The Study of Hebrew Diaspora - 1669 Words

As a classic example of diaspora, the Hebrew Diaspora is studied and questioned by many. Both the causes of and the consequences of the Hebrew Diaspora are two aspects of the event that, for most, have yet to be sufficiently answered. Having occurred many centuries ago in the past, the causes and consequences of the diaspora may seem to be of no importance, yet at second glance, one realizes that addressing these topics may be the key to accurately determining the modern effects of diaspora in general. However, before these two areas of concern can be addressed, we must first define the term â€Å"diaspora† as well as identify a working definition of a Jew. In Greek, â€Å"diaspora† means scattering or dispersion. (Jewishvirtuallibrary, pg1) Despite the fact that one can become a Jew through conversion to Judaism, for the sake of this essay, we shall identify a Jew as a descendent of the ancient Hebrews. Therefore, by combining these two definitions, we can define the H ebrew Diaspora as the dispersion of the Jewish peoples from their homeland. Now that we have defined the Hebrew diaspora, we can efficiently pinpoint its causes and consequences, both direct and underlying, and hopefully identify the modern consequences of diaspora through analysis of this classic example. About four millenniums ago, Jewish history began with its patriarchs: Abraham, son Isaac, and grandson Jacob. As described in the Book of Genesis, Abraham was summoned to Canaan to become the founder of aShow MoreRelatedJudaism : The Religious Life Of Israel1590 Words   |  7 Pagesasserts that both the The Torah, which is the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, and the Oral Torah, which is the interpretive Talmud are authoritative regarding observance and Jewish doctrine, instructing modern Orthodox Jews to maintain and support ancient Jewish law. The word Judaism derives from Judah, one of Jacob the patriarch’s, sons. The descendants of ten of Jacob s sons plus two of his grandsons made the two tribes of Hebrews who emigrated from Egypt. There are three main branches of JudaismRead MoreDr. Leon Pinsker s Life1609 Words   |  7 PagesBen Jacobson Jewish Studies Dr. Leon Pinsker was a Zionist pioneer and activist. His views over time changed based on his experiences. At first, he believed that Jews can assimilate and be part of a nation if equal rights were granted. He believed the Jews were one people, but not one nation. He said, â€Å"They home everywhere, but are nowhere a home... The Jews are not a nation because they lack a certain distinctive national character, inherent to all other nations, which is formed by common residenceRead MoreThe Ashkenazim, the Sephardim and the Mizrahim Jews Essay924 Words   |  4 Pagesand beliefs. The Ashkenazim settled mainly in Germany and spoke Yiddish while the Sephardim settled mainly in Spain and spoke their own distinct language, a combination of Hebrew and Spanish, known as Latino. Ladino is written using Hebrew letters and is still spoken among the Sephardi community today. Both groups spoke Hebrew although slightly differently. The Sephardic Jews are sometimes split into two sub-groups to i nclude the Mizrahi Jews who settled in North Africa and the Middle East. HoweverRead MoreThe Siege Of Jerusalem And Post War Diaspora1380 Words   |  6 Pagespost war Diaspora directly influenced the Jewish communities in the modern era. The Jewish community got used to having no place to settle thus, the Diaspora was created. Thousands of the Jews in the Roman Empire, after the revolts and the destruction of the temple, were sent to toil in the Egyptian mines, and others were sent throughout the Roman Empire (Eyewitnesstohistory.com). That was the beginning of the diaspora that Jews would know today as life. There were a lot more Diasporas in JewishRead MoreThe Birthplace Of Christianity : Israel1367 Words   |  6 Pagesas Canaan to the ancient Hebrews. Palestine s name was determined from the Philistines, a group of people who occupied the southern coastal part of the country in the 12th century B.C. A Hebrew kingdom, settled in 1000 B.C, was later broken into the kingdoms of Judah and Israel. They were later overrun by Assyrians, Babylonians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans, and Alexander the Great of Macedonia. By A.D. 135, few Jews were abandoned in Palestine; communities of the Diaspora. These communities wereRea d MoreJewish Migration And The Holocaust2907 Words   |  12 PagesWhile researching texts written about Jewish Diaspora, I came across many documentary publications on Holocaust. This tragic part of Jewish history is very well documented as opposite to the Jewish Migration. I found few authors who published articles and books on Impacts of the Holocaust on Jewish Migration. My goal in this research paper is to explore the topic of Jewish Migration by connecting it to the Holocaust. To achieve this goal, I have organized my paper in the chronological order. I haveRead MoreCovenant Theology: The Relationship of the Jewish People to God and Israel764 Words   |  3 Pagesrenewal of the homeland and Hebrew independence have we been able to reassess the Bible in its true, full light, suggesting the need for a material restoration of Israel to fully honor the three critical components of Jewishness: people, land, and book (Shapira 2004). The theology that exile was due to a moral flaw became less important, as the new Jewish people created a new society in the Holy Land, less tainted by the gentile customs acquired during the Diaspora. References Covenant. (1906)Read MoreJesus, The Son Of Man1896 Words   |  8 Pagesbelieve that the Daniel 7 linkage to Jesus’ use of Son of Man will justify an apocalyptic inclusion, these facts do not disbar Jesus’ present or future activities. Aramaic, Hebrew or Greek? The case of whether or not Hebrew or Aramaic was used by Jesus in the utterance of Son of Man is difficult to ascertain since Hebrew was used simultaneously in worship while Aramaic was used in other daily living areas. Aramaic is considered the common language evidenced by the findings of documents or fragmentsRead MorePaul s Life And Ministry1235 Words   |  5 Pageshis earliest years in the Diaspora, the dispersion of the Jews outside the borders of the Holy Land (McRay, 2003). He was from a devout Jewish family that residing in the city of Tarsus in Cilicia, which at the time was considered as one of the largest trade centers on the Mediterranean coast. Not much is known as to how Paul’s family became Roman citizens, but Paul himself was identified as a â€Å"born citizen† (Acts 22:27-28). However, his lineage can be traced to the Hebrew tribe of Benjamin. In additionRead MoreThe Question Of Why The Term Son Of Man Was Used By Jesus1949 Words   |  8 Pagesbel ieve that the Daniel 7 linkage to Jesus’ use of Son of Man will justify an apocalyptic inclusion, these facts do not disbar Jesus’ present or future activities. Aramaic, Hebrew or Greek? The case of whether or not Hebrew or Aramaic was used by Jesus in the utterance of Son of Man is difficult to ascertain, since Hebrew was used simultaneously in worship while Aramaic was used in other daily living areas. Aramaic is considered to be the common language evidenced by the findings of documents

Is Fracking Safer Wastewater Injections Cause Human Made...

Annotated Bibliography Arizona State University. (2016, September 22). Research finds way to make fracking safer: Wastewater injections cause human-made earthquakes, but the risk can be reduced. ScienceDaily. Retrieved February 24, 2017 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/09/160922150659.htm The Arizona State University effectively relays the information from a research done to evaluate the use of fracking techniques in relation to the Texas earthquakes experienced in May of 2012. The research done by Shirzaei, Ellworth, Tiampo, Gonzalez, and Manga was done using InSAR a satellite-based radar, to learn the relation between the uplifting of the earth’s surface from the injection of fracking fluids to the seismic hazards it may cause.†¦show more content†¦A., Nagel, S. C. (2016). Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Oil and Natural Gas Operations: Potential Environmental Contamination and Recommendations to Assess Complex Environmental Mixtures. Environmental Health Perspectives, 124(3), 256-264. doi:10.1289/ehp.1409535 Kiger, P. J. (2014, March 21). Green fracking? 5 technologies for cleaner shale energy. National Geographic. Retrieved from http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2014/03/140319-5-technologies-for-greener-fracking/ Konkel, L. (2016). Salting the Earth The Environmental Impact of Oil and Gas Wastewater Spills. Environmental Health Perspectives, 124(12), A230-A235. doi:10.1289/ehp.124-A230 Lallanilla, M. (2015, January 23). Facts about fracking. Live Science. Retrieved from http://www.livescience.com/34464-what-is-fracking.html Marc Lallanilla, the assistant editor for Live Science, who is a Master s degree candidate from the Graduate journalism program in Science, Health and Environmental Reporting, at New York University that has also obtained a Master s degree in Environmental Planning from University of California at Berkeley and a Bachelor s degree in Environmental Geography, Communications from University of Texas at Austin, writes this article to help clarify some of the facts related to the fracking industry. He describes how the well is drilled and injected with fracking fluid under extreme pressure fracturing the surrounding rock containing the oil or gas. This in turn releases the

Sophomore English Exam Study Guide Free Essays

The Glass Menagerie- By: Tennessee Williams Setting- After the Great Depression, before World War II; 1937 In SST. Louis, Missouri The Way Tennessee Williams broke away from straight realist staging: 1 . Had his major character also be the narrator (Tom Winnfield) 2. We will write a custom essay sample on Sophomore English Exam Study Guide or any similar topic only for you Order Now Incorporated a screen device into his plays to emphasize important details and actions on stage 3. Removed props 4. SE of lighting Problem with memory play: Details could be omitted or left out; biased, exaggerated details Symbolism- a person, place, or object that has its own meaning but can suggest other meanings as well Genre- Tragedy 3. Death off Salesman- By: Arthur Miller Genre- Tragedy Setting- Late sass’s; Brooklyn- Present; Boston- Flashback Tense- Past and Present Protagonist- Wily or Biff Loan Antagonist- Wily or Biff Loan American Dream- an antagonist dream This play attacks the materialistic aspect of the American Dream He believes the achievement of wealth and success without integrity Background information is given through flashback Flashback- action that interrupts to show an event that happened in an earlier time which is necessary for understanding Expressionism- when an artist distorts reality to create an emotional effect Parental Dilutions- parents who have high expectations set for their children 4. A Streetcar Named Desire- By: Tennessee Williams Setting- New Orleans, Louisiana; sass Protagonist-Balance Dubos Conflicts 1. Balance Vs.. Self 2. Balance Vs.. Stanley II. Short Answer The Glass Menagerie Techniques to break away from straight realistic staging 1. He had his major character also be the narrator (Tom Winnfield) 2. Incorporated a screen device into his plays to emphasize important details and actions on stage Key words he would want the audience to recognize 3. Removed props Distracting; Allows to concentrate more on character plot 4. Use of lighting Dimmed the lights; Low and hazy; Memory play Tennessee Williams used 4 different techniques to break away from straight realistic tagging and make his pays different than others. First, he made his main character in the play also be the narrator. In The Glass Menagerie, Tom Winnfield is both the main character and the narrator because it is his memory and told from his point of view. Also, he eliminated the use of props in some scenes. Williams believed props were a distraction and taking them away would help the audience focus on character development and plot. Tennessee Williams also used a screen device. The screen device displayed several words he would want the audience to recognize to guide them to think or feel a certain way. Lastly, he dimmed the lighting to create a hazy look. This lighting effect would help the audience remember the play was from memory. Death of a Salesman Techniques to distinguish past from present/reality from illusion 1 . Stage Directions/ Setting 2. Character’s Appearance and illusion. These techniques include character appearance, setting change, and stage directions. For example, young Wily Loan was very fast moving and energetic. However, old Wily Loan is grumpy, slow moving, and dull. An example of setting change would be from the Loan’s household to either Boston or a football field. Incorporated with setting change is stage directions. They indicate when the setting changes. For example, in the past, the Loan household was surrounded with many trees, leaves, and beautiful scenery. However, in the present, the house in surrounded by apartment buildings and the mood is dark and dull. Streetcar Named Desire Difference between this play and The Glass Menagerie with regards to the theme of illusion as an approach to reality The Glass Menagerie is hazy and filtered based off of memory. A Streetcar Named Desire is crude and more forward to reality. The Merchant of Venice Conflict/Resolution The conflict in The Merchant of Venice is that Bassoon is poor and needs Antonio help him woo Portia. Antonio can only turn to Shylock, who is Jewish and thus hated. Antonio has to sign away a pound of his flesh as a guarantee on Bassoon’s loan. Bassoon finally gets a go at Portia, but he’s got to pick the right casket. The resolution occurs when Portia reveals everything and Antonio is rich again. Portia accepts Notation’s apology and goes even further, ensuring that, even if he’s lost his friend, he’s got his money back. Ill. Long Answer 1 . Tragedy/Tragic Hero (A Streetcar Named Desire/Balance Dubos by Tennessee Williams) Balance Dubos is a tragic hero because she has a tragic flaw that ultimately leads to her downfall. Blanches flaw is her inability to accept reality or where she is right now. She lives her life in illusion to escape her reality. However, she is forced to face reality after her sister’s husband, Stanley, raped her. After this occurrence, Balance starts to go crazy and insane. She is sent to a mental institution. 2. Characteristics of a One Act Play (He Said She Said by Alice Greenberg) Origin- may be traced to the very beginning of drama Unities- conform to the Classical Unities of drama developed by the philosopher Aristotle; unity of time, unity of place, and unity of subject Unity of Time- He Said She Said takes place within 24 hours Unity of Place- He Said She Said takes place in one setting, the Helmsman’ household gossiping Time- usually between 10-40 pages long He Said She Said is 16 pages long Setting- one scene He Said She Said all takes place in the Helmsman’ living room Plot- simple; one of the most important elements to any play is conflict Gossiping Characters- differ from full-length plays in their scope; fewer characters or a more impel setting; focused on a main character and a single incident or goal; little time for subplots; usually 4 or less characters Felix, Enid, Mrs.. Packard, and Diana Exposition- most avoid extensive exposition In He Said She Said, it gives the background information that Felix and Enid Hellman have a great relationship. This is necessary for proper understanding because the plot is relevant Subtext- unspoken thoughts and motives of the characters?what they really think and believe; seldom breaks through the surface of the dialogue except in moments of extreme conflict; gives the performers something o do] Stage Direction- contains simple and direct stage direction 3. Motivation (Wily Loan/Death of a Salesman) Wily Loan’s death in Death of a Salesman is a result of his motivation. His motivation was his want to provide and supply for his family, and also his want to prove to Biff that he was right. Wily knew that if he died, his insurance money would be given to his family so they could live good, happy lives. Also, Wily wanted to prove to Biff that he was right about being personally attractive and liked was all that mattered. Through his death, Wily was hoping to show to Biff that he was right by a on of people showing up to his funeral. Also, Wily died with a sense of personal dignity, believing he was right all along. 4. Contribution of a Minor Character (The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams) Jim O’Connor, a minor character in The Glass Menagerie, helps contribute to the character development of Laura. Although he may be a minor character, his role in the play is necessary for plot development. He is the most realistic character in the entire play. He is a symbol of hope for Laura. Jim is the person that Laura and her family having been waiting for their whole lives because everything will change. 5. Dynamic and Static Character (A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams) Balance Dubos is a dynamic character in A Streetcar Named Desire. In the beginning, she used illusion to escape her reality. However, by the end of the play, she is forced to face reality when Stanley rapes her. From that point on, she was never the same. She went from being somewhat normal to completely insane. Stanley is a static character because throughout the play he remains the same. From start to finish, he is very aggressive and never liked Balance. 6. Foil Character Merchant of Venice is a comedy because it fits the characteristics 1 . Young lovers struggling to overcome obstacles 0 Jessica and Lorenz are madly in love and want to be together, but Jessica father, Shylock, is trying to do everything he can to keep them from marrying. Also, Bassoon and Portia marry. 2. Mistaken Identity 0 Jessica deceives her father when she disguises herself as a boy and runs off to marry Lorenz. Portia cross dresses as a male lawyer and shows up in the courtroom to defend Antonio 3. Clever plot twist with multiple plot lines 0 2 main plots: Bassoon’s adventure playing the lotto to win a rich wife, and Schlock’s recruits of Notation’s pound of flesh 4. Puns 0 Marriage; Just about everybody is married (Lorenz and Jessica) (Bassoon and Portia) Antonio is a comic hero because he has a minimal level of personal charm and worth of character who wins the audiences approval. The audience likes Antonio because he values friendship and love. Antonio is also a Christian which The Merchant of Venice favors Christians instead of Jews. Antonio is a worthy character because he risks his own life in the hands of Shylock to lend money to give to his best friend, Bassoon, to win Portrait’s heart. How to cite Sophomore English Exam Study Guide, Papers

Conceptual Framework Evaluation in Accounting System

Question: Discuss about the Conceptual Framework Evaluation in Accounting System. Answer: Introduction: The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) serves as the technique of revised conceptual framework of accounting for superior financial reporting. The conceptual framework of accounting offers common financial reporting instances along with concepts of financial statement and fundamental accounting. The accounting frameworks such as IASB develops ways to explain accounting information, identify financial events and report them within accounting system (Cajaiba-Santana 2014). The accounting frameworks also facilitate development of assumptions regarding reasonable competence level on the behalf of the users in realizing the associated accounting matters. Accounting conceptual frameworks has a vital role in establishing and implementing the accounting standards that can be increasingly helpful in dissemination of significant accounting information. The conceptual framework of accounting indicates and contributes to the reveled mission of IFRS foundation including the board in order to develop standards of financial reporting that helps in bringing transparency, accountability and effectiveness within the financial markets all over the world (Macve 2015). Benefits of Accounting Conceptual Framework The exposure draft mentioned within IASB accounting standard indicted that the conceptual framework for financial reporting explains the objective and the concepts focused on the general purpose financial reporting. The benefits associated with accounting conceptual framework use are mentioned under: Accounting conceptual framework facilitates the board to implement standards those are relied on consistent concepts Accounting conceptual framework assists preparers to implement consistent accounting policies at the time no standard is applicable to specific event or transaction at the time accounting standards offers choice of accounting policies (Baumgartner 2014). Assist all the parties to realize and interprets the accounting standards Accounting conceptual frameworks has certain advantages for these companies those implements them. For instance, IFRS accounting standard is widely accepted as high quality and transparent international standards that facilitates companies in maintaining consistency and comparability. Companies those employ IFRS accounting standards can observe that their financial results can easily be compared for evaluating performance that can be reflected within the companys income statement (Henderson et al. 2015). Criticisms of Current Accounting Conceptual Framework The current accounting conceptual framework (2010) was criticized, as it did not offer a suitable framework for standard setting. Such insufficiency is observed by Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) standards that further turned out to be extremely rule-based. The Financial Accounting Standards Board has problems for the recent accounting standards did not facilitate companies to explain information those are interpretable and helpful for financial consumer (Cajaiba-Santana 2014). The recent accounting standards are criticized stating that these standards are becoming extremely rule-based that results the companies n structuring transactions in their own favor. This might hamper the users to gain adequate information for effective decision-making. Moreover, FASBs recent conceptual framework has also been disapproved of for remaining insufficient in directing the standard set (Henderson et al. 2015). Considering certain issues associated with the recent accounting conceptual framework requires being altered and it requires being changed in order to generate principal-based accounting standards those can be more useful in maintaining financial reporting transparency of companies. Reference List Baumgartner, R.J., 2014. Managing corporate sustainability and CSR: A conceptual framework combining values, strategies and instruments contributing to sustainable development.Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management,21(5), pp.258-271. Cajaiba-Santana, G., 2014. Social innovation: Moving the field forward. A conceptual framework.Technological Forecasting and Social Change,82, pp.42-51. Henderson, S., Peirson, G., Herbohn, K. and Howieson, B., 2015.Issues in financial accounting. Pearson Higher Education AU. Macve, R., 2015.A Conceptual Framework for Financial Accounting and Reporting: Vision, Tool, Or Threat?. Routledge.

Humana Health Incorporation

Introduction Humana Incorporation has managed to position itself optimally within the US healthcare insurance industry. The firm’s success hinges on the acknowledgement and implementation of best management practices. One of the issues that the firm has emphasized over the years relates to marketing.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Humana Health Incorporation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In its operation, the firm faces significant challenges arising from the dynamic nature of the healthcare industry. This paper evaluates a number of issues associated with Humana Incorporation operation such as its business level strategy, marketing strategy, and financial position and strategy, production and purchasing strategy, among others. Business level strategy Development of competitive strategy is very important in a firm’s effort to succeed in its operation (Harvard Business Review, 2011). Hoskisson (2 008) asserts that business-level strategies are concerned with how a firm intends to develop a high competitive advantage relative to its competitors. When formulating business-level strategies, the firms’ management teams should take into account their core competencies, resources, and capabilities. Additionally, a firm should take into account the goods and services it deals with and its target customers coupled with how it distributes when formulating business-level strategies (Hill Jones, 2007). In its domestic market, Humana Incorporation faces intense competition from two main health insurance companies, viz. Aetna and Cigna. The lucrative nature of the US health care industry has motivated Aetna to incorporate diversity as its business level strategy in order to achieve continued growth.Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The firm recognizes the importance of integr ating diversity in all its operational spheres (Aetna, 2010). On the other hand, Cigna has adopted differentiation as its business level strategy in an effort to achieve its objective of becoming the industry leader. The firm focuses on specialty and individual products and introduction of new healthcare products (Manders, 2008). Marketing strategy In its marketing practices, Humana Incorporation has integrated the concept of market targeting. The firm has identified different market segments, which have enabled it to formulate different healthcare policies. Some of the firm’s target customers include the government and employers. Additionally, the firm has also targeted institutional customers such as Medicaid and Medicare companies. The firm also appreciates the fact that customers are conscious to price. Therefore, the firm has incorporated price discounts in its premium pricing strategy and thus its competitiveness within the healthcare industry has increased. In an effor t to create sufficient market awareness, Humana Incorporation has integrated different marketing methods such as telemarketing. The firm also conducts direct marketing in an effort to promote its sales using its large sales force. Financial position and strategy The firm has managed to nurture a healthy financial position given its asset records. On June 30, 2012, the firm’s assets with regard to cash equivalents, investment in securities and cash amounted to $13.53 billion.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Humana Health Incorporation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This represents an increment with a margin of $285 million or a 2% increase from its previous level of $13.25 billion on 31 March 2012. By the end of its 2nd quarter in 2012, the firm’s total assets amount $ 20.9 million while its total liabilities amounted to $12.4 million. This shows that the firm has a sufficient working capital (Hum ana Inc., 2012, p.18). Given its increase in earnings during the 2nd quarter of 2012, the firm has managed to lower its debt-to-capitalization ratio with 30 basis points. The firm has also managed to improve its cash flows during 2012. During its 2nd quarter of 2012, the firm’s operational effectiveness resulted in an increment in its cash flows, which amounted to $706 billion compared to $161 billion during the 2nd quarter of 2011. The firm has also managed to increase its stockholder’s equity from $ 8.063 during 2011 to $ 8.455 in 2012 (Humana Inc., 2012). The firm’s financial strategy is to increase its financial strength The organization’s production and purchasing strategies In an effort to satisfy its customers, Humana Incorporation has incorporated effective production and purchasing strategies. The firm has a procurement department that is charged with the responsibility of ensuring that it offers high-quality services to its customers. The firm p urchases its products from different suppliers (Christensen, Allworth, Dillion, 2012). Over the years, Humana Incorporation has managed to develop a strong client-vendor relationship. The firm’s success is greatly dependent on the quality of the products purchased.Advertising Looking for essay on health medicine? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In its purchasing strategy, the firm categorizes its products into four groups, which include facilities, services, supplies, and equipments. The equipments relate to security systems, telecommunications, furniture and telecommunication. Facilities relate to leasing, management, janitorial services, architects, and building maintenance. On the other hand, services include advertising and media, legal, printing, translation, marketing and relocation while supplies relate to medical and pharmaceuticals and general office (Humana Inc., 2012). Humana Health Incorporation The firm’s management team appreciates the fact that its success is greatly dependent on its ability to serve its customers. As a result, Humana Incorporation has integrated a comprehensive recruitment strategy. The strategy entails sourcing for employees both internally and externally. The objective is to enable the firm have a strong human resource base. Humana Incorporation also appreciates the fact that its e ffectiveness in providing healthcare insurance policies is dependent on the prevailing public healthcare policy. Through its human resource department, the firm is concerned with ensuring that the government offers effective healthcare plans. In line with its corporate responsibility, the firm has devised a number of strategies that clearly define its commitment towards serving its members, associates, the society, and the world at large (Humana Inc., 2012) Humana Incorporation SWOT Analysis Strengths One source of the firm’s strengths revolves on its resources, core competences, and capabilities. Over the years, Humana Incorporation has managed to develop a strong financial base. This aspect has contributed to the firm’s success with regard to dealing with financial challenges associated with health care insurance. For example, at times the forecasted insurance cost is less than the actual insured medical cost; consequently, the firm has to seek other sources of fina nce in order to cater for the deficit. Based on its rich financial resources, Humana Incorporation has managed to deal with such challenges. During its 2nd quarter of 2012, the firm’s accumulated revenue amounted to $9.70 billion, which was a 4% increment from its 2011 revenue of $ 9.28 billion (Humana Inc., 2012). To meet its customers’ healthcare needs, the firm has developed a broad product portfolio. Consequently, the firm has managed to nurture a high level of customer satisfaction. In an effort to be competitive, Humana Incorporation appreciates the importance of market communication. Koekemoer (2004) asserts that marketing communication is critical in influencing the target market. The firm has adopted emerging Information Communication Technologies (ICT) to attain efficiency and effectiveness in market communication. An example of such technologies entails development of a web portal known as the Physicians’ Online, which enables customers to obtain pres criptions online. Humana Incorporation has managed to attain a higher competitive advantage compared to its competitors due to its commitment with regard to new product innovation. The firm’s innovativeness has also led to its success in controlling prices. The firm achieves this goal by developing effective cost analysis models. The firm’s capabilities are associated with its ability to avoid risk by developing effective underwriting criteria. The criterion enables the firm to assess whether to cover a particular health risk or not. With regard to core competencies, the firm can identify possible acquisition targets. Ultimately, the firm can undertake different acquisitions. Weaknesses Humana Incorporation has not been successful with regard to geographical reach. This aspect has limited the firm’s ability to increase its membership levels, which arises from the fact that only a few customers can access the firm’s services. Despite implementing emergin g technologies, the firm’s competitiveness with regard to technology is limited by the fact that most of its competitors have also implemented similar technologies. One of the firm’s major customers is the military. However, the firm is not very effective with regard to bidding. Therefore, there is a high probability of the firm losing contracts from the government during the bidding process. Opportunities Currently, Humana Incorporation operates in only 18 states (Parnell, 2009). By formulating and implementing an effective globalization model, Humana Incorporation can expand geographically. The firm will attract a large number of customers due to its attractive and diverse health plans. Its success in attracting new customers is enhanced by the fact that it has a strong sales force in addition to its ability in implementing innovative marketing plan. The ultimate effect will be an increment in the firm’s sales revenue hence its profitability. Over the past d ecade, the US government has increasingly become concerned with the healthcare of its senior citizens and more senior citizens are being incorporated in the government’s healthcare plans. Humana Incorporation can take advantage of this market opportunity by designing healthcare plans that will appeal such potential customer groups. To capture this customer group, Humana Incorporation should formulate an effective marketing scheme. Currently, the US healthcare industry is characterized by a high rate of consolidation (Hammaker Tomlinson, 2011). This aspect presents a unique market opportunity to Humana Incorporation. Considering its success in acquiring small healthcare firms, Humana Incorporation will expand into new territories. Additionally, acquisition will improve the firm’s ability to serve its increasing membership levels. The firm’s innovativeness also presents an opportunity to the firm for it can attract new customer categories by developing new health care products. Threats One of the risks relates to the occurrence of economic recession, which may adversely affect its income level for a recession would negatively affect the consumer’s purchasing power and hence their ability to purchase insurance covers. The high rate of technological innovation in an effort to offer customer high quality healthcare services poses a threat for the firm for such innovations will lead to an increase in the cost of medical care. The firm’s success is also threatened by the fact that its competitors are increasingly considering entering its geographical territory. Incorporation of such strategies by competitors will lead to a decline in the firm’s profitability to increased rivalry. The competitors are imitating Humana’s business model to penetrate its geographical market successfully. This move will likely culminate in price wars unless the firm undertakes continuous innovation. Humana Incorporation has previously exp erienced lawsuits by clients. Some of these lawsuits have not been resolved yet. As a result, the unresolved lawsuits may have adverse effects on the firm’s sales revenue and profitability (Pozgar, 2008). Emergence of new diseases and medical conditions such as H1N1 poses a threat to the firm in offering healthcare insurance for such conditions may lead to occurrence of medical crises (Scutchfield Keck, 2003). Strategic alternatives Humana Incorporation should continue focusing on its current business model. The firm should incorporate the concept of backward vertical integration to increase its membership. The firm should utilize its core competencies with regard to acquisition. The firm should study the environment in order to identify potential customer categories to increase its membership level. Pros and cons of strategic alternatives By focusing on the current business model, the firm will nurture a strong relationship with its current customer categories. However, this move will limit the firm’s ability to grow its membership level. Growing its membership level will contribute towards the firm increasing its profitability. However, this aspect will result to growth in the degree of complexity in the firm’s effort to deal with numerous policies, for example in the event of health crisis. Similarly, backward vertical integration will lead to increased complexity in managing the various medical policies designed to cater for the diverse customer needs (Swayne, Duncan Ginter, 2008). Utilizing its core competencies will facilitate the development of new business lines. Conclusion From the analysis conducted, it is evident that Humana Incorporation’s success hinges on effective implementation of various functional, marketing, and business strategies. Therefore, the company has managed to grow a strong financial base. However, it is paramount for the firm to consider the abovementioned strategic alternatives to succeed in the f uture. Reference List Aetna: Demonstrating social responsibility and integrity. (2010). Web. Christensen, C., Allworth, J., Dillion, K. (2012). How will you measure your  Life. London, UK : Harper Collins Publishers. Hammaker, D., Tomlinson, S. (2011). Health care management and the law:  Principles and applications. Clifton Park, NY: Cengage Learning. Harvard Business Review. (2011). HBR’s 10 must reads on strategy. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press. Hill, C., Jones, G. (2007). Strategic management theory: An integrated  Approach. New York, NY: Cengage. Hoskisson, R. (2008). Competing for advantage. Mason, OH: Thomson. Humana Inc: Humana reports second quarter 2012 financial results. (2012). Web. Koekemoer, L. (2004). Marketing communications. Lansdowne, SA: Juta Academic. Manders, M. (2008). Healthcare: Strategy and growth. Web. Parnell, J. (2009). Strategic management: Theory and practice. Mason, OH: Cengage. Pozgar, G. (2008). Legal aspects of health care administration. Mason, OH: Jones Barlett Learning. Scutchfield, F., Keck, W. (2003). Principles of public health. Cliffton Park, NY: Thomson. Swayne, L., Duncan, J., Ginter, P. (2008). Strategic management of health  Care organization. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass. This essay on Humana Health Incorporation was written and submitted by user Kaliyah S. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Kantian Ethics

Kantian Ethics If philosophy should serve as an instrument of guidance for implementing our own morality, than Kant presents the driving factor as rationality behind such moral distinctions. In The Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morality, Kant states that there is no need to perceive whether moral law should be truly regarded above everything else, for it is only the goodwill that has the absolute moral worth that needs not to be validated. Kant further argues that since this truth is omnipresent in humanity, then it is humanity’s innate duty to adhere to it, no matter how strong inclination may tempt us. Kant concludes that since it is the moral law to which all beings are bound, the foundations of moral law depends exclusively on a priori knowledge, and not upon empirical or anthropological grounds. With Kant’s basis for argument concentrated on how actions are determined by a binding moral law, the distinction between what may be regarded as an action of moral worth should be made to understand how a deviation from the innate rationality of morality may occur. An action, according to Kant, only displays moral worth if this action is taken out of respect for the moral law and the necessity to follow the maxim, with no influence from any inclinations. For example, a shopkeeper can make many different choices of action to depending on what motives he relies on to determine whether to sell a child candy for a fair price. He can choose either to sell fairly or not to sell fairly, but it is whether his inclinations have influenced these motives for acting which determines whether his action has moral value according to Kantian theory. The shopkeeper may ignore to follow the moral law altogether andz+. charge the children for more than the rightful choice, guided by an irrational decision to follow his desire to make more money. According to Kant, if the shopkeeper chooses this action he is immoral, his action is of n... Free Essays on Kantian Ethics Free Essays on Kantian Ethics Kantian Ethics If philosophy should serve as an instrument of guidance for implementing our own morality, than Kant presents the driving factor as rationality behind such moral distinctions. In The Groundwork for the Metaphysics of Morality, Kant states that there is no need to perceive whether moral law should be truly regarded above everything else, for it is only the goodwill that has the absolute moral worth that needs not to be validated. Kant further argues that since this truth is omnipresent in humanity, then it is humanity’s innate duty to adhere to it, no matter how strong inclination may tempt us. Kant concludes that since it is the moral law to which all beings are bound, the foundations of moral law depends exclusively on a priori knowledge, and not upon empirical or anthropological grounds. With Kant’s basis for argument concentrated on how actions are determined by a binding moral law, the distinction between what may be regarded as an action of moral worth should be made to understand how a deviation from the innate rationality of morality may occur. An action, according to Kant, only displays moral worth if this action is taken out of respect for the moral law and the necessity to follow the maxim, with no influence from any inclinations. For example, a shopkeeper can make many different choices of action to depending on what motives he relies on to determine whether to sell a child candy for a fair price. He can choose either to sell fairly or not to sell fairly, but it is whether his inclinations have influenced these motives for acting which determines whether his action has moral value according to Kantian theory. The shopkeeper may ignore to follow the moral law altogether andz+. charge the children for more than the rightful choice, guided by an irrational decision to follow his desire to make more money. According to Kant, if the shopkeeper chooses this action he is immoral, his action is of n...

IT Project Implementation Failures Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

IT Project Implementation Failures - Essay Example The major indicators of the failure in the project implementation are: a. One of the major reasons that affected the failure of the project could be that the project ran out of budget to be controlled. An initial project plan was designed with the budgeted requirements needed for the implementation of the project. But in course of time while the project was in progress it was observed that there was huge drainage in fund and this caused a major impediment to the progress of the project. One reason for the failure of the CPOE system was that the project overran the budgeted requirement. (Wager, Lee & Glaser, 2009) b. Another most important factor, which literally led to the failure of the project, could be the time overruns. When the initial outlay of the project is designed a time period is also determined which is recognized as the deadline for the implementation of the project. But in case of the CPOE project it was observed that lack of proper system planning and designing led to creeping up of a large number of issues during the progress of the project. This led to severe delay in the implementation plan of the project. The project, which was divided in several modules, started to get delayed when problems started creeping up in implementing each module.

The Effect of Direct Effect on Directives Essay

The Effect of Direct Effect on Directives - Essay Example The new regulations of European Union Law now state that the European regulations that have been framed in accordance with the provisions of the new European treaties have a direct effect upon all citizens of the European Union and on the laws that are made by the member states of the Union. This principle was first laid out by the European Court of Justice in the case of Van Gend en Loos v Nederlanse Administratie der Belastingen1. In this case, the Treaty of Rome was at issue and the ECJ ruled that individuals could take action against a State for breaching EU rules, since the new treaty grants rights and imposes obligations on individuals. According to the ruling laid out in this case, European Community regulations were also valid when tried in the national courts, because the regulations were similar to the national laws in that they had a similar effect upon an individual’s rights and responsibilities. Therefore in effect, the Court has ruled that a new legal order has b een created. The Direct Effect creates individual rights which the domestic courts must protect without needing to resort to the States concerned, since EU law took precedence. This is known as the â€Å"vertical direct effect† of Treaty articles. A â€Å"horizontal direct effect† was laid out in the case of Defrenne vs Sabena2, wherein provisions of EU law were directly applicable in a domestic court, in proceedings by an individual against a Company. This has affected the application of internal laws within each of the European member States. By virtue of the Direct Effect, member States are now obligated to comply with Community Law as it has been framed according to European laws within the framework of their own internal laws.

The Effect of Attack ads on political campaigns Research Paper

The Effect of Attack ads on political campaigns - Research Paper Example Attack ads focus on ‘the faults of the opponent’ (Frith & Mueller 2010, p.59). Advocacy ads refer to the capabilities of a candidate, without referring to the opponent (Frith & Mueller 2010, p.59). As for the contrast ads, these are a combination of the above, referring both to qualities of a candidate and ‘to the faults of his opponent’ (Frith & Mueller 2010, p.59). Two popular political ads are the following ones: a) the ad entitled as ‘Daisy Girl’ was used in the presidential elections of 1964 (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5). The above ad, which aimed on causing fear to voters in regard to the potential effects of their voting preferences, showed ‘a small girl plucking the petals off of a daisy’ (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5). The next scene showed a nuclear explosion (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5). Voters were asked to avoid voting the nominee of Republican Party who could possibly ‘lead the country to a nuclear war’ (R oberts & Hammond 2012, p.5); b) another popular attack ad is entitled as ‘the 3am phone call’ (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5) and was used by Hilary Clinton in the presidential elections of 2008. The particular ad, which can be characterized as a policy comparison ad, aimed to highlight the lack of experience of Barack Obama, compared to Hilary Clinton, in facing emergent issues. The ad entitled as ‘Daisy Girl’, as presented above, has faced strong criticism. Many political analysts did not accept the fact that one of the candidates of the presidential elections was portrayed as a strong supporter of piece, referring to Johnson, while the other was characterized, referring to Goldwater even if he was not named, as a supporter of war... Moreover, Frith & Mueller (2010) notes that political advertisements can be classified into three categories: ‘attack, advocacy and contrast’ (Frith & Mueller 2010, p.59). Attack ads focus on ‘the faults of the opponent’ (Frith & Mueller 2010, p.59). Advocacy ads refer to the capabilities of a candidate, without referring to the opponent (Frith & Mueller 2010, p.59). As for the contrast ads, these are a combination of the above, referring both to qualities of a candidate and ‘to the faults of his opponent’ (Frith & Mueller 2010, p.59). Two popular political ads are the following ones: a) the ad entitled as ‘Daisy Girl’ was used in the presidential elections of 1964 (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5). The above ad, which aimed on causing fear to voters in regard to the potential effects of their voting preferences, showed ‘a small girl plucking the petals off of a daisy’ (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5). The next scene showed a nuclear explosion (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5). Voters were asked to avoid voting the nominee of Republican Party who could possibly ‘lead the country to a nuclear war’ (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5); b) another popular attack ad is entitled as ‘the 3am phone call’ (Roberts & Hammond 2012, p.5) and was used by Hilary Clinton in the presidential elections of 2008. The particular ad, which can be characterized as a policy comparison ad, aimed to highlight the lack of experience of Barack Obama, compared to Hilary Clinton, in facing emergent issues.The ad entitled as ‘Daisy Girl’, as presented above, has faced strong criticism. Many political analysts did not accept the fact that one of the candidates of the presidential elections was portrayed as a strong supporter of piece, referring to Johnson, while the other was characterized, referring to Goldwater even if he was not named, as a supporter of war (Sparks 2012, p.223). Such perspective could n ot be accepted since the candidate who promoted this attack ad.

The Language And Gender Sociology Essay

The Language And Gender Sociology Essay Language, gender and society are three complex and closely interwoven terms that I will attempt to explore in this chapter. The question of whether language reflects or shapes the social life and consequently gender relationships and expectations is a central one which I will also attempt to tackle. In other words, is it language which transmits gender thoughts, beliefs and actions? Or, conversely, does language determine men and womens relationships and behavior? Is it possible to define language as a naÃÆ' ¯ve mirror translating the social and cultural reality? Or it is the norms, traditions and values that introduce a basis for the creation of any language? Does society define women and mens language, choices and action? Or it is simply the interaction between language and society which gives birth to gender stereotypes and sexist language? The answer to these questions will help us understand how men and womens space, speech, perspectives and choices are both determined and reflected by language. There are so many questions that I would like to answer and examine in this chapter, but will not be able to answer them all. Instead, I will try to highlight some important notions related to the subject. For example how do the socio-cultural factors interact with language in order to determine men and womens relationships in society? Why and how is gender deemed to be an important and powerful component in social interaction? How does its influence go beyond peoples thoughts, attitudes and beliefs? How can society explain the learning and maintenance of gender? How is gender negotiated in language and across cultures? How does the social construction of society shape women and mens personalities in terms of social roles, expectations, language choice, traditional beliefs and so on? The aim of my work will basically be to explore the importance of both language and society in determining and reinforcing female and male differences in speech (form and content), beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. The emphasis will be on how gender is negotiated and represented in language and society, and how the linguistic form may reflect and shape the social and cultural conditions under which women and men live. Language, a product of society, is considered to play a significant role in human interaction; the human being, language and society are an interwoven texture. (Bennouiss, 2001:20). Accordingly, society is conceived to be the mold which shapes people through determining not only their behavior, but also their identity. Society controls individuals through gendered practices, which are defined as a social process created and renegotiated in interpersonal relationships and encouraged and maintained through social interaction (Weatherall, 2002: 85). Therefore, gender is considered to be social because it connotes all the complex attributes ascribed by culture (s) to human females and males (Lott Maluso, 1993: 99). One may conclude from the two quotes that gender is used by society as a basis or a support to the socialization of both females and males, and is also maintained by social and cultural forces. Gender issues and stereotypes seem to be universal. They are heavily rooted in history and through the social and cultural life, which has a strong influence in defining the individuals identity, behavior, role and occupation. All societies consist of men and women who use language in the interaction of everyday life, and develop ideas and thoughts about how women and men should think and act in relation to social norms. Therefore, it is believed that gender is socially constructed and is reinforced by cultural forces; however, gender contents may differ across cultures. Beall (1993: 131-132) argues that across cultures, ones biological sex does not necessarily imply that one will engage in certain activities or that people will believe that one possesses certain attributes. She goes on to say that some cultures perceive more than one gender, and cultures vary in their beliefs about the nature of males and females (1993: 134). This means that cultures are rich and curiously different from each other. Womens beliefs and actions in Morocco are different from womens thoughts and behavior in England, even if sometimes it seems that British women are not so different from the Moroccan unveiled women in physical appearance. However, there are many variations concerning their ways of thinking and acting. In the Muslim society, boys are given more independence and freedom, and are expected to achieve or occupy different roles and positions. The difference between the two sexes in terms of appearance, behavior, role, and occupation is very much strengthened and encouraged by the traditions, the customs and the habits of the Moroccan society, whereas in the British context, norms and traditions are transgressed, and modern ideologies present men and women as equals in all life spheres. Besides, the authority or dominance of one gender over another is not practiced openly anymore. In other words, the strength and activity differences between the male and female stereotypes are greater in socioeconomically less developed countries than in more developed countries. It also tends to be greater in countries where literacy is low and the percentage of women attending the university is low (Best Williams, 1993: 227) although in many cases, the education people receive in school and universities does not mean that they are not influenced by gender stereotypes. In short, there is a lot to be said about the universality of gender prejudice. Class, education, religion and geography all play a part in determining subtle differences and peculiarities, some of which this work aims at revealing. First, some claims: 1) Men interrupt women more than vice versa. 2) Women are more communicative than men. 3) Men do not give verbal recognition of the contributions in the conversation made by women. 4) Men curse more than women. 5) Women gossip more than men. 6) Women talk more with one another than men do. 7) Men speak more comfortably in public than women. Gender and sex Sex: a biological condition, i.e. defined as a set of physical characteristics Gender: a social construct (within the fields of cultural and gender studies, and the social sciences) Today a return to separate single-sex schools may hasten the revival of separate gender roles Wendy Kaminer, in The Atlantic Monthly (1998) General usage of the term gender began in the late 1960s and 1970s, increasingly appearing in the professional literature of the social sciences. The term helps in distinguishing those aspects of life that were more easily attributed or understood to be of social rather than biological origin (see e.g., Unger Crawford, 1992). Linguistic origins of Gender According to Aristotle, the Greek philosopher Protagoras used the terms masculine, feminine, and neuter to classify nouns, introducing the concept of grammatical gender. Many languages specify Gender (and gender agreement) (1) Greek o andras i gyneka to pedhi the.masc. man the.fem. woman the.ntr. child (2) German der man die Frau das Kind the.masc. man the.fem. woman the.ntr. child (3) French l(e) homme la femme the.masc. man the.fem. woman  Ã¢â‚¬   Indoeuropean had gender distinction; Swahili has 16 gender distinctions. And many others dont! (e.g. English, Astronesian languages) But gender appears on pronouns: (1) He left. (2) She left. (3) It left. (what types of things does it refer to?) Gender correlates with other perceptual (and possibly grammatical) categories like humanness, agentivity, and animacy.

William Shakespeare Biography :: essays research papers

William Shakespeare was born to John Shakespeare and mother Mary Arden approximately in late April 1564 in Stratford -upon-Avon. His father was a prominent and prosperous alderman and later became a leather merchant. In William’s family there was at least 8 children, including him being the 3rd and eldest son. There is no solid proof as to which school Shakespeare attended, but there is an assumption it was at Stratford. The school was competitive and had a good reputation, which would explain Shakespeare’s proficiency in Greek and Latin. William did not go to college, which prompts some people to say that Shakespeare did not write his own work. (Hieatt.2) In November 1582 he married Anne Hathaway, who was 8 years older. Shortly after, their daughter Susan was born in May 26,1583. The couple later had twins, Hamnet and Judith, who were born on February 2, 1585. Hamnet, later died at the age of eleven and William then disappeared from the records for about seven years, until 1588 when he arrived in London to establish himself as an actor and playwrighter. A few years later he joined up with one of the most successful acting troupes in London: The Lord Chamberlain’s Men. He then went on to build his own theater across from the old one. Shakespeare entertained the king and the people for another 10 years until June 19,1613 when a cannon fired from the roof of the theater and burned it to the ground. He then invested in the rebuilding of the new theater. After this successful event he then retired from the stage in 1597, but continued to write until his death in 1616 on the day of his 52nd birthday. On average Shakespeare would write about 3 plays a year for his company along. He was A playwright, an actor, and part owner. Shakespeare was also a principle writer of a famous company of actors know as the King’s Men. In his time Shakespeare wrote 13 comedies, 13 historical plays, 6 tragedies, 4 tragicomedies, as well 154 sonnets. He is most noted for his achievements in highly original tragedies. Shakespeare was quite wealthy in his day, considering he left 300 pounds (120,000) to his daughter when he past away. (Fraser.22) Western Civilization still does embrace the works of William Shakespeare. Shakespeare is the only playwrighter from his ere whose plays are still being performed today. His influences are still seen today with adaptations of his plays such as: â€Å"Romeo and Juliet†, â€Å"Hamet† and â€Å"Titus†.

Pro and Cons Team Work

Pro: A small number of people working as a team can accomplish more than the same people working individually. Effective teamwork involves maximizing the strengths of a team Con: Conflict, Because individuals often have different ideas about how tasks should be accomplished Con: Passing the Buck * When someone is working alone, he is aware that if he doesn't do something it isn't going to get done. There is no possibility of passing the buck or waiting for someone else to take care of things. In a team, individuals who are lazy or unmotivated may not pull their share of the weight, preferring to wait for someone else to pick up their slack.This is a drawback of the team structure and highlights the fact that the success of a team is largely dependent on the character and motivation of its individual members. Xaxx, J. (2011, April 30). ehow money. Retrieved from http://www. ehow. com/info_8330003_pros-cons-teamwork. html Pro: work done is a shorter time Con: some individuals have no e xtra time. Other Pojects or responsibilities Six Sigma Training Assistant. (2010, April 22). Six sigma online aveta business institute . Retrieved from http://www. sixsigmaonline. org/six-sigma-training-certification-information/pros-and-cons-of-business-teamwork. htmlPro: team members can express their concerns and contribute thoughts so that the team has a diversity of ideas Working actively in a team really helps us advance our future careers and personal lives working in teams can be more fun than working individually Cons: Unequal Participation With some teams, there can be a tendency for members to sit back and let others do most of the work. This can cause resentment in the workplace, especially if you as a business owner recognize only the efforts of the team and not those of its leaders. Conflict may occur as a result, which can have a detrimental effect on workplace morale.Not Team Players Some workers may not function well as part of a team, preferring to work on their ow n. If your work environment requires working as a team to accomplish a task, you'll need to be sure you're screening out the "loners" during the hiring process. While these individuals may be excellent workers in the right environment, they'll likely have difficulty fitting into your work culture, resulting in dissatisfaction. Limiting Creativity Teamwork may also limit creative thinking.Employees may be so focused on working for the overall good of the team and fitting in to the team concept that they put their own ideas on the back burner. This lack of innovative thinking may keep your company from moving forward, resulting in stagnation. Longer Process According to the Entrepreneur. com, a team can sometimes take longer to produce a desired result. Teams typically need to go through a variety of processes, such as member selection, organization and socialization on the way to completing the task at hand. Teams can also result in added expense, as they can tie up resources like money, manpower and equipment.Inherent Conflict Whenever a group of people is assembled to achieve a goal, at least some conflict is likely to occur. Contrasting personal styles can clash and some members may have difficulty accepting ideas that differ from their own. Peer pressure can also result in a team member going against her better judgment to escape the wrath of other members or to facilitate the completion of a project. Joseph, C. (2011). smallbusiness. chron. com. Retrieved from http://smallbusiness. chron. com/disadvantages-teamwork-workplace-1937. html Pros : 1. Work Faster 2. Efficient 3. More Idea . More input 5. Better understanding 6. Sometimes one of your member become your life partner 7. Skill of communciation 8. better explosure 9. Accuracy at work Cons. 1. One member down, everybody down. 2. Different in interest 3. Too many opinion to consider and everybody promote their own 4. Create political environment 5. One membe r not satisfy, the rest suffer 6. team emotional very much depending on each other 7. Motivation is there but depending on the leader Pros and cons of teamwork? (2006). Retrieved from http://answers. yahoo. com/question/index? qid=20061001223256AAYHG0M

6 signs you have what it takes to be a recruiter -TheJobNetwork

6 signs you have what it takes to be a recruiter -TheJobNetwork One of the keys to running a successful business is staffing it with a team of superhero employees. That vital process often begins with a recruiter. Finding and securing the best-of-the-best is a recruiter’s job, one that requires some specific skills and personality traits. If you’re considering a career in corporate recruiting, you should first consult the following list of 6 signs to see if you have what it takes.1. You love peopleAn amazing job opportunity might sell itself, but a big part of recruiting still involves winning over potential employees so they’ll take the positions recruiters need to fill. That means a corporate recruiter must love people and be an expert at dealing with them. An outgoing nature is absolutely essential for the successful recruiter. The ability to turn down candidates who don’t make the cut with tact and compassion is a trickier, but equally essential, characteristic.2. You’re a self-starterWorkers who constantly require management to prod them into action need not apply. A recruiter must be completely proactive and constantly on the lookout for the very best people for particular jobs. If you have that constant yen to get working, you have a trait that all recruiters must possess.3. You’re a great communicatorAnyone who works with people must be a great communicator, and recruiters interact with people constantly. If you have a tendency to serve up word salad, recruiting isn’t for you. But if you are able to speak and write clearly, properly, and confidently, you are more likely to convince the best job candidates to come aboard. Not only must a recruiter be a great communicator, but they must also love to communicate. So if you’re the type who is always talking on the phone or texting, you might be cut out for recruiting.4. You solve problemsA recruiter’s life is not just locating great people and fitting them with great jobs. There are a lot of snags that can p op up during the workday, and it is the recruiter’s duty to meet any and all problems head-on, solve them quickly, and get on with the business at hand.hbspt.cta.load(2785852, '9e52c197-5b5b-45e6-af34-d56403f973c5', {});A champion recruiter never gets thrown by a candidate who fails to show up for an interview or a position that seems nearly impossible to fill with the right person. They greet such situations as challenges and always works to find the right solution.5. You are positiveUnexpected problems can toss a crimp into a recruiter’s workday, but the best ones always handle those challenges with a smile. The ability to meet all problems cheerfully is vital for the recruiter because those problems will often involve dealing with people- and the last thing a recruiter wants to do is alienate potential employees or employers with a bad attitude.6. You’re competitiveOne unique facet of a recruiter’s life is that there is a lot of competition out there. Other recruiters may be vying for the very same candidates as you, so you must thrive on competition and be completely determined to be the one who nabs that brass ring. Recruiters don’t just need the best candidates for particular positions; they too must be the best in order to be successful at their own jobs.If all of these characteristics seem to describe you, then you may very well be an ideal candidate for a career in corporate recruiting.

Free Essays on Homosexual Parenting

Controversial issues effect the society because they lead people to choose a side, causing conflicts. Homosexual parenting is one of the main uprising controversies in today’s’ society. Homosexual parenting is viewed morally wrong by society, but in many cases, homosexual parents provide more love, happiness, and securities for the children than do the heterosexual parents-Homosexual parents give the healthy, economically stable, and safe environment that children need. One reason why homosexual parenting is not accepted, is because of the belief that the child will become a homosexual. Although practically all psychiatrists have concluded that children cannot be â€Å"turned† gay, people still believe this can happen (Cloud â€Å"Can a Scout Be Gay?†). Recent studies have shown that there are a higher percentage of children in homosexual families that are gay or lesbian (Camille). Others conclude that this is false and there are no differences in homosexual parenting and heterosexual parenting. If there are more lesbians or gays in homosexual families and one has a problem with that, that purely means that that individual is a homophobic. Fifty eight percent of our population disapproves of same-sex relationships (â€Å"The Other Side†). It is vital for a child to live in a stable environment in order to be healthy, both mentally and physically. As of now, over fifty percent of heterosexual marriages are ending in divorce. Homosexuals are not allowed to marry each other even though they love and honor each other. â€Å"Marriage is for people in love; homosexuals love; ergo marriage is for them† (Stengel 2). The love that they have could be united to make a â€Å"legal† family for a child to live in. Divorce, in some cases, will make a child feel insecure or could lead them to believe that all love ends in divorce. There are many single parent families in today’s society. One argument of homose... Free Essays on Homosexual Parenting Free Essays on Homosexual Parenting Controversial issues effect the society because they lead people to choose a side, causing conflicts. Homosexual parenting is one of the main uprising controversies in today’s’ society. Homosexual parenting is viewed morally wrong by society, but in many cases, homosexual parents provide more love, happiness, and securities for the children than do the heterosexual parents-Homosexual parents give the healthy, economically stable, and safe environment that children need. One reason why homosexual parenting is not accepted, is because of the belief that the child will become a homosexual. Although practically all psychiatrists have concluded that children cannot be â€Å"turned† gay, people still believe this can happen (Cloud â€Å"Can a Scout Be Gay?†). Recent studies have shown that there are a higher percentage of children in homosexual families that are gay or lesbian (Camille). Others conclude that this is false and there are no differences in homosexual parenting and heterosexual parenting. If there are more lesbians or gays in homosexual families and one has a problem with that, that purely means that that individual is a homophobic. Fifty eight percent of our population disapproves of same-sex relationships (â€Å"The Other Side†). It is vital for a child to live in a stable environment in order to be healthy, both mentally and physically. As of now, over fifty percent of heterosexual marriages are ending in divorce. Homosexuals are not allowed to marry each other even though they love and honor each other. â€Å"Marriage is for people in love; homosexuals love; ergo marriage is for them† (Stengel 2). The love that they have could be united to make a â€Å"legal† family for a child to live in. Divorce, in some cases, will make a child feel insecure or could lead them to believe that all love ends in divorce. There are many single parent families in today’s society. One argument of homose...

Reflective Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Reflective Paper - Essay Example Based on this assumption, health is considered as a managed system and the role of nursing is to support the adaptation of their patients to that environment. The adoptive modes under this theoretical model comprise of physiologic, self concept, role function and interdependence. (Benner). This approach is considered as holistic in nature as it attempts to be unifying and purposeful and as such since health is considered as a positive response towards environment. Therefore, the role of the nurse is to promote such an adaptation. As described above that I live in a very small town and most of the patients are poor with lesser access to better health opportunities. Therefore, as a nurse, I always remain focused on facilitating them to cope with their environment. As a part of this process, my experiences are really related to facilitating my patients to understand and learn as to how to deal with four different adoptive modes. As a part of this reflection. However, I feel that real life experiences do not fully match or augment this theory because there are some other factors which restrict the ability of my patients to successfully interact with the environment. Poverty and social isolation have made people ignorant of essential elements required for maintaining a healthy interaction with their environment. As a part of my duty, I also consider that though my patients need nursing care, and they are the focus of my nursing care. However, I fail to clearly establish as to really when that nursing care is indicated. At the individual level and being a part of a society which lacks adequate economic resources, my ability to manipulate different stimuli in order to promote adoptive responses is limited. I still remember one of my patients who could not cope with her mental disorder situation only because of the lack of resources either social or

Cold War Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Cold War - Essay Example Soviet Union tried to empower communism all over the world while United States and its alliance supported many countries of the world to weaken the communism. After the end of World War II, the Soviet unions decided to spread communism all over the world. The United States determined to stop the spread of Soviet power and communism. For this purpose it provided much financial support to its alliance. The alliances were democracies that were not in favor of communists too. Though they were not able to stop the spread of communism in Eastern Europe, the U.S and Britain were determined to preserve Western Europe from the reach of communists. In the World War II Soviet Union has gained much popularity in the West Europe due to the resistance against the Nazi forces. So there was a chance of election of communist parties in France and Italy. Harry Trumann was the first US president started to fight the cold War. Britain was the first country that investigated for the nuclear weapons' development. In 1945, Britain was an activist world power. It possessed the second largest national navy, and its Empire-Commonwealth was genuinely global. The Dominions stretched from Canada to Australia, New Zealand and South Africa; it had colonial possessions from the north to the south of the African continent, to the east of Suez, in south and south-east Asia, as well as many scattered, and often strategic, island outposts. India was proclaimed as the 'jewel in the crown' of the Empire. A major problem for the historians analyzing the impact of military expenditure on the usual working of the economy of a country just after the war is the fact ignored by the liberal economic theory. This theoretical shortfall reflects the fact that the mobilization for industrial warfare can only be achieved through suspending the normal economic operation. While accepting necessity to plan the wartime economy, most British economists considered that after the hostilities and War activities, the resources will be allocated to the market as usual. This is what the liberal economists oppose. As a part of conversion, the British policy makers faced crucial situation about scaling down the Britain's efforts with its diminished economy and military power in the post war world. Alec Ciancross accepts that the Britain's Defence efforts may have been extraordinarily large and says that the real problem for Britain was the role it was asked to play was beyond its strength. But the other historians criticize the leadership of Britain who did not face the fact that Britain would not be able to meet the global military commitments. The question arises here is this that did the excessive military costs were responsible for low investment leading to weak economy of Britain Usually it seems to be answered that the short term expenses of the war would not affect the long term economy policies. Defence economists analyze short term and even small changes in the economy and

Data Set Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Data Set - Essay Example What is the range of a set of data? Refers to the difference between the highest and the lowest data values of a given data set What is another name for the lower quartile? The first quartile What is the lower quartile? It divides the lower fourth of the data set from the upper three fourths What are the other two names for the middle quartile? The median, the second quartile What is the middle quartile? It refers to the overall median term of a given data set What is another name for the upper quartile? Third quartile What is the upper quartile? It is the median of the data values in the upper half of a data set What is the 5 number summary of a set of data? low value, lower quartile, median, upper quartile, high value What is a box plot? Refers to plot that shows the five number summary visually with a rectangular box enclosing the lower and upper quartiles, a line marking the median and whiskers extending to the minimum and maximum values. The term standard deviation sounds really scary, but it is not really a horrible monster what is it a measure of? It is a measure of spread or variation What is the formula we use to find the standard deviation of a set of data? standard deviation=√(sum of (deviations from mean)^2/total number of data values-1) What is the range rule of thumb? It is the relationship between the standard deviation and the range given by

The importance of structure in The Agamemnon Essay Example for Free

The importance of structure in The Agamemnon Essay The Agamemnon is a classic Greek tragedy written by Aeschylus in which he entails the continuation of the curse on the house of Atreus in the time period following the end of the Trojan War and the return of King Agamemnon. This play tells of the murders of Cassandra and Agamemnon-by-Agamemnons wife Clytemestra. Throughout the play many aspects have a profound effect on the structure. Things such as the chorus, audience, the use of common literary devices such as buts and ellipses as well as foreshadowing and flashback had an immense effect on the overall structure of the play The Agamemnon. In The Agamemnon the structure had a huge effect on the overall outcome and appearance of the play. To begin, the chorus had a very large effect on the structure of The Agamemnon. In a small way it lets the reader/audience know about things taking place outside the realm of the plays setting. This was not as important at the time this play would have been performed, but in this modern era it is very important that the chorus inform the audience with past events like the outcome of the Trojan War and the death of Iphagania. Such as in this case Then the elder king found voice and said: This fate is hard to disobey, and hard I obey. Sever my child-my palace pearl? Bloody my hands in that virgin flood? A fathers hands at the alter side? Oh which is worse? But how can I betray my fleet and fail my allies? They are right in their fury-bound frenzy to imprecate the winds to calm by the blood of a virgin sacrificedI hope it my be well! If not for excerpts such as that one modern readers as well as some audience members in the past would not know the story of Iphagania and how it made Aga memnon make a choice no one would want to face and one in which the decision led to his death. The chorus informing the audience/reader things they might not know provides a colossal influence on the structure of the play, without them the reader might become confused or lost in some of the occurrences that take place throughout the story. Yet the chorus makes the structure flow better for the reader to become more involved in the situation of the play. That is not the only way, in which the chorus affects the structure of The Agamemnon, there is another vital way in which the chorus affects the structure. The other very important way is in which the chorus affects the structure is the way that the chorus represents the idea of the average people of the time  period; the people the audience/reader can relate to the best and understand the situations that take place throughout this Greek classic. This aspect of the play affects the structure in a very large way. It gives the reader/audience a viewpoint that is easily understandable, a message that is meant for them and not the upper class that would not be provided without Aeschylus use of the chorus. That use makes the structure more broad, showing different viewpoints, which is always important when writing. Also it builds up the drama of the climax by having the chorus use time and show their own ideas. The chorus makes structure of The Agamemnon flow much more fluidly, and provides a way for Aeschylus to draw out the play and make the reader wait and wonder what will happen, both of which affected the structure of The Agamemnon in a very immense way, which makes the play much better. Secondly, the audience plays an important role in the overall structure of the play. Due to the particular audience that would have seen that play during its time of origin the structure is set up in a way that was contemporary in that time period. In other words, the expectations of the audience were in tune with the life style of that era and the authors diction chose reflected those expectations. Therefore the audience during the time the play was written in has a great importance on the structure of common literary devices such as the use of buts and ellipses as well as foreshadowing and flashback. For that reason the style Aeschylus wrote this play was one in which the audience would receive it. Yet although the audience was important to the structure then, it is inadvertently still very important now. Aeschylus explains things happening around these people, whether for drama or some other reason to keep the anticipation of the audience at hand-it is still there and this structural point by Aeschylus tells people who would be the audience today of very important aspects of the Trojan War and other past events that they would not know of. Yet all of these structural things tie together and are intertwined to make their impact on the play and thus show why they all, including the audience, have a vast bearing on the structure of the play and therefore have an impact on the outcome and appearance of The Agamemnon for the better. Thirdly, the use of buts and ellipses also play an important role on why the structure has an impact on the overall outcome of The Agamemnon. Buts mean that an argument has been provided, or there are two sides to the story. Showing both sides of something is extremely important both in life and literature and can be seen many times throughout The Agamemnon. Clytemnestra says But even losing suits a mighty man. this means that a mighty man wining would be the usual thing, but losing would still suit him and therefore two sides of something are presented which is huge in structure. Ellipses are also very important to the structure. They cause a very necessary an important break which is common in Greek literature and therefore in The Agamemnon. How I hold him in my heartSuch shyness wears away in time. The pause created by the ellipse exaggerates the point created that Clytemnestra missed Agamemnon in his long absence (which she didnt). The buts and ellipses provide an enormous role in the structure of the play; Aeschylus used them impeccably to enhance the structure and therefore improve the total play due to the use of the structure. Finally, the use of foreshadowing and flashbacks has an enormous effect on the structure in The Agamemnon. Aeschylus as well as many other ancient Greek writers used these literary tools to their perfection. Aeschylus uses flashbacks through many people throughout the play by describing past events, events that were flashbacked to give background information which is vital to a complete understanding of the play. The flashbacks are important to the structure of The Agamemnon because they relate to so many other aspects of why the structure is so important to the play. The chorus, which is very important to the play, uses flashbacks all the time and without them the structure of the play would seem very strange and extremely different from the way in which it reads now. Some of the ways in which Aeschylus incorporates flashbacks and foreshadowing into The Agamemnon is both interesting and important to the structure of the play. One of the ways in which this is very clear is how both flashbacks and foreshadowing are used through the character Cassandra. Cassandra is Agamemnons spoil of war, he took her as a victory prize after the Trojan War and she is gift with the power of insight and she can therefore see into the future and she is also aware of the history of the house of Atreus. Therefore this gift of insight  will clearly have an obvious affect on the foreshadowing in the play as it can be seen here, So, then I go To sing the dirge of my own demise And Agamemnon too within the palace. Enough of life! O unknown men, good-bye! I am no little bird that quivers at a bushs stir. But when I am dead and when you see A women for a women die, A man for a man ill-mated lie, Then remember what I said: My dying wishremember itmy prophecy. as said by Cassandra just prior to her death. This is an amazing aspect to the structure of the play, it is a way to foreshadow and keep the reader/audience interested in the outcome and to keep reading to find out if what Cassandra says will come true. Cassandra is truly a dynamic character who is very important to the structure because within the play she also uses the literary tool of flashbacks, this character makes the structure of The Agamemnon much more vibrant than it would have been. Flashbacks and foreshadowing are important to the structure of any work, yet in Aeschylus they are used so perfectly and eloquently that they in-turn have a big impact on the structure, which consequently has a gigantic outcome on the play itself. In conclusion, the structure of The Agamemnon had a huge effect on the overall outcome and appearance of the play. Aeschylus used many different things to enhance the structure of his play, all of these things intertwined into similar aspects of looking into the past or future, the chorus, audience, buts and ellipses, and flashbacks/foreshadowing all used some to improve the structure of the play in their own unique way. Many of Aeschyluss ideas on the structure connect and have a huge effects on The Agamemnon.

Production And Processing Of Maize

Production And Processing Of Maize Maize is the third largest planted crop after wheat and rice. It is mostly used and traded as a leading feed crop but is also an important food staple. In addition to food and feed, maize has wide range of industrial applications as well; from food processing to manufacturing of ethanol. Maize grown is primarily of three types Grain or field Maize, Sweet Maize used mainly as food Popcorn. There are four types of Grain Maize: (a) Dent Maize has a pronounced depression or dent at the crown of the kernels, (b) Flint Maize has the hard starch layer entirely surrounding the outer part of the kernel, (c) Flour, or soft, Maize contains almost entirely soft starch, with only a very thin layer of hard starch and (d) Waxy Maize has a wax-like endosperm 1.1 Global Maize Production The total area under maize cultivation in the world is 139 million hectares with a production of 598 million MT (mMT). Major producers are USA (240mMT), China (125 mMT), European Union (39 mMT), Brazil (37 mMT), Mexico (19 mMT), Argentina (14 mMT) and India (11 mMT). Among all cereals, maize occupies the fifth largest area, fourth largest in output and third largest in yield. Over the past two decades, global maize production has increased by nearly 50 percent, or 1.8 percent annual compound growth rate. 1.2 India Maize Production India is the tenth largest producer with a production of 11.10 mMT from an area of 6.6 million ha. The average yield in India is 1.77 MT/ha which is very low as against 7 MT/ha in temperate areas of developed economies and 3.8 MT/ha of global average. Maize is cultivated in almost all states in the country. Andhra Pradesh is the leading producer in India followed by Karnataka, Bihar, Maharashtra, Tamilnadu, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat in the year 2009-10. The crop is grown both in Kharif and Rabi seasons in India with a share of 85 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively. Since the maize is rain dependent, it is mainly grown during kharif season. Maize Area, Production and Yield in India have seen a phenomenal growth over the last five decades and India has emerged from being a net importer to levels of self sufficiency. 1.3 Price Analyses of Maize for last five years If we examine the price trend of maize in Indian market, prices will be on their peak during the months of July-August. From August onwards prices start declining owing to start of kharif season. Price of maize mainly depends upon supply demand structure. One important thing that is visible from the trends is that from the last 3 years price fluctuations within a year is showing same trend. Government announces MSP (minimum support price) of maize every year and the prices are showing an upward trend. The continuous demand for maize in poultry industry and lesser predicted area in the kharif helped the prices to rule around higher side. 1.4 Utilization pattern of Maize in India The below figure depicts the utilization pattern of maize in India. A major portion (46.5%) is used as poultry feed, followed by 33% for human consumption and 11% animal feed. Only 9% is used in starch industry and 0.5% in brewery industry 1.5 Milling of Maize Wet milling produces Maize oil, Maize steep liquor, Maize gluten feed and Maize gluten meal. In contrast to wet milling, dry milling produces only carbon-dioxide and distillers dried grains soluble as by-products but has become the favoured approach for Maize ethanol production due to lower start-up costs. Maize kernels are degerminated by grinding or centrifugation to produce seed germ which produces Maize oil. The starch, gluten and fiber is left after degermination, from which gluten is used to extract Maize gluten meal which is a high-protein animal feed, starch undergoes liquification and saccharification followed by fermentation to form Maize gluten feed when combined with fibres. Fermentation also results in formation of ethanol. The most striking new development has been the rapid expansion in the ethanol industry which has also brought about a sudden increase in the supply of Distillers Grains (DG). Under the dry-milling process, when maize is fermented to alcohol, around one-third of the Dry Matter (DM) is recovered in co-products which, in turn, are further processed into a variety of feed ingredient products. The conversion from DM to DG involves starch fermentation which eventually produces two feed co-products: Maize Condensed Distillers Solubles (CDS) and Maize Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), which are rich in essential nutrients such as protein, fat, minerals. Aside from Distillers Grains, which result from the dry milling process, there are several other maize co-products used in feed rations, mostly derived from the more traditional wet milling process. One ton of maize through wet milling produces 29 kg of Maize oil, 241 kg of 21% protein gluten feed, and 46 kg of 60% gluten meal. In addition to it, either one among starch (571 kg) or sweetener (589 kg) or ethanol (402 kg) can be produced. The most common ones are: Maize Gluten Meal: Dried high protein (almost 60 percent) feed source. It is a residue from maize after the removal of the larger part of the starch and germ, the separation of the bran by the process employed in the wet-milling manufacture of maize starch or syrup. It is commonly used by the poultry industry, farm animal feed in fish and pet food. It is also used in cattle feed. Maize Gluten Feed: Is that part of the commercial shelled maize that remains after the extraction of the larger portion of the starch, gluten, and germ by the processes employed in the wet milling manufacture of maize starch or syrup. It is used in complete feeds for dairy and beef cattle, poultry, swine and pet foods. Maize Seed Cake: With over 17 percent protein, it is considered ideal feed for breeding chickens, ducks, geese, pigs, fish, and other livestock. Maize Germ Meal: Typically contains more than 20 percent protein and 9.5 percent fiber. It has an amino acid balance that makes it valuable in poultry and swine rations. It is also used as a carrier of liquid feed nutrients. Liquid Feed Syrup: It is a highly concentrated feed syrup; high in protein and energy. This product is typically added to enhance an animal feed ration. 2. OUR BUSINESS MODEL Maize has multiple uses both for domestic as well as industrial purposes. The usage pattern as seen earlier in the report varies for human direct consumption to industrial chemical production mainly in the form of ethanol/alcohol. Since maize is a multi-seasonal crop i.e. it is harvested in both the season of rabi and kharif so we have the liberty of designing a business which has the capacity to consume maize throughout the year. When we worked out the financials for the main industries based on maize , we found out that out of ethanol, starch and poultry feed businesses the most profitable are poultry-feed from maize and ethanol from maize stover. So we would we making ethanol from stover and poultry feed from the maize, in this way we would be utilizing whole of the maize plant material and providing the farmers with a much better returns that what they are getting at present. Product Cost incurred(Rs. Per tonne) Revenues(Rs. Per tonne) Profit(Rs. Per tonne) Maize(whole) 9000 10500 1050 Poultry feed 9400 12000 2600 Starch 10000 12000 2000 In the initial phase we propose to use the maize stover (the left out part of the plant after the grains are removed) for the production of fuel grade ethanol which is procured by the government oil marketing companies under a contractual basis at pre-determined prices set by them. The maize grains are stored in silos which could be sold post-harvest season when the prices goes up by 20-30% ever year, which is evident from the price variation cycle shown above (fig 3). Presently we are using maize stover as raw material but straw of other crops like wheat, rice and millets having cellulose content can also be used as starting material in ethanol production. If we ever face shortage of maize stover in our plants capacity utilization then we can procure other raw materials from the same farmers. The location which we are planning to setup our plant is in the Dhaod district of Gujarat. This area has the highest maize production in the state along with the bordering areas of Madhya Pradesh. This is geographically near to the industrial areas of Vadodra and Ahmedabad, which are large consumers of starch and bio-fuel ethanol (As large oil refineries operate near Vadodra so we would not be having any problem in selling the ethanol in markets. And starch based industries are located in and around Ahmedabad which consumes starch in large quantities). The procurement of maize along with Stover would lead to an increase in the working capital requirement but that would be offset by the increased revenues from the sale of that maize. Also the solid matter that would be left out as an affluent during the fermentation process would be useful as feedstock material. The carbon dioxide produced will be sold as industrial CO2 which will make the whole process of ethanol processing a clean development process, with zero carbon emission. As depicted in the table 1 below, total cost/litre of ethanol is lowest from maize stover for equal amount of raw material consumed. Input Procurement (Rs/ton) Enzyme Cost (Rs/ton) Ethanol Yield (Litre/ton) Total Cost (Rs/Litre) Sugarcane 640 Negligible 72 9 Maize 8500 Negligible 450 11 Maize Stover 2000 700 300 7 3. ETHANOL FROM MAIZE STOVER 3.1 Customer value proposition: Our main customer is government that would be procuring ethanol from our plant. The customer value that we are creating is the availability of ethanol throughout the year for successfully implementing the E5, E10 and gradually E20 grade ethanol. The ample amount of availability would help in reducing the dependency on imported fuel that we are consuming right now. Also mixing of ethanol into diesel reduces emission from vehicles as it has higher per cent age of oxygen in it. There is a huge deficit of around 650m litres of ethanol for blending in diesel. The bio-fuel policy of India, states that by 2017 the country should fully implement the E20 standards for EBP. E20 means blending 20% ethanol in the diesel, but at present ethanol is not sufficient for even meeting the E5 standards. As the production of fuel ethanol comes under the category of bio-fuel as defined by the ministry of non-renewal energy, government of India, so we would be eligible for a 25% rebate on capital investmen t. 3.2 Demand and Supply of Ethanol : When will the oil run out? Various estimates put this anywhere from 20 years from now to less than a century in the future. The shortfall in energy might eventually be made up by developments in nuclear fission, fuel cells and renewable energy sources, but what can substitute for gasoline and diesel in the internal combustion engine powered vehicles that will continue to be built worldwide till then? Hence the bio-organic chemists have begun to crystallize, unlocking the vast chemical larder and workshop of natural microbes and plants to invent the technologies required for industrial-scale production of bio-ethanol . Maize accumulates starch that can, after hydrolysis to glucose, serve as the substrate for ethanol fermentation. Maize starch is a more expensive carbon substrate for bio-ethanol production, but if maize stover is used as starting material for ethanol production then it is economically more viable. The product has a potential rival in the form of bio-hydrogen which coul d provide the only workable solution to meeting global energy supplies and mitigating carbon-dioxide accumulation but it is still in a nascent stage. Globally, ethanol has been used as an automotive fuel since the early 1900. However, the usage of ethanol as fuel gained momentum only after the 1970s with the launch of the Pro-alcohol programme in Brazil. Until 1975, the year of the launch of the Pro-alcohol programme in Brazil, the ethanol market was predominantly beverages and industrial. Thereafter, the fuel ethanol market grew substantially and it accounted for 80 % of the world ethanol production in 2010. The global ethanol industry with 19,227 mn gallons of production during CY09 has grown substantially over the years due to the focus on bio-fuels. During the period of 1975-2009, the global production of ethanol grew at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 11.86%. The rising crude oil prices, coupled with the increasing quest for energy security and reducing green house gas emissions have fuelled the global ethanol industry. The United States of America and Brazil are the two major ethanol producers across the globe. These two countries together accounted for almost 89% of the total global ethanol production in 2009. The fermentation route using sugary or sugar-yielding material and yeast has been in practice in India since long for the production of alcohol or Ethanol. Most of the Ethanol produced (almost 95%) is through the fermentation route. Grains like rice, corn or maize, barley-malt, rye, wheat, sorghum etc., starchy bulbs and vegetables like cassava (tapioca) and potatoes are commonly used for producing ethanol under the fermentation route in India. In India, ethanol is mostly produced from molasses obtained during the process of crushing sugarcane. 3.3 Classification of ethanol: Ethanol can be classified on the basis of uses, production route and on the basis of composition: 1. On the basis of the uses, it can be classified as beverage ethanol, industrial ethanol and ethanol fuel: a. Beverage Ethanol: ethanol used in alcoholic spirits such as vodka and shochu. b. Industrial Ethanol: ethanol used as a feedstock for alcohol-based chemicals such as paints and inks. c. Ethanol fuel: ethanol used as an automotive fuel (can be used for blending with petrol). 2. On the basis of the production route ethanol can be classified as fermented ethanol and synthetic ethanol. 3. On the basis of the composition, ethanol can be classified as hydrous and anhydrous. (Hydrous ethanol contains about 5% of the water content whereas anhydrous ethanol contains 0.5% of the water content) Year Petrol demand Mt Ethanol blending requirement (in metric tons) Diesel demand Mt Biodiesel blending requirement (in metric tons) @5 % @10% @20 % @ 5% @10% @20% 2006-2007 10.07 0.50 1.01 2.01 52.32 2.62 5.23 10.46 2011-2012 12.85 0.64 1.29 2.57 66.91 3.35 6.69 13.38 2016-2017 16.40 0.82 1.64 3.28 83.58 4.18 8.36 16.72 3.4 Process description The maize stovers are generally harvested during the month of September October in kharif season maize and in March- April for Rabi season maize. The maize stovers can be kept in the open after the harvest as the requirement is round the year in the factory. But the use of concrete slabs over which the stovers are kept will be a good option to minimize the spoilage. Sometimes the polythene sheets can be used to prevent spoilage from rainfall. The requirement of the stovers is 1000 MT/day. 1. Washing of the stovers: The first process in the factory is the washing of the stovers to remove the dust, soil etc. The water is sprayed on the stack of stovers in high pressure and thus the soil and other solid particles are removed. 2. Pretreatment Hydrolysate conditioning: After washing of the stovers they are sent for pretreatment. By this process most of the hemicellulose parts of the stovers are converted into soluble sugars like xylose, mannose, arabinose, and galactose using dilute sulfuric acid at high temperature. After reaction there is formation of aldehydes which is over limed by adding lime, the pH raise to 10 and thus gypsum is formed which is filtered out and the hydrolyzate is mixed with the solid before sent to saccharification and co-fermentation. 3. Presteamer at low pressure: Before sending to the reactor the pretreated stovers are passed through the steam at low pressure to remove the non-condensable that can take up space in the reactor. The low pressure steam is passed by the valve for 20 minutes and then the stover is flash cooled and sent to the reactor. 4. Reactor: In the reactor first the stovers are steamed and then the acid is added to the reactor. Before adding the acid to the reactor the concentrated acid is diluted. 5. Saccharification and co-fermentation: These are two different processes: i. Saccharification In this process the cellulose is converted to glucose with cellulose enzyme. It is a collection of enzymes and comprises of endoglucanase, exoglucanase and beta-glucosidase. Trichoderma reesei is the bacterium which is used for the commercial production of enzyme cellulase. The whole process takes 24 hrs. ii. Co-fermentation The formed glucose and other sugar is fermented to form ethanol. The bacteria used in this step are Z. mobilis which acts as a biocatalyst and will ferment glucose and xylose in ethanol. This whole process takes 36hrs. 6. Distillation, dehydration, evaporation and solid liquid separation: Distillation is accomplished in two columns the first, called the beer column, removes the dissolved CO2 and most of the water, and the second concentrates the ethanol. Fermentation vents (containing mostly CO2, but also some ethanol) as well as the beer column vent are scrubbed in a water scrubber, recovering nearly all of the ethanol. The scrubber effluent is fed to the first distillation column along with the fermentation beer. The leftover liquid and the slurry are sent to the waste water treatment plant from where the water is recycled for further use. 3.5 Financials of ethanol production We have a total installed capacity of 90000 tonnes per annum, of which the capacity utilization in the initial years would go up from 50% to 90% in the subsequent years. The fixed cost is 50crores which is 39% of the total investment required. Raw material cost is 43% in the first year of the total investment. Warehousing cost and other variable costs including that of salaries and transportation, etc. amounts to 3% and 8% of the total cost respectively. The profit after tax in the first year of operations totals to around 24crore. The break-even point is achieved in the second year of operations Year % 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Installed Capacity (ton/year) 90000 90000 90000 90000 90000 Capacity utilisation 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% Ethanol production(ton/year) 45000 54000 63000 72000 81000 Price(Rs/ton) 24000 24000 24000 24000 24000 Revenue( Rs in Crore) 108 129.6 151.2 172.8 194.4 ( Rs in Crore) Fixed Cost 39 50 Raw Material 43 55.5 66.6 77.7 88.8 99.9 Warehousing 3 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 Transportation 1 1.7 2.0 2.4 2.7 3.0 Direct Labor 2 2.1 2.1 2.1 2.1 2.1 Admin Costs 1 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.7 Energy Costs 2 2.3 2.7 3.2 3.6 4.1 Waste Disposal 1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 1.1 Other V.C 8 11.5 12.2 13.0 13.8 14.6 Total Cost 128.4 91.1 103.8 116.4 129.1 Benefit Cost -20.4 38.5 47.4 56.4 65.3 4. MAIZE STARCH PROCESSING: Maize is generally processed to manufacture Maize starch by wet milling method the world over. The by-products of starch manufacture, like Maize oil, Maize steep liquor, gluten etc. are the important value added products. The average processing capacity of the units in India is 200 MT of maize / day. There are plants with as high crushing capacity as 400 MT/day. However, there is no plant in the country with crushing capacity of less than 100 MT/ day. The selection of technology is very important as regards to the viability of the unit is concerned. Critical Factors in setting up a maize processing plant include Raw Material, Land, Water, Steam, Technology and an Effluent treatment plant. A plant of 100 MT of wet milling maize crushing capacity per day is considered as a minimum viable unit. A unit of this capacity will produce the following products. The plant will function in 3 shifts per day and 8 hour per shift. Keeping in view, the nature of activity the capacity utilization of 50%, 70% and 90%, during first, second and third year onwards can be achieved easily. The project cost for setting up of a 100 MT wet milling of maize per day has been assessed at Rs. 14.32crores (Refer to Annexure 4 for details.) 5. POULTRY FEED FACTORY The poultry feed plant of the capacity of 30000 tons/year. The total capital investment is about Rs.60lacs. In the first year the expected revenues are around 18crores, this is at the annual capacity utilization of 50%. The PAT is 2.63crore and the NPV of the project comes out to be 18.93crore at the discount rate of 15% per annum. (Refer to annexure 3 for details). 6. ECONOMIES OF SCALE, SCOPE AND INTEGRATION Economies of Scale: Producing Ethanol from Corn at low levels is not financially viable. We need to increase the production levels for a sustainable and a profitable business. Therefore the Economies of Scale have to be high but they are still comparatively less than other Manufacturing industries. It relies heavily on the cost of corn and other energy inputs. High Economies of scale helps us in reducing transportation as well as Marketing costs. Economies of Scope: Maize oil, Gluten Feed, Gluten meal, Starch and Ethanol can be produced through wet milling method. Ethanol is produced from corn stover. Starch can be used for producing various other products. Producing Ethanol from Corn at low levels is not financially viable. We need to increase the production levels for a sustainable and a profitable business. Therefore the Economies of Scale have to be high but they are still comparatively less than other Manufacturing industries. It relies heavily on the cost of corn and other energy inputs. High Economies of scale helps us in reducing transportation as well as Marketing costs. Economies of Integration: Forward integration involves processing of maize stover to produce ethanol. Wet milling of maize is done to produce starch. Maize can also be used to produce poultry feed. 7. RISKS INVOLVED: Supply Side Risks Price Impact on Input Cost: At this point, ethanol plants are dependent on a constant supply of maize for their survival in fuel production. This gives the supplier the ultimate industry power until we achieve alternative feasible sources. The elasticity of demand is inelastic in most cases, or at least until the price of corn rises to the point where ethanol plants would be very unprofitable in production. The price is given for the input and we don t have much choice in refusing because ethanol plants need to run at as close as possible to capacity in order to be most efficient. In this scenario, ethanol will be passed off at a higher price, but also the ethanol plants will eat some of the cost in order to stay competitive. Demand Side Risks Government Policy: Right now Government offers incentives to blenders who buy from Ethanol plants; in case there is any change in policy there could be a decrease in the demand of ethanol from blenders. Government currently does not allow companies to import ethanol from foreign market to meet their domestic requirements, in case there is any change in this policy there could be a decrease in demand of ethanol from various ethanol plants in our country. Competition: With increase in competition, the supply demand gap currently in the market will decrease, which will lead to less demand of ethanol from various plants. Competition exists in the form of ethanol produced from Jatropha and other plants. 8. PORTER S 5 FORCE ANALYSIS OF THE INDUSTRY 9. VALUE ADDITION Value can be added to the product by form, place and time. In our case we are producing ethanol from maize stovers. The different value additions in our project are- 1. By form We are processing maize Stover, which has very less economic value to the farmer and converting it into ethanol. The value is added by processing cheap maize Stover to ethanol, which has high price and demand. Thus by processing, the form is changed leading to value addition in the produce. We would be using the maize grains for production of poultry feed which is found out to be a viable option. 2. By place We are adding value to the Maize stover by taking it from the farms to the factory gate. The stover in farms does not fetch much value but once it reach to processing unit, it can be converted into ethanol, which is more valuable. We are also procuring maize grains from the farmers and selling it in the market, where, we can fetch comparatively more value. 3. By time We are procuring maize grains during the harvesting season when prices are normally low. The grains will be then stored for the period of four months and afterwards sold at higher prices. Thus storing the maize for some time will provide us comparatively more value. 10. SOCIAL IMPACT 1. By procuring Maize Stover from the farmers, which is otherwise has a low economical value to them, we are providing with the additional source of income to the farmers. The additional benefit to the farmers is expected to be around Rs.2000-2500 per acre . 2. The ethanol produced by us finds its use as the additive in petrol. The addition of ethanol will reduce the emission of green house gases proportionately, thus our product is eco-friendly. 11. SCOPE OF CO-OPERATIVE The back bone of our business model is the continuous supply of maize throughout the year. In order to attain maximum utilization capacity of the plant we need a high and undisruptive supply. The location where the plant would be set is surrounded by villages indulged in rain fed agriculture practices, and they are our raw material suppliers. These types of practices are risky for our business model, so in order to abate the risk Cooperative could be formed. This will help the farmers to reap benefits of the cooperatives. Cooperative will also ensure un-interruptive maize (also Stover of other plants) supply to our plant. This cooperative model would not be maize specific. Backward integration will be done if the results would be as per expectation in the starting years.