Floods in South Africa

| 2013| | MASEGO MOCHOARI2008027750 | [GEO 234 :FLOODING IN SOUTH AFRICA]| THIS ASSIGNMENT GIVES AN OVERVIEW OF FLOODING AND ITS IMPACTS ON SOUTH AFRICA,THE ASSIGNMENT GIVES A BRIEF FORCUS OF FLOODING IN THE PROVINCE OF KWAZULU-NATAL|TABLE OF CONTENT PAGE 1 INTRODUCTION 2 2 DEFINING FLOODING 2 3 WHAT IS LA NINA 2 4 IMPACT OF FLOODS 2-3 5 MEASURES PUT IN PLACE TO HANDLE FLOODING 3 6 HUMAN IMPACT ON FLOODING 3-4 7 CONCLUSION 4 8 REFERENCE LIST 5 9 1. 1 INTRODUCTION La Nina influenced flooding took place in South Africa on January 24 of 2011. Heavy rain caused the widespread flooding in South Africa. This heavy rainfall is common during La Nina summers in South Africa. rainfall for the month of January had been reported to be nearly 10 times the average in parts of the country. Other countries besides South Africa had also been hit by heavy rain and La Nina was blamed for the flooding across Australia and the Philippines.More than 100 people lost their lives in floods that took pl ace across South Africa. The majority of the deaths were in KwaZulu-Natal and damages were estimated at R300 million. By the end of January ,heavy rain had been widespread across the country and eight of South Africa's nine provinces were declared disaster areas by the South African government. This assignment takes a look at what flooding is all about,it explains what La Nina is and looks at the impact floods have. This assignment focuses on flooding in South Africa with particular focus on flooding in the province of KwaZulu-Natal. Sub-headings have been used for easy navigation of the assignment. 1. 2 DEFINING FLOODINGFlooding from a hydrological sense can be defined stricty as a rise,which is usually brief in the water level of a water body ,this water body can be a river,dam and accumulated rainwater in a failed drainage system. (national geographic) The term flood simply implies a progressive and abnormal increase in the elevation of surface level of a water body until it reac hes a maximum height,at this point the water level will slowly drop back to its normal level, at this point it is important to state that these actions that take place usually take place within a certain period of time,therefore floods are episodic events where water rises and then eventually drops back to its normal surface level.Another characteristic of flooding is that flooding may result in the overflowing of water onto areas which are not normally submerged in water. (national geographic) 1. 3 WHAT IS LA Nina La Nina conditions occur when Pacific trade winds blow stronger than usual, this pushes sun-warmed surface water further west and increases the upwelling of cold water in eastern regions. Together with the atmospheric effects of southern oscillation, cooler water brings drought to western South America and heavy rains to south Africa ,eastern Australia and Indonesia. (national geographic) 1. 4 IMPACT OF FLOODS South Africa is a producer of corn, soybeans, and wheat.Farmer s usually welcome wetter-than-normal conditions, However the heavy rains that took place were so harsh they damaged crops. In addition to the damaged crop,field harvesting was at a halt as the fields were saturated . (south African health review) Such conditions have a negative impact on south Africa’s economy,this is because as a result of the floods damaging crops a shortage would take place,this means that less exports of crop products took place,in addition to that crop product prices would also have to go up in attempt to cover the cost of damages that took place. In the opinion of this assignment,it seems that flooding as is a disaster that can be both natural or human action related,has the same effect on every class of people ,it oes not choose nor hit poor areas or rich areas only . floods are spontaneous and will affect everyone that happens to be in the region of the flood . 1. 5 MEASURES PUT IN PLACE TO HANDLE FLOODING When we come to the topic of handling floodin g we need to introduce the concept of disaster management. a disaster can be caused by human or nature,they are events that are sometimes unpredictable,it is therefore essential for governments to manage all disatsers that occure. for this reason,distaster management planning should be a key point of any government. Disaster management aims to reduce the occurrence of disasters and to reduce the impact of those that cannot be prevented . he government white paper and act on disaster management define the roles of local authorities as well as provincial and notional government in disaster management. (government Gazzet) In accordance with the white paper and act on disaster management,every municipality should have a disaster management plan as part of their integrated development plan. having plans is place helps reduce the damage potential of disasters and in some cases results in the prevention of a disaster. (disaster management act) Protection services departments ,which deal wi th traffic policing, fire brigades and law enforcement should always be on high alert when disasters strike,this implies that they should always be on stand-by. disaster management act) When disasters such as flooding occur and exceeds the capacity of a local authority;district ,provincial or national parties should be notified. this means that any situation that is too lanrge for a local authority to handle should be reported. by doing this ,doors become open for parties such as volunteer organisations such as the Red cross,St Johns and national Sea rescue to give help where needed. (disaster management act) In summary,disaster management activities ,include the co-ordination of disaster response agents,a compilation and exercising of plans and disaster management education and training. When all the above mentioned are put into action properly,it becomes an effective way to handle disasters such as flooding. 1. 6 HUMAN IMPACT ON FLOODINGAs stated earlier in this assignment,disaste rs do not only occur natural ,human impact or behaviour can also cause a disaster ,this assignment is of the opinion that the following points which focus on human activities and actions that can cause flooding are the main human reasons why floods can occur: * The diversion of all water to rivers through drainage systems can cause rivers to overflow. this is because water is transported at a faster rate through drainage systems than it would if the water flowed naturally. * Cities and towns are man-made,they have a lot of buildings ,tarred roads and concrete pavements. this limits the amount of water that can be soaked and absorbed into the ground. Humans cut down forests; as a result loose soils run into the river,this causes a rising of the river bed,when this happens the chances of flooding increases as the carrying capacity of the river is decreased. * Architects and urban planners tend to straighten rivers in an attempt to control flooding,However as the river no longer meande r, further down the stream water suddenly slows down and this causes flooding 1. 7 CONCLUSION in conclusion,it is clear that flooding is a serious disaster that can cause both economic and structural damage. flooding in the KwaZulu-Natal province left farmers with damaged crops and also took the lives of many south Africans.It is also evident that if disaster management plans are put in place,the effects of flooding can be decreased especially if proper planning is done in reference to human causes of flooding. This assignment ,with all the above information given thought,concludes that in the case of KwaZulu-Natal and human impact on flooding,floods could have been avoided or at the very least the impacts thereof could have been lessened. REFERENCE LIST Cape Metropolitan Council Public Safety Advisories. frequently asked questions on disaster management. South African health review,2000. Chapter 24-disaster management. [Online:27th March 2013] http://www. etu. org. a/toolbox/docs/g overnment/disaster. html Government Gazzet. vol 403 ,No 19676,15 January 1999,white paper on disaster management,Ministry for provincial affairs and constitutional development,January 1999. Act 156(1) of the constitution [Online: 27th March 2013] http:www. ndmc. gov. za/portals/0//webdocuments/guidelines/DM/1_2_3. htm Government Gazzet. vol 451,No 24252,15 January 2002,Disaster Management Act. Cape Town. Act 57 of the constitution [Online:27th March 2013] http:www. ndmc. gov. za/portals/0//webdocuments/guidelines/DM/1_2_3. htm National Georaphic. [Online:27th March 2013] http:/environment,nationalgeographic. com/environment/natural-disaster/floods-profile/

Nuclear Weapon and Science

SCIENCE IS A THREAT TO HUMANITY * Science has greatly increased the capability of man to kill each other, literally threating humanity. Although science is not always the cause of wars the advances in nuclear weaponry have given the man the power to destroy the world. At certain points in history, such as the Cuban missile crisis, the world has stood on the brink of destruction. *The Cuban Missile Crisis was a confrontation between the United States, the Soviet Union, and Cuba that occurred in the early 1960s during the Cold War.The crisis ranks as one of the major confrontations of the Cold War, and is often regarded as the moment in which the Cold War came closest to a nuclear war. * Our air is polluted with toxins and our water is polluted with waste from manufacturing. There are people suffering everywhere and yet science is so far behind where it matters. A satellite can be launched into orbit and bring back images millions of miles away but our water filled, with pharmaceutical s, cannot properly be cleaned? Why on earth would cloning another living being come before finding cures for diseases!I truly believe science to be a good thing but there is far too much depravity coming from it. We’re stuck finding cures for the ailments caused by technology and yet people latch on to technology, expecting it to solve all our problems. Most haunting, society is becoming desensitized to all of it. We are very close to stripping away what little humanity we have left and becoming robotic in nature, looking at everything in a scientific lens. Society expects instant gratification and is consistently undervaluing the very things that make us humane.As a whole we’ve becoming needy, less principled, and incapable of doing things without relying on technology. We’re on the verge of becoming nothing more than sponges for gratification without purpose. It’s sickening. * Our lives are in danger because bombs are made to blast thousands or millions of people. New guns are made for robbery. People are rebelling against their own blood, and it's not fair. This all is done by the cruel advancement of science. Can you believe science has increased the capability of men to kill each other? It's true we owe a lot to science, all the convenience and creature comforts we enjoy on earth wouldn't have been possible without advances in science. The downside is that all this technology can and will be used against us. Look at the atomic bomb, with the destruction it caused and that was almost seventy years ago. The weapons we have now, would make the atomic bomb look like a firecracker. Then you have people who get greedy for profits and use technology for their own benefit; not worrying about the welfare of anyone or anything else.As much as I would like to say no, as long as we have a world full of greedy people in power, who are only thinking about the next big payday; science will always be a threat. * Although I understand the view that science has brought us many benefits, I think people often forget its consequences. It has enabled countries to create terrifying Weapons of Mass Destruction, has caused numerous ethical questions to be raised and is a constant threat to humanity with the danger that it may never stop, and we will become our own worst enemy.Even some of science's greatest achievements like the discovery of antibiotics has caused massive implications through the uncontrollable population increase. For these reasons and many more I think scientists should be very careful about how far they go to improve society as it could in fact turn into a serious threat to humanity. * We may be living in a modern world with the influence of science however does it makes any difference? many people are still suffering the effect of science. The floods, global warming and etc.Science may help us, but the total destruction it causes us is just one-fourth of the benefits it give us. * It is true that science has brought many great advancements. But because of these advancements humanity is ruined. The world is in corruption because of science. For example, the global warming which lead to the melting of Antarctica. Hacking and cracking of information. The invention of dangerous bombs like nuclear weapons and atomic bomb. The viruses and the diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.These declines are started and caused by science and these type of situations will keep worsening by the minute as long as there is an existence called science. * People keep saying that it is humanity that controls science and therefore science is not the actual threat to humanity but rather it is humanity iteself? If it is an innate part of humanity to want to explore then surely so is violence and science is making our violence potentially more and more destructive. SCIENCE IS NOT A THREAT TO HUMANITY * Look back in time a couple hundred years.Since then the quality and length of our life has increase d significantly. If you live in a first world nation then you benefit from these advances the most. For example: when was the last time you went a day without being able to eat? How long does it take you to travel thousands of miles? How quickly can you research information on a computer? All of these great advancements are thanks to science. * The only thing that will lead to destruction of people, is people. There’s rarely knowledge that can’t be construed for purpose of mal-intent. If you hand out knives to convicts, someone most likely will be stabbed.Would you deem knives as something to be diminished simply because cutting a steak isn’t as significant as killing someone? Knowledge, like a knife, is a tool and it, like any other tool, most be handled appropriately. * Science has transcended the boarders of human understanding and expanded our knowledge of the things that were once unknown, making everything easier, faster, lighter and better. Scientific stu dies about human have given a huge progress for Medicine and Surgery; diseases that were once incurable are now easily cured, and even changing parts of our body is made possible.The modern facilities of communication have made contact between people who are miles apart be easily patched within seconds. * It is true that Weapons of Mass Destructions are deadly weapons that could bring an end to humanity as we know it. However, is it right to blame all of these potential threats on science? Albert Einstein became a vegetarian because he believed that, in every human, there is barbaric emotion. These barbaric human impulses, not Science, may bring an end to humanity.Science, however, improves our lives, makes us realize the truth and sometimes brings miracles. Firstly, the birth of internet has made our lives more efficient and comfortable. The internet is the reason why people could express their own opinions on websites, send mails in a matter of seconds and explore the world. Secon dly, science has also improved our lives in terms of health. Consider the potential of stem cell research. * Simply put, I believe that it is an innate part of the human psyche to want to explore and to find out more about the world.Science is literally our knowledge of the physical/material world gained through observation so to say that advances in science would be detrimental to humanity is like point your finger at a gun and saying that it was the one that killed the person, not the soldier. People can choose what they want to do with new developments in science, whether they want to use it to better modern society or otherwise. * Although the fact that WMD's (weapon of mass destruction) are a result of research in science, this does not mean it is, generally, science's fault. It is a human ‘s need to be the powerful one.To be the superior. It is human nature to want to create a bomb that could kill millions, they just use science to find out how to use it. We take advanta nge of the discoveries of others before us and use it to kill, manipulate, or destroy. * Science helps humanity because it is how we heat our homes up, how we keep our food fresh. Science is how we know the world around us. Science is also even a solution to things like global warming. Science does not pose a threat to humanity unless it is misused or used irresponsibly. * No, humanity is a threat to humanity.Science hasn't 'caused' those things, humans have, societies and governments have, usually to the screaming objection of actual scientists and the scientific consensus. They seem to be the only ones playing by reason or empiricist rules yet they get the blame for the rest of society ignoring their warnings. * Reason why science is threatening to humanity is because humanity itself has conjure up ways to apply science destructively with or without intention. If we blame science generally, we are merely saying that everyone is a threat to humanity just by existing.

Information Systems in Scm and Erp Essay

2.1.Introduction With the variety of requirements for information within businesses, most businesses tend to have several information systems operating at the same time. Executives require information to plan for the future, middle management require information to monitor and control whilst employees require information to help them carry out their duties. In this essay we look at information systems in supply chain management and enterprise resource management. 2.2.Discussion There are various types of information systems, these include office automation systems, transactional processing systems, decision support systems, management information systems and knowledge management systems. In identifying the use of information systems in enterprise resource planning and supply chain management, we first have to understand what these represent. 2.2.1Review of Information Systems, ERP and SCM Information systems are an integrated set of components for collecting, storing, processing and communicating information. Organisations rely on information systems to manage their operations and compete in the marketplace effectively and efficiently. Information systems rely on three key resources i.e. technology, people and information. Bocij et al. (2008) describe enterprise resource planning (ERP) as systems that provide a single solution with integrated functions and a unified database for major business functions across the value chain for example: finance, sales, distribution, marketing and human resource management. ERP systems enable efficient planning, managing, and controlling of all core business processes across multiple locations. According to Bocij et al.(2008) supply chain management (SCM) consists of a series of activities that moves material from suppliers through operations to customers. SCM enables more efficient management of the supply chain by integrating the l inks in a supply chain; which may include suppliers, manufacturer, wholesalers, retailers and final customers. 2.2.2Information Systems in Supply Chain Management Information systems are critical to a supply chain management. They automate simple and complex tasks and provide management with reports concerning logistics. Information systems in supply chain management analyse the flow of products and provide information and status on items, determine profitability and the most effective way to manage inventory. The information system enables the retailer to identify inventory levels, inventory turnover rates while identifying usable warehouse space. Information systems are used to optimize the logistical process such as receiving, storage and distribution. The role of an information system is to collect raw data for transaction processing. Through specialized reporting and enquiries, the system produces reports to assist management to make decisions which impact operations. Compiled data is used to determine strategies which impact inventory costs, distribution costs and product cycles. Added benefits of information systems in supply change management include the ability for customers to track the delivery of an item with an assigned tracking number; and management of inventory based expiry dates or no sell by dates i.e. last in, first out or first in, first out (Unknown). 2.2.3Information Systems in Enterprise Resource Planning Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems refer to the software packages that integrate all the data and the related processes of an organisation into a unified Information System. It is designed to facilitate the administration and optimisation of internal business processes across an enterprise. ERP is used extensively by larger retail chains as a competitive tool for efficiency. ERP software uses a single database that allows different departments to communicate with each other through information sharing. ERP systems serve an important function by integrating separate business functions such as material management, product planning, sales, distribution, finance and HR, into a single application. Hyperone would benefit from an integrated infrastructure which continuously monitors and dispatches the necessary information of the flow of goods from supplier to cash register. Flexible, process efficient and reliable information are critical to retail business and ERP packages have been introduced to tackle IT complexity. Some ERP retail solutions include critical functions like inventory tracking, ordering and replenishment, loss prevention and task management. ERP systems help in the decision making process such as formulating pricing strategies, merchandising planning, inventory optimisation and store execution. They also help in managing workflow through automation which enables management to monitor and control inefficiencies in processes (unknown:2011) The key components of a retail ERP system include: * Merchandise management which includes activities such as the setting up, maintenance and management of the retail outlet, keeping track of the prices of the items, inventory, and the different vendors etc., facilitating a more efficient retail option. * Retail planning which enables retailers to plan activities at a large and small scale, factoring in economies of scale to achieve desired efficiencies. * Supply chain planning and execution enables a retailer to run the business more efficiently by closely monitoring and managing their supply chains. However, it must be noted that most ERP systems need to integrate with other systems such as management information systems (MIS), business intelligence (BI) or data mining tools in order to extract, analyse and construct data into readable information. 2.3.Conclusion Information systems are integral to enterprise resource planning and supply chain management for the effective management of information across all functions of the business. Both supply chain management and enterprise resources planning systems comprise of transactional processing systems and with integrated management information systems they provide crucial information in a timely manner.

Discuss at least two of the U.S. Supreme Court rulings in regards to Essay

Discuss at least two of the U.S. Supreme Court rulings in regards to the death penalty and how it has impacted capital punishment in the United States - Essay Example In fact, it was against the 8th Amendment of the United States Constitution. In the case of Kennedy v. Louisiana, 554 U.S. 407 (2008), involving the rape of a 12 year old girl by his stepfather, the ruling was against the death penalty. It was argued that one should not be sentenced to death since the victim did not die. They laid out debate that it was unfair to kill such a criminal since it was not a capital offense compared to other cases involving outright murder. There is a trend showing that with the passing of time, capital punishments had to be revised so as to allow justice and consistency in the rulings of court. No evidence has shown that the death penalty had an effect on the rate of crime in any state. This was because, if anything, it contributed to murder at all levels and the devaluation of human

Ethics in Sports Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Ethics in Sports Management - Essay Example The initial arguments will be explored and the main angles of the debate will be identified. After that, an empirical analysis of key reading materials will be conducted to identify social norms and sporting management trends and elements. This will create the basis for critical analysis in order to identify the rightful solution to the issue at hand. Scenario This essay revolves around a case where a sports manager trainee is told to give misleading information in a public relations campaign about a football team. The team has major issues with the following: 1. The drug addiction of a central star player. 2. Major management rifts concerning shareholders. 3. Personal problems with the coaching staff. 4. Race rifts within the playing body of the team. 5. Major financial challenges and crises with major financier The media has come up with numerous campaigns to expose these problems and issues. Clearly, most of the speculations and claims are true. However, the management and board s eek to undertake an image enhancing campaign. And the newly appointed sports manager trainee has been chosen to lead this campaign. The rest of the paper will examine the different moral and ethical elements of the study. Initial Argument From this scenario, it is clear and apparent that the young manager is in his pre-professional management years. At this point, he will have to balance two conflicting ideas and concepts. The first idea is the need to be honest and ethical in the delivery of information about internal conditions to external stakeholders. Thus, working as a public relations representative presents the opportunity to be ethical and show honesty and transparency as required by laws and regulations. On the other hand, the young manager also has to adapt to the norms of the organization. He will have to show that he is an asset, rather than a liability to the sports institution employing him. This is because the institution expects him to become a positive and an import ant individual to the entity. This can be done by salvaging the image of the entity and doing what will retain supporter confidence, increase returns and improve the company's image and also provide some psychological advantage to the team. However, going too far at this side of the continuum could pose some dangers. The obvious one is that the information that is given could be false and provide an over-idealistic image of the company. This could potentially harm the career of the young manager and cause far reaching damage to the football team employing this manager. Obviously, this forms the crux and the central point of the ethical dilemma at hand Relevant Ethical Models As identified above, the central issue of importance is the need to balance the observance of ethical standards and ethical codes in his approach to this image enhancing PR job with the need for the attainment of confidence amongst external stakeholders. This provides various ethical constraints which can be vie wed from two different standpoints. Anderson (1996) identifies that there are two main approaches to viewing ethics and defining what is right. The first is deontology which involve a non-consequential approach to ethics and decision making. In this area, what is right is set in a absolute standards and absolute rules. These are universal rules and regulations that guide conduct throughout the world. All human beings must adhere to the standard of ethics that is

Db 5 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Db 5 - Essay Example The given case study reflects an ethical dilemma that organizations normally face during employee selection processes. This paper will critically analyze the given issue and suggest the most possible solution. Case analysis The two candidates, Martin and Joy apply for job in a computer technology company for the position of software trainer. The candidates are from two different countries and both of them possess certain unpleasant backgrounds. Martin has a scar on the right side of his face which indicates an extensive employment injury record. At the same time, Joe has a criminal background. In my opinion, the case does not fall under the category of diversity. To illustrate, â€Å"the concept of diversity refers to the number or the proportion of people within a community or social environment that hold different and various roles.† (Diversity Categories). This concept is against all forms of discrimination and it tries to promote social equality. Martin is from China and J oe is from United States. Here, the firm does not consider the nationality of the candidates in its selection criteria; on the other hand, the firm only takes the previous work history of the candidates into account. ... In the final decision regarding employee hiring, I would consider the candidates’ work history and morals as the most determinant factors. Since the company would not have knowledge regarding candidates’ qualification, experience, efficiency, professionalism, and dedication, The candidate’s background information would be the only criterion to take final decision. The extensive employment injury record found to be the major weak-point of Martin. However, it is precise that a software trainer does not need to engage in physically demanding jobs that cause injuries. Similarly, the scar on Martin’s face does not raise any further interruption to his work. In contrast, Joe’s criminal background seems to be a potential issue that disqualifies him for the proposed employment opportunity. It is not advisable for the firm to employ a candidate with criminal background since he may hurt the overall cohesion and interests of the organization in future. The em ployment of a person with criminal background would promote unfair practices in the company. Moreover, the presence of employees having criminal background would adversely affect the repute of the whole organizational unit. In addition, Joe has body odor which would cause inconveniences to his co-workers. Hence, it is advisable to hire Martin for the offered post since he possesses better qualities and personal integrity required as compared to Joe. In this case study, there are no elements that constitute a legal issue because the hiring process does not include any religious, racial, or political discrimination. Law clearly states that an employer can refuse the job application of a candidate if the employer has sufficient reasons to prove that candidate would

Should the UK withdraw from the European Convention on human rights Essay

Should the UK withdraw from the European Convention on human rights - Essay Example Sovereignty of the parliament dictates that the parliament has the sole discretion to make and amend laws in the UK. No person or body is recognized by the UK legislation to overrule the law made by the parliament. In this spirit the parliament is seen to be competent to make any laws. Laws that deprive the citizens of their right to property, liberty, voting, and life among others should be seen as valid so long as they have been passed by the parliament. This is done in faith that the parliament can exercise self restraint and only pass laws that are at par with the moral standards. However, this has not been the case always because some politicians have normally put their own selfish interests at the cost of national interests. The ECHR being an international body helps to regulate such offensive or repugnant laws. The citizens of Britain should advocate against their government withdrawal from the convention. This is for the benefit of regulation of the laws that the parliament may pass. The Human Rights Act of 1998 and its Problems The human rights act of 1998 was drafted on the principle of protection of human rights but reconciled with the sovereignty of the state (UK Government, 2012). Under this act, the parliament may make legislations and the courts may not necessarily quash them on the grounds of inconsistency with the European Convention on human rights. In fact, it is only the higher courts that should interpret the legislations and determine their inconsistency. The higher courts may only declare incompatibility where it is very clear. This act was put forward in order to ensure parliamentary sovereignty. ... an Rights Act of 1998 and its Problems The human rights act of 1998 was drafted on the principle of protection of human rights but reconciled with the sovereignty of the state (UK Government, 2012). Under this act, the parliament may make legislations and the courts may not necessarily quash them on the grounds of inconsistency with the European Convention on human rights. In fact, it is only the higher courts that should interpret the legislations and determine their inconsistency. The higher courts may only declare incompatibility where it is very clear. This act was put forward in order to ensure parliamentary sovereignty. However, the enactment of the act has transformed the constitutional environment in which the parliament’s legislative power exists; the legislative powers have been altered. Three features of the act pose problems to its enactment and goes against the ECHR. The first problem is that the act places the power to interpret whether the acts are consistent wi th convention rights in the hands of the judiciary. This greatly alters the process of interpretation of the legislation. This has two implications; it is rare for legislation properly interpreted to go against the human rights norms. The parliament will always use a clearer and precise language if it wishes to abrogate human rights. The use of clear language draws the attention of public and the parliament. The government may put a strong justification of the legislation to win the public support. This legislation may be infringing on the rights of the people but it may escape the eyes of the judiciary which has been given the ultimate power to determine its compatibility with the rights convention (Elliot, 2002). The second problem is that the minister in-charge of the bill should make a

The History About Saudi Arabia Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The History About Saudi Arabia - Research Paper Example During its earlier stages, Saudi Arabia came up with strategies such as legalizing international scholarships in besides allowing foreign workers into the nation (Denman & Hilal, 2011). It was due to this move that saw the nation rise to become one of the most developed states in the Middle East. The discovery of oil in the nation was one of the main reasons the Saudi Arabia quickly developed economically despite its located in a desert. The essay will relay more information on the history of Saudi Arabia in terms of its kingdom and culture. This is Saudi Arabia’s ruling family whereby studies contend although it comprised of thousands members, the most influential of all was Saudi Arabia’s kings, who were normally descendants of Muhammad bin Saud. Studies show that the House of Saud is the translation of Al Saud, whereby the latter implies â€Å"family of† hence referring to the kingdom’s founder, Muhammad Bin Saud (Saudi Arabia, 2013). To date, the term Al Saud is a common reference carried by any descendant of Muhammad bin Saud or his brothers who are Mishari, Farhan and Thunayyan. The other family branches of Al Saud the reference is â€Å"Cadet Branches† and its members, just like those of Al Saud, hold high positions in the government. The only difference between Al Saud and cadet branches is that whereas the Al Saud’s are in a position to succeed the line of throne, Cadet Branches do not stand a chance (Saudi Arabia, 2013). Al Saud and cadet members have been close to one another to the extent that they intermarry in a move to reestablish their lineage hence continue wielding influence in the government. Studies contend that Mani’ibn Rabiah Al-Muraydi was the first ancestor of Al Saud, he alongside his clan, Mrudah, settled in Diriyah. For decades, the Mrudah ruled al-Diriyah, which rapidly prospered to become an important settlement for the Nadji. Gradually as the clan grew,

Amended Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Assignment

Amended Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act - Assignment Example The New England Journal of Medicine published a survey study conducted by Dr. David Eisenberg, of Beth Israel Hospital and Harvard Medical School, which showed that 85 million Americans are using alternative methods for their health care needs, most of which is not covered by their insurance, and furthermore, the number of times they used alternative medicine practitioners was considerably more than the number of times they used allopathic doctors (Eisenberg, Kesler, Foster, Norlock, Calkins, & Delbanco, 1993). Why isn’t the new health reform program taking this preference into account? Exploring who the 8% uninsured will be, I am led to understand that Native Americans, people with financial hardship, and those with religious objections make up at least part of this group, and that everyone else will be required to have insurance or they will be fined, and the fines are fairly high (Galwitz, 2010).

Personal affirmation leads to greatest triumph or worst defeat Essay

Personal affirmation leads to greatest triumph or worst defeat - Essay Example It is through personal affirmation then that he realizes his greatest victory or worst defeat. This notion is aptly illustrated in the two novels namely A House for Mr Biswas by VS Naipaul and The Old man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway. A House for Mr. Biswas (House from now on) is a mammoth epic of nearly six hundred pages that illustrates one man's refusal to accept fate and to rise above the circumstances. It chronicles the life of Mohan Biswas who has just one dream all his life i.e. to win his independence by having his own place. He wants to be able to free himself from the clutches of the Tulsi family and while he dies at the young age of 46, he is one contented man having gained his independence. It is as early as in the prologue that we learn about Mohan's mission when we see that he is a sacked reporter who is dying at the age of forty-six in his own place "on his own half-lot of land, his own portion of the earth," on Sikkim Street, Port-of-Spain: How terrible it would have been, at this time, to be without it [a house]: to have died among the Tulsis, amid the squalor of that large, disintegrating and indifferent family; to have left Shama and the children among them, in one room; worse, to have lived without even attempting to lay claim to one's portion of the earth; to have lived and died as one had been born... In this he resembles Santiago of The Old Man and the Sea who is not an ordinary aging protagonist himself. From the very beginning Hemingway creates a portrait that alerts us that we are not dealing with an ordinary character when we learn that: "He was an old man who fished alone in a skiff in the Gulf Stream and he had gone eighty-four days now without taking a fish" ( Hemingway 1952, 9). That Mohan's life would be extraordinary is clear from right from the auspicious time of his birth. He was born at midnight which according to Hindu myths was not a very fortunate time. The pundit prophesizes that Mohan would be a liar and lecher and the midwife feels he would be the cause of his father's death. As luck would have it, he inadvertently causes his father's drowning and is forced to live with strangers. It is during really tough times that he gets the brutal lesson of "ought oughts are oughts," which if we recall Lear's words means that "Nothing will come out of nothing." But Mohan is not the one to believe that. He was willing "to create himself and his world out of nothing." (Boxill, p. 37) The actual struggle begins when Mr. Biswas is dismissed from his position as a live-in pundit apprentice and from there on starts his solitary journey: "The neighbours had heard, and came out to watch Mr Biswas as, in his dhoti, with his bundle slung on his shoulders, he walked thr ough the village" (pp. 56-7). It is after some odd jobs that he finally lands a place with a powerful, conservative, land-owning family, the Tulsis who admire his sign-painting skills. Once inside their house, Biswas loses his independence completely. The Tulsis are a cunning lot who trap Mohan into marrying their daughter Shama because of his high caste. From their on,

Strategic Management company Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Strategic Management company - Essay Example Thompson, M and Strickland, P. (2004) mentioned that the term Strategic management refers to the managerial process of forming a strategic vision, setting objectives, crafting a strategy, implementing and executing the strategy and then over time initiating whatever corrective adjustments in the vision, objectives, strategy and execution are deemed appropriate 1. Michael J. S. & David W. G. (1997) stated that Strategic management process requires competent individuals to insure its success 2. The production system of Coopers Creek was one of the key reasons to become successful in international markets. The production system at Coopers Creek was set up to produce in 25-30 tonne batches; a modular approach based on grape truckload capacities. The company had the capacity to crush 100-120 tonnes of grapes a day, giving it a major aggressive advantage. Coopers Creek was involved in infrequent production-based collaborations with a group of local West Auckland wineries. As well as grape devastating at key times, the wineries swapped grapes, shared kit and jointly purchased key inputs; for example, Coopers Creek shared the expenses of container-loads of barrels with three other wineries. Coopers Creek was vigorously involved in the Canadian and US Country Action Groups in conditions of combined promotional efforts. A clear and entrepreneurially astute strategic vision is a prerequisite to effective strategic leadership. Managers cannot function effectively as either leaders or strategy makers without a future oriented concept of the business - what customer needs to work toward satisfying, what business activities to pursue, what kind of company to try to create. Coopers Creek has followed following steps and has been able to achieve success in their market. Charting a company's course begins with senior management looking at the road ahead and addressing the following questions: where do we go from here What changes lie ahead in the business landscape And what difference will these changes make to the company's present business Peter M. G. Linda E. S. & Jack D. W. (2005) have stated that forming a strategic vision is thus not merely a wordsmithing exercise designed to create a catchy company slogan. Rather it is an exercise in thinking carefully about where a company needs to head to be succes sful. It involves selecting the market arenas in which to participate, putting the company on a strategic path, and making a commitment to follow that path 3. Three elements of strategic visions: The number one is coming up with a mission statement that defines what business the company is presently in and conveys the essence of which we are what we do and where we are now. Using the mission statement as a basis for deciding on a long-term course, making choices about where we are

Rules and regulations on the conduct and discipline Essay Example for Free

Rules and regulations on the conduct and discipline Essay For the guidance of all concerned, the following rules and regulations on the conduct and discipline of students are hereby promulgated: a. Basis of Discipline Students shall at all times observe the laws of the land, rules and regulations of the Bicol University, and the standards of good society. b. General Rules and Regulations The following student’s rules govern the conduct and discipline of students: 1. Any student who commits any misbehavior in the University premises or outside the University when acting in his capacity as a representative of the University, shall subject to disciplinary action in accord with the schedule of sanctions set by the University. 2. The Bicol University is a smoke-free campus. Smoking shall not be allowed in the University premises. 3. Students are required to attend academic University activities that are conducted within the University. 4. Students of this University are free to participate in co-curricular activities and to express their views and positions in public questions/issues subject to the following conditions: a. Their participation shall excuse them only for the time missed in class and shall not excused them from fulfilling other requirements by the University, and b. Their participation shall be their own personal responsibility. 5. No play, skit, farce or any other similar act shall be staged or presented outside the University without the previous authorization and approval of the Dean of the College/Unit. 6. Only BU student organization duly recognized by the Office of the Student Service during the current school year may be allowed to publish and distribute written materials, or put up posters, signs, streamers, and the like. Each copy (and each page) of the proposed written materials must be submitted to the Office of Student Services/Coordinator Student Activities for verification and stamping of the words â€Å"Approved for Posting/Distribution- Dean of Student Services/Coordinator Student Activities† as a requirements before distribution or display. 7. No student may participate in an outside activity, contest, play, band, orchestra, choir conference, congress,  association, club and similar groups as a representative of Bicol University without being so authorized in writing by the Dean of the College/Unit. Participation of students in such activities in their personal capacities is not contemplated in this reservation, provided, however, that in this case the Universi ty shall not be responsible for any consequence arising therefrom. 8. No student or organization seeking to sponsor any social event or activity associated with the University may make use of the institutional name of the University unless he/she is authorized to do so. Generally, use of the institutional name by any student or group off- campus is prohibited. Permission for such solicitation may, on exceptional cases, be obtained in writing from the Dean of the College/Unit. 9. Students should wear the prescribed uniform of the College while inside the campus. 10. Validated I.D Cards must be worn all the time within the school premises. The validated card should be used in all transactions in and out the University. Any student who fails to produce validated I.D Cards upon demand by any member of the faculty or any schools authority or security guard, may not be admitted to class or inside campus. 11. Students should help keep the building and campus clean at all times. Trash cans and similar receptacles should be used. Littering and writing on the walls, doors or any property of the University is prohibited. 12. Students should handle funds; mail matter or any important papers entrusted to them either by the University or any of the student organizations with utmost care and responsibility. 13. All funds accruing the students organization must be deposited in a reputable bank. At the end of every semester the bank book reflecting the financial assets to the organization must be deposited with the college/unit Cashier for safekeeping. 14. Permission for co-curricular activity, i.e. field trips, educational/observation tours, and extra-curricular activity i.e., conventions, seminar conducted within the Region should be obtained one week in advance and for activities outside the Region two weeks in advance from the University President through the Dean College/Unit, Dean of Student Services and Vice President for Academic Affairs. The requesting party before joining any out of campus activity should meet the following requirements. DEFINITION OF TERMS: a. BULLYING. This refers to any act which causes upon the student emotional, physical or psychological stress making him/her feel lonely and unsafe or to think that there is something wrong with him/her or to lose the student’s confidence and to become disinterested in attending classes. b. CARRYING WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY PREMISES FIREARMS OR DANGEROUS OR DEADLY WEAPONS. Carrying any weapon which can kill, including but not limited to: Firearms, even if licensed, knife, blunt instrument, clubs. c. CONVICTION OF A CRIME INVOLVING MORAL TURPITUDE. Conviction in any court of a crime having an inherent quality of corruptness, vileness, or depravity with respect to a person’s duty to another or to society in general; such as but not limited to : rape. Falsification of official documents. d. CREATING DISORDER, TUMULT, BREACH OF THE PEACE OR SERIOUS DISTURBANCE WITHIN THE UNIVERISTY.  Any act designed to any serious disturbance within the University premises, office, classroom, hall or shall interrupt or disturb performance, functions or gatherings, peaceful meetings within the University premises. e. DEFACING, DAMAGING OR DESTROYING ANY PROPERTY OF BICOL UNIVERSITY OR OF WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY. Any willful behavior aimed at destroying, altering, or defacing property of Bicol University or of its employees and guests. Possession of the means to commit vandalism, including possession of a drill bit, glass cutter, or other substance (like spray paint) within University premises without proper clearance from the College Dean/Director shall be prima facie evidence of such offense. f. DISCOURTESY TO SUPERIOR. Any discourtesy by words or by deeds committed by a student towards a student-leader, a Bicol University official or personnel (teaching and non-teaching). g. DISGRACEFUL AND IMMORAL CINDUCT. Any scandalous behavior or act contrary to established moral principles committed inside or outside of BU premises which will cause disrepute to Bicol University. Petting, necking or any sexual conduct done with the University premises, inside or outside of classrooms. h. DISHONESTY. The act of concealing or distorting truth, showing a lack of integrity or a character to defraud, cheat, deceive or betray and an intent to violate the truth. h.1. SERIOUS DISHONESTY. Involve the presence of any one of the following attendant circumstances: a) The dishonest act caused serious damage and grave prejudice to Bicol University; b) In order to commit the dishonest act, the respondent gravely abused his authority; c) Where the respondent is an accountable office in any University/College Based Organization, the dishonest act directly involves property, accountable forms or money for which he directly accountable and the respondent shows an intent to commit material gain, graft and corruption. d) The dishonest act of the respondent exhibits moral depravity; e) In the commission of the dishonest act, fraud or falsification of official documents was employed; f) The dishonest act was committed several times or in various occasion; or g) The dishonest act involves Bicol University examination irregularity or fake Bicol University admission eligibility such as impersonation, and cheating. h.2. LESS SERIOUS DISHONESTY. The dishonest act caused damage and prejudice to Bicol University that is not so serious as to qualify under Serious Dishonesty, or  where the respondent is a student leader who did not take advantage of his/her position in any University/College Based Organization in committing dishonest act. h.3.SIMPLE DISHONESTY. Dishonest acts that did not cause damage or prejudice to Bicol University as well as those within no direct relation to or do not involve the duties and responsibilities of the respondent; and where the information falsified is not related to his office as a student leader or status as a student of this University in case of falsification of official document. i. DRINKING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR MANIFESTING DRUNKEN BEHAVIOR WITHIN THE UNIVERSITY PREMISES. Possession of intoxicating liquors or any beverages shall be prima facie evidence of the commission of this offense. j. FALSIFICATION OF OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS. Any untruthful entries I official documents committed thru alteration, deletion, superimposition, intercalation, or any misinterpretation. Official documents shall include birth certificate, official transcript of records. Library card, school ID. Student’s clearance, diploma, and other documents issued by or submitted to Bicol University. k. GAMBLING. Any unauthorized betting of money or something of material value within the University premises. l. HAZING OF ANY VARIETY INSIDE OR OUTSIDE THE PREMISES OF THE BISCOL UNIVERSITY BY ANY FRATERNITY OR INDIVIDUAL OR A GROUP REPRESENTING AN ACCREDITED BU ORGANIZATION. An initiation rite or practice as a prerequisites for admission into membership in a fraternity, sorority or organization by placing the recruit, neophyte or applicant in some embarrassing of humiliating situations such as forcing him to do menial, silly, foolish and other similar task or otherwise subjecting him to physical or psychological suffering or injury. (Sec. 1, RA 8049) m. MALVERSATION /UNLAWFUL DISBURSEMENT OF FUNDS PROPERTY BELONGING TO THE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY OR A GUEST OF THE UNIVERSITY. Any student who, by reason of the duties of his office, is accountable for student’s fund or property, shall appropriate the same or shall take or misappropriate or shall consent, through abandonment or negligence shall permit any other person to take such students funds, or property, wholly or partially, or shall otherwise be guilty of the misappropriation or malversation of such funds or property. n. MISCONDUCT. Such act affecting performance of his duties as a student and/or an officer of any University/College Based Organization and not such only as affects his character as a private  individual. n.1. GRAVE MISCONDUCT. Acts which manifest elements of corruption, clear intent to violate the law or openly disregarding established rules of Bicol University. n.2. SIMPLE MISCONDUCT. Any form of concealment not falling within the definition of dishonesty; or any violation of University/College Rules and Regulations. o. Photo or Video Voyeurism. An act of taking photo or video coverage of a person or group of persons performing sexual acts or any similar activity or of capturing an image of the private area of a person or persons without the latter’s consent, under circumstances in which such person/s has/have a reasonable expectation of privacy, or act of selling, copying, reproducing, broadcasting, sharing, showing or exhibiting the photo or video coverage or recordings of such sexual act or similar activity through VCD/DVD, internet, cellular phones and similar means or device without the written consent of the person/s involved, notwithstanding that consent to record or to take photo or video coverage of same was given by such persons (Sec 3(d) of RA 9993). p. PLAGIARISM. The act of copying another’s words/works and passing it off as one’s own original creation. q. POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS OR CHEMICALS. Possession of dangerous drugs or chemicals as defined in Republic Act No. 9165. r. SEXUAL HARASSMENT. An act, or a series of acts, involving any unwelcome sexual advance, demand or request for sexual favor, or other verbal or physical behavior of sexual nature, committed by any person who, having authority, influence or moral ascendancy over another in training or educational-related environment of the person complained of, without regards as to whether such advance, demands or request is accepted by the other. The foregoing acts may be committed among peers such as those involving student—student, and those committed towards a faculty member or employed by a student, whether of the same or opposite sexes. (Sec. 2, Bicol University Rules and Regulation in Administrative Cases of Sexual Harassment and Similar Offenses) s. STALKING. An intentional act committed by a student who, knowingly and without lawful justification, follows a fellow student or places the latter under surveillance directly or indirectly or a combination thereof. (Modified definition taken R.A. No. 926) t. THEFT. The taking, with intent to gain but  without violence against or intimidation of persons nor force upon things, of property of Bicol University, its employees, students and guests, without the latter’s consent; or the failure to deliver found lost items to University authorities or to its owner. u. UNAUTHORIZED SOLICITATION OF CONTRIBUTION/DONATION USING THE NAME OF THE UNIVERSITY.Any request for support to any individual or organization, monetary or otherwise, in the name of Bicol University without prior written permit from the College Dean and University President. v. VIOLATION OF SCHOOL RULES AND REGULATIONS. Disobedience to University/College rules and regulation. d. College/Unit Disciplinary Committee 1. All cases involving discipline of students and violation of rules and regulations of the College/Unit committed within its premises shall be subject to the jurisdiction of College/Unit Disciplinary Committee. 2. Investigation of cases falling under the jurisdiction of a College/Unit shall be conducted by a committee of five (5) members. The College/Unit Disciplinary Committee shall be composed of: 1. The Coordinator of College Student Activities as a Chairperson. 2. The President of the Faculty Club of the College as a Co-Chairperson. 3. The President of the College Student Council or his duly authorized representative, as member. 4. The Department Chair as member. 5. A student representative designed by the USC, as a member, and, 6. The Guidance Counselor, as non-voting member. e. The University Student Disciplinary Tribunal 1. All cases involving discipline of students could be elevated on appeal to the University Student Disciplinary Tribunal, which shall be composed of: a.The University Legal Officer as Chairperson. b.The Dean of OSS as Co-Chairperson. c.The Concerned Department Chair, as member. d.The CSC President or his/her duly authorized representative from the college wherethe subject(s)/students(s) is/are enrolled, as member. e.The  Chairperson of the University Student Council or his duly authorized representative, as a member, and f.The University Guidance Counselor, as non-voting member. f. Disciplinary Procedures 1. Disciplinary procedures shall commence upon the filing of a written report to the Dean of the College/Unit by the instructor or any school authority who apprehends a student committing any of the acts enumerated in Section â€Å"C†. It may also be commenced by the offended party upon filing a written complaint under oath specifying the act or omission constituting the misconduct. 2. The Dean of the College/Unit then refers to the matter to College/Unit Disciplinary Committee which shall convene not later than three (3) days after filing of the case. (The College Disciplinary Committee of different college/unit shall formulate guidelines that will govern the conduct of the proceedings). They shall likewise be responsible to inform in writing the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student/s allegedly involved in the case. A student under administrative investigation shall have the following rights: a.The student must be informed in writing of the nature and cause of any accusation against him/her; b.That he shall have the right to answer the charge against him/her with the assistance of counsel, if desired; c. That he/she shall be informed of the evidence against him/her; d. That he/she shall have the right to adduce evidence in his/her behalf; and, e.The evidence must have been duly considered by the investigating committee or officials designated by the school authorities to hear and decide the case. 3. The decision of the College Disciplinary Committee shall become final and executory unless within five(5) days from notice of the decision, the aggrieved party,not satisfied with the decision, appeals to the University Student Disciplinary Tribunal. 4. The University Student Disciplinary Tribunal shall review the decision of the College/Unit Disciplinary Committee based on the records/minutes of the proceeding. The tribunal under certain cases may require the receipt of other pieces of evidence. 5. Decision imposing disciplinary action upon the student shall be reported to his/her parent(s), guardian(s) not later than five (5) working days after the case has been promulgated. 6. The University Student Disciplinary Tribunal shall meet not later than ten (10) working days from  the receipt of the notice of appeal. (The University Student Disciplinary Tribunal shall formulates rules and guidelines that will govern the conduct of the proceedings). 7. The decision of the University Student Disciplinary Tribunal shall become final and executory unless within ten (10) working days from notice of the decision, the aggrieved party not satisfied with the decision, appeals to the Board of Regents, through the President. 8. The Board of Regent shall review the decision of the University Student Disciplinary Tribunal based on the records/minutes of the proceeding. The Board under certain cases may require the receipt of other pieces of evidence. g. Grievance Procedure In order to assure the students the right to redress of grievance, the OSS is responsible for a grievance procedure involving non-academic affair. Any student may file a question, complaint or statement in the OSS in person or in writing. A course of action will be taken within five days after filing. If the OSS’s course of action is not acceptable, the same complaint or statement of grievance could be elevated to the University Grievance Committee designated by the President, composed of: University Legal Office Chair Dean of the College where the complainantis enrolled Co-Chair CSC President or his/her representative Member USC President or his/her representative Member h. Academic Grievance Council Students have the responsibility and right to call the attention of a professor on any grade with the students believe to be in error. Students may appeal in this order: to the Department Chairman, then to the Dean, if the problem is not resolved at the College Level, the student may appeal to the University Grievance Council lodged at the VPAA. i. Students’ Right Article 277. Subject to the limitation prescribed by law and the University  policies and regulations, the right of every student in the University are as follows: a. Every student has the right to receive relevant quality education in line with national/regional goals, educational objectives and standards of the University. b. Every student is entitled to guidance services to enable him to know himself, to make decisions and to select from the alternatives in the fields of works in line with his potentials. c. Every student shall in exercise of the constitutional guarantees of the free speech and press, have the right to express and pursue his opinion on any subject, provided that the expression and dissemination of such views do not disrupt the work and discipline of the University. d. Every student shall have the right to receive a copy of every paid publication. e. Every student shall have the right to participate in the formulation and development of policies affecting the Uni versity in relation to the locality/region and nation through representation in the appropriate body/bodies of the University as elsewhere determined in this Code. f. Every student shall have the right to establish, join and participate in organizations and societies not contrary to the law. g. Every student shall have the right to receive reasonable protection within the University premises. h. Every student shall have the right to be informed of the University rules and regulations affecting him. i. Every student have the right to participate in curricular and co-curricular activities. j. Every student is entitled to be respected as a person with human dignity, to full physical, social, moral and intellectual development and to human and healthful conditions of learning. No student shall be subjected to exploitation, involuntary servitude nor cruel or unusual punishment k. Every student shall have the right to redress of grievances against any wrong or injustices committed against him and/or other students by any member of the academic community in accordance with the defined channels of authority therein. l. No student shall be subjected to disciplinary action without due process. m. Every student shall have the right to access to his class and other records for the purpose of determining his class standing and the University shall maintain and preserve such records. n. Every student officially admitted by the University has the right to continue and pursue his course study therein up to graduation, except in cases of academic delinquency and violation of disciplinary regulations. o. Every student shall have the right to be  assisted by the University through current and adequate information on work opportunities. p. Every student shall be entitled to expeditious issuance of certificates, diplomas, transcript of records, grades and transfer credentials. j. Duties and Responsibility of Students Every student regardless of the circumstances of his birth, sex, religion, social status and other factors shall: a. uphold the integrity and good name of the University; b. strive to lead an upright, virtuous and useful life; c. love, respect, and obey his parents, and cooperate with them to keep the family harmonious and united; d. exert his utmost to develop his potentials for service, particularly by undergoing an education suited to his abilities in order that he may become an asset to himself and to society. e. respect the customs and traditions of his country and the principles of democracy; f. participate actively in civic affairs and in the promotion of general welfare; g. help in the observance and exercise of individual and social rights, the strengthening of freedom everywhere, the fostering of cooperation among nations in the pursuit of progress and world peace; h. respect and cooperate with the faculty, fellow students and University authorities in the attainment and preservation of order in the University and in the society; and i. exercise his rights responsibly with the due regard for the right of others.

Wong Kar Wai And Hollywood Cinema Film Studies Essay

Wong Kar Wai And Hollywood Cinema Film Studies Essay The world today is essentially a bifocal world. Filmmakers everywhere are concerned with their own national cinema, and then with Hollywood. The world today is divided into Hollywood and a serious of national cinema. As the most successful and influential Asian cinema outside Japan and India,  [1]  Hong Kong cinema as a transnational cinema, has so successfully emulated Hollywood to the extent that it has now been integrated by Hollywood. In this regard, commercialization and entertainment are what Hong Kong cinema and Hollywood cinema concentrated on. Especially Hong Kong cinema, due to it situates in a democratic and liberal society. The filmmakers have no boundary or limitation in filmmaking. Therefore, they pursue the films aesthetics and entertainment more than the fact of the society. Also, Hong Kong absorbs influences from the West and went on to localize and indigenize foreign cultures. And the community in Hong Kong has a strong link with its traditional Chinese culture, in many aspects had developed its own Hong Kong culture as well. So to speak, Hong Kong cinema has a strong sense of east-west identity. The geography, history and unique cultural identity of Hong Kong inhabitants have inevitably shaped the territorys cinema. Hong Kongs adaptability to change, cultural diversity and cosmopolitan lifestyle has led to a dynamic output of films that portray a distinct Hong Kong psyche.  [2]   The film of Wong Kar-wai attests to this tradition of filmmaking. Wong as the second New Wave of Hong Kong filmmaker who continued to develop the innovative and fresh aesthetic initiated by the original New Wave.  [3]  Since Hong Kongs 1997 handover to China, the local film industry was inclined to art-cinema wing instead of the action (Kung fu) tradition. And Wongs offbeat works got the world recognition even though he stands apart from the mainstream Hong Kong cinema. In the following paragraphs, the argument will be focused on Wong Kar-wais postmodern films in a relationship with Hollywood style. The narrational aspect of plot manipulates story time in specific ways. Jean Epstein summarized the relationship between narrative and time in the classical Hollywood film:  [4]   After dramas supposedly without endings, here is a drama which would be without exposition or opening, and which would end clearly. Events would not follow one another and especially would not correspond exactly. The fragments of many pasts come to bury themselves in a single now. The future mixed among memories. This chronology is what of the human mind. Contemporary Hollywood filmmaker like Quentin Tarantino, for example in his Pulp Fiction (1994, USA) uses the juggle story and plot time in ways that recall the complex flashback of the 1940s. Moreover, the switches in Pulp Fiction are not motivated as characters memories; the audience is forced to puzzle out the purposes served by the time shifts. In some of Wongs film, flashback has another expression. In Wong Kar-wais In the Mood for Love (2000, Hong Kong), the flashback applies to only one conceal scenario which begins with the male protagonist Chow Mo-wan (Leung Chiu-wai)  [5]  finds something is gone in his home, end with he notices there is a lip print on a cigarette. But it doesnt tell us what stuff he missed and who stole it until the coming scene of Su Li-zhen (Maggie Cheung Man-yuk)  [6]  comes (she comes to Chows home before), we realize the complete plotline. Unlike the flashbacks in Pulp Fiction or Reservoir dog (1992, USA) which is merely focuses on the rhetorical disposition of the narrative for the sake of suspense or surprise. Wongs flashback technique is more incline to highlight the aesthetics in actors performance relate to the important scenario. Like this scene, the two protagonists much-loved themes of loneliness, isolation, and longing rise to the surface. David Bordwell summarized the relationship between narrative and space in the classical Hollywood film:  [7]   In making narrative causality the dominant system in the films total form, the classical Hollywood cinema chooses to subordinate space. Most obviously, the classical style makes the sheerly graphic space of the film image a vehicle for narrative. We can see this principle at work negatively in the prohibitions against bad cuts. The important subjects should be in the same general area of the frame for each of the two shots which are to be cut together, but as long as the important subject is not shifted from one side of he screen to the other, no real harm is done. In describing the classical cinemas use of space we are most inclined to use the term transparent, so much does that cinema strive to efface the picture plane. The screen might be likened to a plate-glass window through which the observer looks with one eye at the actual scene. Contemporary Hollywood filmmakers have sometimes explored what has been called the web-of-life plot.  [8]  Instead of two primary lines of action, the tendency of the films pursues a large number of plotlines, often involving many characters. In the 1990s, such films as Quentin Tarantinos Pulp Fiction. The every single plotlines seem completely have nothing to do with another story, but usually they split off and converge from one and another. In Pulp Fiction, there are 3 stories, each one based upon specific characters. And the narratives are circular as well as intersected. The theme of the uncanny and destiny arises ranging from Butch (Bruce Wills) and Vincent (John Travolta), they meet each other for twice. First time they meet in a bar without a direct conversation. In the next time is concerned with Butch goes home for his watch (the only stuff his dead father left him) and comes across Vincent (implicitly come to assassinate Butch) in his toilet then kill him. In this rega rd, the sequence in the whole plotline is mysterious. Despite Vincent is already dead in the previous story, we still see him in the final part of the story in a restaurant with Jules (Samuel L. Jackson). Continue the unfinished story at the beginning. In Wong Kar-wais film, he doesnt follow this Hollywood narrative tradition. In Chungking Express (1994, Hong Kong), Wong creates a new style of narrative causality in space-time which he blends the theme of gangster and romantic-comedy together. This is the apparent feature of post-modern film. Seen from Wongs Chungking Express, it constitutes an intriguing experiment in nonclassical form. It has only about 6 major characters, but it is broken into 2 distinct stories, each organized around a different batch of characters and presented one after the other. Since both male protagonists are lovelorn men and policemen, originally we might expect them to encounter one another, but they never do. Even when the first story finish, everything related to the first story never appears again apart from one same locale. In Chungking Express, the connection between these two stories is they do share one locale: Both Officer 1 (Takeshi Kaneshiro)  [9]  and Officer 2 (Leung Chiu-wai) hang out a t the Midnight Express. Nonetheless, this doesnt connect these two parts. The characters in these two separate plots seem no intersection with each other. Merely the Officer 1 meets Faye Wong  [10]  once in the Midnight Express. Afterwards, the next story starts whereas Officer 1 never appears again in the next narrative. And the second obscure connection is while the mysterious blonde woman (the female protagonist in the first story) lounges outside a shop, Faye (whom we do not meet until part two) leaves with a stuffed toy (perhaps destined for Officer 2s apartment). Apparently, Faye is juxtaposed into these two coincidences by Wongs strategy in order to invite audience to seek the connections and unify the two parts of the film. From Chungking Express, we can see another general style in Wongs filmmaking. First of all, the notion of time is a pervading concept in all of Wongs films. In the first part of Chungking Express, officer 1 obsessively eats cans of pineapple with the expiry date of the 1st of May, for him, May 1st is his girlfriends birthday also its the end of their love. He convinces that everything has an expiry date, including love. However, for the female drug trafficker, May 1st is the end of her life if she could not find the group of Indian who stole her stuff. Indeed, Wongs films may not be directly or overtly political, however there is often an indirect relation to the political via Wongs conveying of a particularly intense experience of the period as an experience of the negative; an experience of some elusive and ambivalent cultural space that lies always just beyond our grasp.  [11]  In addition, Wong always ignores the characters identity, background and family. We just know they c all cop 223 and cop 663. Despite they have a home. We can only see the pineapple cans with expiry date and cop 223s desperation from this place. Cop 663s home is insecure. Faye often invades his home regardless of without aggressiveness. At the same time there is an escalator located beside his home, it is totally exposed in every passerbys eyes when go through it. Therefore Cop 663 lives under the unstable circumstance. Here, implicitly, once again Wong reveals peoples prospective confusion to their own identity related to the forthcoming handover in 1997. Thirdly, not only in Chungking Express, but also in most of his oeuvre, characters affection is the center of the attention. And Wong adores keeping them in the Platonic relationship. Rarely see the sexual scenes in Wongs film but the love between the two characters are aesthetic and pure. In the first part of the story, Officer 1 and the blond woman stay in a room without doing anything. Nevertheless, after Officer 1 leaves then he receives a happy birthday message from the blond woman. Obviously she still remembers May 1st is Officer 1s birthday because he told her last night, despite she gets into the trouble. Through Wongs oeuvre, Hong Kong becomes a metaphor for the characters and their varied existence. It represents an urban pastiche in which individuals struggle to come to terms with a sense of detachment and loneliness despite the territorys high-density population. Wongs endless array of possible scenarios and the navigation of his protagonists internal and external journeys in turn constitute an unravelling and reconfiguring of spatio-temporal constrictions.  [12]  Hong Kongs unique identity with its fusion of Chinese and Western culture and complex history provides opportunities for Wong to reveal and concerns with issues as varied as identity, emotion, future, etc via his frame. To some extent, we can define Wongs cinema is Hollywood in the way of expression such as the crosscutting, jump cuts and fragmented images. But as a poetic auteur, sees him delve into moments that are linked to both history and the personal in Hong Kongs community, whether directly or indirectly. Noti ons of identity and the ever-present fusion between East and West find context in the themes of love, loneliness and alienation that pervade his protagonists. Even though Wong doesnt belong to the mainstream in Hong Kong cinema, his films are never and ever being the foolproof and top grossing films. Nonetheless, we can not deny his contribution to Hong Kong film industry. Filmography Pulp Fiction- Quentin Tarantino, 1994, USA Reservoir Dog- Quentin Tarantino, 1992, USA In the Mood for Love-Wong Kar-wai, 2000, Hong Kong Chungking Express-Wong Kar-wai, 1994, Hong Kong

Project and innovation management

Project and innovation management Project And Innovation Management With An It Focus Abstract: Todays technology has focused on the senses of sight, sound and touch. To enhance the sensibility of technology we have introduced our innovative project â€Å"Digital Olfactory System†. This is the area of virtual reality which also have very vast applications e.g. entertainment (games, movies etc), Internet and e-commerce. On successful implementation of this technology a videogame player or a viewer watching movie could feel the scent of the scenes of the game or movie. And an online buyer would be able to smell products online before buying them. Concept Generation And Selection This chapter gives a brief introduction of our innovation and defines how it will bring a change in the world of e-commerce and virtual reality and give competitive advantage to our company in the market. Introduction Every human being is granted with five senses i.e. sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. Our nose is the one that has more relegated in our sensitive surroundings. The sense of smell brings us into harmony with nature. It warns us of dangers and sharpens our awareness of other people, places and things. It helps us to respond the people we meet, can influence our mood. Our nose allows us to make sense out of scents about whats going on in the world around us. Right on the roof of the nasal cavity is the olfactory epithelium, contains special receptors which are sensitive to scent molecules that travel through the air. These receptors are microscopic and there are at about 10 million of them in human nose. By the time all the technology in the world has worked mostly on vision and the voice, similarly sufficient work has been done in technology to sense touch. We found that very fewer efforts are done to approach the sense of smell. So far, computers today can work with only 3 out of 5 senses. Innovation Description Scent is one of the most attractive phenomena of life. Use of the scent in environment has become an issue in society. Most companies today want to market their products though direct marketing, though which there is a desire to have an advertising ability which appeals to all five senses. To detect odours of different things we have the ability to smell. We have a special portion in our brain called Olfactory Lobe which senses smell. Human could only smell seven basic odours and their combination it is similar like four basic colours make all the colours. Smell has a great impact on how we perceive our surroundings or a new thing. It is the sense of human being which never turns off as a person smells with each of his breath and an adult person breath as often as 20,000 times a day. There are about 400000 different odours in the world, as human we can distinguish 10,000 different smells. Our aim is to develop a digital system which have the ability sense, capture and reproduce the most common smells. The sense of smell is closely related to memory and emotion which makes odour a powerful way to reinforce ideas. Product Description Digital Olfactory System will be a combination of both hardware and software. The hardware will capture and regenerate the smell while software evaluate the smell equation (e-smell equation) and generate bits (electrical signal) for a specific type of smell and finally the smell will be regenerated on the other receiving end. The hardware of the system will be comprised of two parts, i.e. one to sniff the smell and other is to regenerate the smell. The device will be connected with a computer system. The software part of this system will be a driver for this device which will analyse the sniffed smell and generate a digital equation to reproduce a specific odour. The software will also be able to convert the smell in to digital signals and broadcast on the web. The coded odour would be downloadable to the computer like images and sound files. Users will be able to modify, regenerate their own smells and post on internet. This technology will be able to produce scented emails, scented websites. In future it could also be possible that these devices play a vital role in our life like in movie theatre, TV and internet etc. Our product will not only be sold as a separate peripheral device for computer but it will also be integrated in Apple laptops, digital cams and cell phones. Implementing The Idea As discussed earlier that Digital Olfactory System will be a combination of both hardware and software. The hardware of the system will be comprised of two parts, i.e. one to sniff the smell and other is to regenerate the smell. To capture smell a device like smell detector could be used. As discussed above that there are seven basic smells which are minty, floral, ethereal, musky, resinous, foul, and acrid. These basic smells combine together to make 400000 smells in the world. Prototype The device to sniff odour have the special circuitry to detect each of the individual smell from a sniffed smell and pass its signals to the device driver which have the built-in capability to calculate the equation of the sniffed aroma on the basis of the intensity of each basic smell. While on the regenerating side this scent will be reproduces by reversing the e-smell equation. The smell reproducing device will have the cartridge filled with seven basic scents. The device driver software will send the e-smell equation to the micro controller of the smell generator. The microcontroller will than mix the appropriate quantity (as per equation) of each of the basic smell to reproduce the sniffed smell. Applications of Digital Olfactory System Digital olfactory system aims to manufacture the hardware for smelling device (recording the smell), storing the smell (in the shape of digital signals) and regenerating device to regenerate the smell as output. It develops the software and the hardware for the entire process. Digital olfactory system would with a driver package that could be installed on any computer to make the system compatible with the computer. The idea is to make all these devices function independently ,which means that the regenerating device can be installed independently on any computer and can act as a receiver which has its own advantages especially in future when the laptops , computers and televisions could be manufactured with built in digital olfactory receiver system. Similarly by manufacturing the receiver or the smell sensor separately, it can be used in digital cameras as an additional feature and the pictures can give a real time feel if viewed on a television or a computer with a regenerator tha t is   built in or attached as a peripheral device. The regenerators could also be designed as just generators that can be used as room fresheners for big rooms and car fresheners for cars. There could be many applications for digital scent such as:   Cameras equipped with digital scent technology can capture image as well as smell   Send scented email (how romantic)   Watch scented DVDs   Play scented video games   Try a perfume from a products website Why We Want To Do This? There could be many applications of our product but the four basic types of applications that Digital Olfactory System seems a logic fit for at the moment.   Marketing   Entertainment   Education   Medical Company Structure And Market Research Phase In this chapter we have discussed our business model and defined that how the internal and external factor can affect the market. Our product Digital Olfactory System As we have discussed our product in detail in previous sections as far as design and application of our product is concerned it will be a small device with inbuilt smell sniffer and smell synthesiser connected with a computer or some other equipment like digital camera, gaming console, TV, Digital Projector etc. Our technology will make it possible to send scented emails. This product will be sold as peripheral device for computer and it will also be integrated in laptops, digital cameras and cell phones. Our Vision Our vision is to enhance the experience of viewing by making it livelier and giving it a feel of real time experience, through this innovation we could also to some extend replace the use of natural fragrance by using artificial perfumes ,this could also boost the advertisement companies for making advertisement with smell sensors ,this would give out a clear idea of their product ,especially in industries in perfumes ,deodorants business and more so in food industries .It could   attract more customers ,which is what any company intends to do through   any advertisement. This innovation can be used for security purpose as well; a more sensitive smell sensor could as a bomb sensor which could be of high to help locating and diffusing a bomb. By manufacturing dedicated smell regenerators the use of artificial flowers could be increased because the only thing missing in todays artificial flowers made of plastic or synthetic fibre is fragrance and by adding fragrance to them the exp erience though arterial could be felt as very real and natural. The scope of this product is wide and the demand would only increase with the technological advancement in various sectors of IT and non IT sectors. Business Model (Source, Hedman and Kaling (2002), IT and Business Models, Pg 113) As seen in the business model the important factors effecting a business are, Suppliers, resources, Activities and organization, the scope of management ,the offerings and   the market/industry that has the competitors and the customers. As we intend to manufacture the digital olfactory system, there can be a company that is dedicated to manufacture the digital olfactory systems or it can be used by various companies in various industries who could manufacture customized digital olfactory system. We will try to relate the components of   business model   with the companies who might use it as a customized   additional feature in their already existing products, we would like the digital camera industry Canon to use the digital olfactory system   technology for recording the real time smell or fragrance by introducing a build in smell sensor in their cameras, and we would like apple to use the digital olfactory system technology for regenerating the real time smell or fragrance by introducing a build in smell regenerator in their laptops and computers. We would explain the business model and the components of the business model of these two companies relating with the addition of this new feature in their prod uct. According to Barneys Resource Based View (Hedman and Kalling, 2002) the Activities are performed by a business to use the companies resources, offerings are the products and the services the firm has to offer through their sales. If a firm utilizes its resources in the best possible manner then invariable they will have more to offer to the customers. The camera company Canon and the laptop company Apple could use their resources to built this technology and use it for their product which would improve on what they have to offer to their customers, if they be the first ones to come up with this feature then their competitors like Nikon, Sony and other in camera industry and dell, hp and other in computer industry would lack this competitive advantage, hence this would give Canon and apple a clear edge over their competitors. External Context It is important to analyze the external environment for any product of a company as it has a lot of forces acting on it that it has to deal with to be successful in the market. Market Segments Since we choose to add the feature of a smell sensor in the cameras of Canon and a smell regenerator in the laptops and desktops of Apple, we will focus on the camera and computer manufacturing companies and the market pertaining to it. We would describe further how this added feature can give Cannon and Apple a competitive advantage over their competitors and give more value for the product to their customers. The product will also face the forces in the external market like the suppliers, buyers substitutes, potential entrants and competitors which are the porters five forces we will discuss how and what extent these forces tries to hamper the success of this product. Competitors Some of the competitors of Cannon are Nikon, Sony, Samsung, Sony Ericson and others while the competitors of Apple are other computer manufactures like Dell, Hp, IBM and others, if Canon and Apple come up with the additional feature of digital olfactory system in their product it will surely give them a competitive advantage over their other competitors as it would be first of its kind of a product launched in the market. Buyers Buyers are the customers of the product, the buyers of this new product from Canon would be worldwide, and this could attract all the age groups that are interested in photography and also the professional photographers. While the customers of Apple who are already impressed by Apples innovative products would want to buy this product which would increase their sales and hence increase their profit. Potential Entrant Since it will be a product which will be first of its kind the threat from a new entrant will be less at least in the initial stages of the product life after the launch. Suppliers The suppliers of this additional feature could be the highly eminent staffs that work in RD department of Apple and Canon. The product will be developed by renowned computer, digital cam and cell phone manufacturing companies like Samsung, Sony Ericson, Canon and Apple. The companies already have their suppliers.   Although this is a totally new idea the companies might have to use their own resources to develop specialised hardware like sniffer and smell regenerator.   Substitutes Threats from the substitute can be assumed to be low as this being an innovative product it will surely take time for other companies to come up with the same technology. Internal Context Internal context can be seen through following factors Related Product Line The intention is to add an additional feature, the Digital olfactory system in cameras and computers, that is the smell sensor in Canon cameras and smell regenerator in Apple computers. Factors Affecting Product Development Some of the possible factors affecting product development are Market research and knowledge, risk management, coordination. Market Research It is important that the company is aware of the public demand, as eventually its the buyers that make the market for a product so there can be a research carried out for a product that we intend to launch. It can be done by the research teams of Apple and Cannon. Risk Management The project managers of Cannon and Apple will have to plan a risk management plan for the proper running of this new project, with innovation comes a lot of risk, since its a completely new technology there will be no references available to work out a plan so it is up to the project managers to make a plan and decide how to move along in this innovative project. Knowledge Management Knowledge management is not very easy to define precisely and simply. According to Brian (Bo) Newman, 1991 â€Å"Knowledge Management is the collection of processes that govern the creation, dissemination, and utilization of knowledge†. Our project is a complex project which not only involves an innovative hardware and software to make it. There are different people from different fields (e.g. electronic engineers, microchip programmers, system developers etc) have to work on this project. To make every detail of the project available to each member of the development team there should be a common (shared) repository and database to manage the knowledge carefully. (Bessant Tidd, p 194). Coordination The success of any depends on how well it has been coordinated, in this case it is even so true because there will have to be good coordination between the different sectors and set of engineers working in the company to make the project successful. Quality Assurance Quality is intangible and is often considered unimportant in development. Quality assurance is a planned and systematic set of several activities implemented in a system to verify that quality requirements for a product or service will be fulfilled Cost It is one of the major factors of product development. Our idea includes lots of research and development both in hardware and software. For this project initial estimate is about 6 million Krons. A small amount of about 5 to 10% of the total cost will be reserved in lieu of the unpredictable costs. Market Research Market Research is a collection and analysis of data about a particular product in a target market it also performs the analysis of the competition and environment of the market. It allows the companies to learn more about past, current and potential customers, including their specific likes and dislikes. The data can be collected either from primary research or secondary research. The aim of the market research is to get more understanding about a product to launch it in the market or to analyses the consumption of a product in the market and for many other different purposes. This research could be qualitative or quantitative. Market Interaction As we are going to introduce a digital nose and named it â€Å"Digital Olfactory System†. It is a totally new idea. We are intended to include our digital olfactory system in computers, digital cameras and cell phones. Apple computers are popular for its Mac computers; similarly Sony and Canon are renowned for their digital cameras and throughout the world. These companies will include our system in their products as an additional feature and introduce these products worldwide. So the users of Mac based computers, digital cam and cell phone users (of the whole world) who want to capture scent and enjoy it while playing movies and games, retrieving pictures, would be our target customers. To research on market interaction we have to use 4P model to examine the market in the context of product, price, promotion and placement. Product: Apple computers, Sony and Canons digital cams and Sony Ericsson are very famous in the whole world for good quality of their products. Including the new feature in their system will give them a competitive advantage in the market and boost their profit. Price: Average prices of products Apple, Canon, Sony, Samsung and Sony Ericson are quite high and demand of their products is also very high. Addition of a completely new feature in their products will increase the products price up to 30 to 50%. But the high demand of the products in market justifies the higher price to some extent. Promotion: before the launch of product there would be promotional campaigns of the product line which include a stunningly new feature of sensing and regenerating scene in digital format. For these campaigns all the communication channels and media will be used. All of our companies mentioned above already have their brand names worldwide. Customers satisfaction (word of mouth) on the product line of these companies would also be helpful in product promotion. Placement: The product line equipped with new feature will be placed at thousand of sales points spanned over the world, of Apple, Sony, Canon, Samsung, and Sony Ericson. Implementation Phase This chapter gives a brief overview of implementation phase of our product. We will see how the team will be organised, what are the responsibilities of each team member; time and cost factors will be calculated. And finally the successful launch of the product. Product Innovations And Development Process To implement our innovation project stage gate model will be used. Below is given the detailed description of the model: Initial Screen: At initial Screen Two Criteria Are Defined Which Are:   Must meet   Should meet Must meet criteria would define the standards which will mandatory for the project in order to move to the next stage. It will define the prerequisites (the minimum requirements) for each stage. Should meet will be some extra requirements, which will not be necessary to fulfil but they will add more value to the product if met. After analysing the â€Å"must meet† and â€Å"should meet† criteria a feasibility report will be prepared by the Financial Analyst to check that both criteria are fulfilled. Preliminary Assessment: it is the 1st stage at which the project is accessed on the basis of market research in which the scope of the project is assessed and success factors are calculated. We are confident that no other company is working on this new idea. The customers requirements and demands will be found out during market research and we will try to implement the final design of our product according to the requirements of the customers. Funding of the project will be started and total time required for the completion of project will be analysed at this stage. Detailed investigation will be done focusing on the scope and cost of the project. Analysis will be made prior to the product development and must meet and should meet criteria will be made sure. Innovative idea will be reviewed finally. Post-Implementation Analysis: product performance will be analysed by calculating the profit earned through its sale in the market. Required improvements in marketing plans and products performance will be made in the light of the results gained. Product Development Model Spiral Model The product could be developed using the Spiral development model as shown below: Spiral model gives an incremental approach towards the development of any system. It is also used if the risk factor is quite high in development process. As our idea is new and it requires lots of research and development. Spiral model gives an opportunity to reconsider the product design and development at several different stages. Requirement Stage The requirement stage is the first stage where all the information about the requirements of the project is collected efficiently by the research team or a dedicated team chosen for the project and then the data is delivered for the next stage. System Design This stage has the designing of the product, a design of product is necessary before the implementation of the product; the design is built based on the information from the requirement stage. Implementation And Coding The software code will be written at this stage and hardware will be produced on test level. This stage sees the implementation of the design created for the product, this is one of the most crucial stages as the risk management plan has a dedicated time and budget to get the product manufactured and everything has to be done as planed of foreseen for the product to be successful. Testing And Verification After the product is manufactured it has to be verified and tested before it could go into production stage at commercial level, verification stage allows the glitches if any in the product (either in hardware or software) to be fixed through a feed back to the implementation stage. This has to repeat till the product is as per desire. This all be done keeping in mind the time constraint. As the longer it takes the more time it gives to the competitors. Commercial Production Once the product is verified and passed as okay to be manufactured then it hits the production stage where it is manufactured in a number that is according to the plan that is made before the designing of the product starts .once in the production it can be increased or decreased based on the sales and market of the product. Product Development Team Model For successful development of each product good man power is the key resource. Skilled work force acts as the backbone in every project. To complete our project successfully we require a team of about 9 members which include: 1 Project Manager 1 Electronics Design Engineer 1 Embedded Systems Engineer 1 Software Developer 1 Engineer for Quality Assurance 1 Financial Advisor 2 Sales and Marketing Personnel Project manager will manage the overall project and will be responsible to manage and monitor all the project activities and mange for the project development. Project manager will also be responsible to bridge the gap between top management and the members of the project development team. Role of the electronics design engineer would be to design the circuitry of sniffer and smell regenerator. He will also responsible to design the digital circuits of the system and selection of appropriate microchips which will be used in the hardware of the Digital Olfactory System. Embedded System engineer will be responsible to write the device drivers and to design routines for microchips which will be used in scent sniffer and regenerator these microchips will coordinate with computer through device driver software which will also be developed by the system programmer. Software developer will be responsible to design the system interface and coordinate with embedded programmer to develop a mutual plan of software development for the DOS. Quality assurance engineer will monitor the quality of the product at each level he will also give his recommendations to the product development team to improve the quality and performance of the product at all phases of development. Role of Financial Advisor would be to keep track of the finances at each phase. He will also provide feasible financial solutions in a particular situation. Marketing and sales executives will make the plans and strategies to promote the product. They conduct market research and launch advertising campaigns. Development Process For Finance And Time Finances We have a budget of about 5 million Swedish Krons to accomplish our project. We are intended to allocate the financial resources mentioned below: Intellectual Property Rights Issue To protect our innovation from imitation and illegal copying we will get the intellectual property rights of our product. Our product is combination of hardware and software. The hardware will be patented and the software will be copy righted. To get the patent rights of our product we have reserved an amount of 200,000 SEK in our budget. Commercialization Phase In this chapter we discuss the diffusion model of commercialization phase of our product. Commercialization is the last phase of innovation process model according to our stage gate model. Type Of Market Launch This is the final and very important stage of the project, as it decides the success or failure of the product in the market. A good marketing strategy leads towards the success of the product in the market. For our project we have focused on market research in a great detail, we will also going to induct two marketing and sales executive to make business plans and do market research. Before launching the product into market we will test it in all conditions and perspectives. After the careful testing of our product we will perform the test marketing (Pilot Launch) of our product. According to businessdictonary.com the definition of test marketing is: â€Å"Product development stage where the product and its marketing plan are exposed to a carefully chosen sample of the population for deciding if to reject it before its full scale launch. Test marketing is an experiment conducted in a field laboratory (the test market) comprising of actual stores and real-life buying situations, without the buyers knowing they are participating in an evaluation exercise. It simulates the eventual market-mix to ascertain consumer reaction. Depending on the quality and quantity of sales data required for the final decision, test marketing may last from few weeks to several months. Due to its high cost, however, test marketing is more suitable for fast moving packaged goods than for consumer durables† Any marketing strategy is incomplete without advertising. (I have seen an interesting quote about advertising somewhere â€Å"without advertising its like smiling in the darkness†) On successful completion of the pilot launch of the product the product will be advertise trough all the media e.g. TV, radio, Internet, newspapers, magazines, hand bills etc. Diffusion Model The Product Diffusion Curve is a useful model that helps a company to think about who it should be targeting at different stages of the life of its product or service. Understanding the Product Diffusion Curve, we can target our marketing efforts intelligently, getting the best returns from our efforts. At the start of launch of our product sales is expected very low. Our product will not only be sold as a separate peripheral device for computer but it will also be integrated in Apple laptops, digital cams and cell phones. So all the customer of these products will be attracted to a revolutionary new feature of transmitting and saving smell. This will increase the sales of the product and companies will earn a maximum profit within a time period of one year. According to Bessant and Tidd (2007, P342) there are several characteristics which effect the diffusion of the product. Relative Advantage: Our technology is a totally new idea and there is no company using such technology in their products. Due this new feature the people will be attracted to buy those products which will be equipped with digital olfactory system. Compatibility: Our system will be compatible with all the existing products (in which we are going to add it) in the market e.g. laptops, digital cameras and cell phones. Complexity: The working of the products equipped with DOS will be very simple there would be only one button on computers, cameras and cell phones to activate / deactivate whether the smell capturing or not. Similarly on retrieving the scented file the system will prompt that the file has extra feature of scent and on activating that feature the user can enjoy the real scent while retrieving the file. Trail ability: The demonstration of functionality of our system will be given at every sales point and this feature will be used for the marketing of the products having DOS. Observe ability: The functionality and performance of the products having DOS will be observed keenly for a period of 6 months and if any problem occurs it will be try to resolve. There would also be a parallel research to improve quality of our system. References Websites: http://library.thinkquest.org/05aug/00386/smell/funtosmell.htm (Accessed on 2010-03-01) http://www.insyte-consulting.com/Home/InTheNews/Newsletter/JanuaryFebruary2009/AlternativeModelsHelpManageProductDevelopmentRisk (Accessed on 2010-03-04) Books: