Thursday, November 28, 2019

Teri Maa Ki Aankh free essay sample

Bhatt A Different History ANALYSIS STANZA 1 Indian culture/religion – life in India is –or should be – free but there is constant pressure ________________in other ways of life (example of this are __________) Line 1-3: _______________: the ancient Greek god of nature (part man, part goat); allying Greek culture with India’s perhaps suggesting that western society has formed more developed religions; India = still basic ________________ Line 4-5: highlights the difference between other cultures and India; here Gods are_______________________________, all around Line 7-18 persuasive writing which creates Irony – Hindus made to look after books and revere them but not for knowledge, but because they are made out of gods (trees) = satirical/mocking tone ? __________:â€Å"It is a sin† = powerful connotations, a crime for offending the gods ? ___________: â€Å"you must†, __________: ‘without† , ___________: â€Å"Sarasvati† (= the Hindu goddess of art) ( emphasises that there are many pedantic Hindu rules that must be obeyed which are criticised by the author in a ______________tone ? Despite being Indian the author is being very _____________ of Indian culture/religion/belief STANZA 2 : idea of foreign invaders, language and generation Line 19-20: _____________ – more philosophical, makes us think about _______________in general, different from the previous mocking tone, which language is ‘original’? Line 21-22: rhetorical question – double meaning = English not to kill people but to _____________ India’s culture/traditions; question tries to understand the aims of the ‘oppressor’ Line 23-27: _________________________/thread of diction/semantic field: ‘torture’, ‘soul has been cropped’, ‘scythe swooping out’ all relate to ________________ (British culture on Indian ground ) = developing/changing/forcing India’s culture to change or assimilate and English language is seen as being representative of all hat ( Growing imagery of violent invasion ( visualization of the language as a literal tongue but symbolising a powerful ______________ Line 28-29: Bhatt is one of these ‘unborn grandchildren†, no question mark so it is more of a _______________ (fact or certainty) ‘’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’à ¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ STRUCTURE  ¦ 2 stanzas are representative of Bhatt’s _______________ _______ (British and Indian) She is critical of both Indian _______________________ and British ____________/colonialism ‘’’’’‘’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’’â€⠄¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ PHILOSOPHICAL POINTS (subjects of the poem) forgetting past, human nature, generation, dual identity We know from her Bio that Bhatt fears that her natural identity, as manifested by her Indian tongue, may rot and die ( If she fears this why is she appearing to be critical of India? The contradictory idea is that while Hinduism and being Indian are the ‘deepest layer’ of her identity, she is not the fnod of them. We will write a custom essay sample on Teri Maa Ki Aankh or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page She is critical of it. She also deefnds coonlial English invaders. Both these beliefs are counter iiinuttve; you would expect her to defend her ‘deepest layer of identity’ Indian, and slate English, but she does the opposite. This makes her identity complex and this is the strength of the poem. Readers are initurged by this unusual tactic. ( How does it happen that she has ignored her cultural roots for many of her early years? Choose the appropriate words from the box below to fill in the gaps! cultivating religious ideology statement allusion (x2) dual identity books physical manifestations assimilate to conform language Imperative extended metaphorical language repetition(x2) religious conformity critical rhetorical question religious conformity weapon colonialism sarcastic

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Cmo contactar con el Centro Nacional de Visas (NVC)

Cmo contactar con el Centro Nacional de Visas (NVC) El Centro Nacional de Visas –NVC, por sus siglas en inglà ©s– tiene un papel esencial cuando se solicita una tarjeta de residencia permanente por razà ³n de familia o de trabajo para un extranjero que se encuentra fuera de Estados Unidos y, por esa razà ³n, necesita una visa de inmigrante para ingresar al paà ­s. Y es que el Servicio de Inmigracià ³n y Ciudadanà ­a –USCIS, por sus siglas en inglà ©s– aprueba una peticià ³n de tarjeta de residencia hasta que la oficina consular procesa la visa de inmigrante, la solicitud se encuentra en el NVC. Quà © hace el Centro Nacional de Visas: formularios y tarifas El NVC tiene varias tareas. En primer lugar, actualiza cada mes las fechas de prioridad que determinan quà © visas de inmigrante pueden procesarse o, por el contrario, quà © solicitudes deben esperar. En este artà ­culo ms abajo se explica en detalle cunto se tarda para la cita para la entrevista en el consulado. Adems, el CNV es el organismo encargado de comunicarse con el solicitante del la tarjeta de residencia, con el beneficiario o con su abogado o agente para solicitarle que rellene ms formularios, envà ­e documentacià ³n financiera de apoyo y pague nuevas tarifas. Para ello es esencial que el CNV tenga actualizados los datos del correo electrà ³nico de al menos una de las siguientes personas: abogado del caso, si se tiene, solicitante o beneficiario. Debe comunicarse en la pgina del CEAC cualquier cambio en dicha direccià ³n para evitar demoras innecesarias. Entre los formularios que deben rellenarse en este momento a peticià ³n de CNV estn el DS-260, que es la aplicacià ³n electrà ³nica de la visa de inmigrante y el correspondiente a la declaracià ³n jurada de sostenimiento econà ³mico, tambià ©n conocido como affidavit of support, y que puede requerir una o varias planillas, segà ºn las circunstancias de cada caso. Asimismo, el CNV requiere el pago de dos tarifas: Visa de inmigrante por familia (I-130): $325 o visa de inmigrante por trabajo (I-140): $345Affidavit of support: $120 Los pagos deben hacerse digitalmente en la pgina de CEAC y contra una cuenta corriente o de ahorro de un banco en Estados Unidos. Para realizar el pago seguir las instrucciones del NVC e incluir los datos de nà ºmero de factura aportados por el mismo. Una vez que los pagos estn hechos y los formularios y documentacià ³n enviados, el NVC enviar la informacià ³n para la entrevista en el consulado para obtener la visa de inmigrante.  ¿Cunto tarda el Centro Nacional de Visas en enviar la cita para la entrevista en la oficina consular? La respuesta varà ­a desde apenas unas semanas a aà ±os, incluso ms de 20. Todo depende de la categorà ­a a la que pertenece la solicitud de la visa de inmigrante y, en algunos casos, incluso la nacionalidad del beneficiario. Asà ­, por una parte los familiares inmediatos de ciudadanos no estn sujetos a cupos de esperas para que exista una visa de inmigrante disponible para ellos. Son familiares inmediatos los cà ³nyuges, el pap, la mam y los hijos solteros menores de 21 aà ±os. En estos casos, el CNV se comunica inmediatamente con el solicitante, beneficiario o abogado nada ms recibir de USCIS el envà ­o de la solicitud aprobada. Por el contrario, en todos los dems casos es necesario esperar a que existan visas disponibles en la categorà ­a a la que pertenece la persona solicitada. Por ejemplo, un hijo de ciudadano estadounidense que est soltero y es mayor de 21 aà ±os es un F1 se pueden aprobar un total de 23.400 visas de inmigrante por aà ±o fiscal. Como el nà ºmero de solicitudes es muy superior al de visas disponibles esto significa que cada aà ±o se acumulan retrasos y hay que esperar por estricto orden a que una visa de inmigrante està © disponible. El orden lo determina la fecha de prioridad y puede consultarse cada mes en el boletà ­n de visas quà © fechas se estn procesando en el CNV para cada categorà ­a de peticià ³n. Adems, hay que tener en cuenta que adems del là ­mite que existe dentro de categorà ­a por aà ±o fiscal existe otro que limita el porcentaje de visas sobre el total que pueden darse en cada paà ­s. Esto afecta negativamente a paà ­ses con altas tasas de migracià ³n hacia Estados Unidos, como por ejemplo, Mà ©xico, China, India o Filipinas, para los que las demoras en cada categorà ­a son ms grandes que para los ciudadanos del resto de paà ­ses.  ¿Se puede verificar el estado del caso mientras se encuentra en el NVC? En realidad no se puede verificar porque el NVC no decide si se aprueba la solicitud. El primer paso que es determinar si la solicitud cumple los requisitos bsicos, lo realiza USCIS y la à ºltima decisià ³n corresponde a la oficina consular. Mientras el caso est paralizado en el NVC esperando por una visa disponible en la categorà ­a que se ha solicitado no se le hace nada al expediente. Es decir, est como dormido y no hay nada que verificar. Cà ³mo contactar con el NVC: telà ©fono, fax, correo Si fuera necesario contactar con el NVC, estas son las opciones Telà ©fono: Marcando al 603-334-0700. Es un sistema automatizado que opera las 24 horas del dà ­a los siete dà ­as de la semana. Se necesita introducir los dà ­gitos del caso segà ºn el NVC o el nà ºmero de recibo que te envià ³ el USCIS en la carta que se conoce como NOA. Para hablar con una persona, marcar al mismo nà ºmero entre las 9:00 am y las 9:00 pm hora de la Costa Este de Estados Unidos, de lunes a viernes, excluyendo festivos federales. En la actualidad la demora de un representante del NVC en contestar el telà ©fono puede alcanzar los 30 minutos. Fax Marcando al 603-334-0791 Correo ordinario Para solicitar informacià ³n sobre caso; National Visa CenterATTN: WC31 Rochester Avenue, Suite 200Portsmouth, NH 03801-2915USA Para enviar documentacià ³n, fotografà ­as o planillas (formas): NVCATTN: DR31 Rochester Avenue, Suite 100Portsmouth, NH 03801-2914USA Incluir siempre el nà ºmero de caso y los nombres completos y fechas de nacimiento de beneficiario y de la persona que realiza la peticià ³n o de la empresa, si se trata de una peticià ³n por trabajo. Correo electrà ³nico Escribir a: NVCINQUIRYstate.gov. Escribir en asunto el nà ºmero de caso segà ºn el NVC.En el texto incluir el nombre del beneficiario y el del solicitanteIncluir las fechas de nacimiento de ambos.Si se trata de una peticià ³n realizada por una empresa, incluir su nombre. Si el correo lo escribe el abogado a cargo del caso, hacerlo constar asà ­ e incluir una copia escaneada de la planilla G-28 y el nombre de la oficina de abogados para la que se trabaja y la direccià ³n de la misma. Finalmente destacar que el email debe escribirse en inglà ©s. El NVC considera que à ©sta es la mejor forma de contacto y la prefiere sobre las otras. En la actualidad, la media de tiempo que NVC se demora en contestar es de 15 dà ­as. La razà ³n por la que no se debe viajar a las oficinas del NVC El NVC est ubicado fà ­sicamente en Portsmouth, Nuevo Hampshire. Sin embargo, sus puertas no estn abiertas al pà ºblico. Es inà ºtil que viajes hasta allà ­, ni te van a dar informacià ³n ni van a aceptar que entregues documentacià ³n en mano. Simplemente te van a recordar las formas enumeradas en este artà ­culo para que contactes asà ­ con ellos. De NVC a consulado Una vez que se recibe la notificacià ³n del NVC sobre la entrevista en el consulado, el beneficiario de la solicitud debe seguir las instrucciones que se le dan. Entre otros asuntos deber: agendar y realizar un examen mà ©dicoregistrarse con el servicio de mensajerà ­a que utilice el consuladoreunir documentos originales y copias y traducirlos al inglà ©s, si fuera necesarioObtener fotografà ­as recientesasegurarse de tener un pasaporte con al menos 6 meses de validezpresentarse en la oficina consular el dà ­a y la hora seà ±alados En la entrevista el oficial consular decidir si aprueba la visa de inmigrante, la cual puede negarse por un nà ºmero amplio de razones, con carcter temporal o definitivo. En algunos casos, ser posible solicitar un waiver, tambià ©n conocido como permiso o perdà ³n. En la mayorà ­a de los casos, la visa de inmigrante es aprobada. El beneficiario tiene 6 meses para ingresar a Estados Unidos. En el momento de ingresar su pasaporte se sellar y dicho sello puede utilizarse como tarjeta de residencia permanente mientras no se recibe la de plstico. Contactar con el Centro Nacional de Visas Telà ©fono: 603-334-0700Fax: 603-334-0791Correo electrà ³nico: NVCINQUIRYstate.gov. Este es un artà ­culo informativo. Non es asesorà ­a legal.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

The Effects of the 2008 Financial Crisis on the Investment in the Gulf Essay

The Effects of the 2008 Financial Crisis on the Investment in the Gulf Area - Essay Example The 2008 financial crisis brought in its wake the reduced inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) with a measure reduction observed in 2009. As per the Kuwait newspaper, Al-Qabas, as many as 675 real estate projects were cancelled in Gulf countries with almost 75 percent of them belonged to UAE – a large portion being in Dubai. Dubai's real estate market has been highly buoyant since last couple of years and almost 25 percent of its GDP comes through its real estate industry. It is imperative that property market in Dubai has seen its worst fall during the crisis period. In the aftermath of 2008 financial crisis, Oil prices plummeted significantly to reach $40 per barrel by December 2008. The countries under discussion heavily depend upon the income from exports of crude oil and their 50% of GDP, baring UAE, is generated from the oil economy. It is not surprising that fall in oil prices affected significantly the business of oil exporting countries such as Kuwait, Qatar, Oma n, Bahrain, UAE causing impact on investment scenarios in these countries. Impact of 2008 Financial Crisis on Investments in Qatar It is pertinent to note that the impact of financial crisis on Qatar has not been substantial. During the 2008 financial crisis, the establishment continued to protect the local banking sector through direct investments in them. Ongoing financial Crisis did affect the GDP and investments in 2009 but it made a smart recovery in 2010 due to upward movement in oil prices. Qatar made substantial investments in its gas sector in 2011. The policy makers focused on country's non-associated natural gas reserves and began developing them that provided huge boost to foreign investment in non-energy sectors too. Oil and gas still accounts for over 50% of the nation’s GDP generating 85% of export earnings. It will be most appropriate to note that Qatar's per capita income is highest in the world and the country boasts of one of the lowest unemployment rate. GDP real growth rates in Qatar have been 16.7%, 13% and 6.6% during the years 2010, 2011 and 2012 respectively that amply proves that the impact of 2008 financial crisis on Qatar has not been significant. As per the 2012 estimate, the gross fixed investment in the Qatar economy has been to the tune of 30.6% of GDP that is certainly laudable in the ongoing financial crisis. Direct foreign investment in Qatar has been registered at $31.84 billion and $32.17 billion during the years 2011 and 2012 respectively and Qatari Rials (QAR) exchange at a fairly constant rate of 3.64 per US dollar all from 2008 through 2012 (Qatar Economy Profile, 2013). Doha Subsea Tunnel with an investment outlay of US $1 billion, Doha Metro with total investment of US $2 billion, and New Doha Port with the projected investment outlay of USD 6.84 billion are some of the projects conceptualized after 2008 financial crisis are in the fast mode of implementation and likely to be completed in the next 2-3 years. The impact of 2008 financial crisis is nonexistent in Qatar and that can also be gauged from the fact that the foreign direct investme nt (FDI) in Qatar in 2009 was USD 8.7 billion; it was higher by USD 2 billion when compared with the investment figure of 2008. It is important to note that between 1990 and 2000, the average FDI investment in Qatar has been only USD 169 million (Rise with Qatar, 2012). Impact of 2008 Financial Crisis in Investments in Kuwait Kuwait is also an oil economy and petroleum products contribute almost half of its GDP and earn almost 95% of its export revenues.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Business strategy Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Business strategy - Assignment Example One of the reasons for this ambiguity can be the lack of a productive identification process (Whiddett and Hollyforde, 1999). Core competencies are often recognized in forms of intangible and tangible assets. Equivalent attention should be paid to both intangible and tangible competencies in order to gain sustainable competitive advantage (Bergenhenegouwen, Horn and Mooijman, 1996). This is because the value added and intangible contributions are much influential and critical (Hafeez and Abdelmeguid, 2003). It has also been pointed out that competitive advantage decreases as a result of the tangible assets. Thus, it can be said that the overall competency of an organization cannot be completed unless the personal competencies are also taken into consideration (Whitehill, 1997). This paper will analyze the core competencies in details. The various benefits and drawbacks of the concept will be explained. The paper will also incorporate expert opinions and critics from various researche rs and academics regarding concepts of core competencies as well as paradoxes. The next part of the paper will try to examine any relationship between concepts of core competency and Icarus paradox. Core competency Model Core competencies can be described as deep proficiencies enabling an organization to deliver quick and unique value to its customers. It symbolizes a firm’s collective experience and learning. It also helps in understanding the coordination of diverse manufacturing and production skills as well as integration of multiple technologies. This type of competency creates sustainable and long term competitive advantage for an organization and helps it in branching out into a broader category of related markets (Collis, 1991). The best advantage of having core competency is that it is very difficult for competitors to procure or copy. Understanding and evaluation of core competencies permit an organization to invest in various strengths which differentiates them and implement strategies for unifying the entire organization (Agha, Alrubaiee and Jamhour, 2012). The concept of core competency was first introduced in the framework of Prahalad and Hamel. They defined core competency as â€Å"An organisation’s major value-creating skills, capabilities, and resources that determine its competitive weapons.† (Hamel and Prahalad, 1990). According to this framework, competition cannot be considered as a market power in the long run. This can be derived from the fact that even though organizations have survived in tough global competition, they are all converging towards similar as well as formidable standards for quality, product cost and timeliness. Thus, managers now need to investigate their internal competencies as well as resources and capabilities for securing sustainable and long-term survival (Eden and Ackermann, 2000). According to the model, core competency can be recognized by application of three tests. These are: Firstly, with the help of a core competency, potential access to a wide market area can be gained. Secondly, core competencies significantly contribute in the creation of perceived consumer benefits of the end service or product. Thirdly, it is hard for competitors to copy or imitate as it involves complex harmonization of production skills and individual technologies. In other words, the understanding of the significance of the competence for competitive differentiation, whether the

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Innovation and Design Management Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Innovation and Design Management - Case Study Example Required Capabilities for International Launch Developing a decentralized model for costing similar to a "in-country" model. Access multiple markets by developing a strong public relations and customer connect campaigns through effective training and promotional strategy. Comply with requirements pertaining to sales, quality assurance and marketing in an international scenario to attract larger customer base. Proactive plan for conducting press tours in multiple languages, seminars on the specific product features of Lazy-Dizzy tooth brush by effective product presentations and training sessions Conduct continuous tests to ensure the quality of the product and establish distribution channels for easy availability of the product. Key Resources Content developers for promotional campaign in international languages. Distributors and franchisees for effective sales Product experts for effective manufacturing of the Lazy-dizzy tooth brush. Recruitment professionals and advertisers for staffing and marketing. Competent Sales force and business development professionals Effective Communication experts using latest technologies Voice of the customer as feedback Key obstacles Competition Due to the changing customer preferences on tooth brush design, the competitor toothbrush companies are especially eager to put promising innovative designs onto store shelves as quickly as possible. Competitors offer tooth brush at minimum price to attract customer base with a less profit margin. International Product Launch The major challenge in an international product launch is to ensure that the performance of current product is rated as an accurate product. Another challenge is to provide... It is observed that there has been a drastic increase in the usage of power operated toothbrushes as the customers prefer to swift from traditional tooth brush which is operated manually. This justifies that there is scope of attractive and developing market for the innovative design of Lazy -Dizzy tooth brush. Lazy-Dizzy toothbrush designs allows for an option that sets the power of the brushing action of the brush to either a "high" or "low" level. In most cases the effectiveness of the brush will be greatest when it is set to its higher setting.

Friday, November 15, 2019

Relationship importance and Factors of Marital Adjustment

Relationship importance and Factors of Marital Adjustment Over the course of life, people learn to establish different relationships, with different values, expectations and commitments. One of those relationships is the marital relationship. For A good marital relationship marital adjustment is essential. Sinha Mukerjee (1990) defines marital adjustment as The state in which there is an overall feeling in husband and wife of happiness and satisfaction with their marriage and with each other. Locke Wallace (1959) defines marital adjustment as: accommodation of husband and wife to each other at a given time According to Spanier and Cole (1976), marital adjustment is a process, the outcome of which is determined by the degree of: a) troublesome marital differences, b) interpersonal tensions and personal anxiety, c) marital satisfaction d) dyadic cohesion, e) consensus on matters of importance to marital functioning. There are a number of factors that define a healthy marital adjustment. Some of these factors are Factors involved in Marital Adjustment: Wife employment and Marital Adjustment: Blumstein and Schwartz (1983) had earlier found that individuals, particularly wives, reported increased levels of self-esteem, self-concept, and self-worth were positively correlated with employment. Previous research on the relationship be- tween wife employment and marital adjust- ment has produced conflicting results: some investigations report a positive relationship between wife employment and marital adjust- ment (Burke Weir, 1976; Hartley, 1978); others suggest a negative relationship (Bean, Curtis, Marcum, 1977; Gover, 1963); other studies show no relationship (Bahr Day, 1978; Blood Wolfe, 1960). Nathawat and Mathur (1993) did a study in India about marital adjustment and subjective well-being in Indian-educated housewives and working women. Their results indicated that working women had better marital adjustment and subjective well-being. Working women reported high scores on general health, life satisfaction and self-esteem measures lower scores on hopelessness, insecurity and anxiety whereas the housewives had lower scores on negative affect than the working women. Trust and marital adjustment: Relationships are composed of trust, and sharing of intimate thoughts and feelings. They are built upon trust and sharing and they get stronger from these things (Finkenauer, Kerkhof, Righetti, Branje, 2009). According to Regan, Kocan, and Whitlock (1998) Trust is one of the most important component of a loving relationship. Also international studies have found trust to be a critical factor in the success of long-term marriages (Roizblatt et al. 1999; Sharlin 1996). In a longitudinal study, Kristina Moeller and Hakan Stattin (2001) report that adolescents with trustful parental relationships experienced greater satisfaction with their partner relationships in midlife. Quality of life and marital adjustment Psychological Factors: Depression stress (psychological well being) Lower psychological well-being is a major risk factor for relationship distress. Higher rates of relationship problems have been consistently linked to persons suffering from severe psychiatric disorders, including depression, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders (Bradbury, 1998). Many studies link marital conflict to depression (Beach, Arias, OLeary, 1987; OLeary and Beach, 1990). Although the authors propose a bidirectional causal relationship between marital conflict and depression, they suggest that marital conflict is typically a more powerful contributing factor to depression. Marital satisfaction appears to be an important factor of psychological well being. Marital distress has been linked with many psychological difficulties especially depression. (KAUSAR ANSARI.. thesis) . Belongingness and Marital Adjustment: According to Baumeister Leary (1995) Belongingness might have multiple and strong effects on emotional patterns and on cognitive processes. Lack of belongingness or attachments is linked to a variety of ill effects on health, adjustment, and well-being. In a close relationship there is a need to belong and if that need isnt fulfilled then problems may occur. One of the universal institutions is marriage which is accepted to satisfy the need for belongingness. Economics and Marital Adjustment Education and income have also been linked to marital satisfaction and marital conflict, with greater levels of education and income predicting greater marital satisfaction and less conflict. Economic stress has a negative effect on marital satisfaction and a positive influence on relationship dissolution (Johnson Booth, 1990). Economic strain is directly linked to increased couple disagreements and has direct impact on marital adjustment (Kinnunen and Feldt, 2004). Many researches haves been conducted on economic factor in relation to marital adjustment e.g Zedlewski (2002) studied economic factor in relation to family well-being , he found that low family income and limited benefits have negative influences on child and family well-being. Voyandoff (1990) studied economic distress and family relations.   Ross Mirowsky (1992) and Yadollahi (2009) studied that employment of spouses  and the sense of control in various types of stressors of marital life. Diener and Diener (2001) investigated that wealth is related to many positive outcomes in life. Gudmunson, Beutler, Israelsen, McCoy Hill (2007) found that financial problems significantly contributed to lower reported marital satisfaction among married couples. In a study in Finland conducted by Kinnunen and Feldt (2004) concluded that husbands unempl oyment is strongly associated with his marital adjustment. Couples with better economic resources are martially adjusted as compared to those who have limited economic resources. Economic hard times increased rate of martial distress.   (Blekesaunes   2008)   Personality and Marital Adjustment In a study by Bouchard, Sabourin, Lussier, Y. (1999) the relationship of various personality traits with marital adjustment was studied. Personality traits studied were neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness and conscientiousness. The scale used to measure marital adjustment was dyadic adjustment scale. The results showed that women high in agreeableness and openness were more adjusted. Also males that were high on openness and agreeableness were more martially adjusted. Husbands openness was positively related to their wives marital adjustment. Open individuals may tolerate and respect differences in behavior and thought of partner which would reduce the number of conflicts and increase the consensus between spouses. Kim, Martin, and Martin (1989) and Levine and Henessy (1990) found that personality factors differentiated stable from unstable marriages. Stable marriages were more similar in intelligence, protension, radicalism, tender-mindedness, mutual trust, acceptance, enthusiasm, and genuineness. Personality factors that reduce the likelihood of stability and satisfaction have included the lack of warmth and extraversion (Levine Henessy); passive-aggression (Slavik, Carlson, Sperry, 1998); borderline pathologies (Paris Braverman, 1995); bipolar disorders (Peven Schulman, 1998); feelings of insecurity, unfairness, depreciation, and powerlessness (Begin, Sabourin, Lussier, Wright, 1997); disagreeableness, emotional instability, inconsiderateness, and physical abuse (Botwin et al., 1997; Kosek, 1996; Shackelford Buss, 1997); depression (Cohan Bradbury, 1997; Davila Bradbury, 1997; Fals-Stewart, Birchler, Schafer, Lucente, 1994); neuroticism (Karney Bradbury, 1997; Russell Wells, 1994a ; Russell Wells, 1994b); tension, anxiety, worry, and suspicion (Craig Olson, 1995); hostility, defensiveness, and aggression (Heyman, OLeary, Jouriles, 1995; OLeary, Malone, Tyree, 1994; Newton, Kiecolt-Glaser, Glaser, Malarkey, 1995); and negative affectivity leading to negative attributions (Huston Vangelistic, 1991; Karney, Bradbury, Fincham, OSullivan, 1994). Individual personality traits have also been linked to couples relationship functioning for both men and women. Personality traits of neuroticism, anxiety, and emotional instability have been shown to impair relationship functioning and reduce relationship satisfaction (Watson Clark, 1984). Additionally, personality characteristics of agreeableness and expressiveness have been referred to as individual protective factors, which may enhance marital satisfaction (Bradbury, Campbell, Fincham, 1995). Communication and Marital Adjustment: Communication is necessary for human growth and development also it serves as the essential foundation for marital success and is the facilitating process for an enduring marriage that is satisfying (Robinson Blanton, 1993). Communication within relationships is an important factor, if there isnt communication the relationship suffers. The relationship between marital communication and adjustment is a strong one (Murphy Mendelson 2004). Gottman (1995) in his book indicated that communication could be both productive and destructive to relationships as unhappy couples tend to criticize, disagree, complain, put down, and use excuses and sarcasm. Unrewarding communication patterns lead to the development of relationship distress (Markman, 1979). In contrast, happy couples with marital stability and satisfaction are more likely to use active listening skills, agree, approve, assent, use laughter and humor (Fisher, Giblin, Hoopes, 1982) and possess character virtues of self-restraint, courage, and friendship (Fowers Olson, 1986). Gottman (1995) has suggested that satisfied couples maintain a five-to-one ratio of positive to negative exchanges in interactions Gender also plays an important role in couple communication as there are gender differences in verbal and nonverbal communication with men tending to be more dominant in their interactions and women being more submissive (Tannen, 1990). Emmers-Sommer (2004) studied the effect of communication quality and quantity indicators on satisfaction in relationships. A key term in the study was quality time; this refers to focused, uninterrupted time spent with children, partners, friends, and significant others. Another key term used in the study was quantity time; this refers to frequency of communication or contact. For individuals to reach relationship satisfaction they have to examine the quantity and quality of their disclosures with their partners. Emmers-Sommer (2004) found that quality of communication predicts both relationship satisfaction and intimacy. The quantity of communication, however, was not a predictor for relationship satisfaction. Concealment/Non- disclosure and marital adjustment: Disclosure  as a phenomenon was first investigated by Sidney Jourard (1971). The process was originally defined as telling others about the self. Rosenfeld (1979) explained self-disclosure as the personal information of self that is only available from himself and is not available from other sources. Jorgensen Gaudy (1980) defines self disclosure as: A process by which a marriage partner ex- presses feelings, perceptions, fears, and doubts of the inner self to the other partner, allowing relatively private and personal information to surface in the relationship that normally would not be revealed in the course of day-to-day interaction. The word conceal has been originated from the Latin work Concelare , celare means to hide. Merriam Webster defines concealment as  to prevent disclosure or recognition. Concealment is the activity of hiding information and keeping secrets from other people. Larson and Chastain (1990) explained self concealed personal information as firstly, a subset of private personal information, secondly, it is accessible only to the individual and thirdly it is actively kept from the awareness of others. Thus, self-concealment involves the conscious concealment of private information like feelings, thoughts, actions or events that one perceives as highly intimate, distressing or negative. Even though concealment and disclosure seem the same, there is some difference between self-disclosure and self-concealment. According to Larson and Chastain 1990 the act of revealing personal information is self- disclosure whereas the act of concealing personal information is self-concealment. They argued that self-concealment and self-disclosure are two separate and distinct constructs even though they are related. Effects of concealment/non-disclosure on marital adjustment Feelings of Exclusion People usually resent it when they perceive that another person is keeping secrets from them. The general reaction towards concealment is that of exclusion since in that persons view his right to know is being violated. This level or degree of exclusion felt by a person is higher when these persons are in a close and intimate relationship (Finkenauer, Kerkhof, Righetti, Branje, 2009). Marital relationships are composed of trust, and sharing of intimate thoughts and feelings. They are built upon trust and sharing and they get stronger from these things. Therefore the quality of relationship is influenced adversely when there is a perception of concealment from partner. The perception of concealment effects on relationship quality, the person feels rejected or excluded (Finkenauer, Kerkhof, Righetti, Branje, 2009). The exclusion that is communicated by concealment can be assumed to violate almost all features and values commonly associated with close relationships, including trust, caring, honesty, friendship, companionship, unconditional acceptance, and respect (Finkenauer, Kerkhof, Righetti, Branje, 2009). Psychological effects To keep secrets or deliberately conceal information from others seems to be part of normal development. Even though every person has secrets they can sometimes be a burden. There are different types of secrets people keep like having cheated on an exam, having a disease, sexual orientation or having been sexually molested as a child. Most of these secrets involve stigmatizing or negative information that usually involves the secret keepers themselves. People who conceal negative or distressing information of self from others as compared to the ones who do not, are more depressed, anxious, shy and have low self-esteem.(Kelly, Klusas, Weiss Kenny, 2001) Effects of Disclosure on marital adjustment Self-disclosure and liking The earliest work done on the relationship between disclosure and liking was by Jourard (1959) who found a positive association between liking the other person and disclosing to that person in a sample of nursing students and faculty. A number of studies have been done on this relationship and confirmed that we disclose more to people whom we like. (e.g., Certner,1973, Fitzgerald, 1963; Worthy, Gary, Kahn, 1969) and also we tend to like the people who disclose personal information to us (e.g., Archer, Berg, Runge, 1980; Daher Banikiotes, 1976;Taylor, Gould, Brounstein, 1981). Self-Disclosure and psychological well-being Most of the studies done on the relationship between concealment and psychological well-being have shown the same results which are that higher levels of disclosure are associated with psychological wellbeing and lower levels of disclosure are associated with poorer mental health. Disclosing distressing information helps with the psychological well-being and not disclosing leads to poorer mental health. It is thought that disclosing distressing information helps psychological well-being by reducing the stress of keeping the information to oneself (Ichiyama et al 1993; Cramer, 1999; Barry and Mizrahi, 2005; Hook and Andrews, 2005; Kahn et al 2002). Gender differences and concealment: Concealment is behavior that is more common in males. On the other hand previous studies indicate that females are usually more willing to disclose distressing or personal information. Traditionally, discussing personal problems is a behavior that is considered more appropriate for females than for males (Kahn and Hessling, 2001). Among men, asking for help when faced with psychological problems is often perceived as a weakness (Jourard and Lasakow, 1958; West, 1970; Jourard, 1971; Cozby, 1973; Kelly and Achter, 1995; Kahn and Hessling, 2001). Moreover, traditional sex-role stereotypes suggest that females are more skillful in communicating and also are more concerned with issues of intimacy than are men. So an intimate disclosure by a man may be seen as less appropriate than a similar disclosure by a woman (Collins Miller 1994). All in all men who disclose are generally viewed as maladjusted whereas women who do not disclose may be viewed as maladjusted. (Collins Miller 1994). Age and tendencies towards disclosure/ non-concealment and in terms of age it has been found that young people are more likely to disclose than older people. (Jourard, 1971; Hook and Andrews, 2005). Literature Review: Labels such as satisfaction, adjustment, success, happiness, and quality have all been used in describing the quality of marriage (Fincham, Beach, Kemp-Fincham, 1997) Theories on marital adjustment and disclosure Social penetration theory: Many studies have dealt with self disclosure. One main theory that was a framework for the study is Social Penetration Theory (Altman Taylor, 1987). This theory was a model for the study because it looks at self disclosure as both the depth and the breadth. In this study the depth of self disclosure is an important factor when reaching satisfaction in relationships. Altman and Taylor use an onion as a metaphor for relationship development. They suggest that the onion represents the breadth and depth of self disclosures. On the outer layer of the onion individuals have the breadth of disclosures: a broad aspect of a person such as their tastes, worldview, and studies. As individuals go deeper into the onion, they get to the depth of disclosures meaning they get more detail on aspects of an individual. This represents the degree of a persons disclosure. The main route to deep social penetration is through individuals disclosures. The depth of penetration would represent the degree of personal disclosure. Altman and Taylor (1987) suggest the depth of penetration into the onion model is the degree of intimacy. This study examines the depth of penetration, breadth is equally important in relationships. This theory supports the idea that people who have a high level of depth in their disclosure will be more satisfied in romantic relationships. This theory does not examine the amount of self disclosure as it does the depth of self disclosure. Three competing models of marital disclosure and satisfaction Jorgensen Gaudy (1980) gave models for marital disclosure and satisfaction and according to Spanier (1976) marital satisfaction is a sub category of marital adjustment. According to the linear model of marital relationship, there exists a positive, linear relationship between marital disclosure and marital satisfaction. Marital relationship is characterized by factors like intimacy, trust and caring. Marital disclosure positively impacts these factors and therefore presence of these factors in a marital relationship systematically increase the level of marital satisfaction. Therefore, this model suggests that higher the level of marital disclosure greater will be the marital satisfaction and vice versa. The curvilinear model as opposed to the linear model suggests that a satisfying marital relationship exists only with medium levels of self disclosure. When self disclosure falls on the high or low end of the continuum of self disclosure, marital satisfaction will decrease. This means that too lack of self disclosure is not the only factor that results in low marital satisfaction. Extensive self disclosure might be perceived as nagging or too much complaining which might raise negative feelings of hostility in the spouse which in turn will decrease the marital satisfaction. Hence, according to this model moderate levels of self disclosure are characterized as a key factor in achieving high marital satisfaction. John Gottmans (1999) scientifically validated theory of marriage, based on 25 years of longitudinal research, is one of the leading theories in the study of marital satisfaction. Gottmans theory (1999) states that positive interaction and friendship is the key to marital satisfaction and the prediction of marital stability over time. According to Gottman (1999), a ratio of 5:1 positive to negative interactions is necessary for marital stability. Gottman defines marital stability as a satisfying marital relationship that is not disrupted by separation or divorce. He states, The most important finding was that more positive affect was the only variable that predicted both marital stability and happiness (p. 21). In Gottmans theory (1999), there is a process of what he calls sentiment override in couples. He states, Sentiment override can be either positive or negative. Negative sentiment override means that people have a chip on their shoulder. These types of partners are hypervigilant, looking for slights or attacks by their partner. Positive sentiment override means that even negativity by the partner is interpreted as informative rather than as a personal attack (p. 164). Positive sentiment override creates a milieu in which the partners are more tolerant and accepting of each other, while negative sentiment override creates a set of expectations that ones spouse will behave negatively. Similarly, OLeary and Smith (1991) refer to this phenomenon as cognitive attributional correlates of marital satisfaction. These authors state that distressed couples are less likely to objectively interpret positive behaviors from their spouses as positive and more likely to interpret the intent of their spouses statements more negatively than they were meant to be. Compared to non-distressed couples, dissatisfied spouses make attributions that cast their partners behavior in a negative light and these attributions in turn negatively influence marital satisfaction (Bradbury Fincham, 1990). In summary, according to Gottman (1999) as well as OLeary and Smith (1991) it is not what happens in the marriage, but how the partners perceive and define what has happened that is critical. Gottman posits that 69% of couples problems will be what he calls, perpetual problems, meaning largely unresolvable. He has found that in the case of the perpetual problems, it is important for couples to establish a dialogue, as opposed to a solution in these instances. When couples cannot dialogue about these issues, they often become gridlocked, where each partner becomes frustrated and eventually emotionally disengaged. The role of communication therefore plays an important role in marital satisfaction. Studies examining marital satisfaction vary in design, measurement, and outcomes, leading to a number of explanations accounting for marital satisfaction (Gottman, 1999). Perception of concealment has an adverse effect on marital relationships. Some researches have been carried out related to this issue. In a longitudinal study it was studied how perceiving concealment in close relationships influences marital well-being. The research showed that people in marital relationships who perceive their partner to be concealing information from them had poor relationships, mistrust and conflict between them. In the study it was also discussed that people who conceal information also perceive that the other person is concealing information from them. Perceiving concealment may give the other partner the impression that he/she is not desirable or cannot be trusted; it gives the other person the feelings of being excluded. And the feeling of exclusion may result in feelings of separation or estrangement which may result in marital conflict (Finkenauer et al., 2009). Another study conducted in Belgium has investigated disclosure and secrecy in close, long-term relationships. It showed in the study that secrecy contributed a lot to marital dissatisfaction. The study explains how a person who has a secret avoids a difficult topic rather than facing it to avoid conflict, while the other partner perceives the secrecy as a sign of suspicion, which contributes negatively to marital satisfaction. Another point in the study was that people trying to hide something on the way feel that they have to put on a mask for the other person so he/she doesnt get to know their secret; they have to pretend which may lead to less intimacy and closeness. People who felt comfortable with sharing their emotions and were able to talk about matters were more satisfied with their relationship. One of the questionnaires used to test their study was the Larson and Chastains (1990) Self- Concealment Scale (Finkenauer Hazam, 2000). Low expressiveness leads to dissatisfaction in a marital relationship. Miller et al. (2003) argued that expressive people are less likely to suffer decline in marital satisfaction. They found that spouses expressiveness was positively related to their own and partners affectionate behaviors and this affectionate behavior was in turn related with marital satisfaction. Expressiveness is positively associated with peoples perception of their partners responsiveness. Davidson, Balswick Halverson (1983) did a study on the Affective Self-Disclosure and Marital Adjustment. It was based upon 162 married couples. The study explains that the greater is the discrepancy in partners affective self-disclosure, the lesser is the individuals marital adjustment. READ WHOLE PAPER AND WRITE. Sprecher and Hendrick (2004) examined the relationship between self-disclosure and relationship quality and found a positive relationship between disclosure and relationship quality. Self-disclosure is an indicator of satisfaction in romantic relationships. Levesque, Steciuk, and Ledley (2002) studied how self-disclosure relates to the development of personal relationships, relational intimacy, and relationship dissolution. The results showed that perceived intimacy was strongly associated with level of self-disclosure. Self-disclosure was found to be strongly reciprocal. Levesque et al. 2002 found that the level of self-disclosure strongly influences individual differences between disclosers. HANSEN E.J SCHULDT J.W (1984) did a study on marital self-disclosure and marital satisfaction. The sample for the study was on a sample of 50 married couples of mean age 25 years and mean length of marriage was 3.18 years and mean education was 15 years. Scales used for measuring the variables were Jourards self disclosure questionnaire( jourard and Lasakow, 1958) and Spaniers (1976) Dyadic Adjustment Scale. the results of the study showed that wifes disclosure to husband was positively related to husbands marital satisfaction and husbands disclosure to wife was also positively related to husbands marital satisfaction. One predictor that may have particular importance to marital satisfaction is gender roles. According to Kurdek (2005) there are two classes of theories that explain the position about how men and women experience close relationships in different ways. the first class, that is the biological, posits that males and females in a relationship process events differently at the cardiovascular, endocrinological, immunological, neurosensory, and neurophysiological levels. For example Kiecolt-Glaser Newton (2001) in their research reviewed evidence showing that men are more physiologically sensitive to acute stressors than women and women showed stronger and more durable physiological changes than men in marital conflict. The other class that is the class of social psychological theories posits that both genders differ in ways that are directly relevant to relationship functioning like the structure and content of how the self is constructed, personality traits and socialized roles. The other class that is the class of social psychological theories posits that both genders differ in ways that are directly relevant to relationship functioning like the structure and content of how the self is constructed, personality traits and socialized roles. Other research has also substantiated that marriage disproportionately benefits men, with husbands reporting higher levels of marital satisfaction and well-being than their wives (Bird Fremont, 1991; McRae Brody, 1989; Schumm, Webb, Bollman, 1998). Gender is defined as the socially determined role of an individual that is ascribed as a result of his or her sex (Juni Grimm, 1994). Gender roles influence men and women in every aspect of their lives and relationships (Knox Schacht, 2000). Demographic characteristics including age, race, income, education, length of marriage, and religiosity, have been linked to marital satisfaction and marital conflict (Knox Schacht, 2000). Based on Gottmans (1999) research, length of marriage is also a significant predictor for marital satisfaction and marital conflict. He identifies two critical time periods of vulnerability in the marital trajectory, with the majority of couples divorcing within the first seven years of marriage. Couples who divorce within the first seven years of marriage have relationships characterized by having high levels of marital conflict. Conversely, a second vulnerable time period for the marital trajectory is 16 to 24 years of marriage. This is the next most likely time frame for couples to divorce. These relationships are characterized by spending little time together, lack of communication, and a lack of conflict expression. Gottman (1999) refers to these couples as two ships passing in the night.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Much Ado About Nothing Essay -- essays research papers

	Much Ado About Nothing is a play that centers around the question and battle between deception and reality. One first notices of the image of deception as we witness the masking and unmasking at the masquerade. In the play, most overhear discussions are deceptions. It is through eavesdropping that we see the true battle between deception and reality as we look at the subplots of Benedick and Beatrice, Hero and Claudio, as well as the comedy of Dogberry and his crew. 	 The relationship between Benedick and Beatrice is one manufactured completely through deception on the behalf of their friends. Though the plot to unite them was planned, many of the problems that arose were because of things that were overheard accidentally or on purpose. In Act II, Scene 3 Benedick is deceived into thinking that Beatrice loves him because of the speech in the garden between Leonato, Claudio, and Don Pedro. Beatrice is sent to fetch Benedick for dinner, and Benedick notes "some marks of love in her," and he decides to take pity upon her and return her love. In Act III, Scene 1 Beatrice is deceived as she overhears Hero and Ursula talk of Benedick's affection for her. Beatrice then decides to allow herself to be tamed by Benedick's "loving hand," and return his love. Beatrice and Benedick re made to fall in love through the deception of those around them, and ironically find happiness more readily than Claudio and Hero. 	The relationship between Clau...

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Air France †KLM: Changing the Rules of the Game Essay

Introduction Air France-KLM Case (Som 2009) provides the background for airlines industry and factors impacting companies’ positions, details about the history of air-carrier alliances and their challenges. The main focus of the Case is on two companies: Air France and KLM and their decision to merge despite predictions of failure. The period covered by the case ends in 2006. As most aviation companies worldwide were struggling and losing profits, Air France-KLM was confidently gaining market shares, improving growth and financial performance. The purpose of this report is to identify and analyze the key challenges of the aviation industry and Air France-KLM merger; evaluate options and offer recommendation on how to achieve stronger position and withstand economical pitfalls (oil prices, political pressure, and competitor’s rivalry). Information presented in the Case will be analyzed using: PESTEL Analysis (Yà ¼ksel 2012), Porter’s Five Forces Analysis (Porter 2008), organi zational and financial performance, SWOT analysis (Bernroider 2002). Options and recommendations will be provided based on Hubbard’s (1996) recommendations. Macro-environmental/PESTEL Analysis Politic Sub-factors: Governments of most countries have a strong influence over air-carrier business. For example, Civil Aeronautics Board regulated airlines prices until 1977. Most of the companies were government owned or subsidized without regard to the profitability of the carrier. Countries’ air space was restricted for use by the national air-carriers and access by foreign carriers was restricted. Changes came with the trend of privatization of national carriers. Ratification of the Deregulation Act in  1978 by the US Congress had changed the airline industry market landscape. According to Spinetta (2006), the European market became a Single Market removing restriction to all carriers.   Economic factors: The airline industry is heavily dependent on the cost of fuel, number of travelers and economical factors such as unemployment and household disposable income. Introduction of alliances provided a solution to overcome these restrictions and regulations, widen access to the restricted markets and offer cost reduction to the member companies achieved through combined codes, reduced number of flights, simplified transfers and ticketing, reduced fixed costs. Offering combined frequent flyer programs attract more passengers. Reduction of service centers and reducing employment is a very unpopular measure in Europe and difficult due to the union’s activities. Social-cultural factors: Improvement of lifestyle, growth of tourism, additional free household income and simplified travel within European Union affect the airline industry. Traditionally, each European country has its own airline even though some of them are heavily subsidized by the government and not profitable. Since 1997 global alliances became standard practice for the industry, but not the mergers similar to Air France-KLM. ï‚ · Technological factors: The aviation industry is highly dependent on technological improvements. Development of fuel efficient aircrafts improves fuel consumption and reduces fixed costs. Expending the aircraft capacity improves performance of airlines core business of the number of passengers and cargo, thus increasing revenue and cash flow. Environmental factors: Public health, food and health and regulations, traffic safety, sustainable way of doing business are important factors impacting airlines strategies. Legal factors: There are many factors affecting the airlines, for example access to the American market was closed until 1978 when the Deregulation Act was approved by Congress. European Union countries share the laws and regulations. Summary of Findings: PESTEL analysis allows evaluating the environment in which the company operates and the industry landscape projection on the future. Yà ¼ksel (2012) discusses use of weighted measures of each PESTEL factor which improves accuracy of the results and it is recommended to use for more detailed analysis. Buyer Power: Frequent flyers programs decrease buyer’s power. Ups and downs of the economy influence household income available for leisure travel. Low-cost companies regulate the cost. Supplier Power: Boeing and Airbus are the two main companies that supply global aviation companies. The fleet is usually renewed once a decade and every aircraft is very expensive. In 2006 Air France-KLM had 565 aircrafts in operation with 225 destinations. New Entrants: The barrier for new entrants is high due to high competition, government regulations, high fixed and start-up costs; complicated exit strategy due to unionized work force. Substitutes: A number of large and discounted airlines are available for passengers to choose. Other transport options are available; however, airlines provide the fastest way of long and medium distance travel. They are usually substituted by the alternatives for short distances. Cargo services, warehouses, training and maintenance programs are also core businesses for airlines in addition to carrying passengers. Industry Rivalry: in 2007, 249 airlines were registered globally, with 100 airlines spread between 30 European countries. This creates a high rivalry between the airlines. Analysis Summary: Aviation industry is highly regulated with strong and increasing buyer power. The barrier for new entrants is high. The supplier power is strong but weakening as AirFrance-KLM benefit from the economy of scale and strong bargaining power. The company protects oil prices by purchasing cost fixing insurance. There are substitutes available but air travel remains the preferred option for business travelers and fast cargo delivery. SWOT Analysis STRENGTH ï‚ · Both CEOs share company and industry future  vision and offensive strategy. (De Wit & Meyer  2010, p. 397-400) ï‚ · Use of non-discriminating policies and promotion  of stronger branding. Synergy in IT systems. ï‚ · Guarantees given to the stakeholders. Strong  financial position. OPPORTUNITIES WEAKNESS ï‚ · Geographical distance between Paris and  Amsterdam hubs is 400 km ï‚ · Different cultural backgrounds (De Wit &  Meyer 2010, p. 415-419) ï‚ · High fixed costs ï‚ · Union actions and political interference play  a significant role in the industry. THREATS ï‚ · Alliance attracted such companies as Aeroflot ï‚ · Dependency on fuel cost and economical  which opens huge Russian market.  fluctuation. ï‚ · More companies may be acquired or enter the ï‚ · European countries do not increase the  partnership with the merged Air France-KLM.  runway capacity. ï‚ · Improved routs offering achieved by reduction of ï‚ · Possible threat of integration between redundant flights. Expenditure of network.  Northwest and Delta which may create a  high rivalry in North America. ï‚ · Economy of scale in bargaining with the suppliers Recommendations The recommendations would be to continue investment in the latest technologies, including IT; renew the fleet to reduce fuel consumption and improve defect-free customers experience; secure locked fuel prices, build partnerships to extend long distance flights options; balance the network offerings between the continents; focus on stakeholder’s, employee’s and customer’s needs; consider strategic partnerships with other airlines; continue increasing market share and improvement of free cash flow and strengthening of financial position. References Bernroider E. 2002, ‘Factors in SWOT Analysis Applied to Micro, Small-to-Medium, and Large Software Enterprises:: an Austrian Study’, European Management Journal, Volume 20, Issue 5, October 2002, Pages 562-573, viewed 16 March 2014, De Wit, B and Meyer, R 2010, Strategy Process, Content, Context An International Perspective, Cengage Learning, Andover, UK. Hubbard, G 1996, â€Å"Analysing a case’, in Cases in Strategic Management: Australia and New Zealand, G. Lewis, A. Morkel, G. Hubard, G. Stockport, and S.Davenport (eds), 2nd ed., pp viiixvi. Prentice Hall, Sydney. Porter M. 2008, ‘THE FIVE COMPETITIVE FORCES THAT SHAPE STRATEGY’, Harvard Business Review, 86, 1, pp. 78-93, Business Source Complete, EBSCOhost, viewed 16 March 2014, Som A. 2009, Air France-KLM : Changing the rules of the game. In: Strategy – Process, content, context – An International Perspective. Hampshire (United Kingdom): Cengage Learning EMEA, 2010, p. 823-836 Spinetta J 2006, Cross – Border Mergers & Acquisitions The AIR FRANCE KLM Story Speech by Jean-Cyril Spinetta at the Nyenrode European Business Forum on 23 February 2006, viewed 17 March 2014, Yà ¼ksel I. 2012, Developing a multi-criteria decision making model for PESTEL analysis. International Journal of Business and Management, 7(24), 52-66, viewed 16 March 2014, . BUSM3922 Case Study: Air France – KLM: Changing the Rules of the Game

Friday, November 8, 2019

Free Essays on Prostitution In Toronto

Prostitution in Toronto This document, Prostitution in Toronto, was written in 1915. It was a Report by the Toronto Social Survey Commission. It takes a look into a very widespread problem in the social order of Toronto. It gave motives for the source of prostitution and the trends that were generating this large dilemma. In order to understand the author’s argument you must first appreciate what he is trying to say to the reader. Prostitution is a social disease. â€Å"It is not merely an affair between the sensual man and the depraved and avaricious woman, as individuals, but is the outcome of a complex social condition, which through artificial stimulation, multiplies both the demand and supply.†(p.139) The authors were showing that it’s a very intricate problem that is impossible to totally cure and there are several reason why that is the case. There were dynamics that were present when this document was printed that were innate and gained that cause the women to resort to this immoral livelihood. It was caused by immigrating into Canada without money, your family’s social class or lack of jobs as it was a multi faceted problem. Poverty is the first basis the author discusses, followed by housing and sanitation and feeble-mindedness as it related to the vice. Th is evidently all had an extremely detrimental result in prostitution in Toronto in the early 20th century. The intention for writing this document was that at this point in time, prostitution was rising out of control in the then recently ethnically reformulated city of Toronto. The document takes a very critically negative point of view on the occupation that various women of this era were resorting to because of the social condition. There were several misconstrued reasons that were believed by the public for whom and why these women were selling their sexuality for either money or in exchange for gifts. This was a tremendously soft area of knowledge... Free Essays on Prostitution In Toronto Free Essays on Prostitution In Toronto Prostitution in Toronto This document, Prostitution in Toronto, was written in 1915. It was a Report by the Toronto Social Survey Commission. It takes a look into a very widespread problem in the social order of Toronto. It gave motives for the source of prostitution and the trends that were generating this large dilemma. In order to understand the author’s argument you must first appreciate what he is trying to say to the reader. Prostitution is a social disease. â€Å"It is not merely an affair between the sensual man and the depraved and avaricious woman, as individuals, but is the outcome of a complex social condition, which through artificial stimulation, multiplies both the demand and supply.†(p.139) The authors were showing that it’s a very intricate problem that is impossible to totally cure and there are several reason why that is the case. There were dynamics that were present when this document was printed that were innate and gained that cause the women to resort to this immoral livelihood. It was caused by immigrating into Canada without money, your family’s social class or lack of jobs as it was a multi faceted problem. Poverty is the first basis the author discusses, followed by housing and sanitation and feeble-mindedness as it related to the vice. Th is evidently all had an extremely detrimental result in prostitution in Toronto in the early 20th century. The intention for writing this document was that at this point in time, prostitution was rising out of control in the then recently ethnically reformulated city of Toronto. The document takes a very critically negative point of view on the occupation that various women of this era were resorting to because of the social condition. There were several misconstrued reasons that were believed by the public for whom and why these women were selling their sexuality for either money or in exchange for gifts. This was a tremendously soft area of knowledge...

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Marketing Article Review paper

Marketing Article Review paper Marketing Article Review paper Marketing Article review Novelette Anglin MKT 607 October 1st, 2014 SMART Goals and Self-Leadership Goal After reading the scholarly article on branding management strategy, I realized that the main idea is to inform readers of the amount of challenges many companies face to develop products and services, and most importantly brand. The article reading leads the belief that if resources are targeted consistently, with good decisions in investments, the aim will worth the effort, and not farfetched to achieve. We all must also realize that a brand with a good object will securely achieve at a high success. Branding involves the creation of a name that is unique to the product extend on the market. It is the name that portrays the image for the product in the minds of consumers. I found that the authors write about this topic because they feel the need to bring out the importance of branding when it comes to the market, and the choice of the consumers with majority of businesses. In order for a brand to contribute to the overall success of a company in such a signifi-cant way, manifold and coordinated managerial activities are necessary (Herrmann , Henneberg

Sunday, November 3, 2019

HSA 530 Assignment 1 week3 Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

HSA 530 Assignment 1 week3 - Coursework Example As an HR Manager I would give special attention to responsible recruiters and efficiency trends in HR. Mostly healthcare recruiters believe that the outcome of patient satisfaction surveys is a clinical issue and not a recruitment issue. Human resource management can make significant contribution to the bottom line by hiring the right persons as it will ensure delivery of quality safe care to the patients (Kabene, Orchard, Howard, Soriano, & Leduc, 2006). Moreover, HR is at the helm of all affairs of a recruitment process and it is quite obvious that recruitment is directly linked to the overall performance of health care hospitals. Therefore, to accomplish the efficiency trend I would employ diverse human resource initiatives like internal contracting, contracting-out, performance contracts and outsourcing of services to enhance overall efficiency in a health care hospital (Kabene, Orchard, Howard, Soriano, & Leduc, 2006). It involves managing people, policies and implementation of regulations inside an organization. In this role it is usually engaged in management of administrative  matters of individual  employees like leaves, payroll, insurances and other benefits (Bach, 2000). As a business partner, HR helps different business units to implement their business models. For instance, if a certain business unit has to implement Asset Management Business Model then the task of technical implementation will be accomplished by the Assets Business Unit whereas functions of skilled development, growth and training particular to Assets capabilities will be fulfilled by the HR Department in their plans (Bach, 2000). In contemporary times the HR executives instead of only implementing strategic activities for the organization are also part and parcel of the strategy formulation decision making. For instance while evaluating the projects each

Friday, November 1, 2019

Tributary States Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Tributary States - Essay Example Politically, subordinate states enjoyed independent political sovereignty only after paying the tribute. Legally, tribute states exercised legal rights only within domestic boundaries, while the superior state could exercise legal rights across all its tribute states. One example of a tributary state was Babylon, which paid tribute to the Roman Empire. Another example is the Roman Empire itself, which later paid tribute or bribe money to the invading barbarians. Also, England became a tribute state when the invading Vikings demanded payment of material bribes from the English crown. Political revolutions are transformative processes that bring changes in the social, economic, and political atmospheres of a nation. In contemporary times, the French Revolution feature as a perfect example of the transformative nature of political revolutions. Prior to the revolution, the King of France had subjectively imposed divine powers. The French population was utter subjects to the King’s unquestionable rule, and any natural human rights were impractical. During and after the revolution, ideas of human rights became popular. The popularization of inalienable human rights gave rise to the concept of citizenship in France (Katter 29). Through the concept of citizenship, liberal institutions like the national assembly were established. In essence, the transformation from subject rule to citizenship initiated a corresponding transformation from aristocracy to democracy in France. Prior to the Industrial Revolution, a substantial portion of European’s population relied on agriculture. Most people were peasants who supplemented their food and financial income through small-scale farming. During the 18th Century, there was a rapid marriage between man and machines. Establishment of factory production systems demanded laborers.