KS Maniam Removal In Pasir Panjang Essay

As the first-generation descendant of indentured Indian labourers brought in to service the rubber plantations of British colonial Malaya, Maniam knows too well the trauma and losses attendant on that position of cultural, linguistic, geographic and temporal displacement. Early stories such as â€Å"Ratnamuni†, and â€Å"The Third Child† and â€Å"Removal in Pasir Panjang† capture the nuances and particular texture of diasporic Indian life, replete with its fears, failures and feelings of betrayal as its members cling desperately to familiar, long-ago rituals that are fast losing their currency in the new cultural location. Themes: Tradition vs Changes – perspectives on striking changes which have taken place in modern Malaysia and Singapore societies. Power relation – human relationship in different strata and racial aspects. Conflicts Setting Physical Penang in post independence time Small town – Pasir Panjang (refer to the text how the writer describes the town – the shop, the school, the buildings etc) The road – its significance impact to the town people Social setting Multi-racial community Nathan, Ramasamy representing the Indian, Ah Seng and CRC the Chinese community, the students etc The housing development on the other side of the river – representing changes The CRC (Chinese Recreation Club) – representing the tradition Plots (themes) A subtly paced contrast of this life with the more rapid changes brought about by urban development. There is a comic strand running throughout the story, the better because it is played by seriousness, concerning Nathan (protagonist) the school teacher’s resignation from CRC. Nathan sent in his resignation from the CRC The reaction of CRC concerning his decision CRC bent their rules to admit him, and send successive deputations to urge him to rejoin. The building of the road – Leng Leng’s death and other children who were also killed on the same road after its completion brings in the irony of the story (changes come with a price!) This highway/road causes upheaval in the slow-paced town Ironically yet tragic is the case of Leng Leng the orphan boy which in turn a comic in the case of Ah Seng the shop keeper, who fears he will lose his customers (being superstitious) Nathan’s impatience with Li Hwa (one of his students) show his desire to be out of the small town and join the development on the other side of town Nathan made his frequent visit to the jetty, watching the development on the other side of the river. As readers, we see from his observation, how the development springing but again development is partly shown in the darker side of betterment (e.g. prostitution, gangster elements etc) Nathan met Yahaya a stranger on the jetty, who warned him about interfering with the across river development. They both became friends and together contemplate the invasion of the new with a peculiar mixture of interest and dismay. There is the case alienation when Nathan who s beaten up by newer gangster elements who came with development. Cheng the school clerk came to nurse his wound Then a visit by Hock Guan, a CRC member together with Li Hwa, lightens up his misery. Li Hwa showed her charitable and respect for Nathan by giving him fruits The story ends with both Li Hwa and Nathan said sorry to one another – a pang of irony as they both did not like each other initially. Important points to look at: Language and style: 3rd person narrative – but we see the atmosphere and environment through the main protagonist, Nathan It indirectly brings us to dive into his emotion and conflict with the surrounding and himself. Irony and comic elements implanted – the portrayal of the old laterite road in contrast o the new road, the old slow-paced morbid town and the rapid development of the other  side of town (across the jetty where Nathan stood almost every evening), Ah Seng fear of losing business when the new road claimed its victim mostly children. The use of multi racial background accentuates the theme of power relation, how each character deals with their conflicts. Characters Their role and characteristics Nathan The protagonist A school teacher – he showed lack of patience at times but committed himself to his work He bit of a loner and indifferent especially with his students He desired changes and wanted to be transferred out of the town to a bigger town An ex member of CRC (he was admitted to the club on special condition – on the basis of a kind Catch 22 clause) He mixed well with other races though his efforts in mixing around looks superficial (except with Yahaya) Leng Leng An orphan mute boy who got his name from â€Å"his frenzied activity† â€Å"Street boys†, â€Å"not a pest† etc (read pg 154 for vivid description of him) Very fond of Nathan an d he will try to impress others through his comical antics He was killed at the opening of the new road by a speeding car. His short-lived character represent innocence and naivety (naà ¯ve) who was caught between tradition and changes) Ah Seng A member of CRC He owns a shop in town Superstitious Friendly to Nathan A symbol of tradition – he showed mix-feeling about the progression of the road Always trying to advise Nathan Li Hwa Curious Sensitive Strong will Forgiven self Naà ¯ve Yahaya A stranger that Nathan met A mysterious person Probably a gardener Like Nathan, he went to the jetty to see the other side of the world Friendly and smoking companion with Nathan He knew about the sleazy underworld where he constantly reminded Nathan to stay away from the development at the other side of town Ramasamy He bought lands – the developer Big mouth Ramasamy He brought changes into town

The Essence of Internal Control

A statement on policy and procedures Issues as they relate to managements views and lord flings with regard to MOB A-123 audits. Writing position papers on justification of actions taken has raised some questions about control. There seems to be a shift in the mind set of managers now that Section 404 of Sox's (documentation) has really kicked in with compliance performance of the financial managers responsibility or in others words , who has or had authority ,command, and control of the process.The cause and effect of policy often goes against the procedures that are written to enforce the objectives of the policy. This is the standard loop hole in the blame game of shifting responsibility to the weakest component In the chain of custody process. In researching this Issue a new term has been developing in my statement writings, reciprocal responsibility. This reinforces the checks and balance that Is Intended to be In place at the out set.Most players In this game like this idea but there's not enough wiggle room for them. What they really want is assurance that the process is the root cause and not the policy. Managers enforce policy. Policy and procedures must be reciprocal to be effective and efficient. Most of the regulations allow for this sort of dialog to take place and encourage it, which is why Serbians-Solely is so board in its overall concept.Section 404 barely consist of a whole paragraph Thus allowing for broad interpretation for unknown circumstances yet to be considered (lessons learned) have successfully brought together adversarial components of major operational programs to bring clarity, understanding, and appreciation of each opposing inherent view of responsibility, objectives, and concerns that cause conflict In Information flow. By Its very nature, program management Is very personal and control Is a major part of that activity.Most people are reluctant to surrender that control; if it is perceived to be critical to their status in terms of command and control, even if it is not required. No one wants to be at the bottom of the pecking order in the chain of command. In risk management, some managers take on needless risk Just to maintain control†¦ This must be explained to managers, that one does not need to own something to control it. Depending on the function, ownership does not define control†¦ Authority is the overriding criteria for control. Internal Controls only work well in the environment that they were designed for†.Just as in the physical law of nature, the adjustments to correct a problem can be Just as disastrous even with proper controls. ‘The operation was a success, but the patient died'. Internal Controls have hit the wall of slightly criteria on the subject of materially to meet the level of reasonableness of the consideration given. And expectation of the outcome. â€Å"To support the conclusion, that the market will and can correct itself. With the proper internal control s is a fair assumption. As with policy and procedures they too household be capable of self adjusting to the demands of the process.But too much too soon is critical mass for any system to continue to function as intended. The Law of Diminishing Returns takes over and this is what happens when controls are not built to withstand the limitless aggression of greed. † There should be a certain amount of flexibility built-in to standards of control to allow for the occasional exception to the rules, but this should only be applied when not approving the event causes more harm than good. Standards must change to remain standards Donald J. White CAFE/SOX November 28, 2012

Jane Austen’s Portrayal of Darcy in Pride and Prejudice Essay

Mr Darcy is, in a single word, our hero. He is everything we should hate, in fact everything Lizzy does hate, but also everything we find irresistible. He is both interesting and enigmatic and his appeal stems from the fact that to understand him you have to delve down deeper. Jane Austen’s success in portraying him well is due to her style of writing. She teases, giving only snips of information. To put together a character you must build up what you know- which usually isn’t much. What is also engaging about her portrayal of Darcy is that we initially only see him through Lizzy’s prejudiced eyes. Darcy’s negative points are focused on and it’s only really on completion of the novel that you realise he isn’t who he is thought to be. This is very clever on Jane Austen’s part as the reader is always left wanting more. We are first introduced to Darcy in Chapter Three. Mr Bingley is first introduced- he is â€Å"good looking† and has â€Å"unaffected manners†. Also he has fine sisters with a â€Å"decided air†. However all this cannot help but pale in comparison when his friend is brought to the attention of the room. He grabs attention with â€Å"his fine, tall person, handsome features, noble mien†. It is also swiftly reported that he has ten thousand a year- making him a very eligible catch for any young woman (especially any of the five Bennet girls). However, within the same praising paragraph, another side is exposed. People are disgusted with his manners, â€Å"He was discovered to be proud, to be above his company, and above being pleased†. Here Jane Austen is already doing what she does best. Darcy has overshadowed his companions but he isn’t allowed his glory as the follow up is less than pleasing. This leads us to believe that Darcy is not blessed with his friends virtues- pleasantness and joy- but is fact vain and arrogant. Jane Austen starts us down a particular way of thinking and I believe it is a deliberate attempt to deceive us. It makes Darcy’s true nature all the more surprising. Ten he is overheard to have called Lizzy â€Å"tolerable† which is a despicable crime as she is our heroine and the one we feel closest to. Another shrewd move by Austen- first impression always last. Which is ironic because Darcy later talks of how fragile his good opinion is. What we know of Darcy now will constantly affect what we later discover. In Chapter Five Darcy’s behaviour is brought up in Lizzy’s conversation with Charlotte Lucas. This is most probably the topic of conversation for every lady present at the ball and it shows that Darcy is definitely a man to be talked about.. Only once we have formed an opinion of Darcy does Austin make it known that he find something very lovely in â€Å"the beautiful expression of her dark eyes†. However he puts down his feelings because she has not the suitable means to ever be anything to him. Once more Darcy’s pride and vanity surpasses what could have been a great virtue- affection for our heroine. It is obvious he likes her- he offer’s to dance with her although he gets no pleasure out of it- but his reserve and pride means his true, sensitive nature is covered up. Also we must remember that her portrayal of Darcy would have been affected by the period. Many criticise Darcy’s detachment from open feelings and his aloofness toward Lizzy but at this time formality was required of gentlemen. It may seem now that his attitude is rude and hostile but declarations of passion were not commonplace. Men of this time had to have absolute self-control. Which makes Bingley’s behaviour all the more pleasing and Darcy’s behaviour all the more surprising. Bingley is not at all formal but generous, open and very hospitable whereas Darcy, his closest companion, is still holding back. It surprising the reader that some of Bingley’s kindness hasnà ¢â‚¬â„¢t rubbed off on Darcy. Something which gives a hint of Darcy’s true nature is his attitude toward Miss Bingley. She has the same social standing as he and is the type of woman he was brought up to marry. She is also aware of the fact that Lizzy is , bluntly speaking, of a much lower social standing than he should marry. However he is not at all drawn into nastiness by her verbal attacks on others- â€Å"He listened to her with perfect indifference†. He lacks a cruel streak but is simply honest, if somewhat lacking in subtlety. What he doesn’t lack is modesty- especially where Mr Wickham is concerned. In Chapter Eighteen the pair dance and they discuss Wickham briefly. Darcy could have told Lizzy everything, recommending himself over Wickham and earning points. However he didn’t take advantage of the situation, preferring to wait until Chapter Thirty Seven when he writes to Lizzy. His proposal could have been a very successful event had his pride not stepped in and dwelt on the i nferiority of her family. There was a sense that great passion and feeling was behind the offer but again Austen degrades him using his incredible weakness- his pride. But even that doesn’t cushion him from the wound of her rejection. We feel maybe Darcy is human after all. His letter is what clinches this suspicion. This is raw Darcy- but even this is restrained. It is also very open and could turn the whole plot around. The proud man at Netherfield, who could well prove Wickham’s account of him, has not gone totally but is much reduced. He is still vaguely proud and reserved- â€Å"I write without any intention of paining you or humbling myself†- but he has lost the requirement he felt to be discrete about Wickham. He feels comfortable enough with Lizzy to be honest. This firmly suggests that his feelings are true as we know how little he discloses to anyone. Even this letter ends with a blessing, so even after rejection he is not the ogre he appears to be. I think Jane Austen had him write the letter immediately after he is rejected to prove that he has been humbled, looking at himself with the criticism Lizzy had of him. It makes us think better of him but we still struggle, as Lizzys does, with how he usually appears- so haughty and conceited. Austen doesn’t clear him of all charges which is clever as it adds more to the story if Darcy stays a little mysterious. Towards the end we are able to get a fuller picture of Darcy. When Lizzy goes to Pemberly with her aunt and uncle she gets her first, first-hand account of Darcy she has really had. His housekeeper, with no reason to lie, talks easily of his good-nature and thoughtfulness towards others. It surprises Lizzy but she doesn’t dismiss the idea- the letter has rattled her- and the reader’s- firm opinion of his hateful character. When she meets Darcy out walking he leads on from this description by politely addressing her relatives., inviting her uncle to fish with him and of course asking, most humbly, if he may introduce his sister to Lizzy. Here he is in his own territory and has no need to put up a front so he relaxes and becomes very amiable. In the next chapter we meet his sister and we know at once that Wickham has been lying as she is shy, gentle and unassuming. I think at this point Lizzy is feeling real shame for her presumptions and maybe after seeing Pemberly and Georgiana, slight regret in her total dismissal of Darcy. He has done more than enough to clear his name. Despite this he is kinder still when he learns of Lizzy’s family’s disgrace concerning Lydia’s elopement. Darcy could have turned away- it would have probably been in his best interests if he hadn’t got involved but his love for our heroine means he will do whatever it takes to ease her suffering. And he even has the grace and modesty to let Mr Gardiner take the credit for the money he laid down for the marriage. Here Austen does nothing to make his good deed bad- this time he is without fault She is allowing us to see Darcy in his rightful form. And coupled with his active role in preventing Wickham from marrying Georgiana we see he is truly a gentleman. His second proposal is certainly the best image we have of him- and rightly so. He is warm and compassionate, acknowledging his beastly behaviour, explaining it and apologising for it. I think Austen intends us to believe Lizzy is what Darcy needed to check his pride and overcome his shyness. Which makes the coupling all the more perfect. What is so good about Jane Austen’s portrayal of Darcy is that he is exactly what Lizzy needed in a husband. He is quick and can match her wit- smiling when she gets the better of him. They fit together perfectly, complementing all the best qualities in each other. Throughout the novel Jane Austen uses the character of Darcy and develops it in all the best ways. He maintains an air of mystery throughout until the end where we are all pleased with the result. Beautifully done.

Transformers movie & comic book PowerPoint Presentation

Transformers movie & comic book - PowerPoint Presentation Example But this never renders the comic books inferior, because despite the effect of cinema impact, the comic books are still hot cakes when it comes to sales. The major differences that one can identify in the cinema and the comic book medium would be the effects and the attention they grab. It can be further noticed that though the comic lacks some elements that a cinema typically possesses, it succeeded winning over the hearts of many readers but however there are some major differences and some interesting aspects that have to be attributed to the cinema medium. The comic medium at some point fails to carry the emotions as much as a cinema does, since with reading one restricts himself to his scope of imagination. This scope has been amplified with all the technical effects comprising the sound, music, modulations of speech and adding a sense of our presence, making cinema a more interactive medium. Ang Lee’s â€Å"The Hulk† has seen great success both as comic and cinema and he had combined both these media with great art and articulate understanding of the story. The comic, as one reads draws close attention and maintains a breath taking suspense throughout the book and this in fact shows up in the cinema as well, with impeccable narration and Ang Lee ensured that every character that he portrayed in the cinema was of no less awe that he depicted in the comic.

Characteristics of effective teams Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Characteristics of effective teams - Essay Example time limit needs to be considered, the group climate needs to be known, and finally the group setting needs to be known that is which type of setting the group is working on (Johnson and Johnson, 2010). Decision by Minority: It is effective when not possible for other members to meet and it is ineffective when group resources are not utilized. Group resources can include the skills and talents possessed by group members. Since various skills are required at the time of decision making, I apply me service specialist skills and my group members apply the skills of tackling with customers easily. Voting decisions are taken when many options seem suitable for implementing it in the customer services plan. Managing time is very important while making decisions in groups. Once an immediate decision was required in sending the customer request to the top management, the majority of the members decided that it should be dealt at the lower level instead of passing it to the top. Immediate actions and decisions were taken to resolve the matter successfully. Usually I being the senior service specialist have more experience in dealing with insurance related matters of customers and can answer their queries without much difficulty. It usually happens that in such cases I am referred to deal with the customer without any issues by the other group members. After the voting and the consensus methods that are applied related to the implementation of the policies for customer services, it becomes important for all three members of my group to be well versed with the decision taken so that while communicating ahead to customers the process becomes easier. Gathering the views of the entire group allows different angles and perspectives to be understood and allows in selecting the best decision possible. For customer services, it is important that the best decisions be taken so as to retain them for the future. Since my group is involved with customer issues and services of

Health Policy in Florida Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Health Policy in Florida - Assignment Example According to the research, it can, therefore, be said that  a few reasons when combined produce the effect of the unusually high price of healthcare in the state of Florida. For example, the state has passed many statutes and regulations since 1985 that require transparency disclosures from physicians and hospitals but this disclosure does not include insurance companies. Ultimately, they exploit this opportunity. For example, a website administered by the state authorities called www.floridahealthfinder.gov provides consumers average and medical services charged by the hospitals but it does not mention reimbursement rates. Keeping this prices as secrets prevent lawmakers and healthcare policymakers from making better policies. Florida healthcare Coalition has put out many reports pointing out flaws in the system over the past years but they did not sit well with the hospitals. According to Becky Cherney, FHCC President and CEO, they blame the committee for coming up with biased da ta. There are also some genuine hurdles in making the process transparent. For instance, providing healthcare pricing to consumers in a form that they can readily understand is complicated because every patient has unique needs. One cannot just put a standard for disclosing to the public to which every healthcare facility would adhere to. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 supports the notion that healthcare is a right and not a privilege. The intent of the law is to secure the maximum number of US citizens with healthcare. Making health care available to every individual at an affordable price is the motive of such an act. The affordable care act tends to create new incentives for changing clinical practices. The change in such practices as needed to provide better coordination and quality. Such coordination also gives physicians more information so they can practice their medical skills better than before. However, wasting funds and abusing health care programs cost taxpayers billions of dollars.

Law of Tort Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Law of Tort - Essay Example To begin with, the information is solicited at a party which indicates that in the circumstances, Mary could not have reasonably expected Winston to exercise a degree of care. Secondly, there is no evidence on the facts of the case for discussion indicating the Winston held himself out as having specialized knowledge relative to good used car. It would appear that Mary is relying on the fact that Winston is her boyfriend and this is not the requisite special relationship alluded to in Hedley Byrne. The special relationship referred to is in which the individual relied on for information and advice is in that line of business. Liability for negligent misstatement will not arise in social settings.5 The situation with Errol is quite different as Winston is asked for advice based on his professional capacity as an account executive. Errol wants advice about the Winston’s company’s profitability and sales potential with a view to going into business with Winston. Liability for negligent misstatement would arise where advice or information is sought from a person who is qualified to give that information or advice and it is clear that the information or advice is going to be relied on.6 Therefore Winston owes Errol a duty of care since he is an account executive and owns the business that Errol wants information about for the sole purpose of going into business with Winston. It is clear that Errol will rely on Winston’s information, as Errol is seeking the information for a specific purpose.7 Winston can also be liable to Errol for remaining silent when his boss Felicity fraudulently misled Errol with respect to the insurance policy. Although Felicity is Winston’s boss, Sizzler’s is Winston’s company, the fraud involved information about Sizzler’s insurance policy covering Errol’s new shop. Therefore Felicity is actually Winston’s agent. Under the ruling in Standard Chartered Bank v Pakistan National Shi pping Co., the principle is liable for the fraud of an agent who was acting under the principle’s authority.8 Winston will also be liable for negligent misstatement with respect to the reference he provided for Barnie. Barnie was let go from Winston’s employ as a result of restructuring, not for the reasons stated in his reference for Barnie. The fact that Winston believed that his reference was honest is of no consequence since he failed to investigate the facts before committing his reference to paper and distribution. It was held in Cox v Sun Alliance Life Ltd that an employer owed a duty of care to conduct reasonable enquiries into the facts. All negative statements must only be made after conducting a reasonable inquiry or investigation.9 This case confirms an earlier ruling by the House of Lords in which it was ruled that an employer

Zara case Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Zara case - Essay Example Moreover, the main paper has also discussed how some aspects of supply chain relate to specific segments of the market and their impact to the breath of the industry including competition that leads into price variations. Ultimately, the paper has discussed some of the impacts that occur due to increase in the number if the retailing chains and the distribution outlets (Pisano & Adams, 2009). From the case study, facts can be drawn that supply chain strategy enhances balanced scorecard between customers and the organization. It also ensures that there are consistency and improvement in the value of production. The study has also given an insight how supply chain strategy must be made compatible with the market demands. Moreover, it draws an alignment to identify why there must be a proper link between supply chain and the satisfaction of the customers (Pisano & Adams, 2009). With VF brands as part of the cases study, it has clearly been pointed out that an organizational success can easily be achieved when a company is focused in the expansive innovation through wholesale and retail owned

Affirmative action in higher education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Affirmative action in higher education - Essay Example These points are substantial. At the other extreme, those that oppose affirmative action advocate the repeal of the concept in its entirety. What the political process needs, in my view, is a little more compromise. It is unfortunate that a white student is denied her dream after working so hard for so many years. It is equally unfortunate that a racial minority is denied the opportunity to study. Both deserve the opportunity to study in a college or university.The conservative commentators present some valid arguments. Discrimination, for instance, is wrong. Reverse discrimination punishes innocent students for the misdeeds of their predecessors. This is a difficult argument to overcome. Nonetheless, this argument seems too rigid. We don't live in a world of absolute truths. Thus, it seems to me that minor attempts to remedy decades of racial injustice are reasonable.The liberal commentators emphasize the fact that minority students are still subject to disadvantages. There are soci al, cultural, and economic factors which affect their performance on standard entrance examinations.

Wireless videophones Essay Example for Free

Wireless videophones Essay Wireless videophones and high-speed Internet access are a reality with the worlds first Third Generation mobile serviced, which were launched on October 1st 2001 by NTT DoCoMo in Tokyo, Japan. These has symbolized that human had enter a new era in mobile network technology. Facing with the ever advancing technologies, mobile network had integrated deep into our daily life style, cater for the needs to interact between friends and business organizations in a more effective, efficient and convenient way. At this moment, as we are discussing, there is a lot of network companies busily preparing for 3G or the Third Generation in mobile telephone devices. The precursors to this technology had began and entered the markets in year 2001 and 3G itself is due to have proliferated in the earnest by 2005. Singapore Telco, Singtel had announced a trail on the 3G network within CBD area at the last quarter of 2003. If 3G delivers what the developers promise, by 2004 we can look at broadband speeds via our mobile phones, plus a variety of new generation mobile devices that combine PC, PDA, camera, you name it, functionality. With 3G, data speeds will reach upwards of 2 Megabits per second (Mbps), which will give us high speed Web access and superlative quality video access via our trusty mobile communication devices. 3G also promises roaming capability throughout Europe, Asia and North America. 3G devices will deliver all that GPRS (General Packet Radio Services) can do, except a whole lot faster. Just imagine, how about catching up with that important client who never has time for a face to face meeting when hes in a taxi on his way to an airport at the other side of the globe? Consider watching your favourite television programmes on the MRT on your way home from work. How about consider connecting to your network, downloading files, transferring data, zipping off an email? With transfer speeds of more than 2 Mbps, tasks like these can be completed within seconds. Nokias concept team, for example, are currently considering four different categories for their 3G terminals: Â  Communicators These would be business tools, allowing users to quickly and efficiently log onto their networks, transfer information, wrote emails and synchronise information with conventional PC devices. Media phones These would perhaps give access to Internet services and include Personal Information Management, audio and data functions. Â  Imaging phones Sending of photos and video clips to our friends on the other side of the world within seconds. Â  Entertainment phones How about playing a game with friend at the other side of the globe. Or sending your distributor teams a video clip of your new office? To introduce, switch or implement a new technology can never be an easy task. It involved a lot of technology know how, equipments and researches. The bottom line is, a huge sum of money will be required. Take for example, other than GPRS technology, some other technology will be required to kick off the 3G network system. One of them is WCDMA, or Wideband Code Division Multiple Access, a wideband radio technique providing high data rates, and EDGE, or Enhanced Data rates for Global Evolution, a high-speed modulation technique that triples the capacity of GPRS. The various networks have spent a lot of money on this technology and will spend even more before the services are launched. In UK mobile networks have paid (22 billion just to use the required radio spectrum. According to Gartnet Dataquests survey in May 2002, Singapore will spend an estimate of US$19. 9 million in 2003 and US$102. 9 million in 2004 on the WCDMA infrastructure alone. That is not all, according to reports from Europe and Japan, which had started the 3G networking, had been under a lot of criticize. Most of their problems were mainly from the handsets and the network integration. Those countries in the preparation for the 3G launch had been very cautious on the setup. Europe and Japan experience will serve as a guidance for their future operation. Introduction. 3G wireless networks are capable of transferring data at high speeds of up to 384Kbps. Average speeds for 3G network will range between 64Kbps and 384Kbps, quite a jump when compared to common wireless data speeds in the U. S that are often slower than a 14. 4Kb modem. 3G is considered high speed or broadband mobile Internet access, and as time to come, 3G networks are expected to reach speeds of more than 2Mbps. In order to know the evolution of 3G, it might be interesting to get an idea on the history on the revolution of mobile networking . History of Mobile Networking System First Generation (1G). The first generation of mobile cellular telecommunications system appeared in the 1980s. The first generation was not the beginning of mobile communication, as there were several mobile radio networks in existence before then, but they are not cellular systems. The capacity of those early networks was much lower than that of mobile networks. And the support for mobility was weak. In mobile cellular networks the coverage area is divided into small cells, and thus the same frequencies can be used several times in the network without disturbing interference. This increase the system capacity. The first generation used analog transmission techniques for traffic, which was almost entirely voice. There was no dominant standard but several competing ones. The most successful standards were Nordic(TACS), and Advanced Mobile Phone Service (AMPS). Note that although the world is now busy moving into 3G networks, these first-generation networks, and many existing networks are growing. First Generation networks ( Extract from Introduction To 3G Mobile Communication) System Countries TACS/ETACS Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, China, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Macao, Malaysia, Malta, Philippines. Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, UAE, UK AMPS Argentina, Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Canada, China, Georgia, Guam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Mongolia, Nauru, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkmenistan, USA, Vietnam, Western Samoa Second Generation (2G), 2G evolve in the year 1991, in Finland. Second generation mobile network system use digital radio transmission. Thus the boundary line between first and second generation systems is obvious: it is the analog/digital split. The second generation networks have much higher capacity than the first generation systems. One frequency channel is simultaneously divided among several users (either by code or time division). Hierarchical cell structures- in which the service area is covered by macro and picocells enhance the system capacity even further. There are four main standards for second-generation systems,: Global System for Mobile ( GSM ) communications and its derivatives, Digital AMPS (D-AMPS), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA {IS-95}) and Personal Digital Cellular (PDC) GSM uses the 900-MHz band is by far the most successful and widely used 2G system. PDC was eventually adopted by Japan. Generation 2. 5 (2. 5G), 2. 5G is a designation that broadly includes all advanced upgrades for the second generation networks. These upgrades may in fact sometimes provide almost same capabilities as the planned 3G systems. The boundary line between 2G and 2. 5G is a hazy one. It is difficult to say when a 2G becomes a 2. 5G system in a technical sense. When the wireless industry realized that it was going to be costly and technologically challenging to upgrade to 3G networks, 2. 5G emerged as an interim stage. These networks transfer data at speeds of up to 114Kbps, which is faster than traditional digital (2G) network. They are always on. A phone with 2. 5G services can alternate between using nets, sending or receiving test messages, and making calls without losing its connection to the Internet and email. Analysis of 3G Technology In the old days, when all phones were fixed rather than mobile, making a call involved establishing a direct electrical connection between your handset and the one you were calling. The same happens with 2G and 2. 5G networks, but instead of setting up a dedicated circuit, a small portion of the airwaves are reserved for your call. This is a really bad way of dividing up the available airwaves because it means that the spaces and pauses in speech get the same priority as the words. 3G networks change all this. Instead of reserving airspace each conversation is chopped up into packets, each one of which is labelled with a code denoting which dialogue it is from. The wireless literate generation of today (aged 12 35) provides a snapshot of tomorrows society and its drivers. The new generation is creating new usage patterns in favour of messaging and visual content. For them, messaging e. g SMS text messaging is the most natural way of personal communication. Instant communication is about being able to create and consume content (greetings, notes, snapshots/ postcards, moving pictures, instant voicemail) on the fly, and about filling transit moments with meaningful experiences. The mobile phone has become a personal trusted device that is capable of life management and enrichment, thanks to higher data rates and evolutionary user interfaces that have increased the simplicity and usability of terminals. Traditionally the major service has been voice but there has been an evolutionary step in 3G from Short Messaging Service (SMS) to 3GPP defined Multimedia Messaging, incorporating digital images and video clips with text or voice annotations. Industry analysts estimate that vendors are currently allocating from $200 billion in research and development resources to specify, design and manufacture infrastructure for evolving 3G networks. Of the 3G licenses currently awarded, more than 90 percent of those operators have specified WCDMA as their core 3G technology. Observers point out that, given this expected dominance of WCDMA as the 3G standard, this technology will undoubtedly receive the majority of RD funding and will yield the earliest, most extensive and most reliable product availability. What is WCDMA? WCDMA Wideband Code Division Multiplex Access (WCDMA) is the radio frequency technology indicated for all UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunication Services) networks, and WCDMA is widely expected to be the dominant technology for 3G networks worldwide. WCDMA supports high capacity, multiple simultaneous services and bit-rate performance of up to 2Mbit/s. But as a wideband (5 MHz channels) technology, WCDMA presents deployment challenges when implemented on narrow frequency allocations. When evaluating WCDMA infrastructure, operators should consider system solutions that provide well-established Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP)-compatibility and that the resource allocation capabilities follow UMTS traffic class guidelines and Quality of Service attributes, allowing operators to optimize service differentiation. Modular designs allow these solutions to scale quickly to meet escalating network traffic demands. These same design advantages will allow these WCDMA solutions to be adapted to meet the demand for location-based services, personalized messaging and packet data traffic volumes that will define the coming wireless IP networks. These advanced WCDMA systems will also support seamless integration with GSM networks. 3G Concepts And Technology for Business 3G will be primarily driven by services and applications, not technology, although technologies such as Java, WAP, Bluetooth, SynchML and IPv6 have enabled third party application developments to meet users end-to-end service needs and expectations. The Mobile Internet will bring an explosion in the number of new applications a 3G hypermarket of services creating new marketing and revenue channels. Few business leaders are likely to turn down an opportunity to get an extra 10% of productivity from their mobile workforces, especially if it only costs a fraction of the reward. Third-generation (3G) wireless networks could facilitate this kind of return on investment (ROI) by extending desktop business-application, database, and intranet access into the mobile environment. 3G is an improvement over current networks, which deliver data and voice at no more than double the speed of dialup modems. The 3G infrastructure will eventually be able to transmit text, voice, video, and multimedia to a mobile handset with an always-on connection that is five times faster than a dialup modem. Initially, data-transfer rates may only equal todays dialup modem speeds, but that is still fast enough to make wireless service attractive to businesses seeking efficiency gains. Japans NTT DoCoMo turned on the worlds first 3G network in October 2001. Other mobile operators are conducting 3G trials in the United States and Europe, with plans to go live this year. The challenges include the complexity and costs of upgrading carrier networks and telephone handsets to handle 3G multimedia transmissions. Companies that adopt 3G networking for their mobile workforces within the next two years should expect limited coverage areas and the typical problems associated with any emerging technology. IDC recommends that company executives seeking 3G wireless connectivity should decide exactly why they want the service and pinpoint the efficiency points they need in order to recoup their investment costs in less than two years. Early adopters should measure the specific benefits of connecting mobile employees-reduced paperwork, faster collection of customer data, higher accuracy-and know which group of mobile employees will get the service first and why. In Europe, if an operator does not move fast into wireless data (3G) then the market will start to move without it threatening disintermediation for the laggards. At such, licences of the wideband connection, which carry new content-rich data and video-streaming services, cost up to US$10 billion in Italy and $45 billion in Germany respectively. (Source : Global Telecoms Business magazine). In both Japan and Korea, there is also a significant raise in the subscription in 3G mobile usage, stimulating the economic movement in the countries. In what ways can 3G networks be applied ? Application and Advantages, Multimedia Messaging Multimedia Messaging Service, or MMS, is a messaging service for the mobile environment standardized by the WAP Forum and 3GPP. For consumers, MMS is very similar to Short Message Service (SMS): it provides automatic, immediate delivery of user-created content sent primarily from phone to phone. MMS also provides support for email addressing, so messages can be sent to email. In addition to text, an MMS message sent to or from the Nokia 6650 phone can contain still images, voice or audio clips, and video. An MMS message is a multimedia presentation in one entity; it is not a text file with attachments. MMS delivers a location independent, total communication experience and is a simple, logical extension of SMS, also providing a similarly solid and reliable platform on which the operator can build additional services and increase service differentiation. Rich Call Rich call is an audio conversation supported by concurrent access to an image or data and allows users to not only listen to what I say but also see what I mean. Multiple simultaneous media types such as messaging, voice and video games can be started and ended independently but without the need to obtain the information first and then call back. Mobile Internet Mobile Internet is not just todays internet accessed from a mobile device (although it will of course still be possible,) but instead applications will provide users with personalised, context dependent and interworking applications. The scope of these services will cover areas such as information, entertainment, travel and personal information management. Many will be wholly or partly sponsored by advertisers, be location aware and have mCommerce integration. Multimedia streaming and downloading In 3G, enhanced bandwidth capabilities and advanced terminals enable video and audio, either real time or near real time or download. Eg, two way video conferencing with audio, video streaming. Streaming Media Services Audio streaming (eg MP3) is seen as the first widespread mainstream service to generate revenue through increased data traffic, attracting well off, music consuming and impatient twenty to thirty something generation consumers to subscribe to higher Quality of Service access. Although these services are available, to some extent, through 2. 5G terminals and networks, the bandwidth vs capacity evolution suggests that the real enabler for mass market service is WCDMA radio access. Streaming alleviates the need for a large memory resource in the terminal since only a small sample of the video or music data resides there at any one time. Copyright is also less of an issue because at no time is the entire data stored in the device. Entertainment There are two types of entertainment passive and interactive (games and media ie TV. ) Users will be able to connect to online multi platform gaming experiences or download, try out and purchase games. Handsets will allow inter operability though WAP, GPRS, Java and Symbian OS, making play possible across handset manufacturers. 3G Problems and Disadvantages, As we have mentioned earlier on, 3G is not flawless. Japan NTT was hit with the lack of delicated applications written for broadband speeds of 384 Kbps and handsets were designed for voice-centric application. Many people had to carry 2 handsets to ensure national coverage. Handset Problems, all the extra tasks will put something of a burden on the handset. At the moment screens on phones are small, they are difficult to type or get data into and they typically only work with one mobile phone technology.

Challenges Walmart Faces Expanding Their Territory To China Management Essay

Challenges Walmart Faces Expanding Their Territory To China Management Essay Business operations across national borders are becoming the trend in the current era. And this trend continuously grows because of globalisation and multinational operation. In response to this globalisation issue, multinational corporations like Wal-Mart tend operate in other countries to have excellent advantage. According to Amponsah (2001) globalisation and the eagerness of a certain business organisation to operate across borders involves two dimension i.e. change in economic operations of various countries, and change in the participants of global economic operations. Several people believe that the globalisation of economic activities of every country would hasten the fight against poverty (Macarov 2003, p. 103). But like other companies that are operating in local scale, Wal-Mart a multinational company also faces different opportunities and challenges in the foreign market. With this, this paper will be discussing the opportunities and challenges that Wal-Mart faces in venturing the Chinese territory. Opportunities A business venturing to a foreign market creates good opportunities. As for Wal-Mart venturing in China, a new foreign market like China might provide opportunities for new growth. Aside from this, Wal-Mart uses global expansion to lower costs of goods, accelerate speed to market, improve quality of products and of course to cut their overhead costs considering that China is a low cost country whereas the labour is cheap compared to other countries in the West (Walmartstores, 2010). Most MNCs are establishing subsidiaries in other nations to reduce costs, mainly through the use of cheap foreign labour in developing countries. Like other MNCs, Wal-Mart can hold down costs by shifting some or all of its production facilities abroad. Although Wal-Mart are not claiming that they using the opportunity of global expansion to escape the protectionist policies of an importing country, it is remains the motives of most MNCs. Through direct foreign investment, a corporation like Wal-Mart can b ypass high tariffs that prevent its goods from being competitively priced. For example, when the European Common Market (the predecessor of the European Union) placed tariffs on goods produced by outsiders, U.S. corporations responded by setting up European subsidiaries (Multinational Corporation 1998). Venturing in China is also a good opportunity for Wal-Mart to prevent competition. The most certain method of preventing actual or potential competition from foreign businesses is to acquire those businesses ((Multinational Corporation 1998). Despite of the opportunistic feat of global expansion, Wal-Mart holds that they create employment, create wealth, and improve technology in countries that are in dire need of such development. Critics, however, point to their inordinate political influence, their exploitation of developing nations, and the loss of jobs that result in the corporations home countries. Challenges Cultures Maddox (1993) claims that going global require transformation of managerial skills learned at the home office to enable the managers to function cross-culturally. Business firms must focus on selecting and training managers to become more attuned to different cultures, particularly in the culture of their country of assignment. In the case of Wal-Mart, their Board of Directors should have identified economy, politics, religion, value systems, and frame of reference of the Chinese consumers regarding the products and services that they offer as the primary areas that posed distinct challenges in their expansion to China. Thus, the same aspects merit the attention of the leaders of Wal-Mart who will be assigned at the companys branch in China. The Chinese culture and lifestyle are different from those of the Wal-Marts home country i.e. USA and other Western nations where the company operates. Thus, the success of operation in China relies on the ability of the leaders to facilitate bus iness operations in the midst of cultural diversity among the employees and distinct cultural characteristics surrounding the company such as laws, social norms and business practices. In evaluating the culture of China as part of Wal-Marts business operation, Hofstedes dimensions culture was used. Actually, Geert Hofstede is a Dutch organisational anthropologist who divided culture into four dimensions at culture level-power distance, individualism/collectivism, masculinity/femininity, and uncertainty avoidance (Dahl, 2004). It is important to be aware and comprehend these cultural dimensions for these have an influence on the internal and external workings of organizations that operate on an intercultural level. Power Distance. Power distance is described as the extent to which the less powerful members of institutions and organisations within a country expect and accept that power is distributed unequally (cited in Hofstede 1991, p. 28); more simply, it is concerned with how equal, or unequal, the people are in a specific society or nation. In China, they have high power distance i.e. 80 PDI, this means that there is significant amount of inequalities in power and wealth within China. As a result, it is quite likely that that society employs a caste system and does not permit significant development for its people (Geert Hofstede cultural dimensions 2010). In the corporate-oriented context, firms with a high power distance employ a tall organizational structure because there is greater and higher rigidity in terms of hierarchy. Also, there is a large proportion of managerial employees to the overall human resource population, high job ranking for white-collar work, large compensation differentials, and low requirements for entry-level positions (Earley, 1997, p. 147). Individualism versus Collectivism. Individualism is how a society perceives achievement and personal relationships, may it be individually or collectively. Furthermore, according to Hofstede (1991), individualism is a set of values that concern the relationship of a person to his or her collectivity in the society (as cited in Earley, 1997, p. 144). In China, the individualism was low i.e. 20 IDV which indicates that China is a nation with low individualism and has a collective nature wherein close bonds exist among the people (Geert Hofstede cultural dimensions 2010). Moreover, collectivistic people also perceive themselves in relation a societal and cultural context. This is a great challenge for Wal-Mart considering that their mother country United States has high collectivism as can be observed through the nature of their families. People who reside in such locations live in nuclear families, as oppose to highly collective Asian individuals who normally live with members of their extended families. Masculinity versus Femininity. Masculinity versus femininity refers to the gender differentiation, or more specifically, the extent of how a society applies the traditional perception of man as a model of success, control, and authority. In nations with high masculinity, men control a major part of the society and power structure, while females are restrained because of such male supremacy (Geert Hofstede cultural dimensions 2010). In China, they have high masculinity i.e. 66 MAS. Actually this is important for Wal-marts operation since it relates to achievement, industrial strife, high growth, aggression, work stress, and conflict. To be more specific, firms that are more masculine are fast-paced, aggressive, and focus more on development and growth over harmony and stability (Earley, 1997, p. 164). On the other hand, a feminine-oriented company is more concerned on the social interaction and operations among human resources. Moreover, such firm has a considerate and nurturing natur e, which means that there is more focus on interpersonal functioning and harmony over personal gain (Earley, 1997, p. 164). Hence, the employees welfare is the foremost concern, because this results to the companys ability to establish the capability of an individual to contribute to interpersonal welfare in the organization. Uncertainty Avoidance. As was defined by Hofstede, uncertainty avoidance is the extent to which the members of a culture feel threatened by uncertain or unknown situations (cited in Hofstede 1991, p. 113). As seen in the index, China has low uncertainty avoidance which indicates that the country was less rigid when it comes to change, could handle risks, and have less rules and regulations, since they could effectively endure diverse opinions (Geert Hofstede cultural dimensions 2010). For Wal-Mart, uncertainty may come from the internal and external environment. An organizations response to such ambiguities, through the use of rules, rituals, and technology, affects its image of high or low uncertainty avoidance. This could be a great challenge for Wal-Mart since China wont easily embrace the change they would bring in the country. A Fifth Cultural Dimension. After additional studies which were mainly focused on Chinese managers and workers, Hofstede introduced a fifth cultural dimension, which is the long-term orientation. This focuses on how nations apply, or do not apply, long-term devotion to conventional, forward thinking principles (Geert Hofstede cultural dimensions 2010). Countries with high levels of long-term orientation recommend a strong work ethics and anticipate long-term rewards as a consequence of todays hard work. Thus, long-term commitments are emphasized and traditions are respected (Geert Hofstede cultural dimensions 2010). This is a great challenge for Wal-Mart since they came from countries with low levels of long-term orientation that are capable to experience change because long-term customs and behaviours are lessened, and change is no longer hindered. Political The primary difference in the economies of West and China is the orientation. Most of the west countries economy is affluent while the Chinese economy adopts the economic style of Soviet Union wherein most of the economic activities are centrally planned by the government. In China, the local officials have immense authority although the economy is open to foreign investment and trade. The regulations state that Chinese firms should have at least 51 percent ownership and control of joint ventures with foreign investors (Economy of China 2010). Ramsay (2003) reports that it generally takes two to three months to register a business in China with the government putting limits on the companys business scope (p. 8). The difference in the economic orientation of China and Wal-Marts home country USA poses certain challenges to the leaders of said company. These leaders are accustomed to a free market in the USA economy wherein investors, consumers and producers transact free business and d etermine the flow of economic activities. In China, they would encounter restrictions in the various operational activities of the company such as production and marketing of certain types of products because the Chinese government pursues the interests of Chinese business organizations. Secondly, Chinas transitional economy as cited by Alon Shenker (2003) since the mid-1970s has fostered a tremendous opportunity for international firms to establish operations in the country and made international joint venture as a primary mode of foreign direct investment. However, managing joint ventures sometimes leads to cultural conflicts between Chinese managers and foreign managers. Wal-Marts leaders are more Western and their approaches to management clash with the Chinese management approach. Chinese managers rely on interventions from the extended network outside the company to manage risks and threats rather than following the budgets and plans established in advance that are expected t o guarantee success. The Chinese managers prefer particularistic and pragmatic solutions to organizational problems by analyzing causes of problems and soliciting outside intervention in problem solving while Western managers like Wal-Marts managers have the tendency to act in reference to a belief in an underlying principle that provides a ready matrix into which current reality and present existence can be fitted. As an American, Wal-Marts managers believe that future circumstances can be integrated into the ready matrix which serves as an analytic model to guide decision making processes (p. 147). Considering these differences, the Western leaders who will be assigned to China may encounter conflicting management styles with their Chinese colleagues. Thirdly, USA and China differ in religious beliefs. USA follow Christianity, especially Protestantism, and believe that good works are gifts of hardwork and Gods grace in the life of His believer and not by interventions of outside f orces (Christianity-Protestantism 2010). Chinese are more fatalistic and believe that humans must follow their destiny by living in unity with the world of nature and pursuing social conformity (Religion in China 2001). Hence, Western employees would perform their duties based on their personal judgments and decisions while their Chinese counterparts would consistently attempt to abide by the rules and seek opinions of other employees as they are more inclined to seek conformity. These differences in idea of independence would make the leaders of Wal-Mart consider the outcomes and motivations of their manpower. Western employees would be motivated to perform well if they are given sufficient freedom at work while Chinese employees may prefer to work in teams and have access to constant supervision. Fourthly, the Western value systems relative to interpersonal relationships are in conflict with those of the Chinese. Western people as cited by Alon Shenker (2003) value personal relat ionships with colleagues and supervisors but organizational hierarchy does not dictate their relationships. They equally communicate and relate to all members of the organization. Chinese employees, on the contrary, prefer a system in which coordination is hierarchical wherein the key institutional values underscore loyalty and submission to a leader whose right is to establish the goals of the group. Accordingly, the leaders of Wal-Mart who would be assigned to manage some operations of China have to practice special care in dealing with their Chinese subordinates and fellow supervisors. They may encounter Chinese colleagues who would constantly consult them before they perform their responsibilities. These leaders have to recognize that the Chinese culture places much reverence to leaders while Western people prefer to work independently most of the times. Conclusion The best way to measure success in international business is through constant monitoring by the mother company. Through monitoring, the head company can gauge expatriate failure or success, and cross-cultural competence of expatriates. Wal-Mart must be able to implement consistent monitoring measures in their operations and the performances of the employees and managers sent to China. Venture failure is oftentimes associated with lost opportunities, reduced productivity, and damaged relationships while expatriate success connotes the accomplishment of the opposite. Furthermore, cultural competence is measured if the manager assigned at a foreign location possesses a strong personal identity, has knowledge of and complies with the beliefs and values of the culture of the country where he is assigned, demonstrates sensitivity to the affective processes of the culture, communicates clearly in the language of the country of assignment, displays a degree of culturally-sanctioned behavior, nurtures active social relations with the people and authorities of the country, and negotiates the institutional structures of that culture. Basically, the leaders should be able to adapt quickly to the Chinese culture, comply with its requirements while performing their responsibilities, and gain appreciation of the unique processes of doing business in the country.

Economies for Native Americans Pre and Post Colonization

Economies for Native Americans Pre and Post Colonization What was the nature of Native American economies prior to European colonization? How did Native Americans impact colonial economies? The Native American communities, prior to the arrival of the colonists were not homogenous, and as such there is no one set of factors that encompassed all of their different societal and economic structures. However there were a few major components which had significant impacts. First, many of the communities lived in densely settled agricultural societies which facilitated a fairly prosperous environment. As Nash points out, evolving from a previously nomadic existence, along with the domestication of plants, allowed for a 1% change of land cultivation to produce â€Å"enormous increase[s] in the food supply† (p 11). These urban centric communities afforded the residents a high standard which were in some places, were quite affluent. This environment also allowed for the division of labor to increase the economic resources, for in addition to agriculture, food gathering, game hunting and fishing were also prevalent. Another component, as verified by archeological evidence, shows us that these various communities traded quite extensively, often creating vast networks linked together via water and in-land routes. One example Nash highlights are the Mound builders of the Ohio River Valley (p 13). Also prevalent, especially in the Iroquois nation, was the communal nature of property. This reciprocal principle allowed for an increased possibility in the accumulation of goods, which when shared, raised the quality of life for the whole group. These factors had a significant impact on the early colonial economies since they allowed the newcomers to benefit from structures already in place. One of the most notable is trade, which in addition to the exchange of food, also included items such as beaver skins and deer hides. Agricultural knowledge added great valued, as the colonists were not familiar with many of the plant varieties available in the New World. At the time, war was a common occurrence and interaction with different Native American groups allowed the colonists to offset some costs. Not quite as well understood, even though we know it existed, was a labor component supplied by the indigenous groups. And lastly the Native Americans had a form of money, â€Å"wampum† which facilitated trade and added to economic system of the new settlers. Who comprised the colonial labor force in the U.S., and what were the most important kinds of work arrangements? According to Hughes and Cain, in the later part of the 18th century, the labor force in the colonies was focused mostly on primary production, which employed approximately nine-tenths of the population (7th edition, p 30-31). The most common occupations were: agriculture, fishing, mining and timbering along with ship building. Yet when broken down by region we can see that artisans made up between one-third and one-half of those employed in the more commercial cities such as Boston, New York, Newport and Philadelphia. Common occupations among these artisans were milling, leather tooling, woodworking, distilling, sugar refining, hat making and spinning (p 30). Even though many occupations were represented, there was a significant lack of available labor. Native American labor was fairly limited, leaving the colonists to supply the larger share. This scarcity was reflected in the early days of the settlements when work was required for all the lower classes, as well as men between 12 and 60, and single women between 12 and 40, (p 42–43). As time progressed and more settlers came over, the labor market segmented into three main categories – free labor, indentured servants and slaves. In the early days, between 1630 and 1776, about one-third to one-half the population came as indentured servants. These were for the most part English nationals although a few Germans migrated as well. These early arrangements for indentured servants were negotiated by the shippers who allowed for free passage, but then sold the work contracts for these individuals on the docks. Prices for these individuals were variable and usually driven by whether they were literate, their age, sex, and occupation. It should also be noted that when the British labor market was in bad shape, there were strong incentives to come to the New World and work as an indenture servant. However, right as the labor conditions started to improve in England, was when the cost of passage across the Atlantic began to decrease. This scenario drove up the cost of indentured labor, making it no longer as attractive, while at the same time made the decreasing cost of slave labor more desirable. Were American colonists economically exploited by the British prior to the American Revolution? As noted in Hughes and Cain, prior to the Revolution, Americans had â€Å"achieved a level of affluence at least as great as their British cousins† with incomes (in 2000 prices) in the range of $3,875 to $7,250 per capita (p 51). In addition they note that Britain was spending considerable sums on military protection and administration for the colonies, as well as carrying a significant trade deficit (p 56). These and other factors give evidence to indicate that on the eve of the Revolution, thanks in part to contributions from the English, Americans were already among the wealthiest citizens in the world. To make the situation even more beneficial to those living in the colonies, almost everyone, even the ‘poor’, had some tangible goods, whether it be land or high wages; a situation almost unheard of in other nations at the time. Contributing to these conditions were England’s mercantilist policies, as prior to the Revolution these regulations casts a shadow on the output and production of the colonies. The British government’s laws regarding trade, specifically the Navigation Acts of 1651, 1660, 1662 1663, prescribed conditions which benefited both England and to a large extent, the colonies themselves. Part of the stipulated requirements were that all trading vessels must carry a crew comprised of three-fourths English or American sailors, all foreign trade must pass through English ports and that certain ‘enumerated goods’ (usually colonial commodities) could only be sold to British buyers. These actions gave the colonists not only privileged access to British markets, but were also in addition to generous subsidies by the English as well. As Hughes and Cain note, these subsidies, tax rebates, tariffs and quotas both protected and encouraged American industries and did so at the expense of other markets (p 69). To try and state empathic whether the American colonists were economically exploited, is impossible as the interactions between the two entities were so interconnected. However, both benefited and made gains from the other, but also chafed at the yearnings for power that each side longed to acquire as they continued to seek economic growth in new markets.

Beneficial Results of a Tactical Failure :: Personal Narrative Ceramics Essays

Beneficial Results of a Tactical Failure When I first examined this assignment, I decided that I would make some piece of pottery that I believed would have been useful to my ancestors. I wanted to make something simple, as I had no experience working with clay. I thought that a small bowl capable of holding a small amount of water would be my best bet. However, when I arrived at Aura Ceramics my intentions changed. Once I sat down to make my pottery, I decided to make something I thought would have been useful to hunter-gatherer societies, to the individuals that first utilized pottery. I tried to imagine what sorts of vessels would have been a necessity to these people. I concluded that a larger container capable of carrying water over distances would have been more useful than a smaller bowl. I wanted to make a container large enough to transport water. It needed to be light enough to carry for long periods of time. And, it would have to be durable so as not to crack or spill water while being transported. With these thoughts in mind, I began molding my clay. I started by making a fairly large basin that I estimated would have held just under a gallon of water. I figured that would have been sufficient for an individual's daily consumption. Next, I began condensing the top of the vessel into a small neck-like form in which something like a cork could be placed to prevent water from spilling out once inside the pottery. Finally, above the neck, I molded a funnel. The funnel would have made scooping and filling this container with water from an open source much easier. Unfortunately, my creation did not survive the heating process, so I do not have a finished product to demonstrate. However, I can best describe the container as looking much like a spittoon with a smaller opening at the neck of the container. After observing the transitions which the pots my classmates made went through, I can conclude that my container would have been useful to early hunters and gatherers. After the pottery was processed in the kiln it weighed less than it had when the clay was wet. Judging the differential in these weights from the other students' creations, I believe my finished product, with the gallon of water it was meant to hold, would have weighed around ten pounds.

The Life Of Emily Dickinson Essay -- essays research papers

The Life of Emily Dickinson   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Although she lived a seemingly secluded life, Emily Dickinson's many encounters with death influenced many of her poems and letters. Perhaps one of the most ground breaking and inventive poets in American history, Dickinson has become as well known for her bizarre and eccentric life as for her incredible poems and letters. Numbering over 1,700, her poems highlight the many moments in a 19th century New Englander woman's life, including the deaths of some of her most beloved friends and family, most of which occurred in a short period of time (Benfey 6-25).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Several biographers of Dickinson point out her methods of exploring several topics in â€Å"circumference,† as she says in her own words. Death is perhaps one of the best examples of this exploration and examination. Other than one trip to Washington and Philadelphia, several excursions to Boston to see a doctor, and a few short years in school, Emily never left her home town of Amherst, Massachusetts. In the latter part of her life she rarely left her large brick house, and communicated even to her beloved sister through a door rarely left â€Å"slightly ajar.† This seclusion gave her a reputation for eccentricity to the local towns people, and perhaps increased her interest in death (Whicher 26).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Dressing in white every day Dickinson was know in Amherst as, â€Å"the New England mystic,† by some. Her only contact to h...

Harley Davidson Marketing Strategy Essay

1. Executive Summary Harley Davidson is an American motorcycle company founded in 1903 by William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson. In the following 108 years of business, the Harley Davidson business has endured the peaks and troughs of economies to be recognised as an iconic brand in the motorcycle industry. After breaking records on the race track, Harley Davidson secures contracts to supply 60000 motorcycles American military during World War II, exposing thousands of servicemen to the Harley Davidson brand. Through clever marketing and positioning, Harley Davidson has shed the bearded biker image, and now appeals to people from varying backgrounds all over the globe. The following report will provide a situational analysis of the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Company and discuss some of the marketing strategies that have enabled Harley Davidson to adapt to its market place and create customer loyalty rarely seen in today’s business environment. Oliver as cited in Sorce (2002) discusses the aspects of developing customer loyalty, and four elements that are necessary in order to do this; 1. The product must be perceived as superior by a large enough segment of the firm’s customers in order to be profitable. 2. The product must be subject to adoration (or focused commitment). 3. The product must have the ability to be embedded in a social network. 4. The firm must be willing to expend resources to create the village (Sorce, 2002). The discussions in the following report will establish without doubt that Harley Davidson has in fact achieved a remarkable level of customer loyalty. By creating this loyalty Harley Davidson engages their customers and enables them to focus on developing long term relationships with them. It would be easy to say that Harley  Davidson is a company that sells motorcycles. In reality they are not just selling motorcycles, they are creating images of a lifestyle; the motorcycle is merely a repr esentation of this image. The motorcycle does not project the image; it fills the image. (FÄ ±rat, Dholakia & Venkatesh, 1995) 2. Situational Analysis 2a.Strengths Harley Davidson is fortunate to hold a market position that boasts multiple strengths and opportunities that potentially outweigh their threats and weaknesses. In 2010 Harley Davidson gained approximately 55% of the heavy weight motorcycle market in the USA, a marginal increase from 2009 and substantially higher than 2008 (Harley Davidson, 2011). This is a promising trend in economically uncertain times. The brand recognition of Harley Davidson continues and remains a distinct advantage over its competition, especially in the American market. In recent years, Harley Davidson has made a concerted effort in targeting a wider range of customers with their range of motorcycles. By the end of 2010 Harley Davidson has also become the number 1 seller of heavy weight motorcycles to women, Hispanics and African-Americans. Another success has been in a market of which they had been previously criticised for not targeting well, young adults between the ages 18-34; as of 2010 they now hold that number 1 position as well (HD, 2011). There is little doubt that the real success in target marketing has been the development of the Harley Owners Group (HOG). HOG membership is given with all purchases of a new Harley Davidson motorcycle; affording the members benefits such as roadside assistance, HOG magazine, Fly and ride rental deals, touring information and event information. The HOG group sums it up well on their website; â€Å"the Harley Owners Group is more than just a motorcycle organisation. It is one million people around the world united by a common passion: making the Harley-Davidson dream a way of life† (HD, 2011). 2b.Weaknesses Although the USA market is very strong for Harley Davidson, they are making slow progress in gaining market share in the international market. The customer loyalty that Harley Davidson enjoys in the USA is challenged internationally by rival heavy weight manufacturers such as BMW, Triumph, Honda and Kawasaki. Internationally, Europe has the largest demand for heavy weight motorcycles; in which Harley Davidson has only managed to acquire less than 13% of this lucrative market (HD, 2011). 2c.Opportunities One of Harley Davidson biggest opportunities is intrinsically linked to its major weakness. Internationally there is a large bit of a very big pie that Harley Davidson has not managed to attain. Although Harley Davidson has less than 13% of the heavy weight motorcycle sales in Europe, they manage to hold the number 2 ranking in this market. This ranking indicates that no one competitor owns the heavy weight market in Europe and suggests that the customer loyalty amongst the competitors is far from what Harley Davidson enjoys in the USA. Having achieved the number one ranking for sales to women, Harley Davidson still have a large potential customer base in attracting more women riders. Since 2007 Harley Davidson has doubled its marketing spend and released bikes more suited to women riders, who now account for 12% of Harley Davidson sales in the USA (Clothier, 2010). 2d.Threats Aside from the usual threats posed by competitors in the heavyweight market, Harley Davidson will face the same threat that looms for most manufacturers†¦economic uncertainty. Although the current economic situation in the USA is unlikely to threaten the current Harley Davidson market share in its core market; it may certainly threaten its financial stability. The loyal customers in the USA may not turn away from Harley Davidson, but they will be more likely to delay their planned upgrades and apparel purchases. The economic threats in the international market may pose a more serious threat to Harley Davidson. Not only are there financial pressures present in all international markets, but they are more susceptible to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. If these pressures cause Harley Davidson dealers to close their doors it can lead to a downward pressure on motorcycle prices, reduced retail coverage, reduced servicing capabilities and a general negative impression on Harle y Davidson as a brand. (HD, 2011) 3. Analysis of Harley Davidson Case Study Joanne Bischmann, VP of Marketing for Harley-Davidson identifies the company’s value proposition by stating â€Å"We fulfil dreams inspired by the many roads of the world by providing extraordinary motorcycles and customer experiences. We fuel the passion for freedom in our customers to express their own individuality† (Pearson Prentice Hall,2011). The viewer is left with a clear understanding that Harley Davidson is not just about selling motorcycles; they are selling visions and lifestyles. It is interesting to note that even Joanne Bischmann has been sold on this; she explains bluntly that she would rather give up most other things than her Harley. It is also customary for other Harley Davidson executives to attend HOG rallies, enabling them to not only get a feel for their product, but develop an understanding of the people that purchase their product. (Berry, 2002) There is little doubt that one of Harley Davidson’s greatest successes in its marketing strate gies has been the conception of the Harley Owners Group (H.O.G). H.O.G has given Harley Davidson continued and authorised access to their customers and helped the company to create a definite brand community. By establishing this brand community, H.O.G has nurtured a relationship between the customer and the company, the brand, the company’s products and importantly, fellow customers. The rallies and functions organised by H.O.G has brought customers and groups together unrelated in any way other than the mutual appreciation of a Harley Davidson product (MacAlexander, Schouten & Keoning, 2002). In doing this Harley Davidson has managed to deliver on the promises of benefits in their value proposition, making it a reality rather than just words. Harley Davidson has developed a customer loyalty that would make most manufacturers envious. Through clever strategic marketing Harley Davidson has established a quality product that provides the loyal consumer with exactly what they are seeking. In essence they have created a following of â€Å"True Friends† as described by Armstrong and Kotler (2011); The firm wants to make continuous relationship investments to delight these custom ers and nurture, retain, and grow them. It wants to turn true friends into true believers who come back regularly and tell others about their experience with the company. It would be difficult to match the above definition any closer than H.O.G manages to do so. They bring together passionate individuals and groups who are fiercely loyal to the Harley Davidson brand. It would be difficult to believe that the members do not wax  lyrical about their adventures and travels with H.O.G delivering a whole new range of potential customers to Harley Davidson. When considering the Harley Davidson brand community it seems likely that the groups Armstrong and Kotler (2011) term Strangers or Barnacles would account for a minimal share of their customer base. With the presence of so many â€Å"True Friends†, Harley Davidson has undoubtedly established a customer equity base of considerable proportion. It is not only the fact that a Harley owner is a loyal fan; approximately 75% of them are repeat buyers. The customers have bought in to the romance and lifestyle of the brand supporting the idea that â€Å"investment in a Harley is more than financial and the role of the bike is more than functional† (Schembri, 2008). In addition to the cus tomer equity, this principle may in turn lead to actual financial equity as indicated by MacAlexander et al. (2002) many loyal customers have a tendency to invest in the company’s stock, their emotional investment in the welfare of the company and a desire to contribute to the success of the company. Although the customer loyalty factor no doubt accounts for substantial customer equity for Harley Davidson, the fact that they manufacture a quality product is of even more importance. If the product was not first rate, no amount of marketing would be able to attract new buyers and convince current consumers to repurchase motorcycles. Harley Davidson has made changes to its product range in order to meet the demands of what they call their outreach customers. By introducing a range of motorcycles that are more suited to women buyers they have been able to attain the number 1 status in that market. Some models of their Sportster range have had the seats lowered and weights reduced by 150lbs in order to appeal to the woman rider (HD, 2011). 4. Recommendations Harley Davidson USA and Europe are the key business regions for the company, accounting for 83% of the new motorcycle sales in 2010 (HD, 2011). It will be difficult to significantly grow the business in the USA due to their already large market share and the continuing unsettled economic conditions. 36 Harley Davidson dealers in the USA closed during 2010 with more stores expected to close during 2011 (HD, 2011). If any business growth is to be seen in the USA market, the outreach customers will be the likely sector that can contribute towards this. Harley Davidson needs to keep focusing on  the outreach customers and target their marketing to this group. There is still significant room for growth in the international market for Harley Davidson. The major risk factor associated with this market will also be the uncertainty in the economic conditions. Europe financial instability will be of concern to any company wishing to grow any business in non-essential items. It may be prudent of Harley Davidson to wait and see how the European markets recover from recent stresses. With Europe being the largest international market of heavy weight vehicles (HD, 2011), Harley Davidson need to keep a strong presence in the region. In particular, there seems to be good potential in targeting the outreach customers in this region. Harley Davidson Finance also has some potential to grow in the near future. Internal finance options for buyers is important the business and the likelihood that financing options for buyers will be made easier due to this option. 5. References Armstrong, Gary and Kotler, Philip 2011, Marketing: an introduction, 10th edition (pp. 50-51), Pearson Prentice Hall, USA. Oliver, Richard L. (1999). Whence Consumer Loyalty? Journal of Marketing, 63, 33-44 Sorce, P. (2002). Relationship marketing: A research monograph of the printing industry center at RIT. New York, USA: Rochester Institute of Technology Firat, F., Dholakia, N. & Venkatesh, A. (1995). Marketing in a postmodern world. European Journal of Marketing, 29, (1) 40-46 Harley Davidson Inc. (2011). Harley Davidson Inc. 2010 annual report. Retrieved from http://www.harley-davidson.com/en_US/Content/Pages/home.html Clothier, M. (2010, September 30). Why Harley is showing its feminine side. Bloomberg Business Week. Retrieved from: www.businessweek.com Pearson Prentice Hall (Producer). (2011). Creating & capturing customer value [Video]. USA. Berry, L. (2002). Relationship marketing of services – perspectives from 1983 and 2000. Journal of Relationship Marketing, 1, (1) 59-77 MacAlexander, J., Schouten, J. & Koening, H. (2002). Building brand community. Journal of Marketing, 66, 38-54 Schembri, S. (2008). Reframing brand experience: The experiential meaning of Harley–Davidson. Journal of Business Research. doi: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2008.11.004

New Look Jacket Inc.: Variance Analysis Essay

New Look Jacket Inc. (NLJ) specializes in the production of Nylon Jackets and Leather Jackets. The company delivers successful financial records at the end of the 2012 fiscal year with the net income of $ 417,100, which is $170,850 greater than the net income budgeted for the 2012 fiscal year despite that the company operations goes through some turmoil. A more detail variance shows that the external factor largely responsible for the growth of leather markets that rapidly increase than anticipated making NLJ to catch with the increase in market demand. Variance Analysis Contribution Margin Based on the figure in Exhibit 1, the total amount of contribution margin for the Nylon jackets is $4,350 less than the budget. Although, the actual unit of contribution margin is $0.15 greater than the standard due to the lower admin cost and selling per unit. However, the Leather jackets’ total contribution margin is $325,200 higher than the budget. The actual unit for contribution margin is $12.70 less than the standard because of the higher variables in all the business categories. Sale Variances Analysis of sale variance reveals that New Look Jackets record 110,000 actual sale volumes greater that sale volume of 100,000 budgeted for the fiscal year. The favorable variance of 10,000 makes the company to record the increase in the sales revenue for the actual budget. The company recorded $5,747,500 as actual revenue compared to $4,075,000 budgeted as sale revenue making the company to record the favorable variance of $1,672,500 in revenue. Despite the favorable sale variance that the company records, it is only the Leather Jacket that records favorable variance because the budgeted sale volume is 5,000 units and the actual sale volume is 16,500 units making the company to record a favorable variance of 11,500 in the sale volume. However, the variance for the sales of Nylon jacket is unfavorable with the budget of 95,000 units for the sale volume and the actual budget recorded are 93,500 units making the company to record the unfavorable variance of 1,700 units in sales. Thus, the sales mix variance is favorable for the Leather jackets, however, unfavorable for the Nylon jacket. The company recorded unexpectedly high in the market of Leather Jacket in 2012 generating favorable mix market for the company. The direct material price is not favorable for the New Look Leather jackets showing that the company spends more in purchasing of direct materials than the price actually budgeted for Leather jackets. The major reason is that the company did not have enough material in stock to produce the quantity of leather jacket demanded. Due to the abnormal increase in demand for the Leather jacket, the company had to make a rush order for the Leather jacket material which consequently led to the increase in the price of direct materials. 2. Budget projections for Sales, Direct material, Direct labor, Variable costs and Fixed Cost. The paper prepares a new budget for the New Look Jacket based on the on the company past financial performances and the economic outlook for the 2012 fiscal year. The results of the variance analysis between the 2012 budget and the actual budget at the end 2012 fiscal year is also used to prepare  the new budget. Assumptions The paper prepares the new budget based on the following assumptions: The increase in inflation will not be more than 5% and increase in inflation is assumed to affect the projected fixed costs of operations. The sale volume of Leather jacket is assumed to reach 30,000 units. Essentially, the company did not prepare for the increase in the demand for the Leather jacket in the preceding year, and it is assumed a new trend in fashion will affect the demand for the Leather jackets, which will lead to an increase in the demand for the Leather jackets. The other assumption is that the US economy will not experience a recession that may affect the total demand. Moreover, the income tax will remain the same because the increase in income tax is likely to decline the total demand. Budget Projections The data in the new budget reveals that the company will realize the total sales volume of 123,500 units in both the Nylon Jacket and Leather jacket. However, it is projected that the demand for the Leather jacket will reach 30,000 units making the company to record the revenue of $4.5 Million in the Leather jacket. The increase in the demand for the Leather jacket will make the company to realize the revenue of more than $7.77 Million. (See Appendix 1 reveals the new budget and Appendix 2 reveals the costs of direct materials and direct labor). Despite the increase in the company total revenue, the company will incur an increase in the cost of direct material and direct labor due to a projected increase in the total demand for the Leather jacket. Moreover, the total fixed costs are projected to increase to $1.5 Million due to 5% increase in inflation. Despite the increase in the total costs, the company is projected to record a net income of $518,419. Reference Foster, H. & Teall, D. G (2012). Cost Accounting: A Managerial Emphasis, (5th Canadian Edition). Canada, (CMA Online Library).

Acc 509. Springfield Express Essay

Springfield Express is a luxury passenger carrier in Texas. All seats are first class, and the following data are available: Number of seats per passenger train car 90 Average load factor (percentage of seats filled) 70% Average full passenger fare $ 160 Average variable cost per passenger $ 70 Fixed operating cost per month $3,150,000 a.What is the break-even point in passengers and revenues per month? b.What is the break-even point in number of passenger train cars per month? c.If Springfield Express raises its average passenger fare to $ 190, it is estimated that the average load factor will decrease to 60 percent. What will be the monthly break-even point in number of passenger cars? d.(Refer to original data.) Fuel cost is a significant variable cost to any railway. If crude oil increases by $ 20 per barrel, it is estimated that variable cost per passenger will rise to $ 90. See more:Â  Social Satire in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Essay What will be the new break-even point in passengers and in number of passenger train cars? e.Springfield Express has experienced an increase in variable cost per passenger to $ 85 and an increase in total fixed cost to $ 3,600,000. The company has decided to raise the average fare to $ 205. If the tax rate is 30 percent, how many passengers per month are needed to generate an after-tax profit of $ 750,000? f.(Use original data). Springfield Express is considering offering a discounted fare of $ 120, which the company believes would increase the load factor to 80 percent. Only the additional seats would be sold at the discounted fare. Additional monthly advertising cost would be $ 180,000. How much pre-tax income would the discounted fare provide Springfield Express if the company has 50 passenger train cars per day, 30 days per month? g.Springfield Express has an opportunity to obtain a new route that would be traveled 20 times per month. The company believes it can sell seats at $ 175 on the route, but the load factor would be only 60 percent. Fixed cost would increase by $ 250,000 per month for additional personnel, additional passenger train cars, maintenance, and so on. Variable cost per passenger would remain at $ 70. 1.Should the company obtain the route? 2.How many passenger train cars must Springfield Express operate to earn pre-tax income of $ 120,000 per month on this route? 3.If the load factor could be increased to 75 percent, how many passenger train cars must be operated to earn pre-tax income of $ 120,000 per month on this route? 4.What qualitative factors should be considered by Springfield Express in making its decision about acquiring this route? 5.

Italian Culture Healthcare and Education Essay

Italy is recognized around the world due to its decent cultural approach towards education, business, healthcare and society. Italian’s culture diligently maintains high standards of healthcare system as well as education systems which provide the best and affordable healthcare services and free educational opportunities to the people. Italian Culture towards Healthcare Italian culture towards healthcare is highly recognized due to the provision of high standards healthcare services and medical assistance at very low cost. Italian doctors are very devoted and expert in their profession and the healthcare treatment services are maintained at higher levels. It is wise thinking of Italians who prefer to cover their hospitalization and surgery cost through private health insurance providers which, of course, avoid inconvenience faced due to long waiting lists (â€Å"Healthcare in Italy†, Allianz). The official name of Italy’s Health System is ‘Servizio Sanitario Nazioanale’ which provides low cost healthcare services to the entire European citizens. The healthcare services include ‘in-patient’ treatments such as medications, tests, family doctor visits, surgeries during hospitalization and medical assistance provided by various medical specialists. Other healthcare services are too offered which include dental treatments, out-patient treatments and provision of medicines and drugs. The Italian culture mandates the health insurance for every foreigner which must cover the entire healthcare treatment from the arrival moment till the departure moment, failing which ‘permit to stay’ (permesso di soggiorno) is not granted (â€Å"Healthcare in Italy†, Allianz). Italian Culture towards Education Education in Italy is perceived to be an essential necessity of life. Italian’s culture has regulated education as a compulsory requirement for 6-16 years of children and free education is too granted to facilitate people. There are five grades in Italian’s educational system namely ‘Kindergarten / Playgroup (Scuola Maternal), Elementary School (Scuola Elementare), Middle School (Scuola Media), High School (Liceo) and University (Universita) (â€Å"Italy Education System†, Italiamia). The educational system in Italy consists of public and private standards. Both the standards are developed more progressively than UK and Germany educational systems. Various universities for postgraduate education have been established in Italy namely ‘University of Bologna’ which is the oldest university in Western and ‘La Sapienza University’ which is the biggest university in Italy (â€Å"Italy Education†, Maps of World). Italy’s educational system was constituted by ‘Legge Casati (Casati Act) in 1859. The vision of this act was to diminish illiteracy among children and enhance their learning needs. The single town regulates the primary education system, the province regulates the secondary education system and the state regulates the universities education system. The educational system was further streamlined by ‘Legge Gentile Act’ in 1923. The compulsory age of children for education was increased up to 14 years and option for promotion towards ‘Middle School’ was granted upon completion of five years primary education which could further be continued up to ‘High School’ (â€Å"Italy Education System†, Italiamia). Conclusion  Inadvertently, Italian culture towards healthcare and education is very appreciating and is a symbol of developed country of the world. Since, Italian culture has maintained the higher standards in healthcare and education systems; therefore, it is right to claim the Italy as one of the best country of the world which cares about the life of its people with love. In short, Italy’s healthcare and education culture should be adopted by every developing country in order to maintain good health and develop learning needs among people which will of course, benefit the same in the prosperity of a country.