Monday, September 30, 2019

Managing People Motivation Essay

Human resources are the Heart and soul of the organization. It is important that you should manage them effectively to optimize the full utilization of their talents. It is not enough to attract and retain talented people, you should motivate them to use their talents. Keeping an employee working at full potential is the ultimate goal of employee motivation. The employment contract provides a symbolic relationship between employers and employees. Employers expect employees to work hard, committed to the values of the organization, loyal and dependable, keep the work standards set by management, observe the rules and regulations and provide output in terms of product or services that are of good quality. Employees, on other hand that they should be rewarded well and equitably, treated fair and humanely, provide opportunities for career development and promotion given work that suits their abilities and have a happy and safe working environment. The success of the business is largely dependent upon the ability of the managers to motivate workers to achieve the high results. Managing people motivation is a must. Definition of Motivation Motivation is the internal condition that activates behavior and gives it direction; energizes and directs goal-oriented behavior. Motivation Helps explain why people do the things they doo. Understandin motivation is a major concern f all managers. History of Motivation The oldest technique used to motivate others is known today as the Carrot and Stick method. The name evolved from the stubbornness of the donkeys that could only be moved by taunting them with carrots. Early managers regularly offered economic â€Å"carrots† to entice people to work harder. This theory created misconception that money always motivated people to work harder. The awakening field of psychology was looking for a new way to motivate people, and n short time, managers would begin looking for psychologist for new methods of management. On 1923 Elton Mayo made clear the inadequacy of the pure carrot and stick motivation. Performing an experiment Philadelphia textile mill, Mayo concluded that the reason for the low was hat spinners had low opportunities to communicate with one another. Financial incentives failed to increase productivity. Mayo felt that the solution to his productivity problem was change the atmosphere of the workplace. The introduction of (2) ten minute break for the spinners produced immediate results. Morale improved and output increase tremendously. The spinners experiment confirmed Mayo belief that it was important for managers take into the account the psychology and well being of the worker. The Era of Industry Psychology Douglas McGregor was one of the few Americans n the 1950s who believed that the workers actually cared about doing good work. Building tradition with roots in the early work of pioneers such as Elton Mayo, He questioned a deeply held assumption that guided managerial efforts for centuries. He and the other psychologist held the view that it was unfair and bad psychology. They argued that people’s skills, attitudes, energy and commitment are resources that can make or unmake the enterprise. This new era of industrial psychology led to a sensitive understanding of people and their symbolic relationship with organization. 1. Organization exist to serve human needs rather than the reverse. 2. People and Organization need each other 3. When the fit between individual and system is poor, one or both suffer. 4. A good fit benefits both.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Law Conflicts Essay

Situational Analysis on Children in Conflict with the Law and the Juvenile Justice System Atty. Sedfrey Candelaria; Atty. Aleli Domingo; Amanda Roselle Abrera; Geo Carbonell; Ma. Victoria Cardona and Tricia Oco Adhikain Para sa Karapatang Pambata (AKAP) of the Ateneo Human Rights Center, Ateneo Law School and United Nations Children’s Fund, 1998. E-mail: ahrc@acc.aiti.admu.edu.ph/ manila@unicef.org The Philippine Senate, through Resolution No. 109 dated July 20, 1990 ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) paving the way for the Convention’s implementation at the domestic level. This afforded children the set of protective rights related to the juvenile justice system under Articles 37, 39, and 40. The Philippine Government submitted its compliance commentaries on these provisions in its Initial Report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child in 1993. In response, the CRC committee submitted the following principal concerns: †¢ need for national legislation to conform with the convention †¢ need for efficient mechanisms to monitor the situation of these children in conflict with the law †¢ need for compatibility of the present juvenile justice system to the principles and provisions of the convention and other international standards The development of a situational analysis on children in conflict with the law and the juvenile justice system is deemed necessary to guide policy-makers in implementing effective programs and procedures to protect the rights of the child. Purpose of the Research Last May 7, 1997, a consultative meeting was conducted, with representatives from the five pillars of criminal justice: law enforcement, prosecution, courts, correction and the community. The main purpose was to gather more data and to validate initial observations  and analysis on the status of juvenile justice administration in the Philippines. The objectives of the research were therefore constituted as follows: †¢ To analyze data and existing studies on children in conflict with the law; †¢ To assess the current situation of the administration of juvenile justice in light of the principles and relevant provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (e.g. Articles 37, 39 and 40); and †¢ To recommend practical and achievable steps toward reforming the juvenile justice system. Methodology The research team reviewed the data covering 1993 to 1997 on various aspects of the juvenile justice process. This was derived from existing studies, surveys or reports prepared by a number of groups concerned with children in conflict with the law. These materials were supplemented by actual interviews and responses to questionnaires sent to selected institutional respondents. A series of dialogues with judges of designated courts for children’s cases were also conducted from April to June 1997. Findings The data reveals that while there are Philippine laws, rules and regulations applicable to children in conflict with the law, prosecution and trial procedures in general do not make distinctions between adult and youthful offenders facing charges before the courts. As regards the profile of the Filipino child in conflict with the law, findings show that the youthful offender is: usually male; between the ages of fourteen (14) to seventeen (17) years; an elementary graduate; a middle child from a low-income family with four (4) to six (6) members; charged with property related crimes (robbery and theft); and, exposed to drugs or gang influence. The experience of a number of youthful offenders with the various stages of the juvenile justice process reveals occasional neglect and insensitivity by duty holders. Analysis The following is a brief analysis of the three sub-sections pertaining to the legal framework and processes, institutional framework, and the narrative and statistical report. It will underscore the strengths as well the gaps of the Philippine juvenile justice system as these affect the rights of children in conflict with the law. The discussion of the Philippine legal framework and processes tend to confirm the state of legislative reform in this country, particularly in regard to juvenile justice, as observed by the Committee on the Rights of the Child. It further affirms that while there are laws protecting the rights of children in conflict with the law, Philippine legislators have yet to seriously consider reviewing existing laws. In terms of priority, existing jurisdiction of designated courts over juvenile and domestic relations cases, including cases of youthful offenders, needs to be enhanced by passing legislation on the creation of child and family courts. In line with this reorganization, procedural rules applicable to these courts will be necessary. Therefore, findings of this report on the conduct of court proceedings involving children clearly support: †¢ a move towards restructuring the jurisdiction of some lower courts ; †¢ a set of procedural rules in the handling of children’s cases; and a set of clear-cut criteria for appointment of judges to a specialized child and family court. Various surveys and studies reveal an interesting finding on the average age of youthful offenders to be mostly male and between fourteen (14) andmseventeen (17) years of age. Indeed, this is rather significant in light of the observation of the Committee on the Rights of the Child that Philippine substantive law on the age of penal responsibility is quite low (below nine (9) years). Socio-cultural factors, however, must be closely considered when reviewing the present standard contained in our penal laws and the Child and Youth Welfare Code. Other substantive rights, such as, the constitutional guarantees of an accused are adequately covered by existing laws. The application and practice of these rights in favor of children facing the justice system do not seem to be monitored effectively by the key institutions of the juvenile justice system. An example is the lack of quantitative and qualitative data from the enforcement and judicial sectors concerning compliance with the constitutional and CRC standards on the rights of the youthful offenders at the apprehension, investigation, and trial stages. Selected incidents of violations of the rights of some children arrested, investigated and tried before the courts, as narrated in this report, tend to suggest that there may be more of these incidents in practice occurring at various stages of the juvenile justice process. Non-observance of the CRC standards may be attributed to inadequate training and lack of sensitivity of some law enforcement personnel, prosecutors and even judges in handling of cases of children in conflict with the law. Given the limits of the existing procedural system dealing with youthful offenders, police, prosecutors and judges have sufficient discretion occasionally to ensure that the procedural laws aim at diversion measures rather than passively allow an investigation or judicial process to proceed. It has been emphasized in the said report that every measure be taken to avoid placing the child within the often stressful environment of litigation. Sometimes, this is even aggravated by the protracted delays in the disposition of cases contrary to conventional standards of speedy justice. A more disturbing reality is the unfortunate condition faced by most detained and sentenced youthful offenders in public jails and similar institutions.  Despite clearly stated guidelines, laws and policies regarding the treatment of detained and sentenced juveniles, there exists a startling disregard for a most basic standard. Such is the segregation of children from adult offenders inside detention centers or jails. This continues to stand out as a sore thumb in our review of existing practices on this issue. The objectives of the juvenile justice system could easily be eroded by this situation of youth offenders in detention or those serving sentence. Neither do most physical facilities and development opportunities for detained or sentenced children adequately meet the standards set by the CRC and related U.N. guidelines. The budget allocated by the government for food and other basic necessities hardly promotes the standard to meet all the requirements of health and human dignity. Rehabilitation programs through (non-institutional) community-based services are being resorted to more often by DSWD. This is a move towards the right direction. However, support services are needed in the form of financial assistance, education, and employment for the returning youthful offender. Conclusions One of the remarkable contributions of the CRC to the issue of juvenile justice is the emphasis made on the impact of societal conditions on the growth and development of a child. Several factors contribute to a child’s transformation either into an accomplished member of society or one who finds himself or herself in conflict with the law. Within the context of duties and responsibilities, it may be argued that those with the primary right and duty in the rearing of a child deserve the unqualified support of the State authorities and institutions through the creation of an environment conducive to the wholesome development of a child. This research has confirmed that the situation of children in conflict with the law was better understood when viewed not only within the limited context of the commission of the crime itself. Instead, it focused more directly on the failure of some duty-holders to provide for an environment  that can promote the fullest potential of a child. A convergence of circumstances more often places the child in a situation leading to the commission of a crime. A dysfunctional family relationship, poverty or peer influence create conditions which may push the youth towards conflict with the law. In the Philippine juvenile justice system, the child generally enjoys guarantees distinguishable from adults. However, the judicial process itself, consisting of the criminal procedure and the rules of admissibility of evidence, does not provide an exclusive mode of conducing trial. The juveniles, as accused before courts of general jurisdiction, are designated to a juvenile and domestic relations court. There is a general impression that the revival of exclusive child and family courts may be contribute towards effective management of cases of youthful offenders. The experience of some Filipino youthful offenders with the justice system has been characterized occasionally with neglect and insensitivity by a number of judges, prosecutors and private lawyers, notwithstanding the well-entrenched judicial guarantees. This is not to overlook, however, the recent efforts of inter-agency task forces aimed at raising awareness of the legal profession on the conditions of children in conflict with the law. Society’s attitude towards returning youthful offenders or those in community-based rehabilitation programs is crucial in successfully reintegrating these children. The present report underscores the vulnerability of those youthful offenders staying in â€Å"closed† institutions and prisons. Recommendations After careful analysis and investigation of the situation of children in conflict with the law and realizing the many gaps of the Philippine juvenile justice system, the following recommendations were drawn: †¢ Law enforcement officers, prosecutors, judges, court social welfare officers, public attorneys and legal aid groups should be given orientation seminars  on international human rights instruments and child-related laws with emphasis on juvenile justice †¢ Government agencies and institutions engaged in defending youthful offenders should coordinate their efforts in providing protection to these children by establishing a common monitoring system covering the various stages of the juvenile justice system process. †¢ Specialized juvenile and domestic relations courts should be created. †¢ Support programs for streetchildren and other similarly vulnerable children should be increased as preventive measures. †¢ More facilities exclusively for children who are detained and sentenced should be constructed to prevent mingling with adult offenders. †¢ Community awareness of and involvement in non-institutional rehabilitation programs and services should be enhanced. †¢ Non-governmental organizations engaged in multi-disciplinary outreach programs with children in conflict with the law should form a network to maximize extension of assistance of these children. †¢ A comprehensive review of existing laws and procedures on juvenile justice in light of the CRC and other international standard-setting instruments affecting children in conflict with the law should be undertaken for purposes of law reform.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Abigail progressed Essay

Abigail is the former mistress of John Proctor, and also the previous maid of the Proctor residence. Abigail is the niece of Revered Parris and attempted to practise witchcraft, only to be caught by her uncle. This lead to the arrival of several other characters to precede in the Salem witch trials, where Abigail and her friends act as witnesses. In the beginning of the play, she seems to be dishonest in admitting to witchcraft. When she talks to Parris, she attempts to use Tituba as a scapegoat. â€Å"But we never conjured spirits†¦ She always sings her Barbados songs, and we dance. † Abigail tells this to Parris to attempt to clear her name, as she and her friends are accused of witchcraft by the Reverend. She might be thinking that if she persuades her Uncle long enough, the civil blood between the two would make Parris believe that she is innocent, yet Parris is already concerned over the reputation she is getting from a remark that Elizabeth had supposedly made. â€Å"†¦ she comes so rarely to church this year for she will not sit so close to something soiled†¦ † This has one of the biggest in the opening Act as this sends a message to the audience of what Abigail’s character is based around, and what she is truly like. In my opinion, Miller describes Abigail’s character in this manner as he is trying to contrast her character with that of Elizabeth, in the sense of honesty, as how Elizabeth is described in a later discussion between Proctor and Danforth. Abigail is shown to be a sweet young woman, caring for her relatives. This is shown in the book, which would make you believe that she is innocent. However, in the film of â€Å"The Crucible,† Abigail is shown dancing at the beginning of the first segment. This changes your perspective of the character Abigail, due to the relatively bad thing she is performing, which back in those days and what many people believe even now to be a sin. â€Å"In her life sir, she never lied†¦ my wife cannot lie† Therefore Abigail is said to lie a great deal, whilst Elizabeth hardly ever lies. Abigail is quick to change her attitude to the girls, intimidating them into a worrisome state. She speaks to her so called ‘friends’ about the consequences of telling of the witchery they attempted to perform. She uses a natural power she has to strike terror in the hearts of her friends. She also shows how maniacal and ruthless she can be. â€Å"Let either of you breathe a word†¦ and I will come in the black of some terrible night and I will bring a pointy reckoning that will shudder you. † Abigail says this to her group of girls as she aims to strike fear in the eye of her followers, stating that if they were to betray her, she would come back and haunt them. And as she explains how she has seen murders occur before her very own eyes, she exclaims she is able to murder any victim she desires. This affects the audience, as in the beginning of the play, they observe a sweet, young lady transform so quickly into this vicious, desperate girl. I think Miller quickly turns Abigail into this enraged character as now the audience can see just how she really acts, behind the faces of her elders. He is successful in doing this as just a few minutes in the plays time before this, as she talks to Parris; she seems to be trying to show Parris of how considerate she is of his feelings by asking him to rest. â€Å"Uncle, you’ve prayed since midnight. Why do you not go down and -† He shows her speaking with Parris in a manor which a child would talk to their own parents, contrasting the way she talks to her friends, which I think in her opinion is people who she has power over. Miller attempts to show a classic stereotype of a distressed person in a forlorn situation when she is seen talking to her friends. Abigail does have a soft spot in her heart for one person – John Proctor. We, the audience hear that John and Abigail have had an affair. In Proctors mind, it is now clearly over between them. â€Å"I’ll not be comin’ for you no more† But Abigail does not see their relationship this way, and thinks that they should be together. â€Å"Give me a word, John. A soft word. † She says this to entice him towards her, in a manner of flirtation. This affects the audience by letting them know who the one man Abigail is in love with is, and how she is willing to re-kindle her relationship with Proctor, even if it means to make Elizabeth a divorcee. I think Miller writes about Abigail in this way to show the audience just how her character resembles that of a stereotype of a young, spoilt girl who will do anything to get what she wants, but never what she deserves. Abigail becomes quick to hand the blame of practising witchcraft over to Tituba, whilst she and her friends knew that it was her lead the witchery into the stage of being â€Å"worshippers of Lucifer. † When Hale and Parris came to confront Abigail about the witchery, the pressure became too much for her, and blurted out the only persons name she thought she could get away with. â€Å"Did you call the Devil last night? † â€Å"I never called him! Tituba†¦ Tituba†¦ † Hale and Parris are quick to believe the story of Abigail, calling for the presence of Tituba. But at the same they time, they do begin to fear the safety of Abigail from the Devil. â€Å"Have you sold yourself to Lucifer? † â€Å"I never sold myself! I’m a good girl! I’m a proper girl! † She probably done this to show all of her elders that she is a good Christian girl, and lied to protect herself from a punishment and to also save her Uncle’s reputation as the towns Reverend. This shows just how ruthless Abigail can be, and to what lengths she would go to bring her own happiness, even if it meant causing pain and suffering to others. I think Miller done this to be constant in Abigail’s character, showing she can be deceiving and sly. This also shows throughout Act 1, Abigail has maintained a constant character. In the duration of Act Two, Abigail didn’t make an appearance, but she was, however, talked about a lot by the other characters, especially by the Proctors. It also appears that she tried to frame Elizabeth Proctor of witchcraft, by cleverly, yet deceivingly sticking a needle into her in the same position a needle was in Elizabeth’s doll, acting as if Elizabeth’s â€Å"poppet† was a voodoo doll. But this incident isn’t seen, but only talked about by Cheever to Hale, Proctor and Elizabeth.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Culture briefing for a US based company selling bicycles Essay

Culture briefing for a US based company selling bicycles - Essay Example These divisions include the pre-colonial era, colonial era, and the post-colonial era. Kenya is widely known to comprise forty two tribes each with a distinct mother tongue language. Historically, each and every tribe has its own distinct history in terms of relocations and resettlements, development, communication and relations with other tribes, customs, traditions, as well as in trade and industry. On the basis of resettlements, Kenya’s population is groups into Bantus, Nilotes, and Cushites. Cushites include Somali and Borana among others. Some examples of the Nilotes include Nandi, Pokot, and the Luos. Examples of Bantus include Kikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Kambas. During the pre-colonial era, most individuals in Kenya depended on crops and animals. In 1985, Kenya was colonized by Britain. The country got its independence in 1963 (Hornsby, 2013). Geography According to Hornsby (2013), Kenya is a unique country with an extensive shoreline, a large proportion covered by vegetati on, beautiful mountains, arid region, lakes, as well as home to the Great Rift Valley. The Indian Ocean touches Kenya towards the south east direction. The country has a total of five countries as its neighbors. These countries include Uganda, Tanzania, Somalia, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Available sources assert that the country comprises of five climatic regions. These include the Coast, the Rift Valley, Semi-desert, desert, and the lake region. Only twenty percent of the country is considered appropriate for both crop growing and animal keeping. A whooping seventy percent of the country is either desert or semi desert. Political system Since independence, the country has upheld and preserved a centralized form of government. It is important to point out that this centralized form of government brought with it individualistic leaders such as Jomo Kenyatta and Daniel Arap Moi. These rulers were above the law during their tenures as presidents. The current president is the fourth since in dependence. The country adapted a multi-party system in 1992. This saw the emergence of new parties unlike the time of Jomo Kenya and partly during Moi’s era whereby the country had only one political party, Kanu (Hornsby, 2013). Currently, Kenya is divided into forty seven counties each being represented by a governor and a senator. Economic perspective Economically speaking, Kenya is a developing nation. Consequently, this country can be termed as a capitalist nation in terms of the economy. It depends on a large proportion with the international markets for trade and commerce. The country gets most of its revenue through the importation of cash crops such as coffee and tea. Tourism is also well structured and coordinated in Kenya and is a source of foreign exchange. Tourist throng the country’s wildlife reserves, game parks, as well at the coastal region for its favorable and warm climate (Hornsby, 2013). Traditions and customs Kenya comprises of forty two tribes ea ch practicing its own customs and traditions. For instance, Kambas undergo various rites of passage. They undergo initiation to become adult members of the community as early as the age of twelve. Young men are given the responsibility of upholding, preserving, as well as preservation of the community. The final stage among the Kambas is becoming an elder. The Maasai on the other hand are known for keeping animals and making ornaments. There are

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Jack the Giant Slayer Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Jack the Giant Slayer - Research Paper Example Jack the Giant Slayer is an adventure film of 2013 previously named Jack the Giant Killer. This adventure film based on fables â€Å"Jack the Bean stalker† and â€Å"Jack the Giant killer â€Å". The director of the film is Bryan Singer and the screenplay is by Christopher McQuarrie, Darren Lemke and Dan Studney. The stars of the epic films are Evan McGregor, Ian McShane, and Nicholas Hoult. Billy Nighy, StanelyTucci and Eleanor Tomlinson are also stars in the film. The film depicts the yarn of a youthful farmhand and a princess (IMDb.com, Inc. , 2013). Style and Directing Jack is the farmhand who rescues the young princess he has fallen in love with from giants.  Work on the film began as early as 2005. In 2005, Daren Lemke hatched the idea of the film and development of the film began. In January 2009, Caruso as the director started to work on the film, however on September that year Singer took Caruso’s place. Principal photography of the film begun in Norfolk, S omerset and Gloucestershire in April 2011, all these locations are in England. The premiere of the film was on 26 February 2013. Storytelling    The power of storytelling in the film, whereby the film depicts a bedtime story that giants wandered about England consuming and crushing anyone on their way. After recurring wars between human beings and the giants, a permanent solution hatched. This solution was a powerful crown that possessed magic. The wearer of this crown who was King Eric could control and tame the giants. King Erik sent away the giants back to their homeland of Gargantua. After sometime, King Erik died and he is buried together with beanstalks and the magical crown. Time passes and the legend of King Erik is becomes a narration to children Isabelle the princess and Jack a peasant as a bedtime story. Both Isabelle and Jack grow to become young attractive youths. While Isabelle runs from a forced marriage to Lord Roderick, she bumps into Jack and they develop a bond to each other. While Isabelle is with Jack at his place, suddenly a magic bean plants itself and grows to take Isabelle to the clouds, to Gargantua where she remains stranded.    If one watches the TV spots and trailers of Jack the Giant slayer, they will discover that the marketing is quite poor relative to the movie. The action sequence is not as creative and flowing as the legend itself. Bryan Singer the director of the movie seems more concerned with old traditional story telling than the targeted audience.     The movie has gently tried to twist the original and much familiar story. Isabelle and Jack both have a good childhood since they have parents who read for them. The movie depicts the importance of storytelling in child upbringing and development. Jack the Giant Slayer, as most fables are full of good life lessons. Life lessons come in the stories of scary villains, dangerous adventures, villains and courageous heroes who challenge them. Fairy tells highlight virtue s of self-sacrifice and bravery. Storytelling shows the evils of selfishness, jealousy and greed. The mother of the princess uses storytelling to motivate her young daughter to emulate the heroes in the fairy tells and to practice good things in the world.   We can attribute Jacks attitude to the stories he grew up listening. For instance, his heroism and bravery is because he emulates the heroes in the stories.   Acting Acting is not impressive. The actors are Nicholas Hoult acting as Jack the farmhand, Eleanor Tomlinson acting as Isabelle the youthful princess (Goodykoontz& Jacobs, 2011). Other actors are Stanley Tucci acting as Lord Roderick the Kings adviser, Ian McShane acting as King the princess father and Billy Nighy as Fallon the leader of the giants. The acting is poor, Nicholas Hoult who is acting as Jack the peasant has an odd haircut and he is just an average actor. Elenor Tomlinson as Isabelle the princess is very bland and not particular captivating or useful in

Single parenting and the effects it will have on children and they how Annotated Bibliography

Single parenting and the effects it will have on children and they how handle relationships - Annotated Bibliography Example ng child can be difficult, besides the obvious economic hardships there are many psychological effects resulting in depression and behavioral instability. Another reason for increase in number of single parent led families is outside or before marriage births and it is estimated that about 40 percent of the total births in America occur without marriage (Ablow). Research shows that the child subjected to a divorce or living alone with a parent since birth can have low self esteem, rebellious behavior and an overall negativity towards marriage and opposite sex (Coontz). The research takes into consideration a popular sitcom, â€Å"two and a half men† and investigates the core issues the child faces after parental divorce and the influencing factors in his life as well as the nature of relationships the child has with others. It would further compare popular research material based on single parenting recommending practical steps that can be taken to avoid negativity in a child. It shall furthermore explain different parenting styles including authoritative, permissive and authoritarian approaches and propose the most suitable style for such children. The sitcom Two and a Half Men revolves around three main characters; Alan Harper (Father), Charlie Harper (Uncle) and Jake Harper (Child). Alan is a dim wit and weak personality with childhood issues of his own, lives with his brother but has no say in the household matters. He has a tendency to be obnoxious, exhibits vindictive behavior towards her mother and sees his alcoholic brother as an inspiration. Jake is a lethargic child with low self esteem and no real ambitions, after his parent’s divorce he spends time with his mother and father but is more influenced by his father and uncle. He has low intelligence and no concern for personal hygiene but is aware of the norms prevalent in the house; norms set by Charlie. Charlie Harper is an alcoholic and sex addict on a self destructive pattern, a confident and self

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

SOCIOLOGY - Intellectuals and Revolutionary Politics Term Paper

SOCIOLOGY - Intellectuals and Revolutionary Politics - Term Paper Example Adam Smith in the Wealth of Nations describes this phenomenon in the following way: â€Å"proclaimed the principle of the ‘invisible Hand’; every individual, in pursuing only his own selfish good, [is] led as if by an invisible hand, to achieve the best good for all...† (Buchholz, 1999). Thus Smith underlines that in the first place of the modern Western society is selfish interests of every individual. Everybody thinks that the more money he earns the less problems he would have. Of course, some contemporaries think that in case they had a lot of money they would share it with poor people. In reality, even if a person succeeds and gains lots of money there are only a few who share it with the poor. It also can be argued that the modern world is being developed at full speed and it is necessary to earn money to keep pace with this progress. Moreover, world’s economics is being developed following the main principle: to make the greatest profits. From this p erspective, a root of monetary obsession of the modern Westerners is involuntarily dictated by external conditions. Furthermore, from the perspective of economics it may be claimed that â€Å"Money ...provides the measuring rod of values† (Buchholz, 1999). ... In order to define values, intellectuals claimed that there was an â€Å"interior need to penetrate beyond the screen of immediate concrete experience† (Shils 1972, p. 3). In such a way, money as a value is argued by Shils for sure. This value is relevant to modern society, but ‘beyond the screen of immediate concrete experience’ it is not a value. The members of the Western society hardly realize that a deep-rooted system of values is good, but it’s not the system to be deeply rooted. For example, in the earlier society the one of the basic values and an honor was to die for one’s country. This value could hardly exist in the ‘monetized’ society nowadays. Therefore if to discuss the deep rooted system of values of the Western society it can be metaphorically explained what this really means: â€Å"Everyone has a god, but not everyone is aware of who or what that god is†Ã‚  (Buchholz, 1999). Q 2 Romantic German nationalism as a tr igger of Nazi politics The upheaval of national consciousness is triggered by intervention of aliens in the territory of a certain nation. Romanticism and ‘wars of liberation’ of different classes in Germany triggered Nazi politics. From one perspective it may seem that there is nothing in common between Romanticism and Nazism. There is a perfect explanation of German nationalism that occurred under influence of Romanticism: â€Å"When, later, the last hopes which the German patriots had rested on liberation from the foreign yoke had burst like over-blown bubbles, their spirits sought refuge in the moonlit magic night and the fairy world of dreamy longing conjured up for them by romanticism, in order to forget the gray reality of life and its shameful disappointments† (Romanticism and Nationalism). Partially, German

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Lab experiment - microwave assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Lab experiment - microwave assignment - Essay Example The source of the signal that the system uses is termed as the Gunn Oscillator, which is at a signal of 10.5 GHz. the maximum output power that is recommended for the frequency ranges between 20 Mw to 10 Mw, and the recommended range may vary from time to time in different Gunn Oscillators. The output power may as well be varied by varying the voltage supplied that is received by the Gunn Oscillator via the unit cable attached to it (Campanella 2010). The devise consists of an adjuster, which helps to regulate the level of the power at the microwave point of input and in making of the measurements of the attenuator. This assignment makes use of the side-vane attenuator that uses the fiberglasses that are plastic in nature having resistive coatings in order to achieve the required attenuation. The fiberglasses are erected vertically with respect to the wave-guide and to the short walls in a parallel manner. The position of the blades on the wave-guide dictates the resulting attenuation of the whole system. Each attenuator is calibrated separately due to differences in the attenuation characteristics. Wave-guide support is a system component that acts as a stand and helps in the system stability. The system supports are in parts, one of the supports is the system base while the other is the plastic piece that is attached to the rod end. Wave-guides can be connected to the support by placing it gently onto the plastic piece of the system located on the rod top. The height of the system support is adjustable with the help of setscrews located on the base of the system. For the sake of this assignment, cross-guide couplers were used which consist of two- waveguides that are joined to one another at an angle of 90 degrees. Signals of the microwave that propagates from waveguide couples with microwave signals and finally dictates the coupled signal propagation. Two openings are recommended on the walls. These openings should be

Monday, September 23, 2019

Effect of financial crisis on consumer finance Essay

Effect of financial crisis on consumer finance - Essay Example The complexity of financial instruments that were involved in the crisis deepened the effects of subprime mortgage crisis (Ghoshi, 2006). The subprime crisis led to a number of problems in America’s as well as the global financial system. As home owners defaulted on payment of their mortgage costs, financial institutions were drained off liquidity necessary for lending. It also led to reduction of revenues generated by many financial institutions as well as other organizations whose operations were adversely affected by the turbulence on financial markets. This led to decline in economic growth rate, forcing the United States of America and United Kingdom of Britain to record negative gross domestic product growth. Ben Bernanke, a leading economist and the Chairman of Federal Reserve in US indicated that the Federal Reserve policies are not the main cause of the crisis and its subsequent reduction in access of consumers to credit. He noted that while the US financial policies are partly to blame, other countries policies such as currency management policies in China make the global economy more prone to financial crisis (The Washington Post, 2011). In a debate moderated by the char of economics department in Harvard University, important facts about the recent global financial crisis were revealed. The subprime crisis significantly reduced the willingness of financial institutions to extend credit to consumers.... In a debate moderated by the char of economics department in Harvard University, important facts about the recent global financial crisis were revealed. The people involved in the debate were economics professor Jeremy, and Professor Rogoff, both from the institution and a history professor Nial. Roggoff noted that while the lending policies were lax, the outsider attitude of customers equally catalyzed the 2007/2008 global financial crisis. This led to low cooperation between financial institutions and their mortgage customers, accelerating the rate of the 2007/2008 global financial crisis. Roggof had predicted the crisis one and half years earlier (Crimson Staff Writers, 2010). Analyses The subprime crisis significantly reduced the willingness of financial institutions to extend credit to consumers. Such institutions withheld liquidity as panic and loss of confidence spread in the financial sector. This led to fall in consumer lending since 2007 to 2008 (Bricker et al, 2012). The v alue of loans issued in US in 2008 last quarter of the year was almost half of the value of loans issued during the same period in the previous year. Lending declined across all credit lines, including that of short term and consumer lending. Majority of the banks that were vulnerable to bank run during the crisis cut on their spending. Banks with average level of deposits to assets cut on their loan originations by 36% between August and December in 2008 as compared to the same period in the previous year. The recent subprime mortgage crisis resulted to economic recession. During economic recession, the demand for loan able funds decline. This was evident in 2008 to 2009 when business activity declined and unemployment shot up in many countries. This reduced the

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Regions Chart and Written Response Essay Example for Free

Regions Chart and Written Response Essay Continued to treat the African Americans poorly. Paid poorly wages just cared about having a name and the money. Social reform movement. Farmers were politically active. Social Growth of industries caused a gap between rich and poor in this region. Political views clashed. Labor union formed first here. Still had race issues. Segregation and discrimination continued. The Chinese immigrants and the white settlers had cultural differences that led to friction. Riots and discrimination laws. Gap between rich and poor. A lot of friction. Active labor unions Economic or Type of Economy Center of the industrialization during the first and second industrial revolution. Producing more than 85% of the United States industrial products. Very low on industrial output. Had textile mills and ironwork industries. Agriculture included timber, coal, iron and steel. Little industrial development. Natural Resources was their main thing such as limber and metals. Agriculture as well. Farming and manufacturing. Steel and automotive. Upper states we center of industry, a hub for shipping and transportation. Population Change  Many immigrants began to come. 1 out of 5 industrial workers was an immigrant. Very high population. African Americans leaving to new factories in the North and Midwest for a better chance at good wages and improve their  economic and social standings. Immigrants from China came to the West looking for jobs on expanding the railroads. Sparse Population. Cities grew rapidly. Large numbers of immigrants. Transportation 200,000 miles of railroads connected cities by the 1900. The necessity of coal led to mining. Great transportation systems. New railroads stretched as far as Florida. Major railroads connected the West to the East.  Railroads and Trains contained livestock and grain. Part 2 – Respond to the prompt in a well- developed paragraph of your own. Be sure to include social, political and economic factors in your response and fully address all parts of the prompt. Explain how the Second Industrial Revolution affected the North, South, West, and Midwest. Which region would you have preferred to live in during this period? Why? The Second Industrial Revolution affected the North, South, West and Midwest mostly by population, economy, and social changes. Many immigrants came to these regions searching for a better life or founding out information on new technology because of this, it led to a lot of social friction between the immigrants and the settlers of the region. Political views clashed, segregation, riots and discrimination laws were happening while immigrants were coming in. These regions had to work with what they had and what they can use, this created the different types of economy such as industrial, manufacturing, farming, agriculture, etc. I would’ve preferred to live in the northern region because it was more developed in industries and technology.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Snapshot Of The Tourism Industry In Malta Tourism Essay

Snapshot Of The Tourism Industry In Malta Tourism Essay The Tourism Industry remains one of the key pillars of the Maltese Economy contributing 23.7% of the labour market. Over the past forty years the continuous growth of the Industry has been a contributory factor in encouraging local business men to increase the number of hotels on the island thus creating healthy competition, particularly in the Five Star segment. However, despite the structural differences, each hotel faces the same environmental forces. Therefore, the key to survival lies with the strategies implemented to gain competitive advantage. This report examines how each of the various Forces has shaped Corinthia Palace Hotel Spas business decisions. In this assignment, The Director of Finance Claire Mifsud, and The Director of Sales Karl Schranz, give their views on the macro and micro environmental forces that relate to Porters Five Forces Model. Section 2 Company History At the tender age of twenty three, Mr Alfred Pisani saw a window of opportunity to enable him to enter the hotel industry. Three years after purchasing a 1920 private residence then called Villa Refalo, the Pisani family began to operate this property as the Villa Corinthia Restaurant (IL-Haddiem, 1968). His dreams of becoming a hotelier coupled with business acumen led him to seek ways to expand the family business. When he became aware of an opportunity to receive a soft government loan, he engaged the services of architect Dom Mintoff, who drew up the plans for a 152 bedroom hotel which was to be amongst one of the first 5 star hotels having full conference facilities. Mr. Pisanis sheer determination and vision, drove him to present a business plan which convinced The British Collonial Government to award him a loan of 1.2 million US dollars. The hotel construction project commenced under the supervision of architect Dom Mintoff and Four years later, in June of 1968, Mr Pisani hel d the official opening ceremony in the presence of, prominent society figures such as the then Minister of Education, Culture and Tourism, Doctor George Borg Olivier, His Excellency Duke of Edinburgh and renowned actor Roger Moore (IL-Haddiem, 1968). This grand Boutique style hotel is located near the official residence of the Official Residence of the President of the Republic of Malta and the San Anton Botanical Gardens. This hotel has since gained an excellent reputation and has been given many prestigious awards in the Global Travel and Tourism Industry with the most recent being that of Maltas Leading Hotel  [1]  in the 2010 World Travel Awards. The current General Manager, Mr. Rota, acclaims the hotels success to its Trademark Maltese Hospitality. This hospitality is also the Unique Selling Point (USP) of the Corinthia Brand. 2.1 Company Mission Statement Our Mission is to provide our guests with the craftsmanship of care 2.2 Research Methodology The information to meet the objectives of this assignment was gathered from the following sources :- I conducted a series of interviews with Key Management members who are instrumental in formulating business strategies for the Company, namely, Ms. Claire Mifsud, Director of Finance at The Corinthia Hotel and Spa and Mr. Karl Schranz, Director of Sales at Corinthia Central Sales Office who were also given questionnaires to complete. The second means was in terms of Desk Research through various media sources. Section 3 Definition of an Industry The Oxford English Dictionary succinct description of an Industry is :- a particular form or branch of economic or commercial activity Snapshot of the Tourism Industry in Malta 3.1 World Tourism Benchmarking There is a wealth of information available to assist the Business Sector to assess the viability of the Tourism Industry. One medium used by the Corinthia Palace Hotel is the report published by The World Travel and Tourism Council. The report uses Set Indices which may be valuable to ascertain an Industrys attractiveness and future economic potential. However, as Malta is a Small Island Destination, competition must also be measured from a global perspective of tourism. 3.2 Tourisms Economic Performance on the Island According to the World Travel and Tourism Council 2010 report  [2]  , Travel and Tourism contributes towards 19.4% of the Maltese Islands GDP (EUR1,151.4 million) with a forecasted increase of a further 3.6 % by 2020. Export Earnings from International Visitors is expected to reap in the region of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬ 777 million, with a forecasted growth to à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬ 1443.4 million by 2020. Currently, 23.7% of the Labour Market is employed in Industry Related Occupations and it is anticipated that this will rise to 28.9 % by 2020. These statistics substantiate the theory that Travel and Tourism will remain one of the key engines for growth in the Maltese Economy. 3.3 Tourist Performance At the time of preparing this assignment, the National Statistics Office had not yet issued the official statistics for 2010. However, in a press conference held in January 2011, the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Mr. Mario De Marco, estimated that the total number of Tourists was estimated to be in the region of 1.3 million  [3]  . This equates to a 0.1 million increase on 2009 figures  [4]  . During the first 11 months of the 2010, Cruise Liner Traffic reached a total of 467,142 passengers  [5]  , however only 3 % of passengers (14,441) landed in Malta. Therefore despite the fact that nearly half a million cruise passengers visited the island, very few stayed in hotels overnight. According to the Domestic Market, the local preference is to reside in Four Star Hotels and statistics show that during the month of November, the 5 Star segment produced a total of 9,638 bed nights. 3.4 Collective Accommodation Establishments on the Maltese Islands : There are a total of 158 accommodation establishments on the Maltese Islands  [6]  , fifteen of which are classified with a 5 Star Rating. Renowned International Hotel Brands such as Hilton, InterContinental, Kempinski Resorts, Radisson and Starwood Hotels currently compete for the same market. The two longest established 5 Star Hotels on the island are The Phoenicia and The Corinthia Palace Hotel and Spa. During the month of October, the 5 Star Hotel accommodation tier yielded an average occupancy of 73 %. Section 4 -The use of PESTLE to scan the Broad Environment for drivers of change. There are numerous characteristics or strategic elements that may influence the life cycle of the local tourism industry. One organisation, acting independently, may have very little influence on the broad environment: however, the forces in this environment can have a tremendous impact on the organisation (Enz, C.A, 2010).p16  [7]  . Consequentially, in todays local business scenario, if one was to consider this statement it confirms the school of thought that organisations within the tourism industry, will face difficulties when trying to manipulate the broad environment. However, according to The principle of Enactment organisations do not have to submit to the existing forces in the environment. (St.John, Harrison ,2010)  [8]  . A high percentage of local hoteliers have opted for Management Agreements with Internationally Renowned Brands. Such strategy allows local operators to capitalise on the Brand Marketing and Existing Customer Base to attract business, however, Corinthia Palace Hotel has evolved its own Brand. This strategic decision was taken as a means to differentiate from other hotels by offering authentic Maltese Hospitality. This in itself is believed to create a competitive edge over the International Brand Names which currently operate on the island, namely, Hilton, Inter Continental, Marriot and Starwood Hotels. These days travellers are far more discerning and many seek new insights into the local culture, as apposed to a reproduction of International Hospitality. Through successful Backward Integration the Corinthia Brand has eliminated substantial contributions to Third Party Management Companies by forming its own unique Brand Identity. Furthermore, in contrast to most local operators, the company has been able to penetrate the International Tourism Industry by offering Management Contracts to overseas operators in the Industry. The task of measuring competitiveness is full of complexities as there are numerous forces at play. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to have a thorough understanding of both the potential threats and the opportunities available. This will then provide the basis for which a company responds to Trends and Influences by integrating its resources to achieve a strategic advantage on its competitors. Invariably, local firms competing within the Tourism Industry, have similar resources available to them and each one is challenged by similar forces. Therefore, it is safe to assume that most will pursue similar strategies. Making the company that best acclimatises itself to the broad environment more likely to be successful. Under the current scenario, the well coined phrase The survival of the fittest could not be more appropriate for hotels competing within the same industry. Despite being one of the older Five Star Hotels on the island, The Corinthia Palace Hotel still competes well with the newer properties. It appears that customers tend to opt for older properties where Customer Service is at the optimum. The Corinthia Palace Hotel has achieved worldwide acclaim for its high level of service and currently holds the World Travel Award Maltas Leading Hotel. This prestigious award is a great accolade to the Industry as it is believed to be the equivalent of the Oscars. Such recognition is an excellent marketing tool as given the choice, most potential customers would prefer to stay in a reputable hotel. 4.1 PESTLE Analysis Views of the Financial Controller An interview was conducted with the Financial Controller, Ms. Claire Mifsud who provided an insight as to how the company conducts a Situational Analysis of the Broad Environment. According to her Corinthia uses a PESTLE Analysis Template which define the following six areas that form the context of its operation :- Political Forces Economical Forces Socio-cultural Forces Technological Forces Legal Forces Environmental Forces The forces listed above significantly influence both the industry and the organisations that operate within it. She perceives that the Maltese Government recognises the fact that Tourism is a key contributor to the Maltese Economy and therefore continues to invest and work closely with stakeholders within the industry. This year the government has awarded The Malta Tourism Authority a total of 35 million Euro for 2011  [9]  . The main vision for 2015 is to promote the Maltese Islands as a Unique Mediterranean Destination  [10]  , hence the reasoning behind the substantial investment to improve the product. Through the European Social Fund, the Malta Tourism Authority is investing in a three million Euro program to improve the skills of those currently working within the Industry. The Advance Training Tourism Leaders Program  [11]  is being offered free of charge, to both employers and managers in the industry. The aim of this program is to enhance the Current Skill Set and to create a Culture of Innovation. As the Group Training Manager, I can disclose that seven managers working at the Corinthia Palace Hotel are currently taking this Diploma Course. When asked what perceived barriers had been identified by the hotel, Ms. Mifsud referred to the governments stronger stance to align with European Regulations, particularly in areas such as Health Safety and Environmental Issues. Being an older property, substantial investment is required to conform with some of the regulations. The forecasted economic recovery is more subdued than that of other small economies  [12]  . Ms Mifsud then expressed her concern on escalating operational costs and stated that the 2% increase of VAT on accommodation and the budgeted cost of living increase bear a great influence on profitability. She also remarked that nowadays, business customers require their rooms to be an extension of their offices when travelling, therefore, adequate technology has become a norm rather than an ancillary service. Hence, in order to remain competitive and meet the customers needs additional investment in this area is required. Section 5 The Broad Environment. Forces within both the Broad and Task Environment are critical determinants for Strategy Formulation for any organisation. However, the core of a Firms Task Environment is formed by its interaction between the following three key stakeholders and their impact on the market place :- Customers Suppliers Competitors All contemporary organisations, irrespective of type of Industry, face forces that can significantly affect profitability. If a firm understands these forces, then it can develop a business level strategy that allows the business to either take advantage or protect itself from these forces, which in turn allows the firm to be consistently profitable. (Ahlstrom.D, 2009)  [13]  . 5.1 Swot Analysis An internal audit provides an opportunity for a company to have a greater understanding of the capabilities and limitations of its resources. Such information will provide a platform from which Operational Strategy will be focused. The identified strengths and weaknesses of the hotel are as follows :- 5.2 Strengths Location The location of this hotel has the potential to attract the following niche markets. The close proximity to the Presidential Palace makes it the ideal location for Diplomatic Delegations. Its remote location and proximity to the National Stadium is also key selling point to attract Foreign Football Teams who come to Malta for Training Camps and Official Matches. Being close to the Malta Fairs and Convention Centre offers potential for business in accommodating delegates who are participating in large scale forums. Global Reputation for Excellent Service This property enjoys 20% Repeat Business which is amongst the highest on the island. This reputation is also achieved on a local level as there is a high percentage of locals who frequent the Food and Beverage outlets. Accommodation Hotel rooms are much more spacious than the newer five star properties on the island. In 2009 all rooms were refurbished to optimum condition. The hotel offers great value for money when one considers the level of service offered. The customers comments posted on Travel Review sites such as Trip Advisor are very positive. Spa The Athenaeum Spa by Algotherm has now established itself as one of the best Medical Spas on the island. Market Unlike many of the other hotels, the Corinthia Palace is not dependant on one Nationality or Market Segment and therefore a drastic drop in one of these areas will not cause catastrophic consequences. 5.3 Weaknesses Meeting Rooms The main meeting rooms are small in severe need of refurbishment as they are inferior to what the competition is offering. This may be a contributory factor why some Destination Management Companies direct Group Business elsewhere, which causes opportunity cost situation for the hotel when having to refuse business that exceeds the capacity required. Loyalty Program Unlike all the competitors there is not Loyalty Program in place to reward customers for their loyalty to the company. Working Environment Investment is required to totally refurbish the main kitchen as the current structure not adequate for the volume of work being produced nowadays. Executive Lounge Facilities Unlike all the five star hotels within the same Competitive Set this hotel does not have an Executive Lounge. Most corporate clients seek this facility as it provides an additional area, where they can conduct their business and entertain their clients. In order to measure the potential of an Industry most companies use the framework of Environmental Understanding as established by the Economist Michael Porter. Section 6 Porters Five Forces Model In March-April 1979, Professor Michael. E. Porter, published an article in the Harvard Business Review, titled How Competitive Forces Shape Strategy.  [14]  . In this article he wrote : Competition in an industry is rooted in its underlying economics, and competitive forces exist that go well beyond the established combatants in a particular industry. Customers, suppliers, potential entrants, and substitute products are all competitors that may be more or less prominent or active depending on the industry. The state of competition in an industry depends on five basic forces. The collective strength of these forces determines the ultimate profit potential of an industry. This article formed the basis of Porters Five Forces Model. This user friendly model is now widely employed by many organisations to formulate the firms business level strategy. Corinthia Palace Hotel is no exception. Key strategic decision makers within the company use this model during their business planning process to represent their analysis of the dynamics of the competitive structure and how the combined strength of these forces influence the Maltese Tourist Industry. Strong forces will suggest lower prices and higher costs, whereas weak forces suggest the contrary. 6.1 Bargaining Power of Customers and Suppliers Informed customers become empowered customers  [15]  (Dubrin,2008) . Trends show that a high percentage of travellers book their travel arrangements directly through the internet. Budget airline sites such as Ryan Air and Easyjet, provide a one stop shop that is accessible around the clock. Nowadays, middlemen such as travel agents are gradually being eliminated. The internet has accelerated the power of this competitive force. Customers now have an advantage over the organisations, as they are able to conduct frugal searches of the web from the comfort of their own home. This provides them with ample opportunity to compare rates and subsequently purchase the best deals. Since opening, the hotel has witnessed changes in booking channels. Customers are more likely to book directly through the internet. Price wars with competitors are prevalent, however despite this, Corinthias pricing strategy is based on past performance and forecasted demand. Much focus is placed on safeguarding Gross Operating Profit and as the company is apposed to reducing rates ,added value is offered instead. During my interview with Mr. Schranz I asked who has the strongest leverage when negotiating rates with suppliers. His reply indicated that the key to successful negotiation is to create a win win situation giving them equal leverage. 6.2 Threat of New Entrants According to Slocum et al  [16]  the phrase New Entrants refers to the relative ease with which new firms can compete with established firms. Over the past forty years the number of companies operating 5 Star Hotels has risen substantially. Empirical data issued by the National Statistics Office of Malta indicates that in 1996 there were only six Five Star Hotels operating on the Maltese Islands. Today, some fifteen years later, the amount of five star hotels has almost tripled increasing to fifteen. The high concentration of upscale hotels on the market, has made it essential to create barriers. Recent Government Regulations, Capital Requirements and Rising Operating Costs are forecasted to affect profitability. Such contributory factors may defer new entrants in the future. During my interview with Director of Sales and Marketing, Mr Karl Schranz, he revealed that he does not envisage any other Five Star Hotels entering the market this year. He further elaborated that in his opinion the industry does not require more 5 star properties. The industry has seen an explosion of Five Star Room Stock on the market in the last 5 years. There is a surplus of Hotel Rooms in low season due to the seasonality of our business. On the other hand, all five star properties run at very high occupancies from May till October. In my opinion, it all boils down to market forces. When market conditions permitted and when it was highly feasible for other hotels to join, most local and foreign business men invested heavily in the Hotel Sector. 6.3 The Threat of Substitute Products or Services Organisations that provide services that adequately substitute those offered by competitors within the same industry are considered as a threat to those competing within the same industry. In the local context, substitutes to Five Star hotels can be identified as either the Chartering of Yachts or Opting for a Cruise. However, with high level of accessibility offered by budget airlines, emerging tourist destinations poise a bigger threat to the industry. Central and Eastern European destinations are offering similar products at more competitive rates. However, if one was to consider the high concentration of natural disasters or adverse weather conditions many countries have recently experienced many travelers may be influenced by Maltas more agreeable climate. Furthermore, political instability in emerging destinations like Tunisa may also defer travellers to choose alternative destinations. 6.4 Existing Competition The level of competition is a key determinant of how other hotels in the industry are likely to behave. Hotels within the same Competitive Set strive for market share. From the fifteen 5 Star Hotels on the island, the only four categorised in the same Competitive Set as the Corinthia Palace and Spa are Phoenicia, Excelsior, Intercontinental and the Meridien. However, both the Director of Finance and the Director of Sales consider the Phoenicia as their main competitor. This is attributed to the fact that both hotels have been in competition for the past forty years and that both properties appeal to the same markets. According to the information provided by Mr. Shranz, the hotels average market share is approximately 10.5 %. Karl Schranz commented as follows : Price Wars are tremendous in all Hotel Categories in Malta. We had managed to reduce price wars significantly before 2008 when demand was in line with supply. Since more Five Star Properties opened in Malta and since the recession set in, most hotels started slashing rates in order to generate advance and last minute business As operating costs are rising, the onus must remain on targeting specific markets that can yield the highest profits. Although perceived as a business hotel, leisure travellers remain the key market. The Tour Operator and Leisure Segments approximately constitute to 64% of the hotels market share. Section 7 Conclusion 7.1 Industry Life Cycle As each industry evolves it goes through a sequence of phases. Factors used to ascertain at which stage the Industry is currently in, is by assessing both the number of firms operating and their potential for profitability. Desk research conducted for this assignment indicates that despite global economic recessions, the Maltese Tourist Industry has shown growth. Furthermore, projections for the coming years also indicate growth. All in all, it appears that Tourism remains a promising Industry for the near future. 7.2 Strategic Direction for the Hotel The way forward for the company is to maintain its high level of customer retention rate which currently averages in the region of 20%. This relatively high percentage of customer loyalty is attributed to the General Mangers high level of customer orientation in conjunction with the very high level of personalised services. The recent award should feature more prominently on the hotels website, thus using this as an extra tool to market the hotel. From a financial perspective, costs must be closely monitored and opportunities to generate income should be exploited. The hotel management should pool their resources together to create a culture that encourages innovation. Investment in alternative sources of energy should be studied and the possibility of acquiring EU Funding explored. Investment should also be made to upgrade the property seeking in order to gain a return on investments through increased room rates. Future growth should stem from the hotels Unique Selling Point, which is the ability to offer a memorable experience. The Sales Team needs to take a more aggressive approach to tap into unexploited markets and offer innovative packages based on value. Finally, with the continued commitment to fulfil the companys mission, the team must drive the Corinthia Brand Identity by offering authentic Maltese Hospitality. By focusing on the main priority which is Customer Satisfaction, the hotel will not only remain profitable but will also remain a strong competitor. For many, tourism is a source of employment and income. The tourism industry is responsible for 5.2% of the EUs employment and accounts for 5% of Europes Wealth. It is therefore a strategic sector of our economy, facing new challenges that ought to be kept in check and opportunities that need to be taken. With 380 million international arrivals annually and market share of more than 40% of global tourism Europe commands the position as the number one tourist destination European Commission Vice-president Antonio Tajani- Journal of the Institute of Tourism Studies Dec 2010 pg 30. References http://www.worldtravelawards.com/award-maltas-leading-hotel-2010 IL-Haddiem Corinthia Palace Hotel 11 June 1968 pg 5 http://www.wttc.org/bin/pdf/original_pdf_file/malta.pdf http://www.maltatoday.com.mt/news/national/tourist-arrivals-expected-to-reach-1-3-million-by-end-2010 http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=2873 http://www.nso.gov.mt/statdoc/document_file.aspx?id=2928 http://finance.gov.mt/image.aspx?site=MFINref=2011_BudgetSpeech2011_English https://opm.gov.mt/vizjoni-2015 Free programme of advance training for tourism leaders http://hbr.org/1979/03/how-competitive-forces-shape-strategy/ar/1 Daily Telegragh Malta Centre of Excellence in the Mediterranean 16 June 2000 NSO news release 242/2010 Collective accommodation establishments :Oct 2010 Dec 22, 2010