Media War Coverage

Media War Coverage From the beginning of time when humans started fighting wars regardless of the reasoning leaders discovered how important propaganda and the public’s opinion of why they were fighting the war. If the nation’s leaders believes in why they are fighting a war the Country willbe more likely to give their support and motivated to stay in the fight for the long haul. Edward R. Murrow, former reporter for CBS once said, â€Å"We must not confuse dissent with disloyalty. We will not be driven by fear into an age of unreason if we remember that we are not descended from fearful men, not from men who feared to write, to speak, to associate and to defend causes which were, for the moment unpopular. † A delicate balance exists between the military and the media censorship and evolution of wartime media from WWII through modern day WAR in Iraq. World War II coverage came mostly through newspapers and radio coverage. During this time journalist had a good relationship with the military, both were working toward a common goal that would bring an end to Adolf Hitler’s war machine, which was determined to take over the world! Without being heavily censored by military leader reporters were able to provide much more coverage of the war. Reporters during this time were at a much larger disadvantage compared to reporters of today because of their technological disadvantage. What would take journalist during World War II hours if not days to report battles or events through radio, print, or even telegraph was plenty of time for the military to screen the story. But it also provided a buffer of time to prevent any issues of violation what is known as operational security. In other words by the time the story reached its viewers in the United States a potential battle plan had already been executed. The soldiers involved wouldn’t be in any danger of valuable information reaching the enemy. Not to mention if a battle went particularly wrong there was time to adjust or screen a story in order to portray it in a different light that may be more favorable. Vietnam armed with newer technology allowing the average American family to have a television in every living room created a way to usher in graphic images of the war. No longer could we use the view the war over there as a separate entity being left over there and nor were reporters on the battle field as highly censored they were able to relay events on the battlefield and the reality in pictures of what combat was truly like. Because we now possessed the technology so Americans at home could see war first hand. Young Americans formed their own opinions of the war causing protest swaying public opinion and subsequently support for the war causing a large Anti-war feeling. Ho Chi Minh and the Communist north believed that with the American public losing confidence in the Unites States government. Since the mainstream media were not in support of the war, media portraying the violence and how the US progress in Vietnam in a negative light that eventually was said to be the motivation leading to the pull out of Vietnam. The concept of winning by proxy meaning: to simply wait out the enemy until they lose the will of the people to continue to fight. The theory held by the enemy proved to be correct due to the lack of media support helping to drive the motivation of the people and the length of the war dragging on over several years the United States did eventually pull out of Vietnam. During the Gulf War the media had progressed and had grown leaps and bounds since Vietnam. The technology currently available allowed reporters to report from hotel rooms within Kuwait during the air campaign in the early hours of Desert Storm. New companies such as CNN had correspondents bringing up to date information and developments from the beginning of Operation Desert shield to the building up of forces. The destruction of SADAAM Hussein’s Army as it moved waged its campaign against Kuwait through the liberation of Kuwait. The images we saw of Scud attacks and Victory parades were brought to us twenty-four hours a day seven days a week. The positive view portrayed by the media had a direct affect on the public’s view on the war. From the beginning of the War on Terror Allied reporters who were covering stories for both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Allied reporters were imbedded with American troops fighting on the battlefield, these reporters were able to use satellite cards for access to the Internet and laptops were able to report from anywhere on the battle field up to date information on the progress of operations and how the war was going with virtually little to no chance of the military censorship. Reporter’s ability to use technology to avoid censorship was evident with the opening of the ground war in Iraq; a reporter named Jeraldo Rivera announced planned movements of American troops on television. Mr. Rivera was being broadcasted internationally creating the potential for the enemy to be better prepared for the oncoming attacks by the American Forces. Powerful Photo essays and Internet blogs often show the harsh side of war, unlike the harsh side of WWII where media images were more benign. The one constant through history has always been evident and media wither or not being censored is powerful in determining the support in a nation and in many cases the outcome of success or failure in a conflict. A. Censorship War Coverage: Barhart, Aaron. â€Å"Speeding Up War Coverage. † Television Week. Apr. 2003. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost. U. of Hartford Lib. 1 May 2005 Hernandez, Debra Gersh. â€Å"The simple days of war coverage. † Editor & Publisher. Jul. 1994. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost. U. of Hartford Lib. 1 May 2005. . â€Å"Newseum: War Stories Technology. † War Reporting & Technology. 1 May 2005. Rather, Dan. â€Å"Truth on the Battlefield. † Harvard International Review. Spring 2001. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost. U. of Hartford Lib. 1 May 2005. . Rosenberg, Jim. â€Å"Tech from Gulf War to Gulf War. † Editor & Publisher. March 2003. Academic Search Premier. EBSCOhost. U. of Hartford Lib. 1 May 2005. . Shafer, Jack. â€Å"Embeds and Unilaterals. † 1 May 2003. 1 May 2005. B. WWI Coverage: BibliographyChase, Stuart. Guides to Straight Thinking. New York: Harper and Brothers, 1956. Combs, James and Nimmo, Dan. The New Propaganda: The Dictatorship of Palavar in Contemporary Politics. New York: Longman Publishing Group, 1993. Doob, Leonard. Propaganda: Its Psychology and Technique. New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1935. Edwards, Violet. Group Leader's Guide to Propaganda Analysis. New York: Columbia University Press, 1938. Ellul, Jacques. Propaganda: The Formation of Men's Attitudes. New York: Vintage Books, 1965. Hummel, William and Huntress, Keith. The Analysis of Propaganda. New York: William Sloane Associates, 1949. Institute for Propaganda Analysis. Propaganda Analysis. New York: Columbia University Press, 1938. Institute for Propaganda Analysis. The Fine Art of Propaganda. New York: Harcourt, Brace and Company, 1939. Lee, Alfred McClung. How to Understand Propaganda. New York: Rinehart and Company, 1952. Lowenthal, Leo and Guterman, Norbert. Prophets of Deceit. Palo Alto: Pacific Books Publishers, 1970. Miller, Clyde. The Process of Persuasion. New York: Crown Publishers, 1946. Pratkanis, Anthony and Aronson, Elliot. Age of Propaganda: The Everyday Use and Abuse of Persuasion. New York: W. H. Freeman and Company, 1991. Rank, Hugh. Language and Public Policy. New York: Citation Press, 1974. Thum, Gladys and Thum, Marcella. The Persuaders: Propaganda in War and Peace. New York: Atheneum, 1972. C. How Media Coverage of the Vietnam War Changed America, Journalism Cossa, Frank. Photojournalism and the â€Å"War at Home†. 19 October 2005. Digital History, The Vietnam War. Online American History Book, Period: 1960's. 19 October 2005. Kahrs, Kristian. â€Å"Lies, Deceit and Hypocrisy. † May 1997. 19 October 2005. LaborLawTalk: Vietnam War, Encyclopedia. LaborLawTalk. com. 3 December 2005. Lester, Paul Martin. Chapter Four: Victims of Violence, Photojournalism An Ethical Approach. New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Publishers, Hillsdale, 1991. Digital Version, 1999. McLaughlin, Erin. â€Å"Television Coverage of the Vietnam War and the Vietnam† Veteran. December 3, 2001. August 2004. The Media and the Vietnam War. 19 October 2005. Reference. com, Encyclopedia: Vietnam War. Copyright 2001-2005 Tennant, Michael. â€Å"Now You See It, Now You Don't. † 27 May 2004. Strike the Root. 19 October 2005. â€Å"Vietnam War. † Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Digital version. 19 October 2005. â€Å"Walter Cronkite. † Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Digital version. 19 October 2005. D. Censorship in the Gulf Clark, Ramsey. The Fire This Time: U. S. War Crimes in the Gulf. New York: Thunder's Mouth Press, 1994. Denton, Robert E. , Jr. , ed. The Media and the Persian Gulf War. Westport, Connecticut: Praeger, 1993. Fialka, John J. Hotel Warriors: Covering the Gulf War. Washington, DC: Woodrow Wilson Center Press, 1992. MacArthur, John R. Second Front: Censorship and Propaganda in the Gulf War. New York: Hill and Wang, a division of Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1992. Massing, Michael. â€Å"Another Front. † Chap. in The Media and the Gulf War. ed. Hedrick Smith. Washington, DC: Seven Locks Press, 1992. Nohrstedt, Stig A. â€Å"Ruling by Pooling. † Chapter in Triumph of the Image: The Media's War in the Persian Gulf–a Global Perspective. Mowlana, Hamid, George Gerbner, and Herbert I. Schiller, eds. Boulder, Colorado: Westview Press, 1992 Norris Margot. Only the Guns Have Eyes. † Chapter in Seeing Through the Media: The Persian Gulf War. Susan Jeffords and Lauren Rabinowitz, eds. New Brunswick, New Jersey: Rutger's University Press, 1994. Schanberg, Sydney H. â€Å"Censoring for Political Security. † Chap. in The Media and the Gulf War. ed. Hedrick Smith. Washington, DC: Seven Locks Press, 1992. Trainor, Lt. Gen. Bernar d E. , USMC. â€Å"The Military and the Media: A Troubled Embrace. † Chap. in The Media and the Gulf War. ed. Hedrick Smith. Washington, DC: Seven Locks Press, 1992. Williams, Pete. â€Å"Ground Rules and Guidelines for Desert Shield. † Chap. n The Media and the Gulf War. ed. Hedrick Smith. Washington, DC: Seven Locks Press, 1992. Williams, Pete. â€Å"Statement before the U. S. Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs. † Chap. in The Media and the Gulf War. ed. Hedrick Smith. Washington, DC: Seven Locks Press, 1992. Woodward, Gary C. â€Å"The Rules of the Game: The Military and the Press in the Persian Gulf War. † Chap. in The Media and the Persian Gulf War. ed. Robert E. Denton, Jr. Westport, Connecticut: Praeger, 1993 E. Military censorship of the war in Iraq Naomi Spence †Military censorship of the war in Iraq†, 31 July 2008 All of

Coca-Cola and Its Global Marketing Strategies

Coca-Cola is a company that is known worldwide for its product. It is a drink that spans all ages, colors, races, and countries. The Coca-Cola Company is the world’s leading manufacturer, marketer, and distributor of nonalcoholic beverage concentrates and syrups. The world’s headquarters are located in Atlanta, Georgia, with many other locations around the country. The Company and its subsidiaries employ nearly 31,000 people around the world.Syrups, concentrates and beverages bases for Coca-Cola, the company’s flagship brand, and over 230 other Company soft-drink brands are manufactured and sold by the Coca-Cola Company and its subsidiaries in nearly 200 countries around the world (Virginia, 1). The company has been around for over 100 years, and has used this time to perfect its marketing strategy. The success of the company was built on many people with the great business knowledge and know-how to take a simple drink, and make it into a symbol that represents h umanity.This paper will focus on not only the globalization of Coke, and Coke as a company, but also what advertising and media strategies have been used to help in the discourse of its globalization. Coca-Cola is an internationally recognized drink, popular in many countries throughout the world. The company that produces the soft drink has an interesting way of distributing it around the world, which many people may not realize. You don’t get exactly the same Coke in India that you do in the US, because bottling of the drink is franchised.What occurs is the following: the company produces a concentrate with the patented formula for Coca-Cola. This remains the same wherever you purchase the product. This concentrate is then sold to companies who have purchased franchises to bottle Coca-Cola in their area. Each bottling company adds water and whatever sweeteners are used for that specific type of coke. Slight variations may occur if the bottlers don’t conform to standa rds of production. For instance using less of the concentrate than is recommended, or changing the type of sweetener used.Though the formula for Coca-Cola concentrate doesn’t change, there can be slight differences in sweetness since bottling agencies may change the amount of sweeteners used to fit the local population’s palate, and some versions of the cola are said to be sweeter or sharper in other countries. The United States has seen, especially in countries close to Mexico, a rise in the amount of Mexican Coca-Cola imported into the US and sold at a number of Mexican and Latin or South American grocery stores. Cola aficionados say there are differences between south of the border and American produced versions of the drink.They cite the fact that most Mexican bottlers add cane sugar instead of corn syrup to the formula for Coca-Cola and many people prefer the Mexican version, though at first the taste can be a little unusual. Since the cost of importing sugar cane to the United States is expensive, bottlers import the drink from countries where it’s abundant or use substitutes like corn syrup which is subsidized by the government as well (Hays, 47). Thus the main difference is the way in which the formula for Coca-Cola has ingredients added to it from one country to another.The type of water used also may create a major difference in both taste and safety. Some countries, particularly emerging countries with high levels of pollution have been under investigation for producing Coca-Cola with alarmingly high levels of pesticides. In 2003, for instance, a government independent investigatory agency in India found that water filtration was not ridding the water of substances like DDT and Marathon (Allen, 182). Several soft drinks in India, including Pepsi, were found to have toxic and unsafe levels of these chemicals.This led to a decline in sales in Coca-Cola that lasted for several years, and an outright ban on selling Coke in certain p arts of India for a short while. Technically water filtration should eliminate most of these chemicals, but the presence of higher amounts of the chemicals in certain areas may mean filtration methods aren’t adequate to the task. Coca-Cola has defended their product and claims they test all their soft drinks, wherever produced, to make sure they meet safety standards (Coca-Cola, 1).They also stand by the formula for Coca-Cola though they do recognized small differences in taste when it is bottled outside of the US. Although the taste differences are often involuntary, in many cases the taste differences between countries and regions have helped locals adopt the Coca-Cola flavors. As a result, Coca-Cola can capitalize on its growth and spread its product base even further. In order to appeal to countries that did not adopt the standardized Coca-Cola Flavors, the company decided to expand its product lines in order to appeal to foreign countries that did not have the same taste characteristics as the United States.In order to do this it developed new flavors of water, teas, juices, sports drinks and energy drinks to appeal to a larger number of people. In some cases they acquired existing companies that already had a loyal customer base and even developed some of its own products by tweaking existing recipes or creating new drinks all together. For example, in Asia soy drinks are much popular than carbonated beverages. To combat this Coca-Cola also offers its own soy beverage in the regions where as in the United States it’s very rare to see soy drinks produced by Coca-Cola (McKay, 22).This adaptation strategy has allowed greater flexibility to consumer’s tastes and growth in the company’s market share of the non-alcoholic beverage industry. Coca-Cola places its product globally depending on several conditions. The first level that needs to be examined is the macro level including Coca-Cola’s choice of continents, countries and geographic regions. Population and the proximity of natural resources to that population are the first things that Coca-Cola considers when entering new territories.If the region does not have a large enough population to purchase enough of their beverages they will focus more on regions that do. Also, if it is not efficient or cost effective to produce drinks within the country or region the company either looks elsewhere to bottle its beverages, imports its products or moves refrains from focusing on this region all together. In countries that do not have abundant resources such as sugar cane and corn syrup, it increases the cost to produce the beverage because supplies must be imported (.The Coca-Cola Company will also consider the proximity of bottling plants to the region its promoting its products to. Either the company will purchase or build a plant to cut down on costs or contract with local bottlers to sell its product to. In some cases Coca-Cola may have even establish it self in neighboring countries because it may already inhabit locations with similar cultures and preferences. Within these regions that Coca-Cola decides to inhabit, it also must choose an area that their products have the best chance of reaching the consumer.The Coca-Cola Company sells its products to bottling and canning operations, distributors, fountain wholesalers and some fountain retailers. These then distributes them to retail outlets, milk bar and corner stores, restaurants, petrol stations and newsagents. The Coca-Cola Company uses the intensive distribution strategy. The business's products are sold in almost every outlet including small shops, restaurants gas stations, schools, sports venues and vending machines. Depending on the level of popularity and extensiveness, Coca-Cola will choose areas that will have the best opportunity to sell.With these sales comes increased customer awareness and brand loyalty. The final thing that Coca-Cola must do is recognize local laws and regulations. Coca-Cola adopts a standardized practice for areas that are similar which makes it easier for Coca-Cola to distribute and sell its products (Allen, 82). In some foreign countries however, many of the taste preferences are determined by local laws, ancient religions or the countries culture. When these characteristics differ from the standard Coca-Cola model, the company adapts its products are marketing strategies to adhere to regulations and cultural norms.Coca-Cola decides if it’s then cost effective and possible to enter the market without significant barriers or alterations to its brands flavors. If the barriers are too large, the company is likely to pursue other locations. The company's beverages are generally for all consumers. However, there are some brands, which target specific consumers. For example, Coca-Cola's diet soft drinks are targeted at consumers who are older in age, between the years of 25 and 39. PowerAde sports water targets those who a re fit, healthy and participate in athletics.The Winnie the Pooh sipper cap Juice Drink targets children between the ages 5-12. This type of market approach refers to market segmentation. The Coca-Cola Company when advertising has a primary target market of those who are 13-24, and a secondary market of 10-39 (Coca-Cola, 3). In order for these beverages to reach the target markets, Coca-Cola needs to use a medium that will best reach these consumers. If advertisements are not reaching the right age group or in the tight places, sales will drop and the brand image will be damaged.For example, when advertising Diet Coke, Coca-Cola primarily advertises with in-print ads, billboards, fast food restaurants and the radio. They understand that this age group is likely to have children and spend a lot of their time driving, feeding their children and spending time at home (GSCE, 1). By using these methods they increase the chance of being exposed and having their products used. In order to reach the young adults and teens they use the internet, television and popular events such as concerts and sporting events to advertise their products.Coca Cola has researched and found that the majority of time teens spend is online or spent watching their favorite television programs. Unlike the older generations, younger generations are more likely to be electronic savvy and read less of in print advertisements. Internationally, Coca-Cola has adopted a global strategy that includes sponsoring professional sports leagues, music artists or groups and the Olympics. For example the company advertises with the NBA, World Cup Tournaments, the NCAA and popular music groups such as Maroon 5 (McKay, 13).Coca-Cola pays several million dollars in order to have the exclusive rights to advertise or partner with these events. Although it an expensive way to advertise, its benefits extend far past the cost of advertising. Millions of viewers worldwide tune into or watch these events and the bra nd exposure is enormous. Viewers are exposed to the brand and the Coca-Cola brand becomes synonymous with that popular athlete, league or artist. By paying these popular athletes and stars to endorse their products, they influence millions to buy or try the Coca-Cola brand.From there it’s up to Coca-Cola to keep the consumers to continue to use its products. In conjunction with their advertising strategy, Coca-Cola also uses specific promotions and strategies in order to gain sales. Internationally, many of these methods are similar to those found in the United States. Whether it’s to gain a first time customer, getting them to switch from other brands or keep them loyal to Coca-Cola, the company uses strategic self-selection. They purchase shelves in big departmental stores and display their products on shelves in an attractive style.Most times Coca-Cola pays more to have their products on shelves that are easier to reach and are more likely to be seen than the shelve s that other companies use. Coca-Cola is one of the leading companies to take advantage of end caps and special racks that they give to outlets to promote specific products. Often time’s salesman of the coca cola company positions their freezers and their products in eye-catching positions. Normally they keep their freezers near the entrance of the stores or in high traveled areas.The company recently introduced a revolutionary electronic vending machine that has hundreds of Coke flavors on hand that even can be mixed from one single machine. The machine is called the â€Å"Freestyle† and offers a totally new and innovative approach to the standard vending machines (Coca-Cola, 1). The company also does sponsorships with different college and school's cafes and sponsors their sports events and other extra curriculum activities for increasing market share among younger demographics. The majority of the Coca-Cola Company's products are sold in retail stores, convenient st ores, petrol stations etc.Although the pricing methods/strategies are set by those the company sells to, it does suggest specific guidelines and have some restrictions on pricing and trade. For example gas stations and convenient stores usually sell Coca-Cola products at a fixed price, where restaurants have more freedom on what they can charge. In a majority of places competition-based pricing is used. Coca-Cola products are usually priced below, above or equal to its competitors' prices. For example, during Easter (2010) sale periods the average price for a 2 liter Coca-Cola was 1. 7 and a 2 liter Pepsi bottle sold for 1. 83 on average (Virginia, 3). In order to generate more sales and clear additional product, Coca-Cola also adopts a discount price strategy. Coca-Cola products are often marked down during sale periods and special occasions. For example Coca-Cola often will send out coupons for an amount to be taken off the cost of a specific product or allow the markdown below MA P pricing to make room for new sales or products. One of the most obvious pricing strategies Coca-Cola uses is psychological pricing.Often times there advertised prices end in seven or five, which is below other competitors such as Pepsi. The Coca-Cola Company also gives trade incentives to its retailers to generate more revenue. For example, the company will send free samples and product to have events which allow consumers to try a product for nothing. As a result of this by this these retailers and middle man push their product in the market following â€Å"Seen as sold†. Lastly, the Coca Cola Company changes their product prices according to the season. For example, summer is supposed to be a good season for beverage industry in Pakistan (Hays, 96).So in winter they reduce their prices to maintain their sales and profit In essence, the examples above reveal that global marketing is not necessarily an all or nothing proposition. The Coca-Cola Company has the freedom to cho ose from many possibilities on the spectrum from total standardization through to complete customization. Clearly there are circumstances where they can gain competitive advantage through increased standardization of products and marketing, especially with respect to keeping costs down and building brand power.On the other hand, in conditions where national market differences are more marked, this strategy would harm the company and its reputation. By making standardization decisions using target market conditions as its starting point, the company insures that in the long-term customers are being offered what they want. Although Coca-Cola can seemingly gain a great deal from a standardized agenda, its decision to combine global and local resources is ultimately more long-standing in a market where national customer differences are influential.Coupled with strategic pricing and being a low cost leader, the Coca-Cola Company has enjoyed over a hundred years of success which continues to grow every day. The company uses its branding power and size to promote its products even further, which influences even more consumers to try the brand or switch from previous used brands. Regardless, Coca-Cola has been extremely successful in their international marketing mix and continues to dominate global beverage sales.

Performance Appraisal System Essay

Performance Appraisal System Antronette S. Hancock Axia College of University of Phoenix A performance appraisal system is a very important part of any successful organization. Both employees and organizational management and leaders benefit from a well-structured performance appraisal system. These systems offer feedback and rewards to employees who perform well, while at the same time holding employees accountable for their performance. The following report will describe the purpose, benefits, and elements of a good performance appraisal system, and outline a unique performace appraisal system for a human service organization. The purpose of a performance appraisal system is to provide an evaluation and feedback on an employee’s performance. Most organizations perform appraisals yearly and may call the appraisal by other terms-such as a review. Even if appraisals are performed annually, management should have weekly consultations or meetings with staff to ensure each employee is kept up-to-date with policies and each employee knows what is expected of him or her. A manager should not wait until the end of a year to let an employee know that there has been a performance problem for the last eight months. Problems should be addressed as they arise to prevent any surprises during the appraisal process. The evaluation portion of an appraisal system is normally performed by management. During this portion, management evaluates an employee’s performance to determine if there are any areas that need improvement. Ideally, all employees should be meeting or exceeding organizational standards. If an employee is not meeting standards, or has not met standards at some point within the previous year, his or her appraisal may have suggestions for improvement or there may be other consequences as a result of poor performace. The feedback portion of an appraisal system normally takes place between management and the employee who is being appraised. According to Caruth and Humphreys, appraisals should be formalized according to organizational procedure (2008). Feedback should be conducted in a private setting to ensure that the information being passed on is confidential. The manager should thoroughly explain the employee’s appraisal and encourage the employee to ask questions. The manager should also be attentive to what the employee says so the the employee does not feel like his or her comments or concerns are not important. From an employee viewpoint, the purpose of a performace appraisal is very different than that of the organization. According to Cash, the employee wants to know four things: what do you want me to do, how well have I done it, how can I improve my performance, and reward me for doing well (1993). These are the questions and expectations an employees need to know in order to perform his or her job well. Managers should make sure employees are aware of expectations each and every day while working. From the organizational viewpoint, one of the main purposes of an employee appraisal system is accountability. Employees need to be held accountable for their performance at all times. A good appraisal system outlines each employee’s responsibilities and performance rates to show accountability. This is especially important in organizations that have areas with overlapping responsibilities. Each employee needs to know specifically what he or she is held accountable for. There are many benefits of a good performance appraisal system. One of the benefits is that the appraisal process allows managers to have one-on-one time with employees that they may not get to have on a daily basis. Another benefit is that any existing problems can be addressed and, hopefully, solutions can be made so that the problem can be corrected. Appraisals also encourage employees to perform better in the future so that the next appraisal will be positive. Consider the following unique appraisal system for a human service organization. Each employee will be evaluated yearly. The evaluation will be based on three areas: work performance, attendance, and innovation. Work performace will acquire the biggest portion of the appraisal score because there are many factors involved. Work performance will be based on organizational standards, accuracy rates, timeliness standards, and customer satisfaction. Attendance scores will be based on the employee’s attendance history for the previous year. And Innovation scores will be given based on any ideas the employee has come up with to improve organizational processes or cut organizational costs. Once the scores are determined, a final appraisal score is given to the employee. Employees can compare these scores from year to year to see if his or her performance is acceptable for the organization. Employee appraisal systems are very beneficial for both employees and the organization. Appraisals provide feedback to employees concerning their performance and also holds each employee accountable.

Setting up an independent record label ( BUSINESS PLAN ) Essay

Setting up an independent record label ( BUSINESS PLAN ) - Essay Example The independent music industry around the world is renowned for providing a platform to such artistes who are either not considered commercially viable by the large companies or do not consider themselves worthy enough to approach larger music companies. As a result, such artistes seek the advice or aid of independent labels. Theses labels have recently caught the attention of larger scale companies Like Universal etc for their successful promotion and in fact the astronomical sales of certain artistes is a testimony to the success of the labels. In the United Kingdom alone, certain independent labels such as Stiff Records, factory Records and Rough trade have helped define certain vital niches for the artists they promote. In the United States, these labels have a long history stretching back to post-war period such as Sun Records. (Barry 1997) One of the major success factors of these companies has been technology, as now individuals can produce quality music while sitting at home. The decrease in the costing and access to numerous customers has resulted in the recent expansion of the Indies. (David 1999) This business plan would refer to the set -up of "Zee Ma Records"; an independent music label which would pertain to the music genres of punk rock and dance compilations. The reason for having these two poles opposed to each other music genres is that dance compilations would allow the company to earn a steady amount of income while the actual focus would be on promoting punk rock acts which have been overlooked by major companies. Punk rock acts are huge in number and this business plan would be focusing on the punk rocks in the United Kingdom. Another reason for the selection of this particular genre has been the fact that numerous acts have been successful in the recent times in the independent sector especially and therefore a viable sector to invest in. Zee Ma records stands for quality and Originality and it offers contracts to artists with the assurance of proper representation. (Shemtob & Braund 2005) This company would be operating on a smaller scale in the initial phase and therefore, the key personnel would be of a limited number as the cost actor has to be kept in mind at all times. The initial operational phase would include three members as the entire management team. The director would be the main face of the corporation who would handle all the management, legal and business affairs as well as having the final say in the accounts. However, for most deals and contracts specialists would be hired to deal with them as the director would be relatively inexperienced initially. (Andrew 2005) The other two personnel would be responsible for the office administration, book-keeping, press, radio and media promotion. The staff costs would therefore, vary according to the skills of the personnel and the amount of work required from them. The label would offer two sorts of contract; a royalty contract and a 50:50 profit split. The contracts terms and conditions would vary according to the reputation of the artist, their time of association with the label, and their success

Company Analysis of Free Standing Company - National Bank of Egypt Essay

Company Analysis of Free Standing Company - National Bank of Egypt - Essay Example This report will analyze National Bank of Egypt as a free standing company and then the characteristics of National Bank of Egypt will be compared with the views of Mira Wilkin with respect to free standing company. Past and Present of the National Bank of Egypt (NBE) and its Acquisitions and Mergers (as a free standing company): National bank of Egypt is the oldest commercial bank of Egypt. It has been operating for the last 114 years. The bank was established in June, 1898, with the investment of one million pounds (National Bank of Egypt a). It is believed that bank of Egypt was formed by partnerships of various important people namely, Sir Ernest Cassel, Isaac Suarez and his siblings Joseph and Felix and various other members. However, since Sir Ernest was keen on not leaving the United Kingdom, therefore, branch office of National bank of Egypt was created in London (National Bank of Egypt UK Branch 2012). Since then National Bank of Egypt has opened various branches around Egyp t and some other countries of the world. It has opened its branch in Khartoum in 1901, and in next year Agriculture Bank of Egypt was set active. Similarly, it has merged with various other banks and also has acquired many banks around the globe to capitalize on different opportunities regardless of the geographic region. National Bank of Egypt has a rich history of these mergers and acquisitions and some of these have been discussed below. Bank of Abyssinia came into being in 1906 and was established by National Bank of Egypt, which in many ways performed its duties for the Ethiopian government. This bank has also issued currency for Ethiopia and was the only issuer of currency for the government. Moreover, Bank of Abyssinia has also provided its services as a fiscal agent for the Ethiopian government. However, these services were later terminated in 1931 as Ethiopian government established Bank of Ethiopia as an alternative. In the year 1951, National bank of Egypt was recognized as the central bank for Egypt, but it was later confirmed in 1957 (by banking acts) and started its operation as a legal central bank of Egypt. Another important development by National Bank of Egypt was that it started operating in Sudan; all assets of the bank which were in the premises of Sudan were intentionally nationalized by the Sudan government in order to come up with the new bank for the country. This was later named as Central Bank of Sudan. Similarly, in a year (1960), Bank of Egypt was also nationalized. The main purpose for this act was to create a separate central banking entity for Egypt (Egypt News 2012). National Bank of Egypt acquired Citibank of Egypt in 1961, as this bank entered the Egyptian market 6 years before its acquisition. However, the prime reason for Citibank to leave the market was because of the nationalization process carried out in the Egypt. Furthermore, one of the important milestones of Bank of Egypt was to establish Commercial International Ban k. With the help and partnership of Chase Manhattan Bank or, in simple words, the merger between National Bank of Egypt and Chase Manhattan Bank has resulted in establishing Commercial international Bank in the year 1975. Likewise in a year (1976), another important merger came into existence, as NBE along with 19 other banks from the US and Arabic countries merged together in order to establish Arab American Bank. National Bank of

Analysis of the Chinese films Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Analysis of the Chinese films - Essay Example As pointed out, the protagonist was forced to be the custodian of Kosaburo Hanaya and Dong Hanchen. Before this incident, Ma Dasan’s life was flowing slowly without much problem. But this incident forced Ma Dasan to be in a dilemmatic situation because the person who handed over the prisoners pointed out that he must look after the prisoners with due care. The following events include the futile effort undertaken by Ma Dasan to keep the prisoners safe, hiring of One Stroke Liu to execute the prisoners and failure to do so, Kosaburo Hanaya’s return to his homeland, and the fire in Ma Dasan’s village, Ma Dasan’s attempt to take revenge and his ultimate doom. The most shocking incident in the film is the large scale massacre at the feast. This incident ignited the feeling of revenge in Ma Dasan’s mind. Earlier, Ma Dasan’s role in the village (say, his community or society) was to obey the law and order without showing his hesitation. But this in cident transformed him from a passive individual to an active individual who is ready to give up his life for a noble purpose. A bird’s eye view of the film leads one to misinterpret the same as an anti-Japanese invasion genre film. But deeper understanding leads one to the realization that the director’s attempt is to mock the hypocrisy of the Chinese authorities and the mentality of the Chinese villagers towards the Japanese invaders. For instance, in the film, children are ready to share secrets with the invaders and the villagers feel satisfied by the supply of food grains. Besides, this unveils the passive attitude shown by the people towards the authorities. The fundamental problem of violence in the film faced by the ignorant villagers without a unified authority is two sided. For... The contemporary Chinese cinema is undergoing rapid but positive change. Nowadays, the Chinese film makers show keen interest to inculcate innovative ideas in their films. For instance, the film Devil at the Doorstep by the Chinese actor cum director Jiang Wen is one of the best examples which highlight the foretold change. Jiang Wen’s prior status as an actor did not hinder him from choosing the story line of the film Devil at the Doorstep, which carries violence and mental trauma faced by individuals in a closed society. The film was able to gain the jury prize at Cannes, but that did not help Jiang Wen as a direThe film Devil at the Doorstep by Jiang Wen was accepted by the international viewers but less accepted by the Chinese government. The main problem faced by Jiang Wen was the restriction upon individual freedom of a director with the international outlook. The main reason behind the less acceptance and ban on the film was the realistic and critical attitude of the di rector towards power politics, violence and its effect upon the individuals. The protagonist’s transformation from an inactive stage to activism and as the mouthpiece of the director to communicate with the viewers is the most important development in the film. The narrative feature of the film is conversational and less ambiguous because of the usage of the historical plot. The stylistic features of the film raise the same from its limitations to the international arena of cinematography.

Business -Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Business -Assignment - Essay Example The increase in unemployment would result to lesser people having jobs. Lesser people having jobs would translate to lesser Tesco sales. People have less money to buy Tesco products. Clearly, one possible effect is the decline in the company’s sales(Geroski & Gregg, 1997,49). Another possibility is the increase in variable expenses. Inflation would translate to higher prices of commodities, raw materials and other purchase amounts. The company must spend more to purchase the same number of inventory sold in the Tesco Plc stores. The prices of other products sold in its outlets would rise. Obviously, another possibility is the increase in variable expenses(Lipsey & Chrystal,2007,334). A third possibility is an increase in fixed expenses. The electricity cost could increase because of the increase in the electricity company’s operating expenses. The water utility company would increase prices. The telephone costs could demand a price increase. The fixed salary of Tesco employees could increase. Definitely, A third possibility is an increase in fixed expenses(Ingham,2000,47). A fourth possibility is the decline in purchases. A decline in sales would result to an oversupply of products being displayed at the Tesco Plc shops. Many of the inventory items displayed in the Tesco Plc will have a high probability of expiring because of the slowdown in demand for Tesco Plc product. The company, Tesco Plc, will be forced to reduce the number of items purchased due to the large stocks of unsold store items displayed. This reduction in Tesco Plc purchases would ensure that the newly bought products will be sold only after the prior –purchased products have been sold. Surely, a fourth possibility is the decline in purchases(Mullard, 1995,113). A fifth possibility is retrenchment of some employees. A reduction in sales would mean that the company may generate a large decline in the company’s products. Thus, the company has to

Shakespeare Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Shakespeare - Essay Example This paper examines the deposition scene in the two plays to draw out each king’s relationship to kingship, his use of language, his mental state, his deployment of the Passion narrative, and his use of the crown as a prop. Following this analysis of the two kings, there is a discussion of the theatrical techniques the authors use to highlight the main issues at stake, for example the setting and role of the other characters in the deposition scene and the way that the drama unfolds on the stage. Finally the similarities and differences between Shakespeare and Marlowe are explained, leading to the conclusion that Shakespeare has borrowed some aspects from Marlowe but at the same time he has pushed Marlowe’s art in a number of new directions. In the deposition scene (Act V, Scene i) Marlowe’s King Edward II makes it very clear that he sees himself as belonging to a category that is very different from ordinary citizens: â€Å"The griefs of private men are soon al layed;/ But not of Kings† (Marlowe, lines 8-9). In order to illustrate the different elements in the social hierarchy, Edward uses animal imagery. The people are like â€Å"the forest deer† (Marlowe, line 9), while he describes himself as â€Å"the imperial lion† (Marlowe, line 11). ... In Shakespeare’s deposition scene (Act IV, Scene i) the king also assumes an entirely different and superior status, but his approach is much more sophisticated. King Richard makes the religious allusions even more obvious by the analogy of the Passion of Christ. Shakespeare’s King Richard implies that he is like Christ, while the usurper and his many followers are like Judas: â€Å"So Judas did to Christ; but he, in twelve,/Found truth in all but one; I, in twelve thousand, none.† (Shakespeare, line 171) The analogy is expanded, as the King accuses the bystanders of being like the Biblical Pontius Pilate: â€Å"Though some of you, with Pilate, wash your hands†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Shakespeare, line 239). Kingship in both plays is seen by the kings as a status that is fundamentally different from ordinary citizenship, and ordained by god, but it is depicted as something affected by the traitorous actions of other people. The two kings use language in different ways to express their reaction to the impending loss of their kingly status. Marlowe’s king Edward II is aware that he is experiencing a great deal of negative feelings when he confesses that â€Å"outrageous passions cloy my soul† (Marlowe, line 19) and he shows extreme â€Å"rancour and disdain† (Marlowe, line 20) and speaks of â€Å"the fury of your king† (Marlowe, line 73). When Winchester addresses him as â€Å"My lord† (Marlowe, line 113), Edward answers with short and angry commands: â€Å"Call me not lord!/ Away, out of my sight† (Marlowe, lines 114-115) before he relents and realizes that he does not have the power to command any more. Shakespeare’s King Richard is also very grieved by what has happened, but he turns his anger into bitter satire, as for example when he asks to be

Reading response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 7

Reading response - Essay Example en taken for granted could soon ceased to exist and most certainly have whatever extent rights that they do enjoy removed as a result of human exploitation, overuse, or general disregard. Within Christopher Stone’s article entitled, â€Å"Should Trees Have Standing? Toward Legal Rights for Natural Objects†, the author presents the case for why natural objects should be given a degree of legal protection. Secondly, the understanding is presented to the reader that although such a series of steps may seem as a departure from logic and/or reason, the fact that matter is that a degree of legal rights for an animate objects has existed for decades within the developed world. As the author explains, this is a result of the fact that corporations and even certain types of municipalities Garner a degree of legal protection, it seems as foolish and rather uninformed that the natural objects which truly stand to disappear from the world entirely an impact upon the lives and quality of life of untold billions, should not have any form of legal protection. With regards to the actual response of this reader to the information presented, it must be stated that althou gh I was initially doubtful of the way in which such legal protection should be granted and provided to an animate/natural objects, the argument that the author lays out present its a convincing case for why such legal protection should be granted and

Biomedical approach Essay Example for Free

Biomedical approach Essay The Biomedical approach includes the administration of various pharmacological agents which can be utilized to treat various mental disorders. It is usually administered for short durations in combination with psychotherapy. It brings back to normal the various chemical substances that are present in the brain (neurotransmitters). When the neurotransmitter levels are normal, the effect of psychotherapy would be better. The biomedical approach can be utilized to treat various psychiatric disorders such as ADHD, OCD, depression, anxiety, etc (MINDD Foundation, 2008). The psychodynamic approach includes various theories that utilize the internal drives and forces that may be present in the individual (some of which may be unconscious), to ensure that the individual can undergo a psychological change and get to better control over several problems. It is effectively utilized in pain management. Psychodynamics is considered to be the interaction of the id, ego and the superego so as to satisfy ones needs (which play an important role in the development of the personality). The psychodynamic approach was developed by the followers of Sigmund Freud. This approach gives greater consideration to the unconscious motives that affect behavior, emotions and feelings. The behavior of adults is strongly affected by the childhood motives (Simply Psychology, 2009). The humanistic-existential approach concentrates on the motivations and the needs of the individual and is similar to the psychoanalytical theory. This therapy focuses greater on the free will of the individual rather than on obstructing human nature. This is one of the major differences that are present between humanistic-existential and psychoanalytical approach. It also tends to concentrate greater on solving the problem rather than the problem itself (University of Hawaii, 2008). Cognitive and behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that involves determining and sorting out improper thoughts (that may be associated with depression), solving various problems and improving the problem-solving skills, and ensuring that people are able to engage in more enjoyable activities (that can ensure that the individual learns about potentially rewarding activities and performs them in the future) (University of Michigan, 2006). Reference Simply Psychology (2008). Psychodynamic Approach, Retrieved on May 29, 2009, from Web site: http://www. simplypsychology. pwp. blueyonder. co. uk/psychodynamic. html The MINDD Foundation (2008). The Biomedical Approach, Retrieved on May 29, 2009, from Web site: http://mindd. org/s/archives. php/48-Biomedical-Treatments. html The University of Hawaii (2008). The Biological Paradigm, Retrieved on May 29, 2009, from Web site: http://www2. hawaii. edu/~heiby/overheads_%20paradigms. html University of Michigan Depression Center (2006). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Retrieved on May 29, 2009, from Web site: http://www. med. umich. edu/depression/cbt. htm

The History And Background Of Sony Marketing Essay

The History And Background Of Sony Marketing Essay Sony is one of the largest game device providers in the world. It started at 1946 in Japan. Initially, Sony was selling the electronic products and electronic devices such as television, home video, home audio, camera and others. In 1994, Sony begins to sell their first gaming console implemented by them which is Playstation (PS) 1. More versions of Playstation such as PS 2 and 3, other similar console, PS portable and PS Vita were released to meet customers higher expectations. During the past few years, Sony has put its effort on the innovation of virtual reality headgear. With the influence of movies and animation such as Sword Art Online, the public hope to interact and experience a more realistic graphics in the game. Since there is a demand for this, Sony decides to create this product. 2.0 Current Market Situation Various technologies have been developed and innovated to simplify daily tasks. One of the most significant effects of development of technology is in the gaming industry. Ever since in the 90s, companies such as Sony have been developing various gaming consoles that provide better experience to its users with each new design. From the first Playstation, to the soon to be released Playstation 4. Since the development of mobile gaming such as smartphones and tablets, the demands for gaming consoles has been declining. However, according to DFC Intelligence Analyst, New console systems from Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony are expected to help the console segment regain some momentum in the 2014 to 2015 timeframe (Cole D. 2012). It just means that, as long as gaming companies can develop a better console systems, the market will resume its growth. Therefore developing Cita-Vita is essential to place Sony back in the game. The main competitor for Sony will be the Oculus VR Inc. as they are developing a product similar to Cita-Vita which is the Oculus Rift. The Rift too provides a more realistic gameplay by allowing the user to experience a 360 degree videogame environment. In addition, Adhesive Games had developed a game, Hawken, which is said to be very compatible with Rifts gameplay. Moreover, while Cita-Vita is still in the researching stage, the Rift developers kit had been completed and will be launched anytime soon. And not long after that, the consumer version will too be released. Even so, the technology used in Cita-Vita is different from The Rift. In addition to the 360 degree game environment experience, this product consists of a new technology that allows the user to play without lifting a finger (this technology will be further explained in the product strategies). Gamers will be keen to accept this technology as it is a great improvement from the past consoles and it had only been seen in comics and animations. 3.0 SWOT Analysis 3.1 Strength After years of researching and developing and at this juncture, Sony becomes the pioneer to concept, implement, and create the world first virtual reality gaming headgear. The products objective is to promote intellectual course of events that enable users to experience different life and are suitable for anyone due to its intuitive usage. The complexity but extremely exquisite technology, which contains a 4 dimensional sensibility view function by the main core, processor XG1 with 1 THz ,and integrate with a graphic chip to project Ultra High Definition (Ultra HD) ,and the latest cloud gaming system which benefit the firms profitability. Sony could be dominant over the price strategy control in the market. 3.2 Weakness Some aspects that need attention are uncertain incidents that affect the stability of the system operation, the high cost of the parts and technology for the product, and shortage of technical staff for this system. Fatakia K., (2012) stated that the high cost of media production, especially in its television business, has affected the companys pricing strategy. Frankly, Sony lost about $6.3 billion in the past eight years due to this which lead to lose of market shares to Samsung and LG. 3.3 Opportunities Sony could penetrate into a new market of gaming consoles in gaming industry for a long term. It is because it is marketed to both novice and expert gamers and is not restricting to the age of individuals. With this technology in hand, Sony would consider having partnership with military, aero industry and space industry to create field or cosmic simulator for teaching and training purposes. Moreover, there would be an evolution in offering a platform for social networking. 3.4 Threat Several factors that concern Sony regarding the launching of Cita-Vita are the interference of competitors relating to the safety of this product causing consumers to have difficulty to accept. The impact of compliance regulations on health and safety as well as economic condition in different areas would also delay the recognition of the product and to be widely used. Even before, the companys Playstation network was hacked, resulting in leakage of customer information, such as credit-card data (Fatakia, 2012) and Sony was fined for  £250,000. Sony needs to enhance securities to protect gamers personal details. 4.0 Marketing objective With the development and production of Cita-Vita, Sony wishes to increase the market share significantly during that period which can be seen through sales. As reported by an author in Seeking Alpha, it is said that the soon to be released PS 4 by Sony will take away the market share from XBOX (Anon 2013). The new product Cita-Vita will be able to take even more shares as PS 4 is just an extension of the existing Playstation models. Sony should opt for a 70% increment for a year. This can be done by increasing the market share and customer value. The increasing in the shares value indicates that the company is having a positive prospect. By giving satisfying customer values, the revenue of the sales will increase which lead to the increase in companys standings hence, the share price. Other than that, the companys strategic planning and making decision to set appropriate recourses, business environments, and human resources, like serving customers through suitable staff and retailers , who can deal with customer more efficiently will guarantee higher customer satisfaction. 5.0 Strategies 5.1 Product Strategy The gaming headgear, Cita-Vita consists of 3 levels which are core benefit, actual product and augmented product. 5.1.1 Core Benefit Cita-Vita is a product which is specially made to provide virtual reality experience for all users especially gamers. Virtual experience can be says as the stimulation to enable people to interact with the artificial 4-dimensional visual or other sensory environment in games. It provides a 360 degree game environment experience. 5.1.2 Actual Product 5.1.2.1 Product Name The name of this gaming headgear is Cita-Vita. Cita has a meaning of other in Latvian while vita means life in Latin. This name represents the second life or another life that users will experience. 5.1.2.1 Features Cita-Vita comes in two colours which are black and white because these colours are regard as trendy by most people. The design of the headgear looks like a helmet. It has a single interface which covers the players face. This headgear stimulates five main senses of humans with high frequency electromagnetic microwave transmitter. It controls the users consciousness by redirecting the signals which the brain sends to the body to the machine itself and replace its own waves to stimulate the senses. This headgear uses electricity as its main source of power. The charger is plug-in at the socket provided on the left side of the headgear. The headgear also contains its own batteries which acts as a backup. Headgear also contains the USB port for installation of games and other software. The software or games can be installed by connecting with computer. Moreover, the headgear contains three indicators which are power (PWR), wide area network (WAN) and BLK. PWR will light up after the charger is plug-in. The other two buttons will also light up after the respective system requirements are fulfilled. 5.1.3 Augmented product There will be two-year warranty that comes with the product. The warranty covers most damages of the product except damage cause by the carelessness of the buyers such as improper handling of the product. 5.2 Promotion Strategies Two strategies are applied based on the introduction stage. Sony should use push strategy to promote product through distribution channels to final consumers. First, Sony will provide the product display stands or signs to retailers to create awareness to consumers. Trade deals which are price discounts given for meeting certain purchase requirements (Peter, Donnelly, 1997, pg156) are also offered, e.g. 10% off for 1 unit of Cita-Vita only after selling 50 units each time. For pull strategies, Sony relies on product advertising or consumer sales promotion (Peter, Donnelly, 1997, pg157) to build up consumer demand. Sony could organize events to induce consumers to try the product and give out free merchandises such as batteries if purchase is made on the spot. Another way is to use Sonys website to promote a price deal for pre-orders for limited time. Sony will use informative advertising, to introduce Cita-Vita to unaware consumers of its purposes, features and brand. Certain people are needed such as expert gamers or renowned individuals to promote the value of the product and develop desire or wants of other potential consumer that are moved by those who believed in the products value. Sony may use objective and task method for the promotional budget as Sony has large funds to achieve its promotional results globally. The advertising message of Cita-Vita is to provide life experiences. And it is executed with interesting style, format, words and tone. Medias such as television that covers mass audience and game magazines like PC Gamer which draw the readers attention and has high demographic and geographic selectivity could be use. Sony can publicize Cita-Vita and announce its release in press conference. This public relation cost lesser without including fees for time or space and has vigorous impact to the public. Medias would pick up the news and report about them. The public will have more trust in the product as it seems more credible. 5.3 Pricing Strategy As a new product being launched where competition does not exist, what price should be set for such cases? It is important to target the right customer and to develop the market growth for the purpose of being viable on the certain product. As Sony plans to introduce a new device, Sony has to set a base price level that covers the costs of sales while maintaining its reputation which is to provide high quality products. After estimating the amount to be spent on the production of this product and comparing the price of other consoles made by Sony, Sony should set the base price of Cita- Vita as $580. Basing on this, the sales of 7 million units is the break-even point for Cita-Vita where the cost of research and production is covered. As technological product are said to have a low product life cycle, Sony ought to use price skimming strategy. While taking into account psychological matter such as image pricing, higher prices which represent higher quality and odd even pricing will attract people to purchase the device. Thus it is recommended that Sony set a higher price during the first few months which is $699. Price strategies must be amended based on the market in short and long run, to retain sales. In the end, the success of the ideas is directly related to customer satisfaction. When consumers are satisfy with product, price can remain in the higher level. 5.4 Distribution strategy The last strategy to be discussed is the distribution strategy. This strategy involves looking into certain aspects such as where to make the product available and when to do so (Dibb. S, et al., 2006). There are times Sony is unable to deal with the customer personally due to reasons such as the cost, time and the geographical distribution of the customers. For this reasons, Sony ought to look for certain distribution channels that can help to sell Cita-Vita to more customers. As this is a new product, Sony is encouraged to start with exclusive distribution. Therefore, Sony should sell Cita-Vita directly via online or through a Sony Centre. Sony could start by allowing pre-orders from customers through their website. By doing so, Sony can then get a clearer picture on the type of customers who are interested and generate feedback from them. At the Sony centers, there will be expert staff that are able to explain the product functions and specifications to customers who are interested. Furthermore, Customers are certain that they can get the original version of Cita-Vita from the centers. After the feedbacks from the customers have been studied, Sony can then made final adjustments to Cita-Vita and start using other distribution strategies such as selective. Sony can sell the product in bulks to other electronic companies especially gaming centers. These retailers can help Sony to sell the product to a larger group of people all across the world. In addition, gaming centers are not only experts in this category but they as well have connections with a variety of customers and other businesses as well as understand how to deal with them well. Lastly, Sony could distribute them to internet cafes. Most young gamers go to these cafes to play computer games. By having Cita-Vita there, these young gamers are able to experience the thrill and excitement provided. This will pick their interest and it will be easier to persuade them to buy the product. 6.0 Recommendation and Conclusion Since this is a new product, there are many aspects which are still unstable as stated in SWOT analysis. Therefore, Sony has to hire more specialized workers in this and related field to make this product more secure with minimal defects. This will definitely attract more attention and develop more trust from customers to purchase Cita-Vita. In a nutshell, Cita-Vita is a highly potential product that allows Sony to maximize their sales. It has drawn the attention of many even though it is just an idea. This shows that there will be a demand and market for this product. It can be said that Sony is moving in the right direction with the development of this product. As to date, the research and development department of Sony has begun researching on this product. 7.0 Reference Anon, 2013, Top of Form Anon, 2013, Sonys PS4 Looks To Take Market Share From The Xbox [online] Available at: [Accessed 20 February 2013] Dibb S., et al., 2006, Marketing Concepts and Strategies, U.S.A., Houghton Mifflin Fatakia K., 2012, Sony Corporation: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats [online], My Daily Finance, Available at: [Accessed date: 8th March 2013] Five Star Equities, 2012, Video Game Industry Set for Growth Global Game Market Forecasted to Grow to $82 Billion Five Star Equities Provides Stock Research on Sony and Majesco Entertainment [Press Release] 31 July 2012. Available at: [Accessed 13 February 2013] Sony Malaysia, [online] Available at: [Accessed 25 February 2013] Virtual Reality, [online] Available at: [Accessed 17 February 2013]

Business Comparison of Boots and Oxfam

Business Comparison of Boots and Oxfam As a group of Business Analysts, you have been advised by your senior managers to select two contrasting businesses and provide a report on the following: Describe the type of business, purpose and ownership of the two contrasting businesses Describe the different stakeholders who influence the purpose of the two contrasting businesses Describe how two businesses are organised Explain how their style of organisation helps them to fulfil their purposes Describe the influence of two contrasting economic environments on business activities within a selected organisation Describe how political, legal and social factors are impacting upon the business activities of the selected organisations and their stakeholders. Introduction: This assignment focuses on two different types of businesses namely Boots and Oxfam. Describe the type of business, purpose and ownership of the two contrasting businesses Boots Type of Business Boots is international pharmacy, led health and beauty groups delivering a range of products and services to customers. It started in 19th century as an herbalist store by John Boot in Nottingham. In1870 the Boots business begins to develop under the management of Jesse Boot. 1883 Boot Company Ltd formed.1898 Boots Library established. In 1915 Edgar Moss bought his first pharmacy business in Feltham. In the year of 1929 D1 soap factorys building completed in Beeston site, Nottingham.1935 No7 cosmetics launched.1936 Boots branch opened in New Zealand. 1939 Soltan sun care range introduced. 1947 Boots established to carry out whole sale business in Australia, Canada, and Pakistan and in other East countries. 1949 New Boots factory opened at Airdrie in Scotland to manufacture cosmetics. One new factory in Bombay (India) went into production.1951 first self-service started in London. In 1954, E. Moss opened its first photographic store in Staines.1969 Boots Launched Ibuprofen in the UK. In 1971 Company renamed the Boots Company Ltd. Achievement of Crookes Laboratories Ltd. In1983, Nurofen launched; following the approval of Ibuprofen. 1985 Boots received the Queens Award for technological achievement for the discovery and development of ibuprofen. Boots Opticians Ltd formed in 1987, with the acquisition of Clement Clarke Ltd and Curry and Paxton Ltd. In the 1990, Boots contract, Manufacturing and Boots Healthcare International were established. In 1992 Electronic Point of Sale computer installation completed in all boots stores. 1997 UniChem Plc. merges with Alliance Santà © to become largest pharmaceutical. Advantage card launched. In 2001 Boots Opticians offer the worlds first disposable hearing aid, Songbird.   In the year of 2010 Alliance Boots and Pharmaceutical finalise agreement for independently owned pharmacy chain in Sweden under Boots brand. Ownership of Boots:   Ã‚   Boots is a private company, the UKs leading pharmacy-led health and beauty retailer. With over 2,500 stores in the UK, ranging from local community pharmacies to large destination health and beauty stores. Boots UK is part of the Retail Pharmacy International Division of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc, the first global pharmacy-led health and wellbeing enterprise. Boots UK Limited(formerly Boots the Chemists Limited), trading as Boots, is a pharmacy chain in the United Kingdom and Ireland, with outlets in most high streets, shopping centres and airport terminals. The companys former parent, The Boots Company Plc, merged with Alliance UniChem in 2006 to form Alliance Boots. In 2007, Alliance Boots was bought by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Stefano Pessina, taking the company private, and moving its headquarters to Switzerland, the first ever FTSE 100 company bought by a private equity firm. In 2012, Walgreens bought a 45% stake Alliance Boots, with the option to buy the rest within three years. It exercised this option in 2014, and as a result Boots became a subsidiary of the new company, Walgreens Boots Alliance on 31 December 2014. Boots operates over 2,500 stores across the United Kingdom and Ireland ranging from local pharmacies to large health and beauty stores. Boots stores are primarily located on the high streets and in shopping centres. It sells many health and beauty products, and also provides optician and hearing care services within stores and as standalone practices. Boots also operates a retail website and runs a loyalty card programme branded as the Boots Advantage Card. Mission and Purpose of Boots The mission of Boots is to be the first choice for pharmacy, health and beauty caring for people, customers and communities everywhere. Boots purpose is to provide goods and services to help their customers look and feel better than they ever thought possible. Boots Company is very well known in different department such as in production of biggest health and beauty brand, Botanic, Ibuprofen, and No.7. And it also works hard in customer services. Boots Company encourages the latest technologies and modern formulas to achieve the goals and objectives with new strength of the innovative approaches and creativity. So, the cost control is also the important factors in the company to remain in the business world. The Organisational Structure of Boots is illustrated in figure 1 below: 2nd Organisation: Oxfam International Oxfam International was formed in 1995 by a group of independent non-governmental organizations. Their aim was to work together for greater impact on the international stage to reduce poverty and injustice. The name Oxfam comes from the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief, founded in Britain in 1942. The group campaigned for food supplies to be sent through an allied naval blockade to starving women and children in enemy-occupied Greece during the Second World War. As well as becoming a world leader in the delivery of emergency relief, Oxfam International implements long-term development programs in vulnerable communities. We are also part of a global movement, campaigning with others, for instance, to end unfair trade rules, demand better health and education services for all, and to combat climate change. Today, there are 19 member organizations of the Oxfam International confederation. They are based in: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hong Kong, Ireland, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Quebec, South Africa, Spain and the United States. The Oxfam International Secretariat is based in Oxford, UK. The Secretariat runs advocacy offices in Addis Ababa, Brussels, Geneva, New York and Washington DC. Vision, Mission, Values, Purpose and Beliefs of Oxfam Oxfam vision is a just world without poverty. Oxfam wants a world where people are valued and treated equally, enjoy their rights as full citizens, and can influence decisions affecting their lives. The purpose of Oxfam is to help create lasting solutions to the injustice of poverty. Oxfam is part of a global movement for change, empowering people to create a future that is secure, just, and free from poverty. Oxfam believes that everyone has a right to realize their potential, and to live free of poverty in a secure and more equitable world. They believe that with the necessary action and political will, this world is possible. Oxfam also believes that people have a right to life and security; to a sustainable livelihood; to be heard; to have an identity; and to have access to basic social services. Oxfam subscribes to all international covenants on rights, and to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Type of ownership and Legal Form Oxfam is an International non-governmental organization. An international confederation of charitable organizations focused on the alleviation of global poverty. Oxfam International is a Confederation of thirteen independent aid, development and advocacy organizations. Oxfam India and Oxfam Japan are also associated with OI, with both organizations set to become full affiliates in the near future. Rostros y Voces, a not-for-profit organization based in Mexico currently has observer status in anticipation of becoming fully affiliated to OI. The Confederation is supported by the Secretariat, a not-for-profit Foundation with its registered office in The Hague, Netherlands. The purpose of the Secretariat is to provide leadership, coordination and facilitation to the Confederation as a whole, and to provide individual support to Affiliates where necessary. Oxfam International is governed by three constitutional documents: †¢The Constitution which governs the actions of Secretariat; †¢The Code of Conduct which regulates the use of the Oxfam brand and criteria for membership of the Confederation; †¢The Rules of Procedure which relate to the governance of the OI Board, affiliation of new members and dispute resolution practice within the Confederation. Each Affiliate subscribes to the constitution through an affiliation agreement which governs the relationship between OI and the Affiliate, ensuring a commitment to OIs objectives. Oxfam has a great presence on social media including Facebook and Twitter. Organizational Structure of Oxfam Oxfam International Board The OI Board comprises the Executive Director, Chair of each Affiliate, and the Oxfam International (OI) Chair. The Affiliates Chairs are voting members and are non-remunerated. The Executive Directors and the OI Chair are all non-voting-members. The Board also elects the Deputy Chair and Treasurer from among its voting members. The Board is responsible for ensuring that OI is accountable, transparent, and fit for purpose. The constitution and Strategic Plan are also approved at Board level. The Board takes recommendations from Executive Directors and ensures that the Confederation is working to its agreed aims. The Board also agrees membership of the Confederation, selects the Honorary President, the Honorary Advisor, the Board Officers and the OI Executive Director. A number of subcommittees with expert members are also mandated by the Board to assist with specific issues. Executive Directors The Executive Directors (EDs) include each Affiliates Executive Director and the OI Executive Director. The latter works with Affiliate Executive Directors as a peer in order to reach consensus and form recommendations to be made to the OI Board. As well as Affiliate responsibilities, the EDs form the non-voting half of the OI Board. They operate as a group to take those decisions which are not required to be tabled at the Board. They agree the operating architecture of the Confederation and have overall responsibility for initiating and management of the Strategic Plan. They are responsible for organizational alignment, OI budgetary decisions and alignment of their own Affiliates to achieve OIs objectives. Global Team The Global Team (GT) consists of up to 16 senior staff, nominated by Affiliates and selected on merit by the EDs. The GT is accountable to the EDs and membership is subject to a fixed renewable term to ensure rotation. The GT is responsible for the implementation of the Strategic Plan by directly supporting delivery groups and streamlining Affiliate operational plans in areas such as campaigning, advocacy, marketing and programs. Within this remit the GT are required to promote monitoring, evaluation and learning initiatives within the Confederation. Countries of Operation Oxfam works in more than 90 countries, with development programmes in Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, across Asia and in parts of Eastern Europe. Under Oxfam single management system, each of those countries is managed by one Oxfam affiliate to develop programmes jointly. Describe the different stakeholders who influence the purpose of the two contrasting businesses Stakeholder A stakeholder is referred to as anybody who has an interest in an organization or business. An organizations actions, objectives and policies can be affected for stakeholders. There are two main types of stakeholders, namely primary stakeholders who are usually internal stakeholders engaged in economic transactions with the business such as customers, suppliers, creditors and employees. Secondary stakeholders on the other hand are usually external stakeholders who may not necessarily engage directly in economic exchange with the organization, for example, the general public, the government, local communities, activist groups, business support groups and the media. Influence of different stakeholders on Boots and Oxfam There are both internal and external stakeholders for Boots and Oxfam. Examples of stakeholders include the following: Owners or shareholders Managers Employees Customers Suppliers Governments The Local Community Owners: Every given organisation is owned by an individual, partners or a group of shareholders who form a company. In relation to both Boots and Oxfam, they have a great influence on the direction of the organisations. These include the recruitment, selection and employment of workers and volunteers, identifying suitable premises and procuring machinery, equipment, raw materials and resources. The owners have to take these decisions to ensure that the organisations function according to their purposes and objectives as well as remain profitable in motivating their staff to maximise their performance, however, Oxfam in this case is a charitable organisation whereas Boots is a profit making organisation. Employees/Volunteers Employees in the case of Boots and Volunteers in the case of Oxfam are relevant stakeholders. Their performance and how tasks are carried out may affect the organisations objectives. Achieving tasks may require teamwork and therefore they must have good interpersonal skills. And they must follow organisational policies and procedures. The employees of Boots to a large extent may organize themselves in a workers union and ensure that the management provides favourable working conditions, pay structure, flexible shift patterns, among other things. Also, employees in some ways decide how profitable a business would be and can impact on the companys service delivery. Oxfam volunteers and affiliates on the other hand also have much impact on the successful operations of the organisation in meeting the objectives of the charity. Suppliers: Suppliers who supply the goods and services that are provided by the organisations to their customers are key stakeholders for these organisations. They are an example of external stakeholders. Costumers are other types of stakeholders. They are the supporters of the business in the economy and they purchase goods and services to satisfy their needs and wants. Customers are influential and very important to any organisation because when their needs are not met, they go elsewhere and the business looses patronage. Satisfied customers are crucial to the successful operation and growth of Boots as well as Oxfam. Customers are also able to influence the direction of the organisation based on their taste and demands. This helps the organisations to identify changing trends in the market. In the business environment, especially in the case of Boots, the consumer is considered as a priority and influences the objectives of the business. Due to increased competition, it very important the that organisations keep their customers satisfied by offering them good quality products and services. Governments are important stakeholders. The government makes legislations and regulations which govern all organisations and businesses including Boots and Oxfam, for example, Health and Safety Act, Equality Act, Disability, etc. In the case of Boots, the percentage of business rate to pay the government might influence an increase in the prices of their goods and services. Local authority regulations on licence of premises where they operate may influence the opening and closing times of these organisations. Consumer Protection legislation affects how the organisations relates with their customers. Boots on the other hand is required to comply with government regulations in relation to their own organisational objectives. A change in regulation requires a corresponding change in the way the organisations operate, for example, regulations on taxations laws, VAT, immigration, importations, farming etc have effect on the operations of the organisations. The Local Community: The local communityhave a great interest in localbusinesses as they provide them with jobs and training opportunities. Local communities will mainly depend on local shops and organisations and other suppliers. By their activities and operations some organisations create pollution, traffic congestions and noise, however, the local community will not want these to happen as it causes health risks to them. Describe how two businesses are organised: Boots and Oxfam Explain how the style of the organisations help them to fulfil their purposes Organisations or Businesses like Boots and Oxfam are normally organised by their functions, for example, HR department, marketing department, production department, sales department, accounts department, etc, depending on the size of the organisation. The reason is that, grouping them together allows the functions to benefit from specialisation and division of labour which then results in lower unit costs and a greater efficiency in achieving organisational objectives, whereas in some extreme cases, it may also lead to departmental rivalry. Larger organisations might have a number of businesses within the whole company. This would be coordinated by a Head Office, where all the major decisions are made. This explains why various organisations are organised structurally as follows: Organisational structures Hierarchical structures Flat Structures Tall Structures Organisational structures An organisational structure is a system used to define a hierarchy within an organisation.They can be structured by:Function the part of an organisation designed to meet a purpose. It has the advantage of each department focusing on its own department, but a disadvantage of creating a gap between top and bottom of the chart, and coordination may take too long. For example, Boots has the HR department which is responsible for hiring and firing.Geographical area where the business is located. The advantage is that it serves local need better, but may result in conflict between local and central management.Product group having separate divisions, with an advantage of helping people meet customer needs, however, there may be duplication of functions. Type of consumer different areas that deal with different types of customers. Flat organisation structures are structures with fewer levels.Advantages†¢ easier decision making †¢ greater communication †¢ people can take more responsibility Disadvantages †¢ many people will be involved with decision making †¢ limited to smaller organisations Tall Structures A tall structure is a long chain of command. As the organisation grows, the structure grows taller where each manager controls a certain group of people. Advantages†¢ Bigger opportunities for workers to reach higher levels of the structure.Disadvantages †¢ More people reporting to the top manager Hierarchical structures Hierarchy is a system in which members of an organisation are ranked according to authority. Advantages†¢ Employees know who to report to when there is an issue or there are any questions that need to be asked. †¢ Helps new employees by letting them know who they are working with. †¢ Helps to organise the workload. Disadvantages†¢ organisational charts have to always be updated but keeping them up to date can be hard especially for large companies Hierarchy is a system in which members of an organisation are ranked according to authority. A hierarchical structure is a pyramid-shaped structure that only has one person at the top and very few individuals that can directly report to him/her. Advantages†¢ it is easy to see what each team is called and how many members each team has and how they relate to the other members in the team Disadvantages †¢ it is harder for people that are on the lowest level of the structure to get to directly report to the one at the top A business whose decision-making originates from one place only is known as a centralised organisation. Normally the Head Office will decide on the major elements of strategy, no matter where the manufacturing plants and sales teams are positioned around the country or globe. This means that there are good opportunities for economies of scale. Other businesses, especially multinationals will opt for a more decentralised organisation where the individual businesses within the whole company group, make decisions for themselves. This means that there is more opportunity to react to the changing marketplace, which is one of the advantages of a small firm. However there is a possibility that these organisations which may operate in different parts of the world like Oxfam might be duplicating research or not bargaining in such a strong position as a bigger overall company. When a business reaches a certain size it might split into different departments. These departments will specialise, employing people with expertise in these areas. The main departments in a well-established business are typically: A hierarchical style organizational structure means that there will be fewer people at the top of the company managing the people below. It allows the directors to make the key decisions regarding the operations of the organisation. Describe the influence of two contrasting economic environments on business activities within a selected organisation Different economic environments affect business activities within organisations such as Boots and Oxfam, some of them are discussed below: Demand Demand is defined as the quantity of goods or services that consumers and businesses or customers are willing and able to buy at a given price in a given time period. Market demand is the sum of the individual demand for a product from buyers in the market, in this case, the products or goods and services of Boots and Oxfam. Supply Supply is an economic concept that describes the total amount of a specific goods or services that are available to consumers. Supply can also relate to the amount available at a specific price or the amount available across a range of prices if displayed on a graph. This is illustrated in the diagram below: As seen in the diagram above, considering demand and supply together, the supply relationship and demand relationship basically reflect each other at equilibrium, and the quantity supplied and quantity demanded intersect and are equal. As in the diagram above, supply is illustrated by the upward blue sloping line and demand by red downward sloping line at a price of P* and a quantity of Q*. The quantity of Boots and Oxfam goods and services demanded and the supply intersect at the Equilibrium Price. At this stage, suppliers are selling all the goods that they have produced and consumers are getting all the goods that they are demanding. This is the optimal economic condition, where customers/consumers and producers of goods and services are equally satisfied. Change in Demand for Goods and Services provided by Boots and Oxfam A change in demand will cause equilibrium price and output to change in the same direction. a). A decrease in demand will cause a reduction in the equilibrium price and quantity of a good. The decrease in demand causes excess supply to develop at the initial price. Excess supply will cause price to fall, and as price falls producers are willing to supply less of the good, thereby decreasing output. b). An increase in demand will cause an increase in the equilibrium price and quantity of a good. The increase in demand causes excess demand to develop at the initial price. Excess demand will cause the price to rise, and as price rises producers are willing to sell more, thereby increasing output. Change in Supply of Goods and Services provided by Boots and Oxfam A change in supply will cause equilibrium price and output to change in opposite directions An increase in supply will cause a reduction in the equilibrium price and an increase in the equilibrium quantity of a good. The increase in supply creates an excess supply at the initial price. Excess supply causes the price to fall and quantity demanded to increase. An decrease in supply will cause an increase in the equilibrium price and a decrease in the equilibrium quantity of a good. The decrease in supply creates an excess demand at the initial price. Excess demand causes the price to rise and quantity demanded to decrease. Changes in Demand and Supply of Goods and Services provided by Boots and Oxfam If demand and supply change in opposite directions, then the change in the equilibrium price can be determined, but the change in the equilibrium output cannot. A decrease in demand and an increase in supply will cause a fall in equilibrium price, but the effect on equilibrium quantity cannot be determined. For any quantity, consumers now place a lower value on the good, and producers are willing to accept a lower price; therefore, price will fall. The effect on output will depend on the relative size of the two changes. An increase in demand and a decrease in supply will cause an increase in equilibrium price, but the effect on equilibrium quantity cannot be determined. For any quantity, consumers now place a higher value on the good, and producers must have a higher price in order to supply the good; therefore, price will increase. The effect on output will depend on the relative size of the two changes. If demand and supply change in the same direction, the change in the equilibrium output can be determined, but the change in the equilibrium price cannot. If both demand and supply increase, there will be an increase in the equilibrium output, but the effect on price cannot be determined. If both demand and supply increase, consumers wish to buy more and firms wish to supply more so output will increase. However, since consumers place a higher value on each unit, but producers are willing to supply each unit at a lower price, the effect on price will depend on the relative size of the two changes. If both demand and supply decrease, there will be a decrease in the equilibrium output, but the effect on price cannot be determined. If both demand and supply decrease, consumers wish to buy less and firms wish to supply less, so output will fall. However, since consumers place a lower value on each unit, but producers are willing to supply each unit only at higher prices, the effect on price will depend on the relative size of the two changes. Describe how political, legal and social factors are impacting upon the business activities of the selected organisations and their stakeholders. Political, economic, Social, Technological, Environmental/Ecological and Legal (PESTEL) factors/analysis is an effective method to analyze the impact of global forces on UK Business Organizations including Boots and Oxfam. Political: There are many external environmental factors that affect the operation of organisation like Boots and Oxfam. These include political, legal and social factors. Politically, many aspects of government policy can affect business as all organisations must follow the law. Managers must consider how upcoming legislations can affect their activities. The political environment can impact Boots and Oxfam in many ways. It could add a risk factor and lead to a major loss. Political factors have the power to change results. It can also affect government policies at both local and national levels, so Boots and Oxfam should be ready to deal with the local and international outcomes of politics. Changes in the government policy make up the political factors. The change can be economic, legal or social. It could also be a mix of these factors. Increase or decrease in tax could be an example of a political element. The government might increase taxes for some companies and lower it for others. The decision will have a direct effect on the business operations of Boots and Oxfam. Government interventions like shifts in interest rate can have an effect on the demand patterns of Boots and Oxfam. Some factors create Inter-linkages in many ways, for example: Political decisions affect the economic environment. Political decisions influence the countrys socio-cultural environment. Politicians can influence the rate of emergence of new technologies. Politicians can influence acceptance of new technologies. The political environment is

Essay --

Precious Powell Professor Kim Lewis Biology of Human Sexuality March 11, 2014 The Impact the Luteinizing Hormone have on the Reproductive System The Luteinizing hormone, also known as lutropin or LH is very important hormone of the reproductive systems in both sexes. The hormone is produced in the anterior pituitary gland that is secreted through a system called the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis; the actual release of the hormone is through the bloodstream. LH main purpose is to assist with the functioning of the testicles in men and the functioning of the ovaries in women. The two critical functions are to control the production of sex steroid, which are testosterone in men and oestradiol in women, and supporting the germ cell production. The hormone acts specialized cells that surround both sexes’ germ cells to provide an environment to support their maturation and development ("Society for Endocrinology "). It is one of the main phases of women' menstrual cycle. According to First Response, there are three phases menstrual cycle. The first phase begins on the first day ...

Book Review of Plagues and Peoples by William H. McNeill Essay

William H. McNeill makes a monumental contribution to the knowledge of humanity in his book Plagues and Peoples. He looks at the history of the world from an ecological point of view. From this viewpoint the history of human civilization is greatly impacted by changing patterns of epidemic infection. Plagues and Peoples suggests that "the time scale of world history...should [be] viewed [through] the "domestication" of epidemic disease that occurred between 1300 and 1700" (page 232). "Domestication" is perceived "as a fundamental breakthrough, directly resulting from the two great transportation revolutions of that age - one by land, initiated by the Mongols, and one by sea, initiated by Europeans" (page 232). This book illustrates how man's environment and its resident diseases have controlled human migration, as well as societal successes and failures. McNeill discusses the political, demographical, and psychological effects of disease on the human race. He informs his audie nce that epidemics are still a viable threat to society, and warns of potential future consequences. Since Plagues and Peoples covers several subjects of knowledge, he helps the reader understand key concepts by fully explaining parasitism and its dependence on humans and animals. People in the field of history, which make up a majority of this books audience, would need more insight into epidemiology to grasp its key concepts. It would not be likely for a historian to be knowledgeable in a branch of medical science that deals with the incidence, distribution, and control of disease in populations. There is a lot of information presented in the text. This is why McNeill has to be careful with the organization of concepts in his book. M... ...ur current political, demographical, and psychological state will surely be altered. McNeill's argument is important because it forces everyone to rethink humanity's role in history. His thesis enables one to take a step back from trivial details and truly examine the larger picture. History classes have always viewed life and events from a political and military point of view. They should consider teaching this approach to history as well. Plagues and Peoples is a very insightful book, that explains in fine detail the causes and events that built up the disease pool. Once reading Plagues and Peoples, history will never seem quite the same. Works Cited Plagues and Peoples. By William H. McNeill. (New York: Anchor Books: A division of Random House, Inc., 1976 and Preface 1998. Pp. 7 + 365. Acknowledgements, preface, map, appendix, notes, index.)