Media events as holidays of mass communication

The authors introduced media events as â€Å"the holidays of mass communication.† They introduced the topic to the readers by citing recent examples of what can be treated as media events. From a general overview of the nature of such events, the authors then move towards providing the readers with a view of what can be liked to media events. As such, they described media events as â€Å"television ceremonies† or â€Å"festive televisions†, thereby pointing out that media events resemble the main characteristics of being festive, being akin to a celebration, and much more like that of a very big event for the mass media. After providing the readers an overview of the description of media events through finding events that have features akin to such, the authors then set the grounds for the detailed description and analysis on the nature of media events. Such was done through the establishment of the nature of television genres. So as to provide the readers a clear delineation of the uniqueness of television from the other media tools, the authors introduced the concept of television genres. The authors pointed out that in the same way that films and print publications are classified, television shows also have their own genres. However, the ways by which the genres of the movies and print publications are classified, differ from the pattern that television genre classification follows. Television genres are not classified according to those features used in film genre classifications such as themes, plots, cinematography, setting, characterizations, and other elements present in the film.   However, as stated by Newcomb, the first person to attempt to classify television genre, â€Å"television as a medium imposes an element of familism on each of the genres which it has inherited from the other media of popular culture.† Despite such characteristic however, the classification process for television genres does not also follow the genre categorization followed by print publications such as the text, the angle of the story, and so on. As such, among the mentioned classifications of the television genre which the authors mentioned are the news and the soap operas. In the later part of their article however, the authors discuss the nature of media events in relation with its similarities and difference from news and the soap opera. The first difference of media event from other television, as cited by the authors was the fact that media events are not routine. They are not akin to the broadcast news shows where a specific pattern is followed as to when the television anchors will appear and report and which segments will come after another. In the case of media events, they comprise a wide range of events- it may be a wedding of a Royal prince, an impeachment trial of the President, the death of a prominent star, or any significant event that may demand utmost attention and interest from the public. Also, media events are delivered as spontaneous events were anything can happen. The authors also cited that media events demand and receive focused attention. They described media events as akin to an ultimate â€Å"life shocker or stopper†, where the media men will somehow dedicate their time and effort to a single event while the rest of the news- whatever relevant event that can be considered as such- will be taken as a secondary priority. As such, media events are also described as something which will then demand the attention of the public as well. Also, the authors pointed out that media events interrupt the routine and they intervene with the normal flow of broadcasting. They cited examples where the normal line of shows was altered so as to give way to the broadcasting of media events. Such act then emphasizes the importance of the media events over the other television genres. This characteristic of media events is then overemphasized when in some cases; regular broadcasting is ultimately suspended so as to cater to the media events. Another important feature of media events that the authors pointed out was the fact that such are delivered in a monopolistic manner most of the time. As such, one can be able to determine that something is a media event when its broadcasting invades all the television channels. Media events are also unique because, as the authors stated, they happen live and the events are transmitted as they occur. This presents a major difference from news and other television shows such as soap operas where the show is recorded. The authors also point out that media events call for outside reporting. By this, we mean that mass communication is delivered from a different venue- depended of the media event itself. As such it is delivered not from the usual studies where mass communication is much controlled and monitored. However, it contrast of its being unique, the authors also site a feature which makes it similar to the other genres- the fact that media events are often pre-planned. This means that the events are announced and advertised before it actually happens. Overall however, the authors note that the main differences of the media events are the fact that they are presented with reverence and ceremony. In this case, we can see that the authors failed to mention the relevance of such unique characteristics- what does these attributes mean, and what are its impact to the viewers and to the whole mass media industry as well. However, the authors made important notes to ponder as they stated why such television genre should attain academic attention. Among the many reasons they have stated are as follows: a. Media events attract large audiences. Since the media events are delivered in a way that is highly interest catching, the viewers cannot resist but be attached to such. However, there are some points when the fact that it has large audiences makes the event qualify as a media event. Regardless of this chicken-egg scenario however, media events should be studied because it provides impending effects on a large group of public viewers. b. Media events make us realize the potential of electronic media technology. As stated earlier, media events are delivered outside the studio, they are also not routine and as such, they serve as a challenge not only for the media personnel but for the mass media technology as well. Such moments test the efficiency and the limits of such. c. Media events make us realize that the media has the power to form its own social network. The ability to form a unique social network is seen as more and more people are inclined to be part of the media event. This social network does not only involve the mass media personnel and the actual attendees of the event, rather it involves all of those who get hooked to their televisions just to watch the media event. d. Media events interrupt our life patterns. By life patterns, we mean not only that of the usual television shows, but the routines in the lives of the viewers. Instead of going to social parties or watching movies, or playing golf, the viewers who get glued to watch media events does otherwise from their planned day to day activities. e. Media events show the art of journalism and television broadcasting. Such events give everyone the glimpse of journalism and broadcasting not just at work, but as challenged. These events how the mechanics of true journalism and demand the most of it as well. f. Media events give the people a view of the past and the future. By this, we mean that media events sometimes demand an elaborated check on the past so as to find historical links to the important event. Aside from that however, media events also allow us to assess the development of television, in accordance to its relevance to the life of the television viewing society. Overall, the authors introduced the nature of media events by linking it with other events that we are more familiar with. After the overview, a through description of media events is delivered as its similarities and differences to other television genres are explored. Towards the end, the authors then establish the importance of media events and the need to study such. References: Dayan, Daniel and Katz, Elihu. Media Events: The Live Broadcasting of History (Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1992) Media Event. The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. (Houghton Mifflin Company, 2000)

Cecil Rice Export

CECIL RICE EXPORT REPORT This report will focus on Cecil Rice Export and its aim is to develop more organized system which enhanced the productivity of each hour and for each three days. We discussed and calculated below the three questions. 1. In the Cecil Rice Export, to determine whether the process is in control or out of control we should use x-Charts and R-Charts. X-Charts are usually used when we know standard deviation of the sample. We calculate the upper and lower control limits based on that data.For this data, we assumed the standard deviation as 3 and we found the upper and lower limits for each day’s shifts. According to Monday Shift 1, the lower limit is 69. 23 hence the numbers that are below 69. 23, are becoming out of control. And the upper limit is 71. 91, so the numbers which are above 71. 91, become out of control due to assignable causes and not natural causes. In addition, Tuesday Shift 1, the lower limit is 68. 54, thus the numbers which are below 68. 5 4, are out of control. The upper limit is 71. 22 and the numbers that are above 71. 2, become out of control. Finally, those processes which we calculated as upper and lower limits should be under control. In R-Charts, the important part is the upper and lower control limits and the specific mean. We calculated the upper and lower control limits for each day of shifts according to n is equal to four. For instance, for Monday Shift 2, the upper control limit is 4879 pounds and the lower control limit is 4865 pounds. 2. We developed control charts for each shift three days. For Monday shifts from 00:00 to 08:00 the upper control limit is 71. 1 and the lower control limit is 69. 23. From 08:00 to 16:00, the upper control limit is 71. 30 and the lower control limit is 68. 25. And from 16:00 to 00:00 the upper limit is 71. 45 and the lower limit is 68. 77. According to our calculations, the best shift on Monday is from 08:00 to 16:00. In addition, for Tuesday shifts from 00:00 to 08:00 t he upper control limit is 71. 22 and the lower control limit is 68. 54. From 08:00 to 16:00, the upper control limit is 71. 24 and the lower control limit is 68. 55.From 16:00 to 00:00, the upper control limit is 71. 05 and 68. 37. The best shift in terms of productivity is from 16:00 to 00:00. Finally, for Wednesday the best shift is from 16:00 to 00:00. Because the customers expect the bags that are closest to the specific mean 70. For R- Charts, we assumed mean as 70 and found the upper and lower control limits for each days. For Monday shift, from 08:00 to 16:00, it seems more profitable when we considered with the other shifts on Monday. The upper and lower control limits are 4879 and 4865 pounds.Furthermore, for Tuesday, as same as Monday shift, from 08:00 to 16:00 is more suitable than other shifts for customers. We calculated the upper and lower control limits as 4942 and 4900 pounds. For the last shift, the best and more productive hours are from 16:00 to 00:00 and the uppe r and lower limits are found as 4977 and 4900 pounds. 3. Each shift in each day, the productivity hours change according to the personals and seniors. In order to increase output levels and shorten the lead times for customer, we mixed all shifts in each three days.By using the pooled chart where we calculated the upper and lower control limits for each days and each charts. Then, we took the average of UCLs and LCLs for each day for x-Charts. For instance, on Monday the average UCL is 71. 55 and LCL is 68. 87. Finally, we calculated the average of D3s and D4s for each shifts on each days. And we multiplied the D3s and D4s with the specific mean 70. Lastly, we found UCLs and LCLs for R- Charts for each day. For example, on Tuesday, UCL and LCL were calculated as 4975 and 4907 pounds. These numbers are our control limits.

Fdi in Automobile Sector in India Essay

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The study aims at providing the overall view of the Foreign Direct Investment into India, its classifications, trends and importance of FDI in pre and post reform era. Wherein, the post economic reform shows an increase in the growth of FDI.It emphasises on the importance of FDI in retail sector.country – wise FDI inflows into the country are carefully observed in order to arrive at appropriate conclusions in order to understand the trend of FDI inflows into Indian economy. Literature review involves the analysis of various articles and research papers which were done on the similar lines of study to get an insight of the FDI and its performance in various sectors and also to understand the research gap of the study. The articles and the research papers reviewed talks about the importance of FDI in retail sector. They also give a comparitive study of FDI in India with China which is helpful in making comparisons about the inflow of FDI from various countries indicating the financial stability of the country which is the main reason in attracting the foreign investors. In many articles, factors affecting the inflow of FDI in different countries for better understanding of the aspects which are preventing the growth of FDI. Research design gives a brief summary about the over all research carried out. It defines the problem and states the importance of FDI in India in various sectors referring to the country‟s economic growth.A brief description of research methodology talks about the type of data collected, its sources and various statistical tools used in analysis. Limitations are some of the factors affecting the study which are also discussed. Research design is then followed by the Analysis and interpretation of the data collected. Theoretical analysis of various determinants of FDI in India is made in order to understand the effects of determinants in the inflows of FDI in India. St Joseph‟s College Of Commerce A study on the foreign direct investment in India with reference to retail sector Trend analysis is used to forecast the FDI inflows from 2011 to 2016 with the data available from 2006 to 2010. The third objective being to study the recent trends in FDI in retail sector, various articles from newspaper and journal is been analyzed to understand the advantages and dis advantages of allowing FDI in multi brand retail sector. Findings mainly reveal the facts which are arrived at from the study it includes the trend analysis of retail FDI from 2006 to 2010, the forecasted retail FDI had a positive trend which shows that there will be a increase in FDI inflows in to India in coming years. Theoretical analysis of determinants of FDI help us to understand determinants of FDI in Indian context. In another theoretical study to learn the recent trends in FDI in India it was found that it had both positive as well as negative impact on the economy like unemployment, high prices monopoly of foreign retailers etc. St Joseph‟s College Of Commerce A study on the foreign direct investment in India with reference to retail sector 1.1 INTRODUCTION Foreign Direct Investment, or FDI, is a type of investment that involves the injection of foreign funds into an enterprise that operates in a different country of origin from the investor. Investors are granted management and voting rights if the level of ownership is greater than or equal to 10% of ordinary shares. Shares ownership amounting to less than the stated amount is termed portfolio investment and is not categorized as FDI. (Source: Economic watch) FDI does not include foreign investments in stock markets. Instead, FDI refers more specifically to the investment of foreign assets into domestic goods and services. Classifications of Foreign Direct Investment FDIs can be classified as; Inward FDI and Outward FDI, depending on the direction of flow of money. Inward FDI occurs when foreign capital is invested in local resources. The factors propelling the growth of inward FDI include tax breaks, low interest rates and grants. Outward FDI, also referred to as â€Å"direct investment abroad†, it means firms in the country expand their business to other countries in the form of green field investments, mergers or acquisition etc. The host country aspires to receive FDI inflows because of the potential benefits, that the FDI supplements the domestic savings of a nation. Other benefits include access to superior international technologies, exposure to better management and accounting practices, and improved corporate governance. On the other side, foreign investors are motivated by profits and access to natural resources available in the host country. Therefore, large and growing domestic markets are likely to receive more FDI. Countries with abundant natural resources such as mines, oil reserves and manpower attract the foreign investors to invest in that country. A study on the foreign direct investment in India with reference to retail sector 1.2 AN OVERALL VIEW OF FDI IN INDIA The history of FDI in India was located with the establishment of East India Company by the British in 1612. Initially the investment came in the form of loans to government, railway companies and agro based industries like cotton and jute, public utilities engaged in plantation of tea and coffee. During this period there were no efforts to provide economic and financial  infrastructure to the industries therefore the foreign investors had hardly any incentive in manufacturing in India other than creating a raw material base. After the First World War, India granted protection to the dawning industries, this profitability of these industries attracted more foreign capital. The inflow of British capital which wasUSD15 million in 1913-14, increased toUSD29 in 1921 andUSD36 million in 1922. In the middle of the two world wars, the investment flowed into a number of consumer industries like cigarettes, matches, rubber, tyres, paints, chemical industries, paper, cement, textile, sugar etc. During the Second World War government established new industries to replace imports as well as to support war efforts. It was during this period that the foreign investment had diversified into engineering industries, chemical industry and oil industry for defense purpose. By 1948 the foreign private investment in India amounted to Rs 2.5 billion. Of which 21 percent was in the manufacturing industries, 16 percent in plantation, 4percent in mining, 27 percent in trading and 14 percent in banking. India‟s foreign investment policy was first initiated in 1949. The guiding principles of the policy were: All undertakings Indian or foreign had to conform to the general requirements of the governments industrial policy. Foreign enterprises would be treated in par with Indian enterprises. Foreign enterprises would have freedom to remit the profits to home country, subject to foreign exchange considerations. If foreign company were compulsorily acquired, compensation would be paid on  a fair and equitable basis; and A study on the foreign direct investment in India with reference to retail sector As a rule, the major interest, ownership and effective control of an undertaking should be in hands of India. The above policy was to govern the entry of fresh foreign investments into India in future, but it was silent on regulation of existing foreign private investment in Indian industry. It was only in 1973 that legislative measures were taken to cope up with the problem posed by the existing foreign owned companies. This was done by amending the foreign exchange regulation act (FERA), in 1973 which regulated the entry and channelised the growth of existing foreign investment into the country. (Abraham, 1988) The government felt the need of FDI after independence not only to provide adequate capital but also to gain scientific, technical and industrial know how. The industrial policy of 1965 allowed MNCs to venture in India. However the country faced two main problems in the form of foreign exchange and financial resources mobilization during the second five year plan (1956 -61). Thus to overcome this problem adopted the policy of frequent equity participation to foreign enterprises and to accept equity capital in technical collaborations. The government also provided many incentives such as tax concessions, simplification of licensing procedure and de reserving some industries such as drugs, aluminum, heavy electricals, fertilizers etc. in order to improve FDI inflows into the country. This called forth investments from US, Japan, Germany and other countries  into India. This eventually led to significant outflow of foreign reserves in the form of dividends, profits etc, and the government had to adopt stringent foreign policy in 1970s to overcome this situation. During this period the government adopted a selective and highly restrictive foreign policy as far as foreign capital, type of FDI and ownerships of foreign companies was concerned. Government setup Foreign Investment Board and enacted Foreign Exchange Regulation Act in order to regulate flow of foreign capital and FDI A study on the foreign direct investment in India with reference to retail sector  flow to India. In 1980s the government had to make necessary changes in the foreign policy due to the Continuous rise in oil prices, low exports and deterioration in Balance of Payment position. The government encouraged FDI in MNCs thus resulting in partial liberalization of the Indian economy. It is during this period the government encourages FDI, allow MNCs to operate in India. Thus, results in partial liberalization of Indian economy. The government introduces reforms in the industrial sector, aimed at increasing competency, efficiency and growth in industry through a stable, pragmatic and non-discriminatory policy for FDI flow. In the early nineties, Indian economy faced severe Balance of payment crisis. Exports began to sink. There was a marked increase in petroleum prices because of the gulf war. The external debts and low foreign exchange reserves for were disabling the economic development of the country. The outflow of foreign currency which was deposited by the Indian NRI‟s gave a further jolt to Indian economy. The overall Balance of Payment reached at Rs.-4471 crores. Inflation reached at its highest level of 13%. Foreign reserves of the country stood at Rs.11416 crores. The continued political uncertainty in the country during this period adds further to worsen the situation. As a result, India‟s credit rating fell in the international  market for both short- term and long-term borrowing. All these developments put the economy at that time on the verge of default in respect of external payments liability. In this critical face of Indian economy the then finance Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh with the help of World Bank and IMF introduced the macro – economic stabilization and structural adjustment program. As a result of these reforms India open its door to FDI inflows and adopted a more liberal foreign policy in order to restore the confidence of foreign investors. Under this new foreign investment policy Government of India constituted FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) whose main function was to invite A study on the foreign direct investment in India with reference to retail sector and facilitate foreign investment through single window system from the Prime Minister‟s Office. The foreign equity cap was raised to 51 percent for the existing companies. Government had allowed the use of foreign brand names for domestically produced products which was restricted earlier. India also became the member of MIGA (Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency) for protection of foreign investments. Government lifted restrictions on the operations of MNCs by revising the FERA Act 1973. New sectors such as mining, banking, telecommunications, highway construction and management were open to foreign investors as well as to private sector.(Source: Sapna Hooda, 2011) 1.3 Trends in Foreign Direct Investment Inflow to India after economic reform  After the initiation of liberal foreign investment policy b y government of India in 1991, FDI inflow has shown an upward trend in stock sense but varied in size over the period of twenty years (1991-92 to 2010-11). FDI inflow in India increased fromUSD129 million in 1991-92 to 27024 million in  2005 in. The inflow of FDI to the country has witnessed fluctuations during the period under consideration. It increased fromUSD 129 million in 1991-92 toUSD3557 million in 1997-98, which declined toUSD2155 million in 1999-2000. It increased to a peak ofUSD6130 million in 2001-02 before declining in the subsequent years in 2002-03 and 2003-04. The inflow again increased to USD6051 million in 2004-05. There was tremendous growth till 2009-10 to USD37763 and a decline in 2010-11 to USD 27,024. The year wise FDI inflow to India along with Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is shown in table 1. In terms of CAGR, growth rate of FDI inflow to India during the period 1991-2011, growth rate of FDI inflow to India was negative for six years (1998-99, 1999-2000, 2002-03, 2003-04, 2009-10 and 2010-11) as shown in the table.

American History Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

American History - Assignment Example Lastly, they learned to mount heavy cannons on their ships, which was an advantage during naval battles. As a result of their expeditions, in the African coast, they found what they were looking for that gave them a bog advantage to their neighbouring countries – gold, ivory and slaves. What was the Treaty of Tordesillas? Treaty of Tordesillas is an adjustment of the lines of the two kingdoms – Spain and Portugal. Spain claimed most of the Western Hemisphere including the Philippines while Portugal claimed most of the Eastern Hemisphere including the African coast and Brazil. What was the French plan for colonizing North America? What did they hope to get by having colonies in North America? France planned colonizing North America for 2 things, expanding Catholicism and finding wealth. Though religion wars emerged during this exploration, they were able to expand the religion eventually. Joint-Stock Companies A joint-stock company is a form of business organization that resembled a modern corporation where individuals purchase shares to invest in a company. Though no Surname 2 matter how much a stockholder’s share is, only one vote can be allowed. The first permanent English colonies in the North America were established by joint-stock companies. The concept is said to have been originated in Italy and expanded northwards.

Consumer Behaviour - Report (3000 words) Lab Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Consumer Behaviour - (3000 words) - Lab Report Example will be followed by the meaning of brands and a few essential concepts relating to brands like brand awareness, perceived brand quality, brand association and brand loyalty. This will be followed with a discussion of the concept of brand personalities. These will form a basis for the second half of the paper. The second half of the paper has been based on three advertisements that have been chosen. The three charities that have been selected for discussion are a) Fred Hollows Organisation, b) Boys to men organisation and c) Melbourne Community foundation. The main reason for choice is due to the varying personality and the varying range of marketing efforts by each of these organisations. The not – for - profit – sector or the community sector, or charity sector is also referred to as the Philanthropic practice. This sector generally contains organizations which work with a purpose to help the society without the generation of profits or gain for any individual members or directors. The government is generally never referred to as a part of this sector, however, the government hospitals, universities and museums do fall into this category as well. The Australian markets have recorded over 70,000 such not – for – profit organizations and the organizations deal with a range of activities like environment conservation, charities to provide assistance to needy and disadvantaged, special schools, public hospitals, and many more. It is essential to note that organization that are altruistic entities and have been recognized and endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office alone are legal charities. These mainly deal with the care for people who are sick; disabled promote religion, provide educational scholarships, or even help after any disaster has struck. In simple terms they are the ones which work for the benefit of the community as a whole. â€Å"Philanthropy is a desire to improve the welfare of humanity through the giving of money, time, information, goods

Fences Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Fences - Essay Example Kittel when he was born to a German father and an African-American mother in 1945 and was raised in Pittsburgh mostly by his mother and his step-father. Wilson witnessed the areas where blacks were highly discriminated and undermined. He himself became the victim of racism when he was accused of plagiarism in school for writing a sophisticated essay and was thrown out of the institute. Fences portray the condition of blacks in the 1950’s. The play begins in 1957 between the Korean and Vietnam wars and ends in 1965. But the themes of the play directly hits the consciousness in a pre-civil-rights-movement and pre-Vietnam –war-era-psyche. In the play, Maxson is the representative of an amalgamation of black men’s history of the south and the present life of the north. Wilson’s plays take place in his home town of Pittsburgh and Fences is no exception. Wilson draws a clear picture of the America in 1950’s. He portrays the time through his play as a new world of opportunity when the blacks began to open up, leaving those like Tory, who were raised in the first half of the century, only to feel like aliens in their own land. The play Fences is divided into two acts, the Act I comprises of four scenes where as the Act II comprises of five scenes. The Play opens on Friday which is Bono and Tory’s pay day. Both the person goes to Tory’s house for their weekly ritual of drinking and chatting. Tory asked Mr. Rand, their boss about the discrimination done with the blacks and the reason for not allowing them to drive the garbage car and only engaging them to lift garbage. Act I also puts forward many other issues of the play like Bono thinking about Tory’s infidelity towards his wife and Cory (Tory and Rose’s son) recruited by a college football team. Tory moves back in time and start to narrate the story about his struggle in the July of 1943 with death. Lyons arrives at Tory’s house because he knows that it is Tory’s pay day. In the meantime, Rose

Coffee Shop Retailing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Coffee Shop Retailing - Essay Example The Starbuck coffee still leads its competitor, Costa in the market share. A survey conducted on the market performance of the two brands showed that Starbucks commanded a market share of 27% compared to Costa which commands 15 % of the market while the rest of the market is being shared between the small companies. In rating the market of the coffee with the substitute beverages, coffee in general comes third behind tea and Juice. 70% of the adults in UK takes coffee, 81% take juice while 83 % of the adult population takes tea (Kolk 2012). 2011 is a year where coffee experienced more innovations in its brands. The culture of taking coffee has been entrenched among the UK consumers and it is considered as the luxury which is affordable to all users. The quality of the product has been greatly improved by innovation through product development. The leading manufacturer of coffee is Nestle UK. The company’s product enjoys a market share of 42%. Basically the presence of instant coffee is the major reason behind success of the Nestle Company in the manufacturing sector. The coffee pods also have contributed to the growth of coffee consumption in general (Kolk 2012). Findings A coffee shop serves not only coffee but also tea, light lunch and some deserts. A local coffee shop can attract a large market by ensuring the frequent customers remains loyal. Commitment is required in order to accomplish a successful marketing. Usually most of the marketing and is done through the interaction with customers. Existing customers invite new customers; coffee shops provide a good social experience among the customers thus it is ideal for interaction. Some common coffee brands in the UK markets includes, Maxwell House coffee, Nescafe, Lavazza, Starbucks, Melitta, Kenco coffee among others. The market of these brands has depended mainly on the marketing of the brand. Retailers benefit from brands which have already established in the market. The main coffee brands in the U K market are Starbucks and the Costa brand. The famously world brand (Starbucks) carries the larger coffee market as compared to the Costa brand. The brand has several outlets throughout the country (Kolk 2012). A part from the coffee business, the coffee offers food together with the coffee, in order to increase income and also increase convenience to the customers. Though selling of food stuffs have been expanding among the coffee shop, the challenge is competitions from the established bakers and other competitors in selling the foodstuffs. Research shows that selling of foodstuffs within the coffee shops has been on the increase in the UK market and therefore the trend in coffee shop development has changed the marketing strategies shops rendering the services Quality of services A successful marketing would start with the kind of products and services being offered. Development of a variety of services would beneficial to the coffee shops than sticking to just offering coffee. Variety of services that are customer friendly benefits in expansion since advertisements is more efficient when done orally. Some the benefits that would ensure more customer base is ensuring the customers comfort. Ensuring that every table has a supply of electricity enables the customers to have a comfortable cup of coffee while using the laptops. Other services which are essential in increasing the customers include introducing live entertainment and uniqueness in provision of services.

Islamic religion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Islamic religion - Essay Example Moreover, Islam, like Christianity and Judaism is a monotheistic faith; meaning that Muslims believe in but one God – Allah. A secondary and equally important factor of being a Muslim is the belief in and attribution of Mohammed as the Prophet of Allah. Muslims believe that the Prophet Mohammed is the last messenger of God’s truth on earth. In this way, all of the other representations that have come before, Noah, Moses, and even Jesus, are subject to the ultimate revelations that Mohammed as revealed through the Angel Gabriel. To be a Muslim requires one to follow the laws and directives lain out by Mohammed’s followers within the Holy Qur’an; Islam’s most holy text. Moreover, feasts should be celebrated, purity should be retained, apostasy abhorred, and refusal of certain unclean meats. Besides the following of the letter of the law laid out in the Qur’an it is also required that an individual, if they are physically or financially able must make at least one pilgrimage to Mecca within their

Fast Food Centre in Bangalore Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Fast Food Centre in Bangalore - Research Paper Example This is then followed by a conclusion explaining why Wendy's International Inc., one of the largest fast food chains of the world must consider this location. M. G. Road is one of the busiest roads in the city of Bangalore and is lined on one side with retail stores, food outlets and restaurants. It runs from Trinity Circle at one end to Anil Kumble Circle at the other. It has many office buildings, shops and theatres. It is also a home to a large number of buildings and banks. Many Indian cities (including New Delhi and Mumbai) have an M. G. road, and in general there is no linkage between these various roads (except that in many cases, these happen to be the busiest part of the city). India, as the world sees it, is a developing country, showing great progress in its economy. Many MNCs of various industries have turned their attention towards India.The Indian middle class has grown so affluent that they can easily afford to eat out more often compared to a decade ago. In fact, according to a McKinsey report, the Indian food industry grew faster than the information technology industry over the last 10 years. Consumerism is big business in India. There will be 628 million middle-class Indians by 2015. And already, their net income has doubled over the last 10 years. Every multinational company now wants to sell in India. Some companies have failed and others succeeded. The ones that failed did so because they were not sensitive to the cultural factors that affect consumer behaviour in India. One of the key reasons for the increased consumption is the impressive growth of the middle class. At the start of 1999, the size of the middle class was unofficially estimated at 300 million people, larger than the entire population of the United States. And this figure is expected to grow to 445 million by 2006. A detailed survey undertaken by the economic think tank NCAER provides a quick view on how the proportion of the middle segments (UM or upper middle, M or middle and LM or lower middle) has grown over the years since the opening up of the economy. BANGALORE- AN OPPORTUNITY The convergence of professional lifestyles with the demand for fast, tasty food served in a pleasant environment make fast food ventures a leading market area. Bangaloreans are not strangers to the culture of eating out on a regular basis. But such facilities are a definite departure from the traditional fast food outlets. A whole host of trendy, readymade and fast food outlets have mushroomed around Bangalore's new malls and up-market shopping areas catering to time-constrained professionals and the well off middle classes. These new fast food options are burgeoning in Bangalore, because they fit in with changing middle class

Alzheimer's disease and the effects on family members Essay

Alzheimer's disease and the effects on family members - Essay Example There is not a specific cause, but has several risk factors such as age, family history and inflammation in the brain. Scientists are investigating if environment, education and diet are risk factors for the disease. Alzheimer's disease is named after the German physician, Alois Alzheimer, who discovered the changes in a 51 year old woman's brain tissue that had passed away from a strange mental illness. Most AD patients live 8 to 10 years after being diagnosed, but some can live as many as 20 years (NIA). Women usually develop Alzheimer's more than men because women live longer. The family role of care giving is becoming more prominent on account that long-term facilities are so costly and nursing homes have negative stigmas. The cost of family care giving averages about $77,447 and the cost for long-term care runs about $5,000.00 a month. The impact of Alzheimer's disease takes a toll on family members because family caregiver's health begins to decline. Research shows that family members who provide care to individuals with chronic or disabling conditions are themselves at risk. Emotional, mental, and physical health problems arise.

System engineering Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

System engineering - Coursework Example Construction took fewer years than the normal four years and thus, if the construction were done in the normal time it should better results would be obtained. Following the construction procedures is a key to having the desired outcomes and therefore, the system engineers should have followed the right construction procedures especially when they were constructing the engine. The costs of constructing the ship would have reduced if there was following of the correct procedures. The system engineers are limited by the orders that they receive from the navy officers. The instructions are clear that the ship is required within a short span of time (Taubman, 2008). The executives fear that if the construction slows down it will disadvantage them from winning the contract and therefore the system engineers must hurry up. The system engineers do not have an option but to follow the instructions of hurrying the construction

Introduction Building Service Essay Example for Free

Introduction Building Service Essay Building service is one of the important parts for a building because it will make a building to function well. Building service is responsible for the design, installation, and operation and monitoring of the mechanical, electrical and public health systems required for the safe, comfortable and environmentally friendly operation of modern buildings. Modern technology of building service can make a building to become more safety or more comfortable. While building developers are increasingly being asked to analyze and improve building security, developing technologies assisting engineers in the pursuit of safe working environments couldnt have better timing. Hence, innovation of new building service is important so that the level of safety and comfortable can be increases. Building services influence the architecture of a building and play a significant role on the sustainability and energy demand of a building. Within building services engineering, new roles are emerging, for example in the areas of renewable energy, sustainability, low carbon technologies and energy management. With buildings accounting for around 50% of all carbon emissions, building services engineers play a significant role in combating climate change. As such, a typical building services engineer has a wide-ranging career path. Communication lines, telephones and IT networks (ICT) also make an important role in building service, and the modern technology for the ICT is fiber optics that makes use of fiber optics than normal internet cable, hence this can hugely increases the speed of internet because fibers are used instead of metal wires because signals travel along them with less loss and are also immune to electromagnetic interference. Fibers are also used for illumination, and are wrapped in bundles so they can be used to carry images, thus allowing viewing in tight spaces. Due to the environment change in society, the comfort level and safety in nowadays on a building is still not enough to completely cover up. This assignment is talk about the modern technology of building service, that important of innovation of technology of building service can be made our living style in a building to be easier.

The Evolution Of Feminism Sociology Essay

The Evolution Of Feminism Sociology Essay Adaptation is the survival mechanism of civilizations in the course of evolution. It is the emergence of a trait that will enhance species viability in an existing or new environment. Conversely, byproduct is the unintentional consequence of adaptation. Humans due to their great capacity for generalized learning have consequently achieved a distinct capability of constructing and imparting culture (Parsons, 1964). According to Biologist Alfred Emerson (1956) within the realm of adaptation the gene has now been replaced by the symbol. Thus it is not just the genetic constitution of human beings that affects the process of evolution but also their cultural practice. Societies subsist within complex social environments (e.g. raw materials, reserves and constraints and limitations) and they adapt to such intricacies. It is thus inevitable that societies reorganize and reform themselves over time in the face of social change. The study of society and social change has taught us that the s ocial order of civilizations changes over time and reorganizes itself to appear as something different from its ancestral form. As a society, we have organized our everyday lives around former and existing situations. We are accustomed to standard and regular conditions and may be sensitive to extremes that fall outside of this array. The stages of evolution as discussed by Morgan (1877) and Tylor (1871, 1881) are as such: savagery, barbarianism and civilization. According to them every society and culture has or will go through these stages of evolution in this order. French philosopher  Auguste Comte (1876)  advanced the law  of three stages. According to this human societies progress from a theological stage, which is governed by religion, through a metaphysical stage, in which theoretical speculative assessment is most important, and onward toward a positivist stage, in which empirically based systematic scientific ideas are most dominant. It has been argued that society h as evolved by way of small steps that have led to increased complexity of society. Herbert Spencer (1887), a British sociologist argued that societies themselves are life forms. He attempted to extent Darwins tenet of the survival of the fittest to human civilizations and said that society has been steadily moving ahead towards an enhanced state. He claimed that western societies had persisted and evolved because they were better at becoming accustomed to the challenges of life. Emile Durkheim (1933) singled out the basis of societal evolution as a societys increasing development of more complex social interactions. Durkheim viewed societies as changing in the direction of immense demarcation, integration and oppression under the demands of increasing moral density. Durkheim supported that societies have evolved from a comparatively self-sufficient state with little incorporation, where intimidation and domination is required on a social structure, with a kind of cohesion called mec hanical solidarity to a more distinguished social structure with maximum division of labor where specialization and collaboration is extensive and interdependence and assimilation give rise to an organic solidarity. Julian Stewart (1955) constructed the multi-linear theory of evolution where he stated that societies change due to their adaptation to changing environments. A more recent view by Bloomfield (1993) suggests that society is in a state of equilibrium and when change takes place a transition results in a consequent stable but more complex society. The human race has shown a tremendous potential for adjustment and change. We have seen many forms of social change over the years. Human civilization has been witness to some foremost structures of transformations such as Industrialization, Globalization, World War II, Civil Rights Movement in United States, Indian Independence Movement, Gay Liberation Movement and Womens Rights Movement among many more. In this paper we shall r eflect briefly upon the evolutionary perspective of the Womens Rights Movement and put forward certain questions as is the Movement a form of adaptation of the society? Or it is the byproduct of adaptation? Nothing can be more absurd than the practice that prevails in our country of men and women not following the same pursuits with all their strengths and with one mind, for thus, the state instead of being whole is reduced to half. (Plato, 428-347 B.C.; Saxonhouse, 1976). In The Republic Plato proposes that an ideal state is one in which women are given the same opportunities as men in areas such as education and participation in activities of the state (Saxonhouse, 1976). He is considered to be the first feminist although his concern is not about the rights of women but about their usefulness (Craik, 1990). Feminism aims towards social change by focusing our attention upon the issues of women and how we can go about empowering women and improving their quality of life. Feminism can be seen to have a transformational function to society. Competing for resources is the basis for evolutionary theory. This notion that has enabled our species to survive has an important implication in femi nist theory. The feminist movement has consequently emerged in a patriarchal society as an amendment in the course of evolution. In Evelyn Reeds book Womens Evolution: from Matriarchal Clan to Patriarchal Families (1975) she mentions that social structures were initially based on mother-child relationship and were considered matrilineal clans long before the patriarchal family tradition began. Men were not part of the child birth process and were prohibited from eating womens food. She also notes that in most areas the essentially reliable sources of food were that of the gatherers (vegetables) and not hunters (animals). It was later that these matrilineal clans transformed into a patriarchal society. In the broadest sense, evolution is merely change, and so is all-pervasive; galaxies, languages, and political systems all evolve (Futuyma, 1986). Accordingly evolution can be presumed as a process of the development of a characteristic of society from its primitive state to its presen t or specialized state. Change comes about through the competition of resources and the circulation of favorable innovations in thought and action. Human nature is habituated by communication, which establishes what resources are available (Cooley, 1897). Arnold Toynbee (1987) postulated that civilizations transform from a stationary state to an active one. A more recent perspective on change was hypothesized by Thomas Kuhn (1996) where he talks of the concept of a paradigm. A paradigm is a set of values and beliefs about reality that allows a people to form theories about reality and solve problems. The central feature of a paradigm is its own etiquettes and principles. A paradigm remains popular and influential as long as it justifies most observable phenomenon and resolves most problems but it yields as new paradigms rise and begin to challenge it. Thus, long phases of normal science are pursued by short periods of revolutions that entail essential changes in prime theoretical pr esumptions. A good example here would be the androcentric assumptions that hard as well as social sciences tend to have embedded in their core and the recent shift towards a feminist paradigm where such assumptions are being questioned and alternate ideologies are being presented. This general idea is reinforced by Fritjof Capra (1997), who maintains that a single person can have a worldview, but a paradigm is shared by a community. The paradigm impression demonstrates the scope of social change as a turning point on the state of mind of individuals. History confirms that changes in society occur not because of great wars or authoritarian governments but because a significant amount of people started to change their mind, even if only a little (Harman, 1998). Contrary to the impression that innovative ideas are the efforts of a handful of elites like scientists, philosophers, artists and religious leaders, sometimes new ways of perceiving life in a significantly meaningful way progr esses from the great mass of the population (Yankelovich, 1982). Another model of social change helps to explain the transformation of feminist societies was presented by Anthony Wallace in 1970 in his book  Culture and Personality. Change is seen to present itself when intense individual strain leads to a shift away from cultural harmony. Initial response of society as well as the individual is that it is a distinct personal problem, but as these individual problems begin to come together in the form of a group, they result in unstable social foundations and society in turn has to recognize it as a problem on a larger scale. Once this happens it is essential for society to endure a process of recovery and transformation to return to the state of balance. This process of renewal depends upon characteristics such as formulation of a code, communication, organization, adaptation, cultural transformation and routinization. We attempt to integrate the evolution of feminism into this model. Feminism has formulated a code in the sense that it has a go al society in mind. It is one that contrasts the patriarchal society and insists upon a tradition of equality among sexes and envisions a liberated future for women. Communication in the feminist tradition has been one of prime significance. Consciousness raising groups were established by New York Radical Women and Womens Liberation groups. These meetings enabled women to share their stories and shed light on how their personal problems were in fact more common than recognized (Sarachild, 1973). Womens organizations exist in most countries that have been set up to address the issues of women and work towards globalized incorporation of solutions. The evolution of feminism has required the inclusion of many new viewpoints and the adaption of older ones. For example the radical feminist notion that women are superior to men has now been substituted for a more holistic idea where women and men are considered as equal and no one sex is better than the other. The Womens suffragettes hav e been able to attain womens voting in most parts of the world and this has led to a cultural transformation to the perception of women and their basic rights and privileges. The war on patriarchy is still ongoing but the movement has won many battles amongst. The vision of an egalitarian state is still very much alive. Routinization for many element of the movement are yet to happen as goal future is far from within our grasp. History illustrates that women have suffered many dreadful fates at the hands of persons, in the form of rape, female infanticide, sati ritual, honor killing, bride burning, female genital mutilation, sex slaves, etc. Data shows that between sixty to more than one hundred million women and girls are considered missing from numerous populations and are likely to have survived if gender discriminatory practices like sex-selective abortions, infanticide and inadequate care based on gender were absent (Seager, 2003; Sen, 1990; Klasen and Wink, 2002). Studies show that one in every five women have been forced to have sex, beaten or otherwise abused in their lifetimes and the perpetrator is usually a member of the family or an otherwise known person (Heise, Ellsberg, Gottemoeller, 1999) and about 69% of female homicide victims are killed by their male partners (Krug, et. al., WHO, 2002). Available data implies that in some countries nearly one in four women confirm sexual violence by an in timate partner and equal to one-third of adolescent girls report that they were forced into sexual acts for the first time (Ellsberg, et al., 2000; Mooney, 1993; Hakimi, et al., 2001; Matasha, et al., 1998; Buga, et. al., 1996). Sexual cruelty is more evident in places where attitudes of male sexual rights and entitlement are intense, where gender roles are inflexible, and in countries where there is an occurrence of other types of violence (Bennett, Manderson, Astbury, 2000; Gartner, 1990; Smutt, Miranda, 1998) In the 1994 genocide in Rwanda it was reported that between 250,000 and 500,000 women, or about 20% of women, were raped (De Brouwer, 2005). In 1992, during the five months of conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina, about 20,000 50,000 women were raped (Ashford, Huet-Vaughn, 1997). In India, deaths attributable to dowry are estimated to be 15,000 per year and typically they are kitchen fires made to like an accident (Jethmalani, 1995). Close to half of the 40 million people liv ing with HIV/AIDS are women. Social elements that lead to female exposure to HIV-1 include poverty, presence of gender inequality, cultural and sexual customs, violence and lack of education (Quinn, Overbaugh, 2005). Between twenty to seventy percent of women opened up about their abuse for the first time when they were interviewed for a survey by WHO and have not old anyone before that (WHO, Geneva, 2002). Recent studies have shown that there is no significant rise in the reported rape cases since 1990 (Wolitzky-Taylor, et. al., 2011). Keeping in mind these statistics it is no surprise that the feminist movement has emerged as a medium of social action against the oppression of women. Such atrocities against women are not a recent problem. What is remarkable is that such matters are finally receiving international attention due to the political power that women have acquired that we are now able to place the issue of accountability for gender-based cruelty on the international agen da. Women are taking advantage of opportunities, allocating resources, reconstructing social realities, envisioning a better, holistic and an overall more agreeable future and energizing a new generation of supporters (both female and male). Dissatisfaction among women is a reflection of evolutionary changes within the movement that aims for an integrated society. As is with all social movements, the womens rights movement too has gone through many changes and reorganizations in its evolution due to climate changes, internal and external conflicts, changes in social values and philosophical progress. The records of the history of feminism are mentioned briefly and represented as an overall picture of the struggle. Many attempts were made to highlight the inequalities between the genders such as the work of 15th century writer Christine De Pizan, who was the first woman to write about the relationship of the sexes (Brown-Grant, 1999), 17th century writer, Margaret Cavendish, 18th century writer, Mary Wollstonecraft, who is often said to be the first feminist philosopher and the works of Jane Austen, that focused on the restricted lives of women of the former part of the century (McCarthy, 1994). Although efforts were made by women such as Caroline Norton, who helped in changing the situation of married women and child custody in England ((Yalom , 2002; Perkins, 1989) and Florence Nightingale, whose belief was that women had all the aptitude of men but they had none of the opportunities (Bostridge, 2008), 1848 was the year that marked the beginning of an organized Womens Rights Movement. The first wave of feminism was between the 19th to the early 20th century. Here attention was given to issues such as womens education, better working standards, right to vote and running for office. Womens suffrage was extremely significant to the womens rights movement as it eliminated the overtone of them as being second-class citizens (Cott, 1989). What came after is commonly known as second wave feminism and lasted for the duration of 1960s to 1980s. During this time issues such as gender inequalities and discriminations were brought into awareness (Freedman, 2003). The third wave of feminism commenced in the 1990s and emerged to resolve the criticism that second wave feminism received. It dealt with issues of queer politics, reproduct ive rights, inclusion of race related subjectivities of minority communities (Henry, 2004). It also addressed concerns for a global feminism where matters such as First World vs. Third World feminism, the intersectionality of gender repression and inter-subjugation based on gender, race, sexual preferences (homosexuality), class, nationality, etc., defining feminism, birth and population control, identifying the central aspects of feminism against the political aspects, the gap between researchers and the grass roots, female genital mutilation and the degree and extent of political concerns affecting women have received attention. Womens Rights movement, as all social movements, evolved and adapted (and still is) to societal changes.

Impact of Workplace Environment on Employee Productivity

Impact of Workplace Environment on Employee Productivity Introduction Organizational survival in highly turbulent environment has become the major concern of organizations today. Globalization and increased use of technology has brought tremendous change and created new demands for business world. The strategic intention of organizations today is to achieve innovation at lightning speed and want people to work better, smarter and faster. The war for talent is now more competitive than ever before. Realizing the current challenges of business environment and to make survival possible, organizations have started paying more emphasis on managing the performance of their employees, fulfilling their comfort needs by providing them an effective workplace environment that also helping them to attract and retain the talent. According to Sundstrom, (1994) (as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), majority of people spend 50% of their lives within indoor environments, which greatly influence their mental status, actions, abilities and performance. (Carnevale 1992, Clements-Croome 1997) (as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), highlighted that better outcomes and increased productivity can achieved through better workplace environment. This study is intended to analyze the impact of workplace environment on employees productivity. As it has been revealed through literature that workplace environment influence occupants productivity, therefore, same assumption would be tested for different organizations of manufacturing and services sectors of Pakistan. Background Hughes, (2007) (as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), conducted a survey comprising of 2000 employees belongs to different organizations and industries and designated at multiple levels. The findings of the study reported that nine out of ten believed that a workspace quality affects the attitude of employees and increases their productivity. Research conducted by BOSTI (Buffalo Organization for Social and Technological Innovation) indicates that workplace design has a direct link to employee behavior and is important in achieving strategic business objectives. Brill (1992) (as cited in Amir and Sahibzada) conducted a survey and the findings suggested that improvement in physical design of office building may result in 5% to 10% increases in productivity. Contextual Framework According to Hameed and Amjad, (2009), better workplace produces better results. Research conducted by ASID (American Societies of Interior Designers) on what employees values most in the workplace, comprising of 382 respondents. Comfort issues got the highest rating i-e 41% which is concerned with the comfort of the workplace, ranging from the physical comfort to the atmosphere or feel of the environment. Hammed and Amjad (2009), highlighted that increased personal control and comfort needs of employees triggered the concern among organizations to provide them with a workplace environment, which not only fulfills the employees needs but also helps to enhance their productivity. Problem Identification/Statement As discussed by Hameed and Amjad, (2009), in Pakistan, the workplace environment, its significance and its related issues are significantly ignored. They further reported that there has been no or very less attention paid to the workplace environment and moreover, employers and employees are not aware of the influence and hidden dynamics of workplace environment. Such circumstances are affecting the employees productivity and hence in the form of delay in work completion, frustration, increase in absenteeism effect on personal growth etc. Therefore, purpose of this research is to identify and study the elements of the workplace environment which can affect the productivity of employees in the manufacturing and services sector companies of Pakistan. The primary objective of this research is to investigate the effects of workplace environment on its occupants perceived productivity. 1.3 Research Questions The research questions of the study are as follows: 1. Is there any relationship between the components of workplace environment and employees productivity? 2. Which component of workplace environment? Behavioral or physical has the greater impact on employees productivity. 3. Which elements of the two components of the workplace environment have the significant affect on productivity of employees? 4. Which of the sector of Pakistan? Manufacturing or Services have significant influence of workplace environment on employees productivity. 1.4 Scope The orbit of the study is limited to the manufacturing and services sectors companies of Pakistan. Despite of the scope, this study would help employers of all nature in managing their workforce performance through revealing significant dynamics and influence of workplace environment. 1.5 Delimitation of Research The study is delimited to the two major sectors of Pakistan that are manufacturing and services sectors. It would not cover all the companies of manufacturing and services sector of Pakistan. Moreover, the respondents in this study are limited to only Karachi. 1.6 Definition of Key Words Environmental Psychology: Environmental psychology studies the interactions and relations between people and their environments. (Oskamp Schultz, 1998, p. 206) (as cited in Neill 2008) Workplace: According to Peterson Beard (2004) (as cited in Amir and Shahibzada, n.d) , workplace can be defined as an area within an organization that can be arranged to achieve particular goal. Productivity: In this the perceived productivity would be measured in formal workplace setting, and defined by (Clements-Croome and Kaluarachchi 2000) as cited in Hameed and Amjad2009) that perceived performance measure as an indicator used to assess individuals aggregated perceptions, attitudes or assessments toward an organizations product or service. CHAPTER-2 Literature Review 2.1 Environmental Psychology Environmental Psychology is a new area in the field of psychology. (Spener, 2007). The origin of this field is unknown, however, some evidence have been found through the research studies conducted by different researchers during the years of 1970s and 1980s.(Pol, 2006). The term environmental psychology was first coined by Hellpach in his book Geopsyche as stated in the studies of Kaminsiki (1976), Graumann (1976) and Kuse Graumann (1987) (as cited in Pol, 2006). Environmental Psychology as defined by Hellpach (as cited in Pol, 2006) is an interdisciplinary field that examines the relationship between human and their surroundings. Hellpach (as cited in Pol, 2006) broadly explained the term environment by dividing it into the following categories: Natural or geopsychological factor environment Community or psychosocial factor environment The built-world or technopsycology After the world-war-II, there was an immense need of development required at every corner of the world from all perspectives especially in the field of attitude change, small-group processes, and intergroup conflict. Therefore, many psychologist felt the need and they started exploring and applying social psychological theories, so that people and their lives could be brought in harmony (Pol, 2006). Hellpach was an outstanding psychologist (as cited in Pol, 2006), he believes that environment influence human mind in two ways influence through meaning of impression (immediate experience) and influence causing psychological changes in the body, which in turn, generate experiences. Environmental Psychology has been evolving since many years and realizing its and significance in lives of individual, massive researches have been generated. In 1987 two huge volumes of Handbook of Environmental Psychology was published. Journal of Environmental psychology was started in1981 and its receiving and publishing the studies. Realizing its benefits of the field another journal has been introduced i-e the journal of Architectural design and research (Spencer, 2007). American Psychological Association (APA) has an established division for this area, known as Population and Environment and solely devoted to the aim i-e to improve interactions between human behavior, environment and population. There are many other institutes that have a separate devoted section for environmental psychology examples include Canadian Psychological Association, Environmental Psychology in UK (EPUK), Environmental Design Research Association (EDRA). Other organizations include International Asso ciation of People Environment Studies (IASP) which also serving the similar purpose i-e to improve the physical environment and human well being and International Association of Applied Psychology has also division IV called Environment (Spencer, 2007). Vischer, (2008) further contributed in the field and explained that how the workplace is designed and occupied does not only influence on how people feel but also it affects their work performance, their commitment to their employer and the creation of new knowledge (human capital in the organization. Visher, (2008), also highlighted that these are the foundation stone of the domain, known as environmental psychology. Considering the potential of this emerging new area of study, many researchers have applied and analyzed the concept of environmental psychology by studying the relationship and influence of workplace or office environment on occupants productivity and performance. As stated by Peterson and Beard, (2004) (as cited in Amir and Shahibzada, n.d) , one possible way through which organizations can achieve competitive advantage is by introducing innovative smart strategies that can improve and enhance human performance and can be boost or controlled by the situational factors that into the organizations workspace. 2.2 Workplace Environment According to Roelofsen, (2002) (as cited in Amir and Shahibzada, n.d) working environment is one of the essential human requirements that enable people to perform their work effectively under defined conditions. As explained by Gan Haynes (n.d), today organizations are operating in highly turbulent environment and the global workforce is now mobile than ever before that indicates that organizations are not competing for talent nationally but also at international level. Such demands arises the need and compel organizations to compete and attract and retain the best human capital. Therefore, Gay Haynes, (n.d) emphasized that organizations must pay attention to occupiers preferences and also identified that by adopting workplace design strategy organizations can survive in the highly competitive environment. Several studies have attempted to explain work environment in different areas, some of the examples are employee turnover (Martin 1979), job satisfaction (Iaffaldano Muchinsky, 1985), employee turnover, job involvement and organizational commitment (Sjà ¶berg Sverke 2000) (as cited in Sohaib, Noor, Trimzi Bashir, 2009). Zeytinoglu Denton, (2005) (as cited in Sohaib, Noor, Trimzi Bashir, 2009) highlighted the importance of work environment and stated that it is one of the factors that affect employees decision to stay with the organization. Ramlall, (2003) (as cited in Sohaib, Noor, Trimzi Bashir, 2009) also emphasizes on the importance of work environment and discussed that it is very essential to identify and understands the emerging needs of individuals to keep them committed and provide the work environment as necessitate and demanded. Milory, (2004) (as cited in Sohaib, Noor, Trimzi Bashir, 2009) investigated that people strive to and feel pleasure in working for those or ganizations that provide positive work environment. Earle, (2003) also discussed the idea that work environment is an effective tool to attract and retain employees. He further stated in his study about an independent research conducted on factors influencing employees decision to accept or reject a job. This study was commissioned by American Society for Interiors Designer (ASID). 663 adults were given carte blanche to list down those influencing factors. The results revealed that 62 percent of respondents cited Compensation as the number one factor, while benefits and workplace acquired the second position being cited by 22% and 21% respectively. Physical workplace also stood at second position, when the factors of job satisfaction analyzed and explored. It was further observed that employees who were happy with their physical workplaces were 31% more likely to be satisfied with their jobs than those who were not. When employees were specifically asked whether a physical workplace would affect their decision to join a position 41% s aid that it would while, when the job seekers were asked whether a physical workplace would affect their decision to leave an organization, 51% said it would. Visher, (2008), emphasized that it would be helpful for employers and decision makers to study and apply research evidence to consider environmental design as an investment in the workforce. A new concept of ba has been introduced, which is now a days the focus area of study for many researchers. The term ba indicates an environment that supports and encourage knowledge creation, not only through the design of space but also through the structure and operations of the social and cultural environment (Visher, 2008). Nenonen, (2004) (as cited in Visher, 2008), highlighted the importance of emerging concept of ba and stated that it provides a new insight for analyzing how features of organization add value to an organizations human capital. There has been huge amount of scientific research conducted by Roelofsen (2002) (as cited in Amir and Shahibzada, n.d), the findings indicated that improving working environment results in decrease in the number of complaints and absenteeism and increase in productivity. Govindarajulu (2004) (as cited in Amir and Shahibzada, n.d), also highlighted that in twenty-first century, businesses are moving towards more strategic approach of environmental management to enhance their productivity through improving and managing performance level of employees. 2.3 Productivity Rollos, (1997) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), stated that when people produce something with least effort, this is known as productivity. Sutermiester, (1976) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009) defined productivity as output per employee hour, quality considered. According to Dorgan, (1994) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), productivity is the increased functional and organizational performance, including quality. Hameed and Amjad, (2009) further explained that productivity is the ratio how well an organization converts input resources into goods and services. They also discussed that productivity measure carries different meaning at factory settings and at workplace setting. The performance of employees in factory can be measured by the number of units produced per employee per hour. While in formal workplace setting performance increased is considered when there is less absenteeism fewer employee leaving and less breaks. Therefore, such productivity is measured through personnels subjective assessment rather than quantitative operational information and this kind of productivity measured is known as subjective productivity measure and as defined by Wang and Giankis (1999) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), subjective performance measure as an indicator used to assess individuals aggregated perceptions, attitudes or assessments toward an organizations product or service. (Clements-Croome and Kaluarachchi 2000)( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009),subjective productivity data is usually collected using survey questionnaires, it can also be descriptive or qualitative collected by interviews. Leaman and Bordass,(2000) (as cited in Haynes 2008) also support the idea of perceived productivity to measure office occupants productivity. Hence this research would explore the influence of workplace environment prevailing in services and manufacturing sector and therefore this study would also be measuring the subjective productivity. 2.4 Workplace and Productivity (Uzee, 1999; Leaman and Bordass, 1993; Williams et al. 1985) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009) observed that by realizing the importance of workplace environment, many organizations have been applying new techniques to construct office building in a way that can attract more employees and leads to increase in productivity. They also discussed that now a days many researchers and authors have been emphasizing that the physical layout along with the effective and efficient management processes are playing an important role in enhancing employees productivity and organizational performance. According to Gensler, (2006) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), in March 2006, an independent research firm conducted a research on US workplace environment. The survy was conducted by using a sample size of 2013 and the research was related to workplace designs, workplace satisfaction and productivity. 89 % of the respondents rated design, from important to very important and about 90 % of senior officials expressed that effective workplace design is important for the increase in employees productivity. According to the rough estimate provided by executives also showed that 22% increase can be achieved in the organizations performance if their workplaces are well designed. Therefore, the findings of the survey suggested that businesses can enhance their productivity by improving and managing their workplace. Gensler, (2006) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), further stated that despite the potential of workplace environment many organizations still not pay the required attention. The findings also highlighted the fact that 40% of the employees believe that their companies want to keep their costs low that is why their workplaces have bad designs and 46% of employees think that the priority list of their company does not have workplace design on top. When data was summarized, almost one out of every five employees rated their workplace environment from, fair to poor. 90% admitted that their attitude about work is adversely affected by the quality of their workplace environment while, 89% employees blamed their working environment for their job dissatisfaction. 2.5 Relationship between Workplace Design and Productivity Roethlisberger Dickson, (1939) (as cited in Haynes, n.d) pointed out that the researches investigating the affects of working environment on occupants productivity are too old that their evidences have been found in studies conducted during 1903s. According to Brill et al. (1984) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009), ranked factors, which affect productivity according to their importance. The sequenced of factors are based on the significance: furniture, noise, flexibility, comfort, communication, lighting, temperature and the air quality. There is also some evidence found through Springer Inc (1986) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009),that an insurance company in a study revealed the best ergonomic furniture improved performance by 10% to 15%. Leaman, (1995) ( as cited in Hameed and Amjad 2009) conducted a survey, the investigation is based on the relationship between the indoor environment, dissatisfied employees and their productivity. The findings suggested that productivity of the work is affected, reason being the environmental factors that people were unhappy with temperature, air quality, light and noise levels in the office. 2.6 Theoretical Framework Development According to Haynes, (n.d), extensive amount of literature is available on affects of workplace environment on occupants productivity (Osealan 1999, Leaman and Bordass 2000, Clements Croome 2000) (as cited in Haynes n.d) also support this evidence, but then there is no universally accepted theoretical frame have not been developed yet through which the influence of workplace environment on employees productivity could be observed and measured. Haynes, (n.d) explained that previous researches have been conducted by establishing a link between physical component of workplace environment and employees productivity. Some of the literature also acknowledged influence of social dimension of workplace place environment i-e the behavioral component, also impact the occupants productivity but there is little empirical research available to support the idea. Olson, (2002) (as cited in Haynes 2008) also stated the researches that attempts to address are at the initial theoretical and developmental stage. Haynes, (2008), has collected, reviewed and researched occupants productivity form physical component as well as from behavioral component and proposed a theoretical model that is based on the idea that a workplace environment is consists of both the components (physical and behavioral) and also highlighted the point that behavioral component has greater impact on employees productivity as compared to the physical component. Haynes, (2008) described physical environment and behavioral environment as the physical environment consists of components of that relate to the office occupiers ability to physically connect with their office environment. While, behavioral environment consist of components that relate to how well the office occupiers connect with each other and the impact the office environment can have on the behavior of individuals. Haynes, (2008) adopted the research approach to developed a theoretical model that covers both the dimensions of workplace environment as both have an impact on employees productivity. For this purpose Haynes collected two data sets. The à ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ rst dataset was obtained from a research project for a local authority research forum. The data were collected using a paper-based questionnaire survey. In total, ten local authorities took part in the research project, with responses from 26 ofà ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ces. The actual number of respondents was 996 from a population of 4,338 ofà ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ce occupants. The second data set was obtained from the private sector, through a piece of contract research. This additional dataset was collected to with an aim to test the à ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ndings of the à ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ rst dataset. The data set was collected from one company consisting of four main buildings, which formed the companys head ofà ¯Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ce. The total number of head office staff was 800. The data were collected using an online questionnaire with a response rate of 53 per cent, i.e. 422 respondents. The same question was asked based on the 27 variables under investigation. Source : Haynes, (n.d) The above table is showing 27 variables used for research purpose (Haynes n.d). The statistical technique of factor analysis is used that allow 27 evaluative variables to be reduced to four distinct components. The component of Comfort and Office layout represents the physical environment and the components of interactions and distractions represents the behavirol component as presented in the table below (Haynes, 2008). Source: Haynes, (2008) 2.7 Conceptual Frame Work The conceptual framework of the study is based on the same model proposed by Haynes, (2008) and the employees productivity would be measured and explored through the dimensions of workplace environment that are the physical component and behavioral components. Therefore, the constructed frame work is as follows: Behavioral Environment Workplace Environment Physical Environment Comfort Office Layout Interaction Distraction + = CHAPTER-3 Methodology 3.1 Research Purpose According to Robson, 2003 (as cited in Gray 2004), in terms of purpose, a research can be broadly categorized as exploratory, descriptive and explanatory. Exploratory research emphasizes to investigate new insights and happening about a phenomenon. Descriptive study according to Hedrick et al. (1993) (as cited in Gray 2004), explains data and characteristics about a phenomenon being studied where as explanatory research is a type of research that seeks to establish and explores the relationship exists between variables (Gray, 2004). Therefore, by considering the overall objective of the thesis and research questions, this study falls in explanatory class of research purpose because we would be acquiring explanatory knowledge by examining the relationships between dependent and independent variables. 3.2 Research Approach Dewey, (1933) (as cited in Gray 2004) identified two broad research approaches known as Deductive and Inductive research approach. Deductive reasoning as defined by Gray, (2004) is a top-down approach that works form more general to more specific. Deductive process involves testing of theories or hypothesis and drawing conclusions based on existing research studies. While, inductive research is theory generating. Its a bottom-up approach that begins with a specific observation and ends with the development of generalized theory that is based on the analysis of collected data (Gray, 2004). This study is deductive as we would be exploring and testing existing empirical theories and models related to workplace environment, measuring its impact on employees performance within its defined context and would also be drawing logical inferences. 3.3 Research Design 3.3.1 Method As stated by Ghaur and Ghaur, ( n.d), research methods can be classified as qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative research as defined by Ghaur and Ghaur (n.d), is an inquiry process of understanding a social and human problem in a natural setting. It involves analysis of unstructured information and used to gain insight into peoples behavior, attitude, culture and lifestyle. Types of qualitative research includes: case study, involves in-depth understanding of phenomenon in its real context through multiple sources of evidence. Ethnography is a study of characteristics of peoples culture, conducted in the natural environment setting. Grounded theory is a research method in which theory is developed inductively based on the data collected through observation. Phenomenology is a study of experiences from the individuals perspective. (Gray, 2004). A qualitative study can be conducted by adopting one of the methods that are: participant -observation: usually acquired to collect data on naturally occurring behavior in its real context. In-depth interviews are appropriate to conduct for sensitive topics as it allows a researcher to collect holistic understanding of participants point of view or situation. Focus group technique is useful to gain and extract relevant data on the cultural norms of a group and in generating broad overviews of issues relating to that particular groups or subgroups being involved (Gray, 204). According to Ghaur and Ghaur, ( n.d), quantitative research is empirical and involves testing of models, theories or hypotheses pertaining to natural phenomenon through analyzing and establishing statistical relationships. A quantitative research is divided in two groups depending on the data collection methods that are experimental and non experimental quantitative research. The primary goal of experimental quantitative research is to provide strong evidence for cause and effect relationship. A non-experimental quantitative research involves variables that are not manipulated by the researcher and instead are studied as they exist (Ghaur and Ghaur, n.d). An analytical survey as explained by Gray, (2004) is one of the methods to collect data that covers specific characteristics suitable to carry out deductive research. This study can be classified as quantitative research because of its empirical nature and characteristics of using quantifiable data. We would be drawing conclusion based on experimentation and systematic observations. Further it can be classified as non-experimental quantitative research because our research carries many independent variables that need to be studied and that cannot be manipulated. Analytical survey method would be adopted as its composition facilitates our research design that it tests the theory in a specific domain by investigating association between research variables and more specifically we would be conducting a cross-sectional survey as information on population would be gathered at a single point in time. Questionnaire would be used as a research instrument as we would have large sample size and its easy to quantify. 3.3.2 Sampling 3.3.2.1 Population of Interest Manufacturing and services sectors are the focus areas of the research. As this study would be presenting a comparative analysis of both the sectors, with respect to their prevailing workplace environment therefore, the sample would be drawn from the population of identified sectors. 3.3.2.2 Sampling Technique As explained by Gray, (2004), sampling methods can be divided into two broad categories: probability and non probability sampling. A probability sampling is a type of sampling in which every unit in the population has a chance (greater than zero) of being selected in the sample. Types of probability sampling includes: random sampling and stratified sampling. Random sampling is a type of sampling in which each individual in the population of interest has an equal likelihood of selection. While stratified sampling is a mini-reproduction of the population that is drawn by dividing the population into important characteristics required for research. (Gray, 2004). Non probability sampling as highlighted by Gray, (2004), is also known as non-representative sampling. It is a sampling process in which samples are drawn from the desired population and does not provide and does not provide all the individuals in the population of equal chances of being selected. The different types of non-prob ability sampling includes: convenience sampling is such a sampling in which sample are selected on the basis of their ease of accessibility and availability. Quota sampling is used with a purpose to sets the proportions of levels or strata within the sample. Purposive sampling technique is adopted for a very specific need or purpose. In such sampling people who have knowledge about a particular problem are selected as sample members (Gray, 2004). The data for the study would be collected from different organizations operating in manufacturing and services sectors, therefore, non-probability sampling and specifically convenience sampling would be appropriate to adopt as its above defined nature facilities our research. 3.3.2.3 Sample Size The sample size for this research has been proposed on the basis of the formula developed by Tabachnik and Fidell (2001, p. 117) and is stated below: N à ¢Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã‚ ¥ 50 + 8m, where m equals the number of predictor variables According to Tabachnik and Fidell (2001, p. 117), the above formula is applicable for computing the sample size required for multiple regression. Therefore, in this research the no. of independent variables are four and hence the sample size is calculated accordingly i-e 82 as shown below: 50 + 8 (4) = 82 3.4 Validity Reliability Validity as defined by Gray, (2004), is the degree to which data in a research study are accurate and credible. While reliability is the degree to which an instrument will produce similar results at a different period (Gray, 2004). To increase the quality of research and to ensure the reliability and validity of data collected through defined research tool, following steps would be considered: Data will be conducted from reliable respondents who actually experiencing the workplace environment in manufacturing and services. Questionnaire for survey would be based on the variables previously studied and tested.

The Ancient City :: essays research papers

The Ancient City Pompeii 'How democratic was Pompeian politics?'; In order to answer the above question, it is first necessary to consider the exact meaning of the term 'democracy';. Whilst it is difficult to give an exact definition of the word, it is certainly possible to create a list of the implications of democratic government for a society and its citizens. Perhaps the most obvious of these implications, certainly when considered from a modern standpoint, would be that every full member of a society would be considered as being equal, and thus would have an equal say in the running and appointing of a government. Secondly, truly democratic government would also imply that every member of society would have an equal opportunity to be elected to a governmental position. Such an opportunity should at least, in theory anyway, not be reliant on social class or position, nor financial support. Finally, the existence of a truly democratic system of government would also imply that governments be periodically elected, and during any given term of gov ernment, politicians would be fully employed by the state in the running of the country. Given such implications of democracy, Pompeian politics would appear at first appraisal to hardly be democratic at all. Certainly, it can be said that the politics of Pompeii in particular and by extension the politics of Roman society as a whole do not meet the modern, Western ideas of a relatively liberal, democratic society. However, such a modern, Western idea of democracy was one that was entirely alien to the citizens of Pompeii and to the citizens of many ancient civilizations. Therefore, the nature of Pompeian politics must be considered not only from a modern political standpoint, but also from a standpoint more relative to the political ideals of Pompeian society and the Roman Empire, where a very different form of democracy was in existence. Whilst such a form of democracy is very different to that of today, it is certainly accurate to say that there was at least some element of democracy in Pompeian politics. Without such an

How to Get Completely Lost :: Essays Papers

How to Get Completely Lost The ability to get yourself lost may seem like a rather simple task. You may think this is as easy to do as just throwing the road map out the car door window and simply taking whatever road seems most appealing at the present moment. But to really truly get yourself completely lost to the point that you could end up one thousand miles or more from your originally planned destination while thinking you were going in the correct direction in the first place is an extremely difficult event all in itself. If you are interested at all in learning how to become completely lost while traveling, then please follow the succeeding steps. The first step you would want to take in order to get completely lost is to lose all your common sense. You would have to be the type of person who is so dull in the area of rational thinking that even if the correct directions were to be lit up like a sign on the Las Vegas strip, you would not have enough deductive reasoning skill to think that these might be the correct directions. If the thought of becoming completely lost has made you interested after reading the first step, then the second step should leave you even more enthusiastic than the first. The second step in the process of getting yourself completely lost would require you to need not have a care in the world. In other words, if the world were to burst into a fiery mass of molten flames and death for the entire human race was unavoidable; you would most likely look away from the situation. Instead of panicking or worrying about loved ones or precious possessions, you would just simply pass it off as if it were just another daily occurance. With this care-free attitude, you would then continue with your daily life doing whatever had preoccupied you before being so rudely interrupted with the events of the world erupting into a giant torch. If you are still interested in the thought of becoming completely lost after reading the first and second steps, then the third step in the process will sell you on the idea of becoming completely lost. The third step in becoming completely lost

Math History Essay -- essays research papers

Mathematics starts with counting. It is not reasonable, however, to suggest that early counting was mathematics. Only when some record of the counting was kept and, therefore, some representation of numbers occurred can mathematics be said to have started. In Babylonia mathematics developed from 2000 BC. Earlier a place value notation number system had evolved over a lengthy period with a number base of 60. It allowed arbitrarily large numbers and fractions to be represented and so proved to be the foundation of more high powered mathematical development. Number problems such as that of the Pythagorean triples (a,b,c) with a2+b2 = c2 were studied from at least 1700 BC. Systems of linear equations were studied in the context of solving number problems. Quadratic equations were also studied and these examples led to a type of numerical algebra. Geometric problems relating to similar figures, area and volume were also studied and values obtained for p.The Babylonian basis of mathematic s was inherited by the Greeks and independent development by the Greeks began from around 450 BC. Zeno of Elea's paradoxes led to the atomic theory of Democritus. A more precise formulation of concepts led to the realisation that the rational numbers did not suffice to measure all lengths. A geometric formulation of irrational numbers arose. Studies of area led to a form of integration. The theory of conic sections show a high point in pure mathematical study by Apollonius. Further mathematical discoveries were driven by the astronomy, for example the study of trigonometry. The major Greek progress in mathematics was from 300 BC to 200 AD. After this time progress continued in Islamic countries. Mathematics flourished in particular in Iran, Syria and India. This work did not match the progress made by the Greeks but in addition to the Islamic progress, it did preserve Greek mathematics. From about the 11th Century Adelard of Bath, then later Fibonacci, brought this Islamic mathemati cs and its knowledge of Greek mathematics back into Europe. Major progress in mathematics in Europe began again at the beginning of the 16th Century with Pacioli, then Cardan, Tartaglia and Ferrari with the algebraic solution of cubic and quartic equations. Copernicus and Galileo revolutionised the applications of mathematics to the study of the universe. The progress in algebra had a major psychologic... ...ever have taken place without logs. Then the world changed. The pocket calculator appeared. The logarithm remains an important mathematical function but its use in calculating has gone for ever. Here is the challenge. What will replace the calculator? You might say that this is an unfair question. However let me remind you that Napier invented the basic concepts of a mechanical computer at the same time as logs. The basic ideas that will lead to the replacement of the pocket calculator are almost certainly around us. We can think of faster calculators, smaller calculators, better calculators but I'm asking for something as different from the calculator as the calculator itself is from log tables. I have an answer to my own question but it would spoil the point of my challenge to say what it is. Think about it and realise how difficult it was to invent non-euclidean geometries, groups, general relativity, set theory, and everything else to do with MATH! Einstein and his Theory What do you think when some one says Einstein, is it Relativity, or E=MC2? What do you think E=MC2 means, well it means Energy=Mass x Speed of Light Squared. He was way ahead of his own time, he was a genius!