Saturday, August 31, 2019

Information Technology and its effects in Working practices Essay

Information Technology has a great effect on society today, changing lives of many people in school, home and at work. I will be looking at how information technology has had a great effect in working practices. Technology has changed the lives of both employees and employers bringing both advantages and disadvantages. The topic, which I will be looking at, is teleworking and what are its advantages and disadvantages to both the employee and the employer. Teleworking Teleworking, sometimes called telecommuting, means working from home using modern technology to keep in touch with your business. Often teleworkers are based at home but they can also work from telecenters and satellite offices. Heathcote (1998) says Teleworking involves carrying out work away from the office and communicating with the employer through the use of computer and telecommunications equipment. Jobs can be relocated to places where it is more attractive, more convenient or cheaper to live. At present, teleworking is most advanced in the U.S. with only 3% of European employees engaged in teleworking along with an estimated 20 million worldwide. Predictions are that by the year 2006, the number could increase. Teleworking is facilitated by the recent rapid advances in the power of enabling technologies coupled with a significant reduction in their prices. These technologies include e-mail, ISDN, PCs, high speed modems and so on. Tools Needed For Teleworking To enable an employee to efficiently work from home they need the right equipment to enable them to do so. This is why the correct tools are essential. Here are the results of a survey conducted by (Http: 1) 99% of teleworkers have a PC.Teleworkers ask for ‘financial recompense for wear and tear on own equipment (and home PC hard disk space)’. 95% use the telephone for business calls.Teleworkers ask for ‘an additional phone line to work online and talk on the phone’. 87% own a modem:99% use the internet for research, retrieving information for their job and the email. Teleworkers request ‘cheaper internet access/cheaper ISDN lines’. Only 63% use a fax in their teleworking routine.Teleworkers request ‘lower telecommunication costs offered to teleworkers by the service sector’. Teleworkers also use: – 24% Photocopier 19% ISDN 4% Videoconferencing 3% Tools Equipment is usually bought from the employees themselves although now more and more employers are responsible for providing equipment for employees. This also includes costs for damages and any upgrades that might be needed. Advantages and Disadvantages for the Employee Some employees find that the advantage of teleworking is that they have flexible hours, they can still work when they want to and still be able to spend time at home with the family and there normal household jobs. However some people teleworkers find that this is a disadvantage as they are unable to separate work from family life, which is a cause of tension in the home as they are unable to talk to family members. Working from home is also known to reduce stress of employees as they find that they can work better in the comfort of their own home rather than in a busy office environment.  Although this is not always the case as some employees find that working at home is a distraction from their work especially if they have young children in the home that need them constantly. They also find themselves becoming lazy and try to put off doing work as long as possible and do not have the enthusiasm that they would have in their work than if they were working in an office. Another advantage of teleworking is that teleworkers are able to work in teams and can do their work together by contacting each other through telephone, e-mail or fax. Many teleworkers however disagree with this as they say that they do not have enough support from the office or work mates and it is difficult to contact them and communicate over a telephone. Johnson. M. (1997). Another advantage is that there is more work opportunities for employees. This is a specific advantage for the disabled and people from other countries. Disable who would not normally be able to work can work from there own home without having to travel, which can be a problem and have all the equipment that they need. This can also mean better work opportunities for people who cannot work during normal office hours. Many employees benefit from not having to move away from home to work. This means that they save money on travel costs such as petrol and car repairs. It also means that they spend extra hours working that a normal person would spend travelling to work. Constant delays and traffic is also a known cause for stress and can make workers tired when they arrive at work. A disadvantage for teleworkers is that they can become unsocial as they stay at home and do not get to meet new people or socialise with friends. However some employees say that they are glad that they do not have to socialise with colleagues especially if they find it difficult to get on with people and they work better when they don’t have someone looking over their shoulder checking on them Zabar.D.J. (2002). Teleworkers have less chance of being promoted or having any bonuses this can make them feel less enthusiastic about their work. Advantages and Disadvantages for the Employer An advantage to employers is that they can save on costs such as workspace, electricity, heating and lighting. Although there are other costs to the employer such as paying for communication costs and some employers will provide equipment for their employees as well. Employers have also said that employees that who work at home produce better work although as I have mentioned before this is not always the case. As employees become lazy when they do not have a supervisor to watch them. Another advantage is that employers have flexible staffing they can now employ more experienced and more knowledgeable staff from around the world. A disadvantage is that it is difficult for employees to see how well they are working and if they are putting their full amount of effort into their work â€Å"If I can’t see them, I can’t control them.† Also as information is constantly going to be sent through the Internet the company is more prone to hackers who want to steel or view their confidential data. What Would Improve Teleworking For Employees A survey conducted by (http: 2) asked a majority of teleworkers what would improve teleworking for them. The results are as follows: – 10% say they would like better support from the office 23% say that would like more communication with employees 30% say that they would like to have better equipment 37% say that they would like a better home working environment I have taken these results and have produced them on a graph: – These statistics were received from (http:3) I then converted these figures in form of a chart. General Statistics These statistics were also received from http: 3: – In 1993 there were only 130,000 people teleworking, or half a percent of the workforce. A year later this figure jumped to 560,000. Teleworking statistics were first introduced in the Labour Force Survey in 1997 and have grown by an average of 13 percent a year. Over the period 1997 to 2001, the total increase in teleworking is up by between 65 and 70 percent, with further growth predicted. The majority of teleworkers are men (67 percent), while they make up only 53 percent of the workforce. Teleworkers are predominately from the following industry groups: professional; managerial and senior officials; and associate professional and technical. Although the self-employed are strongly represented among teleworkers, their share is decreasing. International comparisons show that teleworking in the UK is just above the average for ten EU countries covered by a recent survey. Germany and France have the smallest proportion of employed people working as teleworkers, while Finland has the highest proportion. From the above it is evident that there are both advantages and disadvantages to both the employee and the employer. Even with disadvantages teleworking is still said to be expanding all over the world and it has been predicted that it will carry on doing so. Bibliography Heathcote. P.M. (1998) Information Technology, Payne Gallway: Ipswich Http: 1, Teleworking Today, Available online at http://www.si-cbx.com/teleworking/twfacts.html. Date of download 10th of November 2002 Http: 2, Teleworking, Available online at http://www.teleworker.org/articles/teleworking.html. Date of Download 10th of November 2002 Http: 3, Teleworking in the UK, Available online at http://www.national.statistics.gov.uk/telworking.htm. Date of download 12th of November 2002 Johnson. M. (1997) Teleworking in Brief, Butterworth-Hienman, Kent Lynch .F. (1999), Information Analysis, AT Foulks Ltd, Middlesex Zabar.D.J. (2002), Teleworking and Telecommuting, Made Ez Products, Reading.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Freedom of Speech: Abused from Abroad Essay

The constitution was designed to protect us from tyranny and abuse by government and dictators. Our policies need to protect us from those that would slander a segment or our population. Foreign hate groups direct their views to those protected by the same document that affords them their right to post. Freedom of Speech: Abused from Abroad The first amendment protects the rights of Americans to have free speech even if that speech is hate speech but it should not be used to protect foreign hate speech just because it is hosted on an American server. The First Amendment really does distinguish the U. S. not just from Canada but from the rest of the Western world. (Liptak, 2008) Given the nearly unanimous international institution of regulations restricting online hate speech, the United States stands alone in its support of free speech—including Internet hate speech. (Breckheimer, 2011) These are good examples of our first amendment and how it is perceived across the globe. We are known for our liberal view of free speech protections and based on our history of oppression by monarchs and the purpose for us to seek a new land to call our own it fits our nation well to have such an amendment in place to protect the rights of our citizens. I feel that this very right is being abused by foreign hate groups who not only direct their rhetoric towards others in their own countries but also towards U. S. Citizens who are being protected by the very document that allows them to be harassed from afar. Many countries that we consider our allies have laws that prohibit hate speech and they level severe penalties upon those who break these laws. I support the right to free speech for every American as accorded by the first amendment. I do not support providing that same right to those who are not Americans and do not hold themselves to the same values that we Americans hold ourselves to. Free speech is just one of the things that make Americans unique in the world. To claim the right of first amendment free speech you need to be an American citizen. Our first amendment was not meant to be used as a shield for foreign dissidents wishing to bypass their countries laws. As a world citizen the United States needs to make certain that we respect each country for it rules and regulations as we would wish them to respect ours. We need to change our foreign policy to reflect the fact that our constitution was meant for Americans and not for the world. To allow foreign groups to host their messages on our servers even if we agree with their message shows that we as a nation do not respect the governing body of the nation and it’s laws. We should be extra vigilant to protect our citizens from the ranting’s of foreign hate groups. The first amendment was meant to protect the citizens of the United States and not those wishing to belittle and malign its citizens. Paul Przybylski wrote that because many servers, and especially those that spread hate speech content, are stationed within the United States, any solution without U.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

The Constitution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Constitution - Essay Example On this note, Attorney General Janet Reno requested the Supreme Court to review the decision on Fourth Circuit in Reno v. Condon. (Axelrod 158). According to Axelrod, Condon claimed that the act implicated states sovereignty which granted the state all the powers even those not specified in the constitution (211). Condon also claimed that enforcement of the act would be enjoying the nation and its administrators. He therefore concluded the act to be contrary to the federalism principles of power delegation, between states and federal government as stated in the constitution. Reno court on the other hand found Driver’s Privacy Protection Act to be a general law of applicability. Generally applicable laws are laws that apply to both the state and private companies. Reno court concluded that, it was constitutional for the congress to regulate the states’ activities where a generally applicable law was involved. If initially Condon had successfully won in Reno v. Condon, there would be both social and political repercussions. Socially, crime levels would increase in the society in case information such as home address or social security number falls in the wrong hands. For example, a woman whose data had been disclosed by the state to another state but ended in hand of a stalker was murdered. Exposure of personal details would also result to segregation among the individuals on the bases of financial level, race or even education levels. Politically, the politicians may use the information for their own advantage by identifying the weakness of the states at individual level eventually leading to manipulation. The other state may with time have enough data from the subject state to investigate the economic power of the state and end up taking advantage of the situation (Axelrod 245) Likewise, the Supreme Court ruled that Driver’s Privacy Protection Act was constitutional and it did not violate federalism principles under the

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

International Football Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

International Football Management - Essay Example The recent injury to Robin Van Persie will keep him out for five long months; he picked up this injury playing for his national team Holland. He plays for Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League and his club lost to Chelsea yesterday. He would have made some difference had he been on the field. Arsene Wenger the manager of Arsenal must be feeling hard done by and this situation is very common. Even Wayne Rooney was injured on international duty and missed several games for Manchester United. Christiano Ronaldo is another player who was injured playing for Portugal and as an inevitable result of which missed several games for his present club Real Madrid. The managers of these illustrious clubs unwillingly release players because they know the consequences should their star players get injured. FIFA has firmly instructed all the clubs to release players for International duty; some clubs impede this rule set by FIFA by faking injuries. This prevents the players from playing for their n ation; this also ensures that they play injury free for their clubs. "Mark Viduka and Harry Kewell have failed to report for duty with the Socceroos and Australia coach Frank Farina has expressed his frustration at their unavailability for Wednesday's friendly against Venezuela in Caracas. Liverpool winger Kewell stayed in England on medical advice. 'I've been told by two doctors I wouldn't be advised to go on a plane for that long because it (injured ankle) would swell up. Meanwhile, the Australian Soccer Association (ASA) turned down a written request from relegation-threatened Leeds to keep Viduka and expected him to show up for training." (ESPN) This was the situation in 2004, clubs did whatever they could to ensure that their players stayed fit. This situation has become all the more worse now, players themselves want to play only for their clubs because they get much more money playing for their clubs than for their nation. This money factor is a very big driving force, which de-motivate the players from playing for their country. "Cristiano Ronaldo was due to join Portugal's squad on Tuesday for medical tests ahead of the World Cup playoff despite Real Madrid's insistence that his ankle is still injured. Madrid, which paid a world-record 94 million euros (C$148 million) to Manchester United for the winger in the off-season, had initially balked at allowing Ronaldo to travel as he hasn't played in a month." (Ronaldo) According to the rules set by FIFA a club cannot stop international authorities from conducting fitness tests on a player, fitness tests were conducted on Ronaldo too and it was found that he was seriously injured. Portugal qualified after playing the World Cup play off but this again goes to show the breach of rules set by the governing body of football. "Ronaldo was hurt during Madrid's Champions League match with Marseille on Sept. 30. He then aggravated the injury while playing for Portugal in a World Cup qualifier against Hungary on Oct. 10 and hasn't played since. The Portuguese Football Federation said all other players from Spanish clubs must travel to Portugal on Wednesday, after Tuesday's Copa del Rey matches." (Ronaldo) The African cup of nations is another tournament that brings out this tug of war between clubs and countries. This January the African Cup of Nations

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Lab Report Example Invention of polymerase chain reaction and thermo stable DNA polymerase has revolutionized this concept. Many techniques like Variable tandem repeat (VNTRs) and Short Tandem Repeat(STRs) based Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism(AFLP) or DNA fingerprinting, Gender ID (Amelogenin), Mitochondrial D-Loop DNA for Maternal identification etc. have been developed for forensic investigations. PM&DQA1 is the first PCR based typing system, developed by the scientist at Cetus Corporation and commercialized by Applied Biosystems. Inc. PM& DQA1 is simple and rapid technique mainly employed in case of limited DNA sample or in case of highly degraded DNA. The test is performed on 6 different loci to investigate pleomorphism using hybridization based Reverse DOT-BLOT methodology. The major limitation of this technique is its differentiating power due to limited diversity found among 6 loci among different human population. Crime investigation obtained new direction after invention of DNA based techniques for identification of criminals. The biggest advantage of DNA based techniques is the requirement of very small amount of biological samples which includes blood, hair, semen etc. Invention of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and thermo stable DNA polymerase has revolutionized these DNA based techniques due to its immense power of DNA multiplication. There are many DNA based techniques that are employed for detection of crime and criminals including Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP), Variable tandem repeat (VNTRs) and Short Tandem Repeat(STRs) based Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism(AFLP) or DNA fingerprinting, Gender ID (Amelogenin), Mitochondrial D-Loop DNA for Matrilineal identification. Criminal identification based on human body parts or component has been used since last century as part of forensic investigations. The classical example being Human finger prints which was recogn ized by British physician Sir Francis Galton (1). In the beginning of 20th century many physiologists and doctors realized that blood cell has distinct antigens and they are different from individual to individuals. Initially blood cell antigens were taken into consideration only in case of blood transfusion and surgery but later on its forensic utilities were realized and it was employed to solve problem of paternity dispute, child mix-up etc. Those days blood samples saliva and semen samples were produced in court as evidence against criminals but it was not taken as conclusive evidence due to its limited distinguished power. In 1970, the things started to change after discovery of DNA structure and the increases in the understanding of its variability between individual to individual. Once DNA was established as target molecule for forensic investigation, many researchers came forward with different methodology and different locus having higher variability like micro and mini sat ellites. Initially there were many questions that were raised over methodologies and interpretation of DNA based identification systems. But thorough investigation and population genetics based

Monday, August 26, 2019

Information for proposal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Information for proposal - Essay Example Note that the question on this matter but the results will differ because something has affected the respondents' knowledge and awareness. There might be some possible changes on the answer of the respondents but there are cases that their perceptions are not affected at all. For a case study on child's rights, a survey can be done on the spot with the kids. This serves as the pre-test. Later on, after letting them watch a video clipping about child's rights, a post-test survey can be done to determine if their awareness has been changed. Non- equivalent comparison this simply refers to the data obtained from different period or time interval without the specific limits or lapses. The data can be obtained whether in a three-year, four- year or five- year intervals instead of taking it in a specific 100-year interval. Time series analysis is the comparison of data represented in a time series. It includes almost all classes of statistical approaches and problems: data description, hypothesis testing , parameter estimation , regression , etc. The practical importance of time series analysis stems from the fact that time series data - economic, social, sport, physical, etc. - are quite common. Experimental is a kind ... This serves as the pre-test. Later on, after letting them watch a video clipping about child's rights, a post-test survey can be done to determine if their awareness has been changed. Time series data are measurements of a variable taken at regular intervals over time. Time series are represented as sequences of values like x(1), x(2), ... . The time line of invention and innovation for modern transport may be as follows: Stage coach Train Car Plane Rocket Space ship ____________________________________________________ 1800 1900 2000 Non- equivalent comparison this simply refers to the data obtained from different period or time interval without the specific limits or lapses. The data can be obtained whether in a three-year, four- year or five- year intervals instead of taking it in a specific 100-year interval. Time series analysis is the comparison of data represented in a time series. It includes almost all classes of statistical approaches and problems: data description, hypothesis testing , parameter estimation , regression , etc. The practical importance of time series analysis stems from the fact that time series data - economic, social, sport, physical, etc. - are quite common. Experimental is a kind of research design conducted to answer questions about causes and effects. The basic requirements are; a) random assignment, b) treatment and no-treatment groups, c) observations after the treatment. The following notations are used in describing the different experimental designs: X=stands for an experimental treatment, or an independent variable or a cause O=stands for observation, or a dependent variable, or an effect R=means that the respondents have been randomly assigned to the different treatment or non-

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Population, Migration, Cultural and Language Geography Assignment

Population, Migration, Cultural and Language Geography - Assignment Example Islam is a term that is used to refer to that act of submitting or rather yielding to the will of God. On the other hand, a Muslim refers to an individual who submits, yields, or rather practices the will of God. A person who professes Islam must, therefore, believe in five important beliefs that guide their faith. The first pillar is that there is only one God worth worshipping and who is Allah. The second pillar requires Muslims to pray five times a day while facing the Holy city of Mecca. Thirdly, Muslims believe that they attain purification and growth each time they set out to give to charities. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims engage in fasting as a way of self-purification. Finally, this faith encourages Muslims, more so those who are physically and financially able, to make a pilgrimage journey to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. The church of Latter Day Saints is a restoration movement that falls under Protestantism. It was born from reformists who sought to break loose from religious practices which were largely viewed as discriminative and practically inapplicable. The reformers were also angered in the manner in which leadership of those churches was running its affairs. Saying that the â€Å"American English Language is an evolutionary product from British English† implies that the American English traces its origin to the British English and which has been slightly modified so as to appear unique or rather original. Ebonics is that kind of English mostly spoken by black American and which is made up of incorrectly spelt words or improper sentences. This is attributed to the blacks disinterest in understanding the basics of the correct American English language thus resulting in deteriorated English. Migration Geography is that branch of earth’s study that involves studying the movement of people from one place to the other and the various causes that trigger such movement. People normally move from one place to the other place for work or settlement for a number of reasons.

Mathematical Focus on RSA Public & Private Key encryption Research Paper

Mathematical Focus on RSA Public & Private Key encryption - Research Paper Example ted States code gives a definition of an electronic signature as a sound, symbol, process that emanates from an electronic means, with the purpose of sealing a contract, or an agreement, and adopted by an individual with the intention of signing the record. One of the laws guiding the operations of digital signature in America is the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act of 1999 (Batten, 35). This act adopts the definition of a digital signature in relation to the stand taken by the American Code. Another American law regulating the use of a digital signature is the U.S. Electronic Signature in Global and National Commerce act of 2000. This law regulates the use of electronic data and signatures in relation to foreign trade and interstate relations. This law protects contracts negotiated electronically by giving them a legal recognition. Section 101(a) of the ESIGN act states that a signature or a contract negotiated by electronic means enjoys legal recognition and validity. This contract shall not deny the advantages of a legal procedure simply because it is electronic. Section 101 (c) of the act requires a consumer to consent to the use of an electronic signature, while section 101 (d) denotes that a business organization can use an electronic signature as long as it is accessible to the parties concerned, and the business can produce it without an alteration for reference (Batten, 41). Various States in America have their own laws guiding the use of digital signatures. For example, in Indiana, there is the Uniform Electronic Transaction Act. This act recognizes digital signatures, and the transactions. For instance, section 102(5) defines an electronic signature as a means that relates to technological know-how that produces magnetic, optical, wireless, electronic, digital, and/or similar capabilities. Section 102 (8) defines electronic signature, and its definition agrees with the definition contained in the American Code and ESIGN act. In Hawaii, the

Saturday, August 24, 2019

(Hitchcock, Shadow of a Doubt (1942), Hitchcock, Strangers on a Train Essay

(Hitchcock, Shadow of a Doubt (1942), Hitchcock, Strangers on a Train (1951)and Hitchcock, The Lady Vanishes) - Essay Example In his career he pioneered a number of techniques that improved the quality of films in the psychological thriller and suspense genres (Bays). Over six decades, Hitchcock directed over fifty feature films both at the British cinema and in Hollywood. This does not mean that his career was smooth all the way in fact most of his first films did not do so well. According to Donald Spoto (1976), Hitchcock’s first seventeen films did not receive much recognition as they were more of historical curiosities (8). In Donald’s text he indicates that Hitchcock’s career took a leap for the better starting from 1935, which saw him produce and direct great pieces of art (Spoto 9). Throughout his career he produced a wide range of remarkable films. It would take a long time if one was to analyze all the best films by Hitchcock. However, for the purpose of this essay we get to analyze three of his best classics. This includes the 1942 Shadow of a Doubt followed by the 1951 Strang ers on a Train and the 1938 The lady vanishes. These great films were shot using unique styles that captures the viewers’ attention leading into a lot of suspense, mystery and admiration for the good work. The interesting part with Hitchcock is that for each composition and scene in the films, he knew who to work with for him to produce the best results. He went to the extent of seeking German and British technicians just to get the right image and the perfect shot. The German technicians helped him bring out unique techniques such as bring in the right â€Å"silent shrieks†, expressionist lighting, angular shadows and disturbing mirror reflections (Spoto 29). Some of his famous contributions to the film industry also include the feel of â€Å"voyeurism†; a technique where the camera’s movement imitates a person’s gaze and thus engaging the viewer more to the scenes (Bays, n. p.). Shadow of a Doubt is one of Hitchcock’s’ great masterp iece, shot in 1943 the films themes revolved around psychological thriller a genre in which most of his movies were categorized. After gaining a positive audience and a grand reception for the film all over the nation; the film was nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Story category. In 1991, the US national Film Registry selected to be part of the Library of Congress as its theme portrayed historical and cultural significance (McDevitt and Juan 158). The movie features a grand opening image which involves a perfect synchronization scene of a couple twirling with Merry Widow Waltz in the background. Perfection in the image goes on throughout the film with other outstanding scenes such as detective strides flawlessly matching with the background music as uncle Charlie is being trailed (McLaughin 147). Shadow of a Doubt’s features such as the beautiful filming and suggestive lighting all portray the stunning advances of style and technique by Hitchcock. The director creat es amazing camera angles that form unparalleled portrayal of emotion in the characters. Using sharp editing and camera close-ups, Hitchcock gives an emphasis on Uncle Charlie’s sinister nature in the scene where Uncle Charlie and Charlotte have dinner and Charlotte behaves in an erratic manner. As a psychological thr

Friday, August 23, 2019

Analysis of Radio Ratings Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Analysis of Radio Ratings - Assignment Example The ABC station is non-commercial and is not dependent on rating figures for revenue. Those working and running the shows watch the rating figures for this station closely (Sterling, 191). The winners of the radio rating survey were Australian radio network as their Mix FM and WSFM stations recorded an increase in their market share (Hardie, Pp 3). The breakfast team of in WSFM that is run by Jonesy, Amanda recorded, and increases of 1.3 percent while their market share increased by 9.0 percent. Kyle and Jackie O market share increased by 0.8 percent. The dominating station at the top on the AM band and 2GB had an increase of 0.6 percent with a market share rating of 14.1 percent. Alan Jones recorded an increase of 0.1 percent in their breakfast show slot that led the slot with 17.1 percent. Chris Moyles is a host and disk jockey on BBC’s Radio breakfast show. For more than half a decade, his listeners’ span has dropped to a new low. This incidence takes place while his departure from the studio years. Moyles is a self-made redeemer of radio 1, making him one of the few people to depart from the prime occupation in United Kingdom’s radio in September 2012. His listeners’ span dropped to 6.93 million within a ninety-day period to the last part of June. According to the most recent postings from Rajar listening statistics, radio 1 had a mean of weekly tuning of 11.27 million listeners. This is an increment of 1.2% from the preceding quarter but a drop of 3.6% from preceding years. Moyles continuously increased his breakfast audience from an opening 5.93 million listeners in 2004 to an extreme figure of 7.9 million at the start of 2010. Nevertheless, Moyles was up against Wogan, and currently Evans, who both had an opening audience exceeding two million listeners. Moyles lost the leading spot and his audience figures have been plummeting ever since.  Ã‚  

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Mbuti Culture Essay Example for Free

Mbuti Culture Essay The Mbuti or Bambuti are one of several indigenous pygmy groups in the Congo region of Africa. Their language belongs to the Central Sudanic subgroup of the Nilo-Saharan phylum.1 After researching the Mbuti culture, I think we will see that their government, traditions, and culture is slowly and sadly melting into the surrounding, changing world. Mbuti’s primary mode of subsistence is Foraging. They hunt and gather food from the forest, and they trade as well for survival. The Foragers, or hunter-gatherers, in modern-day Zaire have survived with a subsistence lifestyle in small-scale societies. Political organization-Bambuti societies have no ruling group or lineage, no overlying political organization, and little social structure. The Bambuti are an egalitarian society in which the band is the highest form of social organization. Leadership may be displayed for example on hunting treks. Men and women basically have equal power. Issues are discussed and decisions are made by consensus at fire camps; men and women engage in the conversations equivalently. If there is a disagreement, infraction, or offense, then the offender may be banished, beaten or scorned. No chief or formal council has imposed rules. Kinship of the Bambuti tend to follow a patrilineal descent system, and their residences after marriage are patrilocal. However, the system is rather loose. The only type of group seen amongst the Bambuti is the nuclear family. Kinship also provides allies for each group of people. One of the Mbuti’s social problems is interclan disputes, over children and women. Women migrate to villages, losing close to one out of five of their female population. An uneven number of women lead to the inevitable transfer of women from one family, to another. This leads to great conflict between the men, over the disposition of their female siblings. â€Å"Divorce is common. The women often initiate divorce simply by packing their things (including small children) and moving back to their familys camp. If they have boys, they return to their father when they are old enough to hunt. The typical marriage is monogamous because women are scarce.† Beliefs and Values Prior to independence, tropical forest foragers remained outside the mainstream of society and politics. However, post independence wars and nation-building drives have changed customary ways. Landscapes are eroding due to the cutting of timber, the building of roads and mining. Commerce has also further isolated the Mbuti peoples. They are in a state of social flux affecting their beliefs, values, and traditional culture. Everything in the Bambuti life is centered on the forest. They consider the forest to be their great protector and provider and believe that it is a sacred place. They sometimes call the forest â€Å"mother† or â€Å"father.† An important ritual that impacts the Bambutis life is referred to as molimo. After events such as death of an important person in the tribe, molimo is noisily celebrated to wake the forest, in the belief that if bad things are happening to its children, it must be asleep. As for many Bambuti rituals, the time it takes to complete a molimo is not rigidly set; instead, it is determined by the mood of the group. Food is collected from each hut to feed the molimo, and in the evening the ritual is accompanied by the men dancing and singing around the fire. Women and children must remain in their huts with the doors closed. These practices were studied thoroughly by British anthropologist Colin Turnbull, known primarily for his work with the tribe. Molimo is also the name of a trumpet the men play during the ritual. Traditionally, it was made of wood or sometimes bamboo, but Turnbull also reported the use of metal drainpipes. The sound produced by a molimo is considered more important than the material it is made out of. When not in use, the trumpet is stored in the trees of the forest. During a celebration, the trumpet is retrieved by the youth of the village and carried back to the fire. The Mbuti people are in great cultural transition, being influenced more and more by the surrounding dominate encroaching culture. As the outside word encroaches on these indigenous people, their beliefs, traditions and practices, they are slowly losing their original uniqueness in an ever shrinking world that seems to be losing boundaries. As of recent, they are even given to the accumulation of outside currencies for use in their day to day lives.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Dell Business Analysis: Organisation and Effectiveness

Dell Business Analysis: Organisation and Effectiveness Summary The research is about study of distribution channel management at Dell Computers, UK. My work is more practical in nature, studying the Distribution Channels of Dell, both at a strategic and an operational level. I would be analysing the business function on its efficiency and effectiveness, comparing with the other industry performers. I would mostly be comparing the function against Sony Electronics, the most respected name in multi-channel distribution network; Acer, pioneer of value computing products and proprietary brands like Advent. The research aims to analyse and study the distribution channel of Dell in UK, distribution channel of its competitors, efficiency and effectiveness of Dells Distribution channel as compared to its competitors. And based on the research and analysis propose recommendations to enhance its effectiveness. The literature review section of the dissertation explores the definition of distribution, channel, and distribution channel and distribution channel management. Apart from that the section also examines the activities and the levels of distribution channel. The latter half of the section focuses on the distribution strategy adopted by Dell, Sony and Acer. Research is conducted by means of case study as well as survey. Case study analysis incorporates the study and effectiveness of the distribution strategy of Acer, Sony and Dell. Two set of questionnaires are designed to collect data from the end customer and the channel partners. Apart from that secondary data is used from from books, journals, company reports and documents, government websites whereas primary data is collected by means of survey questionnaire distributed channel partners and the end customers. In all 50 questionnaires are collected duly filled out of 60 questionnaires being sent out to the end customer whereas the questionnaire for the channel partners was send to 50 channel partners out of which only 30 responses were received. Questionnaires were sent out using survey distribution services of a web site. Care was taken to ensure that diverse demographic is covered for the survey. The research has its own drawbacks such as the work limited to the English market. Financial and time constraints of my semester mean that Im not able to conduct a global research that would be more apt in this case. Another limitation is most of my work is conducted through a personal observation method; as such it is prone to my personal bias. Thirdly distribution channel model is a sensitive piece of company information. As far as information on the competitors distribution channel is concerned its bit difficult. CHAPTER 1: Introduction This chapter will introduce the topic, specify the key aim and objectives of the dissertation, discuss the research approach and state the dissertation outline. The key aim of this chapter is to establish the foundation for the research topic by giving out basic information. 1.1 Introduction The research is about study of distribution channel management at Dell Computers, UK. The dissertation is more practical in nature, studying the Distribution Channels of Dell, both at a strategic and an operational level. I would be analysing the business function on its efficiency and effectiveness, comparing with the other industry performers. I would mostly be comparing the function against Sony Electronics, the most respected name in multi-channel distribution network; Acer, pioneer of value computing products and proprietary brands like Advent. Dell Inc. is a multibillion dollar, multinational technology firm that manufactures, develops, sells and supports personal computing and computer related products. Dell has seen a rapid growth to become one of the top three vendors in the PC manufacturing industry, and has seen a substantial increase in share price and market value. While many other companies were unable to handle the demands of the competition, Dell has proved successful in such an environment. The main key to success to Dell has been its two innovative practices that is direct sales and build-to-order business model. This model is simple as a concept but highly complex to execute, especially in the present conditions of rapid growth and change. Dell has continually renewed and extended its business model while striking a balance between control and edibility. Dell made changes in its design, manufacturing, procurement, and logistics processes to reduce the costs, and to speed up the entire distribution system. It has expanded into International markets and it started making notebook and server product lines which has led to extraordinary profits for dell, and has given a great market value for the company. Dell has reached sales of $18.2 billion by the year 1998, with a profit of $1.46 billion, and Dells market share in the PC market grew from 3% in 1995 to 9.2% in the year 1999 with stock price increasing by 40 times. Dells market capitalization has reached $100 billion. 1.2 Research aim and Questions The primary purpose of my research work is to analyse the role distribution channels play in the functioning of a business, both in the long run and in the short run. My study is to present a detailed description of the unique distribution channel adopted by Dell Inc., analyse its efficiency and effectiveness, identify possible loopholes and put forth recommendations for development. My study is being undertaken with an aim to answer the following research questions: * How are the various distribution channels organised within Dell Inc.? * How does it compare with its competitors? * How effective and efficient is this channel management at Dell? * What can be done to make it better? The four research questions are the guiding blocks of my entire research and all of the work would be done, keeping them in view. Distribution Channels within Dell: I would be looking at Dells innovative distribution channel management which has literally revolutionised the importance of Direct Marketing in the consumer electronics space. Direct marketing is still the primary distribution mechanism within Dell. I would be documenting the evolution of this concept within Dell right from its customized sales regime during PCs Limited to the complex and sophisticated systems that it employs currently. I would be presenting a visual of the entire distribution network that it stands at today. Comparison with its competitors: I would be comparing the dynamic distribution systems of its arch rivals. Sony and Acer are the brands that I would be concentrating upon. I would be looking at the strategies adopted in different economies, though my primary concentration would be on the English markets. Efficiency and Effectiveness: I would be conducting an efficiency and effectiveness test of Dells powerful distribution network against its competitors. This would be an empirical study. I would be concentrating on the parameters of Customer Satisfaction and Vendor relationship management. Recommendations: Finally, I would be putting forth recommendations for future developments along with the cost benefit analysis of such implementations. 1.3 Research approach The study is conducted by collecting secondary data and primary data. Secondary data is collected from books, journals, government websites, company documents whereas primary data is collected by means of survey questionnaire distributed among channel partners and the end customers. Participants of research would be intermediaries in the distribution network and the end customer. In order to select the participants the study has made use of stratified random sampling method in order to make sure that major demographic segments are represented while selecting the samples (Rao Skinner, 1996). Questionnaire design consists of two parts. The first part contained the demographic information while the second part dwelled on each of the subjects perception on each variable using five point likert scales from 1 (â€Å"Strongly Agree†) to 5(â€Å"Strongly Disagree†). The study did not require any assistance from a third party or any other institution. In order to collect data the study made use of web portal survey to distribute survey and get responses. The system was designed in such a way that the respondent have to submit all the answers. Out of 60 questionnaires, responses for 50 surveys were obtained. The duration for the survey was kept as two weeks, a reminder mail was being sent to the respondents at the end of week one to remind them. 1.4 Importance of the study Organizations have been undergoing strategic changes over the past decade. More so in the past couple of years. The current recession has proved that risk management and strategic planning are most vital for an organizations long lasting and self-sustaining performance. My work will strive to highlight one such areas of strategic thinking and inform the senior management about the benefits involved. 1.5 Research Scope My work would primarily be concentrated on the UK market. Though Dell is a global corporation with intermediaries present across the globe, all working towards forming an effective value chain to maximize business potential and ensure efficiency in operations; UK being the second biggest market after the US will be a general approximation of the entire organizational behaviour. Furthermore, the cosmopolitan nature of London and demographic diversity ensures that it would be a close estimate of the general population. 1.5 Limitation of Research I intend to undertake my research as comprehensively as possible. As in any research work, inherent are some unavoidable drawbacks in my study. Few of them are: * Financial and Time Constraints: As outlined before, the scope of my work is limited to the English market. Financial and time constraints of my semester mean that Im not able to conduct a global research that would be more apt in this case. * Personal bias. Most of my work is conducted through a personal observation method; as such it is prone to my personal bias. However as the person who is to do the entire research right from formulation of research questions to recommending solutions, I would be most qualified to comment on the topic. * Information Constraints. Distribution channel model is a sensitive piece of company information. Though I have secured access to Dell, wherein I could do all the data mining myself, the extent of information that I would be able to muster about the rivals model is still to be seen. 1.5 Dissertation outline The structure of the dissertation is as follows Chapter 1: Chapter 1 encompass introduction to the topic, followed by brief background into the research topic. This beginning chapter also lays bare aims and objectives of the research followed by structure of the thesis. Apart from that this chapter also gives information on the research approach adopted and the limitations of the research. Chapter 2: The literature review section of the dissertation explores the definition of distribution, channel, and distribution channel and distribution channel management. Apart from that the section also examines the activities and the levels of distribution channel. The latter half of the section focuses on the distribution strategy adopted by Dell, Sony and Acer. The final section compares the distribution strategy by all the three players. Chapter 3: The thesis then moves on to methodology section wherein the research model, research framework and data collection methodology is discussed. Questionnaire method is used to collect the necessary data from the consumer. Chapter 4: This chapter explores data findings Chapter 5: This chapter presents the conclusion. Chapter 6: This includes references using Harvard referencing style Chapter 7: This includes the Appendix 1.6 Summary The chapter introduced the topic of the dissertation, specified the key aims and objectives of the research. Discussed the research approach in form of secondary and primary data collection through the means of questionnaire and clearly stated the limitations of the research in brief. The chapter also outlines the research structure specifying the contents of each chapter. Chapter 2: Literature Review During my research, I would primarily be looking towards the concepts of Distribution Channel and its management. I would be guided by the various contributions in the field, though my work would primarily be influenced by the theories and suggestions of Philip Kotler in the area. A Professor of Business Studies at the Kelloggs Business School, Kotler is often regarded as the ‘Father of Modern Marketing. My work also coincides with various other management thinking like Consumer Behaviour, Relationship Management, Marketing Mix and Optimization, among others. 2.1 Definition 2.1.1 Distribution Kotler (1996) states that distribution is a key element in the marketing mix (place amongst the 4Ps). It is the systems and practices in use which make a product or service available to the consumer of such a product or service. 2.1.2 Channel Channel is defined as â€Å"a set of interdependent organizations involved in the process of making a product or service available for consumption or use† (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). It can also encompass physical movement, warehousing, ownership of the product, presale transaction, post-sale activities; order processing, credit and collections; and other different types of support activities (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). 2.1.3 Distribution Channel The Distribution Channel is the chain of intermediaries, each of them passing on the product or service to another intermediary until it reaches the consumer. The business dictionary defines it as â€Å"The route by which a product or service is moved from a producer or supplier to customers. A distribution channel usually consists of a chain of intermediaries, including wholesalers, retailers, and distributors, that is designed to transport goods from the point of production to the point of consumption in the most efficient way† (Dictionary, 2010) Another definition of Distribution channel states â€Å"A group of independent and interdependent organizations involved in the sale and movement of goods and services to the end users may be called a distribution channel or network† (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). More specifically, a distribution channel is: * The transfer of goods from manufacturer to the end user. * Route of a company for distributing the goods. * The process of moving goods from the manufacturer to the consumer. * A supply chain consisting of all parties in between production to the end user. 2.2 Types of channel members The activities in the distribution channel can be carried out by the marketer himself or it can be carried out by specialist organizations. The specialist organizations and the channel members can be categorized into two types. * Resellers * Specialty Service Firms. Resellers are the companies which usually buy and take the ownership of the products from the manufacturer with the intention of selling to end consumers. An organization can have one or more than one reseller in the chain. The network or chain of resellers is known as reseller network. The resellers can be further classified into: Retailers: A retailer sells the product directly to the end customer. Wholesalers: Wholesalers buy the products from manufacturer or other wholesalers and then they sell the products to the retailers. Industrial Distributors: They are the ones who sell products from one business to other, they are suppliers who buy the goods and sell it to another firm. Specialty service firms are organizations that do not take the ownership of the products. They also provide additional services along with the products. Specialty firms can be: Agents and brokers: They are the firms which bring together the suppliers and buyers and mediate the sale and they charge a fee for this kind of service. Distribution service firms: They provide services which help with the movement of goods in the distribution channels like transportation, processing and storage of goods and products. Others: They are the firms which provide other services to the channels in distribution like insurance, routing assistance etc. The distribution channels consist of many parties among which each of them is trying to meet their objectives. Relationships between channel members should be strong with each others especially on which they are depending for the further distribution of product. 2.3 Levels The arrangement of the distribution channels can be classified into two types: * Independent channel arrangements. * Dependent channel arrangements. Independent channel arrangements: In this type of arrangement the channel members negotiate deals with others which do not result in the binding of the relationships. Channel members are free to make arrangements which they feel is in their own and best interest. An individual member decides what is best for them and not the entire channel. This is also called conventional distribution arrangement and often significant conflict as each member decides what is best for him and not in concern with the entire channel As shown in the figure 2 there are four levels of distribution channels. Channel 1 is called the direct marketing channel which is the distribution of products or services from the manufacturer to the customer. The best example for this channel is Dell which does not makes use of any intermediaries to distribute its products to end customers; there are no retailers, agents or wholesalers. The channel does not have any intermediaries. This type of channel helps to eradicate the excess cost and also helps to have good control over the quality and marketing. The other three channels fall in the category of â€Å"indirect marketing channels†. As shown in the figure 1, the second channel has one intermediary, if the market is a consumer market the one intermediary is basically a retailer. Electronic consumer goods market of UK is an example of second type of channel arrangement. In this type of distribution arrangement the companies sell good to large retail chains, example would be Sony, Canon, and HP selling their electronic goods to large retail chains such as Dixons. These retailers in return sell the goods to the end customer. As shown in the figure Channel 3 consists of two levels which are the wholesaler and the retailer. The role of the wholesale in this channel is to buy the products at bulk from the manufacturer and then sell the same to retailer in smaller quantities. This model works best for retailers on small scale and not for big chains such as Dixons. This type of distribution channel is best when there are large number of small retailers and not big companies. Example in this case would be the medical drugs distribution market in the UK. The fourth channel has added level to it in the form of agents who work as intermediary between manufacturer and wholesaler. The agent acts as representative for both the sides. This works in textile market. Figure 2 gives information on the four types of distribution channel. Dell follows the manufacturer to direct customer channel thus discarding the intermediaries in between. Source: http://nptel.iitm.ac.in/courses/IIT-MADRAS/Management_Science_II/Pdf/1_4.pdf A direct distribution channel is where a company sells their products direct to consumers. While direct channels were not popular many years ago, the Internet has greatly increased the use of direct channels. Additionally, companies needing to cut costs may use direct channels to avoid middlemen mark-ups on their products. Distributors, wholesalers and retailers are the primary indirect channels a company may use when selling their products in the marketplace. Companies choose the indirect channel best suited for their product to obtain the best market share; it also allows them to focus on producing their goods. Though, in practicality, a number of other players exist, they can be generalised to the above. The specific channel of distribution adopted by a company depends, to a major extent, on its business model, the industry type and the scale of its operations. As an Instance, Sony has its own set of company operated exclusive showrooms. The strong brand equity of Sony, the scale of its business and clearly identifiable product differentiations that it enjoys with the consumers, allow it to leverage on its economies of scale and scope by operating its own outlets. Directly, this result in better margins for the company and indirectly it helps building on its already demanding brand leadership. Dell, on the other hand, relies more on online sales. This is because of the organization of its service delivery utility. Dells business model is based upon its centralised manufacturing facilities, rather than the nuclear organization at Sony. Online sales suits such a strategy by negating the high costs of transportation and inventory planning issues involved. A manufacturer selling a physical product might require three channels: Sales Channel, Delivery Channel, and Service Channel. In Our case, Dell uses telephone and internet as sales channels, express mail services as the delivery channel and local repair people as its service channel. 2.4 Distribution Channel Activities Distribution includes different range of activities (Richard Gay, 2007) * Linking many suppliers to provide wide range of consumer choice * Assist the exchange process identify the needs of the buyer in the context of product categories, quantities, range etc. and devise manufacturing, inventory and packaging schedules to fit. * Marketing information: This encompass collection, distribution and analysing marketing research information such as the past sales data about the players within the organizations marketing environment. * Promotional activities- This involves setting of promotional objectives and activating the various elements of the marketing communications mix and measuring their effectiveness, this will encompass identify and communicate with prospects. * Pricing: Deciding on the sales terms and conditions at each stage of the value chain * Risk management This includes analysis and resource sourcing required for involvement in the channel , the degree of control and influence and the potential benefits such as revenue and profit generation. * Physical Distribution Management It includes the transportation all aspects of warehousing management and information flows. Other Activities that may be part of the distribution channels are as follows: * Order Generation. * Handling of Goods. * Shipping of Goods. * Storage of Goods. * Display of Goods. * Promotion of Goods. * Sale. * Feedback. 2.5 Distribution Channel Management Distribution Channel Management is all about getting the product or service to the right people at the right time under the constraints of profits, efficiency and effectiveness. Successful marketing does not end when a business has developed a product or service and has found its appropriate target audience with a view to selling it at the right price. The next issue that needs to be faced is how they are going to distribute and sell this product/service to these people- the consumers. When a product/service is purchased by a consumer, it may have been bought directly from the business, or it may have been through a number of intermediaries (wholesaler, retailer, etc.): these are known as distribution channels. Small businesses need to acknowledge the different types of distribution channels to utilize sales potential. Distribution channel management involves a lot of channel decisions, strategic alternatives and numerous linking concepts, all of which would be explored in my research paper. Distribution channel management involves a lot of channel decisions, strategic alternatives and numerous linking concepts. The PC industry is driven by rapid technological improvements in components, particularly microprocessors, other semiconductors, and storage devices. The improved performance of hardware has been matched historically by increased complexity of software, creating demand for the latest hardware. Figure 2 PC Supply Chain This means that time is a critical competitive factor in the industry in two ways: * Firstly, excess inventory loses value (at an estimated 10% per month 😉 and costs money; * Secondly, products incorporating the most advanced technologies are in high demand and carry a price premium. As a result, companies that minimize inventory and bring new products to market faster can reduce costs, increase market share, and maintain higher margins. Two factors come into play in determining the ability of PC companies to manage inventory and introduce new products. First is the standardized, modular nature of the PC. PCs are built from standard components, using common architectural interfaces determined largely by Intel, Microsoft, and, earlier, IBM. PC makers also can outsource much of their production and purchase components from a well-established production network of contract manufacturers and components suppliers. This makes it quite easy for PC companies to introduce new PCs with the most advanced technologies. By the 1990s, PC makers could no longer gain much of an edge by virtue of design and manufacturing, as everyone had access to the same technical information and supply base. The difference among PC companies was determined increasingly by the second factorâ₠¬â€the structure of distribution. The traditional distribution system of the PC industry is an indirect model often referred to as â€Å"the channel†. The PC maker sells its products to distributors, who buy products from many manufacturers and then sell them to a variety of retailers, resellers, system integrators, and others, who sell products and services to the final customer. This distribution system was an effective means for distributing high volumes of PCs with a variety of configurations to reach a broad customer base. However, it had inherent weaknesses that left it vulnerable in a time-based competitive environment. First was its reliance on market forecasting to drive production. Even the most successful PC makers, such as IBM, Apple, and Compaq, were chronically bedevilled by their inability to accurately forecast demand in a market driven by ever shorter product cycles. They were either caught with short supplies of hot products, causing them to lose sales to competitors, or stuck with excess inventories of slow sellers, which clogged the distribution channels and often had to be sold at a loss to move them out. Even with the best forecasting, the indirect model was plagued by the need to hold inventory at each step. In the early 1990s, it was common for PC makers to have up to 90 days of inventory on hand and in the channel. The high inventory costs and lack of responsiveness of the indirect channel meant that there was an opportunity for someone who could a way to circumvent the channel. The company that seized this opportunity was Dell, which pioneered a new business model based on selling PCs directly to the final customer, and building the PC only when an order was received Selling directly removes two links in the supply chain where inventory could build up and also enables Dell to know its final customers, provide better service to them, and promote repeat or expanded sales to them. Build-to-order production allows Dell to introduce new technologies as soon as customers want them and makes it possible to adjust production to demand very quickly. It also means that Dell does not purchase components and assemble PCs until it has received payment from the customer, giving the company a negative cash conversion cycle in which it receives payment from customers before it must pay suppliers. The current environment for the computer hardware industry is shaped by several macro forces. Primarily, Dell and its competitors are influenced by economic, demographic, technological and national forces. Government, social, physical and national forces peripherally affect the computer hardware industry to varying degrees. The commoditization of the personal computer—a vital tool for business and consumer. Customers- are a key driver for the economics of this industry. Corporate spending accounts for 80% of all technology spending, and economic conditions decreasing business capital expenditures has a negative and direct impact on the computer hardware industry. While this industry is mature in the U.S., leading to decreased growth expectations, computer spending by other countries around the world will likely fill this void. Pricing in the computer manufacturing industry is extremely competitive. IT reflects the rapid pace of technological change and decreasing PC costs. Since 2000, the prices of chips and disk drives declined and the standardization of primary components of PCs led to a decline in PC prices. Direct sellers, including Dell, have traditionally been able to under-price indirect sellers in the industry including Compaq and HP. However, most PC vendors now offer a desktop model for less than $500 and a laptop for $700. Key success factors for companies in this industry continue to evolve as the industry matures. Specifically, they include: * Competitive prices * Superior relationships with suppliers * Product customization for business and consumer customers * Quality customer service * Excellent cost structure 2.5.1 Channel Issues Some of the channels issues that the companies face are as follows Product related issues Promotions related issue Pricing related issues Target market related issue Product related issues: The nature and type of the product decides the distribution option that should be chosen for the product. A few products require special handling. Ex. Flowers, Fragile goods etc. Promotion related issues: The type of promotions that are required to sell the products to the customers also decides the distribution options; there are products which require an extensive contact of the sales person with the customer like automobiles etc. and there are products which require no sales assistance from the sales person like milk etc. Pricing issues: The price at which the marketer desires to sell their product also decides the distribution option for the channel if a product is prices really less it cannot have many members in the distribution channel as each one of them looks at making their own profit in the channel. Target market issues: The distribution channel is successful only if the product can reach the right customer. Choosing a distribution channel is the path to reach the target customer. A key decision in setting of a channel arrangement is for the marketer to choose the approach to reach his target customer in the best possible manner. 2.6 Dell 2.6.1 Company Background Dell Inc. is a multibillion dollar, multinational technology firm that manufactures, develops, sells and supports personal computing and computer related products. Based out of Texas, it employ

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

General Motors Mission, Vision, and Values

General Motors Mission, Vision, and Values Company Background Founded in 1908, General Motors Corporation (GM) is the worlds largest automaker and has been the global industry leader in sales for 76 years (General Motors, 2008a). The United States is GMs largest national market, followed by China, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany. Today, the company employs about 284,000 people worldwide. With its global headquarters located in Detroit, GM manufactures cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, GM sold 9.1 million cars and trucks globally under the brands Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, and Vauxhall (General Motors, 2008a). GM has fostered partnerships with many automobile manufacturers around the world. The company is currently the majority shareholder in GM Daewoo Auto Technology Co. of South Korea (General Motors, 2008a). GM has collaborated with Suzuki Motor Corp. and Isuzu Motors Ltd. of Japan with product, powertrain, and purchasing. The company has also collaborated with DaimlerChrysler AG and BMW AG of Germany, and Toyota Motor Corp., on advanced technology and ventured in vehicle manufacturing with several automakers, including Toyota, Suzuki, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. of China, AVTOVAZ of Russia, and Renault SA of France. The company currently sells its genuine parts and accessories under the GM, GM Performance Parts, GM Goodwrench, and ACDelco brands through GM Service and Parts Operations, which supplies GM dealerships and distributors worldwide (General Motors, 2008a). With all of GMs success in the past, the company is facing challenges during this time of economic hardship. The companys market valuation has decreased to $5.9 billion and its stock prices are at its lowest in 50 years (Lowenstein, 2008), which is evident with a closing price of $9.69 on July 10, 2008 (Yahoo Finance, 2008a). The skyrocketing price of oil seems to be the immediate cause of GMs problems, decreasing the sale of its sport utility vehicles and trucks (Lowenstein, 2008). The automaker is potentially looking at more layoffs and speculation of a possible sale of Buick and Pontiac (Lowenstein, 2008), however GMs vice president states that Hummer is the only brand the automaker is considering selling at this time (Yahoo Finance, 2008b). Mission/Vision Statement The mission/vision of GM is to be the world leader in transportation products and related services (General Motors, 2008b). Through continuous improvements driven by integrity, teamwork, and innovation of GM people, the company has earned its customers trust and enthusiasm. With all of the competition and the advancement of hybrid and alternative fueled vehicles, GM should look to being a leader of innovation. With this in mind, the mission statement could read GM will become the world leader in quality, innovative, and cost efficient products. The mission is for GM to become the auto industry leader in sales and market share in the global market. Company Values GM has six core values in which employees are to use in conducting daily business practices (General Motors, 2008c). These core values consist of continuous improvement, customer enthusiasm, innovation, teamwork, and individual respect and responsibility. These values must portray an image to the companys consumers that it values their needs and wants. With this said GM should add customer value and thinking green to its core values. This measure would show the company is focused on achieving high levels of customer satisfaction by providing innovative products that offer customers more choices with alternative fueled vehicles. Thinking green will show the company is concerned with doing right by the environment How Mission, Vision, and Values Aid in Reaching Desired End State Mission/Vision In order for GM to achieve its vision, the company understands that many issues must be addressed in order to attain its many goals. In order to become a more sustainable company, GM recognizes the importance of integrating economic, environmental, and social objectives into its daily business objectives and future planning activities. The future success of the company partly depends on technology, innovation, and partnerships (General Motors, 2008b). With technology, GM can efficiently address climate changes and fuel efficiency through its products. By accelerating the development and deployment of new technology, the company is able to improve its existing technology. Innovation provides GM with the tools to develop new ways of doing things as a company and with others. With increased competition in the global industry, innovation is critical in the future success of the company. In order to continue being responsive to the needs and concerns of its stakeholder and creating a sustainable future, GM understands the importance of continuing to build strong partnerships with the employees, industries, governments, markets, and communities, and others in order to be responsive to the needs and concerns of our various stakeholders (General Motors, 2008b). Values GM is based on is six fundamental values.With these values, the company has adopted and endorsed principles, such as the GM Environmental Principles and the Global Sullivan Principles. These principles are consistent with the companys values and serve to inform its strategies. The company states, These strategies drive our behaviors and actions, which produce the results that matter (General Motors, 2008c). Components of the Strategic Management Process Needing to be Analyzed Effect the New Strategy will have on the Leadership and Culture of the Organization How the Outcomes will Affect Stakeholders References General Motors. (2008a). About GM: Company profile. Retrieved July 10, 2008, from http://www.gm.com General Motors. (2008b). Sustainability and GM: Vision and Strategy. Retrieved July 10, 2008, from http://www.gm.com General Motors. (2008c). 2005/06 corporate responsibility report. Retrieved July 9, 2008, from http://www.gm.com Lowenstein, R. (2008). Siphoning G.M.s future. New York Times, p. A.21. Retrieved July 10, 2008, from ProQuest database. Yahoo Finance. (2008a). General Motors Corporation (GM): Historical prices. Retrieved July 12, 2008, from http://finance.yhoo.com/ Yahoo Finance. (2008b). GM reassures dealers only Hummer brand is for sale. Reuters. Retrieved July 10, 2008, from http://biz.yahoo.com

Monday, August 19, 2019

Discussion on Iridium :: essays research papers

Competitive Attribute Program  ¡V Iridium Mobile Satellite System Project The ability to capture values along the Technology Adoption Lifecycle determines not just how successful a firm will be, but whether it will create competitive advantage through technology. Businesses with large fixed costs, capital-intensive business plans, and specialized asset bases will face the challenge to maintain its strategic continuity because it is generally prohibitively expensive to change direction to response to any conceivable structural change. Iridium, a satellite mobile system which cost $5 billion to build, began to provide commercial telephone service on November 1 1998. This paper aims to use the Iridium Project, which I have participated at Motorola before, to illustrate the incremental benefits and the pitfalls from creating competitive advantage through technology and activity system. Discussion of incremental benefits & industry analysis by using five force model Competitor  ¡V Mobile Satellite System (MSS) companies The largest competitor from MSS companies is Globalstar. Globalstar ¡Ã‚ ¦s communication system is supported by low cost satellites which enhance the possibility for Globalstar to implement a comparatively lower pricing strategy than Iridium. Although Globalstar has simpler and cheaper satellites than Iridium owns, it requires ground switching systems for effective connections. In return, the coverage of Globalstar system was restricted to land locations. This form of benchmarking activities within Iridium helps to formulate the strategic position and get to know a better reinforcement of strategic fit. Substitutes  ¡V Ground-Based Wireless Services In 1990s, ground-based wireless phone service grew rapidly around the world. A key factor in the growth of wireless phones was the adoption of a single standard, known as GSM, in Europe and parts of Asia. There were 480 million cellular subscribers worldwide by January 2000 and it reached more than billions before 2005. The economy of scale that introduced will provide the extent of competitive pressure in the business environment. It helps to stimulate Iridium to consider price-performance tradeoff that offered by the substitutes and the need of product differentiation alternatives in advance. Customers/Buyers  ¡V Global business travelers Major customer consists of the businessman who is willing to travel around the world as well as staying in touch with the office and home. In account of the industries that operate in remote areas, the competitive positioning option of Iridium tends to be access-based to reach differently accessible customer with the similar need in terms of communication. Iridium designed a set of activities to make tradeoffs in competing, for instance, reduce marketing campaign in urban areas and brand name development for large corporations.

Virtual Reality Essay -- Essays Papers

Virtual Reality Although some doubt the potential of virtual reality, the reality is our technologically dependent culture is making virtual reality a part of everyday life. Popular in video games, virtual reality allows the user to totally control a computerized character. Every action the user makes is imitated by the character and instantly displayed for the user. However, since the early 90’s, the use of virtual reality has developed and taken the spotlight past evolving video games. Virtual reality has already made its mark on fields such as aviation, medicine, and even meteorology. Where is this new technology heading in the future? According to the Millennium edition of the Wall Street Journal, â€Å"even conservative forecasts suggest education, entertainment, the workplace and the boundaries of human expression will be greatly transformed by virtual reality† (Cox 40). Increasingly advanced technology could put virtual reality in the driver’s seat of countless ind ustries. In recent years virtual reality has already been involved in several technological areas. Even those who have little knowledge about the production of virtual reality are most likely aware of its use in video games. However, many people may not be aware of the numerous other areas where it has been applied. For example, astronaut trainees have recently used virtual reality to simulate a trip to space. Medical students have substituted a carcass for a fiberglass mould of a body and a headset when training to perform surgery. A popular online chat is developing into a society of interactive, animated users. Introducing virtual reality to the real world has already proven to be beneficial for every industry it encounters. Welcome to the new world of virtual technology, the advantages have only begun. Virtual reality (VR), as defined by The Newbury House Dictionary of American English, is experiencing events that seem like real life by putting on special eye glasses, hearing devices ad gloves attached to a computer. With the help of these hardware devices, the VR user’s actions totally control of the computer’s resulting actions. This control sets virtual reality apart from previously developed technologies. Because of the amazingly fast processing speed of the computer, VR accepts the user’s every move and displays the differences in the virtual environment. .. ...on of any course in the world. After the ball hits the screen, it continues its path in the game. This game is extremely realistic, because the game reads the balls trajectory, power, direction and even spin when it is hit. I once played 18 holes at Augusta, one of the most premier courses in the world, and I didn’t even leave Ohio. These examples are just some of the possibilities virtual reality will bring to our future. Introducing virtual reality into the future will prove to be a benefit for our society. Several important issues involving virtual reality have previously been discussed. Surgery and surgical training are extremely crucial processes in which virtual reality has shown to be beneficial. Astronaut training is another critical procedure. Jim Newman, highly experienced in space, stated himself that without virtual reality it was â€Å"impossible† to train for certain events (Cox 40). Precise forecasts of the weather are not always easy. However, virtual reality has already been incorporated in the study of severe weather, giving forecasters more knowledge and the society more protection. The future is virtual reality, and its benefits will remain immeasurable.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Representation of a Great Ruler :: Queen Elizabeth Ruler Essays

Representation of a Great Ruler In such a tumultuous time of England’s history, a ruler that could protect his people and also give them intellectual stimulation was no easy task. However, this is what the people expected from their ruler. This emblem is a basic representation of what the English people valued from the people that ruled them. The title says it all. â€Å"A Princes most ennobling Parts,/ Are Skill in Armes and Love to Arts.† If someone took this emblem and changed all the words from â€Å"he† to â€Å"she,† and then replaced the words â€Å"prince† to â€Å"queen,† we would have a perfect description of Queen Elizabeth I and what made her so great. Before we go into the text, it is worth analyzing the picture of the emblem. Though the huge discrepancy is that it is a man in the picture, there are still many parallels we can draw between him and Elizabeth. Appearance wise, the man in this picture seems to have a regal robe on, but pants that look like tattered rags. Making the comparison with Elizabeth, one can point out the time that she spent in prison. She had to don rags for a while, and then when she was released, she was made queen and she got to wear royal, exquisite dresses. In the picture, the man has a sword in his right hand and a book in his left. Obviously, the sword represents the military might and physical strength. The book represents wisdom and knowledge. Though it is at an angle, it still seems that the man is holding the book higher than the sword, showing that they value a wise ruler more than a mighty one. A great ruler however, must contain both of these qualities to be successful. After the emblem, we get a poem about qualities the people desire in their ruler. As stated earlier, from what we know of Elizabeth, this poem describes her qualities well. Before Elizabeth, England was in constant war with Protestants and Catholics fighting each other for power. In this time of constant conflict, the people looked for a ruler that would bring them tranquility.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Eugene Onegin Comparison

Eugene Onegin The transformation from a novel in verse to an opera Although written in the early 1800s, Eugene Onegin, a novel in verse written by Alexander Pushkin, is still regarded as one of the most influential and beautifully written pieces of work to this day. As it shifted cultural norms, opened new discussions, gave way to new forms of writing, and introduced novel approaches that envisioned life in a different light, Eugene Onegin was revolutionary.With its central theme revolving around the conflict between dreams and reality, the novel in verse caught the attention of readers all over the world, with over thirteen translations written. As well, other artists have adapted the work and interpreted it through their own art forms, including a ballet by John Cranko in 1965, and the famous opera by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, which opened in 1879.Tchaikovsky’s interpretation in particular gathered much success and worldwide recognition, arguably more than that of Pushkinâ⠂¬â„¢s novel. While the characters and the storyline are mainly preserved, Pushkin’s main characters – Lensky, Onegin, and Tatyana – become more multi-dimensional and relatable in Tchaikovsky’s opera. Because he was an artist in the romanticism era, Tchaikovsky adds his own inspiration to the novel when changing it to an opera, creating many noticeable distinctions between the two.Compared to the novel in verse, the operatic version of Eugene Onegin has various deviations due to Tchaikovsky’s romanticism and character bias, which include changes in the duel scene, the increased favouritism of certain characters by Tchaikovsky, and the absence of a narrator. Throughout the course of Pushkin’s novel in verse, there are four main parts of the storyline that grab the attention of the reader and create the plot. One of the four scenes is a duel between Onegin and his best friend Vladimir Lensky, after Lensky caught Onegin flirting shamelessly wit h his fiancee.This scene was considerably altered between both artworks, as there was a very strong difference in the portrayal of Onegin’s guilt in the novel and in the opera. In Pushkin’s novel Onegin is very remorseful and heartbroken after killing his best friend. The narrator notes: Deluged with instant cold, Onegin hastens to the youth, Looks, calls him†¦ vainly: He is no more. The youthful bard Has met with an untimely end! †¦ In the ache of the heart’s remorse, His hand squeezing the pistol, At Lensky Eugene looks. â€Å"well, what – he’s dead,† pronounced the neighbor [Zaretsky] Dead!†¦With this dreadful interjection Smitten, Onegin with a shudder Walks hence and calls his men. In this piece, it is evident that Onegin is deeply conflicted with the crime he had committed. Dealing with the death of his friend, Onegin leaves town to find peace of mind. In the opera, however, Tchaikovsky leaves little time for Onegin†™s mourning. In the novel, Zaretsky, a friend of Lensky who attended the duel, is the first to speak after the fight finishes. Contrary to the novel, instead of Zaretsky being the first to speak of the death, it is Onegin who brusquely asks â€Å"Is he dead? In most stagings of this opera, Onegin simply walks to Lenksy’s body as if to double-check his passing. As scholar Julia Torgovitskaya states, â€Å"Because in an opera it would be difficult to convey a considerable length of time passing [i. e. for Onegin to mourn Lensky’s death], Tchaikovsky allows the scene to end right after Lensky has fallen. † The result of this change of scene from the novel to the opera is highly profound. In Pushkin’s story, readers are able to sympathize with Onegin in understanding his regret.Readers turn to Onegin and Tatyana’s communion as the happy ending they yearn for in the face of Lenksy’s tragic death. In the opera, on the other hand, the audience b egins to demonize Onegin, and there is a negative incline and desire for Onegin and Tatyana to be together. This single scene, being different between the two art forms, changes the entire mood of the story and the attitudes the audience would have towards its characters. The changes of certain scenes also come from Tchaikovsky’s bias towards specific characters, which result in a different presentation of their personalities on stage.Tchaikovsky, being an advocate of romanticism, presents the characters of Tatyana and Lensky in a more compassionate and sensitive manner. The opera differs from the novel as certain characters are viewed in a much stronger light, and their prominence has shifted. For instance, the character of Tatyana, a young, shy but passionate woman, was highly recognized and loved by Tchaikovsky. Due to this, the letter scene, where Tatyana spends an entire night writing and confessing her love for Onegin, was more emphasized and intimate, leaving the audie nce touched by Tatyana’s courageousness.With the addition of music, this scene was the longest and most complex solo section of the opera, further establishing the deep bond Tchaikovsky had for the character of Tatyana. After working on the writing of the letter scene, Tchaikovsky wrote â€Å"Being completely immersed in composition, I so thoroughly identified myself with the image of Tatyana that she became for me like a living person, together with everything that surrounded her. I loved Tatyana, and was furiously indignant with Onegin who seemed to me a cold, heartless fop. † With this magnetism, there was a shift in directive depiction between the main characters.It is important to note that in this opera, much of Pushkin’s text is cut out due to length (for it takes longer to sing a verse than utter written words or phrases), but the scenes with Tatyana and Lensky remained largely unchanged. For example, the night before the duel, Lensky writes to his wife a love letter pouring his heart out, knowing he is to die the next day. In the opera, Tchaikovsky has Lensky sing the contents of this letter in a heartfelt aria. Although it is very moving and beautiful, it is very far from Pushkin’s character of Lensky.In Pushkin’s work, instead of praising Lensky for his poetic nature and optimism, the narrator indicates that his romantic idealism stands as the result of his lack of world experience and naivete: He did his best to hold back the cynical comments that came to his lips, reflecting to himself, ‘It’s stupid for me to spoil his momentary bliss – it’ll vanish soon enough without my help. Meanwhile let him live on the belief that the world’s a perfect place. Youth is a kind of fever, and we must forgive the young their fire and their delirium.Although the narrator in Pushkin’s novel ridiculed this youthful euphoria, Tchaikovsky encourages and emphasizes the tenderness radiating from Lenksy. Thus, there is a considerable amount of romanticism added to both plot and character in Tchaikovsky’s opera in comparison to Pushkin’s novel. Finally, the most controversial deviation of the opera from the novel in verse is the absence of a narrator. This results in a critical difference between the two art forms, as the narrator’s input, digressions and lessons are not present in the opera, thereby changing the story’s defining attributes.In the novel, the narrator serves many roles, one being a voice of sarcasm and ridicule towards the characters, showing them the irony in which they live their lives. When reading the novel, readers were unsure of whether to be sympathetic to some characters, for it was possible that the narrator would interrupt with sarcasm or mockery revealing that the characters were undeserving of compassion. In the opera, the role of the narrator is removed, resulting in a more straightforward version of Pushkin’s ta le, where the characters clearly either deserve sympathy in their troubles or do not.In the novel, there was no need for characters to introduce themselves, due to the presence of a narrator, but in the opera, there are characters that have to introduce themselves to the audience. This happens, for instance, in the dueling scene (scene 5) where Zaretsky introduces himself: I am a pedant where the class duel is concerned, And I am naturally methodical. I do not allow a man to be stretched out Any old way†¦ In this scene, Zaretsky has to speak of himself to Onegin before the duel, explaining who he is and why he is there.This is completely different from the novel, where the narrator explains everything without awkward dialogue: Zaretsky, once a reprobate, Gambler-in-chief, an intimate And sage of inns, a philanderer; Kind and sober, now, instead, Father of many, still unwed†¦ Many scholars, such as Richard Taruskin, argue that in this opera, â€Å"the music, quite simply, is the narrator. From the very first sung notes†¦ the music acts as a very busy and detached mediator of situations and feelings. † This can be seen through the different musical pieces that play for each character, which in turn contribute to the audience’s interpretation of the character.For instance, Tatyana received the most colourful and lyrically driven music, while Onegin sings less memorable lines with simpler orchestral accompaniment. Although, one should note that the musical accompaniment of the characters’ actions are also biased, as the music that plays is the music that reflects how Tchaikovsky views them. Tchaikovsky, in one way, creates a new narrator by deciding how the characters will appeal to the audience, using music as his tool. For example, Tchaikovsky views Onegin as incapable of having genuine feelings, and so the music attributed to him is less inspired than that attributed to Lensky.In addition, the narrator in Pushkin’s nov el constantly interrupts the progression of the novel, which creates a storyline where two things occur simultaneously. In the opera this effect is achieved in a less destructive manner, because as novelists must arrange things in a sequential order, â€Å"musicians can simultaneously present and comment without recourse to digression. † When an event or conversation is happening on its own, it can be accompanied by music that tells a different story; consequently, two conversations can take place at the same time.The music plays, in this way, a role similar to a narrator, as it feeds information to the reader as events unfold, and gives insight on the situations through melodic remedies. Therefore, in the transition from novel in verse to opera, Tchaikovsky dropped the character of the narrator, and used music as a tool of explaining the story. In conclusion, the conversion of Eugene Onegin from a novel in verse to an opera includes many various deviations from the overall p lot and character emphasis in the story. With Tchaikovsky’s affinity and bond with the characters of Tatyana and Lensky, he portrays Onegin as demonic and insignificant.With this affinity, he manipulates the original storyline with romanticism to fool the audience into sympathizing with Tatyana and Lensky, whereas Pushkin’s narrator is notorious for ridiculed them. Furthermore, Tchaikovsky takes advantage of the absence of a narrator, and uses music’s capacity for emotional influence to further implement his bias for Tatyana, Lensky and Onegin. The narrator in Pushkin’s novel serves as a source of information to provide the readers with context concerning the setting, characters and story line where as Tchaikovsky uses character dialogue to provide such information.Overall the changes between Pushkin’s Eugene Onegin and Tchaikovsky’s operatic telling of the story were controversial but allowed for two different expressions of the same story. These deviations can be attributed to Tchaikovsky’s affinity for romanticism and his preference for Tatyanna and Lensky in comparison to his strong dislike for Onegin. Nevertheless, both versions of Eugene Onegin are still regarded as powerful pieces of artwork. Despite their differences, however, both tales leaves their audiences craving for answers to their questions: what happens next? Bibliography Brown, David.Tchaikovsky, The Crisis Years, W. W Norton; New York and London, 1983 Debreczeny, Paul. Social Functions of Literature: Alexander Pushkin and Russian Culture. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press, 1997. Doran, Molly. The Transformation of Pushkin’s Eugene Onegin into Tchaikovsky’s Opera. Bowling Green State University, Ohio. 2012. Eugene Onegin. Wikipedia; Wikimedia Foundation. 2013. < http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Eugene_Onegin>. Pushkin, Alexandr. Translated by Vladimir Nabokov. Eugene Onegin. Princeton University Press: Princeton, 1990. Pushkin , Alexandr. Translated by A. S. Kline. Eugene Onegin. 2009.Pushkin, Alexandr. Eugene Onegin & Other Stories, Wordsworth Editions Limited; London, 2005 Taruskin, Richard. Defining Russia Musically. Princeton University Press: Princeton, 1997. Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyitch. Eugene Onegin in full score. Dover Publications, Inc. : New York, 1997. Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyitch. Eugene Onegin. Decca Recording with Royal Opera House; Coven Garen. Torgovitskaya, Julia. Eugene Onegin’s Journey Through Time: An Analysis of the Meanin and Effect of Major Themes in Pushkin’s Novel In Verse, Tchaikovsky’s Opera, and Other Adaptations of the Work and Their Relevance to Today’s World.Tuft’s University. 2009. ——————————————– [ 1 ]. Torgovitskaya, Julia. Eugene Onegin’s Journey Through Time; Tufts University, 2009, page 5 [ 2 ]. Pushkin, Alexandr. Eugene Onegin & Other Stories, Wordsworth Editions Limited; London, 2005, page XXXVI [ 3 ]. Torgovitskaya, Julia. Eugene Onegin’s Journey Through Time; Tufts University, 2009, page 5 [ 4 ]. Pushkin, Alexandr. Translated by Vladimir Nabokov. Eugene Onegin, 241, [Chapter 6, Part XXXI]. [ 5 ]. Pushkin, Alexandr. Translated by Vladimir Nabokov. Eugene Onegin. 43. [Chapter 6, Part XXXV]. [ 6 ]. Torgovitskaya, J. Eugene Onegin’s Journey Through Time; Tufts University, 2009, page 27 [ 7 ]. Doran, Molly. The Transformation of Pushkin’s Eugene Onegin into Tchaikovsky’s Opera, Bowling Green State University, Ohio, 2012, page 23 [ 8 ]. Doran, Molly. The Transformation of Pushkin’s Eugene Onegin into Tchaikovsky’s Opera, Bowling Green State University, Ohio, 2012, page 43 [ 9 ]. Quoted in David Brown, Tchaikovsky, The Crisis Years, W. W Norton; New York and London, 1983, 143 [ 10 ]. Torgovitskaya, Julia.Eugene Onegin’s Journey Through Time; Tufts University, 2009, page 24 [ 11 ]. Pushkin, Alexandr. Eugene Onegin & Other Stories, Wordsworth Editions Limited; London, 2005, page 25(10-15) [ 12 ]. Tchaikovsky, P. Decca recording of Eugene Onegin, Royal Opera House, Coven Garden, scene 5 [ 13 ]. Pushkin, Alexandr. Eugene Onegin, translated by A. S. Kline, 2009, 128 [Chapter 6, stanza 4] [ 14 ]. Taruskin, Richard. Defining Russia Musically, Princeton University Press; Princeton, 1997, 53-54 [ 15 ]. Taruskin, Richard. Defining Russia Musically, Princeton University Press; Princeton, 1997, 54