The eNotes Blog The Enchantress ofNumbers

The Enchantress ofNumbers The inquisitive story of the universes first software engineer. Today I stray a little from the standard scholarly and instructive news refreshes, in the wake of running over a gesture to an outstanding lady I couldnt spend the day without honoring, for her job in arithmetic, yet in addition for her job as a lady in science, a long ways comparatively radical. I trust that her story moves ladies in technical disciplines, or for sure any individual who continues on to think past the abilities of present day innovation. Tragically Im for the most part out of date on Googles creative and eccentric portrayals of unique days by means of their landing page. In any case, today, gmail coincidentally crashed, sending me to the Google landing page where I saw the underneath picture: I was interested. Who was this lady in nineteenth century attire, jotting numerical capacities with plume and ink? Thus, by method of mechanical mistake, I learned of Ada Lovelace, the universes first software engineer. Ada Lovelace was conceived on December tenth, 1815, to the writer Lord Byron and his better half Anna Isabella Byron. She had a hopeless youth, considered a failure from birth for not having been brought into the world a kid. Ada was relinquished by her dad before she was a month old andâ resultantlyâ never knew him, as he kicked the bucket abroad when she was eight. In the interim her mom decided to keep little association with her, potentially in light of the fact that youthful Ada helped her to remember her underhanded spouse, with whom the Baroness had a bitter separation. So Ada was raised by older family members and consigned to an existence of dubious perception by means of her moms companions, named the Furies. Luckily for us, however, she was additionally dependent upon an existence of educationintended to crush any deviation she may have acquired from her fatherand took a distinct fascination for science since early on. Around the age of seventeen, Adas unique capacities turned out to be obvious to her guides, all acclaimed in science in their own right. The prominent mathematician Augustus de Morgan even detailed of Ada to her mom that she appeared to be bound to turn into, a unique numerical examiner, maybe of top notch prominence. In the interim another of Adas teachers and companions, Mary Somerville, acquainted her with Charles Babbage, future creator of the universes first PC. Ada was not yet eighteen at that point. Babbage and Ada subsequently started a fellowship that created their scholastic joint effort on the formers Analytical Engine. In 1843, Ada deciphered Italian mathematician Luigi Meanabreas clarification of the machine, total with her own arrangement of notes and ends (which were in reality longer than Menabreas). In her portrayal of the Analytical Engine, Ada envisioned its potential as being more noteworthy than straightforward calculating, something not even Babbage enjoyed. She composed: [The Analytical Engine] may follow up on different things other than number, were objects discovered whose shared principal relations could be communicated by those of the theoretical study of tasks, and which ought to be additionally helpless of adjustments to the activity of the working documentation and instrument of the motor Assuming, for example, that the major relations of contributed sounds the study of congruity and of melodic arrangement were helpless of such articulation and adjustments, the motor may create detailed and logical bits of music of any level of multifaceted nature or degree. Alongside these ground breaking notes, Ada composed a calculation of Bernoulli numbers for the Analytical Engine (underneath). It is this piece of her proposal, Note G, that is generally viewed as the universes first PC program, making Ada correspondingly its first developer. Picture by means of Wikimedia Commons So there you have it: the universes first geek was a respectable woman, The Right Honorable Countess of Lovelace. That implies that on this day, as you peruse the Internet looking for Google verse, GIFs, or the Ikea Monkey, you have Miss Ada Lovelace to thank for her place in envisioning the ability of PCs to transform ourselves in the bunch of ways they have today. Ada was such a fascinating lady, there is just such a large amount of her life I could remember for this post. I enthusiastically suggest her Wikipedia section as a review of her astounding accomplishments and to some degree outrageous individual issues. In her negligible thirty-six years, Ada gave us a lot to acknowledge and remains as a prime case of the job ladies have played in science and innovation, however they are regularly neglected. She really satisfied Charles Babbages epithet for her, The Enchantress of Numbers: Disregard this world and every one of its difficulties and if potential its countless Charlatansâ †everything in short however the Enchantress of Numbers. Related: Educators, train your understudies on the historical backdrop of The Enchantress of Numbers with record on Ada Lovelace, discovered here. It accompanies a movement to assist understudies with composing their own special projects and is suggested for Grades 4-8.

Fat and Happy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Fat and Happy - Essay Example The exposition starts by misrepresenting normal mixed up thoughts of how and why being fat is an individual, social, and clinical risk, at that point gives proof and guides to each to show why society built up the recognition that the body characterizes and reflects who an individual is. Realities uncover and scatter the basic perspective, demonstrating chubby individuals can be delightful, thoughtful, exquisite, solid, and sound, much the same as you and me. The impact of these points of view can represent a more genuine wellbeing hazard than bloatedness itself, affront and eating fewer carbs should positively add to the shortening of many hefty individuals' lives. (Worley, standard. 8) The additional pressure and exertion brought about by agonizing over your body's set point, implies that some would be more joyful and more beneficial not focusing energies on weight change. (Curtis, ed., A1) Ignorance, off base information, and individual inclinations being the underlying foundation s of these slip-ups, the article upgrades our insight into bloatedness by sharing contacting, individual encounters. Notwithstanding revising the peruser, she gives elective arrangements that cost less and are agreeable and pleasant: to know and comprehend the body, to know why some are inclined to being fat, and how to increase a more profound gratefulness and acknowledgment of our bodies and who we truly are. The article is not kidding yet engaging, happy however valid, loaded with proof natural to the two sides in the issue: chubby individuals who feel hopeless and the not-fat who cause the hopelessness. The article is composed to incite a response from any peruser with individual issues on the subject. She utilizes an enormous assortment of contentious strategies, filling the exposition with analogies, suspicions, illustrations, and comparisons, utilizing authority and shared opinion, engaging feelings (tenderness) and ethos (the creator after everything is fat), just as animating the creative mind with clear depictions of the occupants of the planet where fat is acceptable and lovely, as they associate in bathing suits and show their gifts like hip twirling. Actually, I don't have issues against hefty individuals, in spite of the fact that I have companions who do. I additionally have fat companions whom I have seen to be enduring the hopeless results of disapproval. I have, no doubt, been on the giving finish of this absence of acknowledgment, if just unexpectedly. Since I am seven months pregnant, I believe I am forced to bear these predispositions, and can add my very own encounters to Worleys list. The option in contrast to tolerating the norm is to help other people see that being fat is as acceptable and delightful as some other body type, that chubby individuals can be sound and solid, and that being fat is neither an indication of shortcoming nor an illness. Understanding that these mixed up ideas are the impact of broken thinking, I can maintain a strategic distance from similar errors later on and help other people evade them. These presumptive contentions show up, from the start, to be coherent, however are most certainly not. The exposition shows that partner fat with terrible is simply a bias, so individuals who believe that way are liable of nonsensical conclusion. A result of reckless reasoning, the possibility of bloatedness likening adversely is as wrong as partner thin with awful.

The Broke Persons Guide to Thanksgiving

The Broke Persons Guide to Thanksgiving The Broke Persons Guide to Thanksgiving The Broke Persons Guide to ThanksgivingThanksgiving can feel like a time that you need to go all out, but dont let the gobble gobble of a pricey turkey dinner gobble up your savings!With the end of Halloween, Christmas is here once more! Or so the mainstream media wants you to believe! But here at the OppLoans Financial Sense blog, we know that there’s a holiday after Halloween and before Christmas that deserves its due!That’s right, we’re talking Thanksgiving. Turkey time. The cornucopia crunch. The pilgrim programming block. The mashed potato main event. The gravy gala. The cornbread coronation. The wishbone wonderfest.Whatever you call it, it’s a time to get together with family to watch a parade, toss the football around, and eat until you’re physically incapable of eating anymore. But whether you’re traveling or whether you’re hosting, it can get very expensive.That’s why we spoke to the experts to get you these savings tips so the only turkey this  year  will be the one on the plate! Shop smarter, not harder.If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, you could be doing a lot of shopping. But with some shopping strategies, you can bring your costs down significantly.“Dont be so focused on fresh items as theyll be priced higher during the holidays,” advised Claudia Sidoti, Head Chef at HelloFresh (@HelloFresh). “Stocks, canned soups, and vegetables are often on sale this time of year and can be used in dishes for several months following Thanksgiving.“Consider buying ‘out-of-the-box’ items like corn and potatoes as theyre easy on a  budget. Try picking up a grocery store turkey, which will cost much less, and can even be bought early and stored in the freezer to save even more.”You can also use the time-tested strategy of buying a lot of stuff at once.“For items like paper towels and certain dishes, it’s just better to buy in bulk,” suggested Amanda Raimondi, lifestyle expert and writer for Kiwi Searches (@kiwisearches).“ Not to mention, who doesn’t love Thanksgiving leftovers? You will probably be able to eat those leftovers for many days after. So go grocery shopping at places like Costco to get more for your money.”Couponicopia.Coupons can help you save money at any time of the year. And Thanksgiving? Yep, it’s a time of the year.“Most grocery stores have sales for Thanksgiving,” Raimondi told us. They want you to make your food purchases there. All the popular items like corn, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and stuffing will be on sale somewhere.You may even get a coupon circular in the mail as I do. If you’re really lucky, certain grocery stores offer a free turkey if you earn enough points during the year at their store.”It’s your potlucky day.Much like in the (admittedly apocryphal) accounts of the original Thanksgiving, the meal is better if everyone brings something to the table.“Dont let anyone who offers come empty-handed,” recommended Holly Wolf, Director of Customer Eng agement for SOLO Laboratories (@SOLO_labs). “Or, dont let anyone come empty-handed.I give specific things like bring two pumpkin pies, or bring rolls and a salad. For those who dont want to cook, suggest bringing butter, wine, salad or festive paper plates to make your clean up fast and easy.If you have a family of people coming that lives close by, ask if they would mind picking up the turkey. Even at $20, for a family of four, thats just five dollars eachâ€"a small contribution.”Narrow down the menu.Instead of making everything you can and wasting time and money on food that might not actually be eaten, you can make your guests put their mouth where their mouth is via the magic of democracy.“Take a vote on the menu,” advised Wolf. “Offer options and see what people select. For example, I ask if you want sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, potato filling (its a Pennsylvania Dutch thing), dried corn (again a PA Dutch thing) or noodle pudding (a family tradition).They each vote on two. This year, were having sweet potatoes and potato filling. Thats less work and less expense than having all of the side dishes. Few like salad or soup on Thanksgiving, so I no longer make that.”Batch drinks arent just for college parties.Whether you enjoy drinkingâ€"or just need it to get through dinner with some of your more difficult relativesâ€"there are ways to save on Thanksgiving thirst time.“I am a huge fan of doing big batch cocktails,” Sidoti told us. “This way, you avoid buying a ton of different types of alcohol and mixers which can really add up!Try something simple and classic like cranberry juice and vodka. Keep it cold in pitchers in the fridge before serving and use a giant punch bowl with plenty of ice! Try boxed wine! Its much cheaper than bottled wine and good for the environment.”Just (get creative with) desserts.Thanksgiving dessert. Because you need something else to eat after you’ve already eaten so much you can’t possibly eat anymore. Pr obably something sweet!“Making your own pie crust is much cheaper than buying it frozen or prepared,” advised Sidoti. “Use leftover Halloween candy to bake fun desserts or swap store-bought chocolate chips for the candy shavings. Chop finely and you get a mix in for some of your favorite cookie recipes!”Fly me to the food, let me play among the carbs.If you’re the guest, rather than the host, and you need to travel to get to the meal, you’re probably dreading the holiday travel costs. But putting off booking your trip is only going to make it worse.Tracy Julien, VP of Marketing for GuidedChoice (@GuidedChoice), offered this advice: “With Thanksgiving being a month away, this tip might not help for this year, but hopefully it can be of use for the future.Thanksgiving week is one of the most traveled weeks of the year so getting ahead of the hustle and bustle can save you time and money. Traveling during this time of year will always be more expensive but if you have pla ns, start looking months in advance. Waiting till the last minute can burn a huge hole in your wallet.The next tip is not for everyone but can still save you. Taking early or late flights will be cheaper. If you are willing to sacrifice some sleep, go for these early flights. Early flights are cheaper, and they likely give a full first day at your destination!Plan your holiday travel and you’ll thank yourself later. The less stress during these crazy times, the better!”If you thought the Macy’s Parade was neat, just wait till you see the parade they’ll throw you for being such a great Thanksgiving saver. Maybe you’ll even get to ride the Garfield balloon!To read more about saving money, check out these related posts from OppLoans:The Broke Person’s Guide to Dating7 Tips for Eating Out on the CheapHow to Save Money When You’re Already on a Tight Budget8 Ways To Save Money Today, Tomorrow and Every Day AfterWhat are your best strategies for cutting Thanksgiving costs? We want to hear from you! You can find us  on  Facebook  and  Twitter.ContributorsTracy Julien is VP of Marketing for  GuidedChoice (@GuidedChoice), a leader in retirement investment planning and managed IRAs. Tracy received her Bachelor’s degree from Ohio University in 2000 and her MBA in Marketing Management from DePaul University in 2006. She has over 15 years of experience working for brands like FTD, the Blue Cross, and Unilever.Amanda Raimondi and is a financial expert and writer for  Kiwi Searches (@kiwisearches).Claudia Sidoti, Head Chef and Head of Recipe Development at  HelloFresh (@HelloFresh),  brings more than thirty years of experience to the HelloFresh kitchen, most recently hailing from Food Network, where for over eight years she served as Test Kitchen Director, leading culinary content and contributing more than 3,000 recipes to Food Network Magazine. She began her career at 19 as chef and restaurateur in New York City, spending eight years in the kitchen at Onini restaurant before shifting gears and food styling for television commercials, editorial,  and ad campaigns. She later launched catering company Beauty the Feast, along with Urban Market, an international specialty food shop that featured authentic dishes inspired by her multicultural family. At HelloFresh, she focuses on expanding and honing the robust database of delicious, easy-to-follow recipes for home cooks, which currently houses more than 1,000 unique recipes.Holly Wolf is an executive with over 30 years experience in banking and healthcare.

Max Weber on Culture, Authority, and the Iron Cage

With Karl Marx, Émile Durkheim, W.E.B. DuBois, and Harriet Martineau, Max Weber is considered one of the founders of sociology. Living and working between 1864 and 1920, Weber is remembered as a prolific social theorist who focused on economics, culture, religion, politics, and the interplay among them. Three of his biggest contributions to sociology include the way he theorized the relationship between culture and economy, his theory of authority, and his concept of the iron cage of rationality. Weber on the Relationships Between Culture and Economy Webers most well-known and widely read work is The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism. This book is considered a landmark text of social theory and sociology generally because of how Weber convincingly illustrates the important connections between culture and economy. Positioned against Marxs historical materialist approach to theorizing the emergence and development of capitalism, Weber presented a theory in which the values of ascetic Protestantism fostered the acquisitive nature of the capitalist economic system. Webers discussion of the relationship between culture and economy was a ground-breaking theory at the time. It set up an important theoretical tradition in sociology of taking the cultural realm of values and ideology seriously as a social force that interacts with and influences other aspects of society like politics and the economy. What Makes Authority Possible Weber made a very important contribution to the way we understand how people and institutions come to have authority in society, how they keep it, and how it influences our lives. Weber articulated his theory of authority in the essay  Politics as a Vocation, which first took form in a lecture he delivered in Munich in 1919. Weber theorized that there are three forms of authority that allow people and institutions to attain legitimate rule over society: 1. traditional, or that rooted in the traditions and values of the past that follows the logic of this is the way things have always been; 2. charismatic, or that premised on individual positive and admirable characteristics like heroism, being relatable, and showing visionary leadership; and 3. legal-rational, or that which is rooted in the laws of the state and represented by those entrusted to protect them. This theory of Webers reflects his focus on the political, social, and cultural importance of the modern state as an apparatus that strongly influences what happens in society and in our lives. Weber on the Iron Cage Analyzing the effects the iron cage of bureaucracy has on individuals in society is one of Webers landmark contributions to social theory, which he articulated in  The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism. Weber used the phrase, originally  stahlhartes Gehà ¤use  in German, to refer to the way the bureaucratic rationality of modern Western societies comes to fundamentally limit and direct social life and individual lives. Weber explained that modern bureaucracy was organized around rational principles like hierarchical roles, compartmentalized knowledge and roles, a perceived merit-based system of employment and advancement, and the legal-rationality authority of the rule of law. As this system of rule -- common to modern Western states -- is perceived as legitimate and thus unquestionable, it exerts what Weber perceived to be an  extreme and unjust influence on other aspects of society and individual lives: the iron cage limits freedom and possibility. This aspect of Webers theory would prove deeply influential to the further development of social theory  and was built upon at length by the critical theorists associated with the Frankfurt School.

My Fathers Prostitute By Steven Whitacre - 1871 Words

Steven Whitacre experienced a very traumatic childhood of abuse from his father which led to a very difficult adulthood. In his book â€Å"My Fathers Prostitute†, he talks about his life, starting out when his father first abused him to more recent times in adulthood to where he finally sought help and started to move on in his life started to live the life he should and deserves. This book really opened my eyes on what all goes on in this world that I would have never guessed. â€Å"Every eight minutes, a child is sexually assaulted in the U.S., and 93% know the perpetrator† (â€Å"Adult Survivors of Childhood†). To me this statistic seems insane and I cannot ever imagine being sexually assaulted by anyone let alone one of my parents that I am supposed to trust and love. When you really think about it, that how every eight minutes a child is getting sexually assaulted it is astonishing. It makes me wonder how many people I know that I have been sexually assaulte d but don’t tell anyone. I assume there are many different cases of sexual assault and how there are different levels of how traumatic they are to the individual someone came upon. With some people, the sexual assault only happened once, and with others like the author of My Fathers Prostitute it happens during their entire childhood to impact the individual even more. I am not saying that the individuals who have only been sexually assaulted once came out un hurt or traumatized, but I would just imagine that it would not leaveShow MoreRelatedSummary Of My Father s Prostitute By Steven Whitacre2060 Words   |  9 Pages11/6/17 Book Analysis: My Father’s prostitute â€Å"My Father’s Prostitute† by Steven Whitacre, is an honest and chilling book about an innocent boy’s struggle from child to adulthood. When reading this book, I found myself completely shocked and interested at the same time. It was different to read a book from the authors life and I think that is what made it that much more interesting. â€Å"My Father’s Prostitute† is a book about a child’s struggle, that leads into adulthood. When Steven was about four years

Finnis’s Natural Law Theory Free Essays

Basically, Finn’s’s natural law theory are divided into three main parts, each with its own purpose and function. According to Finnis, there are first, a set of notions that â€Å"indicate the basic forms of human flourishing as goods to be pursued and realized† and that every human being should have the idea on how they should act. Secondly, Finnis further argued on the notion of â€Å"a set of basic methodological requirements of practical reasonableness †¦ Which distinguish sound from unsound practical thinking and . We will write a custom essay sample on Finnis’s Natural Law Theory or any similar topic only for you Order Now provide the criteria for distinguishing between [reasonable and unreasonable acts]. Thirdly, a methodological requirements that allows one to distinguish between acting morally right or morally wrong and â€Å"to formulate . .. a set of general moral standards†. 1. First Main Part of Finnis Natural Law Theory : Basic Human Goods Finn’s’ naturalism is both an ethical theory and a theory of law. Finnis introduced the theory of basic goods in human life as the first part of his natural law theory. Based on the set of notions that, â€Å"indicate the basic forms of human flourishing as goods to be pursued and realized† which according to Finnis, every reasonable person would ssent to the value of these basic goods as objects of human striving, and these basic goods are â€Å"indemonstrable but self-evident principles [that shape] our practical reasoning. â€Å"Finnis distinguishes a number of equally valuable basic goods namely, life, practical reasonableness, knowledge, play, friendship, religion, and aesthetic experience. Finnis argues that the list of basic goods is exhaustive in that â€Å"other objectives and forms of good will be found †¦ to be ways or combinations of ways of pursuing .. and realizing †¦ one of the seven basic forms of good, or some combination of hem. † His argument basically means that in order to achieved the basic good, the elements of seven basic goods must be fulfilled. A person is said to achieved basic goods even if he achieved either one of the basic forms or combinations of the basic forms, he don’t need to pursue all of the seven basic goods at the same time. Since the human basic goods does not provide any hierarchy between the seven forms, hence, the basic goods are incommensurable. According to Finn’s, none of the basic goods â€Å"can be analytically reduced to being merely an aspect of any of the others, or o being merely instrumental in the pursuit of any of the others,† and â€Å"each one, when we focus on it, can reasonably be regarded as the most important. In simple words, Finnis argues that, each of the forms of basic goods are to be distinguished from each other because each forms has intrinsic values. 1. 1 . Knowledge Stating that knowledge is good, or thinking of knowledge as a value, is not the same as saying that knowledge is a moral value. By saying knowledge is to be pursued† since it is ag and that goods are to be pursued†Finnis is not saying that a moral obligation has been created. Finnis’s basic goods are to be thought of as intrinsically good in that all of these values should be considered good for their own sake and not for an instrumental purpose Finnis more particularly describes the good of knowledge as that of speculative knowledge, explaining that this good is the good of knowledge being â€Å"sought for its own sake. This reference to knowledge can also be articulated as truth†so that one can say that this is truth sought for its own sake in the same manner as knowledge. Here, Finnis is not describing an instrumental use of knowledge, but rather â€Å"the pure desire to know’ merely out of curiosity and â€Å"an nterest in or concern f or truth and a desire to avoid ignorance or error † Finn’s’s primary argument for the value of the knowledge, as for the value of other items on his list, is by appeal to the reader’s intuition: It is obvious that those who are well-informed, etc. simply are better-off(other thing being equal) than someone who is muddled, deluded, and ignorant, that the state of the former is better that the state of the latter, not Just in particular case of that, but in all cases, as such, universally, and whether I like it Otr not. Knowledge is better that ignorance How to cite Finnis’s Natural Law Theory, Essays

Using Cloud Computing Technology Microsoft â€Myassignmenthelp.Com

Questions: How Can Microsoft, Australia Implement Its Cloud Computing Technology To Provide Betters Security To Data And Information Stored In Databases? Why Does The Cloud Computing Technology Incurs Such A Huge Cost And Expertise That Is Needed To Be Possessed By The Workers Of Microsoft In Australia? What Kinds Of Measures Are Recommended For Microsoft, Australia To Overcome The Issues Related To Data Security And Higher Capital Investments? Answers: Introduction The research proposal is designed to discuss the various advantages and disadvantages that have been derived by using cloud-computing technology at Microsoft, Australia. The cloud computing enables computing technologies based on the internet technology for allowing the users to run programs that have been downloaded on a computer server. The cloud computing plays a major role in managing accessibility to different types of applications and programs with the use of internet technology. The research will illustrate about how the cloud computing can be used as an effective computing infrastructure by the organization to access computer networks, hardware and software components along with servers, applications and services efficiently. All these will be possible with the use of internet technology (Arora, Parashar and Transforming 2013). Other than the benefits, the cloud computing has resulted in various issues too including essentiality of internet connection, otherwise the accessibi lity to servers, computer networks, applications and programs will not be possible. If Microsoft exceeds the actual bandwidth allowance, then charges can be quite high and without downloading all the services, it can create cerate severe complexities to business the files and data through multiple devices (Microsoft.com 2017). Project Objective To determine the benefits obtained by Microsoft, Australia through the utilization of cloud computing. To make an evaluation of the negative effects of cloud computing on Microsoft, Australia To assess the different ways or approaches by which Microsoft in Australia has implemented its cloud computing systems To make recommendations for resolving the issues related to cloud computing and ensure successful business functioning for Microsoft, Australia. Project Scope There is immense scope for managing this research project because Microsoft, Australia has managed to provide Azure Cloud region for the Government of Australia to manage the data and information properly that have been left unprotected and not classified as well. The project scope helps in determining the various ways by which clouding computing can be implemented and proper business functioning is possible for Microsoft in Australia. With the identification of a proper scope, there will be enough opportunities to conduct a detailed market research and evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of using cloud computing with ease and effectiveness (Beloglazov, Abawajy and Buyya 2012). Advantages of cloud computing For the business organization, the cloud provider in Australia could deliver enhanced cloud services for the management of data and information that would be required to be protected and kept secure. Cloud computing provides an excellent digital platform to remain connected with the customers and stay ahead of the rivals within the competitive business environment, furthermore manage transformation of data to develop smartest applications and programs. The support by Government of Australia could help in making informed decisions and improve the engagement of customers. It could drive necessary changes, improvements and make clarification of the public trends among the workers to make them deliver services according to their needs and preferences (Chaisiri, Lee and Niyato 2012). Delivering innovation options The hybrid cloud has been used by many organizations in Australia to provide innovation options to the developers of programs and applications in Australia and deliver unmatched value that can satisfy the customers quite easily. The utilization of cloud computing has not only facilitated the development of better quality apps but also has led to the delivery of innovation services for allowing the organizations to achieve the business goals and objectives accurately (Chen and Zhao 2012). Decrease in capital investments Cloud computing allows for making investments for only how much it has been used. There is no need for greater capital investments to manage the deployment of local systems. The business organizations need to pay only for any extra users and in any case the members of a team decrease, the cost of cloud computing applications and programs will also be reduced. Therefore, the running costs would also be lowered and enhance the capability of the organizations to deliver better outcomes and productivity (Fernando, Loke and Rahayu 2013). Advantages of scalability While upgrading the functions and activities of the local system, there is need for purchase of hardware components along with management f proper licensing and configuration of networks and servers. Cloud computing provides better scalability by managing the hardware and software components and provide necessary support to the local systems whenever necessary. It has also enabled automatic upgrades and maintain the cloud services within less time too (Hamlen et al. 2012). Scope for mobility is huge The business organizations have stored the applications and programs in the cloud service provider with internet connection for accessing the software applications with ease. This would allow for managing the accessibility of data and information by the organizational staffs and keep that information stored securely. Advantage of disaster recovery Disasters tend to happen and this could result in huge loss of important data and information, because of which consistent backup should be required. As it is quite time consuming and costly, cloud computing has overcome these issues by managing safety of data and ensuring that the services and data are protected and made operational. This could transform the business as well as enhance the security mechanisms (Hashizume et al. 2013). It is because the data and information are stored in clouds and it prevents any unauthorized access to the data. Better collaboration and competitiveness The cloud computing delivers good cloud based applications that can encourage the staffs to work as a team and increase their potential to perform efficiently too. With the help of cloud computing system, small and medium sized organizations could be benefited through improvement of software systems and infrastructure of the organization, furthermore making the internet servers, computer networks and database systems function far better than previously (Lee and Zomaya 2012). Disadvantages of cloud computing for Microsoft, Australia In spite of the benefits drawn from the utilization of cloud computing system, there are several disadvantages too. Dependency on internet connection The cloud computing technology is purely based on internet connection and in case of any latency issues or lower bandwidth, the organizations suffered and failed to implement the cloud computing system properly. Depending upon the internet connection entirely was a major drawback, as without proper internet connection, the organizations would be unable to access the data and information (Microsoft.com 2017). Security issues There were security issues like emergence of NSA snooping scandals and even breach of data through hacking activities. These kinds of issues hindered the security maintenance and even exposed passwords and user names of the users within the organizations. High cost of implementing the cloud computing Though cloud computing looked like it reduces capital investments and operating costs, still all the features might not be present in the cloud and this it would need additional investments to add the features that were found missing. The customization of cloud based software and programs had greatly increased the cost and thus it had been a major drawback too (Rittinghouse and Ransome 2016). Though the inbound transfer of large amounts of data is free, the outbound data transfer incurs huge cost. Impact of cloud computing usage on Microsoft, Australia The cloud computing technology had allowed the business organizations to manage the servers, computer networks, applications, programs and databases with the use of internet and even monitor the ways by which customers utilize the big data and analytical information (Microsoft.com 2017). Cloud computing and provide various benefits for the business organizations in Australia through effective management of business operations and processes with convenience. This would evolve the business and boost the production level through proactive monitoring and management of capital assets properly (Xu 2012). The financial services would be improved to ensure customer satisfaction. Other advantages include benefiting the organization by enhancing its capability to attract more customers and generate positive outcomes with the support of Australian Government. The cloud computing usage by Microsoft in Australia had improved the customers services and support and even transformed the ways of keep ing data and information secured. The use of SQL server further enhanced its efficiency by providing exceptional security and enhanced performance within the organization (Zissis and Lekkas 2012). Literature gaps While conducting the research, various websites, articles and documents were reviewed, among which few of those did not contain relevant data and information. The presence of inaccurate data and information also hindered the successful accomplishment of research. There was poor access to the journals and articles because of which the negatives of using cloud computing were not assessed properly as audit. Qualitative research The main steps involved in the qualitative research include identifying the questions prepared based on the objectives, determine ways of collecting data and generate validated findings to prepare the final report. The qualitative data is obtained by interviewing the managers of the organization and obtaining their responses and opinions for the questions related to the use of cloud computing. Among the various sampling techniques, the non-probability sampling technique is the most suitable for obtaining their opinions by selecting a proper time when they can be available to become part of the interview session (Arora, Parashar and Transforming 2013). The sampling size is chosen as 10 managers of the organization from whom qualitative data has been obtained in the form of their views, opinions and responses. The managers provided their answers without any bias, so the data is valid and reliable and thus it can be used for conducting research on the same topic afterwards as well. The variables specified are cloud computing, advantages and disadvantages (Chen and Zhao 2012). Quantitative research Quantitative research allowed for obtaining the responses of customers and managed generalization of data for the development of a research hypothesis and identify the aims and objectives that are needed to be achieved properly. The sampling techniques used here are random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. This had helped in selecting a particular group of people from a huge population and then survey questionnaires were provided to them regarding the benefits and drawbacks of cloud computing. The questions present there were subjective, which helped in maintaining the validity of the research. The reliability of data was achieved because the customers provide their responses that were considered as data and information collected without bias and these could be used for further researches in the future as well (Fernando, Loke and Rahayu 2013). The sample size has been chosen as 55 customers for collecting quantitative data. Research Limitations Due to language barriers, many of the respondents could not understand the survey questions properly and this even wasted a lot of time during the research completion. They could not understand certain questions properly, because of which certain responses were not provided. The lack of time was another limitation, because though the research had been completed within the assigned time period, there was need of some extra time to accomplish the research conduction in much details (Hamlen et al. 2012). Time Schedule (Research plan) Main activities/ stages Month February Month March Month April Month May Month June Month July Selection of topic Collecting data from secondary sources Constructing the research layout Literature review Development of research Plan Selection of Appropriate Research Techniques Primary data collection Analysis Interpretation of Data which are collected Conclusion Development of Draft Final Work submission Conclusion The research was conducted to identify the major strengths and issues related to the use of cloud computing at Microsoft, Australia. The objectives, questions and collection of data procedures had been included here to show how the research was conducted. The literature review section provided an insight about how the cloud computing technology had created a positive impact on the organization and transformed the business entirely though betterment of services and products delivered to the customers. Reference List Arora, R., Parashar, A. and Transforming, C.C.I., 2013. Secure user data in cloud computing using encryption algorithms.International journal of engineering research and applications,3(4), pp.1922-1926. Beloglazov, A., Abawajy, J. and Buyya, R., 2012. Energy-aware resource allocation heuristics for efficient management of data centers for cloud computing.Future generation computer systems,28(5), pp.755-768. Chaisiri, S., Lee, B.S. and Niyato, D., 2012. Optimization of resource provisioning cost in cloud computing.IEEE Transactions on Services Computing,5(2), pp.164-177. Chen, D. and Zhao, H., 2012, March. Data security and privacy protection issues in cloud computing. InComputer Science and Electronics Engineering (ICCSEE), 2012 International Conference on(Vol. 1, pp. 647-651). IEEE. Fernando, N., Loke, S.W. and Rahayu, W., 2013. Mobile cloud computing: A survey.Future generation computer systems,29(1), pp.84-106. Hamlen, K., Kantarcioglu, M., Khan, L. and Thuraisingham, B., 2012. Security issues for cloud computing.Optimizing Information Security and Advancing Privacy Assurance: New Technologies: New Technologies,150. Hashizume, K., Rosado, D.G., Fernndez-Medina, E. and Fernandez, E.B., 2013. An analysis of security issues for cloud computing. operations of Internet Services and Applications,4(1), p.5. Lee, Y.C. and Zomaya, A.Y., 2012. Energy efficient utilization of resources in cloud computing systems.The Journal of Supercomputing,60(2), pp.268-280. Microsoft.com. (2017).Microsoft - Official Home Page. [online] Available at: https://www.microsoft.com/en-au [Accessed 27 Oct. 2017]. Rittinghouse, J.W. and Ransome, J.F., 2016.Cloud computing: implementation, management, and security. CRC press. Xu, X., 2012. From cloud computing to cloud manufacturing.Robotics and computer-integrated manufacturing,28(1), Accouting. Zissis, D. and Lekkas, D., 2012. Addressing cloud computing security issues.Future Generation computer systems,28(3), pp.583-592.

1962 advert for Marlboro cigarettes Essay Example

1962 advert for Marlboro cigarettes Essay Example 1962 advert for Marlboro cigarettes Paper 1962 advert for Marlboro cigarettes Paper The next set of lines state to the reader that the flavour of the cigarettes is unfiltered but the cigarette does have a filter The use of juxtaposing words makes the readers think twice at first. The initial part of the phrase writes that the cigarette has a filter, which is good for the health of the consumers. The second part tells the reader that even though it has got a filter the flavour of the cigarette or the experience of smoking one is unfiltered, suggesting it is undiluted, which makes it even better than the first part of the phrase.Hence, both parts of the sentence are positive and combine to make one encouraging phrase. The box of cigarettes is what stands out the most in the whole advertisement, since it is in red and it is up front. The box is open for the possible consumers to see the new type of cigarettes and convince themselves that the cigarettes are almost alike. There are three visible cigarettes in the advert, but only one is raised enough to be taken; this makes the reader eager to take one, increasing the chances of readers buying a pack of cigarettes.In addition, the only colour other than black and white is red. This colour links in the head of consumers reading the advert with the pack of cigarettes of the Marlboro brand. Almost at the bottom of the advertisement, below the box of cigarettes the advertisement reads: You got a lot to like- Filter, Flavour, Pack or Box. The advert is telling the reader that both the unfiltered flavour and the filter inside the cigarette complement to make it irresistible to them.Good for their health with the same taste they already love. Plus, they sell them in a pack, for space and weight convenience since its lighter and smaller, or, in a box for men in heavy-duty jobs that carry their cigarettes in their pockets all day. This line is stating all the good things about these cigarettes and it gives no choice to the consumer but to think that the Marlboro cigarettes are the best in every possible way.In addition, the omission of the health warning is beneficial since readers will not even remember all the consequences of smoking. This idea of health precautions is also removed by the impression of the filter eliminating all bad things from the body and men convinced that also they can smoke filtered cigarettes. Also, at the very bottom it is clear that cigarette companies like Marlboro can support and promote sports, which again links with the idea of cigarettes not having any side effects.In conclusion, the advertisement uses various techniques to contribute to the effectiveness of the message that is sent across to every potential consumer. Every advertisement of the Marlboro brand uses a common technique of language and image to persuade the reader to buy their cigarettes, but this one in particular uses some language and visual techniques that enhance both messages in the advertisement.

David Shorter

David Shorter Table of ContentsProblem Identification 2Issues and Analysis 2Potential Departure of Bob Chen - Immediate Issue 3Organizational Structure 3Staffing 4Control Systems 5Management Style 5Cultural Awareness 5Communication Gap 6Alternatives 6Fire Bob Chen 6Transfer Mike McLeod to Another Group (within James-Williams) 7Relocate Bob Chen to Hong Kong (Set up an office in Hong Kong) 7Transfer Bob Chen to "The Tower" 7Decision 8Recommendations 10To Resolve the Conflict 10To Improve Organizational Structure 10To Improve Management Style 11To Improve Control Systems 11To Improve Staffing 11Strategic Implementation Plan 12Immediate Actions 12Continuing Actions 13Appendix #1: Synopsis of Case 15Introduction of Key Figures 15Appendix #2: Assumptions 17Appendix #3: Decision Matrix - Immediate Issue 18PROBLEM IDENTIFICATIONDavid Shorter, the practice director of the New Enterprise Group (NEG) at James-Williams, returned from a three-week partnership development program/ vacation, to find his office in a state of chaos and internal conflict.English: Full view of Kowloon and Hong KongAt the heart of the conflict was Bob Chen, a valuable up and coming employee at NEG, who was threatening to resign from the company rather than work on a project under the direction of Mike McLeod. Not surprisingly, Bob's actions have upset some partners and the original problem between Mike and Bob has become a conflict that is affecting the entire firm.Mr. Shorter is responsible for finding a course of action that resolves the immediate conflict and rectifies the underlying problems, while allowing all parties to keep their egos intact. A synopsis of case facts, as understood by Halifax Consulting Group, can be found in Appendix #1.ISSUES AND ANALYSISBased on the problem identification statement, immediate and basic issues can be identified. The immediate issue is finding a...

Global politics Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Global politics - Assignment Example These two chapters discuss the roles of non governmental organizations and trade blocs and how they effect foreign policy of a state. To give a very upstream view, the way these two perspectives effect the foreign policy of a state are quiet different. NGOs influence the policies of a state by manoeuvrings support against the government through lobbyists and pressure groups. Other then that, they often use their international presence to raise their voice against issues. Trade blocs on the other hand come into play by simply threatening to restrict supply. They get their work done by pressuring a government economically. Throughout the years Canada has followed a foreign policy which has been conducted in collaboration and through multilateral processes and institutions. How the government has supported multilateralism institutions clearly succeeds other considerations that have effected and shaped the interests of the Canadian foreign policy. How the government of Canada has supported NATO in the Iraq war also clearly demonstrates its commitment towards multilateralism in its foreign policy. Initially, the Canadian public opposed to support military action against Iraq by its allies, the US and the UK. However, being a part of NATO, the Canadian government would have to allow its troops to work with the UK if the UN Security Council gave a green signal for the war. And thats what eventually happened. This simply explains how much role multilateralism plays in the Canadian foreign policy. Many facts can be attributed to the failure of the League of Nations in the 1930s. Lets consider the main ones here. To start off not all major countries joined the League of Nations. USA never ever really joined the league. What the league lacked was membership of powerful states, which never really happened. Lastly and most majorly, the League failed to control aggression by major powers. At this point in time countries like

Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union Legal Provisions play Essay

Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union Legal Provisions play and important Role in Building Decision Making - Essay Example Further, the court shall have jurisdiction in any actions presented by member states, the commission, the council, or the European Government regarding incompetence, infringement on elemental procedural requirement, on vital provisions of the treaties and any issue pertaining to the rule of powers with respect to the application or possible misuse of powers. Further, the court would have jurisdiction and be guided by similar conditions when addressing relative concerns raised by the court of Auditors, Committee of regions or the European Central Bank. The court of auditors was granted this privilege by the Treat of Amsterdam. The European parliament on the other hand was added to the list of the privileged members by the Nice Treaty. This has raised various controversies with arguments revolving around the possibility of the European Union social partners claiming this desirable status. Non privileged applicants ranging from employers and employees to trade unions are also at liberty to launch complaints regarding European Union Institutions directly with the court. Seemingly, the court has interpreted these provisions very strictly as exemplified in Plaumann & Co. V Commission. In this, the court allowed individuals to make direct complaints accordingly. Seemingly, the courts have denied the collective organizations seeking to represent their members as individuals a chance to enjoy this provision. For instance, it refrained from hearing the cases Comite Central d’Entreprise de la Societe Generale des Grandes Sources v. Commission and Vittel v. Commission. In this respect, it is not easy for individuals to complain against the European Union institutions regardless of their activities having direct effect on matters pertaining to industrial relations and employment. The privileged applicants that largely constitute member states have unconditional access with respect to making complaints to the court. These include the council, the commission, and the E uropean Parliament or member states. This is well illustrated in United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland v. Council of the European Union in which the United Kingdom raised a complain to the court about the council’s decision regarding the working time directive. Article 264 of this treaty further provides that in instances where a measure reviewed under article 263 is found to be unlawful or illegal, it is void. The European Union in this respect does not have any power to substitute their individual reasoning for the reasoning of the author of the respective contested measure. The courts further have the liberty to make a decision with regard to whether an error demands for annulment of the respective contested measure. A classic exemplification of this pertains to the Hercules Chemicals NV v Commission case. In this, the court ruled that the contentious issue relating to access to the file of competition cases should be considered as the right of the defense. In this, any infringement on this right could culminate in annulment especially if it had the potential to breach the defense’s rights. This could not be merely countered by underscoring that access to the respective file was allowed at later stages of the legal proceedings, like after an annulment action had already been sought. Further, this article provides that the court, whenever it considers necessary, needs to definitively state the effects of the act have been declared void. Seemingly, the provisions of

How Technology Has Affected Teaching

How Technology Has Affected Teaching The unknown is full of fear. Technology can be a scary thing. Teaching can be a mind-blowing thing. If one is, the combination of all three is something that is only seen in schools today. Teaching with technology is a paralyzing fear that all teachers face on some level. With only a few hours available outside of the classroom, training is not available to all teachers. Such fear of the unknown and unavailable training, cause many teachers to reject technology on a wide scale. There has been technology the dawn of time. Technology 200 years ago meant nothing to do with electricity. It could be simply as a lever and pulley system for automatic door opening at Monticello, home of Thomas Jefferson. Technology has always scared people as it is something new and unfamiliar to them. What people see as fancy technology today will only be a thing that the next generation is used to and feels is old. When the printing press was first invented by Johann Guttenberg the aristocracy was afraid of what the new machine would mean for the disseminating of information amongst the people. In the end they learned how to use it and took advantage of its abilities themselves. Adaptations have been made and new technology has been invented since, but the principle is still the same. Copy machines, fax machines, and scanners all use the same idea behind the machine. If you ask a student today to use a typewriter to write their paper and then type another copy for themselves they would look at you like your crazy. They would either write it on a computer and just print another copy or run to a copy machine. When it comes to finding the information that they use in their papers, students in the past decade have turned to the internet in increasing numbers. Students in college feel that libraries are a place to access the internet and a quiet place to study, not to look up information in the books that are on the shelves. The Dewey Decimal system in cataloging books has gone to the way side in favor of online version of texts that students can access. In its early stages, the internet was more or less just a collect of text based documents without the capability to display images or video files. Just as with any technology, the internet continues to evolve. With websites such as YouTube ©, Facebook ©, and Twitter © teachers have a wide variety of places to look up information and supplements to their lessons. However some sites have been criticized for the information they contain. Wikipedia is one site that when it first started was a place to allow people to post information about any topic that people could then look up all in one place. But along with new topics, people were changing the information that was already on the site with incorrect information. It was not until the death of actor Heath Ledger that the creators of the often cited source began to change how information was updated. While the site still allows most information to update without review, information about persons of high interest and information ab out government policies and laws must be approved before they are posted online. The majority of teachers do not think about technology they use on a daily basis. From their cars to get to school or their smart phones to access their email from parents, teachers use technology and the internet to make themselves a better educator. Problem Statement There is not much research available to how the internet has affected researching in teaching. While there is a plethora of information on teacher perspectives of technology and an abundance of articles dealing with the internet in schools, not much information is available to how teachers have changed their teaching style in dealing with any kind of research their students conduct. There is a varying degree to which teachers approach the internet now. From subject to subject, students are faced with different styles. If there was guide for all classes, students would be able to go to each class and know how to conduct research in a proper manner that all their teachers would accept. Research Statement In this phenomenological study, I will interview for Northern Virginia high school teachers on how the research process changes for them with the growth and availability of the internet. Significance of the Study With more and more school systems pushing for teachers to use technology, some teachers are weary in how it affects their students. The No Child Left Behind Law has forced teachers to address how they introduce material to their students. While the internet has been used by students to conduct research, it now the teachers that have become the students in an attempt to understand what their students are looking up and how they can use it in their classroom. But how has the internet changed how teachers address research? This study is seeking to determine to what extent a variety of teachers have done in an attempt to address their student quest for an education. Chapter 2 Review of Literature The unknown is full of fear. Technology can be a scary thing. Teaching can be a mind-blowing thing. If one is, the combination of all three is something that is only seen in schools today. Teaching with technology is a paralyzing fear that all teachers face on some level. With only a few hours available outside of the classroom, training is not available to all teachers. Such fear of the unknown and unavailable training, cause many teachers to reject technology on a wide scale. Technology in the Classroom Honey, Culp, and Craig (1999) gave a perspective in a paper they presented at a national conference, on where technology and educational research are heading. Based on their research, they found three main factors that made them think differently. The first dealt with the nature of technological elements. The second was the kinds of things that were being asked in research. The third one they mentioned was how the research itself was being done. The main focus of their research was Union City, New Jersey. In 1989, the school was failing almost all of the standards that the state uses to judge schools on their performance. In fact they only passed eight of the 52 that are stated. To face these, they went through a massive overhaul including extending class periods and increasing the in-services required for its teachers. Amongst these improvements, computers were added to each classroom to assist in learning. All of these as well as those in the local city office building, libraries, and others were joined by computer. After a few years of studying this school system, they determined that the technology that was brought in had the largest impact on the students. It bolstered several successes including those with creativity and the whole language approach. While new teachers are familiar with this information, Ertmer, Addison, Lane, Ross, and Woods (1999) examine what teachers believe the role of technology should be in the classroom. This study focused more on the elementary school level. Even with increased technology including smart boards and one if not more computers available in each room it is still hard for teachers to feel comfortable working with the new fancy equipment. While some felt that they did not want to teach with technology, some just felt that things were fine and nothing new had to be done. They found that the teachers they interviewed, observed, and surveyed mentioned on some level that technology supported what they were doing in the classroom. Some made references to the use of technology in regards to how it enhances their current curriculum, but any use beyond that is not being used. There were minimal references to any emerging technologies. One teacher described that she found that students were more likely to work in pairs and groups on assignments. When the eight teachers were asked what were their reasons were for using technology, student benefits were near or at the top of all the lists. While there were a number of other benefits, some of the teachers mentioned that several metaphorical barriers were present. They found that time was a big factor in how much technology they use. While once programs and other equipment is running, it makes several things run faster and smoother, the time it takes to make sure it runs properly can out-weigh the benefits. While the teachers faced the barriers, they found several ways to work around them through local college and community support. One of these ways is in parental support for teaching children about technology earlier. Bergen (1999) interviewed an 8th grader on how she views technology in the classroom. Kristen, the student, was raised on computer that were manly used for games that were made to be educational only. While she was in elementary school, a new computer lab was built and allowed her access to more programs. However, it was not until middle school that she was able to use computers more to help with reports and find icons to place in reports. They also found that many teachers were starting to increase use of technology as more and more attention was brought on individualism and the diverse programs available encouraging students to work harder. It is up to the individual teacher to foster creativity and help their pupils become better students. In a U.S. Department of Education study (2005), teachers were asked on their perspectives on technology available to them. Technology that could reach beyond the classroom ranked at the top of a list of technologies teachers felt were the most useful for them. Computers that had internet access were 68% the most essential amongst all teachers. Based on their 2000-01 survey, only 57% felt that the technology that they had was sufficient. That is just within the school. Only four percent said the same thing when it came to technology in the individual classroom. While this number has increased over the past five years, it is still lower than what most principals and school district wish they could do. A new wave of technological scare is the cell phone as Burns and Lohenry (2010) discuss in regards to their use in the classroom. With several schools now having policy against cell phones, more and more students are actually having them and secretly using them in the classroom. While it is essential to keep and maintain order in the classroom, student that were surveyed said that they would be more into the lesson if they were going to be able to use their cell phone. A number of professors at the college level have started to allow students to use their cell phones for texting while in class as long as have them on silent or vibrate. Phone calls and texting during a test is still off limits. Mason, Berson, Diem, Hicks, Lee, and Dralle (2000) take on the role of discussing how technology can be used to help prepare social studies teachers. They discuss how teachers are trained in college how to use technology to further their learning, they are often more knowledgeable or willing to learn newer techniques. In a recent National Center for Education Statistics study, 95% of schools and 63% of classrooms are connected to the internet. These schools have made use of the digital archives that many schools are creating to help with social studies research amongst students. One of the issues Mason et al (2000) bring up is the accessibility of inappropriate information. This is taken care of by a number of technological programs that prevent certain sites from being accessed. Some of these include peer to peer sites that allow the trading of music illegally. This is to help students stay on task while also keeping the school safe from legal action. Several programs are discussed that are accessible through online sources that students and teachers use alike to help within the classroom. While technology is important to use, its just as important as training to use it properly. Social Studies of course is not the only subject that is taught. Mathematics is one of almost all schools core subjects as it is used in most other classes. The Wang et al. (2008) article discusses about how effective technology can be in early learning environments. Their study was one of the first on early learning. Many studies deal with middle school and higher levels, while this study dealt with pre-school. While the lessons and the printed materials are still for a younger age, kids were seen using digital cameras, digital microscopes, and digital video recorders. They focus on the supports and what technology can mean to kids. In the age when electronic toys are the strong majority of the market, kids are introduced to electronics at a very young age. They recommend kids be introduced to the proper use of technology at a young age and that all children get an equal and fair access. Li and Ma (2010) take a different approach from the mathematics class point-of-view. They argue that since computer technology had become more popular that is undeniable that its role as an important tool for learning. They discuss some of the encouraging figures including their study in how mathematic scores have increased when teachers use technology. They actually argue that more research is needed to be done from a mathematics point of view. Uses of Internet in the Classroom While the internet is a form of technology, it takes it to a whole new level. The information available to students and teachers is astronomical and some of that unknown is scary to them. Scheuerell (2010) discusses some of the fears of allowing students to use the internet. Some fear that it will make more students work alone. Video games and other electronic devices have forced more students to seclusion. While this is true, they provide evidence that while the student might be at the computer for game console alone, they are often using the internet to play with others via voice-enabled communications. The internet is also used for video chatting which can enable students in different locations to collaborate on assignments. Scheuerell explains that students do better on assignments, even online ones, when they are tasked with interpreting what they have learned, more than just looking up information. They feel that they are part of the work and that it is just not some kind of busy work. Cooperative learning can be done even on a local network and not the full internet. Many colleges and universities have local networks that allow students to use multiple computer s to work on a project and then send to each other. The students that were observed and discussed in the article were tasked with creating a webpage about local history in Missouri. Fear can also be used to welcome in the internet. Bonk (2010) explains that it might take a catastrophe to have how people look at schools in regards to the internet. He goes on to say that Katrina enabled many high school and college students to take classes online from other states and other universities. Indiana University High School is an example of how the internet can be used as a virtual high school. Students who attend this 21st century high school range from rural students to pregnant teenagers. The coursework that is done is the same that would be done at a local school, but for those that are unable to attend on a daily basis for a number of reasons this increases the chance that the student does not get frustrated. Bonk developed 10 methods that are available today. These include e-learning and blended learning to real-time mobility and portability. Digital books, as is discussed, are another step in using new technology in the classroom. With the iPad and Kindle, studen ts are able to access their books all at once, instead of carrying them around in a backpack or in their locker. These devices, especially the iPad, have several other uses including display programs and teaching programs that interact with the students and are more than just words in a textbook. With these, teachers can have an assignment tailored to each individual students needs without having to write or print out several directions or discuss individual directions out loud in front of the entire class. How can all these fears be relieved? Frye, Trathen, and Koppenhaver (2010) discuss the different needs that are met by using internet workshops and blog entries. Internet workshops are when teachers create a research based activity that students use to make a report on a subject. One of the top sites they mention teachers send students to is Delicious.com. Teachers are able to help guide students by creating social bookmarks that other students can use to help them, which cultivates the cooperative learning skill. They go into detail on how the internet workshops are built and designed by teachers to use it for more than just the one class, but available for multiple classes the student might have. The other topic they touch on is how the internet is used to keep up-to-date information available. Web-logs or blogs for short, are used along with internet workshops. Teachers can use blogs as journal entries for academic reasons and keep an accurate, detailed record of what the student( s) have been doing. It is not just teachers that need to know how to safely navigate these new technologies. Hardacre (2010) surveyed a number of students on various ways of communicating on the internet. In the early part of the 2000s a strong majority of student said they used MySpace compared to Facebook. Now the numbers have reversed. More and more teachers have begun using Facebook and other internet services to connect with their students. Libraries are increasing the number of computers and other technologies students can use to access the internet. Laptops are the top choice both amongst students and libraries to buy if they had money. But even if you relieve the fear of the use, the ability to use it could be difficult to come by. In the Technology Counts (2010) article, the topics of the problems in using and creating wireless networks are discussed. Connection issues have plagued wireless networks. From people not seeing a signal to slow speeds, wireless has its issues. The article states that if it is difficult for students to connect to a wireless network, they become frustrated; some even more so than what they would have been with paper texts. Networks are also expensive to create. With the number of people who would be accessing them, a good, professional level network is needed to accommodate the bandwidth. These can cost up to $125,000. That is just for the initial costs. A server administrator is needed to maintain and fix issues that arise. While a current staff member can serve this post, it is a full-time job that requires constant maintenance. They also discuss the benefits such as using smart phones to help alleviate some of the issues that the networks have. When the internet is used to such a large extent, that students need the internet to do their research and just function in school. Shiveley and VanFossen (2009) provide an explanation to how much the internet is actually used in the classroom. This literature review provides many sources as references, but states that there just is not much research out there for actual use in the classroom. Most of the material states what it should do and how it should help, but it does not provide detailed information on what teachers are specifically doing in class using the internet. They go on to discuss how in the social studies classroom, the attitude toward the internet is as a source of information only. Many teachers even limit the amount that a student can use as many false sources are on the World Wide Web. The full potential of the internet is not often realized by teachers who are afraid of false information. With many different programs and classroom materials available including WebQuests1 social studies teachers need to learn how much their curriculum can benefit from the internet. Mossbarger (2008) discusses the why the internet has actually become an addiction to some and should be included in textbooks. In his meta-analysis, Mossbarger mentions that more and more children are relying on the internet for social interaction and fail to see or understand the consequences. His data concludes that there are a few textbooks that deal with students and this addiction. The more attention, Mossbarger argues, that is brought to this, the more resources that will become available to treat it. Ratzan (1994) discusses how the problems faced in the earlier stages of the internet are still relevant today. One advantage of working with the internet environment is that things change quickly. One disadvantage of working win the internet environment is that things change quickly (p. 62). He discusses some of the different sources that are available including email and several types of books. These would all be available for students to do research on as a number of free sites are mentioned. There are a number of these that are geared primary toward a particular subject. Gayton (2008) explains the uses of teaching business in regards to the internet. All three of the teachers observed and interviewed, in a interpretive anaylsis found several flaws within uses of the internet. Most demonstrated and stated that the time it takes to create a lesson using the internet is too time consuming for their intended purposes. While being observed, each teacher was engaged in several poor teaching habits in regard to undirected usage. Gayton recommends that teachers, not just business ones get adequate training in use of technology and internet abilities and integrate them into their curriculum as its proven to have a positive impact on their students achievement. Most of the research available today comes from the public school sector. But with an increasing number of students attending private schools, thanks in part to school vouchers and school accountability, the internet has become a hub of information that these parochial schools have begun to incorporate. Gibbs, Dosen, Guerrero (2008) provide examples on how technology is used at the private school level, outside the money and restrictions of the public school systems. Their surveys concluded that while a few teachers use technology in different ways, for the most part Catholic school teachers used it very little. There is no church doctrine restricting what technology can be used, just on what information can/should be accessed. An overwhelming number of teachers, who used technology, use it to contact parents, presentations, and develop electronic portfolios of students work. They concluded that teachers used it as a preparatory instrument, but not as a teaching tool (p. 189). But after all is said and done, what is the current hot topic? Online universities have sprung up but as Doyle (2009) explains online high schools and colleges that were supposed to be used almost exclusively never took off like the industry hoped for. Despite universities like University of Phoenix, founded in 1976, which took online classes to a new level, it has not been until recent years that a larger push for people to take classes while not on a college campus. Singh, Mangalaraj, and Taneja (2010) discuss not just online universities but online classes in general. Research shows that online classes can be as effective as traditional classroom-based courses when appropriate technologies are used and sufficient interactivity is present (p. 299). They talk about the benefits of different programs that are available to students and teachers in these online courses. Remarks about each, whether they are good or bad are included in each of their research tables. This perspective allows teachers to see what programs are being used, where to find them, and how they can be applied to their classrooms. Conclusion Many teachers fear of technology and the internet stems from either a lack of training or fear of the unknown. The articles discussed are a combination of the positives and negatives. Some mention the benefits that teachers have learned from and used in their individual classrooms while others talk about the struggles and lack of training teachers have received to learn the potential of the internet. And while teachers might have a mind set against the internet, some students use their cell phones to access not only the world wide web but to text others. Some even use the technology to an unsafe level of addiction to such materials. Technology is ever changing and if we expect our students to change, then teachers to learn and understand it. The degree to which teachers use the technology is something only they can decide. Technology is all around us. Subjectivity I have always been surrounded by technology. My father is a computer system engineer since before I was born. We always had a computer. It might not have been the newest but we could always learn how to work with technology. Once I started doing research in school, I went to our computer at home. But when I was in school, I still had to use physical books. Most teachers I had did not have email or use the internet at all. So most of my research started on our computer but ended in books. Now that I am in college I have seen how teachers change how they allow students to do their research. Writing a literature review today is made a lot easier as articles are being published online or copies of them made available. Using laptops, desktops, and my iPod to access my emails and library resources have allowed for the literature review to be compiled. Chapter 3 Introduction The purpose of this study is to determine to what extent the internet has changed teachers perspectives on students conduct research in their classrooms. This chapter lists the procedures for the study while talking about the sampling strategies used to solicit volunteers. It also includes the design, measurement and instrumentation, data collection, limitations, and data analysis. Research Questions These questions were ever changing. In the preliminary stages, articles were abundant and research questions were being revised on a daily basis. After completing the literature review, the following questions were finalized through careful scrutiny. How has research changed with the internet? What are the struggles that students face while doing research? And to what extent is the internet used in all aspects of the classroom? Procedures The focus of this phenomenological study is on teachers in the Northern Virginia area. Interviews will be conducted to analyze the significance the internet has had on how these teachers view it in regards to how their students conduct research. Sample The sample for this study will be four teachers in Northern Virginia. The teachers will come from various subject areas with a varied amount of teaching experience. Permission as been granted from Liberty High School, Bealeton, VA (Appendix B) and Kettle Run High School, Nokesville, VA (Appendix C). Teachers will not be solicited based upon gender. A mix of public and private schools will be used. Design The research design is a collection of answers based upon responses to interview questions. The questions will be grouped together and discussed in regards to the answer of all the subjects at the same time. Data Collection The data will be collected by individual interviews, recorded on a digital voice recorder, with each subject. See Appendix A for a listing of the interview questions. Interviews will be conducted both at the school of each subject, per approval from the principal (Appendix B C) as well as other locations as needed to facilitate the needs of each subject. Each participant will have signed a copy of the Informed Consent Form (Appendix D). Each interview will be transcribed into a document. Some data may also be collected by follow up interviews, email, and phone calls. The additional data will be transcribed as well. Copies of any additional information subjects are willing to provide will be attached as an appendix. Data Analysis The data will be analyzed for answers to specific questions and a summary of each answer will be included. Subjects will asked to correct any information collected upon being provided a copy of the transcript. After all the data is compiled, each subject will be provided with a copy of all interpretations and asked to give feedback. This is to be used a check for validity. Ethical Issues See Appendix E for Institutional Review Board forms. Monitoring Subjectivity To help keep track of any possible subjectivity in my research, I will be writing a journal entry, in a Word document for each day that I work on my research. I will include a copy of my journal entries as Appendix E after my research is complete. Validity Measuring validity can be a tricky subject. According to Maxwell (2005) the two main threats to validity are research bias and reactivity. Researcher bias can be addressed in several ways including keeping a journal of activities throughout the research process (appendix F). In reactivity, I will conduct my research in the most comfortable location for my subjects. Conducting the interviews away from a school setting is one method of reducing the influence the interviewer has. My main methods of checking validity will be to give each subject a copy of their interview transcript and to give each participant a copy of the final paper to check for inaccuracies of both. Implications/Significance/Contributions Implications in this research are that teachers have changed their ideas on research. If no changes exist with the changing technology, the implication that there is could be offensive to come teachers. Significance is that this research can prove technology and the internet has changed the way teachers allow students to conduct research. contribution is that a compilation of thoughts and changes that have been made, if any, could be invaluable to teachers and administrators as the this research will cover teachers of all years of teaching experience as well as across all subjects Limitations This study was a based in a single area of the United States and thus had a certain number of limitations. The findings of the study were limited to four teachers in Northern Virginia. The teachers were personally asked to participate in the study. Another limitation would be the number of years the teacher has been teaching. While it is part of the design it is a limitation based on the interaction of materials used in the classroom in recent decades. While public and private school teachers participated, home school teachers were not interviewed. This prevents from getting a possible perspective on a section of teachers that rely on technology and the internet in their classrooms heavily.

How the Sonnet Form is Associated with Love and Ardent Expression :: Sonnets Love God Essays

How the Sonnet Form is Associated with Love and Ardent Expression God’s Grandeur is a sonnet associated with the environment and obviously, God. It is an Italian petrarchan sonnet, where there is a noticeable split in the poem which makes up the octave and the sestet. The first four lines of the octave, describes a natural world through which God’s presence runs through like an electric current, becoming at times noticeable is flashes. A metaphor is used to emphasise God’s Grandeur as an electric force. Gerard Hopkins suggest that there is some kind of force not to our attention, which builds up a sort of tension which can be both positive or negative. God’s presence could also be described as a rich oil, which when tapped with a enduring pressure, builds up to a greatness. These comments are stated in the poem, ‘It gathers to a greatness, like the ooze of oil’. It is clear to the reader from this point that the love being expressed here is very much towards God, his presence, and the natural world surrounding us. After the poet, Gerard Hopkins, suggests the fact of God’s presence in the world, he then asks the reader to ask themselves why humans fail to take note of God’s powerful authority. The word ‘rod’ in this poem represents God’s grand authority. The image of electricity also subtlety returns in the fourth line, where the ‘rod’ of God's punishments calls to mind the lightning rod in which excess electricity in the atmosphere will sometimes disappear. The stressed syllables in the fourth line also reinforce to the reader the question which is being asked here by Hopkins. For example, words such as ‘Crushed, why, not’ all contribute to the powerful rhythm, which helps put the question across more efficiently. This all contributes in helping the poet convey such a strong ardent expression, which is needed greatly in order for the full effect of the poem to show. In the next line, the strong, falling rhythm of ‘have trod, have trod, have trod,‘ recreates the sound of marching footsteps in emphatic onomatopoeia. The message here is of what man has done to the environment, God’s environment, by using it over the years for various means of transport. The onomatopoeia and alliteration here helps to put the message across because the tension increases by a large amount, resulting in a more exciting and powerful climax. The word ‘and’ is used often and the start of lines to compound something which is trying to be said. It helps put across the message more efficiently because the same word is being continuously ’drummed’ into the reader ’And all is seared†¦And wears man’s smudge’ etc.

Impement and Monitor Marketing Activities Essay

Executive Summary The marketing plan reviewed in this report is for BBQ fun 2009. BBQ fun aims to be e leading outdoor†lifestyle retailer, catering to the growing need for furnishing new and renovated dwellings in the greater Brisbane area. The assortment offer of BBQs, outdoor furniture and BBQ accessories will position BBQ fun as best in class for outdoor†lifestyle retailing. BBQ fun will reinvent the way people shop for outdoor†lifestyle products. BBQ fun will build its reputation on offering the fullest assortment of products possible in their chosen fields, incorporating both local and imported goods with products sold on easy to manage long†term payment plans. Our after sales service and three†year guarantees will find traction with a market dominated by low†quality items. Strategies and Tactics BBQ fun will be operating with an advertising budget of $250,000 for the year. The advertising program will target: †¢Local letter†box drops †¢Radio advertisement and †¢Magazines with coupon inserts in the BrisNews magazine Stakeholders Briefing regarding their implementation roles Board of directors: the board of directors are required to approve the hence they will be briefed on details of the plan through a presentation conducted for them and also informing them their roles in the implementation process. Human resource staff: in order for the human resource staff to conduct the recruitment and training they will be informed through a report including need for recruitment, training based on the marketing plan which would be used to brief the stakeholders as well. Finance staff: these staff will need to set a separate cost centre for the budget associated with the marketing plan. A written request for a budget allocation, or similar, would be used  to brief this stakeholder group. Managers: managers will be informed of any possible impact of the marketing activities on their departments through a meeting with the marketing department, which would include new products and services. Marketing and non–marketing personnel briefing Objectives: †¢Increase sales from $15 million per year to $20 million per year in the next three years †¢Increase our loyalty customers list from 10,000 to 16,000. †¢Establish brand recognition in Brisbane so that at least two in three people recognise our brand in a random survey taken in 18 months’ time. Marketing department will have direct roles in relation to the implementation and hence they will require significant details about the overall plan as well as each of the strategies and the related tactics. Sales staff will need overview of the plan and the strategies or tactics to be used and will need detailed information of the activities that will affect them, such as new special offers/pricing or changes to sales processes. Staff directly responsible or accountable for activities listed in the action plan section of the marketing plan, an individual action summary will be used to record relevant information for later use in measuring their performance or contribution to the marketing plan. Performance Measures BBQ fun will adopt balanced scorecard approach to measure the performance will enable BBQ fun to monitor and manage overall business strategy by looking at the drivers of current and future success for the organisation. It will focus on the link between the marketing plan and the four critical areas of the business operations namely customer, financial, internal business processes and learning and growth. Sales personal will have a performance measure relating to the overall goal of BBQ fun which will be increase sales from $15 million per year to $20 million per year in the next three years. Marketing personnel will have performance measures that relate to overall marketing activities which is deliver all marketing campaigns on time and within budget. Prioritised list of marketing strategies  activity descriptiondeliverablesresources needed Local letter†box dropsLeaflets designed, printed and distributedCannon’s consultants Finances- $150000 Personal for distribution Radio advertisementRadio advertisement developed, slots booked and aired on radio.Cannon’s consultants Finances-$280000 Magazines with coupon inserts in the BrisNews magazineDesign and print coupon inserts, tie up with magazine and distribute in the local area.Cannon’s consultants Finances- $150000 Communication and team building strategies Before the commencement of the project a team meeting was be held with each team member present where they were provided with a summary of the overall project action plan with the goals and objectives detailed in a schedule timetable detailing implementation and points of measures. They were also provided with detail each team member’s area and tasks of responsibility. An interactive discussion was also initiated to discuss any issues of concerns. A half an hour will be scheduled on Monday morning of each week to monitor the overall campaign progress, discuss individual tracking and highlight any unexpected issues that need attention. During the initial meeting each and every employee will be made clear of where they fit in the organisation structure, their responsibilities and accountabilities. It was decided to organise a staff party at the completion of each milestone. Strategies for monitoring marketing activities and analysing performance The whole project will be monitored on a Gannt Chart which will illustrate the start and completion dates of each self-contained stage in the project. The chart will reveal the process sequence and highlight the dependencies of some processes on other processes. Week 1 Date:Week2 Date:Week 3 Date:Week 4 Date:Week5 Date: distribution Leaflet printing Inserting graphic enhancements Develop leaflet for letter box drops A separate Performances analysis will be conducted for each activity in following manner Task 2 Monitoring and implementing promotional activities A regular review of all the marketing activities is being conducted based on the Gannt chart to keep track, so that evaluation of any issue of concern can be carried out as soon as possible. †¢The regular review revealed that 70% of the people in the target market recognise the BBQ brand and what it represents, †¢sales growth target of Increase sales from $15 million per year to $20 million per year in the next three years has been achieved †¢gross profit margins are still 48% Monitor Product pricing and distribution decisions Product attributes: BBQ, outdoor furniture and BBQ consumables. Product benefits: easy manage payment plan. Product usage: All the products can be used in day to day household Product users: people residing in new dwellings, people renovating and people replacing their old BBQ. Product competitors: The Yard, BBQ’s R Us, Outdoorz. Product distinction from competitors: †¢BBQfun’s credit offer is backed by a top tier bank. †¢Imported products make up 33% of the assortment. †¢The three†year guarantee is unique in the market place. †¢Broadest possible range in chosen fields. Product classes: quality, fashionable and unique outdoor-lifestyle. Monitoring results against targets in the marketing plan Monitoring marketing performance is being done by looking at what has happened and why considering the results and how do they compare with our goals? To find the reasons for why it happened its being looked into by checking: Were the marketing efforts put in right direction? Was there any specific activity that contributed the most to boost the results? What part of the marketing plan did what? Monitoring process will be as follows Establishing standardsAchieving total sales of $11,000,000, Gross profit of 5,500,000 with a marketing expense of 180,000 by the end of 2009 Measuring performanceSales target of $11,000,000 has been achieved but the gross profit is $5,280,000 which is less by $220,000 Proposing measures to correct deviations from the standardSource a new manufacturer from overseas to provide products at cheaper prices hence increasing the gross profit margin. Monitoring marketing revenue and costs against budget Monitoring of marketing revenue and costs against allocated budgets is being carried out by analysing and recording variations. Detailed revenue versus expenses for all marketing decisions, will include, timelines involved in accomplishing the required goals and objectives. Budgets will clearly layout the spending requirements for †¢each decision †¢breakdowns by month †¢Breakdowns by year. It will be determined how sales vary between regions and where the resources are going. Marketing managers will analyse the information containing: †¢how marketing costs are spread †¢where the money is being spent: ï‚ §Is it on product development, promotion or customer research? †¢standards of how much should be spent on marketing †¢how much money needs to be spent on marketing in order for the organisation to be competitive †¢what results should be expected to result from marketing spending: †¢Is the revenue generated from marketing meeting budget expectations? †¢Are costs within budget? †¢Does analysis identify variations? Recording variations in revenue and cost against budget The budget figures for the revenue and cost would be compared with the actual figures and the variances will be recorded in revenue and cost variance template outlined below ItemBudgeted $Actual $Variance % Total sales11,000,00011,000,0000 Gross profit5,500,000$5,280,0004 Expenses Direct mail40,00040,0000 Magazine advertisement110,000110,0000 Radio Promotions30,00030,0000 Total180,000180,0000 Task 3 Section A Implementing marketing strategies and tactics Overview of the marketing activity to be implemented I am involved in implementing the following marketing activities for BBQ fun; †¢Direct mail †¢Magazine advertisement †¢Radio Promotions Strategies and Tactics BBQ fun will be operating with an advertising budget of $250,000 for the year. The advertising program will target: †¢Local letter†box drops †¢Radio advertisement and †¢Magazines with coupon inserts in the BrisNews magazine Stakeholders Briefing Board of directors: approval of the board of directors is required hence they were briefed on details of the plan through a presentation conducted for them and also informing them their roles in the implementation process. Human resource staff: in order for the human resource staff to conduct the recruitment and training they were informed through a report including need for recruitment, training based on the marketing plan which would be used to brief the stakeholders as well. Finance staff: This staffs was required to set a separate cost centre for the budget associated with the marketing plan. A written request for a budget allocation was used to brief this stakeholder group. Managers: managers were informed of all possible impact of the marketing activities on their departments through a meeting with the marketing department, which included new products and services. Roles critical to the success of the marketing plan activities RoleResponsibilities Board of directorsProvide approval for the plan and its implementation, make available all resources required for implementation and monitoring of the plan. Human resource departmentProvide with all human resources required to complete the tasks to meet the requirements of the plan Finance staffMake available pre-approved finances as and when required by the plan Line managersTo accommodate any impacts by marketing plan and working around it Marketing managerPrimarily responsible for marketing activities and has the authority and responsibility over all company activities that affect customer’s satisfaction. This is in addition to his other responsibilities. Radio companyTo develop in conjunction with marketing manager the advertisement and air Printing houseTo design and print promotional material in conjunction with marketing manager distributorsTo distribute the promotional material Briefing of marketing and non-marketing personnel To brief all marketing and non-marketing personnel individual meetings with these groups were organised and their roles and responsibilities and performance measures were discussed and a written statement of same was provided to them. The documents used to brief the stakeholders were used again for briefing purposes. Prioritised list of the marketing strategies and the resources required for their implementation The following is the prioritised list of the marketing strategies and the resources required for their implementation: strategiesresources retain existing customers by providing excellent after sales service and three years guarantee on the productsTrained customer service representatives, good quality service centres to confirm with guarantee Develop customer base by providing wide range, quality and unique productsWell-equipped research and development department to develop wide ranging, quality and unique products Generate business through new customers by conducting advertisement and promotion activitiesContracts with Printing house, radio stations and magazines Evaluation of Communication and team building strategies Before the commencement of the project a team meeting was be held with each team member present where they were provided with a summary of the overall project action plan with the goals and objectives detailed in a schedule timetable detailing implementation and points of measures. They were also provided with detail each team member’s area and tasks of responsibility. An interactive discussion was also initiated to discuss any issues of concerns. A half an hour will be scheduled on Monday morning of each week to monitor the overall campaign progress, discuss individual tracking and highlight any unexpected issues that need attention. During the initial meeting each and every employee will be made clear of where they fit in the organisation structure, their responsibilities and accountabilities. It was decided to organise a staff party at the completion of each milestone. Pricing: While BBQfun will price at comparable prices for comparable quality, it will not be cheap. We pus h value over cheap and back this up with a three year guarantee. Distribution: BBQfun products will be distributed through a chain of retail stores which customers can access easily via the large car parking arrangements. Advertising and promotion: The most successful advertising will be ads and inserts in the Brizzy as well as a PR campaign of informational articles and reviews also within the Brizzy. Promotions will take the form of in store entertainment and competitions with prizes to exotic overseas destinations. Customer Service: BBQfun’s philosophy is that whatever needs to be done to make the customer happy must occur this investment will pay off with a  fiercely loyal customer base that is extremely vocal to their friends with referrals. Strategies for monitoring marketing activities and analysing performance The performance was analysed by comparing the current collected data with the set goals and determining whether the following goals are being achieved. Timelines: were all the actions completed within stipulated time frame Resources: were all the resources used efficiently and effectively. Costs: did the cost of implementing activities stayed with in the developed budget Sales: did the campaign achieve the desired sales figures. A brief feedback form was circulated to all appropriate personnel weekly for all employees to note customer satisfaction, events or problems that need to be addressed, as they happen each day. Employees were required to record action taken when customers aren’t satisfied with products or services. A summary of these internal feedback containing relevant comments on improving customer satisfaction (or solving customer problems) were circulated each week to all employees to inform, educate, and improve total organisation problem–solving for customers. This assisted in improving communication. Surveys were sent to customers to gather their input on how well BBQ fun is satisfying their needs. A monthly or quarterly review with specific customers to determine: †¢summary of sales information compared to previous years †¢Current customer service problems, detailing what they were and steps that were implemented to resolve the issues. †¢customer service improvements summary The entire campaign was monitored on a Gannt Chart which illustrated the start and completion dates of each self-contained stage in the project. The chart revealed the process sequence and highlighted the dependencies of some processes on other processes. Section B Current progress of the marketing activities against the marketing plan and overall objectives Monitoring and implementation of promotional activities against communication objectives in the marketing plan communication objectivesImplementation  to position BBQ fun as the premier outdoor†lifestyle store in the greater Brisbane area, commanding a majority of the market share within five years In addition to radio promotion and magazine advertisement, direct mail campaign was one way to communicate directly with the consumer. BBQ fun also used ads and inserts in Brizzy magazine. communicate that BBQ fun offers the widest,  most exotic, easy access outdoor†lifestyle products in Brisbane Direct mail campaign was one way to communicate directly with the consumer. BBQ fun also used ads and inserts in Brizzy magazine. create customer awareness regarding  their services offered Grassroots PR campaign. This campaign invited people from Brizzy for lunch to get articles writte n about BBQ fun into the news  develop that customer base BBQfun’s did everything to make customer satisfied, this investment payed off with a fiercely loyal customer base that is extremely vocal to their friends with referrals. work toward building  customer loyalty and referrals BBQ fun’s did everything to make customer satisfied, this investment payed off with a fiercely loyal customer base that is extremely vocal to their friends with referrals. Monitoring of product, pricing and distribution decisions against organisational policy and the objectives of the marketing plan Marketing objectivesDecisions †¢Increase sales from $15 million per year to $20 million per year in the next three years †¢Increase our loyalty customers list from 10,000 to 16,000. †¢Establish brand recognition in Brisbane so that at least two in three people recognise our brand in a random survey taken in 18 months’ time.Product: The product will be wide ranging, quality and unique. It offers the house proud customer a different option from the cheap mass produced offer prevalent in the market. New products will be developed on a regular basis in line with changes in customer taste which is targeted at every 12 months. The plan for product testing is to engage market research firms. Pricing: All products/services were competitively priced relative to comparable high†end outdoor†lifestyle lines. While BBQfun priced at comparable prices for comparable quality, it will not be cheap. We push value over cheap and back this up with a three year guarantee. Distribution: BBQfun products were distributed through a chain of retail stores which customers can access easily via the large car parking arrangements. Easy to access stores with extensive choices in our chosen fields, that are sold on an easy to manage payment plan with a three†year guarantee are the keys to our customer’s needs and wants. Monitoring results against targets in the marketing plan Monitoring marketing performance was done by looking at what has happened and why considering the results and how do they compare with our goals? To find the reasons for why it happened its being looked into by checking: Were the marketing efforts put in right direction? Was there any specific activity that contributed the most to boost the results? What part of the marketing plan did what? Monitoring process will be as follows Establishing standardsAchieving total sales of $11,000,000, Gross profit of 5,500,000 with a marketing expense of 180,000 by the end of 2009 Measuring performanceSales target of $11,000,000 has been achieved but the gross profit is $5,280,000 which is less by $220,000 Proposing measures to correct deviations from the standardSource a new manufacturer from overseas to provide products at cheaper prices hence increasing the gross profit margin. Monitoring marketing revenue and costs against budget Monitoring of marketing revenue and costs against allocated budgets is being carried out by analysing and recording variations. Detailed revenue versus expenses for all marketing decisions, will include, timelines involved in accomplishing the required goals and objectives. Budgets will clearly layout the spending requirements for †¢each decision †¢breakdowns by month †¢Breakdowns by year. Recording variations in revenue and cost against budget The budget figures for the revenue and cost were compared with the actual figures and the following variances were recorded in revenue and cost variance template outlined below ItemBudgeted $Actual $Variance % Total sales11,000,00011,000,0000 Gross profit5,500,000$5,280,0004 Expenses Direct mail40,00040,0000 Magazine advertisement110,000110,0000 Radio Promotions30,00030,0000 Total180,000180,0000 Section C Evaluating and improving marketing performance Processes used to regularly assess marketing performance against objectives Evaluation of marketing performance was done by gathering information measuring customer reactions. This enabled us to analyse and gather invaluable information. This information was used to improve the targeting of our marketing activity. Further valuable information was gained by periodically assessing customers’ feelings and opinions of the organisation and how well their needs are being satisfied, which is collected by customer feedback survey. The information was gained by analysing: †¢customers’ feedback †¢Key focus of appeal? †¢Success in appealing to our targets †¢improvement suggestions available †¢product features promoted †¢benefits of the product promoted Interview questions 1.Overall, are you very satisfied with the way BBQ fun performed on this occasion? 2.BBq fun’s service representatives (CSRs) are well trained. 3.Did service representatives (CSRs) adhere to professional standards of conduct? 4.How often do you typically use the product? 5.How did your Product performed? 6.Overall, how satisfied were you with your new Product? 7.Have you ever contacted customer service? 8.If you contacted BBq fun’s customer service, have all problems been resolved to your complete satisfaction? 9.Considering only your most recent purchase experience, how likely would you be to recommend the purchase of this product to a friend or colleague? Changes in business practices required to meet changing customer requirements 1.In addition to closely located retail stores an online store should be set up for the convenience of the customers. 2. To create provision for providing possible franchise as there has been lot of request for the same. Improvement plan ActionResponsibilityTimeframe Engage information and technology company to discuss, develop and host the retail storeIT Manager31/07/2010 Work out a complete business plan to make available opportunities for offering franchiseBoard of directors and Chief financial officer31/07/2010 Memo To: board of directors, finance department, human resource department, IT department and Marketing executives. From: John Smith, Marketing Manager Date: July 1, 2010 Subject: Changes to the Marketing Objectives Dear All It is to inform all that based on the analysis of the customer feedback process the following recommendations are suggested: ActioncostAdditional revenue Start online retail store$15000.00$45000.00 annually Engage in franchising opportunities$3000.00$5000.00 fixed monthly and 10% of the net profit A detailed modified marketing plan to reflect the actions recommended is attached here with for your kind perusal. You will be informed when a meeting to discuss the details will be organised shortly. Section D Self-reflection Strategies and tactics Direct mail: direct mails contribution was also substantially big. Magazine advertisement: returns from this form were not that high Radio Promotions: worked really well and got the expected revenue even though the cost was substantially higher Team leadership skills Respectful As a quality team leader I was respectful to all team members. A respectful leader I empowered them by encouraging them to offer ideas about decisions that affect them. This informed team members that the i respect their input and opinions. Fair I treated all my team members fairly. I was consistent with rewards and recognition, as well as disciplinary action. I ensured all team members receive the same treatment. Delegation I shared leadership through delegation. Delegating certain tasks to team members allowed me to focus on improving workplace functions and production. Confidence I was confident in my abilities, as well as confident in the abilities of my team members. I was secure in the decisions I made that affected my team. I also reassured team members of my authority within the organization. Integrity I was honest and open with his team members. I gained the trust of team members because I did what I said. I did and treated others, the same way I want myself to treat. Appendix 2: Workplace evidence Individual action summary Team memberJohn Smith Objective:To develop, get it printed and distribute Leaflets in local letter-box drops Description of activities: †¢Design and Develop leaflet †¢Collect quotes for printing †¢Place order for printing †¢Arrange man power for distribution of leaflets †¢Receive printed materials †¢Execute distribution Deliverables:†¢Final design of the leaflet †¢Collecting quote and placing order for printing †¢Receiving printed leaflets †¢Actual distribution of the leaflets Timeframe:01/07/2009 to 31/07/2009 Resources required:Designers, printers, $40,000 Review date:15/07/2009 Reviewed by:Mark BoerDesignation:Vice President Marketing Signature: Dated: 30th June 2010 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN I have immense pleasure in stating that it should go without saying that John Smith is a remarkable marketing talent, with an eye for not only growing his traditional business, but also seeking out opportunities in to expand the business. John has always taken his role seriously and is passionate about his results. Beyond his passion on driving performance, Leif is a natural leader, and fights hard for his beliefs. He’s at his best in a group environment, and is consciously proactive at getting full involvement of all other team members to derive the best results possible. He has a very effective personal style, and will be looked to for continued executive leadership with our Marketing efforts. I have the deepest personal and professional respect for John, and sincerely belief he will bring his unique energy, optimism, passion, and tireless creativity to your class and classroom. He has my highest endorsement. If you have any questions about this recommendation or my endorsement of Leif, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will gladly try to help.