Deputy Manager Essay

The learner will: 1. Understand diversity, equality and inclusion in own area of responsibility Assessment criteria The learner can: 1.1 Explain models of practice that underpin equality, diversity and inclusion in own area of responsibility 1.2 Analyse the potential effects of barriers to equality and inclusion in own area of responsibility 1.3 Analyse the impact of legislation and policy initiatives on the promotion of equality, diversity and inclusion in own area of responsibility Learning outcome The learner will: 2. Be able to champion diversity, equality and inclusion Assessment criteria The learner can: 2.1 Promote equality, diversity and inclusion in policy and practice 2.2 Challenge discrimination and exclusion in policy and practice 2.3 Provide others with information about: the effects of discrimination the impact of inclusion the value of diversity City & Guilds Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for health and social care and children and young people’s services (England) (3978-51/52/53/54/55/56) 2.4Â  Support others to challenge discrimination and exclusion Learning outcome The learner will: 3. Understand how to develop systems and processes that promote diversity, equality and inclusion Assessment criteria The learner can: 3.1 Analyse how systems and processes can promote equality and inclusion or reinforce discrimination and exclusion 3.2 Evaluate the effectiveness of systems and processes in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in own area of responsibility 3.3 Propose improvements to address gaps or shortfalls in systems and processes Learning outcome The learner will: 4. Be able to manage the risks presented when balancing individual rights and professional duty of care Assessment criteria The learner can: 4.1 Describe ethical dilemmas that may arise in own area of responsibility when balancing individual rights and duty of care 4.2 Explain the principle of informed choice 4.3 Explain how issues of individual capacity may affect informed choice 4.4 Propose a strategy to manage risks when balancing individual rights and duty of care in own area of responsibility City & Guilds Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for health and social care and children and young people’s services (England) (3978-51/52/53/54/55/56)

The article also explains the porns and corns

This article explains the importance of the alternate energy. The traditional energy which we are using is not going to be adequate for our future needs and that too it reached its peak. Apart from its inadequate supply it is also producing enormous amount of pollution which is questioning the very existence of some living organisms. To over come these problems switching over to the alternate energy usage is a viable option left to us. Even though it is also having its own negative points but it is the best option available now.The article also explains the porns and corns of all the alternate energy sources and the future of alternate energy. It also justified the option with some data and how some organizations are planning to set up alternate resource setups. It enlisted the key elements of a renewable-intensive energy future and also the policy initiative that can be taken to encourage alternate energy proposal. Introduction: The present world trend is shifting towards the better future of human beings with the available options.There is a big leap towards the alternate energy sources from the traditional sources. We can see many numbers of reasons for that transition. Sustainable development is the main agenda of many conventions now. To comply with these commitments, nations have to put efforts to reduce greenhouse gases and reduce pollutants. By using the fossil fuels it is not possible now. The alternate way to cope up with the present day need and the clean future climate is ‘alternate energy’. Primarily there are some important problems with the exiting fuel resources.1. The oil extraction came to saturation level. 2. The fossil fuels are getting exhausted in near future. 3. The present day usage of these fuels is showing alarming signs to the future generations. 4. There is lot of pollution due to these which is resulting in global warming. To resolve some the problems the alternate method is using of ‘alternate energy’. The alternate energy sources available to us are: a. Wind energy b. Solar energy c. Thermal energy d. Hydroelectric energy.Even though these are recognized as the alternate energy sources and can wipe out the existing problems they too contain their own advantages and disadvantages. Wind energy: This is having enormous potential and doesn’t effect the pollution at all. But it depends upon the wind always and we have to take care of them in the large cyclones. Hydroelectric energy: This depends on the water currents and pollution arising from it will be very less. But construction of dams will be expensive and there needs to be enough flow of water. Geo thermal energyGeo thermal energy is produced by harnessing the heat available in the earth crust. Some time hazardous minerals are extracted due to improper drilling and even chance of pollutants coming out is there. Once it is built it is self-sufficient. Solar energy The last one is the solar energy and there is large debate goi ng on how to harness the solar energy? Solar energy is generally used for cooking; the production of electricity, heating etc. solar energy is produced by trapping the sunlight into solar cells. This sunlight is again converted into electricity and it is stored in appropriate form.This also helps in heating water, heating room and even air. Advantages: It is the best form of renewable source. As the sun is permanent this source of energy is also permanent. There will be no pollution because there is no combustion of fuels. It can be used effectively for the purpose of heating and lighting. This is used more in heating pools, water tanks and saps. Disadvantages Solar energy is produced when sunlight is available and so there is no chance of production in the nighttime and even in cloudy days.The building up of solar power stations is very expensive. The Americans can face a biggest challenge of the decades if fuel pump is stopped. The rise in the prices of energy resources has affect ed all the sectors from a farmer to an office worker, economically. A group of agricultural leaders about 2years ago joined forces in a discussion for addressing this challenge. It was discussed that some of them had anticipated it as a future big issue. Some say that no one can imagine at that time of hurricanes disruptions of supply dramatic swings in the prices, etc.That Ag Energy Work Group after spending about six months in searching questions like the role that can be played by the farm sector, their amount of contribution, how to make the ag and forest sectors into leading energy producing sectors, and how to establish an energy alliance; felt that the time for the ag community has come to get together. The Ag group was convinced finally after extensive dialogues that a key role could be played by the agriculture in helping the nation to move towards energy independence.They looked potential of energy from variety of the sources such as solar, wind, methane, biodiesel, etc. t hey were also convinced that farms, ranches, and forests of the America could be used for the fuels of new generation with a clean and green environment. Ethanol will be one of the best answers to the Americans oil addiction. Emergence of new technologies could make the dream come true. Greater steps have been taken in the manufacturing facilities of ethanol in the past decade that can help in substantial improvement in the efficiency of the fuel source.Similarly the corn hybrids produced by the Seed companies, soy diesel, wind turbines, and methane digesters etc. are also developed and progressed. . Momentum of the 25x'25 Work Group has expanded dramatically from its beginning both in its size and scopes and now it is approved by many states governors and state legislatures like Indiana, Pennsylvania, Montana, Colorado etc. Electric utilities: The Electrical utilities helps in converting one form of energy into another. This energy is full of attraction of its cleanliness and versa tile ness, and also it can be moved over large areas almost instantly.There is an increase in the demand for the electrical energy. In the electric power industry, are about 200 investor owned utilities constituting the major contributors generating about 78% of power that will be supplied to about 76% of customers. It is highly capital intensive, in the United States it is the largest consumer of primary energy consuming more than one-third of the total energy demand at the national level but supplying only one-tenth of it. Now there are solar-powered refrigerators also which works on 12-volt DC battery.In the 1970s, industrial growth period was ended due to the energy crisis, which led to the rising of the fuel prices subjecting to all the fossil fuels and the slowing down of the Economic growth. As a consequence operating and maintenance costs were also went high, that would include the supplies and materials, labor costs as well as the administrative expenditures. Therefore cost s per kilowatt-hour rose higher, and the increasing price of electricity led to a decline in the sales growth. Further with the increase in the nuclear power and coal power plants the industries’ financial condition was at a set back.To add to the worries, escalation of the interest rates due to acceleration of inflation has occurred. In that decade, it was felt by most of the people that coal and nuclear power plants can be damaging the environment, and argument for the development of new means that can be aiding in the protection of the environment. New environmental and safety regulations were also implemented by the federal government increasing the utility costs to a further extent, also requiring utilities for the purchasing of alternative energy sources like that of the solar energy.In the late 1970’s the strategy of the grow and build for the electric power industry was not plausible as adoption many different strategies has been taken up by the industry, diffe rent sections following different tracks based on differing views about the future. Percepting that the economic growth would recover and the renewable energy sources would not be able to meet the needs of the increasing demand, many utilities such as Commonwealth Edison, Carolina Power and Light, Long Island Lighting, etc were followed with the modification of the grow and build strategy.Whereas some other utilities like Duke Power, Potomac Electric Power, Consolidated Edison, which were located in declining demands of energy countries, preferred the capital minimization. Whereas utilities such as Southern California Edison and Pacific Gas and Electric that were present in the areas with rapid increase in the demand for the for the energy, were left with no choice except depending on their internal R&D potentials for the exploration of the alternative energy sources; as the construction of the nuclear and coal plants was depressed by the set of laws.The diversification of the utili ties helps them in the freedom in getting profits. Harnessing of the solar energy: The origin of primary energy sources, with the exception of nuclear energy, can be attributed to the ultimate source, the sun. From the initial stages of man on the earth, he has started to use his natural surroundings after a thorough analyzing of it and he is progressing the utilization along with the developmental progress. It was observed in the year 1839, by French physicist Alexander Edmond Becquerel that certain materials could produce electricity when light falls on them, which was termed as â€Å"photovoltaic effect†.After the discovery of this effect, so many substances were studied until the final development of the Solar cell. In solar photovoltaic system, solar energy is converted directly into electricity by means of silicon wafer photoelectric cells known as ‘solar cells’. Solar cells have also been made from polycrystalline silicon wafers as also amorphous silicon f ilms. The advantages of photovoltaic technology such as the ease of operation, reliability, minimum maintenance due to lack of moving parts, have been widely recognized.Thus PV systems are suitable for installation in rural areas and isolated locations for a variety of applications such as water pumping for micro irrigation and drinking water supply, community and street lighting, power supplies for microwave repeater station, communications equipment, radio and T. V. receivers. Impact: Passing of the National Aeronautics and Space Act in July 1958 by the U. S. Congress has given a boost to the astronomy. Which will need a key source of power that can last for a longer duration; resulting in the launching of the first photovoltaic-powered satellite of the world i.e. Vanguard 1, solar cell technology got a breakthrough as the success has paved way for larger contracts from NASA as well as expansion of the photovoltaic industry. Finally, hundreds of thousands of solar cells were produ ced each year by about four U. S. companies in the end of 1960s, most assigned for the developing satellite industry. Increase in cell efficiency as well as reductions in cost are the great Achievements in solar cell development during the development of the space programs, but much was desired fro the applications on the earth.Due to the rise of the oil prices in the mid-1970s led to Federal Photovoltaic Utilization Program by the funding of U. S. Department of Energy that resulted in the testing of many solar power systems. One of the world's first photovoltaic residences that were named as Solar One was built by the University of Delaware in the year 1973. Apart from the photovoltaic technology there was also advancement in the investigations of other solar energy alternatives such as transferring of the solar heat into fluid, which can be used for warming of the buildings, heating the water, and even generation of electricity?Key elements of a renewable-intensive energy future: 1. There would be diversity of energy sources. Electricity is produced with many combinations. 2. Biomass would be widely used. 3. With the new electrical storage technologies the intermittent renewable would provide one-third of total electricity. 4. This will introduce new choices and competition in energy markets. 5. Natural gas would play a major role which have low capital costs and can quickly adjust their electrical outputs. Policy initiatives: 1. Subsidies should be removed or else they should equalize with the renewable sources.2. Taxes should ensure that consumer decisions are based on the full cost of energy. 3. Creation of national institutions to implement renewable energy programs. 4. International funds for energy sector should be diverted to renewable mechanisms. Good policy initiative will encourage the transition more quickly which is certain. Future of energy with alternate energy: The traditional sources almost entered the point of saturation. There are predictio ns saying that oil will get exhausted with in another 50-100 years. So the viable option left is the alternate energy.The initial investment will be more but returns will be for prolonged period. Most of the alternate energy sources are from nature itself and there won’t be unnecessary interference of other countries. It is very difficult to comply up with the terms and conditions of the oil producing countries. While using the alternate energy sources we can protect our sovereignty of the nations and can minimize wars for oil and also the oil politics of the world can get marginalized. Initially the solar-electric modules were costly. The technological advancement made these cost effective.The average captured energy with photovoltaic was 95 US cents per kilowatt-hour but now it came down to 20 cents per kilowatt-hour. It is still more than the average national price of electricity which is 8 cents. ‘Thin film’ photovoltaic technology, a high-tech coating which is having ability to convert the solar energy is one of the recent technological development. Now these solar unit power is used every where right from the small houses to the large office buildings. Residential usage of energy will increase by 25% by 2025, so we should be in a position to have an alternate which is permanent and cost effective.As the size of the alternate energy equipment is less than the conventional set up. This helps each and every individual have his own setup. The alternate energy utilization is the need of hour and we cannot put this out. In every transition there will be pain but this will results in large number of benefits in the future. References: 1. Sara Wyant, 25x'25: building a renewable energy future. Resource: Engineering & Technology for a Sustainable World 13. 5 (June-July 2006): p4(1). 2. Marcus, Alfred A. â€Å"Electric utilities. † Environmental Encyclopedia. Ed. Marci Bortman and Peter Brimblecombe.3rd ed. Detroit: Gale, 2003. Science R esource Center. Thomson Gale. 08 January 2008, Retrieved on 15 Jan, 2008 from 3. Harnessing Solar Power and Earth's Renewable Energy Sources. † Science and Its Times. Ed. Neil Schlager and Josh Lauer. Vol. 7. Detroit: Gale Group, 2001. Science Resource Center. Thomson Gale. 08 January 2008, Retrieved on 15 Jan, 2008 from http://galenet. galegroup. com. ezproxy. umuc. edu/servlet/SciRC? ste=1&docNum=CV2643450807> 4. Is Ethanol/ E85 Fuel the Solution?July 26, 2006, Retrieved on 15 Jan,2008 from 5. Renewable energy: sources for fuels and electricity, Thomas B. Johanson, Laurie, Island Press, 1993. 6. 5. The future of Alternative Energy, Cameron Walker, National Geographic News, October 28,2004. Retrieved on 15 Jan,2008 from http://news. nationalgeographic. com/news/2004/10/1028_041028_alternative_energy. html. 7. Jeffrey Yago, (1998), Solar-powered refrigerators, Backwoods Home Magazine, Retrieved on 15 Jan,2008 from http://www. backwoodshome. com/articles2/yago102. html

Ecosphere

This experiment tested the Earth and how the bio-geochemical cycles within it rely on each other. The worms relied on the ground for shelter and the plant for oxygen. The Ecosphere also evaluated limiting factors within an ecosystem because the bottle used was a small, contained environment. For example, one of the three worms had died because it got stuck between the plant and the side of the bottle. This is a limiting factor in terms of space: if there was more space for the worm this would not have happened. Question: If one producer and one consumer are to maintain a viable ecosystem in a bottle, how long will they survive? Hypothesis: I believe the outcome of the experiment will be that all of the worms will survive and the plant will not. The worms will survive because I will be feeding them sawdust, their desired food, and they will have plenty of dirt to wiggle around in. The plant, however, will not survive because the plant’s resources are limited. The soil put into the ecosphere is not going to be changed out, therefore the nutrients in it will diminish. Background Information: The EcoSphere is a display of a working ecological system. While it is beautiful to view, it also demonstrates the delicate balance of a closed ecosystem like the Earth. Contained within the completely sealed glass is a small variety of biota living in a filtered environment. The EcoSphere contains some of the same essential elements that are found on our planet. The Earth is represented by the soil at the bottom. Fire is the light, which streams in each day. Finally, life: the worms, plant and microbes that live in the EcoSphere. The EcoSphere's biological cycle represents a simple version of Earth's' own ecosystem. Light together with carbon dioxide in the water enables the plant to produce oxygen by photosynthesis. The worms breathe the oxygen in the ahir while nibbling on the sawdust which is fed to them and bacteria. The bacteria break down the animal waste into nutrients, which the plant utilizes. The worms and bacteria also give off carbon dioxide, which the plant again use to produce oxygen. And so the cycle renews itself. Materials: – one 1 liter coke bottle with cap – one plant (bought from pet store) – 3 Super Worms – 2 cups of soil – water – sunlight – sawdust (food) – scissors – duct tape – notebook to record data Procedure: All the materials were collected. Then, a scissor was used to cut a half moon shaped opening in the top of the bottle, approximately 1 inch below the cap. Next, half the soil was pored into the opening. Then the plant was placed into the soil, while poring the other half over the bottom of the plant to ensure proper growth. After, 3 super worms were put into the Ecosphere with some sawdust. The EcoSphere was taped shut and placed on a windowsill with good sunlight exposure. Data was recorded at that moment and everyday, for 20 days, following. Analysis: My hypothesis was very incorrect. Two superworms ended up surviving, while the plant was wilting and struggling. One superworm died due to it getting stuck. Unable to get out, I assume it died of starvation or hypothermia because the worms spent all of their time under the soil. I believe the plant wilted because it did not have enough space and oxygen inside of the EcoSphere. During the experiment, I believe the EcoSphere was knocked off the window. This could have hindered the plant’s growth also. The plant could have been up-rooted during the fall causing its deterioration. Conclusion: In conclusion, the EcoSphere project is important to our curriculum because it evaluates the bio-geochemical cycles, as well as tests limiting factors. An error made with this experiment was it being knocked over. This was very detrimental to the worms and could have been fatal for the plant.

Ecommerce and the Death of the Retail Store Research Paper

Ecommerce and the Death of the Retail Store - Research Paper Example , despite the positive advantages e-commerce offers consumers in the world today, it has also had negative ramification that has seen the collapse of traditional historical stores. Therefore, it would be wise if all stores embrace the new culture and market for their goods online For instance, it is easy to blame firms such Amazon and eBay for the collapse of most traditional bookstores. Broadly speaking it is true that that independent and local retailers have failed to adapt to challenges they have faced over the pars five decades because on the instant change in consumer behavior that E-commerce has caused. I was only a few yet ago when Companies such as HMV were accused of profiteering over other retailers and now they are victims to ecommerce. They have fallen foul to the efficiency and effectiveness that online shopping marketers provide. It is also evident that most current down town and high street stores are under siege to online retailers. For example, brick and mortar business are currently at the edge been dissolved due to the economies of large scale and lack of effective strategies when distributing their product. What they always fail to realize is that if they market through the internet or advertise their product online they will be able to determine their unique strong market points. It will also reduce the expenses of transporting products to different areas so as to search for its market. (Naughto, J. 2000). Also change in consumer behavior as result of E-commerce has made them not to re that despite the good experience that online marketing and purchase can offer; it is nothing comparable to the shopping expire nice traditional sores offered. Moreover, can it replace three slightest experiences and pleasure that handling and accessing a product offered? This makes consumes to prejudice and shun from physically visiting shopping store despite the good services that might be on offer. (Ellis, S. 2014). E-commerce also offers customers with

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

Project Management - Case Study Example The firm sold industry equipment through personal contacts and personal relationships of the top end staff. When the CRM system was decided to be licensed, there were huge arguments about its necessity since such a system would not be suited for selling industry equipment. However the decision was made by the high-ups and the license was bought. The implementation of this system was not as successful as was expected because there was no alignment between the business objectives and the technological objectives. The results the top-end of the management wanted to achieve could only be achieved up to 50% and the huge investment became a waste. If a more customized and industry usable system had been purchased like a Supply Chain System or an Enterprise Resource Plan, then the results would have been much better. (Jessup & Valacich, 2007) The project aimed at involving the industry clients to communicate through the CRM system with the organization telling them about the quantity they want to purchase, any customizations they require and the time of delivery etc. Orders from the clients came in bulk and were quite infrequent. Managing these orders had been easy in the past and it was being manually without any problems. Since no boom in the industry was expected, this project was also considered as not being able to utilize its full potential. The problem in this case was the poor judgment of the scenario at hand by the top management. They wanted to automate the ordering and delivery systems however the technological side of the CRM could do much more than automating these two functions. The Microsoft Dynamics CRM 3.0 was also able to maximize the marketing capabilities of the organization. In this case, marketing wasn't the objective and no one had ever thought about marketing the industry equipment into a brand name. The company had never put up nay ads and didn't even have a marketing department. (Microsoft, 2008) The CRM 3.0 also helps to improve the customer relationships with the clients. The company got business from personal contacts and generating goodwill and relationships wasn't really a problem. Therefore this objective from the technology side of the new system was also negated. (Microsoft, 2008) Lastly the CRM system empowered the users for the entire sales cycles. In some sense this was the only objective the organization wanted to achieve from the new system. However this module was also sparingly used by the organization due to infrequent orders. (Microsoft, 2008) The project should have been aligned with the objectives the organization was trying to achieve only then the IT team should have been involved to give ideas to suggest a solution for the problem at hand. In this case the IT department would most probably have suggested that the current business model of manual work was best until more business was acquired. The problem that we see here is not with the implementation of the project, rather with the thinking of the high-end managers. (Morgan, 2002) According to Livingston (2004), one of the drivers for mismanagement and misalignment of organizational goals to technological goals is the varying view of business executives on the role or affects that IT integration could have on their companies. In this case the executives were thinking that profound results would be

CHALLENGES FACING INCLUSION OF SUSTAINABILITY IN SCHOOLS PPP PROJECTS Coursework

CHALLENGES FACING INCLUSION OF SUSTAINABILITY IN SCHOOLS PPP PROJECTS - Coursework Example Generally, the partnerships can range from dealing with climate change, infrastructure & social projects, health, corporate social responsibility, disaster relief/humanitarian aid, and environmental protection1. Thus the common theme that emerges regarding public-private partnership (PPP) projects are government or private ventures that are primarily operated and funded through a partnership between the government and private sector companies. How can these projects incorporate the sustainability criteria’s and to look at this we need to understand the ethos and concept of sustainability in its entirety. The term â€Å"sustainability† is widely used to refer to the capacity or ability of a system/ project to sustain its operations, benefits and services in the long term without compromising the needs of future generations. However, many different definitions have been advanced by various authors and researchers. While many authors have sought to define sustainability in relation to the capacity and ability of a system/ project to sustain itself or endure its operations, benefits and services during its projected life, others have defined it in relation to policy making. For example, in their definitions of sustainability, Barton (2000) and Du Plessis (2000), particularly focuses on the interaction of the economic, environmental and social aspects to achieve sustainable systems or projects. The Brundtland Commission of the United Nations, in its 1987 report titled â€Å"Our Common Future†, defines sustainability as the ability of a system to meet the needs of the present without compromising the capacity of the future generations to meet their own needs and goals2 (United Nations, 1987). Many experts believe this definition meets most of the diverse aspects of sustainability in its applications (Adams, 2002, Dale,

Childhood obesity what are the parents challanges Research Proposal

Childhood obesity what are the parents challanges - Research Proposal Example Moreover, the body of the paper also provides information on the method of data collection, sample strategy and method of analysis of the proposed research. The conclusion summarizes the research findings. One of the major threats to the health of American children is childhood obesity. In accordance with the statistical data of 2003, the prevalence of obesity in children between the ages of 6 and 7 was estimated to be 11% of the reference population and with a BMI of less than 95th percentile. Moreover, 14% of the children were overweight with a BMI of between 85th and 95th percentile. The prevalence of obesity in children has shown an alarming rise since 2003. Despite the rise in the percentage of obese children, the management of childhood obesity is considered the sole responsibility of the individual children and their parents. On the other hand, the societal stigmatization of childhood obesity has further aggravated the problem by exerting a negative pressure on the parents. Furthermore, the powerful environmental inducements forcing the children to eat nutritionally unhealthy foods such as candies and burgers have posed an additional challenge for parents in preventing obesity. (M. B. Schwartz et al 2003). This paper utilizes a number of scholarly resources to pile together some of the major challenges faced by parents and their children in the treatment and prevention of obesity. The alarming rise in the percentage of obesity in children over the past few decades mirrors the failure of the Public Health Ministries and economic strategies aimed directly at preventing obesity amongst youngsters. For instance, the events following the suggestion of taxation on high fat foods by Brownell in 1998 portrays the lack of government interests in promoting health issues. Brownell was accused of being a â€Å"food fascist† and he was awarded with a â€Å"Nanny of the Year† title

The significance of the Copenhagen Conference Essay

The significance of the Copenhagen Conference - Essay Example However the new Obama administration seems open to the issue. In the past, the US has treated climate change as a non-issue, focusing on it only during political campaigns. Presently there are signs that the US government might reconsider its hard-line stance on global warming. It had already agreed to cut its emissions by 17% in 2005. By the year 2030, US plans to cut emissions by 42% and 83% by 2050 (Broder). China is also one of the world’s biggest air polluter and a lot of pressure has been put on that country’s government to come up with platform to regulate the emissions that come from industries in China. China has already agreed to cut CO2 emissions per GDP unit by 40 to 45% by the year 2020 (Zhi Lin). The whole world certainly agrees that global warming needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency. For instance the UK has already formally agreed to cut emissions by 20%. Countries in the European region also agreed to cut their emissions by the same margin (Bulow). As a result of global warming, the world is becoming hotter. The Polar Regions are melting and this in turn is causing the sea level to rise. It has been said that some islands might disappear if the situation is not addressed. Deserts are increasing and many people are going without water and food. This is not what the world wants, and the sooner this climate issue is resolved, the better it will be for everyone (Anup). The conference comes at a time when the world is hard pressed to address factors that have led to global warming and severe climate change in various parts of the world. If the world leaders come to a practical agreement, this could be a huge step towards saving the world from utter destruction. However the conference might end up like so many climate-based conferences before it, which did not produce any conclusive solution to the problem of

Slavery in belle isle in Richmond VA Research Paper

Slavery in belle isle in Richmond VA - Research Paper Example The only barrier that kept the prisoners in one place was a ditch and a wall made from earth. However, the guards shot the prisoners that wanted to escape and crossed the barrier. Because the prisoners were exceedingly many in the prisons, the owners of the prisons sold them or made them work for people (Takagi 43). This way the congestion in the prison reduced significantly because of the number of prisoners sold as slaves. Therefore, the factories that existed in the island received labor from the slaves and made substantial profits from their trade. The slave trade existed in the island for nearly two hundred years. The black slaves constituted the biggest number of slaves. Even after the abolition of the slave trade in most places around the world, it did not end in the island. This is because the slave trade brought substantial profits to the traders and owners of the prison. Slave trade was particularly beneficial to the people that owned farms, factories and industries in Richmond, the owners of the island. This is because they offered cheap labor. Because the owners of the productions had many slaves, they did the work easily. The slaves bought were usually from Africa meaning that they were blacks. The economic importance of the slave trade made the trade exist for an exceedingly long time. The economy of Richmond grew (Takagi 45). Because of the inhumanity that had developed towards the slave trade the trade existed for even a longer time. With time, Virginia had the biggest number of slaves in America. This was because of the prisoners held in the area as well as the agricultural demand of labor. The place depended fully on plantation farming for its economy. This means that they had to exploit the farms that they had, and this was only though slavery. Both men and women worked in the farms. After the civil war, many people in America set the slaves free (Takagi 43). Virginia

Sympathetic Background in Wuthering Heights Essay Example for Free

Sympathetic Background in Wuthering Heights Essay How does Emily Bronte use sympathetic background in Volume One to convey tragedy? Volume One contains a jittery narrative which is a mark of Bronte’s ominous style from which tragic events occur. With this jumping between events, there is an obvious foreshadowing of tragedy through a combination of pathetic fallacy, emotional symbolism and sympathetic background. Sympathetic background is the literary device where the surroundings mirror, mimic or elope with the emotions of the characters in it. Sympathetic background is especially evident when Bronte uses much of the settings of Thrushcross Grange and Wuthering Heights to convey the feelings of the characters within. The use of sympathetic background can be seen as early as the first chapter, in which the Heath is described. Bronte uses â€Å"Wuthering† in the sense that it’s a â€Å"significant provincial narrative, descriptive of the atmospheric tumult to which its station is exposed in stormy weather.† This sets the tone for the beginning of the novel and the turmoil many of the characters have to endure in order to achieve some kind of parity. This view is embossed with â€Å"stunted firs† and â€Å"large jutting stones†. She uses the image of â€Å"gaunt thorns all stretching their limbs one way, as if craving the alms of the sun†, depicting a sense of the Heights always being shrouded in darkness, never fully escaping it. The other effect of it is the idea of zombies, the undead, craving some kind of human energy to survive, a yearning for balance. Sympathetic background at times is used to display to the reader the time at which the novel is written. Bronte’s first volume doesn’t get to grips with chronological exactitude, more discarding it in favour of letting the story unfold through the reader’s intellect and piecing the narrative together. Use of the background is most evident where the settings outside are the markers of what season the dwellers must endure, whether it is a harsh storm or a serene backdrop on the Yorkshire moors, overlapping with pathetic fallacy at times to evoke tragic consequences of unruly actions. Chapter 2, Lockwood’s return to the Heights is marked with unwelcome gestures on behalf of Heathcliff et al. As the tension heightens, the blizzard outside gets continually worse. The surroundings are mimicking the emotions  of the characters, with Heathcliff mistaking the dead â€Å"heap of rabbits for a cushion full of cats† is black humour employed by Bronte to show Lockwood being unsettled. The following chapter, the writings on the wall and the palimpsest bemuses Lockwood in his quarters, with his following dreams a symbolic foreshadowing . The background brings about changes in the novel and sometimes can redirect the narrative towards another focus. This psychoanalytical part of the novel defies the boundary between the rational and irrational, the self and the world through dreaming. The product of this is a underlying statement that there are far deeper meanings that what we can see and touch, which becomes a cyclical allusion at the end of the novel. The tone after the death of Mr Earnshaw is bitter and unequal as the power struggle between Earnshaw and Hindley takes place. After returning with Frances in Chapter 6, the rivalry between the two become more feral and raw, with Heathcliff at one point being locked outside by Joseph, after being instructed to do so by Hindley. He is forced into the barn, bringing him down to the lowest level possible. After being found of the streets of Liverpool, he is back in muck and squalor, with the background mimicking the feeling that he’s in the doldrums for his sins, and after being described as â€Å"devilish†, this helps to enforce the psychoanalytic perspective that he is and represents the power of the devil in its human form, condemned to hell. This chapter also gives Heathcliff his first major speech, from which he scorns â€Å"I’d not exchange, for a thousand lives, my condition here, for Edgar Linton’s at Thrushcross Grange-not if I might have the privilege of flinging Joseph off the highest gable, and painting the house-front with Hindley’s blood!†. These graphic, gothic lines show his emotional bonds with the Heights, that he and the Heights share each others’ feelings in times of hardship and struggle. It’s showing that both houses are representative of classes, from a Marxist perspective. The natural power of the Heights is matched by the moral power of the Grange. This balance turns into another struggle in Chapter 8, this time between Heathcliff and Edgar Linton. With Catherine caught in a trap of whether to follow her heart or her head, with Heathcliff pressuring Catherine into giving into him, who is then distraught when he overhears a conversation  between her and Nelly, hears the wrong part, then running off. The conversation by the fire with Nelly isn’t as covert as planned, as the surroundings, the howling gale outside influence the characters. Uttering the cutting line â€Å"I am Heathcliff†, she is distraught as he gallops away. With her new found opulence, the new Misses Linton is beset by woe 5 years on when Heathcliff returns to the Grange in Chapter 10. This immense jubilation is matched by despair as Heathcliff chooses Isabella to get back at Catherine. This blending of classes, attitudes and houses can only end one way in a Marxist perspective; tragedy. Nelly returns to the Heights to see it in decay, with Hindley in a similar fashion. The surroundings once again mimic the state of the characters. As Hindley’s life lies in decay, the Heights follows. The last chapter switches time to the present, with Lockwood â€Å"trying† not to fall in love with the current Cathy. The surroundings now have evolved, but Heathcliff is still stuck in a rut at the Heights. Bronte’s use of the literary device of sympathetic background perfectly befits the characters and surroundings in Wuthering Heights, setting the tone and giving the characters another layer and more depth within the novel. With both houses representing natural and moral values respectively, and the unpredictable moors showing the irrational temperament of each of the characters, the device effectively utilises all the ominous events and foreboding symbols in Volume One to convey tragedy.

Dell Business Analysis: Organisation and Effectiveness

Dell Business Analysis: Organisation and Effectiveness Summary The research is about study of distribution channel management at Dell Computers, UK. My work is more practical in nature, studying the Distribution Channels of Dell, both at a strategic and an operational level. I would be analysing the business function on its efficiency and effectiveness, comparing with the other industry performers. I would mostly be comparing the function against Sony Electronics, the most respected name in multi-channel distribution network; Acer, pioneer of value computing products and proprietary brands like Advent. The research aims to analyse and study the distribution channel of Dell in UK, distribution channel of its competitors, efficiency and effectiveness of Dells Distribution channel as compared to its competitors. And based on the research and analysis propose recommendations to enhance its effectiveness. The literature review section of the dissertation explores the definition of distribution, channel, and distribution channel and distribution channel management. Apart from that the section also examines the activities and the levels of distribution channel. The latter half of the section focuses on the distribution strategy adopted by Dell, Sony and Acer. Research is conducted by means of case study as well as survey. Case study analysis incorporates the study and effectiveness of the distribution strategy of Acer, Sony and Dell. Two set of questionnaires are designed to collect data from the end customer and the channel partners. Apart from that secondary data is used from from books, journals, company reports and documents, government websites whereas primary data is collected by means of survey questionnaire distributed channel partners and the end customers. In all 50 questionnaires are collected duly filled out of 60 questionnaires being sent out to the end customer whereas the questionnaire for the channel partners was send to 50 channel partners out of which only 30 responses were received. Questionnaires were sent out using survey distribution services of a web site. Care was taken to ensure that diverse demographic is covered for the survey. The research has its own drawbacks such as the work limited to the English market. Financial and time constraints of my semester mean that Im not able to conduct a global research that would be more apt in this case. Another limitation is most of my work is conducted through a personal observation method; as such it is prone to my personal bias. Thirdly distribution channel model is a sensitive piece of company information. As far as information on the competitors distribution channel is concerned its bit difficult. CHAPTER 1: Introduction This chapter will introduce the topic, specify the key aim and objectives of the dissertation, discuss the research approach and state the dissertation outline. The key aim of this chapter is to establish the foundation for the research topic by giving out basic information. 1.1 Introduction The research is about study of distribution channel management at Dell Computers, UK. The dissertation is more practical in nature, studying the Distribution Channels of Dell, both at a strategic and an operational level. I would be analysing the business function on its efficiency and effectiveness, comparing with the other industry performers. I would mostly be comparing the function against Sony Electronics, the most respected name in multi-channel distribution network; Acer, pioneer of value computing products and proprietary brands like Advent. Dell Inc. is a multibillion dollar, multinational technology firm that manufactures, develops, sells and supports personal computing and computer related products. Dell has seen a rapid growth to become one of the top three vendors in the PC manufacturing industry, and has seen a substantial increase in share price and market value. While many other companies were unable to handle the demands of the competition, Dell has proved successful in such an environment. The main key to success to Dell has been its two innovative practices that is direct sales and build-to-order business model. This model is simple as a concept but highly complex to execute, especially in the present conditions of rapid growth and change. Dell has continually renewed and extended its business model while striking a balance between control and edibility. Dell made changes in its design, manufacturing, procurement, and logistics processes to reduce the costs, and to speed up the entire distribution system. It has expanded into International markets and it started making notebook and server product lines which has led to extraordinary profits for dell, and has given a great market value for the company. Dell has reached sales of $18.2 billion by the year 1998, with a profit of $1.46 billion, and Dells market share in the PC market grew from 3% in 1995 to 9.2% in the year 1999 with stock price increasing by 40 times. Dells market capitalization has reached $100 billion. 1.2 Research aim and Questions The primary purpose of my research work is to analyse the role distribution channels play in the functioning of a business, both in the long run and in the short run. My study is to present a detailed description of the unique distribution channel adopted by Dell Inc., analyse its efficiency and effectiveness, identify possible loopholes and put forth recommendations for development. My study is being undertaken with an aim to answer the following research questions: * How are the various distribution channels organised within Dell Inc.? * How does it compare with its competitors? * How effective and efficient is this channel management at Dell? * What can be done to make it better? The four research questions are the guiding blocks of my entire research and all of the work would be done, keeping them in view. Distribution Channels within Dell: I would be looking at Dells innovative distribution channel management which has literally revolutionised the importance of Direct Marketing in the consumer electronics space. Direct marketing is still the primary distribution mechanism within Dell. I would be documenting the evolution of this concept within Dell right from its customized sales regime during PCs Limited to the complex and sophisticated systems that it employs currently. I would be presenting a visual of the entire distribution network that it stands at today. Comparison with its competitors: I would be comparing the dynamic distribution systems of its arch rivals. Sony and Acer are the brands that I would be concentrating upon. I would be looking at the strategies adopted in different economies, though my primary concentration would be on the English markets. Efficiency and Effectiveness: I would be conducting an efficiency and effectiveness test of Dells powerful distribution network against its competitors. This would be an empirical study. I would be concentrating on the parameters of Customer Satisfaction and Vendor relationship management. Recommendations: Finally, I would be putting forth recommendations for future developments along with the cost benefit analysis of such implementations. 1.3 Research approach The study is conducted by collecting secondary data and primary data. Secondary data is collected from books, journals, government websites, company documents whereas primary data is collected by means of survey questionnaire distributed among channel partners and the end customers. Participants of research would be intermediaries in the distribution network and the end customer. In order to select the participants the study has made use of stratified random sampling method in order to make sure that major demographic segments are represented while selecting the samples (Rao Skinner, 1996). Questionnaire design consists of two parts. The first part contained the demographic information while the second part dwelled on each of the subjects perception on each variable using five point likert scales from 1 (â€Å"Strongly Agree†) to 5(â€Å"Strongly Disagree†). The study did not require any assistance from a third party or any other institution. In order to collect data the study made use of web portal survey to distribute survey and get responses. The system was designed in such a way that the respondent have to submit all the answers. Out of 60 questionnaires, responses for 50 surveys were obtained. The duration for the survey was kept as two weeks, a reminder mail was being sent to the respondents at the end of week one to remind them. 1.4 Importance of the study Organizations have been undergoing strategic changes over the past decade. More so in the past couple of years. The current recession has proved that risk management and strategic planning are most vital for an organizations long lasting and self-sustaining performance. My work will strive to highlight one such areas of strategic thinking and inform the senior management about the benefits involved. 1.5 Research Scope My work would primarily be concentrated on the UK market. Though Dell is a global corporation with intermediaries present across the globe, all working towards forming an effective value chain to maximize business potential and ensure efficiency in operations; UK being the second biggest market after the US will be a general approximation of the entire organizational behaviour. Furthermore, the cosmopolitan nature of London and demographic diversity ensures that it would be a close estimate of the general population. 1.5 Limitation of Research I intend to undertake my research as comprehensively as possible. As in any research work, inherent are some unavoidable drawbacks in my study. Few of them are: * Financial and Time Constraints: As outlined before, the scope of my work is limited to the English market. Financial and time constraints of my semester mean that Im not able to conduct a global research that would be more apt in this case. * Personal bias. Most of my work is conducted through a personal observation method; as such it is prone to my personal bias. However as the person who is to do the entire research right from formulation of research questions to recommending solutions, I would be most qualified to comment on the topic. * Information Constraints. Distribution channel model is a sensitive piece of company information. Though I have secured access to Dell, wherein I could do all the data mining myself, the extent of information that I would be able to muster about the rivals model is still to be seen. 1.5 Dissertation outline The structure of the dissertation is as follows Chapter 1: Chapter 1 encompass introduction to the topic, followed by brief background into the research topic. This beginning chapter also lays bare aims and objectives of the research followed by structure of the thesis. Apart from that this chapter also gives information on the research approach adopted and the limitations of the research. Chapter 2: The literature review section of the dissertation explores the definition of distribution, channel, and distribution channel and distribution channel management. Apart from that the section also examines the activities and the levels of distribution channel. The latter half of the section focuses on the distribution strategy adopted by Dell, Sony and Acer. The final section compares the distribution strategy by all the three players. Chapter 3: The thesis then moves on to methodology section wherein the research model, research framework and data collection methodology is discussed. Questionnaire method is used to collect the necessary data from the consumer. Chapter 4: This chapter explores data findings Chapter 5: This chapter presents the conclusion. Chapter 6: This includes references using Harvard referencing style Chapter 7: This includes the Appendix 1.6 Summary The chapter introduced the topic of the dissertation, specified the key aims and objectives of the research. Discussed the research approach in form of secondary and primary data collection through the means of questionnaire and clearly stated the limitations of the research in brief. The chapter also outlines the research structure specifying the contents of each chapter. Chapter 2: Literature Review During my research, I would primarily be looking towards the concepts of Distribution Channel and its management. I would be guided by the various contributions in the field, though my work would primarily be influenced by the theories and suggestions of Philip Kotler in the area. A Professor of Business Studies at the Kelloggs Business School, Kotler is often regarded as the ‘Father of Modern Marketing. My work also coincides with various other management thinking like Consumer Behaviour, Relationship Management, Marketing Mix and Optimization, among others. 2.1 Definition 2.1.1 Distribution Kotler (1996) states that distribution is a key element in the marketing mix (place amongst the 4Ps). It is the systems and practices in use which make a product or service available to the consumer of such a product or service. 2.1.2 Channel Channel is defined as â€Å"a set of interdependent organizations involved in the process of making a product or service available for consumption or use† (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). It can also encompass physical movement, warehousing, ownership of the product, presale transaction, post-sale activities; order processing, credit and collections; and other different types of support activities (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). 2.1.3 Distribution Channel The Distribution Channel is the chain of intermediaries, each of them passing on the product or service to another intermediary until it reaches the consumer. The business dictionary defines it as â€Å"The route by which a product or service is moved from a producer or supplier to customers. A distribution channel usually consists of a chain of intermediaries, including wholesalers, retailers, and distributors, that is designed to transport goods from the point of production to the point of consumption in the most efficient way† (Dictionary, 2010) Another definition of Distribution channel states â€Å"A group of independent and interdependent organizations involved in the sale and movement of goods and services to the end users may be called a distribution channel or network† (Gorchels, West, Marien, 2004). More specifically, a distribution channel is: * The transfer of goods from manufacturer to the end user. * Route of a company for distributing the goods. * The process of moving goods from the manufacturer to the consumer. * A supply chain consisting of all parties in between production to the end user. 2.2 Types of channel members The activities in the distribution channel can be carried out by the marketer himself or it can be carried out by specialist organizations. The specialist organizations and the channel members can be categorized into two types. * Resellers * Specialty Service Firms. Resellers are the companies which usually buy and take the ownership of the products from the manufacturer with the intention of selling to end consumers. An organization can have one or more than one reseller in the chain. The network or chain of resellers is known as reseller network. The resellers can be further classified into: Retailers: A retailer sells the product directly to the end customer. Wholesalers: Wholesalers buy the products from manufacturer or other wholesalers and then they sell the products to the retailers. Industrial Distributors: They are the ones who sell products from one business to other, they are suppliers who buy the goods and sell it to another firm. Specialty service firms are organizations that do not take the ownership of the products. They also provide additional services along with the products. Specialty firms can be: Agents and brokers: They are the firms which bring together the suppliers and buyers and mediate the sale and they charge a fee for this kind of service. Distribution service firms: They provide services which help with the movement of goods in the distribution channels like transportation, processing and storage of goods and products. Others: They are the firms which provide other services to the channels in distribution like insurance, routing assistance etc. The distribution channels consist of many parties among which each of them is trying to meet their objectives. Relationships between channel members should be strong with each others especially on which they are depending for the further distribution of product. 2.3 Levels The arrangement of the distribution channels can be classified into two types: * Independent channel arrangements. * Dependent channel arrangements. Independent channel arrangements: In this type of arrangement the channel members negotiate deals with others which do not result in the binding of the relationships. Channel members are free to make arrangements which they feel is in their own and best interest. An individual member decides what is best for them and not the entire channel. This is also called conventional distribution arrangement and often significant conflict as each member decides what is best for him and not in concern with the entire channel As shown in the figure 2 there are four levels of distribution channels. Channel 1 is called the direct marketing channel which is the distribution of products or services from the manufacturer to the customer. The best example for this channel is Dell which does not makes use of any intermediaries to distribute its products to end customers; there are no retailers, agents or wholesalers. The channel does not have any intermediaries. This type of channel helps to eradicate the excess cost and also helps to have good control over the quality and marketing. The other three channels fall in the category of â€Å"indirect marketing channels†. As shown in the figure 1, the second channel has one intermediary, if the market is a consumer market the one intermediary is basically a retailer. Electronic consumer goods market of UK is an example of second type of channel arrangement. In this type of distribution arrangement the companies sell good to large retail chains, example would be Sony, Canon, and HP selling their electronic goods to large retail chains such as Dixons. These retailers in return sell the goods to the end customer. As shown in the figure Channel 3 consists of two levels which are the wholesaler and the retailer. The role of the wholesale in this channel is to buy the products at bulk from the manufacturer and then sell the same to retailer in smaller quantities. This model works best for retailers on small scale and not for big chains such as Dixons. This type of distribution channel is best when there are large number of small retailers and not big companies. Example in this case would be the medical drugs distribution market in the UK. The fourth channel has added level to it in the form of agents who work as intermediary between manufacturer and wholesaler. The agent acts as representative for both the sides. This works in textile market. Figure 2 gives information on the four types of distribution channel. Dell follows the manufacturer to direct customer channel thus discarding the intermediaries in between. Source: http://nptel.iitm.ac.in/courses/IIT-MADRAS/Management_Science_II/Pdf/1_4.pdf A direct distribution channel is where a company sells their products direct to consumers. While direct channels were not popular many years ago, the Internet has greatly increased the use of direct channels. Additionally, companies needing to cut costs may use direct channels to avoid middlemen mark-ups on their products. Distributors, wholesalers and retailers are the primary indirect channels a company may use when selling their products in the marketplace. Companies choose the indirect channel best suited for their product to obtain the best market share; it also allows them to focus on producing their goods. Though, in practicality, a number of other players exist, they can be generalised to the above. The specific channel of distribution adopted by a company depends, to a major extent, on its business model, the industry type and the scale of its operations. As an Instance, Sony has its own set of company operated exclusive showrooms. The strong brand equity of Sony, the scale of its business and clearly identifiable product differentiations that it enjoys with the consumers, allow it to leverage on its economies of scale and scope by operating its own outlets. Directly, this result in better margins for the company and indirectly it helps building on its already demanding brand leadership. Dell, on the other hand, relies more on online sales. This is because of the organization of its service delivery utility. Dells business model is based upon its centralised manufacturing facilities, rather than the nuclear organization at Sony. Online sales suits such a strategy by negating the high costs of transportation and inventory planning issues involved. A manufacturer selling a physical product might require three channels: Sales Channel, Delivery Channel, and Service Channel. In Our case, Dell uses telephone and internet as sales channels, express mail services as the delivery channel and local repair people as its service channel. 2.4 Distribution Channel Activities Distribution includes different range of activities (Richard Gay, 2007) * Linking many suppliers to provide wide range of consumer choice * Assist the exchange process identify the needs of the buyer in the context of product categories, quantities, range etc. and devise manufacturing, inventory and packaging schedules to fit. * Marketing information: This encompass collection, distribution and analysing marketing research information such as the past sales data about the players within the organizations marketing environment. * Promotional activities- This involves setting of promotional objectives and activating the various elements of the marketing communications mix and measuring their effectiveness, this will encompass identify and communicate with prospects. * Pricing: Deciding on the sales terms and conditions at each stage of the value chain * Risk management This includes analysis and resource sourcing required for involvement in the channel , the degree of control and influence and the potential benefits such as revenue and profit generation. * Physical Distribution Management It includes the transportation all aspects of warehousing management and information flows. Other Activities that may be part of the distribution channels are as follows: * Order Generation. * Handling of Goods. * Shipping of Goods. * Storage of Goods. * Display of Goods. * Promotion of Goods. * Sale. * Feedback. 2.5 Distribution Channel Management Distribution Channel Management is all about getting the product or service to the right people at the right time under the constraints of profits, efficiency and effectiveness. Successful marketing does not end when a business has developed a product or service and has found its appropriate target audience with a view to selling it at the right price. The next issue that needs to be faced is how they are going to distribute and sell this product/service to these people- the consumers. When a product/service is purchased by a consumer, it may have been bought directly from the business, or it may have been through a number of intermediaries (wholesaler, retailer, etc.): these are known as distribution channels. Small businesses need to acknowledge the different types of distribution channels to utilize sales potential. Distribution channel management involves a lot of channel decisions, strategic alternatives and numerous linking concepts, all of which would be explored in my research paper. Distribution channel management involves a lot of channel decisions, strategic alternatives and numerous linking concepts. The PC industry is driven by rapid technological improvements in components, particularly microprocessors, other semiconductors, and storage devices. The improved performance of hardware has been matched historically by increased complexity of software, creating demand for the latest hardware. Figure 2 PC Supply Chain This means that time is a critical competitive factor in the industry in two ways: * Firstly, excess inventory loses value (at an estimated 10% per month 😉 and costs money; * Secondly, products incorporating the most advanced technologies are in high demand and carry a price premium. As a result, companies that minimize inventory and bring new products to market faster can reduce costs, increase market share, and maintain higher margins. Two factors come into play in determining the ability of PC companies to manage inventory and introduce new products. First is the standardized, modular nature of the PC. PCs are built from standard components, using common architectural interfaces determined largely by Intel, Microsoft, and, earlier, IBM. PC makers also can outsource much of their production and purchase components from a well-established production network of contract manufacturers and components suppliers. This makes it quite easy for PC companies to introduce new PCs with the most advanced technologies. By the 1990s, PC makers could no longer gain much of an edge by virtue of design and manufacturing, as everyone had access to the same technical information and supply base. The difference among PC companies was determined increasingly by the second factorâ₠¬â€the structure of distribution. The traditional distribution system of the PC industry is an indirect model often referred to as â€Å"the channel†. The PC maker sells its products to distributors, who buy products from many manufacturers and then sell them to a variety of retailers, resellers, system integrators, and others, who sell products and services to the final customer. This distribution system was an effective means for distributing high volumes of PCs with a variety of configurations to reach a broad customer base. However, it had inherent weaknesses that left it vulnerable in a time-based competitive environment. First was its reliance on market forecasting to drive production. Even the most successful PC makers, such as IBM, Apple, and Compaq, were chronically bedevilled by their inability to accurately forecast demand in a market driven by ever shorter product cycles. They were either caught with short supplies of hot products, causing them to lose sales to competitors, or stuck with excess inventories of slow sellers, which clogged the distribution channels and often had to be sold at a loss to move them out. Even with the best forecasting, the indirect model was plagued by the need to hold inventory at each step. In the early 1990s, it was common for PC makers to have up to 90 days of inventory on hand and in the channel. The high inventory costs and lack of responsiveness of the indirect channel meant that there was an opportunity for someone who could a way to circumvent the channel. The company that seized this opportunity was Dell, which pioneered a new business model based on selling PCs directly to the final customer, and building the PC only when an order was received Selling directly removes two links in the supply chain where inventory could build up and also enables Dell to know its final customers, provide better service to them, and promote repeat or expanded sales to them. Build-to-order production allows Dell to introduce new technologies as soon as customers want them and makes it possible to adjust production to demand very quickly. It also means that Dell does not purchase components and assemble PCs until it has received payment from the customer, giving the company a negative cash conversion cycle in which it receives payment from customers before it must pay suppliers. The current environment for the computer hardware industry is shaped by several macro forces. Primarily, Dell and its competitors are influenced by economic, demographic, technological and national forces. Government, social, physical and national forces peripherally affect the computer hardware industry to varying degrees. The commoditization of the personal computer—a vital tool for business and consumer. Customers- are a key driver for the economics of this industry. Corporate spending accounts for 80% of all technology spending, and economic conditions decreasing business capital expenditures has a negative and direct impact on the computer hardware industry. While this industry is mature in the U.S., leading to decreased growth expectations, computer spending by other countries around the world will likely fill this void. Pricing in the computer manufacturing industry is extremely competitive. IT reflects the rapid pace of technological change and decreasing PC costs. Since 2000, the prices of chips and disk drives declined and the standardization of primary components of PCs led to a decline in PC prices. Direct sellers, including Dell, have traditionally been able to under-price indirect sellers in the industry including Compaq and HP. However, most PC vendors now offer a desktop model for less than $500 and a laptop for $700. Key success factors for companies in this industry continue to evolve as the industry matures. Specifically, they include: * Competitive prices * Superior relationships with suppliers * Product customization for business and consumer customers * Quality customer service * Excellent cost structure 2.5.1 Channel Issues Some of the channels issues that the companies face are as follows Product related issues Promotions related issue Pricing related issues Target market related issue Product related issues: The nature and type of the product decides the distribution option that should be chosen for the product. A few products require special handling. Ex. Flowers, Fragile goods etc. Promotion related issues: The type of promotions that are required to sell the products to the customers also decides the distribution options; there are products which require an extensive contact of the sales person with the customer like automobiles etc. and there are products which require no sales assistance from the sales person like milk etc. Pricing issues: The price at which the marketer desires to sell their product also decides the distribution option for the channel if a product is prices really less it cannot have many members in the distribution channel as each one of them looks at making their own profit in the channel. Target market issues: The distribution channel is successful only if the product can reach the right customer. Choosing a distribution channel is the path to reach the target customer. A key decision in setting of a channel arrangement is for the marketer to choose the approach to reach his target customer in the best possible manner. 2.6 Dell 2.6.1 Company Background Dell Inc. is a multibillion dollar, multinational technology firm that manufactures, develops, sells and supports personal computing and computer related products. Based out of Texas, it employ