Loki Essays - Jtnar, Sir, Synjur, Sons Of Odin, Loki, Lokasenna

Loki LOKI Loki is probably the most misunderstood of all the gods. Most people have come to see him as a most vile being, but this is a misconception. As everyone knows his actions will help destroy the gods, but there is more to him than that. What he gave to humanity as a whole outweighs what he has done and what he will do. He gave us choice; to understand that statement you need to know more about him, the events which led to his imprisonment, and the events that will lead to his eventual death. Loki is mentioned in Volsupa, Thrymskvitha, Hymiskvitha, Svipdagsmal, Reginsmal, Gylfaginning, Hyndluljod, and Baldrs Draumar. He is the subject of Lokasenna. Eilif Gudrunarson, Thjodolf of Hvin, and Ulf Uggason myths about Thor and Geirr?dr, Idunn and Thjazi, and Heimdall and Loki have Loki playing a part in them. Loki came from the east. He is the son of the giant Bergelmir, or Farbauti (the dangerous striker, ie, the storm), and giantess Laufey (or Nal, needle). His wife is Sigyn, who is included among the Asynjur by Snorri. They have two sons Vali and Narfi. In Hyndluljod, He also had three other children by the giantess Angrbodha (Boder of Sorrow), the Vanargand (Fenris Wolf), the Midgard Serpent (Jormungand or Ioemingang), and Hel. He is also mother/father to Sleipnir (Gylfaginning 42, Volupsa 25). Also in Hyndluljod, he ate the cooked heart of a woman which he found in the embers through this he came with child, and gave birth to an unknown monster. In Gylfaginning (33) Snorri says that Included among the Aesir is he whom some call the slanderer of the Aesir or the author of deceit and the shame of god and men. To outward appearance Loki is beautiful and comely, but evil in disposition and most fickle in nature. He excelled in sleight and had strategems for all occassions. He often brought the Aesir into great difficulties, but then delivered them with his cunning. He elsewhere says; How shall Loki be referred to? By calling him comrade and table-companion of ?din and the Aesir, Geirr?dr's visitor and casket-ornament, thief from giants, of goat and Brisingamen and Idun's apples, enemy of the gods, Sif's hair-harmer, maker of mischief, the cunning As, accuser and tricker of gods, contriver of Baldr's death, the bound one, wrangler with Heimfdall and Skandi. In Heimskringla ?din is called Lopt's friend, and Snorri speaks of him as Evil companion and bench-mate of ?din and the Aesir. Other descriptions by Snorri are: Foe of the gods, the sly god, Slanderer and cheat of the gods, Wolf's father, the cunning Loki. He calls himself Lopt (the airy one), and this name is also given to him by others (Lokasenna 52), and may be connected with lopteldr (lightning). The name Lodur, which occurs only in Volupsa (18), as that of an associate of ?din and H?nir, is generally supposed to be an early name of Loki, who was companion and friend of H?nir according to Thjodolf of Hvin (Sk?ldskaparm?l 22). DUALITY As already stated, Loki and ?din are blood brothers. This is how he came to be included among the Aesir, despite that the Aesir and the giants are maternal blood relatives. Yet he has always brought much woe to the gods. Loki does mischief for mischief's sake. He is a thief (of the Brisingamen) or he causes theft (Idunn and her apples). He dislikes others to be praised, even as a servant, as when he slew Fimafeng at Aegir's banquet (Skaldskaparm?l 33, Lokasenna Intro). He is foul-mouthed and slanderous, as Lokasenna shows. However, he has also been the key in bringing about situations which have helped the gods. If it wasn't for Loki how would Thor come about having the hammer Mjollnir, or ?din his spear Gungnir and horse Sleipnir? Loki was always welcome, to a certain extent, among the gods (until Lokasenna). Whenever anyone went to J?tunheim, he was usually there as an intermediary. In those days he was a mischievous god bent on a little personal gain. His actions were never truly evil, but eventually his pranks took on a more serious turn. His nature has been sought in the meaning of his name, which may be connected with Logi, German

Why Gun Control is Wrong essays

Why Gun Control is Wrong essays Once upon a time Americans had what they believed to be a solution to crime it was called gun control. Gun control was a relatively simple concept; if you reduce the amount of guns out on the streets then you reduce the amount of gun related crime. After a few months, however, something astonishing happened people started losing their minds crime actually increased once gun control took effect. The golden goose solution for diminishing crime was backfiring. How could this happen? An even more pressing question to consider is how such unconstitutional legislation could even be passed? Perhaps the most pressing issue today is gun control which is wrong because it impedes on an American's second amendment right and increases crime. First off, this great nation of ours had the courtesy to bless us with certain unalienable rights one of them being my best friend the second amendment. For those of you not familiar with the second amendment it reads A well-regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. Our founding fathers felt such conviction in the fact that their citizens should be allowed to protect themselves that they had it precede the vital rights of speech, religion, press, and assembly. In the book The Omnivores Dilemma author Pollan states Walking with a loaded rifle in an unfamiliar forest bristling with the signs of your prey is thrilling. It embarrasses me to write that, but it is true, (p.336) which simply illustrates the majesty of hunting and marksmanship. Clearly guns have considerable importance not only as a representation of protection but as sport. Pollan later goes on to speak of how if people went out of their way to hunt and gather food that it would free consumers of the burdens involved in finding food clear of steroids, pesticides, or other substances because they would know its purity(Po...

What can we learn from the product management of Microsoft Vista, and Essay

What can we learn from the product management of Microsoft Vista, and how to apply the lessons learned in managing digital products in general - Essay Example Product management is an organizational function within a company dealing with the planning or marketing of a product or products at all stages of the product lifecycle. Product management is also a collective term used to describe the broad sum of diverse activities performed in the interest of delivering a particular product to market" (Wikipedia, 2008). The purpose of this paper is to deter what we can learn from the product management of Microsoft Vista, as well as how to apply the lessons learned in managing digital products in general.The features of Windows Vista differ according to the edition: Ultimate, Home Premium, Home Basic, Business, or Enterprise. According to Microsoft, "Ultimate provides the power, security, and mobility features needed for work, and all the entertainment features that you want for fun" (2008). They claim that Home Premium, "provides a breakthrough design that brings your world into sharper focus while delivering the productivity, entertainment, and security you need from your PC at home or on the go" (2008). Their description of Home Basic is that "Easy to set up and maintain, it enables you to quickly find what you're looking for on your PC and the Internet, while providing a more secure environment to help protect you from an unpredictable world" (2008). They argue that with their Business version, users will "spend less time on technology support-related issues-so you can spend more time making your business successful" (2008). Finally, they claim that Enterprise was "Designed to significantly lower IT costs and risks, Windows Vista Enterprise meets the needs of large, global organizations with complex IT infrastructures" (2008). Physical products have several advantages over digital products, but there are also some disadvantages. First of all, pictures or actual representations or examples of physical products can be shown. Second, many shoppers know that they often get a real bargain when they shop for physical items online versus in a store, and the convenience of being able to shop from anywhere is second to none. Finally, physical products that are online appeal to a much larger and diverse pool of shoppers than those that are in stores in any given city. The downsides of physical products include that they are often expensive to ship, some physical products are perishable, and the inventory must be stored somewhere which is often a significant additional expense to the seller (Collins, 2007). Digital products have their advantages and disadvantages as well. First of all, there is no storage space needed other than for electronic storage. There is no need to worry about shipping, as customers can download the products. The downsides of digital products include vulnerability to computer problems, equipment maintenance costs, and the need for Internet with higher bandwidth (Collins, 2007). According to Wikipedia, "In business and engineering, new product development (NPD) is the term used to describe the complete process of bringing a new product or service to market. There are two parallel paths involved in the NPD process: one involves the idea generation, product design, and detail engineering; the other involves market research and marketing analysis. Companies typically see new product development as the first stage in generating and commercializing new products within the overall strategic process of product life cycle management used to maintain or grow their market share" (2008). This concept applies to digital products just as much as it does physical products. The following is a model of the new product development process. It shows the process starting with discovery, and then continuing on to exploration, scoping, building the business case, development, testing and validation, launch and, finally, post launch review. The strategic planning contained in such a

Toyota Case Study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Toyota Case Study - Essay Example Toyota Auris – The Auris represents the second model of energy saving vehicle to be introduced to the UK market by Toyota. Like its predecessor, the Toyota Prius the car makes use of hybrid engine technology to deliver a vehicle with low running costs and other financial benefits such as low tax duties. However, the marketing mix and target audience for the Auris model are slightly different to that of the Prius. Where the Toyota Prius clearly targeted the practical family market, the Auris is a smaller vehicle and targets the compact car market. Despite the fact that the car is a smaller offering than the Toyota Prius, the vehicle is still aimed at the premium end of the segment with models still costing in excess of ?20,000 at the entry level. Like Prius the car targets those who are either environmentally conscious or who are looking for long term low cost motoring. One of the key selling features of the model is the low fuel consumption with a reported MPG of 74.3. When bo th of Toyota’s offerings in the energy saving vehicle market within the UK are considered, the message may ultimately be seen as a similar one. Both cars target those who are environmentally conscious or who are looking for low cost motoring in the long term. However, high initial costs and premium based pricing strategy (Brassington and Pettitt, 2006) ensure that Toyota has maintained its reputation as a supplier of high value premium cars in the UK market. The following tools give a situation analysis with regards to the external environment which may affect the performance of Toyota’s energy saving vehicles in the UK. PESTLE Analysis Political On the whole political changes have been... This essay stresses that despite Toyota’s premium based pricing strategy, the researcher considers that economic performance is likely to worsen in the coming years which may see a greater level of growth in the budget sector. As such, it is recommended that Toyota in the coming years adapt its pricing strategy to one based around a cost leadership model in relation to the environmentally friendly car sector. Here the company should take advantage of the falling costs of technology in its existing models to assist the development of a budget range of cars using exiting hybrid technology. This may give Toyota a significant cost based advantage in comparison to other companies who are still in the expensive R&D stage of the development of energy saving vehicles. This paper makes a conclusion that one of the major advantages seen in the marketing of the Toyota Prius has been the high level of association between the product and role models within society such as Hollywood celebrities. However, as yet Toyota has yet to make official use of such marketing techniques. As such, one recommendation of the report is that Toyota should adapt the promotional element of the marketing mix to make use of celebrity endorsements and other associations which may help to lift sales of both existing and new models. Here the researcher recommends that such changes to the promotional element of the marketing mix should be linked to a web marketing strategy including the use of viral methods and online social networks.

Managing Value for Competitive Advantage Company Analysis Essay

Managing Value for Competitive Advantage Company Analysis - Essay Example The rapid changes in business environment in the 21st century demand that businesses reinvent themselves in order to remain relevant. The economy has changed from being commodity based to become a knowledge –based one. Sources of value creation have shifted from tangible assets to intangible things. Advances in technology and globalization have given the issue of making networks and building long-term relationships more prominence (Castell, 2000). Simply put, in the information age, the flow of communication plays a vital role in enabling the business to succeed. According to Freeman, the term stakeholder may be defined as any group or individual who are in a position to affect or be affected by a company’s objectives. The type of interests that the stakeholders have in a company differs. For instance, investors have a stake in the equity of the firm. In addition, other direct stakeholders such as customers, employees, suppliers and competitors have a stake in the financial success of the company. Wheeler and Sillanpaa (1997) also included individuals and groups that speak for the environment, non-human species and future generations in the list of stakeholders. This type of stakeholders is interested mostly on the impact that the firm has on people and on the environment. Further, Freeman states that there are two fundamental issues that should be articulated in the analysis of stakeholder theory and value creation (1994). First, the fundamental question on the purpose of the organization must be answered. This sets the stage for the management to elaborate on the core function that the firm engages in. The shared purpose of the value that the organization creates helps to rally the stakeholders to work hand in hand towards achieving their goal. The second issue that should be considered is about the responsibility of the management to the stakeholders. It is accepted that sustainable economic value can only be created by the voluntary coming together of people to improve the wellbeing of each other. It is imperative the organization outlines how it intends to do business and precisely the kind of relationships it intends to build with the stakeholders. Creating value for stakeholders provides a win-win scenario for both the firm and the stakeholders (Jones et al, 2002). When a company creates products and services that customers are willing to buy, offering rewarding jobs that

Coca Colas Strategic Management Process

Coca Colas Strategic Management Process In 1886, John Pemberton was able to make replacement product of alcohol by adding CO2 with sugar and other components such as caffeine and cocaine named the mixture Coca-Cola. He may have been inspired by the formidable success of Vin Mariani, a European coca wine. At the beginning, they consider it as a medicine to relieve headaches and gain energy. They were believed that carbonated water is good for health so the first sales were at Jacobs Pharmacy in Atlanta, Georgia. In 1888 Coca Cola drinks were sold by three different companies. But John Pemberton died in 1888 without realizing the success of the beverage he had created. Atlanta businessman Asa Griggs Candler secured rights to the business for a total of $2,300. Candler would become the Companys first president, and the first to bring real vision to the business and the brand. (Atlanta Beginning, 2006-2011) Asa G. Candler was a salesman and he was the one who put a good marketing strategy for introducing the product to the people by distributing apothecaries with clocks, urns, calendars and apothecary scales bearing the Coca-Cola brand. So the people were able to see it everywhere and that will attract them to buy Coca-Cola drinks. In 1895, Candler had built the first Coca-Cola factories in Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles. (Atlanta Beginning, 2006-2011) In 1900, the company started to sell their product outside the country to England then they sold it in Canada and Mexico. In 1916, the product arrived to France, Jamaica, Germany and Cuba. In addition to that, the first factory for Coca-Cola Bottling in the Middle East was in 1944 in Egypt. Furthermore, there were many factories opened in the mid-20th century such as Iraq and Saudi Arabia to produce Coca Cola drinks. (Coca-Cola Offical Website, 2012) Industry, Segment, and Type of Products Coca-Cola is a global leader in the beverage industry; nowadays Coca-Cola Company provides more than 500 brands including soft drinks, fruit juices, sport drinks and other beverages in over 200 countries or regions and serves over 1.7 billion servings each day. Coca-Cola drink consists of: Carbonated water Sugar Caffeine Phosphoric acid Caramel color Natural flavorings The original copy of the formula which considers a secret formula for the drink held in safety box in SunTrust bank in Atlanta. Coca-Cola drink contains material that only produced in the main Atlanta factories Georgia, United States. Then the company distributes it to other Coca-Cola factories around the world. (Coca-Cola Offical Website, 2012) The target market for the Coca-Cola is all age group especially male and female teenagers, it is sold all around so that everyone can buy it and drink it. Furthermore, we could find on their TV advertisement that they target families to choose Coca-Cola drink as favorite family drink. Locations of operated company The Coca-Cola Company headquarters are in Atlanta, Georgia, and the United States. In addition, Coca-Cola Company has rights to operate across Europe which means they have rights to operate in 24 European countries. They sell their products in 200 countries all over the world. In other words, Coca-Cola Company is served all over the world (locations, 2009). Company Mission Their Roadmap starts with their mission which is enduring; it declares their purpose as a company and serves as the standard against which we weigh our actions and decisions: To refresh the world To inspire moments of optimism and happiness To create value and make a difference. (coca cola, 2012) Macro-environment (PEST) Analysis PEST Analysis PEST analysis identifies the changes in the market that occur because of the economical, political, technological and social factors. Political analysis: The Non alcoholic beverages such as Coca Cola are under the Food and Drug Administration. In terms of the regulations, the government controls over manufacturing procedure of the products. There are some factors that affect the operations of Coca Cola such as the changes in the laws and regulations (taxation requirements), accounting standards and environmental laws. Moreover, changes in the non alcoholic business era like pricing policy and competitive product pressures and ability to maintain sales in worldwide market compare to its competitors. Political conditions in international markets like governmental changes, civil conflict and restrictions on the ability to relocate the capital across borders. Its ability to enter developing market depends on political and economic conditions and their ability to form strategic business alliances with local bottlers effectively and to improve their distribution networks, production amenities, sales technology and equipm ent. So in some countries coca cola has problem in business expansion due to government regulation. (political and technological analysis) Economic analysis: Economic analysis examines the world, national and local economy impact. The recession that was in 2001 has impacted the operations of many companies, however, due to the aggressive actions of the US economy it returned to grow positively in 2002. The rise in the rate of interest also depressing business and it causes lower spending levels and redundancies. Because of the global recession, Coca Cola can borrow the capital and invest in the other products easily due to lowered interest rate. In addition, it can borrow to advance its research for new technology and products. Researching of the new products is cost effective and the company can sell its products at lower price so that its customers would buy more Coca Cola products at lower price. (Sociological and Economic analysis) Sociological analysis: It analyzes the ways how the changes in society affect organization such as changing in attitudes and lifestyles of the market (Sociological and Economic analysis). Most of US citizen are practicing healthier lifestyles. This has affected non alcoholic beverages industry mostly. Customers are switched to diet colas like Coca Cola Zero or light and bottled water instead of beer and alcoholic beverages. Time management has also increase and it is 43% approximately of all households. The need of bottled water and other healthy products are important in the day to day life. Middle aged customers are more concerned with their nutrition. This will continuously affects non alcoholic beverages industry by increasing overall demand and in healthier beverages also. Technological analysis: Many factors influence the actual results of the company to vary from the expected results such as the efficiency of promotional programs, marketing and advertising of company. The new technology like internet and television use incomparable effects for advertising and this makes products more attractive. In the past, entrance of plastic bottles and cans have increase sale volume of company because plastic bottles are easier to carry and can dispose them once they has been used. The technology is advancing continuously by the entrance of new machineries. Due to this, the production volume of Coca Cola has increase sharply in last few years. In Britain, Coca Cola enterprises have six factories those who are using modern equipment to ensure the top product quality (political and technological analysis). Industry Five Forces Analysis Porters Model Michael Porter, belonging to the Harvard Business School, introduced a business plan for industry analysis in the year 1979 known as Portes Five Forces. It essentially measures the competitiveness of the market with the sole aim to help the enterprises augment profit and enlarge their markets. The five forces can be used to determine the nature of the competition in the industry. In industry i.e. Coca Cola and the conclusion from the same is used to determine the nature of competition in this particular industry. The Porters Five Forces include: Threat of new entrants and potential competitors: It has been observed that in the beverage industry the entry barriers are relatively low. One can see the frequent emergence of new brands in the market which are usually priced at a rate which is lower in price as compared to Coke products. However, it cannot be denied that now Coca Cola is not seen as a mere beverage but as a brand. Owing to this very reason it cannot be ruled out that it has loyal customers who are unlikely to try any other beverage brand and quit drinking Coke. It is also worth noting that Coca Cola has a very significant market share for a long time. Threat of Substitutes: It cannot be denied that there are a number of other sodas and energy drinks in the market apart from Coke. But the threat against Coke is low. Firstly, due to the brand loyalty. Secondly, due to the fact that Coca Cola has such a market reputation where it has been successfully differentiating its products remarkably. Bargaining power of buyers: The third which pertains to the bargaining power of the buyer can be rated as low. It has been seen that the individual has no pressure on Coca Cola. Fountain sales, sales through vending machines, supermarkets, large scale retail sales and the convenience stores attached to the gas stations serve as the main channels of distribution. Pepsi, the main competitor is also priced almost the same as Coke itself. It has been however observed that the vending machines, convenience stores and supermarkets given to the fact that they have not many alternatives, have low bargaining power. It should also be pointed out here that given to the fact that people now are realizing the adverse impacts of the carbonated drink on health, they tend to turn towards fruit juices instead of carbonated drinks. Bargaining power of the Suppliers: The fourth which pertains to the bargaining power with the suppliers can be again rated as low. Coca Cola is primarily concerned with the task of supplying either fructose or sucrose and undertakes the bottling work. However, in countries like US Coca Cola buys high fructose corn syrup as its ingredient. As a matter of fact any supplier would not be willing to lose a huge customer like Coca Cola. Business Rivalry or rivalry among the existing firms: The market is essentially shared by Pepsi and Coca Cola which are always striving for international presence. It is seen that both the brands commit heavily to sponsoring outdoor festivals. Given to the fact that Coca Cola has a longer history, it resorts more to the classical way of advertising in comparison to its rival Pepsi which basically tries to captivate the attention of the younger generation by using Pop Stars as brand ambassadors. (Wright, 1999) Lifecycle Stage Coca-Cola has been constantly developing despite of their unrevealed formula that has not changed over the years, which has also been a huge success in maintaining their brand as a number one position. Industries evolve structurally as well as in terms of overall size over time. However, profits do vary throughout the lifecycle. The competitive forces that shape the business keep changing throughout the lifecycle. Hence several stages in the lifecycle of an industry are as follows: Embryonic Stage: In this stage where the industry is in its nascent stage faces minimal competition as there are few competitors and no threat from the substitutes due to the fact that the industry is new. Growth Stage: In this phase, the number of competitors increases. However, the rivalry between the firms is kept in check given to the fact that demand outstrips capacity of growth. This phase is often associated with profitability. Shakeout Stage: In this phase, economies of scale are achieved and due to large-scale consolidation barriers to entry become very high. Maturity Stage: In this phase, the focus is not on the growth, however, some competition from the late entrants become apparent. The power of buyer increases while the power of suppliers declines because now the capacity either matches or exceeds demand. Decline: In this phase, one can see increase in the power of buyer in sharp contrast to that of the supplier as capacity exceeds the supply. Hence, it can be said that this phase does pose new challenges. It is in this stage that we can see an eventual decline in the rivalry of the firms as the weakest of the competitors tend to withdraw from the industry. (Niemann, Tichkiewitch, Westkà ¤mper, 2009) Current Lifecycle Stage Currently Coca-Cola is under the maturity stage due to the solidity and capability of keeping a large and loyal group of stable customers. This stage is lasting longer than all other stages when it comes to western countries like the United States and Europe; considering Asia however, it is still in the growth stage. ( Coca-Cola Case Study) During the maturity stage, products usually go through a slowdown in sales growth which can affect cost management, product differentiation and marketing in the industry. Therefore, management has to pay attention to products in order to keep the percentage of sales growing, not forgetting the market share is the source of profitability. Description: http://image.slidesharecdn.com/49045118-project-of-coca-cola-110406035123-phpapp01/95/slide-28-728.jpg?1302079914 A way to extend its lifecycle being away from declining is to keep developing the product and/or the brand to make it more accessible based on consumer needs, by following some helpful strategies: Have a constant change in designs of both cans and bottles, for example: colorful cans and labels for bottles with tags on for festive occasions to make them more attractive. Produce smaller sizes of bottles and cans with lower calorie and sugar for kids. When buying packs of coke, they would come with a nice case to carry them easily everywhere. Produce Coke drinks with additional flavors (e.g. cherry, strawberry, grapeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦etc.) to grow customers demand and interest as well as to attract new consumer groups. Replacing glass bottles to plastic liter bottles will help increasing consumption. (Noor, 2011) Internal Analysis SWOT Matrix This section attempts to perform a strategic analysis of the brand which is the number one beverage maker i.e. Coca Cola. This is done by making an internal analysis of the company in order to understand its internal capabilities. This involves the development of such strategies which make Coca Cola distinct from its competitors. To compete in the international market Coca Cola has developed such strategies which creates values for its customers as well as its consumers like that of optimism, rejuvenation, accomplishment and difference. It follows the following path trying to pursue its strategic policies: by growing core carbonated soft drink brands at global level by growing in other core non carbonated brands like sports and energy drinks developing wellness platforms by initially focusing on tea, soy and juice by nurturing system health i.e. market by market focus Coca Cola should try to take into account the needs of its customers and create a greater customer value by creating adjacent business (Coca-Cola Offical Website, 2012) SWOT Analysis Coca Cola is the leading manufacturer, distributor and marketer in the beverage industry. However, given to the fact that certain regulations have been imposed in schools have affected the sale of soft drinks which seem to have a consequent adverse effect on the sale and operating margins of the company in the near future. Strength Coca Cola has leading market presence which is built on strong portfolio. Coca Cola, Diet Coke, Fanta and Sprite are the worlds top four non- alcoholic beverage brands which are owned by Coca Cola. Minute Maid, Coca Cola Zero, Dasani, Powerade, Simply, Georgia Coffee, Del Valle and vitaminwater. It is the strong brand value of Coca Cola that enables it to be recalled by the customer and consolidate its position in the market. The companys brand success is attributed to the its strong bottling and customer partnership It has a strong global footprints on the emerging nations Good financial resources (Coca-Cola Offical Website, 2012) Weaknesses Involvement in product quality issues Low health products Its own products are competitor of each other Opportunities In todays scenario an increasing awareness can be seen among the consumers regarding food and drink choices and it is owing to this reason that once can see the increasingly growing demands of healthy beverages and drinks. By taking such needs of the consumer into consideration the company can win the confidence of the consumers. There is good opportunity in health drink segment. Company can make its products healthier. Threats The potential threat to the company sales is that in the face of regulations placed on their sale given to the health issues involved. The production costs and capacity can also be affected by the water scarcity and poor quality. Another threat is from government regulations of some countries. (Coca-Cola Offical Website, 2012) Strategy Assessment Current Strategy One of Coca-Cola company goals is to maximize growth and profitability to create value for their shareholders which will also create advocacy for the brand under the following strategies: Transforming our commercial models to focus on our customers value potential and using a value-based segmentation approach to capture the industrys value potential. Implementing multi-segmentation strategies in our major markets to target distinct market clusters divided by consumption occasion, competitive intensity and socioeconomic levels. Implementing well-planned product, packaging and pricing strategies through different distribution channels. Driving product innovation along our different product categories. Achieving the full operating potential of our commercial models and processes to drive operational efficiencies throughout our company. (Strategy and Competitive Advantages, 2011) Other effective strategies to achieve the business goals are: Deliver shared value Engage the market through storytelling and thought provoking ideas Be a leader in the cultural dialogue Create a network advantage (Creating Advocacy, 2012)

Relationships Between Men and Women in The Winters Tale by William Sha

Relationships Between Men and Women in The Winter's Tale by William Shakespeare The Winter's Tale was written in 1611, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. The play is one of Shakespeare's romance titles, though it could be more justly referred to as a 'tragi-comedy' due to the instances of accusation, death, repentance and reunion. To successfully study how Shakespeare presents relationships between men and women in The Winter's Tale there are four main relationships to examine - Hermione and Leontes, Paulina and Antigonus, Perdita and Florizel, and Leontes and Paulina. Shakespeare's view of women, and generally the Elizabethan view, suggested that women had less capability for evil - can only assist in a man's corruption or downfall, evidence for this can be found by examining particular types of literature from this period, such as T.E. (?)'s didactic 'The Law's Resolution of Women's Rights'. Likewise in The Winter's Tale, only to a lesser extent, women can be seen as temptresses. Hermione was the supposed adulteress in The Winter's Tale. Many would argue that Shakespeare depicted the condition of women within a patriarchal system and created female characters, which in their richness transcend the limitations of his time. Shapiro, for example, goes so far as to claim that Shakespeare was 'the noblest feminist of them all.' Though Shakespeare pays more attention to the roles that men play in society and many of the female characters are constricted in their experiences. They do not have the same ability to be as fully human as the men. They do not learn by their experiences, except Paulina who is eventually chastised and pa... ...sion. It could be argued that Shakespeare only goes so far with the gender roles - the women are eventually silenced or pacified - because the suspension of disbelief can only be maintained so far - the traditional view of women was confined within rigid boundaries. In The Winter's Tale all the women are badly treated - incidentally, at the hands of men. Our perspective of the actions of the men we believe to be harsh, though to Shakespeare's contemporaries they were likely to be justified - in fact chastisement would probably be justified to a more brutal extent. There is however little authentic evidence in the plays, that Shakespeare strove either to uphold or to subvert, however covertly, the established order. Works Cited: Shakespeare, William. The Winter's Tale. Ed. J. H. P. Pafford (London: Methuen, 1963).

Palm Island in Dubai

The Palm Islands are artificial islands in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on which major commercial and residential infrastructure will be constructed. They are being constructed by Nakheel Properties, a property developer in the United Arab Emirates, who hired Belgian and Dutch dredging and marine contractor Jan De Nul and Van Oord, some of the world's specialists in land reclamation. The islands are the Palm Jumeirah, the Palm Jebel Ali and the Palm Deira. Each settlement will be in the shape of a palm tree, topped with a crescent, and will have a large number of residential, leisure and entertainment centers. The Palm Islands are located off the coast of The United Arab Emirates in the Persian Gulf and will add 520 kilometres of beaches to the city of Dubai. The first two islands will comprise approximately 100 million cubic meters of rock and sand. Palm Deira will be composed of approximately 1 billion cubic meters of rock and sand. All materials will be quarried in the UAE. Among the three islands there will be over 100 luxury hotels, exclusive residential beach side villas and apartments, marinas, water theme parks, restaurants, shopping malls, sports facilities and health spas. The creation of the Palm Jumeirah began in June 2001. Shortly after, the Palm Jebel Ali was announced and reclamation work began. The Palm Deira, which is planned to have a surface area of 46. 35 square kilometres, was announced for development in October 2004. Construction was originally planned to take 10–15 years, but that was before the impact of the global credit crunch hit Dubai. The Palm Islands are artificial peninsulas constructed of sand dredged from the bottom of the Persian Gulf by the Belgian company Jan De Nul and the Dutch company Van Oord. The sand is sprayed by the dredging ships, which are guided by DGPS, onto the required area in a process known as rainbowing because of the arcs in the air when the sand is sprayed. The outer edge of each Palm's encircling crescent is a large rock breakwater. The breakwater of the Palm Jumeirah has over seven million tons of rock. Each rock was placed individually by a crane, signed off by a diver and given a GPS coordinate. The Jan De Nul Group started working on the Palm Jebel Ali in 2002 and had finished by the end of 2006. The reclamation project for the Palm Jebel Ali includes the creation of a four-kilometre-long peninsula, protected by a 200-metre-wide, seventeen-kilometre long circular breakwater. 210,000,000 m3 of rock, sand and limestone were reclaimed (partly originating from the Jebel Ali Entrance Channel dredging works). There are approximately 10,000,000 cubic metres of rocks in the slope protection works. The first thing comes to my mind about all the wonders of the world is the amazing ability of the engineers and architects involved in their constructions to come out with something which finally turns to wonder of the world. I also think that they might be built to let people from all around the world know about the country or state where they are situated. Let us take Dubai as an example. This UAE state became so significant when we talk about superb modern construction since the launching of it's famous Burj Al-Arab, a luxurious 7-star rated hotel. Then the name of Dubai continuously becoming well-known with numbers of modern constructions especially the unbeaten world's tallest building,the 162-stories Burj Khalifa with 828-meter height which is almost twice the height of our Petronas Twin Tower, and also the unbelievable Palm Ireland. The Palm Ireland project was firstly thought as something impossible by some groups of people but the credibilities of the project planners are now proven with its accomplishment. The amazing ideas of constructing these crazy stuffs had drastically brought Dubai to world's attention and this is a big bonus to it's tourism sector. Hence, wonders of the modern world can be said as the tourist attraction to the country or state where they are situated. However, sometimes I do feel that it's such a tragic obsession when Islamic countries and states like Malaysia and the famous Dubai are spending too much money on these constructions while Muslims in many regions of the world are suffering from the violence of the Jews. So, I think it should be a limit for these crazy projects and let us start focusing the nation's wealth to show our concern to Palestinians and all discriminated Muslims from various countries.

Secret Recipe IMC plan Essay Example

Secret Recipe IMC plan Essay Example Secret Recipe IMC plan Essay Secret Recipe IMC plan Essay A major difference for managers operating on international markets is the impact all these currents and cross-currents have on the competitive landscape. Wilson and Gilligan (2003) define marketing as getting the competitive advantage and keeping it. The task of achieving this in a competitive environment where firms are subject to local, regional and global competition can be immensely challenging. This is especially so if indigenous local competitors are supported by the government of the notary major difference for managers operating on international markets is the impact all these currents and cross-currents have on the competitive landscape. Wilson and Gilligan (2003) define marketing as getting the competitive advantage and keeping it. The task of achieving this in a competitive environment where firms are subject to local, regional and global competition can be immensely challenging. This is especially so if indigenous local competitors are supported by the government of he country major difference for managers operating on international markets is the is especially so If Indigenous local competitors are supported by the government of the country A major difference for managers operating on International markets Is the Impact all Gilligan (2003) define marketing as getting the competitive advantage and keeping It. The task of achieving this In a competitive environment where firms are subject to local, regional and global competition can be Immensely challenging. This Is specially so If Indigenous local competitors are supported by the government of the country major difference for managers operating on International markets Is the Impact all these currents and cross-currents have on the competitive landscape. Keeping It. The task of achieving this In a competitive environment where firms are subject to local, regional and global competition can be Immensely challenging.

Free Essays on Describing Marlows Character In The Heart Of Darkness

Pg: 10. "When I grow up I will go there." Pg: 31. "You have no idea how effective such a ... a ... faculty can be." Pg: 39. "You know I hate, detest, and can't bear a lie, not because I am straighter than the rest of us, but simply because it appals me." Pg: 93. "I did not know how truly I spoke." Pg: 108. "Perhaps it was an impulse of unconscious loyalty..." Marlow is seen as a traditional hero in this novel. He is portrayed as tough, honest, independent and capable. To the reader he is seen as human because we can identify with him throughout, for ex. when his helmsman is killed, he gets so afraid, anxious and scared, that he takes his shoes off and throws them overboard. Throughout the book Kurtz is mostly seen as an object, whereas Marlow is the one you grow an emotional bond with. What drew me to the first quote I used? Marlow was already a grown-up when he said this. Traveling, for me personally, enlightens and gives one a bigger perspective on other cultures etc. I think Marlow feels the need to grow on that level, and therefore uses this phrase. It shows the reader that he sees himself as someone who is still learning and growing, mentally. It might even be true of Conrad himself. It is ironic that Marlow would say that he "detests" a lie. The way he is characterized is of an honest man, one with integrity. And then he tells a lie. Marlow was a younger man when he went to Africa and now he is a sadder, wiser man sitting aboard the Nellie posed like Buddha because he realizes his failure to tell the truth and is seeking to live uprightly. It actually shows Marlow's honesty. It is mentioned a few times that Europeans in that time went on "Expeditions" to discover new places of meaning. They wanted to leave a legacy behind and feel important. I think Marlow wants to be seen by his peers as someone who has presence. The fact that he thinks it is "powerful" if you can walk in to a room and make people feel "uneasy.... Free Essays on Describing Marlow's Character In The Heart Of Darkness Free Essays on Describing Marlow's Character In The Heart Of Darkness Pg: 10. "When I grow up I will go there." Pg: 31. "You have no idea how effective such a ... a ... faculty can be." Pg: 39. "You know I hate, detest, and can't bear a lie, not because I am straighter than the rest of us, but simply because it appals me." Pg: 93. "I did not know how truly I spoke." Pg: 108. "Perhaps it was an impulse of unconscious loyalty..." Marlow is seen as a traditional hero in this novel. He is portrayed as tough, honest, independent and capable. To the reader he is seen as human because we can identify with him throughout, for ex. when his helmsman is killed, he gets so afraid, anxious and scared, that he takes his shoes off and throws them overboard. Throughout the book Kurtz is mostly seen as an object, whereas Marlow is the one you grow an emotional bond with. What drew me to the first quote I used? Marlow was already a grown-up when he said this. Traveling, for me personally, enlightens and gives one a bigger perspective on other cultures etc. I think Marlow feels the need to grow on that level, and therefore uses this phrase. It shows the reader that he sees himself as someone who is still learning and growing, mentally. It might even be true of Conrad himself. It is ironic that Marlow would say that he "detests" a lie. The way he is characterized is of an honest man, one with integrity. And then he tells a lie. Marlow was a younger man when he went to Africa and now he is a sadder, wiser man sitting aboard the Nellie posed like Buddha because he realizes his failure to tell the truth and is seeking to live uprightly. It actually shows Marlow's honesty. It is mentioned a few times that Europeans in that time went on "Expeditions" to discover new places of meaning. They wanted to leave a legacy behind and feel important. I think Marlow wants to be seen by his peers as someone who has presence. The fact that he thinks it is "powerful" if you can walk in to a room and make people feel "uneasy....

Curriculum and program review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Curriculum and program review - Essay Example Having in mind the general goals and objectives in the Associate Degree Nursing program at North Central State College, on completion of this program, the graduate (RN) should have developed skills needed to be able to assist individual participation in health promotion, maintenance and restoration throughout the lifespan. As a provider and manager of care and member of the discipline of nursing, a RN should be able to demonstrate critical thinking. Furthermore, a RN should integrate the knowledge acquired in the nursing process to meet the needs of individuals and of groups that have similar health problems in a variety of settings. Maybe the most important goals include the RNs being able to safely perform technical procedures using judgment based on the previously acquired knowledge of biopsychosocial principles. Moreover, since establishing therapeutic relationships with clients and families is an integral part of nursing care, this is also an important objective of this program. However, besides the relationships with clients, being a member of the health care team, a RN should also obtain cooperative relationships with co-workers and assume responsibility for their own progress and learning that is ongoing in this profession. Finally, a RN should incorporate knowledge of ethical and legal responsibilities and be aware of individual limitations in nursing practice. Goals and objectives of the Associate Degree Nursing Program are more or less the same in other colleges besides the North Central State College. However, there are some additional ones that are relevant and will be enlisted further in the text. â€Å"Upon completion of the Associate Degree Nursing Program, the graduate, recognizing humans as unique individuals of worth, will be able to in a â€Å"caring† manner: implement individualized nursing care according to the client’s cultural background; apply basic knowledge of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs; apply basic knowledge of Erikson’s Stage of Growth and Development; utilize principles of nutrition in health and disease; utilize principles of pharmacology, understand rationale, and administer medications safely; utilize teaching principles to provide education to client, community and family; recognize and comprehend all information regarding clients is confidential and students are held accountable for knowing Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations.† (Southeastern Illinois College) Furthermore, in Chaffey College, besides being able to nourish the client’s physical health, a nurse’s goal should also be to â€Å"Utilize the nursing process to provide care for the client and his family that recognizes threats to normal physiological, psychological, developmental, spiritual and sociocultural needs.† (Chaffey College) However, â€Å"To provide an environment that promotes tolerance for diverse cultures, beliefs and opinions† (Nursing St udent Handbook, 2010, p. 4) is a goal that hasn’t been listed in neither of these colleges, except the Goodwin College. Equality of all races when it comes to providing help related to health should be an imperative. Every client should receive equal amount of attention and have the right to be treated with care and respect. According to the Behrend College, â€Å"The associate degree in Nursing is a concentrated two-year program†¦ and after earning an associate degree students are eligible to take the national examination for licensure (NCLEX) as registered nurses.†

Moral Problems Raised by the Immoralists Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Moral Problems Raised by the Immoralists - Essay Example In this argumentative essay, I will focus on finding out whether Plato provide adequate solution to the moral problems raised by immoralists and whether he provides good reasons to suggest that the good life is the best life (Melchert, 45) Plato’s dialogue referred to as Euthyphro brings out a discussion that occurred between Socrates and his counterpart, Euthyphro. The dialogue concerns the meaning of piety, as brought out by Socrates asking the meaning of piety, as well as impiety. He tries to clearly find out this virtue which he mostly regards as a manner of living that brings satisfaction to one’s duty both to gods and to humanity, this he affirms by saying â€Å"that which is considered holy by God is piety† This is of concern with respect to the fate of Socrates, who as seen from the dialogue has been accused of impiety and is thus is almost to be tried before the Athenian court in order to establish his guilt or innocence of the crime accused to him. His consistent argument is based on the opinion that the Athenian societies generally did not comprehend the real nature of either devotion or wickedness (Melchert, 18). This is observed when Socrates asks Euthyphro to reply to the question â⠂¬Å"What is piety?† He has an aim in doing this, for Euthyphro, a sophist, claims to be wise concerning such issues, while in the case of Socrates is making no such claim for himself but professes to just be ignorant. Socrates tries to find out how wise Euthyphro, and if not to the given standard, he will expose the shallowness of his claim. The statement of Socrates saying, â€Å"In cannot assent to your superior wisdom†. Euthyphro is seen to have the fame of being a wise individual, a mystic, and a fortuneteller. Being a teacher, he provides instructions on moral and political matters, as Socrates states, â€Å"I have become your disciple. You Mellitus, as I shall say to him, acknowledge Euthyphro to be a great theologian, and sound in his opinions†, (Plato’s Republic, 34).