Engage in Personal Development in Health, Social Care or Children’s and Young Peoples Setting

As a childminder I have a duty to be registered and inspected with Ofsted. This ensures that I am working to the high quality and standard as required by Ofsted and the Early Years Foundation Stage. It is my duty is to ensure that I provide consistently high levels of childcare, within a safe, positive, warm and happy environment where children always feel welcome. I have a duty to plan supervised activities for the children, to enable them to learn and develop at their own pace within the EYFS as appropriate for their individual age groups.I am also responsible for completion of all relevant paperwork adhering to guidelines to maintain constant structure of my childminding practice and implementing any additional requirements as they occur. It is paramount to my childminding practice to continue to perform all of these duties to give parents peace of mind that their child/children are receiving the correct level of care and support to flourish in their own individual learning.To pro mote and maintain high levels of professionalism whilst carrying out my work. To ensure I provide a safe environment for the children at all times.To carry out risk assessments on areas used for childminding within my home and garden area, and also of any places regularly visited and review these on a regular basis. To implement and update policies and procedures keeping in line with Ofsted’s guidance. Prepare and provide healthy balanced meals for children whilst being aware of any child’s individual dietary requirements. To maintain discipline of all children within my care encouraging positive behaviour at all times. To build and maintain good relationships with any people involved with the children’s lives, parents/teachers/social workers etc.I must be aware of any signs and symptoms of potential abuse and the current legislative procedures for reporting it. I need to be taking children in my care to childminding groups and playgroups to allow them interacti on with other children. I must make, maintain and implement plans covering long-term, medium-term and short-term to offer varied activities to stimulate children’s learning in different areas. I am required to make observations of children in my care to allow a picture to build on their learning abilities to assist in my planning of activities and to highlight any areas of difficulty children maybe experiencing to allow help to be sort as required. Mainly responsible for giving children within my care the best possible environment for them to thrive and feel safe whilst away from their carers/parents.1.2 Complete the table below describing how the relevant standards apply to your role Relevant Standards Expectations of your own work role EYFSNational Minimum Standards for Regulated Childcare (Wales)National Occupational StandardsJob DescriptionCommon CoreCode of Conduct

An Analysis on Taj Group of Hotels

Executive Summary The primary objective of this report is to analyze the Taj Group of Hotels through the specific analysis of Taj  (luxury full-service hotels, resorts and palaces), Taj Exotica  , Taj Safaris,  . Vivanta , The Gateway Hotel, Exotica Brand. The Taj Group of Hotels were selected to gain a learning of hotels in India from three different perspectives – that of a fast growing Indian hotel, , that of a formerly strong player trying to adapt to a changing market, and finally, that of an domestic hotel operating in India.The analysis in the report is presented as follows: 1. Before delving into the individual study of Taj Group of Hotels , a brief history of its operations as well as its strategies is given to help the reader gain a better understanding of the background from which the hotel has developed. 2. This is followed by a SWOT Analysis, which gives specific information on the environment, challenges and opportunities the hotel is currently facing. 3.Ne xt, special emphasis is laid on analyzing the hotel policies and environment related to its marketing environment through 5 C (Company, Customers, Collaborators, Competition, Context) Analysis, STP (Segmentation-Targeting-Positioning) Analysis, and the 4 P (Product, Price, Promotion, Place) Analysis. 4. After gaining an understanding on these aspects of the hotel, the anomalies in the marketing positioning or decisions taken in the past are presented. 5. Based on these anomalies and other learnings, the authors have presented a few recommendations to Taj Group of Hotels .The final section of the report consists of a comparison with other hotels on a variety of factors including positioning and targeting, different types of product and service offerings, channels of distribution etc. The authors believe that such comparisons would be useful to a reader who is trying to gain a better understanding of the competitive environment of the Indian hotel sectors, as well as of the relative p erformance of Taj Group of Hotels versus the others. Company Overview: VisionThe Taj Group of Hotels commits itself to the overall improvement of the ecological environment Which we are all a part of. We recognize that we are not owners but caretakers of the Planet and owe it to our children and future generations of humankind. It is our endeavour not only to conserve and protect but also to renew and regenerate the environment in which we live and operate. Our commitment encompasses all actions related to our products, services, associates, partners, vendors and communities. We will partner and engage with our environment through.  Also you can read about  History of the Culinary Arts.Earth Environmental Awareness and Renewal at Taj Hotels. For us EARTH is not a program, nor a process; it is a way of life. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries are collectively known as Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces and is recognised as one of Asia's largest and finest h otel company. Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Mr. Jamsetji N. Tata, the company opened its first property, The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Bombay in 1903. The Taj, a symbol of Indian hospitality, completed its centenary year in 2003.Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces comprises 66 hotels in 42 locations across India with an additional 16 international hotels in the Maldives, Malaysia, Australia, UK, USA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa and the middle east Spanning the length and breadth of the country, gracing important industrial towns and cities, beaches, hill stations, historical and pilgrim centres and wildlife destinations, each Taj hotel offers the luxury of service, the apogee of Indian hospitality, vantage locations, modern amenities and business facilities.IHCL operate in the luxury, premium, mid-market and value segments of the market through the following: Taj  (luxury full-service hotels, resorts and palaces) is our flagship brand for the world’s most discerning travellers seeking authentic experiences given that luxury is a way of life to which they are accustomed. Spanning world-renowned landmarks, modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts, authentic Rajput palaces and rustic safari lodges, each Taj hotel reinterprets the tradition of hospitality in a refreshingly modern way to create unique experiences and lifelong memories.Taj also encompasses a unique set of iconic properties rooted in history and tradition that deliver truly unforgettable experiences. A collection of outstanding properties with strong heritage as hotels or palaces which offer something more than great physical product and exceptional service. This group is defined by the emotional and unique equity of its iconic properties that are authentic, non- replicable with great potential to create memories and stories. Taj Exotica  are resort and spa brand found in the most exotic and relaxing locales of the world.The properties are defined by the privacy and intimacy t hey provide. The hotels are clearly differentiated by their product philosophy and service design. They are centred around high end accommodation, intimacy and an environment that allows its guest unrivalled comfort and privacy. They are defined by a sensibility of intimate design and by their varied and eclectic culinary experiences, impeccable service and authentic Indian Spa sanctuaries. Taj Safaris  are wildlife lodges that allow travelers to experience the unparalleled beauty of the Indian jungle amidst luxurious surroundings.They offer India’s first and only wildlife luxury lodge circuit. Taj Safaris provide guests with the ultimate, interpretive, wild life experience based on a proven sustainable ecotourism model. Vivanta by Taj Hotels ; Resorts  span options for the work-hard-play-hard traveller across metropolitan cities, other commercially important centres as well as some of the best-loved vacation spots. Stylish ; sophisticated, Vivanta by Taj delivers premium hotel experiences with imagination, energy ; efficiency. It's the flavour of contemporary luxury, laced with cool informality and the charming Taj hospitality.Created for the cosmopolitan global traveller and bon vivant, Vivanta by Taj Hotels & Resorts create experiences that will amuse, invigorate & inspire you. Vivanta revels in a spirit that presents the normal with an unexpected twist. Experiences which make you pause & appreciate the hidden beauty in life! It challenges your expectations of a hotel and unfolds multiple layers of delight. Innovative cuisine concepts, the smart use of technology & the challenge to constantly engage, energize and relax you all add up to make Vivanta by Taj the new signature in hospitality.The Gateway Hotel  (upscale/mid-market full service hotels and resorts) is a pan-India network of hotels and resorts that offers business and leisure travellers a hotel designed, keeping the modern nomad in mind. At the Gateway Hotel, we believe in keeping thi ngs simple. This is why, our hotels are divided into 7 simple zones- Stay, Hangout, Meet, Work, Workout, Unwind and Explore. Ginger  (economy hotels) is IHCL’s revolutionary concept in hospitality for the value segment. Intelligently designed facilities, consistency and affordability are hallmarks of this brand targeted at travellers who value simplicity and self-service.Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is committed to replicate its domestic success onto international shores with plans to build an international network of luxury hotels, which will provide an exemplary product-service combination and in the process create a global brand. The current international portfolio includes luxury resorts in the Indian Ocean, business and resort destinations in the Middle East and Africa, serviced apartments in the UK, the first hotel in Australia and three a top-end luxury hotels in the US. Exotica Brand The Taj strengthened its presence in the Indian Ocean rim with the Exotica Brand. The Taj Exotica was evolved as part of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces intent to position it as a brand that is clearly differentiated by its product philosophy and service design. The Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, in Maldives is cantered on high-end accommodation, intimacy and an environment that allows its guest’s unrivalled comfort and privacy. Taj Hotels further expanded its global footprint by securing management contracts at Palm Island, Jumeirah in Dubai, Saraya Islands in Ras Al Khaimah, Aldar Group in Abu Dhabi, UAE Langkawi in Malaysia and Thimpu in Bhutan.The most significant additions to the portfolio have been The Pierre, the iconic landmark hotel on New York's Fifth Avenue, Taj Boston and Blue, Sydney. The presence of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces internationally has been developed through a network of Taj regional sales and PR offices in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Dubai, Singapore, Australia, Japan, Russia and the United States of America. At the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces luxurious living and fine dining find common ground.Whether it is introducing exotic world cuisines to India or taking authentic Indian fare to the world, the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is renowned for the eclectic culinary experiences it brings to its guests. Through a vast repertoire of award-winning restaurants, legendary recipes from royal kitchens and celebrated food festivals, the Taj has pioneered innovation in fine dining across the world. Taj Hotels also promise a whole new experience of tranquillity and total ‘wellness’, through  Jiva Spas  a unique concept, which brings together the wisdom and heritage of the Asian and Indian Philosophy of Wellness and Well-being.Rooted in ancient Indian healing knowledge, Jiva Spas derive inspiration and spirit from the holistic concept of living. There is a rich basket of fresh and unique experiences under the Jiva Spa umbrella of offering, Yoga and Meditation, mastered and disseminat ed by accomplished practitioners, authentic Ayurveda, and unique Taj signature treatments. Royal traditions of wellness in service experiences, holistic treatments involving body therapies, enlivening and meaningful rituals and ceremonies and unique natural products blended by hand, come together to offer a truly calming experience.IHCL operates  Taj Air, a luxury private jet operation with state-of-the-art Falcon 2000 aircrafts designed by Dassault Aviation, France; and Taj Yachts, two 3-bedroom luxury yachts which can be used by guests in Mumbai and Kochi, in Kerala. IHCL also operates  Taj Sats Air Catering Ltd. , the largest airline catering service in South Asia, as a joint venture with Singapore Airport Terminal Services, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines. Additionally, it operates the  Indian Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad  since 1993.The institute offers a three-year diploma, designed with the help of international faculty and has affiliations with severa l American and European programmes. CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY AND SOCIAL RESPONSBILITY As a part of Tatas; India’s premier business house, Taj Hotels, have always believed in society and environment being integral stakeholders in our business along with the shareholders, customers, vendors and others. Over the last decade, the movement towards ecologically sound tourism has gained urgency and importance across the globe and recognize that responsible practices in vogue are as diverse as the geographies.It promotes corporate citizenship through our strategic public-private partnerships which encourage building livelihoods of less-advantaged youth and women. The causes to promote includes reducing malnutrition, promoting indigenous artisans and craftsmen and enhancing employability of identified target groups by sharing our core competencies as a leading hospitality company. We encourage training and development of differently able youth. The Taj has the unique scope and opportu nity to develop raw potential into a skilled workforce that is immediately employable by various players in the industry.A majority of community projects are focused around extending the key strengths in food production, kitchen management, housekeeping, customer service and spas to promote economic empowerment of candidates from vulnerable socio-economic backgrounds. Taj is fully committed to the cause of building a sustainable environment by reducing the impact of our daily operations on the environment and improving operational efficiencies, resource conservation, re use and recycling of key resources. The seventh  Corporate Sustainability Report  was submitted to the United Nations Global Compact society in August, 2010.The United Nations Global Compact is a strategic policy initiative for businesses that are committed to aligning their operations and strategies with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, safety ; security, environment and anti-corruption. This Corporate Sustainability report also serves as GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) as well as Triple Bottom Line report. The report focuses on identified priorities at IHCL and responds to key stakeholder needs. It plans to continue and further strengthen our commitment to the environment and societies in which we operate.It believes in continuous learning and sharing and would be delighted to have your thoughts and suggestions. EARTH In an endeavour to reinstate its vision and efforts to boost sustainable tourism, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces presented EARTH (Environment Awareness ; Renewal at Taj Hotels) this year. Implementing schemes such as the Gangotri Glacier Clean-Up Expedition, as well as designated Earth rooms, which minimise environmental impact, Taj is one of Asia’s largest group of hotels to commit to energy conservation and environmental management.EARTH has received certification from Green Globe, the only worldwide environmental certifica tion program for travel and tourism. The Taj began a century ago with a single landmark – The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai. Today, the various Taj hotels, in all their variety and historical richness, are recognised internationally as the symbols of true Indian hospitality. The Company’s history is integral to India’s emergence into the global business and leisure travel community; and looking to the future, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is well positioned to meet the increase in travel activity with the rapid expansion of the Indian economy.ANALYSIS SWOT Analysis Strengths| Weaknesses| * Taj group of hotels in India and also in abroad. * Corporate governance by a group of highly qualified people. * Hospitality which it provides to its customer * India offers a readymade tourist destination with the resources it has. Thus the magnet to pull  customers already exists and has potential grow. | * has to live up to its reputation. * to cope up with up-coming ch anges. * to satisfy each and every customer. * High tax structure in the industry makes the industry worse off than its international  equivalent.In India the expenditure tax, luxury tax and sales tax inflate the hotel bill by over  30%. Effective tax in the South East Asian countries works out to only 4-5%. | Opportunities| Threats| * Demand between the national and the inbound tourists can be easily managed due to  difference in the period of holidays. For international tourists the peak season for arrival is  between September to March when the climatic conditions are suitable where as the national  tourist waits for school holidays, generally the summer months. * In the long-term the hotel industry in India has latent potential for growth.This is because  India is an ideal destination for tourists as it is the only country with the most diverse  topography. For India, the inbound tourists are a mere 0. 49% of the global figures. This number  is expected to increa se at a phenomenal rate thus pushing up the demand for the hotel  industry. * Unique experience in heritage hotels. * Opportunity of expansion to more destinations. | * Competition with other five star hotels like ITC, HAYAT, LEELA PALACE and OBEROI group of hotels * Terrorists activities which had already happened in 26/11 2009 in Mumbai. * Guest houses are taking an edge in place of hotels.This is a growing trend in the west and is now catching up in  India also, thus diverting the hotel traffic. * Changing trends in the west demand similar changes in India, which here are difficult to  implement due to high project costs. * The economic conditions of a country have a direct impact on the earnings in hotel industry. Lack of training man power in the hotel industry. | COMPETITIVE STRATERIGES SEGMENTATION GEOGRAPHIC a) Region Wise : North India, East India, West India, South India b) City Wise: 4 major metropolitan cities, and tourist destinations in India DEMOGRAPHIC ) Meant for family, diplomats, political guests, international tourists, Honeymoon suit, Business Executives, safari adventure for all. b) In terms of income it is meant for people belonging to upper-middle and high-class society and ginger hotels for the economy class. PSYCHOGRAPHIC It is meant for the people who like heritage buildings, palaces, adventure, luxury, comfort and are ready to spend on all these things. LOYALTY It expects its customers to be loyal and appreciate the service and hospitality they provide to consumers. TARGETINGThe Taj hotel is targeting luxury business travellers, including domestic and foreign businessmen, the senior management personnel, and the elite strata of society. POSITIONING The Taj group positions its service as anâ€Å"office away from office â€Å"to serve the business customer and also keeps the general positioning of the hotel industry, i. e. †home away from home â€Å" DIFFERENTIATION Hotel has differentiate its service offer through phys ical ambience it maintain a natural green environment so as to provide a relaxed atmosphere to the tension –bound business traveller and the feature has been well perceived by the target customer .MARKETING MIX The following are the part of a marketing mix I. Product: the service offer has a tangible product in it. Rooms: the rooms are of six type namely, club room, normal room, superior cottage, suites, deluxe room, and the old British Raj ambience room. Restaurant:† paradise† is a Thai food restaurant. â€Å"Island cafe â€Å"is an Italian food restaurant with pool side barbecue it has banquet halls. The hotel also has business centre with latest facilities like internet, interview centre, fitness centre, laundry, etc are the added facilities.II. Pricing : The rent for the rooms of Taj hotels varies from place to place due to the taxation policies, however the cost of the rooms are priced according to the services provided by the hotel. The rooms are categoris ed as Deluxe Room, Luxury Suite, Royal Suite, Executive suite, Grand Luxury suite, Presidential suite and the charges are prepared according to the room provided. III. Place: TAJ has established hotels in every region in India, the major tourist destinations, palaces, heritage sites in India as well as abroad.IV. Promotion: The advertisement is generally done through magazine hoarding of late, they have started even sponsoring also but in low scale the main emphasis is on direct marketing. V. Physical ambience: it provide natural environment and provide the latest state-of-art facilities. VI. People: it realises the important of people in any service organization for that , the first step is to market their service offer to their own employees understand the need for maintaining high quality and standard . FINANCIAL ANALYSIS 2009-10 . The total income for the year ended March 31, 2010 at Rs. 1566. 35 crores was lower than that of the previous year by8. 2%. 2. Room Income was lower t han the previous year by 17%. The Average Room Rate (ARR) decreased by 16%over the previous year. 3. Food ; Beverage (F;B) income was 5% higher than the previous year. 4. Banquets income grew by 12% over the previous year. 2008-09 1. The total income for the year ended March 31, 2009 at Rs. 1706. 52 crores which was Lower than that of the previous year by 6 %. 2.Room Income was lower than the previous year by 14 % . 3. The Average Room Rate (ARR) decreased by 2 % over the previous year. 4. Food ; Beverage (F;B) income was 13% lower than the previous year. 2007-08 1. The total income for the year ended March 31, 2008 was Rs. 1,823. 16 crores which was higher than the previous year by 13%. 2. Room income was higher than previous year by 16%. 3. The Average Room Rate increased by 16% over the previous year which significantly contributed to the total increase in room income. FINDINGSAfter going through all the aspects related to Taj Hotels certain things in form of findings and informa tion. They are: 1. If compared to other brands of 5 star hotels present in India, such as Leela Palace, Oberoi Ashoka group, Hayat or ITC, Taj has a wide variety of options available for its customers. It is ready to provide all kinds of comfort, hygiene, satisfaction desired by its customers. It takes special care and attention of all its customers and tries to bring smile on to their faces and expect them to come and visit again to their hotel. . It has options available for its customers by a chain or group of hotels located in India and abroad. It covers almost all the major tourist destinations. 3. Taj has come up with a new idea with name Ginger hotels which is very economical and greatly praised. 4. Above some analysis that have been shown like marketing Ps, SWOT analysis, strategies, STPD and financial analysis which states that Taj Group of Hotels is performing well and there are several other opportunities which can still be exploited. 5.After the terrorist attack in Taj M ahal Palace in Mumbai the revenue generation of the Taj group went down as the crowd of foreign tourists dropped but now slowly it has again started arising 6. Some of the Hotels of Taj Group are Heritage sites, Palaces and Forts which is a plus point for Taj Group, People like to experience these sites by spending some days in Taj Hotels. Some of the palaces are situated in Jaipur and Jodhpur which are World Wide known tourist destinations. 7. Taj Group of Hotels is not having a strong hold in India but also in abroad.It has acquired many palaces and sites and have tie-ups with other big brands outside India. CONCLUSION The study showcased immense research on Taj Goup of Hotels in India. It gives a wide view about the hotel industry in India. It is a well known brand to everyone. It shows Taj has immense potential to grow and further expansion of its business. It also shows the growth in every wing they try to excel themselves through their good plans and strategies, besides excell ing themselves in the different wings the most important thing is that they have the social responsibility for the society through their different programs. An Analysis on Taj Group of Hotels Executive Summary The primary objective of this report is to analyze the Taj Group of Hotels through the specific analysis of Taj  (luxury full-service hotels, resorts and palaces), Taj Exotica  , Taj Safaris,  . Vivanta , The Gateway Hotel, Exotica Brand. The Taj Group of Hotels were selected to gain a learning of hotels in India from three different perspectives – that of a fast growing Indian hotel, , that of a formerly strong player trying to adapt to a changing market, and finally, that of an domestic hotel operating in India.The analysis in the report is presented as follows: 1. Before delving into the individual study of Taj Group of Hotels , a brief history of its operations as well as its strategies is given to help the reader gain a better understanding of the background from which the hotel has developed. 2. This is followed by a SWOT Analysis, which gives specific information on the environment, challenges and opportunities the hotel is currently facing. 3.Ne xt, special emphasis is laid on analyzing the hotel policies and environment related to its marketing environment through 5 C (Company, Customers, Collaborators, Competition, Context) Analysis, STP (Segmentation-Targeting-Positioning) Analysis, and the 4 P (Product, Price, Promotion, Place) Analysis. 4. After gaining an understanding on these aspects of the hotel, the anomalies in the marketing positioning or decisions taken in the past are presented. 5. Based on these anomalies and other learnings, the authors have presented a few recommendations to Taj Group of Hotels .The final section of the report consists of a comparison with other hotels on a variety of factors including positioning and targeting, different types of product and service offerings, channels of distribution etc. The authors believe that such comparisons would be useful to a reader who is trying to gain a better understanding of the competitive environment of the Indian hotel sectors, as well as of the relative p erformance of Taj Group of Hotels versus the others. Company Overview: VisionThe Taj Group of Hotels commits itself to the overall improvement of the ecological environment Which we are all a part of. We recognize that we are not owners but caretakers of the Planet and owe it to our children and future generations of humankind. It is our endeavour not only to conserve and protect but also to renew and regenerate the environment in which we live and operate. Our commitment encompasses all actions related to our products, services, associates, partners, vendors and communities. We will partner and engage with our environment through.  Also you can read about  History of the Culinary Arts.Earth Environmental Awareness and Renewal at Taj Hotels. For us EARTH is not a program, nor a process; it is a way of life. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries are collectively known as Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces and is recognised as one of Asia's largest and finest h otel company. Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Mr. Jamsetji N. Tata, the company opened its first property, The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Bombay in 1903. The Taj, a symbol of Indian hospitality, completed its centenary year in 2003.Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces comprises 66 hotels in 42 locations across India with an additional 16 international hotels in the Maldives, Malaysia, Australia, UK, USA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa and the middle east Spanning the length and breadth of the country, gracing important industrial towns and cities, beaches, hill stations, historical and pilgrim centres and wildlife destinations, each Taj hotel offers the luxury of service, the apogee of Indian hospitality, vantage locations, modern amenities and business facilities.IHCL operate in the luxury, premium, mid-market and value segments of the market through the following: Taj  (luxury full-service hotels, resorts and palaces) is our flagship brand for the world’s most discerning travellers seeking authentic experiences given that luxury is a way of life to which they are accustomed. Spanning world-renowned landmarks, modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts, authentic Rajput palaces and rustic safari lodges, each Taj hotel reinterprets the tradition of hospitality in a refreshingly modern way to create unique experiences and lifelong memories.Taj also encompasses a unique set of iconic properties rooted in history and tradition that deliver truly unforgettable experiences. A collection of outstanding properties with strong heritage as hotels or palaces which offer something more than great physical product and exceptional service. This group is defined by the emotional and unique equity of its iconic properties that are authentic, non- replicable with great potential to create memories and stories. Taj Exotica  are resort and spa brand found in the most exotic and relaxing locales of the world.The properties are defined by the privacy and intimacy t hey provide. The hotels are clearly differentiated by their product philosophy and service design. They are centred around high end accommodation, intimacy and an environment that allows its guest unrivalled comfort and privacy. They are defined by a sensibility of intimate design and by their varied and eclectic culinary experiences, impeccable service and authentic Indian Spa sanctuaries. Taj Safaris  are wildlife lodges that allow travelers to experience the unparalleled beauty of the Indian jungle amidst luxurious surroundings.They offer India’s first and only wildlife luxury lodge circuit. Taj Safaris provide guests with the ultimate, interpretive, wild life experience based on a proven sustainable ecotourism model. Vivanta by Taj Hotels ; Resorts  span options for the work-hard-play-hard traveller across metropolitan cities, other commercially important centres as well as some of the best-loved vacation spots. Stylish ; sophisticated, Vivanta by Taj delivers premium hotel experiences with imagination, energy ; efficiency. It's the flavour of contemporary luxury, laced with cool informality and the charming Taj hospitality.Created for the cosmopolitan global traveller and bon vivant, Vivanta by Taj Hotels & Resorts create experiences that will amuse, invigorate & inspire you. Vivanta revels in a spirit that presents the normal with an unexpected twist. Experiences which make you pause & appreciate the hidden beauty in life! It challenges your expectations of a hotel and unfolds multiple layers of delight. Innovative cuisine concepts, the smart use of technology & the challenge to constantly engage, energize and relax you all add up to make Vivanta by Taj the new signature in hospitality.The Gateway Hotel  (upscale/mid-market full service hotels and resorts) is a pan-India network of hotels and resorts that offers business and leisure travellers a hotel designed, keeping the modern nomad in mind. At the Gateway Hotel, we believe in keeping thi ngs simple. This is why, our hotels are divided into 7 simple zones- Stay, Hangout, Meet, Work, Workout, Unwind and Explore. Ginger  (economy hotels) is IHCL’s revolutionary concept in hospitality for the value segment. Intelligently designed facilities, consistency and affordability are hallmarks of this brand targeted at travellers who value simplicity and self-service.Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is committed to replicate its domestic success onto international shores with plans to build an international network of luxury hotels, which will provide an exemplary product-service combination and in the process create a global brand. The current international portfolio includes luxury resorts in the Indian Ocean, business and resort destinations in the Middle East and Africa, serviced apartments in the UK, the first hotel in Australia and three a top-end luxury hotels in the US. Exotica Brand The Taj strengthened its presence in the Indian Ocean rim with the Exotica Brand. The Taj Exotica was evolved as part of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces intent to position it as a brand that is clearly differentiated by its product philosophy and service design. The Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, in Maldives is cantered on high-end accommodation, intimacy and an environment that allows its guest’s unrivalled comfort and privacy. Taj Hotels further expanded its global footprint by securing management contracts at Palm Island, Jumeirah in Dubai, Saraya Islands in Ras Al Khaimah, Aldar Group in Abu Dhabi, UAE Langkawi in Malaysia and Thimpu in Bhutan.The most significant additions to the portfolio have been The Pierre, the iconic landmark hotel on New York's Fifth Avenue, Taj Boston and Blue, Sydney. The presence of Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces internationally has been developed through a network of Taj regional sales and PR offices in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Dubai, Singapore, Australia, Japan, Russia and the United States of America. At the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces luxurious living and fine dining find common ground.Whether it is introducing exotic world cuisines to India or taking authentic Indian fare to the world, the Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is renowned for the eclectic culinary experiences it brings to its guests. Through a vast repertoire of award-winning restaurants, legendary recipes from royal kitchens and celebrated food festivals, the Taj has pioneered innovation in fine dining across the world. Taj Hotels also promise a whole new experience of tranquillity and total ‘wellness’, through  Jiva Spas  a unique concept, which brings together the wisdom and heritage of the Asian and Indian Philosophy of Wellness and Well-being.Rooted in ancient Indian healing knowledge, Jiva Spas derive inspiration and spirit from the holistic concept of living. There is a rich basket of fresh and unique experiences under the Jiva Spa umbrella of offering, Yoga and Meditation, mastered and disseminat ed by accomplished practitioners, authentic Ayurveda, and unique Taj signature treatments. Royal traditions of wellness in service experiences, holistic treatments involving body therapies, enlivening and meaningful rituals and ceremonies and unique natural products blended by hand, come together to offer a truly calming experience.IHCL operates  Taj Air, a luxury private jet operation with state-of-the-art Falcon 2000 aircrafts designed by Dassault Aviation, France; and Taj Yachts, two 3-bedroom luxury yachts which can be used by guests in Mumbai and Kochi, in Kerala. IHCL also operates  Taj Sats Air Catering Ltd. , the largest airline catering service in South Asia, as a joint venture with Singapore Airport Terminal Services, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines. Additionally, it operates the  Indian Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad  since 1993.The institute offers a three-year diploma, designed with the help of international faculty and has affiliations with severa l American and European programmes. CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY AND SOCIAL RESPONSBILITY As a part of Tatas; India’s premier business house, Taj Hotels, have always believed in society and environment being integral stakeholders in our business along with the shareholders, customers, vendors and others. Over the last decade, the movement towards ecologically sound tourism has gained urgency and importance across the globe and recognize that responsible practices in vogue are as diverse as the geographies.It promotes corporate citizenship through our strategic public-private partnerships which encourage building livelihoods of less-advantaged youth and women. The causes to promote includes reducing malnutrition, promoting indigenous artisans and craftsmen and enhancing employability of identified target groups by sharing our core competencies as a leading hospitality company. We encourage training and development of differently able youth. The Taj has the unique scope and opportu nity to develop raw potential into a skilled workforce that is immediately employable by various players in the industry.A majority of community projects are focused around extending the key strengths in food production, kitchen management, housekeeping, customer service and spas to promote economic empowerment of candidates from vulnerable socio-economic backgrounds. Taj is fully committed to the cause of building a sustainable environment by reducing the impact of our daily operations on the environment and improving operational efficiencies, resource conservation, re use and recycling of key resources. The seventh  Corporate Sustainability Report  was submitted to the United Nations Global Compact society in August, 2010.The United Nations Global Compact is a strategic policy initiative for businesses that are committed to aligning their operations and strategies with ten universally accepted principles in the areas of human rights, labour, safety ; security, environment and anti-corruption. This Corporate Sustainability report also serves as GRI (Global Reporting Initiative) as well as Triple Bottom Line report. The report focuses on identified priorities at IHCL and responds to key stakeholder needs. It plans to continue and further strengthen our commitment to the environment and societies in which we operate.It believes in continuous learning and sharing and would be delighted to have your thoughts and suggestions. EARTH In an endeavour to reinstate its vision and efforts to boost sustainable tourism, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces presented EARTH (Environment Awareness ; Renewal at Taj Hotels) this year. Implementing schemes such as the Gangotri Glacier Clean-Up Expedition, as well as designated Earth rooms, which minimise environmental impact, Taj is one of Asia’s largest group of hotels to commit to energy conservation and environmental management.EARTH has received certification from Green Globe, the only worldwide environmental certifica tion program for travel and tourism. The Taj began a century ago with a single landmark – The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai. Today, the various Taj hotels, in all their variety and historical richness, are recognised internationally as the symbols of true Indian hospitality. The Company’s history is integral to India’s emergence into the global business and leisure travel community; and looking to the future, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is well positioned to meet the increase in travel activity with the rapid expansion of the Indian economy.ANALYSIS SWOT Analysis Strengths| Weaknesses| * Taj group of hotels in India and also in abroad. * Corporate governance by a group of highly qualified people. * Hospitality which it provides to its customer * India offers a readymade tourist destination with the resources it has. Thus the magnet to pull  customers already exists and has potential grow. | * has to live up to its reputation. * to cope up with up-coming ch anges. * to satisfy each and every customer. * High tax structure in the industry makes the industry worse off than its international  equivalent.In India the expenditure tax, luxury tax and sales tax inflate the hotel bill by over  30%. Effective tax in the South East Asian countries works out to only 4-5%. | Opportunities| Threats| * Demand between the national and the inbound tourists can be easily managed due to  difference in the period of holidays. For international tourists the peak season for arrival is  between September to March when the climatic conditions are suitable where as the national  tourist waits for school holidays, generally the summer months. * In the long-term the hotel industry in India has latent potential for growth.This is because  India is an ideal destination for tourists as it is the only country with the most diverse  topography. For India, the inbound tourists are a mere 0. 49% of the global figures. This number  is expected to increa se at a phenomenal rate thus pushing up the demand for the hotel  industry. * Unique experience in heritage hotels. * Opportunity of expansion to more destinations. | * Competition with other five star hotels like ITC, HAYAT, LEELA PALACE and OBEROI group of hotels * Terrorists activities which had already happened in 26/11 2009 in Mumbai. * Guest houses are taking an edge in place of hotels.This is a growing trend in the west and is now catching up in  India also, thus diverting the hotel traffic. * Changing trends in the west demand similar changes in India, which here are difficult to  implement due to high project costs. * The economic conditions of a country have a direct impact on the earnings in hotel industry. Lack of training man power in the hotel industry. | COMPETITIVE STRATERIGES SEGMENTATION GEOGRAPHIC a) Region Wise : North India, East India, West India, South India b) City Wise: 4 major metropolitan cities, and tourist destinations in India DEMOGRAPHIC ) Meant for family, diplomats, political guests, international tourists, Honeymoon suit, Business Executives, safari adventure for all. b) In terms of income it is meant for people belonging to upper-middle and high-class society and ginger hotels for the economy class. PSYCHOGRAPHIC It is meant for the people who like heritage buildings, palaces, adventure, luxury, comfort and are ready to spend on all these things. LOYALTY It expects its customers to be loyal and appreciate the service and hospitality they provide to consumers. TARGETINGThe Taj hotel is targeting luxury business travellers, including domestic and foreign businessmen, the senior management personnel, and the elite strata of society. POSITIONING The Taj group positions its service as anâ€Å"office away from office â€Å"to serve the business customer and also keeps the general positioning of the hotel industry, i. e. †home away from home â€Å" DIFFERENTIATION Hotel has differentiate its service offer through phys ical ambience it maintain a natural green environment so as to provide a relaxed atmosphere to the tension –bound business traveller and the feature has been well perceived by the target customer .MARKETING MIX The following are the part of a marketing mix I. Product: the service offer has a tangible product in it. Rooms: the rooms are of six type namely, club room, normal room, superior cottage, suites, deluxe room, and the old British Raj ambience room. Restaurant:† paradise† is a Thai food restaurant. â€Å"Island cafe â€Å"is an Italian food restaurant with pool side barbecue it has banquet halls. The hotel also has business centre with latest facilities like internet, interview centre, fitness centre, laundry, etc are the added facilities.II. Pricing : The rent for the rooms of Taj hotels varies from place to place due to the taxation policies, however the cost of the rooms are priced according to the services provided by the hotel. The rooms are categoris ed as Deluxe Room, Luxury Suite, Royal Suite, Executive suite, Grand Luxury suite, Presidential suite and the charges are prepared according to the room provided. III. Place: TAJ has established hotels in every region in India, the major tourist destinations, palaces, heritage sites in India as well as abroad.IV. Promotion: The advertisement is generally done through magazine hoarding of late, they have started even sponsoring also but in low scale the main emphasis is on direct marketing. V. Physical ambience: it provide natural environment and provide the latest state-of-art facilities. VI. People: it realises the important of people in any service organization for that , the first step is to market their service offer to their own employees understand the need for maintaining high quality and standard . FINANCIAL ANALYSIS 2009-10 . The total income for the year ended March 31, 2010 at Rs. 1566. 35 crores was lower than that of the previous year by8. 2%. 2. Room Income was lower t han the previous year by 17%. The Average Room Rate (ARR) decreased by 16%over the previous year. 3. Food ; Beverage (F;B) income was 5% higher than the previous year. 4. Banquets income grew by 12% over the previous year. 2008-09 1. The total income for the year ended March 31, 2009 at Rs. 1706. 52 crores which was Lower than that of the previous year by 6 %. 2.Room Income was lower than the previous year by 14 % . 3. The Average Room Rate (ARR) decreased by 2 % over the previous year. 4. Food ; Beverage (F;B) income was 13% lower than the previous year. 2007-08 1. The total income for the year ended March 31, 2008 was Rs. 1,823. 16 crores which was higher than the previous year by 13%. 2. Room income was higher than previous year by 16%. 3. The Average Room Rate increased by 16% over the previous year which significantly contributed to the total increase in room income. FINDINGSAfter going through all the aspects related to Taj Hotels certain things in form of findings and informa tion. They are: 1. If compared to other brands of 5 star hotels present in India, such as Leela Palace, Oberoi Ashoka group, Hayat or ITC, Taj has a wide variety of options available for its customers. It is ready to provide all kinds of comfort, hygiene, satisfaction desired by its customers. It takes special care and attention of all its customers and tries to bring smile on to their faces and expect them to come and visit again to their hotel. . It has options available for its customers by a chain or group of hotels located in India and abroad. It covers almost all the major tourist destinations. 3. Taj has come up with a new idea with name Ginger hotels which is very economical and greatly praised. 4. Above some analysis that have been shown like marketing Ps, SWOT analysis, strategies, STPD and financial analysis which states that Taj Group of Hotels is performing well and there are several other opportunities which can still be exploited. 5.After the terrorist attack in Taj M ahal Palace in Mumbai the revenue generation of the Taj group went down as the crowd of foreign tourists dropped but now slowly it has again started arising 6. Some of the Hotels of Taj Group are Heritage sites, Palaces and Forts which is a plus point for Taj Group, People like to experience these sites by spending some days in Taj Hotels. Some of the palaces are situated in Jaipur and Jodhpur which are World Wide known tourist destinations. 7. Taj Group of Hotels is not having a strong hold in India but also in abroad.It has acquired many palaces and sites and have tie-ups with other big brands outside India. CONCLUSION The study showcased immense research on Taj Goup of Hotels in India. It gives a wide view about the hotel industry in India. It is a well known brand to everyone. It shows Taj has immense potential to grow and further expansion of its business. It also shows the growth in every wing they try to excel themselves through their good plans and strategies, besides excell ing themselves in the different wings the most important thing is that they have the social responsibility for the society through their different programs.

Finance coventry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Finance coventry - Essay Example The balance scorecard and the strategy map formulated can serve as an effective tool for the company to predict its effective future plan. This study contains suitable recommendations based on the key parameters used for the purpose of analysis which can serve as benchmark for the company to improve its financial and non-financial performances. Table of Contents Table of Contents 3 1. Introduction 4 2. Vision and Strategy 4 3. Balanced Scorecard for Marks and Spencer PLC 5 3.1. Financial perspective 6 3.2. Customer perspective 6 3.3. Internal business perspective 7 3.4. Learning and innovation perspective 8 4. Strategy Map 8 5. Recommendations 9 6. Critical Discussion and Evaluation 10 Reference List 10 Appendices 12 1. Introduction Marks and Spencer (M&S) Group PLC is an international retailer headquartered in London, England, United Kingdom. It is listed as a holding company of the Marks and Spencer Group of companies. Its varied line of products includes clothing (both Men’ s wear and Women’s wear), home ware as well as food. Its clothing division alone includes 731 shops across the United Kingdom. Its presence is not only limited to the domestic circuit. The company enjoys an unprecedented level of presence around the globe having 387 stores in 43 territories across Europe, the Middle East and Asia (Reuters, 2013). This report will primarily involve the analysis of the food retail section of Marks and Spencer thereby identifying its vision and strategy. Henceforth, a balanced scorecard and a strategy map will be designed in order to align business activities of the company to its identified vision and strategy as well as to explain each parameter used for the analysis and their significance towards the company’s goals and targets. 2. Vision and Strategy Marks and Spencer’s vision is to set a benchmark on the basis of which everything else is evaluated. In order to stay true to the vision, they have laid down subsequent strategies which when followed will help the company to grow from strength to strength. Their primary aim is to become truly international, multichannel retailer whereby they can make their long range of products and services easily accessible to people all around the globe. Apart from providing quality products, they also aim to deliver exceptional value as well as high quality services to their customers. Their penchant to stay at the forefront of innovations in both general merchandising and food section is a significant factor giving them the recognition of a truly world class company. As far as Marks and Spencer’s strategies to improve its food retail section are concerned, they have been moderately successful in 2011 as well as in 2012 with their sales increasing by 4.1% in 2011 from what it was in 2010 (Marks and Spencer, 2011). This growth in sales owed to the fact that customers expected the company to come up with innovative products and this expectation in return resulted in an appreciation in the number of customers of M&S. Their strategy is to grow their food business by focusing primarily on their core strengths which are convenience, freshness and speciality. Convenience of shopping is another area that the company is currently working on for improving the way customers find and choose things in the store. This aim led them to come up with the clearer signage scheme. M&S also want their stores to be easily accessible

Earthquake's Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Earthquake's - Essay Example The plates interact at their boundaries (margins) or edges. There are various types of plate margins which include; diverging, converging and transform faults (kearey, Klepesis and Vine, 2009). Converging plate boundary Converging occurs when two plates travel towards each other. When the plates converge, different types of margins are formed depending on the boundary; the boundary can either be between two continental plates, oceanic plates or either one of each. One type of convergent margin occurs when a continent meets another continent along the convergent line where they crumple upwards and downwards as the lithosphere thickens in a collision zone. Another type of convergent margin takes place when one or both plates are oceanic where by one plate typically slide underneath the other plate sinking into the asthenosphere where water that is released from the wet rocks of the seafloor advances the formation of the magma (kearey, Klepesis and Vine, 2009). Diverging plate boundary Diverge is also known as rifting or spreading centers. Diverging occurs when two plates move apart from each other and can occur in either continental or oceanic crust. When plates diverge from each other a new ocean may form in the widening rift, an example of this is the Red sea. When oceanic crust diverts (splits apart) the result is known as a midocean ridge (kearey, Klepesis and Vine, 2009). Transform faults plate boundary The transform plate boundaries are the locations where plates slide past each other. A crack zone that normally forms a transform plate boundary is well known as a transform fault. The transform faults are mostly common in the ocean floors (ocean basins) where many of them run perpendicularly to the midocean ridges (Kearey, Klepesis and Vine, 2009). Why earthquakes are common along plate margins Earthquakes occur mostly at the plate margins because under the plates there is much friction and the plates are constantly bouncing off each other. The plate’ s margin material is not as sturdy and is found near the molten part. The earthquakes occur normally near the fault lines (this is where the plates are normally separated). In the fault line two plates confine together until much pressure is formed and they are forced to grind away from each other. The lateral fault line happens frequently and within different magnitudes, an example of a lateral fault line is the San Andreas Fault in California. How the earth moves when it quakes and shakes When the earth quakes and shakes sudden movements on the grounds occur. The quakes are mostly provoked by movements along the faults, landslides, bomb blasts and volcanic eruptions. When a quake occurs, the surface of the earth forms into waves that move across; these waves are considered to be pretty spectacular and extremely destructive. During a quake the seismic waves move about in all directions just like the sound waves (Kusky, 2005). Events that cause the earth to quake and shake Earthquak e is the ground shaking that is caused by an abrupt slip on a fault. When pressure in the earth’s outer layer pushes the sides of the faults together causing stress to build up and the rocks to slip all of a sudden discharging energy in waves that travel through the earth’s crust causing the shaking that is felt during an earthquake. Earthquake measurements Earthquakes are recorded by seismometers up to great distances as the seismic waves are

How Will I Write Reflective Account Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

How Will I Write Reflective Account - Essay Example 2008). Personally, my interest in both academics and life in general constitutes a good source for a reflective account. Key Learning Points Personal interests especially in academics revolves around growth and development in the specific field that offers a course that builds a long lasting career without the need to change from one career to another. This depicts an aspect of fully grown interests that have been met given the pursued course. For me my academic and career experience is a field in which I have several learning points. These learning points lay down a systematic structure which leads to the achievement of desired results without difficulty, representing success, growth and development in that particular field. These key learning points makes a good reflective account if one particular experience is critically considered, and they include: Diversity, dynamism and sensitivity My current academic and career experiences have never depicted an aspect of static systems over the years. Change has characterized almost every aspect of my life. For this reason, embracing change cannot be ignored. I have to integrate this change in my line of interest if I am to remain competitive in expressing one or more experiences I have had in a reflective account. Being diverse encompasses being different from the usual. Different people have portrayed different personal, regional and national cultures, making it even more necessary to embrace change in the context of diversity. Sensitivity goes beyond personal feeling and opinion. It integrates external observations such that the reflected on at such an instance denotes internal and external rather than fixed concepts. Awareness and training Writing a reflective account is not an easy task (Youll, 2005). The experiences aforementioned may vary depending on the specific idea that I may want to include in the account. It is important that I be aware of these differences so that the specific account I want to focus in best brings out the meaning of a reflective account. Awareness is not a onetime achievement due to the differences aforementioned. Training is a fundamental program that I perceive perfect for creating awareness. Training programs are likely to equip me with all the various aspects, concepts and the differences therein in such a way that I can easily differentiate and make use of them without difficulty when writing a reflective account. Training and awareness are important for me because they are set to prepare me for the characteristic changes and transitions from one account to the other. Motivation and skills of presentation Motivation is a process and not a stage in a training or academic system. I closely relate motivation to the skills of presentation. Although the two are two different key learning points for me, the link between them is strong and a key determinant of personal achievement, not only in academics but also in life. Learning to motivate and be motivated is like ly to influence personal growth and development, and more especially the career that one takes. For me, motivation is a life and career constituent that is complemented by skills of presentation. I have to share and pass around what I have learnt and gained through education and life experiences that constitute my expertise. Skilful presentation is critical in such a process, and it is as well a critical learning point when it comes

The organizational structure of the International Brotherhood of Research Paper

The organizational structure of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters - Research Paper Example These unoins are different from other labor unions. They are designed to promote powerful labor unoins leaders. Most of the contracts are negotiated by these teamsters and they provide them with their services and therefore hold dues money. Locals hire adept labor lawyers, recognized public accountants, full-time business agents, organizers, and clerical staff. Each local elects its own officers, fabricates its structure, and votes on its bylaws, in accordance with the International Constitution and Bylaws. The next structure is the Joint council. Joint councils are established in areas where there are three or more local unions. Joint Councils help synchronize Teamsters activities. They also solve jurisdictional and legal matters.The thid structure is the Trade Division and conferences where the locals disscuss their common problems and issues and interests.The headquarter of the unoin is at Washington D.C which helps its local unoins by providing them with coordinated national nego tiations.also provide them with training and educational programs.provide them with advice and proper guidance of the experts suca as organizers, negotiators, researchers etc.

Effect of Internet hon Social Skills and Communication Essay

Effect of Internet hon Social Skills and Communication - Essay Example Electronic communication is very popular because it helps to transmit information to the recipient and receive reply faster and easier in comparison with other types of human interaction at work. Also, the addressing of a message enables normal mail to be processed and delivered without need for the sender to inform the recipient that the message is to be dispatched. On the other hand, electronic mail systems store and then deliver to electronic 'mail boxes' which enable the recipient to retrieve the message when convenient. Following Dimaggio et al (2001): "Enthusiasts predicted that the Internet would reduce inequality by lowering the cost of information and thus enhancing the ability of low-income men and women to gain human capital, find and compete for good jobs, and otherwise enhance their life chances" (p. 38). The great layer of information and varieties of technology become available now for wide target audience. Internet has changed social interaction and patterns of communication between people "forcing" them to spend more time before their screens. Recent years, Internet chat rooms become the most popular channels of social interaction between computer users all over the world. Internet chat rooms have a great impact on personal identity and inner "self" of visitors. In recent years the understanding of "self" has been changed, because as a collective sentiment, it needs to be upheld and reaffirmed (Papacharissi and Rubin 2000). Cyberspace makes it possible for every person to create a unique identity according to personal expectations and desires, but it hides negative and even dangerous consequences for people he/she communicates with. "Cyberspace opens the possibility for identity play, but it is very serious play" (Turkle, 2004, p. 275). In this situation, stipulated gender identi ties exist only in cyberspace, which defines and organizes them. The search for identity includes the question of what is the proper relationship of the individual to society as a whole. Internet and chat rooms open new opportunities for people to change their identity and a social "self". It means that a man can communicates as a woman, or a child can identifies himself as an expert in particular field. For instance, the case of Marcus vividly portrays that a teenager can easily become a "legal expert" in a chat room. He deceived hundreds of people who needed professional help and advice. This case depicts that "in a few weeks Marcus had created a new identity for himself: legal wizard" (Lewis 2004, p. 289). The Internet communication facilitates dialogue, empowers people to make things happen rather than have things happen to them, and as a tool for creating new forms of solidarity and cooperation, yet internet technology does not do all these things in and of itself. Mobilizing the opportunities offered by the Internet will therefore always involve unacknowledged conditions, unintended consequences, and a dazzling array of interests which are not only contradictor y, but may also be contested by others. The Internet creates a new form of social interaction which affects and changes

ECO MOD 2 CA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

ECO MOD 2 CA - Essay Example This was mainly due to the impairment charges of  £973mn related to ex-Armor Holdings business. BAE: The net operating cash flow has a mixed trend declining by 17.9% in 2008 and then growing by 9.1% in 2009. This is due to the company facing difficulties in generating net income from its operations. Upon examination of note 12 to balance sheet for the year ended 2009 it could be suggested that the machinery and other equipment recorded at historical cost of CHF677.9mn and accumulated depreciation is CHF477.7mn may not be reflective of the current market values as the depreciation amount is quite high that suggests long history of these equipments in use. Similar, reasoning could be made for other non-current assets that have a net book value of CHF53.4mn as compared to their historical value of CHF223.2mn (Sulzer 2009). Balance sheet of year ended 2009 reflects that the company has plant, rental machines and other property at historical cost of $39,596 with accumulated depreciation of $25,431. Under Note H to consolidated financial statement details of assets suggest that the company has land, building and other equipment however they are not distinguished on the basis of their remaining useful lives and no other details are provided (IBM 2009). Accumulated depreciation reflects 64% of the historical value that implies that these assets are quite old but the current values of replacement assets surely going to be higher than these values. From the note 12 it is clear that the accumulated depreciation is more than 50% for plant and machinery and aircraft. This implies that the remaining useful life of these assets is low and their net book values may not reflect the true value of these assets in their book. The depreciation method used for plant and machinery is straight line method that spreads the economic value over 3 to 5 years which means that the accumulated depreciation value implies high number of years

Information system Blog Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Information system Blog - Essay Example Even though testing and more so the software testing is taken as a difficult profession, I would absolutely cherish the idea of working within its aegis so that my success could be guaranteed with the advent of time. This will make me stand in a league of my own and contribute to my growth and development within the related fields. All over the world, the software testing measures are conducted to find out the software bugs and then to rectify the errors that plague the system in essence. The intention is to bring correction within the software so that the stakeholders do not encounter any mistakes, errors or issues of little or big significance. The software testing regimes have been employed because the software have continued to increase far and wide, both in terms of complexity as well as size. It must be remembered here that quality products do bring up return customers while buggy products mean more disgruntled ones, who would not return at all. Also software testing is done so that the security measures of the software are determined beforehand that it reaches the market and sells massively to the end users. The need is to bring correctness within the related realms and this can only be made sure through rigorous software testing and adherence to the industry standards which are in place. Also test runs would be done to assure of quality and nothing apart from the very same. If I am given the role under a software testing dimension or a mechanism, I would have chosen the position of a Test Manager because he is one individual upon whom the test results have come through after strict testing measures. The Test Analyst has already made his point clear through his testing domains and now is the time to move forward with the management of this software testing which has been carried out. It is correct that software tester is indeed the person who tests at the

Thomas and Frost Essay Example for Free

Thomas and Frost Essay Thomas and Frost both write about the experience of unexpected joy. In Edward Thomas’ â€Å"Adlestrop† and Robert Frosts’ â€Å"The Tuft of Flowers† we read about the speakers experiences of unexpected joy through the poet’s aspects of imagery, form, language and tone of each of their poems. In Frosts’ poem â€Å"The Tuft of Flowers† the speaker, at first, is musing on the separateness of mankind and the workers. Whilst he muses this he is led by a butterfly to gaze upon a tuft of flowers that has been left by the mower he had been following and the speaker is touched by the appreciation of beauty and feels a sense of togetherness looking at the flowers, banishing his loneliness and isolation which is shown at the beginning of the poem â€Å"And I must be, as he had been – alone†, bringing him his experience of unexpected joy. However, in Thomas’ â€Å"Adlestrop† the speakers experience comes from when he hears a blackbird singing and from his views on the surrounding field s and is about the beauty of nature. Throughout the structure of Frosts’ â€Å"The Tuft of Flowers† we see a transformation in the speakers’ attitude from universal isolation to universal togetherness. He says â€Å"†¦I must be, as he had been – alone† the word â€Å"alone† shows loneliness and isolation which at the end is transformed to the joyful statement â€Å"Men work together† showing the speakers view of universal togetherness. Frost uses heroic couplets to show the epic scope of the speaker’s experience of unexpected joy and shows the poems emphasis on harmony and clarity, whereas in Thomas’ â€Å"Adlestrop† his rhyming ABCB conveys the speakers attempt to order his recollection of his unexpected joy. The first half of â€Å"Adlestop† has a lot of punctuation, dashes â€Å"Yes I remember Adlestrop-† and full stops â€Å"unwontedly. It was late June.† showing a fractured structure and his memory of the experience is n ot very clear, however in the second half of the poem there is less punctuation showing his recollection of the experience is becoming clearer. â€Å"Adlestrop† beings as though it is answering a question â€Å"Yes, I remember Adlestrop† and the speaker is recalling his experience and he reminisces about it whereas in â€Å"The Tuft of Flowers† no question has been asked it is more the speaker’s thoughts. In Frost’s â€Å"The Tuft of Flowers† the metaphor â€Å"leaping of bloom† gives an idea of inspiration and the transcendental idea of the speaker’s joyful sense of togetherness with nature. Frost also uses imagery throughout his poem. There is an image of isolation and loneliness at the beginning of the poem, â€Å"alone†, which allows the transformation of  the speaker’s attitude that enables him to experience the unexpected sense of joy. Another example of imagery used by Frost is the image of the butterfly as an agent of change, bringing the speaker towards the tuft of flowers â€Å"he turned first and led my eye to look†, also towards this e xperience of unexpected joy. Imagery is also used by Thomas in his poem â€Å"Adlestrop†, there is a contrast in the images of bareness and isolation at the start of the poem â€Å"No one†, and the picture of song â€Å"blackbird sang† and plentitude â€Å"all the birds† at the end of the poem. Thomas also uses repetition and lists to convey the experience of joy â€Å"willows, willow-herbs, and grass and meadowsweet, and haycocks† the repetition of the word â€Å"and† indicates the speaker’s unmediated joy in nature.

Triple Constraint of Project Management

Triple Constraint of Project Management What Is The Triple Constraint Of Project Management? A project can be described as a temporary endeavour that is geared towards accomplishing a unique and desired product, service and/or result. For the project to be successful in attaining its objectives, triple constraint management is imperative. The management involves schedule (time), scope (performance) and budget (cost) management (Marchewka, 2009, p. 15-18). Describe Each Of Triple Constraint Management Elements: Time: Project is a temporary endeavour; hence it must have a definite time frame, involving a definite beginning and estimated completion date. Some projects may have immovable date by which the project must be complete while others may be flexible. In time frame, there are some issues that will have specific deadlines. For example, be complete on or before 29th March 2010. Some will have more urgency, like â€Å"soonest possible,† while others will have lesser urgency like â€Å"take your time†. The phases that should be involved in project time frame include: when to define project goal, when to plan, when to execute the plan, when to close and finally when to evaluate the project (Marchewka, 2009, p. 15-18). Budget: Every project operates within a definite budget, which is also known as project cost management. The cost management provides an assurance that the budget of the project is developed as well as completed as approved. The budget should cater for equipment capital, consumable supplies, daily cash expenditure, personnel payment which include team allocated resources and the overhead cost. The budget should also have miscellaneous allocation for unexpected mishaps and requirements. The budget is limited to every item in the entire project (Meredith, 2009, p. 10, Marchewka, 2009, p. 24-26). Scope: Every project should have a total of all deliverables that are required for project completeness. Project scope includes the details of all the products, and services and the expected results. The scope details all the works that must be completed in order to achieve the goals of the project. The project scope explains what is to be done, why it going to be done, how its going to be done, the people who will be involved in doing it, the duration for doing it, the cost for doing it, what man go wrong and the response to it, and measures to evaluate the success of the project (Marchewka, 2009, p. 18-20). Why It Is Important To Manage Them Both Separately And Together Through The Life Of A Project? Its notable that projects have a very big percentage of resources directed to human resources. The labour cost makes the total budget increase immensely. Scope schedule and budget have to remain in a sort of equilibrium so as to support a specified project goal. Separate management on the other hand enables each element to offer its best, without hoping that the others will balance out the equation. For example time element will not hope that the scope will be adjusted to accommodate lateness and scope will not await adjustment of budget to allow for a divergent scope (Marchewka, 2009, p. 14-17). Why Is It Important To Align Projects With Business Strategy? A project is a temporary endeavour that is aimed at achieving some unique and desired product and/or services to accomplish the purpose of the project, while on the other hand a business strategy is the pattern or plan which integrates an organizations primary goals, policies as well as activities into a cohesive whole. Business strategy pulls together while giving meaning to all that an organization does. A business strategy that is well organized facilitates the organization of all resources to become a unique and viable force that is based on the competencies as well as the shortcomings of the business organization on projected changes activities by competitors and the environment (Marchewka, 2009, p. 3). Its imperative to align a project with the business strategy as accomplishment of many business or organizations objectives are being achieved through projects. There are many projects that fail to advance the overall vision of a business simply because they were not in line with the goals of the business. In other words they fall outside the business stated mission hence irrelevant to the business. Its therefore important for every project to start by analysing the overall objective of the organization so as to direct the project towards achieving the minor goals as well as the major goals that do not divert from the mission of the project (Meredith Mantel, 2009). Alignment of a project to a business strategy enables the project planners to evaluate the cost of the project versus the total business capability to host the project. Rationality is applied in tabling or arguments of the effect of such a cost in relation to the business strategy. In a situation where the budget of the project surpasses the business capital base, the imbalance may lead to debts to the business consequently destabilizing the balance of the business (Meredith Mantel, 2009). Alignment of a project to the business strategy facilitates lowering of the cost of learning the project. This is because there are many types of equipment that would be required in the project but they are readily available in the business. The establishment of project will therefore not start from scratch. There are some human resources that can also be drawn from the business; people with a bit of experience hence will not require too much training in running the affairs of the project (Cadle Yeates, 2004). When a project is aligned to a business strategy, it will be exempted of many challenges as compared to a project that is not aligned to any strategy. The argument is that many challenges that a project goes through in the initiation process are similar to challenges that were faced in launching of many businesses, so by the time a project is established within the business strategy, many hills of challenges will be levelled (Cadel Yeates 2004). What Criteria Would You Suggest For Ranking The Projects? Project selection can be defined as a process by which evaluation of proposed projects is done and then deciding to implement some set of the projects in order to achieve the overall objective of the organization. Evaluation selection technique is employable in any area that requires one to make choice between alternative choices. When my organization is faced with a challenge of so many projects that are tabled for its investment, its imperative to choose the projects that we will invest in from the list. Some of the criteria that have been tabled by Meredith and Mantel (2009, p 41) for project selection and ranking include: Realism, capability, flexibility, easy to use, cost effective, and easy to computerize. I would choose realism criterion. This module reflects an organizations reality is decision making, organizations resources, organizations limitations, cost, time and implementation factors. How Would You Ultimately Decide Which Projects To Select? The selection of the project to invest in will be based on Project Portfolio Process (PPP). The project that I would select must support multiple of the organizations goals while at the same time cross reinforcing other important projects. This means a project should not be solely geared towards achieving its objectives without giving a thought on the overall mission of the organization. I would evaluate all the projects to understand which projects are likely to incur the greatest cost to the organization. As argued by Meredith Mantel (2009, p. 72) such a project should be in a position to deliver equally high returns; otherwise the project should not be adopted. A project that I would propose for investment in must not bring about excessive baggage to the organization, those projects which are likely to incur excessive risk should be eliminated. Such projects include those that are likely to overload an organizations resources. Meredith Mantel (2009, p. 71-72) argued that a project to be selected should be in position to balance the resources to the needs. If a project requires too many resources than its ability to overcome the needs in the organization, it shall have to be rejected. At the same time the project should be in a position to balance the short term, medium term and long term returns, an imbalance would lead to rejection of the project. Olsen (2001, p. 34) pointed of the essence of doing a cost benefit analysis for whichever project is tabled for adoption. I would ensure that all the projects tabled are critically evaluated to assess whether they are worth investing the resources of the organization in. The project that I select must also be realistic as pointed out by Meredith Mantel (2009) on criteria for selecting the most viable project. A project must be based on an organizations limitations realities. The project should not surpass an organizations resources, or capabilities. For example if our organization is work a million dollars, its not realistic to invest in a multi-billion dollars project rest we drain the other projects. In other words a project that we select must be within our organizations policies. Meredith and Mantel (2009, p. 41) have argued that every viable project should be flexible. The project that we select should be flexible enough to allow for adjustments and modifications where necessary. The project should not be fixed such that even if something else crops up in the project cycle, it can not be changed to be aligned with the new cycle. I would therefore try to evaluate the project prior to its adoption to see all the loose ends and examine what are the possible effects to the overall aims of the organization. Computerization is a very essential component in this age (Meredith and Mantel (2009, p. 42); hence the project should be easy to computerize. Computerization allow for easy storage of data, retrieval and project evaluation. The data of the project stored in a computer can easily be managed and distributed to other stake holders consequently enhancing effectiveness in project management. 4a. briefly describe what happens in each of the five projects management process groups: Five process groups define the appropriate project management process by king of work that ought to be done. But the process groups overlap between and within the project phases as output of one process group turns to the input of the following phase. Initiation: At this stage, the process group signals the genesis or the start of project or a phase. A set of processes of project management defines how the project would be conducted and the way the first methodology phase will be initiated. Approval of business case takes place (Marchewka, 2009, p. 80-81). Planning: Planning of entire project (phase to phase) takes place; the planning involves scope, activity, and resources planning. It also includes cost estimation, procurement planning, and schedule estimation. The planning is in line with project size and complexity; necessary for every phase, though not demanding initial planning (Marchewka, 2009, p. 81). Executing: Involves integration of resources (human and material) in carrying out the planned project activities. Project management processes like risk management, quality assurance and team development perform a significant supporting role (Marchewka, 2009, p. 81). Monitoring and Controlling: This process group permits for measuring and managing progress to projects scope, budget, schedule, and quality objectives. The manager and the team keep an eye on variances between actual results and hoped for results. It also includes scope control, schedule control, change control, quality control and budget control (Marchewka, 2009, p. 81). Closing: closing process group avails a set of accepting the products or services of the project which brings the project to an orderly close. The stake holders ought to verify satisfactory completion of all deliverables before the project sponsors accepts contract closure. All the deliverable should be agreed upon and agree to the terms of project completion. Resources are free to be reassigned and all accounts settlement be done. Evaluation of the success or failure of project is done (Marchewka, 2009, p. 81). On Which Processes Should Team Members Spend The Most Time? The execution stage is the most important stage in a project management group. At this stage whatever was planned for is implemented so that the desired outcomes could be attained. At this stage the integration of people and other resources is very important as it leads to the end product. The success or the failure of a given project is highly dependent on the interaction between the two resources. It takes the longest period because it involves employing the plans from the initiation stage in turning a low material into a finished product. The absence of this stage means fiasco of the project (Marchewka, 2009, p. 81). What Are The Main Tasks Undertaken During Project Integration Management? Project integration coordinates all the other eight knowledge areas of a project hence its considered as the most important knowledge area. It involves putting all the pieces of a project together in a cohesive manner to get the project done in fewer resources hence cheaper and fast while meeting the set objectives. In involves project charter development, preliminary scope statement development, project management plan development, manage and direct execution of the project, monitoring and control of project work, integrate change control and closure of the project (Marchewka, 2009, p. 84). Development Of Project Charter: ItS The Backbone Of The Project; Project Can Not Be Started Without It. It Authorizes The Project. Preliminary scope statement development: it outlines project deliverables. It contains the details that will be used in project planning. Project plan development: it explains how the implementation of the project will be done. Its an imperative tool in day to day pursuit of the project goals and objectives. Direction and management of project execution: Integration of project process takes place. The completion of project scope is done. Control and monitoring of project work: resources are expended consequently facilitating accomplishment of project goals and objectives. Integrated change control: Needful for documentation, review, and decide upon of proposed changes as change is inevitable in a project cycle. Close the project: facilitates administrative and contract closure. Close project process is paramount for termination of every project (Marchewka, 2009, p. 84). References Marchewka, 2009, Project management process: developing the project charter and baseline project plan, John wily and sons, San Francisco. Meredith Mantel, 2009, Project management: A managerial Approach, 7th Edn, John wily and sons, San Francisco. Olsen, 2001, Introduction to IS Project Management, McGraw Hill, New York. Cadle Yeates, 2004, Project Management for Information, Systems, 4th edn, Prentice Hall, New Jersey.

Fatherhood and the Unmarried Adolescent African-American Male Essay

Just about a quarter of all children are now born out of wedlock.... Add to that the substantial fraction of children born into marriages that will not survive.... What do these high rates of marital instability imply for patterns of childbearing, and especially for fathers’ involvement with their children? (Furstenberg & Harris, 1992, p. 199) The vast amount of research on the topic of adolescent pregnancies has historically focused on the female (such as Furstenberg, 1976 and Stack, 1974). Social scientists have tried to understand the problem and also help the adolescent mother following her decision to give birth to a child. In some places, such as Oakland, California, 73% of adolescents giving birth are African American (Smith, 1988, p.269; Massey, 1991, p. 117). With this in mind, social workers have spent most of their efforts helping adolescent African-American women. The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and Aid to Families of Dependent Children (AFDC) offer help for many women and their children. Unfortunately, the social workers usually â€Å"viewed Black adolescent fathers either as a cause of the problem of adolescent parenthood or as a partial solution in their assigned role of financial provider† (Smith, 1988, p. 269). Introductory quote focuses on an important public conversation about children born out of wedlock and fathers' involvement with their children. Furtstenburg is considered an expert on the topic of pregnancy among adolescents and the changing American family. The writer further identifies the context for the research as the social sciences and suggests how this research has influenced social workers. Sources provide general background information, sp... ...ing American family: Sociological and demographic perspectives (pp. 197-223). Boulder, Colorado: Westview Press. Furstenberg, F. (1976). Unplanned parenthood: The social consequences of teenage childbearing. New York: Free Press. Hendricks, L. E. (1988). A preliminary report on three ethnic groups. Adolescence, 91, 711-720 Horton, C. P. & Smith, J. C. (Eds.) (1990). Statistical record of Black America. Detroit: Gale Research, Inc. Massey, G. (1991). The flip side of teen mothers: A look at teen fathers. In B. P. Bowser. (Ed.), Black male adolescents: Parenting and education in community context (pp. 117-128). New York: University Press of America. Smith, L. A. (1988). Black adolescent fathers: Issues for service provision. Social Work, 33. 269-272. Stack, C. B. (1974). All our kin: Strategies for survival in a black community. New York: Harper & Row.

Rosalind Franklin Essay -- Biography Chemists Essays

Rosalind Franklin As hard as is it is today for women to succeed in the sciences, one must give kudos to those that came before us. These are the women that paved the way for today's generation of women scientists. One such woman is Rosalind Elsie Franklin, a chemist who had a great impact on the modern day field of genetics. Rosalind was the second of five children. She was born on July 25, 1920 in London. The Franklin's were an upper-class family who lived a life of luxury. Rosalind never even had to go to school - she would have been provided for from her family's wealth. As a child, she never felt like she was understood. She hated pretend games and did not play with dolls. Rosalind had to find the facts behind everything before she became a believer (McGrayne, 1993). Rosalind attended St. Paul's Girls' School in London. Here she had excellent training in science classes. It was here that she decided her career path. She applied to Cambridge University and passed the entrance exams. However, she almost didn't make it. Rosalind's father did not think that women should attend university and refused to pay for her education. Luckily, Rosalind's mother and an aunt became irate and said they would pay. Of course, Rosalind's father recanted in the effort not to be embarrassed by women paying for the education (McGrayne, 1993). The experience at Cambridge was not the best for Rosalind. There was a stuffy atmosphere for the women studying there. She vowed never to become like the women faculty members there. She graduated in 1941 with a degree in Chemistry (World Book, 2001). She then took a job with Nobel chemist, Ronald Norrish (McGrayne, 1993). From here she took a job with the British Coal Utilization Research As... ...tealing Rosalind's data, but this is close to recognition as she ever comes (McGrayne, 1993). So, while this woman has never been in the limelight, she pioneered molecular genetics as it is today. Without her stubborn need for the facts, the human genome would still be an enigma to us today. She is truly a role model for all women today. Works Cited Access Excellence. 1999. http://www.accessexcellence.org/AB/BC/Rosalind_Franklin.html Bernstein, Jeremy. Experiencing Science. New York. Basic Books, Inc., Publishers. 1978. 143-163. McGrayne, Sharon Bertsch. Nobel Prize Women in Science. New York. Birch Lane Press. 1993. 304-332. North, Anthony. Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The University of Leeds. http://www.cryst.bbk.ac.uk/BBS/whatis/cryst_an.html. World Book. 2001. http://www.worldbook.com/fun/wscimed/html/chemists.html. Rosalind Franklin Essay -- Biography Chemists Essays Rosalind Franklin As hard as is it is today for women to succeed in the sciences, one must give kudos to those that came before us. These are the women that paved the way for today's generation of women scientists. One such woman is Rosalind Elsie Franklin, a chemist who had a great impact on the modern day field of genetics. Rosalind was the second of five children. She was born on July 25, 1920 in London. The Franklin's were an upper-class family who lived a life of luxury. Rosalind never even had to go to school - she would have been provided for from her family's wealth. As a child, she never felt like she was understood. She hated pretend games and did not play with dolls. Rosalind had to find the facts behind everything before she became a believer (McGrayne, 1993). Rosalind attended St. Paul's Girls' School in London. Here she had excellent training in science classes. It was here that she decided her career path. She applied to Cambridge University and passed the entrance exams. However, she almost didn't make it. Rosalind's father did not think that women should attend university and refused to pay for her education. Luckily, Rosalind's mother and an aunt became irate and said they would pay. Of course, Rosalind's father recanted in the effort not to be embarrassed by women paying for the education (McGrayne, 1993). The experience at Cambridge was not the best for Rosalind. There was a stuffy atmosphere for the women studying there. She vowed never to become like the women faculty members there. She graduated in 1941 with a degree in Chemistry (World Book, 2001). She then took a job with Nobel chemist, Ronald Norrish (McGrayne, 1993). From here she took a job with the British Coal Utilization Research As... ...tealing Rosalind's data, but this is close to recognition as she ever comes (McGrayne, 1993). So, while this woman has never been in the limelight, she pioneered molecular genetics as it is today. Without her stubborn need for the facts, the human genome would still be an enigma to us today. She is truly a role model for all women today. Works Cited Access Excellence. 1999. http://www.accessexcellence.org/AB/BC/Rosalind_Franklin.html Bernstein, Jeremy. Experiencing Science. New York. Basic Books, Inc., Publishers. 1978. 143-163. McGrayne, Sharon Bertsch. Nobel Prize Women in Science. New York. Birch Lane Press. 1993. 304-332. North, Anthony. Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The University of Leeds. http://www.cryst.bbk.ac.uk/BBS/whatis/cryst_an.html. World Book. 2001. http://www.worldbook.com/fun/wscimed/html/chemists.html.

Reducing the Harm of America?s Drug Problem Essay -- essays research p

The use and abuse of non-prescription drugs has been a problem in America since colonial times. Historically, the reaction to this problem has been the enforcement of prohibition laws and providing total abstinence education. This has resulted in big business in America; according to the United States Office of National Drug Control Policy, the federal government spent $19.2 billion dollars in 2003 on the war on drugs (1). Unfortunately, the abstinence based education and prohibition laws that are incorporated in the war on drugs have been wholly ineffective in slowing the demand for illicit drugs, and have had the opposite effects of driving up demand, street value, and drug-related crimes. The U.S. war on drugs bases its success on a decrease, and eventual eradication of the prevalence of drug use, a goal that has yet to be met. Detroit chief of police Jerry Oliver, in a 2002 interview with ABC news, said â€Å"Clearly, we’re losing the war on drugs in this country [and] i t’s insanity to keep doing the same thing over and over again† (qtd. in Stossel). As the war on drugs continues to fail and cost this country billions of dollars, it has become clear that a new approach to the problem is needed. By changing the focus from trying to decrease the overall use of drugs to focusing on decreasing the negative side effects (both personal and societal) of drug use, our country will finally be able to make significant steps forward in our drug problem. This approach is known as harm reduction.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Harm reduction is a multi-faceted philosophy that includes various strategies to help lessen the negative impact of drug abuse on our society. These negative impacts include death, disease, suffering and crime. One of the basic assumptions which harm reduction is based on is â€Å"there has never been, is not now, and never will be a drug-free society† (Drug Policy Alliance). Some of the approaches endorsed by harm reduction are science-based, rather than scare tactic education, treatment for drug addicts instead of imprisonment, and the reduction of health risks for addicts still actively using drugs. The programs which have grown out of these ideals will not only reduce the cost of the drug war through reduction of imprisonment and law enforcement costs, but will reduce the spread of diseases associated with drug use such as HIV/AIDS.   Ã‚   ... .... Drug Policy Alliance. â€Å"Treatment vs. Incarceration† Drugpolicy.org 2004. 21 July 2004. Myers, Jim. â€Å"Just Say Less.† Youth Today May 2003. Pew Research Center. â€Å"Interdiction and Incarceration Still Top Remedies† People-Press.com 21 March 2001. 25 July 2004. Riley, Diane & O’Hare, Pat. â€Å"Harm Reduction: Policy and Practice.† Prevention Researcher 2000. 25 July 2004. Rosenbaum, Martha. â€Å"Kids, Drugs, and Drug Education, A Harm Reduction Approach† Drugtext.org 1996. 22 July 2004. Stossel, John. â€Å"Just Say No: Government’s War on Drugs Fails.† ABC News.com 30 July, 2002. 25 July 2004. United States. Office of National Drug Control Policy. National Drug Control Strategy: FY 2003 Budget Summary. Feb 2002. 25 July 2004. United States. Partnership for a Drug-Free America. A Snapshot of the Teen Drug Problem in America Today 2002. 25 July 2004. < http://www.drugfreeamerica.org/ Templates/Article.asp?ws=PDFA&vol=1&grp=NewsCenter&cat=Feature+Stories&top=Articles&tit=A+Snapshot+of+the+Teen+Drug+Problem+in+America+Today> Zernike, Kate. â€Å"Anti-Drug Program Says it will Adopt a New Strategy.† The New York Times on the Web 15 Feb. 2001. 25 July 2004.

Improving Listening Skill

NGO TH? THUY DUNG DH27AV03 TOPIC: IMPROVING LISTENING SKILL FOR SECOND-YEAR STUDENTS OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE FA CULITY IN BANKING UNIVERSITY abstract introduction literature review History of listening english skill A brief review of literature related to language listening english methods shows that â€Å"leran more about this in smart talk- a comprehensive set of tools to help you build stronger relationships and overcome communication obstacles† (Lisa B. Marshall,2012. P. 4)In real-life listening situations(Louanne Piccolo,2012,para 1) most of the spoken language we listen to is informal, spontaneous and can contain many features like slurred speech, colloquial vocabulary and incorrect grammar. Listeners usually know in advance something about what is going to be said as they expect to hear something relevant to the context in which they find themselves. Speakers usually direct what they are saying at the listener and take the listener's character and intentions into account wh en speaking.Naturally, listeners are normally speakers as well as we usually respond to what we are listening to by taking part in the conversation or by answering questions. A small amount of the listening we do is done blindly through listening to the radio or talking on the phone. However, most of the time, there is something or someone to look at that is linked to what is being said. Listening in the Classroom is not the same as real-life listening but is as realistic a simulation of real-life listening as possible.Listening activities should be training students and preparing them for effective functioning outside the classroom. They should also provide students with practice in coping with some features of real-life situations. Types of Listening Activities No overt response activities: Students do not have to do anything in response to the listening text. Often students' facial expression and body language will betray what they have understood. Activities of this type include storytelling, listening to songs or watching movies and videos. Short response activities:Students don't only have to give responses verbally but can also respond by performing a task in response to instructions, ticking off items on a worksheet as they hear them being said, ticking off true/false answers in response to statements or writing down missing words from cloze exercises. Long response activities: Students can engage in answering questions verbally about a listening text, taking notes from a mini-lecture by rewriting what you said in different words to the ones you used or writing a brief summary of a listening text. ( Larry M.Lynch,2000, para. 2) Study exploring listening english methods Slow your listening down. Take a minute to breathe and think about listening and to be aware and present. Listen from your head to your toes. Listen as if what you are hearing could change your life. Factoid: We speak an average of 120 words per minute, but listen four times faster. Your mind fills the gap by thinking of other things and wandering off. Stay focused. Slow down your listening and listen more than you talk. Pay attention. Watch out for shiny objects! Stay focused.Don’t get distracted, but rather offer a statement of observation. For example: say, â€Å"It sounds like you’re angry† (or sad/upset/frustrated, etc. ). Listen and watch for the tone of voice, body language, and facial expressions of the person you’re talking to. (fred crane, 2000, p. 1) Get clarification. Listen first, then, ask questions. Find a way to understand their story – their facts, their feelings, and their perceptions. Say, â€Å"Tell me more,† or clarify by saying, â€Å"help me understand,† or â€Å"do you mean to say that†¦? † If you still don’t understand, ask again in a different way.Sometimes you may need to ask for different words. My daughter may say something like, â€Å"the thing didn’t work and it’s just not fair! † I may have to ask her to find a different word to use for â€Å"thing† to understand what she is trying to communicate. Paraphrase. Repeat in your own words what was said to make sure you understand. Try this paraphrasing technique: â€Å"What I hear you saying is†¦Ã¢â‚¬  or â€Å"So you are saying that†¦Ã¢â‚¬  And then check for understanding. Say, â€Å"Is that right? † After listening carefully, respond genuinely. Don’t fake it.An insincere response is worse than no response. Give non-verbal communication. Use eye contact and head nods to show your concern and interest. And, here’s a tip: a response that demonstrates you really weren’t listening is not a good response. A simple change in the way we listen will change the way we understand and how we respond. Active listening will increase the odds of success at understanding what the real issue is. This may take some practice, but you will get bet ter at it, and it may even transform a relationship or two. ( Betty Lochner on August 11, 2011)