The Return: Midnight Chapter 30

â€Å"Strip to your underwear and get in on the other side,†Damon said. His voice was neither angry nor fatuous. He added shortly, â€Å"Elena is dying.† The last three words seemed to affect Stefan particularly, although Elena couldn't parse them. Stefan wasn't moving, just breathing hard, his eyes wide. â€Å"Bonnie and I have been gathering hay and fuel and we're All right.† â€Å"You've been exercising – moving about – wearing clothes that kept you warm. She's been dunked in ice water and sitting Still – high up in the wind. I got the other thurg to break off wood from the dead trees around here and try it on the fire. Now get the hel in, Stefan, and give her some body warmth, or I'm going to make her a vampire.† â€Å"Nnn,†Elena tried to say, but Stefan didn't seem to understand. Damon, however, said, â€Å"Don't worry. He's going to warm you up from the other side. You won't have to become a vampire just yet. For God's sake,†he added suddenly, explosively, â€Å"some prince you picked!† Stefan's voice was quiet and tense. â€Å"You tried putting her in a thermal envelope?† â€Å"Of course I tried, you idiot! No magic works beyond the Mirror except telepathy.† Elena had no sense of time going by, but suddenly there was a familiar body pressed against hers from the other side. And somewhere directly in her mind: Elena? Elena? You're All right, aren't you, Elena? I don't care whether you're playing a joke on me. But you're real y All right, aren't you? Just tell me that, love. Elena wasn't able to answer at all. Dimly, fragments of sound came to her ears: â€Å"Bonnie†¦on top of her and†¦pack ourselves back on either side.† And dul feelings stirred her sense of touch: a smal body, almost weightless, like a thick blanket, pressing down on her. Someone sobbing, tears dripping on her neck from above. And warmth on either side. I'm asleep with the other kittens, she thought, dozing. Maybe we'l have a nice dream. â€Å"I wish we could know how they're doing,†Meredith said, on a pause from one of her pacing bouts. â€Å"I wish they knew how we're doing,†Matt said wearily as he taped another note card amulet onto a window. And another. â€Å"Do you know, my dears, I kept hearing a child crying last night in my dreams,†Mrs. Flowers said slowly. Meredith turned, startled. â€Å"So did I! Right out on the front porch, it sounded like. But I was too tired to get up.† â€Å"It might mean something – or nothing at all.†Mrs. Flowers frowned. She was boiling tap water for tea. The electricity was sporadic. Matt and Saber had driven back to the boardinghouse earlier that day so that Matt could gather Mrs. Flowers's most important instruments – her herbs for teas, compresses, and poultices. He hadn't had the heart to tel her about the state of the boardinghouse, or what those maggot malach had done to it. He'd had to find a loose board from the garage to get from the hal to the kitchen. There was no third floor anymore and very little second. At least he hadn't run into Shinichi. â€Å"What I'm saying is that maybe there's some real kid out there,†Meredith said. â€Å"At night alone? Sounds like a Shinichi zombie,†Matt said. â€Å"Maybe. But maybe not. Mrs. Flowers, do you have any idea of when you hear the crying? Early in the night or late?† â€Å"Let me think, dear. It seems to me that I hear it whenever I wake up – and old people wake up quite frequently.† â€Å"I usual y hear it toward the morning – but I usual y sleep without dreaming for the first few hours and wake up early.† Mrs. Flowers turned to Matt. â€Å"What about you, Matt, dear? Do you ever hear a sound like crying?† Matt, who deliberately overworked himself these days to try to get a solid six hours of sleep at night, said, â€Å"I've heard the wind kind of moaning and sobbing around midnight, I guess.† â€Å"It sounds as if we have an al -night ghost, my dears,†Mrs. Flowers said calmly and poured them each a mug of tea. Matt saw Meredith glance at him uneasily – but Meredith didn't know Mrs. Flowers as well as he did. â€Å"You don't real y think it's a ghost,†he said now. â€Å"No, I don't. Ma ma hasn't said a word about it, and then it's your house, Matt, dear. No gruesome murders or hideous secrets in its past, I should think. Let me see†¦Ã¢â‚¬ She shut her eyes and let Matt and Meredith go on with their tea. Then she opened her eyes and gave them a puzzled smile. â€Å"Ma ma says ‘search the house for your ghost. Then listen well to what it has to say.'† â€Å"Okay,†Matt said poker-faced. â€Å"Since it's my house, I guess I'd better search for it. But when? Should I set an alarm?† â€Å"I think the best way would be to arrange a watch rota,† Mrs. Flowers said. â€Å"Okay,†Meredith agreed promptly. â€Å"I'l take the middle watch, from midnight to four; Matt can have the first one; and Mrs. Flowers, you can have the early-morning one, and get a nap in the afternoon if you want.† Matt felt uneasy. â€Å"Why don't we just break it up into two watches and the two of you can share one? I'l take the other.† â€Å"Because, dear Matt,†Meredith said, â€Å"we don't want to be treated like ‘ladies.'And don't argue† – she hefted the fighting stave – â€Å"because I'm the one with the heavy equipment.† Something was shaking the room. Shaking Matt with it. Stillhalf-asleep, he put his hand under his pil ow and pul ed out the revolver. A hand grabbed it and he heard a voice. â€Å"Matt! It's me, Meredith! Wake up, wil you?† Groggily, Matt reached for the lamp switch. Again, strong, slim cold fingers prevented him from doing what he wanted. â€Å"No light,†Meredith whispered. â€Å"It's very faint, but if you come with me quietly, you can hear it. The crying.† That woke Matt up the rest of the way. â€Å"Right now?† â€Å"Right now.† Doing his best to walk quietly through the dark hal s, Matt fol owed Meredith to the downstairs living room. â€Å"Sh!†Meredith warned. â€Å"Listen.† Matt listened. He could hear some sobbing All right, and maybe some words, but they didn't sound al that ghostly to him. He put his ear to the wal and listened. The crying was louder. â€Å"Do we have a flashlight?†Matt asked. â€Å"I have two, my dears. But this is a very dangerous time of night.†Mrs. Flowers was a shadow against darkness. â€Å"Please give the flashlights to us,†said Matt. â€Å"I don't think our ghost is very supernatural. What time is it, anyway?† â€Å"About twelve forty A.M.,†Meredith answered. â€Å"But why do you think it isn't supernatural?† â€Å"Because I think it's living in our basement,†Matt said. â€Å"I think it's Cole Reece. The kid who ate his guinea pig.† Ten minutes later, with the stave, two flashlights, and Saber, they had caught their ghost. â€Å"I didn't mean anything bad,†Cole sobbed, when they had lured him upstairs with promises of candy and â€Å"magic†tea that would let him sleep. â€Å"I didn't hurt anything, honest,†he choked, wolfing down Hershey bar after Hershey bar from their emergency rations. â€Å"I'm scared that he's onto me. Because after you hit me with that sticky note, I haven't been able to hear him in my head anymore. And then you came here† – he gestured around Matt's house – â€Å"and you had amulets and I figured it would be better to stay inside them. Or it could be my Last Midnight too.† He was babbling. But something about the last words made Matt say, â€Å"What do you mean†¦'your Last Midnight too'?† Cole looked at him in terror. The rim of melted Hershey bar around his lips made Matt remember the last time he'd seen the boy. â€Å"You know, don't you?†Cole faltered. â€Å"About the midnights? The countdown? Twelve days til the Last Midnight? Eleven days til the Last Midnight? And now†¦tonight is one day til the Last Midnight†¦Ã¢â‚¬ He began to sob again, even while cramming chocolate into his mouth. It was clear that he was starving. â€Å"But what happens on the Last Midnight?†Meredith asked. â€Å"You know, don't you? That that's the time when†¦ you know.†Maddeningly Cole seemed to think they were testing him. Matt put his hands on Cole's shoulders, and to his horror felt bones under his fingers. The kid really was starving, he thought, forgiving him al the Hershey bars. His eyes met Mrs. Flowers's eyes and she immediately went to the kitchen. But Cole wasn't answering; he was mumbling incoherently. Matt forced himself to apply pressure to those bony shoulders. â€Å"Cole, talk louder! What's this Last Midnight about?† â€Å"You know. That's when†¦al the kids†¦ you know, they wait up and at midnight†¦they get knives or guns. You know. And we go into our parents'room while they're asleep and†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Cole broke down again, but Matt noticed he had slipped into saying â€Å"we†and â€Å"our†by the end. Meredith spoke in her calm, steady voice. â€Å"The children are going to kil their parents, is that right?† â€Å"He showed us where to slash or stab. Or if there's a gun – â€Å" Matt had heard enough. â€Å"You can stay – in the basement,†he said. â€Å"And here are some amulets. Put them on you if you feel like you're in danger.†He gave Cole a whole packet of Post-it Notes. â€Å"Just don't be afraid,†Meredith added, as Mrs. Flowers came in with a plate of sausages and fried potatoes for Cole. At any other time the smel would have made Matt hungry. â€Å"It's just like that island in Japan,†he said. â€Å"Shinichi and Misao made it happen there, and they're going to do it again.† â€Å"I say time's running out. Actual y it's already the Last Midnight day – it's nearly one thirty in the morning,†Meredith said. â€Å"We have less than twenty-four hours. We should either get out of Fel ‘s Church or do something to arrange a confrontation.† â€Å"A confrontation? Without Elena or Damon or Stefan?†Matt said. â€Å"We'l be murdered. Don't forget Sheriff Mossberg.† â€Å"He didn't have this.†Meredith tossed the fighting stave into the air, caught it neatly, and put it at her side. Matt shook his head. â€Å"Shinichi wil Stillkil you. Or some little kid wil , with the semi-automatic from Daddy's closet.† â€Å"We have to do something.† Matt thought. His head was pounding. Final y he said, head lowered, â€Å"When I got the herbs I got Misao's star bal , too.† â€Å"You're kidding. Shinichi still didn't find it?† â€Å"No. And maybe we could do something with it.† Matt looked at Meredith, who looked at Mrs. Flowers. Mrs. Flowers said, â€Å"What about pouring out the liquid in different places in Fel ‘s Church? Just a drop here and a drop there? We could ask the Power in it to protect the town. Maybe it would listen.† Meredith said, â€Å"That was the exact reason we wanted to get Shinichi's and Misao's star bal s in the first place. The star bal s control their owners, according to legend.† Matt said, â€Å"It may be old-ways thinking, but I agree.† Meredith said, â€Å"Then let's do it right now.† While the other two waited, Matt got Misao's star bal . It had a very, very little liquid on the bottom. â€Å"After the Last Midnight she plans to fil it to the top with the energy of the new lives that get taken,†Meredith said. â€Å"Well, she's not going to get a chance to do that,†Matt said flatly. â€Å"When we're done we'l destroy the container.† â€Å"But we probably should hurry,†Meredith added. â€Å"Let's get some weapons together: something silver, something long and heavy, like a fire iron. Shinichi's little zombies are not going to be happy – and who knows who's on his side?†

Walmart 2012

Introduction Walmart has more than 10,020 retail units which is spread across 28 countries and operates under 60 banners. It sells both by brick and mortar (traditional stores) and Brick and click (e-commerce) formats. The average size of each Walmart store is more than a 1, 00,000 (1lac) square feet. Its store operations are categorized into following. 1. Walmart discount stores 2. Walmart super centers 3. Walmart neighborhood markets Walmart express stores Marketing Mix: Product and branding strategies (appropriate service strategy if the company has a consumer orientation).Walmart is a multinational retailer; in short it has every product or a brand which a person could see in his day to day life. The broad range of product categories include movies, crafts, gifts, college essentials, Electronic items, home appliance, jewellery, photo centre,   toys, outdoor living, funeral, grocery, video games etc Pricing strategies. Walmart business model doesn’t include manufacturing of any product; it procures products across the globe in large quantities in order to enjoy benefits of economies of scale. This makes price of Walmart to offer products at 15% lower price than other retailers.Walmart uses different pricing concepts to get focus of the customers and compel a purchasing behaviour through discount strategies. Sam Walton coined the term â€Å"Always lows prices† and â€Å"Everyday low prices†; according to this each product is offered at different discount prices based on the time and demand of the hour. The consumer electronics are offered at a very low price compared to other retailers. Supply chain strategies (how they place the product in the market). Walmart has been able to assume market leadership position primarily due to its efficient integration of suppliers, manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution to stores.Its supply chain strategy has four key components: vendor partnerships, cross docking and distribution management, te chnology, and integration. Walmart’s supply chain begins with strategic sourcing to find products at the best price from suppliers who are in a position to ensure they can meet demand. Walmart establishes strategic partnerships with most of their vendors, offering them the potential for long-term and high volume purchases in exchange for the lowest possible prices. Suppliers then ship product to Walmart’s distribution centers where the product is cross docked and then delivered to Walmart stores.Cross docking, distribution management, and transportation management keep inventory and transportation costs down, reducing transportation time and eliminating inefficiencies. Technology plays a key role in Walmart’s supply chain, serving as the foundation of their supply chain. Walmart has the largest information technology infrastructure of any private company in the world. Its state-of-the-art technology and network design allow Walmart to accurately forecast demand, track and predict inventory levels, create highly efficient transportation routes, and manage customer relationships and service response logistics.Wal-Mart’s supply chain management strategy has provided the company with several sustainable competitive advantages, including lower product costs, reduced inventory carrying costs, improved in-store variety and selection, and highly competitive pricing for the consumer. This strategy has helped Walmart become a dominant force in a competitive global market. As technology evolves, Walmart continues to focus on innovative processes and systems to improve its supply chain and achieve greater efficiency. Integrated marketing communications.Walmart's Integrated marketing communication is their   approach to achieving the objectives of a Marketing campaign , through a well coordinated use of different promotional methods that are intended to reinforce each other. Integrated marketing includes discipline communications advertising, public relations personal selling   and sales promotion. These methods help the corporation bring a better understanding to the consumer   this way they we will know which products best fits the consumers needs. Walmart usually does this through the tv commercials,online website,and weekly circular.Their tv commercials usually show items that are popular and are at a cheaper price then their competition this helps them to get better sales. http://stylesmar100-blog. blogspot. com/2011/11/chap-16-integrated-marketing. html Promotional strategy. Walmart has its own in-store promotional activities which includes sales promotions through product bundling and its pricing strategies. The online store of Walmart earns major revenues from through customers placing online gifts. The pricing strategies adopted by Walmart like â€Å"Everyday low prices†, â€Å"value of the day† increases the sales turnover.The online store uses strategies to pull customer by attractive slogans like ‘Grab it before it’s done’ which pushes customer to take a purchase decision immediately before the deals get expired. The company's presence in domestic and international markets. Walmart operates stores in 27 countries under 69 different banners. Learn more below about our store formats around the world. Walmart began building Supercenters in 1988 – a decision that led us to become the nation’s largest grocer. Today, there are more than 3,000 Supercenters in the U. S. Each store is about 182,000 square feet and employs bout 300 associates. Today, we operate more than 600 discount stores. There are now about 200 Neighborhood Markets in the U. S. The company's vision and execution of strategy that set its direction. Wal-Mart's advertised mission statement and its advertising slogan are the same: â€Å"We save people money so they can live better. † â€Å"If we work together, we’ll lower the cost of living for everyone†¦weâ €™ll give the world an opportunity to see what it’s like to save and have a better life. † The company's plans for growing and servicing its customer base.In order to fulfill its mission, Wal-Mart has developed some unique, policies, principles, rules, processes and procedures, the sum total of which form the Wal-Mart stores corporate culture: 4. Open Door Policy – Managers' doors are open to employees at all levels 5. Sundown Rule – Answering employee, customer, and supplier questions on the same day the questions are received 6. Grass Roots Process – Capturing suggestions and ideas from the sales floor and front lines 7. 3 Basic Beliefs & Values – Respect for the Individual, Service to our Customers, Striving for Excellence 8. 0-Foot Rule – Making eye contact, greeting, and offering help to customers who come within 10 feet 9. Servant Leadership – Leaders are in service to their team Wal-Mart Cheer – An actual struc tured chant that was created by founder Sam Walton to lift morale every morning http://www. usanfranonline. com/wal-mart-successful-supply-chain-management/ http://www. marketing91. com/marketing-mix-walmart/ http://retailindustry. about. com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/Wal-Mart-Mission-Statement. htm

Green Technology Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Green Technology - Research Paper Example Cheaper energy saving and environment-friendly technologies are being proposed to ensure that new energy sources do not add to the pollution level and are used efficiently. This environment-friendly technology is referred to as the â€Å"Green Technology†. It is a process of producing alternative uses of energy that are less damaging to the environment. Alternative energy practices are hence, in demand to curtail the use of fossil fuels. Solar power, Biomass energy, Wind power, Green insulation are some of the examples of green technology that are being discovered and used (Sobha, 2007, pp.4-5). Green insulation is one of the measures of green technology that can be customized in homes which makes energy usage more efficient. The means by which today’s buildings are constructed are not only bad for the environment but also harmful to the health of people. Steel, cement and other materials that are required for the manufacture of buildings, use large quantities of energy , thereby releasing huge amounts of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Also, many buildings use more energy than what is actually needed, in order to light or heat them or for operating machines and other appliances. Electricity is used from coal-burning power plants and oil-burning heating systems. Also the amount of water wastage is an issue to be considered significantly. Thus, to protect the planet from the harmful effects of energy usage, green buildings are essential (Owen, 2009, pp.7-10). Here lies the main emphasis on the thesis of this report which states that green insulation in homes can make energy usage efficient and protecting the planet from the harmful effects of energies. Green insulation in houses can decrease energy consumption and can prove to be healthier, cost efficient, and good for the planet. Green Insulation in homes: A boon to the planet: There are several benefits of living in green homes, which is why people, especially the Americans prefer more to take advantage of them. Green homes are healthier, cost efficient, and also useful for the planet as a whole. Through the use of natural or mechanical ventilation, the indoor air can be kept clean. Use of toxic-free materials restricts the indoor air pollution to an immense level. Plants are natural detoxifiers, and natural light is essential for such indoor plants; along with lifting up one’s mood. Green homes are also antimicrobial, thus protecting from molds or other microorganisms. The process of green insulation is cost efficient as living in green homes makes less use of energy and less water, hence more savings. They use high standards of building materials, thus maintenance costs are also low. Green homes are, now, in high demand which makes them more valuable in comparison to any standard home, thus lending homes may bring in higher rents. It is also expected that such homes would require lesser insurance payments than standard homes with the insurance companies providin g discount facilities on their policies. Green homes in the near future may be designed in a way that would be able to produce more energy than they produce, through different energy yielding techniques like uses of solar or wind power. Efficient water usage systems also enable green homes to make less wastage of water. Non renewable resources are used less in the construction of a green home. Recycled materials that are readily renewable are generally used for the purpose, e.g., Bamboo. As a result of recycling measures, green home

Accounting is a science or an art Discuss Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Accounting is a science or an art Discuss - Essay Example The field of science employs these exact procedures to conclusion about a phenomenon. Scientists identifies and researches on topic, measure, and record results to satisfy everyone with the accuracy of the data (Sofat, 2010:9). It is the same way that accounting utilises this same in its transaction. For instance, accountants categorises transactions and records them using a double-entry bookkeeping accounting system. This system includes a set of accounts. When auditors carry out their tests to ascertain the accuracy of accounting practices, they use numerous tests and measurements to satisfy everyone. They ensure the results are accurate. This is a scientific approach rather than a mere data interpretation. In addition, accounting makes use of scientific formulas. For instance, the debits sides must always be equal to the credit side. This is the accepted method of communicating financial data in an understandable and summarised format. This communication encompasses preparation of financial reports such as balance sheets, cash flow statement, general ledgers, and income statements (Sofat, 2010:13). After preparation of these documents, accountants employ scientific formulas to measure, analyse, and interpret the data contained in these financial documents. The basis of income computations, calculations of depreciating assert, and estimation of tax rates requires scientific applications of addition, subtraction, division, and addition. This makes accounting a science rather than an art. Accounting is an art because it entails organising, maintaining, recording, and analysing financial activities. This encompasses translation of information into meaningful terms that appeal different parties. Art entails practical application of skills and knowledge that have the basis on certain principles. The skills and knowledge helps people to do their work efficiently with

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Print Advertising - Essay Example Several propaganda devices are used in the ad including glittering generality and band wagon appeals.   Glittering generality sets the light bulb up as a preferred method of reducing energy use and conserving the environment without sacrificing personal comfort.   However, very little information about this light bulb or the technology behind it is actually shared.   Instead, consumers are directed to visit a website that presumably gives them this information.   Band wagon appeals are made when the suggestion is inferred that everyone is making the switch, such as Ashley, who is pictured in the ad as being just an ordinary woman with a satisfying solution to a difficult problem.     I am actually relatively neutral about the ad.   Initially, I found it very attractive because of its use of color.   The light blues and greens pulled at me and made me feel comfortable and at home.   The friendly look on the woman’s face and her desire to share her new discover y with me appealed to my emotions and made me want to like the ad itself.   However, as I looked over it in greater detail, I learned that it was offering an energy efficient halogen bulb, which, in my personal experience, generates a high level of ambient heat and is therefore not a good option.   I also felt resentful that the ad provided me with no real information about the product and manipulated when I found myself going to the website.   Thus, cognitively, I did not like the ad and would probably not buy the product.  

Summary 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 3

Summary 1 - Essay Example Theologians reflect upon this new truth, which is full of promise. Liberation sets free the children of God from the slavery. Slavery comes in different kinds of form, which include sin, economic, socio-political, and cultural. Liberation serves all those who respond to it, as it is not limited to those only with the evangelical spirit. It serves all those Christians who have clarity in faith and are prepared to be involved in struggles for humanity and freedom for the poor in the society. Liberation inspires people particularly those who have misery burdens carried in their hearts. It is a human need to express this aspiration. There is need to guide and clarify the yearning for the aspiration. Liberation theology was born from this strong aspiration. It expresses concern for the victimized and poor in the society. Theologies of liberation expresses different and diverse positions that seek to explain the contradictions involved in finding the meaning poverty and commitment to justice as defined by Christianity. Recently, Pope Francis has stressed the importance of fast tracking of a former Salvadoran Archbishop’s beatification. Oscar Romero’s beatification is a legitimate to sainthood for a man who is considered the unofficial saint of the controversial Catholic movement, liberation theology. The movement whose origin is in Latin America embraces the perspective and plight of the poor to interpret scripture and fight both economic and political injustices. The beatification statement made by Pope Francis is viewed as an attempt to reconciliation between the mainstream Catholic Church and the liberation theology movement. Other occurrences that inform about the possibility of the reconciliation include the reinstatement of suspended Nicaraguan priest Miguel D’Escoto, a policy reversal in Chiapas allowing the ordainment of indigenous deacons, and the appointment of Gerhard MÃ ¼ller, a former

Determinants of Effective Tax Rate in Thailand Research Proposal

Determinants of Effective Tax Rate in Thailand - Research Proposal Example Tax changes can be analyzed, and thus a conclusion can be reached. Furthermore, the researcher has also been able to grasp a solid understanding of the tax concepts through the research, gaining important concepts like solid definitions and clear indications of the corporate tax burden and how corporations in Thailand are affected. Two important ideas will be analyzed through the literature; that of tax policy, and that of tax rules and the evolution of the corporate income tax. By taking a close look at these concepts, the researcher should be able to make an informed decision about the success of the corporate tax burden, and demonstrate the fact that the corporate tax reforms are allowing Thailand to become a more successful nation economically. First, when taking a close look at the corporate tax burden in Thailand, it is important to consider tax policy. Tax policy will allow the researcher to determine how Thailand's reforms are economically measuring up to other Asian nations and their economic reforms. A comparative analysis is always beneficial in allowing a researcher to see whether or not certain systems are successful, and this is also true of the corporate tax system in Thailand. There are a few helpful articles that describe this concept. In the article "Tax policy and reform in Asian countries: Thailand's perspective," Sujapongse presents a complete overview of Thailand's tax system. Within this description, the major taxes that are required by the central government, as well as the local taxes required by the local government, are discussed. Furthermore, the author also discusses more recent tax reforms, including the value added tax (VAT), which has replaced the business tax to customs tariff reform. The autho r also discusses current and modern day issues dealing with taxes, including the concepts of decentralization impediments, direct taxation, indirect taxation, and tax base. After this discussion, the author then proceeds to provide the researcher with a picture of the government's plans. Basically, the government is planning to use more and more technology in while handling taxes, thus allowing for Thailand to have e-government services and e-taxes. Furthermore, the "Roadmap for Tax Reform" is also discussed, and this helps to demonstrate the framework for future plans of taxation networks in Thailand. Tax issues are also discussed, and the author predicts the future of Thailand's ability to reform taxes. This author agrees with the concept of this research, and argues that Thailand is on path to effective corporate tax reform, thus benefitting the overall economy. The tax reforms, when compared to the economic success of other Asian countries, demonstrate that Thailand's economy is benefitting greatly from corporate tax reform, and doing much better when competing with other Asian nations in the corporate world. Furthermore, Thailand's focus on technol ogy and the future also demonstrate the nation's desire to become a key player economically on a global scale. This article therefore backs up the researcher's argument that corporate tax reform is allowing Thailand to improve its economy, and thus help it become more important economically in the world. Another article that helps the researcher take a closer look at tax policy is the article "Thailand: Tax Measures to

ANALYTICALLY Compare The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald and Ceremony by Essay

ANALYTICALLY Compare The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald and Ceremony by Leslie Silko and how they pertain to the so called American Dream - Essay Example (Taylor, 1998) It is pertinent here to understand the genesis of the American dream. Warshauer (2003) defines American dream, â€Å"Traditionally, Americans have sought to realize the American dream of success, fame and wealth through thrift and hard work. However, the industrialization of the 19th and 20th centuries began to erode the dream, replacing it with a philosophy of ‘get rich quick’.† Gatsby owed his idea to achieve American idea to Benjamin Franklins autobiography. Whereas , Ceremony, by Leslie Silko is a narrative of resilience and the protagonist overcomes the hardships and a series of challenges to reach the stipulated goal. Ceremony reminds us of the Grail stories where protagonist must prove his/her worth to be the worthy to be its presence. Allen , while discussing in her article, Special Problem in Teaching Leslie Marmon Silko’s Ceremony, has the point to make that reading the works of Native American writer without understanding ethnographic and historical sheen is an exercise in futility, â€Å"because texts either derived from or directly connected to tradition, are firmly embedded within the matrix of their cultural base.† (Allen,1990) The protectiveness of the native people towards their tradition is legendry . The Pueblos are expected to know no more than is necessary, ‘sufficient and congruent with their spiritual and social place.† (Allen,1990) F. Scott Fitzgerald is the author of The Great Gatsby. He writes as if he is Nick Carraway. Gatsby’s fascination for Daisy is a reflection of a woman Fitzgerald loved in his own life. He combines the personality of Nick Carraway and Gatsby. He speaks as if he is Nick and he writes about Gatsby on the basis of his own experience. The Great Gatsby is an example for dreams and their interpretations. Every character in this novel has a certain dream. The

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Response to a Rodriguez - Essay Example The language barrier has been shown as the major drawback into assimilation processes that an immigrant comes across when he/she comes to a foreign land. I agree with Rodriguez about the changes that he underwent were necessary for him to finally accept his new country as his own. The changes were also needed for the natives to accept him within their fold. According to Rodriguez, the initial years were tough for him as a child because he and his family had not made concerted efforts to overcome the barriers of the language and were satisfied with the little knowledge of their host country’s language. Inside their home, they all felt comfortable because they could express their feelings and emotions in their won language. But outside the home, they were diffident and awkward because of the lack of adequate knowledge of the English language which made communication with outsider difficult. Once he became confident that he could express himself in the native language of English, it became easier for him to interact with others, feel more comfortable and develop a sense of belonging. These are the common challenges immigrants fac e and overcoming language barriers becomes the key to the process of assimilation. Rodriguez had undergone the painful experiences of two societies, public and private. While the public society had made him self conscious, the private society at home had given him love and happiness. Looking at the wider implications of the two and the role of languages, he found it is imperative one learn the foreign language or English, so the immigrants can effectively overcome the feeling of alienation. The language is the main mode of communication that facilitates better understanding as well as helps to build relationship. It also ultimately lets one have an identity in a foreign land and promotes acceptance of immigrants within mainstream society. The middle class ethnics and early settlers

Symbolism in Hemingway's Cat in the Rain Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Symbolism in Hemingway's Cat in the Rain - Essay Example A knock at the door brings the maid with a cat in her hands which the hotel owner asks her to bring to American wife. This short story of Hemingway clearly illustrates one chapter of marriage life which is enriched through the use of symbolism. The story starts with the beautiful description of the place outside the couple's hotel with the view of the sea and the picturesque panorama that artists cannot resist to paint. After this, Hemingway starts to build the situation where the couples are-"rain dripped from the palm trees (Hemingway 1)," "motor cars are gone (1)," and "empty square (1)"-which are all in contrast to the previously depicted beauty of the place. This description can be seen as Hemingway's illustration of the husband and wife. When they first got married, everything seems to be so well between them. However, they are now faced with the hardship of making their relationship work because of their individual differences which is further portrayed in the succeeding paragraphs. Hemingway's use of cat which is "trying to make herself compact that she would not be dripped on" (2) can be directly linked to the emotional suffering that the woman is going through. It should be noted that like the cat, she is battling the coldness of her husband and is trying to make him understand what she wants.

Robert Frost’s “choices” in ‘A Road Not Taken’ Essay Example for Free

Robert Frost’s â€Å"choices† in ‘A Road Not Taken’ Essay Making a right choice is not always simple and easy. Though it is a task that everyone comes across many times every day, sometimes this â€Å"everyday† task becomes very meaningful, and affects a person’s entire life. This is the theme of Robert Frost’s â€Å"The Road Not Taken†. In the poem, Frost uses a variety of literary devices to bring out this theme, such as metaphor, images, diction, tone, repetition, rhyme scheme and structure.   The most striking use of literary device in this poem is Frost’s use of the extended metaphor. The entire poem is a metaphor comparing life and its choices to a journey through the woods, and about having to decide what choice to make. It is an apt analogy, because in life, one does move forward, like on a road. Similarly, sometimes life is easy-going without any major difficulties, but sometimes life has big problems—and this is appropriate in the road comparison because roads, too, are sometimes smooth and easy to ride on, while at others, they have potholes and ruts which make it a rough ride. Also, when the poem begins with â€Å"Two roads diverged†¦Ã¢â‚¬  it gives the impression that this is the first fork in the road the speaker has come to. This points to the fact that in every person’s life a time comes when s/he has to make a major choice. The comparison continues throughout the poem where one of the roads is described as â€Å"grassy and want[ing] wear†, and â€Å"less traveled by† representing an option which people had not often taken up. Similarly, when the speaker says, â€Å"Knowing how way leads on to way†, it is appropriate to a real-life setting, where, after making a choice in a certain direction, it is hard to think of â€Å"com[ing] back†, just as the poem suggests. Frost also makes important use of images, especially visual ones, which add to the poem’s influence on its readers. He describes the diverging roads in the â€Å"yellow† wood, the â€Å"grassy† road which â€Å"wanted wear† and the leaves which â€Å"no step had trodden black†. With such images as these, the reader is able to visualize with clarity what is being described, and this makes the poem more effective. It further places the poem in a true-to-life setting and makes it easier for the reader to understand and identify with the speaker. Another literary device which Frost uses in this poem to give it a real-life touch, and emphasize the importance of choices in our life, is his use of diction. The common everyday words that he uses, give the poem a realistic quality, and while this relates it to peoples’ everyday experience, also gives it a serious feel. For example, his choice of words such as â€Å"sorry†, â€Å"perhaps† and â€Å"really about the same† are important in conveying the simple, yet serious matter he is talking about, because he is speaking in a simple, yet serious way. Along with the diction, tone also plays an important role in the poem. A conversational tone is adopted throughout, and this lends great credibility to the words that are spoken. The conversational tone is a positive one, because though the speaker is talking about the past, he is not nostalgic. The tone serves to reinforce the theme, of making choices and their effects on later life, in a very positive way. The speaker is happy, and realizes that his decision earlier in life is what has influenced his later life. He conveys his satisfaction through his tone, especially in the second stanza and when he says â€Å"I shall be telling this with a sigh† (a sigh, most probably, of contentment). Such a tone is often achieved by repetition—not of a kind in which entire lines are repeated, but in which certain words recur. For example, the word ‘traveler’ occurs in line 3, right after ‘travel’ in line 2. Other examples include ‘way leads on to way’, ‘ages and ages’, and the recurring ‘I’ in the last stanza. Such repetition gives validity to speech, because it seems normal, with a word being spoken again just to emphasize, or starting a sentence, then breaking off, then beginning again. This happens in everyday speech, and thus this technique helps in developing the conversational tone. The repetition is, however, not only found in the recurrence of words. It is also felt in the steady a, b, a, a, b rhyme scheme, which, though different in each stanza, retains its similar quality throughout. Such deliberate rhyming does not, as it would seem, give artificiality. To the contrary, it serves to re-enhance the smooth, steady pace of the poem and helps bring out the theme even more—the theme of understanding and accepting that our choices greatly affect us. Frost’s ‘choice’ of a definite structure, as felt through the rhyme scheme is also an important literary device he makes use of. The poem is divided into four distinct stanzas, but there is also another sort of division. The first three stanzas are fused together as one part, with the second and third stanzas joined to the preceding one with the words â€Å"Then† and â€Å"And† respectively. Stanza 4, however, constitutes the second part of the poem itself. The last stanza is very obviously set apart from the rest of the poem, and this is to emphasize its importance. It is in this stanza that Frost tells about his choice and how â€Å"it has made all the difference†, and thus gives us his (implicit) statement about the choices one makes and the effects they have on a person’s life. The realization that his choice has influenced his life to such an extent, is also apparent in the title Frost has chosen for his poem. â€Å"The Road Not Taken†, as the name itself suggests, is about the option which he did not take up, when making a decision. This is evident in the poem too, when he contemplates upon the road that he did not take, â€Å"look[ing] down† it as â€Å"far as [he] could†, and then suddenly (he abruptly uses the word â€Å"Then†) takes the other. On the whole, the poem conveys the theme of choices bearing a strong effect on a person’s later life, very effectively. Though each line or each stanza might not lead to an immediate understanding of this theme, all the devices Robert Frost uses in his poem contribute to the readers’ appreciation of it. Appreciation is, after all, the first step to understanding, and this appreciation was, after all, brought on by Frost’s â€Å"choices†.

Established Brand In Highly Competitive Indian Market Marketing Essay

Established Brand In Highly Competitive Indian Market Marketing Essay As there are other strong players like Britannia, HUL, Knorr etc. in the market for branded packaged food, it is imperative for ITC to implement sustainable marketing and operations strategies to gain a competitive advantage and rapidly grow its business share. In order to attract new customers and to retain existing ones a new plan is proposed for ITCs Sunfeast to launch brown bread, as growing health concerns and WHO identifying the high level of sugar, salt and preservative found in biscuits as harmful might affect the brand in near future. The SOSTAC (Situation, Objectives, Strategy, Tactics, Action and Control) framework will be used to understand the companys marketing strategy. Differentiation in terms of product marketing can be useful for Sunfeast as it already has its presence in the FMCG market, a study of existing strategies of this brand in the FMCG market can help draft new marketing strategies for the future. Identifying the strengths of ITC in utilizing its already existing market for product marketing, distribution and also its operations strategies implemented to create brand positioning is important in formulating a new strategy, to achieve its goal of sustainable growth through increased revenues and higher profitability. Detailed understanding of the activities required for the successful implementation and their operationalisation for launching brown bread can be found in the Gantt chart. 2-Introduction As a marketing consultant, this report will aim to exhibit current marketing and operational strategy to implement a sustainable marketing and operations plan that enables Imperial Tobacco Company (ITC) brand of Sunfeast Biscuits to enhance value for its customer and in the process increase its revenue share and profitability The report will demonstrate the ability of Sunfeast to launch brown bread in fast moving consumer good market (FMCG) of India to generate sustainable revenue and value for both customer and the company, by suggesting meaningful changes to its current marketing and operational strategy. 2.1 Objectives Critical evaluation of the current and revised Marketing Strategies In detail, planning of one specific, and new, sustainable initiative, and its marketing/operationalising, to both current and new customers Provide detailed understanding of the activities required for the successful implementation and their operationalisation Justify how both Marketing and Operations must integrate strategically and drive this initiative for sustainable customer value. 3-Analysis The current situation Company Background Sunfeast biscuits ITCs brand in the FMCG segment in the branded and packaged food was initiated in July 2003 with an aim to capture the biscuits market and it has been successful in expanding its foray into a range of biscuits and bakery products. According to business standard (2009) the brand has been catering to all segments of the market with variations in its products to help differentiate itself from other brands like Britannia and Parle. Among the other range of products like tobacco, cigarettes, personal care and stationary, the company has is well diversed portfolio in branded food segment that include staple food, biscuits, snack food, ready-to-eat food and confectionery with over 170 different products under 6 brands. In 2005 Sunfeast diversified into food segment with Sunfeast yippee noodle and pasta to gain sustainable competitive advantage over its competitors like Maggie (Nestle),Knorr (Galaxo Smith Kline) Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), utilising a well established distribution channel that has been created by huge tobacco business. Sunfeasts key products are : Sunfeast Milky Magic ,Sunfeast Marie Light, Golden Bakery ,Dark Fantasy, Dream Cream, Snacky, sweet n salt, Nice ,Sunfeast Benne Vita Flaxseed Biscuits ,Sunfeast Special. (Sunfeast collection -source -itcprtal.com) 3.1.2 PEST ANALYSIS FOR SUNFEAST Political Rapid development programmes, facilitation of increased FDI. Larger centralized wholesale markets (Chengappa, 2011 p.1). Support for competitive markets. Tax relief for international firms, incentive to develop in India. Strong technological focus in order to present to the global economy, India as a technology hub. Greater liberalization in the markets (Market research, 2010 p.1). Economic Rising consumer spending in India, Indias income will triple over the next three decades (McKinsey Global, 2010 p.1). Fifth largest consumer market Predicted to be the second largest economy by 2050 in the BRICS study (Wilson and Purushothaman, 2003 p.19). Declining poverty Greater infrastructure developments, allowing for a greater output of goods. Shift from rural spending to the cities, predicted that by 2025 cities will have 62% of the countrys appending power. Rise in supermarkets. Social Desire for healthier produce. More globalized tastes influencing the range of food produce available. Greater product ranges, in line with consumer expectations for an increasing amount of variety. Increased affluence is re-shaping consumer desires. Focus on international brands and goods. Technological Advances in technology to improve production and operations management. Links with total quality management in which a focus is created on long=term relationships in order to improve production. Rapidly developing market, rate of change is fast and thus, technological improvements will result in a more innovative culture for the firm. Technology facilitates greater quality control. SWOT ANALYSIS FOR SUNFEAST Strengths ITC is one of the worlds most reputable companies Market capitalization to the value of $18 billion Diversified product portfolio, which results in a spreading of strategic risk. Sun Feast has a strong brand image, which connotes happiness and pleasure. Growth rate of 53%. Focus on experiential marketing in which, the emotional aspects of the brand are highlighted. Diversification within the product line, presence in all types of biscuits categories. Strong focus on healthy products, kid friendly goods, which mothers will purchase. This is in line with the changing social environment. Strong brand image and high levels of customer loyalty. Successful move into the savory market. Production of noodles and pasta. Key focus on operations management in order to ensure minimal waste and efficient production. In line with lean manufacturing. Inherent focus on marketing, customer focus and a need to be reactive and adaptive to change. Weaknesses The business continues to use its original trading name Imperial Tobacco Company this could result in negative connotations with the brand and it is difficult to find a link between tobacco and Sunfeast goods. Company is inherently dependent on its tobacco products, as such this accounts for 47% of the firms revenue. Thus, the company is likely to experience future criticism due to the health associations with smoking. Lack of focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility this is an area which could differentiate the company in the future. Failure to treat staff as an intangible resource (Henry, 2007 p.32). Opportunities Further expansion into the savory market Differentiation strategies in order to gain a competitive advantage (Henry 2007 p.42). Future strategic vision in order to discern trends in the external environment. Internationalization of product range. Utilise innovative strategies in order to leverage sales. Long-term strategic vision to turn the company into Indias premier brand. Opportunity to increase market share Threats Increase in both domestic and international competition. Emerging consumer society could result in greater buyer power. Is being a diversified conglomerate the most beneficial strategy formation? Negative association with the parent company. 3.1.4 ANALYSIS OF SWOT AND PEST A review of the external environment facilitates an ability of the firm to discern trends, which, can then be translated into a strategic vision. To ignore the external environment is to be unfocused, and a in a market as rapidly developing as the food retail market, this could result in a decline in profits for the firm. From a resource-based view of strategy (Wernerfelt, 1997 p.6), it can be seen that ITC are able to utilise their strengths to respond to the market. For example: the company have a strong brand image, and it is this brand image, which has supported the development of the firms diversification strategies. The very move into the production of biscuits has been allowed due to high levels of customer loyalty and recognition that the brand represents quality. This will in the future facilitate the firms diversification into other markets, such as the launch of brown bread products. Finally, consideration must be given to the huge potential, which the domestic market hold s for Sunfeast. India is developing at a rapid rate, and as mentioned has gained increased attention due to the publication of the BRICs study, as such it is important for the firm to further establish themselves in their own domestic market, before tapping into the potential of international markets. Such advice is given due to an influx of international firms, who may produce a more competitive environment, which Sunfeast must be well equipped to respond to. 3.1.5 STP ANALYSIS OF SUNFEAST Segmentation is an adaptive strategy, and as such it consists of a separating of the market with the intention of selecting one or more market segments, which will facilitate the ability to match marketing mixes to specific market needs. Through such a strategy Sunfeast will be able to gain a competitive advantage, and this is something, which as noted by Porter (1998p. 231) has a powerful effect on competitive advantage because it shapes the configuration of the value chain. By understanding consumer needs, Sunfeast will be able to specifically meet their needs and expectations, and therefore, added value results. Thus, at present Sunfeast can be seen to carry out large amounts of market research. This is something, which provides the firm with an ability to position themselves in the market successfully. They are able to segment their consumers based on their needs, for example: families, affluent single consumers, elderly consumers, those with dietary requirements etc. As a result, Sunfeast have several ranges, and this has resulted in them developing their market share in a steady manner (current market share 10%). By focusing on the specific needs of the consumer, Sunfeast are able to provide higher value to their consumers. From an economic perspective, it can be seen that firms create monopolistic market conditions through the utilisation of various curves of demand for a specific product category (Ferstman and Muller, 1993). Thus, in line with Porters five forces model, it can be seen that specific market segmentation lowers competitive forces through the creation of submarkets, and a more focused marketing approach. With regards to positioning, Porter (1998 p.42) noted how a firm must either follow a strategy of cost leadership or differentiation. To follow both is to have an unfocused strategy, and thus it can be seen that ITC through their Sunfeast brand target the mass market through a strategy of cost leadership. By targeting the mass market the firm are able to target to the needs of a large group due to a variety of product lines. This in turn produces higher revenues and results in greater profits for the firm. CURRENT MARKETING AND OPERATIONAL STARTEGY OF SUNFEAST Establishing a new brand in highly competitive Indian biscuit market was not easy for Sunfeast, especially when its an unrelated diversified venture. In 2003, ITC forayed into this market; everybody doubted its ability to launch a successful brand in biscuit market. According to Business Standard (2008) ITCs ability to gain competitive advantage by utilising its competences like highly organised distribution channel and brand building capabilities has helped establish itself as a serious FMCG player. Economic times (2009) states that Sunfeast holds 9-11% share of this market. Careful brand building and heavy and innovative promotion has helped Sunfeast position itself as a dynamic and exiting brand. Being a convenience good, Biscuit industry requires constant innovation so that value can be provided and sustained for both customers and shareholders. Innovative products like orange marie and milk glucose biscuits aim to provide that extra value than can edge Sunfeast over its competitors. In 2003, Sunfeast was launched with innovative six varieties of biscuits. Primarily the product, which has been taken as a teatime snack, has encountered a wild transformation with new innovative flavors of Sunfeast. The core strategy of its products has been new taste, something fresh and 4 biscuits equal to 1 roti did wonders. The excellent promotion and advertising policy like Sunfeast Open and Hara Bano campaigns helped the product and created awareness among people. Market Share Breakdown  -The Indian biscuit industry is dominated by brands like Parle, Britannia and Sunfeast. The company set up and integrated food manufacturing facility in each region that gives them advantage when it comes to distribution and packaging. The company leverages its excellent distribution and supply chain management system that has made sourcing from farmers very easy, 4 lakh display rack is a by product of combining both its mark and operation network. ITCs Sunfeast packaged food has high quality and safety measures with its manufacturing units being accredited by third party for Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) standards. Also, ITC has RD centers with product-specific technology cells (PTCs) which cater to the business through market intelligence, product testing and Product Quality Rating System (PQRS) services, Prototyping services through advanced pilot plants, flavor and fragrance development services, periodic audit of factory quality systems and Product Knowledge and Training Workshops. It also collaborates with national and international RD institutions to continuously improve its RD facilities, key processes, products, services performance (www.itcportal.com) TV commercials along with print media are prominent in Sunfeasts advertisements. Celebrity endorsements, children, advertisements revolving around the theme of happiness with a smiling sun as logo, event sponsoring like The Sunfeast Tournament for Tennis, etc. are the promotional activities that the brand engages in (Angshu, 2009). ITC has been investing 35-40% of its turnover from the biscuits segment for advertising and promotion which amounts to about Rs 115-120 crore which is much higher than the 10% investment by leading player, Britannia (rediff.com, June 28, 2006). RECOGNIZED RISKS As mentioned, Sunfeast provides a large selection of different products in packaged food segment, in order to maintain its competitive positioning in the market Sunfeast is continuously increasing its product range. Hence there is a lot to pressure on its marketing department to be dynamic and proactive. New communication strategy is required to reach ever demanding and price wise Indian consumers. Therefore, company cannot rely on same marketing and operational strategies to stay competitive especially when huge global giants like Galaxo SmithKline (GSK) and United biscuits are ready to take on Indian market. Growing health concerns regarding effects of packaged food on kids has not helped the company as majority of the products are targeted towards kids. World health organization (WHO) has identified the high level of sugar, salt and preservative found in biscuits as harmful for kids. Therefore, company has to come up with products that are free from artificial stuff and at the same time is health option rather than just being a snack so that value can be added and sustained for its customers and shareholders in long run. PROPOSED MARKETING PLAN In order to minimize level of salt, sugar and preservative and yet improve value for the customers, Sunfeast can introduce brown bread which is rich in anti-oxidants like magnesium, iron, selenium etc. Brown bread rich fibre content acts as a bowel stimulant and prevents digestive problems and constipation. Brown bread has zero calories and it is very good for health. According to (hdfc.com) there are about 75000 bread manufacturers spread all over India including some of those operating from even residential premises. South India consumes 32 percent of the total bread produced in the country followed by north which consumes about 27per cent, west 23 per cent and east 18 per cent. The total bread production in the country is estimated to be 3.75 million tonnes annually growing at a rate of about 6 per cent. Sunfeast will need to have manufacturing units in all four regions to keep quality and freshness. The key driver that indicates vast scope for consideration of nutrient enriched brown bread is the encouraging trend among of population of lower and middle class to consume nutrient rich bakery products. According to a survey conducted by times of India (2010) bread consumption during breakfast is finding popularity among Indians, replacing traditional Chapattis. This initiative will help Sunfeast gain 2-4 % share in first year and in the year two can company will plan to target wholesale market by supplying Kfc and McDonald direct which will help generate extra revenue and contribute to grow overall revenue of Sunfeast by 4-6% in year three. Sunfeast has a core strategy of providing healthy products at basic price and our proposed plan is in line with overall business strategy. 3.2.1 SOSTAC FRAMEWORK The SOSTAC framework will be used to discuss the marketing strategy for Sunfeast brown bread. This framework helps evaluate the brands position in the market along with identifying ways or options of how to position it in the future (Smith, 2003). SOSTAC- a generic framework for e-marketing planning 3.2.1.1 SITUATION where are we now In order to analyse the current situation the TOWS matrix will be used as below: TOWS MATRIX FOR SUNFEAST External Opportunities: 1-Long-term trend of consumers purchasing healthier goods. 2- Expansion of diversified product ranges. The opportunity to use brand image to further the business portfolio of the group. 3- Increasing consumer spending, more affluent market. 4- Rise in supermarkets allowing for products to reach a greater mass market External Threats: 1- Global economic crisis causing a strain on consumer income. 2-Rise in social concerns, linked to negative connotations with the parent company image. 3-Increased domestic and international competition. ITC must focus on the creation of submarkets and a focus on diversification strategies. Internal Strengths: 1- Trusted brand image, this is linked to higher levels of customer loyalty. 2-Strong, reputational brand in India. 3-Infrastructure development in India. 4-Strong customer focus and a development of the marketing mix. SO strategies: 1-Strong organisational culture, focus on innovative measures. 2-Expansion of product ranges to spread risk and target a larger mass market. 3-Rise in e-commerce, online supermarkets allowing a greater access to markets. ST strategies: 1-Intangible focus on staff. Greater training and development in order to ensure strong supplier relationships and consumer relationships. 2-Differentiation in order to overcome competition. Internal Weaknesses: 1-Confused brand image, no clear link between tobacco and biscuits. 2-Issues with quality control, returned produce. 3-A need for a clear strategic focus. WO strategies: 1-Clear displays of product ranges. 2-Changing the image of ITC in order to present one clear dedication to a specific product range. WT strategies: 1-More customer orientated relationship. 2-Focus on added value for the consumer; experiential marketing will enable a greater ability to link to consumers. 3.2.1.2 MARKETING MIX OF SUNFEAST -7PS The marketing mix of sunfeast has helped it grow 28% in the last quarter. Figure On next page 3.2.2 OBJECTIVES Where do we want to go The objective of introducing Sunfeasts brown bread will be discussed in details below using the SMART model. Specific Greater focus on training programmes for their staff. This will promote the intangible nature of their staff, which in turn will contribute to a competitive advantage. This can be developed within 1-2 years. ( Continued-next page) Focus on strong relationships with the consumer and suppliers. This will increase the quality of the goods being released and will ensure a greater reputation. Continued development on product ranges greater diversification. Launch of a brown bread range. Measurable Feedback systems can be developed to review the financial benefits associated with a greater development of strong relationships with suppliers. Feedback systems from which consumers can give their opinions and input into new product ranges. Achievable ITC has an established recognition as a strong and developed brand. As such it can be seen that the firm have already many provisions in place, which will ensure the achievability of the objectives. http://www.itcportal.com/shareholder/annual-reports/itc-annual-report-2010/images/page39-1.png(The Stockholm challenge award 2006 ITC e-chaupal winner) The firm has strong resources and capabilities. As such it is these resources, which will develop an achievability of the objectives. Realistic The objective to build stronger relationships with both suppliers and consumers is realistic as it is in line with the culture of the firm. Furthermore, it can be seen that the development of new product ranges, is in line with the innovative culture of the firm. Large and experienced workforce. Timed A detailed breakdown of time required to complete this objective can be found in appendix 1. 3.2.3 STRATEGY How do we get there? Strategic vision is seen as the long-term direction of the firm. A focus on a vision is needed and as such this will develop the organisational culture of the firm (Wilson, 1992 p.18). ITC have a strategy, which is customer focused, and in turn this has resulted in a development of ranges, which are specific to consumer needs. Segmentation of the market can clearly be identified as the family market, and the more affluent single market. Thus, a clear differentiation exists between milky family biscuits, and luxury chocolate biscuits. Even better understanding of market segmentation, targeting and positioning is needed for future success. The launch of a brown bread product range requires a greater understanding of the market, and thus a combination of internal, external and customer analysis will contribute to the development of a strategy which is customer focused. 3.2.4 ACTION Who is responsible for what and when? ITC need to conduct in-depth customer research in order to find out whether customers have a desire to eat brown bread, and whether they would purchase such a good, and if so at what price. Pricing strategies are vital, and as such it can be noted that the price point of the product must be correct. Furthermore, due to it being a new product launch, the company must ensure that quality is assured. This therefore promotes a need to focus on marketing strategies and in particular the need to promote experiential marketing (Schmitt, 1999 p.53). The product range can be tried by consumers, and can result in the development of a customer base before the official launch of the product. The company must focus on building an image, and developing an emotional link between the consumer and the product. Table below (Source: Sustainability Report 2010, 2010, pp 30, 31) represents the stakeholders roles and responsibilities at ITC: Stakeholders Role Task Shareholders Ensure continued profitability and growth, communication and investor servicing. Corporate website is made available to inform and serve the shareholders with a direct response email too. Also, the Chairman meets the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting to address and provide clarifications through an open dialogue. Customers Share needs and aspirations for products and services during customer engagement process. Market surveys, personal contacts, customer satisfaction surveys, joint development and improvement projects, discussions of quality, cost, etc during customer engagement process. Employees High levels of performance to strengthen organizational efforts for competitiveness. Through workplace interactions, talent recognition programmes and employees/Manager surveys, employees are engaged to remain globally competitive. Farmers Form part of the value chain. Improve quality of agri-based raw materials sourced from the farmers by partnering with them while ensuring improved productivity, assured markets and better price realization. Suppliers Have a critical role in the value chain as they have the capability to provide quality products and services. During the supplier engagement process, supplier concerns like cost of materials, timely payments, variability in demand, capacity improvements, etc. are discussed and compliance to standards are ascertained. Community Responsible for the social performance of the company as part of its vision for inclusive growth. Community need assessment surveys in and around the operating units to provide support. Government Regulatory and public policy frameworks through industry bodies. Best-in-class practices adopted by proactively interacting with Government Regulatory authorities. 3.2.5 CONTROL How do we keep track of progress? Planning and control are inherently linked and are a necessary part of any marketing plan. Control is a fundamental management activity, and as such it can be seen that there is a growth in strategic management literature (Jaworski, 1988 p.23). At a strategic level it can be seen that the firm must track progress in a manner, which contributes to both the short-term objectives and long term goals of the firm. Feedback systems are vital, and as such it is important that SMART objectives must be considered in a manner, which can be controlled. 3.3 OPERATIONAL CHALLENGES AND PLANS TO OVERCOME THEM. There are operational challenges associated with the development of a new production range. At present the firm produce largely biscuits, however, recently have made moves towards the production of pasta and noodles. Therefore, the firm has the ability to change their production lines in order to facilitate the production of brown bread. Importantly, any change to the organisation has to be linked to change management theories (Hayes, 2007 p.12). And, as such it can be seen that the work of Kotter (1996) must be followed to ensure that the change is a smooth process. Change must be communicated in a clear manner, and most importantly the firm must project that the introduction of a brown bread product range would result in greater opportunities for the firm. 3.4 STRATEGIC INTEGRATION OF MARKETING AND OPERATIONS There is an inherent need for an integrated marketing mix. Furthermore, it is important that any marketing techniques are inherently linked to the operations of the firm. This integration will ensure that a smooth image is presented to the consumer, and such a clear brand image will link to higher levels of customer loyalty. There is a need for the two departments to work together, largely due to the fact that production will vary depending on what the marketing department dictate. The integration of the two will focus on much more than just supply and demand, and will focus on an improved organisational culture (Pickton and Broderick, 2008 p.19). 4- CONCLUSION In conclusion, in relation to the SMART objectives it can be seen that the launch of a brown bread product range would be in line with changing consumer demands, and would be aligned to the projection of the future financial figures. ITC must focus on the provision of product ranges, which are targeted to the needs of the consumer. Healthier demands, and a focus from the government on healthier and outdoors activities, drive the market for healthier produce such a brown bread. By showing the consumer the benefits of the brown bread, they will be able to tap into a differentiated market and gain a competitive advantage.

Optimism Essay

Optimism Essay Man often becomes what he believes himself to be. If I keep on saying to myself that I cannot do a certain thing, it is possible that I may end by really becoming incapable of doing it. On the contrary, if I have to believe that I can do it, I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it even if I may not have it at the beginning Mahatma Gandhi. What does this statement mean? It actually means that you are what you believe you are. This statement can be applied to optimism that thinking more positive can lead you to be happier and healthier. But what is optimism? And is that true that optimism can make you feel happy and healthy? Well, optimism or positive thinking is the word means best which comes from Latin word optimus. Optimism also describes how optimists are always looking for the best in every situation and hoping and expecting and seeing that things will turn out well in the future. Even if some bad situation occurs, they will look at that situation as the experience. The experience which helps them not to do the same mistake over again. And yes! It is true that optimism can make you feel happier and healthier. There is the study of Martin Seligma supporting the idea that optimists are happier and healthier by showing that they tend to take care of their health, to build better social network and to face the difficu lty without any worries. I have said so much about the definition and some research, so now lets take a look at the benefits of it. There are so many advantages of being optimist and the majority advantage is about health. How can optimism make your health healthier? I have an answer for you! According to the study of Seligma, it showed that 99 Harvard University Students who were optimist at age 25 were significantly healthier at age of 45 to 60 than those who were pessimists once. The second advantage is the persistence- the persistence of your life. Because optimists do not give up easily on tough situation like pessimists do, so they tend to turn the failure to opportunity to achieve their goals. Once they know that they do something wrong, they will learn from that and they will not let that happen again. The last one is less stress. As you may know that stress can affect your daily lifestyle, your health, your disposition, and your efficiency. On the other word, stress is bad for yourself. Well being optimist may help you get through all that stuffs because optimists believe in themselves and their abilitie s, they expect good things to happen. They see negative events as minor setbacks which is easily to overcome. They see positive events as evidence of further good things to come. It is shown that optimists are more proactive with stress management and work harder at it, so that is why they are less stress than pessimists. Now you all know about the benefits of optimism, so lets move on to some famous optimist Dalai Lama to give you some guideline about being optimist person. Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people who believes that mental, physical, and spiritual health are connected to optimistic attitude. How? He has said that when some disastrous situation happens, the most important thing is how you look at that problem. Negative? Or positive? If you look at it as negative, then when the negative emotions are fully developed, you will become their slave, and you will have bad attitude toward every situation. If you look at it as positive, it means that there is still hope in that disastrous situation. If you look at it as positive , then you will cheer yourself up not to give up, not to fear, to move on, to fight, to feel good. Thus there is still hope in every situation only if you look at it as the positive or as experience or as lesson to guide you to a better future. From Dalai Lamas teaching, he actually indicates clearly that if you have positive mind or thinking, your life will be easier to move on. Now I am going to tell you some ideas of how to be optimist yourself. Being optimist is not hard to do at all. Also the result of it is the treasure in your life. The very first thing you have to know about being optimist is that being optimist does not mean ignoring the problem, but it means hoping that things will change to be a better one in the future. So here are some ideas for you to follow. First idea is to find opportunity in every difficulty. What does it mean? It means that what you are dealing with might be difficult, but it is important to remain hopeful and positive about a brighter in that difficulty. Second idea is to surround yourself with positive people because the circumstances matter! If youre surrounded by negative people, there is a highly chance of you to be negative people. So being surrounded by positive people is much more make sense to increase your chance of being positive. Third idea is to inspire yourself with smile and positive reminders. If expect worst, the worst will happen. But if you smile, you will feel so much better. So what you have to do is just put smile on your face more often and that will make you happy! Also you may need to remind yourself that you are positive by noting some quote that cheer you up like anything is possible or I always have a choice. It really helps! The last one is to focus on the present and reject the past. You have to learn to face and to live with the present moment. The present moment that you are in right now. The moment present that is guaranteed you. And that is all I have to talk about the being optimist. Being optimist is giving you a huge amount of advantage in terms of being happier, being healthier, having less stress or reducing the tendency of getting some dangerous disease. Furthermore, being optimist is not that hard to do. You do not have to force yourself to do it all, just try to do it as best as you can, and you will see the result of it. So I hope you all might be thinking about being optimist in order to have better life, better attitude toward everything by taking those ideas that I told you about. Thank you. Nonie

How does Hitler’s Seizure of Power in Germany help us define Fascism? E

Hitler’s regime in Germany is commonly referred to as Nazism, and is identified in the theories of both Sternhell and Payne, which they conclude to be completely divergent from Italian fascism. If this is the case, then Paxton’s five stages of fascism are proven to be invalid; as, like Mussolini in Italy, Hitler’s regime in Germany shows direct resemblance to these stages, as the latter parts of this chapter will show. With the signing of the armistice, that formally ended World War One, on November 11 1918, Germany respectively lost the war. Six months after the signing, the representatives at the Paris Peace Conferences, were finally able to conclude the peace treaties, which was signed on June 28 1919. The Treaty of Versailles was to have dire effects on Germany, effects that arguably completely altered the nature of her future. As part of the terms of this settlement, Germany was radically changed; in terms of: legal and military restrictions, territorial changes and also, as a result of Article 231, Germany were blamed for starting the war, which formally became known as the war guilt clause, which stated: ‘The Allied and Associated Governments affirm and Germany accepts the responsibility of Germany and her allies for causing all the loss and damage to which the Allied and Associated Governments and their nationals have been subjected as a consequence of the war imposed upon them by t he aggression of Germany and her allies’ . The sum, was later determined in 1921, to be  £6000million. In terms of legal restrictions, articles 227 to 231 tried many German officials, including Emperor Wilhelm ll, as war criminals. Furthermore, Germany saw its military, in all forms, air, land and sea, vastly restricted. The German public w... ...orship. Works Cited Allan Todd – The European Dictatorships – Hitler, Stalin and Mussolini – Cambridge university press (2002) Stanley G Payne – Fascism: Comparison and Definition – University of Wisconsin Press – 1980 Walter Laqueur – Fascism: Past, Present and Future – Oxford University Press – 1997 Roger Griffin – Essays in the 20th century World History – Heinemann London 1999 A.J Gregor – Young Mussolini and the intellectual Origins of Fascism – California Press 1979 Martin Kolinsky – Continuity and Change in European Society: France, Germany and Italy since 1870 – 1974 Palgrave Macmillan Martin Blinkhorn – Mussolini and Fascist Italy – third edition – Routledge 2006 Sharma, Urmila. Western Political Thought. Atlantic Publishers and Distributors (P) Ltd, 1998. p. 66. Philip Morgan, Fascism in Europe, 1919-1945, New York Tayolor & Francis 2003

hesitant hamlet :: essays research papers

Hesitant Hamlet   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Throughout the play, Hamlet is shown not acting quickly in crucial situations, which brings us to his tragic flaw, hesitancy. Hamlet, stopping to think situations through, lets opportunities slip right through his hands that will immensely affect so many people in the future. If Hamlet would just act on instinct, than hesitancy would never be an issue.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Unfortunately for Hamlet, in this play he does not have all the time in the world to get revenge towards Claudius. Early on in the play Hamlet sees the ghost of his father’s spirit and it beckons him to follow if he wishes to speak to it. Hamlet being encouraged not to follow by his comrades says, â€Å"It will not speak, then I will follow it† (Shakespeare 1.4). Almost without thinking Hamlet makes the decision to follow the ghost, this will later prove totally uncharacteristic of him. Thinking they can still convince him, his friends, Horatio and Marcellus, try once again to stop him only to hear, â€Å"Hold off your hands; my fate cries out; by heaven I’ll make a ghost of him that let’s me† (Shakespeare 1.4). Hamlet lets it be known here that he has made his mind up and anyone who tries to stop him, he will make a ghost out of, heaven willing. Hamlet does not show any signs of hesitancy here, but will soon allow it to get in h is way for at the wrong time.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After meeting with the ghost, Hamlet is aware of his uncle Claudius being the one who murdered his father. Hamlet, longing to avenge his father’s death gets the perfect chance catching Claudius off guard while he is alone on his knees praying. Hamlet speaks saying, â€Å"Now might I do it pat, now he is praying. And now I’ll do’t. And so he goes to heaven. And so am I avenged† (Shakespeare 3.3). Hamlet does not act, leaving Claudius harmless while he is apparently repenting and talking to God. Hamlet wants to make sure Claudius dies and is on his way to the burning pits of hell instead of heaven. Unfortunately, moments later Claudius rises from his knees and quotes, â€Å"My words fly up, my thoughts remain below; words without thoughts never to heaven go† (Shakespeare 3.3). Claudius amazingly says it himself that his words are not sincere and they wont make it to heaven. Hamlet makes the biggest mistake of his life here, not taking advantage of the picture perfect moment to kill Claudius.

Leadership Reflections: Building Relationships in the Workplace Essay

Based on assigned readings in Module 5 (â€Å"Colorado State University,† 2012), this journal entry reviews the author’s strategies as a change management consultant for building and improving relationships in client organizations. The discussion then considers the effectiveness of these strategies relative to the author’s workplace environment including the author’s approach for mitigating relationship issues in the event the strategies prove ineffective. Strategies for Building and Improving Relationships The effectiveness of a political navigator depends on strong interpersonal relationships built through competent communication and respectful action (Cialdini, 2001; Gilley, 2006; Lewicki, Barry, & Saunders, 2006). As Cummings and Worley (2009) observe, â€Å"Establishing a healthy relationship at the onset makes it more likely that the client’s desired outcomes will be achieved . . .† (p. 81). Therefore, as a consultant, the author predominantly relies on two sets of sequentially reinforcing strategies for initiating and creating synergistic client relationships. Strategies for Initiating Client Engagement The first set comprises four â€Å"initiating† strategies for influencing positive client engagement: displaying an engaging personality, identifying with clients, developing mutual interests, and practicing reciprocity. Displaying an engaging friendly personality – a prerequisite for building relationships (Cialdini, 2001; Gilley, 2006) – creates initial positive perceptions and helps establish personal rapport. Identifying with clients on their level (Gilley, 2006) by altering personal communication style, language, dress, and behaviors to match with their cultural norms, reinforces perceptions of the author’s willingness to ackn... ...anizations (pp. 2-4). Greenwood Village, CO: Author Cummings, T., & Worley, C. (2009). Organizational development & change (9th ed.). Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning. Gilley, J. (2006). The manager as politician. Westport, CT: Praeger Publishers. Kouzes J., & Posner, B. (2007). The leadership challenge (4th ed.). San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Lewicki, J. R., Barry, B., & Saunders, M. D. (2006). Negotiation: Readings, Exercises and Cases (5th ed.). New York: McGraw Hill. Schein, E. (2004). Organizational culture and leadership (3rd ed.). San Francisco: Jossey-Bass. Senge, P. (2006). The fifth discipline: The art & practice of the learning organization (revised ed.). New York: Random House. Vecchio, R. (Ed.). (2007). Leadership: Understanding the dynamics of power and influence in organizations (2nd ed.). Notre Dame, IN: University of Notre Dame Press.

Developing effective communication in health and social care Essay

In this essay I will be explaining how I use good communication and interpersonal interactions with the residents I will meet on my work experience at a residential home for older people. I will be explaining the skills and strategies I will use to make communication making sure it is effective. My essay will talk about different types of communication for example one to one, with different types of people, including professionals and service users. I will use communication with a variety of people and consider the most appropriate form of communication to be applied making sure the needs of all individuals are met. I will also explain and discuss Argyle’s communication cycle and Tuchman’s group process theory and apply these to my essay in relation to effective communication. My essay will also include an assessment of the skills and strategies used in communication and how they relate to the different theories. Communication is when you swap over information by speaking, writing, or using other methods making sure the communication is received and understood. Interpersonal interaction or communication is the process of sending and receiving information between people, using a two way process of communication. Read more:  Reasons why we communicate  essay The ways individuals communicate with others depend on the situation or the context you are in. There are many types of communication; there is spoken communication like one to one and oral communication with groups of people which is also known as interpersonal interaction. However communicating isn’t always spoken, many people communicate by unspoken communication using facial expressions or sign language. Email, texting and writing are also forms of communication. The formality of our communication can change depending on the context of it. For instance, if you are talking to your friends it will be informal and you will probably use slang. However when talking to a professional like a GP you might talk in your own dialect and it can be informal but the GP is more likely to respond formally, they may also talk in Jargon. When communicating it needs to be effective, effective communication means that when communication we make sure the person can understand and receive the information we are giving. We need to also make sure it is appropriate and clear, communication must achieve an nderstanding and meet the service users needs otherwise it has no purpose. This relates to Argyles communication cycle. Argyle said that effective communication is a two way process, to make the communication effective the person you are communicating with needs to be able to understand the message and decoded it. If the individual cannot do this the communication is not effective. Communication needs to be clear and formal without using slan g or jargon, this will enable the receiver to understand the information and then the message is understood and the cycle can continue. Argyle argued that communication was a two way process and it is a cycle because when two people are communication they need to be able to understand what is being said otherwise the communication is not effective and has no point. Argyles cycle has 6 stages, the first stage is idea; you have an idea in your head that you would like to communicate with other people. The second stage is coding where you think through what you are going to say and make it understandable to the receiver. The third stage is sending the message, you communicate with the receiver either by speaking, writing or in another way. The fourth stage is receiving; the other person receives your message and hears or sees what you say. The fifth stage is when the message is decoded, this is when the person decodes your message and understands what you say. At this point in the cycle if the person cannot understand the message then the cycle stops the communication is not effective. For example when on placement if communicating with a person with dementia, they might not understand you or what you are saying to them. They might become forgetful and feel lost this is when the communication cycle is not effective as the person will have no idea what you are on about. To overcome this I will need find another way of communicating with the resident or find a carer that knows what to do and how to cope in these situations. There are many barriers and reasons on why the communication is not effective, one of these being disabilities. Disabilities are a big barrier within communication this is when you need to change the way you communicate to meet the needs of the service user. The service user in the home could be deaf; if he/she is deaf it is pointless speaking to the person as they won’t understand you. There is no point in raising your voice or speaking clearer to try and make the person understand. You will need to change the way you communicate sign language is a way you can communicate with the person. Deaf people have no problem talking with people who also communicate by BSL. So when in the home if a person is deaf and you cannot communicate with them as you don’t sign find someone that does. Residents in the home might also have sensory impairments meaning they might not be able to see, this is when we would use Braille to communicate. Language is also a barrier to communication, if one of the people in the home speaks French you will need to speak French back. You cannot communicate with someone of another language if you don’t know the language yourself. So you will need to either learn the language or find an interpreter. Culture can also cause communication barriers, some cultures are not allowed to look people in the eye, and they can’t give eye contact or be within a certain amount of space to someone. This means that if someone was 2 arms lengths away from you there is no point talking to them as they won’t be able to understand them, you would either have to write what you want to say down or in the form of a text/email. There are many more barriers to communication that we face daily; you will need to have an idea of what people will be expecting and how they will be expecting to speak when you open your mouth. Another communication theory is Tuckman’s stages of group interaction. Tuckman believed that communication in groups is influenced by the degree in which people feel they belong together. He believed that when people first meet the go through a process involving 4 stages, these being: forming, storming, norming and performing. The first stage is when the group meet for the first time and exchange information, the second stage is further on in the relationship when there is tension in the group causing arguments about the way in which the group may function or act. The third stage of the process is when the group are norming at this point the group are coming together and trying to agree on their group values and beliefs. After this stage everyone will begin to perform effectively as a group. For instance the service users in the residential home might be at the stage or storming/norming. This could be because I will be a new person in the home replacing one of the carers that has been there for many years, the service users might feel very nervous and scared, there might be tension in the group because of this and they might be norming over the carer that left. Tuckman’s theory can help to build relationships with the people in the home and make the communication more effective because it is broken down in stages. This makes it easier to build a relationship with people because in the first stage forming, this is when I as a new member of the team will join the group and exchange information about myself with others. From that point it is up to the people in the home to continue Tuckman’s theory as it is their choice if they accept me into the group. If they accept me then the communication process can continue and we will come together as a group. If I was to build a relationship with the people in the home I need to make sure I have some of the same things in common and I understand what they are going through and how they feel, this all comes down to my values and beliefs and if mine are the same as the groups. Argyles theory also helps to build a relationship with people because to even get the communication cycle started, I will need to understand the resident. I will need to know what is wrong with them, how they feel and if there are any barriers in the way of communication. This is because there is no point in me talking to someone who is deaf. They will not be able to hear me and understand what I’m saying so the communication cycle will stop. However I will be able to overcome this, I need to recognise the barriers and understand how I can get rid of them. For example I can communicate with the deaf person in other ways like using Braille or writing things down as they will be able to see and read. If I overcome this I can help to build a relationship with the people in the home and communication will be effective. However these theories do not work all the time for all people. In some cases it might be very hard to overcome certain barriers for example if the patient is both blind, deaf and cannot understand Braille what do you do. Cases like that are very hard to conquer and in that case the theories are not useful and the communication is not effective. There are many other limitations like language. If there is a person in the home that is French and I only speak German and there are no translators available what should I do? I can’t get a translator because no one in the home translates how I can overcome the barrier. In some cases that will occur in the residential home I will not be able to use the theories of communication. This is because there are limitations and no way to overcome these. This means the communication cycles and processes are not working and the communication is not effective to the residents. Both theories use different skills and strategies to gain effective communication. One of these skills being the appropriate method of communication to make sure they meet the service users needs. In both theories you need to use clear and appropriate communication, this is because if you don’t the service user will not be able to understand you and it will also make the communication not effective. By doing this you could also make the service user uncomfortable so when speaking to a service user you need to make sure you are professional and speak to them with respect and be clear so that they can understand you. This will enable you to create a better relationship with the person as they will be able to understand what you are saying and will be able to communicate back, this will also help you as the service user will then know that they can come and talk to you because they understand you. Jargon is another strategy that should not be used in any cycle, if you use Jargon some people won’t be able to understand you for example someone with learning disabilities won’t be able to understand it if u use Jargon, that is why you need to use an appropriate method of communication. If you do use Jargon then people are unable to decode your message and won’t receive it. This means that the coding you have given them isn’t good enough and clear so they can’t understand. To overcome this you will need to use clear speaking and clarity. In Tuckman’s theory formal communication is a strategy used. It is mainly used at the beginning of the relationship when you are forming as a group and meeting different people. People speak in a formal language because when they meet someone knew they try to give a good impression. However the further in the process the group gets and the more they get to know each other they might start talking with a more informal language and use their own dialect. Another skill that is used in the communication cycle is questioning. Questioning is a good skill to use as u can form relationships with people knowing that you understand them and they understand you. If I use questioning in my placement I will gain a better understanding of them, I will also find out more information about them and I can check that they have understood what I have said to them. By doing this you are able to communicate and make it effective. Listening is a skill I will also use in the placement that is used in both theories for argyles cycle listening is very important. If the person isn’t listening then they won’t understand the message and find it hard to understand what is going on. However in Tuckman’s theory listening helps to understand when in the process the group is at. Listening will help me in my placement as I will be able to learn new things about the residents I will also get ideas about the group I am going into and what stage in Tuckman’s theory I will be entering. This will make me have a better understanding of the model and how the group relate to it and if they also relate to Argyles. However these skills and strategies don’t always apply in all situations. In the home you might find yourself in a situation that you can’t use the skills to help you and you might need to get help form another carer or resident. Sometimes these strategies and skills are hard to use when working with people who have disabilities or speak a different language. This will mean that you will have to find alternative skills to use when communication with people who find it hard to understand. For example if you are communicating with someone of another language these skills and strategies will be hard to use. You won’t be able to keep asking them questions as they don’t understand your language. Also you will need to be careful in what body language you use otherwise some people can take it the wrong way and be offended. They are helpful but some of the times aren’t. For example if your talking to someone with dementia. Tuckman’s theory will not work, this is because people with dementia become forgetful and loos there memory. So using Tuckman’s theory of communication is not very appropriate when you know it wont get to many stages because of the disability. On the other hand Argyles communication cycle is very useful when using interpersonal interaction talking one to one. This is because the cycle goes round in a circle and it is very simple, so if the person cannot decode the message you can just explain it in a different way or make it more simple for them to understand. In conclusion I have found out that there are many different skills and strategies that I can use in my placement to help me use more effective communication with the residents. I have also learnt that both theories fit in to everyday life it just depends on the situation you are in which determines what theory u relate to and the way you use communication. I have also learnt that you need to use good communication and make it effective otherwise it is pointless.