Data Storage Technology Options for Business Need Essay

Data Storage Technology Options for Business Need - Essay Example For computer systems technology to cope with these intensifying storage and processing needs, the demand for performance and storage capacity has risen acutely. This has contributed to the manufacture, invention, and uses of a variety of physical storage devices for computer systems. These physical storage mediums in the contemporary computing world range from the familiar usual floppy disk, hard disk, flash drive, DVDs and CD-ROMs, and tapes that are commonly used in Information Communications Technology business and organization sectors. It’s also important to note that these storage devices have different file allocation methods and size allocation. This is therefore what is going to form the discussion basis of this paper. Additionally, this paper will also evaluate the concept of fragmentation of file systems on the storage devices and how best they could be managed (Parsons & Oja, 2009). The computer storage devices are divided into three major classes including Magnetic , Optical, and Semiconductor. Computer storage systems are also widely referred to as secondary storage media or devices. Magnetic storage devices basically record and store information in the form of magnetized spots. These magnetized spots are represented by binary codes with a magnetized head that slightly hangs freely above the surface of the storage device that reads and records information by use of electric charges. The data hence can be retained, erased or replaced by the use of new magnetic spots. Examples of magnetic storage include the Tape, referred to as magnetic tape that is used to read, write and store information up to a terabyte. They are generally used in magnetic tape recorders or machines to record and write data after which the tapes can be connected to gadgets that can read the  information.

Comment critically on comparative advantage as a basis for international trade Essay Example for Free

Comment critically on comparative advantage as a basis for international trade Essay Comparative advantage was an idea proposed by David Ricardo in 1817, and is an idea which can be used on a variety of scales, but is most often used when analysing international trade. Ricardo used the idea of wool produced in England at a lower opportunity cost than wool is produced in Portugal relative to wine, while in Portugal wine is produced at a lower opportunity cost than wine is produced in Britain relative to the wool. This means that in Portugal it is less costly to produce wine in terms of what is the next best use of the resources involved. The reasons that this occurs could be for any number of reasons: weather, technology, productivity of workers in that industry and so on. This idea is one that all countries can benefit from, as even a tiny country will have a comparative advantage in a good relative to another good, even when trading with a world superpower. Comparative advantage is often used to look at just two countries and two goods, which is not necessarily a pitfall as the model can be applied to multiple countries and multiple goods, it is just for simplicity. Shown below is a very simple idea of the benefits produced by comparative advantage: As with any model in economics, comparative advantage is not ideal. It is a proposed model based upon a fundamental idea which has very often proved itself to be true, but it still relies on many ideals and factors that do not and cannot realistically exist. These underlying assumptions mean it is difficult to base international trade upon the comparative advantage theory. However, the comparative advantage theory is questionably a solid basis to trade, even if it cannot explain international demand and supply in its entirety. The biggest problem when it comes to how affective comparative advantage is in dictating trade is that all factors of production are assumed to be perfectly mobile, something which it is fair to say is never the case. The idea is that any factors of production, be it labour, capital, land or entrepreneurship, that these, if made redundant from one industry it is thought that these resources could immediately be transferred to another industry that has a comparative advantage over the other country. This is clearly not going to be case, unless the industries are very similar, something which contradicts another theory of comparative advantage, which states all goods are homogenous. It is therefore almost an impossibility for this to occur, for the unemployment created by a failed industry to be suddenly removed by another. Structural unemployment of people without the necessary skills to work, is inevitable. Even in the EU, where the S.E.A single market was set up in 1986, it is still difficult just to go and work in another EU country for geographic, structural and lingual reasons. The government would have to spend a huge amount on supply side policies such as very efficient schemes of education or perhaps low taxation (Thatcherite) to be able to transfer skills that quickly, and shift the long run aggregate supply curve to the right, thus reducing unemployment: Because the government realises just how unlikely and difficult it is to transfer resources, it actively discourages the failure of an industry, as shown by the EUs enormous subsidies of the farmers in this country, most notably the Common Agricultural Policy. It is therefore acting against the theory of comparative advantage, as this would dictate that the farmers move into the service sector, where Britain is very productive. This shows how politics has a great affect on trade once the industry has been established, though comparative advantage may well have dictated what industries were originally started and how they grew, even if politics has a greater effect today. The fact that politics makes a big difference in the effect of comparative advantage demonstrates another shortcoming of the theory. It assumes that trade around the world is completely free, something which is increasingly true, although the creation of the EU has meant that trade within the EU is almost completely free, while from in the EU to the rest of the world, protectionist policies are in place. There also continue to be some semi-autarkic countries such as North Korea. If cricket bats are made in both England and Pakistan, if Pakistan has the comparative advantage in making the good, in terms of Panama hats for example, consumers in the UK may well still buy cricket bats from British producers, for several reasons, most importantly that policies such as tariffs or quotas may well be in place on goods entering the EU, in which case the goods are no longer price competitive. This is shown below: However, the large sales of cricket bats in the UK may well also be for other reasons. Cricket bats are not a homogenous product, with different bats suiting different players, and other non-price competitive reasons such as a higher quality of bat made domestically or that there is better after-sale support. This is something that the theory of comparative advantage does not take into account. It may also be very expensive to transport the bats to the UK from Pakistan, making it no longer economically efficient to trade here. This is something else that is not taken into account by the model. All these things aside, the reasons why countries trade is for the benefits that arise from the trading, such as specialisation increasing output, economies of scale, innovation through competition and the welfare gains in increasing the consumers choice. It is at no stage a random process as to what goods are traded, and there are good reasons for why bananas arent grown in England and sheep arent reared in the West Indies. The productivity of a country in producing a good dictates what it will trade, and a country that is very inefficient in producing a good will move onto something to which it is more suited. There are of course cases where this is overridden by the factors mentioned, but ultimately comparative advantage theory does form a basis as the title suggests, to almost all international trade. For the trade to occur, the terms of trade are laid out, which is simplified to compromising between the opportunity cost ratios of the two countries. Once again, this is not exactly how it works, as politics and economics merge to create something slightly different, but it is highly likely to be something close to what comparative advantage suggests it should be. It is inevitable that the model does not fit the real world, but there is not a single economic theory that can be applied directly to an economy with no assumptions being made.

Education Today Essay -- essays papers

Education Today A college education is suggested to be the most heavily judged form of qualification to be looked at when looking for career opportunities. But what is a college education? Is it something you go out and buy at the most prestigious of College University's? Do you simply hand over 25,000 dollars a year, and at the end of 4 years, give or take a few, you are handed a diploma that says, 'Educated'? In my opinion, this is today's view on what education is. It is less of a conquest of knowledge then it is just a stepping-stone towards a career. John Newman suggested that all forms of education and knowledge are connected together, and that the subject matter of knowledge is united in itself. Each Science that we break our knowledge in to, complete, correct and balance the others. This is what John Henry Newman wrote in, The Idea of a University. This was written to discuss the idea of a Catholic University, so it has a large influence on how we get our education today. We take specific courses that educate us in our major, and a number of other core courses that help shape our ideas and views into that which we are learning. If an education is confined to only one subject, Newman believes the individual's work in life may favor the advancement of a particular pursuit or viewpoint over another, due to ignorance. This is the approach we take at Seton Hall and most other University's in the world towards an education. But is this the only form of education that is valid? Jon Spayde believed that one could gain education in any way he wants. If biology was an individual's serious interest, he could observe life throughout the year and justifiably educate himself that way. Anything you had int... ...roader the education you get the more knowledgeable you will become in all areas of your study. However, I also think that it isn't necessary to pay for a college degree to be truly educated. The problem is you have nothing to show for or prove your intellect. In today's competitive society everyone wants the best, and if you don't complete a college education and have your own individual flares your going to have a much harder time landing a job then perhaps someone you are smarter then. You can't just be the best, you have to show that you are the best. It seems that if you can throw 100,000 dollars away on a degree today, you probably will have a decent job waiting for you when you graduate. So the individual with the advantage in society is the one who loves what he paid to get educated in. Education in a field that you love is the only true conquest of knowledge.

Evolution of Science

Loose change menu- McDonald's have created a menu consisting of meals no more expensive than two dollars (loose change) which attracts customers with small amounts of money on them e students key phrase used by McDonald's Is: ‘A little loose change, goes a long way. This marketing strategy Is aimed at budget-focused customers aged between 14 – 25 2. Coca-Cola crown glass- McDonald's have release six limited edition Coca-Cola glasses which a customer can receive after the purchase of any large extra value al.The six glasses are only around for a limited time which gives the public an incentive to purchase a meal to collect as many limited edition glasses as possible. Key phrase: Hurry there only available for a limited time. This marketing techniques Is aimed at all customers aged between 20 – 40 2. Cheap easy Birthday parties- Birthday parties at McDonald's are extremely popular for kids aged between five and ten. There are three relatively cheap Cossacks and attr active to parent's who want an easy alternative for their child party.McDonald's describe the preparation their birthday parties as care free for parent's and that all they have to do is enjoy the atmosphere. Key phrase: We give your child a birthday party to remember! ‘ 3. Big Mac chant- McDonald's have a competition that asks you to film yourself singing the big Mac chant. By voting for a chant you receive a free Big Mac. This gives customers the incentive to vote and receive a free big Mac at the same time its a big add for the big Mac. Key phrase get voting now Outlining social media to spread their message florally. Art 2: ) On the McDonald's website there Is a section called our food and our nutrition, on the page it describes the healthy changes and alternatives McDonald's have made to their meals. This has been used to Inform the public of the healthy meals that are available at McDonald's. No I do not because children do not usually look Into the nutrition In their fo od. 2) McDonald's have also sponsored children's sporting event e. G. Little athletics, swimming Queensland. This has been used for people to associate being active and playing sport with ‘OFF eating McDonald's giving the healthier image.Yes I think it interlines young people to believe that McDonald's are a healthy fast food restraint, for the reason that they are sponsoring their sporting team. 3) Burger King- Released a limited time turkey burger in its attempt at releasing healthier option to the public. But still weighs in at 530 calories. This has been to make customers believe that what they are eating is good for them when really its Just as bad as any other meal on the menu. Yes I think it influences young people because they are easily persuaded into leveling a meal is good for them. ) McDonald's' new McGraw uses a green label to trick customers into thinking it's healthier. When really it's only 10 calories less than the normal Grilled Ranch Snack Wrap. This has bee n used to make the food seem healthy Yes I think it influences young people because most young people associate the color green with healthy food. 5) KEF being the official sponsor of cricket Australia. This has been used to associate the game of cricket with the food KEF, giving Cuff's food and image a healthy active look.Yes I do think it influence young people because they watch the cricket and see adds for KEF with members of the cricket team in them influencing them to believe the food is healthy/ part 3 Two American teenagers suing McDonald's For: The two girls were lured into McDonald's by the toys, the playground, the happy meals and the birthday parties. The persuasive television ads also played a factor in them eating there regularly. The two girls had no choice but to eat there because they lived in a remote area of America where McDonald's was one of the cheapest and only places to eat at.Against: The two teenagers ate at McDonald's at least seven times a week for years. Although they state they were unaware of how fattening McDonald's food actually is the burger loin says it handles nutrition responsibly. It puts nutritional information about its products on large; poster-size charts on its store walls and in other display areas. The charts show, for instance, that a quarter pounded with cheese has 530 calories and 30 grams of fat. To two Teenagers had no evidence that there health problems were caused solely by eating McDonald's.Response IL t b I less to taste t companies 1) List the nutritional information of the products that they are selling to the public – Read the nutritional information regarding the food they are eating and understand how it will affect your health and weight. 2) Provide healthy meals on the menu e. G. Salads – Eat a variety of meals not Just those that are bad for you 3) Inform consumers of the health risks involved in eating fast food. Understand health risks associated in eating fast food 4) Promote exerci se awareness for customers. Exercise regularlyAdolescent nutrition guideline Comparison Nutritional guidelines for an adolescent state you must have eat plenty of vegetables, cereals, lean meant and fish. The total amount of my Kilojoules added up for one meal at McDonald's was approximately 4000 k]. From my calculations I have gathered that if I ate McDonald's for breakfast lunch and dinner I would be exceeding my average intake by over kick]. I have found if I eat a healthy breakfast and relatively healthy meat based lunch I can have McDonald's for Dinner with out exceeding my maximum daily Kilojoules intake.

Disease Prevention Measures among African Americans Living in the United States Essay

My research explores race-based medicine. Specifically, my research will focus on what preventative measures are available for African American women living in the United States. Among minorities African American women have a higher number of health disparities; psychological and disease oriented. What percentages of minorities take advantage of preventative medicine? What percentage of African Americans are aware of resources made available to them? The growing number of obesity related diseases among African American women has increased more than 23% from 2010 (Nickens, H.W., 2006). Failure to use preventative measures has sparked much concern surrounding the implications and scientific evidence of race-based medicine. Race-based medicine focuses on the current system of public health services because now more than ever. Due to the increasing number of deaths within the African American community there is an expectation from the larger medical community on how to improve medical services that will work more efficiently for African American women. The concern about preventative measures among minority groups focuses on three things; 1) that it meets the needs of the individual, 2) that the service will be free at point of delivery and 3) that once service is received the individual will continue to utilize the service which will increase preventative measures for African American women. Preventative measures of obesity related diseases for African American women are lacking in several areas. Awareness about health systems and services offered are sometimes misinterpreted and therefore discourages African American women to utilize health information and facilities offered to the general public. References Anand, Sonia S. â€Å"Using Ethnicity as a Classification Variable in Health Research.† Ethnicity and Health 4:4 (2003): 241-244. Braun, Lundy. â€Å"Race, Ethnicity, and Health.† Perspectives in Biology and Medicine 45: 2 (2009): 159-74. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2006). Recommendations to improve preconception health and health care-United States. The Center for Disease Control, Morbidity and Mortality World Report. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2010). Obesity: Maternal and infant health research in pregnancy complications. Retrieved from website: http://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/MaternalInfantHealth/PregComplications.htm Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2009, October 2). Quickstats: Prevalence of obesity among adults aged > 20 years, by race/ethnicity and sex-national health and nutrition examination survey, united states, 2003-2006. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5838a6.htm Center for Disease Control and Prevention (2011). Black or African American populations. Retrieved from: http://www.cdc.gov/omhd/Populations/BAA/BAA.htm Institute of Medicine (IOM). (2009). Weight gain d uring pregnancy: Reexamining the guidelines. Retrieved from The National Academy of Sciences website: http://www.iom.edu/Reports/2009/Weight-Gain-During-Pregnancy-Reexamining-the-Guidelines.aspx Nickens, N. W. (2006). Health Affairs: Health promotion and disease prevention among Minorities. Vol (9), no. 2: 133-143. Doi: 10.1377/hlthaff.9.2.133 Siega-Riz, A. M., King, J. (2009). American Dietetic Position Paper. Obesity, reproduction, and pregnancy. Journal of American Dietetic Association, 109 (4), 918-927. Stothard, K., Tennant, P., Bell, R., & Rankin, J. (2009). Maternal overweight and obesity and the risk of congenital anomalies: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA, 301(6), 636-650. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). (2011). Maternal, infant and child health. Retrieved from website: http://healthypeople.gov/2020/LHI/micHealth.aspx Weiss, J., Malone, F., Emig, D., Ball, R., Nyberg, D., Comstock, C. (2004). Obesity, obstetric complications and cesarean delivery rate: A population-based screening study. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 190(4), 1091-1097.

Welsh History essays

Welsh History essays Wales has a tumultuous and somewhat violent history. During the early years A.D., the country was in turmoil with the Roman invasions, and the biggest defenses that the Welsh had were the deep, dark hills scattered all over the country. Without the safety of these hills, Wales would certainly have been taken over by the Romans. After the Romans left Wales, the Vikings presented a new threat to the peaceful lands of Wales. The Romans also had a huge effect on the Welsh religion and language. Wales was affected both negatively and positively by these invasions. In 55 B.C., Julius Caesar planned a series of exploratory expeditions into Wales, which were inspired by tales of large deposits of gold in the vast hills in North Wales. (Millet, 1995, p.187) These explorations prepared the ground for the arrival of the Roman armies (Cunliffe, 1990, p.203). In 43 A.D., the Roman army arrived on the shores of Wales to attempt a completion of their new Roman British empire (Tedesco, 178, p. 387). Wales had a strong military history that took a central role in society as far back as 1200 B.C. (Thompson, 1989, p.735). The old Roman boast Veni, Vidi, Vici (I came, I saw, I conquered) might have been applied to other places in their vast empire, but in Wales, their conquest was never complete (Johanson, 1979, p. 359). To help with the invasion, they constructed a city at Caerwent that introduced Roman notions of civilization to the natives. They also built a network of roads that connected their two bases at Chester and Caerwent with some small forts (Av ery, 1975, p.687) During some expeditions into the hills of Pumpsaint, the Romans finally found the gold that they had been searching for (McQueen, 1985, p.982) When the Romans left Wales in the 4th century, they left it unprotected against the Saxons, Picts and Irish Goidel tribes. The end of the Roman Empire meant the beginning of a Dark Age for Wales ( ...

The Marshall Plan

The Marshall Plan Initially announced in 1947, the Marshall Plan was a U.S.-sponsored economic-aid program to help Western European countries recover following World War II. Officially named the European Recovery Program (ERP), it soon became known as the Marshall Plan for its creator, Secretary of State George C. Marshall. The beginnings of the plan were announced on June 5, 1947, during a speech by Marshall at Harvard University, but it wasn’t until April 3, 1948, that it was signed into law.  The Marshall Plan provided an estimated $13 billion in aid to 17 countries over a four-year period. Ultimately, however, the Marshall Plan was replaced by the Mutual Security Plan at the end of 1951. Europe: Immediate Post-War Period The six years of World War II took a heavy toll on Europe, devastating both the landscape and the infrastructure.  Farms and towns were destroyed, industries bombed, and millions of civilians either killed or maimed.  The damage was severe and most countries didn’t have enough resources to help even their own people. The United States, on the other hand, was different.  Because of its location a continent away, the United States was the only country that did not suffer major devastation during the war and thus it was to the U.S. that Europe looked for help. From the end of the war in 1945 until the beginning of the Marshall Plan, the U.S. provided $14 million in loans. Then, when Britain announced that it could not continue to support the battle against communism in Greece and Turkey, the United States stepped in to provide military support to those two countries. This was one of the first actions of containment outlined in the Truman Doctrine. However, recovery in Europe was progressing much slower than initially expected by the world community.  European countries compose a significant segment of the world economy; therefore, it was feared that the slow recovery would have a ripple effect on the international community.   Additionally, U.S. President Harry Truman believed that the best way to contain the spread of communism and restore political stability within Europe was to first stabilize the economies of Western European countries who had not yet succumbed to communist takeover.   Truman tasked George Marshall with developing a plan to carry out this goal. Appointment of George Marshall Secretary of State George C. Marshall was appointed to office by President Truman in January 1947.  Prior to his appointment, Marshall had an illustrious career as the chief of staff of the United States Army during World War II. Because of his stellar reputation during the war, Marshall was viewed as a natural fit for the position of secretary of state during the challenging times that followed.   One of the first challenges Marshall faced in office was a series of discussions with the Soviet Union regarding the economic restoration of Germany.  Marshall could not reach a consensus with the Soviets regarding the best approach and negotiations stalled after six weeks.  As a result of these failed efforts, Marshall elected to proceed with a wider European reconstruction plan. The Creation of the Marshall Plan Marshall called upon two State Department officials, George Kennan and William Clayton, to assist with the construction of the plan.   Kennan was known for his idea of containment, a central component of the Truman Doctrine.  Clayton was a businessman and government official who focused on European economic issues; he helped lend specific economic insight into the plan’s development. The Marshall Plan was crafted to provide specific economic aid to European countries to revitalize their economies by focusing on the creation of modern post-war industries and the expansion of their international trade opportunities.   Additionally, countries used the funds to purchase manufacturing and revitalization supplies from American companies; therefore fueling the American post-war economy in the process.   The initial announcement of the Marshall Plan occurred on June 5, 1947, during a speech Marshall made at Harvard University; however, it did not become official until it was signed into law by Truman ten months later.   The legislation was titled the Economic Cooperation Act and the aid program was called the Economic Recovery Program. Participating Nations Although the Soviet Union was not excluded from participating in the Marshall Plan, the Soviets and their allies were unwilling to meet the terms established by the Plan.  Ultimately, 17 countries would benefit from the Marshall Plan.  They were: AustriaBelgiumDenmarkFranceGreeceIcelandIrelandItaly (including the Trieste region)Luxembourg (administered jointly with Belgium)NetherlandsNorwayPortugalSwedenSwitzerlandTurkeyUnited Kingdom It is estimated that over $13 billion dollars in aid was distributed under the Marshall Plan.  An exact figure is difficult to ascertain because there is some flexibility in what is defined as official aid administered under the plan.  (Some historians include the â€Å"unofficial† aid which began after Marshall’s initial announcement, while others only count aid administered after the legislation was signed in April 1948.) Legacy of the Marshall Plan By 1951, the world was changing. While the economies of Western European countries were becoming relatively stable, the Cold War was emerging as a new world problem. The rising issues related to the Cold War, particularly in the realm of Korea, led the U.S. to rethink the use of their funds.   At the end of 1951, the Marshall Plan was replaced by the Mutual Security Act.  This legislation created the short-lived Mutual Security Agency (MSA), which focused not only on economic recovery but also more concrete military support as well.  As military actions heated up in Asia, the State Department felt that this piece of legislation would better prepare the U.S. and its Allies for active engagement, despite the public mindset that Truman hoped to contain, not combat communism. Today, the Marshall Plan is widely viewed as a success.  The economy of Western Europe rebounded significantly during its administration, which also helped to foster economic stability within the United States. The Marshall Plan also helped the United States prevent the further spread of communism within Western Europe by restoring the economy in that area.   Concepts of the Marshall Plan also laid the foundation for future economic aid programs administered by the United States and some of the economic ideals that exist within the present European Union. George Marshall was awarded the 1953 Nobel Peace Prize for his role in creating the Marshall Plan.

Top 7 Healthcare Careers That Dont Require A Graduate Degree

Top 7 Healthcare Careers That Dont Require A Graduate Degree According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of healthcare jobs will increase by 26 percent by 2022. Population growth, baby boomers turning 65, chronic conditions as well as changes in health insurance fuel the need for healthcare workers. Aside from physicians, the healthcare sector offers many opportunities. Growth sectors in the healthcare industryHospitals are the main employers of health care workers, and the number of jobs in this arena and all jobs in health care will see an increase in the upcoming years. The trend is shifting to physician offices and home health care since hospital stays are decreasing due to high costs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, doctors’ offices are expected to add 1.2 million jobs while home healthcare jobs are expected to rise by 60 percent. Assisted living and nursing care facilities will add jobs as the population ages. Looking at some of the different healthcare jobs available might give you a better understanding of the opportunity that awaits you without a medical degree.Dental AssistantDental assistant jobs are in high demand and the projected rate of growth is over 30 percent. Dental schools, community colleges and vocational schools offer training courses and a certificate. National certification, after passing the Dental Assisting National Board exam, is available. Dental assistants have varied responsibilities including preparing patients for dental procedures, assisting dentists and providing patients with instructions concerning dental hygiene. Licensing is offered in some states.Nutritionists and DietitiansGrowth in this healthcare sector is expected to be above average, and the BLS projects a 21 percent job growth rate. Many people are conscious of the role diet plays in their lives, and doctors and hospitals rely on dietitians and nutritionists to help patients eat healthy. Other work settings include nursing homes and cafeterias while some dietitians and nutritionists maintain a solo practice. A college degree and post-graduate or extracurricular training during formal education is common. Some states require licensure.Medical AssistantMedical assistant jobs have a projected growth rate of 29 percent, according to BLS statistics. The responsibilities of this job vary and include performing administrative tasks, compiling and updating medical records, setting up lab tests and hospital admissions. In some settings, medical assistants might also process laboratory specimens and assist the doctor during patient exams. There are multiple training programs available, and certification is provided by the American Association of Medical Assistants.Radiologic TechniciansJobs in this field are growing rapidly. Most technicians work in a hospital environment, but some are employed in private practices. Programs generally lead to an associate’s degree with certification by an accredited institution. Some radiologic technicians specialize in MRI and CT technology .Home HealthcareThe job outlook for home health workers is expected to grow by 48 percent, according to the BLS. This is due to the aging population is the United States and the decision by many older Americans to remain at home. In addition to caring for the elderly, home health workers care for those with cognitive difficulties, the disabled and those with chronic illnesses. While formal education in the field is not mandatory, certified agencies require training and completion of a testing program. some states provide training for home health aides, including modules aimed at infection control.Physical TherapistsPhysical therapists are in demand and work in hospitals, doctor’s offices as well as assisted living facilities. Rehabilitation is needed for accident injuries and post-surgical therapy. A growth rate of 36 percent is expected to result in over 73,500 jobs by 2022. Physical therapists require formal training and licensure.Medical SonographersMedical sonographers us e special equipment to do tests such as ultrasounds for a variety of purposes. Sonographers work in doctor’s offices and hospitals, and the job growth rate is expected to increase by 39 percent in the next few years, according to the BLS. Technicians need certification and training to work in this field.How to find jobsUsing a job search site such as thejobnetwork lets you look for healthcare jobs in your area. After loading your profile, including your qualifications and preferences, this platform is able to match you with available positions. In addition, jobs are rated according to the extent with which the job matches what you want.

Stem Cell Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Stem Cell Research - Essay Example Most criticized is research involving human embryonic stem cells. Most opposition on stem cell research is mainly on moral and religious issues. Most controversies on stem cell research exist, attributed to myths and misconceptions regarding stem cell research. Misconceptions are arising due to the biased nature of reporting from the media as well as error that result especially when reporters are not conversant with facts on stem cell research. This paper is in favor of stem cell research due to the reasons listed below. The important role it will play in cancer treatment, regenerative medicine, repair of destroyed organs, in cure of killer diseases such as leukemia, Alzheimer’s, diabetes treatment, correction of developmental problems in humans even prior to birth, production of clones that could be used for organ harvesting and carrying out drug tests. As opposed to what most critic of stem cell research believes, blastocysts are not human beings thus their destruction does not constitute to killing. Scientifically, an embryo is not human until it is at least two weeks old, at least until the nervous system becomes evident (Mummery and Guido 672-673). In addition, the potential medical benefit from stem cell research is of greater importance compared to moral concerns raised about the embryo. With support and funds from the government, more talented scientist would be willing to get into stem cell research hence accelerate research. This will also enable the government to monitor embryonic research as compared to the privatized research (Mummery and Guido 672-673). In such cases, the government can ensure researchers carry out embryonic stem cell responsibly. Most people opposed to embryonic stem cell research claim that it is without the embryo’s consent. However, the same people are not opposed to organ transplant in children, which only requires parental consent. Embryonic stem cell research should therefore require only the consent of the d onor of the embryo since it is not different from organ donation involving children. In addition, it offers the opportunity to extend life or improve life just like in the case of the less opposed pediatric organ transplant (NIH Stem Cell Information 7; Jones, Byrne 75). Both the researcher and those oppose to stem cell research agree that stem cell research could be a possible solution to many diseases. The conflict is on the source and means of obtaining the stem cells. The argument that humans not be subjects for experimentation does not add up. Humans as well as human tissue act as specimens for experiments since time immemorial in both education and carrying out trial tests (Mummery and Guido 672). For example, all doctors have to dissect human cadaver as part of their medical training. In addition, the success in human organ transplant was only possible after several tests and experiments involving human subjects. Drug trials carried out all the time involve using human subjec ts. The issues discussed above have received little or no objection, yet they involve experimentation with human body just like in case of stem cell research (Mummery and Guido 672-678). From this, it is obvious that success in human medicine is not possible without taking the risk of involving human subject to carry out research. Considering abortion is legal

Methodology of a research paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Methodology of a - Research Paper Example basis for drawing the research methodology for the current study is the research onion model, which has been developed and proposed by Saunders as depicted below which reflects that highlights considerations for planning and implementing a particular research methodology initiating from review of possible philosophies supporting different course of research approaches, strategies, and data collection and interpretation methods available for business researches. Furthermore, the chapter also discusses the limitations of the adopted methodology along with the indication of the steps undertaken by the researcher to overcome them. Considering the objective of the study that is to present and discuss the planning carried by event management companies in Bahrain and challenges faced by them in the planning process in relation to the existing literature on the research topic it could be inferred that the outcome of the present study is of qualitative nature and would result in recommendations for event management industry participants of Bahrain. On the basis of this understanding, the research design drawn for the present study is based on a research philosophy referred to as the interpretivist paradigm (Smith, et al., 2009). This research theory supports examination of human experiences, exploring individuals’ perspectives or motivations, and interpreting the outcome of their actions or views. This therefore requires the researcher to understand and interpret the subjectivity and interaction of individuals which affect the behavior of individuals and their motives to take certain actions (Saunders, et a l., 2007). This implies that the present study examines the experiences of individuals involved in planning process in the event management companies operating in Bahrain and evaluating different aspects of planning as discussed in the literature review chapter of this report. The methodology associated with the interpretivist paradigm is of qualitative nature. The

Academic Plan for Improvement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Academic Plan for Improvement - Essay Example I have a wish to get good grades by the end of this course. To make my academic wish come true, I have committed to various study habits, which include drawing a timetable for study, sticking to it, and morning reviews of my class notes. During my morning reviews, I plan to spend the time rewriting key concepts of various subjects learned on the previous day. In addition, after finishing every course, I plan to take time to link courses to daily life to make them more fulfilling to my life. By following my study time well, I will have ample time to study and sleep, even during exams. To remain focused during study time, I will inquire from other students how they are making it, form group discussions with them to motivate and challenge me. In addition, give me rewards for following my timetables well, attending classes, and getting good grades. My obstacles in life are largely past failures and health issues, which remind me of a possibility of failure in future academic endeavors. I have told myself repeatedly that I do not need to fear about sicknesses because they are part of life. I am trying to overcome this fear by reading a book by Norman Vincent Pearle on the Power Of Positive Thinking and encourage myself that sickness will not affect my studies. I have committed to taking a balanced diet to boost my immunity and avoid communicable diseases. Another of my greatest fears has been how I will balance my studies and my family. This is because when I come home in the evenings, I need to spend time with my family, and at the same time have a few minutes to review my notes and do some assignments. Usually, my children draw their inspiration to read from me, which makes them stay focused on their studies. In the timetable, I have slotted a time to my children and reduced the time I had to watch TV in the evenings to ensure that I have enough sleep to start my day fresh.

Creating, Financing, and Marketing a Business Research Paper

Creating, Financing, and Marketing a Business - Research Paper Example With such a well diversified blend of people coming in to operate the business, a lot of costs can be saved in hiring other people to do these kinds of technical work for them. Moreover, in the case a loss occurs in a partnership, not all of it will be taken by a single person like in the case of sole proprietorship. Here, each partner will be liable to the maximum amount of their investments (or if agreed otherwise) they have made. Partnership also have a lot of cons. In case of partnership, often time the agreement are framed in such a way that if any one partner leaves, the entire partnership / business needs to be would up. This is one of the major problems in partnership as a mode of ownership. Yet another very important con is that there may be differences in views of partners as how they want to carry out the business or resolve a particular issue. In such case, usually voting is carried out to determine a way out. This would mean there would be several partners who would have to agree to something against their wishes. Funding Options For Small Business There are a lot of possible ways which small businesses can use to fund their operations. The options include debt financing, grants, equity financing, loans from friends and family, business angels or angel investors as they are better known, venture capitalists and strategic investors. A few of these sources re discussed in more detail below. Almost all small businesses finance their operations via loans taken from financial institutions. These loans are often easy to take come with a repayment schedule an interest rate that is decided upon at the time of cracking the deal. The plus side of debt financing is you don't have for equity financing, thereby you'll solve equity issue expenses. Secondly, getting a debt is pretty much an easy option as compared to floating a company's shares on the stock market. Government grants can also be used to fund the operations of small businesses. These grants are usu ally offered to businesses in the research and development side and those working in the technology sector (McCaffrey, 1992). Its benefits include the fact that this is literally free money that doesn't need to pay back and investors love the boost that such grants provide. On the negative side, the use of grant money is often dictated by the government and it cannot be used for anything else. How Managerial Accounting Can Help Managers With Product Costing, Incremental Analysis And Budgeting Managerial or cost accounting deals with costing techniques. It is generally concerned with providing price sensitive information to decision making managers, as they're the people who are responsible for product costing and control operations. Managerial accounting can help managers with to determine cost units and allocate them to different cost centers. Once all these cost units have been allocated to different cost centers, then the total cost per unit can be determined and hence product co sting becomes easier. Managers generally make decision by selecting between different alternatives available to them. Since a lot of information is available when deciding product costs, decision making becomes a much easier process when they only examine the amounts that differ between different decisions and make a decision accordingly. In such cases differences only occur between relevant costs, and they're the ones that need to be considered in incremental analysis since non

Art history blog Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Art history blog - Assignment Example Romanticism is demonstrated through emotions of attachment and nostalgia. The second painting of the Sea of Ice by Casper David between 1823 and 1825 demonstrates emotions of renunciation and awe towards nature. The painting features the destructive aspect of nature and the hopelessness of man. The third painting Raft of Medusa by Theodore Gericault is of an actual event that took place and Gericault attempts to evoke feelings of empathy by bringing out the emotions that were felt by the people of the raft after they were abandoned by their ship in the middle of the sea. 3. The White Horse and the Sea of Ice deal with the same theme but from different perspectives. They capture different aspects of the theme of man and nature. The White Horse expresses man’s attachment to nature while the Sea of Ice expresses man’s inability to tame nature. The Raft of Medusa on the other hand deals with the theme of desperation caused by man upon his fellow beings. Becoming Modern 1. a ) Capitalism created modern by ensuring that people specialize in what they can be able to produce best, and make money by selling the surplus so that they can use the money to buy what they do not produce. This is contrary to the classics period where people produced all they needed. b) Urban Culture created modern through the emergence of totally new ways of living. Towns grew bigger, people bought almost all of their needs, and the gap between the rich and the poor widened. c) Technological advances changed the way people lived and the way people perceived each other and in doing so created modern. d) Secularism creates modern by ensuring that people were less concerned with religious matter but were more concerned with their own emotions and feelings’ e) Optimism created modern by promoting even more change because people were able to perceive change positively. 2. The audience of art changed from the rich and learned to the middle class and learned but with different out look. Artists were therefore more influenced to depict aspects such as landscape that would be understood by the new audience. These changes made modern more dynamic because people readily embraced and influenced change. 3. Avant Garde was modern artist’s movement that was daring and radical and steered away from the traditional art techniques and influences. A Burial at Ornans 1. The painting A Burial at Ornans by Gustave Courbet is antithetical to modernism beca 2. use it depicts a traditional aspect of burial with all the religious ceremony accompanying it. One of the characteristics of modernism is secularism. 3. Gustave chose the topic to bring about the aspect of realism away from the conventional expectations where artists painted on particular issues for instance politics. Gustave depicted a funeral where people went to mourn but he was also aiming at showing the individual’s contemplation of the aspect of mortality. Some people are mourning; others are distrac ted, while others like the children are oblivious of the events. However, all these people are brought together to show heroism of the deceased. 4. The art audience at the Paris Salon in 1850 was astounded at the painting because it totally contradicted their expectations. Gustave chose to represent the funeral as it was rather than engage in subjects such as politics or religion. Impressionism: Art and Modernity 1. The term impression had been coined by those

Engineering or business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Engineering or business - Essay Example on of training on hazard prevention and safe operating procedures particularly on fire prevention and management procedures and occupational noise prevention and reduction program were tackled in details. The reason behind the need to strengthen the performance of its workplace inspection team was also covered in this report. To effectively manage the incidence of fire, it is important to maintain a safe working environment by making fire exits available and easily accessible. Other than the installation of fire prevention equipments, the use of early warning signs and devices like self-luminous or electroluminescent ‘exit’ signs in emergency exits and the provision of necessary trainings and easy access to medical facilities and first-aid kit are highly encouraged. To ensure that each employee do not suffer from a permanent hearing loss, HR managers of engineering companies should strictly implement the use of hearing protector and limit employees work to 8 hours per day. Measuring and recording noise level pollution should also be conducted on a regular basis. With the purpose of gathering useful information on how an engineering company can effectively implement and practice work environment safety, the target audiences for this study include the engineering students and workers who are currently employed in an engineering company. Since a portion of the engineering students may consider working for an engineering companies like Hofmann and Wintech, this report will be useful in terms of increasing the students’ and workers’ knowledge on how they can protect themselves from work-related injuries and accidents. Established back in 1955 by Gordon Hofmann, Hofmann Engineering grew as one of the largest U.S.-based companies that specialize in the manufacturing of night vision support gadgets, aircraft lighting, and photonic test equipments (Hofmann Engineering 2010a). The company expanded its business not only within the aerospace industry but also

Art history blog Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Art history blog - Assignment Example Romanticism is demonstrated through emotions of attachment and nostalgia. The second painting of the Sea of Ice by Casper David between 1823 and 1825 demonstrates emotions of renunciation and awe towards nature. The painting features the destructive aspect of nature and the hopelessness of man. The third painting Raft of Medusa by Theodore Gericault is of an actual event that took place and Gericault attempts to evoke feelings of empathy by bringing out the emotions that were felt by the people of the raft after they were abandoned by their ship in the middle of the sea. 3. The White Horse and the Sea of Ice deal with the same theme but from different perspectives. They capture different aspects of the theme of man and nature. The White Horse expresses man’s attachment to nature while the Sea of Ice expresses man’s inability to tame nature. The Raft of Medusa on the other hand deals with the theme of desperation caused by man upon his fellow beings. Becoming Modern 1. a ) Capitalism created modern by ensuring that people specialize in what they can be able to produce best, and make money by selling the surplus so that they can use the money to buy what they do not produce. This is contrary to the classics period where people produced all they needed. b) Urban Culture created modern through the emergence of totally new ways of living. Towns grew bigger, people bought almost all of their needs, and the gap between the rich and the poor widened. c) Technological advances changed the way people lived and the way people perceived each other and in doing so created modern. d) Secularism creates modern by ensuring that people were less concerned with religious matter but were more concerned with their own emotions and feelings’ e) Optimism created modern by promoting even more change because people were able to perceive change positively. 2. The audience of art changed from the rich and learned to the middle class and learned but with different out look. Artists were therefore more influenced to depict aspects such as landscape that would be understood by the new audience. These changes made modern more dynamic because people readily embraced and influenced change. 3. Avant Garde was modern artist’s movement that was daring and radical and steered away from the traditional art techniques and influences. A Burial at Ornans 1. The painting A Burial at Ornans by Gustave Courbet is antithetical to modernism beca 2. use it depicts a traditional aspect of burial with all the religious ceremony accompanying it. One of the characteristics of modernism is secularism. 3. Gustave chose the topic to bring about the aspect of realism away from the conventional expectations where artists painted on particular issues for instance politics. Gustave depicted a funeral where people went to mourn but he was also aiming at showing the individual’s contemplation of the aspect of mortality. Some people are mourning; others are distrac ted, while others like the children are oblivious of the events. However, all these people are brought together to show heroism of the deceased. 4. The art audience at the Paris Salon in 1850 was astounded at the painting because it totally contradicted their expectations. Gustave chose to represent the funeral as it was rather than engage in subjects such as politics or religion. Impressionism: Art and Modernity 1. The term impression had been coined by those

Your Privacy on Facebook Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Your Privacy on Facebook - Case Study Example He states that eighty five percent of the users agreed to the public use of Facebook. He goes and explains further, that the change in the world requirements motivated the change (Rainer, 2008). The new changes in Facebook privacy settings have made the use simpler as compared to the old settings. The reduction in the number of settings has made it easy and clear for the use to comprehend. One of the important features that Facebook has is that the user controls the privacy settings of the viewers of ones content. The feature allows one to define the contents depending on whether one wants the friends or the business audience to view certain content of information. With the new settings, the user will have to pay attention to the default settings making the one responsible for the posts. Previously, many users used the default settings, which did not require any customization (Rainer, 2008). The new settings intend to have the users produce additional private data to the public. The new settings tend to allow sharing information to everybody in the network. Despite encouraging people to set the advanced settings according to their wish, the default settings tend to remain operational. Facebook, pushes the users to use the "everyone" button to allow sharing of information worldwide. With this in place, it would undermine the privacy issues that Facebook began in the beginning. It would no longer have enough privacy for any data shared. In addition, users would find themselves sharing more than they intend to share. The "recommended " settings availed by Facebook mislead people as the users do not look into the features closely and examine the content (Rainer, 2008). Conveying information should not lead to violating someones privacy. Social sites have in possession private information that they have to protect. Sharing of private information is violating privacy laws. In as much as organisation that deals with sharing information have the right to

Disclosure of material facts by proposer of insurance Essay Example for Free

Disclosure of material facts by proposer of insurance Essay A fact is considered to be material as per the provisions of Section 18(2) of the Marine Insurance Act 1906 if it would influence the judgment of a prudent insurer in fixing the premium, or determining whether he will take the risk. This rule applies is also applicable to non-marine insurance and despite the proposals of the Law Commission not being addressed to marine insurance, undoubtedly the decisions of the courts on disclosure of hull risks will have repercussions for householders. The degrees of influence are given below. The three degrees of influence. (A) Information type A is so material that the insurer, if he had known about it would have refused to enter the contract or in the alternative the insurer would have made further investigations resulting in refusal to do so. (B) Information type B consists of facts, which if the insurer had been aware of, would have resulted in the insurer’s making the contract of insurance but on quite different terms especially in respect of premium or conduction of a further investigations leading to insurance on a different set of terms altogether. The proposer has to reveal the material facts known to him whilst proposing insurance. However, in Berger Ltd. v. Pollock , non-disclosure of certain information, was held to be immaterial because the judge was far from satisfied that, if the undisclosed matters had been fully reported and explained to these underwriters, they would in fact have declined to accept this declaration under open cover or have sought to vary its terms or to require an increased rate of premium. (C) Information type C is that information, whose knowledge would have made the insurer consider it relevant but would not have resulted in the insurer’s refusal of the contract or insistence on different terms. It is information, which though affecting his judgment would have, in conjunction with other facts, had they been present, would have resulted in a different contract, but, which of its own accord, would not have affected the particular contract or its terms. This is the present position in England and is the consequence of the judgments of the Court of Appeal in CTI v. Oceanus . It has been suggested that this case propels English law in the direction suggested by the Law Commission. However, the Court of Appeal’s objective was to respect the Courts view of precedent. The reality is that the Court has succeeded in distancing the law from precedent, principle and the interests of the assured. This decision has met with almost universal concern and disappointment. CTI v. Oceanus CTI entered into an insurance contract successively with A, B and Oceanus. A and B being dissatisfied with the claims experience wanted a change in the terms of cover which were not acceptable to CTI . Hence, CTI insured with Oceanus on the basis of an account of their past claims record which, was not complete or entirely fair and accordingly Oceanus endeavoured to avoid the policy for misrepresentation and non-disclosure. Lloyd J. held that, even in the event of disclosure of all the relevant information the insurer would have made this contract on the same terms and that such information, which could be classified as belonging to type C, not being material, the contract could not be avoided. On appeal the Court held that the undisclosed information was to be classified as type B and not type C and therefore the decision at first instance had to be reversed resulting in the avoidance of the insurance. Nevertheless, the Court also stated obiter but after hearing argument, that there is no requirement that the particular insurer should have been induced to take the risk or charge a lower premium than he would otherwise have done as a result of the non-disclosure. The consequence of all this is that information of type C in English law is material and its concealment enables the insurer to avoid the contract of insurance, without any reservations in respect of commercial insurance and most likely in other lines too. It was hinted by Kerr L. J. that this rule might differ in respect of consumer insurance but the Law Commission has refused to countenance a special rule for consumers. Practicality. First, despite the absence of an absolute standard, the test of materiality is that of the prudent insurer, which is an objective test controlled and applied by the court on the basis of expert evidence. This is similar to that of a reasonable man in tort. In the parlance of insurance practice this test of a prudent insurer is no more a genuine inquiry into a particular person’s mind than it is in relation to the other reasonable or prudent persons who populate the rules of law to legitimise the dominant role of the judge. Secondly, despite the objective nature of the materiality test, it is not understandable as to why it is easier and therefore more pragmatic and definite to state that a fact has some influence or is of the type C, rather than to state that it has a decisive influence or that it can be classified as type A or type B. Thirdly, if the proposer has to perforce disclose information of the type C, then there is the further objection that probable assureds will be better off by exercising caution and not taking any risks by indulging in a total disclosure. The decision in CTI v. Oceanus does not take into cognizance the basic nature of misrepresentation and non-disclosure as connoting something that vitiates consent, in this case the consent of the insurer. It becomes to accept that the consent of the insurer was vitiated and that consequently the contract should be avoided, if the insurer would have made the same contract on the same terms, despite the lack of misrepresentation or disclosure.

Competing Against Low Cost Steel Imports

Competing Against Low Cost Steel Imports Nucor is the second largest steel producer in North America on total production capacity in the end of 2006, with 18 plants. With the year 2006 Nucor was the most profitable steel producer by having the capacity to produce 25 million tons of steel with revenues of $14.8 billion and net profits of $ 1.8 billion. In the late 1960s Nucor established the steel mini-mill industry and since that time, mini-mills have become broadly exist in the large incorporated steel companies out of most niche markets. Nucor in the late 1980s made a brave entry into the flat-rolled steel market, afield of big steel. Nucor follow low-cost leadership strategy, product development by using innovation and technologies, quality systems, strong relationship between employees and productivity, corporate culture and using focus diffrenation, in order to reduce and achieve low costs per ton produced. The market share of Nucor increased by 17% in both years 2005 and 2006. According to the four generic competitive strategies Nucor follow low-coast provider strategy as their strategic direction. They are determined to attain lower overall costs then rivals and tempting to a wide range of consumers. Nucor followed growth strategies which are new acquisitions, new plants construction, continued plant upgrades and cost reduction efforts, and joint ventures. Nucor internally has established a raw materials strategy to control directly and indirectly through global growth with joint ventures, the production of 6 to 7million tons of iron of high quality metals for consumption of its steel mills. Such acquisition is imperative to meet buyer demand for manufactured steel goods. Nucor has a wide array of products and each product must go through a different operations cycle. This is an implication to the efficiency of each unit. Nucor externally has the ability to deliver shipments anywhere in USA. This is a profitable competitive advantage that ensures quick and on-time delivery of products. Nucor ad opts successful marketing and sales strategies. In line with its goals of becoming a global player, it continues to build long-term relationships with contract customers who purchase value added products, 92% of the production of Nucors steel mills was sold to outside customers in 2005-2006. It shows how Nucor is maintaining long- term contracts, and maintaining profitable value-added products. Nucor is known for developing and commercializing new efficient product technologies for the steel manufacturing business. The same enables it to reduce its operating costs and compete effectively in the market. Considering Nucor infrastructure, centralization at the company in the early 2000s has supported the current success and supported the various units. Solid training and employee relation building contributes to the continuous growth. As for services and quality, Nucor focuses on fast delivery and increased customer integrated technologies. Quality control is considered important to ma intain the durability and exact specifications of the manufactured product. Considering political factors, variations amongst countries laws provides favorable and unfavorable circumstances for a large company to do business in that country. Nucor deals with tax policy in USA paying federal, state, and local taxes, affecting its bottom line. Nucor has to understand the taxes of other countries planned for contracts implementation. As for economic factors, exchange rate fluctuations and interest rate changes are considered by Nucor as bases for decisions on expansion, and competition. Markets are attractive for steel companys entrance when the currency is week, and interest rates low. No greater advancement has had more impact on the steel industry than the recent technological improvements. While many industries are outsourcing much of their manufacturing, Nucor has been able to undertake the opposite approach and expand in the domestic market. Technology increases efficiency of fac tories, decreases inventory, and enhances product quality. The efficient mini-mill is an example of this. Strategic Issue Given the internal and external factors, that steel situations in the world had been improved by 2005-2006. The prices were higher in the U.S by 50% in 2000 as well as Nucors Sales. However foreign steel companies, dumping in home domestic market and U.S market below market prices that leads to over capacity and more supply than demand. Inside US and Outside US market. The Demand increased by 6% should Nucor continue focusing on the U.S steel market or begin to expand into another foreign markets? Or should they have to deal with budding volume of low priced foreign imports in the US market and how to compete with foreign steel producers? Do they need to expand the capacity of the company steel-making and start building new plants, new acquisitions, and new joint ventures? External Environment External factors include those influences cut side the industry in the macroeconomic that should be considered in shaping the companys strategies in long-term direction are legislative factors, economic, socioeconomic, and technological factors. Political and Legislative Businesses are heavily regulated, from state to federal to international. These regulations challenge the ease of achieving profit margins. A business must deal with the local laws and regulations of another business when attempting to compete in a foreign territory. For Nucor Corporation, the growing international competition requires addressing and dealing with various types of laws, mainly taxation. Nucor deals heavily with the tax policy and regulations in the United States paying federal, state, and local taxes. Each imposes heavy effects on their bottom line. Taxes however do not always negatively impact a business. Many international steel companies were selling their products at below market cost to undercut domestic competition. Taxes imposed protect the domestic industry. The same is important when competition is high. Nucor is a large company that is subject to international trade agreements. It is financially essential for a company to understand the costs associated to all regulations and tariffs on import and export processes, especially that competition ad globalization are required to maintain profits in the future. Economic factors As Nucors strategy has always been to become a market leader, much of its growth comes from international markets, especially developing ones. Thus, it is always exposed to exchange rate fluctuations. Markets become attractive when their currency is weak. This was the situation of the steel industry during the economic downturn in 2001. When markets become attractive due to weak currency, the demand for steel would increase and consequently the supply to meet the increasing demand. To finance the large expenditures, loans are very common. As interest rates decrease, corporate loans increase to create an expansionary economy. The same will create positive effects on corporate spending of major steel buyers, and consequently suppliers. Hence, steel demand and supply would increase. Socioeconomic factor Steel industry operates on a business to business model. The same allows for greater efficiency and protects from the risk impact of negative social factors. These factors include consumer behavior, fashions, geographic location, consumer thoughts, ectA company like Nucor must understand the sub-cultures of each market segment where it exists, and concentrate on the most profitable. Nucor considers expansion through acquisition. This carries along the risk of mixing two distinct cultures. Nucor must be able to preserve and embrace new knowledge employees, skilled labor, and other valuable assets. Moreover, the existing individual cultures can be a source of risk, so assuring adequate safety environment should be a priority. Nucor differentiates itself by high wages, incentive based pay, and a flat organization. Each of these has a positive impact on the existing Nucor organizational structure. The existing challenge and risk would be to create equilibrium between preserving a positive culture, and an increased profit strategy of which lower wages is somehow a must. Nucor Corporation recognizes its role in protecting the environment. It gives attention to the environment of the communities in which it operates and recognizes its importance to the employees. Protecting the environment is critical to its operations and long-term success. To illustrate, Environmental compliance is a priority for Nucor management equal with all other business functions. Technological factors While many competitors within the steel industry are outsourcing many of their manufacturing due to increased technology, Nucor is able to take the opposite approach and expand in domestic market. Technology increases efficiency, decreases inventory, and improves the product quality. Nucor, for example was able through the new technology used to efficiently use the small factory production mini mill to increase its capacity utilization. The mini-mill simplifies the process when compared to the more tradition integrated mill. It cuts many corners in the production cycle and also uses larger percentage of scrap metal. This in return reduced the amount of pollution from making steel significantly by eliminating the several elements of the old blast furnace process. Technology also provides greater enhancement for engineering and sales. The products have detailed computerized models with test statistics, and efficiency attributes. The sales department is able to directly deal with customers through the internet. Transactions are seamless and process quickly. Technology has enhanced the steel industry processes but it has its draw backs that need to be considered. For example, computer failure, database errors, and any simple user error can affect the business. Having specialists and IT managers will have its positive impact on controlling these risks. Industry Analysis There have been two major factors influencing the steel industry- consolidation of global companies, and revolutionary technological changes among competitors affecting prices, production, and consumer satisfaction. National boundaries have melted to encompass an ever increasing world market. Since, the beginning of the 21st century, the industry has been hovering around 75% capacity utilization, a level too low for many companies, thus, forcing them to globally consolidate. Examples of these consolidations are the three European companies who merged to form the worlds largest steel producer and the two Japanese companies who did the same to form the second-largest steel producer. Driving Forces The defining characteristics of the industry are increasing globalization of the industry, and technological changes. As for globalization, it is a driving force as it will have an effect on the overall industry growth. When considered, globalization will pave the way for consolidation between companies allowing them to be strong players in the industry where their success or failure will have an impact on the overall industry growth. Technological changes can have great impact on the industry. When more improved technologies are used, production and prices will be affecting the industry growth. The global steel market grew by 8.2% in 2007 to reach a value of $529.7 billion. In 2012, the global steel market is forecast to have a value of $759.1 billion, an increase of 43.3% from 2007. Key Success Factors The Key success factors (or KSFs) are competitive factors most affecting every industry members ability to prosper. KSFs include; Necessary resources, competencies, and capabilities (organizational style) Competitive capabilities Expertise in a particular technology Scale economies or experience curve benefits Strong network of wholesale distributors, and suppliers Nucor was established in 1966 and continues to grow strongly according to a number of key success factors and strategic organizational strengths. The companys organizational style is remarkable and features a number of factors that contribute to Nucors success. First, the company employs a decentralized business style. In 1966, Iverson assumed the role of president to be decentralized manner has been used and been very successful. A decentralized business style distributes the administrative responsibilities or powers among several authorities rather than a large number (Decentralization). This style has permitted Nucor to empower their managers and employees. By Improving the level of empowerment allows each division manger control over day-to-day decisions and transactions that will increase profitability. Nucors decentralized business style also helps the Co. to be lean. Lean manufacturing incorporates the production of goods using less waste, less human effort, manufacturing, too ls, inventory, and less time. Equivalent to their lean business style, Nucor is continually seeking for improvement. Stable aim to decrease production cost is always a priority and ultimately helps to lower costs of steel to buyers. Moreover, a focus on dealing with employees helps in reducing employee turnover and increase productivity. Safety is an important consideration for Nucor and is consistently monitored and improved. Employee surveys are conducted every 3 years which helps to give an insight on employee attitudes and concerns. Management then compares the surveys across plants and divisions to control potential problems areas and increase employee satisfaction. Finally, Nucor focuses on creating strong relationships with outside parties. This enables it to establish long-term sustainability with these parties. Furthermore, structure and supply cost will often be decreased which allows for lower costs for buyers. Strong relationships established ensure long-term sustainability and lowered prices for Nucor. The booming business structure of Nucor along with the management styles implanted has allowed the Co. to become a leader in the industry. The Company has established a reputable brand and has created brand awareness both domestically and internationally. It currently has a significant market share of the U.S. market and is budding as a global leader in tough industry. Moreover, their increase in size has helped them increase production capacity. Last but not least, Nucor has a strong technological focus and is works at all times to boost manufacturing and production pace. Innovation also is always considered and helps the company remain a leader. Being the largest steel manufacturer, Nucor remains a profitable company in one of the most cyclical industries in the economy. Nucor enjoys this success for several reasons, employee relations, quality, productivity, and aggressive focus on innovation and technical excellence. Nucors strategy low cost providing, they know they are selling a commodity for which the competitive edge in the industry is lowering prices through innovation and productivity. Firms in other Industries Offering Substitute ProductsPorters five forces analysis Suppliers of Raw Materials, Parts, Components, or Other Resource Inputs Rivalry among competing Sellers Competitive pressures created by the jockeying of rival sellers for better market position and competitive advantage Buyers Potential New Entrants They five competitive forces affecting industries attractiveness are: Competitive rivalry: (High Threat) The global competition in the steel industry faces Nucor and the vast array of competitors that fill the industry. Intense competition among competitors in the domestic market of Nucor causes a cyclical effect within the industry. Each competitor strives to win bids of contracts, causing a stiff price war in the market. As price is the main factor for differentiation among competitors and it is the bases of the industry, the company with the lowest fixed costs will survive the longer, and be the most profitable. Nucors use of both base pay and incentive pay ensure output is relative to pay and, therefore, decreases its fixed costs. The business model differentiation is also primary means of competition. Nucor has a decentralized structure with control being at the factory level. This advantage allows for focused decision making, and efficient use of profits. Extremely high exit barriers are a major risk to competitive competition. During times of economic downturn or overproduction, inefficiencies are weeded out. The United States boasts one of the strongest protections for businesses with its bankruptcy laws to ensure they can make it through these tough times. Counter this though, the U.S. also has some of the toughest laws against closing inefficient plants. Extremely high exit barriers are a major risk to competitive competition. Competition from Substitutes: (Low to moderate Threat) This threat is considered low as there are few substitutes for the use of steel. From auto manufacturing, to structural supports, to fasteners, there are relatively few products available with the strength, durability, and cost efficiencies of steel. The largest alternative to steel would be use of another material. Plastics are on the top of the list, but have not found the same durability as steel. Wood may have aesthetic appeal but cannot combat with steels robustness. Alternatives increase market presence at times of economic downturn and times of increase in steel material cost. To hedge this threat many manufacturers maintain inventories of steel reserves. Large companies also trade steel futures to ensure stability of price and guaranteed supply for a future specified time. The goal is to maintain low costs and market share during times of economic fluctuation. Bargaining Power of Buyers: (High Threat) The buyers impose the greatest; they are the bases for price competition by influencing the demand. The ultimate goal of the buyer is to get the best quality product at the lowest price. The ultimate goal of the seller (Nucor) is to get most attainable profit for the least cost. Because the market is filled with numerous suppliers and taking into account the two different goals of suppliers and buyers, the steel industry is commonly a buyers market. Bargaining power of Suppliers: (High to moderate Threat) The supply of raw materials, steel shreds, iron ore, or recycled steel can have a great effect on the cost strategy. Most of the steel used for manufacturing in US is imported. Due to the difficulty in suppliers ability to constantly meet the demands of the companies such as Nucor, joint ventures between suppliers and manufacturers are established. The same ensures low costs for manufacturers. Acquisition of the supplier might also be undertaken by the manufacturer. Also, the power of unions labor and unionized labor, could affect the labor costs for steel produces in placing weak competitive force and on cost disadvantage vis-à  -vis firms with nonunion labor. The Threat of Entry: (Moderately Strong Threat) The main determinate for an entry into an industry is the costs associated. Barriers to entry have increased due to merging and globalization growing of many competitors. Economies of scale and capital requirements are the greatest barriers I the steel industry. Larger quantity orders of raw materials are usually discounted. Higher production volumes directly discount the associated costs. During times of strong growth, such as the 1960s-1980, economies of scale are very good. During stagnation or recession, these approaches often cause diseconomies due to under utilization of capacity. Product differentiation is also a major barrier to entry. Steel is not sold on its overall difference, but more commonly on price. Many manufacturers utilize the same technologies and process. Price wars are seen in minimization of fixed costs as stated earlier. Directly with this, there are few switching costs from one manufacturer to another. Little brand loyalty is recognized in an industry that does not appeal to consumer loyalty or brand image. Entrants must find a way to compete based on lower costs. Access to raw materials is additionally a barrier. Many times raw materials must be bought in large quantities (economies of scale). The cost disadvantages associated with small material purchases can be huge and directly increase overall manufacturing costs; this make competition challenging in a market where margins are already slim. Government policy is not a major threat to entry on the domestic level, but at the international level the barriers are enormous. Well established relationships by large steel manufactures with governments allow for easy creation of contracts in a foreign territory. The creation of these contacts takes time, executive work hours, and vast amounts of money. As most steel manufacturers must be globally competitive to maintain profits, government policy is threatening entry barrier. At first glance it may seem the mature steel industry would not be very attractive. This may be true to a new entry on a small scale, but with the advance of globalization the steel industry is again becoming very attractive. Industry Profile and Attractiveness The Industry position and competitive structure future for a low-cost steel producer such as Nucor is attractive due to the good shape of their financial situation to gain sales and market share however the industry market environment maybe un attractive to some rivals but for some other rivals it may indicate some opportunities. The demand for steel globally has been rising strongly in recent years, and this is likely to continue. The industry has become attractive for new entrants from the international market since these companies are not burdened by union contracts and since governments may provide special incentives in order to help them establish a customer base in steel, which can help in forming an important part of a nations economic infrastructure. Although the U.S is already dumped with outsider steel products, it is still considered to be a reliable and potential market for other global companies. As summary of the Nucor case gives many insights into the company and the industry. In general, the steel industry is a very strong industry to compete in successfully. The question here is the steel industry an attractive one? The answer would yes, if the entering company is already in the industry and well set up and highly regarded. Moreover, its very important that the company is in a position to acquire other companies and/or form joint ventures. Nucor currently has done an amazing job moving itself up from near bankruptcy to an industry leader. Major numbers of challenges have been met and overcome throughout the companys life. However, this does not mean that there will not be more major challenges for Nucor. Nucor is nowadays is facing growing competition from both domestic and international rivalries. Its critical that Nucor continues to grow and increase global market share. Current management must continue to specialize in Nucors core product and capitalize on a proven suc cessful organizational structure. Can Nucor continue to succeed as a global steel company into the future? This is the main concern. Nucor is capable of continuing its entrepreneurial spirit as it grows larger because its marketing and management techniques. Since Nucor has been an innovative and risk-taking company, their profits will continue to expand. Nucor has embodied techniques that have been profitable to the company. An example of these techniques is the fact that Nucor managers would set standards for quality and output for groups of 25 to 30 employees and reward them with weekly bonuses. By emphasizing quality and efficiency in employees and then rewarding them for it, Nucor only increases its own profits. Company Situation Nucor Situation Introduction Nucor deals with key specific issues in the steel industry including the fast growth of steel producers in the world reflecting as an increased capacity in steel production creating prices war, and the competition in an industry where technology usage has been a way for saving costs. Despite their specialization into steel, Nucor Corp. has become a benchmark for both the U.S. steel industry and U.S. industry in general. Nucor is one of the fastest growing and most efficient steel producers in the world. Despite the declining demand for steel, Nucors growth has been phenomenal, from pouring its first batch of steel in the 1960s to support in-house operations; the company has become one of the top five producers of steel in the U.S. Nucor has repeatedly achieved technological feats other steel producers thought impossible. Their hourly pay is among the lowest in the industry, yet they have the highest productivity per worker of any steel producer in the U.S. But can it continue to do so? Financial Analysis According to Nucor Corporation Financial Ratios data for 2005 2006 provided in Table 2 Profitability  [1]  : Profitability ratios are used to assess a businesss ability to generate earnings as compared to its expenses and other relevant costs incurred during a specific period of time. For most of these ratios, having a higher value relative to a competitors ratio or the same ratio from a previous period is indicative that the company is doing well. Gross profit margin FYE  [2]  12/06 increased by 14% reflecting an increase in sales for 2006. Liquidity ratios remained almost the same reflecting the continuous ability of the company to meet its obligations and invest further in the new technologies adoption strategy. Activity  [3]  : Are ratios that measure a firms ability to convert different accounts within their balance sheets into cash or sales Inventory turnover and total asset turnover were positive and closely in-line with past results. Nucor maintains the ability to draw class investors with its relatively strong financial performance, though down a bit from previous years. The increase in activity ratios is affected by the increase in sales FYE 12/06. Leverage  [4]  : Ratios used to calculate the financial leverage of a company to get an idea of the companys methods of financing or to measure its ability to meet financial obligations. There are several different ratios, but the main factors looked at include debt, equity, assets and interest expenses. Leverage ratios decreased by 1% FYE12/06 as compared to year 2005. The same reflects the ability of the company to meet its obligations and the reduction in reliance on leverage to meet its strategic plans. As globalization and acquisition is the focus, the leverage ratios are important. Debt has remained relatively low as compared to assets and equity, 23% and 44%respectively. Liquidity  [5]  : Are ratios used to determine a companys ability to pay off its short-terms debts obligations. Generally, the higher the value of the ratio, the larger the margin of safety that the company possesses to cover short-term debts. The current strategies may require short-term loans to finance acquisition. With these ratio levels, Nucor is in the position to shop for good interest rates. Total cash reserves for 2007 were roughly $1.4Billion, which will directly aid a globalization and expansionistic approach. As conclusion, at the end of year 2006 Nucor was in very good shape financially and the financial performance is strong for the 2004-2006. The date in table 1 shows how Nucor increased tons sold during the year 2000- 20006 with increasing in sales and market share of their products. SOWT Analysis In this part which is simply but powerful tool for sizing up a companys resource strengths and competitive efficiencies, its market opportunities, and the external threats to Nucor future well-being of Nucor Table 2. Nucors strengths Technology Innovation: Is one of Nucors key strengths due to the amount of resources they can save because of it. Nucor also has established plants with low pollution levels. The ability for Nucor to use this to its advantage allows them to be more competitive with the market by substantially lowering their production cost. It also allows them to be environmentally friendly, which is a huge worldwide social concern these days. Continuous Innovations allows Nucor to hold its technological edge on the competition. Nucor is always moving and always improving its business cycle through the use of continuing innovation. Nucor is an industry leader when it comes to innovation. Strong market position: Nucor Corporation has many different competencies that allow it to hold a strong position in the steel industry. These include its adopted new technologies, successful management structure, strong established market relations, and the long successful existence in the market. The company has marvelous industry position and positive financial results for the past over 40 years. Corporate Philosophy: One of Nucors strategic strengths is its philosophy of empowering its workers and reducing the inefficient layers that plagues corporate. Company structure is decentralized with minimal management layers. Cost control: Nucor focuses on cost control. To be competitive in a market with little product differentiation, price is the main competitive factor. One of Nucors core competencies is that its expertise in keeping costs low. The same is maintained by adopting technological innovation that helps increase production at lower costs. Nucors Weaknesses A weakness is something a firm lacks, does poorly, or a condition placing it at a disadvantage in the marketplace and these are;  [6]   Missing capabilities in key areas leading to dependence on a volatile market location: Nucor faces some significant weaknesses with its location. Nucor has plants, all of which are located within the US. The problem is that Nucor cannot effectively serve international markets as good as competitors having plants worldwide. The shipping of steel to overseas countries is extremely expensive. Nucor is not in a great market position. Customers can go some place closer to buy their steel essentially knocking off a large shipping cost. Nucor also does not give deals on quantities purchased. Nucors most significant weakness lies with its domestic market. With the US Market being its primary customer base, Nucor is not able to offset losses because of a diversified location worldwide. Nucor is currently in a Market where growth is declining significantly. Deficiencies in competitively important physical, organizational, or intangible assets through high expansion and technology costs: The expansion policy accompanied with dependency on scrap steel and energy prices and the vol

Leadership Styles: Relationship Between Emplyer and Employee :: essays research papers fc

Introduction   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Chris Harrison is a self employed contractor. He works out of Newfield New York. He was interviewed on two different occasions about a month apart with the aim of finding out how he felt about his work. During these two interviews a major sociological theme emerged. It was the theme of leadership styles and the relationship between Chris and his workers. Chris believes in treating the men that he has working for him as men. â€Å"The rest of them may only be eighteen or nineteen but they are all men in my eyes† (Harrison 2005A). Chris believes in his men very much. He says that they do not just work together but have a good friendship outside of work too. Chris knows that they all have fun while they are working. They laugh and joke around but he knows that when the deadline is getting close that his men will have the job done and done right. Chris believes that his leadership style reflects the relationship that he has with his workers and the productivity that they get done. According to Madzar 2001, there are two different types of leadership styles. There are transactional and transformational. Transactional leadership is an exchange-based and leader-controlled relationship. Transformational leadership is to arouse the needs of the subordinates in accordance with the leader’s own goals, the final result being performance beyond expectation. Chris believes that he is a transformational leader. He does not control the relationship he has with his workers. He sees them as equals. Chris knows that his workers know what the goals are that he needs accomplished at any given time. He helps them when they need it but most of the time just lets them work and do things at there own pace. Methodology   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The primary research method used for this study consisted of two semi-structured, qualitative interviews conducted about a month apart. The interviewer asked five questions during the first interview. These questions were very general with the aim of finding out how Chris Harrison felt about his work. These questions included 1) what makes you get up and go to work everyday? ; 2) Describe your coworkers; 3) how did you enter this career? ; 4) How does your job affect other aspects of your life? ; 5) What is the most rewarding/challenging part of your job? This interview was fully transcribed (see appendix A). The researcher then used inductive reasoning to do a content analysis of the interview.

Report on Case Study: Walmart Japan Essay

Question 1: How would you characterize Wal-Mart’s approach to global management? The trademark of Wal-Mart’s global management approach focuses on 3 main strategies: low price, best value, large selection of goods & high quality service. Being the world’s largest retailer, Wal-Mart will enter the international market by providing a wide variety of products at a lower price than its domestic competitors. In addition, one of the common strategies of Wal-Mart is to partner or acquire a local supermarket retailer who has already had a good knowledge of the market in order to save time & money. Wal-Mart is also famous for its great use of distributor network. They pay a lot of attention to choosing a good location when expanding their business, a strategy which has been proven successful in its original US market. Question 2: Do you agree with Wal-Mart’s entry strategy in Japan? What are some of the inherent risks? Do you think that a faster market entry would be more effective? In my opinion, Wal-Mart’s entry strategy in Japan (slow-and-steady) is quite appropriate with Japanese retail environment and economic situation. However, there are many challenges need to be overcome in this potential market: 1. Socio-cultural Differences: In Japan, consumers often equate bad quality with low price. Changing consumer perceptions is not easy or cheap. In addition, Japanese customers demand a quick entry and exit from the stores which makes cutting costs by eliminating staffs from the retail process unadvisable. 2. Fierce Competition: It is unavoidable that there are many strong domestic rivals in a highly potential retail market like Japan. 3. Distribution System: Traditionally, Japan’s multilayered distribution networks have notoriously made selling merchandise more expensive for retailers. Wal-Mart’s desire to remove middle man and wholesalers from this network is quite challenging. These above obstacles bring about unfavorable risks to Wal-Mart and it requires time to deliberate and make the right decision in grasping the cultural quirks. The bit-by-bit approach has proved its rightness in entering a wholly new market in case of Wal-Mart. Thereupon, a faster market entry wouldn’t be more effective but might be a path to another failure of Wal-Mart. Question 3: In your opinion, what is the single most important  thing Wal-Mart can do to ensure success in Japan? Explain. In our opinion, the single most important thing Wal-Mart can do to ensure success in Japan is to streamlining its supply chain, or to skip the middleman in other word, then it should be able to pass lower costs along to the custo mer. Therefore, Wal-Mart would have a huge advantage over its local competitors in its ability to price low. Moreover, the Japanese market appears to be ready for value chains. Wal-Mart is confident it can make significant inroads in Japan under its low-price model, but the challenge will lie in its ability to convince Japanese consumers that its everyday low prices don’t translate into poor product quality. Fortunately, Japanese customers are becoming more value conscious, there arises a huge opportunities for discount retailers to capitalize on changing cultural conditions. Entry strategy of Wal-mart in Japan: slow and steady. It had learned from past mistakes and knew that getting to market faster didn’t necessarily equate to being better. For example, in Germany, where retail regulations and swift price competition are both fierce, Wal-Mart reacted before it inventory systems were in place, and the result was substantial operating losses. Driving the strategy is the installation of Wal-Mart’s Retail Link operation, a JIT inventory replenishment system shared between retailer and supplier, effectively eliminating the wholesaler and speeding up payables and receivables collections. Wal-Mart believed Seiyu was the partner best suited for its entry strategy because by working through a local partner, Wal-Mart believed it could better wade through Japan’s long and costly network of suppliers, which has long frustrated many other foreign investor. Since only the biggest Japanese retailers have the leverage with manufactures, partnering with an existing market leader should prove invaluable when attempting to negotiate direct deals. Moreover, Wal-Mart avoids having to build stores and can take advantage of Seiyu’s well-recognized brand. Question 4: Do you think Wal-Mart is doing enough cross-cultural training with its Seiyu employees? What are the greatest challenges Wal-Mart faces in relating to its Japanese employees? In our opinion, in such a different market like Japan compare to the US’s, Wal-Mart is doing enough cross cultural training with its Seiyu employees, but will take time to make employees to adapt changes. First, to reinforce the importance of selling correctly, Wal-Mart has put store managers through weeklong training sessions and has  flown hundreds of Seiyu workers to company headquarter in Arkansas. This hopefully can be successful in training Wal-Mart Japan’s employees to learn global management and selling style which meet the world standard according to Seiyu’s CEO said. Nevertheless, according to the case, Wal-Mart arranged just a few cultural training classes to teach the employees to be more outspoken, upbeat and goal-oriented while encouraging employees continually praising co-workers. Apparently, Wal-Mart somehow is not applying a right strategy. Japan is a country where people highly appreciate humbleness. Therefore, appraising co-workers is considered as an inappropriate action which cannot be easily accepted by large number of employees. As a consequence, this might cause difficulties especially for trainee to adapt a new perception within a short term. The greatest challenges Wal-Mart is facing regardless of its Japanese employees should be the culture differences, they have to find out how to deal with the resistance to change of workers. The second problem is maintaining the budget for retraining staff, sending them to foreign environment to learn new management methods to increase sales of Japan Wal-Mart Stores, which may take long time. Question 5: How can Wal-Mart respond to some of the negative impressions of its employment practices in the United States so that these perspectives do not follow it as it expands internationally? With the problem of sex-discrimination lawsuit in 2001, Wal-Mart has fought to class action decision as recently as early 2007. However, its attempts have been unsuccessful. Besides, in order to counter the negative publicity of the discrimination lawsuit, Wal-Mart also opened a diversity office in November 2003, enhancing their claim that: â€Å"Wal-Mart is a wonderful place for women and minorities to work and isolated complaints do not change this fact† Despite the complaint of lowing workers’ standard of living that lead to the negative impact on Wal-Mart’s image, the company has little trouble keeping its shoppers with low prices or attracting workers with the promise of a career in a fast-growing company. Nevertheless, Wal-Mart offers a very promising promoting op portunity to each of its staff. At Wal-Mart, anyone, without a high school degree start as a cart pusher in the parking lot can end up being a store manager, district manager or a regional vice-president. Those reactions ensure a future for Wal-Mart as the biggest private retail employer in the world.