Luke Lucas s Design And Typography At The Sydney School...

Luke Lucas went to university for graphic design and typography at the Melbourne School of Art Diploma. At first when Luke and his best friend where teenages they started a magazine called Forinarow. As years went by Luke then moved to start a different magazine advertising he own pieces of art. Over the last few years Luke has been working as an expert with majority of his work coming from people overseas. Most of the communication that Luke does with his clients is done over Skype calls or emails. His works have been shown worldwide in many different countries. Luke tools vary on the design brief that he uses. He normally lightly sketches his ideas and plans on paper. Depending on the project he is working on the final plan may be done†¦show more content†¦The magazine has been published worldwide, going to 14 countries. Luke was also the founder and creative director of Lifelounge and he designed 2 covers of New York s best selling author, Lauren Kate, the books were called Tear Drop and Water Fall. Luke was born on december the 14th in 1975 and he is now 41 years old. He grew up spending most of his time in the northern beaches of sydney but now he has moved to melbourne and spent most of his time living and working there with his new, growing family. In 2011, Luke was still working for magazines riding skateboards but then at that time Luke and his wife has their first child. Luke made the decision to quit skateboarding for magazines and spend more time with his family and start a full time freelance career on typography, which he loved doing and was very passionate about. Design Process: Luke’s design process normally starts off with a brief with 20 pages of words and sometimes just a bunch of pictures. He starts with talking to the clients to see what they would like the design to look like. Luke then creates a few different styles that he can take to the clients to see which they like the best. He does this by just doing really loose sketches for ideas he s going to make so he can roughly understand what he has to do. Then he will start to adjust and improve it by tracing it to make it better, vectorizing it and refine it. The vector draft is to show

Essay on Juveniles in Adult Prisons - 1612 Words

Juveniles in Adult Prisons A deep look into juveniles in adult prisons. Touch bases on several smaller issues that contribute to juveniles being in and effects of adult prisons. The United States Bureau of Prisons handles two hundred and thirty-nine juveniles and their average age is seventeen. Execution of juveniles, The United States is one of only six countries to execute juveniles. There are sixty-eight juveniles sitting on death row for crimes committed as juveniles. Forty-three of those inmates are minorities. People, who are too young to vote, drink alcohol, or drive are held to the same standard of responsibility as adults. In prisons, they argue that the juveniles become targets of older, more hardened criminals. Brian†¦show more content†¦Some jurisdictions require the child to be over a certain age and charged with a felony, while others permit waiver if the child is over a certain age regardless of offense. Still yet, others have no conditions. Juveniles can be tried in all stated in one o f three ways: 1. Concurrent Jurisdiction: the prosecutor has the discretion of filing charge offenses in either juvenile or criminal court. 2. Excluded offenses: the legislature excludes from juvenile court jurisdiction certain offenses that are either very minor, such as traffic or fishing violations, or very serious, such as murder or rape. 3. Judicial waiver: the juvenile court waives its jurisdiction and transfers the case to criminal court. Barry Feld, Juvenile Law Scholar, suggests that waivers to adult court be mandatory for serious crimes. Those espousing the crime control model believe that the overriding purpose is protection of the public, deterrence or violent juvenile behavior, and the incarceration of serious youthful offenders in the adult criminal justice system. The rehabilitative justice model view this as an attack on the juvenile justice system, but crime control advocates consider such steps a necessary response to a rising juvenile violence rate. Life in Adult Prison The Southwest Multi County Corrections Center, a two-story adult jail is the largest maximum-security program for juveniles under federal authority. The BOP paysShow MoreRelatedJuvenile in the Adult Prison1351 Words   |  6 PagesJuvenile Delinquency December 3, 2014 Juveniles in The Adult Prison Children as young as 14 years old have been tried as adults and are sentenced to die in prison without considering their age and the factors that led the individual to commit the offense. Society believes that a juvenile should be tried as an adult because it will help them understand the consequences of their actions, however, children and teenagers that commit crimes are too young and they don’t have the mental ability to understandRead MoreJuvenile Rehabilitation: Adult Prison vs. Juvenile Incarceration1703 Words   |  7 PagesJuvenile Rehabilitation: Adult Prisons vs. Juvenile Incarceration Maureen Fries-Labra English 122 Anna Hopson December 14, 2009 Juvenile Rehabilitation: Adult Prisons vs. Juvenile Incarceration The criminal justice system has a branch for juvenile offenders. Established in the early twentieth century; it is the responsibility of this division to decide the fates of youthful offenders. This is administered by family court with support of social workers and family. With the increased numberRead MoreJuveniles Should Not Be Tried For Adult Prison1911 Words   |  8 Pages In the recent years, cases of juvenile crimes have been decreasing to its lower rates since the 1980’s which is good. However, there are still plenty of juvenile crimes happening. There has been a big debate going on about whether juveniles should be tried as adults or juveniles, and things just keep getting more and more out of hand. Juveniles are being tried as adults and that is unacceptable. Juveniles should not be tried in adult courts regardless of their crime because they are simply not preparedRead MoreSynthesis Essay- Juvenile Incarceration Into Adult Prisons1414 Words   |  6 PagesBoettch er 10/21/15 Pd.3 Synthesis Essay- Juvenile Incarceration into Adult Prisons Childhood is a time in which memories are created, adventures are explored and social awareness begins to develop. The events that occur during childhood are pivotal in the development of a healthy and substantial life. However, what if those experiences were taken from a child? What would the outcome be if a child could not experience what it is like to be young? Juvenile incarceration strips a person of their childhoodRead MoreIncarceration in An Adult Prison Increases Juvenile Crime Essay1751 Words   |  8 Pagesmeasures towards juvenile delinquency. Today juvenile law is governed by state and many states have enacted a juvenile code. However, in numerous cases, juveniles are transferred to adult court when juvenile courts waive or relinquish jurisdiction. Adolescents should not be tried in the adult court system or sentenced to adult penitentiarys on account of: teen brains are not mature which causes a lack of understanding towards the system, incarceration in an adult facilit y increases juvenile crime, andRead MoreThe Constitutionality Of The Juvenile Justice System1634 Words   |  7 PagesThe juvenile justice system has grown and changed substantially since 1899, when the nation’s first juvenile court was established in Illinois. Originally, the court process was informal often nothing more than a conversation between the youth and the judge and the defendant lacked legal representation. To replace confinement in jails with adults, the early juvenile courts created a probation system and used a separate service delivery system to provide minors with supervision, guidance, and educationRead MoreJuvenile Offenders And The Juvenile Justice System950 Words   |  4 Pages Since 1899 when the juvenile justice system was first created it has undergone quite a series of changes relative to how they go about the overall handling of juvenile offenders in the criminal justice system. In most states the only way for juveniles to be tried as adults is if they are over the age of 16 or if they have committed a violent crime such as rape or assault but recently many juveniles are being tried as adults for even far lesser crimes. It also has been well documented for a numberRead MoreShould Juvenile Offenders Be Considered?1521 Words   |  7 PagesShould juvenile offenders be considered a source of fear and subjected to incarceration in adult prisons or a part of society worthy of being rehabilitated? Juvenile delinquents are feared by many today. They are revered as violent, superpredators, a generation lost without a cause and without ethics or morals. Some may say that it becomes an act in futility to try to find a solution to the increased crime rate when it comes to juvenile offenders. In an effort to find a solution, any solutionRead MoreJuvenile Crime Law Is A Subcategory Of Juvenile Law937 Words   |  4 PagesJuvenile Crime Law is a subcategory of Juvenile Law. Although a type of criminal law, juvenile crime law only de als with under-age individuals, who are treated very differently than adults in criminal law, and usually have their own courts of law (Juvenile Criminal Law, n.d.). When it comes to crime, kids usually go through a different process than adults. But they still have to face consequences (Juvenile Crimes Juvenile Justice - Nolo.com, n.d.). Juvenile Criminal Law is a relevant issue inRead MoreComparing The Geo Group Inc. And The Campaign For Youth Justice1263 Words   |  6 PagesSociety has been plagued by the issue of juveniles being charged as adults and thus being sent to adult prisons. The problem surrounding this issue is that the youth are being forced to share cells with adult inmates; this leaves them more susceptible to assault. There are two stakeholders who hold opposite perspectives surrounding this: the GEO Group Inc. and the Campaign for Youth Justice. The Campaign for Youth Justice is fighting against this issue, whilst the GEO Group doesn t consider the

Night Creature Hunter’s Moon Chapter 12 Free Essays

I was headed toward the front of the bar when I caught a hint of cigarette smoke. Not too strange, especially around here, but the scent was hot, acrid – fresh. Someone had stepped outside for a drag or two. We will write a custom essay sample on Night Creature: Hunter’s Moon Chapter 12 or any similar topic only for you Order Now Why I decided to follow that smell I have no idea. Call it a hunch. I hear sometimes they’re even right. Retracing my steps, I strolled past the staircase that led up to my room, caught a billow of gray trailing from behind a shed halfway between the bar and the shack where Damien lived. I followed my nose around the corner of the building. The spotlights didn’t penetrate here, instead throwing their false sunshine over the roof and into the trees. Behind the shed, the air was cool, damp. Here darkness reigned, the only light a flicker of silver that filtered through the branches and the tiny glowing circle of red at the end of Damien’s cigarette. He leaned against the shed, head thrown back, lips pursed to take a long drag. As he exhaled, his eyes closed in bliss. I took a single step of retreat, meaning to sneak away before I disturbed him. â€Å"Don’t go,† he whispered. I hesitated. I shouldn’t be alone with Damien in the dark. I wanted things from him I had no business wanting. But in the end I stayed. Because I couldn’t make myself go. â€Å"I didn’t know you smoked.† I inched closer, sniffed the air, savored the aroma. Once I’d partaken of nearly every vice – alcohol, tobacco, drugs. Anything to take my mind off that night, anything to bring me closer to my loved ones, closer to death. Then Edward had showed me a way to make life worth living, and I’d had to give up all the things that made me less than aware. But I missed some of them – cigarettes in particular. I understood why people couldn’t quit. The habit both calmed and exhilarated, the rhythm soothing, the nicotine stimulating. â€Å"There are a lot of things you don’t know about me,† Damien said. â€Å"Wanna share some?† He lifted his hand to his mouth. I caught a hint of his tongue flicking at the filter, before he closed his lips around the tip. A trickle of awareness passed over me, and I rubbed at the rising goose bumps on my forearms. Damien drew on the cigarette. I breathed along with him – in, out – the effect just wasn’t the same. â€Å"No,† he said. It took me a moment to remember what in hell I’d asked. Oh, sharing his secrets. As if I’d expected him to say yes. I was drawn to both him and the scent of the smoke. He wore black again. I was beginning to wonder if he owned anything else. Smooth pale skin flashed between the open buttons of his shirt as he shifted in my direction and offered me a drag. I wanted to put my mouth where his had been with a desperation that frightened me. I took another step forward before I caught myself, shook my head. â€Å"Those things will kill you.† â€Å"I can only hope.† His words jerked my gaze from the cigarette to his face, which remained as unreadable as ever. â€Å"What’s that supposed to mean?† He shrugged and took another long pull, letting the smoke trail out his nose as he spoke. â€Å"In my line of work I’m more likely to get killed in a bar fight than by cancer.† â€Å"And you’d prefer cancer?† â€Å"Ever been stabbed? I wouldn’t recommend it.† His honesty left me speechless. Despite my violent profession, I was an upper-middle-class Kansas white girl at heart. Getting stabbed in a bar fight was beyond my realm of experience. Getting bitten by a werewolf was another story. â€Å"You could try a different line of work,† I suggested. His lips curved, but he didn’t bother to answer. I had the feeling he thought me naive, and I probably was. If he could get another job, he would. So what kept an attractive, reasonably intelligent man in a dead-end occupation? If I didn’t know better, I’d think he was a werewolf. Many of them were drifters who worked at odd jobs for cash. It was easier that way. No record of where you’d been when a bunch of people turned up dead. There was also the added problem of living long past the time that they should. Something wasn’t kosher when someone who looked twenty years old possessed the same Social Security number as a person born in 1925. Whenever I hunted a new city, I checked out the occupations where being paid in cash was a common occurrence – bartending, waitressing, construction. Of course there were those who found a way around this problem, faking their own deaths, manufacturing data, buying false identities, or hacking into government files. When you lived forever, you had a lot of time to practice useful skills. Damien lit a second cigarette from the butt of the first and continued to smoke with barely a hitch in the process. â€Å"Are you on break or something?† I asked. â€Å"Something.† Well, that was enlightening. â€Å"Do you – uh – work every night?† â€Å"Pretty much.† â€Å"There’s no other bartender?† â€Å"There was, but she took off.† â€Å"When?† â€Å"The night you showed up. That was why I was getting dressed so late for work. Sue didn’t come in. No one’s seen her since.† Uh-oh. I had a feeling I knew what had happened to Sue. Namely me. No one had reported her missing and probably ever would. â€Å"She worked nights, too?† A pertinent question. Werewolves had to hunt. It was their nature. They couldn’t go indefinitely without a kill. Like the Weendigo, they craved human flesh. In opposition to popular myth, werewolves didn’t automatically change beneath the moon. They had a choice – except on the night of the full moon. Those nights were busy for me and mine. â€Å"We switched off,† Damien continued. â€Å"Neither one of us liked to work the same shift all the time.† Interesting. Most people preferred to stick to a schedule. I know I did. â€Å"Now what’ll you do?† I asked. â€Å"Hire someone new. Maybe Cowboy. He’s in here all the time anyway.† I saw an opportunity and I took it. â€Å"Cowboy’s from here?† Damien shot me a suspicious glance. â€Å"No one’s from here. Except some of the Indians.† â€Å"No one?† â€Å"Not that I know of. People who are born here can’t wait to get out. People who visit can’t wait to move in.† He shook his head. â€Å"Go figure.† â€Å"Where’s Cowboy from?† â€Å"Cleveland?† He shrugged. I waited for him to laugh. From his expression, I’d be waiting until the next millennium. â€Å"You don’t know?† â€Å"I don’t ask. One thing you learn in my profession: Listening is OK. Questions aren’t.† Too bad questions were all I had. â€Å"What do I owe you for the groceries?† â€Å"Nothing.† â€Å"Come on. Let me pay you.† He shook his head. I could tell he wasn’t going to accept money from me. Feeling awkward, beholden, I muttered, â€Å"It was very nice of you.† He made a derisive sound and flicked the end of his cigarette into the dirt. â€Å"I don’t do nice.† Why did that sound both lewd and rude? He ground the dying embers into dust with his black sneaker, then lifted his eyes to mine. My breath felt trapped in my chest. I wanted to run, and I wanted to stay. He both confused and fascinated me. What was it about Damien that I found so attractive? He was nothing like Jimmy Renquist. Jimmy had been tall, broad, blond. A laughing, sunny boy who never got to be a man. Damien was dark, slim, haunted. He rarely smiled; I couldn’t imagine his laughter. The shadows in his eyes made him seem as old as some of the trees that surrounded this place. I was drawn to those shadows, captivated by the darkness I sensed in him. It called to the darkness in me. The air held a night chill, but I wasn’t cold. Instead, my skin burned wherever his gaze touched. â€Å"I didn’t buy you groceries to be nice,† he continued. â€Å"I wanted you to owe me.† â€Å"How much?† My voice was barely a whisper. â€Å"I don’t want money.† â€Å"What then?† He moved toward me and I tensed, tempted again to flee. The shadows were gone from his eyes, chased away by the heat. He was no longer calm and cool but wired, his steps both hurried and determined. I held my ground. I’d faced scarier things than him, and in truth, I hadn’t been this aroused in a lifetime. He stopped, so close I had to bend my neck to see his face. â€Å"I wanted you to owe me,† he repeated. â€Å"I wanted you to give me this.† His mouth crushed mine in an openmouthed kiss. There was no giving involved. He took the kiss as he took my tongue and tasted. I could have gotten away. Getting away was what I did. If I’d decided I didn’t want this, Damien Fitzgerald would have been lying on the ground writhing in an instant. As it was, I was writhing, because I wanted so much more than a kiss. The flavor of tobacco reminded me of a time when insanity had ruled me, as it ruled me now. My fingers slipped between the open buttons of his shirt and found their way across the silky expanse of his chest. His muscles rippled, coming alive beneath my hands. I nipped his lip, then soothed the hurt with my tongue. Without warning he spun me around, pressed my back against the wall of the shed, and laid his body against the length of mine. I was short – he wasn’t tall; still his erection pulsed in a much higher location than I would have liked. With a groan, he lifted me, wrapping my legs around his waist, and suddenly everything fit together just fine. He was hard, hot; the friction of our clothes only drove me faster toward the madness. It had been so long. I was on the verge of orgasm in seconds. His palm cupped my neck, shifted my head. He gentled the kiss even as his fingers drifted lower, across my collarbone and the slight swell of my breasts. He slipped my tank top from my shoulder. Cool night air bathed my skin. I shuddered as my breasts tingled in reaction, the nipples tightening, even before he touched me. The contrast of hot and cold, rough and gentle, the firm thrust of his body against mine, made me come in a sudden mind-numbing wave that left me limp, breathless, and damp – everywhere. He lifted his head. By an odd trick of moonlight his eyes glittered silver instead of gold. His mouth was wet, swollen. I reached up to touch his face and he flinched. Slowly I lowered my hand, wondering what his life must have been like if the slightest gesture made him wary. Even though we’d just shared something I’d shared with only two others, I still couldn’t ask him why. A door opened and shut nearby. Voices, music, laugh-ter. Someone was leaving the bar. Damien shifted, shielding me with his body, even though no one could see us at this angle, in this light. A car door slammed. An engine. Seconds later they were gone. Both of us were breathing heavily, harshly, the sound loud in the suddenly silent night. Damien slid my top onto my shoulder, and the movement brought me back to the earth. â€Å"Put me down.† He hesitated and I tensed, prepared to make him. But he let go of my legs and my thighs slid along his until my feet hit the ground. Why that last touch seemed more intimate than all the others I couldn’t say. But my face flared and my stomach rolled. What had I done? Given in to the wildness I kept buried inside. A wild-ness that had gotten me nothing but trouble the only other time I’d set it free. The flare of a match, a flame illuminated his face. I wanted to kiss him again, taste him, touch the hollows at his cheeks with my fingertips. He glanced at me as he drew on another cigarette. The smoke trailed out of his mouth as he spoke. â€Å"I’ve been thinking of nothing but you all day. You’re not my type, but maybe that’s why you’re so tempting.† I looked away. God, he reminded me of – Suddenly Damien stood right next to me, and I hadn’t even seen him move. â€Å"When I touch you do I leave a mark, a blotch, a smudge?† His long, supple finger trailed down my arm. I lifted my eyes to his. â€Å"I can’t see anything,† he whispered. â€Å"Except you.† For an instant I was dazzled by his words, captivated by his smell, his heat and strength. Then I heard all of what he’d said, and it made me wonder†¦ â€Å"What did you do?† Something flickered in his eyes, too fast for me to see if it was a lie or the truth. â€Å"Nothing I won’t do again,† he said, and walked away. The only thing left behind was the scent of smoke and the whisper of his touch. Despite the suspicion that he was much more than he seemed, both still tempted me – more than anything had ever tempted me before. 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Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries

Question: Recent decline in the global oil prices has shown the overarching influence and impact of OPEC member states collective energy policies on the global energy security vis--vis both the oil industry and national economies. Critically discuss different policy measures that Non OPEC member states can take to mitigate the impact of OPECs current trend as an international oil producer cartel? Answer: 1. Introduction 1.1 OPEC The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is an intergovernmental organization which was founded at the Baghdad Conference on 10th to 14th of September 1960. It was formed initially by Iraq, Iran, Kuwait, Venezuela and Saudi Arabia (Aalto, 2015). They were later on joined by nine more members like Qatar in 1961, Indonesia in 1962, Libya in 1962, UAE in 1967, Algeria in 1969, Nigeria in 1971, Ecuador in 1973, Angola in 2007 and Gabon from 1975-1994. However, the membership of Indonesia was suspended from January 2009, and that of Ecuador from December 1992 to October 2007. The headquarters of OPEC was in Geneva, Switzerland during the first five years of its operations. On 1st of September 1965, it was moved to Vienna in Austria (Blanchet, 2015).The primary objective of OPEC is to bring in co-ordination and unification in the petroleum policies among the member countries. In this way the organization can keep the prices for the petroleum producing countries fair and stable. By controlling the petroleum producing nations, it can ensure efficient, uninterrupted supply of petroleum to the countries who import these petroleum products. The organization also looks after the interests of the investors who invest in this industry. It ensures a Return of Capital (ROC) to the stakeholders that is fair and just. The leadership team includes Mr. Diezani Alison-Madueke, who is the President and Mr. Abdallah el-Badri, who is the Secretary General of the organization (Carvajal et al. 2013). Figure 1: The office of the OPEC (Source: nationofchange.org, 2014) 1.2 Non OPEC The Non OPEC producers consist of all the countries in the world which produce petroleum products but are not members of the OPEC. There are around 30 Non OPEC countries in the world which deserve special mention on the basis of production (Serrano et al. 2013). These are as Russia, US, China, Mexico, Canada, Norway, Brazil, Kazakhstan, UK, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Oman, India, Colombia, Argentina, Malaysia, Egypt, Australia, Sudan, Syria, Equatorial Guinea, Yemen, Vietnam, Congo Brazzaville, Denmark, Gabon, Brunei, Trinidad Tobago and Tunisia. It may be noted that 60 percent of the worlds oil production comes from the Non OPEC countries. They face various problems related to production. It has been observed by the experts that the Non OPEC countries have primitive wells which are less productive. They also have to face rising costs for the upcoming projects. They also face higher demands at their domestic market that leads to decrease in exports. The rising prices have made the tough oil projects more attractive which has led to increase in unconventional production of oil but that may also change. Fall in Non OPEC production occurs when investment becomes difficult in new petroleum production as a result of the credit markets becoming tight, volatility of oil prices and nationalism of resources (Chang et al. 2013).The National Petroleum Council has conducted a study in 2007 which shows that the international oil market is in the threshold of a time where the demand is increasing while the supplies remain limited. According to the Energy Information Agency of the US Energy Department, out of the fifteen of the leading oil producers of the world, seven are outside of the OPEC (Creti et al. 2015). Figure 2: OPEC and Non OPEC oil supply comparison (Source: therationalpessimist.com, 2015) 2. The policies adopted by the Non OPEC countries to reduce monopoly of the OPEC countries The Non OPEC countries have for long been just at the mercy of the OPEC countries. All the oil issues relating to the petroleum production across the globe are regulated by the OPEC members. The Non OPECs have to follow the guidelines and norms set by the monopoly organization. Since the last few years, the production of crude oil by the Non OPEC countries is increasing substantially. The actual output has beaten the estimates (Nguyen et al. 2015).In the fourth quarter of 2014 the output from the outside countries outnumbered the budgeted figures. To compete with the OPEC countries, the Non OPECs have significantly increased their production. They have given special focus to improve their old-fashioned wells and other limitation of resources and labor. Presently, the Non OPEC growth in oil supply is somewhere around 2.04 million barrels per day. In 2015, the Non OPEC growth is expected to be around 0.85 million barrels per day (Frisari et al. 2015). This can put pressure on the carte l. This strategy has helped the Non OPEC to increase the production average to 56.33 million barrels per day in 2014. As per the monthly oil market report of the OPEC, in 2015, the Non OPEC oil supply is estimated at an average of 57.16 million barrels per day which indicates a growth of 0.85 million barrels per day. This strategy of production and marketing will help the Non OPEC countries to keep a check on prices by maintaining a steady supply (Stadelmann et al. 2015). The projections show a rise of 18% in total oil production worldwide from the Non OPECs from the year 2002 to 2025. Russia, Africa and the Caspian region are mention worthy in this regard. But it accounts for a 30% shortage in the projected demand. What these non OPEC countries should do in order to counter the eternal autonomy of the cartel may be discussed under the following heads: 2.1 To counter the authoritative strategies of the OPEC One of the leading OPEC countries, Saudi Arabia, is demanding that the non OPEC countries should cut down on their oil production. The Saudi Arabian Minister of Oil, Mr. Ali al-Naimi, has maintained that the organizations outside the OPEC will have to decrease their production. This shows the pride of the OPEC countries in their own thought process and they are keen to protect their own interest ahead of all the other petroleum producing nations of the world. The Non OPEC countries should show more determination in countering them. There should be more open discussions at the international level about this issue (Greening, 2014). 2.2 To oppose the global market oil price plummet effected by the OPEC Saudi Arabia has made a clear stand that it will not decrease the crude oil production under any circumstance, rather it will keep the prices low (Jotzo et al. 2014). The oil minister of Saudi Arabia is trying to influence the Non OPEC producers to cut down on their production instead. This will ensure the supremacy of the OPEC nations in the global oil market. It is quite evident that the OPEC nations do not want any other countries outside its boundary to gain supremacy as oil producer in the world (Mulder et al. 2013).The US has been one of the leading oil producers outside the OPEC nation. The famous Shale Oil of the US is providing a tough competition to the OPECs. Canada is also the other leading producer of petroleum. All these countries are cause of concern for Saudi Arabia and the other OPEC countries. This is a good sign for the Non OPEC producers. They are slowly beginning to impact the global oil market (Bristow et al. 2015). 2.3 The advantages of the OPEC countries in terms of resources The OPEC organizations have huge resources of petroleum. They are much bigger and precious than the reserves of the non-conventional oil producers (Sander, 2013).These reserves have much developed facilities and infrastructure. These advantages allow the countries like Saudi Arabia to keep the oil prices low without decreasing production. But for the other countries which are outside the OPEC, this luxury is not available. This is because they do not have such big reserves of petroleum. Hence they cannot dictate terms in the global oil market. The remedy is to invest more to develop the wells and resources and look out for new areas of drilling which will increase the resources and in turn there will be more production and supply. Then the unconventional producers will slowly dictate prices in the market and prove to be a tough challenge for the OPECs (Stern, 2014). 2.4 Search for new resources and drilling sites The Non OPEC producers should conduct an extensive research work on the availability of new resources within their respective countries. As the old resources of petroleum get depleted, there should always be new resources which will ensure the continuity in oil production over decades. Hence the governments of the countries should make significant investment in this regard and look out for new drilling sites. Many countries have found resources in unknown locations which were never explored before. They should invest on better drilling equipments and on skilled manpower (Snowden et al. 2013). 2.5 Reduce the cost of oil production In the words of Al-Naimi, the market share of North America in oil production will decrease by 2015. This he accounted to the high production costs of oil in North America. This will reduce the abundance of supply in the oil market as the demand for oil at such a high price will be less. This will hamper the export from North America and boost export from the OPEC countries which have kept the oil prices at a comparatively lower level. Thus, the unconventional oil producers should aim at reducing the oil prices to the extent possible in order to compete with OPEC producers, otherwise they will continue to gain upper hand (Zhang et al. 2014). 2.6 Building a better relationship with the OPECs The Non OPECs should strive to build a better and friendlier relationship with the OPECs. For the sake of success, sometimes it is required to make friendship with the rivals. This will help to create better understanding and a relatively warmth in between the OPECs and Non OPECs. This will also ensure a relatively smooth place for sharing dialogues and ideas. This requires the unconventional producers to be more prudent and smart in forming various relationship strategies. There should be a healthy competition between the two parties. This will create a more acceptance in the mind of the OPEC producers for the Non OPECs and may bring about a positive change in the global oil market. A hand in hand planning and action for the development of petroleum industry around the world will ultimately benefit the nations. This might even create more opportunities for sustainable development and even many innovations (Sohail, 2015). 3. Conclusion It is very evident that currently the oil market is dominated by the OPECs. They are the leaders in global oil production and supply. They formulate all the policies and strategies relating to petroleum production. They have kept the Non OPECs under their supremacy. But this single dominance by the powerful needs to be diminished a little in order to show them that there are other nations also, who can be a challenge for them. For this reason some policies need to be formulated by the unconventional oil producers hand in hand. They have for long remained under the shadow of the powerful. It is now their time to show the world their mettle and capabilities in the oil industry. This will create a healthy competition in the global oil market. 4. Recommendations The Non OPECs shall be very brave to deal with the eternal leaders of the oil market. If the strategies formed are implemented and reviewed from time to time, then a day will come when the OPECs will start to consider them as a potent competitor and treat them with due respect. It is said in history that every empire falls one day and who knows, this eternal high-headedness and pride of the OPEC nations might be challenged by the minnows in recent future. But that will only create a much better environment for the entire oil industry in the world. The world can expect a better oil industry which will look after the benefit of the consumers and the society at large. 5. Reference list References Aalto, P. (2015). Corrigendum to Institutions in European and Asian energy markets: A methodological overview  [Energy Policy 74 (2014) 415]. Energy Policy. Blanchet, T. (2015). Struggle over energy transition in Berlin: How do grassroots initiatives affect local energy policy-making?. Energy Policy, 78, pp.246-254. Carvajal, S., Serrano, J. and Arango, S. (2013). Colombian ancillary services and international connections: Current weaknesses and policy challenges. Energy Policy, 52, pp.770-778. Chang, C. and Chang, C. (2013). Energy conservation for international dry bulk carriers via vessel speed reduction. Energy Policy, 59, pp.710-715. Creti, A. and Nguyen, D. (2015). Energy markets financialization, risk spillovers, and pricing models. Energy Policy. Frisari, G. and Stadelmann, M. (2015). De-risking concentrated solar power in emerging markets: The role of policies and international finance institutions. Energy Policy, 82, pp.12-22. Greening, L. (2014). Energy Policy: Publishing ethics. Energy Policy, 71, pp.2-3. Jotzo, F. and Lschel, A. (2014). Emissions trading in China: Emerging experiences and international lessons. Energy Policy, 75, pp.3-8. Mulder, P. and de Groot, H. (2013). Dutch sectoral energy intensity developments in international perspective, 19872005. Energy Policy, 52, pp.501-512. Ogunlowo, O., Bristow, A. and Sohail, M. (2015). Developing compressed natural gas as an automotive fuel in Nigeria: Lessons from international markets. Energy Policy, 76, pp.7-17. Rexhuser, S. and Lschel, A. (2015). Invention in energy technologies: Comparing energy efficiency and renewable energy inventions at the firm level. Energy Policy. Sander, M. (2013). Conceptual proposals for measuring the impact of international regimes on energy security. Energy Policy, 63, pp.449-457. Stern, J. (2014). International gas pricing in Europe and Asia: A crisis of fundamentals. Energy Policy, 64, pp.43-48. Tang, X., Snowden, S. and Hk, M. (2013). Analysis of energy embodied in the international trade of UK. Energy Policy, 57, pp.418-428. Wu, G. and Zhang, Y. (2014). Does China factor matter? An econometric analysis of international crude oil prices. Energy Policy, 72, pp.78-86. Zhang, D., Broadstock, D. and Cao, H. (2014). International oil shocks and household consumption in China. Energy Policy, 75, pp.146-156.

Robin Lee Essays (253 words) - Biotechnology, Preventive Medicine

Robin Lee Ms. Kayla Murphy English 9 Sept 21, 2015 Vaccinating Kid Should Be a Parental Choice Life is important and as everybody knows, preventing people from deadly illnesses is also very important. It is strange that some people don ' t believe that vaccinations are effective. Despite years of scientific research and testing, people still choose to be ignorant and hard-headed. Vaccinations should not be a topic of debate because vaccines available have been tested and proven that they are effective. If vaccines weren ' t prove, doctors weren ' t be able to use vaccines but it has been approved by government and CDC so people should have faith to the government, CDC, and to the doctors. There are many different kinds of illness threatening the lives of people. Prevention is always better than to get something unexpected without preventing. When treating illnesses, it costs a lot of money and time to treat it. Vaccinations can not only prevent from illnesses but it also takes a little time and money. I think that getting vaccinations on their children means that they love their children and don ' t want them to become sick. But, when I see people who disagree with getting vaccinations on their children, it means that they don ' t really care about suffering their child from illness when they get the illness. Some parents don ' t think about how much money, time and suffering their children would have after having an illness.

Thanksgiving Quotes for Kids

Thanksgiving Quotes for Kids Thanksgiving Day  is perhaps the best time to talk to your kids about family values and tradition. Kids love to participate in Thanksgiving celebrations, from decorating and helping mash the potatoes, to creating cards and sitting with the family for the feast. These Thanksgiving quotes for kids can help reinforce your value system in a fun, interactive way. You can use them to adorn your Thanksgiving dinner table, plan a treasure hunt, or write each quote on a piece of paper for them to read aloud before dinner. Linda G. Paulsen, Ballad of the MayflowerHey, Ho, Dee-o, Dee-o! The Pilgrims came to Plymouth Rock; Hey, HoSimple people, strudy stock; Hey, HoTo be free they crossed the sea,Thanked the Lord on bended knee; Hey, Ho, Dee-o, Dee-o! CiceroA thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues. William WordsworthAll that we behold is full of blessings. John Fitzgerald KennedyAs we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. Ralph Waldo EmersonFor flowers that bloom about our feet;For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;For song of bird, and hum of bee;For all things fair we hear or see,Father in heaven, we thank Thee! Melody BeattieGratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow. Frank A. ClarkIf a fellow isnt thankful for what hes got, he isnt likely to be thankful for what hes going to get. Meister EckhartIf the only prayer you said in your whole life was, thank you, that would suffice. Cindy MargolisMy favorite meal is turkey and mashed potatoes. I love Thanksgiving, its just my favorite. I can have Thanksgiving all year round. Courtland MilloyNothing purchased can come close to the renewed sense of gratitude for having family and friends. Bobby JindalOn Thanksgiving I will stop to give thanks that my family is safe and healthy, especially because I realize that, following the tragedies of this year, it is all too real a possibility that they might not have been. Thornton WilderWe can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. Harry A. IronsideWe would worry less if we praised more. Thanksgiving is the enemy of discontent and dissatisfaction. George CanningWhen our perils are past, shall our gratitude sleep? John Greenleaf WhittierAh! On Thanksgiving day...When the care-wearied man seeks his mother once more,And the worn matron smiles where the girl smiled before.What moistens the lips and what brightens the eye?What calls back the past, like the rich pumpkin pie?

Statement of objectives Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Statement of objectives - Essay Example of the Department of Public Administration and Urban Studies to improve the capacity of public service in a dynamic urban society through furthering education and community engagement. With my master degree, I was credited with 3 Advanced Certificates in Management from the same university, to wit: Advanced Certificate in Information Management, Advanced Certificate in Telecommunication Management, and Advanced Certificate in Human Resource. Equipped with these academic achievements, I am prepared to undertake greater challenges in higher education. My ultimate goal is to be an instrument of change to my country once I completed the PhD in Urban Studies and Public Affairs in conjunction with Cleveland State University’s College of Public Affairs. The University of Akron is one of the most prestigious institutions which can accord a multi disciplinary approach to the program. I am optimistic in learning various public service and urban studies issues affecting not only the local and national level, but more so, their impact and influence on international levels. I would like to be given the opportunity to share the theoretical and practical applications of public affairs and urban studies in Saudi Arabia, which unselfishly provided me with 100% scholarship through the King Abdullah Graduate Studies Scholarship Program. If accepted, I plan to spend part of my time developing greater insight into one of my primary research interests – stewardship applications in electronic business. For individuals who exemplify characteristics and behavior that demonstrate the concept of stewardship and serving society, the most important consideration is to take accountability without instilling control or dominion over those persons or properties one is tasked to take care of. The benefits that the degree in sciences of management emphasize that public policies’ response to change is a necessary component to adapt and adjust to inefficiencies, conflicts and developments

Lean Six Sigma Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Lean Six Sigma - Essay Example Although Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma have been practiced for several decades now, Lean Six Sigma itself is a relatively new initiative being followed by companies worldwide. Whereas Six Sigma is focused on reducing variation and improving process yield using statistical tools, Lean is primarily concerned with eliminating waste by following a defined approach to implement various Lean principles. Lean brings action and intuition to the table; Six Sigma uses statistical tools to uncover root causes and provide metrics; Lean Six Sigma is a combination of both and provides the tools to create ongoing business improvement (Smith, 2003). The synergy of Lean and Six Sigma bring in the advantages of both, achieving results consistently superior than what either system could achieve alone. Lean Six Sigma is different from Six Sigma in the sense that it marries the principles of both Lean manufacturing and Six Sigma concepts to produce a much enhanced system. Six Sigma is a process for eliminating defects and variation through the development of a disciplined data driven approach. However Six Sigma alone cannot dramatically improve process speed or reduce invested capital. Although it can bring a process under statistical control, variations will still exist in terms of delivery times, assembly times, routings, etc. Incorporating Lean principles within the Six Sigma framework enhances speed and quality by improving and streamlining the processes and creating excellent customer service. According to Badurdeen (2008), "to get to Lean Six Sigma an organization should first incorporate Six Sigma into their process improvement and then engage in Lean Six Sigma to speed up the processes after the systems have been broken down into smaller components". Selecting the Right Team As such, rightsizing Lean Six Sigma teams should be the first priority for businesses that want to ensure the success of 'Lean' projects and realize the full potential of such projects. Some of the factors that characterize an efficient Lean Six Sigma Team are: High level of efficient communications amongst implementers, management officials and other entities associated with the 'Lean' project. The team members are accountable since decisions and actions taken by the team can be traced back to individual members. Team works with a reduced cost of operations because the lesser the numbers, the less will be the amount of resources used for performing the same tasks and duties The team constantly strives in increasing efficiency in solving complex problems and issues and employees know the exact person to contact if they encounter problems during the implementation phase The team shows less chance of conflicts and ego issues. One way we evaluate the success of a Lean Six Sigma initiative or strategy is to measure the involvement in LeanSix Sigma by way of numbers of people involved, i.e., numbers trained, practicing, certified, etc. DMAIC DMAIC is a standard improvement model; it is a structured, disciplined and rigorous approach to process improvement consisting of 5 logically interlinked phases. The 5 phases are discussed in the following section (George, 2002). Define: This is the first step which aims at clarifying the goals and value of a project. A set of tools such

Designed House Cooling System Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Designed House Cooling System - Research Paper Example The design to be improvised is affordable and readily available. According to Givoni, countries with hot, humid climates call for a building layout that provides a potential for cross ventilation. The following outlines the priority features in the solving of the housing problem in An Minh with respect to obtaining a serene environment.†¢ Roofing will constitute the use of light reflecting fabrics interwoven on coconut leaves to reduce cost. The essence of using reflective materials is to minimize the level of absorption thereby, minimizing the amount of heat to the housing unit.   Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ The roof will be narrow and tall to enhance air circulation and give room for air movements; it will also be extended to provide extra room for shading and less heat radiation thus, minimize heat from the sun entering the house. Cool roofs are remarkably effective in the reduction of power consumption for cooling system.†¢ Double ceiling incorporating readily available materials and ext ends with the roof to encase and prevent any heat absorption to the house. The ceiling insulation will be waterproof and heat resistant material like old newspapers or clothes.  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ There will be an extractor fan designed to be installed ten meters above the ground in the house.   This will enhance air circulation by using air from outside to cool the house. A fan is an appliance used for ventilation of a room or any enclosed spaced.   It extracts air and moisture hence keeping the house less humid.  ... The ceiling insulation will be waterproof and heat resistant material like old newspapers or clothes. There will be an extractor fan designed to be installed ten meters above the ground in the house.1 This will enhance air circulation by using air from outside to cool the house. The fan is an appliance used for ventilation of a room or any enclosed spaced.2 It extracts air and moisture hence keeping the house less humid. Warm air rises as it is lighter than cool air, thus extracted by the fan placed in the house. Consequently, the sun heats the air in the roof space; therefore, the presence of the fan is highly critical as it will extract the warm, humid air from the house before it circulates. The windows will be placed on opposite sides of the housing unit, and the orientation of the house will be directing towards the direction of summer winds. The positioning is in such a manner as to enhance entry of cool air in the morning and facilitate maximum air circulation when it is hot. The windows will be accompanied by shutters which will enhance air circulation and contribute to the cooling process. The ceiling and interior roofing of the house will be insulated with readily available materials like old newspapers, clothes, shoes, and rice husks. This will maintain the cool air in the house as it will not allow heat from outside to enter into the housing unit. The use of evaporative window technique is also critical in cooling system; this can use old clothing materials on the large windows devised for air circulation.3 Consequently, the windows will be enlarged, placed above the plants outside and obliquely designed at 20o- 120o to the wall to enhance cooling system.4 They will also contain shutters that

An Analysis Of The Ub Group United Breweries Marketing Essay

An Analysis Of The Ub Group United Breweries Marketing Essay The inception of UB Group dates back in the late 19th Century in the year 1857. When beer was being distributed using bullock carts in casks and the largest number of customers were the defense personnel. Positive evolution has been undertaken in the company as United Breweries is manufacturing and delivering beer around the whole world fulfilling the customers wants across generations and continents. Today, UB Group records remarkable success over the last 94 years of operation. UB Group is a large Holding Company that majorly owns five companies; United Spirits Limited (USL), United Breweries Limited (UBL), Kingfisher Airlines, Mangalore Chemicals and Fertilizers Limited (MCF), UB Engineering that have seen the company lead in market share worldwide. The companies, United Spirits and United Breweries have attained landmarks with revenue shooting beyond one hundred million. In the same line United Spirits has developed into close proximity to the planets major distiller. United Breweries also has recorded increase sales for the first moment in time that surpass half of market share control in the exceedingly cutthroat brewing space. Other companies too have performed outstandingly well. Propelled by the countrys endeavored growth trajectory growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as by quantification of poverty reduction, the company is geared towards attaining higher goals and objectives. The company is led through corporate Governance in light of transparency of high principles through substantial promoter holding constituents of the Board which include four directors. The company enjoys endowment of knowledgeable and distinguished individuals who supplement external and internal perspectives that offer great support to the Board. UB Group reserves a wealth of employee with specialized skills and an undeterred commitment to their jobs allocated. The Group is led by the chairman Mr. Vijay Malaya, who succeeded his father position. He has a wide experience and skill in management having trained in several courses. He is remarkably the foremost Indian to be holder of formula one team. He is the Groups Chairman in India and USA. Consumer diversity is increasingly evolving and businesses have looked for different ways to identify their needs and subsequently satisfy them. Market analysis techniques have intensively and extensively looked into consumer behavior and trend in the market to identify the marketing opportunities and explore them by meeting the desires of customer in a more profitable manner. UB Group has achieved to amass the biggest share of the market in India and the world as well. A deep analysis of the market analysis techniques used by the company will be undertaken to realize the opportunities that the company had realized in its various investments and enhanced service delivery (Kress Snyder, 1994). Market segmentation involves three basic steps in developing a market entry strategy. Although in essence it just groups the market by common features of certain groups with a focus to demography, these steps help in citing the differences correctly. First the customers are grouped according to their needs and reactions to as to categorically know what type of products the market want, how much by what group of customers. This will forge the way forward in the design of the product (Nelson, 2010). UBLs market is projected to expand significantly owing to the fact that Heineken Internal is signing a shareholder agreement, but most contributing factor is the leverage Heinekens distribution strength that will spearhead the marketing of Kingfisher Beer in the chosen International Markets. Second, after determining the wants you determine the segment which you are to deliver your products. Thirdly, you have to lie down and come up with a product portfolio so as to be able to gauge the trend, cost and extent of the product in terms of distribution. Demand has to be looked into in the first steps. Market segmentation gives a more precise data and analysis which to the business is significant in making projections while identifying the real opportunity in the market. There are different means however of how to achieve through a market segmentation, it is fundamentally through the company capability that this can be effectively be achieved. The Group is committed in its involvement in corporate social responsibility. Over the years the company has been keen to endeavor in dealings in the area of Life Sciences that have led to the development of Mallya Hospital at Bangalore that has a touch to the underprivileged in the community by offering them subsidized service. The hospital has owned the reputation of using exceptional medical equipments that translated into quality medical care and the most excellent medical consultants. The hospital has registered significant improvement and development, today, the initially 150-bed hospital has been turned into a 450-bed hospital of which an estimated of 50 beds are set aside to specifically care for seriously ill patients. The company boasts of this community extension service owing to the fact that it was the first Indian Hospital to be awarded ISO 9002 certification. Group Company has taken aggressive exportation as a market strategy for marketing its products rather than partial exportation bearing in mind that it produces different brands, it does not wait for orders but goes to look for them. It has extensively built branches in many parts of the world, other than India, so that it stores its products as it seeks or attends to the demand already identified in the market. The SWOT analysis is a useful tool for understanding markets and subsequent decision making for all sorts of available opportunities in the market. Determination of the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats are critical in getting a good review of strategy and direction of a company proposition of investment in a market. However, in order to increase on the reliability of the SWOT analysis it is critical that one completes a PEST analysis first. PEST analysis is a fundamental tool in understanding the market opportunities and growths attached to it after ones investments. The acronym stand which implies a critical brainstorming review of the market Political, Economic, Social and Technological factors has proved to be fundamental in assessing organizations markets. It gives the indicators of the challenges and advantages both in political, social and economical aspects of the market. Group Company proved to have ventured in their market through critical review of this using this method as reflected in the success factors and the choice of the countries it has invested in. Its investments in USA for example, was due to their political and economic stability, and an extended hand in the purchasing power of the customers which was intriguing, as reflected in the high success of USL and UBL in America. SWOT on the other hand restrained the company from setting up its manufacturing companies because of the fluctuating economic status of the county. Group Company were able to assess their markets using Porters five forces model that enabled them gauge the markets competitive strength and position. Bearing in mind of the stiff competition, the company innovatively increased its number of brand and ventured into aggressive exportation of its products. It got into partnership with its promoters so as to increase the sales turnover and turned threats of technology obsoleteness by engaging its UB Engineering Company in time to time plant installation and upgrading of plants. The company recognized the existing competitive challenge with its competitors, fully evaluated the threats of the new market identified and the purchasing power of the consumers and threats in terms of the immense range of products in the market, and associated changes in prices that might plunge the company into a loss or closure. The company has the biggest market share because of its accrued single window ventures to invest in the global market. Holding Company of the Group manages stakes in UB group leading companies which are United Spirits Limited (USL), United Breweries Limited (UBL), and Kingfisher Airlines (KFA). Each major investment is prevailing leader in their own market because of their fast increasing segment response to current emerging customer trends. Other than the three above major successful investments, other group ventures in setting up of industrial plants through its engineering company, and in the manufacture pharmaceutical and fertilizers are improving at a gradual rate. This was reflected in the analysis of the size of structure and success of each investment which confirmed a relative relationship to their respective market share. The analysis of the market share of the above investee companies was as follows: The UB Group, being one of the forefronts in terms of branded customer group as indicated above, has dominated the industry in three of its consumer driven investments: alcohol and beverages which is its leading in market share with 30%, dominated in spirits associated with the different brands quality that today it controls 40% of the market shares, and the aviation which is also leading with 45% of the market share. However, UBE, MCF and AVENTIS might indicate less market shares as compared to the former three of 28%, 22% and 15%, but it is also proud to realize such market shares by the company put it among the top service and products providers in their respective markets. United Spirits Limited (USL) has been the leading and the worlds second largest spirit company with consistent domination and a market share of 40%. Offers a wide variety of brands, over 140 and has specialized in a twenty percent of the brands going for multimillionaire ranging from whisky, Brandy, Rum to Vodka and Gin. In the year 2009, the company recorded a turnover of over 90 million in sales revenue. The company has been able to the global market and wins most customers that led to it being voted as the best company and attracted awards across all fields and categories. For instance, instance in June the company was able to win over 108 awards, in all the international wine and spirit contests. The company is thus associated with innovation, the best market entry strategy and market analysis and enjoys being the first single diet whisky manufacture in the whole world. Kingfisher Airline Limited is among the biggest international airline operators serving over 400 flights a day in India and over 2500 flights internationally. KAF constantly dominates 45% of the market with a wide destination networks. Its services range from regional to long-haul internal destination suiting majority of airline customers. Apart from the stylish red interiors in the aircraft that customers enjoy, they are also satisfied with the in-flight entertainment, not to mention the reliable smartly dressed crew and ground staff that meet ones needs on request. For instance, in May 2009, KAL recorded a total of one million international passengers that saw the company realize the highest market share. UB Engineering is has been renown in the market for turning construction investments and building dreams into a reality. The company has strongly focused on, but not limited to, projects in industrial installation, power, fabrication, fire fighting, and agrochemicals. However a deep concentration on erecting plants with speed and efficiency saw its competition on flexibility realize an increased market share. The companys undeterred commitment to compete on quality made it achieve the award on ISO 9001:2000 certification. It has widely built its reputation for effective operation covering fitting, gauging and maintenance of mechanical projects (Janssen, 2004). Today UB engineering records substantial turnovers of Rs. 150 Crore with a rapidly increasing trend, the last realized was Rs.275 Crore. One of the leading International engineering companies in the field of installation of industrial plants that is deeply focused on Trunkey Division for developments in Power generation, Fertilizer quality improvement and manufacture, Fire Fighting, sewage Treatment, Agrochemical production among others. Obstacles The Group Company therefore has been able to win most markets and realize aggressive growth. Its ability to change its products in line with the customers preferences was because it had mastered the market so well. In the 1950s, it expanded from single production of beer to production of spirits and even went ahead to acquire more acquire companies for production. This notwithstanding, the company in 2003, increased its brands and acquires more business for the production of liquor. It was at this time that the company released its most selling brand the Kingfisher. The company has the biggest market share because of its accrued single window ventures to invest in the global market. Holding Company of the Group manages stakes in UB group leading companies which are United Spirits Limited (USL), United Breweries Limited (UBL), and Kingfisher Airlines (KFA). Each major investment is prevailing leader in their own market because of their fast increasing segment response to current emerging customer trends. Other than the three above major successful investments, other group ventures in setting up of industrial plants through its engineering company, and in the manufacture pharmaceutical and fertilizers are improving at a gradual rate. This was reflected in the analysis of the size of structure and success of each investment which confirmed a relative relationship to their respective market share (Janssen, 2004).

Discovering Books :: essays research papers

Richard Selzer / Discuss how reading books changes my life Richard Wright, in his essay â€Å"Discovering Books,† explains how reading books changed his outlook on life and eventually his life itself. The first book that widened his horizons was an overtly controversial book by H. L. Mencken. I have a story not so dissimilar from his. Coming out of High School, I had in my possession the perspective that I knew everything. So I started, straight off the bat, working in a variety of menial jobs, which would have lead me to a dead end, for as the good jobs in today’s society required college degrees. So, after working for two years with a white-collar full of frustration, I decided it was time to take matters into my own ink-stained, carpal tunnel syndrome-stricken hands. I immediately gave my two-weeks notice, and pontificated about going to college. Headed along the yellow brick road towards the registration office, I was intercepted by my malevolent manager, the â€Å"Ineffable John† as he was called by my fellow co-workers, and he said unto me, â€Å"Michael, you don’t want to go to college, stay here and you shall have bestowed upon your unworthy head all which you need to know. Here, fill up my coffee cup.† With his words still echoing in my mind, I wanted to sprint down the hallway, pole-vault over the cubicle prisons, hurdle the water ration cooler, and dive through the double-paned sliding glass doors. This spectacular display of athletic ability would have been terrific, but the ball and chain still shackled to my ankles would have slightly hindered my escape. One week after my pre-resignation notice and John’s wise words of discouragement, my manager’s secretary, Mary, who just had a baby earlier that day but wouldn’t take unpaid sick leave, approached me and said, â€Å"Don’t listen to John, college is a sure ticket to get out of this galley, otherwise you’ll end up having a baby and coming to work on the same day because this company doesn’t provide maternity leave.† A week later I was walking out the double-paned sliding glass doors and into college life. In the counselor’s office, my counselor advised me towards taking a psychology class, seeing as it is a requirement for an AA degree, and because I did not know what sort of degree I wanted at the point. So, I agreed to take the class. Bob Rice was the eccentric instructor of this introduction to the wonderful religion of psychology.

Blockbuster Films Essay

Extra-terrestrial beings, intergalactic space flight, fictionalized re-telling of actual historical events, biological disasters that either threaten or bring human existence to a screeching halt, these are several of the most common elements and themes found in blockbuster films. But given the varying elements of blockbusters in film history, certain uncertainties give the term no exact definition. Yet, people, regardless if they are critics or ordinary viewers, are able to determine if a particular film is a blockbuster or not. Traditionally, blockbusters are regarded as films that denote popularity or success in production, but there is no authoritative body that gives requirements or criteria for judgement for films to be classified as blockbusters. Likewise, there exist no actual norms and standards on how films are to be classified as such. The fact that there uncertainty prevails over the true definition of a blockbuster leads to questions such as: is it based on towering budgets and high production values? Are blockbusters made through the popularity of the actors involved in the film? Or are blockbusters created and classified based on the brilliant, and seemingly flawless ideas spawned by a particular filmmaker’s imagination? In any event, Julian Stringers (2) introduction to the book, Movie Blockbusters, asserts that the term has an elusive nature because the meaning of the term blockbuster if used in the context of motion pictures is never fixed or clear. However, Stringer denotes that the term’s definition varies dependent of who speaks and what is being said (2). Stringer’s definition implies that a blockbuster does not necessarily have to have big budgets or sophisticated on-screen effects, rather, a complex spectacle that poses as a genre of the cinematic tradition. And by saying that a blockbuster is a genre, the distinct elements of the cinematic tradition categorize such films under blockbuster Take the case of Christopher Nolan’s 2008 blockbuster superhero film The Dark Knight. Apart from the concept of a masked vigilante using high-powered gadgets to ensure that no more 8-year old boy would lose his parents again, the idea of a rich, powerful, and influential individual sporting a caped suit and a mask to fight crime is can only be meant for children, or to some extent what the American culture came to call, the geeks.. Nevertheless, The Dark Knight managed to crawl its way to the hearts and minds of millions of movie goers. Set in a Gotham City manifesting itself as an archetypal city fired up by the sound of progress, but haunted by the vestiges of underground criminal activity, hypocrisy, and corruption, The Dark Knight revolves around Joker’s psychotic ploys to disgrace Gotham City’s law enforcement department while trying to reveal Batman’s alter-ego in the process. Putting Lieutenant James Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent in his primary hit list, Batman bends and distorts his principles in life to put a lid on the Joker’s irritating humour. As previously mentioned, the elements incorporated within a particular film create blockbusters. The Dark Knight is no exception as the actors and the film’s plot cooperate to venture the superhero genre to blockbuster. New York Times film critic Manohla Dargis describes Nolan’s The Dark Knight as a film that stands between the thin blurry lines of art and industry, as well as poetry and entertainment. This is because the dark portrayal of the characters in the film gives a totally new perspective on comic book characters in contexts beyond the limitations of comic strips. The Joker (Heath Ledger), for instance introduces the audience to what he calls a better class of criminal. The Joker is meant to become the irony of his own name that he exhibits a serious psychotic nature through gestures such as facial expressions and his walk (Nolan). Nolan’s Joker provides a justification for his criminal sanity by comparing himself to normal civilized individuals who feel that the laws being imposed make the world a safer and a better place. It is quite apparent in the Joker’s motives that he questions the morality of the corrupt law enforcement officers and politicians who allegedly feel that they are on the side of right. Heath Ledger’s performance as the Joker single-handedly carries the film to blockbuster status because of the dark, sadistic approach to the villain’s persona. Acclaimed film critic Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun Times writes that Nolan’s Joker steps up in such a way that he puts up ingenious situations where Batman (Christian Bale), Police Lieutenant James Gordon, and District Attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckheart) are placed in tight situations that challenges their morality in every sense. Dialogue is also one of the promising elements that place a particular film in the blockbuster genre. This is in large part brought about by language’s capability to leave an indelible mark to viewers from all walks of life. Adding more magnificence to the already unique, yet chilling gestures, the Joker’s lines exhibit a foreign implication that justifies his psychotic ploys. Simply put, how the Joker justifies the sadistic choices he gives to his adversaries establishes a different consciousness to people, especially ones who are oppressed by supremacists and bullies. In a similar magnitude, Eckheart’s iconic line â€Å"either you die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain (Nolan)†, tattoos a harsh reality that serves as a portrait of the current state of political. By literally and figuratively living to his words, Harvey Dent taps a reality, though morbid, reflects how power becomes self-destructive in such a way that it corrupts people who hold it. Apart from the remarkable performances, the film’s sinister and tragic plot spells out the word blockbuster. Primarily, Nolan’s The Dark Knight poetically departs from the typical good versus evil comic book plots. Nolan’s Dark Knight becomes darker as Gotham’s beloved citizen start to pile up for the caped crusader’s arrest, the Joker’s sick, demented mind takes advantage and prompts the infamous hero to come out and get him. Roger Ebert describes the plot as haunted that exceeds the boundaries of its comic book origins and transcends in to a shocking tale of tragedy. This is because most of the film’s scenes engages both the audience and the film’s protagonists to decide on moral dilemmas. In the end, no matter what choice the hero makes, a scar is left on his morale and his identity. Ebert adds that because of the actors’ ability to captivate the audience and because of how the film’s special effects respect the emotional acting, the audience are blindsided by the drama that pierces to their compassionate side. Through-the-roof funding and sophisticated production principles seem to pave the way for blockbuster films. But then again, how would a certain film become attractive and tasteful to the audience if it does not bring the promising elements in to consideration. Through its gloomy intensity and dark and horrifying humour, The Dark Knight managed to balance the weight production values with the term blockbuster. Likewise, the serious and cruel undertones of the film‘s plot not just redefines superhero movies but it clarifies what classifies as blockbuster as well. Works Cited Stringer, Julian. Movie Blockbusters. New York: Routledge, 2003. Dargis, Manohla. â€Å"Showdown in Gotham Town. † 18 July 2008. The New York Times Online. 22 October 2008 < http://movies. nytimes. com/2008/07/18/movies/18knig. html>. Ebert, Roger. â€Å"The Dark Knight. † 16 July 2008. Roger Ebert’s Official Website. 22 October 2008 < http://rogerebert. suntimes. com/apps/pbcs. dll/article? AID=/20080716/REVIEWS/55996637/1023>. Nolan, Christopher. IGN interview on Christopher Nolan. 6 December 2007. The Dark Knight. Dir. Christopher Nolan. Perf. Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Gary Oldman, and Aaron Eckheart. Warner Brothers, 2008.

Case Study Essay Example

Case Study Essay Example Case Study Essay Case Study Essay Mrs. X, a sedentary 45 year old, is 64† tall, weighs 165. 5lbs and has a waist circumference of 37†. At a recent routine checkup with her physician her blood pressure was measured at 135/85mmHg and her blood tests were normal. Regardless, her doctor has suggested she make some changes to her lifestyle to try and reverse the deterioration in her health he has observed since her last visit. 1. Outline her risk factors that the doctor was concerned about. Is anyone risk factor more prominent or problematic than the others? A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chances of developing a disease. In this case with Mrs. X, her risk factors are her weight, waist circumference and blood pressure. Her weight and height puts her at a body mass index (BMI) at 28. 4 kg/m2, which is associated with an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Also women are at increased relative risk if they have a waist circumference greater than 35 inches, in Mrs. X’s case she is 2 inches over the standard. As well as her blood pressure reading of 135/85mmHG, puts her on the verge of being hypertensive. Although all the risk factors are important to note, I believe that the Mrs. Content of the report 1 . Title page (Students name, ID and Section) 2. Table of contents 3. The answers to the questions 4. List of References and Appendices (articles/ paper cuttings/any hardcopy of the references) d. Plagiarism Plagiarism or any other form or cheating will not be tolerated. Your report should consist of your discussion of the topic and not a copy-paste version of the summary from the internet. If a group is deemed to be guilty of plagiarism or cheating, no marks will be given to the group. Such conduct obviously constitutes unethical behavior.

Make Water Glow With This Easy Science Project

Make Water Glow With This Easy Science Project Its easy to make glowing water to use for fountains or as the basis for other projects. Basically, all you need is water and a chemical to make it glow. Heres what you need to do. Chemicals That Make Water Glow in the Dark There are a couple of ways you get science projects to glow in the dark. You can use glow-in-the-dark paint, which is phosphorescent and glows anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Glowing paint or powder tends not to be very soluble, so it is good for some projects and not others. Tonic water glows very brightly when exposed to black light and is great for edible projects. The fluorescent dye is another option for a bright effect under a black light. You can extract non-toxic fluorescent dye from a highlighter pen to make glowing water: Use a knife to (carefully) cut a highlighter pen in half. Its a pretty simple steak knife and cutting board procedure.Pull out the ink-soaked felt that is inside the pen.Soak the felt in a small quantity of water.   Once you have the dye you can add it to more water to make glowing fountains, grow certain types of glowing crystals, make glowing bubbles, and use it for many other water-based projects.

Case Law Terms Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Case Law Terms - Essay Example Precedents and stare decisis go more hand-in-hand with each other than statutory law, though a statutory law is often created based on precedents, thus also sharing similarities. The differences between precedents and stare decisis is that a stare decisis cannot happen without precedents. If there are no precedents, judges cannot use past knowledge and experience to determine a case, therefore not implementing stare decisis (Sri Ram, 2008). Statutory law can stand on its own, consisting of the laws set down by the legislative branch. However, statutory law can also consist of the laws and regulations that have been formed due to precedents; once a judge sees the usefulness of a precedent, the legislative branch can alter it to be a statutory law. In my opinion, of the three terms provided, the one that has the most significance to criminal law is precedent. Precedent allows other courts and judges to make use of rulings or principles set forth by a past case; in the event that an unlikely or unusual case is made known, precedents can be used to determine what the outcome of the case should be. Precedents help to keep things moving in a criminal case, providing courts and judges with the information they need to determine the ruling of their

ITM301 CA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

ITM301 CA - Essay Example Following is the list and brief description of important strategies that a company should follow in order to ensure that its IT users get adequate technical support: 1. Consolidation of the help-function: It is a good strategy to keep your help-desk system consolidated in one geographical location in order to eliminate the misunderstandings over â€Å"who to call† and to decrease the requests of support staff from direct approaches. A consolidated help desk boosts improved communication between IT specialists that were previously working in distinct groups. It also helps in developing economies of scale in terms of equipment and data sharing. 2. Use of help-desk software or IT tools: There are a number of software packages (over 200 in the market) available that have customizable solutions for creating knowledge bases, expert systems, problem management and change management. Also, these IT tools are now supported with databases of problems already configured in the set-up CD- ROMs, which can be easily integrated into help-desk software. Examples of such help-desk software include LiveTime Support, WonderDesk SQL, Numara Footprints, IncidentMonitorâ„ ¢, Simple Help Desk etc. ... 3. Develop standard procedures for help-call cycle and communication: In order to have a good and competent technical support system, it is important that the organization defines standards both internally in terms of procedures and training of help desk staff via ISO 9000; and externally via the establishment of service-level agreements. 4. Performance Management: The performance of help-desk personnel should be measured and analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative data such as Call statistics (Call volume, call capture, call length, waiting times, resolution times, number of calls closed), Customer Feedback (by user surveys or random follow-up calls), Mystery caller (Tester questions posed anonymously and evaluated) and Benchmarking (by a consultancy company). 5. Encouraging Professionalism: To gauge and improve professionalism amongst the help-desk staff, it is important that they understand the need and value of their work. They should more than just â€Å"technical peop le† and be treated as any other employee of the company. Hence, the organization should invest in proper training, certification or national vocational qualification developed specifically for support staff. 6. Outsourcing: In cases of large multi-national corporations, it is often times cost-effective to outsource the help-desk division to another geography. The experience of some cases shows that, while there may be advantages to outsourcing, such a strategy must be used upon proper consideration and with care. Yes, the help desk or technical support personnel is a relevant case of socio-technical system where the usual scenario of work between the client (technology user), the help-desk personnel (IT user/problem solver) and

The Core Competence of the Corporation Assignment

The Core Competence of the Corporation - Assignment Example Definition: Core competency: Core competency is what a company does well (a company’s strength), that differentiates it from other similar business establishments. M. Tampoe describes core competence as management subsystems which incorporate processes, diverse technologies, resources and knowledge to distribute services and products which would reap unique and sustainable benefits and also add worth to an organization. Introduction: The idea of "core competencies" in the organization is one of the most significant business shaping ideas in the present business world. This is one of the key thoughts that lie behind the present wave of outsourcing, as companies concentrate their attempts in key strong (work) areas and outsource as much as they can of everything else. The opening point for understanding core competencies of an organization lies in understanding that a business in order to acquire good position in the market requires having something that consumers uniquely value . The most powerful method to succeed worldwide competition is still unseen to many of the business establishments. Here the study talks about the core competencies of the corporation Boom-Bust Construction Ltd. ... The following case study talks about the Boom-Bust Construction Ltd (BBLC). First of all, to understand how to build up core competencies; it is advisable to understand what is and in not a core competency? According to Prahalad, core competencies are not necessary on the subject of: outspending competitors on Research &Development, sharing expenses between business units and amalgamating vertically. At the same time as the construction of core competencies may be helped by some of these proceedings by themselves, they remain inadequate. What is the topic about? The following study makes an attempt to critically review the article about the core competencies of the corporation (by C.K. Prahalad and Gary Hamel) and application of core competency ethos in business industry. The following case study talks about Boom-Bust Construction Ltd (BBLC), it is a large family building organization owned by Jed Boom. As per C.K. Prahalad, the application of core competency in BBLC might help to de velop various new opportunities. Core competencies are inclined to be rooted in the capability to coordinate and incorporate various groups in the company. At the same time as an organization may be capable to hire a group of brilliant scientists with a particular skill, in doing so it does not itself become competent in that skill. But the efficient coordination between every group involved in bringing an invention to the market, can be taken as a core competency of the company (Core competency suggestions by P.J.H Shoemaker, S.T. Walsh & J.D. Linton, M. Tampoe and D.C.Band & G. Scanlan). Criticisms: The idea of core competencies was started by C.K. Prahalad and Gary Hamel in the year 1990 as a part of management literature. The two main

Drop Out of School Essay Example for Free

Drop Out of School Essay Today many young people do not realize the importance of an education so dropping out of school becomes an option. They just easily end up dropping from school without thinking about their future. They are thinking that their parents will support their financial daily lives, thus they do not feel worried about continuing their education. Moreover, there are several reasons that make young people decide to drop out of school some of which are getting poor grades, not getting along with teachers and/or students, or having a drug or alcohol problem. Those reasons make the young people end up by dropping from school. However, if the parent has been guiding their children well, they may be able to be solving the problem. There are no easy solutions to the school dropout problems. However, here are two ways to solve these problems; parents should encourage their children to do the right things and parent should meet with the school counselor. There are some solutions to the problem of dropping out of school. First, parents should encourage their children to do the right things, so that one day the children will become a better person and will be useful for the childrens future. For example, parents should talk with their children about how important the education is for their future; help them understand that the choices they make can seriously disrupt their future. The parent should not give up trying to make conversation with their children. Furthermore, the parent should start a conversation by asking their children how school is doing or make other conversation where both side feels comfortable with each other. In addition, by being open to one and another would give the children confident to talk about what they have been observed from school. This type of communication is sometimes hard to do but it is necessary to keep their children remain in school. Next, when a parent notices that their children want to drop out from school, the parents should follow this solution: workings with school counselors or teachers that can help their children remain in school. For instance, the parent may arrange for help by making up a schedule to meet the school counselor. The parent has to inform their children to meet with their school  counselor at least once a week to solve their children problems in the school. Especially, for children who has a problem in certain subjects which make them to think about dropping out of school. As an expert, the counselor will give advice to the young people by explaining how important education is for them on the future. Moreover, education is one of the requirements to get a better job, which they will later need for their future and for personal responsibilities. In conclusion there are many reasons why kids drop out of school. Primarily they have to do with a poor understanding of what good education is, struggling to make the grades, and due to drug problems. By maintaining good open communication with their children and seeking advices from school advisor which are preventing their children drop out from school. In the end, the parents and children can work together to keep the children remain in the school. Thus, by having good communication with their parents, teachers, or school advisor, it is important for children to realize that the adults in their lives do want them to remain in school and are willing to do a lot to make it possible. Hopefully, these tips might be helpful for parents who have problems with their children who want to drop out from school.

Challenges Faced Rural Healthcare Facilities Health And Social Care Essay

Challenges Faced Rural Healthcare Facilities Health And Social Care Essay Twenty-five percent of the total population in the United States are living in rural areas and compared with urban Americans and healthcare facilities in rural areas generally serve low-income, the elderly, and individuals who are less informed and armed with less knowledge concerning health care prevention measures. Moreover, rural individuals accessing healthcare in rural facilities face barriers to healthcare such as fewer doctors, hospitals and health resources in generation and face difficulty in accessing health services. Statement of the problem   Hospital closures and other market changes have adversely affected rural areas, leaving State and Federal policymakers, and others concerned about access to health care in rural America. Considerable changes in the health care delivery system over the past decade have intensified the need for new approaches to health care in rural areas. Managed care organizations, for example, may not be developed easily in rural areas, partly because of low population density. Research Questions          The primary research question in this study is the question of whether rural health care facilities overcome the ongoing challenges to provide quality medical care to their communities. Rationale of the Research The rationale of this research is based upon the following facts: 1.) Rural Healthcare and Barriers to Accessing Care: Many small rural hospitals have closed, while other health care supply of primary care physicians and other health care provider facilities are in financial straits. Unavailability of resources and transportation problems are barriers to access for rural populations. 2.). The supply of primary care practitioners and other health care providers in rural areas is decreasing. Some are leaving rural areas to join managed care organizations elsewhere. 3.) Barriers to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Goals for improving the Nations health over the next decade can be achieved only if rural populations are included in efforts to remove barriers to access and use of clinical preventive services. 4.) Barriers Related to Lack in Health Care Technology. Technologies including telemedicine offer promise of improved access to health care, but their most efficient and effective applications need further evaluation. 5.) Organizational Barriers of Service Provision to Vulnerable Rural Populations: Low population density in rural areas makes it inherently difficult to deliver services that target persons with special health needs. Groups at particular risk include: the elderly; the poor; people with HIV or AIDS; the homeless; mothers, children, and adolescents; racial or ethnic minorities; and persons with disabilities. 6.) Consumer choice and the rural hospital. Factors that drive changes in rural hospitals have a critical effect on consumer choice and access. Significance of the Study This study is significant in that individuals in rural areas are likely to continue to receive less healthcare as well as less effective healthcare if rural healthcare does not gain necessary knowledge, informed by research study as to what should be done to better deliver health care services to those in rural areas. This study is of significance to several groups including patients depending on rural healthcare services, the families of these patients, the rural communities at large and the insurance companies who provide insurance coverage for individuals in rural areas. Methodology The methodology of the proposed research is one of a qualitative nature in which data will be gathered through survey/questionnaires of individuals, physicians and business in the rural community at focus in the research in order to asses whether the needs of the community in terms of healthcare provision are being met. Data analysis will be both qualitative and quantitative in nature. After having administered and compiled data from the survey/questionnaires focus groups will be scheduled to gain further insight into the unmet needs of the community in health care services in needs assessment focus group discussions. Literature Review The California Healthcare Foundation, in its Rural Health Care Delivery: Connecting Communities through Technology report of December 2002 states : Challenges facing rural health care include scarcity of local medical resources and distance between patients, physicians and facilities. (Turisco and Metzger, 2002) Furthermore, it is related in this report that there are insufficient numbers of primary care practitioners in rural areas. (Turisco and Metzger, 2002; paraphrased) In the instance where a patient is forced to travel from home to another area for accessing health care services resulting is a range of difficulties including: (1) time away from work; (2) additional expenses; and (3) the complications of coordinating care in different locales. (Turisco and Metzger, 2002) This increases the chance the patient information will come up missing or incomplete and as well may result in care that is delayed or fragmented. (Turisco and Metzger, 2002) The physicians in rural areas as wel l as other health care providers experience negative impacts due to the low number of health care practitioners in rural areas as well as in the distance factor, which results in limitations on productivity, communication and ongoing education. (Turisco and Metzger, 2002) Research notes that there is more difficulty for the rural providers in communication with other providers of health care. There is much less in the way of opportunities to attend conferences and training due to the requirements of travel, which limits access to medical knowledge and research work. Lower efficiency results due to travel time involved in visiting patients in hospitals and nursing homes as well as in à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦fewer face-to-face visits, and more time on the telephone with other providers and with patients. (Turisco and Metzger, 2002) In a recent report relating to healthcare in rural India stated is that: The number of patients is increasing exponentially each year, putting enormous pressure on healthcare delivery systems worldwide. Hospitals and specialists are concentrated in cities and are inaccessible to the rural poor. (Tata Consultancy Services and Microsoft Corporation, nd) This report relates that several physicians in India along with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and the largest IT company in India collaborated in the creation of WebHealthCentre.com which is stated to be: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦a comprehensive healthcare portal like no other. (Tata Consultancy Services and Microsoft Corporation, nd) Offered are abundant health-related reference material, online medical consultation, online appointment scheduling, and online lab results for physicians. (Tata Consultancy Services and Microsoft Corporation, nd) The WebHealthCentre.com website was stated to have been created with the Microsoft.NET Framework, Micr osoft Windows 2000 Advanced Server, Web services and Microsoft SQL Server 2000. The requirements set out by the physicians in rural areas included: Ease of use by a wide cross section of people; Cutting-edge yet cost-effective technologies; Simple log on by many different users and easy assignment of user rights; Tight security to keep medical records confidential; Structured data capture for future data mining; Scalable to handle millions of users; and Extensible to accommodate audio and video interface. (Tata Consultancy Services and Microsoft Corporation, nd) Benefits resulting from implementation of this healthcare service delivery Network include: Improved access to healthcare; Better use of doctors time; Rapid development, usability; Scalable to millions of patients; and Extensible to new technologies. (Tata Consultancy Services and Microsoft Corporation, nd) Key features of WebHealthCentre.com are stated to include the following: Online, real-time medical consultation with remote healthcare professionals. PC or mobile-phone access to regional directories for hospitals, specialists, blood banks, medical appliance suppliers, and welfare agencies. An online appointment scheduler that enables patients to make appointments with participating physicians. An online lab report tool that helps diagnostic centers automate the process of uploading lab reports to the Web. Access to test results through mobile devices. Online access to electronic health records. Medical image upload services. Online sonogram viewing. A medical student resource center. Healthcare job listings. Online shopping for healthcare supplies. (Tata Consultancy Services and Microsoft Corporation, nd) The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) held an expert panel meeting to provide guidance on its new health information technology on July 23-24 2003. The focus of AHRQ is the implementation and evaluation of technologies, which have been shown to be effective in small and rural communities. Secondly, the AHRQ has set its focus upon supporting advancement in the HIT field through implementation and evaluation support for innovation in technologies for use in diverse health care settings. (Expert Panel Meeting: Health Information Technology: Meeting Summary, 2003) The Meeting Summary reports that two general themes emerged from the discussion which are those of: (1) Bringing people together; and (2) Providing technical assistance. (Expert Panel Meeting: Health Information Technology: Meeting Summary, 2003) Activities recommended for achieving their goals are those as follows: Support demonstration projects that involve HIT implementation and will lead to the creation of learning networks comprised of providers from various types of rural health care organizations. Create learning communities that span geography; collect and analyze the outcomes associated with participation. Once factors that facilitate learning communities and HIT implementation have been identified, engage CMS and other purchasers to define an appropriate reimbursement strategy. Incorporate evidence-based primary care guidelines with rural relevance into technological templates. Clinicians are likely to accept clinical guidelines offered by the Federal Government at no cost. Support local capacity development for HIT, including barrier analysis, education and other activities. Provide sustained technical assistance (Expert Panel Meeting: Health Information Technology: Meeting Summary, 2003) Evaluation of the process in rural and small communities includes: (1) scope of the project; (2) goals; (3) critical success factors; and (4) technical assistance. (Expert Panel Meeting: Health Information Technology: Meeting Summary, 2003) Community grants have been focused on the provision of personal digital assistant (PDA) systems in assisting with the decision support role. The initiative is stated to include: (1) development of toolkits; (2) leveraging known tools; (3) developing capacity; and (4) disseminating best practices. (Expert Panel Meeting: Health Information Technology: Meeting Summary, 2003) Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson report in the work entitled: Supporting the Rural Health Care Safety Net (2000) state: The policy and market-driven changes in the health care sector taking place across country are not confined to metropolitan areas. Rural communities are experiencing changes impelled by many of the same forces that are affecting urban areas. However, due to the demographical differences and other facts existent only in rural life the health care system can be differentiated from those in urban areas in various ways. According to Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, it is that difference that highlights the importance of giving consideration explicitly to the impact of competitive forces and public policy developments on rural health care systems and the patients and communities they serve. (2000) The changes that are occurring in the health care sectors are resulting in many providers being threatened in both rural and urban areas however, health care provider failures in a rural area is likely to a much greater impact as compared to health care provider failure in urban areas. Because alternative sources of care in the community or within reasonable proximity are scarce, each provider likely plays a critical part in maintaining access to health care in the community. For this reason, in most rural communities all providers should be considered part of the health care safety net if not directly through their care for vulnerable populations, then indirectly through their contribution to the stability of the communitys health care infrastructure. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) The study reported by Ormond, Wallin and Goldenson is based on case studies in rural communities in the states of Alabama, Minnesota, Mississippi, Texas, and Washington selected in representation of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦a broad range of pressures facing rural providers. (2000) A debate is stated to exist in terms of limited services models for hospitals who fear that more insure d patients or those who are wealthier will be reluctant to use this facilities. Challenges to full-service facilities in rural areas include recruitment and retention of health care professionals and of ensuring the financial viability of local hospitals. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Also related is the fact that health care providers are very reluctant to locate in communities without a hospitalà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ while simultaneously when there is not a strong physician practice in an area, hospitals find it difficult to attract patients. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Constraints upon a rural hospital of either a full or limited service hospital include its rural location. The population required to support given service, such as a hospital or particular physician practice is spread over a much greater area. Low volume can mean high average costs, a factor that rural health officials feel is not always taken into account in reimbursement. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenso n, 2000) Demographical and socioeconomic differences in rural areas places demands upon health care system providers in terms of the need for treatment for more elderly people which are those more likely to have chronic health care needs. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Furthermore, due to the lack of access to mass and major media in rural areas, the individuals residing in these areas are much less likely than those in urban areas to be aware of the availability of health care and public programs. Insurance coverage in rural areas is also a factor because rural areas have higher self-employment than urban areas, and specifically relating to farming operations making it very likely the employer-sponsored insurance in minimal. Of those who are insured in rural areas, it is likely that many of these are under insured with high premiums and low benefits as compared to those insured in urban areas. The social structure of rural communities may make the stigma attached to particip ation in public programs greater, particularly in the case of Medicaid. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) The range of services offered in rural hospitals is limited by the size of the area it serves as compared to the population within that area. Many of the hospitals in the study reported by Ormond, Wallin and Goldenson relied on a local primary care physician for core servicesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦but augmented his or her capabilities by making arrangements with other, nonlocal providers. The core services each hospital offers depend primarily on the capabilities of their physicians. (2000) In order that a hospital be able to support a visiting specialist program it is a requirement that the hospital have the staff that is appropriate and qualified to assist in the various specialties and physicians be able to monitor recovery, as well as the necessary space and equipment for procedures. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) The rural hospital is not in the position to provision all the services needed within the community it serves and this makes a requirement of having a referral system of a reliable nature. Stated to be a mainstay of the safety net in rural areas just as is the case in urban areas is the community health center. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Another important provider of care in rural areas is the local health department. Another problem in rural areas is transportation for patients in that in rural areas there is oftentimes no public transportation. Internal strategies reported to be used by rural health care providers are inclusive of: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦increasing the stock of physicians and other health professionals, tailoring facilities and services to the needs of the community, and expanding, downsizing, or diversifying as needed. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Other stated strategies are inclusive of cooperation among rural providers and developing links with urban providers through mergers, management contracts, and joint projects. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Initiatives have been developed for recruitment of physician s and other health professionals who are familiar with life and medical practice in rural areas. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Those who are recruited for practice in rural areas are likely to remain after recruitment. All five states in this study report that they provide support: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦for the development of rural health professionals by requiring, facilitating, or funding training opportunities in rural areas so that students become familiar with the particular demands and satisfactions of rural medical practice, or by funding education either through scholarships for aspiring providers from rural areas or through loan forgiveness for providers agreeing to locate in rural areas. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Only the state of Washing is stated by this report to have a formal residency program. Service expansion is reported to be utilized by rural hospitals and clinics for enabling them in meeting a broader range of health care needs in their communities. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Areas of expansion included: (1) the construction or renovation of a physician plant; (2) the addition of new medical services; and (3) diversification beyond traditional acute services. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) In fact, growth and expansion as compared to downsizing appeared to be the more common, and seemingly more successful, route. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) Expansion is also noted in outpatient services offered by hospitals and clinics. Cooperative efforts among rural providers as these health care providers collaborate in order to ensure the capability of serving their communities will continue is noted in this report stating that cooperation with other rural providers is also a mainstay of rural hospitals strategy to ward off encroachment by urban health care systems. (Ormond, Wallin, and Goldenson, 2000) The work of Rygh and Hjortdahl entitled: Continuous and Integrated Health Care Services in Rural Areas: A Literature Study makes a review of literature that examines possible methods of improving healthcare services in rural areas. Stated by these authors is the fact that: Healthcare providers in rural areas face challenges in providing coherent and integrated services. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) This study proposes a need for greatly flexibility in traditional professional roles and responsibilities, such as nurse practitioners of community pharmacists managing common conditions. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) Further stated is that the substitution of health personnel with lay health workers or paraprofessionals often in combination with interdisciplinary teams, is among measures proposed to alleviate staff shortage and overcome cultural barriers. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) Other findings of this study include that for those working in rural areas called for is flexibility of roles and responsibilities, delegation of tasks, and cultural adjustments by the healthcare practitioners. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) This study states that rural case management is greatly dependent upon a locally based case manager and that the highest ranked skills for rural case managers are: the ability to be creative in the coordination of resources, multidimensional nursing skills, excellent communication skills, high-caliber computer skills and excellent driving skills. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) Stated is that: Case management in a rural environment requires a much broader and generalist knowledge base, it covers all levels of prevention and transverses all age groups. Rural case management is a distinct specialty area of practice, with a distinct knowledge base and skills level, and nurses should be prepared at the advanced practice level. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) This study further relates that evidence exists of the success of: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦collaboration at the interface betw een primary and secondary sectors may improve access, continuity of care and the quality of service delivery in rural areas. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) This study defines telemedicine as Medicine practiced at a distance therefore encompassing diagnosis, treatment and medical education. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) The state of Maine is stated to have a well-functioning telemedicine services system using telemedicine in a broad array of interactive videoconferencing applications, including mental health and psychiatry, diabetes management, primary care, pediatrics, genetics and dermatology. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007) According to this review telemedicine has the potential to be a tool of a valuable nature in achievement of healthcare access in rural areas although the cost-effectiveness of telemedicine has yet to be documented. (Rygh and Hjortdahl, 2007; paraphrased) The work entitled: Providing Hospice and Palliative Care in Rural Frontier Areas states that the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦believes that all Americans are entitled to an equitable level of health and well-being established through health care services, regardless of where they live. An important but often overlooked aspect of health and well-being is assurance of appropriate care and support when people are experiencing chronic, progressive illness and/or approaching the end of their lives. (Providing Hospice and Palliative Care in Rural Frontier Areas, 2005) In order to study this area of service provision the method for defining and assessing needs is stated to be through a needs assessment to include recruitment of a group of members of the community for participation in identifying the needs and creating a method of assessing results. Data is gained from various sources an may include the following: Demographics of the community; disease statistics (county health department and state vital statistics division); List of health care organizations/agencies that provide related services; A definition of unmet or under-met service needs; Identification of the unique characteristics that differentiate palliative care and/or hospice services from other services in the community; Vital statistics, including cause of death, age at death and location of death; Loss data; Community residents satisfaction with current hospice and/or palliative care services, obtained through interviews; and Community members preferences about hospice and palliative care. (Providing Hospice and Palliative Care in Rural Frontier Areas, 2005) Recruitment of individuals in this type study are stated to include: Community residents; Representatives from other community service providers such as a librarian, store owners, chiropractor or dentist; The president of a fraternal organization, the Rotary Club, another service club or the Chamber of Commerce; Pastors or leaders of local faith communities; Someone involved with the local food pantry or other emergency relief organization; An influential local business person such as the feed store owner; A county extension staff person active in community events and volunteer work; Someone who organizes the towns annual parade, festival or other special events; Someone who works on civic clean-up and beautification; and Representatives from other small organizations and entities in each of the countries the provider serves. (Providing Hospice and Palliative Care in Rural Frontier Areas, 2005) This study speaks of the creation of capacity building in expansion of the service provision and in meeting unmet or undermet needs in rural areas. Capacity building strategies include education and training of staff for skills development needed in broadening the services provided. Community education in establishing a broader understanding of what services and opportunities are available for care is also stated to be a strategy for capacity building as service utilization will be increased as well. Capacity building strategies as well are stated to include outreach strategies for development and sustaining partnerships and collaborations as well as in sustaining and supporting growth of expectations related to hospice and palliative care services. (Providing Hospice and Palliative Care in Rural Frontier Areas, 2005; paraphrased) Stated as practical examples of the training and education of staff and the philosophy used by rural providers in the creation and sustaining of program ca pacity are those as follows: Development and adoption of service performance parameters; Education of the board and/or local leaders in national trends such as palliative care, open access, managed care, chronic care management and the nursing shortage; Establishment of an ethics committee comprised of community members, hospital representatives, palliative care and hospice program staff, and church members to review specific ethical considerations/cases and to address projects such as advance care planning and advance directives; Importing best practices in enhancing service definition and outreach; Offering support for local and offsite continuing staff education an subsidies for staff to pursue relevant credentials; Offering support for local and offsite continuing staff education and subsidies for staff to pursue relevant credentials; Appointing full-time or substantially part-time physicians and advanced practice nurses as soon as feasible and involving these individuals in professional and community outreach; Establishment of bridge programs and/or extended palliative home care; Improved/extended utilization of volunteers in meeting caregiving requirements. For hospices, this may include volunteer participation in providing continuous care as allowed by regulations; and As needed, referrals to other organizations. (Providing Hospice and Palliative Care in Rural Frontier Areas, 2005) The work entitled: Planting the Seeds for Improving Rural Health Care relates the Chronic Care Model which portrays the essential involvement of the community, the design and function of the health care system and effective interaction between patients/families and their team of caregivers, producing optimal clinical outcomes. (2005) The following figure labeled figure 1 shows the Chronic Care Model: Figure 1 Chronic Care Model Source: Planting the Seeds for Improving Rural Health Care (2005) Components of this program include the following: Use of a rapid-cycle method for implementing quality improvements; Use of a standard set of changes for teams to implement; Sharing a vision of the ideal system of care developed by clinical experts; Monthly reporting of process and outcome measurements; Three learning sessions; A final national forum during which teams attend sessions with expert faculty to share progress, best practices, and lessons learned. (Planting the Seeds for Improving Rural Health Care, 2005) The work entitled: Practical Tips and Information Resources for Developing Collaborative Relationships Between Rural Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Rural Hospitals asks the question of Why Collaborate? and answers this question by stating that collaboration strengthens community health infrastructure; improves efficiency levels; and provides joint economic advantage. Collaboration is stated to be a process through which parties who see different aspects of a problem can explore constructively their differences and search for (and implement) solutions that go beyond their limited vision of what is possible. (Taylor-Powell, et al., 1998) There are five levels of relationships in building collaborative interorgnaizational relationships around health issues in a rural community which are: (1) networking; (2) cooperating; (3) coordination; (4) coalitions; and (5) collaboration. These five levels of relationships according to purpose, structure and process are shown in the following C ommunity Linkages- Choices and Decisions matrix. Figure 2 Community Linkages Choices and Decisions Source: Practical Tips and Information Resources for Developing Collaborative Relationships Between Rural Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Rural Hospitals (2005) The following are examples of the ways that CHCs and hospital partnerships are able to collaborate. These initiatives may also be used by any rural hospital, CHC or primary care provider: Joint training, recruitment, human resources, and clinical direction; Shared case managers; Working together on disease collaboratives; Shared medical laboratory; Partnership establishment enables organizations in qualifying for funding through grants for which they would not otherwise have been eligible to receive; and Shared electronic patient medical records systems; (Practical Tips and Information Resources for Developing Collaborative Relationships Between Rural Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Rural Hospitals (2005) This study states findings that a number of activities specific to an individual site have the potential for wider replication. Those activities are stated to be as follows: Local foundations can support rural health-related activities; namely physician recruitment and retention. Collaboration of CHCs, hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted care facilities in the same location can serve a large rural area and make efficient use of scarce resources; namely physicians. Affiliation with a large regional hospital can be a positive experience that is supportive of community-based services. Collaboration may be a vehicle for expanding benefits to CHC patients; namely as a result of the collaborative, a hospital utilizes the CHCs sliding fee scale for laboratory services provided to CHC patients. Case management for discharge planning and care coordination between the CHC, home health care agency, and the hospital can improve patient care. Electronic patient medical records systems that integrated the CHC and the hospital medical records are the key to future collaboration and the development of a comprehensive model of a health care system for the rural community. (Practical Tips and Information Resources for Developing Collaborative Relationships Between Rural Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Rural Hospitals (2005) There are important factors identified for organizing a successful collaboration which include: (1)