Motivation and the Brain †Eating Healthy Essay

Eating right is essential for positive motivation and clear thinking. The brain, specifically the hypothalamus, along with the cerebral hemisphere works closely with physiological stimulation. This includes all five of our senses, specifically speaking, taste. Explaining the brain function associated with eating, I will discuss the influence of extrinsic and intrinsic factors, which will include heredity and involving the environment. In addition I will discuss the motivation need to succeed in eating healthy. The main function of the hypothalamus is homeostasis, or maintaining the body’s state in which it works. Factors such as blood pressure, body temperature, fluid and electrolyte balance, and body weight are held to a precise value called the set-point. The Hypothalamus organizes and controls many complex emotions, feelings and moods, as well as all motivational states including hunger, appetite and food intake, and everything to do with the concept of pleasure including satisfaction, comfort and creative activities (Incredible Horizons, 2009). It appears that almost everything the Hypothalamus does is related in some way to weight management and controlled weight loss. When the Hypothalamus is not working properly, food becomes more important, but increasingly more unfulfilling. We end up never feeling satisfied with the foods which we have eaten, gradually eating more and more to try to compensate for whatever is lacking. From a metabolism point of view, the Hypothalamus not only governs the motivation to eat, but most importantly how eating is to be experienced, if it is satisfying or not, and how deep the satisfaction occurs. This gives an idea just how important a healthy hypothalamic function really is (Incredible Horizons, 2009). Understanding how the hypothalamus works and keeping it healthy could be an extrinsic motivational factor to eat healthy. Being educated on how food affects the brain but also the body as a whole would be an example of extrinsic motivation. However, it is how we learn to eat, hereditarily speaking that gives us the tools to start out eating healthy from a young age or not. Lifelong food preference tends to start to develop while a baby is still in the mother’s womb. The strongest pattern for future food preferences is formed during the age of 9 to 19 months of age (Vera, 2009). At this time, everything connected with food intake leaves a strong imprint on the child’s brain. Also, the baby is tasting everything with his or her mouth; toys, shoes, body parts, etc. Concurrently, the child is memorizing the experiences of his mother and fathers eating habits; what they are eating, what they are feeding the baby, their emotional reaction to the baby’s consumption of these foods all while the unsuspecting parents believe that the child does not comprehend much of what is going on. The reality is the child is forming food habits for a lifetime. Whatever the first tastes, textures, smells an sights of food are, that child will crave them for the rest of his or her life, especially in moments of distress. Because of this, it would appear that comfort food is not too far from the truth. This was often a time in a child’s life when their mom or dad focused much love and caring on them and purely through association finds its way into our adult lives when we feel emotionally distressed or needing comfort. Human behavior patterns forming in childhood are crucially important for parents to pay close attention to the eating habits they are helping their children form (Vera, 2009). Promoting healthy eating habits with special care introducing fresh fruits and vegetables to their children as much as possible; in addition, parents must keep this promotion up otherwise children will fall prey to the society’s image of food which is unhealthy; another extrinsic example. In today’s society negative eating habits are advertised in every corner. According to Not Alone website, the top ten lists of popular food most people eat on a regular basis may not appear too alarming: a burger meal, Pizza, Spaghetti, or even a hot dog meal. However, after reviewing the nutritional analysis it should be alarming! For example, a burger meal contains 1300 calories, 34 grams of protein, 189 grams of carbohydrates and 44 grams of fat. This is equivalent to 38 teaspoons of sugar and a half of a stick of butter (McKeith, Ph. D. , 2005). The normal daily calorie intake should be 2,550 for men and 1,940 for women (McKeith, Ph. D. , 2005). Unfortunately the typically daily intake for both men and women are on average 3, 877 calories. Knowing these statistics should lead a person to use internal motivation to recognize the severity of the issue and begin to eat healthy. To conclude, eating right is essential for positive motivation and clear thinking. We have learned the hypothalamus, along with the cerebral hemisphere works closely with physiological stimulation including taste. I’ve explained the brain function associated with eating, discussed the influence of extrinsic and intrinsic factors including heredity and the environment. Lastly, I discussed the motivation need to succeed in eating healthy. References Breck, K. B. (2011). A practical guide to a happy life. Retrieved from http://www. kristenguide. com/Health/Weight_Loss/ways_to_stay_motivated. asp Incredible Horizons. (2009). Hypothalmus Function. Retrieved from http://www. incrediblehorizons. com/balance-Hypo%20function. htm McKeith, Ph. D. , G. (2005). 10 Foods People Eat On a Regular Basis. You Are What You Eat: The Plan that Will Change Your Life. Not Alone. Retrieved from http://www. enotalone. com/article/25017. html NowLoss. (2011). Getting Motivated. Retrieved from http://www. nowloss. com/how-to- get-motivation-to-lose-weight. htm The Life Co. (2009). A new recipe for life!. Retrieved from http://www. thelifeco. com/cok-okunanlar. aspx? id=478 Vera, Dr. (2009). Hereditary Eating Habits. Quantum Evolution. Retrieved from http://www. quantumevolution. comau/hereditary_eating_habits. htm.

Response to Peter Singer’s Speech

Peter Singer’s speech on a solution to world poverty made a lot of good points concerning how to help those in need. He states that most people can afford to help starving children and that people are turning their backs on the needy. Where he fails though, is in actually providing a solution that will hold up over time. His focus on guilting those more fortunate into action and then guiding them to give $200 is no solution, but a call to give to those less fortunate instead of fixing the problem for good. In his speech he gives examples to try to guilt those listening into giving charitably. He sites a book by NYU philosopher Peter Unger, titled, â€Å"Living High and Letting Die†. He goes on to paraphrase an example from the book that he thinks gives a great example towards American’s lack of charitable giving. His example is about a man named Bob who is nearly retired and has invested most of his savings into a rare and valuable old car. He has a lot of pride in the car and he enjoys taking care of it. He also enjoys that its rising value means he will always be able to sell it and live comfortably. He is out one day for a drive one day and park the car along some railroad tracks and goes for a walk along the tracks. As he is walking he sees that a runaway train with no one aboard is headed for a small child farther down the track. The child is too far to warn of the danger and will be killed unless Bob throws a switch to put the train on the siding where his beloved car is parked. Throwing the switch will destroy his car and therefore his long time investment. Thinking of his joy in owning the car and the financial security it represents, Bob decides not to throw the switch and the child is killed. He uses this example comparatively to how the average American reacts to charitable giving. He labels them as cruel people who choose their own livelihood over the lives of dying children, which is unfair. Commonly, those not giving are not looking into the eyes of a dying child but rather into a scary world where finances are always unsettling. In my personal experience guilting someone into doing something is the worst way to evoke passion for action. Forcing someone to do something is not nearly as effective as creating a want to do something. Over time guilt tripping makes the action lose steam while making someone want to do something can create a passion that lasts for a long time. Let me follow Singers lead here and provide an example. Suppose that you would like to have your friend go to a new sushi restaurant with you. Would it be smarter to guilt him into going by using something against him to make him go, or would it be smarter to talk about how good the atmosphere and food is? Obviously it is much smarter to talk up the restaurant instead of sending your friend on a guilt trip. The guilt trip may only make your friend go once but making the friend want to go will result in many visits to the restaurant. Creating a passion is the best way to call people to action and singer failed to do this. Instead, he should have used a more indirect method like talking about the benefits and contentedness that one can receive from charitable donation and selling them on the concept Another spot where his speech falls short is in providing a plausible solution to world poverty. Having everyone with disposable income give $200 to help feed hungry children solves none of the problems having to do with poor villages not being able to support their people. In the article, â€Å"We can end global poverty†¦Ã¢â‚¬  the author describes a plan laid out by David Cameron that includes over 10 steps to end global poverty by 2030. Including such ideas as going green, going for growth, good government, and global partnership. The final report comes after 8 months of consultation with more than 5,000 public groups across 120 different countries. Citizens, governments, businesses, local charities, community groups and development experts all had a chance to contribute their ideas. This type of initiative is what it takes to create a true end to world poverty, not just simply pleading that people give $200 to charity. I feel as if Singer never really thought to develop his idea thoroughly and just wanted something quick that he could easily get people to support. This is where his ethos breaks down. He no longer seems to be a person worth speaking to about the subject, but rather someone who wants a problem solved but doesn’t want to put in effort to come up with a real solution. After analyzing his speech thoroughly I feel that Singer has a lot of passion for what he speaks about but fails to come up with real plausible solutions to the problems he is addressing. Singer may believe he has World Poverty all figured out but there are a few points he’s not thinking about. He used emotional stories about dying children to guilt his listeners into giving money. Though, Peter Singer makes a valid point that we should be helping children in need, what happens when everyone stops blowing their money on luxury items? In his speech he says, â€Å"The formula is simple: whatever money you're spending on luxuries, not necessities, should be given away. † If we were to spend only money on necessities and donate the rest it would, in turn, cause economic distress. Jobs will begin to slowly deplete from our own economy here in America. Manufacturing jobs such as, furniture, computers, televisions, housing, retail, and many more would disappear. The sad fact of the matter is that poverty is a necessity and just like with all things you have to take the good with the bad.

Important Events in Life Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Important Events in Life - Essay Example I invited Nancy for a date, which she ceremoniously accepted. Thus, last Sunday we enjoyed much of our time in the Great Park, had frequent refreshments and even she shared her time with me in swimming. She was highly accommodative. During the discourse in a restaurant, I came to know she was in need to pay for her ensuing exam and related papers. In a hilarious moment, I asked her if I could help her. She replied, â€Å"No. thanks. I manage†, Around 4 P.M, I wished to swim in the Glaaang Swimming Pool inside the Park. On entering into the GSP, I asked her, â€Å"How about you, NANCY?† She got into the swimming suit in no time. I found her enjoying this part of the date to her maximum joy. When I left the pool in a few minutes, she expressed her wish to be swimming for some more time. I got out and was drying myself, during when I happened to see a small piece of paper resembling a bank statement protruding from her wallet. Immediately I thought of helping her with surp rise. I took a snap in my mobile phone, the front top portion of that bank statement depicting her nickname, bank name, and account number. I was not interested in the transaction details. So, I simply kept it back in her vanity bag and closed by when she returned and asked, â€Å"What Sam, what do you want in my wallet. â€Å"Nothing, I just kept it aside†, I replied. After swimming, we went to a shopping mall and spent about three hours. At about 9 P.M. we were to depart. Just then I asked her a few minutes more for an ice-cream. Although she said okay, she took a few sips of tea only and offered to pay for this ‘final touch’ in her words. She pronounced ‘final’ in a peculiar slang sounding ‘FINALY’ I was happily returning to my hostel. At around 11.30 in a night, I once again thought of helping her and sat on my PC in my room. I simply sent $500 to the bank account via internet banking. Then I forgot everything and my days went on a normal course. Some three days later, one Police Inspector intervened into my reading in the College Library and showed me a photo. â€Å"Do you know this gal, Sam?† In that photo, I saw a girl in full inebriated state. I curtly replied â€Å"No†. â€Å"Had you been dating her last Sunday?† he asked in a highly authoritative tone. â€Å"I had been dating last Sunday, but not with this girl† I replied decisively. â€Å"Sure?† â€Å"Yes, my dated girl was not this. Why sir? What happened?† â€Å"This girl is no more now† I spelled a formal sorrow by saying, â€Å"I see, I am sorry† During this response of me the Inspector almost went into my eyes. â€Å"Ok. Sam, Do you have a laptop?† â€Å"No, I have a PC in my room† â€Å"Well. I get to you back if needed† The Inspector went. The same evening the Inspector turned up to my room in a casual manner and enquired about my study details. â€Å"Oh, this is your P C? Can I send a personal email dear?† I got up leaving the table to him. In a few minutes, the Inspector bid goodbye and went out. Next morning the local newspaper read: One Bobby was suspected to have been murdered by someone in Crown Bar in her over intoxication. The internet transfer of $500 into her account led to a guy of College. He does not fall within the suspicion zone since the log in time of the Internet banking from the PC is exactly the same of her death moment. However, the connection between his lover and Bobby is being probed.

Case study methods Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Case study methods - Essay Example Researchers form part of the primary audience for any kind of case study research.   Normally, case study research is formulated to respond to a particular question (Yin, 2012). It involves collection of relevant data, which is followed by analysis to validate any findings.   In business, a case study research might involve studying a particular phenomenon in a given place like a company, country or industry.   One of the most important aspects of case study research is that it emphasizes that a phenomenon must be studied in its natural setting.   A researcher takes time to visit the natural setting of phenomenon and study the different actors as they go about their normal duties. Case study research can be exploratory or explanatory depending on what the researcher seeks to understand. Exploratory research cases aim to discover a given phenomenon or concept. On the other hand, explanatory case study research explains, tests or compares different occurrences. Clarity is essen tial in all types of case research studies.  In most questions, case study research answers questions that start with words like why, how and who. It investigates an event as it occurs in its natural setting.   For example, a researcher can decide to undertake a research that answers the question: How does Unilever treat its employees? This means that the researcher will have to visit Unilever and study the treatment of employees in its contemporary setting. In business, case study research makes use of empirical evidence to study a given subject matter.

Why online classes better then regular classes Essay

Why online classes better then regular classes - Essay Example The capabilities of the Internet are astounding, and have prompted others to discover additional methods in which they can harness the power of this limitless cyberworld. One of the newer technologies developed is online education, which allows people in any level of schooling, from elementary to graduate school, to obtain their diploma or degree solely online. Though many people still prefer traditional in-person classroom education, online classes have proven to have their perks, all of which provide students with the freedom they need to achieve their educational goals. One of the primary reasons that students choose to attend online classes as opposed to in-person classes is due to the flexible schedules that online schools offer. Prior to online education, obtaining one’s college degree was difficult since people were unable to find time for school in their busy schedules of work, family, and other responsibilities. College or post-graduate education was just a dream that would have to be tended to when they found more time. Online schooling fixes this by giving students the option to do their coursework around their own schedule instead trying to complete their other responsibilities around the expectations of school. ... fast learners and easily become bored due to a slow pace of learning in their classroom; others prefer to learn at a slower pace and are overwhelmed when they are expected to learn something new when they are still attempting to understand the last lesson. Either way, if a student is bored or if they cannot keep up with the class, their education can become jeopardized. The concept of pace differing with each student is the reason why many online schools have appeared that cater to students in elementary, middle, and high schools, when education is vital. When primary school students feel more confident about their regular education, they are more likely to seek further education. Similarly, online classes allow students to get the attention and instruction that they require to successfully complete their education. In a regular classroom, the teacher has to divide their attention to accommodate the needs of every student. This is difficult as each student needs something different, and there is not enough time for the teacher to tend to every need. As a result, many students suffer academically. Online schooling has two answers to this issue: either smaller class sizes or one-on-one instruction. For most online colleges, the classes are small enough so that teachers can afford the time to focus on the needs of each individual student (Larreamendy & Leinhardt 577). In primary school programs, one-on-one instruction is available, allowing the student to claim the undivided attention of the instructor. Students are able to get the help they need when they need it. Another perk of attending online classes, which is one of the most beneficial, is the difference in environment between a regular class and an online class. The environment of regular classrooms is one of

The hidden power of smiling Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The hidden power of smiling - Assignment Example He indicated smile does not start when people are in the physical life but through the analysis of radio scan information, he found that babies in the womb smile and this continues after birth where, normally, children smile up to four hundred times each day. Gutman noted that a research carried out among sportsmen who smile differently indicated that they have different life span where those who rarely smile are likely to live an average of 70 years while those who smile a little live up to an average of 72 years and those who smile much have an average lifespan of 80 years. He mentioned that only a few adults rarely smile less than fourteen times a day and that they are usually very gloomy and perceived unwelcoming by the other people, but those who do it more than that, have a brighter life. In his analysis, Gutman indicated that a smile is evolutionary contagious and makes a person to feel good and therefore, if a person stays next to others who are smiling, they are likely to sm ile as well. In his argument, Gutman says that smiling stimulates the mind very much, more than the simulation that can be caused by 2000 bags of chocolate, which people like much or 16000 dollars in cash.

Discussion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 121

Discussion - Essay Example There are three methods that one can apply to ensure that confidence levels are elevated and the questions directed towards him are answered in a prompt way. The first one is by researching about the company. The interviewing panel may try to test your knowledge about the company and therefore to be on the safe side, it’s better to have the basic information such its core values, mission and vision at your fingertips. Interacting with an employee in the organization can prove to be important to get an insider information that can help during the interview. These goals should always articulate with your goals in your resume as this will be an added advantage towards hiring you as an employee. Second, it’s good to come with answers to commonly asked resume questions. Though it may appear awkward, it is important to write down a list of the questions you expect to be asked at the interview and develop answers that can address them. This will boost your confidence in a significant way. Resume questions such as reasons as to why you quit working for a certain company should have ready answers that will satisfy the panel. Lastly, prepare to describe yourself in a way that will appear relevant to the job that you want to get. Your interest to the company should always be reflected when answering the questions asked. According to Louis Efron, an editor with the Forbes Magazine, it is important to prepare, in advance, a list of personal accomplishments in life that will boost your CV. Efron, Louis. Get That Job! Nine Ways to Interview with Confidence. Forbes Magazine, 2013. Web. http://www.forbes.com/sites/louisefron/2013/12/23/get-that-job-nine-ways-to- interview-with-confidence/ Retrieved, February 4,

Napoleon's Rule Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Napoleon's Rule - Research Paper Example In essence, history lets us know how we came to be who we are and makes it possible for us to get a new perception of the world through different eyes. An awareness of there being these different perceptions allows students to carry out a critical analysis of their own society and culture and acknowledge and critique their own assumptions. The French Revolution and Napoleon are of major importance to history because they brought about the modern warfare as it came to be referred to in the nineteenth and twentieth century. They signify the transition from small, well-trained armies of the king to huge armies brought up by the universal male enlistment of nations. The war shifted from being king in opposition to the king to be the nation in opposition to the nation. France and all the satellite states it controlled had their resources availed to King Napoleon for use in waging war and this saw the groundwork for war being set in the nineteenth century for a full-on war in the twentieth century.2 The end of dominant monarchies in addition to churches and the emerging of democracy and patriotism are attributed to the French Revolution, it brought on popular repugnance to the privileges that benefited the clergy and aristocracies at a time when there was also an economic crisis. The French Revolution is seen as a turning po int event that changed Europe once and for all following in the pace of the American Revolution that had taken place a decade earlier.3 There had been seven years of war prior to the French Revolution and this had a profound effect on the French and they became restless as well as making the Western world volatile.  Ã‚  

The Role of Employee Identification Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Role of Employee Identification - Essay Example I will develop my interpersonal skills by focusing on the subject of organizational communication in my course. This will help to understand different types of personality traits and how they react to different organizational culture. This will allow me to properly communicate with my supervisors as well as my subordinates. The proper communication will help me to monitor the performance level of the firm as well as communicate proper feedback to my supervisors. Improving analytical skills is a relatively long term process, where I will need to focus on problem solving and pattern recognition. I will strengthen my statistical knowledge and gain expertise in tools like excel and SPSS. This will also help me to improve my mathematical skills. Moreover, I will also focus on the financial aspect of management, because a manager needs to be profit oriented. By following the traits of great leaders, I will develop leadership qualities in me that will help me to motivate my employees.Descri bing KSA to a Prospective EmployerBeing an effective and efficient employee requires a combination of both knowledge and expertise. My management studies course has given me enough knowledge to understand the current market scenario and has prepared me to face challenging situations. I have developed analytical skills that will help me make proper decisions and allocate tasks effectively. My good communicational skills will help me to improve my performance efficiency in your organization.

Question of risk assessment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Question of risk assessment - Essay Example In case of an accident, there are possibilities of planning errors, storage errors, and execution errors in the management field. For example, if the employees of an organization went on strike demanding better remuneration and working conditions. The planning error can occur in this case where the management uses a wrong approach to the problem hence accelerating the problem. This can happen where the managements plans to fire the striking workers instead of addressing their grievances. The storage error that can happen in this scenario may involve how the management will try to contain the strike. Where the management decides to ignore the demands of the striking employees this amounts to a storage error. An execution error in this case may involve how the management makes the ultimate address to the strike. Where the management fires the striking employees, this will jeopardize the operations and performance of the organization. All these errors question the reliability of the sys tematic procedures adopted by the management as stipulated under the SHARP

Julius Caesar Essay Example for Free

Julius Caesar Essay

The Power Of Media Media Essay

The Power Of Media Media Essay In general, media refers to the tools of mass communication. Media today consists of television, Internet, cinema, newspapers, radio, magazines, direct mail, fax, and the telephone. Viewers can see some form of pictorial representation of messages through certain types of broadcasting and advertising. Images are visual representations, pictures, graphics, and include video, movies. Images are very useful in media to help get across messages effectively. Media images are ubiquitous in modern society. We know this because when we go almost anywhere, for example, drive on the roads, we can see billboards promoting famous brands and the latest products. When we are attracted to advertisements, we may begin to imagine or visualize using it. The media can give us information to tell us what a product, service or message is. In fact, media influence has become so powerful today that they can easily influence people positively and/or negatively. We also live in a society that depends on the media as a source of entertainment and information. Indeed, the media images affect both individuals and society which includes women, men, teenagers and younger children. Today, our life will remain incomplete without media. For example, it provides an easy means of communication where people are able to contact friends and family from another side of the world. At the same time, media like television, radio and the Internet enhance our knowledge by providing access to information from all over the world. We can also receive different types of news or daily events through media, almost instantly, for example, through the Internet. For example, when the video of people protesting on the streets of Cairo in Egypt to change the government in Egypt was broadcast over the Worldwide Web, these images actually influenced more people from other countries to join the street protests in support of the Egyptian protesters. Something similar happened in 2010 in Thailand where the Red Shirts protested in the streets to oppose and change the Thai government. The Thai government then had supporters who wore the Yellow Shirts, and also marched in the streets. These k inds of images when seen on TV, newspapers or the Internet by individuals and society in general, can influence viewers to either support or not support those who are in power. At the same time, media like television enhances our knowledge by providing access to information all over the world. We can also receive different news or daily events through the television. It can also be such a powerful educational tool for the younger generation helping to put them on the right path. For example, Sesame Street is one of the TV programs that has a positive influence among many of the younger generation. They taught kids to communicate effectively, to spell correctly, choose healthy food and have fun with learning. First and foremost, they taught us to communicate with the deaf. It brings out the talents of the people. Television provides a good influence in education by helping to teach right values. Newspapers have a positive influence on society. Newspapers not only give information or the latest news. They also help in the positive linkage between government and the people. As a people in Malaysia, we need to have a greater concern for the economic and political issues of our country, which we can get from newspapers. Newspapers even help to increase knowledge that we cannot get from books. For example, a girl from Malacca killed herself after falling from a building. This news was reported by the Star newspaper. Through the news, we know that she died because she injured her head. If we want to know more about what is happening in the world around us, newspapers are a resource to get the daily information. On the other hand, mass media can at times have a negative influence. Advertisements can be created to convince people to buy or give support for certain products. In addition to advertisements, some messages may have hidden motives. For instance, advertisements may show images of young people enjoying fried chicken, burgers, snacks, and sweet drinks. These advertisements of images can have a powerful influence on the young. The hidden messages behind these advertisements are to persuade the younger generation to buy and to enjoy these types of foods. However, these images do not show or tell viewers that these foods may not be good for their health. Images in the media can have a powerful influence on our behavior. Movies, another form of mass media, today may show violence in one form or another. For instance, younger people may show disrespect or even bully older people. Images of violence somehow influence individuals and especially the younger generation to think that violence is accepted by society when it is not. Movies can also be used to show sexual images. Such images have a powerful influence on the mind and soul of young people. People who watch these images may be influenced to react in a socially unacceptable or even criminal manner. The movie The Tourist, is a romantic movie that shows the relationship between actors Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp. He acts as a brilliant thief who steals a large sum of money. He is so smart that nobody can identify who he is. At the end of the story, he is not caught and goes free. This show somehow teaches the younger generation that it is right to steal and be smart they think is right. Magazines display visual images that can deeply influence female readers. Young girls and adult women spend time reading magazines partly or mainly because of fashion trends. Most of the models in the magazines are tall, slim and have nice hair. Based on the research from Internet, 70% of women feet insecure after they read the magazines such as Vivi, Mina, Allure, Instyle and Teen Vogue. In this example, women wanted to slim down to look like the model. They will go on diet until they see some result. They will also try to do some medical things that will cause some side effects to their bodies. These types of media images may have a huge impact on society, and may even influence public opinion on how females, especially young girls and women should look. In conclusion, the use of media images can be both positive and negative to the individual or society. In a positive way, media makes our lifestyle easier, for example, we can get to know what is going on out there, locally or globally, within a short space of time. Even though there are so many benefits from media images, we have to be careful not to let them influence us unknowingly. We need to be wise when using the media.

Cultural Values Of The Body Shop

Cultural Values Of The Body Shop I just want The Body Shop to be the best, most breathlessly exciting company and one that changes the way business is carried out. That is my vision. Anita Roddick, Human Rights Activist Founder of The Body Shop This was the vision with which Anita Roddick started off The Body Shop in The United Kingdom. Anita had stepped into this industry in 1976 when she used  £4,000 to finance for a small stand-alone shop of natural-ingredient cosmetics and personal care products. Her idea was inspired from a visit to a shop with a similar name in California. Her aim, at that time, was to support herself and her two daughters while her husband had gone horse-riding for two years. The interior design of her store, product packaging, and marketing approach were all born from survival instinct to support the livelihood of her family. She used dark green paint on the walls to hide cracks (and not in symbolism of the environment!). The clear plastic bottles she used then, that received much appreciation were in fact urine sample containers which she has purchased from a local hospital. She saw success promptly. Her cosmetic store flourished, and she was motivated to open another even before the company had their first anniversary. When her husband Gordon Roddick returned in 1977, he joined hands with his wife in her thriving business. Together they realized that they wanted to franchise the operations of their enterprise during the companys second year. By 1984, The Body Shop already boasted of 138 stores, 87 of which were located overseas, i.e. not within the territory of United Kingdom. Over time, franchising soon took over the number of openings of company-owned stores in 1994 franchises comprised 89 percent of Body Shop stores. Over the years of success Anita decided to support and contribute to social and environmental change through her enterprise. Initially she associated The Body Shop with reputable groups, which include Greenpeace, Amnesty International, and Friends of the Earth. Later she launched her own campaigns, specifically on ones that focused primarily on recycling and abolishing animal testing in the cosmetics industry. Body Shops put up posters and made petition sheets for the customers. Half way through the 1990s, the franchises were also asked to support some of these campaigns a year for such causes as AIDS education, voter registration, and opposition to animal testing in the cosmetics industry. The Body Shop, now has 2,400 stores in 61 countries, and is the second largest cosmetic franchise in the world, following O Boticario, a Brazilian company. The Body Shop is headquartered in Little Hampton, West Sussex, England, is now part of the LOrà ©al corporate group. Cultural values of The Body Shop The Body Shop follows the mission statement: To dedicate our business to the pursuit of social and environmental change. Dame Anita believed that businesses have the power to do good, contrasting with the traditional view of profit-driven businesses. In 1999, few days before third ministerial conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), she campaigned against WTOs profit-obsessed system that overlooked social and ecological aspects of businesses. These standards transcend to personal values and motivating factors for external stakeholders, employees and consumers to do good for the society and at the same time, act as strategic marketing tools to gain popularity and reputation for the organization. Every product in The Body Shop has a story to tell; each communicates ideas on business ethics, human rights and environmental issues. From raw material extraction to product packaging, every process is inseparable from the firms values. The five core values include activating self-es teem, protecting our planet, against animal testing, supporting community trade and defending human rights. Activate Self-Esteem Dame Anita believed that being confident in appearance and feeling good about self are crucial in developing ones self-esteem and confidence. While The Body Shop uses people to portray vigor, energy and attitude that embrace ones style and self-worth, it does not use very thin and young models to avoid giving the impression that size and age defines beauty, unlike many other beauty products out there in the market nowadays. They look for pink and fresh faces that are full and blossomed. Treating women with respect and empowering them boosts confidence and self-esteem. This belief ties in with the value support community trade as the firm outsources its natural ingredients to marginal communities, using trade to empower women and giving them employment, improving the lives of their family in more than one ways. Volunteerism is intertwined with The Body Shops philosophy of looking good, feeling good and doing well. The global volunteering policy was implemented in 2008, offering all employees at least 3 paid volunteering days yearly and maximum to 6 different locations. An Anita Week was also introduced to encourage employees to undertake additional volunteering activities. Individual self-development is highly embraced as the firm provides leadership training and management development programs for its employees worldwide, providing opportunities for learning, self-improvement and skills upgrading. It also rolled out a Learning is Of Value to Everyone (LOVE) program which funds employees for courses, events, training and health treatment, encouraging them to learn new skills, and stay fit and healthy. Protect our planet The Body Shop dedicates enormous amounts of efforts in its efficient environmental system and continues to review their high, yet achievable targets set through the voluntary European Union Eco Management and Audit Regulation, ensuring constant progress in protecting our planet. The firm pays attention to fine details of supply chain processes. Even when sourcing for natural raw materials, the Body Shop obtains supply only from those sustainable plantations and rainforests, ensuring no deforestation or destruction of fragile ecosystems associated. Since the beginning of 2008, all soaps have been sourced from suppliers successfully audited against the Roundtable on sustainable palm oil (RSPO) criteria. With the progress of obtaining its 63% of wood from sources managed by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in 2008, The Body Shop aims to source 100% of its wooden products by the end of 2010. In 2001, the Body Shop partnered with Greenpeace International in a joint campaign, raising awareness on renewable energy to combat global warming. In becoming a Carbon Neutral Retailer the firm actively seeks renewable sources, achieved 30% reduction of store carbon emissions and reduced emissions from transportation of products by using 93% hybrid cars and offsetting all air travel. Even at the end of life of each product, environmental considerations are taken into account. While as little packaging is used for all products, recycled used plastic known as Post Consumer Recyclate (PCR) is used to make bottles of the products that are sold are retailed. Also, the 100% recyclable and 100% biodegradable paper bags used in all stores are strong enough to be re-used several times after being taken from the stores. They even looked into delicate details such as use of water-based ink that contain no harmful solvents. The meticulous nature of this kind is remarkable. The Body Shop carefully selects chemicals, ensuring the quality, safety and efficacy of products to maintain a good environmental record. It resorts to use of synthetic chemicals only when there are no other appropriate natural alternatives available. With regular reviews, following up updates on environmental research on chemicals and constantly refining guidelines for product production, the Body Shop phases out and bans chemicals that are harmful, i.e. polycylic musk that contributes to the fragrance component. Against Animal Testing The Body Shop is known for its effort in advancing Cosmetics Directive successfully in March 2009 to ban animal testing on all cosmetic products in The European Union. It is one of the few firms that adhere to the Human Cosmetics Standards(HCS), an internationally-recognized scheme that allows consumers to identify and purchase cruelty free products. While the Body Shop collaborates with suppliers endorsing non-animal testing ingredients only, it has regular audits both internally and externally to ensure adherence to HCS. The Body Shop invests heavily in developing alternatives for animal lab-based tests. Recently, it bought Loreals non-animal skin irritancy test technology which develops artificially grown human skin for all Body Shops product testing. Even where animal-derived ingredients are used, the Body Shop commits that these ingredients do not cause or derived from the death of animals and they are suitable for vegetarians use. Common animal-derived ingredients include bees wax, honey, wool wax (lanolin) and shellac (resin secreted by lac bug). Community Trade Community trade is another aspect that The Body Shop has been actively practicing. Being the pioneer of the program, the company performs a fair trading relationship with its suppliers which involve income fairness, community development, and predicable supply. In line with the values, the organization has been trading with communities from third world countries with regards to ingredients used, gifts and accessories. Such an approach is utilized so that these communities will be able to benefit from the trade and use the financial resources to develop the area around them and for education of the youth. To begin with, natural ingredients are obtained from marginalized communities from Brazil to Samoa. Ethical concerns are addressed by ensuring workers human rights are in accordance to international standards. Most importantly, child labor and excessive hours are prohibited as suppliers adhere to The Body Shop Code of Conduct. Moreover, to tackle the issue of deforestation, palm oil for Body shops products is sourced reliably to prevent deterioration of this global phenomenon. Over the past years, new trade relationships have been forged with communities such as Kenya Organic Oil Farmers Association and CADO from the mountains of Ecuador. The organization have also traded with Teddy Exports, a manufacturer based in Tamil Nadu with the aim to solve social problems in the region by exporting timber and textile related products to both domestic and international market. In all, over 25, 000 people in more than 20 countries have benefitted from this approach. Defending Human Rights Not all social issues can be resolved due to inadequate awareness and low coverage by the media. Thus, the company decided to focus on areas of social issues that are usually ignored in an attempt to overturn the situation. One example of social issue faced by the world is domestic violence. To put a stop to the rampage of this human right abuse, The Body shop aided by raising awareness of the public, generating funds for the victims and their families as well as work alongside with governmental bodies to prevent at-risk and affected individuals. Increasingly over the years, there has been a rise in markets undertaking the campaign of Stop violence in the home. Since The Body Shop is not expert in working on the issue, funds were raised and contributed to non-governmental organizations that focus on them. Training programs were also administered to employees globally enabling them to become active campaigners rather than passively promoting the issue. In total, more than 375 million of children are affected positively and the markets participating in the campaign raise both funds and awareness to protect the children from further harm. Another social issue faced is the prevalence of HIV and AIDs, where The Body Shop has been partnering with MTV international to increase the awareness amongst young people and raise funds for the fight against the issue. Raising awareness of how the disease is transmitted is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of the epidemic, as prevention is always better than cure. Amounts are also granted to entrepreneurial projects to reach out to youths at risk ad keep them safe from HIV. More markets around the world have also joined in to reach out to millions of young people worldwide. Till date, the Body Shop has made some notable achievements around the world: Organized street march in Seoul, calling for the government to provide better rehabilitation services, more financial assistance and increased protection for victims of domestic violence Sponsorship for the site to tie in with Stop violence in the home campaign in Switzerland and took the message in classrooms. Long term partnership with The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence to help create awareness in US. Programs such as Face-to-Face reconstructive surgeries for victims to rectify fatal injuries caused by domestic violence benefitted from the funds that were raised. Charitable Organization Last but not least, the organization set up a charitable trust known as The Body Shop Foundation that annually donates to more than 3000 projects around the world. To induce social and environmental changes, innovative projects are funded to aid in promoting the common good. Currently, the foundation is working on environmental conservation in Romania, education in Zambia as well as domestic violence initiatives across Europe and child trafficking in Asia. Critiques Authenticity of Claims In reinstating its position as a company that cares for its environment, Body Shop claims to be many things: To use all natural products To be involved with environmental protection Trade not aid Anti-animal testing Natural Products Despite its claims, many of the ingredients used are not being disclosed appropriately and are dubious with regards to origins. This is unlike industry norm wherein companies marketing the same products would in their packaging state the original sources of their ingredients. Any discerning consumer should note that the seemingly superiority attached to the word natural over man-made is not always guaranteed. In actuality, many natural ingredients can conjure allergies and are thus less safe than the well-tested synthetics. Moreover, the marketing counterparts of consumer companies are quick to exploit the loophole due to deficiency in universal meaning accrued to the word, natural. The public at large may gullibly assume a product that reads 100% natural to be free from any synthetics, when in fact; they may just as well be derived from petrochemicals. Although synthetic chemicals were said to be introduced only to prolong shelf-life of its products, it has been shown that they were used for other reasons as well. In fact, the Body Shop has used synthetic colourings and fragrances widely in their line of products. In fact, these cheerfully-coloured perfumes and lotions became part of the companys trademark. In effect, this seems a case of exploitation the word natural. Environmental Protection Given its extensive greening efforts, ranging from sourcing of ingredients to materials for packaging, the Body Shop serves as a Green Model for other companies. Even so, there exist some environmental contradictions and setbacks. Long gone are the days when the Body Shop offered the option of refills for customers as part of its innovative take at reducing packaging and waste. However, it is due to the heightened safety-regulatory issues that this service has been terminated. To overcome this setback, the Body Shop uses recycled materials in manufacturing of the packaging. This allows for significant reduction of resources, bypassing the need for customers to transport them back. Also, standing in contention with the 100% recyclable paper bag, in 1993, the Body Shop switched to printing their pamphlets on ReComm Matte paper from Georgia Pacific, infamous for rainforest logging. Trade not Aid Whilst the Body Shop claims that it ethically sources its products and takes prides in its Trade Not Aid policy, which pays first world prices to third world workers. The impact of this program is queried by many industry observers and critics. For instance, according to renowned journalist, Jon Entine, the company failed to match up to its claims and commitment on emphasizing trade with other third world countries. In fact, in 1993, these products made up less than 1% of Body Shops overall purchases. In particular, the controversy centered its sourcing of Brazilian nuts. Broken promises to former face of this promotion, Kayapo Chief, Pykati-Re, landed in a successfully lawsuit against Body Shop International (BSL) for exploitation of the natives image. In words of Dr Turner, Body Shop gets the aid in the form of native images and in return, natives get almost no tradein return. Currently, the term has been replaced by Fair Trade. Nevertheless, Roddick has facilitated the idea that trade was superior to aid, in the long run; poor people were better off with businesses of their own, rather than with dependency on handouts. Animal Testing What immediately conjures to mind when we think of the Body Shop? The phrase Against Animal Testing is bound to be amongst the first. It is pivotal that we note that this was a fairly recent phenomenon, with BSI revision (in1996) that they will cease to use an animal-tested ingredient for the cosmetic industry after December 31, 1990. Their efforts today are evident in clearance of the regular audits which ensures adherence to Human Cosmetics Standards (HCS). However, an internal memo exposed in 1992 suggests that almost 50% of the companys products are linked with animal testing. According to Hoffman LaRoche, vice president of cosmetics specialties, Dave Djerrasi , purchased animal-tested Vitamin E acetate in 1991 from Hoffman LaRoche for use in sunscreen. Franchising and IPO According to Paul Burns an observer of the company, Body Shop brand is inexorably linked with its culture, which in turn is based firmly in its ethical and environmental beliefs and values. However, with its extensive franchising and expansion to different location across the globe, there appears to be a dilution of its corporate culture. For instance, according to Paul Burns, in Body Shop, employees are given time off to work on local social projects, however, it would be very difficult to enforce this on every single Body Shop outlet across different countries, even if they were to state it in a clause, enforcement itself would be difficult too. In relation to their massive expansion and foray into the equity market, as any finance and behavioral management would postulate, a decrease in ownership stake would meant less incentive for the owners to be involve in the company which also arises from lesser control over their company. For the case of Body Shop, after a failed attempt at re-privatization and voluntarily limiting their involvement in the company, the Roddicks eventually resign from the company in 2000. This is especially detrimental to Body Shops image as Anita is often regarded to be the human face of Body Shop and the soul of its many humanitarian initiatives. Hence, Body Shops authenticity as an activist for the environment is increasingly challenged as Body Shop expands. The Loreal Takeover The companys authenticity as an activist for the environment is further challenged after takeover by Loreal -a large MNC with an opposite business culture as Body Shop: ruthless profit maximization versus profits with a conscience. In an attempt to lessen the connection between Loreal (an MNC) and Body Shop, Loreals CEO reassures that Body Shop will be run as an independent subsidiary from Loreal. Roddick justified the decision to merge with Loreal using the Trojan Horse Theory, which means that to enact any change, The Body Shop has to enter the company. However, it remains questionable as to whether full autonomy is really possible given the strong capitalistic outlook of Loreal and if two distinct corporate culture remained independent from each other even after merger. Conclusion At its heart, Body Shop is a profit-generating company, the very fact that it is a listed company meant that its main obligations stems from its promise to its investors to generate revenue that matches with their expected return on this investment. The question remains as to whether Body Shop is able to fulfill its dual responsibility: one to its investors and the other to the environment; and whether these two responsibilities are inherently contradictory with one another. When Dame Anita Roddick began her campaigning ways, social marketing was a radical stance in the corporate world. Now, every part of the company appeared to be going green. Arguably, many of these socially responsible initiatives have their origins in promotions embraced. This raises an important question: What is Anita Roddicks real legacy? Did The Body Shop walk its talk as Anita and her husband, Gordon used to boast? However, the fact still remained that the Body Shop had a good record of environmental audit and disclosure. The Body Shop was a signatory of the CERES principles, an environmental code of conduct that was created by environmentalists and social investors. Apart from that, the Body Shop was one of the few companies to have an efficient environment management system and environment audit which followed the voluntary European Union Eco Management and Audit Regulat References Funding Universe. (2003). The body shop international plc. Retrieved from http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/The-Body-Shop-International-plc-Company-History.html Hope, C. (2005). Anita Roddick to give away entire  £51m fortune. Telegraph.co.uk. Retrieved from http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/2928175/Anita-Roddick-to-give-away-entire-51m-fortune.html National Post. (2007). The myth of the green queen. Retrieved from http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/news/issuesideas/story.html?id=41bea314-6b01-4697-83c1-593f4a22d0c1 National Public Radio Morning Edition. (1994). Body Shop International takes heat with ethics charges. Retrieved from http://www.jonentine.com/articles/NPR.htm Paul, B. (2010) Case Studies in Entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship and small business. (3rd Ed.) Retrieved from http://www.palgrave.com/business/burns/students/pdf/06%20Body%20Shop.pdf Roy, S. Ghosh, L. (2008). Business as unusual: A case study on the Body Shop. Journal of Applied case research. Retrieved from http://www.swcrahome.org/Cases/Body_Shop.pdf The Body Shop International PLC. (2008). Chemicals Strategy. Retrieved from http://www.thebodyshop.com/_en/_ww/services/pdfs/AboutUs/BSI_Chemicals_Strategy.pdf The Body Shop International PLC. (2009). Living our values: values report 2009.Retrieved from http://www.thebodyshop.com/_en/_ww/values-campaigns/assets/pdf/Values_report_lowres_v2.pdf The Body shop International PLC. (2010). How we make our customers and employees feel good about themselves? Retrieved from http://www.thebodyshop.com/_en/_ww/services/pdfs/AboutUs/BSI_Chemicals_Strategy.pdf The Body Shop International PLC. (2010). Our history. Retrieved from http://www.thebodyshop.com/_en/_ww/services/aboutus_history.aspx

Faust: A Legend of Modern Times Essay -- Literature Essays Stories

As the children of a melting pot culture of British, French and German influences, the American consciousness is uniquely poised to reflect upon the impact of one of the most prevalent and oft-retold legends of the modern age: Faust. German in origin but moreover a culmination of various historical figures and indigenous lore, the story of Faust is that of a man who sells his soul to the devil for youth, wealth, pleasure, power or whatever else the writer in question can think to attribute to him. The legend's themes touching so frequently on the subjects of the supernatural and the struggle of good and evil in a Christian mythological setting, it is little wonder that the story has caught the attention and inflamed the imagination of literally hundreds of storytellers from all over Europe and, more recently, North America. Enjoying in excess of five centuries of exposure through books, plays, opera and film, not to mention its basic concepts permeating to the depths of modern speech and expression, Faust is indeed one of the most notable singular legend of modern times. Yet Faust is a malleable figure, gaining influence just as much as it gave, to finally become an amalgam of half a dozen countries' sensibilities. Faust was also a real person. Although accounts vary, in his translation of Goethe's Faust (pub. 1803-1833; trans. pub. 1961) Walter Kaufman is able to pinpoint the real Johann Faust's birth to around 1480, in the town of Knittlingen, WÃ ¼rttemberg, near Stuttgart in modern-day Southeast Germany (12). He is thought to have studied magic -a field still regularly taught at many schools of the time-- at the University of Cracow in Poland, and is said to have been a colleague of Martin Luther and Phillip Melanchthon, alth... ...". Mystica, The. Paragraphs 3-9. 09 November 2003. Marlowe, Christopher. Doctor Faustus. Ed. Irving Ribner. New York: Macmillian Publishing Company, 1985. 87. Mason, Eudo C. Goethe's Faust: Its Genesis and Purport. Los Angeles: University of California Press, 1967. 389. McLean, Adam. "Alchemical Drama of Goethe's Faust, The". Alchemy Website, The. Paragraph 2. 27 November 2003. Montgomery, Paul. Review Notes and Study Guide to Goethe's Faust. New York: Monarch Press, 1963. 5. Nietzsche, Friedrich. "Wanderer and His Shadow, The". Gay Science: With a Prelude in German Rhymes and an Appendix of Songs, The. Trans. Josephine Nauckhoff and Adrian Del Caro. Cambridge University Press, 2001. 237. Young, T. Personal interview. Rec. 19 November 2003.

The Genocide of the Chiricahua Indian Tribe Essay -- Apache Indians Na

The Genocide of the Chiricahua Indian Tribe United States history is taught in public schools from the time we are able to understand its importance. Teachings of honorable plights by our forefathers to establish this great nation are common. However, specific details of this establishment seem to slip through the cracks of our educational curriculum. Genocide by definition is the deliberate and systematic destruction of a racial, political or cultural group. The Chiricahua Indian Tribe of the American southwest and northern Mexico suffered almost complete annihilation at the hands of the American policy makers of the late nineteenth century, policy makers that chose to justify their means by ignoring their own tyrannical ways. It has been discovered that Apaches in the late 1800s were reported to exist in four separate bands, or clusters of rancherias, although how far back in time the division occurs is unknown (Griffen 5). The native name for the easternmost band was the Chihene, or "red painted people"; they were also known as Victorio, Mangas Coloradas, and Loco Apaches after the Spanish names of important leaders. To the south and west were the Chokonen or "Rising Sun People". These people were often called Central Chiricahua, True Chiricahua, and Cochise Apaches. North and west of the Chokonen were the Bedonkohe, "In Front at the End People" sometimes called the Geronimo Apaches. The southernmost Chiricahua band was the Ndeinda, "enemy people". They were also called the Nedni and Nednai, Southern Chiricahua, Pinery, and Bronco Apaches (Cole 10). These names differ among some scholars, but the majority of them can agree consistently on at least four bands, even if the names are different. Apache history is rich in custom, tradition, and worship of an all powerful supernatural force known as "The Power". Although accounts are different, after the creation of the world, "White Painted Woman" was created by Ussen. This supernatural female was the most important figure in Chiricahua religious belief. She was at once the progenitor of the Chiricahua people, the symbol of female activity and life, and the sponsor of all that was peaceful and gentle in human relationships. According to Chiricahuas, it was White Painted Woman who befriended the G’an, thus winning the sponsorship of the Apaches in a world filled with dangerous forces. ... ...ught more widely in American public schools to better understand how the southwest was and how it became to be. Tyranny in American history would be too controversial for the majority of the population; easier dealt with by not addressing it. It is also true that accounts of what actually happened differ among many scholars. Since the Apaches do not like to speak of the dead, their side of the story is difficult to obtain, and many American officers of the Army are too quick to gain recognition for things they did concerning the Chiricahuas. Finally, it is important to point out that it was the white man that invaded the Indian territory. The pride of the Chiricahuas would not allow this to happen, even though they knew their defeat was inevitable; it was Apache way. Works Cited Cole, D.C. The Chiricahua Apache 1846-1876: From War to Reservation. New Mexico: University of New Mexico Press,1988. Griffen, William B. Apaches at War and Peace: The Janos Presidio 1750-1858. New Mexico: University of New Mexico Press, 1988. Sweeney, Edwin R. Cochise: Chiricahua Apache Chief. Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, Publishing Division of the University, 1991.

Implementation of a Transitional Model of Care for Congestive Heart Fai

During exacerbations of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), older patients may receive care in multiple settings; often resulting in fragmented care and poorly-executed care transitions. The negative consequences of fragmented care lead to duplication of services; inappropriate or conflicting discharge instructions, medication errors, patient/caregiver anxiety, and increased costs of care. In light of changes in Medicare reimbursement penalizing hospitals with above set limits for heart failure (HF) readmissions, models of care are being evaluated for their effectiveness in satisfying this change as well as reducing fragmented care in this population. This paper reviews the Transitional Care Model created by Dr. Mary Naylor at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Nursing Science, 2013). This model in introduces a patient-centered interdisciplinary team intervention designed to improve transitions across care settings. Congestive Heart Failure Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart is incapable of adequately pumping blood throughout the body or unable to stop blood from backing up into the lungs. The most common cause of CHF is hypertension, previous myocardial infarctions, disorders of the heart muscle or the valves of the heart, and chronic lung diseases such as asthma or emphysema. CHF is a common diagnosis for individuals sixty five years and older. With the growing population of baby boomers, the rate of CHF is predicted to nearly double over the next forty years and will be a drain on healthcare resources. Treatment costs are estimated around $20 to $40 billon, with $8 to $15 billion spent on hospitalization alone (Quaglietti, Edwin, Ackerman, & Froelihe... ...he Medicare Fee for Service Program. New England Journal of Medicine, 360: 1418-1468. Naylor, M. (2012). Transitional Care Model. Retrieved from http://www.fiercehealthcare.com/special-reports/transitional-care-model Penn Nursing Science. (2013). Transitional Care Model-About TCM. Retrieved from http://www.transitonalcare.info/about.tcm Quaglietti, S. E., Edwin, J., Ackerman, L., & Froeliher, V. (2000, November/December). Management of the Patient with Congestive Heart Failure Using Outpatient, Home and Palliative Care. Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases, 43(3), 259-274. Retrieved from www.cardiology.org/recentpapers/susiechf:pdf Senthilraj, G., & Ganeshan, R. (2013). Effects of a Hospital Wide Quality Improvement (Doctoral dissertation, University of Connecticut). Retrieved from http://digitalcommons.uconn.edu/cgi/vecontent.cgi?article=1464&context=gs_thesis

Topshop Strategy

Top shop marketing plan essay Executive SummaryTop Shop is one of the leading retail brands known globally for its most up-to-date styles in clothing and other fashion accessories. Earlier only a low price clothing outlet primarily for the teenagers, Top Shop is now the hottest fashion clothing brand with its stores keeping the latest fashions and the exclusive and extraordinary designs that appeal to all age and socio-economic groups.The management has very carefully followed a perfect blend of cutting edge, highly fashionable styles with affordability by introducing new products and services in various countries worldwide under the new company called ‘TOPSHOP plus'.Realizing the importance of doing so, after repositioning itself, Top Shop will embark upon a carefully planned journey of simultaneous product and market development strategy as ‘TOPSHOP plus' Be it Kate Moss's exclusively introduced designer range, in-store ambiance, Style Advisor service or its sponsorship s for the young and aspiring fashion gurus, Top Shop stands out today amongst many other competing brands. The management must, however, bear in mind that while expanding into so many countries with its every increasing range of products, it would have to keep a very strict check on its supply chain.Furthermore, regular innovations are a key to success for this mighty brand. For as this growing company approaches maturity, it would run a greater risk of the competitors catching up until it commits to innovations that are hard to imitate or are at least time and resource consuming. Terms of ReferenceAim of the ReportThe report covers discusses ‘TopShop plus' an extension of the Arcadia chains conception and launch as an expansion to strategic measures taken since the time that transformed itself from being an ordinary low price clothing retailer for the teenagers to a hot fashion clothing hub for all age groups.It also brings forth various marketing promotions being undertaken by the company to maintain its current position and to gain on the market share. The in depth analysis helps understanding how each of its activities have been attempting to attract customers through provision of maximum value to them and not to the company only. The later part also suggests that despite being and extraordinary fashion retailer, there are a few areas where Top Shop would need to pay special attention in order to ensure long term growth and a sustainable bottom line.Scope of the ReportAs one of the businesses of the Arcadia Group, ‘TopShop plus' strategic marketing analysis has been provided in this report keeping in view all of its products and services. The services that make the shopping experience more of an entertainment are just as important a factor in Top Shop's success as are products that directly produce revenue for it. In a nutshell, the report analyzes Top Shop as a whole through its separate products and services which also act as tools for market ing for the company. 1.The CompanyWith an initial reputation of being a tacky low price clothing outlet, Top shop ‘plus' has now earned the fame of a leading store when it comes to fashion clothing. The success, however, came only with a change in its strategy; by going ‘upscale'. Top Shop ‘plus' will be one clothing retailer that stocks the most up-to-date fashion clothes and accessories before any of its competitors does in the market. Whereby the major focus earlier on was on price competitiveness, Top Shop ‘plus' products will arrive first in the market and will be of high quality and very low comparative price.Over time, Top Shop ‘plus' will come to be known not only as just the fashion accessory provider but much rather a trend setter especially with its in-house designer brands and those exclusively introduced and introduced by fashion industry leaders. Due to its various marketing efforts, innovations in the business and exclusive services for i ts customers, it is now the biggest and the most differentiated name in the fashion industry especially when it comes to retailers in the field. 2.The Fashion Retail Market at a GlanceA study showed that even while cutting down on other areas, the European consumers hardly cut down on their expenditure on clothes (Mintel, August 2003). Even when the year on year sales in the fashion industry slowed down in 2000 and 2001, the change was not as drastic as had been predicted by certain observers. During that period, Top Shop and some of its competitors caught up on the opportunity to provide fashion clothing at an affordable price.Few of the major players that have dominated the fashion retail industry with a reputation to preempt the latest catwalk designs include Top Shop, H;M. and Zara. Now, Top Shop is amongst the very few names that account for more than 60% of the total consumer expenditure on fashion clothing and accessories. 3. Current Marketing Activities:Arcadia group plc und er Top Shop has been engaged various marketing and promotional activities. The most major ones and their analysis with reference to the company's corporate & marketing strategy follow this section. . 1 New ImageLong ago, when Top Shop was only known as a low price clothing outlet, the increasing focus of the buyers on trendiness and the readiest availability of the new fashion accessories forced the managed to rethink its strategic position. Right at that time, the management decided to reposition Top Shop from being a discount seller to a hot trend setter brand. Initially, Top shop relied on copying the latest catwalk designs and releasing them in the market before any other competitor like H& M and Zara.Gradually however, while the other fashion brands focused following the same copying the strategy, Top Shop entered into the arena of introducing new self made designs initially under a brand named Unique. Since that time, Top Shop has been living the repute of being the high style up-to-date fashion god of the high street. Consider the following perceptual map taking bullet 1 as its initial and 2 as its later positioning with respect to certain other competing brands such as Marks & Spencer, H&M etc. Refer to 1c and 2c as the composite competitor positioning before and after Top Shop's transformation. . 2 High Price-High Quality Fashion ClothingPreviously, for quite some years, Top Shop had to experience low revenues and even lower profits primarily because of its excessive focus on price competitiveness. Later a shift its strategy helped the bottom line to sore up. The major factor contributing to such a result was the chain's new focus on female fashion clothing and accessories that it brought into the market before its competitors even if it had to pay more to the suppliers. Such a strategy assisted it in becoming a market leader where it came to the latest trends and fashion in the women-ware.It is also important to note that Top Shop offers products at usually a very low price even as low as three times comparative to the competitors. But because the customers get access to the latest fashion only here, the revenues at Top Shop are only positively affected. More so, with its discount offers such as those especially designed for the students, it can rest assured that even the young age groups can afford the trendy ware that it has to offer to its customers. Additionally, because ‘fashion' is this chain's selling point, the customers are often ready to pay a premium price for certain designs.In this manner, it is able to maintain an upscale image as well as smooth revenues. 3. 3 Celebrity EndorsementsKate Moss Collection by Top Shop has been another feather in the retailer's cap. This endorsement by the British super model would act to strengthen Top Shop's image as being first class in fashion clothing (Appendix 1). Furthermore, the hype and publicity that the mere fact of the supermodel introducing her own designer collectio n through Top Shop created would certainly reap long term benefits for the company. We intend to use same model for the brand awareness and project topshop‘plus' as a high end business.Primarily, it would further Top Shop's liking amongst the other celebrities who might have otherwise preferred some other retail brand. But with Kate Moss endorsing it, there is greater likelihood of the brand gaining on its recognition in the general public as well as the celebrity masses. Also, such endorsements are essentially important after the management's concern for maintaining Top Shop's fashion-focused upscale image. 3. 4 Discount offersOne of the most surprising consumer promotions offered by Top Shop is the student discount (Appendix 2).This proved to be a great success but with topshop ‘plus' because of Top Shop plus is an upscale fashion oriented global retail chain. However, such a discount can serve for Top Shop, two important purposes. Firstly, it would attract the young f ashion oriented members of the target market who have lower purchasing power comparative to any of its other targeted customers. Along side this, promotions of this nature would allow the management to explore opportunities related to the younger segment of the market in the long run by giving it first hand knowledge of the segment's preferences.Additionally, their preference for shopping at Top Shop today may continue to their later age thereby ensuring a smooth flow of revenues for the company. Secondly, and very importantly, such a discount offer is especially fruitful in times of recession. Where the sales of other upscale retail outlets may be going down due to high prices, keeping the young souls dressed in up-to-date trendy outfits obtainable at a special discounted price would prevent the sales going down beyond a certain acceptable level. 3. Membership cardsOne of the most distinguished promotions of this cutting edge fashion retailer is its exclusive membership for its cus tomers. The membership allows access to its superior fashion advice service, ‘Style Advisor' whereby its most loyal customers can reach to thousands of Style Advisors round the globe while seeking a hassle free shopping experience (Appendix 3). The membership can be rightly thought of as a promotion to ensure customer loyalty by inculcating in them a sense of pride being associated with Top Shop.Additionally, with preferred treatment in all the stores worldwide, such an initiative can ensure that the customers would help keeping the revenue flow smooth for this mighty fashion trend setter. 3. 7 Online PresenceIt is widely thought that a website primarily serves as a source of advertising and promotion for a brand. Additionally however, it also works effectively well in generating sales especially for an organization that has customers spread globally. Such a purpose is only served if the website allows the visitors to make order based purchases. Top Shop's online presence fits the aforementioned purposes.It not only contains information on the upcoming fashion accessories but also some very useful tips and fashion advice. This can actually be an attraction for Top Shop's target audience who seek such services to be available such that they can access it any time and with the least time spending. Along with its tailored -size ordering available online, the company can ensure least possible hassle caused to the customers (Appendix 4). Furthermore, the website would continuously allow Top Shop to be an online sales point for the young students whose life styles make such buying rather convenient.Although one cannot ignore the importance of its brick and mortar existence as well, the services available through its website may certainly add a lot of value to the business. It presence on Facebook and Twitter is another step forward in promoting itself far and wide. 3. 8 Sponsorships for the Rising Fashion TalentAs a gesture of its commitment to fashion and tre ndsetting, Top Shop has been closely associated with various initiatives for supporting and promoting young and aspiring fashion gurus. It provides title sponsorship for the Graduate Fashion Week.Also, it does a lot of work in support of the London Fashion Week and for launching the careers of various young designers through the endowment of a special award. Through this award many well known names such as Hussain Chalayan, Clements Riberio and several others earned repute in the fashion industry. Such activities do two important things for Top Shop ‘plus' directly and indirectly. Firstly, it promotes the brand amongst the youth and gains their support. Secondly, such efforts ensure Top Shop‘plus' customer, of its commitment and support for fashion and so helps strengthen its position in the industry. . Understanding the Product Life Cycle Currently, Top Shop ‘plus' should grow rapidly in early stage of the PLC model whereby as an early adapter of the strategy of p roviding high rated fashion clothing at an affordable price, it has been working towards maintaining its product quality and adding more and more services to increase value for the customer. Additionally, with a high market demand and comparatively easier competition due to its current position, it is able to maintain low prices and yet enjoys profits and a positive brand image.As it matures, it would certainly have to look into defending its market share since a lot of new entrants and existing players may catch up on its strategy. The future would therefore also require a very strong distribution network meshed with a extraordinary level of innovation in its products as well as its services. 5. SWOT AnalysisStrength:Topshop has been held in the UK market for over decades, it has created strong consumer loyalty over the time through unique taste, fashion and trends through the variety level on its product.Customers are perceive Topshop as a premium brand, so the brand image is a ke y strength for the company. Extensive marketing strategy includes various dynamic advertisements which targeted male and female youth. The negotiation of better promotions through retailers strengthens demand and different sizes of product packaging suits consumer needs and buying patterns are considered to be some of its key marketing strengths. Being a high street market leader in the UK creates the feasibility of inorganic growth. Weakness:Topshop has not been able to compete against its competitors due to lack of marketing strategy in the times of growth.The competitive advantage it once used to brush away the rivals was given away. M&S and others have taken the lead since. Opportunities:There has been a growth in the fashion industry even in midst of economic downturn. For a group like Arcadia, it gives an opportunity to expand its chain of businesses. With Topshop's existing brand name, it seems to be the logical and potentially good strategy. Threats:Threat of possible new en trant in the Britain market may increase for Topshop among people's attitude of American capitalism over Britain.Some people could possibly opt to their own country brand upon perceived imitation could reflect on changing purchasing behaviour. The increasingly cheap but trendy and fashionable products manufactured under the name of retail giants such as Tesco, Sainsbury's and ASDA are a threat to substitution of Arcadia's Topshop. 6. Strategic AnalysisAn attempt by the management, and a very successful attempt too, the revamped image of this fashion brand was a step towards repositioning Top Shop and changing consumer perceptions about it.After successfully doing so, Top Shop has been constantly at work to keep up its image as The Fashion Leader in the retail industry making shopping more of an entertaining experience for its customers through various other facilities, activities and services on its stores and online. Its association with fashion industry celebrities such as Kate Mo ss herself fortifies its position with reference to its brand values that blend up-to-date styles and affordability together. The shortest possible lead time industry wide, it further gains competitive advantage over so many other brands.Additionally, when its sponsors fashion events and financially supports the careers of the upcoming talent, its gains the loyalty and support of the youth that would give it revenues on a long term basis. Its presence online as not only a promotional banner but as a proper sale point is an advance towards more success as that can certainly help it reaching to its target market in countries where it is not present at least as yet. This is also an effective way to reach out to the teenaged members of its target market whose lifestyles would rather allow them to make purchases online more conveniently.For the matter of understanding, very simply put, the Ansoff's Matrix suggests that Top Shop is currently following a product-market growth strategy by f ocusing on both product and market development at the same time. However, the management must bear in mind that to maintain the current image of a cutting-edge affordable fashion provider, it must ensure a smooth supply chain system by which it would be able to carry on bringing in the latest fashion faster than any of its competitors. Also, now with its own designs out in the market, innovation and innovation only would be the key to its success.Loyalty programs such as the membership cards and sponsorships are of course going to supplement all these efforts. 7. RecommendationsThe current popularity and success status of Top Shop does suggest that it has been upholding its image really well with its promotional activities. To ensure long term success however, it may take a few steps at this stage. For instance, now that its membership program is already in place, it may introduce a member-get-member program by which each member bringing in a new member with his reference is rewarde d and acclaimed. This would help it in building upon its present clientele and lso on the loyalty level of the existing customers. As pointed out earlier as well, it is important that Top Shop pays attention to its supply chain. Its entry into self designed brands is a beginning but if it gains some control over its suppliers through backward integration, the risk may be greatly reduced. Otherwise, if the competitors somehow gain on this respect, it may cause serious damage to Top Shop's business. Therefore it is imperative that it pays attention to the factors that are a source of advantage for it now and are necessary for ensuring its long terms success. . ConclusionAs of now, Top Shop seems to be following a strong product-market growth strategy by focusing on increasing its worldwide presence alongside an increase in its products and services. Such a strategy would certainly prove fruitful when the competition paces up and a particular market for Top Shop reaches maturity. Howev er, only if Top Shop focuses on continuous innovation and provision of maximum value to the customer, taking its position in the market would be rather difficult for the competing fashion retailers.Furthermore, the various in-store services that it provides also act as an indirect way of diversification while being a part of the company's promotional strategy as well. References Baker, M. , 2003, The Marketing Book, 5th Edition, Butterworth-Heinemann,  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   pp. 87-109 Kurtz, D. , 2009,Contemporary Marketing, 2009 Edition, USA, Neil Marquardt, pp. 363 Kotler, P. , Armstrong, G. , 2008 Principles of Marketing, 12th Edition,Pearson Education, pp. 338 Ferrel, O. , Hartline, M. , 2007, Marketing Strategy, 4th Edition, Thomson Higher Education pp. 282 David, F. 2007, Strategic Management,10th Edition, Pearson Education, pp. 196-210 Daniels, M. , May 4, 2009, Top Shop: Deconstructing the Retail Marketing Phenomenon Smith, A. , How Top Shop Changed Fashion, UK Available at http:// www. time. com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1625185,00. html [Accessed on Jan 19, 2010] Brand Republic, 2005, Super Brands Case Study: Top Shop Available at http://www. brandrepublic. com/news/474559/superbrands-case-studies-topshop/ [Accessed: Jan 23, 2010] Read more: http://www. americanessays. com/study-aids/free-essays/marketing/top-shop-marketing-plan. php#ixzz2A1VU1VWU

Learning in the EYFS Essay

Knowledge and understanding of the world – Knowledge and Understanding of the World relates to children’s everyday lives, their homes, families, other people, the local environment and community and the wider world. Personal, social and emotional development – The social and emotional development of a child helps practitioners/parents understand the behaviors they exhibit. Though children develop and mature at different rates, social and emotional development generally occurs in predictable stages. Communication language and literacy – Children’s learning and competence in communicating, speaking and listening, being read to and beginning to read and write must be supported and extended. They must be provided with opportunity and encouragement to use their skills in a range of situations and for a range of purposes, and be supported in developing the confidence and dispositions to do so. Problem solving reasoning and numeracy – This area mostly focuses on a child’s ability to solve simple problems and builds an awareness of shapes space and measures. Practitioners do this by looking at shapes, numbers, building bricks etc. Physical Development – Children are encouraged to take part in a variety of physical activities. Children develop physically at different stages and times. This area helps practitioners to keep track of each individual child’s development. Creative development – Being creative covers a multitude of ideas including how children express and communicate ideas. They can explore all sorts of media (eg ICT, music) and materials. They will also develop their imagination through play. Although they are all different a good planned activity will cover more than one area of development. For example, playing a snakes and ladders board game will help a child with their Problem solving, reasoning and numeracy mainly but it will also help them with their Communication, language and literacy development as they are being encouraged to communicate with other children playing the game. Also the areas are interdependent if the child is struggling with one area it can affect how they develop in other areas. For example, if a child is disabled and cannot join in physical activities this can affect their physical development but it can then also affect their communication, language and literacy and Personal, social and emotional development because they aren’t joining in with the same activities as their peers. This can be avoided or at least limited by good planning and inclusive practice. 1.2 Outcomes are given to the different areas of learning within the EYFS to ensure that practitioners have something to focus on. These outcomes are outlined within the EYFS as â€Å"overarching principles† these are: Every child is a unique child, who is constantly learning and can be resilient, capable, confident and self-assured Children learn to be strong and independent through positive relationships Children learn and develop well in enabling environments, in which their experiences respond to their individual needs and there is a strong partnership between practitioners and parents and/or carers Children develop and learn in different ways and at different rates. The framework covers the education and care of all children in early years provision, including children with special educational needs and disabilities. And three main areas of development which are; Physical Development – This is the development of a child’s physical skills. It includes the Gross motor skills, such as walking, jumping, running, catching and the fine motor skills such as the pincer grip, hand-eye-coordination, doing up laces or zips. Personal Social and Emotional Development – The social and emotional development of a child helps practitioners/parents understand the behaviors they exhibit. Though children develop and mature at different rates, social and emotional development generally occurs in predictable stages. Communication and Language Development – Language development is the process by which children come to understand and communicate language during early childhood. 1.3 The documented outcomes are assessed by practitioners in different ways. On-going assessments are carried out in settings frequently. Practitioners plan an activity, observe the child/children, record information and evaluate the outcome. If needed they then plan another activity and repeat the process until they get the information they need. These are also known as â€Å"formative assessments† and they are an integral part of the EYFS framework. It helps parents, carers and practitioners to constantly monitor a child’s progress and pick up on and solve problems if there are any. At the age of two a child has a progress check. This is when practitioners review their progress and produce a short written summary of a child’s development in the main areas of development. This helps to make sure a child is on track with their development and helps to identify any areas that a child may be developing at a slower rate than is expected. This can also pick up on any dis abilities or learning difficulties. If a practitioner does pick up on a learning difficulty they should put together a plan to support the child’s future learning and development. Practitioners must discuss with parents how the outcome of the assessments can be used to support the child’s development at home, and parents are encouraged to share the outcome with any relevant professionals i.e. a teacher or a health visitor. In the final term of the year in which the child turns five practitioners must complete the EYFS profile for each child. This profile must reflect on-going observation, all relevant records held by the setting, discussions with parents and carers, and any other adults whom the teacher, parent or carer judges can offer a useful contribution. The profile lets parents, carers and other professionals have an overview of a child’s knowledge, understanding and abilities, their progress against expected levels, and their readiness for year one. Year one teachers are given a copy of this profile and it will outline whether the child is meeting, exceeding or not yet reaching the expected levels of the early learning goals. I think assessments are important to Practitioners and other professionals like teachers because it helps them to work together to identify any problems that may arise with a child’s development and address the problems quickly and effectively also if the child is very quick at development it can be spotted and they can be given extra planned work to stop them from getting bored. I think it is also good for parents because they have guidance on how to help their child’s development at home.

Caesars: Gambling Big on Technology

Caesars—Gambling Big on Technology This case illustrates how database technologies can support an organization's business strategy. The large investment made by Caesars Entertainment Corporation, formerly Harrah's, in its information technology strategy has been tremendously successful. The results of Caesars investment at the time include: * 10 percent annual increase in customer visits. * 33 percent increase in gross market revenue. * Yearly profits of over US$208 million. * Highest three-year ROI in the industry. * A network that links over 42,000 gaming machines in 26 casinos across 12 states in the U.S. * Rated number six on the 100 best places to work in IT by ComputerWorld magazine. * Recipient of a Leadership in Data Warehousing Award from the Data Warehousing Institute (TDWI), the premier association for data warehousing. The casino industry is highly competitive—rivalry among existing competitors is fierce. Bill Harrah was a man ahead of his time when he opene d his first bingo parlour in 1937 with the commitment of getting to know each one of his customers. In 1984, Phil Satre, president and CEO of Harrah's, continued that.In search of its competitive advantage, Harrah's invested in an enterprise-wide technology infrastructure to maintain Bill Harrah's original conviction: â€Å"Serve your customers well and they will be loyal. † Caesars' Commitment to Customers When Harrah's implemented its patented Total RewardsTM program it was resigned to help build strong relationships with its customers. The program rewarded customers for their loyalty by tracking their gaming habits across its then 26 properties and currently maintains information on over 19 million customers, information the company uses to analyze, predict, and maximize each customer's value.At Caesars the program continues to be a success because of its implementation of a service-oriented strategy. Total Rewards allows Caesars to give every customer the appropriate amou nt of personal attention, whether it's leaving sweets in the hotel room or offering free meals. Total Rewards works by providing each customer with an account and a corresponding card to swipe each time he or she plays a casino game. The program collects information on the amount of time the customers gamble, their total winnings and losses, and their betting strategies.Customers earn points based on the amount of time they spend gambling, which they can then exchange for complimentary items such as free dinners, hotel rooms, tickets to shows, and even cash. Total Rewards helps employees determine which level of service to provide each customer. When a customer makes a reservation at any of Caesars brands, the service representative taking the call can view the customer's detailed information including the customer's loyalty level, games typically played, past winnings and losses, and potential net worth.If the service representative notices that the customer has a Diamond loyalty l evel, the service representative knows that customer should never have to wait in line and should always receive free upgrades to the most expensive rooms. â€Å"Almost everything we do in marketing and decision making is influenced by technology,† says Gary Loveman, Caesars' chairman and CEO. â€Å"The prevailing wisdom in this business is that the attractiveness of property drives customers. Our approach is different. We stimulate demand by knowing our customers.For example, if one of our customers always vacations at Harrah's in April, they will receive a promotion in February redeemable for a free weekend in April. † Gaining Business Intelligence with a Data Warehouse Millions of customers visit Caesars resorts each year, and tracking a customer base larger than the population of Germany is a challenge. To tackle this challenge Caesars began developing a system called WINet (Winner's Data Network). WINet links all Caesars properties, allowing the company to collect and share customer information on an enterprise-wide basis.WINet collects customer data from all the company transactions, game machines, and hotel management and reservations systems, transforms and cleanses this data, and then places the resulting information in a central data warehouse. Information in the data warehouse includes both customer and gaming information recorded in hourly increments. The marketing department uses the data warehouse to analyze customer information for patterns and insights, which allows it to create individualized marketing programs for each customer based on spending habits.Most important, the data warehouse allows the company to make business decisions based on information, not intuition. Casinos traditionally treat customers as though they belong to a single property, typically the place the customer most frequently visits. Harrah's was the first casino to realize the potential of rewarding customers for visiting more than one property. Today, Caes ars has found that customers who visit more than one of its properties represent the fastest growing revenue segment.In the first two years of the Total Rewards program, the company received a $100 million increase in revenue from customers who gambled at more than one casino. Caesars also uses BI to determine gaming machine performance. Using the data warehouse, Caesars examines the performance and cost structure of each individual gaming machine. The company can quickly identify games that do not deliver optimal operational performance and can make a decision to move or replace the games. The capability to assess the performance of each individual slot machine has provided Caesars with savings in the tens of millions of dollars.Former CIO Tim Stanley stated, â€Å"As we leverage more information from our data warehouse and increase the use and sophistication of our decision science analytical tools, we expect to have many new ways to improve customer loyalty and satisfaction, dri ve greater revenues, and decrease our costs as part of our ongoing focus on achieving sustainable profitability and success. † Security and Privacy Some customers have concerns about Caesars data and information collection strategy since they want to keep their gambling information private.The good news for these customers is that casinos are actually required to be more mindful of privacy concerns than most companies. For example, casinos cannot send marketing material to any underage persons. To adhere to strict government regulations, casinos must ensure that the correct information security and restrictions are in place. Many other companies actually make a great deal of money by selling customer information. Caesars has not joined this trend since its customer data and information are part of the company's competitive advantage. The Future of CaesarsIn the future, Caesars hopes to become device-independent by allowing employees to access the company's data warehouse via m obile devices. â€Å"Managing relationships with customers is incredibly important to the health of our business,† Stanley says. â€Å"We will apply whatever technology we can to do that. † For example, Caesars has been undergoing efforts to develop systems described as â€Å"patron-based technology† that foster communication with customers through slot machines. Ultimately, such data collected through slot machines can be stored in a data warehouse and later analyzed to gain further insight into customers and their needs. 0 Questions 1. Identify the effects poor information might have on Caesars service-oriented business strategy. 2. How does Caesars use database technologies to implement its service-oriented strategy? 3. Caesars was one of the first casino companies to find value in offering rewards to customers who visit multiple Caesars locations. Describe the effects on the company if it had not built any integrations among the databases located at each of its casinos. How could Caesars use distributed databases or a data warehouse to synchronize customer information? . Estimate the potential impact to Caesars business if there is a security breach in its customer information. 5. Identify three different types of data marts Caesars might want to build to help it analyze its operational performance. 6. What might occur if Caesars fails to clean or scrub its information before loading it into its data warehouse? 7. Describe cluster analysis, association detection, and statistical analysis and explain how Caesars could use each one to gain insights into its business.