Clothing Retailer Hennes & Mauritz Essay

A key ingredient in retailing success is the strength of a company’s distribution channels. Kerry Capell’s (2002) Business Week article looks at Sweden-based Hennes & Mauritz’s (H&M) sourcing and inventory management strategies and their reliance on distribution channel partners. H&M has developed a unique distribution channel strategy to compete with better entrenched retailers including Gap, Old Navy, Zara and FCUK. H&M Product Strategy Understanding H&M’s distribution strategy requires a clear understanding of their product philosophy and strategy. Like Gap and other clothing retailers, H&M markets to a particular segment of the fashion consumer market. H&M’s philosophy is â€Å"Fashion and quality at the best price† (H&M, 2004). H&M keeps up with its competitors by providing a variety of styles from â€Å"updated classics and fashion basics† to cutting-edge fashion trends (H&M, 2004). Kotler defines the product as a combination of goods and services (Kotler et al, 2001). H&M seeks a product edge by providing affordable fashion lines similar to its competitors, but with a â€Å"fast turnaround† from design to production to sales floor (Capell, 2002). Capell focused on this integrated distribution channel in his article. Distribution Channel Outline Marketers often refer to the fourth P, place, as placement, logistics or distribution. Marketers must create a place or a way for logistics and physical delivery to get a product to market and into the hands of target consumers (McColl-Kennedy and Kiel, 2003). A distribution channel refers to the type of intermediary or linkage between producers and consumers. A one-channel distribution network involves only the retailer between producer and consumer. Direct distribution occurs when the producer directly supplies the product to the buyer. The choice of distribution channel depends on a  variety of factors, including the type of product. While not all clothing retailers use direct distribution models, H&M and its competitors in the low- and mid-range clothing market use this model to maintain low costs and a fast time to market (Capell, 2002). Unlike many industries, time-to-market is critical to retail clothiers, as trends and fashions can change quickly. To minimize time-to-market, H&M employs a team of in-house designers in 21 production offices worldwide that work to forecast trends and find inspiration for clothing designs â€Å"in everything from street trends, to films, to flea markets† (H&M, 2004). From its headquarters in Stockholm, the company directs a rapid-response manufacturing process to capitalize on design trends immediately (H&M, 2004). H&M moves designs through production and into its retail sales channel with a three week to six month lead time. With low-wage, high-volume production in China and Turkey, the company can maintain low input costs and often outfit its stores with the latest trends within a month of the initial design (Capell, 2002). H&M constantly redefines its distribution strategies in response to changing retail market conditions and production conditions in its worldwide manufacturing centers (Capell, 2002). This adaptation ensures that the company can to improve the efficiency of its production flow. This model has direct application in H&M’s retail stores where it sells its products to consumers. H&M’s corporate buyers in Sweden actively manage its inventory, researching itemized sales reports by country, store, and, most importantly, type of merchandise daily (Capell, 2002). The buyers use this information to reallocate production or shipments, reducing potential overstock problems. The itemized reports also allow buyers to maintain a high level of turnover, keeping apparel on the sales floor up to date. Enhancing the company’s competitive advantage in this area, the integrated direct distribution channel ensures that H&M stores receive new shipments daily, giving the company further control over responses to supply and demand shifts (Capell, 2002). The company estimates that each store receives between 500 and 1,000 new items daily, with total sales of over 550 million  items annually company-wide. For example, if a particular fashion proves exceptionally popular to men in the U.S., but not in Europe, the company can shift inventory in that product from European stores to meet demand in the U.S. The channel also enables H&M to respond to market segment changes. When its $39 pants line proved too upscale for inner city malls, H&M used its integrated channel to shift that inventory to suburban locations and rotate new inventory into the mall stores (Hjelt, 2004). As with virtually every industry, H&M’s continued success and prosperity depends on efficient distribution channels. H&M has effectively incorporated its supply chain and retail distribution channels into its business strategy. As the company expands more heavily into the U.S. market, its unique streamlined distribution channel will be a critical component of its success. Works Cited Capell, Kerry. (2002, November 11). Hip H&M: The Swedish retailer is reinventing the business of affordable fashion. Business Week. 106-109. Hjelt, Paola. (2004). Will $39 Pants = Profits? H&M was too trendy for many mall shoppers. Fortune.com. Retrieved August 23, 2004 from the World Wide Web at: http://www.fortune.com/fortune/subs/article/0,15114,395434,00.html H&M. (2004). About H&M. HM.com. Retrieved August 23, 2004 from the World Wide Web at: http://www.hm.com/us/hm/facts_history/srt.jsp Kotler, P., Armstrong, G., Brown, L. and Adam, S. (1998). Marketing. Sydney: Prentice Hall. McColl-Kennedy, J.R. and Kiel, G. (2003). Services Marketing. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley and Sons.

Philip Anderson

Which of the investment alternative: Provides the highest returns to the client? Provides the highest profits to Stuart&Co.? In order to find the right result for each question, I suppose the client of each situation will invest $10,000. I will make a lot of calculations to support my opinion. The process listed as Exhibit1, Exhibit2 and Exhibit 3. Both Alternative A and C will provide the highest returns to the client depending on the period of investment. In this case, A has the highest investment return (See Exhibit 3). In this situation, ending redeemable value (ERV=P (1+T) n) and gain on investment are higher than B and C.Other than that, the cost of investment (Cost investment = Initial payment+ Total Load or Commission) is lower than B and C. So, the ROI (ROI= (Gain on investment + Cost of investment)/cost of investment) is higher than B and C. This is because A has the highest initial payments, but B and C need to take the load out from the same initial payments. Moreover, A has a lower management fee. Instead, B has a higher load and management fee; C has a higher load. Alternative B will provide higher profits to Stuart & Co (See Exhibit 2). In this situation, the total profit of Stuart & Co. s the sum of load or commission and management fee. B is higher than A and C. This is because B requires paying load or commission at 5% to purchase. Besides, B has a high percentage management fee. 2. Which alternative should the top management of Stuart & Co. want Philip to recommend to his client? Is the company’s control system designed to ensure that choice? (The case mentions several measures used to reward the branch managers). I think alternative B is what the top management wants because it will bring the maximum profit for the company.The company’s control system is not designed to ensure this choice. For example, the company emphasis on† developing and nurturing profitable relationship with as many clients as possible, and the speci fic products and service sold to clients should be dictated by the needs of those clients. † Obviously, B is not the one which should be dictated needs of clients because clients are pursuing high ROI. At the beginning of this investment, clients need to pay 5% of his initial payment (P) to company for load or commission, which reduces his initial payment.Also, B has the lowest average annual total return (T). During the same length period, lowest P and T will cause the lowest ending redeemable value (ERV). Besides, B has the highest investment cost. Therefore, B’s ROI is lower than A and C. 3. If Philip recommends the highest profit choice (for the company), is he acting unethically? From the perspective of the company, he is acting ethically. This is because maximizing company’s profit is company’s ultimate goal. On one hand, Philip has helped his clients make profit from their investment.On the other side, he helps his company to achieve highest profit. It is the ideal result of company’s control system. Therefore, he is doing an excellent job at his position. It is ethical. However, from the perspective of clients, he is not acting ethically. Clients hope their investment advisor can help them to achieve highest ROI. This means they want higher gain on investment and lower cost of investment, which just conflicts with company’s benefit. So if Philip did not consider clients’ benefit but just focus on company’s benefit, his acting is unethical.

Qualities of a Good Parent

Parenting is defined as one who begets, gives birth to, or nurtures and raises a child; a father or mother (The free dictionary, 2013). The definition does not mean that one will make a good parent. Becoming a parent can be one of the most exciting times in ones life, or it can be a horrific experience. For most, it is a good experience that brings them happiness, joy and excitement. Others fear the unknown, do not like kids, or have a negative impression of parenting.Truthfully, parenting is all in what you make of it. Good parenting is categorized by many different factors. Some of these factors that categorize a good parent are self-sacrificing, teachable, curious, and diligence (Mallory, 2013). Self-sacrificing means that a parent will do anything they humanly can to protect and take care of their child. Teachable means that you are willing to learn various aspects of parenting. Curious means that you are intrigued at finding things out about how to be or become a better parent.D iligence means that you work hard to be the best parent that you can. According to the article, What Qualities Make a Good Parent, becoming a good parent is a high calling that every parent should strive to achieve (2013). If one is not a good parent, they can always work at being a better parent. If they work at being a better parent, their child will notice those changes and in return not have a negative connotation of parenting. With the good, there always come the bad. There are certain qualities that make an ineffective parent.According to the article, Four Traits Common to Bad Parents, there are so many pitfalls in parenting, and no parent wants to raise a brat, a beast, a shooter, or a Clinton, but some of us do in spite of that (2001). The four traits addressed about bad parents are: poor excuses, no consequences for their actions, expect everything given to them, and defensive/critical (McKinney, 2001). These traits shed some light on the pitfalls of parenting, but one must rise above this and do better.The obvious answer to being a good parent is to be a loving, caring individual, and one who strives for excellence for their child. Good parents should have a plan to teach their self-control, personal integrity and a sense of responsibility to themselves, their families and their fellow citizens, even when it hurts both them (McKinney, 2001). By setting parameters and goals as a parent you are more likely to have a positive experience and feel as if you are a â€Å"good parent. Good parenting takes a lot of commitment, participation and sacrifice, it also takes a lot of mistakes. With these mistakes come learning, and in return the quality of your parenting will increase. References Mallory, D. (December 2012). What Qualities Make a Good Parent? Retrieved March 12, 2013 from http://www. wahm. com/articles/what-qualities-make-a-good parent. html McKinney, S. (April 2011). Four Traits Common to Bad Parents Retrieved March 12, 2013 from http://www. ente rstageright. com/archive/articles/0401badparents. htm

Explaining Cinema Tickets Price Differences Essay - 1

Explaining Cinema Tickets Price Differences - Essay Example The economic principle is known as the Price Elasticity of Demand, which is â€Å"a measure of how much the quantity demanded of a good responds to a change in the price of that good.† (Mankiw, p. 90). In simple equation form: This principle can be further characterized in two ways. First, student and senior demand for cinema tickets is considered elastic because a change in ticket price has a measurable impact on the quantity demanded. (If there was little or no change in demand in response to a change in price, demand would be termed inelastic.) Also, because in the cinema situation the numerator of the equation is greater than the denominator, the absolute price elasticity of demand must be greater than 1. (If the numerator were larger than the denominator, the absolute price elasticity of demand would be less than 1.) There may be several economic-based reasons why students and seniors are highly responsive to cinema pricing. For most people, going to the cinema typically would be considered an optional, not a necessary, activity. So in deciding whether to allocate some of their income to attending the cinema most people are more likely to respond to lower prices. Also, many movies eventually are offered on television and DVD, so in deciding whether to allocated some of their income to attending the cinema, most people are more likely to respond to lower prices because they are not risking never seeing the particular movie. Moreover, compared to the average adult, students and seniors are viewed as having less income and so would be more sensitive than most people to each of the above factors and thus more likely to spend if ticket prices are lower.

Research of Barclays Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Research of Barclays - Essay Example It also sponsored many big and major events also. This list of sponsorships may include Premier League, certain sports events e.g. tennis, golf and foot ball tournaments, the Churchill cup etc. Barclays is the second largest bank in the United States (Salz, 2013). There are also certain controversies which are associated with the name of Barclays as it is very usual matter that every banking institution is usually supposed to be involved in the money corruption cases. Same is the case with Barclays, most of the competitors tried to create a bad word of mouth regarding the Barclays bank but it was not successful and the popularity of the Barclays bank is still in the minds of its potential customers (Skinner, 2011). Need for Marketing Research: Due to difference in the customer needs and choices the Barclays bank is also trying to serve them at every level. That is the reason of having different banking products and services so that customers of different segments can be targeted easi ly (the Beans Group, 2012). When any company has such a versatile kind of target market and customers then there is a need of market research so that new and prevailing trends in the market can be analyzed efficiently. The promotional tools of the banking products and services would also be different for different customers. While doing market research the company should be capable of covering costs and also sell the product at a profit. They should also be able to handle the expected problems of the new segment (FAO Corporate document Repository). Marketing Research at Barclays: There is so much competition in the banking industry that every bank has to be vigilant about the opportunities arising in the customer market so that it can be grabbed at once and then have a first mover advantage in offering new services to its potential customers. To achieve this vigilance by the company the marketing research should be very much active and effective also. Marketing research actually mea ns to collect the customer related data from the market segments and thus analyzing it in comparison with the company’s resources and also the cost involved. This marketing research also helps to devise future plans for the company. Barclays have analyzed the potential in the students target market and thus do a market research to find out whether this would be a profitable decision to launch any product regarding this segment (Havard Business School, 2013). Barclays have considered the students as the major segment to be invested in. They did a marketing research in order to analyze the potential of this specific market segment (Elizabeth, 2012). Barclays has a competitive advantage over other companies due to the geographic area it has covered (Barclays PLC Bank Annual Report, 2012). On the basis of this advantage Barclays can compete over them in the future also by serving more and more segments. The research and development department of the Barclays is very effective. Th e research team provides actionable ideas that are based on the consumer preferences (Barclays PLC Bank Annual Report, 2012). At first the company which is going for market research should focus on its own image created in the customer’s eye (Gerber). In this way it can be easily analyzed that how the population of that segment will perceive that company’s product. The research and development department at Barclays efficiently try to cover all the possible segments of the consumer market and even also made valuations and other

Common ground Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Common ground - Essay Example According to Terris (1999), one sixth of the total land base in our country yielded to development within a short ten year period from 1982 to 1992. This author’s article deals with the issue of a decline or extinction in various species caused by bulldozing down grasslands and forests, thus building towards a plea for the conservation and preservation of wildlife. The article by Shaw (2004) however, does acknowledge that human activity has stripped away a considerable amount of forested land, thereby depriving the wildlife of their habitat; however reforestation has also been active and this has produced a condition where the nation is now a haven for wild animals and many species that were once endangered are not multiplying in record numbers. For wxample, Shaw (2004) cites the example of the bald eagle, whose population was once down to 32 pairs but has now increased to 329 known active bald eagle nests. In providing an argument that urban sprawl has contributed to the decl ine in certain species of wildlife, Terris(1999) provides specific examples of such species that have been out at risk, such as the Florida panther, the pygmy owl, the kangaroo rat and even plant species such as the saguaro cactus. Her analysis is based upon the following main arguments: (a) Development of land for habitation and especially leap frog developments have eroded the natural habitat for wildlife. (b) Patterns of urban growth have produced loss of habitat for several species of wildlife, fragmentation or the breakup of ecosystems and the generalization of ecosystems wherein only the hardy species that can survive on green lawns and stuff from garbage cans are able to survive. (c) Conservation alone cannot save wildlife, what is necessary is control over development patterns, i.e, restricting unfettered and unplanned development and effectively managing growth in such a manner that it protects wildlife The article by Shaw (2004) is based upon two singular aspects; first th e proliferation of wildlife and second, the increasing proximity of humans to wildlife. In support of her claim that reforestation is rekindling many once diminished species, Shaw (2004) offers the following arguments: (a) Natural reforestation is increasing due to the decline in farming, especially in the eastern United States, which is also increasing wildlife (b) Suburbanization or low density development outside the cities provides a variety of habitat and vegetation that is a draw for animals. (c) A new ecology is being established, i.e, with suburbanization, people build new kinds of habitat such as bird feeders, gardens and ornamental nurseries which are breeding grounds for meso mammals, or mid sized species which only need smaller areas to roam (d) Some species such as deer and geese are both wildlife success stories and a cause of nuisance as well. For example, deer can be a nuisance in the form of deer related collisions, carriers of Lyme disease and damage to crops and s eeds. (e) Increasing proximity of wildlife has become a cause of concern in several areas, for example a mountain lion attacked a woman riding a bicycle near a wild life park. (f) On the basis of her arguments, Shaw(2004) argues that there seems to be an apparent compatibility between human and wild life and the growing notion and people can exist side by side with wilds animals. Entrepreneurs are making efforts to build natural sites

Trends in Cloud Computing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Trends in Cloud Computing - Assignment Example The users of the technology need not to have knowledge of, expertise in, or control over the technology infrastructures "in the cloud" that supports them. Buyya et al. (2009) stated that the concept incorporates infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS) and software as a service (SaaS) as well as Web 2.0 and other recent technological trends that have the common theme of dependency on the Internet for meeting computing needs of the users. Examples of such providers are Dropbox.com, Salesforce.com, and Google Apps, which all provide common business applications online that are accessed from a web browser, while the software and data are stored on the servers. Referring to the writings by Cohen (2012) the term cloud is used as a metaphor for the Internet, based on how the Internet is depicted in computer network diagrams, and is an abstraction for the complex infrastructure it conceals. The diagram below helps to demonstrate the architecture of cloud computing an d how it incorporates the use of other technologies in order to provide a variety of applications of services. Figure 1: Graphical representation of cloud computing Sources: http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/comparing-public-private-and-hybrid-cloud-computin.html In the writings by Saboowala et al. (2013), they stated that cloud computing mainly involves software as a service and utility computing. Under Software as a Service, cloud computing is known for providing an application via the internet, which ends up being used by millions of people located in different corners of the world. Under utility computing, it is noted that cloud computing provide storage and virtual servers that users can easily access on real time basis. The top trends in cloud computing In the writings by Cohen (2012), he noted that the latest trends in cloud computing are because of continued application of cloud computing in various forms, and therefore, the technology has been realigning itself to the c hanging needs of providers and businesses, which has created new utility options for the technology of which key among them is big data analytics. Big data analytics According to Schlesinger (2013), big data analytics is one of the latest trends in cloud computing and it refers to the capability of cloud computing to manage big amounts of data from various sources. Therefore, the latest trends is the analysis of big data that is available â€Å"in the cloud† in a single approach without any sub-division of data into manageable chunks. The big data analytics enables organizations to carry an analysis of data that that is generated from a long period of time from multiple sources using a common approach. For example, Buyya et al. (2009) stated that within the public cloud, access can be obtained to individual files containing variety of data from different businesses within the same industry and the analysis of such data will provide a global outlook of the entire industry. Big data analytics services by cloud computing provide key benefits of reduced cost in analyzing wide data and shortened duration of analyzing data. Increased application of hybrid clouds Cohen (2012) wrote that as businesses are increasingly identifying the benefits of cloud computing they are equally increasing their adoption of the use of cloud computing for various business purposes. This has resulted in a trend

Connection of Historiography and Memory Research Paper

Connection of Historiography and Memory - Research Paper Example Memory entails the ability to look or hear about some information in present day and then remember such information later when anything related to such is mentioned or seen. Memory is related to the present, meaning that the perception of today is likely to change in the future, based on the contexts and the circumstances that will be there at that moment. Therefore, memory is a dynamic aspect that keeps changing over time, and that is shaped by the current trend (Terdiman, 1993). Various approaches address the relationship between historiography and memory. A first approach is a historiographical approach, which has with it the elements of time and space. According to this approach, memories are the actual events that occurred at some point in the past, while history is the representation of such events by historians in a subjective manner, based on what they can remember and what they perceive as relevant (Schwartz, 1997). Space is another element of memory that relates the past ev ents with tangibles physical locations. Thus, according to this approach, memory entails trying to remember things that happened in the past, which are non-existent today. In so doing, representation of such events becomes a vital aspect, as it helps people in remembering the actual events that occurred, through having them represented in various forms. This way, the approach establishes the relationship between historiography and memory, in that memory is the recipe that builds history, which in turn refreshes the memory through the representation of the past (Terdiman, 1993). The other approach that addresses the relationship between historiography and memory is the cultural studies approach. According to this approach, memory is incorporated in the body of an individual, through mannerisms, habits, and gestures (Schwartz, 1997). This way, an individual transfers such memory to the next generation, which then does the same to the other generations.

Marketing Mix for the Holden Commodore Case Study

Marketing Mix for the Holden Commodore - Case Study Example The car has been produced with a different target in the market but it has remained a family car. But the Holden Commodore VE Ute which was released in 2007 has a new target to individual users. It is small compared to the others but is has the appearance that makers Commodore in the market. The Holden Commodore Sport wagon which was released in 2007 is also a family car and is larger. This shows that the company has been responding to the changing need of the market and has therefore been producing models that go with the market. There are also some models that have been targeted for the upper market. Although most of the models have been selling at a constant price, there are some models like Commodore VE that has been produced target the higher income market. the company has been pressure to lower the price of the VE model as the demanding the market falls due to low sales attributed to the its exorbitant prices. (Edger, 2002) Since it was produced the primary target market for commodore has been the family. It has bee produced targeting the family market and therefore the model have been made larger in a way that they can carry the whole family. The company has been producing medium sized cars that are usually important for family travels and other means. Therefore the family has been the primary target market for the cars. ... The company has been producing cars which are meant for private use. All the models produced are personal cars which are mainly aimed for the family. The features that are produced with each successful model show that the car is for the family market. They produce medium sized cars which are safer and durable. However in the recent past there have also been productions of other models that are aimed for the secondary market. These include the sportive VE Ute which is aimed at individual travelers. But this can only be considered as the secondary market since there are not many productions that have been made on this model. Generally the company has produced cars that are primary made to meet the needs of family travelers but the trend in the market has forced it to produce other models which specifically target the individual travelers as well. The company has been improving its models since it was produced in order to put in place some futures that are meant to position it as a contented in the target market. With new models entering the otherwise competitive market, Commodore has been retaining large sales owing to the way it ha s been changing features of its cars to meet the demands of the target market. The design and the price of the cars have been well planned in order to fit the status of the target market. (Kenwrite, 2004) Positioning When the first car was produced the level of competition in the market was low compared to what it is right now. By then there were not many models that were targeted to the family target market but with time there have been new entrants in the same market that have increased the level of competition. The main competitor of the Commodore model has been the Ford Falcon, Honda CV, Toyotas Camry, Mitsubishi

Chinese people and Classical Music Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Chinese people and Classical Music - Essay Example Music is one of the most fundamental elements of the culture and reflects the various trends which are typical of a nation. And when it comes to China that is for sure one of the oldest civilizations of the world, carrying out research in this area seems even more reasonable because of the fact that China is viewed as the pioneer in the fields of music, sculpture, art and poetry, and the Chinese have introduced divergent forms of music in the history specially during the Zhou and Han regimes, which won applause and popularity in different areas of the world. Having said this, the significance of the topic can easily be estimated. This is principally a qualitative research. The methodology was based on such research tools as interviews, desk study and brainstorming. As you can see on the poster, I started my research on the association of the youth of China with the Classical music of the past in two ways. First, I started to study and analyze the research conducted by various scholar s in the past in the same area. I believe it is always a good idea to refer to the history of literature about the areas of knowledge you want to explore. For this purpose, I tried my best to work out all related researches from the past and somehow, I managed to lay my hands on quite a lot of the required stuff.

Challenges international students face Essay Example for Free

Challenges international students face Essay Introduction: This report has been written to lay out the difficulties, those international students face in their desire to pursue further education in the United Kingdom. The challenges that are outlined in this report are by no means limited to the areas chosen. The justification for writing this report lays in the fact that firstly there is a need to sustain and increase the number of students that actually come into the United Kingdom for their studies, as this makes an income for the government (Michele Schweisfurth, 2009). The  second is that the quality of education being offered is the United Kingdom is being improved by the diversity of international students. The International students, who are studying at University College Birmingham (UCB) average in the 1100 students range and from 65 different countries, meaning there is a wide range of challenges involved in studying in the UK. Thus, this report was written to investigate the challenges faced and discuss those complications, to suggest possible solutions to make the transition period smoother. The four main areas that will be covered are teaching styles, financial difficulties, language problems and the weather in the United Kingdom. The report has 3 sections; Firstly, methodology to explain the methods which are used, secondly, finding and analysing data and finally, conclusions and recommendation for international students. Methodology: This report uses both primary and secondary sources. The primary research was carried out by the use of a questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed in a way which made it easy to analyse and less time consuming than other methods (Bell, 2005). The questions were of a specific nature, ensuring the sample gained was relative, as primary research, and allowed the author to research the specific areas selected. Denscombe (2007) states that a questionnaire, includes the fact and opinions of participants. 12 questions were asked, this is to reduce the time taken for respondents and does not allow them to be bored, as Denscombe, (2007, p.163) says â€Å"The questions will not be irritating or annoying for the respondents to answer†, this ensure that the respondents answer accurately and do not answer hastily, in order to finish the questionnaire swiftly. The target set by the university in terms of questionnaires to collate was 30, this allows the author to collate a relative sam ple, in terms of the amount of responses. Therefore I printed and handed out a total of 45 copies, using a random sampling distribution method and collated 30. For the most part, the questions asked were of a closed nature as they are easier to answer as they are not of a personal nature and have limited response choices (Tomas, 2009). There were a small number of closed questions which then followed with an open question, such as how does the weather affect your daily life, this allows further probing into the main issues, and to allow respondents to give their personal  reflective views. The questionnaire was tested by my peers to check its comprehension and grammar, it was found to be mostly comprehensive although some questions were amended to make them more specific and the correction of small grammatical errors. The secondary research was in the form of 6 academic journal articles, as directed by the University. The importance of secondary research is it is un-biased and can be very useful in supporting the author’s findings. They have all been utilised within my four main topics except the weather, as there is no information within them about this topic. The sources themselves are in depth and have covered some a wide array of issues with international students. The sources are current, valid and support authors opinions and they are readily available on the UCB online library, allowing access whenever it is needed. Findings and Research: English Language: Learning the native country’s language is higher on the list of priorities of international students, who wish to gain academic success. Andrade (2006) says even if it is over a short period of time, this positive motivation enables them to progress not only academically but also with the native culture. As a whole communication skills will be improved considerably (Zhang Mi, 2010), who mention, that acquiring English language focuses on four skills; Firstly, speaking, which is the ability to discuss, present and interact in lectures. Secondly, listening, that there is an understanding of the lecturer and the subject matter is comprehendible Third, reading, both with a good level of comprehension and a good level of speed. Fourth, writing, being able to take notes from lectures and then compose essays. The International students will expect that some complex situations may arise after their arrival to the UK that will resolve with time. For example, the bar chart (see figure 1, p.7) illustrates the result derived from question 5, that speed is the main problem relating to language skills, in addition Schweisfurth Gu (2009) did a survey to discover how many international students are apprehensive of speaking the natives language, before they leave for that country, the results showed that less than 10% were confident with their language skill level, which only slightly rose after the students settled, especially in the areas of discussion and answering questions from  the lecturers. Ramachandran (2011) argues, that even with additional English training or achieving a higher score in IELTS/ TOEFL, does not help them with problems in a learning environment, since they were instructed by a non-native speaker or not in a similar environment. Once students gained speed in conversing will they have the confidence of the host language, the confidence with the language would have most likely prevented difficult situations occurring, and thus reducing stress levels for the student. In contrast, Zhang Mi (2010) cite that speaking is the most difficult skill for example; participating in class discussions or performing oral presentations within the first year, but that improves with the support from lecturers and peers, this is supported by the primary research which showed speaking was time after time one of the main responses given by respondents, as shown in figure 2. In addition, there is a 75% decrease over time of overseas students, who feel participating in discussions was useful for improving skill level (Schweisfurth Gu, 2009). In addition, Ramachandran (2011) records some additional studies in language skills, that shows that those students who are equipped with an advanced level in the skills, have fewer troubles, as they have already studied in their local provision, but their scope to progress any further in their country is limited. However after collecting the data from question 4, the results clearly show that writing is the most difficult skill for international students from UCB (see figure 2, p.7). Zhang Mi (2010) also found similar results that writing was the most difficult skill and it did not seem to improve significantly over time. Figure 1. The Main Language Barrier Figure 2. Most Difficult English Language Skill Financial Difficulties: In addition to the wide array of issues international students face, they also have the added pressure of the soaring costs of living (Smith Khawaja, 2011). The bBritish currency is fairly expensive, in comparison to the international students home currency, so understandably this is a major concern for them, not surprisingly the results for question 8 (figure 3,  p.9) show that less than 10% percent of the students find that the living cost are not expensive, these students were from affluent countries. Whereas just over 90% percent of students believe living in the United Kingdom is too expensive. Schweisfurth and Gu (2009) also validate that approximately 69% of students worried about finances before arrival, the results of the questionnaire clearly show this. Schweisfurth Gu (2009) state university fees in the UK are double what they would cost in comparison to their home country, and that 59% of international students make it to the end of the first term, the other 41% disco ntinued their studies due to financial pressures and returned home. Ramachandran (2011) recommends that the teaching team inform all students of the specific details of their programme and any other matters that would be helpful in managing their finances. For example renting an apartment that is not near the University because it is cheaper, but not factoring in the additional transport costs. However, most international students would prefer to live closer to the university and this is shown in the higher accommodation costs (figure 4, p.9) where a small amount of students are paying more than  £600 each month for accommodation, maybe for a number of reasons, either very close to the university or in a city centre location. So, the author found from question 9 that if students pay more in the rent, they will are more likely to be living closer to the university. Ramachandran (2011) mentions that students can reduce transport costs by living close to the university as well as other resources, such as the internet being available. Figure 3. Percentage of students who find the cost of living high Figure 4. Accommodation Costs Weather in the UK: The colder weather can be a culture shock for the international student, in comparison to their home countries weather, which will most definitely by warmer than the weather in the UK. Essentially, within the secondary research, there was no mention of this topic. As many international student come from hot climates, they would be an expectation that they would not like the weather in the UK, however, they were asked about liking weather in  question 10 and the results show that more than half do like the weather in the UK (see figure 5, p.11). Linking this onto question 11, where participants were asked if the weather affected their daily life, the results showed that three quarters of respondents answered yes to this question (see figure 6 p.11). International students may come from a climate where the seasons do not change as frequently as the UK’s. This then in turn affects things such as wardrobe issues, meaning having to purchase different clothes for different seasons. These are some of the responses for the question in hand: â€Å"It is cold, I cannot go for a run and the wind is also very strong† â€Å"I always have to carry an umbrella every day in my bag† On the whole the participants found that they preferred to stay at home, when the weather was cold, and it had an effect on their mood. Figure 5. Students who like the weather in the UK Figure 6. Does the weather affect you Teaching Style: The Teaching style, here in the UK, is very different to the teaching styles many of the international students are used to ;( see figure 7 pg.13) this can be in an already stressful time, something which the students struggle to adapt to, alongside other issues already cited. Smith et al (2010) found students found it difficult to adjust to the interactive teaching style and critical thinking approach within the UK, and also Students find lack of respect from home students to teaching staff unnerving, as in their home countries, teaching staff get the upmost respect. Narayanan T.Ramachandran (2011) many academic staff wonders why international students prefer to talk to them in private instead of raising academic issues in the class. When academic staff refuses to see students who attempt to meet them outside their office hours and without prior appointment, students may feel insulted or start believing that the staff are not forthcoming Ramsay et al. (1999) found that student’s difficulties understanding lectures  in terms of vocabulary and speed, and with tutors who spoke too fast or gave too little input. In home countries teaching styles will differ, something the international student will have to get to grips with sooner rather than later, further findings found international students dislike group work (Sarkodie-Mensah, 1998), referring back to the primary research it would appear the results were (see figure 8 pg.13) that within the sample listening to lectures was the most difficult, followed by discussions and seminar and finally note taking. This would support the secondary research statement. Amongst other issues found, it was cited that Professors did not recognise the emotional and psychological problems experienced and identified by international students such as stress, homesickness, isolation and finances, all of which are potentially detrimental to learning, Robertson et al (2000), it would appear that all the issues ultimately impact on the students learning and should be taken into consideration within at least the first year of study. (Figure 7) Is the teaching style in the UK, different to that of your country Figure 7. Is the teaching style in the UK, different to that of your country Figure 8. Teaching Method found difficult Conclusions and recommendations: In conclusion it was clearly notable that the main language barriers were speaking, however this was only a main issue at the start of the learning programme and it would then improve with time and support from teaching staff, but the real issue to be noted is that writing skills took a lot longer and only improved slightly, but with a noted effort. In the UK the cost of living is expensive however it should be fully researched in terms of what support they are entitled to and a realistic budget should be put in place, should they need to they can also work part time, which will not only help improve their English skills, encourage new friendships and stop them from getting homesick. With regards to the weather, it clearly showed that most the students did not mind the weather in the UK however it did impact on their daily life, and they had to adapt in terms of clothing. The author would like to recommend that students understand the UK has seasons and pack their wardrobe to this effect, as to not waste money on adjusting to the  climate on arrival. In terms of teaching style, there were some real issues notes here, students were struggling with the vast array of teaching methods and did not feel confident in lectures, discussion or note taking all of which have a direct impact on learning, the author suggests having some small group sessions introducing students to those methods, so they can raise any issues they find, rather than it go unnoticed. In summary the author advises for international student to research all aspects of studying in the UK, to be well prepared on arrival. Learners should also note that if they set goals, that all the hard work they pu t in will be worthwhile, upon successful completion. (2,437 words) References: Andrade, M. S. (2006) International Students in English-speaking universities: Adjustment factors. Journal of Research in International Education. Vol. 5, No.2, pp.131-154 Bell, J. (2005) Doing your Research Project, Fourth Edition. Open University Press, Maidenhead. Denscombe, M. (7007) The Good Research Guide, Third Edition. Open University Press, Maidenhead. Ramachandran, N. T. (2011) Enhancing international students’ experiences: An imperative agenda for universities in the UK. Journal of Research in International Education. Vol. 10, No. 2, pp. 201-220 Schweisfurth, M. and Gu, Q. (2009) Exploring the Experiences of international students in the UK higher education: possibilities and limits of interculturality in university life. Intercultural Education. Vol. 20, No. 5, pp. 463-473 Smith, R. A. and Khawaja, N. G. (2011) A review of the acculturation experiences of international student. International Journal of Intercultural Relations. Vol. 35, No. 6, pp.699-713

Inhibitor Improves Learning Essay Example for Free

Inhibitor Improves Learning Essay The article is entitled, Peripheral Delivery of a ROCK Inhibitor Improves Learning and Working Memory. Title of the journal the article was published in and date published: This article was published in the journal entitled Behavioral Neuroscience in February 2009. The journal is published by the American Psychological Association. Describe the topic and the experiment conducted. What did they do? The article noted that in related studies, the RhoA/ROCK/Rac pathway is involved in the cognitive processes. Thus, they postulated that if this pathway could be inhibited, learning and memory can be enhanced. The article explained that fasudil has been used in experiments for the treatment of vasospasm and angina but not for learning and memory. Hydroxyfasudil is an active metabolite of fasudil. The study subjects were 27 rats who were 17 months old and 18 months old at the time of actual behavioral testing. Specifically, the study used Fischer-344 male rats who were bred at the aging colony of the National Institute on Aging at Harlan Laboratories (Indianapolis, IN). All the rats were acclimatized before the actual experiment according to IACUC standards and all the procedure done were with the approval of the local IACUC committee. NIH standards were followed. The study was done in Arizona State University. The study grouped the rats into three experimental groups. The first group of rats received saline and was labeled as the â€Å"aged vehicle† group. The second group received 0. 1875 mg hydroxyfasudil and was labeled as the â€Å"aged low dose† group. The third group received 0. 3750 mg hydroxyfasudil and was labeled as the â€Å"aged high dose† group. Of the 27 rats, nine belonged to the â€Å"aged vehicle† group, another nine rats in the â€Å"aged low dose† group, and another nine rats in the â€Å"aged high dose† group. Since hydroxyfasudil has a half-life of around 5-7 hours in humans, the drugs were all administered in the morning before behavior testing was done. All injections were given by subcutaneous injection at the scruff of the neck of the rat. All experimenters who performed the behavioral testing and succeeding dissections of the rats’ brains were blind to the respective treatment groups of the rats. The behavioral testing used the Water Radial Arm Maze to test working and reference memory, and the Spatial Reference Memory Morris Maze to test for spatial learning and memory. The performance of the rats in these two mazes were compared and used as basis as to whether cognitive functions were enhanced or not with the administration of hydroxyfasudil. Summarize the most important results. What did they find and what does that mean? 4 pts The results of the behavioral testing done using the water radial-arm maze, the â€Å"aged high dose† group was superior in all measures evaluated: learning index scores for total errors, working memory correct errors, and working memory incorrect errors. Better learning was indicated by having a higher learning index. Aged high dose† group showed better learning on all three measures. The group’s learning index when compared to the â€Å"aged vehicle† group was significantly higher. As for the â€Å"aged low dose† group, it still had a higher learning index when compared to the â€Å"aged vehicle group† but only marginally for the working memory incorrect errors. For the other two m easures, the group still had a higher learning index but no longer marginally, but intermediate between the â€Å"aged high dose† and â€Å"aged vehicle† groups suggesting that the relationship may be dose-dependent. Another important result noted was that hydroxyfasudil did not significantly alter spatial reference memory performance in either maze. 5) What implications do these results have for future research? What should they look at next? The implications of study would mean that if hydroxyfasudil can inhibit events that influence cognition, the next step would be to confirm this in result in a larger number of mice or even in rabbits. They should also look into the side effects of hydroxyfasudil and a good start would be to look for the same side effects found in its parent compound which is also being currently studied. ) Does this study reveal anything that could be useful to society (the general population, not science), and if so, what is it? This study showed that if hydroxyfasudil does improve cognitive function by improving spatial learning and memory, then science has found another possible answer to age-related or neurodegenerative-related memory dysfunction. To put it simply, hydroxyfasudil, if safe and effective in improving spatial learning and memory, will help patients who suffer from age-related or neurodegenerative-related memory dysfunction. ) What are some possible confounds or errors that this study should have controlled for, but did not? Essentially, what would make this a better study? In my opinion, this study was a good one with very negligible confounders. One thing that might have made the study better though was the possible side effects of hydroxyfasudil on the short term and also long term. 8) What did you learn that you did not know before? What did you find most interesting? I found that fact that such a drug as hydroxyfasudil being a possible treatment for those suffering from age-related memory dysfunction, fascinating. I did not know this until I read this article. If it is indeed a possible cure, many people all over the world would live a better life in their advanced age since their memory will serve them better and they will depend less on their children and thus, have a less likely chance of being placed in homes just because families have difficulty caring for them.

Strengths And Weaknesses Of Asda Ltd Marketing Essay

Strengths And Weaknesses Of Asda Ltd Marketing Essay Introduction Asda is second largest supermarket chain in the UK which is taken over by the Wal-Mart and Wal-Mart consider it as a model acquisition and it was also claimed that the organisation is producing the desired result in the competitive market. This reflected by the following opinion of the Times. In accordance with the Times (2005), One of the unintended consequences of the planning rules is that it is unlikely the competitive landscape will be defined by competitive advantage. It is defined by who has got the land. I would not want to be judged as wanting something uncompetitive but there is a fundamental economic point. Maybe someone should be looking at this in terms of market share and customer choice.( Times, 2005, p 60) Through this paper the competitive business structure will considered and will also focus on the strategy how Asda can face the changes and response. The responsiveness of the Asda in line with the changed action plan is considered with the competitive nature of the market to ensure the growth and profitability. 1. Requirement One 1.1 Strengths and Weaknesses of ASDA Ltd As a second largest supermarket of UK, Asda is operating its business with some strengths and weaknesses which is listed as following diagram. Strengths Weaknesses Sufficient Shareholder More brands but lower selling of high brand products. Currently second largest supermarket chain in UK Asda cannot be compared with TESCO(first biggest supermarket chain) Provides best value rather money to the retailer Focus on selling of Asdas product rather the big brand like Nestle, Cadbury, Proctor and Gamble, Unilever. Having high profit margin Less stores compared to the competitors Efficient procurement system Focus on great profit Table: Strengths and Weaknesses of Asda (Skjottà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Larsen, 2007) 1.2 Strategies for Overcoming Weaknesses of ASDA According to Burt and Sparks (2006), company needs to focus on the weaknesses to overcome which helps to achieve the goals and objectives in line with the increased profit margins of the organisation. Moreover, seeking initiatives to reduce cost is not an only pathway to increase profit margin. But, the reduced cost adds efficiency to overcome the weaknesses of the organisation. In this case, Burt, and Sparks (2001) argued that, Asda needs to continue the expansion strategy to increase the profit of the organisation which contributes to overcome the weaknesses. In addition, Asda needs to focus on the high branded product selling. 1.3 Mitigating impact of the Weaknesses Yasemin and Mahoney, (2004) stated that, In order to overcome the core weaknesses Asda decided to increase its investment up to  £1 billion over the periods of last three years. In addition, Asda focuses on the improvement of the core business in the field of the business expansion. Particularly, Funk, (2003) considered as, Asda focused on the South to expand the business through opening new stores. Additionally, this expansion strategy is building assistance to make the demands of the products and made the organisation more competitive. However, (Skjottà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Larsen, 2007) added that, Asda can overcome the weaknesses through the following actions. Labelling own products Ensuring computerised point of sale equipment Ensuring more centralised distribution networks, Making store refurbishment 2. Requirement Two 2.1 Comparative Measurement of Performance The performance extent is shown in the following figure which brought the result of 2009. In this table, the performance results of two years are clear. Eventually, Asda make sure the outperformance compared with the Tesco (Britains largest supermarket chain) which is substantial margin Retail Week (2009), stated that, Comparisons with Sainsbury are difficult over this period as it has been such a problematic period for that company, but on most measures it is clear to see how Asda has closed the gap and overtaken Sainsbury. (Retail Week, 2009, p21) However, Asda have the lower profit growth than the Tesco in the area of the operating profit growth and operating margin performance. Particularly, Asdas sales area growth is closely matched with the Asdas space. It is completely depends upon the sales density increase which brought the result that Asda performing better than Tesco. But, the absolute performance is laying on the favour of Tesco. Figure 1: Comparative Performance of Top UK supermarket Chain 1998-9 to 2009. Source: Institute of Grocery Distribution (2009). 2.2 Existing Performance Strengthen Strategy Wal-Mart designed to move on the improvement of the Asdas performance as the organisation has been taken over by the Wal-Mart in spite of the previous coping of the business. Currently, Asda is providing good service to the customer. But, Competition Commission (2008) argued that, this will not exist if the company cannot keep on the current performance in the service sector. However, Asda is trying to keep the current performance and also trying to increase the performance and growth. For that reason, Asda designed the strategy to focus on the food retailing because the non food items were weaker and the company designed to maintain the George clothing strategy. In accordance with Fernie et al., (2006), the strategy needs to focus on the following factor. Popularity of the Asda Customer responsiveness towards Asda Interaction with the shareholder and stakeholder Trustworthiness of brand 2.3 New Areas for Expanding Business Grean and Shaw, (2007) argued that, the financial crisis for investment is one of the key issues to expand the business. Moreover, Asda faced huge debt crisis in the early 1990s and now the company is stable due to the efficient business operation which is helping to expand business. But, to raise money the company has sold development sites to its rival Tesco. Currently, Asda is trying to expand the superstores in the different location and trying to expand the business in the international market. Particularly, the new area of business expansion is international market. Moreover, the company have merged with the Kingfisher which is the leading non food retailer. Specially, Asda have the areas of business in the non food item and branded product selling like PG, Nestle, and Unilever. However, Asda has the different business operation and trying to produce own labelled product to conduct the business. 2.4 Critical Analysis Asda has different strategy to operate the supermarket stores and the company always try to focus on the multi-format competitors. Furthermore, Grean and Shaw, (2007) added that, Asda focused on the business extension through opening new stores to the portfolio. Additionally, Asda focused on developing the Asda Wal-Mart supercentres which considered as the amongst the larger supermarket chain in the UK. But, this strategy has been more matched in the Tesco hypermarket format. Notably, Fitzsimmons et al., (2004) mentioned that, the core of the portfolio has mentioned in the Asda superstore which were the difficult to expand. However, the result of the supermarket chain less total supercentres or hypermarket and the superstore were full space rather than the Tesco and Sainsbury (see figure 1). In addition, the other supermarket chains have seen that how the multi-format approaches is adopted to assure the performance management. By contrasting this, Asda refused to shift in convenience stores and stopped some smaller store and focused to develop the non-food superstore chains. 3. Requirement Three 3.1 Assessment of Current Business Objectives and Plans Asda is a part of Wal-Mart and one of the known first line supermarket chain in the UK. Asda promises to provide the products at lower cost as a retailer. Moreover, Asda prefer to focus on the value rather money and Asda believes the money lies at the heart of everything. In addition, Asda is designed the objectives to provide the product at cheaper rate which is affordable and convenient for the customers. On the other hand, Grean and Shaw, (2007) stated that, Asda reduce the packaging cost so that the product price is laid on the limit. Recently Asda stated that, the company will reduce the 25 percent packaging cost across the country which is determined for the next 12 months. However, the main objective is designed as to reduce the cost of Asdas products, offering better quality product at lower price, to recycle the wastage, to build the sustainable business, to provide the highly competitive service. Notably, the company successfully operates its activities in the competitive m arket. 3.2 Incorporating Appropriate Changes According to Funk (2003), every business organisation has the unquestionable and inescapable objective and the objective is to become profitable. Particularly, to ensure the profitability and growth Asda needs to change the operations considering the circumstances of the business and need to bring the strategic change of the operation to achieve the aims and objectives of the organisation. Asda need to change operation management and make the supermarket enjoyable and happy shopping for the customers. Moreover, Fitzsimmons et al (2004) added that, the organisational culture needs to design in the friendly way. On the one hand, the organisation need to consider the advertisement through the social media and social networking site rather than the newspaper, radio, magazine, and television. On the other hand, Asda needs to consider the loyal customer and provide the loyalty advantage so that the customer retention strategy can be more efficient. Furthermore, Caves (2007) asserted that, the working environment need to change and need to designed as the pleasant, happy, and enjoyable working environment. The employees are the key factor to provide better service and ensure growth for the organisation. So, Asda needs to change the benefit package for the employees. 3.3 Action Plan for the implementation of Changes As the working place aimed to provide the better pleasant, happy, and enjoyable working place, Asda needs to plan for adjusting the changes in line with providing various incentives, bonus, benefits, like staff discount, pension from the company, and share package for the various opportunities for the promotions in the job as well as the salary of the organisation. According to Rahman (2004), Asda need to design its action to the customer to achieve the more customer retention and market share the company needs to design the lower product price which attract customers. The information that are shared with the customer need to relevant and authentic which is considered as the good manner and the public safety notices, price reduction notices, charity fund raising campaign etc. Customers become more trustworthy when Asda share the legal and authentic information with the customers. 3.4 Results of the Changes The changes have logically brought about the particular effect on non food pricing which brought the customer satisfaction. Moreover, Asda will have logical impact of the changes to buying scale of the products. Humby et al., (2007) argued that, Asda has notable reduction of the non food price which will reduce the clothing products due to the changes of the action plan. Additionally, Womack et al., (2007) added that, the branded clothing products sale will be increased and the business expansion will be ensured. So, sharp price reduction can be brought about the customer acquisition and retention which will increase the market share. For that change in the operation management the organisation will be awarded the improved the considerable growth. 3.5 Demonstration of Results Experts has doubt that, Wal-Mart has huge effect on Asda. For that reason, one question always arised that, how Asda can be able to response with the changes though Asda operating business in the competitive nature of the market. Retail Week (2009) expressed that; the turnover will be rise when the operating profit will be increased as a result of the business performance of the Asda. However, Zhao (2004) asserted as, Asda will hve lower margin if the company dont reduce the product price. The cost reduction of the Asda is a positive impact which leads to customer retention. Moreover, the expected growth of the generated profit sharing is designed to increase the product sale. This result will lead Asda to takeover other business and expand its business. The result will make sure Asdas profit margin up wards trend which increase the growth of the organisation. 4. Requirement Four 4.1 Impact of the Proposed Changes The proposed changes which already describe in the report will have the particular impact on Asda. For that reason, the quality of the products as well as the maintaining systems needs to revise. Asda needs to consider its resources to response with the changes of its operations. However, the quality of the products is comprised with the huge resources, tools, and systems along with the systems of the organisation which is determined by the shareholders and stakeholders. To maintain the standard quality Asda needs to check the quality of the products which helps organisation to increase the return. For that reason Pal and Byrom (2005), stated that, There are staff as well as the managerial procedures are taken for the monitoring of the high standards of quality in Asda for the impact of the proposed changes. (Pal and Byrom, 2005, p 16-149) 4.2 Change Management As Wal-Mart has taken over Asda and is operating with more dynamic strategies, Asda can control the change management more easily and more conveniently (Guy, 2007). However, the change management is designed to develop the probable strategy which is completely designed to control the variables which has the common impact on the business. Moreover, Hughes et al., (2009) stated that, Asda needs to follow the change management from production to inventory. In that case, Asda control the entire factor including production plant, inventory, administration, and the shareholder as well as stakeholder. Finally the tools like just in time, machine utilisation control, stock control, quality control, and food additives can be used to ensure change management. 4.3 Business Performance Chief executive Andy Clarke (2012) has been quick to state that Asda has momentum and, a year after the  £778m acquisition of Netto, its hard to argue against the statement. The business performance can be shown through the statement of the Andy Clarke. Asda business performance is continuously improving which is shown from the figure one and the second largest supermarket chain has conceptualised the overall annual growth of the business. Gielens et al., (2008) argued that, Asdas administration argued that, over the half million people check the online superstore per week. The overall business performance of the organisation defiantly increased if the company can go through like the current scope of the organisation. So this is good observation for the organisation to increase the margin. Conclusion and Recommendation Based on the above discussion, it is clear that, Asda is strong retail business in the UK and currently it is considered as the second largest supermarket chain in the UK. But, it is also important to consider that, the Wal-Mart has huge contribution behind the recognition and business expansion. Asda has expertise to make sure the positive feedback of the organisation. Besides, the organisation has the operational efficiencies, technological development, and massive buying power which can easily response with the changes of the action plan. Despite all of this however, Asda has not been able to close the gap on the UK market leader, Tesco, and has been reduced to calling for government intervention and for it to be cut down to size. In that respect it is fair to ask what has gone wrong with Asda. Finally, Asda can adapt in organizational change which ensure the ability to increase the profit margin and up word indication of future growth of business.

The Role of Culture in Shaping us as Individuals :: Sociology Essays

The Role of Culture in Shaping us as Individuals Culture has a big impact on how we all fit in as individuals in today’s society, and since this assignment is about that I decided to include some of my own experiences to illustrate my point of view and compare it with those of my classmates and some of the readings. My family and I moved to United States in 1998 from Albania. My parents believed that I and my sister would get a better education here and also it would be useful and interesting to learn another language and its culture. Considering I didn’t speak a word of English I was very scared about starting high school. I was scared about fitting in with the other kids, I was scared about not being able to understand them, and not sure how my culture would impact the way how I looked at things. I remember my first day at the bus stop, when this very handsome guy approached me and said â€Å"Good morning, you must be new†¦What’s Up?† At that momement I kept looking up thinking†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Gosh I don’t really see anything up there†¦what is he referring to?† His name was Michael and he kept repeating the phrase â€Å"What’s up† thinking maybe I didn’t hear him. All I remember is turning red in my face and using the same phrase I had told myself many times that I was never going to use†¦ â€Å"I don’t speak English.† When we moved here I told myself I was going to try my best however I wasn’t going to be like another one of those foreigners you see in the movies that move to a different country and make no attempt to learn the language. I also told my self that I was going to repeat every word that I heard in my brain and then later using the dictionary to find out what that word meant. My favorite subject in highs cool was math, since it required little English knowledge and my least favorite subject was Physical Education. I would have never thought that I was going to hate Physical Education because usually that’s a class most students would probably like to take again and again.

The mass hysteria between today?s society and the Salem witch hunt Essa

The mass hysteria between today’s society and the Salem witch hunt can be compared through Freedom , Religion ,and the killing of innocent victims. Mass hysteria has caused a lot of destruction in society throughout the years. It has brought about a lot of chaos in both Salem as well as the present society. Mass hysteria has brought out a lot of fear in people in both Salem and present society.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Freedom in today’s society is totally different from back when the witch trials were going on in Salem. By the people in the United States being able to do whatever we want to do whenever we want to do it. Compared to the people in Salem always being accused and checked up on for being a witch. The similarities in the United States and Salem would be that they are both losing some of their freedom’s everyday. By not really being able to dance in Salem and in the Unites States not being able to fly without fear so the freedom of doing things at will and that are fun are taken away from us.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The next major mass hysteria in the society of the United States today and in Salem would be Religion. The difference between religion in Salem and the United States would be that in Salem they are all one religion, but in the United States we have a bunch of different religions. To compare the religion in the United States and in Salem would be that we the people in the United States believe in Christianity and in Salem the people have a...

Organ Transplants Essay -- Medicine

The need for organs in the UK is increasing by an outstanding rate, leaving up to 5000 people to die, while waiting for an organ to be donated, each year. Hospitals and their resources are exhausted. The number of donated organs is simply not enough to keep up with the increasing demand for healthy, transplantable organs. Scientists have in recent years come up with numerous advances in this area of science; however various issues have become apparent on the road to successful transplantations. Transplantation is the process of replacing a damaged or failing organ with a compatible functioning one. For years the only foreseeable solution were voluntary donors who allowed the use of their organs after they passed away or live donors who were prepared to donate cells, blood or transplantable organs such as kidneys. The main issue with organ transplantation is the lack of donors. Governments in the past have put forward the idea of compulsory donation. However some people argue that this is unethical and a person has the right to refuse. In some major religions the idea of harming the body after death is just simply not an option. Counter arguments claim that these issues are irrelevant as the number of lives saved would outweigh any negatives; they would be ‘saving lives’. Transplants from human donors are relatively straightforward on the face of it however underneath the surface hides a tangle of ethical and moral concerns. What are the sources of organs used in transplantation? Should we pay for organs? Should someone who has already received one transplant, be allowed a second? Should alcoholics be given liver transplants? Yes, in the United Kingdom, organs are sourced from volunteers, however in recent years the issue of ... ...://stemcells-research.net/2011/07/09/stem-cells-ethics/, ‘stem cell ethics’ http://ndt.oxfordjournals.org/content/27/3/1246.full.pdf+html?sid=cc03e2a4-2c56-4dfa-9a45-2ac85b454869, ‘Comparison between bortezomib and rituximab in the treatment of antibody-mediated renal allograft rejection’ http://bioethics.georgetown.edu/pcbe/background/davispaper.html, ‘A Staff Working and Discussion Paper; The Ethics of Organ Allocation’, September 2006 http://www.unos.org/donation/index.php?topic=organ_allocation, ‘Organ Allocation’, updated 2012 Journals/Books: Budiani-Saberi, Da; Delmonico, Fl, "Organ trafficking and transplant tourism: a commentary on the global realities.†, American journal of transplantation, May 2008 Videos/movies: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7394380n, ‘Stem Cell Fraud: A 60 Minutes investigation’, CBS NEWS; 60 minutes, January 8, 2012 Organ Transplants Essay -- Medicine The need for organs in the UK is increasing by an outstanding rate, leaving up to 5000 people to die, while waiting for an organ to be donated, each year. Hospitals and their resources are exhausted. The number of donated organs is simply not enough to keep up with the increasing demand for healthy, transplantable organs. Scientists have in recent years come up with numerous advances in this area of science; however various issues have become apparent on the road to successful transplantations. Transplantation is the process of replacing a damaged or failing organ with a compatible functioning one. For years the only foreseeable solution were voluntary donors who allowed the use of their organs after they passed away or live donors who were prepared to donate cells, blood or transplantable organs such as kidneys. The main issue with organ transplantation is the lack of donors. Governments in the past have put forward the idea of compulsory donation. However some people argue that this is unethical and a person has the right to refuse. In some major religions the idea of harming the body after death is just simply not an option. Counter arguments claim that these issues are irrelevant as the number of lives saved would outweigh any negatives; they would be ‘saving lives’. Transplants from human donors are relatively straightforward on the face of it however underneath the surface hides a tangle of ethical and moral concerns. What are the sources of organs used in transplantation? Should we pay for organs? Should someone who has already received one transplant, be allowed a second? Should alcoholics be given liver transplants? Yes, in the United Kingdom, organs are sourced from volunteers, however in recent years the issue of ... ...://stemcells-research.net/2011/07/09/stem-cells-ethics/, ‘stem cell ethics’ http://ndt.oxfordjournals.org/content/27/3/1246.full.pdf+html?sid=cc03e2a4-2c56-4dfa-9a45-2ac85b454869, ‘Comparison between bortezomib and rituximab in the treatment of antibody-mediated renal allograft rejection’ http://bioethics.georgetown.edu/pcbe/background/davispaper.html, ‘A Staff Working and Discussion Paper; The Ethics of Organ Allocation’, September 2006 http://www.unos.org/donation/index.php?topic=organ_allocation, ‘Organ Allocation’, updated 2012 Journals/Books: Budiani-Saberi, Da; Delmonico, Fl, "Organ trafficking and transplant tourism: a commentary on the global realities.†, American journal of transplantation, May 2008 Videos/movies: http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7394380n, ‘Stem Cell Fraud: A 60 Minutes investigation’, CBS NEWS; 60 minutes, January 8, 2012

Tddc17 – Lab 2 Search

TDDC17 - ­? Lab 3 Part 2 Q5 P (Meltdown) = 0,02578 P(Meltdown | Ica weather) = 0. 03472 b)   Suppose that both warning sensors indicate failure. What is the risk of a meltdown in that case? Compare this result with the risk of a melt- ­? down when there is an actual pump failure and water leak. What is the difference? The answers must be expressed as conditional probabilities of the observed variables, P(Meltdown|†¦ ). P(Meltdown | PumpFailureWarning, WaterLeakWarning) = 0,14535 P (Meltdown | PumpFailure, WaterLeak) = 0,2 c)   The conditional robabilities for the stochastic variables are often estimated by repeated experiments or observations. Why is it sometimes very difficult to get accurate numbers for these? What conditional probabilites in the model of the plant do you think are difficult or impossible to estimate? a) What is the risk of melt- ­? down in the power plant during a day if no observations have been made? What if there is icy weather? It is hard to ful ly understand all possible factors that can effect or trigger an event and how they interact with each other.Observations are always a description of the past and is not always accurate in forecasting the future. E. g. Icy weather is not a thing you can measure and span over a wide range of weather conditions including combinations of precipitation, wind and temperature. d)   Assume that the â€Å"IcyWeather† variable is changed to a more accurate â€Å"Temperature† variable instead (don't change your model). What are the different alternatives for the domain of this variable? What will happen with the robability distribution of P(WaterLeak | Temperature) in each alternative? The domain decreases in size of possible states as for example precipitation and wind is no longer a part of the estimations. The temperature will be represented as an absolute number or intervals, instead of just true or false. Resulting in a lot more defining of the probabilities of the child nodes with aspect to each value/interval of temperature. Q6 a) What does a probability table in a Bayesian network represent?The probability table shows the probability for all states of the node given the states of the parent nodes. b)   What is a joint probability distribution? Using the chain rule on the structure of the Bayesian network to rewrite the joint distribution as a product of P(child|parent) expressions, calculate manually the particular entry in the joint distribution of P(Meltdown=F, PumpFailureWarning=F, PumpFailure=F, WaterLeakWaring=F, WaterLeak=F, IcyWeather=F). Is this a common state for the nuclear plant to be in? Kedjeregeln ger foljanade:P(alla ar falska) = P(ICYWEATHER) * P(PUMPFAILURE) * P(PW | PUMPFAILURE) * P(MELTDOWN| PUMPFAILURE, WL) * P(WL | ICYWEATHER) * P(WATERLEAKW | WL) = 0,95 * 0,9 * 0,95 * 1 * 0,9 * 0,95 = 0,69 Ja, detta ar ett vanligt tillstand. c)   What is the probability of a meltdown if you know that there is both a water leak and a pump failure? Would knowing the state of any other variable matter? Explain your reasoning! P(Meltdown | PumpFailure, WaterLeak ) = 0,8. No other variables matter. When all the parents values are observed they alone determine the child value. ) Calculate manually the probability of a meltdown when you happen to know that PumpFailureWarning=F, WaterLeak=F, WaterLeakWarning=F and IcyWeather=F but you are not really sure about a pump failure. P(Meltdown = T | PUMPFAILURE osaker, resten falska )= P(ICYWEATHER) * P(WL | ICYWEATHER) * P(WATERLEAKW | WATERLEAK)* [P(PUMPFAILURE=T) * P(PW | PUMPFAILURE=T) * P(MELTDOWN=T | PUMPFAILURE=T,WL) + P(PUMPFAILURE=F) * P(PW | PUMPFAILURE=F) * P(MELTDOWN=T | PUMPFAILURE=F,WL)] = 0,95 * 0,9 * 0,95 * (0,1 * 0,1 * 0,16 + 0,9 * 0,95 * 0,01) = 0,008 (1)P(MELTDOWN=F | PUMPFAILURE osaker, resten falska)=P(ICYWEATHER) * P(WL | ICYWEATHER) * P(WATERLEAKW | WL)* [P(PUMPFAILURE=T) * P(PW | PUMPFAILURE=T) * P(MELTDOWN=F | PUMPFAILURE=T,WL) @+ P(PUMPFAILURE=F) * P(PW | PUMPFAILURE=F) * P(MELTDOWN=F | PUMPFAILURE=F,WL)] = 0,95 * 0,9 * 0,95 * (0,1 * 0,1 * 0,84 + 0,9 * 0,95 * 0,99) =0,694 (2) (1) och (2) =; alfa = 1 / (0,008 + 0,69) = 1,42 0,008 * 1,42 = 0,012 0,694 * 1,42 = 0,988 Part 3 During the lunch break, the owner tries to show off for his employees by demonstrating the many features of his car stereo. To everyone's disappointment, it doesn't work. How did the owner's chances of urviving the day change after this observation? Without knowing whether the radio is working or not, the probability of him surviving is 0,99001. If the radio is not working the probability is 0,98116. How   does the bicycle change the owner's chances of survival? With the bicycle the probability of surviving is 0. 99505. Small increase. It   is possible to model any function in propositional logic with Bayesian Networks. What does this fact say about the complexity of exact inference in Bayesian Networks? What alternatives are there to exact inference? Yes but i t might be complex and you might sometimes have to add new nodes.For example if you want to model an OR-relationship you have to add a new node with truthtable probabilities that match. An alternative to exat inference is probabilistic indifference. Things might not always be true or false with a predefined probability. With probabilistic inference yuou can reuse a full joint distribution as the â€Å"knowledge base† Part 4 Changes in graph Mr. H-S sleeping ( T = 0. 3, F = 0. 7) Mr HS reacts in a competent way: WaterleakWarn. Pumpfailurewarning Mr HS sleeping T T T T F F F F T T F F T T F F T F T F T F T F T 0. 0 0. 8 0. 0 0. 7 0. 0 0. 7 0. 0 0. 0 P(Survives | Meltdown, Mr HS reacts) incresing 9% (0. 9) The   owner had an idea that instead of employing a safety person, to replace the pump with a better one. Is it possible, in your model, to compensate for the lack of Mr H. S. ‘s expertise with a better pump? Yes, by increasing the probability of the pump not failing w ith 0. 05. The chance of survival increases to 0. 99713 Mr   H. S. fell asleep on one of the plant's couches. When he wakes up he hears someone scream: â€Å"There is one or more warning signals beeping in your control room! â€Å". Mr H. S. realizes that he does not have time to fix the error before it is to late (we can assume that he wasn't in the control room at ll). What is the chance of survival for Mr H. S. if he has a car with the same properties as the owner? (notice that this question involves a disjunction which can not be answered by querying the network as is) Clarification:Maybe something could be added to or modified in the network. By adding a new node called warning, which represents the OR-relationship of WaterLeakWarning and PumpFailureWarning, i. e. Warning is true if WaterLeakWarning is true or if PumpFailureWarning is true or if They are both true and is false if they are both false. P(survives) = 0. 98897 if Warning is observed true. What   unrealistic a ssumptions o you make when creating a Bayesian Network model of a person? That a persons actions are predictable and that he never gains more experience as time passes, which would effect the probabilities of his actions. Describe how you would model a more dynamic world where for example the â€Å"IcyWeather† is more likely to be true the next day if it was true the day before. You only have to consider a limited sequence of days. By adding nodes representing the weather of the previous days. E. g. one node representing the day before, one bubble representing the day before that and so on†¦ Tommy Oldeback, tomol475 Emma Ljungberg, emmlj959

Essential Parts of Computer and How It Works

Contents II. Introduction2 III. Computers2 A. CPU2 B. Memory storage3 1. Primary storage3 2. Secondary storage4 C. Peripherals8 1. Ink-jets (bubble-jets) printers8 2. Laserjet printers9 IV. Connecting To Internet10 V. Conclusion12 VI. Reference List13 * Introduction Nowadays, running business in 20th century means that you got to be clever about technology. When companies are striving for higher achievements and more-efficient workability, innovation is what everyone craving for. That’s the spot where technology shoots. Computer is one essential breed of our modern technology. However, while the majority of people know how to use computer, they don’t know how the machine works; the technical stuff. It becomes a problem when the technical stuff got broken and almost everybody does not get a clue. To improve our business means that we need to improve our consciousness to computer itself. So, with this guide, I hope we can understand the system of our computer, not just by its advantages, but by its personality too. Enjoy a new relationship with your computer. Computers For this matter, these are some of essential parts from computer that support its function A. Central Processing Unit (CPU) B. Storage devices C. Peripherals CPU Central Processing Unit (CPU), or called as processor, is the central part of computer, which accepts and processes data into information and maintaining its system (Gilster, 2000). In comparison, a brain to human is the same for CPU to computer. It stabilizes and ensuring computer to run normal. Moursund (1978) says that CPU consists of two units: control unit and arithmetic/logic unit. The control unit gives instructions to the system for executing programs. The control unit doesn’t do the tasks, but just giving orders to other units to do its jobs. The arithmetic/logic unit execute arithmetic and mathematical equations in the system, like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. To work in a constant and stabile period of time, CPU uses a small quartz crystal called the clock system (Shelly, Cashman, Vermaat, 2008). The system clock produces electronic pulses, or ticks, that set the operating period to the components of the system unit. The clock system speed is measured by the number of ticks per second or Hertz unit. Hertz (Hz) is the measurement of speed in data processing. The faster the clock speed, the more instructions the processor can execute per second. For usage in our computer schools, there are two brand options, AMD & Intel. AMD’s Athlon X2 Dual Core, and Intel’s Pentium D 925, both of them have 3 GHz clock speeds which are compatible for our student’s needs in computer. I recommend Intel’s for our school since it has lower price than AMD. AMD has lower heat though in its operation, but this problem can be maintained by putting a fine working fan to cool the processor. Memory storage Extra There are terms of measure we need to know that used in byte (B) and hertz (Hz). They are: 1 Kilo (KB/ KHz) = 1000 (B/Hz) 1 Mega (MB/MHz) = 1000 Kilo = 1,000,000 (B/Hz) Giga (GB/GHz) = 1,000,000 = 1,000,000,000 (B/Hz) 1 Tera (TB/THz) = 1000 Giga = 1,000,000 Mega = 1,000,000,000 Kilo = 1000,000,000,000 (B/Hz) (Shelly et al. , 2008) Memory storage is the place where computer store all data and information in the machine. To measure memory storage, we use Byte unit. Byte is the measurement of space, determines the quan tity of data that memory can save. There are two kinds of memory storage: primary storage & secondary storage. Primary storage RAM Random Access Memory (RAM), is used to open up programs, images, or any details when the computer is on. Its function is to accelerate the speed of processing programs. When the computer is off, the memory loses its data too and will be restarting when the computer is on again. That’s why RAM also called as temporary memory (Stokes, 2008). ROM Read-Only Memory (ROM) is used to store essential programs for computer, such as system operation (Smith, 2011). Data in ROMs cannot be changed again or written, unless for some types of ROM like EPROM (erasable programme read-only memory) or using some technique like exposing ROM to sunlight. Cache Cache located between CPU and RAM. It is a high-speed memory that accelerates CPU to exchange information from RAM (Shelly, et al, 2008). Cache works in a frequently accessible files and programs in the computer so it can be processed in shorter time. For example, a secretary’s computer which used for typing a lot will have its word-processing program opened faster than the other staffs’ computer. Secondary storage * Stokes (2008) states that secondary storage is used for saving files and information in the matter of capacity. When programs are installed into the computer or files are inserted, secondary memory is the place where all the stuffs are put into. It gives information about how much computer can store data in its system. Files, programs, and other stuffs that put in secondary storage are saved permanently in the system. So, when the computer is off, the stuffs will stay at the same state and condition without having any lost parts. Picture 2. 1 Secondary storage works like cloth drawers for computers. As long as there is a space, it is fine to put more things. Image source: http://corriehaffly. wordpress. com There are various forms of secondary storage. Some attached in CPU and some is separated from computer. These are the kinds of it. Hard Disk Picture 2. 2 Physical appearance of a hard disk. Image source: http://www. pcguide. com A hard disk is a metal platter coated with magnetic oxide that can be magnetized to represent data (Shelly, et al, 2008). The large disk has top side and bottom side which used for recording and storing data in computer. To be used, hard disk must be attached in computer. Optical Disc Picture 2. 3 Physical appearance of optical disc. Image source: http://www. digitalmatrix. us An optical disc is a flat, round, portable, disc made of metal, plastic, and lacquer. These discs usually have 4. 75 inches in diameter and less than one-twentieth of an inch thick (Shelly, et al, 2008). Optical disc commonly used for storing music, pictures, or programs depend on its capacity. There are many types of optical discs. Some types can be used for reading and recording files in it, some can only be used for read. CD-ROM A CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read-Only Memory), is a type of optical disc that can only be used for read the files in it (Shelly, et al. , 2008). The disc’s content cannot be write-able or erase-able anymore. A typical CD-ROM has capacity from 650 MB to 1 GB of data, instructions, and information. To read a CD-ROM, you can use CD-ROM drive or CD-ROM player. Commonly, CD-ROM is used in licensed application, programs, music albums, or encyclopaedias so it cannot be pirated. CD-R and CD-RW A CD-R (Compact Disc Recordable) is a multisession optical disc which users can write, but cannot erase the items in it, like text, graphic, or audio. Multisession means you can write on part of the disc one time and another part at a later time (Shelly, et al. , 2008). Write in this term means to record files. A CD-R can only be written once and the content cannot be erased. To write and read a CD-R, you need a CD-R drive. DVD-ROM and DVD-R A DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read-Only Memory or Digital Video Disc Read-Only Memory) is a high capacity optical disc on which users can read but not write or erase (Shelly, et al. , 2008). To read a DVD-ROM, you need DVD-ROM software. DVD-R has the same characteristic as CD-R, only with bigger capacity. DVDs usually has 4 GB capacity. Flash Memory Picture 2. 4 Physical appearance of flash memory. Image source: http://techcrunch. com Flash memory is a small, portable stick which implanted electrical chips that used to store files in computer (Shelly, et al. , 2008). Its size is none bigger than adult human thumb. It connects to a computer via an USB port. Its files can be read and written in multiple times. Flash memory has various capacities, from 256 MB until 32 GB are available in stores. Peripherals Peripherals are electronic devices that support computer functions to more useful and understandable (Gilster, 2000). Peripherals commonly consist of computer screen, speaker, printer, keyboard, and mouse. Each device is connected through port cables that inserted into CPU ports. In this handout, I would like to discuss the function of printer itself. Since it is a primary office need, so it is nice to know and be aware for this machine. Printer is an electronic device that used for printing images and texts in computer file, usually using papers as its medium (Gilster, 2000). There are many types of printers which available in the market and usually used for business and office work. Ink-jets (bubble-jets) printers Picture 3. 1 Bubble jet printer. Image source: http://www. inkjet-laser. com Ink-jet printer sprays ionized tiny inks on the paper. The printing pattern is organized by using magnetized plates in printer (Shelly et al. , 2008). It can produce high quality images that frequently used for photography. There are models that designed to black and white (B/W) colour printings too. Laserjet printers Picture 3. 2 Laser printer. Image source: http://www. hypercup. org Laser printers works by using lasers that melts powdered inks in cartridges, then the ink putted on a paper by desired pattern (Shelly et al. , 2008). Photocopy services usually use this type due to its fast process. Here are the comparisons of bubble jet printer and laser printers as shown below. Ink-jet Printer| Laserjet Printer| 1. Print by spraying inks into paper, which makes the ink is more liquid on paper. If the paper is touched or get heated, the ink can melt and smear the paper| 1. Print by heated powdered inks with laser. The ink is fast to dry. | 2. Printing process are quiet and does not cause any mechanical noise| 2. Printing process causes mechanical noise. | 3. Many models come in portable sizes, which are suitable for home and personal use that do not demand frequent printing. 3. There are portable sizes and large sizes. Portable size are suitable for home and personal use, while large sizes are suitable for office or business use that demands frequent printing. | 4. The quality of printing can be adjusted for faster printing process| 4. The quality of printing cannot be adjusted| Ink-jet Printer vs. Laser Jet Printer (Frost, 2010) Connecting To Internet To obtain much informatio n, internet is always helpful for providing sources anywhere and anytime. Connecting our computer to internet means that open the access of our computer through signals. To make it do so, computers are needed to be included in a network. Network is a group of computers and devices that connected together through communication devices and transmission media (Sosinsky, 2009). It is used in houses, cafes, libraries, or offices for many purposes, even for personal or business purposes. The ability of network allows people to communicate through each other (in verbal or in visual), sharing files, transfer money, etc. As Sosinsky (2009) states, network’s patterns are divided into two categories: client/server and peer-to-peer. 1. Client/server One computer works as a server, then the other computers or devices in network work as client. A server controls access to the hardware, software, and other resources in network. It makes a server the centre storage of programs, data, and information. The clients are other computers and devices that rely on a server for its resources. 2. Peer-to-peer Peer-to-peer system is like two friends sharing stories to each other. One has useful information that the other one did not know, and vice-versa. In this network, each computer, called a peer, has different responsibility and capability, sharing hardware (e. printer), data, or information with other computers. Each computer has its files in own storage, but also have the same operating system and application software that allows them to connected to each other. For creating networks, computers need some equipment to make them connected through each other. Here are some services which make our computer available to internet. 1. Dial-Up M odems Dial-up modems are working by using telephone devices. When a computer connects to internet, computer transmits digital signals which converted into analog signal then it is transmitted over standard telephone lines (Shelly, et al. 2008). The internet speed is up to 56 kilobyte/second. Many people do not really interested in using dial-up modems now because it requires one telephone lines for working and other services have faster speed. 2. Broadband Services Broadband internet is a high-speed internet that connected through a wire (Shelly, et al. , 2008). Broadband internet services are provided through vary methods. Some known methods are: a) DSL (digital subscriber line), using telephone lines but does not interfere telephone connection; b) A cable modem that uses cable television network ) A Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) network uses radio signals to provide internet connection to computers and devices. Conclusion CPU plays the part of accepting data and processed it into rele vant and understandable information based on logic and arithmetic way of work. Data and information that has been processed comes in the shape of programs and files. The computer’s program and files are kept in memory storage. Some memory storage attached in computer, like hard disks, RAMs, ROMs, Registers, and Caches. Some are separated from computer for its portability, like optical discs and thumb drives. Printers are machines that used for printing and photocopying documents and images in computer. This can be used for printing in colour and black/white printings. Connecting computer to internet means to put it into a network. In a network, computer users can obtain information from many other sources and communicate with other computer users. Internet can be accessible through these two services, dial-up modem and broadband internet services. Through this guide, I delighted if you feel informed and become more common to computers. Knowing new things means to get to you into new insights. I hope the knowledge you read here can be useful for now and the future. Reference List Cashman, T. J. , Shelly, G. B. & Vermaat, M. E. (2008). Discovering computers 2008 complete. Boston, Massachusetts: Thomson Course Technology. Cashman, T. J. , Shelly, G. B. & Vermaat, M. E. (2008). Discovering computers fundamentals (4th eds. ). Boston, Massachusetts: Thomson Course Technology. Frost, M. (2010). Laser vs. inkjet printers. Retrieved September 28, 2011, from http://www. ehow. com/about_5390377_laser-vs-inkjet-printers. html Gilster, R. (2001). PC hardware: a beginner’s guide. Berkeley: Osborne/McGraw-Hill Moore, C. Laserjet vs. Inkjet. (n. d). Retrieved September 20, 2011, fromhttp://www. ehow. com/about_5327065_laserjet-vs-inkjet. html Moursund, D. G. (1978). Basic programming for computer literacy. New York: McGraw-Hill Smith, M. (2011). What is read only memory. Retrieved September 28, 2011, fromhttp://www. ehow. com/info_8751600_readonly-memory. html Sosinsky, B. (2009). Networking bible. New York: John Wiley and Sons. Stokes, A. P. (2008). Is this thing going on. New York: Workman. How computer work: the CPU and memory. (n. d). Retrieved September 19, 2011, from http://homepage. cs. uri. edu/faculty/wolfe/book/Readings/Reading04. htm