Economic sanctions against Cuba Essay Example for Free

Economic sanctions against Cuba Essay The US economic embargo against Cuba dates back to1962 during a revolution than led to Fidel Castro occupying the top seat as the President of Cuba. The embargos comprised both economic and commercial sanctions as well as financial support. These embargos were put in place when Fidel Castro nationalized all the enterprises that were owned by Americans in Cuba. (Jones, 2008). Due to this, the Foreign Assistance Act was passed in the US congress, which prohibited any aid to be extended to Cuba, and therefore a total embargo was imposed on all trade relations between the US and Cuba. (Sierra, 1962) This economic embargo was to undermine Cuban president, Fidel Castro and the socialist government he had established. Imports of all goods from Cuba were banned. In 1963, President Kennedy proposed that it was illegal for any US citizen to travel to Cuba either for personal reasons or for commercial purposes. In this connection, the US department of commerce made it a requirement that all exports of food stuffs and medicine be approved before being taken out of the country. (Sierra, 1962). The US economic embargo against Cuba led to great economic and social effects which are still felt today. The ban on trade relations with the US led to increased cost of imports and lower levels of production. The cost of food increased, which led to adverse shortage of food in Cuba and an increasing dependency on the Soviet Union. Cuba lost her major markets and foreign assistance leading to a collapse of the Cuban economy. (Lamrani, 2007). Because of this, the standard of living dropped. Additionally, there were critical health concerns due to a ban on medicines from the US. The US president should not continue supporting the policy but he should lift the sanctions. These sanctions hurt Castro’s administration a little, but it is the common man who suffers most from the enforced restrictions. His suffering is in direct contradiction to how the US would like to portray itself as a big brother to smaller and weaker nations. Therefore, lifting restrictions on trade will allow free trade to take place between Cuba and the US. This will stimulate economic growth of Cuba leading to a better standard of living. In addition, lifting travel restrictions will promote tourism in Cuba, which will also stimulate economic growth. Griswold (2005) says that there is need for the application of sound reasoning on trade in general as far as this policy is concerned toward Cuba. Therefore change in Cuba will not be embraced by applying more sanctions but it will be realized through dialogue between Cuba and the US government. The clips present different types of speeches by the presidents concerning different issues in the history of the US. President John Kennedy was among the best in communicating with the American people. An example of this is a humorous speech he made in a democratic fund raising event. Bill Clinton also made a remarkable speech when he talked about forgiveness in a ceremony commemorating the 1963 civil rights march in Washington DC. Contrary to the above, President Richard Nixon had the most difficult time connecting with the people because of the allegations of financial mismanagement by his administration that involved a political trust fund. Because of these allegations, he lost in California when he contested for the presidency a second time. (The history place) It is true that the economic sanctions imposed on Cuba for almost half a century seem to have failed in their mission. Castro’s administration continues to be in power and stronger than ever before, a situation, which is causing a big debate in the US government. (McLoughlin Boles, 2003) Reference Griswold, T (2005). The economic embargo. Updated 2006. Accessed Jan. 28, 2009 http://www. freetrade. org/issues/cuba. html Lamrani, S. (2007). The economic sanctions against Cuba: The failure of a cruel and irrational policy. Updated Oct.8, 2007. Accessed Jan. 28, 2009. http://www. globalresearch. ca/index. php? context=vaaid=7024 McLoughlin, E. Boles, E. (2003). The United states embargo against Cuba. Updated Dec. 5, 2003. Accessed Jan. 28, 2009 http://glenninstitute. osu. edu/washington/McLoughlinPaper. htm Sierra, J. A (1962). The economic embargo time line in Cuba. Accessed Jan. 28, 2009. http://www. historyofcuba. com/history/funfacts/embargo. htm â€Å"The history place†: Sounds of history: Updated 2009. Accessed Jan. 28, 2008 http://www. historyplace. com/specials/sounds-prez/index. html

Marketing Strategy Of Tony And Guy Salon

Marketing Strategy Of Tony And Guy Salon Tony and Guy salon is working marketing strategy that would enable the company regains the control of the hair treatments market globally. More so, the company is working towards reviving and rejuvenating operational the Dubai Branch that has not been performing well. The organization has set aside $ 1000000 for the processes in the marketing strategy. The conservative limited marketing budget will spread among such activities as marketing efforts renting showrooms in high traffic areas in cities where there will not only be more visibility of the Tony Guy products but also its professionally trained staff will offer hair treatment services at subsidized rates and show case the organizations product and services. Apart from the existing outlets, the activities will be conducted in selected well-traveled, popular malls located in high human traffic areas. Although, it will be costly to lease these locations temporarily, normally higher than normal rent, part of the high cost of rents will be offset of the sales made during the exercise. The other proceeds will go to marketing activities that are designed to increase visibility such as road-shows and other activities. Generally the marketing strategy is composed of the following activities: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Advertisements: there will be Advertisements in country specific and international magazines, journals, newspapers and other publications. Those publications that have wide readerships among the women and youth will be give priority since these groups the biggest junk of the target market segments. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Since not all the target markets may be reached by advertisements in publications, alternatives means of reaching them will have to be decided. One way will be using large billboards in major roads feeding major world cities. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ In-store and Store Front Displays: These displays will be visible to the large walk- through traffic base. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Electronic mediums such Television Commercials, radio and internet à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Sponsored events and roads shows will be another marketing strategy to be used. 3.1 Mission The major objective of marketing strategies will be to inform the customers and those potentials customer that Tony and Guy products and Salon Services are not only available locally but also that the company is committed to providing reasonably priced, convenient hair styling and the organization exists to attract and maintain customers. When Tony and Guy adhere to this maxim, everything else will fall into place. Their services will meet or exceed the expectations of their customers and eventually result in secured and protected future markets. 3.2 Marketing Objectives à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The marketing strategies will increase repeat customers by at least 9% per quarter. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Product visibilities and awareness is to be boosted by 14% à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The strategies will decrease customer acquisition costs by 8% per year. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Non performing branches such the as one Dubai is to maintain positive, steady growth each month. 3.3 Financial Objectives Ultimately, the marketing objectives of the marketing strategy must translate into sales. After the implementation of the marketing strategy, the following effects are anticipated or targeted sales: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ 10% increase in the amount of retail products sold per year. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Growth of the profit margin by 3% per year. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Full recovery of sales and ultimately profitability in the Dubai branches and other branches initially performing poorly throughout the worlds; one year since the inception of marketing programs. Target Marketing, as part of the strategy will enable Tony and Guy; to reach different market segments: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Men: past statistics show that men at least 70%-75%of men use hair make up, thus implying significant clientele potentials. Relevant communicational tactical ads will to reach these groups will be used. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Upper-end and lower-end women markets: The biggest proportions (about 90%) of the revenues to the hair industry come from female customers. Women have generally been found to be fond of identifying themselves with classy and expensive and fashionable products and services. Although they can be discriminated by class and prices, the quality of services and the functionality of different brands of Tony and Guy brands will greatly influence this segment t of the market. There therefore great potential market in the women populations. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Young Mothers with Children: Young children are an emerging market in the hair treatment industry. A typical family salon has facilities that allow the children to play while they are waiting and then will work with the parents in calming the children nerves when they are ready for treatment. Each of the three groups will be targeted separately. The Tony and Guy outlets and the new leased promotional centers will prepare its staff to offer quick and convenient services to the male customers. Outlets will close late at night 8 pm in high traffic centers and security services will be acquired from security companies. Through out the periods, no appointments will be required, and most of the salon services will be on first come first serve basis but quick, convenient and satisfactory to the customers. As for women, generally, researches have shown them to prefer the allure of classy salons, although practically not everyone can afford such luxury. For this reason, Tony and Guy will provide the different hair treatment services but strictly within the normal range prices. Tony and Guy will target these customers by emphasizing the sophisticated, ultra hype styling that Tony and Guy will offer at all their outlets all over the world during the promotion period or the time of implementing the marketing strategies. Entertainment will be offered. To reach both the high end and low end market at the time while appealing wit classy but affordable services and products, Tony and Guy advertisement will be made to appeal to all. The advertisement while communicating the classiness of the services and products will also emphasize of the affordability. Above all, advertisements will demonstrate that making up and treating ones hair with companys products and or services is a necessity, as bas ic as clothing. It will communicate that it not longer a secondary need but a basic need for every woman. With the latest finding confirming that there is an emerging market in the children for the hair industry, Tony and Guy cannot ignore the segment. To win the Children market, Tony and Guy, will focus its strategies towards mothers with children by offering kids toys to play with while they wait and child-friendly hair stylists. Additionally, children receive a special rate reflecting the fact that childrens hair grows so fast that it can be expensive to keep up with regular treatments as well as the recognition that it generally takes a lot less time to treat a childs hair so it should be inherently less expensive. The tactical advertisement will be tuned to appeal to this group while reaching other segment with the same message. 3.5 Positioning Tony and Guy Salon marketing strategies will position the organization in the industry strategically to be a one stop-shop convenient, full and affordable services and products. While reaching families a corporate entity, the salons also will appeals to individuals with all the outlets prepared to offer quality services and products at competitive rates even after the promotional periods. Tony and Guy will be offering one-stop services, building it competitive edge by striving to achieve its desired positioning through; à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Excellent customer services through out all centers: Tony and Guys competitive edge will be based on superior customer service. The company recognizes that the hair treatment industry has crowded market with challenging situations id differentiating its products and services from those of the competitors. To stand out in the market, Tony and Guy, take advantage of its combined concerted efforts to sell the hair products while at the same time operating salons. The two activities not only give an opportunity to the customers to try the products and the services but also enables them experience the quality of services and the products the company offers. Tony and Guys have been trained in the London Academy in quality customers services. This will enable the company through out its branches spread across the globe to simultaneously offer or provide superior customer attention. The staff will be as much as possible be flexible to the needs of the customer. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The staff will be incentivized to offer quality client services throughout. While Tony and Guy will invest time and money into training the employees, other concerted efforts will be arranged to ensure that clients receive the best experience possible making it is easier to turn them into a long-term customer and improve the companys and the its services and products reputations. Through the superior customer service, Tony and Guy will be able to effectively compete against and outlast larger chains and independent stores operating in the industry both locally and internationally. 3.6 Strategy Pyramids To fully overhaul, the old marketing strategies, with rejuvenated efforts, the single most apparent objective is to position Tony and Guy as the premier, full service, family salon in the internationally. The pyramids marketing strategy will seek to first create customer awareness regarding the services offered, then develop the customer base, and finally work toward building customer loyalty and referrals. The message that Tony and Guy will seek to communicate is that the entire family can be served quickly, professionally, with superior customer service at reasonable rates. The message will be communicated through various methods. During and after the promotions, the messages will continue to be communicated through in-store and storefront displays through all the outlets and partnering retail salons. This will be a convenient and cost effective method to attract potential and existing customers that walk around the or near the outlets and retail centre. This will complement the other method of communication is advertisements in two local and international regular publications newspapers. Marketing Mix Tony and Guy marketing mix will carefully companied selectively to influence customer behavior in favor of the services and product of the company. Theoretically, a typical marketing mix model is comprised of the 4Ps of marketing namely: pricing, Place (distribution), Promotion and advertising, and Product. Pricing Tony and Guy Salon pricing system will be founded on a competitive pricing model that while making the services and products affordable, also remains competitive relative to competitors prices. This pricing strategy will be the most fundamental element that needs serious considerations in each and every market. Although the pricing of services and products by Tony and Guy will be guided by the current levels and those of the competitors, the company will strive to offer optimal prices, affordable and compelling to the customer, yet giving reasonable returns. During the promotions, the prices will be subsidized, but at minimum, the revenues must offset the promotional expenses. Thereafter the new set of optimal prices will be offered for the products. Each markets retail outlets will be issued with pricing guidelines. Tony and Guy acknowledge the difficulty in standardizing prizes in all the markets considering the variations in income and economic levels. For this reason each segment of economic separated by national boundaries and currency will have specific pricing model guidelines. Independent salons franchised to offer Tony and Guy products and services will be given discounts to together with customers identifies to have been loyal (Westwood, 2000). Price Policy While Tony and Guy Company Salon admit that pricing is the most important element that influences customer or rather buyer behavior and the same determine the profitability of any enterprise, the company intends to develop policies that would assist the managements and retailing outlets in setting optimum pricings that are enticing to customers. These prices will be so strategic that that it will affect the overall performances and the future competitiveness of Tony and Guy. Attracting new clients and keeping the customers, will be the key agenda in the pricing policies to be developed. Because of these affordably but competitive prices, Tony and Guy will use other strategies expand its market. The lower prices will be compensated by larger sales volumes. In this case the best method that the company sees as what will attract the customers and keep them. For the prices to be competitive and appealing to customers, the organization devises strategies and conducts feasibility analyses of customers experiences at different pricing scenarios. This requires some market research and testing to determine customer behavior at different selected rates. The Tony and Guy Hair products and hair treatment services will use the fixed price in specific regions with similar market segment description such demographic, cultural and economic situations. This policy involves determining the price for customers who are wiling to purchase the product with the same prices, given the same shared market conditions and environment. Though it sounds discriminatory in nature, the prices will be fixed in such a way that it will be very easy for the company to administer and in the long run be able to maintain a good will within the customers. This strategy will enable the company use the higher pricing in better economics markets to compensate the minimal rates charged in the markets whose economic and average income levels are lowers. This is one of the strategies often recommended for company multinationals operating in countries having different economic performances (Westwood, 2000). Place (Place of Distribution) Worldwide Marketing (Promotion) Tony and Guy Salon being an international company that deals with hair treatments products an services, has a strategic marketing plan program for its product and services with a world wide scope. Since the birth of the organization in United Kingdom, the company has always catered for the demand of its customers across the globe. Consistent with this global reach, the company has always been aware of its customer around the globe. In line with this element of the marketing mix and consistent to the marketing strategy, the strategy has always been to formulate and invent products that meets the needs of customers in different part of the world. With much investment in research and development of Tony and Guy salon products, the organization has already meet identified the specific needs required in most parts of the world including the strict Islamic Middle East. Following adaptation of its products to meet the specific hair needs of the customers in different part of the globe, Tony and Guy has earned high approval rating from clients. This explains the successive awards the company has won. For example, in 2006, it won the South West Hairdresser of the Year and it has won the London Hairdresser of the Year (11 times) consecutively. While sensitive to such social issues as racism and whiles making efforts not to conform to beauty concepts of each and every culture in the countries they are operating, Tony and Guy has taken into consideration, Tony and Guy take into consideration colors appreciated by its customers. The company gives its customers opportunities to embrace diversity amongst them selves while enhancing their personal features and aesthetics. Tony and Guy Salon employees are another lot of diversity. With majority of them being women and multi-colored, they are considered a minority implying an excellent team out of an affirmative action and a symbol of the target global market. To Tony and Guy Salon, embracing people cultures is the best method to reach and to serve the interest of the consumer wherever they are. Locating the store in a high traffic mall will significantly increase visibility. A targeted advertising campaign will also communicate Tony and Guy Salons desired messages. The company intends to use various media so as to reach its target market. Research will be made so that the right media is selected which is more efficient and more reliable. The promotional activities that the company intends to put in place include having a chain of distribution that is well coordinated and that which can provide the right channel to the market that is targeted. Some of the channels which are available in Kenya include use of mass media, newspapers, the internet and personal selling. Through these methods, the company is able to reach many people at the same time and establish a strong market in Kenya (Kirsch and Goldfarb, 2002). Product and services A practical marketing strategy is not complete without the product element of the marketing mix. One way Tony and Guy Salon have ensured appropriately blending its hair treatment products and services. Customer service is on strategy that has been used to deliver quality to customers worldwide. All the Tony and Guy Salon employees have been trained in exceptional customer service in the London Academy. The partnering retail salons have also been given strict guidelines on the quality of customer service. Tony and Guy is recognized for it commitment to continually pursue researches that ultimately improve the quality of the company products and service. One of the strategic plans has had has always been to take into account the best interests of the customers wherever they are. By giving a wider variety of products and services, the company has been able to offer customers a wider range that customers can chose from according to their needs and preferences. The products and services are prices in such a way that it caters for the needs of all the customers which though geographically separated are united by the Tony and Guy products and services. Regardless of age, whether affluent or poor, whether in Africa or in Asia, Tony and Guy offer product and services that suits the needs and are affordable to each of them. To remain reliant, the company keeps abreast of the latest trends in the industry. Tony and Guy continually update their brands and responding to the dynamics of the industry. To enhance these processed the company has a dedicated team that pursue research and product innovation. The major objective of all these efforts is to consolidate a stronger clientele base among diverse cultures around the globe. Since the emergence advertising and promotions, Tony and Guy, has commissioned several posters around the major cities to publicize the company products. Since the introduction advertising through movies in the 1950s, the company has engaged it also a medium of reaching customers. Tony and Guy has also sponsored major Soap Operas in Europe and Asia which are also transmitted or sold to other continents. Use of celebrity personalities in adverting has not escaped the company marketing strategies. The famous actresses and other personalities has enabled Tony and Guy relate the successful with personality lives to their corporate and brand images and subsequently boasting visibility and sales. Ethical Issues and CSR In any marketing program, ethical issues normally emerge. There is one major ethical issue that will be of great concern in this marketing plan for Tony and Guy salon. The ethical issue revolves around the conventional use of advertising using images of beautiful women. The hair treatment industry being just part of beauty and cosmetic industry, has conventionally been using images of women to advertise. This is because, the core target audient is the women populace and images of other popular or celebrity women can sell a message of advertisement to them. The underlying ethical issue in Tony and Guy marketing strategy is in the use of using advertisement that carry beautiful women. This has recently attracted criticism with critics claiming that use of images, more so explicit or very exposing women images not only degrades the stands of morals in the society but also lowers the dignity of women. In addition to these criticisms, the images are said to be offensive to conservative cultures. According to Blaire (1994), advertising using feminine messages whether visual or otherwise, delineates from the natural and local cultures principles and instead are forced to see herself through the eyes of another ideal woman in an ad image.

Definition Of Noise Pollution

Definition Of Noise Pollution The definition of noise pollution is can be elaborate as a type of energy pollution in which distracting, irritating, or damaging sounds are freely audible. Noise pollution contaminants are not physical particles, but rather waves that interfere with naturally-occurring waves of a similar type in the same environment. Sounds are considered noise pollution if they adversely affect wildlife, human activity, or are capable of damaging physical structures on a regular, repeating basis. In the broadest sense of the term, a sound may be considered noise pollution if it disturbs any natural process or causes human harm, even if the sound does not occur on a regular basis. 1.12 Measurement for sound Sound is transmitted in series through the air with the wave compressed. When it comes to sound, there are three terms that can connected with it, the strength, pitch or frequency. Strength calculated in units of decibels (dB). Decibel is a ratio expressed on a logarithmic scale. This logarithmic scale takes care of wide range of sound power, intensity and pressure. The decibel (dB) scale begins from zero, which represents the faintest sound, which is audible to a normal ear. Decibel (dB) is used in environmental noise pollution as a measure of sound power level, sound intensity level and sound pressure level. A decibel is a physical unit based on the weakest sound that can be detected by the human ear. It is named after Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone. Our human ear sensitivity to noise in the range of 20 to 20,000. 1.13 Sources of noise pollution People living in urban city complained about the noise from automobile traffic, overhead airplanes and helicopters, leaf blowers, pneumatic drills, and neighbors who play their televisions and stereos much too loudly. Large urban areas are being inundated by unwanted sounds. These sounds or noises are disturbing, disrupting ongoing activities and peaceful interludes. One cannot concentrate on a work project if there is constant drilling at a nearby construction site. It is virtually impossible to enjoy a television program when overhead jets frequently drown out its sound. It is difficult to fall asleep if your upstairs neighbors stereo system is blasting away. There are many sources of noise pollution that created in urban areas. The sources in general may be stationary or mobile. The example of stationary sources is such as when use of loudspeakers on various occasions like festivals, elections, worships in temples, mosques and during advertisements, mining operations, use of bulldozers, drillers and dynamites to break rocks, household gadgets like vacuum cleaner, TV, radio, stereo, grinder, mixer. In the other hand, mobile sources can be classified in Transportation / Traffic noise (Road Traffic or Highway Noise), Industrial noise, Noise from construction work and also Neighborhood noise.   Noise has direct physiological effects to human such as hearing damage which can be including hearing loss and tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, as well as cardiovascular and hormonal disturbances. Indirect effects include sleep loss, interference with concentration and learning, mood changes and aggression, and social isolation. Noise pollution is also becoming huge problem for many animals. Their hearing for detecting predators, finding mates, establishing territory, and recognizing warning alerts. Unnaturally high levels of noise can damage their hearing and can also mask more subtle sounds that they need to hear in order to survive and reproduce. They may also react with a fight-or-flight response to artificial sounds such as aircraft noise, thereby using up valuable energy reserves to flee from a non-existent predator. If noise in urban area becomes too intrusive, animals may shift to a new territory or alter their migration patterns, which can create new complications for their mating and survival. Noise Pollution effects the environment. As we all known that plants are similar to human being. They are also as sensitive as man. There should be cool and peaceful environment for their better growth. Noise pollution causes poor quality of crops in a pleasant atmosphere. Aim To awareness people that lived in urban areas when surrounding with noise pollution. I would like to cultivate and make a mass awareness to urban population since the level of awareness on the noise environmental issues is very low in urban areas. This will make a step of prevention to aware the dangerous of noise pollution surrounding them and how they can avoid or decrease the level of noise and know the effects and causes related to noise pollution. 1.3 Plan of the Research The plan is to investigate the level of awareness of the society regarding the environmental issues particularly on noise pollution issue. What are the best actions that need to be taken to make the society/community is aware. One of the plans is creating the survey questions. It will be asked questions to test their personality and attitude towards the environment especially on noise pollution. By performing these tasks, we can identify the best strategy to get peoples attention on this serious matter. This is a few questions that will be discussed. 1.4 Research Question What are the effects of noise on human health How does noise affect babies and children? What are the most common sources of noise pollution? What problems does noise pollution cause for people? What problems does noise pollution cause for animals? What are the effects of noise pollution on the environment? What can I do personally to reduce my own noise pollution? How can we reduce the noise pollution? What are the precautions we can take to avoid noise pollution? Do you think public is aware of the noise pollution issue? How can we educate people to make them emotionally/spiritually aware in better ways such as storytelling, video art etc? Does urbanization affects/increase the level of noise? Do you think we can totally get rid of noise pollution in urban cities? Are you aware that there are rules and regulations regarding noise? Research for (digital record) location The other plan is to record some digital audio (sound) and visual (video) to show the main causes of the noise pollution. The planning location is such as Main town Highway road LRT / Commuter rail Factories Neighborhood around the town Entertainment place (club, pub) Construction in the town 1.5 Justification for the Research Noise is all around us, but that doesnt mean we should just placidly accept unhealthy and unsafe levels of noise. Exposure to loud or constant noises can contribute to or cause hearing loss or a reduction in your ability to hear some frequencies of sound. Noise can prevent us from sleeping, which in turn affects our health and mood. Noise can distract us from our work, leading to errors and their consequences. And noise can produce high stress levels by triggering the bodys flight-or-fight response, which in turn leads to high blood pressure. In short, noise is not just a nuisance; it is a real health issue. By doing this research, I may contribute and helping people living in the urban areas to give some awareness regarding noise pollution and at the same time will save our habitat and environment in urban areas. Throughout reading my research paper and artwork, it will create awareness and people will be able control the sound and decrease the level of the noise pollution in urban areas. Furthermore people in the cities also can avoid from getting some health effects regarding noise pollution. . 1.6 Methodology I will gather data from internet sources, magazines, journals and etc Documentary I will try to get documentaries and speeches by environmentalists. Interview I will try to find people from Malaysian Nature Society (MNS) to answer some questions via email. Survey I have prepared questions as my survey. Visual- I will get some information about noise pollution via audio video in spot location in urban city. 1.7 Scope Sample from MMU students aged from 18-30 years old. Public aged from 18-30 years old. 1.8 Outline of the Thesis Chapter 1 I will provide the introduction details of my research topic. Chapter 2 I will put up the works of the previous researchers have done theoretically and practically. Chapter 3 I will provide the details such as materials to collect data and the details of the investigation. Chapter 4 I will discuss the result that I gathered from chapter 3 and will provide full analysis of interpreting data in the form of tables, charts and figures. Chapter 5 I will answer all the questions stated in the chapter 1. I will then interpret the research findings and check if they the data agree with the aims and proposal of my research and will provide recommendation if theres need. 1.9 Definitions Urban An urban area is characterized by higher population density and vast human features in comparison to areas surrounding it. Urban areas may be cities, towns. Pollution- Pollution is the introduction of a contaminant into the environment. It is created mostly by human actions, but can also be a result of natural disasters. Pollution has a detrimental effect on any living organism in an environment, making it virtually impossible to sustain life. Noise- Noise is unwanted electrical or electromagnetic energy that degrades the quality of signals and data.   Noise occurs in digital and analog systems, and can affect files and communications of all types, including text, programs, images, audio, and telemetry.

Peregrine Systems Fraud Essay example -- Business Case Studies Account

Peregrine System's Accounting Fraud Wall Street's demand for high growth motivated Peregrine Systems' executives, to fraudulently inflate revenues and stock prices. According to the SEC, "Peregrine filed materially incorrect financial statements with the commission for 11 consecutive quarters." Steven Spitzer, a member of Peregrine's sales team admitted to meeting regularly with senior management near the end of the quarter to determine how much revenue was needed to exceed Wall Street's expectations. The primary fraud committed by Peregrine was done by inflating revenue by booking revenue when sales never occurred. By recognizing revenue from sales that never occurred, the accounts receivable balance and net income were fraudulently overstated; the accounts receivable would never be collected, because the merchandise was never sold. To cover up their high, outstanding, accounts receivable balance as a result of booking sales that did not occur, Peregrine fraudulently engaged in financial agreements with banks. Evidently, Peregrine Systems increased its revenues by pressuring distributors and resellers to build up their inventories (known as "parking" their inventory). Through secret side or oral agreements Peregrine distributors and resellers were not obligated to pay Peregrine for their software inventories. This conduct obviously became a problem. If they could not sell Peregrine's software, they would receive their money back. According to GAAP, revenue recognition on the sale of software requires evidence that an arrangement must exist, delivery must have occurred, vendor's fees must be fixed or determinable, and collectibility must be probable before recognizing revenue. Peregrine falsely recorded this tra... ... tempted to falsely inflate earnings is to take away their personal gains, if the company's stocks go up. I believe that when upper level management has too much incentive based on personal financial gain, which is directly based on the performance of the company; it compromises their judgments. I think that upper level management should not be allowed to receive stock options or to even own stock in the company as the financial statements would provide a neutral, bias-free report. Management would have no reason to "cook the books." I also feel that any management who still decides to falsify documents needs to be held more accountable for their actions and receive tougher punishments. I think that these strict guidelines would help the people in the United States and people all over the world feel more confident in investing their money into the stock market.

Chaucers Canterbury Tales Essay - The Powerful Wife of Bath

The Powerful Wife of Bath   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In Geoffrey Chacer's The Canterbury Tales we are introduced to 29 people who are going on a pilgrimage to St. Thomas a Becket in Canterbury. Each person is represented to fit a unique type of behavior as shown by people during the medieval ages.   My attention was drawn to the Wife of Bath through which Chaucer notes the gender inequalities.   Predominantly, women could either choose to marry and become a childbearing wife or go into a religious order.   Women were seen as property.   Women during this period of time, had limited choices when it came to societal roles.   The Wife of Bath exonerates the accepted roles of society, reflecting women's attempt to gain control during the medieval period.      Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The General Prologue presents an interesting description of The Wife of Bath.   Her character is noted to be strong and bold and we learn she is slightly deaf.   The Wife of Bath was married and widowed five times and has had numerous companions.   The Wife of Bath is a skilled cloth maker and a devoted Christian pilgrim who has made trips to several shrines.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Through her unique introduction in The General Prologue we learn much of her physical attributes.   The Wife of Bath is gapped tooth.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "Gat-toothed was she, soothly for to saye.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Upon an amblere esily she sat" (p.91, ll. 470-471)    This physical feature is attributed to lust and passion.   The fact that she could ride a horse easily also could take on sexual connotations (Maclaine 32).   The horse she "rides" so well could actually be her husband.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Early in the Wife of Bath ... ... of Bath is unique in her style of thinking, which is what makes this character so interesting to study.    Works Cited and Consulted Bowden, Muriel.   A Reader's Guide to Geoffrey Chaucer.   New York:   Noonday Press, 1964. Hallissy, Margaret.   A Companion to Chaucer's Canterbury Tales.   London:   Greenwood Press, 1995. Herman, John P. and John J. Burke, Jr., ed.   Signs and Symbols in Chaucer's Poetry.   University, Alabama:   University of Alabama Press, 1981. Lambdin, Laura C. and Robert T. Lambdin, ed.   Chaucer's Pilgrims:   An Historical Guide to the Pilgrims in the Canterbury Tales.   London:   Greenwood Press, 1996.   Nardo, Don, ed.   Readings on the Canterbury Tales.   San Diego:   Greenhaven Press, 1997. Plummer, John F.   "The Wife of Bath's Hat as a Sexual Metaphor."   English Language Notes, 18 (1980-1981).      

Business and Research Project Essay

JC Penny has been running successfully for close to 90 years. Most entrepreneurs and managers face the same dilemmas at times. The choices one makes are the basis for his or her company success. The CEO of JC Penny Ron Johnson was faced with many management dilemmas. The first of many dilemmas that Ron Johnson was faced with was to innovate or conserve JC Penny. Innovation is important, but one should also focus on new applications and new markets as well. However, the revenues of innovations are in the future. One needs also to get the maximum out of one’s current business. According an article published by Forbes â€Å"Ron Johnson did not try and solving the real problem with JC Penny. Sales fell some 25%. The stock dropped 50% He spent lavishly trying to remake the brand. He modernized the logo, upped the TV ad spend, spruced up stores and implemented a more consistent pricing strategy. But that all was designed to help JC Penney competes in traditional brick-and-mortar retail. Against traditional companies like Wal-Mart, Kohl’s, Sears, etc† (Hartung, 2014). If the leader or manager does not invest there comes a time when the current business declines without new innovation to take over JC Penny revenues. If a manager invests too much, it may end up endangering the continuity of the current business. According to Joshua Kennon â€Å"J.C. Penney saw sales fall from $19.903 billion in 2007 to $12.985 billion in 2013. This caused the firm to go from a pre-tax profit of $1.792 billion to pre-tax losses of $1.536 billion, a staggering swing of $3.328 billion. Dividends were slashed, book value destroyed. There were rumors the company was surviving by pushing payable bills and hoarding cash† (Kennon, 2013). The purpose of learning team C’s research is to identify the most important factors to customers that are considering shopping at J.C. Penney. This statement speaks to the researcher’s attention and states goal or objective of the research. This statement will evaluate errors that were made J.C.  Penny’s top management, putting the company into a very vulnerable predicament with the core customers. The factors that will be considered are directly associated with management errors such as: †¢Misreading what shoppers want- coupons, sales price/clearance items †¢Not testing the ideas in advance- assuming the culture was the same as other companies †¢Alienated the core customers †¢Misreading the JC Penney brand †¢Not respecting the JC Penney company overall From these errors the team will provide research questions to include in the paper, gather the information the is related to the customer most recent shopping experience with the company to develop a proposed research plan to address the most management dilemmas. Draft of Research Questions Learning team C intends to research the reasons J.C. Penney had a decline in customer core base and sales which almost led to the demise of the company. This research will be conducted via survey with the intent of possibly salvaging the creditability of the company. Our learning will provide surveys to adults that have shopped J.C. Penny either online or in the store within the last two years. The survey questions used would supply management with opportunities to test potential marketing strategies to revive sales and retain the company’s initial core customer base. LTC will provide the following questions to gather data for research in the survey: †¢What is the age group/gender of the participant †¢How far from home will he or she be willing to drive to the store †¢What is the importance of coupons and sales price/clearance items †¢How frequent does the participant shop online or in the store †¢How important is the brand name that is provided by the company †¢How important is the atmosphere of the store (i.e. Arizona, IZOD, Dockers, etc) †¢How important is the culture of store (i.e. is food courts or specialty boutiques important) After compiling a more precise list of question to provide for the survey, we will rank the factors from least to greatest importance to determine the  decision making process for J.C. Penney current dilemma. Conclusion Eventually, JC Penny did fire Ron Johnson and rehired the previous CEO Mike Ullman, who stills faces big challenges. JC Penny has posted sales drops and losses in its first three quarters. As JC Penny attempts to recover from its dilemmas from the period in which it alienated consumers, and infuriated its employees, its new CEO Mike Ullman, is making headway in trying to purge corporate ranks and bring the customers back to shopping at JC Penny. In business leaders or managers all face some challenges that if left unaddressed such as JC Penny dilemma can massively affect the business. The good news is that there is now a solution in place to help JC Penny return to being successful. References Hartung, A. (2014). Two Wrongs Won’t Fix JC Penney. Retrieved from https://ecampus.phoenix.edu/secure/aapd/cwe/citation_generator/web_01_01.asp Kennon, J. (2013). The Collapse of J.C. Penney – What Caused It and Can It Be Fixed?. Retrieved from http://www.joshuakennon.com/the-collapse-of-jc-penney-what-caused-it-and-can-it-be-fixed/

Psychological Pricing

MKT 521 *Psychological Pricing S*trategy {draw:frame} Reference Pricing. – Any business can leverage on reference pricing by positioning their product in the market place along with high value or luxury items to make consumers perceive that its product fits into the same category. However, if consumers feel that the product does not belong in that category the pricing and positioning strategy will not work and be it counterproductive for the product and the company. Two common forms of psychological pricing are odd pricing, and prestige pricing. Odd Pricing. – In a study conducted by Schindler & Kibarian in 1996 they tested odd pricing using three versions of a direct mail catalog for women's clothing. â€Å"The catalogs were identical except for the prices which ended with 00, 99 or 88. The version with prices ending in 99 generated 8% more sales volume and had more purchasers than the 00-ending version. The 88-ending catalog produced a similar sales volume and number of purchasers to the 00-ending version†. In this example we can clearly see how the consumer perception of better value directly impacted sales, even though there was an alternative that ended in 88 which will actually be lower in value was not identified by consumers. Luxury *Prestige Pricing*. – {draw:frame} Higher prices usually denote higher quality. Luxury brands are a perfect fit of this strategy. Another example of companies that use prestige pricing in the car industry are Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari and Rolls Royce. Psychological pricing is a good strategy to use when the company is certain that it will be the best-fit for the product, otherwise it can be counterproductive. References Kotler Philip, Armstrong Gary. Principles of Marketing Thirteen Edition. Prentice hall