Effective Learning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Effective Learning - Essay Example Students’ frustrations can be attributed to their lack of knowledge regarding the scope, limitations, and challenges of online learning along with the drawbacks of the learning program and curriculum.   Frustrations and Needs of Online Learners The number of online learning programs has dramatically increased over the last two decades. Subsequently, the cases of students’ frustrations also have increased to a great extent in a way that hinders their educational opportunities. As Hara and Kling (1999) point out, the paucity of prompt feedback is one of the potential causes of student frustration in web-based learning. Learners’ autonomy in this regard often turns to be an impediment to their own active interaction with the tutor when there is no specific login time for learning activities. Frustration is the outcome when there are no clearly stated instructions and guidelines. In that context, a fresh student, normally who is not a computer savvy gets disappoint ed of the unfamiliar learning system. Lack of technical expertise along with the complexity of the learning interface can intensify the frustration and stress. Strategies for Effective Online Learning First of all, as a learner you must understand that online classes, no matter whether synchronous or asynchronous, differ a lot from traditional classrooms and learning methods. Online learning normally is not bound to stipulations, and hence this in turn increases learners’ responsibility in meeting their own needs. As noted in the Illinois Online Network database (2010), the major problems with online learning usually fall into several categories including but not limited to technology, the facilitator, the online environment, the students, the administration and faculty, the curriculum etc. In order to get rid of the current stress, you must identify in which of the above areas your learning problem persists. If you find that lack of technical skill has limited your learning potential, it is advisable to get assistance from a third party. This can be a friend or a relative who would teach you the essential things in no time. As Brosche (2010, p. 70) reminds, if you find that the instructions are ambiguous, do not hesitate to request clarifications from the facilitators before you start doing things, because â€Å"well begun is half done†. Another thing you ought to do is to identify what type of a learner you are. People, based on their learning habits can be categorized into ‘dependent learners, independent learners, competitive learners, collaborative learners, participative learners, avoidant learners’ etc (Stavredes, 2011, p. 18). For instance, as Stavredes (2011) points out, if you are a competitive learner, you will be interested in attending tests and getting grades. In contrast, if you are a collaborative learner, you will like group works, interactions, and discussions. Participative learners are usually interested in class discussions and hence concerned about learning environment whereas avoidant learners are normally driven by strict deadlines and punishments for not meeting them (pp. 18-19). Obviously, you belong to one of these groups, and identifying your position would help you overcome the current frustration. To illustrate, if you believe that you are a competitive learner having great zeal in tests and results, other activities like collaborative programs may annoy you, for the outcome of your effort would be a bit disappointing one. However,

Role of Media and Its Effects on Youth Essay Example for Free

Role of Media and Its Effects on Youth Essay Our life will remain incomplete without the media. The radio, television, newspaper and internet are some forms through which we get information. Just like other fields, a vast development is seen in media fields also. The common people believe the news given by the media. So, the media should be very careful before giving any news to the public. They have to cover important happenings, in all the fields, around the world. There is no use in creating emotional feelings among public by exaggerating the happenings and giving sensational news. The media persons should be cautious in giving unbiased news to the common persons. AS EVERY COIN HAS TWO SIDE THATS WHY MEDIA HAS BOTH ADVANTAGE AND DISADVANTAGE.THE FAIR PART IS IT MAKES THE BIG UNKNOWN WORLD TOO SMALL AND THE BAD SIDE OF IT IS THAT TEENS ARE GETTING CRIMNAL DAY BY DAY BY SEEING THE NEWS OF CRIMES WHICH WE HEAR DAY TO DAY DISADVANTAGES OF MEDIA:  ·The media has a bad effect on everyone, not just teens, the media never represnets anything in truth, it represents events in way that will earn them money, whether or not you are influenced negatively is not important to them.  ·Children could think that they are super heroes and jump from high rise building thus creating a threat for their life.  · They may become more aggressive and rude in nature. There health may be spoiled due to watching excessive television. They may concentrate less in there studies.  · Its excessive use may decrease there memory retention power.  ·The media covers news of public interest such as political happenings, sports, city news, national news, international news, business, education, entertainment, literature and medical news.  · The news should satisfy all men, women and children of various age-group and status. To increase circulation of newspapers, the media people should not publish bogus news.  ·The fashion shows, dance and music programs attract youngsters very much. They like to spend money for make up, clothing and jewels on the influence of models and actors.  ·The youngsters wish to take part in these programs, which are unsuitable for many persons.  ·The middle aged persons are stuck up with TV serials and show much interest in raising social status, by wasting money. ADVANTAGES OF MEDIA: †¢ The common man gets the latest news within a fraction of seconds. The distance is not at all a barrier now. The news they get through media help them in their daily life a lot. †¢ The media helps common people to exchange information and it acts as a common platform. The public get knowledge and awake to raise questions, on seeing the news in newspaper and TV. †¢ The media helps to bring out the hidden talents of the people. The children learn many good things through media. †¢ By reading newspaper, the children learn many things, their reading habit increases and their vocabulary enhances by learning new words. Their knowledge increases by watching geographical channel, quiz programs and speeches by famous personalities of different fields. †¢ The cartoon channels make the children happy. †¢ The games increase their logical thinking power and grasping of things. The attitude, approach and behavior of the common people will also change, when exposed to media. †¢ The media conducts polls and let public to take part in social issues. Through blogging in the internet and writing letters to the editor in newspapers, many people give voice about their opinion in different political and social matters. CONCLUSION: The media has brought the people all over the world very closer. We have to take the positive aspects and use it for good purpose. The media and public should help to drive away the negative effects of the media.

Parkers Back :: Religion, Divine Intervention

â€Å"Parker’s Back† is filled with biblical allusions as one man’s journey towards God and pleasing his wife ends unsuccessfully. Parker has always been a rebel; however, his wife is a devout, plain woman who has an indescribable control on him, possibly due to his subconscious wish to be saved. Parker wishes to leave her, but finds he never can do so. Not only is he unable to please his wife, but also he is unable to experience spiritual satisfaction, and in the brief moment at the end where he does have a connection to God, his wife rids him of it. Biblical allusions are spread throughout â€Å"Parker’s Back,† and they serve to emphasize O.E. Parker’s failure as a spiritual person. Parker notices a tattooed man at fair, where he became inspired to get tattoos. The man’s tattoos are of â€Å"beasts and flowers,† (384) full of â€Å"intricate design of brilliant color† (384), as they represent an Eden that Parker cannot have. Parker’s response to the man’s tattoos can never be replicated; Parker always feels dissatisfaction with his own tattoos. The man’s tattoos seemed to be alive and have â€Å"a subtle motion† (384), and Parker is never able to experience the emotion he felt when looking at the man’s tattoos, as if he can never experience Eden again. On the other hand, Parker’s tattoos seem to represent something entirely different. The serpent on Parker’s arm represents the wrongs he has done, and with the serpent on his arm, Parker cannot truly experience the religious and spiritual satisfaction that his wife does. This biblical allusion of Eden and the serpent shows that Parker has strugg led to find peace, and has had a troubled life. As a tattoo-clad high school dropout, a dishonorably discharged ex-navy, and a heavy drinker, O.E. Parker is a failure. His soul is a â€Å"spider web of facts and lies,† (393) and compared to his devout wife, he is a failure in religion because of his lack of faith. Parker detests his own wife, calling her â€Å"plain,† (382) but he still stays with his wife, an action that caused him to be â€Å"puzzled and ashamed of himself† (382). Perhaps the real reason he is staying with his wife is that she â€Å"had married him because she meant to save him,† (382) and Parker is waiting to be saved. Sarah knows that O.E. Parker’s real name, Obadiah Elihue, is significant when she says it out loud in â€Å"a reverent voice† (387).

Land of the Free Because of the Homeless

LAND OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE HOMELESS In this article by Shaunna Miller, We learn about the American service members who have unfortunately committed suicide. Yearly, more than 6,500 service members lose their lives due to suicide cases. What most individuals fail to realize is that the number by far exceeds that of those soldiers killed in both Afghanistan and Iraq combined over the last six years. Even those who are against the idea of committing suicide are at high risks of meeting another ill fate.Despite their efforts of fighting for a noble cause, most veterans of America are today homeless. According to estimates of the Census Bureau of the United States, there are over 470,000 homeless people every night. When an analysis is carried out regarding the plight of the homeless veterans, the numbers are devastating. Of the adult population of the country, only about 11 percent are veterans, yet on any given night, veterans make over 154,000 of those individuals who are homeless . This represents over 33 percent of the homeless population.This implies that one third of those persons who are homeless are those people who at one time served this great country. It is not uncommon to find Vietnam War veterans holding placards in streets begging for food. More than 335,000 veterans were reported to be homeless in 2006 alone. According to studies, about 44,000-64,000 of this homeless population is categorized as being chronically homeless. The big question remains why are individuals who served our country left to suffer alone.The major reason that has been given to explain why there exist so many homeless people among the veterans is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Statistics from PTSD National Center reveal that this psychiatric disorder normally presents itself after an individual has been through events that are life-threatening. â€Å"Life changing monster† is the name that the disorder has been given by experts. Individuals who were once healthy sudd enly become impulsive, detached, anxious, and sensitive to noise and light.This implies that they become prone to regular emotional outbursts, and even doing simple problems becomes a hard ask. With time, these difficulties alter the functional ability of the individual, as well as their family and social life. Consequently, the disorder creates parenting difficulties, divorces, marital problems and occupational instability. When the PTSD related ailments become to severe, they will consequently result in lack of social support, and when the veterans lack support from their friends and family, they inevitably become homeless.Web postings reveal that the two wars in Afghanistan and Iraq have resulted in the loss of 4,848 lives as of April 14, 2009. This is proof that American troops are exposed to a lot of traumatic events, most of which result with PTSD for those who survive. Of every five troops that successfully return home, one gets diagnosed with either depression or PTSD. A Mil itary medicine article reveal that of the more than 8 million who served their country in the Vietnam War, about 30 percent suffer from PTSD. The current population that is homeless is predominantly made of war veterans.Of the batch that is currently deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, more than 300,000 have been diagnosed with PTSD. They are even becoming homeless at rates that are much higher than their Vietnam War counterparts. The solution that could effectively address this is to give it our time. During 2007 85,000 volunteers saved the VA 218 million dollars. When people become volunteers their time allows other funds to be used to further treatment for PTSD. So it is in giving our time that we hope to decrease homelessness in our veterans and increase their ability to cope. Qs:Central Idea: After not choosing to take their life the plight of our homeless veterans is that of depression and post traumatic stress syndrome; but the volunteering of our time can help decrease the 33% of the homeless population they represent. The main points are: 1. Suicide numbers for American Veteran. 2. How veteran Homelessness and its numbers are associated with depression and PTSD. 3. The volunteering of citizens time is requested as a solution over money

How effectively did governments in pre-revolutionary societies deal with social and political unrest?

Governments in pre-revolutionary societies, such as the Autocratic governments of Russia and China obviously did not deal with social and political unrest very effectively if they were unable to stop the impending revolutions in their respective countries. In each case the majority of the population were looking for changes in the way their governments were ruling their country, but in each case their ideas for a better country were not heard by their governments which subsequently resulted in vast social and political unrest. Such unrest eventually led to the downfall of each government system due to their inability to subdue the situation. In Russia as with China under an autocratic rule, the vast majority of the population, the peasants and proletariat, were unhappy with the way their governments were treating them. The peasantry in both countries were severely poor and often starved. This was not helped by the fact that both countries had very poor weather conditions in the winter months that brought food production to a virtual stand still. Peasants often did not own any land and were forced to work for landlords, who paid very little. Peasants were not happy with the current situation and wanted land reforms so they could own land for themselves. Unfortunately these pleas went unheard and so led to much discontent and unrest amongst the lower classes in these societies. The Tsar of Russia and the Empress of China were seen by the common person as a god-like deity selected by right of birth to rule the country as they see fit. It was their divine right, and as such this placed the Tsar and Empress in a social status all of their own, way above anyone else. This could be a reason why they did not even care about the peasants, to them they were nothing. They were too interested in their own problems to worry about the affairs of state. Only when their power was threatened did they listen, in Russia it was when the effects of ‘Bloody Sunday' threatened the image of the Tsar and in China when constant attack from westerners threatened to make people believe that the empress was losing the Mandate of Heaven. In both cases, the resulting reforms put in place by each ruler was a case of too little too late. The effects of their incompetence were too deep rooted by now to be disguised by such minor and insignificant reforms. The Tsar and the Empress were very similar in the fact that they were both stuck in their old ways. The Tsar of Russia was often more concerned with family affairs than the affairs of state and wished to keep the government system the way it was so that he could pass it on to his son Alexei. What he didn't realise was that by not concerning himself with the affairs of state, he was in effect sealing the fate of autocracy in Russia by causing great discontent in the failing incompetent government system. Similarly in China, the Empress resisted western ideas and wished to keep the current system of government. By letting western ideas influence the people, they might have realised how ineffective their current government was and wish to change it. This would mean a complete lifestyle change for the Empress which of course she was not interested in. So in both cases the government's inability to accept change brought about great unrest as the people wanted to modernise, as conditions in other modernised countries were a lot better than their own. The effects of war played a major role in creating unrest in both Russia and China. In Russia, the Tsar had a choice whether or not to continue the wars in which Russia participated but in each case he chose to continue the wars, even though it was obvious that Russia lacked the capability to maintain and supply an army away from home. The choices that he made only created more unrest, which the Tsar did not need. Obviously, if the Tsar simply avoided creating this unrest he wouldn't have had to deal with it, so basically by not creating this unrest is a very effective way of dealing with it, pity the Tsar did not see it this way. Unfortunately in China there was no choice as to what wars could be participated in, they were all in defence. But these wars could have been avoided, especially those with Britain over trade. China's unwillingness to change or modernise was a major factor in causing these wars, if it had been more open to western ideas not only could China have avoided war with Britain, it could have been better prepared for wars later on with Japan. Of course this did not happen and Britain defeat China in many ‘Opium' wars. Ports were opened up for trade and opium and cheap goods flooded in creating unrest amongst the merchants and peasants. China's response was to build up it's military and try to modernise by sending scholars abroad to learn western ideas. This was like shooting themselves in the foot, many of the scholars became accustomed to western ideas and philosophy and concluded that it was more efficient and that for modernisation to occur the whole system of government must be changed. So this was not the best way to deal with unrest, because now there were more educated people with western ideas trying to gain support to change the government. The Tsar's half-hearted attempt to solve the problems the arose after ‘Bloody Sunday' could be credited for pushing the people that bit further into listening to revolutionary ideas that were floating around at the time. The Tsar let the people have a Duma, so that they could have a say in how the country would be run, but he disbanded two Dumas in the first two weeks of their operation simply because they opposed him. Obviously the people did not truly have a say on anything because as soon as they wanted something that the Tsar did not like he simply disregarded it. Going back on his word was perhaps the most stupid thing the Tsar ever did, because now the people realised more than ever that the Tsar did not care about anything they had to say, so movements to oust the Tsar grew in popularity. In both Russia and China, the governments trying to come to terms with political and social unrest did not do a very good job. In most cases they actually contributed to the creation of even more unrest than what was originally being tried to subdue. By trying to control unrest in their respective countries, the Tsar and Empress helped bring about their own demise, so effectively they did not deal with unrest at all.

Free Essays on American Propaganda Of The First World War

American Propaganda of The First World War As the Great War dragged on in Europe throughout 1914, 1915, and 1916, an overwhelming majority of the American people were determined to stay out of a war they saw as none of their affair. America was still strongly isolationist and deeply reluctant to become involved in the disputes of the outside world. President Wilson had just won reelection to a second term based in large part upon his policy of staying out of the great European war, and was perceived as unlikely to allow the republic to be dragged into the bloody fighting across the Atlantic. But as events coalesced in 1917 a stark and threatening future appeared imminent. The Germans had just launched unrestricted submarine warfare in an effort to starve Great Britain into submission, the French armies appeared about to collapse, and Russia had dissolved in chaos and revolution. By early spring it had become increasingly clear to President Wilson and his advisers that the United States had no choice but to join the allied cause. If America didn’t come to the aid of the Allies Imperial Germany was certain to win, with dire consequences for the future of democracy. When America finally entered the war on April 6, 1917, it was very clear in Washington that unwavering public support would be crucial to the success of the wartime effort. So, as Pratkanis relates, (1999) within a week of the declaration of war President Wilson created the Committee on Public Information to promote the war domestically while publicizing American war aims abroad. The CPI recruited heavily from the business, newspaper, and art worlds, and blended public relations techniques with a sophisticated understanding of human psychology to disseminate propaganda on an unprecedented scale. The first task of the new organization was research. CPI staff were set to work gathering information about the war, particularly material rega... Free Essays on American Propaganda Of The First World War Free Essays on American Propaganda Of The First World War American Propaganda of The First World War As the Great War dragged on in Europe throughout 1914, 1915, and 1916, an overwhelming majority of the American people were determined to stay out of a war they saw as none of their affair. America was still strongly isolationist and deeply reluctant to become involved in the disputes of the outside world. President Wilson had just won reelection to a second term based in large part upon his policy of staying out of the great European war, and was perceived as unlikely to allow the republic to be dragged into the bloody fighting across the Atlantic. But as events coalesced in 1917 a stark and threatening future appeared imminent. The Germans had just launched unrestricted submarine warfare in an effort to starve Great Britain into submission, the French armies appeared about to collapse, and Russia had dissolved in chaos and revolution. By early spring it had become increasingly clear to President Wilson and his advisers that the United States had no choice but to join the allied cause. If America didn’t come to the aid of the Allies Imperial Germany was certain to win, with dire consequences for the future of democracy. When America finally entered the war on April 6, 1917, it was very clear in Washington that unwavering public support would be crucial to the success of the wartime effort. So, as Pratkanis relates, (1999) within a week of the declaration of war President Wilson created the Committee on Public Information to promote the war domestically while publicizing American war aims abroad. The CPI recruited heavily from the business, newspaper, and art worlds, and blended public relations techniques with a sophisticated understanding of human psychology to disseminate propaganda on an unprecedented scale. The first task of the new organization was research. CPI staff were set to work gathering information about the war, particularly material rega...

SEO Essay

SEO Essay SEO Essay Browser Tutorial SEO - Search Engine Optimization - (en) (extkey: browser_tut_seo_en) Browser Tutorial SEO - Search Engine Optimization - (en) Browser - TYPO3 without PHP SEO - Search Engine Optimization - for the Browser - TYPO3 without PHP. This is the tutorial for SEO only. Version: 4.6.2 - 2013-09-19 Extension Key: browser_tut_seo_en Language: en Keywords: forAdmins, forIntegrators, forDevelopers, browser, typo3, without, php, seo, search engine optimization Copyright 2013, Dirk Wildt, Die Netzmacher, This document is published under the Open Content License available from opencontent.org/opl.shtml The content of this document is related to TYPO3 - a GNU/GPL CMS/Framework available from www.typo3.org 1 Browser Tutorial SEO - Search Engine Optimization - (en) (extkey: browser_tut_seo_en) Table of Contents Browser Tutorial SEO - Search Engine Optimization (en) ....................................................................... 1 Introduction ........................................................... 3 What does the Tutorial do? ..................................................... 3 SEO upto version 4.5 .............................................. 5 Deprecated ............................................................................ 5 Non supported from version 5.x ............................................... 5 Page object, SEO and _LOCAL_LANG ....................................... 5 SEO from version 4.6 ............................................. 4 Change Log ........................................................... 8 SEO Dynamic Tag 2 is recommended ....................................... 4 Illustration Index ................................................... 9 2 Browser Tutorial SEO - Search Engine Optimization - (en) (extkey: browser_tut_seo_en) Introduction What does the Tutorial do? This is a tutorial for the extension Browser (extkey: browser). It is only a step-by-step introduction for optimizing your website for search engines (SEO) If you are interested in other issues, please note the section "Further Informations" below. 3 Browser Tutorial SEO - Search Engine Optimization - (en) (extkey: browser_tut_seo_en) SEO from version 4.6 From version 4.6 the search engine optimization is delegated to the extension SEO Dynamic Tag 2. The cause is: SEO Dynamic Tag 2 is easier to configure. SEO Dynamic Tag 2 supports the canonical tag. The Browser SEO modul -based on SEO Dynamic Tag 1 – will still exist upto the Browser version 5.x SEO Dynamic Tag 2 is recommended See SEO Dynamic Tag 2 http://typo3.org/extensions/repository/view/seo_dynamic_tag 4 Browser Tutorial SEO - Search Engine Optimization - (en) (extkey: browser_tut_seo_en) SEO upto version 4.5 The Browser has an integrated modul for search engine optimization (SEO). The modul stores data in registers, you can configure this data and use it whiole runtime. Deprecated From version 4.6 the search engine optimization is delegated to the extension SEO Dynamic Tag 2. The cause is: SEO Dynamic Tag 2 is easier to configure. SEO Dynamic Tag 2 supports the canonical tag. Non supported from version 5.x The Browser SEO modul will still exist upto the Browser version 5.x Page object, SEO and _LOCAL_LANG TypoScript You find the TypoScript code in res/tutorial_07/step_01.txt 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. page { config { noPageTitle = 2 } headerData.20 = TEXT headerData.20 { data = register:browser_htmlTitleTag ifEmpty.field = title wrap = { field data = register:browser_keywords } } } Line 3: We don't want any page title. From

Overview of United States Government

Overview of United States Government The government of the United States is based on a written constitution. At 4,400 words, it is the shortest national constitution in the world. On June 21, 1788, New Hampshire ratified the Constitution giving it the necessary 9 out of 13 votes needed for the Constitution to pass. It officially went into effect on  March 4, 1789.  It was  consists of a Preamble, seven Articles, and 27 Amendments. From this document, the entire federal government was created. It is a living document whose interpretation has changed over time. The amendment process is such that while not easily amended, US citizens are able to make necessary changes over time. Three Branches of Government The Constitution created three separate branches of government. Each branch has its own powers and areas of influence. At the same time, the Constitution created a system of checks and balances that ensured no one branch would reign supreme. The three branches are: Legislative Branch- This branch consists of the Congress which is responsible for making the federal laws. Congress consists of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives.Executive Branch- The Executive power lies with the President of the United States who is given the job of executing, enforcing, and administering the laws and government. The Bureaucracy is part of the Executive Branch.Judicial Branch- The judicial power of the United States is vested in the Supreme Court and the federal courts. Their job is to interpret and apply US laws through cases brought before them. Another important power of the Supreme Court is that of Judicial Review whereby they can rule laws unconstitutional. Six Foundational Principles The Constitution is built on six basic principles. These are deeply ingrained in the mindset and landscape of the US Government. Popular Sovereignty- This principle states that the source of governmental power lies with the people. This belief stems from the concept of the social contract and the idea that government should be for the benefit of its citizens. If the government is not protecting the people, it should be dissolved.Limited Government- Since the people give the government its power, the government itself is limited to the power given to it by them. In other words, the US government does not derive its power from itself. It must follow its own laws and it can only act using powers given to it by the people.Separation of Powers- As stated previously, the US Government is divided into three branches so that no one branch has all the power. Each branch has its own purpose: to make the laws, execute the laws, and interpret the laws.Checks and Balances- In order to further protect the citizens, the constitution set up a system of checks and balances. Basically, each branch of government has a certain nu mber of checks it can use to ensure the other branches do not become too powerful. For example, the president can veto legislation, the Supreme Court can declare acts of Congress unconstitutional, and the Senate must approve treaties and presidential appointments. Judicial Review- This is a power that allows the Supreme Court to decide whether acts and laws are unconstitutional. This was established with Marbury v. Madison in 1803.Federalism- One of the most complicated foundations of the US is the principle of federalism. This is the idea that the central government does not control all the power in the nation. States also have powers reserved to them. This division of powers does overlap and sometimes leads to problems such as what happened with the response to Hurricane Katrina between the state and federal governments. Political Process While the Constitution sets up the system of government, the actual way in which the offices of Congress and the Presidency are filled are based upon the American political system. Many countries have numerous political parties- groups of people who join together to try and win political office and thereby control the government- but the US exists under a two-party system. The two major parties in America are the Democratic and Republican parties. They act as coalitions and attempt to win elections. We currently have a two-party system because of not only historical precedent and tradition but also the  electoral system itself. The fact that America has a two-party system does not mean that there is no role for third parties in the American landscape. In fact, they have often swayed elections even if their candidates have in most cases not won. There are four major types of third parties: Ideological Parties, e.g. Socialist PartySingle-Issue parties, e.g. Right to Life PartyEconomic Protest Parties, e.g. Greenback PartySplinter Parties, e.g. Bull Moose Party Elections Elections occur in the United States at all levels including local, state, and federal. There are numerous differences from locality to locality and state to state. Even when determining the presidency, there is some variation with how the electoral college is determined from state to state. While voter turnout is barely over 50% during Presidential election years and much lower than that during midterm elections, elections can be hugely important as seen by the top ten significant presidential elections.

Porters Diamond framework Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Porters Diamond framework - Essay Example The porter diamond factors of competitive advantages of a nation include; the government, factor conditions, port competition, related and supporting industry as well as the demand conditions that should be applied in all organizations so as to have high competitive advantages over their competitors. However, the framework may not be applied in most organization as it does not incorporate the multinational activities. The introduction of the generalized double diamond model has led to the significant changes within the organization. This framework takes into consideration the multinational activities whereas the porters' original diamond model takes into account the traditional home-based activities. In addition the porter's diamond framework makes an explicit connection between the geographical and the international industries therefore the industries can easily access raw materials for their company and can also market their products where they can get market for their produce. Companies gain competitive advantages through getting involved in the innovative processes within their organizations. The approaches of innovation involve use of the latest technology and gaining knowledge on how to carry out the activities of an organization effectively. The innovation processes are manifested through using new product designs, new production processes, having marketing approaches as well as conducting training campaigns within the organizations. Porter Diamond framework The Porter Diamond framework was initiated by Michael Porter and is used in determining the competitive advantages of a country or a region. According to porter 1990, it states that the competitive advantage of a country is created and sustained by going through a highly localized process. However, the diamond framework determinants of countries or regions do not necessarily contribute to the success of a country. Porter analyzed the factors that contributed to the international companies' success and why they were successful than other companies .He observed that success was as a result of implementing the porters favorable national diamonds factors. The extended porter diamond factors of competitive advantages of a nation include; the government, factor conditions, port competition, related and supporting industry as well as the demand conditions (Fuss, and Waverman, 2006). These interlinked advanced factors for the competitive advantages for countries or regions in the porters' diamond framework are; Factor conditions; Porters says that the main factors of production are created but not inherited. The specialized factors of production are capital, skilled labor and infrastructure. The general use of the factors and the non-factors such as the raw materials and unskilled labor can be easily made for a company and therefore do not generate sustained competitive advan

ECONOMIC institution and policy(British economy) Essay - 1

ECONOMIC institution and policy(British economy) - Essay Example Globally, the manufacturing sector of UK is the sixth largest in the one and is one of the largest exporters of heavy industrial products1. The table underneath hints towards the growth of UK manufacturing and service sectors, between 1970 and 1994 compared to other nations. The base year being considered in this case is 1970 and the growth rate is found to be rather low over the years in relation to those for other nations. The progress of the sector is found to be quite low in contrast to the domestic service sector2. The present paper addresses the progress of the manufacturing sector over the years between 1970 and 2010 through illustrating its economic and social contribution to the economy of UK. It makes use of secondary quantitative data to draw a comparison over time and analyses on the basis of the same. Economic Contribution of UK’s Manufacturing Sector The following figures help in evaluation of the degree to which the manufacturing sector of UK has evolved over th e years since 1970 till 2010. ... Between 1970 and 2008, the percentage of contribution of industry behind national production has receded fast. The downfall had been the highest towards the end of 1970s as could be noted from the large difference in the statistic between 1970 and 1975 continuing to that in 1980. The diminishing contribution however, is not much reflected if gross fixed capital formation as percentage of GDP is considered. As the corresponding graph shows, the rate of capital formation had remained more or less stable over the years. Since capital formation is held identically equal to investment in capital, it could be implied that UK manufacturing sector did not contribute proportionally to the amount being invested in it. In other words, manufacturing sector suffered from a diminished productivity over time. Inward investment in UK manufacturing sector of UK is found to be fluctuating over time, as it falls down to a lower value from 1986 to 1991 and then improved to a positive value from 1991 to 1996 and to a further higher value in 2001. However, the downfall had been stark between 2001 and 2006 when growth rate of inward investment had been approximately equal to 60 percent. This only implies the erratic behaviour of the manufacturing sector of UK which over the years has lost its previous glory on account of a number of unavoidable reasons. Growth in industrial production too had been quite low over the years. To be precise, as the diagram below shows, UK manufacturing sector did not come across a consistent period of positive growth since 1970. Post 1970, the sector saw an entire decade of negative industrial growth. However, it gained momentum as growth rate surged up from 1980 to 1985 by 5.14 percentage points. But the following period of 15 years saw modest growth

Memo Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Memo - Assignment Example nts require skills that enhance their capacity to understand, analyze data, solve problems and communicate their ideas to others, which is necessary for collaboration in Park University. According to Hanson-Smith, and Rilling, such skills are fundamental to the success of the contemporary knowledge society (363). Nevertheless, most of the students do not possess these skills and the educators are not informed regarding the necessary steps to take to improve online learning. The students’ needs that should be addressed include; Effective communication through the utilization of the various tools available such as audio, visual, computer graphics and various design software. The students should also be exposed to the use of emerging communication environments such as the World Wide Web, electronic mail and social networking sites among other interactive strategies. Analyzing and interpreting information obtained from various sources including the World Wide Web. Much of the information obtained from websites is usually raw and requires skills for selection of only what is useful for the students and discarding the irrelevant data. They need skills to gather the right information, make comparisons, evaluate and interpret information to make it useful in their learning endeavors. Computational modeling is a significant skill that allows students to cope with the difficult tasks in various subjects. They need to understand a range of systems for data representation, which include; mathematical models and simulations as well as various computer programs that can be used for problem solving. The assumptions that form the basis of the models as well as their effectiveness and limitations need to be known by the students to enhance their problem solving skills. Time management is also important since it allows students to accomplish tasks on time and with ease. Improvements in learning at Park University can be achieved through promoting skills in task management and

Dick Spencer Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Dick Spencer - Research Paper Example The case study highlights about Dick Spencer, who works as a Vice President in one of the large manufacturing firms. However, prior to that he was a plant manager of a Modrow Company, which was also the Canadian branch office of Tri-American Corporation. Tri-American Corporation was a major player in the aluminum manufacturing industry and it was also involved in the integrated operations such as mining of bauxite, processing and fabrication that result in various end products. The company employed around 22,000 people has presence in different parts of the world. The company followed a decentralized organizational structure that allowed plan managers to gain extra control and authority over the operation but at the same time the pressure of profitability was significant. In order to further experience growth the company had accomplished an expansion project and modernization project. The cost of this project was very high, but the return on investment was expected to surpass the ini tial investment and that made the project feasible. Despite that the plant manager, Dick Spencer was a bit more skeptical about the viability of the project and as a precautionary measure the manager initiated a campaign that encouraged employees to cut expenses in whatever ways possible. He also urged employees to reduce the expenses and cut down cost to the highest possible extent. This report seeks to identify the key factors that contributed to Spencer’s success as a salesperson and tribulations as a manager. The report will also throw light on these factors that led to success as a salesman or his failure as a manager. Lastly, the study will recommend some of the steps or techniques that could be adopted which will help have Dick Spencer to become successful as a manager. Factors Contributing to Spencer’s success as a Salesperson and Tribulations as a Manager Selling and management are two different domains of business as the duties greatly differ from one another (Boles, Brashear, Bellenger & Barksdale, 2000). However, both the functions play imperative role in the success of a company. A sale is a key organizational function and the sales personnel plays key role in bringing revenues for the organization. In doing so a sales person generally exhibits various exceptional qualities. On the contrary, management is another vital function of an organization (Matsuno, Mentzer & Rentz, 2000). It helps in ensuring the organizational tasks are accomplished in a systematic and timely manner. Furthermore, the people of management also have the responsibility to administer the organizational activities and making decisions at every point of time. However, success or failure on these given fields greatly depends upon certain factors. In this context the factors which were responsible for Mr. Dick’s failure and success are underlined below: - Charming personality and business knowledge According to the viewpoint of the colleagues of Mr. Dick, he had a charming personality and good looks. Moreover, Mr. Dick also possessed sound business knowledge. The ability to sell products also needs special mention. This allowed Mr. Dick to become one of the successful salesmen of the company. In addition to these qualities, Mr. Dick also had a tremendous amount of energy and during his initial days enjoyed the work of a salesman. Despite, friend’s advice to switch into sales management jobs, he continued to act as a salesman. This clearly reflects the extent to which Mr. Dick was a self motivating person and how passion for sales had driven him. Self Motivation Self motivation is another major factor that played a significant role in the development of Mr. Dick as a salesperson. Eminent Scholar such as Pelham (2002) emphasizes that

Anishinabi Clan System Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Anishinabi Clan System - Essay Example These people are also interrelated with a help of any kind of kinship – internal or external. In some cultures the representatives of the clan should be the relatives, they speak about the close and far, internal and external relationships, among their family members the representative of the clan under the study will enumerate all the known relatives; in this system each person had a specific name like the sibling of same gender was named niikaanis. So, we can say that the clan system is not a brand new thing in our world, but the clan system of Anishinabi is very peculiar. During our classes we studied the cultural, religious and historical features of the American clan system. So, let’s take a close look at the peculiarities of the Anishinabi clan. The history of our society knows a lot of examples of the people’s unions, one of which is the clan system. There is not much information about the Anishinabis, but we can find enough to study their clan system. This is the group of people that lives in the North America. It was one of many Algonquian-speaking groups that inhabited this part of the continent now it is the last one that remained. The native inhabitants used to call this land the Turtle Island and created their myths around their native land. These people preserve their culture and traditions with a help of inter-tribal marriages and relations. The Anishinaabe clan incorporates the Odawa, Ojibwa, and Algonquin people, who inhabit the lands of the modern Ontario state. They are related by their traditions and language. To the point, we also have to mention that the whole clan was, and still is, divided into five main groups named: th e Bimaawidaasi, the Giishkizhigwan, the Nooke, the Baswenaazhi and finally the Bemaangik. Originally the whole nation was divided into so-called odoodeman which equals the modern understanding of clans and groups. Each group had its own ruler who was also

Framework for conflict analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Framework for conflict analysis - Essay Example During the late 90s, a transfer of power in the Kremlin saw the emergence of Vladimir Putin as the head of the State. At about the same time, the tension in Chechnya began to simmer with the repeated skirmishes involving Chechen militants, who had now begun to target people in the neighboring Russian republics (John Russell, 2007). The Situation in Chechnya can be attributed to a similar situation in Africa, where smaller states have been trying to break off from bigger powers. Russia on the other hand, has always resorted to mass bombings and oppressive techniques to keep the region under its control. In doing so, Russia has violated several international conventions in areas such as Human rights, which has added to the animosity within the Chechen population (Bruno Coppieters, 2002). Additionally, it it is the Chechen civilians who have borne the brunt of this long period of oppression and it is thus quite natural for them to rebel any perceived occupation. Since the inception of the Soviet Union, Stalin was of the view that western powers were colluding to overthrow the communists. In doing so, he always viewed the Chechens as collaborators and deported them to Kazakhstan in order to prevent any mass uprising. With Stalin’s death, the Chechens were allowed to return to their homeland. This has been one of the main contribution that has helped keep Chechen nationalism active. Russia began to offensive in 1999 through a massive air campaign which began with the eviction of separatists from the neighboring republic of Dagestan. This was followed by a massive land offensive that consisted of shelling and ground troops. The Chechen rebels launched their fight from the mountains and resorted to Guerilla warfare. They mingled in the local population and carried out surprise attacks on the advancing Russian troops. However, this made

Anishinabi Clan System Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Anishinabi Clan System - Essay Example These people are also interrelated with a help of any kind of kinship – internal or external. In some cultures the representatives of the clan should be the relatives, they speak about the close and far, internal and external relationships, among their family members the representative of the clan under the study will enumerate all the known relatives; in this system each person had a specific name like the sibling of same gender was named niikaanis. So, we can say that the clan system is not a brand new thing in our world, but the clan system of Anishinabi is very peculiar. During our classes we studied the cultural, religious and historical features of the American clan system. So, let’s take a close look at the peculiarities of the Anishinabi clan. The history of our society knows a lot of examples of the people’s unions, one of which is the clan system. There is not much information about the Anishinabis, but we can find enough to study their clan system. This is the group of people that lives in the North America. It was one of many Algonquian-speaking groups that inhabited this part of the continent now it is the last one that remained. The native inhabitants used to call this land the Turtle Island and created their myths around their native land. These people preserve their culture and traditions with a help of inter-tribal marriages and relations. The Anishinaabe clan incorporates the Odawa, Ojibwa, and Algonquin people, who inhabit the lands of the modern Ontario state. They are related by their traditions and language. To the point, we also have to mention that the whole clan was, and still is, divided into five main groups named: th e Bimaawidaasi, the Giishkizhigwan, the Nooke, the Baswenaazhi and finally the Bemaangik. Originally the whole nation was divided into so-called odoodeman which equals the modern understanding of clans and groups. Each group had its own ruler who was also

Family Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Family Study - Essay Example Immediately after a wedding, couples would show substantial commitment towards these vows. However, circumstances may change along the journey of a marriage. One partner may develop negative habits and even abusive behavior towards the other partner. In addition, one partner may experience deteriorating health; hence dimming the hope of married couples. Today, such worsening situations often call for divorce, which in this case constitutes breaking of the wedding vows. Personally, I believe that divorce is not necessary. Wedding vows are synonymous to oaths of duty. Soldiers swear to protect their nation even if protection calls for sacrifice of one’s life. Similarly, marriage vows, especially the one saying, ‘for better or for worse’ should possess its traditional meaning throughout the relationship. The willingness to commit oneself into a marriage should not depend on prevailing circumstances. I believe each of the committed partners is cognizant of the fact that the world is not perfect. Individuals have strengths and weaknesses. Also; love, companionship and forgiveness are the essential pillars of marriage, which are explicitly expressed in form of wedding vows (Keller, 32). In this regard, I am of the opinion that marriage relationships should be permanent. Inasmuch as I discredit divorce in marriages, I believe that crossing certain boundaries necessitates separation between couples. Morally, most societies and religions regard marriage as a sacred covenant. Married couple must remain loyal and faithful to one another. However, these moral platforms assert that lack of faithfulness cannot be tolerated. Nowadays, couples dissolve their marriages for slights reasons like financial insecurity, psychological dissatisfaction and for selfish pursuit of self-centered pleasures (Keller, 34). Such slight reasons are not

Total Rewards versus performance Essay Example for Free

Total Rewards versus performance Essay The aim of this report is to advice to, the Director of human resources at Midland Credit Management (MCM) a US based debt collection company, on the effectiveness of total rewards strategy in context to organisational performance though attracting, retaining and motivating intellectual  capital. This is achieved through the analysis of a total rewards function which is broken-up in to six segments total rewards defined, element of total rewards, model of total rewards, its organisational advantages and its linkage with organisational performance. Firstly, this report explains the meaning and objectives of total rewards and then describes the elements i.e. transactional and relational rewards. A model of total rewards is followed which portrays financial and non-financial tenets as well as individual and communal aspects of strategic reward. Further it covers the advantages provided to an organisation for the purpose of attaining competitive advantage on recruitment, development of performance management and integration between human resource strategies and business goals. Lastly, the impact of total rewards strategy is evaluated in terms of physiological contract with an employee. It includes the theory of motivation, employee commitment and engagement that culminates a sense of responsibility, respect, trust and personal growth, which increased individual performance and business goals are achieved by creating a performance culture. Thus, a successful total rewards strategy pays for the value individuals bring in an organisation with a wide range of financial and non-financial rewards which helps them to perform effectively and achieve competitive edge for the organisation. Total rewards defined 1.1. Introduction: In the era of globalisation/internationalisation people management has become a significant task for human resource (HR) unit. At present, in rapidly changing and competitive business environment, the role of self-motivated, engaged, skilled and committed employees is increasingly remarkable to achieve business goals and competitive advantage. Performance management and reward strategy are the key element to directly influence individual’s performance and ultimately organisational effectiveness within the industry. In recent year several internal and external factors, competitive business environment and developments in the field of reward management has introduced a different and most influential term called total reward. 1.2. Meaning: Strategic reward can be considered as an approach to the improvement and execution of reward schemes that validates their incorporation and clutch with the business strategy and other HR strategies and that they are in connection with other reward strategies for the benefit  of both employees as well as organisation. According to Armstrong and Murlis (1998) the essence of this notion of total reward is to manage reward policies in a way that considers the various components together to support one another to maximise employment satisfaction with the result of their performance. Brown (2001) suggests that strategic reward is a way of thinking and can be applied to any reward matter occurring in organisation to make out how one can create value from it. A reward scheme directly influences the level of motivation, satisfaction that leads to employee engagement and commitment towards organisational goals. 1.3. Objectives/aims: The aim of reward strategy is to produce a sensible purpose and guidance and foundation of improving reward policies, experiences and process. It is considered as a base to acknowledge and satisfy employees’ as well as organisation’s needs. According to Sibson Consulting (2009) the aims of a total rewards strategy can be determined as follows:- coerce business success by attracting talent, engagement and retention; Guide investment decisions for the employer while enabling informed choices for the employee; Clarify the employer-employee relationship; Build a distinctive employment brand; Increase the return on rewards and create value for the enterprise; Integrate reward and HR policies and processes; Align reward processes to business needs; Provide guidance for reward system design and implementation. 2. Elements of total rewards Total reward is an effective section of a reward system and emphasises to think about all facets of employment experience of value to employees instead of remuneration and employee benefits. The concept of total rewards identifies the necessity of getting paid appropriately in terms of pay and benefits and also encourages the significance of rewarding people for the work they performed, managed and developed in their work environment. It further adds to the performance of an employee value intention that provides an obvious, gripping cause that attracts capable workforce to remain with the organisation. The components of total rewards are shown in Figure 1.0. Figure 1.0 Elements of total rewards. The principle of total rewards mingles with two effective categories of reward as discussed below (Armstrong, 2007): 2.1. Transactional rewards: These are tangible rewards and more of financial offerings and occur from transactions between employer and employees in relation to remuneration and pay-out. Such rewards can be imitable by competitors and offered to individual employees in form of base pay, contingent pay and other employee benefits. These rewards are of extrinsic nature. 2.2. Relational rewards: Such rewards intangible (non-financial) and are related to work conditions i.e. quality of working life, the work, work-life balance, recognition, performance management and learning and development. These rewards are necessary to enhance transactional rewards and differ in different organisations as they can’t be easily copies. As described above total rewards system is a blend of monetary and non-monetary rewards offered to employees that can result in valuable business success in long term. Total rewards approach is a holistic insight of entire reward system to establish incorporation of reward elements in order to drive them so that they jointly support to achieve overall efficiency of reward system. Each component of rewards is sough in a way so that they integrate each other in all ways so that employees can be rewarded and have a sense of satisfaction from their work. A total rewards strategy is structured and joint together so that it can maximise the associated effect of various reward projects for employee motivation, commitment and job engagement. 3. Model of total rewards: Towers Perrin The effective component of total rewards can be concisely presented in the Towers Perrin model of total rewards shown in Figure 2.0. This is commonly used as foundation for the purpose of planning a total rewards approach. It includes of an environment with four quadrants. The upper two quadrants- pay and benefits those represent transactional or tangible (financial) rewards. These are financial rewards are mandatory recruitment and retain employees and can be copied by competitors. On the other hand, other two quadrants which are based on non-financial (intangible) or relational cannot be easily imitated and build both human assets and human development advantage in an organisation. These lower two quadrants are essential to boost the worth of the upper two. When organisations integrate both transactional and  relational rewards strategically it empowers the overall effectiveness to achieve business success. The model makes an important difference between individual and communal r ewards precisely in the later case which are result of work situation. Figure 2.0 Model of total rewards by Towers Perrin. As mentioned above that a total rewards concept integrates between financial and non-financial rewards to enhance a reward system, the importance of both considerations is described below: 3.1. Financial rewards: All monetary rewards those are offered in terms of money and are added up in total remuneration are the financial rewards. Base pay, contingent pay for performance, contribution, competency or skill, pay concerning to service, financial appreciation programs, and benefits like pensions, medical pay and health insurance are the core elements. 3.2. Non-financial rewards: Such rewards focus on the relational or intangible rewards those are related to people needs for various recognition, accomplishment, accountability, autonomy, influence and personal development. Such rewards are directly influenced by work environment i.e. quality of work life, the work, work-life balance, recognition, performance management and learning and development for personal growth within the organisation. Non-financial rewards can be extrinsic, such as praise or recognition as well as intrinsic if they are incorporated with job performance and attention and feelings that the work is valuable. 4. Organisational advantages of total rewards In current competitive business environment it must for an organisation to treat their employees with a sense of respect, fairness and ethically. Success of a business lies in the core value of its intellectual and it is necessary to enhance, develop and retain the same to achieve competitive advantage. Kaplan (2005) suggests the following advantages of total rewards strategy: 4.1. Congruency: The aim of total rewards strategy is that all rewards, including financial and non-financial must complement the business goals and strategies. It provides an incorporated, comprehensive sight of rewards to endorse equivalence and effectiveness of plan and implements, in alliance of business and people strategy. 4.2. Road map for HR specialists: An on paper total rewards strategy gives out as a reference guide to human resource managers to develop and compile new programs. An  evaluation helps business executives to get suggestions from HR managers to execute business strategies. 4.3. Competitive edge for recruitment: In order to attract talent a total rewards strategy helps organisation to differentiate it in a competitive talent pool by attaining competitive edge in terms of recruiting people. 4.4. Improved retention: Employment offerings focuses on people value, enhanced commitment and engagement and reduce turnover. They highlight the emotional bond between employee and employer to motivate and retain people. A strategic reward can increase engagement of work force and produce positive results. 4.5. Moderate labour costs: A reward policy may enable an organisation to moderate its labour costs by trading off several segments of employment package. This can promote flexible employ arrangements which would reduce cost of employment. 4.6. Enhanced organisational performance: Within a performance culture, a total rewards strategy can influence employees’ behaviours which lead to organisational success. A total rewards strategy that satisfies the employe e needs increases productivity, employee commitment and engagement. 5. Strategic rewards versus organisation performance An effective reward strategy attracts people, develops human capital, motivates employee, gains employee commitment and at last increases employee’s performance which ultimately results in organisational performance. So far it is covered that a total reward strategy is an important factor in terms of employee recruitment, retention, development of human capital and performance management. It establishes a performance culture and enhances individual performance. Thus total rewards can be directly incorporated to organisation performance though following: 5.1. Motivation: it an element of physiological contract which encourages, directs and energises a sense to perform extra-ordinarily in want of financial or non-financial interests. Hunter et al (1990) researched that high performance is achieved by well-motivated people who are prepared to practice flexible effort. Total rewards those are practical in deciding the several motivators of employees in an organisation are expected to result to increased employee satisfaction and trigger the desired behaviour which would ignite employees to accomplishment of positive goals by taking exact behaviour which are attractive performance. Further research by Namasivayam  et al (2007) through online survey of 1223 US hotels suggested that there is affirmative association between pay and individual benefits and organisational performance. According to Pink (2005) an extrinsic motivation is required in today’s work culture. Employees have a hectic schedule and the only motivation is the needs they have to fulfil which makes a monotonous work-life balance. 5.2. Commitment: Commitment can be considered at an attachment and loyalty that employees have for their company. Mowday et al (1982) there are 3 characteristics of commitment- 1) A strong desire to stay in the organisation, 2) A strong belief in and acceptance of the values and goals of the organisation, 3) A readiness to exert considerable efforts on behalf of the organisation. According to Walton (1985) traditional control-oriented style of employee management should be replaced by a commitment strategy which enables employees to respond best and most creatively. This is possible when they are given higher responsibilities, encouraged and helped to achieve satisfaction from their jobs. 5.3. Engagement: Performance of an organisation also influenced by the employee engagement towards the organisational design to obtain desired results though intellectual assets. Reilly and Brown (2008) suggest that a strategic reward process, including both extrinsic and extrinsic reward combination, may help to develop and increase employee’s engagement. Influence of total rewards strategy on performan ce by engagement can better demonstrated as modelled below in Figure 3.0. Figure 3.0 How reward policies influence performance through engagement. Conclusion Concluding the importance of total rewards strategy in context to individual performance and consequently organisational performance, it is necessary for an organisation to introduce a clear and achievable reward scheme. The reward functions like base pay, benefits, learning and development and work environment must be described in a way those can produce benefits to employees as well as organisation. A successful total rewards strategy is the one which is integrated with business strategies and designed considering each element of rewards in reference to employee needs. It must contain proper balance of intrinsic and extrinsic rewards to recruit, employee development, motivate, engaged and committed man power.

Criminology Essays Left Realism Critique

Criminology Essays Left Realism Critique Left Realism Critique. Left realism emerged as an influential theory during the 1980s. Its drive was partly dissatisfaction with the dominant criminological perspectives of the time and partially attributable to the prevailing political climate. This essay will outline the emergence of left realism as a means of explaining its main principles. The discussion will also engage with the criticisms of left realism and identify the criminological perspectives with which it conflicts. An understanding of left realism cannot be gained without an awareness of the prevailing intellectual, ideological and political context that surrounded its emergence. Therefore, it is important to appreciate the background from which left realism emerged. In the period immediately preceding the genesis of left realism, the most prevalent and influential criminological perspectives were based largely upon Marxist theories based upon notions of utopianism that were increasingly coming to be viewed as irrelevant in light of the political ethos of Margaret Thatchers Britain (Jones: 2001, 245). In particular, left realists were extremely critical of the way that radical criminological theories presented a characterisation of criminals as political catalysts against bourgeois hegemony and therefore to attempt to explain criminal behaviour in terms of it being a revolution against the injustices imposed upon the majority of the population by the ruling classes (Moore, 1991). Radical criminological theory saw crime as a consequence of (real or imagined) economic deprivation and under-privilege. Left realists were opposed to this view which allocated responsibility for crime to the State, which was seen as an instrument of the ruling class designed to consolidate the position of the powerful and promote the interests of the rich and powerful, rather than with the individual offender. Left realists also objected to the characterisation of the offender as the victim of the labelling process; a view which was popular with symbolic interactionists who were providing a popular alternative voice to the radical criminologists during the late 1970s and early 1980s: For over two decades [criminology] has neglected the effect of crime upon the victim and concentrated on the impact of the of the state through the process of labelling on the criminalIt became an advocate for the indefensible: the criminal became the victim, the state the solitary focus of attention, while the real victim remained off-stage (Matthews and Young, 1986: iv). The rejection by left realists of these constructions of the offender demonstrated one of their central beliefs which was that the offender should be not be absolved of responsibility for his actions and that it was not appropriate to cast blame on either the institutional or structural nature of society as was the tendency of the radical and interactionist schools of criminological thought. Rather than concur with this characterisation, left realists saw criminals as well-socialised individuals who exercised conscious and rational choice in deciding to offend and who saw crime as a way of resolving their particular problems. For left realists, the problems that offenders were trying to solve came from the capitalist ideology that was predominant in 1980s society. Left realists saw this capitalism as producing egalitarian notions such as that of political equality and the deterioration of views that each individual had an immutable place in the social hierarchy that was pre-determine d at birth. With these views came feelings of deprivation amongst those who were not possessed of material wealth but who were desirous of the benefits that were enjoyed by other members of society. Left realists felt that these individuals would see criminal enterprise as a way of rectifying this perceived inequality and securing their access to the commodities of capitalist society which they craved (Hopkins Burke, 2005: 220). In this respect, left realism could be seen as promoting a return to traditional Marxist views whereby crime was seen as an individual response (by the offender) to structural inequalities created by those in power in society which actually was a counter-active diversion away from the real problems of the causes of these inequalities that could only be solved by political change. Left realism rejected the post-Marxist radical theories that characterised crime as a revolutionary endeavour. In their seminal work, Lea and Young (1984) depicted criminal behaviour as almost an amplification of capitalist normalcy. In other words, the dominant view in the 1980s was that of capitalistic self-advancement in which individual endeavours were rewarded with material gain. Lea and Young asserted that a significant percentage of criminals shared these beliefs and replicated what had become conventional social values based upon the value of individual (and self-interested) effort in a society based upon competition and motivated by material success. However, criminals did not channel their energy into legitimate pursuits such as the endeavour for advancement in employment or entrepreneurial success, preferring instead to pursue socially acceptable goals through illegitimate avenues (criminal activity). As such, left realism viewed crime as the expression of capitalist values but though non-conventional means. In one respect, left realists agree with radical theorists in that it is common ground that crime is a reaction to an unjust society (Lea and Young, 1984: 45). However, there is also disagreement in that, unlike radical criminologists, left realists do not believe that the criminal should not be blamed for responding by engaging in offending behaviour: Crime is one form of egoistic response to deprivation. Its roots are in justice but its growth often perpetrates injustice (Lea and Young, 1984: 72) This notion of crime as the illegitimate manifestation of capitalist values is one of the central principles of left realism. However, although crime is seen as a self-interested and individual enterprise, left realists also believe that crime is a group response rather than an individual decision. They believe that crime is an inevitable consequence of a social situation in which a particular group feels that it is subject to disadvantage such as in a situation whereby there is a common ideological drive to measure success in material goods but there exist barriers to the attainment of these goals for some members of society. In such a situation, particularly if there appears to be no way of circumventing the obstacles, crime is certain to result. One of the key criticisms that has been levelled against left realist explanations of crime and criminality is that its focus on economic deprivation explains only economic crime but does nothing to account for the other manifestations of offending behaviour that are prevalent in society. Left realism is prepared to counter this criticism by drawing upon strain theory (Merton, 1968) to explain how the exclusion from legitimate economic opportunity may result in financial crime to rectify the situation or violent crime as a vent for frustration at the denial of a seemingly equitable access to benefits and resources. This actually consolidates one of the key principles of left realism in that reliance is placed upon subculture theories to support the argument of left realism that those who are excluded from the benefits of mainstream society develop their own cultures, norms and principles and operate within these. Inevitably, for those excluded from legitimate avenues of enterprise, t his involves criminal behaviour (Young, 1975). One of the central principles of left realism was a conceptualisation of crime that did not take an offender-centred view. Young proposed a square of crime in which the four key components were the offender, the victim, the agencies of formal control (such as the police) and the agencies of informal control (such as other members of society). This was an important tenet of left realism because it challenged a major paradox within radical theories; that of the powerless working-class criminal driven to offending behaviour as a result of the oppression of the privileged classes. Lea and Young examined official crime statistics and victim report surveys (such as the British Crime Survey) and concluded that although members of the working class appear to commit a disproportionate amount of crime, they often target the other members of the working class as their victims. Left realism addressed the issue of the ordinary victim of crime and thus changed the emphasis within criminological th eory and, gradually, within the practices of the criminal justice system. In particular, the square of crime ensured that crime prevention strategies were evolved which took account of the contributions of each of the four factors: To control crime from a realist perspective involves intervention at each part of the square of crime: at the level of the factors which give rise to the putative offender (such as structural unemployment), the informal system (such as lack of public mobilisation), the victim (such as inadequate target hardening) and the formal system (such as ineffective policing) (Young, 1986: 41). This emphasises one of the main principles of left realism; the belief in a joined up approach to tackling the problems of crime. However, this multi-causal approach that takes account of a variety of factors in explaining criminality could be accused of borrowing from a range of sociological explanations of crime, such as strain and control theories, and amalgamating selected aspects of these and giving them a Marxist slant. It seems reasonable to state that there is nothing particularly new in left realism; it is a pragmatic restatement of a number of established criminological principles taken from a particular ideological perspective (Downes and Rock, 2003: 292). However, left realism did become influential in raising awareness of the plight of victims of crime thus negating their invisibility and overcoming their marginalisation. Lea and Youngs studies showed that official statistics gave an incomplete picture of the extent of victimisation and therefore presented an inaccurate impression of the nature and extent of criminal activity. For Lea and Young, victim studies gave a fair more comprehensive and accurate account of victimisation, firstly because they included information about crimes which had occurred but which victims may not have reported to the police and, secondly, because they were capable of analysis on the basis of geographic location thus giving a true impression of the localised nature of much criminal behaviour. One of the other most notable contributions of left realism to criminological theory that emerged from victim surveys is the recognition of fear of crime as a significant social problem that is just as in need of re solution as actual crime . By acknowledging the existence of victims of crime, left realists gave voice to notions of pre-emptive strategies to counteract attempts at criminal behaviour: The organisation of communities in an attempt to pre-empt crime is of the utmost importance (Lea and Young, 1984: 267). This emphasis on the community and its role and importance in combating crime typifies the principles of cohesion and inclusion that characterises left realism. At its core, left realism is seeking for realistic strategies that will have a quantifiable impact upon crime (and fear of crime) within communities, especially amongst the poor and disadvantaged who are the most frequent victims of crime. This has been said to be a central component of contemporary left realism (Matthews and Young, 1992: 2). Notwithstanding this emphasis on the prevention of crime, it is a fundamental principle of left realism that the attainment of justice is more important than controlling crime. As such, the police play a key role in maintaining social control by establishing, maintaining and nurturing good community relations so as not to alienate the populace to whom they should be fully accountable (Kinsey, Lea and Young, 1986). Many of the criticisms levelled against left realists were voiced by the radical theorists of whom the left realists themselves were so critical. For example, Lea and Young criticised radical theorists for their excessive concentration of corporate crime and their marginalisation of real crime that affects ordinary people even though they accept that corporate crime is worse than working-class crime. Radical theorists counter by questioning why Lea and Young are prepared to view working-class crime as more serious merely because it is what ordinary people fear. Surely, it is argued, the actuality of crime is more potent and more serious than the fear of falling victim to a crime that may never occur. Left realists have no effective rejoinder for this criticism, other than to draw attention to the way in which fear of crime can have a real and negative impact upon ordinary members of society, by preventing them from going about their ordinary business, for example, or avoiding particu lar activities or places (Young, 1999). The multi-causal approach of left realism can also be criticised for failing to explain all forms of criminal behaviour. Feminist criminological theorists have also been critical of left realism in its tackling both of female criminal behaviour and of its failure to explain crimes that are traditionally seen as targeting women, such as rape. Just as it could be criticised for failing to provide an adequate explanation of different types of criminal behaviour, left realism can be accused of an overly one-dimensional focus on young, male, working-class criminal behaviour to the detriment of offenders from other socio-demographic backgrounds. Female criminality is largely unaddressed and, moreover, exposes a central weakness in one of the key principles of left realism; the reliance on relative deprivation as an explanation of criminal behaviour. For example, Lea and Young assert that crime results from the exclusion of a particular group from legitimate opportunities for success and material gain. In light of this, it would be expected that female criminality, which was always extremely low, would decrea se even further as women gained greater equality in the workplace as this would ensure that they were less excluded from legitimate avenues of success. However, the converse proved to be true and the greater prominence of women in the workplace was mirrored by a growth in female offending; an outcome that is directly contrary to the explanation of criminal behaviour propounded by left realists (Smart, 1989). Equally, it is difficult to see how left realism can explain sexual crimes against women unless this falls within the same category as violent crimes that are the result of frustration following a failure to achieve legitimate success. This seems an extremely tenuous argument for such complex crimes and, in any case, left realists have tended not to engage with the issue of rape to any great degree thus the explanation remains speculative (Heidensohn, 1985). Overall, it is clear that the emergence of left realism was both a product of the prevailing political climate and a strong influence on the social and political development of more cohesive approaches to crime control and prevention that drew together a range of players in the criminal justice process rather than focusing exclusively on the offender. As a theoretical perspective, it expanded the focus of criminological enquiry and moved beyond the dominant ideology of the 1970s and early 1980s. As such, its contribution to criminological debate cannot be under-estimated. However, it can be criticised as a rather narrowly-focussed theory that fails to provide an adequate explanation of the full gamut of criminal behaviour. It has, however, provided a building block upon which other theories can build a broader and more wide-ranging explanation of criminality. Bibliography Downes, P. and Rock, P., (2003) Understanding Deviance, 4th ed., Oxford: Oxford University Press Heidensohn, F., (1985) Women and Crime, London: Routledge Hopkins Burke, R., (2005) An Introduction to Criminological Theory, Cullompton: Willan Jones, S., (2001) Criminology, 2nd ed., London: Butterworths Kinsey, R., Lea, J. and Young, J., (1986) Losing the Fight Against Crime, Oxford: Blackwell Press Lea, J. and Young, J., (1984) What is to be Done About Law and Order, Harmondsworth: Penguin Press Matthews, R. and Young, J., (1992) Issues in Realist Criminology, London: Sage Publications Merton, R., (1968) Social Theory and Social Structure, New York: Free Press Moore, S., (1991) Investigating Crime and Deviance, London: Collins Educational Publishers Smart, C., (1989) Feminism and the Power of the Law, London: Routledge Young, J., Left Realism and the Priorities of Crime Control in Stenson, K. and Cowell, D., (eds.) (1999) The Politics of Crime Control, London: Sage Publishing Young, J., Ten Points of Realism in Matthews, R. and Young, J., (1986) Issues in Realist Criminology, London: Sage Publications Young, J., Working Class Criminology in Taylor, I., Walton, P. and Young, J., (eds.) (1975) Critical Criminology, London: Routledge

Another Ernest Hemingway :: essays research papers

Many of Ernest Hemingway's books have had different meaning and all could be interpreted in different way, but there has never been so much written about his other stories. Well the Old Man and the Sea had more written about it than any of his other novels and there have never been so many different types of interpretations about his other novels. The Old Man and the Sea is a book in which can be interpreted in many different ways. Here you will read what many critics have composed about the story of a great writer, Ernest Hemingway. Many of the critics have the same outlook on the works of Hemingway. Hemingway's work The Old man and the Sea can be looked at in many different perspectives. All the critics believed that his styling of writing was very defined. In 1944 Ernest Hemingway went to Havana, Cuba and it was there he wrote a letter to Maxwell Perkins which states he has a idea on a new novel called The Old Man and the Sea ( Nelson and Jones 139). Hemingway first got his idea for The Old Man and the Sea from the stories that he had heard in the small fish cities in Cuba by a man named Carlos Gutierrez. He had known of this man for about twenty years and the stories of the fighting marlins. It was then that he imagined that man under the two circumstances and came up with the idea. After about twenty years of pondering on the story , he decided that he would start on the novel of The Old Man and the Sea. The story The Old Man and the Sea is about a old man named Santiago who has to over come the great forces of nature. Things seem to always go wrong for him because originally he started out going to fish for some dinner, then he caught the biggest marlin ever and it pulled him out in the bay of Cuba even more then he was. After he was pulled out, he hurt his hands and couldn't risk going to sleep because of the risk of sharks. When the sharks finally attacked he lost the marlin which had become a great part of him because he knew that no one would believe him when he told them the size of the marlin. This has to be one of the most memorable fights in a novel that I have ever seen, but I think that the way he put the novel together was just as good as that of the fight. When he put them together it was then

Report on Telstra Marketing Strategies Essay

AbstractMarketing strategies are the main drives for promoting a company’s products to increase its sales and to build its brand. With regards to competition, a company needs to strengthen their marketing strategies to stay competitive. With the intense competition in the telecommunication industry, marketing is an important element in Telstra to build its presence in the community. This report seeks to analyse Telstra’s marketing strategies and identify critiques help to point out the areas of development for Telstra. IntroductionFormed in 1901, Telstra is Australia’s oldest and largest telecommunication service provider, with a market share of 74.5%. Telstra was partially privatized by the Commonwealth Government in two public offerings in 1997 and 1999. Due to government deregulations September 2002, Telstra has begun to open itself to more competition and the company’s business has turned to be more transparent. Its current principle activities include a wide array of telecommunication and information products and services. As Telstra services a wide demographic of customers, their products are segmented according to different target markets. Market SegmentationUnder the management of its new CEO, Sol Trujillo, Telstra is aimed towards understanding and satisfying its customer needs (Shanahan 2006). New market research is to be conducted to satisfy different customer segments who had demonstrated different needs from the broader telecommunications industry. He mentions that, ‘when the market research had been completed, Telstra would have interviewed over 90,000 consumer customers and created a small business ‘panel’ of 16,000 businesses’. This thorough market research is being conducted as it was shown that there is a reducing market in the mobile segment (Corner, 2006). Marketing Strategy AnalysisAs Telstra is involved in the telecommunications and information services industry, the marketing strategies will be divided and analysed according to their respective industries. Telecommunication IndustryProductTelstra provides various products and services in the telecommunications industry. Among them are landlines, mobile phones and the internet. LandlinesTelstra owns and manages most public switched telephone network (PSTN) services. Most of Telstra’s revenues are generated from fixed-line services. However, its revenue from its fixed-line services has been declining due to the reduced number of local calls made. Among the fixed line products and services offered by Telstra are the business line plans, fixed and rental phones. Mobile PhonesTelstra has two core services in mobile phone communication – post-paid and pre-paid mobile phone plans. The company provides products such as mobile phones. As these mobile phone sales are a relatively small part of the total revenue these phones are to be viewed as a means to sell more plans. As Telstra emphasises on providing the latest technology in the industry, it has recently introduced its Next G network, which claims to be the largest, fastest mobile broadband network. Their mobile phone plans work as a base for beneficial segmentation. The casual plan allows for more flexibility for change, while the phone plans offers the added benefit of including a handset. InternetTelstra has a wide variety of Internet services, which is offered to a wide demographic of customers. Among the products offered are: dial-up, cable internet, ADSL, wireless, and satellite. Telstra brands its Internet service as Bigpond. With Bigpond Broadband, the internet is provided at a blisteringly fast speed. For more traditional Internet services, Telstra also offers dial-up and ISDN services. With these services, Telstra has segmented each service through pre-paid and business group plans. Its ISDN service is targeted to people with limited broadband availability. CritiquesTelstra seeks to increase its customer experience and satisfaction through reward programs and product bundling. Telstra has designed telecommunication plans that offer more options, value and control to meet the customer’s needs. One such example is that it offers the latest fixed phones that take some of the best features from mobile phones, such as address book and caller ID. Through product bundling, Telstra is able to package a combination of these services into one large offering and single bill service, which makes its mobile products more attractive for consumers. Although Telstra boasts on having a stable and reliable internet connection, its internet speed has been observed to perform poorly. According to ACCC chairman Graeme Samuel, â€Å"Telstra’s competitors have been offering ADSL2+ since 2005, but until now Telstra’s fastest DSL offering was a mere 1.5 megabits per second (mbps)†. It’s reluctance to switch to ADSL2+ has been based on the fear that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission would â€Å"declare† it, thereby giving competitors access to ADSL2+ at controlled prices (Barker, 2006). Telstra does not use much of traditional advertising for fixed-line products and services such as billboards, banners and digital banners, but rather it spends most of its advertising on new products and services such as BigPond Broadband and the Next G network. This is made possible as Telstra monopolizes the landlines in Australia, and people would still use its fixed-line products and services. Telstra should continue doing this and to continue to spend more in marketing its new products and services to meet the demand of the emerging market. Given this, Telstra is gaining the demands for both its fixed-line and new products and services. PriceTelstra is focused on product line pricing, where products within the same product range are priced differently, depending on its features and benefits. This price discrimination is to assist Telstra in maximising their turnover and profit. LandlinesBusiness line plans are priced at $99.90 per month (including monthly Line Rental), where the customer can get unlimited local and STD calls and valued rates on calls to mobiles. For fixed home phones, the price ranges from $60 to $500. The average pricing for rental phones includes the provisioning fee of $20 plus $3.00 per month for rental. Mobile PhonesTelstra’s mobile services are priced according to mobile phone plans, with the model of the phone being the main determinant of their price, where the greater the features of the phone, the dearer the price. As Telstra is by large a service oriented company, they emphasise on communicating more on the benefits of their services, such as covering most parts of Australia and its supplementary services and network stability. InternetThe Bigpond Internet is priced according to the type of infrastructure used. For example, it’s prepaid dial-up lines have a fee range of $2 to $19.95 for a validity of up to 45 days, while their wireless service price ranges from $29.95 to $199.95 on a 12 month contract. CritiquesA comparison of the pricing component of Telstra’s marketing strategy with offerings from competitors such as Virgin and Optus reveals that Telstra does not always have the lowest rates. For example, Optus offers a cable connection of 20GB for $79.95, where as Telstra offers it for $99.95. Comparing the plans Optus has a better price in almost every internet product than Telstra. In addition to that, Optus provides free initial time for one or two months on a variety of their internet connections which lacks in Telstra. Telstra also has a slow internet speed compared to Optus. From Telstra’s mobile plans, its 24 month long phone plans provide the lowest call rates out of Telstra’s offerings while the two shorter member- and casual plans have more expensive call rates. Due to its wide network coverage, Telstra emphasizes on this feature, rather than pushing their price as their primary selling point. On the other hand, the company is trying to attract price conscious consumers with its money back promotion for pre-paid mobile plans. In mid-July 2005, Telstra launched a major advertising campaign, where they promote the benefit of gaining credit for doing nothing but talk. Customers can gain up to an extra $50 in call credit each month, 5 cent extra for each incoming minute and 1 cent extra for every outgoing minute. This promotion campaigns are created to outdo the competition from Optus and Vodafone. They engaged in price war in order to offer the best options. Here, customers are  benefiting from lower prices, but unfortunately it is not likewise for these companies. Here, the government’s implementation of the ceiling and floor price for telecommunications regulation is significant to avoid further price war. PlaceTelstra’s telecommunications products and services are widely available throughout Australia. Telstra has 115 owned Telstra branded stores and 153 licensed shops, with two of its largest licensors being the mobile phone chain Crazy John’s and Australia Post. In addition, the company also has a compelling web presence with a complete online shop for the purchasing of mobile phone plans, pre-paid refills, handsets and supplementary services such as ring tones and games. Telstra boasts of a strong internet presence, with its network covering almost 98% of the population, providing internet service to even the remotest area in Australia. CritiquesTelstra shops and dealers are strategically located across Australia. It attends to the need of the people in their respective area. Apart from its own dealers and shops, it also has Crazy John as its exclusive mobile phone dealers which are very reputable and successful dealers. Telstra definitely has the edge over its competitors in terms of numbers and locations. PromotionTelstra promotes its products through media, out-of home billboards and also through their in-store value-added product offerings. For example, the promotion of the Bigpond is done in variety of ways, such as using humor and celebrities through their advertisements and electronic billboards in train stations, advertisements on trams, and also on their website. Telstra also promotes their products and services through providing value-added components to attract customers and promote customer loyalty. For example, Telstra uses loyalty programs such as ‘Telstra Rewards’ for landlines. This loyalty program entitles eligible customers to receive a 5% or 10% discount off eligible calls and charges. It is also observed that product bundling is commonly used in Telstra as a means of attracting customers to sign up for their products and services at a cheaper price. For example, product bundling is targeted to families, where families are given the option of combining their Telstra bills at a cheaper price. Telstra also provides discounted Bluetooth headsets with selected fixed phones in its product offering. Telstra promotes heavily on its mobile phone offering through service improvements, such as covering 96 percent of Australia with its GSM network and 98 percent with its CDMA network. CritiquesTelstra is one of the country’s largest investor in out-of-home advertising, spending more than $A9 million during the first six months of 2005. Despite being one of the largest spenders on advertising, Telstra has to be wary of Optus, its close competitor in fixed-line service. Although revenue from its fixed-line services have been declining due to the increased dependence of mobile phones and the internet, little has been done to promote Telstra’s fixed line services. Again this is because more emphasize is being put into promoting its new products and services, and also the fact that fixed-line is declining in demand. Telstra billboards were located in the heart of the cities and traffic for people’s easy access. PeoplePeople are greatest asset for Telstra. In selling and marketing, Telstra aims to attract the best people by keeping them contented and encouraging them to grow and improve. Telstra develops their staff through a sophisticated development framework, including online development courses, frontline manager and leadership programs, and a comprehensive range of options that develop technical and interpersonal skills. Telstra strives to build a culture that respects and harnesses the individual differences that all people bring to an organization. Through the Telstra Business Principles and the Code of Conduct standards of appropriate business and ethical behaviors are valued and expected from all employees. CritiquesThrough mystery shopping and observation, the sales staffs are good at communicating. They are knowledgeable about the products and services featured. Telstra has a diversity of staff consisting from various non-English speaking backgrounds. This portrays Telstra’s success in maintaining its image as a company that values diverse workforce in order to  meet the customers’ needs. ProcessThe process of applying for Telstra’s telecommunication products and services are relatively easy, where customers can go through Telstra shops and dealers and also through the Internet. The process involves interacting with Telstra’s sales team and providing relevant documents when applying for their products. However, the mystery shopping revealed that the processes of the new users’ application for the latest technology next G network took a longer time to be completed which is due to unfamiliarity with the new product. Physical EvidenceProducts such as telephones, mobile phones and Internet hardware such as modems and routers are provided by Telstra. These products are often offered as value-added components to their service for customers when signing up with Telstra. Being a large establishment in this industry, Telstra has a strong 24 hour customer support, which provides assurance to consumers that Telstra are reliable. 2.Information servicesBeing a telecommunications provider, Telstra complements this service with a directory service, through Yellow Pages, White Pages and the Trading Post. Due to the increasing dependence on the internet, Telstra has designed Sensis as a search engine to bring together listed businesses in the directory under one umbrella. Product/ServiceTelstra’s information services operate under the brand name Sensis. Sensis is designed as a search engine for Australians, bringing together businesses listed in the Yellow Pages, White Pages and Trading Post under one search engine. It acts as a platform that brings together businesses and customers. Sensis has a large network partner, which includes some of Australia’s more popular websites, such as CitySearch and Whereis. CritiquesSensis should be commended on trying to build a reliable circle of trust through their partner networks. With these alliances, Sensis is able to build up its brand through popular websites and establish a high standard  of reliability. PriceSensis has its own unique pricing strategy, with BidSmart, which acts as a method that determines the priority of each business listed in a particular search. A company/business with a higher bid for listing in sensis.com.au will appear first compared to other businesses that have a lower bid with the same search phrase. At the end of the month, the price paid by each business is determined according to the number of ‘hits’ the websites get from search traffics. CritiquesThis pricing strategy is suitable for Sensis. Being a pioneer in providing directory services through the Internet, Sensis is able to create value for its advertisers, by allowing them to pay according to the number of ‘hits’ obtained. This is a good establishment for Sensis as it is able to attract more businesses to advertise with them without burdening the businesses with a fixed price as they continue to build the Sensis brand to attract more searches. PlaceSensis is available on the internet and is linked with their network partners. Recent collaborations with carshowroom.com.au are aimed to increase its recognition and customer traffic through the website. CritiquesTransferring Yellow Pages and White Pages to the internet under Sensis is a good move as people are now depending on the internet for faster information. In addition to that, people are not burdened with the hassle of the printed version of these two directories which are bulky and time-consuming when searching for information. PromotionSensis promotes itself by collaborating with websites such as carshowroom.com.au to increase its presence in the marketplace. Sensis’ public relations have also helped gain recognition through press releases and conferences. In addition, Sensis has published a book, Small Business, Big Opportunity and a new website for small businesses to aid Australian businesses to optimize their marketing and advertising skills. CritiquesAlthough Sensis does not focus on marketing through billboards and media advertisements, their logo can be found on Telstra websites and also on their partner network websites that aims to provide a level of interaction between their partners and Sensis. PeopleSensis is recognized as one of Australia’s leading employers, who strongly encourage an environment of learning, innovation and enjoyable. Behind these employees is a strong support system – its board of directors and executive team leaders who overlook the direction of the business. CritiquesThrough a phone interview enquiring Sensis’ service, the customer service staff was knowledgeable regarding the processes required to sign up for their services and was also friendly and helpful in providing advice on how to advertise on Sensis. ProcessThe process of signing up to advertise on Sensis is relatively straightforward with a step-by-step process. Businesses/advertisers would need to register with Sensis before submitting their advertisement to the Sensis search engine. These clients are given the option of choosing among 3 advertising packages to aid in their advertisement presentation. Other websites can form partnerships with Sensis through inserting a Sensis link onto their website. This can be done by downloading a program which integrates the link onto the website. CritiquesThis strategy is good as it provides a level of flexibility and control for clients. With the three types of packages, Sensis is able to attract a wider demographic of businesses to advertise with them as they will be able to address different business needs. Physical EvidenceSensis is available on the Internet, with approximately 100,000 searches per day. According to statistics, Sensis serves almost 13 million users every month and about 150,000 online advertising customers advertise with Sensis. CritiquesAlthough Telstra aims to make Sensis one of Australia’s premier  search engine, many people are unaware of the existence of Sensis as it has only been advertised through the Telstra website and their partner network search engines. Consumers are not aware of the significance of the Sensis logo on these websites, hence decreasing internet hits. Market research shows that Sensis is the 5th visited local search engine in Australia, with 0.39% market share. Although launched in 2004, Sensis has yet to make a big impact in the Australian internet scene. Due to the transition of White Pages onto Sensis, search engine results have been quite inaccurate, affecting its reliability and popularity (Jones, 2006). ConclusionAs the report progresses with the information about Telstra’s main products and services under two main industries; 1) Telecommunication industry and 2) Information services, Telstra’s marketing strategies are being critiqued using the marketing tool, the 7 P’s framework. In the telecommunication industry, Telstra’s marketing is more on media, billboards and value-added components. Also, it engages more in promoting its new products and services to capture the emerging market. Also, Sensis has helped Telstra to increase customer usage of the directory, thus the Telstra website which leads to a comprehensive information. In essence, the marketing strategies in its telecommunication industry is currently in good practice but its information service needs further promotion to create more reliability and data accurateness. References Barker G. 2006, Telco finally gets on ADSL2+ bandwagon, The Age, viewed 11 December 2006, Corner S. 2006, Telstra’s grand plan to know and serve its customers, ITWIRE, viewed 13 January 2007, Jones M. 2006, Sensis revs engine but Google still rules, Australian Financial Review, viewed 2 January 2007, Government Introduces Laws to Boost Telstra Competition, The Age.com.au, 26 September 2002, viewed on 20 December 2006,Optus, viewed 9 January 2007 Shanahan J. 2006, Consumer-centricity: An idea whose Time Has Come, Australian Marketing Institute, viewed on 5 December 2006, Sensis, viewed 10 January 2007, Telstra, viewed 9 January 2007