Company Case ESPN Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Company ESPN - Case Study Example In essence, ESPN’s product is the availability of sports knowledge, discussion as well as video and audios of live games, across a wide variety of platforms. At its heart ESPN is a 24-hour cable network that focuses on sports and entertainment based content for television, however the cable network is only one piece of the entire ESPN brand. The brand now contains more than 50 different businesses. Product wise, the brand consists of six cable channels which are home to many important sporting events such as the IndyCar Series and NBA finals, a sports radio network, ESPN The Magazine and a website that offers streaming video and audio as well as downloadable pods casts. ESPN’s augmented product is its ability to provide accurate and up to date information and commentary about all areas of the sports industry and its delivery of this information across many different media types 4. ESPN has strong brand equity. Its name is immediately associated with sports, and the easy access to information that the brand provides across its many different platforms ensures wide recognition from consumers. There is a strong relationship between the brand equity of ESPN and its brand value. The value of its brand can be seen by large number of products and media that ESPN is present on, the continued growth of the company and its longevity. The cable network alone earns close to twice the amount per subscriber each month than the next most profitable network, Fox Sports ($2.91 and $1.67 respectively). Benefits: This association has resulted in the acquisition of many new viewers and gave the network the ability to host key sporting events, and types of sporting events that they did not previously have access to. Possible risks: ESPN has little control over the quality of the merchandise that is produced, and any negative responses to the cobranded

Women’s rights in America in the 1920s Essay Example for Free

Women’s rights in America in the 1920s Essay Throughout the ages women have been stricken with often male-made oppression in many forms on the long, difficult road to their eventual initiation into equal rights. Some aspects of women’s rights today were obtained by questionable means in the past. One such act of liberation by questionable means was the introduction of a class of women in the 1920s known as flappers. These flappers were the beginning of a new wave of sexually and intellectually liberated women. Women of this age wore short skirts and revealing clothing in addition to cutting their hair into bobs and smoking and drinking publicly. These women were also outspoken in many areas, including matters of art, society, and politics. (â€Å"The changing values of a new generation†) Many argued that these women were the source of much moral corruption and social confusion during the age. A large number of people believed that flappers were rowdy, trouble-making, time-wasting, destructive women and that their damaged morals were in need of correcting. In the eyes of many critics, flappers were a prime example of the growing immorality, irresponsibility, inconsideration, impatience, stupidity and selfish personal absorption of today’s female youth. Still others felt that the flappers were simply lazy and their lifestyles were not only evil and blasphemous but also unhealthy for the soul, body, and mind. Secretary of Labor, James Davis said in September of 1922, that the flappers lifestyle revolved mainly around sex and substance abuse. It was argued that the heightened displays of sexual freedom of these flappers promoted lower social morals, larger rates of promiscuity and greater irresponsibility in many young women. Many people saw flappers as being unintelligent, self absorbed, and were only concerned with their own personal gain, without taking others into consideration. They were often viewed as shameful recluses, and troublemakers. Those who felt that flappers were immoral and corrupt argued that they were bad influences on the younger, more impressionable girls and that they gave their community a bad image. It was said to be inappropriate for any woman to show a substantial about of flesh  at any given time, especially in public, therefor, the flappers were seen in an even more negative light due to the fact that their dresses only required 3 yards of fabric instead of the traditional 6. Many said that flappers were inconsiderate of others with their rambunctious behavior and provocative appearances. Their public drinking and smoking was seen by many as vulgar and unladylike. Flappers were also said to be impatient and unintelligent in areas such as schooling, work and typical domestic o bligations. Despite many negative arguments against flappers there were also those who supported them and argued for them, including, of course, the flappers themselves. Flappers and their supporters looked at their actions as a means of promoting their sexual and intellectual liberation from the former, male-based structure of society. These supporters of such female liberation believed that flappers had earned the right to their free and passionate lifestyles and that they should be respected just as much as the men of the community. Such flapper collaborators felt that they were self-sufficient and reliant as well as intelligent and feminine. Flappers often wore makeup with their short hair and flowingly skimpy clothing. They kept themselves slim and fit and exercised often. These women spent a great deal of money to uphold their flapper fashion and image. They felt that they were independent as well as responsible in their free-spirited fight for equality and freewill. They argued that they were not immoral in their lifestyle and that their behavior was in fact far from destructive but, instead, was helping to work towards creating social equality. (â€Å"The New feminism of the 1920s†) Flappers were not in fact only concerned with standing out and being noticed. They were not simply fashion and image-driven, selfish women, but were strong, self-willed, independent young feminist citizens who were fighting passionately for their right to stable equality amidst a prominently male-driven world. These women pushed aggressively for their social, professional, and sexual freedom which they felt were hard-earned and well overdue. Many flappers wished to pursue positions in careers which would otherwise be deemed unacceptable for the average women of the time. They hoped that by breaking away from social normalitys that they could eventually obtain equality in all important aspects of life while hopefully  also allowing them entry into many professional fields which would normally be unaccessible to women. It is beyond confrontation that many of the questions of the flapper age were presented with a certain amount of dubiety by many brave independent women seeking fairness and equality. These women took their lives and futures into their own hands and with all the courage and determination they could muster they threw their hopes and expectations for equality upon the world. The flappers were passionate, lively young women with aspirations of possessing the same basic human rights that were possessed by the men of the age. Though their aggressively displayed fashion and ideas came as quite a shock to most people at first, after the differences became more accepted by the general public objections were able to be put aside, to make way for some real changes. Despite the many controversies surrounding the flappers and their ideals the fact remains that due to their existence and involvement in history a great deal of significance changes were brought about whether for the good or bad that of today’s society which have greatly expanded upon women’s rights and equality.

United Nations (UN) Strategies to Eradicate Poverty

United Nations (UN) Strategies to Eradicate Poverty BLIMUN 2014 Eradicating extreme poverty and hunger Introduction United Nations United Nations is the world’s biggest international organization, founded in 1945. The UN has four main purposes: To keep peace throughout the world; To develop friendly relations among nations; To help nations work together to improve the lives of poor people, to conquer hunger, disease and illiteracy, and to encourage respect for each other’s rights and freedoms; To be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations to achieve these goals. At the moment, United Nations have 193 member states. The organization works on a broad range of fundamental issues, from sustainable development, environment and refugees protection, disaster relief, counter terrorism, disarmament and non-proliferation, to promoting democracy, human rights, gender equality and the advancement of women, governance, economic and social development and international health, clearing landmines, expanding food production, and more, in order to achieve its goals and coordinate efforts for a safer world for this and future generations. General Assembly General Assembly is the chief deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations. Comprising all 193 Members of the United Nations, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter. It also plays a significant role in the process of standard-setting and the codification of international law. The Assembly meets in regular session intensively from September to December each year, and thereafter as required. According to the Charter of the United Nations, the General Assembly may:[1] Consider and approve the United Nations budget and establish the financial assessments of Member States; Elect the non-permanent members of the Security Council and the members of other United Nations councils and organs and, on the recommendation of the Security Council, appoint the Secretary-General; Consider and make recommendations on the general principles of cooperation for maintaining international peace and security, including disarmament; Discuss any question relating to international peace and security and, except where a dispute or situation is currently being discussed by the Security Council, make recommendations on it; Discuss, with the same exception, and make recommendations on any questions within the scope of the Charter or affecting the powers and functions of any organ of the United Nations; Initiate studies and make recommendations to promote international political cooperation, the development and codification of international law, the realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and international collaboration in the economic, social, humanitarian, cultural, educational and health fields; Make recommendations for the peaceful settlement of any situation that might impair friendly relations among nations; Consider reports from the Security Council and other United Nations organs. An important thing to mention is that that General Assembly does not make decisions which have a legally binding effect on its member states, except on questions such as budget and selection of non-permanent Security Council members. However, due to its influence and the mission of United Nations, it is very difficult for countries not to take into account resolutions brought by General Assembly, since, in a way, they are also participating in the process of bringing them to life. Millenium Goals In September 2000, building upon a decade of major United Nations conferences and summits, world leaders came together at United Nations Headquarters in New York to adopt the United Nations Millennium Declaration, committing their nations to a new global partnership to reduce extreme poverty and setting out a series of time-bound targets with a deadline of 2015 that have become known as the Millennium Development Goals. There are eight of these goals: To eradicate extreme poverty and hunger To achieve universal primary education To promote gender equality and empowering women To reduce child mortality rates To improve maternal health To combat HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases To ensure environmental sustainability To develop a global partnership for development. As 2015 is quickly approaching, we can say that a lot of things have been vastly improved – however, there is always space for making the situation even better. That is why we believe that the first Millenium Goal, â€Å"Eradicating extreme poverty and hungerâ€Å" is a great topic for our BLIMUN 2014 conference, since it will give our delegates the opportunity to take a look back and see what has already been done and then discuss on how can the current results be improved and what new measures can be taken before the deadline is approached. Eradicating Extreme Poverty and Hunger Concepts and terms According to the Oxford Dictionary, hunger is defined as: A feeling of discomfort or weakness caused by lack of food, coupled with the desire to eat A severe lack of food A strong desire or craving World hunger, on the other hand, is related to another term, malnutrition, which can be defined as â€Å"lack of proper nutrition, caused by not having enough to eat, not eating enough of the right things, or being unable to use the food that one does eat.â€Å" The concept of world hunger is, therefore, concerned with malnutrition on the global level. United Nations defines poverty as: the inability of getting choices and opportunities, a violation of human dignity. It means lack of basic capacity to participate effectively in society. It means not having enough to feed and clothe a family, not having a school or clinic to go to, not having the land on which to grow one’s food or a job to earn one’s living, not having access to credit. It means insecurity, powerlessness and exclusion of individuals, households and communities. It means susceptibility to violence, and it often implies living in marginal or fragile environments, without access to clean water or sanitation. Poverty is the most common cause of hunger. Extreme poverty is, unfortunately, also common cause for starvation, and every year statistics show high number of people who die in absolute poverty deprived of basic human rights. Developed vs. Developing countries According to the World Bank, the criteria for deciding whether a country is developed country, also known as a first-world country is its Gross National Income (GNI) per capita per year. Countries with GNI over US$ 11,905 are developed countries, and countries with GNI equal to, or less than US$ 11,905 are classified as developing countries. To find the definition of the country you will be representing, please consult the following link: World Bank: Country and Lending Groups Important note: Please keep in mind that developed countries also experience issues with extreme poverty and hunger. When preparing for the conference, try to find the data on what is the level of poverty in the country you are representing. Useful statistics At least 80% of humanity lives on less than $10 a day. The poorest 40 percent of the world’s population accounts for 5 percent of global income. The richest 20 percent accounts for three-quarters of world income. According to UNICEF, 22,000 children die each day due to poverty. Around 27-28 percent of all children in developing countries are estimated to be underweight or stunted. Some 1.1 billion people in developing countries have inadequate access to water, and 2.6 billion lack basic sanitation. Almost two in three people lacking access to clean water survive on less than $2 a day, with one in three living on less than $1 a day. In the United Kingdom the average person uses more than 50 litres of water a day flushing toilets. Close to half of all people in developing countries suffer at any given time from a health problem caused by water and sanitation deficits. Millions of women spend several hours a day collecting water. In 2005, the wealthiest 20% of the world accounted for 76.6% of total private consumption. The poorest fifth accounted for just 1.5% 1.6 billion people — a quarter of humanity — live without electricity. Approximately 790 million people in the developing world are still chronically undernourished, almost two-thirds of whom reside in Asia and the Pacific. Important note: You can use useful statistics from the country you are representing in debating and defending your point of view. Examples of Successful Actions Bosnia and Herzegovina: A brighter future for young people. The UN Development Programme (UNDP) and other UN agencies partnered with the Government of Spain to establish 16 centres in Bosnia and Herzegovina to provide career counselling to unemployed youth. In the first 14 months of operation, the centres provided skills training to more than 6,800 young people, of whom almost 1,800 gained their first work experience. Yemen: Food keeps girls in school. Since 2007, the World Food Program’s (WFP) Food For Girls’ Education Program has been tackling hunger and enrolment challenges in Yemen, where more than 60 per cent of primary school-aged children who are not in school are girls. As a result of the program, families who send their girls to school are eligible to receive an annual ration of wheat and fortified vegetable oil. Despite funding shortfalls, since 2010 the program has reached almost 200,000 girls, benefiting almost 1 million family members. India: Right to paid work benefits millions. UNDP is supporting the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Program, promoting the law passed in 2005 guaranteeing the right to a minimum of 100 days of paid work a year for landless labourers and marginal farmers. Implementation of the scheme is now providing 50 days of work a year to around 50 million households. Almost half of the beneficiaries are women. Important note: When preparing for the conference, try to find out what are the ways the country you are representing fights the poverty and hunger issues. Think about how these can be implemented on the global level. How can your country contribute to it? Relevant UNGA Resolutions Following is the list of previous resolutions that are related to the topic of BLIMUN 2014 General Assembly. You can refer to those in debates, but also in the resolution you will be drafting at the conference. Resolution 65/214. Human rights and extreme poverty Resolution 65/174. Second UN Decade for the Eradication of Poverty Resolution 65/173. Promotion of ecotourism for poverty eradication . . . Resolution 65/10. Sustained, inclusive and equitable economic growth for Resolution 65/186. Realizing the Millennium Development Goals for persons Resolution 65/1. Keeping the promise: united to achieve the Millennium Useful tips Here are some general tips on how to better prepare yourself for the topic: Do a lot of research in regards to the country you are representing. You can use the government websites, national statistics institutes data, social media, newspapers, etc. In case you do not have enough English resources, ask BLIMUN 2014 chairpersons for assistance. You can use Wikipedia, but do not follow it blindly! Always check sources and use links at the bottom of the page. Take a look at the general websites that host some of the global statistics, such as World Bank, United Nations, worldometers.info, unstats.un.org etc. Be informed – read newspapers, watch tv and follow online news – make sure that you catch any news related to our topic and think about how you can use them, even if they are not directly related to the country you are representing. Try to do a research on a countries that are cooperating with the country you are representing, or are close to it in terms of its economy, political views, foreign policy etc. Be open-minded and ready to think outside the box, but do not go too far away from your country’s point of view. Cited Sources http://www.un.org/en/aboutun/ http://www.un.org/en/mainbodies/ http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/bkgd.shtml http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/hunger http://www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/malnutrition http://www.worldhunger.org/articles/Learn/world%20hunger%20facts%202002.htm http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unyin/documents/ydiDavidGordon_poverty.pdf http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/pdf/Goal_1_fs.pdf http://www.globalissues.org/article/26/poverty-facts-and-stats http://www.isi-web.org/component/content/article/5-root/root/81-developing http://data.worldbank.org/about/country-classifications/country-and-lending-groups http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/pdf/report-2013/mdg-report-2013-english.pdf http://www.un.org/en/ga/65/resolutions.shtml [1] For detailed rules and procedures, please refer to BLIMUN 2014 delegate handbook.

Green Chemistry Essay -- essays research papers

If We Had Known About Green Chemistry In 1951, How Would Things Be Different Today? Green Chemistry is the making of chemical products that reduces or eliminates the use and production of hazardous substances in the designing, making, and use of chemical products. It involves the designing and re-designing of chemical creation and chemical products to prevent pollution which will therefore solve environmental problems. Green Chemistry is environmentally safe and has very little side effects on human health and the environment. Not many people know about Green Chemistry. Yet if we had know about Green Chemistry back around 1951, when the world began to develop it’s industries - such as farming, after World War II we wouldn’t now be battling things such as damage to the ozone layer, diseases and harm to the environment, caused by chemical pesticides and dumping of chemicals into our oceans and other waterways. Not enough people realise the importance of chemicals and green chemistry in everyday life. Most people think of chemicals as poisonous pesticides and or pollution. But it’s not. Chemicals can be used to help the environment. If we had known about Green Chemistry earlier many people could have been saved from diseases that were caused by chemical pollution. For example Asbestos is a chemical product used in buildings and trains. It has a hazardous effect on human health. Very fine dust particles break out of Asbestos products and when breathed in, enters and poisons ...

My Essay About Ur Mom Essay

Instructions: This assignment consists of TWO (2) sections, Operating Systems (OS) and Computer Systems Architecture (CSA). There are two questions in each section; you are required to select ONE (1) question from each section. The total word count of the report should range from 2500 to 3000 words. No marks will be awarded for the entire assignment if any part is copied directly from printed materials or from another student. All submissions should be made on or before the due date. Any late submissions after the deadline will not be entertained. Zero (0) mark will be awarded for late submission, unless extenuating circumstances are upheld. Section 1: Operating Systems Question 1 Research, investigate and document areas relating to process control management of any Operating System of your choice. Areas to be discussed in your research documentation to include among other areas, types of scheduling mechanisms employed, creation and handling of processes or threads and internal systems structure, problems faced using these techniques of process control management and solutions used to overcome them. (Pre-emptive and non-pre-emptive, scheduling, algorithm – explain which is best and worst) OR Question 2 Research, investigate and document areas relating to memory management of any Operating System of your choice. Areas to be discussed in your research documentation to include among other areas, how memory is managed including mechanisms and strategies used, problems faced by these techniques and solutions to overcome them. (Virtual memory, single partition, overlay and Variable memory such first feed, best feed and worst feed) Section 2: Computer Systems Architecture Question 1 Research, investigate and document the various microprocessors found on desktop machines, servers and laptops. Areas to be discussed in your research documentation to include among other areas are; major trends affecting microprocessor performance and design in recent years and differences between microprocessors design goals for laptops, servers, desktops and embedded systems. OR Question 2 Research, investigate and document the usage of registers in a modern computer. Areas to be discussed in your research documentation to include among other areas are reasons for registers, types of registers, register size and organisation of the different types of registers. Guidelines for the Report: Document the results of your work in a professional and systematic manner, in the form of a computerized report. ONE (1) softcopy and hardcopy of your documentation is to be submitted. Your completed documentation should meet the following requirements: 1. Cover 2. Marking Grid 3. Abstract 4. Table of contents for every detailed chapter/section. 5. Introduction 6. Chapters / sections 7. Limitations / Extensions 8. Conclusion 9. References 10. Appendices (Data charts, extra screen captures etc.) o Frequently Ask Question (FAQ) o Gantt Chart Assessment Criteria (Marking Grid): |Research and Investigation |20% | |Referencing |10% | |Analysis |30% | |Reflection |30% | |Documentation |10% | Marking Criteria: Distinction Demonstrated comprehensive research with detailed evidence. High level of analysis performed, exceptional and thorough knowledge and understanding displayed with regard to facilities and services of the Operating System. Documentation presented in a professional manner, without any spelling or grammar mistakes. Displayed evidence of critical appraisal. Credit Adequate research conducted with fair detail of evidence presented. Moderate level of understanding, analysis and knowledge displayed. Good level of documentation presented. Some level of reflection was evident in the documentation. Moderate level of critical appraisal. Pass Low level research conducted. Some evidence of research displayed. Basic level of understanding and knowledge analysis displayed. Satisfactory level of documentation. Satisfactory or low level of reflection displayed. No level of critical appraisal demonstrated.

Morality Play Essay

In life people strive consistently to choose between what is right and wrong. Most never take time to critically evaluate what factors drive their moral compass. Most have never taken the time to understand the conflicts that arise within their moral decisions. Analysis of the philosophical quiz â€Å"Are you a moral realist? † results gave me the opportunity to scrutinize my own moral compass. To follow I will discuss my opinion on the results of the quiz and the impact it had on my foundation of morality. I agree completely with the analysis. Upon completion of the quiz I learned that I was a moral objectivist and a moral relativist. Questions number two and eight provided me with the most glaring obvious evidence of my moral inconsistency. I felt very strongly that what is right or wrong depends on individual viewpoints and society supports this statement. When the Supreme Court is hearing case a group of justices vote on what is right. They don’t always the same opinion but the perception of what is being told is what makes a law and dictates what is right. Question number eight is in direct conflict because in no uncertain terms I believe it is wrong no matter whom you are, where you are, to torture innocent babies just for fun. My strong feelings in that regards completely nullifies right and wrong being based on individual viewpoints. The quiz result stating my position is inconsistent is correct. I was surprised by the results of the quiz; it opened my eyes to the truth of my ethical principles. I understand now that morality is something that I have failed to evaluate. The truth that I have discovered of my morality is that it is in conflict. This conflict exists because I have been guided by outside factors in my views of what is ethical. For example, politics tells me that freedom of religion is a right protected in the constitution so in my mind it became wrong to challenge someone’s religious views no matter what their views made them do. Being that I rationalized it is not justifiable to challenge someone religious views then a woman put to death in another country in the name of religion is not wrong due to the religions moral authority. I can say I have indeed fell victim to the distinguishing between descriptive ethics and normative ethics. Individuals have a diverse array of moral beliefs, which vary from person to person and culture to culture. To say this is to simply describe what is the case (Chaffe pg. 225). I have come to realize a person being killed in the name of religion is something that happens but it doesn’t mean that it is something that should happen. One could say my moral compass pointed north on some occasions and south on others. I see clearly that in every circumstance when a question was asked I thought how it applied to me. In truth my ethical judgment comes from a selfish place. In each scenario my determination was made by looking at what is appropriate for me and secondly society as a whole. I think the inconsistency in my morally can be attributed to two facts. The first is what is good for me always comes first and that I am torn between allowing descriptive and normative ethics govern my decisions. With morality there is what is and what should be, and with my own personal morality the same applies. My personal conflicts ethically stem from failure to consciously asses my moral compass. Morality is much more than someone’s beliefs governing their actions, it’s about an acceptance of what is right and wrong universally no matter a person’s culture, religion, or background. By assessment of my moral compass I have uncovered that I must take a closer look at what should be and stop being guided by what is. Bibliography Chaffee, J. (2011). The philosopher’s way: thinking critically about profound ideas (4th ed. ). Boston, MA: Prentice Hall.

Essay on Cyber TerrorismEssay Writing Service

Essay on Cyber TerrorismEssay Writing Service Essay on Cyber Terrorism Essay on Cyber TerrorismThe use of the Internet by terrorist groups will continue to become more sophisticated.   As an effective tool used daily in the world of business and pleasure, the Internet is widely used in the murky world of terrorism. It is used not just for the practice of recruiting, but all forms of terrorist logistics. According to Lachow Richardson (2007), â€Å"cyberterrorism conjures images of infrastructure failures, economic disasters, and even large-scale loss of life†(p. 1). It has been widely discussed in the mass media sources and the academic literature. The real threat of cyberterrorism is real attracts attention of millions of people, who realize that â€Å"terrorist organizations effectively using the Internet to stymie U.S. efforts to win the Long War† (Lachow Richardson, 2007, p.1). The Internet allows terrorists to operate as both decentralized franchises and freelancers. The use of the Internet and new communication technologies facili tates the major operations of terrorist organizations.   According to researchers, â€Å"as information and communication technologies improve over time, terrorist groups might utilize these improvements more powerfully for offensive uses† (Pekgozlu et al., 2007, p. 281). Terrorists use the Internet and communication technologies for several aims: â€Å"propaganda, indoctrination, recruitment, psychological warfare, and fundraising† (Pekgozlu et al., 2007, p. 282). The latest information and communication technologies selected by terrorist include not only the Internet, such as World Wide Websites, e-mails and video conferencing, but also cell phones, smartphones, fax machines. It has been found that one of the major goals of modern day terrorism in to produce and enhance publicity, drawing public attention to terrorist organizations, their causes and outcomes. In other words, terrorist organizations are focused on advancing their political, ideological and religious agendas. The Internet completely changed the way terrorists launder money, recruit men and communicate their ideology.The major goal of this paper is to discuss the Internet Jihad and Cyber Jihad, placing emphasis on the major aims of terrorists’ use of the Internet and communication technologies, including fundraising, money laundering, communications and recruitment. Moreover, it is necessary to explain how the use of the Internet helps to radicalize and inspire Jihad.The use of the Internet for FundraisingSome terrorist organizations use the Internet as a source of fundraising. These terrorist organizations sell DVDs, CDs, book, magazines, flags and other items over the Internet. According to researchers, â€Å"the Internet has become a popular fundraising tool for terrorist organizations†(McClellan Dorn, 2008, p. 23). The global use of the Internet provides unlimited opportunities for financiers. Many terrorist organizations may openly raise funds on their Web si tes, using popular and widely accepted pay services, such as PayPal (Pekgozlu et al., 2007).  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In addition, terrorists not only establish fundraising practices via the Internet, but also they â€Å"increasingly conduct identity theft of ordinary Web users, including the stealing of credit card information, to help them finance terrorist attacks† (McClellan Dorn, 2008, p. 23). Fundraising plays an important role in the development of terrorist organizations because this practice is used to identify the profiles of potential financial supporter of terrorism. Terrorists use not only the profiles of visitors of the websites that promote terrorist activity, but also they use the posts found in chat rooms, bulletin boards and encourage the use of mass e-mailing to encourage donations (Acharya, 2009). There is much evidence that many terrorists attacks were funded by the money received from credit card frauds via the Internet (Acharya, 2009 ; Pekgozlu et al., 2007).The use of the Internet for Money LaunderingTerrorists use the Internet for money laundering. According to Arabinda Acharya (2009), â€Å"cyber-laundering is about using the Internet and electronic cash to turn illegally obtained money into untraceable funds†(p.68).Terrorists use e-cash as an effective tool to launder money.   It is known that radical ideologies produced by the leaders of terrorism, such as Osama bin Laden and Ayman al-Zawahiri, were posted via the Internet in the form of appeals for money. These appeals were found in speeches and statement placed on web sites. The leaders of terrorist organizations recognize the powerful role of the Internet in money laundering, encouraging all Muslims and supported of terrorism to contribute money for the growth of jihad. In Osama ben Laden’s message, there was an appeal to all Muslims to provide support to â€Å"their bothers in Iraq with money and men† (Acharya, 2009, p. 68).In add ition, many jihadist leaders state that monetary contribution provided my all Muslims and terrorism supporters is similar to physical engagement in jihad’s operations. There have already been many calls for donations on the Internet. For example, the website developed by Harkat ul-Mujahidin, terrorist group from Pakistan, argues that â€Å"Allah gives an opportunity to take part in the struggle for Muslim rights – jihad† (qtd. in Acharya, 2009, p. 68). Undoubtedly, these appeals for jihad donations can be assessed as extremely influential because of the widespread anti-West politics (Acharya, 2009).The use of the Internet for CommunicationsToday terrorists use the Internet for different forms of communication. According to researchers, â€Å"the jihad terrorism web infrastructure websites suddenly emerge, frequently modify their formats, swiftly disappear or change their online address†(Bockstette, 2010, p. 18). The communication strategy developed by ter rorists promoted the ideas of jihadist leaders. The first online terrorist magazine was published in 2003. Although the number of jihadist websites was reduced due to the work of law enforcement agencies, terrorists continue to use different strategies for the promotion of their Internet communication. They use forums and blogs to disseminating their ideas as propaganda of their activity. As a rule, these forums and blogs offer access to the proper files, which are stored on free storage sites. According to researchers, â€Å"since this material is spread over numerous web servers located all-round the globe, blocking access to these files becomes virtually impossible† (Bockstette, 2010, p.18).In fact, terrorist are focused on a particular target groups in their communications. As a result, the messages and the channels selected for these messages are tailored to the needs and requirement of the target groups, e.g. the use of different languages, the age, race and ethnicity o f the representatives of the target groups, etc. (Acharya, 2009). According to researchers, terrorists â€Å"determine the location and timing of their actions to satisfy media criteria for news worthiness that fit in with the media’s deadlines and news cycles in order to effectively reach the desired audience† (Bockstette, 2010, p.18). Thus, many jihadist leaders prefer to use the Internet communication because it provides an opportunity to communicate in real time.In addition, the Internet communication provides an opportunity to promote terrorist knowledge in the form of educational sessions specially developed for the followers of terrorists. Researchers believe that terrorists use online communication to gather intelligence and distribute the required information.   Online communication allows terrorists to â€Å"operate like decentralized franchises or freelancers† (Bockstette, 2010, p.18). Due to decentralized terrorist networks, online communication al lows terrorist groups to function as the so-called virtual international organizations, which have the ability to reach the audiences in different parts of the world. According to researchers, â€Å"terrorists can also use the Internet communication as a tool of psychological warfare through spreading disinformation, delivering threats and disseminating horrific images†(Conway, 2006, p. 283).The use of the Internet for Recruitment  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Internet is used by terrorist groups for recruitment of jihadists, including suicide bombers for committing attacks, the killers, the kidnappers, the engineers and the soldiers. It has been found that the groups of jihadists do not always participate in training of recruits via the Internet. They try to use different approaches (Acharya, 2009).   However, in 2004, the groups of Al-Qaeda located in the Arabian Peninsula used the Internet to promote training practices of recruits. According to research ers, Al-Qaeda launched a specially developed magazine Muaskar Al-Battar to enhance the process of training and preparation of recruits and â€Å"attempted to instigate current and potential jihadists to use this knowledge to create additional camps and cells† (McClellan Dorn, 2008, p. 25).  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Moreover, recruitment of soldiers by jihad groups via the Internet offers terrorists massive opportunities for successful operations. Without recruitment, terrorism cannot exist. Terrorist recruitment via the Internet provides a number of advantages: easy access to the proper information, the global reach and interactive communication (McClellan Dorn, 2008).The role of the Internet and communication technologies in promoting, inspiring and radicalizing JihadThe Internet helps to radicalize and inspire Jihad. According to researchers, â€Å"the Internet is not merely used by Salafi-Jihadist operatives as a tool to stage terrorist attacks but als o fulfills several important needs for the rank and file† (McClellan Dorn, 2008, p. 23). The Internet has become an important tool for those who want to participate in the so-called larger Muslim umma† promoting a sense of identity, empowerment and solidarity. The Internet is used by terrorists to â€Å"generate forum where individuals who feel humiliated and jilted can regain a sense of community, solidarity, brotherhood and new identity† (McClellan Dorn, p. 26). Globalization helped terrorists to solidify the establishment of Muslim identity and promote solidarity, uniting many terrorists by means of new technologies.In addition, the Internet can be viewed as an influential tool for the activities of jihadists because it â€Å"helps them to celebrate such victories as the attacks of 9/11, thus humiliating their enemies, while undoing their own humiliation, which they claim to have endured through centuries of perceived anti-Muslim policies and Western subjuga tion† (McClellan Dorn, 2008, p. 26). For example, in 2006, terrorists published propaganda to celebrate their victory. The video clip was called Attack on Manhattan. It provided much information on the event 9/11 from terrorists’ perspective, including the interviews with two suicide hijackers.In general, jihadists are interested in continual usage of the Internet, although they â€Å"seek to overcome in cyberspace specific obstacles they face from armies and police forces in the physical world† (Coll Glasser, 2005, p.1).   In the process of planning terrorist attacks, radical operatives, involved in the spread of terrorism, find themselves at high risk while crossing the border with false documents. Undoubtedly, they feel themselves much safer when they are working on the Web. Terrorists understand that â€Å"both time and space have in many ways been conquered by the Internet† (Coll Glasser, 2005, p.1). As a result, the number of active jihadist-rel ated Web sites has been increased since September 11, 2001. There were more than 5000 Web sites in 2005. Today these numbers are even more dramatic.   Furthermore, terrorist organizations â€Å"have become expert at using the Internet to manipulate both public opinion and media coverage in ways that undermine American interests† (Lachow Richardson, 2007, p.1).ConclusionThus, it is necessary to conclude that terrorist groups use the Internet and communication technologies to present their goals, disseminate propaganda and recruit new followers and supporters.   The anonymous nature of the opportunities provided by the Internet attracts attention of terrorists. Although the Internet protects the privacy and confidentiality of its users, at the same time, it makes it difficult to identify those users who are engaged in illegal activities.   Online communication allows jihad organizations to maintain and promote group identity, radical ideology and indoctrination. Terroris ts use the Internet communication as a tool of psychological warfare through spreading disinformation, which inspires fear in people that is caused by delivering threats and publicizing horrific images of victims of terrorism. The Web sites created by jihad organizations are linked indirectly through association of belief and ideology, belonging to some community, which tend to connect them all into the virtual jihad community.

Free Essays on Napolean And The Rise Of His Empire

Napoleon on the Rise and his Empire Napoleon had a great rise in popularity and power in the late 1700’s and the early 1800’s. He was a well known and respected military leader. His military knowledge made him a very dangerous leader, he was able to capture much of Europe in a very short period of time. His respect and power eventually made him a absolute ruler of France. Napoleon had a very young start to his military career, it all started at Ecole Militaire in Paris in 1784. This was the place where he recieved military training at such a young age. He began to study to be an artillery man and an officer. By the age of 16 his training at school was over and he joined the French army (N. Bonaparte). In war Napolean was a icorrigable improvisor. This military genius knew how to hit the enemy while they were down. It seemed as if he always knew when was the best time to attack a enemy. Napolean had claimed to found his battle tactics from books that were available to any and every soldier. He also claimed that in all of his battles fought that he did not learn something new from his first to his last. Basically what Napolean had done in he career is perfect his tactic, kind of like how you polish a diamond (Jones 58). Napoleon’s strategy had demanded on very exceptional staff work. His staff was always very intelligent and extremely confident, because they were under one of the most brilliant military leaders of all time. Other strategies included taking great risks, and trusting that divisions were at a vital point at exactly the right moment (Jones 60). It all started in 1792 when he was promoted to being a Captain in the army. In 1793 he again received another promotion, now he would be in charge of the artillery at the Seige of Toulon. The big turning point in Napoleon’s military career was made in 1795 when Napoleon saved the Revolutionary Government. This was when he used his ... Free Essays on Napolean And The Rise Of His Empire Free Essays on Napolean And The Rise Of His Empire Napoleon on the Rise and his Empire Napoleon had a great rise in popularity and power in the late 1700’s and the early 1800’s. He was a well known and respected military leader. His military knowledge made him a very dangerous leader, he was able to capture much of Europe in a very short period of time. His respect and power eventually made him a absolute ruler of France. Napoleon had a very young start to his military career, it all started at Ecole Militaire in Paris in 1784. This was the place where he recieved military training at such a young age. He began to study to be an artillery man and an officer. By the age of 16 his training at school was over and he joined the French army (N. Bonaparte). In war Napolean was a icorrigable improvisor. This military genius knew how to hit the enemy while they were down. It seemed as if he always knew when was the best time to attack a enemy. Napolean had claimed to found his battle tactics from books that were available to any and every soldier. He also claimed that in all of his battles fought that he did not learn something new from his first to his last. Basically what Napolean had done in he career is perfect his tactic, kind of like how you polish a diamond (Jones 58). Napoleon’s strategy had demanded on very exceptional staff work. His staff was always very intelligent and extremely confident, because they were under one of the most brilliant military leaders of all time. Other strategies included taking great risks, and trusting that divisions were at a vital point at exactly the right moment (Jones 60). It all started in 1792 when he was promoted to being a Captain in the army. In 1793 he again received another promotion, now he would be in charge of the artillery at the Seige of Toulon. The big turning point in Napoleon’s military career was made in 1795 when Napoleon saved the Revolutionary Government. This was when he used his ...

Caught in the Trap

Aromas confronted me as I walked in the door. Masalas—or spices—like curry, cumin and cinnamon each contributed. I sat on the edge of my chair—eager like a child on Christmas. I wanted to experience these exotic spices. They were delicious and fiery, yet flavorful. This is not the first time I desired something new. I yearn for knowledge and enrichment. If I hear something I don’t know much about, I look it up. A new technique, style, movie, or crisis—my desire for understanding and knowledge ranges. This time, the Indian food caught me in its trap. I needed not only the flavor—but also the culture. I needed to know more. I needed to understand. This is how I came across Hinduism. I saw the fascinating three-like symbol, the Om, before and I had looked it up. I knew it was Hindi. But my eyes were blind to Indian culture and religion. Enthralled by the beauty of the symbol and the delicious food, I started my research online. Then, I turned to books. One about Hinduism. An India travel guide about customs. And lastly, The Bhagavad Gita—a book essential to Hindus. I started with basics and grew. I learned that the cow is sacred and therefore, beef is not eaten and cows not slaughtered. This was something I found fascinating. Beef is vital in America. A good steak, special and expensive. But in Hinduism, the cow is a symbol of life and honored. I was drawn in by the open-mindedness towards other religions. Hindus believe that religion is the same just named differently. This appealed to me because religion is about loving and accepting and in Hinduism this is true. Hinduism is diverse, allowing its own followers to believe in a variety of things. Religion tends to be strict, and the diversity and variety in Hinduism made it appealing. The travel guide explained Hinduism is a way of life and is reflected in the customs. The Bhagavad Gita gave me insight and helped me learn from the same text that a Hindu would learn from. All this new information made me think in ways I hadn’t before, pose questions and challenge my beliefs. Did I still believe the religious foundation built around me? I wasn’t sure. â€Å"Aren’t you a Hindu or something?† asked my brother. I knew this question was coming, but I still didn’t have an answer. â€Å"I’m not sure.† Before claiming it, I want to fully understand. And I am still working towards that. I may adapt to this religion, I may not. But it doesn’t matter. This search is about understanding and delving into the intriguing unknown. The Indian food caught me. Forever I will recall my first meal at Tandoori Nights a year ago and what stemmed from it. What will catch me next?

Avoiding Plagiarism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Avoiding Plagiarism - Essay Example Even figures and statistics are not genuine under similar scenarios which are a real bane if seen from the corrective settings of academic writing, etc. It is best to make use of sources which are well-known and deemed as credible right from the outset of things. Another difficulty lies in the sources which are in an online capacity. Due to broken links sometimes the online sources are not found which leaves a real bad taste in the mouth for people who are the readers of such academically written pieces. At times, the web links are shifted to other websites which is also a bad omen for academic writing. This could be regarded as a serious case of plagiarism if the source is not found. Hence it is significant to find the sources which have been made use of, as these would validate the data and information that has thus been used. The steps that would be taken to ensure that citations are done properly comprise of finding out the exact credible links which will be used, the people upon whom the genuineness would be considered important and lastly the avoidance of already plagiarized text within the academic writing piece. It might just be a fact that the text which is being made use of has already been plagiarized somewhere else (Moore 2005). This is a real bane if seen within the correct settings and it could pose to be a huge problem. Such issues need to be avoided in order to keep away from plagiarism in the sheer sense of the word. Plagiarism brings to light such issues that could be avoided in the first place so that the written piece is not marred by any stretch of imagination. There could be other steps that are taken in order to ensure the sources are not used in a wrong manner. Anti-plagiarism software can be used which will keep at a safe distance the plagiarizing aspects and thus the academically w ritten piece could be regarded as genuine and authenticated by all means and ways. In short,

Muharraq City (Bahrain) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Muharraq City (Bahrain) - Essay Example In the resent years, there has been changing need for globalization that has led to dramatic change in social, economic, political and architectural structures as well within the Middle East countries (Frifelt, 2001, p.13). Bahrain along with its cities has not been left out in the drastic changes that are shaping architectural workmanship of the region. These changes have been greatly influenced by; migration of foreigners from different regions who come along with new ideas and new architectural designs, discovery of oil in Middle East which has completely changed the economical statues of the region, expatriate of Europeans who also brought with them their habits and their social way of life that in away affected their way of building houses as well. This paper looks at existing literature reviews and researches at the changing trends in architectural work in the Middle East region especially in Muharraq as a city within Bahrain islands (Al-Fadhel, 1999, pp. 55-60). Literature Rev iew During the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, traditional architecture has greatly dominated Muharraq city. These traditional architectures were characterized by their responsiveness to the social and physical aspects within the social context. The traditional architectural houses were built in a courtyard style that mostly considered the climate and metaphoric religious connections (Belgrave, 1973, p.89). The rooms within traditional architecture houses were built to be multi-functional and their roofs were also used to connect the rooms in upper first floor. The materials used in traditional architecture were mainly local materials with a few combinations with imported ones mostly from Mesopotamia, Iran, East Africa and India (Al-Fadhel, 1999, pp. 55-60). In the tradition architecture, houses were built in a communal manner such a way that houses were absorbed in the big mass. This was to emphasis the social belief of solidarity and loyalty within a community and at the same time emphasis ones social statues within the society (Vinitha, 2003, np). Those deemed to have higher social statues within society like rulers, their houses were built separate from the big mass and the difference could be noted in building materials, architectural elements and the architectural designs that included bigger spacing of everything. The construction methods in architectural work were also simple in terms of elevations among other construction methods in traditional architecture (Al-Muraikhi, 1991, pp.12-18). The traditional architecture started to change its outlook in the beginning of 20th century. During this period there were many changes in social, economic and political landscape of Muharraq city. There was a total increase in population from 70000 to 90000 in 1941 and to 110000 in 1950 in regard to Bahrain as a whole. This large population growth led to change in architectural designs since all people needed accommodation as well as social build ings that could accommodate a much larger number of people than existing ones. This rapid growth in population was mainly attributed to migration of people from neighbouring nations and continents such as India among others (Vinitha, 2003, np). Another major change to Bahrain economy, social, political and architectural landscape was experienced after discovery of oil in 1931. The discovered oil was a resource that brought with it high revenue that had an economic impact in the region as well as a social impact to its people. As much as the government increased its economic statues, individuals within the society also gained higher statues hence the desire for more modernized houses that were in relation to their rising social statues wi

Cold Mountain Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Cold Mountain - Essay Example It is worth noting that this two individuals only knew each other for a brief moment but Inman deserted the war troops in a bid to see Ada again. In summation the whole book is filled with flashbacks which give a detailed account of the history of this two separated souls. However, in the subsequent sections of this narrative we are going to discuss three important quotes and there relevance in the novel. First and foremost, â€Å"what have you achieved today? Was always nothing†. On the same point, the author uses this particular phrase to signify that Inman had nothing else going on apart from the fact that he wanted to be reunited with Ada. This is evident from the fact that he embarks on a fatal journey in his bid to reunite with Ada despite his war injuries that have not yet healed properly. Secondly, â€Å"But I had no idea on how to prepare a meal†. Apparently, the author uses this phrase to signify that Ada was helpless before her encounter with Ruby, a young woman who taught her survival techniques before the reunion with her husband Inman while she was hunting wild turkey. Lastly, â€Å"Then red her letter† â€Å"she could speak French and Latin†. It is worth noting that Ada was the ministers daughter thus she was well educated. In actual fact, the author uses this particular statement to support this argument since individuals who spoke both French and Latin at the time were mostly the literate individuals in the society. To this end, the cold mountain is an interesting fictional story thus can be read for leisure

Human computer interaction (user interface ) Coursework

Human computer interaction (user interface ) - Coursework Example Reference: Chapman, Callum. "Common Elements Used in Interface Button Design."Â  Web Designer Dept. (2011): 4. Web. 20 Dec. 2011. . TYPOGRAPHY The fonts and typefaces are important elements of the user interface. It should be in proportionate with the design or else it will just look like a clutter. I learned that it should draw attention to the content taking in consideration its size, lines and shade. The overall appearance of the font is in conjunction with its readability which is highly essential for the end-user. Moreover, the amount of text in a given space should be kept to a minimum. The relationship of the font color and background is equally vital in achieving high contrast content which further adds to the readability degree of the content. Lastly, I also learned that appropriate spacing and the presence of empty fields are techniques to achieve visual relief, in this way; the viewer will not be distracted from the focal contents. Reference: Genkin, Namie . "Importance o f Great Web Typography."Onextrapixel. (2010): 1-4. Web. 20 Dec. 2011. ... I also learned that combinations with positive polarity such as the use of dark text on a light background are notably effective. This is particularly important when dealing with visually-impaired users. Reference: Hall, R. and Hanna, P. (2004), The Impact of Web Page Text-Background Color Combinations on Readability, Retention, Aesthetics, and Behavioral Intention, Behaviour & Information Technology, forthcoming VIRTUAL KEYBOARD DESIGN Inputting is the concomitant interaction the user performs. It should be simple despite the complexities of the keyboard’s overall features. In the case of virtual keyboards, wherein industrial design is left out in place of a touch interface, the tactile response time should be fast enough to let the user focus on inputting end and not worrying whether the characters has already been displayed. It is fairly important that the on-screen keyboard should be able to interact with the fingers and not merely by using the stylus. It is a fact that th e best pointing tool is our finger; the keyboard’s design should be able to accommodate the multitasking capability of a human hand. The spacing of each character should be accurately be considered to avoid erroneous inputting. Reference: Xiaojun, Bi, Barton Smith, and Zhai Shumin. "Multilingual Touchscreen Keyboard Design and Optimization."DGP. (2010): 1-34. Web. 20 Dec. 2011. . I learned that in an on-screen keyboard, screen clarity and size are important elements. The spacing between characters avoids unintended inputs. In line with this, the user should be able to perceive that

‘A Critical Exploration of Organisational Structures and Essay

‘A Critical Exploration of Organisational Structures and Cultures’ - Essay Example The culture of any college evolves with the advancement of time and it depends on several factors like the infrastructure, composition of the college lecturers and management style. A good college culture will certainly aid in positive behavioral changes among the students which in turn would be instrumental in their career building and society development. Hence, any organization would wish to impart meaningful college culture among the students. In United Kingdom, several college organizations have been working hard to inculcate good culture among their college students. For achieving this goal, al the positive factors influencing the college culture have to be promoted and negative factors have to be controlled. Organization structure is most important factor that influences the college culture in United Kingdom. Let us analyze how the organization structure influences the college culture: The organization structure will have tremendous influence on the college culture (Anderson, 2007). It will decide the style of the presentation of the students and other functionaries in the college. In United Kingdom, the college culture is significantly influenced by the organizations’ structures and college management bodies. The technological advances and information technology also brought significant changes in the college culture in United Kingdom (Kouzes and Posner, 2003). One of the most important effects of organization structure on college culture is contributed by the rapid advances in the technologies available to librarians to access, manage and deliver information to students and researchers. Better library services would help in having better access to diversified information of the different parts of the world which in turn would enhance the broader knowledge of the students or clients and hence their culture would witness tremendous change. At the same time, the emergence of new technology may also

Cold Mountain Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Cold Mountain - Essay Example It is worth noting that this two individuals only knew each other for a brief moment but Inman deserted the war troops in a bid to see Ada again. In summation the whole book is filled with flashbacks which give a detailed account of the history of this two separated souls. However, in the subsequent sections of this narrative we are going to discuss three important quotes and there relevance in the novel. First and foremost, â€Å"what have you achieved today? Was always nothing†. On the same point, the author uses this particular phrase to signify that Inman had nothing else going on apart from the fact that he wanted to be reunited with Ada. This is evident from the fact that he embarks on a fatal journey in his bid to reunite with Ada despite his war injuries that have not yet healed properly. Secondly, â€Å"But I had no idea on how to prepare a meal†. Apparently, the author uses this phrase to signify that Ada was helpless before her encounter with Ruby, a young woman who taught her survival techniques before the reunion with her husband Inman while she was hunting wild turkey. Lastly, â€Å"Then red her letter† â€Å"she could speak French and Latin†. It is worth noting that Ada was the ministers daughter thus she was well educated. In actual fact, the author uses this particular statement to support this argument since individuals who spoke both French and Latin at the time were mostly the literate individuals in the society. To this end, the cold mountain is an interesting fictional story thus can be read for leisure

‘A Critical Exploration of Organisational Structures and Essay

‘A Critical Exploration of Organisational Structures and Cultures’ - Essay Example The culture of any college evolves with the advancement of time and it depends on several factors like the infrastructure, composition of the college lecturers and management style. A good college culture will certainly aid in positive behavioral changes among the students which in turn would be instrumental in their career building and society development. Hence, any organization would wish to impart meaningful college culture among the students. In United Kingdom, several college organizations have been working hard to inculcate good culture among their college students. For achieving this goal, al the positive factors influencing the college culture have to be promoted and negative factors have to be controlled. Organization structure is most important factor that influences the college culture in United Kingdom. Let us analyze how the organization structure influences the college culture: The organization structure will have tremendous influence on the college culture (Anderson, 2007). It will decide the style of the presentation of the students and other functionaries in the college. In United Kingdom, the college culture is significantly influenced by the organizations’ structures and college management bodies. The technological advances and information technology also brought significant changes in the college culture in United Kingdom (Kouzes and Posner, 2003). One of the most important effects of organization structure on college culture is contributed by the rapid advances in the technologies available to librarians to access, manage and deliver information to students and researchers. Better library services would help in having better access to diversified information of the different parts of the world which in turn would enhance the broader knowledge of the students or clients and hence their culture would witness tremendous change. At the same time, the emergence of new technology may also

Anti Social Personality Disorder Essay Example for Free

Anti Social Personality Disorder Essay During class, a student comes up to a teacher and suddenly pulls a gun to his head. He orders the teacher to strip down. Once the teacher was completely nude, the student aimed at his testicles and pulled the trigger. When everyone realized there were no bullets in the gun, the student alone laughs (Maxmen et al., 1994). People such as this student suffer of antisocial personality disorder. Obviously, it is not simply a disorder that defines the lonely kid in the corner who has no interest in speaking with others, or the social retard that laughs when it is inappropriate. This disorder is dangerous to others because people affected from ASPD are narcissistic and fend for themselves. People of all walks of life can suffer from this disorder, which affects a significant proportion of the population. There are psychosocial and genetic factors to ASPD. The best-shot psychologists have at treating these people, is targeting these psychosocial and genetic factors. This paper aims to investigate the general psycho aspects in ASPD Symptoms and Diagnosis  Maxmen and colleagues (1994) claim that people affected by antisocial personality disorder are generally disrespectful and violate the rights of others. Liu and colleagues (2012) add that family violence is common around ASPD. Moreover, sexual relations are nothing more than self-beneficial. Their selfish sexual desires often lead to the transmission of venereal disease (Maxmen et al., 1994). Here is the DSM criteria for ASPD: A. There is a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others occurring since age 15, as indicated by three (or more) of the following: 1. Failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest. 2. Deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure. 3. Impulsivity or failure to plan ahead. 4. Irritability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults. 5. Reckless disregard for safety of self or others. 6. Consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations. 7. Lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another. B. The individual is at least age 18 years of age.  C. There is evidence of Conduct Disorder with onset before age 15. D. The occurrence of antisocial behavior is not exclusively during the course of Schizophrenia or a manic episode. (DSM-IV, 1994) Lack of stimulation and avoidance of boredom explains common symptoms among ASPD, including why they usually have several years of poor job performance, and are forced to change jobs many times. Swann and collegues (2010) add that ASPD mixed with bipolar disorder worsens impulsive symptoms and the course of the illness often speeds up (Maxmen et al., 1994). A fascinating aspect about ASPD, is their psychopathic symptoms. Although they can display normal human emotions such as charm and love, they do not actually feel the depth of those emotions. This even includes emotions such as hate. Some even lack consciousness  otherwise known as superego lacunae. As a result, their relationships are usually narcissistic ones that generally do not tend to last long (Maxmen et al., 1994). Unfortunately, ASPD have shorter life expectancies. Many die of violent related events such as fights and murders. As previously mentioned, their sexually transmitted diseases also sometimes weigh into their shorter life expectancies. ASPD is often linked with alcoholism and depression. They suffer of a 5 % suicide rate. As such extreme low points of ASPD, some may seek treatment (Maxmen et al., 1994). However, Perry and colleagues (2013) studied how another consistent symptom prevents many ASPD from seeking treatment. He studied immature defence mechanisms used by ASPD. Among them are omnipotence, devaluation and denial against experience of self of awareness. They create split off self-images, whereby they perceive differently than how they would be perceived by others. Indeed, they are aware of their actions, but create a different self-image to justify their actions. Their omnipotence has an important role in devaluing the opinions and perceptions of others, which strengthens their flawed image (Perry et al., 2013). Prevalence and incidence Studies claim that ASPD affects a significant proportion of the population. The percentage is as high as 5.4 % of males and 1.2 % of women. Amongst the Psychiatric population: 5-15% of males and 1-3 % of females. ASPD is most prevalent amongst lower socioeconomic groups (Maxmen et al., 1994). Etiology Maxmen and colleagues (1994) believe psychosocial factors are the main cause for occasional ASPD. However, consistent ASPD deal with an additional factor of genetics. Firstly, amongst sociological factors is poverty. Regardless of the high proportion of prevalence of ASPD amongst lower socioeconomic groups, poverty is not the sole cause. More importantly, the majority of poor people do not become sociopaths. Familial factors have been considered. Growing up amongst a violent family may lead to the development of ASPD in the children. Shi and colleagues (2012) add the quality of early childcare is a predictor of ASPD. They discovered that behaviours such as motherly silent interaction or withdrawals and no greetings were indicators that provoked the development of ASPD (Maxmen et al., 1994). Basolu and colleagues (2011) reinforced the genealogical case by linking ASPD to a special kind of gene. It is synaptosomal-associate protein 25 (SNAP25) gene polymorphisms. When this gene, linked with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and personality, was tested to find links with other disorders, researchers found a connection to ASPD. This means there is a genealogical factor to ASPD (Basolu et al., 2011). Treatment Unfortunately, before diving into the treatment, all sources burst any bubble of hope to cure ASPD since it is difficult to treat. As discussed in the symptoms, ASPD rely on the immature defence mechanisms to carry on their lifestyles. Before they receive treatment, ASPD must want to seek help, which is easier said than done since they have justified their actions most of their life. Nevertheless, many burn out due to their narcissistic life styles,  and seek treatment. Psychotherapy has not usually helped. Therapists have to deal with ASPD’s Ego Syntonic behaviour. ASPD justify their behaviour and resent authority including the therapist. Therapists’ strategies involve the â€Å"Tough Love†: A method that involves showing care but not letting the subject view himself as vulnerable for the ASPD to capitalize on the psychologist’s perceived weakness. If the patient is on trial at the same time as he is in therapy, counselling must not influence the sentence so that therapy remains constructive and not manipulative. ASPD should also reduce substance abuse, which can increase the symptoms if used (Maxmen et al., 1994). The key treatment lies within prevention. If the condition gets detected early enough, therapist and the family can increase the chances of cure or prevention. Family counselling is rather important because they learn how to deal with their manipulated emotions from hate to guilt. Common sense and guidelines can help. Shia and colleagues (2012) add that targeting motherly behaviour in crucial areas that can reduce risk of ASPD (Maxmen et al., 1994). ASPD is a dangerous disorder. People can be manipulated by ASPD as they can act like a normal individual. They often carry sexual diseases from their multiple sexual relations caused by their lack of stimulation. They live this life protected by their childish defence mechanisms. ASPD affect a significant part of the population: up to 5 % in males. Psychosocial and genetics factor into the etiology of the disorder. Finally, the key treatment of this difficult disorder lies in the prevention and early detection. As research of ASPD improves, treatments will be the primary focus of therapists.

The importance of after sales services in small companies

The importance of after sales services in small companies Abstract This dissertation deals with the role of after sales service in the operations of small companies in the capital goods sector. After sales service is an important area of modern day business and is important for both buyers and sellers of goods. Whilst buyers require after sales service to ensure the maintenance and operations of their purchased items, sellers provide after sales service for customer satisfaction and enhancement of competitive advantage. Small companies however find it difficult to provide high quality after sales service because of constraints in areas of workforce availability and finance. This dissertation deals with the area of after sales service and its applicability to a small organisation dealing in capital goods. The research, conducted with the use of quantitative and qualitative methods, reveals that the area continues to be a matter of concern that needs to be resolved urgently by managements of small companies to ensure their growth and competitive advantage. This dissertation aims to investigate the issue of after sales service and its importance to sellers and customers of manufactured goods as also the ways in which it can be used by organisations to improve their growth and profitability. After sales service represents the activities conducted by organisations to provide services to the customer in respect of products and services after the conclusion of the sales deal, the payment of money and the handing over of the product or commencement of services (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 116). Business firms in the past were content to provide goods to customers without any obligation to attend to their needs after the conclusion of contracts and the handing over of goods (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 116). The responsibility of sellers in such circumstances ended with the delivery of their products and customers were responsible for maintenance and utilisation of products after buying them (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 116). Such concepts have however altered radically over the course of the last century and manufacturers and service providers realise the need to provide relevant and appropriate services to their customers after the completion of sales (Lele, 1997, p 141). Modern day customers expect various types of services from organisations after they purchase products and services from them. Much of this development has come about on account of the change in the structure of goods and services in modern day economies (Lele, 1997, p 141). With the bulk of trade in the past being on account of agricultural goods, customers were required to purchase agricultural products from farmers or traders and inspect such products for freshness and longevity, and were responsible for storing them properly in order to avoid spoilage. Such practices were also due to the easy verifiability of the quality of agricultural products (Lele, 1997, p 141). With the proportion of agricultural products coming down steadily in the basket of goods and services of nations across the world, customers now spend significantly greater proportions of their incomes on various types of products and services, about which they know little, and thus depend upon suppliers for product and service quality as also for satisfaction of their needs (Lele, 1997, p 141). Their dependence upon their sellers for appropriate services continues much after the time of purchase of goods. The role of after sales service is steadily increasing in the operations of small and large companies (Levitt, 1983, p 87). Driven by the need to satisfy their customers, improve their image, strengthen their brands and enhance their competitive advantage, organisations now treat after sales service, not just as an important operational function but also as a critical marketing tool in their quest for growth and expansion (Levitt, 1983, p 87). 1.2. Definition of Problem Whilst the role of after sales service is steadily growing in both production and service sectors and is required by modern day consumers, its provisioning on the part of organisations is associated with a number of problems and challenges. After sales service, in the case of many products, has to essentially be provided at the premises of the customers. They have to furthermore be provided by specialised and skilled people who are aware of the nature of products and services and have the ability to correct mistakes in supply, as well as malfunctions in products and services (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 236).The provisioning of such after sales services becomes especially onerous for small companies that work in limited markets and have restricted sales, comparatively low accruals and tight cash flows (Miragliotta, 2003, p 158). Such problems are compounded in the capital goods sectors for suppliers of capital machinery, like boilers and turbines, which whilst being complicated in nature are also installed in distant areas (Miragliotta, 2003, p 158). Whilst the modern day market is governed by customers, who insist on high quality after sales service and are ready to take their business elsewhere if their demands are not met, the provisioning of such services becomes extremely difficult for organisations engaged in manufacture and sale of capital goods, especially if they are small in size. 1.3. Purpose of Study The purpose of this dissertation is to investigate the relevance and role of after sales service in small and medium sized suppliers of capital equipment, both from the perspectives of the sellers and of the buyers. The aims and objectives of the assignment are thus as under. To examine the role of after sales service for suppliers of capital goods like boilers and turbines for small organisations. To understand the relevance and importance of after sales service for consumers of such equipment. To understand the ways in which after sales service can improve the growth and performance of small companies engaged in the supply of capital goods like boilers and turbines. 1.4. Benefits of Study The findings and results of this dissertation are particularly important because little research has been conducted in the area until now. A preliminary search of information on the subject in the physical and online domain reveals that the majority of conducted research concerns products like cars and cell phones and services like call centres. The issue of after sales service is however important for the products like the ones taken up in the course of this dissertation, even though they may not have public appeal, like automobiles or cell phones, or do not belong to a controversial and debated sector like call centres. Small organisations have specific disadvantages in providing after sales service, which in turn hurts their competitiveness in comparison to larger organisations. The findings of this study will provide useful information on a lesser known area of industry. Its findings should be of interest to academics and experts in areas of manufacture and marketing, small business owners, purchasing professionals, and students of management, engineering and marketing. 1.5. Structure This dissertation is arranged in sequential sections, which deal with a review of existing literature on the issue, the research methodology, the data, findings and analysis, and conclusions. The bibliography of information sources used in the course of the dissertation is provided at the end of the study, followed by the appendices. 2. Literature Review 2.1. After Sales Service After sales services constitute the various facilities and services provided by manufacturers and sellers of items to their customers after the completion of sale and purchase transactions (Lele, 1997, p 142). Whilst after sales service in the area of consumables like food, soft drinks or items like soap and tooth paste is simple and essentially concern the replacement of items that are found to be defective, such services become complex for consumer goods and capital items like televisions, refrigerators and washing machines, or engines, turbines and boilers, which are used by their buyers for varying periods of time (Lele, 1997, p 142). Manufacturers of these items provide a range of after sales services in the form of guarantees, warranties, free and paid replacement of parts, advice on maintenance and operations of these items, and periodic checkups (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 238). The provisioning of such after sales services helps buyers to make optimal use of their purchased items, keep them in good condition and increase their operational longevity (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 238). Apart from facilitating customers to use products in the best possible manner and the longest possible time, after sales service helps in keeping such products in good condition and in ensuring their resale value (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 238). Many organisations, especially in the sector of automobiles and white goods offer buyback facilities to customers who are able to sell such goods back to company agencies and avail of exchange or other offers (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 238). After sales service is becoming an increasingly important function in most business organisations and all organisations, irrespective of their size, are making efforts to provide high quality and appropriate after sales service to their customers (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 238). All suppliers of capital goods have complex and detailed after sales service facilities that are formulated with great care (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 238). 2.2. Role of After Sales Service for Manufacturing and Selling Organisations Levitt, (1983, p 88), states that manufacturers and retailers of consumer and capital goods cannot think that their interaction with customers ends with the sale of their products. They are required to provide their clients with a range of after sales services by way of warranties, installation packages, maintenance and repair services, availability of spare parts for long periods of time, (even after the discontinuation of product lines), technical advice in various operational areas, and options for exchange and upgrading of products. The provisioning of after sales service facilities has been steadily growing over the last few decades on account of a number of reasons (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 119). Experts feel that the rapid growth of after sales services has been driven by local and global competition. The contemporary period is distinguished by intense competition in the market place (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 119). Such competition has grown exponentially on account of causes like economic liberalisation, technological advances, globalisation and the emergence of good quality but low cost production and service centres in Asia, East Europe and Latin America (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 119). The growing intensification of competition among businesses in all areas of activity has spurred manufacturers and sellers to improve and enhance their engagement with customers in different ways (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 119). After sales service not only fulfils the need of customers but also allows organisatio ns to stay in touch with their customers long after the occurrence of commercial exchanges (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 119). Such opportunities enable companies to satisfy various types of customer needs, improve customer loyalty and influence customers to engage in repeat purchases, develop market goodwill and provide word of mouth recommendations (Bundschuh Dezvane, 2003, p 119). Apart from driving customer satisfaction and influencing repeat purchases and market goodwill, after sales services provide organisations with attractive and profitable revenue streams (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 239). After sales service includes the supply of spares and the engagement of yearly maintenance contracts that are put in place after the expiry of free warranty periods. Most industries price their spares well (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 239). The sales of these spares constitute an attractive and profitable revenues stream for organisations and enhance their operational and financial performance (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 239). Maintenance contracts are also priced in such a manner that they cover the cost of maintenance and provide organisations with surpluses. The supply of spares and maintenance services has now become an important component of organisational sales, cash flows and profitability (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 239). Steadily growing customer requirements and the increasing sophistication of products plays an important role in the knowledge and expertise of business firms (Frambach, et al, 1997, p 341). Many companies use feedback from their after sales operations to improve their knowledge of products, product performance, product inadequacies and product faults (Frambach, et al, 1997, p 341). Such information helps them significantly to improve the quality and capacity of their products, reduce product defects and introduce product improvements. It helps companies to improve the overall quality of their product offerings, improve their RD efforts and enhance their competitive advantage (Frambach, et al, 1997, p 341). 2.3. After Sales Service in Small Organisations The immediately preceding section deals with the various advantages that offering of high quality and extensive after sales services can give to organisations (Brun, et al, 2004, p 172). Whilst the provisioning of after sales service can help organisations to (a) improve their market share and sales, (b) increase their profitability, (c) improve their product knowledge, (d) help their research and development activities, and (e) enhance their competitive advantage, the capacity to offer such services entails significant outlays on expenditure and manpower that is often beyond the resources of small organisations (Brun, et al, 2004, p 172). Organisations that provide after sales services are required to develop after sales service teams that are distinct and separate from members of production and maintenance departments (Brun, et al, 2004, p 172). The members of after sales service teams are required to have extensive product knowledge and good people management and customer relation ship skills. Such people have to be chosen with care, treated with sensitivity and remunerated well (Brun, et al, 2004, p 172). The development and maintenance of an after sales service team involves substantial expenses. Small companies that provide capital equipment often have customers spread across regions and in distant geographic locations (Cohen Whang, 1997, p 535). The need to attend to such customers involves extensive travelling for employees engaged in after sales service functions. Such travel not only reduces the effective time available with employees to attend to other customers but also involves substantial travelling costs (Cohen Whang, 1997, p 535). The supply of essential spares is an integral component of after sales service. Whilst the cost of such spares is by and large recovered after expiry of official warranty periods, organisations are required to keep a large range of such spares in their inventories (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 259). Many of such spares are not manufactured in house but are bought out or manufactured by other contractors. The need to keep sufficient stocks of materials, many of which are not used for long periods of time, is an expensive proposition and companies have to bear, not only the strain on cash resources in obtaining these items but also the costs of obsolescence and holding of inventory (Gaiardelli, et al, 2005, p 259). It needs to be recognised that small organisations are restricted by the size of their operations, the availability of cash flows and availability of employees. New organisations furthermore have many clients within warranty periods and have to provide after sales services free of charge. Whilst the needs for such companies to offer high quality after sales service is imperative on account of competitive pressures, the development of facilities to do so imposes substantial financial burdens (Miragliotta, et al, 2003, p 160). Many small companies are known to engage in cost cutting in this area, especially so in times of recession or sluggish sales (Miragliotta, et al, 2003, p 160). Such measures are primarily adopted out of compulsion and lack of necessary resources but result in customer dissatisfaction and adverse consequences, not just in terms of loss of market reputation, customer sales and profitability, but also by way of penalties and legal action for breach of after sales service obligations with customers (Miragliotta, et al, 2003, p 160). 2.4. Research Questions The research question for this dissertation have been formulated in line with the purpose of the study, the aims and objectives of the dissertation and the information obtained during the course of the literature review. The research questions are formulated as under. Research Question 1: What is the importance of after sales service for customers of capital equipment like boilers and turbines provided by small organisations? Research Question 2: what is the role of after sales service in the operations of small firms engaged in supply of such capital goods? Research Question 3: How can small companies engaged in the supply of capital goods use after sales service to improve their performance and growth? 3. Research Methodology 3.1. Available Research Methods It is important to obtain a broad idea on the theory of social research before deciding upon the appropriate research method (Sarma, 2004, p 84). Such understanding will help, not only in the choice of research methods and the conduct of the research assignment, but also in obtaining a holistic perspective of the issue and in approaching the subject with greater maturity Whilst the theory of social research is a vast area, a few important concepts, namely deductive and inductive thinking and positivist and interpretivist epistemology, are taken up here for discussion (Sarma, 2004, p 84). Deductive reasoning is termed as a top down approach and moves from the general to the specific (Thyer, 2001, p 9). Researchers in such circumstances commence by thinking up a theory on the topic of interest and then narrowing such theory into more specific hypothesis that can be tested during the course of research (Thyer, 2001, p 9). Such research entails the collection of observations to address these hypotheses and enables researchers to test hypothesis with particular data in order to confirm or disprove the original theories (Thyer, 2001, p 9). Inductive reasoning on the other hand grows from specific observations to broader theories and is termed as the bottom up approach (Sarma, 2004, p 84). Researchers, whilst engaging in inductive reasoning, commence with particular observations, make efforts to detect patterns, formulate tentative and primary hypothesis that can be explored and thereafter develop general conclusions and theories. Inductive reasoning is more exploratory and open ended, even as deductive reasoning is narrow and concerned with the confirmation of hypotheses (Sarma, 2004, p 84). The epistemology or philosophy of social research can essentially be segregated into positivist and interpretivist streams of thought (Babbie, 2007, p 42). The positivist way of thinking is associated with the scientific approach and assumes that the objective of knowledge should be restricted to the description of phenomena that can be experienced, and that research should be regulated by what can be observed and measured. Positivist researchers follow specific processes and procedures to ensure that observations are accurate, consistent, and verifiable in order to conduct their investigation (Babbie, 2007, p 42). The interpretivist theory however developed largely as a counterpoint and a criticism of positivism. Whilst interpretivist theorists do not reject the positivist dimension of scientific knowledge, they do question its relevance for the study of societies (Babbie, 2007, p 42). Interpretivism assumes that specific phenomena need to be understood in totality, and that positivism, because it collects and analyses data from parts of the phenomena, can miss many important aspects and thus be inadequate in the achievement of comprehensive understanding of issues (Babbie, 2007, p 42). Social research has for many years witnessed debate over the use of quantitative and qualitative methods for obtaining and analysing information (Bryman Bell, 2003, p 54-55). Quantitative methods arise from positivist epistemologies and are concerned with the measurement of numerical data and their appropriate analysis. Quantitative methods continue to be widely used in social research and are felt to be most applicable when the subjects under study are suitable for numerical observation, quantification, and analysis (Bryman Bell, 2003, p 54-55). Whilst quantitative methods continue to be widely used by social researchers, they are found, not just to be inadequate, but also to be inappropriate for the study of research issues that are essentially subjective and incapable of being measured or analysed through numerical quantification and analysis (Davies, 2007, p 139). With much of social phenomena being subjective, multilayered, multidimensional and open to interpretation, quantitative methods of research are felt to be unsuitable for their study and investigation. Qualitative research methods are used to explore attitudes, behaviours and experiences through specific qualitative research methods (Davies, 2007, p 139). Significant discussion and debate has taken place on the topic of research methodology and theories on how enquiries should proceed (Shacklock Smyth, 1998, p 107). Much of such debate has focused on the issue of quantitative v qualitative enquiry (Shacklock Smyth, 1998, p 107). Research experts now appear to agree that both these methodologies have their own specific strengths and weaknesses (Shacklock Smyth, 1998, p 107). Whilst the theory of social research is a vast area, a few important concepts, namely deductive and inductive thinking and positivist and interpretivist epistemology, are taken up here for discussion (Sarma, 2004, p 84). Social research has for many years witnessed constant debate over the use of quantitative and qualitative methods for obtaining and analysing information (Bryman Bell, 2003, p 54-55). Quantitative methods arise from positivist epistemologies and are concerned with the measurement of numerical data and their appropriate analysis. Quantitative methods continue to be widely used in social research and are felt to be most applicable when the subjects under study are suitable for numerical observation, quantification, and analysis (Bryman Bell, 2003, p 54-55). Many opinion polls and marketing surveys are conducted with the use of quantitative methods. They are particularly suitable for political opinion polls and for assessment of mood swings and their impact on voting patterns (Bryman Bell, 2003, p 54-55). Whilst quantitative methods continue to be widely used by social researchers, they are found, not just to be inadequate, but also to be inappropriate for the study of research issues that are essentially subjective and incapable of being measured or analysed through numerical quantification and analysis (Davies, 2007, p 139). With much of social phenomena being subjective, multilayered, multidimensional and open to interpretation, quantitative methods of research are felt to be unsuitable for their study and investigation. Qualitative research methods are used to explore attitudes, behaviours and experiences through specific qualitative research methods (Davies, 2007, p 139). There has been a great amount of discussion and debate on the topic of research methodology and theories of how enquiries should proceed (Shacklock Smyth, 1998, p 107). Much of such debate has focused on the issue of quantitative v qualitative enquiry, namely which could be more scientific and which could actually be the most appropriate (Shacklock Smyth, 1998, p 107). Research experts now appear to agree that both these methodologies have their own specific strengths and weaknesses which should be appreciated and addressed by researchers (Shacklock Smyth, 1998, p 107). The employment of both quantitative and qualitative methods is nowadays known as the mixed method of social research (Todd, et al, 2004, p 34). The use of multiple approaches helps researchers to capitalise on the strengths of these approaches and compensate for their weaknesses. Such studies try to bring together research methods from different paradigms (Todd, et al, 2004, p 34). Mixed methods however have to be applied with care and thought on the suitability of using both methods for the subject under study (Special Issue, 2008, p 141). It is also important for researchers to decide on the aspects of the study that are best served either by quantitative or by qualitative methods and in deciding upon the sequence of use of these two methods. Mixed method research is becoming increasingly popular and is felt to have an answer to the individual weaknesses of quantitative and qualitative approaches (Special Issue, 2008, p 141). 3.2. Sources of Information The data to be obtained for the conduct of a research study primarily depends upon the chosen research method, namely whether it is quantitative, qualitative, or mixed in nature. Obtaining of data must be preceded by a decision on choice of information sources. Information sources are primarily of two types, i.e. primary and secondary information sources (Denscombe, 2002, p 94). Secondary information sources represent the information available on the topic under investigation in the public domain. Such information is by and large prepared by experts and authors who are not involved in the subject under investigation and is available in the form of publications like books, journals, magazines and online publications (Denscombe, 2002, p 94). Secondary information sources are available either in physical or in online form and researchers have to carefully assess their quality, accuracy and relevance before using them for research. Primary information sources on the other hand represent the information obtained directly from the subjects or organisations under study through the conduct of surveys or interviews. Information contained in organisational or personal websites also fall in the ambit of primary information sources (Denscombe, 2002, p 94). Quantitative data is usually required to be obtained when adopted methods of research are positivist in nature. Such data is usually collected through questionnaire surveys or opinion polls by agents of researchers who are uninvolved in the topic under investigation (Bryman Bell, 2003, p 54). Sampling constitutes a very important element of obtaining quantitative data. Samples represent small segments of populations under study whose reactions and responses can be considered to be representative of the broader population (Davies, 2007, p 53). The determination of sample size is an important component of the sampling process. Such choice of samples can be done through various methods, statistical as well as purposive, and are decided by individual researchers (Davies, 2007, p 53). The size of a sample however has a specific bearing on the validity of the sample findings and has to be taken into account at the time of analysis (Davies, 2007, p 53). Qualitative information on the other hand is obtained through techniques like semi structured interviews and focus group discussions that are conducted by expert researchers who are involved in the study (Davies, 2007, p 140). Such interviews and discussions are often lengthy and are thus conducted with limited numbers of respondents. Interviewers usually record such interviews, use a mix of carefully designed open and close ended questions, and watch the physical responses of the respondents to locate hidden nuances and meanings (Davies, 2007, p 140). 3.3. Adoption of Research Method The research issue is complex. It involves a specific segment of industry that suffers from significant constraints but is at the same time expected to satisfy a number of obligations. The requirements of the dissertation call for information to be obtained from two sets of people, namely responsible officials of small companies engaged in supply of capital goods and the customers of such companies. Information from customers can be both quantitative and qualitative in nature. Information from supplying organisations is also likely to be both qualitative and quantitative in nature. Quantitative information will be required to gauge the broad success of such organisations in meeting after sales service obligations, whereas qualitative information will enable the researcher to locater the various issues about after sales service that are of concern to organisations. The researcher has therefore used the mixed method approach, which involves elements of both qualitative and quantitative research, to conduct the investigation for this dissertation. Information is obtained from primary sources, namely officials of a small boiler manufacturing organisation in the UK and its customers. 3.4. Ethics Care has been taken to adhere to the ethical requirements of social research. The principles of informed consent, absence of coercion, and rights of respondents have been strictly followed. All respondents have been explained the purpose of the dissertation and they have consented in writing to their participation in the research. They have also been provided with options to maintain the confidentiality of their personal identities and of their organisations. All respondents have wished to maintain confidentiality of identity. They have also been informed of their right to answer or not to answer particular questions. Care has also being taken to ensure proper acknowledgement of all information sources used in the dissertation. 4. Data and Analysis 4.1. Procurement of data Data has been obtained from three different sources, i.e. (a) from a questionnaire survey of 50 clients of a small boiler organisation, referred to as Best Boilers LLP for the purposes of this dissertation, (b) direct interviews with two customers of Best Boilers, and (c) two officials of the after sales service and marketing departments of the organisation. Appendix 1, 2 and 3 provide details about the information obtained. 4.2. Findings and Analysis Appendices 1, 2 and 3 provide details about the information obtained from the questionnaire survey and the questions asked of the customers and officials of best boilers. It is seen from the results of the questionnaire survey that 60% of the clients surveyed had dealings of less than 2 years with the company and only 10% had dealt with the company for more than 5 years. This is normal because the organisation has been established recently and is just about 7 years old. This information is also corroborated by the response that 80% of the companys customers have bought just one item from the company. The survey reveals that whilst all the respondents require after sales service, more than 50% require to be serviced only once a year and just about 20% require services more than 2 times in a year. The answers on types of after sales service are spread over various needs, but approximately 24% state that they need all types of services including advice, physical support, and supply of spares. The responses on satisfaction with quality