Environmental Risks From Mine Tailings

Environmental Risks From Mine Tailings Tailings are a type of rock waste from the mining industry. When a mineral product is mined, the valuable portion is usually embedded in a rock matrix called ore. Once the ore has been stripped of its valuable minerals, sometimes through the addition of chemicals, it is piled up into tailings. Tailings can reach immense proportions, appearing in the form of large hills (or sometimes ponds) on the landscape. Tailings deposited as large piles can cause a variety of environmental problems: Slumps, landslides. Tailing piles can be unstable, and experience landslides. In 1966, in Aberfan, Wales, a hill of mining debris famously collapsed onto buildings, resulting in 144 deaths. There are also cases where wintertime avalanches occurred on tailings, with loss of life for residents below.Dust. Dry tailing deposits contain small particles that are picked up by the wind, transported, and deposited on communities nearby. In the tailings of some silver mines, arsenic and lead is present in the dust in high enough concentrations to cause serious health problems.Leaching. When rain falls on tailings, it leaches away materials that can create water pollution, for example, lead, arsenic, and mercury. Sulfuric acid is sometimes produced when water interacts with tailings, or it can be a by-product of ore processing. As a result, highly acidic water leaks from the tailings and disrupts aquatic life downstream. Tailings from copper and uranium mining often produce measurable levels of radioactivity. Tailing Ponds Some mining wastes become very fine after they have been ground up during processing. The fine particles are then generally mixed with water and piped into impoundments as a slurry or sludge. This method cuts down on dust problems, and at least in theory, the impoundments are engineered to let excess water flow out without leaking tailings. Coal ash, while not a type of tailing, is a coal burning by-product stored the same way, and carrying similar environmental risks. In reality, tailing ponds also carry several environmental risks: Dam failure. There have been numerous instances where the dam holding back the impoundment collapsed. The consequences to the aquatic communities below can be serious, for example in the case of the Mount Polly Mine Disaster.  Leaks. Tailing ponds can be hundreds of acres in size, and in those cases, leaks into surface and ground waters are probably inevitable. The heavy metals, acids, and other contaminants end up polluting groundwater, lakes, streams, and rivers. Some very large ponds in Canada’s tar sands operations leak large amounts of tailings in the underlying soil, in the aquifer, and ultimately into the nearby Athabasca River.Wildlife exposure. Migrating waterfowl has been known to land on tailing ponds, and in some cases with dramatic consequences. In 2008, about 1,600 ducks died after landing on a tar sands tailing pond in Alberta, contaminated by floating bitumen, a tar-like substance. However, simple deterrent measures can reduce that risk significantly.

Blueberry Incorporated †Global Business Plan

Blueberry Incorporated – Global Business Plan Free Online Research Papers Blueberry Incorporated is a Seattle, Washington-based telecommunications company considering introducing its cellular telephones to the Chinese market. Aware of the fact that there is strong competition in the market, Blueberry understands that the high demand for cellular telephones in China outweighs the existing threat of competition and makes conducting business in the country an attractive business opportunity for the Seattle-based company. However, before moving forward with the idea of entering the Chinese market, Blueberry must take a close look at the risks associated with doing business in China and find a way to manage such risks. Hill (2009) stated â€Å"The attractiveness of a country as a potential market for an international business depends on balancing the benefits, costs, and risks associated with doing business in that country† (p. 488). By conducting a regional and a country analysis, Blueberry will have a picture of the challenges associated with conducti ng business in China and the necessary data to give life to objectives and goals that will help the company tailor a plan. Once the risks associated with doing business in China have been identified, Blueberry will conduct a SWOT analysis that will help identify the pros and cons of moving forward with the company’ plan. Once a regional and a country analysis have taken place, Blueberry Incorporated must identify a strategy that will help launch and sell the cellular telephones in the Chinese market, and an optimal entry mode that will support the company’s objectives and goals. Each entry mode has advantages and disadvantages. Hill (2009) stated â€Å"Managers need to consider these carefully when deciding which to use† (p. 493). Blueberry Incorporated will present and analyze data regarding conducting operations in China; based on the results of the analysis, Blueberry will have to decide if moving forward with the idea of entering the Chinese market would be a feasible idea. The Conceptualized Organization and Product The Chinese market is in the midst of a rampant shift in consumerism. As China is shifting from â€Å"developing country† status to a major center of trade, foreign corporations are looking upon this consumer giant as a growth area. With merging markets and increases in consumerism, corporations must hit this emerging economy running. Blueberry Inc. is a Seattle-based telecommunications company founded as a result of the information technology bubble burst in the 1990s. The company has divisions all over the U.S. with recent success in the Canadian market. Blueberry Inc. has a diverse employee base employing 18,000 people globally. Blueberry Inc. has developed a smart phone that has revolutionized the North American market by bringing the desktop computer to the palm of the hand. Currently Blueberry Inc. outsources the manufacturing of the handheld devices to their plants in China, capitalizing on the lower costs of labor and proximately to parts vendors. The company has found success in their streamlined supply chain and logistic coordination processes that has resulted in efficiency increases and cost reductions. Blueberry Inc. has developed a reputation for quality and innovation. With immense success in North American, Blueberry stakeholders are looking at China as a new growth market. By the year 2015 China is positioned to be the second largest economy next the U.S. in terms of GDP by billions of dollars (Hill, 2009). When trending economic growth and population increases, China’s growth is exponential. The slope in trend curve is greater than that of the United States, whom currently the largest global economy. Blueberry Inc. current manufacturing footprint aligns the company with their growth objectives. The strategy opens new markets and decreases the distance to market that both equate to increased profitability. Region Analysis For Blueberry Inc. to successfully setup operations abroad in China, the organization will need regional alliances along the Far East and Australasia region. One portion of the alliance can be found in China and is already in place because of the outsourcing that takes place in the manufacturing plants. This takes care of the manufacturing side of the business; however the American company will need to establish alliances on the marketing side. Huawei is a telecommunications company in China that specializes in Broadband, cell phones, core network, data communication, and value-added services (Huawei, 2010). â€Å"Every day, 120,000 new Chinese customers subscribe to a cell phone service† (Gifford, 2005, p.1). Such a statistic clearly shows that a market exists for cell phone customers in the country. Huawei competes with ZTE, another large Chinese-based telecom company. Blueberry Inc. could consider developing an alliance with Huawei for sales and distribution. Such a move would be beneficial for Blueberry Inc. expanding their international ventures and assisting Huawei to remain competitive with ZTE. Coordinating with organizations like the Chinese Market Research group will give Blueberry Inc. better insight regarding competition and market analysis. The Far East and Australasia region has faced many security challenges with threats of terrorism but such threats were reduced by the pause in al-Qa’ida activity (Tan, 2010). In addition to terrorist threats, the Southeast Asian waterways were threatened by piracy (Tan, 2010). Though China is considered politically stable, there have been questions and issues of corruption, social unrest, and energy shortages within the entire region. Threats and concerns exist in China, but it is not known as a current flashpoint for terrorist activity. It is known that the region has seen hardships concerning social conditions. The region has also been plagued with rioting and domestic instability followed by health scares such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome and fears of the avian influenza pandemic (Tan, 2010). â€Å"In 2009 the region was deeply affected by the global economic downturn precipitated by the financial crisis in the USA. The nature of the global interlinked economy resulted in a contagion effect, which had a serious impact on the region. However, although Japan’s economy was in rapid decline in early 2009, China withstood the crisis relatively well, owing to its vast foreign-exchange reserves and dynamic economy. As a result, China emerged in 2009 to take its place as a global power, while the USA experienced serious economic difficulties† (Tan, 2010). The National People’s Congress in China has focused more attention on growing social instability matters like industrial and production safety, pollution, health care, education, taxation, land-seizures and population relocation (Chan, 2006). The Far East and Australasia region also has environmental issues such as pollution, increased landslides, untreated sewage affecting waterways, and dust storms. Logist ically the physical environment does not negatively affect trade as China has many harbors for imports and exports and has spent millions of dollars upgrading infrastructure. Country Analysis Political Stability China’s unitary state status calls for a structured way of government composed of different levels of control and feedback. According to  ROUTLEDGE TAYLOR AND FRANCIS GROUP  (2010),  Ã¢â‚¬Å"China is a unitary state. Directly under the Central Government there are 22 provinces, five autonomous regions, including Xizang (Tibet), and four municipalities (Beijing, Chongqing, Shanghai and Tianjin)† (Government,  para. 1). The different levels in this type of government structure serve as check points in making decisions that could affect the country’s political stability. This process helps screen decisions that could negatively impact the country and affect an economic venture. Economic Conditions China’s economic conditions inspire moving forward with conducting business in the country. According, to  Bloomberg  (2010)  Ã¢â‚¬Å"China’s economy is the third largest in the world, after the U.S. and Japan, and as the second largest trading nation, its influence on the world economy continues to grow† (Chinas Economy,  Para. 1). Finance Options Availables Business loans from commercial banks can help a company generate the funds necessary to cross borders and do business at a global level. Seeking investors who will help fund the cost of doing business can also help a company reach its business goals. With China’s economy continuing to grow, finding interested investors should not be very challenging. According to  ROUTLEDGE TAYLOR AND FRANCIS GROUP  (2010), â€Å"In 2007, according to estimates by the World Bank, China’s gross national income (GNI), measured at average 2005–07 prices, was US  $3,120,891m., equivalent to some $2,360 per head (or $5,370 on an international purchasing-power parity basis)† (Economic Affairs, Para. 1) . Physical Environment and its Effect on Trade The selection of a location in China that will make doing business at a global level possible is an important factor to consider. The size of the country offers many locations for a business to be established however, selecting an area close to shipping avenues will facilitate reaching other countries. According to  ROUTLEDGE TAYLOR AND FRANCIS GROUP  (2010),  Ã¢â‚¬Å"The People’s Republic of China covers a vast area of eastern Asia, with Mongolia and Russia to the north, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan to the north-west, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the west, and India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar (formerly Burma), Laos and Viet Nam to the south† (Location, Climate, Language, Religion, Flag, Capital,  Para. 1). Social, Health, and Environmental Conditions China has thousands of institutes of higher learning with more than 20 students attending. The country’s level of education reflects in its social development. China’s health system is mostly based on government operated expensive and corrupt hospitals. Some environmental conditions in China are air pollution, diminishing biodiversity, and water pollution (ROUTLEDGE TAYLOR AND FRANCIS GROUP,  2010). Cultural Considerations Ignoring cultural differences and not taking China’s culture into consideration during the planning and execution phases of doing business in the country could lead to failure. The different views on Chinese and American values must be clearly understood and not allowed to interfere with the business’ success. â€Å"The Chinese may contribute land, factory, labor, and some machinery, but expect foreign investors to contribute technology, capital, equipment, management expertise, and working capital. They rely on nepotism; as a result many firms are poorly managed, with excess staff and weak work ethic† (Wong Maher,  1997, p. 11). Legal, Regulatory, and Political Risks As their nations economy has grown, Chinese officials have worked to improve global business conditions. International business presents tremendous opportunities but also a significant amount of risks are involved. Though the government has  implemented certain strategies to mitigate risks, the regulatory risk in China still remains. Conducting business in China can be costly, as the visiting company must confer with various Chinese authorities, which often incurs extra costs (Hoening, 2007). Many of China’s policies are design to protect their home organizations from foreign competition. Companies looking to invest or open businesses in China must be aware of local laws and also that risk increases when dealing with the Chinese judicial system. Because of the communist government, the political risk of doing business in China is heightened. The authoritarian government possesses absolute power and the country has strong military and intelligence agency presence. Political variables strongly affect the way business is performed in China. Repatriation and Foreign Exchange In 2008, China exempted an American venture firm from paying 10 % withholding tax for repatriating profits (Marshall, 2008). China has had strict rules on foreign exchange but has made efforts to reconsider to attract more international business. In April 2010, China publicly stated they â€Å"will make its own decisions on how to manage its exchange rate and rejected accusations that the Yuan is undervalued, amid growing international calls for a stronger currency. The commerce ministry defends the exchange rate policy as necessary to protect Chinese exporters hit by the global financial crisis and ensure jobs growth in the vast manufacturing sector† (AFP, 2010). Competitive Risk Formally declared in 2007 and put into effect in August of 2008, China enacted the PRC anti-monopoly law, the first of its kind. This law was designed to â€Å"prevent and halt monopolistic acts, ensure fair market competition, improve economic efficiency, safeguard the interests of consumers and the public interest and promote the healthy development of the socialist market economy† (China Law and Practice, 2010). This law offers protection and intervention against international companies attempting to exploit or disrupt domestic businesses inside China. The competitive risk remains high and the visiting company such as Blueberry Inc. must be aware of the anti-monopoly laws that could threaten the organization’s assets. Taxation China has its own taxation laws. The Ministry of Finance is the national agency that oversees economic regulations, government expenditure as well as fiscal and macroeconomic policies under the Central Government. Though minimal risk exists, it is a claim the nation’s governing authorities echo to this day. â€Å"The previous system of corporate taxation, whereby foreign-invested enterprises or FIEs enjoyed low rates of tax compared with domestic companies, began to be phased out in January 2008, and full unification of the taxation systems for domestic companies and FIEs is likely to be achieved by the end of the forecast period† (Economist Intelligence Unit, 2010). By the end of 2008, China had instituted Double Taxation Agreements that prevent double taxation, with 94 countries (Worldwide Tax, 2009). Risk and Challenges Market Risks (Four P’s) The four P’s refers to product, price, place and promotion; these are the composition of the marketing mix. These parameters can be controlled my marketing managers in different environments. The four P’s are vital for product implementation and the success of the product. Blue Berry inc. must be mindful of the marketing risk associated with the conducting business in China (Hill, 2010) p.592 describes the marking mix as â€Å"the set of choices the firm offers to its target market.† Therefore, Blue Berry inc. must be aware that the marking mix which, worked in the United States would need to be adjusted for the Chinese market. The company will have to vary the marketing mix in China because of culture, economic development, product standard and the distribution channels, therefore the product design, distribution strategy, pricing, and promotion strategy must match with the Chinese market, if, Blue Berry Inc. is to strive in the this environment (Hill, 2007). For example, Blue Berry Inc. must ensure the price is feasible because China have a population of 865 million which is 15-64 years of age; these ages comprise the working class of the country and; tend to be price sensitive because of a generation gap. Blue Berry Inc. will have to adjust the smart phone, since there is a generational gap. Therefore, the firm may need to have a few different models to satisfy local responsiveness. Distribution and Supply Chain Risks A critical portion of the marketing mix is the distribution strategy, in contrast not having a strategy is asking for trouble. The way Blue Berry Inc. distribute the supply of high-tech phones is a large portion of how the company decides to enter the Chinese market. The risk associated with the distribution and supply chain is vital for Blue Berry Inc. entry into the Chinese market. The differences in the distribution chain within countries are retail concentration, channel length, channel exclusivity, and channel quality; choosing the right channel is of up most importance. Therefore, Blue Berry Inc. must access which; channel will best serve the need of the company. Since, China is heavily populated; a fragmented retail system would best serve the company because the mass of the populace will travel by walking. In addition, the company would benefit if the phones are sold through a short channel system, Blue Berry Inc. would use a wholesaler and then the phones is distributed through fragment retail markets, thus reducing the financial burden. As mention prior; there is a risk of a supply chain as well. The risks are supply disruption, cost barriers, breakdown in global dispersed supply chain as the case with attaches of September 11, 2001. As well as having control of the supply chain. Blue Berry Inc. have minimized the risk by outsourcing the production of phone in the host country of China ; therefore having the supply chain there is cost effective and give the company more control. However, there is risk from the government as well because China will have an upcoming election in 2012 if there is any significant policy failure by the current leadership within it could reopen the terms of the deal. If the government were, for example, to mishandle its response to the current global economic crisis, this could lead to a further upsurge in social instability (EIU, 2010). Physical and Environmental Challenges to Entering and Operating in China The physical and environmental risk associated with entering and operating in China is that 27 % of region is plagued with desertification and floods. The areas is either too dry or receive too much water. This could pose a problem because if the region floods frequently, this could damage Blue Berry Inc’s operations and supply chain. Furthermore, the results from droughts could cause unrest in the region and workers to be unruly because of the lack of adequate driving water (Freeberne, 2010). Social and Cultural Risks The risk with Social and cultural in china is , China is a country with social class divisions which was strengthen in communist rule that divides rural peasantry and urban dwellers; could be a risk because this restricts most Chinese to their birth place. This keeps many Chinese from urban privileges such as compulsory education, quality schools, health care, public housing, varieties of foodstuffs (Hill, 2007). However, these walls have crumbled over the years; they are being resurrected in today’s urban china. The risk here is that social stratification will cause tension between management and labor; this could cause tension with operations for Blue Berry Inc. Furthermore, human capital is limited in terms of skilled labors. A perfect case in point is that Chinese companies are experiencing a labor shortage, so much that they have to raise wages. In 2006 salaries was increased by 40% in an attempt to lure in skilled labors in China (Business week, 2006). The Guangdong Province have 2.5 million jobs that still remain unfilled because of skilled labor force; in attempt to curve this current problem, U.S. companies in China believe better education and training is a way to change the game. Nonetheless, according to consultant McKinsey Co, â€Å"China today has fewer than 5,000 managers with the skills needed by multinationals, 75,000 jobs for such managers are expected to be created over the next five years.† (Business week, 2006). Cyber or Technology Since, productions is based from china, there needs to be constant communication from the United States and from the distribution point to local venders through Internet capability and advance technology for tracking orders and inventory. Therefore, there is a risk that not having the correct human capital in place; because of social stratification will be a huge factor. Blue Berry Inc. must be mindful of where operations will be established. For example â€Å"Motorola regularly hires graduates straight from school and then trains them at its Motorola University in Beijing. Intel Corp., have invested $1.3 billion in chip assembly, testing, and research and development in China, has backed initiatives that have trained 600,000 teachers there† (Business week, 2006). Managing Risks Political, Legal, and Regulatory The political, legal, and regulatory risks previously covered call for Blueberry Incorporated to stay abreast of changes that could affect the company. Hill (2009) stated â€Å"Many firms devote considerable attention to political risk analysis and to quantifying political risk† (p. 679). Since many of China’s policies protect their home organizations, as previously mentioned, partnering with one of their strongest telecommunications companies, Huawei or ZTE will extend their protection to Blueberry Incorporated. Exchange and Repatriation of Funds As a company that will engage in production and shipping, Blueberry needs to protect itself from possible exchange rate changes by engaging in forward exchange. Hill (2009) stated â€Å"A forward exchange occurs when two parties agree to exchange currency and execute the deal at some specific date in the future. Exchange rates governing such future transactions are referred to as forward exchange rates† (p. 327). Transactions in amounts exceeding $200,000 U.S. require SAFE’s approval. Blueberry would seek expert advice from the South Asian Federation Exchanges (SAFE) and consider working with transactions below the $200, 000 U.S. limit. Competitive Risk By introducing a new phone, Blueberry will get the attention of other companies and trigger an interest on launching a better product. Maintaining a low cost production and a marketing that will generate a strong customer base will minimize the effects of competition. Hill (2009) stated â€Å"Once a firm has established a low-cost position, it can act as a barrier to new competition† (p. 431). Partnering with Huawei or ZTE would eliminate a strong competitor in China’s telecommunications market and minimize the risks associated with competition. Taxation and Double Taxation The fact that China follows existing agreements that avoid double taxation is a benefit for Blueberry; however, the company must stay informed of political changes that could impact the existing laws and if needed take immediate action to avoid a negative financial impact. Blueberry can stay informed of political changes and changes in taxation laws by monitoring announced or projected changes on taxation announced by The Ministry of Finance. Market Risk As a new company competing in the Chinese market, Blueberry Incorporated must focus on the necessary research that will produce a good picture of effective marketing, pricing, and details that will make its new telephone attractive to the people of China. Once a clear picture is obtained, Blueberry will have a blueprint to follow. Besides designing a cellular telephone with all applications in the Chinese language, Blueberry Incorporated will take advantage of the money saved by producing the cellular telephones in China and offer telephones loaded with attractive applications. Distribution and Supply Chain To eliminate the possibility of losing control of the supply chain and ensure a clear distribution channel, Blueberry will select a short channel system. As previously mentioned, Blueberry Incorporated would use a wholesaler and then the telephones would be distributed through fragmented retail markets. Physical and Environmental Challenges Understanding the environmental challenges in China and how they can affect the operations and supply chain, Blueberry Incorporated must ensure that a location that will allow its objectives and goals to be reached is selected. Establishing operations in a drought or flood risk zone could affect Blueberry’s intentions of succeeding in China. To mange this risk, the company must ensure that facilities and channel system selected are clear of these threats. Social and Cultural To succeed in the Chinese market, Blueberry must have a clear picture of what is attractive to the Chinese people. Hill (2009) stated â€Å"Because different segments exhibit different patterns of purchasing behavior, firms often adjust their marketing mix from segment to segment† (p. 593). Blueberry must also focus on creating an organizational culture where the local management and labor set aside differences and separation caused by living in a communist country. A clear mission statement and training sessions focused on inspiring team work would help manage this risk. Cyber or Technology To stay ahead of the competition and to minimize possible risks, Blueberry must take full advantage of the latest cyber and technological advances. Hill (2009) stated â€Å"These developments make it possible for a firm to create and then manage a globally dispersed production system, further facilitating the globalization of production† (p. 12). When considering a location based on physical and environmental threats, the location must also meet the communications access required to manage a business overseas. To mange possible risks, Blueberry must hire the right number of people and provide them with the equipment required for the tracking and distribution of its product. Mission and Objectives Blueberry’s mission is to succeed at launching a new American designed cellular telephone in China and becoming a successful telecommunications organization in the Chinese market. By creating an organizational culture with strong ethical beliefs and promoting a team work mentality, Blueberry Incorporated’s goal is to become the most accepted American company operating in China. The objectives that will serve as stepping stones to reach Blueberry Incorporated’s goal focus on managing the risks associated with doing business in a foreign country; specifically, China, partnering with a strong local telecommunications company, and operating in an ethical manner. These objectives will be followed by operating as an individual telecommunications company in China. SWOT Analysis Strengths: launching of a new product, awareness of and management of risks associated with conducting business in China, and the opportunity of becoming the partner of a strong already established Telecommunications Company in China. Weaknesses: the need for strong financial resources needed, production capability, lack of experience in the Chinese market, identifying a location free of physical and environmental threats, communism related separation in the country, social and cultural differences. Opportunities: not having double taxation, introducing a new telephone, high number of shipping channels available, possible success from exploring the Chinese market, attractiveness, and acceptance of a high technology telephone, opportunity to partner up with a strong telecommunications company, and demand for cellular telephones. Threats: operating in a communist country, understanding and adjusting to cultural differences, risks involved in doing business in a foreign country, local laws and regulations, the existing competition in China, controls affecting the exporting of products, avoiding environmental challenges, social and cultural differences, SAFE regulations, unable to become partners with one of the strong telecommunications companies in China, and unexpected changes in a communist country Strategy Selection and Mode of Entry Blueberry Inc will employ a localization strategy for the Blueberry handheld mobile device’s entry into China. The Chinese product launch will be customized to meet the censorship and filters laws that exist within China. As Chinese government holds stringent laws restricting sexual content and anti-communistic material, Blueberry Inc must customize their cell-phone launch prior to entering the market. â€Å"By customizing the product offering to local demands, the firm increases the value of the product in local markets† (Hill, 2009, p. 437). Blueberry will leverage their existing manufacturing facilities in China as part of their entry strategy. With the size of the Chinese market, Blueberry’s management believes they can capture the costs of customization (Hill, 2009). Blueberry’s Inc entrance strategy will include the wholly owned subsidiary approach. The subsidiary approach will enable the company to introduce a localization strategy meeting the specific demands of the market while maintaining control over the product (Hill, 2009). This will increase profitability through product customization enabling higher profit margins. The offset in costs resulting from localization will be realized through higher price points and existing manufacturing infrastructure (Hill, 2009). With the potential size of the Chinese market, scales of economy will exist within the country. Neighboring markets allow for future expansion possibility, leverage the pre-existing manufacturing and operations presence in China. Further, Blueberry Inc’s strategy will include an alliance with the state owned China Mobile, the world’s largest telecommunications company with more than 500 million customers (China Mobile, 2010). With Blueberry Inc’s current existing infrastructure and lower labor costs, the capital costs associated with the wholly owned subsidiary approach will be minimal. The alignment with China Mobile will offer a vehicle for instant market access without the cultural learning curve required starting anew (Hill, 2009). The wholly owned subsidiary will allow Blueberry Inc to customize their product while protecting their intellectual proprietary technology. China mobile will benefit from the flexibility of Blueberry’s Inc manufacturing and product turnaround in exchange for access to a vast customer base, while showcasing Blueberry Inc’s product as part of the client contract offering. The wholly owned subsidiary will allow Blueberry Inc to capture one hund red percent of the profits, and maintain an economy of scale with access to China Mobile’s customer base (Hill, 2009). Additionally, as China Mobile is looking to enter the U.S. market, China Mobile can leverage the Blueberry Inc relationship as part of their entrance strategy into North America. Blueberry Inc’s alignment with China Mobile will enable immediate access to the Chinese market but will also increase U.S. sales with China Mobiles expansion. Contingent Plan The contingent plan in the event the China Mobile Alliance fails fruition, will involve a financing campaign to secure funds to increase marketing and distribution networks. Blueberry Inc will also seek alternative telecommunication providers to leverage their current market and access to instant customers and brand. Blueberry China believes the alliance with a recognized Chinese brand will result in instant credibility and transition the U.S based company into the Chinese market. The Marketing Mix The marking mix is the most important aspect for the Seattle- based Blue Berry Inc. as stated prior; when the discussion of the marking risk arose. The firm understands that for Blue Berry Inc.; to thrive in the Chinese market the marketing mix must be varied to that environment. Blue Berry Inc is producing the smart phones in China to save on production cost, which will benefit the company because the firm can offer a competitive price to the Chinese market. The phones are sold through a short channel system and will be distributed through a wholesaler; then the phones are distributed through fragment retail markets. In addition, Blue Berry Inc, would have managers in place at the point of production to oversee the phones are up to the standard and quality of the company. Since, the Chinese market is much more diverse from that of the United States; the smart phones must be customized to gain local consumer responsiveness. China has more than100 million users of the Internet according to (Hill, 2009) and the rate is growing fast, therefore the firm needs to make the smart phone; a small computer in the palm of the user’s hand, so users can have Internet capability on the go. This is different in comparison to the phones distributed in the Canadian and U.S. Markets because the users in these markets will have to pay for additional services. Product Modification As mentioned previously, the consumers of the Canadian and U.S. market will endure a different type of the marketing mix; this will not be the same for consumers in the Chinese market. The smart phones sold in the Chinese market will adhere to a very different marketing mix because the smart phone distributed in China will have a built-in camera and will be sold with a blue tooth ear piece already paired with the phone in addition, will have many applications preinstalled on the phone, but not limited to Google maps, music store, free Internet access, and English teaching capabilities. Blue Berry Inc. can offer these services at no extra charge to the Chinese market because of the cost savings of production in the China. Pricing The pricing in the Chinese market will be competitive. Since, the market for cell phones has become a norm in the urban areas of China due the bustling economy and large population; the price of phones in the region has decreased. The cheapest Camera phone is about $72 US (Gia, 2009). What Blue Berry Inc. would like to do is price the smart phones with all the features for far less than this price; because of the cost saving the firm achieved in local production. Market Indicators and Trends China is a developing country and so are the trends of the society. The impacts of mobile phones in china have created a twenty –first century techno- culture; in China, mobile phones are both metaphor and practice which is transforming the Chinese society because of new classes and mobility (Gai, 2009). The attention is mainly focused on migrant worker and the elderly, but most notably the mobile phone in china is maintaining social relationships (Gai, 2009). Research has suggested that the growing use of cell phones in the urban areas of China have taken an important role for the mobile market. E-Business Although the firm will have a short channel distribution system to be sold at local venders, Blue Berry Inc. managers understands that reaching outside the urban areas of China will be profitable, therefore the firm will have a website with business partner Huawei the telecommunications company based in China; to tap into the suburban market. The website would present users with weekly promotions of sale of the smart phone and offer discounts from the service contracts with Huawei. In addition, offer a bill pay feature. Financial Overview Blueberry Inc. is a Sources of Financing Financing is a very important part of setting up the global business venture and there are many available options for financing. Blueberry Inc can choose from both international and domestic lenders. The People’s Republic of China is a member of the Asian Development Bank or ADB, a financial instituion based in Manila. The ADB â€Å"provides direct assistance to private enterprises of developing countries through equity investments, guarantees, and loans† (ADB, 2010). The U.S. Commercial Service’s Liaison Office to the ADB or CS ADB oversees the process of firms based in the United States that are interested in pursuing business opportunities in the ADB member nations (CS ADB, 2010). The ADB is a commercial bank that provides financing for foreign investors and borrowers. In addition to highly desirable interest rates, Blueberry Inc. can utilize the services of CS ADB for counseling and market research as well as introductions and appointments with key ADP office rs (CS ADB, 2010). U.S. Bancorp is the parent company of the fifth largest commercial bank in the United States, U.S. Bank. U.S. Bank is an institution well known for helping both established businesses expanding into new emerging markets as well as small businesses entering into global markets (U.S. Bank, 2010). In addition to loans, U.S. Bank offers a variety of services including risk management and trade negotiation assistance. Borrowing from this domestic bank lowers the chances of Blueberry Inc. losing money from profits. U.S. Bank offers assistance with currency risk management to help organizations like Blueberry Inc. manage foreign currency risks and other circumstances in undesirable foreign exchange rate environments. When choosing the best financial source option, Blueberry Inc. must look at more than interest rates and financing. U.S. Bank offers extensive risk management tools. The company helps with translation, transaction, sovereign, exchange, and economic risk. Translation risk deals with accounting risks due to translated statements from currency to currency. Transaction risk is linked with possible losses and gains on transactions vulnerable to foreign exchange rate movements. Sovereign risk is associated with political risks while availability, government exchange controls and the transfer of hard currency out of the country influence exchange risk (U.S. Bank, 2010). Organizational Business Structure There exists much competition as Blueberry Inc. introduces the cell phone into the Chinese market. As a result, Blueberry Inc. global subsidiary promotes greater local responsiveness with incorporation of Blueberry China (Hill, 2009). Blueberry Inc decisions pertaining to â€Å"overall firm strategy, major financial expenditures, financial objectives, and legal issues† will remain centralized through their headquarters in Seattle, Washington (Hill, 2009, p. 453). The â€Å"production, marketing, RD, and human resources† decisions will be de-centralized and overseen through the operations of the Chinese subsidiary (Hill, 2009, p.453). The de-centralization component enables for localization of the product while creating cost economies with immediate access to market, while the centralization component permits the company to maintain control of the overall corporate vision as it aligns with international strategy (Hill, 2009). Furthermore, the de-centralization structure within China offers product flexibility resulting from market dynamics. This approach will yield better decision making and product control as the management will be closer to influences of the market (Hill, 2009). Blueberry Inc will utilize a Worldwide Product Divisional Structure. This structure aligns with the de-centralized decision making components and â€Å"facilitates local responsiveness† particular to the conditions of the Chinese market (Hill, 2009, p.457). The centralized decision making components are overseen and controlled at the Seattle headquarter level. Figure 1 illustrates Blueberry Inc’s World Wide Product Divisional Structure. Figure 1- Blueberry Inc’s World Wide Product Divisional Structure SHAPE \* MERGEFORMAT When change to strategy or tactics change; reporting through the functional unit support consists of front line supervisors and field personnel who report to their functional managers. Functional managers report to Regional Vice President, who report to Blueberry Incorporated headquarters. Figure 1 illustrates the chain of command when there is need for change to strategy or tactics. This structure enables headquarters to maintain overall strategic development and financial control over each world-wide product group (Hill, 2009). Exit Strategy Smart phone technology is rampantly changing. The obsolete technology timeframe is getting shorter. To accommodate a growing Chinese economy and the need for increasingly innovative smart phone technologies, the need for capital will increase. Manufacturing capacity and for manufacturing refit will become costly. As Chinese competition is heavily funded, Blueberry Inc’s market intelligence will be imperative as the company diversifies their technology portfolio. Blueberry Inc will have to seek additional capital from both domestic and international markets to maintain competitiveness. As revenues are generated in China, Blueberry Inc’s will explore business opportunities in the eastern hemisphere, leveraging their manufacturing and operations presence in China. Blueberry Inc believes in the sustainability of the Chinese market and recognizes the potential through technology diversification. With current infrastructure in place, Blueberry will diversify their t echnology offering, branding the Blueberry China brand as a staple of innovation. Aligning with their entrance strategy, China was seen as a market to leverage into future markets. The alliance of a major telecommunications presents a model for future diversification. The founders or equity stake holders exit strategy will be through an Initial Purchase Offering (IPO). Taking the company public will allow for investors to exit the company and divest their equity holding through stock sale. In the event Blueberry Inc encounters unmanageable obstacles, the company could consider being acquired or setting themselves up for a sale. Final Recommendation To better understand the challenges faced when operating in the Chinese market and the risks associated with conducting business in a foreign country, Blueberry Incorporated conducted research in the form of a region and a country analysis. With the intention of balancing out the pros and cons associated with launching its cellular telephone in China, the company also conducted a SWOT Analysis. Cultural differences, threats of terrorism, poor medical services, and government corruption were some of the challenges identified as a result of conducting a country analysis. If Blueberry Incorporated decides to move forward with operating in China, the company would have to keep a close eye on the many threats associated with doing business in the Chinese market and focus on how to manage these risks. Operating outside of the United States is not a new venture for Blueberry Incorporated, the company’s has been very successful operating in Canada; however, operating in a communist country presents new challenges. There are other challenges that must also be considered; entering a market in which two very strong telecommunications companies have established themselves can also be very challenging. Entering the Chinese market would bring many challenges to Blueberry Incorporated; however, even though there would be challenges to manage, the market offers an attractive business opportunity for the Seattle-based telecommunications company. It is recommended that Blueberry Incorporated moves forward with entering the Chinese market. As previously highlighted, every day 120,000 people in China subscribe to a cellular telephone service; it was also mentioned that China’s economy is strong and continues to grow. Blueberry Incorporated has a foot in the door; the fact that Blueberry products are already being produced in China places the company a step closer to achieving its goal of achieving success in the market. If Blueberry Incorporated manages to create an alliance with one of the two largest telecommunications companies in China, it will be on its way to becoming a successful telecommunications company in the Chinese market. Conclusion (Manny) References ADB. (2010). Asian Development Bank. Retrieved April 1, 2010 from adb.org/ (2006,  March). How Rising Wages Are Changing The Game In China. Business week, Retrieved from: businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_13/b3977049.htm AFP. (2010). Retrieved April 2, 2010 from google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iYNps_o7uaKizB3PUSytbAHfqKZQ   BLOOMBERG.  (2010).  Business Exchange.   Retrieved from http://bx.businessweek.com/chinas-economy/ Chan, J. (2006). China’s national people’s congress focuses on social instability. Retrieved March 12, 2010 from wsws.org/articles/2006/mar2006/npc-m15.shtml China Daily. (2007). China to widen firms’ finance options. Retrieved March 12, 2010 from chinadaily.net/bizchina/2007-04/13/content_850410.htm China Law and Practices. (2010). PRC Anti-Monopoly Law. Retrieved April 2, 2010 from chinalawandpractice.com/Article/1690083/Search/Results/PRC-Anti-monopoly-Law.html CS ADB. (2010). U.S. Commercial Service Asian Development Bank. Retrieved April 1, 2010 from HYPERLINK buyusa.gov/adb/services.html buyusa.gov/adb/services.html Economist Intelligence Unit. (2010). Wealthy urban China will be taxed more heavily in the forecast period. Retrieved April 2, 2010 from the University of Phoenix Library at http://portal.eiu.com/index.asp?layout=displayIssueArticleregion_id=1510000351geography_id=1800000180eiu_geography_id=article_id=954455680 Gifford, R. (2005). Chinese telecom companies look to global markets. National Public Radio. Retrieved March 12, 2010 from npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=4801437 Gai, B.  (2009).  A World through the Camera Phone Lens: a Case Study.  Retrieved from http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/ehost/pdf?vid=4hid=4sid=f6e4a5d0-21bc-46c6-a003-ce2bc4b91802%40sessionmgr12 Hill, C. W. L. (2009). International business: Competing in the global marketplace (7th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Retrieved March 10, 2010 from the University of Phoenix library on the World Wide Web at: https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/classroom/ic/classroom.aspx Huawei. (2010). Retrieved March 12, 2010 from huawei.com/products_services.do U.S. China Business Council. (2009). Retrieved March 12, 2010 from uschina.org/public/documents/2009/china_policy_recommendations.pdf Yim Yu Wong,  Ã‚  Thomas E Maher.  (1997). Trading with China is not like trading with Japan: A cultural comparison for foreign investors.  Management Research News,  20(4),  11-19.   Retrieved March 13, 2010, from ABI/INFORM Global. (Document ID:  293756971). Blanchard, B., Buckly.C., Lan, W. (2010). China warns Google to obey rules even if it pulls out. Retrieved March 19, 2010 from the Reuters website: reuters.com/article/technology-media-telco-SP/idUSTOE62F06F20100316 China Mobile (2010). Corporate profile. Retrieved March 21, 2010 from the World Wide Web: HYPERLINK chinamobile.com/en/mainland/about/profile.htmlchinamobile.com/en/mainland/about/profile.html Freeberne, Michael. Physical and Social Geography (The Peoples Republic of China), in Europa World online. London, Routledge. University of Phoenix. Retrieved 20 March 2010 from HYPERLINK europaworld.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/external?url=europaworld.com/entry/cn.geeuropaworld.com/entry/cn.ge Hoening, J. (2007). Managing business risks. The Chinese Business Review. Retrieved on March 18, 2010 from chinabusinessreview.com/public/0611/hoenig.html Lehman Brown. (2005). China. Retrieved on March 18, 2010 from HYPERLINK lehmanbrown.com/faq.htm lehmanbrown.com/faq.htm Location, Climate, Language, Religion, Flag, Capital (The Peoples Republic of China), in Europa World online. London, Routledge. University of Phoenix. Retrieved 03 April 2010 from europaworld.com/entry/cn.is.2 Marshall, M. (2008). In a first, China removes profit repatriation tax for U.S. investor. Venture Beat. Retrieved on March 18, 2010 from http://venturebeat.com/2008/04/21/in-a-first-china-removes-profit-repatriation-tax-for-us-investor/ ROUTLEDGE TAYLOR AND FRANCIS GROUP.  (2010).  Europa World Plus.  Retrieved from europaworld.com.ezproxy.apollolibrary.com/entry/cn.is.97 Tan, Andrew T.  H.. The Security Challenges of East and South-East Asia, in Europa World online. London, Routledge. University of Phoenix. Retrieved 04 April 2010 from europaworld.com/entry/fea.essay.13 U.S. Bank (2010). Retrieved on April 1, 2010 from usbank.com/cgi_w/cfm/small_business/products_and_services/intl_banking/intl_banking_ps.cfm Worldwide Tax. (2009). Double Taxation Agreements List. Retrieved April 2, 2010 from worldwide-tax.com/china/chi_double.asp GLOBAL BUSINESS PLAN PAGE \* Arabic 23 Running head: GLOBAL BUSINESS PLAN 1 GLOBAL BUSINESS PLAN 2 Blueberry Inc Headquarters Seattle Washington U.S Product Group China Product Group International Product Group Sales and Marketing Research and Development Production and Logistics Sales and Marketing Research and Development Production and Logistics Sales and Marketing Research and Development Production and Logistics Functional Unit Support (Frontline) Functional Unit Support (Frontline) Functional Unit Support (Frontline) Frontline Supervisors FS Unit Management FS Unit Management Regional Management-Executive Regional Management-Executive Research Papers on Blueberry Incorporated - Global Business PlanAnalysis of Ebay Expanding into AsiaDefinition of Export QuotasTwilight of the UAWOpen Architechture a white paperThe Project Managment Office SystemPETSTEL analysis of IndiaMarketing of Lifeboy Soap A Unilever ProductIncorporating Risk and Uncertainty Factor in CapitalNever Been Kicked Out of a Place This NiceThe Effects of Illegal Immigration

Overview Kohler, Co Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Overview Kohler, Co - Essay Example At this point, it may be worthwhile mentioning the difference between a public company and a privately held corporation. The initial difference between the two is that a privately held company is owned by its founders or a group of private investors, but a public company is partially owned by its shareholders. From a financial standpoint, the difference between the two types of companies is that a public company can gain additional capital by selling stock to the public, but a private company does not have this option, so any capital that it needs will have to be obtained from private funding. This private funding can mean that capital for the privately held organizations will be more expensive. This initial extra cost could be a tax advantage to the private company. However, if money is needed quickly and cheaply a privately held company will find itself at a disadvantage. The manufacturer operates in a fairly competitive environment. It competes against other large corporations, su ch as American Standard, Masco and Cummings Engine. The biggest difference between Kohler and its competitors is the manner in which Kohler has chosen to diversify its operations. Kohler has diversified outside of the plumbing, engine and generator industry by investing in the furniture and luxury resort business. This type of diversification usually proves difficult for most organizations. For this reason, Kohler's competitors have managed to successfully diversify into similar or related industries. Kohler began as a family owned business and has, for the most part, retained that status today. Although the company generated approximately two million dollars in sales in the year 2000, it also remains a privately held corporation. The Kohler executive staff operates under the premise that as a privately held company, they are able to remain more competitive as less information about new products and services will not be re-produced as quickly by competitors. The fact that the organization has remained private allows for it to operate without the scrutiny that governmental regulations would create for its financial decisions or structure. Kohler's structure also consists of a charitable organization called Kohler Foundation. This foundation was created almost entirely with Kohler stock. Since Kohler Foundation is a charitable organization, by law, it is required to pledge a portion of its assets to other charitable causes. Based on Kohler's records, this charitable contribution am ounts to five percent a year (2005). The company's decision to remain private has worked to its advantage with regards to its stock price. Those few shares that have made it outside of the family circle have become so coveted that the price skyrocketed to an unrealistic range of one hundred to one hundred and thirty-five thousand dollars. This is a stock price that most public trading companies would never even dream about. However, for a company with a senior management team that wants to remain privately held and does not want to strike the interest of government officials, this is a problem that has to be addressed immediately. Not only does such stock prices cause unwanted attention to the company, but the company executives are afraid that such prices will cause the company to loose even a

Child Care Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Child Care - Research Paper Example In such a way, understanding the importance of a manager’s role and the means by which he/she can impact upon the stakeholders in the workforce is an issue of the utmost importance if a further degree of utility is to be expected from a domestic workforce. Luckily, the past several years has noted a dramatic increase with respect to the overall level of scholarship with regards to this particular topic. Special attention has always been on the effect of culture on the interactions between employees and the employer (Adler and Zhu, 2005). Nevertheless, gaps remain on the reasons of the disparities as observed in the relationships between the employee and the employer. This research therefore undertakes an intensive review of the available literature concerning the topic and the finding from the other studies in explaining the motivation of diverse employees within the realm of child-care and/or early education. It is worth noting that manager of a diverse workforce also finds t heir task defined with regards offering training to the employees for the skills and expertise already acquired while previously working. High task readiness implies that the staff are well prepared to attend to tasks as assigned through acquired skills and knowledge while a low task readiness imply that they lack the necessary skills to handle the tasks assigned. It is the hope of this author that such a unit of analysis will be useful in helping the reader to come to a more profound understanding with regards to the approach, best practices, and motivational theories that should be engaged/utilized as a function of seeking to leverage further integration between functional expertise and work flexibility. Introduction One might be tempted to assume that the impact that a given manager may have with regards to the motivation of employees at the local level of education might be rather small. However, this is the opposite of what can be observed. Due to the fact that the cultural dis similarity, that is so oftentimes represented, is primarily impacted upon by the norms and mores of culture that are created as a process of maturity and development in a particular society; this has been deemed by many researchers, including this analysis, to be of the highest importance in helping to constrain and define the term. Although it is true that a host of factors impact upon the level and extent to which individuals within positions of leadership can interact with those under their purview, it is the factor of employee motivation that is of the most specific interest to this particular analysis. Moreover, due to the fact that the topic in and of itself is extraordinarily broad, the research will attempt to approach it from the perspective the way in which work flexibility and the appreciations surrounding diversity can be applied to the many different theories of motivation; theories that have thus far helped to define the way in which managers and leaders integrate with their respective stakeholders within any firm, organization, or institution. Literature review Most opinions are

Sir Arthur Conan-Doyle Essay Example for Free

Sir Arthur Conan-Doyle Essay This is a wonderful description, almost a photographic image for the reader, a description leaving a sense of, is this a man or a monster? This again adds to the already building tension for the reader, who continues to make his or her own deductions. We see almost immediately how brilliantly perceptive Sherlock Holmes is when he spots the mud on the Ms Stoners coat and the train ticket in her hand. From this he deduces that she must have set off early, travelling in a Dogcart for some time before she got to the station. He picks up on clues throughout the story, things that the everyday person would possibly miss. This again draws the reader in, they feel enlightened and start to study the story more carefully wanting to be more like the ingenious Holmes. The story continues and Holmes and Watson visit the home of Ms Stoner and her stepfather. They inspect the bedroom of the dead sister and Sherlock Holmes picks up on several odd effects that he relays to Watson. Firstly a fake bell pull, then a ventilator which does not ventilate. A saucer of milk in the stepfathers room, becomes suspicious when they are advised Doctor Roylott keeps no cats. Several other little clues are spotted and you can almost feel Holmes mind working overtime. The reader will also pick up on the clues and again start to make their own deductions to Whodunnit? The tension starts to peak when Holmes decides to stay the night with Watson in Ms Stoner sisters bedroom. They wait patiently in a near by inn till Holmes spots a tell tale light, a sign for him to make his move. Crossing the lawn the tension is building and the author cleverly startles the reader by his introduction of the Baboon, a detail that Holmes has overlooked until then. When out from a clump of laurel bushes there darted what seemed to be a hideous and distorted child, who threw itself on the grass with writhing limbs, and then ran swiftly across the lawn into the darkness. The fact that Doctor Roylott keeps these exotic animals is ultimately a very important clue. Once in the bedroom the tension is paramount as the two men sit and wait in the eerie darkness. Again the author startles the reader by the sudden fury of excitement when Holmes lights a match, blinding Watson and therefore the reader is momentarily struck by the unknown. Once Watson gains his vision he relays again the image of Holmes lashing out savagely,I could however, see that his face was filled with horror and loathing. What could be happening? The story ends with the conclusion, albeit a little abruptly, maybe even a little unbelievable and somewhat corny for the modern day reader. We discover that it is a snake owned by Doctor Roylott that has been trained by its master to crawl in to the adjacent bedroom and ultimately kills the sleeping victim. Unfortunately for Doctor Roylott, Holmes foiled his plan by scaring the creature, which in due course turned and killed its own master. This allows the reader to let out a great sigh of relief. The crime has been solved the tension has passed. The story albeit a little obvious and very basic, is also very cleverly written. The author succeeds in initially drawing the reader in and keeping their attention throughout. The story would have been extremely exciting and ground breaking in its day. Exotic animal were unheard of. The account is written in very descriptive but extremely long sentences, which is another clue to its age. Time has taken it toll and we as modern readers have been spoiled by the cleverness of the modern day detective novels. Therefore the ending is a little disappointing, no twists or red herrings except for the gypsies . But the story must be applauded, Conan-Doyle was one of the earliest authors of his kind to begin this clever technique of keeping his reader guessing throughout the book. Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE Arthur Conan Doyle section.

Analysis of an NGO: Doctors Without Borders Essay -- Medecins Sans Fro

Imagine an entire community of individuals, from doctors to massage therapists, that does not answer to any political entity or religion, yet still manages to collectively provide free healthcare services to millions of individuals in need every year. Medecins Sans Frontiers, or popularly known in the US as Doctors Without Borders, is an international NGO that does just that. The organization began in 1971 when a group of French doctors and journalists recognized the dire need for assistance in healthcare during times of war, famine, and flood in Nigeria and Pakistan. Since then, it has expanded and provides aid to over 60 countries in underserved regions across Central America, South America, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia as well and developed a mission â€Å"to deliver emergency [medical] aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural or man-made disasters, or exclusion from health care.†(www.msf.org) Because Medecins Sans Frontiers recruits such a diverse group of volunteers, they are able to address a broad spectrum of health issues. Not only do doctors of all specialties volunteer with the group, but nurses, paramedics, EMTs, dentists, dental technicians, dental hygienists, optometrists, opticians, audiologists, podiatrists, massage therapists, mental health professionals, epidemiologists, and logistics experts all join Medecins Sans Frontiers in their mission as well. In total, there are over 27,000 individuals around the world assisting those in need through Medecins Sans Frontiers any given day of the year. Physicians and other health professionals often offer treatment for diseases that are prevalent in tropical areas like chagas and malaria. Treatment for illnesses that are widespread in developin... ...y. One of their greatest achievements was their 1999 Nobel Peace Prize in the field of humanitarian work â€Å"in recognition of the organization’s pioneering humanitarian work on several continents.† (nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1999) Since then, Medecins Sans Frontiers has continued to expand the services they provide. Last year, they conducted 7.5 million outpatient consultations, delivered 110,000 newborns, treated 1.1 million for malaria, treated 200,000 malnourished children, provided 165,000 infected with HIV/AIDS with antiretroviral therapy, vaccinated 7.9 million against meningitis, and conducted 50,000 surgeries. Sources Cited www.msf.org http://charityreports.bbb.org/national/health/doctors-without-borders-usa-in-new-york-ny-783 http://www.ksghauser.harvard.edu/ http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1999/

Tragedy Archetype- the Stranger

The Tragedy Archetype: The Rebirth Within Prim Lerthirunvibul Y10D (Blue) The seven archetypes is a theory in which there are seven ways of story-telling namely Quest, Voyage and Return, Rebirth, Comedy, Overcoming the Monster, Rags to Riches and Tragedy. The Tragedy archetype is one of the seven archetypes used in story-telling mentioned by Christopher Booker in The Seven Basic Plots. This archetype is known to expect a specific reaction from the readers often using grief, destruction and death.As the archetype manifests itself through time, there are many ways authors have interpreted the archetype through their stories. An element in the archetype that can be carefully observed is the notion of Rebirth where the main character eventually comprehends their misinterpretation of the world and their blunders which had caused their destruction, typically hubris. This suggests that there is a part of the Rebirth archetype in the Tragedy archetype. The question is, is tragedy a type of t he rebirth archetype?The absurdist novel entitled The Stranger (The Outsider), also known as L’Etranger by Albert Camus clearly portrays the rebirth in the story but is still engulfed by the tragedy concepts seen in many literature examples. â€Å"Once you’re up against it, the precise manner of your death has obviously small importance† (Camus, 71). The Stranger, written by Albert Camus is a tragedy book based on the story plot of a man named Meursault who is a psychologically and socially detached individual. He is also known to be amoral, not caring or knowing what is right or wrong and sees feelings in a physical sense.In one scene of the book, his mother had passed away and instead of grieving, he impassively looks at his mother’s grave and refuses the re-opening of the casket, which surprises many. He is also not responsive to human emotions such as desires and love. When the prospect of marriage was mentioned by his recent lover, Marie Cardona, he responds with â€Å"If she was keen on it, we’d get married. † (28, Camus. ) The Stranger can go under the tragedy archetype where it is classified by Booker as ‘the hero as a monster’ since Meursault himself is the cause of his own death.This happened since he stopped a friend, Raymond Sintes from shooting an Arab who was his â€Å"mistress’s† brother. And for no apparent reason, he came back and killed the Arab with a gun. A factor that may have affected his actions was probably because of the condition of the beach that was â€Å"pulsing with heat† (38, Camus). Although hubris is a common cause in the tragedy archetype, Meursault did not think of himself highly or more superior than others, but rather as an observer where reality is harsh for those who have no poignancy.He does not express himself much but with the reader as an observer as well, this creates the feeling of sadness for the main character even though he doesn’t experience much of it. As the titles of the book says, he is merely a victim tortured by the difference in perspectives, this small difference makes him unique, or even a threat to others. Not only did Meursault set up his own death, but the society in which he lived in contributed as well. The core of the consequences can be traced by Hamartia ( ), a Greek term meaning the fatal flaw of the hero which causes their death in the tragedy archetype story.In The Stranger, Meursault’s flaw can be seen as his lack of emotions and his frankness. Even though being emotionless does not affect his daily life or well-being, the environment of the situation created was greatly affected. An example is of how the people in court see him and how they also judge his beliefs, not for what he is, but what he says. When Meursault met a magistrate who tried to convert him, he called Meursault â€Å"Mr. Antichrist† (45, Camus) for being open and truthful about his beliefs, this then advoc ated his execution.Meursault sees things that other do not, which is one of the main causes of the resulting consequence. Humans often act on impulse, not by logic and the miscommunication between the other characters and Meursault creates conflict and sadly, the majority regularly wins in the tragedy archetype. The tragedy archetype is known to end with death, which is the norm for many stories, including The Stranger as well. Booker had also stated that the archetype sometimes involves the rebirth of the main character which usually comes before the tragic end of the main character.In comparison to Looking for Alaska, a modern novel written by John Green, The Stranger is more eye-opening since the concept of rebirth is directly experienced by the main character whilst the rebirth element in Looking for Alaska is not quite clear because the main character, Miles, continues on with his life as nearly the same person even though his friend, Alaska’s, death had a tremendous eff ect on other characters. With the longer lingering rebirth in The Stranger, Meursault finds comfort in the end where he becomes a ‘new person’ within himself, which proposes the idea of self-discovery.In his last moments, Meursault thoughts were â€Å"To feel it so like myself, indeed, so brotherly, made me realize that I’d been happy, and that I was happy still. † â€Å"For all to be accomplished, for me to feel less lonely, all that remained to hope was that on the day of my execution there should be a huge crowd of spectators and that they should greet me with howls of execration† (76, Booker). Even though the happiness was short, there was still a change in him as seen before the end of the book. In Booker’s analysis of the rebirth archetype, there are two types of rebirth which is physical and mental rebirth.An example of a physical rebirth could be found in the folktale of The Sleeping Beauty as she literally wakes up from her curse. A mental rebirth example could be found in Crash (2004), where a Farhad, a character realizes that his rage had clouded his judgment and he becomes calm and content, different from how he was from the start. The Stranger goes under the mental rebirth category since Meursault’s own conclusions resulted in the enrichment of his own mind as he begins to accept things in life.However, this does not necessarily mean that The Stranger can be directly ‘put under’ the Rebirth archetype. When referring to Booker’s analysis, it is stated that â€Å"we have only seen this return of light partially, ultimately insufficient to prevail against the forces of darkness which have been unleashed, and which eventually sweep the hero or heroine away† (Booker, 192). This means that in the tragedy archetype, ‘the light’ which is the rebirth of the character, can be seen only for a moment before it dissipates with the main character’s demise.This could b e compared to a candlelight where it flickers in the dark but does not last forever since it cannot maintain the flame and eventually, will be engulfed by darkness, which is, the sins or the consequences that slowly yet surely, catch up to the main character. All in all, even though The Stranger contains the Rebirth of a character who wakes up from an inner sleep or obliviousness, the tragedy archetype had proved itself to be more complicated and deeper with many fundamentals and forms that had manifested overtime.This then revealed the inner workings of the archetype including the profound meanings in the book. It is difficult to justify realistic and life-like story into separate categories as there are many factors, emotions and feelings brought in different events. But as they say, the end justifies the means in this particular book where Meursault dies a miserable and solitude death within the clutches of society. Again, regardless of the light’ in the story, The Strange r is a tragedy story weaved with the rebirth archetype’s features which implies that the tragedy archetype could also contain mixes but still maintain its structure throughout history whether it is in an old-world or modern literature. In short, the tragedy archetype is one of the most interesting and riveting of the seven archetypes that seem basic; but with careful observation and research can prove to be a very useful way of story-telling that can be remembered by readers despite of the era or time in which the archetype had laid itself upon.Bibliography (Citations) Innovateus. â€Å"What Is Hamartia in Greek Tragedy? †Ã‚  What Is Hamartia in Greek Tragedy? Innovateus, 2011. Web. 02 Mar. 2013. Booker, Christopher. â€Å"Chapter 9: Tragedy. †Ã‚  The Seven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories. London: Continuum, 2004. N. pag. Print. Booker, Christopher. â€Å"Chapter 11: Rebirth. †Ã‚  The Seven Basic Plots: Why We Tell Stories. London: Continuum, 2004. N. pa g. Print. â€Å"The Stranger. †Ã‚  SparkNotes. SparkNotes, 2013. Web. 02 Mar. 2013.

Mana Stratquiz Note

Question 1. Which of the following is an advantage of a divisional type of organizational structure? AnswerA. Efficient use of managerial and technical talent.B. An enhanced ability to respond quickly to changes in the external environment.C. High degree of emphasis on long term performance.D. Uniformity in image and quality across divisions.Question 2. A strategy of related diversification requires most firms to organize around geographical areas or product lines. This type of organizational growth leads to a(n) AnswerA. divisional structure.B. functional structure.C. matrix structure.D. international structure.Question 3. What is the name of the practice that many modular organizations use to grow? AnswerA. operational effectivenessB. outsourcingC. strategic leveragingD. strategic enablingQuestion 4. Nike is a company that makes use of the concept of â€Å"product expatriates. † Product expatriates are AnswerA. managers from the home country sent abroad to oversee the marketing of a company's products.B. managers from suppliers who come to work at a company's headquarters.C. managers of the company sent abroad to work at the plants of its suppliers.D. local nationals hired by the company in the countries from which it sources products.Question 5. All of the following are disadvantages of a divisional type of organizational structure except AnswerA. it can be very expensive compared to a functional organizational structure.B. there is a strong tendency for divisions to focus on short-term performance.C. there can be dysfunctional competition among divisions.D. there is separation of strategic and operating control.Question 6. Lockheed Martin uses a coalition of three entities–its own company, academia, and government–to achieve its goals. This is an example of a AnswerA. matrix organization.B. modular organization.C. virtual organization.D. divisional structure.Question 7. Strategic business unit (SBU) and holding company structures result from extensiveAnswerA. diversification.B. vertical integration.C. international expansion.D. organizational flattening.Question 8. Which of the following is an advantage of a functional type of organizational structure?Answer A. Decentralized decision-making enhances an organization-wide perspective across functions.B. It facilitates the development of general management talent.C. Pooling of specialists enhances coordination and control.D. It is easy to establish uniform performance standards.Question 9. The relationship between strategy and structure can be best described asAnswer A. strategy determines structure but structure does not determine strategy.B. structure determines strategy but strategy does not determine structure.C. strategy and structure influence each other.D. a third force determines bot h strategy and structure.Question 10. A matrix organizational structure is characterized byAnswer A. dual reporting relationships.B. a combination of functional and divisional organization structures.C. efficient use of resources and expertise.D. all of the above.

Sex Education in Public Schools Essay Example

Sex Education in Public Schools Essay Example Sex Education in Public Schools Essay Sex Education in Public Schools Essay Essay Topic: The Second Sex Today, formal courses and discussions on sex education are offered in the public school system all over the United States both on the elementary and secondary level.Recent school programs are adopted the principle that complete information about sex, suitable to the developmental level of children and youth, is desirable. The underlying premise is that sex is normal, natural phase of life and that an objective knowledge in this field by youth should be regarded as making for a potentially good adjustment.The programs call for an unemotional, objective yet moral approach to sex education, which should continue into adult life. The emphasis is on the development of wholesome attitudes and personal adjustment. (Menachem, 1986, p, 140)While sex education is deemed necessary there are many who still question whether it belongs to the elementary schools.   The schools and the agencies view sex education as a program to help boys and girls achieve a happy, healthy sex attitude and a norma l, stable family life. The religious and spiritual dimension of sex, however does not find a place in to such a program, since public schools and secular organizations seem to reflect mostly the new morality that is in fashion in contemporary society.Public School is nearly a universal experience as exists in our society. While supplementary means may be necessary to reach some teens, the vast majority are reachable in the school setting. Second, public schools provides an opportunity for the early introduction and timely and continuous reinforcement of age- appropriate sex education material as it becomes relevant at succeeding developmental stages. Although the public schools are beleaguered, sex-related preventive education is viewed as so necessary and the schools are so potentially good a vehicle as to justify further claims on a system with already strained resources. Other settings for intervention ranging from infusing soap operas and teen music and magazines with preventive messages, to use of the existing public health network to diffuse relevant information, may supplement basic reliance on continuous public school sex education.( Edwards, 1990,p,91)Sex education in Canadian society is addressed within the formal educational system. The content and the role of the education system, as it pertains to issues of sexuality, is a matter of debate with in the Canadian Muslim Community. Ways, in which sex education should be approached and discussed, especially with respect to Muslim women, is a point of particular contention in Canada.Public Schools across Canada include sex education as part of their curriculum. Sex education courses are age specific and incorporate biological, moral and emotional dimensions. Boys and girls are taught the same material, including description   of male and female anatomy; mental emotional and social aspects of pubescent change; the risks of unprotected sex; methods of contraception; varying conceptions of sexual orienta tion ( heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality, trans-sexuality); and social attitudes toward sexuality, such as gender discrimination. Canadian public schools, although sensitive to the religious considerations of various traditions, limit discussions relating to religion and impart the same material to all students.While public schools provide sex education most Islamic schools in Canada, both weekend and full-time do not. As yet there are no standardized courses or materials available on sex education for Muslim in Canada. Some members of the Canadian Muslim Community fear that sex education will encourage sexual experimentation amongst Muslim youth. Recently, however, Canadian Muslims have began to recognize that educating youth in matters related to sexuality is not the same as allowing sexual activity.( Afsanh suad, 2007,p, 408)Canadian Muslim children are continuously exposed to media laden with sexual overtones, which many believe compromise their childrens Islamic valu es. The widespread perception regarding sexuality within the Muslim community maintains that sexual education is necessary to dispel messages communicated by the mass media. In this regard, sex education taught in public schools is considered insufficient, as it does not project Islamic perceptions of sexuality. From the Canadian Muslim perspective, matters concerning sex utility should be taught within the parameters of Islam.Unfortunately, comprehensive sexuality education in the school is not a wide-spread phenomenon. U.S. society tends to devote much time and energy to coping with unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and related problems once they have occurred, but very little to helping people prevent them in the first place. Some experts believe that only a minority of young people in the United States receive adequate sex education in public schools. Most are exposed to scattered presentations on basic reproductive facts- the plumbing, so to speak, of human sex uality. Since only a small number of parents educate their children about sex, the result is many sexually vulnerable citizens. (Jeffrey, 1986, p, 383)It is hard to understand why Americans fallen so short in this area since for years surveys have indicated that most Americans favor sex education in the public schools. Perhaps it is because there is so much disagreement about the content of sexuality education, how and by whom it should be taught, and whose values should be conveyed.

Not All Iron Is Magnetic (Magnetic Elements)

Not All Iron Is Magnetic (Magnetic Elements) Heres an element factoid for you: Not all iron is magnetic. The a allotrope is magnetic, yet when the temperature increases so that the a form changes to the b form, the magnetism disappears even though the lattice doesnt change. Key Takeaways: Not All Iron Is Magnetic Most people think of iron as a magnetic material. Iron is ferromagnetic (attracted to magnets), but only within a certain temperature range and other specific conditions.Iron is magnetic in its ÃŽ ± form. The ÃŽ ± form occurs below a special temperature called the Curie point, which is 770  Ã‚ °C. Iron is paramagnetic above this temperature and only weakly attracted to a magnetic field.Magnetic materials consist of atoms with partially-filled electron shells. So, most magnetic materials are metals. Other magnetic elements include nickel and cobalt.Nonmagnetic (diamagnetic) metals include copper, gold, and silver. Why Iron Is Magnetic (Sometimes) Ferromagnetism is the mechanism by which materials are attracted to magnets and form permanent magnets. The word actually means iron-magnetism because that is the most familiar example of the phenomenon and the one scientists first studied. Ferromagnetism is a quantum mechanical property of a material. It depends on its microstructure and crystalline state, which can be affected by temperature and composition. The quantum mechanical property is determined by the behavior of electrons. Specifically, a substance needs a magnetic dipole moment in order to be a magnet, which comes from atoms with partially-filled electron shells. Atoms will filled electron shells are not magnetic because they have a net dipole moment of zero. Iron and other transition metals have partially-filled electrons shells, so some of these elements and their compounds are magnetic. In atoms of magnetic elements nearly all of the dipoles align below a special temperature called the Curie point. For iron, the Curie point occurs at 770  Ã‚ °C. Below this temperature, iron is ferromagnetic (strongly attracted to a magnet), but above it the iron changes its crystalline structure and become paramagnetic (only weakly attacted to a magnet). Other Magnetic Elements Iron isnt the only element that displays magnetism. Nickel, cobalt, gadolinium, terbium, and dysprosium are also ferromagnetic. As with iron, the magnetic properties of these elements depends on their crystal structure and whether the metal is below its Curie point. ÃŽ ±-iron, cobalt, and nickel are ferromagnetic, while ÃŽ ³-iron, manganese, and chromium are antiferromagnetic. Lithium gas is magnetic when cooled below 1 kelvin. Under certain condition, manganese, the actinides (e.g., plutonium and neptunium), and ruthenium are ferromagnetic. While magnetism most often occurs in metals, it also occurs rarely in nonmetals. Liquid oxygen, for example, may be trapped between the poles of a magnet! Oxygen has unpaired electrons, allowing it to react to a magnet. Boron is another nonmetal that displays paramagnetic attraction greater than its diamagnetic repulsion. Magnetic and Nonmagnetic Steel Steel is an iron-based alloy. Most forms of steel, including stainless steel, are magnetic. There are two broad types of stainless steels which display different crystal lattice structures from one another. Ferritic stainless steels are iron-chromium alloys that are ferromagnetic at room temperature. While normally unmagnetized, ferritic steel become magnetized in the presence of a magnetic field and remain magnetized for some time after the magnet is removed. The metal atoms in ferritic stainless steel are arranged in a body-centered (bcc) lattic. Austenitic stainless steels tend to be nonmagnetic. These steels contain atoms arranged in a face-centered cubic (fcc) lattice. The most popular type of stainless steel, Type 304, contains iron, chromium, and nickel (each magnetic on its own). Yet, atoms in this alloy usually have the fcc lattice structure, resulting in a nonmagnetic alloy. Type 304 does become partly ferromagnetic if the steel is bent at room temperature. Metals That Arent Magnetic While some metals are magnetic, most are not. Key examples include copper, gold, silver, lead, aluminum, tin, titanium, zinc, and bismuth. These elements and their alloys are diamagnetic. Nonmagnetic alloys include brass and bronze. These metals weakly repel magnets, but not usually enough that the effect is noticeable. Carbon is a strongly diamagnetic nonmetal. In fact, some types of graphite repel magnets strongly enough to levitate a strong magnet. Source Devine, Thomas. Why dont magnets work on some stainless steels? Scientific American.

Production Possibility Frontier Worksheet Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Production Possibility Frontier Worksheet - Essay Example The points A, B, and C represents the most efficient use of the resources in the production industry. The Point X denotes an inefficient use of resources. The point Y on the other hand denotes the production state that cannot be achieved at the current state (Riley). Improvement in technology for the production of consumer goods makes the production of consumer goods cheaper to the producer. The improvement in technology shifts the PPF graph outwards. Consequently, the production of consumer goods has shifted outwards. Improvement in technology for the production of consumer goods makes the production of consumer goods cheaper to the producer. The improvement in technology shifts the PPF outwards. Consequently, the production of consumer goods has shifted outwards. In reading through the crusades of progress i get the impression that the author tries to justify human actions. I strongly agree with the first paragraph that there is sufficient reason for the existence of evil in the world because evil works some good in us. For example one day I got beat up while walking at night. This experience taught me that I should stay at home with my family during night times. This has helped me greatly as it has strengthened my family. I personally feel that that human nature can be best understood through history. Punishment on the other hand does not serve any good. This is best illustrated by the many ills in the society despite the harsh punishment that the offenders serve. Indeed Beccaria postulated the best passage on the crimes and punishments. Punishment is also not always just. The best example is the case of the Condorcet who committed suicide due to loopholes in the justice system. He was accused of being anti-revolution. The pain was too much for him to bear such that he saw it better for him to die. I also acknowledge his contribution in philosophy. I get this from where the essay says that he argued that human nature could be perfected

Law should banned adverting which has high calorie foods for children Research Paper

Law should banned adverting which has high calorie foods for children that affect them negative on their health and behavior - Research Paper Example This reduction in physical activity together with consumption of a high calorie diet has resulted in obesity among children. Obesity has, therefore, become a major public health issue. In his book chapter, Killgore (2010) has examined the human brain to study its functioning behind human desires of hunger. The study found out that human perception played a vital role in stimulating moods that trigger hunger and craving for high calorie food. Various sections of the brain are involved with different sensations, for example, perception of high calorie food consumption was found to be related with medial orbitofrontal and posterior insular cortex (Killgore, 2010). Advertising is one social and cultural discourse which has the ability to manipulate human perceptions. In fact, advertising often uses deceptive messaging in order to appeal to its target audiences which mainly include consumers (Shimp and Andrews, 2013). Advertising of high calorie, unhealthy foods is an example where consum er perceptions of such eatables are manipulated by masking the potentially harmful side of the product to generate sales. Since childhood obesity is a growing problem among children, laws should ban advertising of high calorie foods. The psychology of perception lends itself to deceptive advertising and marketing (Kimmel, 2013). Arguments regarding marketing have often proposed that it involves psychological manipulation of the human perception that alters the image of a product. This is also true for the advertising of unhealthy, high calorie foods that are often shown in a way that spurs a desire for hunger and initiates a craving for the food. Such attempts are aimed at deceiving the target consumers into overlooking the unhealthy side of products, such as deep fried food items, crisps, chocolates, sweets, nuts and other junk foods. Instead, consumers are lured by showing graphically stimulating images of ingredients and food