Monday, September 30, 2019

Application Assignment

. How is the Gillette Series being positioned with respect to (a) competitors, (b) the target market, (c) the product class, (d) price and quality? What other positioning possibilities are there? a. Premium to competition b. The Best a Man can Get† – not the most appropriate or cheap at all, but the most value added products, building on the popularity of sensor. c. Differentiated on functional attributes through innovation d. Price premium at an index of 110 to 120. There are many other positioning possibilities for a Brand.Gillette can position the various products it has separately, or treat Gillette as a master Brand. If Gillett is one Brand, then the positioning should be the same as for the other series of men’s grooming products. However if it breaks it into categories, then there is a shaving line, and then a deodorant line, and it can get into an aftershave line as well, unless it wishes to keep it aligned with the shaving category. In this scenario there can be 3 distinct positioning that Gillette can take up in the consumers’ minds. 2.Is Gillette making the best use of the brand equity that has been created with Sensor? Given that Gillett is attempting to make a name for itself and that Sensor has been its biggest success, it makes sense to use the impetus of that to tie into the rest of its line. The tagline of the best a man can get is a solid enough vague claim to make, and own. Since the equity was established for the ‘the best a man can get' and not just Sensor, Gillette is making good use of this, since the Sensor can be seen as a product from Gillette, and one that works very well, at least as per consumer response.Also, given that for men’s grooming, shaving is tied into the process very intricately, it is a logical next step to build onwards from shaving razor blade. However, releasing so many different product types into the market is not the right way to do so. 3 What strategies do you propose to Gil lette? Address the entire marketing mix. Perhaps a more staggered approach would work better, from releasing the gels and after shaves, and then moving onto deodorant, since you do not want to put too many different variants out there.It takes time to build a powerful reason to believe in a product for a consumer, and diluting the equity of sensor with too many different product types would be a disaster. A better strategy would be to first gauge not just consumer reaction to product quality, but to gauge consumer understanding of the brand Gillette. If the Brand is best known for a smooth comfortable shaving razor, then it would be advisable to first build on that equity further and introduce more razors, and add in a shaving gel.Hence the products need to be staggered out. Secondly, to build on the Price, they have one premium product in the form of razors. However there is still room to build a pyramid within Gillette's razors and add in a further premium variant, as well as a di scounted variant as well. The Gels and Deodorants, when they come in should follow a similar strategy come in at a similar premium of 110-120 and then build variants surrounding it. For example the Cool Wave series can be positioned at a 130 premium to competition.A further more niche variant can come in at a 150 index, and then a more standard variant series at a 100 index as the discounted variant series. Ownership of the category in the market is extremely important. The worst thing to do is to not take advantage of proper Placement. Globally companies such as Procter and Gamble as well as L'oreal have taken a space in the mind of the shopper through ownerships of shelves in store. It is important for Gillett series to be placed in a premium place, next to perhaps associated categories, and at eye level to most male consumers in the relevant age group.Shop shelf decoration is also important to announce the premium position. Finally, the promotional angle must not be discounted. I t is the single biggest reason after the Product itself, and is the right call for the consumers to initially think of trial. To achieve this trial, the communication must incorporate the same tagline of Gillette sensor, i. e the Best a man can get, and build on the equity that was created by Sensor. In this manner using all the tools to cater further success.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Abortion: Pro Life or Pro Choice? Essay

The issue of abortion is one of the most contentious, and emotive dilemmas faced by modern societies (Devanny, 2000). Women should have the right to choose whether or not they want to continue or terminate their pregnancy. Since the infamous Supreme Court case of Roe vs. Wade, women were given the right to choose what’s best for them and their unborn child even if it means to end life. Since abortion became illegal, there have been many debates between pro choice and pro life that women have the right to choose but in the process they are killing a living human being. Pro Choice Women all over the world should have the right to a safe, legal, and accessible abortion (Lee, 2007). Pro choice groups agree that it’s the women’s right to decide whether or not to bring a child into this world is a personal matter and we shouldn’t try to interfere with her right to choose. Statistics have should that when abortion is made illegal and inaccessible to women, she would turn to every unsafe procedure in order to terminate an unwanted pregnancy. Women may attempt to induce miscarriages or will try to self terminate the pregnancy by using home remedies. If this happens complications may include inflammation, hemorrhaging, kidney failure, infertility complications, and may also result in death. Each year it has been estimated that 78,000 deaths occur due to homemade abortions. In the cases of rape or incest, forcing a woman who got pregnant in a violent act would cause more psychological damage to them. In these types of cases, abortion is best option which will allow the victim to not bring a child into this world which was conceived through a violent crime. See more: Unemployment – problems and solutions essay Pro Life Abortion is a tragedy; there are far too many in the United State today (Chittom, 2007). Since the landmark Supreme Court case of Roe vs. Wade which gave the right for women to seek medical help for terminating a pregnancy. The debate between pro life and pro choice has been going on for years. Pro life groups have made continuous efforts to inform women who are contemplating abortion to consider the consequence that come with it. Some pro life women who had abortions have experienced some emotional, psychological, physical, and spiritual scars that stay with them for the rest of their lives. Depression and other stress related illness have derived from abortions. Due to abortions, mental health services costs have increased to women suffering from post-abortion trauma. Studies have shown that abortions can lead to medical complications later on life which included the risks of ectopic pregnancies, pelvic inflammatory diseases, and a chance of miscarriages with future pregnancies, Pro life movements have expressed that life begins at conception and getting an abortion is like committing murder. Abortion Debated Abortion is an option that must remain accessible to women if they decide to choose to terminate the pregnancy. Before abortion was legalized woman waited longer before deciding to seek abortion which makes it more dangerous to the welfare of the mother and child. Abortion can also be present psychological pain and stress that comes after abortion. Abortion is important option to women who faces an unplanned pregnancy. Some argue that a child who is unwanted should not be brought into this world. Pro lifers look at a child as blessing and there are many other options that will allow you to get rid of any unwanted pregnancy. Adoption should be considered for women who don’t want to terminate their pregnancy to give their child up to people who will give them the love and care that they deserve. The most heated debate between pro life and pro choice is rape. Pro choice forces believe that a woman who has suffered through rape or other violent crimes should be able to terminate the unwanted pregnancy with no remorse. Pro life forces believe that the rapist should be punished not the child. Terminating the pregnancy punishes an innocent child not the rapist. Conclusion The battle between for pro life and pro choice has been debated for years. It’s up the women to do what she thinks is necessary when it comes to unwanted pregnancies. Since the 1973 case of Roe vs. Wade, many have taken sides for and against abortion. Is it right for the federal government to interfere with a women’s right to choose life or not? This debate will continue for until the end of time. Who are we to say who’s right and who’s wrong when it comes to abortion? References: Lee, M. (2007) Point: Abortion is a Health and Human Right Issue. Points of View: Abortion. Retrieved on June 28, 2009 from the Points of View Reference Center Database Chittom, Lynn-nore. (2007) Counterpoint: Why Women Should Choose Not to Abort. Points of View: Abortion. Retrieved on June 28, 2009 from Points of View Reference Database Wilson, Brian. (2007) Counterpoint: Outlawing Abortion. Points of View: Abortion. Retrieved on August 14, 2009 from the Points of View Reference Center Database Anderson, Tim (2007) Point: The Right to Safe and Legal Abortion. Points of View: Abortion. Retrieved on August 13, 2009 from the Points of View Reference Center Database. Devanny, Joe (2009). Should abortion be permitted? Retrieved from www.idebate.org Lowen, Linda Ten Arguments for Abortion and Against Abortion Retrieved on August 12, 2009 from www.womenissues.about.com

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Analysis of Linear DNA Genomes Separation in Gel Electrophoresis

Agarose gel electrophoresis has been widely used as a form of separating DNA genomes in varying sizes from 100 kp upto 25 kb. Isolation of Agarose gel is obtained from the genera Gelidium and Gracilaria.in the gelato process, the polymers of agarose often form an association of none covalent which form networks of pore sizes which determine the molecular ability of sieving properties. Use of gel electrophoresis is beneficial in separation of DNA genomes. Electrophoresis process is key in separating the different nucleic acids using various sizes and charges depending on the contents of the solution. In this experiment, lab analysis of gel was used to put gel solutions in charged nucleic acids for separation purposes. At this point the larger DNA and RNA have a hard time in separating thus allowing time for separation of the genomes based on the sizes. The rate of separation of the DNA molecule in the experiment was determined by the rate at which the sizes of the DNA, the concentration of the gel, DNA Conformation present, voltage degree applied, ehidium bromide solution introduced, type of agarose and the buffer being utilized in electrophoresis. After the process of separation, DNA molecules will be able to be visualized in the UV light using staining process to identify the different genomes. Thus in essence DAN electrophoresis defines the process by which the DNA migrates in the supporting medium. Most of electrophoresis is carried in agarose gels in narrow polymers of gels using pores of different sizes, this sieving provides a means by which the pores gives an opportunity for the DNA molecules to go through the pores at different sizes thus being separated using molecular weights. Thus this laboratory report uses agarose Gels while staining with ethidium bromide   to assess the separation process of the different DNA genomes. Thus it seeks to investigate the DNA genome separation to assess the different nucleic acids by their respective sizes. Refer to the Lab Manual 5 for in-depth methodology and procedure. Diagrammatic presentation of gel DNA Table 1; Showing gel electrophoresis picture Table 2; Showing curve presentation of the base pairs against distance travelled Table 3; Showing table figure for the curve Table 4; Showing how to calculate base pairs Example suppose we have a base pair having travelled 0.3 cm, then draw a line as illustrated above and take the readings on the corresponding logbp and take the anti log, which you get the base pair size. Table 5; Showing the sizes of pUC19 and their insert sizes Agarose gel electrophoresis has been utilised as a common method for separation of proteins, (Kryndushkin et al., 2003). The basic forms of nucleic acids can be separated through the aid of electrification process whereby charged molecules move to the anode side. This migration as depicted in the experiment ensures that molecules which have lower molecular weight are able to move faster, (Sambrook & Russel 2001). The process of electrophoresis is a crucial step in ensuring purification process of the desired DNA bands. In this experiment the usage of ethidium bromide is essential in visualizing the staining of the transcend DNA molecules. In this task, the Agarose gel electrophoresis plays a key role in ensuring the characteristics of DNA are obtained without any alterations. This experiment has yielded results which have enabled determination of DNA fragments sizes through digestion by restriction enzymes. The visualization has been effected with the use of ethidium bromide which is a common agent in nucleic acid purification process. The Agarose gel concentration on this task entailed the separation of the gel using agarose gel concentration of 0.2%w/v having bands from 0.1-1 kb. The distance travelled by DNA molecules in electrophoresis is directly proportional to the size of the DNA itself. The agarose gel is beneficial in ensuring that there are movements based on their sizes. With the various differences between the various rates of the DNA molecules in the gel solution, they are separated based on the size of the bases. The relationship built between the varied sizes of the DNA genome. The sieving of DNA is done through the size which it bears, (Southern, 1975). The length of DNA strands often vary from 50 base pairs to upto million s base pairs which agarose gel electrophoresis can be effective in separating them , the migration and distance travelled is linked on the concentration of the agarose used to prepare the gel. Concentrations having lower concentration are able to travel faster in the distance travelled and vice versa. In this study agarose gel of 2% has been used which was effective in separating the DNA at range of 0.1-1 kb, the low percentile gels often signify gels which are weak. Double stranded DNA moves faster as the molecules travels; its speed is inversely proportional to the logarithm of base pairs. This linked and established relationships depends on the strength of the of gel composition. The distance travelled by the digested genome signifies that there is action of restriction enzymes which shows that there restrictions which have taken place, thus distinguishing the variability linked to genetics and enzyme cost. The digested fragments were this separated using the agarose gel electrophoresis which showed continuous smear on the gel surface with the distribution of the difference fragment sizes being established. Digested pUC19 is a plasmid and able to transform itself on the transformation process where it can be able to multiply itself and express. Undigested pUC19 originate from E coli and contain high number of base pairs. The transformation efficiently portrayed shows that smaller pUC19 plasmid sin E choli can be manipulated and be transformed from the ampicilin forms. This shows that the DNA is in contact form with plasmid DNA being intact and with presence of viral chromosomes which can be transformed into high efficiencies. This transformation is through the resulting effect of digestion of peri plasmids. The undigested Puc19 shows presence base pairs which have the ability to perform recombination and be incorporated into cells, (Goto, Kenta & Yukio, 2013). The lanes which have recombination factor is able to facilitate the cloning of DNA in host cells.   This signifies recombination of various fragments of gel solution. The lanes that have been generated originated from digestion of particular DNA, which gives it equimolar amounts. Based on the lanes, there is variation on the number of non molar amounts, thus signifying that there is difference in band lengths. Others have shown to represent circular forms of the plasmids which is dependent on the age and quality of the plasmids. The existence of three forms of DNA formation which exists include linear formation, open circular formation and supercoiled forms. Plasmid DNA have been prevalently been studied in laboratory studies. After its preparation they exists in the three forms above. With good plasmid preparation, DNA often form plasmid which exist in any one strands of the DNA, this break causes the release of the phosphordiester backbones of the DNA to be released out. The visualising process of the agarose gel using the standard control tool is key to assess whether the bands have created a generation or not. Closer bands are well compressed than far away bands as indicated in the gel view. The standard marker used in this experiment was essential in ensuring that the standards sizes are generated using base pairs. This result signifies that electrophoresis is an effective way of separating nucleic acids. High gel agarose gives room for handling of low percentage gel separation. Due to the size of the base pair present in this experiment, has utilised field gel electrophoresis. This is   comparable to studies done (Lee et al, 2012), which have shown that sizes of DNA can be separated effectively through plotting on the log of molecular weight and different bands of DNA against the distance moved, this portray how different forms of gel can be able to move at different speeds. Super coiled plasmid DNA have sown to move faster, while those in linear formation travel averagely while open circular travel slowly. Goto, K., & Nagano, Y. (2013). Ultra-low background DNA cloning system. PloS one, 8(2), e56530. Kryndushkin DS, Alexandrov IM, Ter-Avanesyan MD & Kushnirov VV (2003). Yeast [PSI+]   prion aggregates are formed by small Sup35 polymers fragmented by Hsp10. Journal of Biological Chemistry.278 (49): 49636. Lee, P. Y., Costumbrado, J., Hsu, C. Y., & Kim, Y. H. (2012). Agarose gel electrophoresis for the separation of DNA fragments. Journal of visualized experiments: JoVE, (62). Sambrook J&Russel DW(2001). Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual 3rd Ed. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press. Cold Spring Harbor, NY. Southern, E. M. (1975). Detection of specific sequences among DNA fragments separated by gel electrophoresis. J mol biol, 98(3), 503-517.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Michelangelo Buonarroti's Sistine Chapel Research Paper - 1

Michelangelo Buonarroti's Sistine Chapel - Research Paper Example Hence, the Sistine Chapel by Michelangelo Buonarroti embraces different episodes of Biblical nature in smooth and quite invisible transitions between each scene. First and foremost, the Sistine Chapel was set for Michelangelo by Pope Julius II and painted on the â€Å"chapel’s ceiling which covered a curved surface of about 5,600 square feet† (Somervill 45). At a glance, it is an enormous representation of High Renaissance which inspires by luminous and quite patterned schemes of different paintings divided into different topic, mainly of genesis and God’s creation of Adam. All in all, the Sistine Chapel was commissioned by Pope Julius II to take place in the large Papal Chapel for the religious purposes of Vatican’s clergymen (Lucid Cafà © 1). It was a remarkable order for the Church at large and for Pope Julius II, in particular. Michelangelo urged for something unusual he could reflect on the surface. Once, he even noted the following idea: â€Å"I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free† (Lucid Cafà © 1). Thus, before painting the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo was greatly inspired b y a divine impact from above. The artistic ensemble of the chapel is performed in a fresh renaissance vision of Michelangelo which he nurtured out of his genius. He started working on the chapel in 1508 and finished it in 1512 (Holroyd 35). Thus, Michelangelo followed a sequential flow of ideas which were constantly interrupted by Pope Julius II (Somervill 46). As might be seen, it was madness for the artist, as he could not concentrate more on the art and artistic thought in keeping with the best traditions of High Renaissance. Definitely, he was well influenced by the intangible muse while painting, whereas he was stopped by tangible and insignificant remarks of Pope Julius II. Needless to say, the work of Michelangelo was the fruit of his entire life. Of course, there were other works of art which Michelangelo created. As

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Literature Response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Literature Response - Essay Example The author introduces numerous characters in a strategic plot thereby developing a series of events and occurrences through the clever plot. Additionally, the author understands the essence of conflicts in sustaining stories. She introduces an antagonist and protagonist in the short story thus developing a story that provides a reflection of my life and the relationship between the members of my family among many other families in the society (Toth 33). Mrs. Louise Mallard, the key character in the short story who is also the protagonist in the story has a heart disease. This compels his family to care for her appropriately in order to cushion from any shocking news that would possibly kill her. The traits of the character coupled with her terminal illness are a resemblance to my mother’s situation. My mother suffers from high blood pressure, a condition the requires a dedicated care and effective handling in order to curb the occurrences of any undesirable uncertainties (Xudi ng 121). The author of the short story introduces and discusses numerous topical issues in the form of themes. Among the themes in the short story are family conflicts and death. Death is a natural phenomenon that refers to the end of human life. The occurrence of death causes pain to people who suffer from the loss of a beloved one. The reaction of people to the death of a beloved one depends on the nature of the relationship that existed between them. Death is a fundamental social occurrence in every society. The theme of death is evident in the society and in millions of families globally. I remember the death of grandmother, a woman that adored and raised me. The feeling was traumatic and I took several months to recover from her death.  

Can we trust othello Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Can we trust othello - Essay Example The end of such works has always resulted in the death of the protagonist. Aristotle had said that (Stanley C. Boorman, 1962): The above line is an excerpt from ‘Poetics’, a work of Aristotle that has been the basis for many of Shakespeare’s novels including ‘Othello’. There has been a stress on the part of the playwright to express a hero’s tragedy in all its forms. Additionally, it has also been emphasized that the protagonist must be characterized by a significant flaw that should ultimately lead to its downfall. In the case of the ‘Othello’, which has been named aptly after the protagonist himself the story ends with Othello killing his wife Desdemona on suspicions of adultery before turning the dagger onto himself (Oscar Zarate, 1983). The present story is an attempt to argue that the character depiction of Othello in the play is one that is not capable of being trusted on the basis of several arguments. The following paragraphs will highlight the subject further. Othello is one of the most widely discussed plays that has been researched over several decades by many eminent philosophers and critics. As such, the role of various characters and subjects dealt with in the essay have been discussed quite widely and are available for further discussion and refinement in the form of books, articles and journal publications that have been published over the years. Given the abundance of this information, the current study aims to highlight the intended argument by citing several critical examples and excerpts from a few literary sources that are deemed requisite for the argument. Along with these arguments, the essay will simultaneously argue the stand taken by basing on these citations. While studying literary works, the use of theory of post colonialism is often found which deals with works that originated from previously colonized places such as Britain or France. The theory discussed on

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Effects of National Culture on the Marketing Strategies Dissertation

Effects of National Culture on the Marketing Strategies - Dissertation Example The paper tells that international business theory begins with trade. Daniels and Radebaugh identified and compared ten types of trading theories. The theories are mercantilism, neomercantilism, absolute advantage, country size, comparative advantage, factor-proportions, product lifecycle, country similarity, dependence, and strategic trade policy. In the factors-proportions theory, there are four defined factors related to each home country. The factors are land, labor, capital, and entrepreneurship. The land is the natural resources associated with the physical boundaries of the country that are used to produce things. Countries without a strong and sufficient land base are forced to engage in international trade in order to obtain needed resources. Labor is the availability of unskilled and semiskilled workers within the country that can be mobilized for production purposes. Capital is the money, machinery, and infrastructure a country possesses. Countries abundant in these areas are considered more developed countries. Entrepreneurship is the creative management and ideas people use to solve problems and find new opportunities. The four factors explain the inherent resources a country possesses that make it attractive for trade, and therefore, international business. The theory is that "differences in a country's proportionate holdings of factors of production explain differences in the costs of the factors and that export advantages lie in the production of goods that use the most abundant factors."

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Nanotechnology and its use in the Military Essay

Nanotechnology and its use in the Military - Essay Example example Sun blocks containing micro level Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) give white color appearance on the skin due to the scattered reflection of the light rays. But Sun blocks containing Nano particles of Titanium Dioxide, which are evenly spread and thinner, do not scatter light rays, and provide much transparent coating enabling the skin color to appear. Cloths produced incorporating nanotechnology and containing tiny Nano fibers do not retain dust or dirt because the holes of the cloth are tinier than the dust particles. These beneficial changes in the characteristics of the physical matter manipulated at the nano scale can be used in many areas such as medicine, sport, chemical industry etc. The concept of â€Å"Nanotechnology† was first introduced by a physicist, Richard Feynman in his speech â€Å"Theres Plenty of Room at the Bottom† delivered at a meeting of the American Physical Society in 1959 (Toumey, 16-23 & Taniguchi). In his speech he explained taking a human cell as an example for naturally existing highly effective, multi purpose nano scale machine and emphasized the usefulness of such small scale equipments. There are two approaches in the direction of handling materials and making products or equipments using Nanotechnology. The more conventional approach â€Å"Larger to smaller† or â€Å"Top to bottom† handling starts with larger physical materials and then shaped up or arranged to much smaller final product such as Nano particles of Titanium Dioxide, Nano fibers etc. The other approach â€Å"smaller to larger† or â€Å"bottom to top† starts with simple smaller molecules or atoms and then build up or assemble until the final expected product is achieved. The second approach, atomic assembly has many limitations and comparatively difficult than the first method because of the limitations in human ability to sense and handle materials of very small scale. Therefore sophisticated equipments are needed for the manipulation of these materials. Carbon

Monday, September 23, 2019

High proven Diet Food Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

High proven Diet Food - Assignment Example There have been differences in consideration of what is high protein diet. Diets that have 30% proteins have been mostly considered as just reasonable amounts of proteins. The ones that have 50% or more are the ones that are actually considered as the ones with high protein diets. The doctors also point out the fact that diets that are high in protein and are moderate in carbs are mostly considered by experts to be able to help people reduce their blood fats. The high protein foods also assist in the maintenance of lean tissue while still burning the body fats for fuel (Bailey, 1991). Study carried out left researchers wondering how the protein works towards reducing appetite. Some think that this may be made possible by the fact that the proteins enable the brain to acquire very minimal levels of hormones that stimulate appetite. This is the main reason brought to the frontline in this discussion. Though the findings still remain inconclusive and the doubt still lingers on the mind of the researchers. The jury is still out on the other findings that arose from the research carried out to determine how the protein intake can work towards the reduction of appetite among the people who maintain protein intake. The study further tends to explain the fact that small amounts of insulin are possibly influenced to facilitate less sugar level fluctuations that in effect lead to fewer instances of cravings. The result may be arrived at by eating fewer carbs, or even when individual proteins facilitate brain chemistry to control hunger hormones (Katan, 1997). Further research done by scientific researchers point out that people should boost levels of protein in diet. New research hints at the possibility that protein has the ability to satisfy hunger, better more as compared to carbohydrates or even fats. During the duration of study, individuals were taken through a sort of diet whereby fat intake was reduced while protein levels increased. The same diet had 50% carbs. It was later discovered that these individuals were more satisfied, had lost weight and were less hungry. On further field, a similar study carried out on the effect of such high levels of proteins mixed with exercise. The people who participated in this study had lost much weight and had raised levels of blood fat (Bailey, 1991). The essential explanation given that makes proteins necessary elements for the body is that protein is good for growth. It is necessary in all stages of life as it constitutes the major elements of the cells such as bone and muscles. Proteins are needed for development, growth as well as the immunity needed to assist in fighting off diseases and for the protection of the body. Patients who want to stay healthy enough to enable them fight diseases as well as to assist in controlling the body size (Katan, 1997). Recommendations from DRI, which deals majorly with dietary information, state that a wide range of protein intake should be implemented. The recomme nded range should be between 10% and 35% of all the calories for the normal adult. This means that that on a diet of 1800 calories, it is safe to consume between 45 and 218 grams daily of protein. Further recommendations state that men should have an average intake of 56 grams in a day while women should strive to have an average intake of 46 grams so as to enjoy the benefits. There is no confirmed danger that can arise

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Psychological Critical Perspective Essay Example for Free

Psychological Critical Perspective Essay The utilization of a psychological critical perspective in literature entails the utilization of a specific psychological perspective to be used in the assessment of the various elements within the text as they are related to both the author and the intended audience of the work. Bernard Paris (1997) states that the use of psychology in the analysis of a literary text enables us â€Å"to understand the behavior of characters in literature from the past, to enter into their feelings, and to enrich our knowledge of ourselves and others through an understanding of their inner conflicts and relationships† (p. xii). In line with this, what follows is a psychological analysis of the representations of life and death in Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex and Susan Glaspell’s Trifles. Within Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, the psychological representation of death is evident in the representation of the sphinx. The sphinx, as a mythical creature, represents perplexity and death. In its many versions, the sphinx may be said to be a representation of perplexity in its employment of riddles in its interaction with human beings. Furthermore, it may be said to be a representation f death since it is depicted as a creature that brings death [or at least bad luck or misfortune] to those who cannot solve its riddles. In Greek mythology and drama, this creature is depicted as a beast with a feminine gender. Though generally regarded as an unhappy monster, the sphinx also serves as a symbol of femininity, power and confusion. In Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex, one may infer that in Greek tragedy, sufferings and tribulations are intertwined with the hero’s existence. To a certain extent, one may say that in the case of Oedipus Rex, the sphinx defines the existence of Oedipus; his ‘being a hero’, so to speak. The same holds true for the sphinx. In other words, the hero and the villain define each others’ being. Note for example that within the text itself, Oedipus’ existence is intertwined with the Sphinx in the sense that the Sphinx and hero are twin-born. In terms of its monstrosity, the sphinx is depicted in many ways. These depictions are as follows. In Oedipus Rex, she is depicted as a singing sphinx that has permitted the oversight of dark secrets as well as a winged maiden with crooked talons who sang darkly. Oedipus’ incapacity to discern both the oracle at Delphi and the true nature of the sphinx and its closeness to himself present us with a rather different view about human nature and the ancient Greeks’ belief in fate. The sphinx reminds us of two things. First, it reminds us of our inability to fully know ourselves because of human nature’s enigmatic character. Second, it poses significant questions with regards to human freedom and our capacity for choice. In other words, it toys on the idea whether freedom and choice are mere illusions that human beings would like to think that they possess when in fact, they do not. Within this context, life and death are represented within Oedipus Rex in such a way that it places emphasis on the difficulty of discerning the conditions of life. Such a difficulty is mirrored in the portrayal of the Sphinx as well as the Sphinx’s relation with the hero of the text. As opposed to this, Susan Glaspell portrays life and death differently in Trifles. Trifles recounts the tragedy that occurs within marriage during instances wherein there is an absence of homosocial dimensions in a woman’s life. Within the text, life and death are represented in such a way that they are made to be seen within the context of a masculine gaze. The reason for this lies in the subjectivity of the portrayal of both freedom and objectivity within the text. Consider for example the case of Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peter who both tried to conceal the evidence of Minnie’s crime. One might note that such a decision mirrors a certain amount of freedom on both characters’ part. Both characters may be said to possess freedom in the negative sense that they may choose to omit specific information that they have however the subjectivity of this freedom is evident if one considers that the psychological reason for omitting such an information may be traced to their embeddedness within a masculine point of view that requires them to maintain the existence of order within their immediate surroundings. Life and death, within Trifles, may be said to be determined by a patriarchal point of view. Such a point of view, however continuously contradicts the feminists perspective as can be seen in the controversies that arose as a result of Minnie’s death. References Bernard, P. (1997). Imagined Human Beings: A Psychological Approach to Character and Conflict in Literature. New York: NYU P. Glaspell, S. (2003). Trifles. Np: Thomson Wadsworth. Sophocles (1991). Oedipus the King: Oedipus Rex. Trans. George Young. London: Dover.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Subsidiary Perspective of a Mobile Phone Service Company

Subsidiary Perspective of a Mobile Phone Service Company Global Integration Background The literature review looks into the various resources related to the study on the subsidiary perspective of a mobile phone service company towards MNC global integration. This would justify the significance of the study in terms of the clarification and application of concepts as well as contribution to knowledge or research gaps. The literature review is structured to start with a clarification of the research issue for purposes of determining linkages to available literature before moving on with the identification of the parent, intermediate and immediate literature. Afterwards, debates or differences in perspectives based on various literatures, together with the gaps or unresolved questions follows. The literature review ends with a summary of developments in literature pertinent to the research topic. The Research Issue Investigating the subsidiary perspective of a mobile phone service company on MNC global integration has a number of research implications. One, the subsidiary perspective of firms on global integration determines the success of the global business operations through value chain configuration and marketing standardization. Another, the subsidiary perspective of a mobile phone service company on global integration also provides a contextual basis of the issues and problems experienced by the subsidiary and the mother company in achieving value chain integration and marketing standardization for its entire global operations. Integration and standardization are important to successful international business operations. Concurrently, it becomes important to clarify the concepts of global integration and subsidiary relations together with the sub-concepts under these general principles to provide a sufficient framework for the study. Categorization of literature covering these concepts an d sub-concepts fall under parent, intermediate or immediate literature with most of the literature constituting parent and intermediate literatures. This implies the need for empirical research investigating the application of these concepts and sub-concepts to actual business contexts, which the present study attempts to fulfill. The Parent and Intermediate Literature This section covers the parent literature, specifically those explaining the basic concepts involved in the study especially global integration and organizational structures of multinational corporations involving subsidiaries. Existing literature sufficiently covers the definition of global integration as well as the organizational structure that involve business operations in various markets through subsidiaries. Definition of Global Integration Existing literature on global integration have not been able to arrive at a consensus on the definition of global integration. Haspeslagh and Jemison (1991) explained that global integration actually carries a different meaning for various parties involved in different situations. This means the possibility that a subsidiary, operating on a distinct market environment, can develop a different perspective and understanding of global integration relative to the mother company or other subsidiaries operating in different markets. Although, there is no clear consensus on the definition of global integration, Schweiger and Goulet (2000) stated that the different perspectives commonly revolve around the combination of the assets and human resources of the target and the buyer or the subsidiary and the mother company. The concept of coordination has found close links to global integration. Mintzberg (1983a; 1983b) stated that coordination constitutes a fundamental element of management and since the management of global operations involves coordination, then integrating the operation of subsidiaries with the operations of the mother company necessitates coordination. However, even with the close links between global integration and coordination, there are distinctions between these two concepts, with the extent of difference covered by various perspectives. On one hand, Martinez and Jarillo (1989) described the close links between the global integration and coordination by using these two concepts as synonyms describing the same situation. The authors also defined coordinative mechanisms as administrative tools used in developing integration of the various business units of a business organization. On the other hand, Kobrin (1991) provided a clear variance between global integration and coordinati on. Global integration also meant transnational integration that involves the processes of product standardization, technology development centralization, and manufacturing linkages that is either horizontal or vertical. As such, global integration was characterized as a change process involving centralization, combination, concentration, and standardization. Coordination also meant cross-border coordination that pertains to the business efforts directed towards the alignment of the operations of various business units to ensure the completion of the tasks of these units in contributing to aggregate productivity. Global integration has also found links to value creating activities at the level of the business headquarters. Goold, Campbell and Alexander (1994) and Burgelman and Doz (1996) stated that global integration pertains to the manner that headquarters creates value encompassing its international operations. This definition of global integration provides a limit to the scope of the concept to cover only business units forming part of a multinational corporation. This means that global integration does not involve business units considered as external to the firm. In addition, existing literature also discussed the definition of global integration by looking at its opposite or contrast concepts. Through the process of contrasting, these resources have been able to determine the areas not covered by global integration (Hambrick Finkelstein, 1987). Bartlett (1986) considered local autonomy as the opposite of global integration with local autonomy referring to the independent management of the operations of different business units under a single multinational corporation so that decision-making in the local level is made without need of consulting the other business units or headquarters. Bartlett and Ghoshal (1989) identified local responsiveness as another opposite of global integration. This is similar to independent decision-making exclusively based on the particular context of the local market without need to consult decision with other business units or the corporate headquarters. However, Prahalad and Doz (1987) explained that business f irms could achieve high levels of responsiveness and integration. As such, the more rational opposite of global integration is local autonomy. Based on existing literature covering the definition of global integration, the definition used in the dissertation is cross-border integration, encompassing value-creating activities and marketing standardization, arising between business units operating in different markets but falling under a single multinational corporation. This definition limits the scope to business units forming part of a multinational corporation but operating in particular markets. This definition fits the requirements of the study in investigating the perspectives of subsidiaries on global integration that involves a subsidiary and headquarters as the units of data collection and analysis. Elements of Global Integration Based on the definition of global integration, this has two specific elements, which are the configuration and coordination of the multinational corporation’s value change and the standardization of marketing strategies. Existing literature have differentiated the configuration and coordination. Porter (1985) explained that configuration of the value chain pertains to the spatial decisions of the multinational corporation covering the location or site of business units together with the number of business units within the multinational corporation and in the different sites. Lim, Acito and Rusetki (2006) developed the concentration-dispersion perspective to encompass decision-making on spatial issues. Porter (1985) stated explained that coordination refers to the manner and extent that the activities of the different business units are combined as opposed to being autonomous. Lim et al. (2006) introduced integration-independence perspective as the concept that covers the combination of activities of various business units forming part of a single multinational corporation. The configuration and coordination of value chain processes of business units belonging to a single multinational firm includes t he sourcing of raw materials and basic service components, production processes and linkages, marketing strategies, distribution networks, and support activities encompassing the operations of business units located in different countries but comprising the sub-units of the multinational firm. Available literature also covered marketing standardization, which Jain (1989) describes as the extent of the uniformity in the experiences of customers of the different business units operating in various countries. Here, classification of literature depends on internal and external focus. Literature on strategies focus on business activity as the core basis of analysis so that these looks into the manner that business units apply uniform policies given specific business contexts. Literature on international marketing carries an external focus by considering the uniformity in the marketing mix applied across the business units. (Yip, 1997) The extent of uniformity in the aspects of price, product, place and promotion determines the level of uniformity in the experiences of the firm’s customers in different countries. Rationale for Global Integration After identifying the definition of global integration as limited to cross-border decisions encompassing business units belonging to the same multinational firm and covering the areas of value chain configuration and marketing standardization, the next area that involves clarification is the rationale for engaging in global integration. Available literature provided two distinct perspectives, which are environmental contingency and strategic choice, explaining the rationale for global integration. While the distinctions between these two perspectives is theoretical, these determines the driving factors for global integration as either industry forces and other factors in the external environment or firm-specific capabilities and other factors within the internal environment of the multinational firm. The distinctions reflect similar characteristics as the debates on environmental determinism as against strategic choice (Astley Van de Ven, 1983; Hrebiniak Joyce, 1985). In addition, the distinctions between the two perspectives are parallel to debates involving the positioning-oriented view (Porter, 1985) as opposed to the resource-based view (Barney, 1991) or the dynamic capabilities view (Eisenhardt Martin, 2000). These perspectives highlight one aspect or more reasons for engaging in global integration so that focusing on only one perspective would provide the study with a limited theoretical foundation (Morgan, 1997). As such, these perspectives require consideration to allow the study to gain insight on the multi-dimensional reasons of justifications for global integration. Advocates of the environmental contingency perspective propound the basic assumption that industries hold different potential for globalization. As such, firm strategists play the important role of identifying the trends and influencing factors affecting the industry as bases for the determination of the appropriate strategy addressing the needs and demands of the industry (Bartlett Ghoshal, 1989). In application, a number of best practices have emerged as generic strategies for various industry trends found to lead to positive performance (Prahalad Doz, 1987). This implies that the environmental contingency view favors the development of contingencies (Galbraith, 1973) that considers the alignment or congruence of the structure of the firm and the strategies implemented by the organization with the environment within which the business firm operates. These contingencies find expression in the different types and levels of structures and corresponding strategies that have evolved. A simplistic typology is the description of global firms as evolving from ethnocentric to polycentric before finally becoming geocentric (Perlmutter, 1969). This means that the structure of multinational firms evolves according to this evolutionary process and the strategy of multinational firms depend on the best practices determined for the different evolutionary stages. Another simplistic structure and strategy is one determined by technological drivers (Levitt, 1983) so that the organizational structure revolves around the enhancement of technological capabilities and the strategies involve the standardization of products through a uniform technological capability in order to enhance the homogeneity of customer experiences. However, the simplistic perspectives received criticisms for not being able to cover other important business factors. An alternative perspective involves mixed strategies (Douglas Wind, 1987) so that standardization occurs for some products and product components become while differentiation occurs for others. In application, the mixed strategy involves standardization marketing mix aspects in a given region, market or market segments and differentiation for one or more of the marketing mix components for different regions or markets. The rationale for the mixed perspective is that achieving a universal strategy is not possible since some strategies receive rational support in some market context but not in others even if the same products, brand and company is involved but operating as different business units (Ohmae, 1989). This implies that the purpose of global integration is not really to derive a universal structure and strategy but to provide a way for the multinational corp oration to rationalize its mixed strategies across regions or markets and tie these efforts to address common goals. Most of the typologies that emerged later on found basis on mixed strategies. One manner of classifying multinational firms is through worldwide integration, national responsiveness, and administrative coordination (Doz, 1980). This developed the concept of transnational firms and propounded the important role of administrative coordination to facilitate administrative and structural shifts directed towards the achievement of the benefits of integration on a global scale and responsiveness on a national level. This manner of classification revolves around firm level analysis. Another typology, which considered the industry perspective, distinguished industries as either multidomestic or global (Hout, Porter Rudden, 1982). This means that the structure and strategy selection of business firms depend on the characteristics of the industry within which the firm belongs, which is either multidomestic or global. Another typology that considered the industry level perspective distinguishes strategy selection based on whether the firm falls under multinational or transnational industry (Bartlett, 1986). The author explicitly developed the transnational concept. This means that integration and responsiveness act as the forces that pressure firms to move towards the transnational model. Hedlund (1986) further expanded this typology by introducing the concept of heterarchy to describe the business units of international firms organized into non-hierarchical networks moving toward the goals of integration and responsiveness. The characterization of international fi rms as networks was carried by other literature through the development of the concept of independent network (Bartlett Ghoshal, 1990) and differentiated network (Nohria Ghoshal, 1997). Another typology emerged as the alternative by combining the firm and industry level perspectives to come up with four distinctive strategies of multinational firms, which are purest global, export-based, high foreign investments together with extensive subsidiary coordination, and country-centered (Porter, 1986). Purest global and export-based strategies are variants of global strategy; country-centered strategies are similar to the multinational concept; and high foreign investment with extensive subsidiary coordination is similar to the transnational concept. Another alternative emanates from the integration and responsiveness factors to influence the introduction of the types of strategies into global, multifocal and locally responsive. Integration on a global level considers multinational customers, multinational competitors, intensity of investment, intensity of technology, cost reduction pressures, universal needs, and raw materials and energy access. Local responsiveness pres sures the firm to consider variations in customer needs, variances in the distribution channels, existence of substitutes and adaptations, market structure, and regulatory demands. These pressures then comprise the areas of strategy determination for international business firms. In addition, another strategic area that considers the factors of integration and responsiveness revolves around knowledge and capabilities sharing between corporate headquarters and the various business units (Bartlett Ghoshal, 1989). Based on the development of various typologies, three general structural and strategic distinctions emerge, which are the multinational, transnational and global configurations. These types involve different integration strategies. The global configuration involves the strategy of tight integration of the value chain processes of the different business units resulting to a high level of centralized strategic resources including knowledge and research and development (Bartlett Ghoshal, 1987a; 1987b). This means that the activities of the business units are likely to revolve around the utilization of raw materials and application of service policies instead of focusing on activities that promote the independence of the business units. Moreover, the business units under the global configuration are unable to function without consulting company headquarters. As such, the high level of centralized control leads to the importance of a strong centralized leadership and decision-making. This would likely involve limited development and innovation from the business units operating in the peripheral markets. The network flows between corporate headquarters and the business units revolve around products. Thus, firms adhe ring to the global configuration tend to achieve high levels of integration because of centralization but low levels of responsiveness on a national level because of the lack of development and innovation coming from the business units operating in various national contexts. The multinational or multidomestic configuration pertains to the fostering of high levels of autonomy on the part of the subsidiary units because of the corresponding high degrees of decentralization in decision-making (Roth Morisson, 1990; Harzing, 1998; 2000). This means that the business units or subsidiaries are self-sufficient in their operations on a national level. As such, the subsidiaries enforce value chains that can stand alone in their country of operations (Leong Tan, 1993). Corporate headquarters manage this situation by considering the business units as independent firms but manages the productivity of the subsidiaries through output controls, especially financial measures. The output controls comprise the integrating factor for the different subsidiaries since this measures their adherence to overall firm goals (Muralidharan Hamilton, 1999). Moreover, an informal network exists between the top managers assigned in the corporate headquarters and the expatriates serv ing as representatives of the headquarters in the subsidiaries (Gupta Govindarajan, 2001). Multinational business units exercise relatively high levels of independence because of the minimal intervention and interference from the corporate headquarters except only the application of output controls. The derivation and enhancement of knowledge occurs locally instead of coming from headquarters for dispersion in the different business units. Concurrently, the flow that involves corporate headquarters and the business units encompasses financial resources. Thus, the application of the multinational configuration leads to a high level of responsiveness on a national or local level but resulting to limited integration. The transnational configuration involves the creation of international business firms with the simultaneous capability for responsiveness on a local level, integration on a global level, and learning on a worldwide level. This configuration involves the ability to consider various areas of responsiveness or ambidexterity, which refers to the ability to target conflicting demands at one time (Birkinshaw Gibson, 2004). Nohria and Ghoshal (1997) described the transnational configuration as both differentiated and interdependent. As such, the transnational configuration involves greater integration relative to the multinational configuration but involves greater responsiveness relative to the global configuration. This means that the activities of the business units covering aspects of the value chain becomes integrated physically and coordinated strategically. The subsidiaries the play pre-determined roles within the context of the multinational goals instead of just focusing on the ma ximization of opportunities in the local level. Creation of knowledge involves a higher level of dispersion compared to the global configuration because the objectives are sharing of knowledge derived on level of the peripheral units. The manner of integration then involves mechanisms of socialization instead of output measures as in the multinational configuration. This means the development of standardized norms across the business units (Mintzberg, 1983a). Flow of resources is also expanded to encompass resources, products as well as knowledge across the various business units. Overall, the rationale for global integration based on the environmental contingency perspectives depends on the typology of the operations of business firms. The different typologies carry corresponding structural frameworks and strategic activities directed towards the achievement of the one or both objectives of integration and responsiveness. Proponents of the strategic choice perspective focus on internal factors and pressures in determining structure and strategy for international business firms constituting the rationale for engagement in integration. As such, the focal areas of the strategy choice view include resources, capabilities and processes (Ghoshal, 1987). Concurrently, available literature focused on the two concepts of strategic integration together with corporate parenting that provide distinct multinational firm capabilities. Strategic integration covers the manner that management develops value that encompasses value creation of the different business units forming part of the international firm. Moreover, strategic integration has links to the combination and cultivation of the different resources of the international firm such as the intangible assets together with capabilities in the long-term through the process of coordinated deployment from the corporate headquarters to the business units. However, the subsidiaries have room to enhance further assets and capabilities to respond to their particular business contexts. (Burgelman Doz, 1996) Another view of strategic integration is as pertaining to dynamic capability that is based on particular strategic and structural routine activities (Eisenhardt Martin, 2000). This means that integrating factors comprise the routine activities common in all the business units. Capabilities for strategic integration receives importance in the case when managers intend to shift from one configuration to another but there are variances in the levels of resource needs, strategic requirements, and structural frameworks involved in the configurations. Strategic integration as a capability is also important in situations involving the shift from a weak to a stronger implementation of a given configuration. (Teece et al., 1997; Eisenhardt Martin, 2000) This means that the international business firm employs various combinations of value chain integration and marketing standardization for particular configurations. To ensure integration and standardization, coordination mechanisms comprise important means of unifying processes and outputs across the different business units. Parenting theory evolved to apply to multi-business contexts, specifically the manner that corporate parents influence the operations of subsidiaries in order to add value to the operations of the business units (Goold, 1996a; 1996b; Goold Campbell, 1991; 2002; Goold, Campbell Alexander, 1998). The parenting theory does not particularly focus on integration. Nevertheless, the descriptions of the parenting strategies capture the situation of multinational firms and the manner that corporate headquarters affect the dynamics or workings of the subsidiaries. Since integration involves limitation on the freedom of operation of the business units, the role of the parent company becomes important in achieving effective integration. This means that according to the parenting theory, the rationale of engaging in integration lies in the significance of the role of the parent company in providing effective integrative factors intended to enhance the output and process outcomes across the diff erent business units. Parent firms can create value for the company in four ways. First, the parent company can apply a stand-alone policy, which means that the strategy and performance of the business units are affected minimally by the parent company. Integration at a minimal level of influence occurs through output standardization (Mintzberg, 1983a), which is implemented through financial rations serving as the targets of the subsidiaries. Second, the parent company can increase its influence on the subsidiaries by implementing synergistic practices and transfer of knowledge and best practices to the business units (Mintzberg, 1983a), specifically activities such as standard work systems, standard norms of practice, and training of workers. Third, parent companies can further enhance its influence on the business units by extending the reach of its central functions to the business units. This extent of influence is nearer integration as strategic change instead of coordination. Fourth, an even greater influence on the business units can be made with the parent company altering the corporate portfolio through the acquisition or removal of operations to facilitate restructuring. This also involves greater parallelism with integration as strategic change instead of a coordinative process. Fifth, parent companies can extend their influence to an extent that covers the influence of purchasing firms during post-mergers (Schweiger, 2002). These different extents of influence applied by the parent company translate into different rationales for integration given different multination firm contexts. Regardless of the extent of influence employed by the parent company, it is necessary that the parent company that constitutes the corporate center constitutes a resource in itself through varying levels of influence or provide alternative processes that derive resources for the business units in order for the level of integration to achieve value to the subsidiaries and justify the engagemen t in integration. In addition, there are also parenting styles (Goold, Campbell Alexander, 1994) that describe the manner that the parent company relates to its subsidiaries. First is the financial control style that involves decentralized decision-making of the business units that usually apply in small business firms (Hout et al., 1982). Second is the strategic planning style that involves an influential staff involved in a wide range of areas of operation in the business units (Hout et al., 1982). Third is the strategic control style involving top-down planning but bottom-up implementation that is achieved through the balanced consideration of financial objectives and strategic milestones. These parenting styles provide the factors that have to be present for parent companies to create value for the business units and provide a reason for the type of integration. Integration Challenges After discussing the definition and rationale for integration, the succeeding discussions look into the integration challenges experienced by the multinational firms. Existing literature classify these challenges into those experienced by corporate headquarters and those felt by the subsidiaries. Corporate headquarters experience a number of integration challenges. First is ensuring the creation of value to support the extent of integration. This means that the integration should create greater value compared to the previous status of the firm (Goold, 1996b). Second is preventing any misguided intervention that depend on the context of business units since excessive guidance can thwart much needed innovative action on the subsidiary level (Goold Campbell, 2002). Third is enhancing the quality of execution and support staff services of the company headquarters (Goold Campbell, 2002). Fourth is avoidance of multiple levels of parenting that could lead to redundancy and contradictions (Goold Campbell, 2002). Fifth is the management of various kinds of intra-firm reporting so that the type of reporting should match the simplicity or complexity of the multinational firm (Prahalad Doz, 1987). Sixth is the avoidance of the building of empires at headquarters by clearly establish ing the roles of top management in maintaining corporate entity and adding value to the subsidiaries (Goold Campbell, 2002). Subsidiaries also experience problems in integration. First is achieving structural and strategic fit (Jemison Sitkin, 1986a; 1986b; Olie, 1994; Carleton, 1997) given variances in administrative heritage (Bartlett Ghoshal, 1989) that requires the development of a common administrative infrastructure. Second is managing opportunism among the subsidiary managers within the context of agency relations (Jensen Meckling, 1976; Eisenhardt, 1989a; 1989b) through risk management and agency clarification. Third is ensuring the commitment of the subsidiary managers since commitment determines the success of the integration process (Kim Mauborgne (1991; 1995) by developing a perception of fairness of the integration (Greenberg, 1993). Available literature on the problems experienced by the subsidiaries provide significant foundational information for the study by providing concepts that relate to the study on the perceptions of subsidiaries, particularly the managers of the subsidiaries regarding the integration. The factors of attitudes, commitment and cooperative behavior are the problem areas of integration on the subsidiary side but these also comprise determinants of the perceptions of subsidiaries towards integration. Immediate Literature This section covers immediate literature since the integration capabilities and the modes of managing the subsidiary provide the determinants of the perspectives of subsidiaries towards integration, similar to the part on the problems experienced by the subsidiaries discussed in the previous section. Integration Capabilities A number of integration capabilities are important in the integration initiative. Since integration involves actions and responses not only from the company headquarters

Friday, September 20, 2019

Global Positionning System Versus the Right To Privacy :: GPS Globarl Positioning System Papers

Global Positionning System Versus the Right To Privacy From the beginning of time, man has tried to find out where he was and where he was going. Locating places as well as himself has long been a quest. Mankind developed a number of early inventions to help with this search including the compass, the sextant, the map with longitude and latitude, charts, plans, graphs, telescopes, binoculars and numerous other tools to assist him. The most current, extensive, far-reaching and comprehensive of these is the Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS is a satellite navigation system made up of a network of 24 satellites. The original designers and engineers had military use in mind. It was placed into orbit by the U.S. Department of Defense, and it was originally intended to aid navigation, troop deployment and artillery fire. The official U.S. Department of Defense name for the GPS is the NAVSTAR system, which stands for Navigation Satellite Timing and Ranging. This system cost the United States billions of dollars to develop and build, with the constant additional cost of maintenance. The first GPS satellite was launched in 1978, predating the introduction of the personal computer. The full constellation of 24 satellites was completed in 1994. Each satellite is built to last about 10 years, and replacements are constantly being built and launched into orbit. In the 1980's, by an executive order, the United States Government made the system available for civilian use, and there are no subscription fees or setup charge s. GPS works anywhere in the world, in any weather condition. A GPS satellite weighs approximately 2,000 pounds and is approximately 17 feet across with solar panel extended. The 24 GPS satellites orbit the earth about 12,000 miles above us. They make two complete orbits in less than 24 hours. Currently there are 21 active satellites with 3 operating spares. These satellites are traveling at speeds of approximately 7,000 miles per hour. The GPS satellites are powered by solar energy.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Television as a Teaching Tool :: Papers

Television as a Teaching Tool In the world we are living in today there are a great many people who will tell you televisions are an amazing teaching tool, or that they bring quality entertainment to millions of people around the world. This is quite simply a lie. Television is no 'great teacher' or 'show stopper', but an evil machine, an evil mind-numbing machine. You only need to look at the effects that Logi-biards contraption has on people, to see what I mean. They sit in front of trashy soap operas, with their far-fetched storylines and sub standard acting, stuffing junk food into their faces. These 'Tele-Addicts' will, with no hesitation, watch hours upon hours of programmes, wasting evening after evening in front of their 'goggle boxes'. From the very first moment they turn on their televisions, they turn off their brains and become transfixed on the screen. They begin to plan their lives around the television schedule; the T.V Guide has become their bible. If you observe someone watching television it's easy to see that they have turned off their body and minds except for their hands. Their hands are now on autopilot used on the odd occasion to operate the remote or stuff junk food in to their faces. You could set off a bomb in the same room with them and I doubt they'd notice, as long as it doesn't interrupt the programme they were staring at they couldn't care. There are actually only two things you can do to distract an addict from their televisions and just prey to God you don't do them! Well what are these two 'Sins' of which I speak? Standing in front of the screen and touching the remote control. Quite trivial things you may think, but if you dare to commit either one of these crimes against television you will receive the same response. You'll be hit instantaneously with a tidal wave of foul language and violent gestures. It's a totally primal response, it as if evolution never took place.

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Essays --

The Evolution of Warrantless Searches With Alcohol, Blood, And DNA With the creation of the First Congress, framers manifested the Fourth Amendment to provide sufficient privacy standards for the citizens of the United States of America. Framers upheld the 4th Amendment to sustain a functioning government-governed relationship, where officials respect individuals’ privacy and rights. During the First Congress, framers explicitly granted, â€Å"the right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized† to the citizens. Moreover, courts have delineated two major clauses from the primary text of the Amendment. The first clause essentially protects the privacy of an individual to be safe in person. The immediate second clause introduces a circumstance which warrants are non-essential. Furthermore, both the expectation of privacy and certain circumstances to preserve government interests have collectively emerged from the two clauses. Consequently throughout court cases in the U.S, the protections of the Fourth Amendment have resulted in disagreement explicitly concerning searches violating a person’s privacy and reasonable searches for where no warrants are required. Recently, blood and DNA extractions embody an indispensable role in modern law enforcement. The advent of blood, DNA, and other technologies are now the most significant scientific advancements in the modern era. Since the first use of forensic DNA identification in 1986, DNA’s role in ... ...forcement has utilized blood and DNA tests to exonerate suspects convicted of crimes and guide officials to convict other suspects. Furthermore, in effect of the Supreme Court cases, blood and DNA tests now promote a superior justice system more effectively and efficiently. The recent cases, which have provided many exigent circumstances where warrants are not essential for a search, have developed excelling tactics and procedures to ensure the integrity of modern law enforcement. After these cases, lower courts and law enforcement teams are now able to act quicker and responsively to enforce governmental interests. In conclusion, the trials Samson v. California, Missouri v. McNeely, and Maryland v. King have established clear boundaries for 4th Amendment and they have facilitated the advancement of efficient and applicative technology in modern law enforcement.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

Letter to Local Planning Authorities from an Entrepreneurial Farmer

1.1 Introduction to myself and reason for proposal. My name is MR Michael Christou and I live and work at Moatlow Farm (GR 156 538). Farming in my area is becoming increasingly difficult. This is due to poor soil and the harsh climate. Also I am receiving much less income because of increase in cost of keeping my live stock and the decrease in their value at market. 1.2 Please consider the above details when reviewing my proposals. (The following) 2.0 General explanation of my proposals (Of which there are three) 2.1 Development of out buildings into holiday accommodation. Firstly I propose to make the appropriate alterations to some of my unused outbuildings. If I do so I will be able to accommodate tourists consequently earning a little extra income to pay for the keeping of my animals and giving tourists a quality experience of the peak district area, which will bring more money into the area and community. 2.2 Restriction of certain foot paths during lambing season. My second proposal is that the public footpaths which cut through my land are closed for the period of time when the lambs are at a stage where if they are disturbed they are easily scared because this leads to them growing to be unhealthy. Although I agree that the general public has the right to be able to experience this scenic and peaceful environment, but if they carry on passing through my fields as regularly and in the great numbers that they do then, especially during lambing season, my income and the role I play within the community will be impaired. 2.3 The replacement of dry stone walls with easier maintainable fencing. Being a hard working farmer I strive at putting 100% into my work knowing the more time I put in the more I get out, but an everlasting problem of tourists damaging and myself having to repair or pay for damaged dry stone walls is becoming somewhat of a hindrance. Also the more time I put into repairing the dry stone walls the less time I have for real work this is why I suggest that the majority of the walls are replaced by cheaper, easier to maintain fencing. 3.0 Evidence and ideas to support my plan. 3.1 Evidence and ideas concerning out building development. There are an extremely large number of visitors every year to Dovedale and the peak district area; this is where the local community gains its income to be able to support itself. It is inevitable that if an extra place for a family to stay is provided people will take that opportunity. If accommodation is provided for 2 or 3 families then it would be an extra 2 or 3 families in the local area which means not only I receive much needed extra income but the whole community will benefit. The simple reason being that those two or three families will be spending their in the shops, paying to use the facilities and paying to visit the attractions in the area. 3.2 Evidence and ideas concerning the closure of certain foot paths at certain times. Changing the routes during busy season is in favor of what the P.R officer is proposing and also it would be a great benefit to my self. 3.3 Evidence and ideas concerning the replacement of dry stone walls with easy maintenance fencing. People in opposition to this proposal would argue that the removal of the dry stone walls would be the removal of a natural beauty; but the walls are not natural, man put them there. But that is not my point/argument just fact. I agree that the removal of all of the dry stone walling would be the removal of something which I believe symbolizes English countryside, culture and heritage. But I am not asking that all the walls are removed/destroyed just the ones that surround my land and nearby farms. This would be barely noticeable to the general public but would make a significant difference to myself and my work. If the walls are left there I will have to continue repairing them after visitors have damaged them which is either time consuming, expensive or both. If it is not possible at any point for me to make a repair to the wall then holes form meaning my animals can escape easily consequently getting lost or injuring themselves costing me even more money. Also the lime stone can be used again for things such as repairing other walls, strengthening/repairing foot paths instead of scaring the scenery by digging for it. In short it is been re-cycled, beneficial to the local community. 4.0 Justification of my proposals in comparison to those of the parish council and the public relations officer. 4.1 Why the parish councils proposal will not benefit the community. (1) The car parks are to be made by the laying of tarmac. If this is to be done then extreme disturbance of the local area will occur, e.g. the heavy plant machinery will make such noise and will take up space there fore the area will have to be closed to visitors during construction other wise extreme disorder would occur. This closure to tourists, even for a short time would kill most of the communities' peoples income. (11) The cost of visiting the area for most people is far from cheep then on top of that when visitors arrive the parish council wants to charge them for parking their car. The tourists already provide a large percentage of our income to charge them for things such as parking would almost be exploiting them! After all they do have as much right to experience this environment as we do. 4.2 Justification of my proposals cont†¦ Why the public relations officers proposals will not benefit the community (1) The proposal of putting information boards around the area to help give visitors awareness of what they are doing to our area will benefit the area in no way what so ever. My reason for believing this is that I believe that the people who take out the time and show interest in these information boards saying ‘Don't drop litter' and ‘the country code' etc are the people who would have thought to respect our environment in the 1st place. Consequently the boards are a waste of money. (Money which is donated by the local community) (11) Making alternative footpaths out of hard wearing footpaths i.e. tarmac would have the same negative effect on the community as explained in section 4.1 (1). Whereas if you (the committee) were to accept my proposals the lime stone from the walls would be crushed and used to make hard wearing, natural looking footpaths. 4.3 The afore mentioned proposals of the P.R officer and the parish council would both have a negative effect on the community and would just cause a great hassle. My proposals have been carefully planned to have a positive effect on the community, whilst making the role I play within the community more focused. 5.0 In conclusion: Please consider all of the facts and think about how our community is going to benefit the most. I am confident that once you have done this you will decide that my proposals are going to have the most positive effect on the future development and future in general of our community, and there fore should be put into place.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Thinking about qualitative data collection & analysis for grounded theory Essay

Communication Strategies Introduction Research Design                   Creswell, John. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. 3rd . New York: SAGE Publications, 2011.                   The research will incorporate a well-crafted research design to enhance an effective data collection. The design describes how data collection will be done, the relevant participantsto involvein the study, and the materials or instruments that will be used for data collection. This is done with considerations of the objective of the study. The research main aim is to evaluate The Relationship between Social Media and Effective Publicity in Organizations.                   Due to the nature and the phenomenon of the study, a qualitative research design is selected. This is because the design will employ a multi-method approach which is comprehensive in data collection and it ensures a qualitative data interpretation.                   Festinger, David. Essentials of Research Design and Methodology . New York: SAGE publishers, 2013. Participants                   The study targets a population with the relevant information that will lead to approximately accurate findings. The participants will involve customers, employees, and suppliers of selected organizations. These individualsshould have knowledge of social media, its application in business and they have an experience of the new technology in their daily business and organizational activities. A sample of 10 respondents will be selected randomly from the targeted population. This will involve different people using the social media platforms in their daily lives. The study assumes that all the data collected from the respondents is representative of the prevalentstate to usage of social media in publicity of firms.                   Vogt, Paul. Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches. Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2012.                   The study will employ a simple random technique in sampling the population. This is technique is selected because it is easy to use and manageable. It also minimizes bias in sample determination because the sample is selected randomly. The technique will enable the research get information from respondents selected randomly. This is important because sample will cover different people in different organizations at unique situations hence a comprehensive data collected.                   Stephene. Thinking about qualitative data collection & analysis for grounded theory. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2013. Data Collection                   Validity of data collected defines the success of a conducted research. To achieve this goal, the study intends to utilize both secondary and primary sources of data. The primary sources data will be collected fromthe targeted respondent to the investigation. The secondary sources will include reports published by the selected organization giving the correlation between social media and the publicity of organizations.                   Patton, Michael. Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods: Integrating Theory and Practice. New York: SAGE Publications, 2011.                   The materials that will be used for data collection are observation, interview schedules, and questionnaires. This instruments of data collection were selected due to the qualitative nature of the research. Well-structured questionnaires with both closed and open ended questions were administered to the targeted participant to the study.                   Maxwel, Joseph. Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach (Applied Social Research Methods). New York: SAGE Publications Inc, 2012.                   Open-ended questions will give the respondents an opportunity to give their opinion on the relationship between social media and publicity of organizations. This aims at gathering any other additional information relevant to the study. Furthermore, the closed ended questions in the questionnaires will collect specific data from the respondents. The closed ended questions are important because they give a certain uniformity in responses and makes it easy for analysis. Before sending the questionnaires to the participants, all the vague questions will be eliminated to make the eventual data collected relevant and easy to analyze. The questionnaires will be sent to the respondents through their emails. Interviews will be done on phone where the sample population will be contacted and asked relevant questions that will address the research objectives. Conclusion                   A research design is one of the important elements that makes any study complete and successful. Due to the topic under investigation, a qualitative approach is taken. The study targets a sample of 10 participants from the targeted population and it will use a simple random technique to arrive at the sample. Data will be collected through interview schedules and administering of questionnaires. References Creswell, John. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches. 3rd . New York: SAGE Publications, 2011. Festinger, David. Essentials of Research Design and Methodology . New York: SAGE publishers, 2013. Maxwel, Joseph. Qualitative Research Design: An Interactive Approach (Applied Social Research Methods). New York: SAGE Publications Inc, 2012. Patton, Michael. Qualitative Research & Evaluation Methods: Integrating Theory and Practice. New York: SAGE Publications, 2011. Stephene. Thinking about qualitative data collection & analysis for grounded theory. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2013. Vogt, Paul. Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Approaches. Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2012. Source document

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Internet and Target Customers Segment Essay

1. Based on the three customer personas, which customer segment should Ontela target? Ontela should targe the teen segment. The size of the segment is big and wide, they are usually early adapters of technology (lots are tech savvy) their purchasing power is huge,. Moreover, the segment is substantial, and can make ontela increase its revenues. This segment uses the internet alot and the social network, e.g. facebook,. There can be the domino effect and more friends may join this service. As youth tend to imitate one the other. They spend lots of time in the internet and marketing in the internet (banners, PPC, etc) doesn’t cost a lot and very good to start with. Ontela shouldn’t target the 2nd’ persona because the segment is not big enough, old fashion and the revenues aren’t expected to increase. It is a work tool and therefore it is a niche. 2. Create a positioning statement for your chosen target persona and identify the key themes that should be emphasized in the messaging for the PickDeck service to this segment: Positioning statement: Specifically designed for people who treasure their memories captured in mobile phone and have been frustrated with the cumbersome process of manually transferring photos off their phones, Ontelas’s Picdeck is a quality innovative mobile phone service that promises an easiest way to transfer pictures off their camera phones by automatically uploading those to a desktop, e-mail or favorite photo sharing and social networking sites with no click and best price. The key themes are: **send and save your pictures in one click **easy to use **share with your friends and family easily 3. What are the risks of using qualitative persons to select target customers segment?

Saturday, September 14, 2019

Heart of Darkness and “The Hollow Men” Essay

Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness reveals the theme of self-reflection, however that reflection leads to a caliginous finish filled with vacantness. A poem written in 1925, â€Å"The Hollow Men† by T.S. Eliot, portrays a nearly equivalent feeling of emptiness. Both of which form a vacuous, hollow existence of man. Conrad and Eliot’s work mirrors each other’s directly with their internal reflection and overall emptiness. In fact, Eliot even begins his poem with â€Å"Mistah Kurtz- He dead.† a citation from Heart of Darkness. Poems often intend to express more than what they literally say within their lines. In T.S. Eliot’s â€Å"Hollow Men,† Eliot depicts the insignificant lives of these â€Å"hollow men,† â€Å"stuffed† with worthlessness. He then goes on to explain how the men go about their daily lives and â€Å"whisper together† meaningless things. Eliot also speaks of the eyes that are â€Å"more distant and more solemn than a fading star.† The hollow men’s eyes are in a sort of hellish state, with stares of nothingness as they gaze out among the world. God’s eyes seem out of reach to these hopeless men, God’s eyes â€Å"do not appear,† they are too distant for them to reach. â€Å"This dead land this cactus land here the stone images are raised,† men in this barren and empty land are seen worshipping false gods, worthless stone. The only way for the hollow men to find hope is for God to be brought pack in and praised in â€Å"death’s twilight kingdom,† which in itself seems hopeless. Almost spontaneously Eliot brings in a nursery rhyme, creating a whimsical and simplistic way about the hollow men. Shortly after he starts the Lord’s Prayer, â€Å"For thine is the Kingdom,† and repeats it several times seeming to loose his train of thought, adding to the meaningless stuffing of these hollow men. â€Å"This is the way the world ends not with a bang but a whimper,† ends Eliot’s poem and also the lives of the hollow men, without meaning or significance. Like the theme of hollowness throughout â€Å"The Hollow Men,† â€Å"Heart of Darkness† generates the similar theme of self-reflection and the eventual feeling of emptiness. The protagonist, Marlow, sees that England is filled with superfluous actions and material things. â€Å"The inner truth is hidden.† The character of Marlow consists of a wandering sailor with little knowledge of who he really is. When traveling throughout the world, Marlow’s eyes open as he realizes the darkness of the world. Marlow leaves behind Eliot’s â€Å"deliberate disguises† and journeys to the void land of Africa. Soon He soon ascertains that Africa is very similar to England, in that it is centered around the worthless materials and money, â€Å"the word ‘ivory’ rang in the air†¦ you would think they were praying to it.† Marlow’s main reason of going into this strange land was to check on the inner station and unintentionally on Kurtz. Through all of the things Marlow witnesses on his voyage, he discovers the true emptiness and hollowness within himself. The jungles of Africa assume the same roles as the deserts of â€Å"The Hollow Men,† the area is barren and forsaken reflecting the mind of Marlow. In the â€Å"inner station† Marlow meets a character who seems to be â€Å"stuffed† like the men of Eliot’s poem, â€Å"I could poke my forefinger through him, and would find nothing but a little loose dirt.† When Kurtz is finally introduced in Heart of Darkness he is repeatedly labeled as a â€Å"universal genius,† and this so-called genius is from his own inner reflections. Something â€Å"had whispered to him things about himself which he did not know, things of which he had no conceptions till he took counsel with this great solitude – and the whisper had proved irresistibly fascinating. It echoed loudly within him because he was hollow at the core.† The whispers in â€Å"The Hollow Men† are also found throughout Heart of Darkness. Kurtz knows deep inside that he is empty and attempts to fill the void with these whispers. His remorse for these actions are revealed through his last words, â€Å"The horror! The horror!† His genius was eventually seen for what it truly was; he knew was he had, a â€Å"hollow† existence. The poem and novella both represent the masked, hollow, and meaningless existence of men, through a sense of reflection of oneself. Heart of Darkness is a tale of searching of meaningless ends and â€Å"The Hollow Men† reveals the tragedy of the hollowness in men, both show that these material obsessions of the world are worth nothing in the overall outlook of life.

Friday, September 13, 2019

The Syntel Success Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Syntel Success - Case Study Example It makes continuous efforts to reap the benefits of new delivery models. Their objective is equally stressed upon in every single Syntel branches in the US as well as in offshore locations. Collaborative environments, excellent use of technologies in business intelligence and warehousing of data, skilled workforce, the strong network of sales and marketing has contributed to success quotient of Syntel for years in international markets. But Syntel could have been far more successful if it had not depended so much on North America for labor arbitrages and vendors. Moreover, in recent times, Syntel has focused more on specific groups or pockets of customers, which is not a wise decision keeping in mind the level of competition in present times. The success of Syntel is due to its development and expansion in IT and healthcare industries as well as worldwide IT- spending. The cultural outlook of US has further helped in the expansion of Syntel. The economic system of Syntel supports an integrated research environment. Besides being one the most developed countries US is also one of the leading countries which have strong IT systems. Thus, being an organization of US, Syntel was blessed with an added advantage over its other competitors across the world. Syntel gets full support of good infrastructure that is used in all parts of US. Its partners include Microsoft, Numerix, SAP, TriZetto, and Global Analytics. Its clients include Pharmaceutical Organizations like CRO, CMO, etc. Syntel is known for providing quality service to more than 2000 customers across the globe on a daily basis. To satisfy its customers, it makes use of latest innovations and technologies which are provided distinctness by experts and professionals of S yntel. What has made Syntel a success, is its comparatively flexible and custom-made procedure of IT and KPO.  

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Contemporary Fashion Marketing Trends Assignment

Contemporary Fashion Marketing Trends - Assignment Example The paper "Contemporary Fashion Marketing Trends" analyzes the trends of the Contemporary Fashion. This paper explores the contemporary fashion marketing trends that will be prominent in the next 5 years, particularly in the global fashion industry. Over the next five years, some fashion trends will be influential, especially in the international platform. They will be influential in the sense that technology will play a key role in all aspects of fashion marketing. In essence, the digitization of the fashion marketing industry will revolutionize the industry in the sense that most customers will get the latest fashion updates via online platforms. Although technology has revolutionized the fashion industry on a significant scale, the next five years will see the globalization of the fashion industry. Customers and prospective customers will receive all the information that they require through digital platforms. The contemporary fashion industry players will also conduct most of the ir marketing via digital platforms in order to reach a global clientele. Social network will be more influential in the fashion industry in the next five years that it is today. When it comes to sustainability, the contemporary fashion marketing is set to evolve in line with the highly dynamic world and fashion market. As the world advanced into the 21st century, more industries, including the fashion industry, are becoming environmentally conscious. It means that any contemporary or future fashion marketing.

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

RectorSeal Corporation in Japan Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5500 words

RectorSeal Corporation in Japan - Research Paper Example Feasibility study can be defined as a process which enables the company to assess that the project which they are planning to undertake is feasible or not. It includes identifying the problems, opportunities and situations and assesses the benefits as well as the cost involved in the projects. Feasibility study also recommends on the various areas which should be taken care before taking any decision. In this project a feasibility study has been done on the various aspects of the probable expansion of the company in Japan. To analyze whether the company should expand in Japan various parameters have been analyzed. Firstly the history of the probable host company that is Japan’s history in industrial sector have been analyzes. Secondly the political policies regarding the industry have also been analyzed. The industrial sector is influenced by the political changes therefore a study has been made on the political scenario. Along with the political system, the legal, economic an d social system of Japan has also been analyzed. The financial dimension that is the banking, currency, accounting policies and foreign trade policies which can influence the company operating in Japan has also been analyzed. ... The financial dimension that is the banking, currency, accounting policies and foreign trade policies which can influence the company operating in Japan has also been analyzed. Next the cultural aspect of Japan has been analyzed using Hofstede’s model. To suggest on the marketing strategies to be practiced there a thorough study has been made on the present marketing strategies followed in Japan. The human resource dimension including the hiring, training, advancement, compensation and retention practices which are followed in Japan have been made. Apart from the marketing, human resource, financial dimensions environmental scanning a study has been made on the organizational structure of the multinational companies in Japan. After analyzing all the aspects recommendations have been made on the strategies which should be adopted by the RectorSeal Corporation to expand in Japan. 2. Brief overview of the company In this paper, the primary aim is to develop a sustainable internat ional expansion strategy for RectorSeal Corporation. The company aims to enter into the Japanese market by analyzing the viability of the host country. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the international factors of the company to identify its strength for market expansion. RectorSeal Corporation is U.S,-based company privately owned company engaged in the manufacturing multiple chemical used for industrial production. It has been operating in U.S. chemical market since more than 74 years. It was founded in 1937 and has gained a rapid growth acquiring a leading position in the market. In is domestic based company and having its portioning within the national boundaries. The headquarters is situated in the city of Houston, Texas (RectorSeal, 2008). The