acquisition on the leading brands. Later Prada and LVHM formed a joint venture that beat out Gucci too acquire 51% of Fendi for close to $600 million. In 1999, LVMH spend $1.4 billion to become Guccis largest shareholder and LVMH want to buy Gucci. Also LVMH want to appoint a director to Guccis board so that LVHM come to know Guccis strategic moves; Gucci emerged competitor for LVHM. Later PPR bought 40% of Gucci for $2.9 billion, diluting LVMHs holding to 19.6%. In Nov 1999, Gucci acquired Sanofi Beaute consisting of two sister companies: Yves Saint Laurent Coutre, which produced YSL ready-to-wear and accessories and YSL Beaute, which produced cosmetic goods. Gucci also acquire 70% share of Sergio Rossi paid of $96 million, which makes high-fashion shoes. This acquisition transforms Gucci into a multi-brand luxury group with nearly $3billion in cash. This acquisition continues challenge for Gucci to handle YSL and SR as a different brand because both brands have their own identity and a segment of customers e.g. Guccis ready-to-wear is totally diffident from YSL ready-to-wear. Guccis also dont want to loose YSLs customer to make a single brand. Both brands have their own DOS in Europe, US and Asia. Even it is easy for Gucci to operate YSL and SR without changing the management team, only need YSLs SRs CEO need to report to De Sole and Tom Ford appointed creative director of YSL. The sales figure after acquisition of YSL and SR in (please see exhibit-1) in 2000-2001 around 30% revenue contributed by these brands and Guccis performance also improved individually. The decision of acquisition of YSL and SR was taken very quickly just to follow LVSR. However, Gucci itself goes through transition phase. Any decision, which makes profit of the company consider to be a good decision for the company. GUCCIS STRATEGY TO GOING FORWARD There are lot of scope to improve or to make new strategies for Guccis expansion and improve the brand image are as such: To expand the stores in other Asian countries such as China and India, these two countries are emerging new economic power of the world. There is a big group of wealthy customers who have capacity to expend to buy luxury goods and they travel to Dubai and Singapore just for shopping. In China, customers can buy online Guccis products from China based manufacturer, which is not a good strategy for a luxury brand. It will help to flourish the gray market and the customers cannot enjoy and get essence of luxury goods shopping. The Asian customers are still not very comfortable of buying the luxury goods online. Online shopping might be a good option for American and European customers. Its always good for a luxury brand to sell the goods directly in the market. When a customer buys luxury goods they would like to celebrate the moment with their friends and family members so this moment will be missing in online shopping. In Asian countries it will be difficult for Guccis to establish and run their business and make significant profit. Asian counties are culturally very deep rooted, which influence the business. These countries have their own fashion trends and they are quite capable to change the trend of fashion any time. Such as Indias Bollywood industry which plays a big role to change the fashion trend with just release of one movie and brings the new trend of fashion. China and Koreas visual media is dominant on the fashion industry. To overcome this challenge its good for Gucci to design some luxury goods with the help of local designers which will reflect the culture of that country. Real world example like McDonald and KFC and few other global brands their products or menus are different form country to country to attract local customers and compete with the local challenges or brands. Gucci need continue to sell their classic design goods which are universally accepted to maintain the luxury classic brand image. Duty free shop (DFS) is a good platform to showcase, promote and sell the luxury goods. There are long list of international and national airport terminals which is better than a mall. In Asia, New Delhi, Dubai, Singapore and Thailand and many more airports, which are world-class. Asian travellers or customers would like to save money while shopping so shopping at DFS stores is a good place to buy Guccis products. Selection of airport and country is very crucial for Gucci to open DFS. According to Kotler, Traditionally, price has been the major determinant of buyers choice. But there are few exceptions for e.g. baby products, medicines and luxury goods. For baby products the profit margin is very high and companies know the fact that parent dont comprise with the quality of the product because baby is very sensitive as well as future of the next generation. Medicine is costly because of the research and development and the pharmaceutical companies keeps high price to make more profit. No choice for the patients as they want to cure fast so they have to buy good quality medicine. So the Government and WHO controls the price of few essentials medicines specially vaccines and life saving drugs and gives subsidy to reduce the price of the medicine for common people and poor countries. But in case of luxury goods customers are willingly to pay high price for the luxury goods. They just care about the brand image in the society and the quality of the product. Most importantly, Gucci continuing to improve the brand image and quality of the products. Promotion of the brand by famous international celebrities as a brand ambassador or with top models. Classic products are the assets of Guccis and the customers associate with the classic goods are loyal customers of Gucci. The production cost will be less to manufacture the classic goods in comparison to design and production of new goods. There is less chances of loss because the classic models never off fashion and there is average demands of the good round the year. Guccis fashion-oriented move will be challenging for the designers to design new trend fashion and creative goods. The company need to attract talented creative designers around the world because the customers expectation will increase with increase of buying power and they want new items in every special occasion or season. It is important for a brand or product, which will anticipate the brand and it is lacking in case of Guccis. A real life example is iTune which anticipate huge success of iPod and iPhone and vice-versa and another is Harvard Business School and publication etc. Gucci can start a fashion designing school it will bring the brand to the next level of expertise goods manufacturer and technology equipped institution. The company can earn money through the institution and hire their own students after complete the study or training. It will help Gucci group to groom their future employee and save expenses training of new employees for 3 years. Gucci group will get huge publicity through different media outside the luxury world, which attract new segment of customers. Gucci can also save money on advertising. It is also true that luxury industry hide lot of information from outside world and media to keep secret of their success or signature work and design etc. But nothing is possible if t he idea is creative and innovative. Exhibit 1 GUCCI GROUP PERFORMANCE: 1994-2001 Exhibit 2 GUCCI GROUP: RETAIL NETWORK DEVELOPMENT Exhibit 3 GUCCI GROUP REVENUES: REGION Exhibit 4 GUCCI GROUP REVENUES: CHANNEL Exhibit 5 OUTSTANDING BRANDS AND PRODUCTS Exhibit 6 GUCCI GROUP DIVISIONS

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

The Problems And Prospects Of Tourism In Bangladesh Tourism Essay

The Problems And Prospects Of Tourism In Bangladesh Tourism Essay Bangladesh is home to numerous flora and fauna and possesses many panoramic beauties but most of them are unexplored. Having all the minimum requirements, the tourism industry could not develop adequately in the country due to the unwillingness of the governments. Currently, minimum infra-structural arrangement is developing, role of government is now positive, private and public organizations have step forward side by side to attract the local and foreign tourists, researchers, dignitaries and foreign delegates. The aim of the research is to identify the challenges and future prospects of the industry. This study will facilitate the decision makers to assess the intensity of the problem and to plan accurate measures for the development of tourism industry in Bangladesh which might contribute a big share in the GDP of Bangladesh. The researcher has chosen this research topic out of his personal interest: Bangladesh is his homeland and is blended in his blood and flesh. Apathy of the previous governments led the researcher to explore the challenges and future possibilities of the tourism sector in Bangladesh. The researcher expects to emphasize the future development of tourism here in comparison with other regional and global tourist destinations. Research Question Located on the north-eastern side of the South Asian subcontinent, Bangladesh a flat alluvial plain, criss-crossed by the worlds three mighty river systems, is bordered by India in the east, west and north; Myanmar in the south-east and by the bay of Bengal in the south. The land mass of 144,000 sq.km is home to nearly 140 million people. Covered with virgin forests, the slopes and valleys of the country are home to numerous flora and fauna. The worlds largest mangrove forest and the habitat of the Royal Bengal Tiger, the Sundarbans is located in the south. In the south-east, the country has a 120 km long, perhaps the worlds longest beach of soft silvery sand in a Riviera-like setting with crescent-shaped low hills overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh is endowed with natural resources and the potential for a tourism industry. The main focus of this research aims to answer the question: What problems does Bangladesh face and what might be the prospects as a tourist destination? In order to analyse the terminology, problems and prospects, the researcher is not only required to explore both positive and negative aspects but also to highlight the past scenario along with the future assessment of tourism in Bangladesh. For answering the research question efficiently, the following aims are set. Aims To identify the challenge tourism industry currently facing. To explore the future possible development. To illustrate the role of the public and private sector in developing tourism in Bangladesh. In order to successfully conduct the research, the above stated aims require precise objectives. That is why the researcher has applied the following objectives. Objectives To review academic literature relating to tourism development. To examine secondary documents relating to the challenges and development of tourism in Bangladesh. Suggest recommendation for the future development of tourism industry in Bangladesh based on the literature and stakeholders views. The researcher has adopted a qualitative methodology for conducting this research most effectively. This research includes the view of the representatives from government bodies and private sector business-owners. Data from such organizations and freelance journalists and their opinions on tourism planning, problems and prospects are analysed in conducting the research paper which has helped the researcher to offer recommendations at the destination. Tourism is not associated with aristocracy any more rather every person can afford now. With the passage of time, it has grown to such dimensions that it is considered as an important industry. The promotion of tourism as an industry serves multi-pronged interest which includes preserving cultural heritage, protecting arts and culture, interaction of different religion, exchange of views, and generation of foreign exchange and so on. For last couple of years, Bangladesh has been highlighted as an attractive destination for tourists. Sundarbans and Coxs Bazar have been included in the worldwide New7Wonders of Nature campaign among more than 440 candidate locations from 220 countries. World leading publisher of travel guides and guidebooks, Lonely Planet, last year recommended Bangladesh as one of the top ten interesting travel destination in 2009 (Views On Tourism, 2008). Therefore, the aim of the researcher is to explore the challenges and opportunities relating to the development of tourism in Bangladesh. The areas of literature in this paper include tourism in the developing world, tourism in South Asia and sustainable tourism planning and development. A context chapter on tourism industry in Bangladesh is also included to provide more detailed information. The researcher has tried to depict the scenario of current challenges and future opportunities of tourism industry in Bangladesh through his research paper but it does not reflect the entire picture of the emerging industry. Thus, future researchers can be conducted considering the research paper as a case study. Literature Review The Tourism Industry Tourism comprises the activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes not related to the exercise of an activity remunerated from within the place visited. (UNWTO) According to Mathieson and Wall, tourism is the temporary movement of people from their natural places of living or work to destinations, their activities, and the amenities and services to meet their needs. Each and every destination has impact on the area or the country. A Destination opens the door to demonstrate cultural heritage, exchange views, generate foreign exchange, develop the employment scenario, and strengthen the revenue reserve of the government and so on. Negative impacts include loss of cultural identity, environmental damage, and spread of infectious disease. Figure 1: Butlers Tourist Lifecycle (Source: Destination Recovery Services, 2007) Butler, in his article proposed a widely-accepted model of the lifecycle of a tourist destination. The basic idea his model is that a destination begins as a relatively unknown and visitors initially come in small numbers restricted by lack of access, facilities, and local knowledge. As more people discover the destination, the word spreads about its attractions and the amenities which results into rapid development and expansion of business. Future of the destination fluctuates very much depending on the discovery, more improved amenities of another destination. Demand of any destination is related to more and more investment because tourists wish to experience new and exceptional facilities and ambiences. Popularity of a destination depends on a number of factors and the tourism industry is very uncertain (McElroy Albuquerque, 2002). Without frequent renovation, a destination cannot draw the attention of the tourists. Political unrests, financial turmoil, natural disasters, epidemic diseases, terrorist threats and lack of security can turn down the popularity of a destination. Tourism in the Developing World and in South Asia Tourists now find European and North American destinations less attractive and intend to travel to LDCs (Telfer and Sharpley, 2008). One of the reasons is rapid emergence of tourism in LDCs and another is financial advantages than the traditional destinations from the first world. Tourism operations by MNCs in LDCs create new opportunities and different kind of arrangement which the tourists always look for. Most of the South Asian countries are booming in their tourism sectors. Among all the South Asian nations, India and the Maldives receive the most foreign currencies. Sri Lanka is not behind the race and the policy makers of the country declared 2010 as the year of tourism. They are promoting their twelve different components throughout the year. The Maldives is one of the sensual and honeymoon destinations of the world. Each and every state of India is also promoting their own state in every way possible. The authority of Bangladesh at last realised the importance of tourism development to add extra revenue to the GDP of the country. Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism along with PPP has agreed to bring the tourism industry of the country forward. GoB has already declared to observe 2011 as the year of tourism and allocated Tk. 2.83 billion for the FY 2010-11 (Ministry of Finance), the highest ever allocation in tourism sector. Private sectors are more concerned in building infrastructures i.e. hotels, motels, resorts, amusement parks. Sustainable Tourism Four types of stakeholders including government authorities, the local business community, the local community and visitors remain involved in tourism at any destination (Bushell, 2001). For developing a successful tourist destination, the stakeholders are required to formulate an integrated plan. If all stakeholders do their part accordingly and remain responsible for their own actions, the sector of tourism will surely flourish. Sustainable tourism should make optimal use of environmental resources that constitute a key element in tourism development, maintaining essential ecological processes and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity. (UNWTO) For successful sustainability programme awareness, understanding and commitment to sustainability goals from management and staff are required (Speck, 2002). According to Butlers (1980 cited in Weaver, 2006) Destination Life Cycle, unmonitored and unplanned tourism development resulting into ultimate weakness which may shake the foundation of tourism. Proper facilities and accommodation is one of the first conditions for implementing sustainable tourism. It also requires assurance of booming of a destination and continuous investment to keep the pace of development. It also need be ensure the ecological balance, conservation and biodiversity. Sustainable tourism should not change or spoil the cultural resources, national and social values. Context Chapter Tourism in Bangladesh Figure 2: Map of Bangladesh (Source: Lonely Planet, 2010) Now-a-days, traditional tourist interest on some selected countries has changed. They now intend to explore new areas avoiding the over-crowded destinations. By identifying this changing behavior and trend in global tourist movement, many countries have developed their own tourism industry. Bangladesh is holding high potentiality for tourism. This sector might result multiplier effect on the countrys economy by not only earning foreign currencies but also creating new job opportunities for the huge unemployed population. Realising the fact, GoB has decide to observe 2011 as the year of tourism to acquaint the people with the countrys tourist resources. Bangladesh Geographical Coordinates 24 00 N, 90 00 E Area 56977 sq. miles or 147570 sq. km. Capital Dhaka Currency Taka (TK) Local Time GMT + 6 Population 156,118,464 (July 2010 est.) Weather Tropical; mild winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to June); humid, warm rainy monsoon (June to October) Visitor Arrivals (in 2005) 207,662Table 1: Bangladesh Statistics (Bangladesh Pocket Year Book, 2009; The World Factbook) Tourism sector in Bangladesh is mainly supervised by public sector. Government regulates the tourism sector through Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC), the National Tourism Organization (NTO). With the twofold responsibility of development and promotion of tourism, BPC was established in the year 1972 and commenced business as a Corporation in January 1973. BPC, a semi-autonomous organization is responsible for providing tourism services to construct and run hotels, restaurants, operate duty free shops, transportation and car rental, establish and administer tourism training institution. NTO, on the other hand, is mainly a tourism service provider and promoter of tourism product. To foster the rapid growth of the tourism industry, GoB declared the National Tourism Policy in 1992. Figure 3: Foreign Exchange Earnings from Tourism Other Travels (1996-2005) [Source: Bangladesh Parjatan Corpotation] The tourism industry of Bangladesh has received around Tk. 550 million between 1972 and 2006 while PPP has invested Tk. 1.8 billion on twenty tourism projects FY 2010-11. However, the GoB has realized the importance of tourism sector and shifted from their previous position since FY 2009-10. GoB has allocated Tk. 2.28 billion in the national budget of FY 2009-10 while allocation in 2010-11 amounts Tk. 2.83 billion (MoF, 2010) for the tourism sector. World class accommodation is one of the highest priorities to boost the tourism industry of any country. That is why, nearly 500 hotels, 40 resorts and 15 amusement parks (New Age, 2005) have been built at popular tourist destinations, including Dhaka, Coxs Bazar, Chittagong, Sylhet, Bogra and Khulna during the last two years. Bangladesh possesses the Sundarbans the mangrove forest in the world, Coxs Bazaar the longest natural beach in the whole planet, the exotic tea gardens in Sylhet, the beautiful hills in Rangamati and Bandarban, the wonderful sights and sounds in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, the brilliant natural scenery in Foys Lake, the centuries old Buddhist monasteries and so on. Such places of interest in have managed to attract tourists to Bangladesh from each corner of the world which is reflected in the increasing number of tourist arrival in the country. A total of 165,887 tourists arrived from more than 76 countries in 1996 which increased to 207,662 in 2005 (Appendix 1). Moreover, foreign exchange earnings from tourism has increased from Tk. 33.59 million in 1996 to Tk. 69.91 million in 2005 (Appendix 2). Methodology A theoretical approach provides a guiding framework for analyzing and interpreting the data (Finn, 2000). It helps a researcher to remain consistent while collecting data and knowledge form them (Jennings, 2001). There are a number of theoretical approaches for research but only very few are appropriate (Veal, 2006). Conducting the research, the researcher has mainly used secondary data and qualitative methodologies. Qualitative methodologies are associated with the interpretive approach of research (Veal, 2006). Jennings (2001) mentions researcher-participants subjective relationship as well as the participants considering the researcher as an insider. Unstructured research design, data displayed in textual form, highlighting key themes and a specific study setting are other qualitative features (Veal, 2006). The advantage of using secondary data is the freedom from arbitration by the interaction between the researcher and researched (Jennings, 2001). Data from MoF, BPC, MoCAT, SB, and NTO mainly helped to have a clear idea about the condition of tourism in Bangladesh from governments view. Future suggestions for sustainable tourism in Bangladesh by the authorities of Jamuna Resort, Padma Resort, Foys Lake Resort and Motel Atlantis have helped the researcher in conducting the research successfully. The data collected from different sources has been analysed to assess the future growth of the economy of Bangladesh. One major problem in collecting data on tourism in Bangladesh is that there is no updated database in any authorities of the government nor the private sector has any recent statistics on the sector. Government bodies are rather non-cooperative rather than the private tourist operators. Jamuna Resort, Padma Resort, Foys Lake Resort and Motel Atlantis authorities only provided their suggestion for creating a tourism friendly environment in the country. As most of the government bodies in Bangladesh have linked to internet in 2010 and most of the officials do not have email address, they could not be reached. Data from BPC and MoCAT have covered most of the data collected on the present scenario of tourism in Bangladesh. Most of the tourist facilities are offered by the private sector but do not posses any data on tourism in Bangladesh as they are only concern about their business. However, suggestions provided by the private sector tourist operators have also been added in the research paper so that the policy makers can consider them while formulating future policies for sustainable tourism in Bangladesh. Result and Analysis For conducting the research successfully, primary and secondary data has been compiled and sectioned into several themes. The challenges and opportunities of tourism in Bangladesh have been identified through the analysis of data. It not only identifies the possibilities of tourism sector in Bangladesh but also forecasts the tourism potential of the country. The outcomes of the analysis are enlisted here: Tourists visiting Bangladesh Data from BPC and SB reveals the nationality and real purpose of the tourist visiting Bangladesh. Tastes of the tourists vary from person to person, even region to region; so, it is better to understand the tourist pattern of the country. Types of Tourists Analysing the data it is found that tourists visit Bangladesh mainly on three purposes. However, higher percentage of 42 visits on business purpose while 23 percent visit for pleasure. Representative of BPC stated that the percentage of tourist visiting for pleasure is increasing day by day as the tourism products of the country are improvising rapidly. Figure 4: Purpose of the tourists for visiting (Source: BPC) Nationality of Tourists Arrivals Africa 1730 America 18673 E/A Pacific 35976 Europe 48961 M/East 2861 A/Asia 99459 Table 2: Foreign Visitor Arrivals by Region 2005 (Source: BPC)Data analysis of the year 2005 shows that 48 percent tourists visiting the country are from the Asian nations while visitors from Europe hold the second position with 24 percent. Percentage of tourist arrival from Asia Pacific, America, Africa and Middle East are 17, 9, 1 and 1 percent respectively. The number of tourists from SAARC countries total 99010 which means only 449 tourists from the rest of Asian nations have visited the country in 2005. Tourism Products in Bangladesh Tourists naturally compares the products a destination is offering with another one for ensuring the proper utilization of both money and time as well as peace of mind, relaxation, perfect ambience, improved accommodation and so on. Therefore, it is the duty of the policymakers of a destination to take necessary action for providing the tourism products to the tourists according to the demand. Accommodation World class accommodation is one of the highest priorities to boost the tourism industry of any country. In the previous years both the public and private sector have realised the need of accommodation of higher standard in the country. That is why, nearly 500 hotels, 40 resorts and 15 amusement parks (New Age, 2005) have been built at popular tourist destinations, including Dhaka, Coxs Bazar, Chittagong, Sylhet, Bogra and Khulna during the last two years. Even the government run BPC has increased their area of coverage to 16 regions with 5 hotels, 17 motels and one cottage. Tourism Product Bangladesh with three World Heritage Sites Mahasthangarh, Mosque City of Bagerhat and the Sundarbans, has a lot to offer to the tourists. Worlds longest 120 km long sandy beach of Coxs Bazar along with Patenga, Parki, Teknaf, St. Martin Island and Kuakata beach will definitely quench the thirst of beach lovers. The beauty of the largest mangrove forest in the world, the Sundarbans, can amaze anyone while travelling in steam boats and experiencing the diversity and ecosystem of the forest. The lake district of Rangamati, the lake town of Kaptai, the hilltop town of Khagrachhari and the roof of Bangladesh: Bandarban will bring the tourists close to nature they may not have gone before. Archeological sites of Buddhists monasteries, Hindu temples and Muslim mosques and palaces can educate the tourist seeking archeological knowledge of South Asia and Bangladesh. Besides these, there are many places of interest in the country which might draw the attractions of the tourists. Impacts of Tourism National and global impacts of tourism influence the overall situation of a country concerning its economy, socio-economic condition, ecology and environment. Tourism enriches economy, exchanges social and cultural values, and conserves nature; however, it has some negative impacts as well. Economic Impact Tourists contribute to sales, profits, jobs, tax revenues, and income in an area or a country. Tourism activity normally focuses on changes in sales, income, and employment in a region. Thus, the economic benefits of tourism are well documented. In case of Bangladesh, contribution of tourism in the economy of the country is gradually increasing. The contribution of the sector is expected to get higher in the forthcoming years due to gigantic investment of public and private sector. The contribution of travel tourism to GDP is expected to rise from 3.9% (Tk. 265.9 billion) in 2010 to 4.1% (Tk. 788.4 billion) by 2020 (WTTC, 2007). It is also anticipated to create an employment opportunity of 2,373,000 in 2010 which might increase to 3,114,000 by 2010. In the current year, an estimated amount of Tk. 64.0 billion is expected to be invested in travel tourism sector. It is not necessary that tourism has all positive impacts. Tourism is closely associated with uncontrolled, unsustainable and massed tourism growth. With a purpose of making money by selling experiences, tourism is mainly dominated by private enterprises. Market led planning can fail to achieve the objectives of sustainable tourism. Like all industries, impacts do occur, but the extent to which impacts are negative can be minimised. Socio-Cultural Impact An interface for cultural exchange, tourism facilitates the interaction between communities and visitors. As travels means to discover those things unknown or forgotten within ourselves, people want to interact with other cultures, learn about traditions and even confront themselves with new perspectives on life and society. Tourism can serve as a supportive force for peace, foster pride in cultural traditions and help avoid urban relocation by creating local jobs. The society can take the valuable aspects of another society vis-Ã  -vis culture through tourism. The more one knows and learns about a destination, the more fulfilling the experience would be. As tourism involves movement of people to different geographical locations, and establishment of social relations between people who would otherwise not meet, cultural clashes can take place as a result of differences in cultures, ethnicity, religion, values, lifestyles, languages, and levels of prosperity. The interest shown by tourists also contributes to the sense of self-worth of the artists and helps to conserve a cultural tradition, cultural erosion due to the commoditization of cultural goods. Environmental Impact Tourism has beneficial effects on the environment by contributing to environmental protection and conservation. It raises the awareness of environmental values and can serve as a tool to finance protection of natural areas. Most of the national parks are now conserved by the public administration due to the rising demand of tourism. The GoB has decided to conserve all the forests, places of natural beauties and build a marine park at Coxs Bazar to draw the attraction of the tourists from the each corner of the world. Development of tourism can gradually destroy the environmental resources on which it depends. Land and water witness the most negative impacts of tourism in the country. For the development of the sector, more and more lands are used to build infrastructure to create facilities for the tourists resulting to the shortage of land and water as well. Sewerage littering, deforestation, air and noise pollution are some of the many negative impacts of tourism on environment. Conclusion Destinations interested in attracting foreign visitors and in developing sustainable tourist industries depend heavily on traveller perceptions of safety and peace (Sonmez, 2002: 176). The aim of the research is to identify the challenges that the sector of tourism is facing currently and to asses the future as well. Tourism of Bangladesh has not flourished yet due to the unwillingness of the previous government. MoCAT has the highest allocation of Tk. 2.83 billion since the independence of the country in 1971. PPP is also working efficiently for fostering the growth of tourism with the financing from MNCs. Bangladesh as a tourist destination has many things to offer: beaches, hillside, forests, waterfall, historical and archeological sites, amusement parks and many more. The country is now on the track to enrich the tourism sector like the other nations for a better contribution on the GDP. The lack of world-class accommodation near all places of interests is now under construction which may result into more tourist arrival in the country. If tourism is to be successful in the future, public and management must strive for all four goals: enhanced visitor satisfactions, improved economy and business success, sustainable resource use, and community and area integration. (Gunn with Var, 2002: 105) All the forecast during the research indicate the rapid growth of tourism in Bangladesh. Now, the question is whether the growth will be sustainable or not. It is the responsibility of the government as well as the private sector to emerge the tourism for sustainability so that it can conserve the environment, socio-cultural structure and contribute revenue to the economy to make Bangladesh a middle-income country by 2021 (year of silver jubilee of independence). Suggestions for the Future Development of Tourism The four private tourism operator of Bangladesh have provided the following recommendations for the future development of tourism in the country. Improved transport system Infrastructural development of tourism industry Uninterrupted power supply Development of human resources in the sector of tourism Preservation of places of natural beauty Improved marketing strategy of the government Proper planning of the government for ensuring sustainable tourism References Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (2010) Statistical Pocket Book 2009 [Online] Available: http://www.bbs.gov.bd/WebTestApplication/userfiles/Image/SubjectMatterDataIndex/pk_book_09.pdf [November 23, 2010] Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (2010) Foreign Exchange Earnings fron Tourism Other Travels (1996-2005) [Online] Available: http://www.bangladeshtourism.gov.bd/2006_resource_center_foreign_sh3.php [November 21, 2010] Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (2010) Foreign Visitor Arrivals by Region 2005 [Online] Available: http:// http://www.bangladeshtourism.gov.bd/2006_resource_center_foreign_sh6.php#2 [November 21, 2010] Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (2010) Visitor Arrivals by Nationality (1996-2005) [Online] Available: http://www.bangladeshtourism.gov.bd/2006_resource_center_foreign_sh8_vistorArriaval.php#3 [November 21, 2010] Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (2010) Foreign Exchange Earnings from Tourism Other Travels (1996-2005) [Online] Available: http://www.bangladeshtourism.gov.bd/2006_resource_center_foreign_sh3.php [November 21, 2010] Bushell, R. (2001) Practice, Provision and Impacts, In Douglas, N.; Douglas, N.; Derrett, R. (Eds) (2001) Special Interest Tourism, Queensland: John Wiley and Sons Australia Central Intelligence Agency, Bangladesh [Online] Available: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/bg.html [November 20, 2010] Finn, M.; Elliott-White, M. and Walton, M. (2000) Tourism and Leisure Research Methods: data collection, analysis and interpretation, Essex: Pearson Education Limited Gunn, C.A. with Var, T. (2002) Tourism Planning: basics, concepts and cases, 4th Edition, London: Routledge Jennings, G. (2001) Tourism Research, Queensland: John Wiley Sons Australia Ltd Lonely Planet (2010) Map of Bangladesh [Online] Available: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/maps/asia/bangladesh/ [November 20, 2010] Mathieson, A. and Wall, G. (2006) Tourism: Change, Impacts and Opportunities, Essex: Pearson Education Ltd McElroy, J.L. and de Albuquerque, K. (2002) Problems for managing sustainable tourism in small islands, In Apostolopoulos, Y. and Gayle, D.J. (Eds) (2002) Island Tourism and Sustainable Development: Caribbean, Pacific and Mediterranean experiences, Connecticut: Praeger Ministry of Finance (2010) Development Expenditure by Ministry [Online] Available: http://www.mof.gov.bd/en/budget/10_11/brief/en/st10.pdf?phpMyAdmin=GqNisTr562C5oxdV,EruqlWwoM5 [November 21, 2010] New Age (2005) Private sector leads countrys tourism booms [Online] Available: http://www.newagebd.com/2010/jun/14/busi.html [November 23, 2010] Sonmez, S. (2002) Sustaining Tourism in Islands Under Sociopolitical Adversity, In Apostolopoulos, Y. and Gayle, D.J. (Eds) (2002) Island Tourism and Sustainable Development: Caribbean, Pacific and Mediterranean experiences, Connecticut: Praeger Speck, E. (2002) The Fairmount Chateau Whistler Resort: moving towards sustainability, In Harris, R.; Griffin, T. and Williams, P. (Eds) (2002) Sustainable Tourism: a global perspective, Oxford: Elsevier Science Ltd UNWTO, World Tourism Organization Definition of Tourism [Online] Available: http://www.linkbc.ca/torc/downs1/WTOdefinitiontourism.pdf?PHPSESSID=ugcfjttizdv [November 20, 2010] UNWTO, World Tourism Organization Sustainable Development of Tourism [Online] Available: http://www.unwto.org/sdt/mission/en/mission.php [November 20, 2010] Veal, A. (2006) Research Methods for Leisure and Tourism: a practical guide, 3rd Edition, Essex: Pearson Education Limited Views On Tourism (2008) How to develop the Bangladeshi tourism sector [Online] Available: http://www.viewsontourism.info/2010/how-to-develop-the-bangladeshi-tourism-sector/ [November 21, 2010] Weaver, D. (2006) Sustainable Tourism, Oxford: Elsevier WTTC, World Travel Tourism Council (2007) Travel Tourism Economic Impact: Bangladesh 2010 [Online] Available: http://www.wttc.org/bin/pdf/original_pdf_file/bangladesh.pdf [November 20, 2010] Appendices Appendix 1 Email to Private Operators Dear Sir/Madam, I am conducting a research study as part of a Bachelors degree in International Tourism and Hospitality Management at EThames Graduate College in London, England. My research exa

Monday, August 19, 2019

Electronic Fetal Monitoring :: Technology Pregnancy Essays

Electronic Fetal Monitoring Technology has had a very prominent influence on electronic fetal monitoring since its appearance in the 1960’s and 1970’s. For many years, fetal monitoring was simply done by listening to a fetal heartbeat through a stethoscope. Dramatic changes in the heartbeat, such as a long period or a drop in the rate or intensity, could be detected,. Now, not only is the electronic fetal monitor used on the outside of the womb by strapping electrodes to the mother’s abdomen but electrodes can also be inserted during the first stage of labor and placed directly on the baby’s head. With advanced technologies such as this the acidity of the infant’s blood as well as the heart rate can be measured. New technologies are being developed every day. The latest advance in fetal monitoring is the fetal oxygen monitor: â€Å"A device that directly measures fetal oxygen saturation during labor and delivery is now available and has the potential to reduce the number of Cesarean sections performed for non-reassuring heart rates.† (Mechcatie) The article by Mechcatie describes the monitor extremely well: â€Å"The device’s sensor, located at the end of a flexible tube, is made of pliable plastic and is inserted through the cervical os until it lies along the fetal cheek, where the pressure of the uterine wall keeps it in place during labor. The sensor shines light into the fetal skin and computes the oxygen saturation by measuring the color of the reflected light coming through the blood cells.† There is also a high-resolution ultrasound scanning that can detect chromosomal and physical abnormalities in the first trimester as opposed to the second trimester. A technology such as this can create many ethical problems. Mcfadyen describes the biggest problem as being informed consent. â€Å"They may believe that it will provide information only about gestational age and be unaware of the range of abnormalities that can be detected. Recent research suggests that many women are not told beforehand of the first scan’s potential to detect fetal anomalies.† Another technology that has been around for a while is the general ultrasound. In the article by Jennifer Wang she states, â€Å"The risk of a patient having a fetus with Down syndrome can be assessed non-invasively using fetal markers seen on ultrasound. Electronic Fetal Monitoring :: Technology Pregnancy Essays Electronic Fetal Monitoring Technology has had a very prominent influence on electronic fetal monitoring since its appearance in the 1960’s and 1970’s. For many years, fetal monitoring was simply done by listening to a fetal heartbeat through a stethoscope. Dramatic changes in the heartbeat, such as a long period or a drop in the rate or intensity, could be detected,. Now, not only is the electronic fetal monitor used on the outside of the womb by strapping electrodes to the mother’s abdomen but electrodes can also be inserted during the first stage of labor and placed directly on the baby’s head. With advanced technologies such as this the acidity of the infant’s blood as well as the heart rate can be measured. New technologies are being developed every day. The latest advance in fetal monitoring is the fetal oxygen monitor: â€Å"A device that directly measures fetal oxygen saturation during labor and delivery is now available and has the potential to reduce the number of Cesarean sections performed for non-reassuring heart rates.† (Mechcatie) The article by Mechcatie describes the monitor extremely well: â€Å"The device’s sensor, located at the end of a flexible tube, is made of pliable plastic and is inserted through the cervical os until it lies along the fetal cheek, where the pressure of the uterine wall keeps it in place during labor. The sensor shines light into the fetal skin and computes the oxygen saturation by measuring the color of the reflected light coming through the blood cells.† There is also a high-resolution ultrasound scanning that can detect chromosomal and physical abnormalities in the first trimester as opposed to the second trimester. A technology such as this can create many ethical problems. Mcfadyen describes the biggest problem as being informed consent. â€Å"They may believe that it will provide information only about gestational age and be unaware of the range of abnormalities that can be detected. Recent research suggests that many women are not told beforehand of the first scan’s potential to detect fetal anomalies.† Another technology that has been around for a while is the general ultrasound. In the article by Jennifer Wang she states, â€Å"The risk of a patient having a fetus with Down syndrome can be assessed non-invasively using fetal markers seen on ultrasound.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

The Environment and Environmental Hysteria :: Environment Environmental Research

The Environment and Environmental Hysteria missing Works Cited Fanatics see everything in absolutes. Perspective means nothing to them(425). In this essay I will focus on the events surrounding the regulation of Alar (diaminozide) up to and including 1985, as a case-study of knowledge and decision-making amidst uncertainty (418-19). I pick this time period in particular, because it is when the NRDC and other public interest groups began their campaign in protest against the EPA's decision to not ban Alar. My analysis of the events surrounding Alar will take shape around a critique of Michael Fumento's article "Environmental Hysteria: The Alar Scare," in which he paints the NRDC as "fanatics" launching a "smear campaign" not founded in any rational decision-making. This is an important argument to counter, because it has not only been taken up by many to condemn citizen-group action in the case of Alar, but to criticize their activities in many other regulatory processes. The chief framework used to devalue public action in these cases is the technocratic model, wherein it is believed that decisions can be best made by obj ective, rational experts acting based upon scientific knowledge. In this case, we can see a perfect example of when a decision was decided by scientific experts, in accordance with the technocratic model. Fumento and other supporters of the technocratic mode privilege the scientific knowledge of bodies such as the Scientific Advisory Panel in this case over other forms of knowledge. He denounces NRDC as fanatics based on his claim that they acted in spite of, and in contradiction to scientific declarations and reports which indicated that their "Alar alarm" did not correspond to the evidence at hand (423). However, the Alar saga is typical of many regulatory decision-making processes in that the scientists and administrators were forced to act before scientific opinion has solidified around a certain determination of the dangers of the chemical. In this case, the scientists cannot simply rely on the accepted scientific verdict, but they need to make value judgements about what evidence and opinion to include in their decision-making and what to ex clude. In this type of scenario, I will first argue, the technocratic model is imperfect for our democratic country, as it privileges the value judgements of scientists over those of the populace. I further suggest that scientists themselves should not be considered above subjectivity nor fanaticism, but rather in some cases their rigorous abidance to objectivity can be seen as a certain type of blind"fanaticism.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

The Times of the New Year

My best friend was a drug addict and i had to help her into rehab. She did not want to go to rehab so we told her we were taking her to disneyland. She was so excited that she drove right home and packed her bags. Every country has their own holiday system. Different countries have different holidays. There are also some common holidays that people celebrate around the world, such as Christmas and New Year.Different countries have their own definition of the New Year. was said that long long time ago, there lived a horrible beast named† Nian† In the mountain. Every year, on the first day of the year, which Is the first new moon of the year, the beast would awaken and descend upon the village. The Vietnamese lunar New Year festival, Tet Nguyen Dan, Is the most significant holiday taking place within the first three days of the New Year. The nearer New Year comes the more excited and enthusiastic people are.In general, preparation for Tet starts one week before New Year's D ay. The New Year's cake New Year's cake Is a pastry made of the flour of glutinous rice nd used primarily in the lunar New Year period. 1 . Introduction (300 words) The New Year cake Is a special Year goods In Spring Festival. Those Rice cake were made by glutinous rice. A Turbulent Year for Israel 1996 has been a very turbulent year for Israel. This Iles In the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin on November 4, 1995.