Taiwan And Its Effect On Young Adult - 1487 Words

Introduction Taiwan general information Taiwan locates at the East Asia, which is surrounded by water. Taiwan now has a population of approximate 23 million. Basically Taiwan doesn’t have any natural resource, however, it has a small amount of natural gas, coal and limestone. Also, because of the geography factor, Taiwan enjoys vast aquatic products and well developed fishing industry. Since Taiwan is located in the subtropical zone, the average temperature is higher than Seattle, which is twenty three Celsius. However, Taiwan has abundance rain and typhoon in summer season. It may cause many disasters, such as water flooding, mudslide and power outage. Those disasters would cost unnecessary expenses for a company also damages property†¦show more content†¦There are many factors which a company should be aware of when they trying to enter an unfamiliar market. This paper will discuss those factors in separate categories, which are government risk, cultural risk and economic risk. Government Risk Legal System Taiwan implements civil law in the legal system, compared to the United States, which has been applied in common law in the legal system. There is the biggest difference between common law and Civil law that is the power of judges authority. In common law, judges aren’t limited by the rules. The final decision depends on the jury not the judge. Also, the judge will give the judgement by using a previous example or a similar case rather than the code which written in the law. On the other hand, civil law is a totally different system. First, the judgement is given by the judge not the jury. Secondly, all of the law cases are judged by the written law, there are not referring cases in the civil law system. Therefore, the judge has powerful authority in the civil law system. Since Taiwan is implementing civil law, as a foreigner company, we should make sure every step is following the law. However, if a law case happened in Taiwan, make sure a company has a lawyer who is an exp ert in the civil law not the common law. Gifting Gift giving is common in the worldwide. A person will bring a bottle wine when he or she is invited by the host. However, different country has a

Cdr Professional Engineer Free Essays

PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER Summary Statement These are the competency Units and Elements. These elements must be addressed in the Summary Statement (see Section C). If you are applying for assessment as a Professional Engineer, you will need to download this page, complete it and lodge it with your application. We will write a custom essay sample on Cdr Professional Engineer or any similar topic only for you Order Now Competency Element |A brief summary of how you have applied the element |Paragraph in the career episode(s) | | | |where the element is addressed | |PE1 KNOWLEDGE BASE | | | |PE1. Knowledge of science and engineering | | | |fundamentals | | | |PE1. 2 In-depth technical competence in at least | | | |one engineering discipline | | | |PE1. Techniques and resources | | | |PE1. 4 General Knowledge | | | |PE2 ENGINEERING ABILITY | | | |PE2. Ability to undertake problem identification,| | | |formulation, and solution | | | |PE2. 2 Understanding of social, cultural, global, | | | |and environmental responsibilities and the need to| | | |employ principles of sustainable development | | |PE2. 3 Ability to utilise a systems approach to | | | |complex problems and to design and operational | | | |performance | | | |PE2. Proficiency in engineering design | | | |PE2. 5 Ability to conduct an engineering project | | | |PE2. 6 Understanding of the business environment | | | |PE3 PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES | | | |PE3. Ability to communicate effectively, with the| | | |engineering team and with the community at large | | | |PE3. 2 Ability to manage information and | | | |documentation | | | |PE3. Capacity for creativity and innovation | | | |PE3. 4 Understanding of professional and ethical | | | |responsibilities, and commitment to them | | | |PE3. Ability to function effectively as an | | | |individual and in multidisciplinary and | | | |multicultural teams, as a team leader or manager | | | |as well as an effective team member | | | |PE3. Capacity for lifelong learning and | | | |professional development | | | |PE3. 7 Professional Attitudes | | | How to cite Cdr Professional Engineer, Papers

Censorship Essay Example For Students

Censorship Essay Of Peter NoyesErin Lowe- also author of many outstanding American Historyessays. of which two are published somewhere here.. one about Peter Noyes,and another about Mercantilism.. Books wont stay banned. They wontburn. Ideas wont go to jail In the long run of history, the censor and theinquisitor have always lost. The only sure weapon against bad ideas is betterideas. The source of better ideas is wisdom. The surest path to wisdom is aliberal education. The only way that the ideas of this world that aredeemed bad are going to go away is if we are allowed to see them and changethem. If we are not allowed to see what is bad then our society willnever grow to become a better place. What censorship does is keep us protected;leaving us living sheltered lives. If we never see a racist comment how are weto know that racism is bad? At the same time Censorship can be a good thingbecause it keeps children from seeing pornography, and terrible acts ofviolence. However censorship should not keep anyone from seeing literature, evenif it is considered slightly explicit in a sexual, racial, or violent manner. Censorship should leave the ideas of people alone and leave them with theirfirst amendment rights. Amendment one of the United States Bill of Rights readsCongress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, orprohibiting the free exercise there of; or abridging the freedom of speech, orof the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble. Whatthis means is that we, in America have the right to be any religion, and to nothave that religion forced upon us. We have the right to say what we want and topublish our ideas if we so wish, and to read the ideas that others havepublished. We can also peaceably assemble, or gather in protest without violencewhat we think is wrong. The biggest right that we have is that of free speechand press. We can say what we want! As American sometimes we take this forgranted. However even though we have the right to free speech we have to drawthe line somewhere, but where? We so often condemn books that were writtento fight the very things that we claim to be fighting. This quoteillustrates one of the things that are so wrong with censorship. We seem to banor censor books, like The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, that are actuallyagainst racism or whatever the objection to the book is. When a book is takenthe wrong way it is simply the fault of the reader, and not the book. The booktherefore cannot be censored in this case. To override the right of free speechon the grounds that the speech in question is likely to harm or offend others isto commit an act of censorship. Not all censorship of this manner is unjustifiedhowever, for some speech causes significant and direct harm to others, such asmaliciously defaming speech, and speech which opens national secrets toenemies. There should be however a presumption that all speech isprotected from censorship in that the censor always has to prove and to persuadethe people that the speech is bad. In this way it is using new and better ideasto eliminate the bad ideas. The speaker should not have to prove every time thatan individual challenges his/her speech that it really is good. The proof has tobe that whatever harm or offense the speech has caused is significant, anddirect. Free speech is a valuable thing, and should not be restricted by itsremote or superficially adverse affect on others. Without free speech nosearch for truth is possible no discovery of truth is useful Better athousandfold abuse of free speech that denial of free speech. The abuse dies ina day, but the denial slays the life f the people, and entombs the hope of therace This quote had an excellent point in the case against censorship. Todiscover new ideas and the truth of life we need to be exposed to new thoughts,and different thoughts. If we always saw the same thoughts over and over wecould never expand; we could never become better as a society without new ideas. If new ideas cannot be written or seen then their discovery is useless, for theycannot help without being seen. SO it is better that we see cases in which freespeech is used in a bad way, such as in defaming specific people or groups orideas, than to have no free speech at all as a result of free censorship. Defaming something that should not be defamed can be recovered from, for goodthings will be supported more than gone against. Also, things that need to beobliterated from society will be by this right of free speech. The denial offree speech will smother the life of a society. A society where different ideasarent all owed will soon fail. However there is no right to harm or to offendother people. If an idea in a book is explicitly insulting a particular group orperson it could be censored, depending on the type of offense. If, for example abook says that African Americans are all stupid, simple, and should be killedoff for this fact the book should only be read by choice, and not be forced uponanyone. An adult is capable of making a choice not to read, or allow their childto read a book that is expressly offensive to them. People always seem to be notconcerned with what they read, but with what other people read. Quite often itis a white person that bans a book for fear that it might insult an AfricanAmerican, or a male, thinking that it might insult a female. Did you everhear anyone say That work had better be banned because I might read it and itmight me very damaging to me? People should really only censor forthemselves, and they should be allowed to censor for themselves. The mindthat becomes soiled in youth can never again be washed clean Thisstatement is in many cases true. Small children should not be exposed topornography, or to extreme violence, for their developing minds are veryimpressionable. However they can be exposed to a wide variety of ideas, so thatas they grow older they can decide for themselves what and who they want to be. Business Ethics EssayAs we look back at history, censorship has been gradually introduced and eliminated. Idolized role models have taken their own stand against censorship, such as the rap group 2 Live Crew, defending censorship against their own music. The Internet has added a whole new dimension to the issue, and introduced a whole new form of media that is virtually impossible to control. With the advances in technology, and the numerous new methods of transmitting media, it is a possibility that censorship will be unable to exist in future years. Social Issues Essays

Telecommunication Industry in Bangladesh Comparing Grameen Phone and Mobile Operator Aktel Essay Example

Telecommunication Industry in Bangladesh: Comparing Grameen Phone and Mobile Operator Aktel Essay Executive summery | Telecommunication industry is a booming sector in Bangladesh which is leading by Grameen phone and followed by the some mobile operator like Aktel, Banglalink, Warid telecom, City cell, Teletalk. This study is basically on Aktel; rationally we have taken Grameenphone as a benchmark. Aktel is one of the early comers in the mobile sector but its current position is not satisfactory. Their progress is not significant in comparison to Grameen phone and other existing operator. This study tried to scrutinize the gap between them from the perspective of quality service. We have made this comparison on the basis of some criteria such as customer care center, network capacity, customer satisfaction, corporate social responsibility, internet facility, employee satisfaction, brand image number of subscriber. This study has found some limitations of Aktel on the basis of above criteria, tried to recommend some suggestion to reduce the gap. |Introduction | Aktel is the third largest mobile phone company in terms of revenue and subscribers (8. 59 million as of February 2009). In terms of earning profit, Aktel was the second position in 2008 secured 3rd place in market position. It is the first mobile phone operator in the country to give GPRS service to the subscribers. Aktel launched its operation on the 15th November 1997 in Dhaka and on 26 March 1998 in Chittagong. Aktel started its journey with the earnest efforts of late Mr. Zahir uddin khan. Now Aktel stake is being shared by telecom Malaysia, Axiata, Docomo along with A. K. We will write a custom essay sample on Telecommunication Industry in Bangladesh: Comparing Grameen Phone and Mobile Operator Aktel specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Telecommunication Industry in Bangladesh: Comparing Grameen Phone and Mobile Operator Aktel specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Telecommunication Industry in Bangladesh: Comparing Grameen Phone and Mobile Operator Aktel specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Khan. Though Aktel has started its journey since 1997 it was the 2nd telecommunication company in Bangladesh. But the position the Aktel should be is yet to be achieved. Moreover, some new coming companies are gaining more market share instead of Aktel such as Banglalink, Warid. Though the early comer, Aktel is losing its market position in comparison with other mobile phone operators in Bangladesh. That’s why our survey tried to identify the reasons why Aktel cannot become the market leader. So we have selected a benchmark to make comparison with logically it is Grameen phone. Grameen phone, the giant mobile operator with the largest subscriber, operating in Bangladesh since 1997. At present Grameen phone is the only operator achieving profit and leading the market. Our survey tried to find out the gap between Grameen phone Aktel as well as present some suggestion to overcome the problem. |Objectives limitation | Objectives ? To identify present conditions of AKTEL in mobile phone service sector To identify the key performance variable with benchmark ? Specify programs and actions to reduce the gap with benchmark ? To evaluate the future potentiality of AKTEL to be the market leader ? To ensure proper guideline for strategic advantages. Limitation ? Sources were not enough. ? Unwilling to provide information due to security. ? There are little information regarding this sector ? Shortage of time. ? Lack of secondary data |Scope of the study | This study has showed the significant difference between the Grameenphone and Aktel in the term of their operatio n. †¢ This study has attempted to focus on the qualitative difference between the two companies. †¢ The relative parties can find some view about their current position †¢ This study has provided some suggestion to overcome the current problems. |Methodology | Two types of data are generally used to prepare a research paper such as primary data and secondary data. We have tried our best to collect both data information and have tried firm intention to emphasis on primary data as it is often up to date and more useful than any public information. We have visited both Aktel and Grameen phone center to collect actual and reliable data as we can make the report fruitful. We have also collected secondary data including internet, magazine, journal, periodical, and other publications. |Background of the study | Bangladesh, a country with 150 million people, is a potential market for the mobile phone company. To capture this potential market, some renowned and famous telecommunication companies have immerged in the recent years. From the very beginning city cell was the pioneer of the mobile industry, and then successively Grameenphone and Aktel have commenced their operation. In the course of time, Grameenphone has achieved a significant position leaving the other operator behind. Emergence of the two new companies Banglalink and Warid telecom have made this market more competitive than ever before. At the same time being an earlier mobile operator Aktel position is not expected at all. That why we have chosen Aktel to make the study with. For the logical reasons, Grameenphone is our benchmark. This study tried to find out the significant gap between Grameenphone and Aktel as well as to recommend some suggestions. |1. 1 Aktel in brief | Aktel is a dynamic and leading countrywide GSM communication solutions provider. It is a joint Venture company between Axiata and NTT Docomo, Japan. Aktel was officially commenced its operations in 1997 among the pioneers GSM mobile telecommunications provider in Bangladesh. Covering all 64 districts of the country, Aktel has become the first mobile operator to connect Tetulia and Teknaf, the northern and southern most points of Bangladesh and the first to provide seamless coverage along the Dhaka-Chittagong highway. Aktel supports 2G voice, CAMEL phase 2 and GPRS/EDGE service with high speed internet connectivity. It has the widest International Roaming coverage in Bangladesh connecting 440 operators across 203 countries. Aktel’s GSM service is based on a robust network architecture and cutting edge technology such as Intelligent Network (IN), which provides peace-of-mind solutions in terms of voice clarity, extensive nationwide network coverage, and multiple global partners for international roaming. Aktel customer centric solution includes value added services (VAS), quality customer care, easy access call centers, digital network security, and flexible tariff rates. With its strengths and competencies developed over the years, Aktel aims to provide the best quality service experience in terms of coverage and connectivity to its customers all over Bangladesh. |1. 2 Motto of Aktel | Vision: To be the leader as a Telecommunication Service Provider in Bangladesh. Mission: Aktel aims to achieve its vision through being number ‘one’ not only in terms of market share, but also by being an employer of choice with up-to-date knowledge and products geared to address the ever changing needs. Theme: Aktel always strives to uphold the dictum ‘Customer First’. Quality Policy: Aktel is committed to achieving leadership in customer satisfaction by continually improving its processes, products and services to ensure they consistently exceed customers’ requirements. We will develop and implement technology and infrastructure that enable us to be clearly ahead in Bangladesh and to enhance the mobility experience of our customers. |1. 3 Services of Aktel | Prepaid (furti): Prepaid Kingdom of Aktel offers all its Prepaid customers: †¢ Single prepaid package with the best rates in the market †¢ Different tariff plans in one package to meet different types of needs †¢ Instant, easy multiple migration facility from one tariff plan to another   †¢ 5 FnF to any operator mobile with one Aktel partner facility †¢ Full BTCL  connectivity with FREE BTCL  incoming †¢ Economy ISD (EISD) facility to call 55 countries of the world by dia ling 012 †¢ Extended and simplified refill validity for ease and freedom †¢ Nationwide Easy Load facility Nationwide Internet connectivity †¢ All available Value Added Services (e. g. SMS, MMS, GoonGoon, ringtone, wallpaper, games, animation downloads) Prepaid Tariff: |Normal tariff (without VAT) | |Particulars |TK. /min | |Outgoing |12am to 4pm |4pm to 12am | | |To Aktel |0. 8 |1. 48 | | |To other Operator |1. 48 |1. 48 | | |To Aktel FnF |0. 68 |0. 68 | | |To Other mobile operator FnF |0. 68 |0. 68 | | |To Aktel partner |0. 40 |0. 40 | | |To BTCL (Local/NWD) |1. 48 |1. 8 | | |To  International (IDD/EIDD)* |Only IDD/E-IDD Charges | |Incoming | |From  any number worldwide |Free | |Pulse | |Outgoing |60 sec from 1st minute | | |*For IDD E-IDD-15 sec pulse | Get a new connection: †¢ Package price Tk. 98 †¢ Welcome gift of Tk. 25 talk-time upon activation (applicable for any purpose) †¢ 60 days validity on activation †¢ Default tariff plan will be  Simple (with migration facility) †¢ Available at Aktel Customer Care, Aktel Care Point all the mobile outlets nationwide Aktel Postpaid: †¢ Call setup charge applicable for all calls  under simple plan. †¢ Line Rent Waived if monthly usage exceeds TK 500 (excluding monthly subscription fee e. g. Goon Goon subscription fee, Aktel PA etc) or if  customer subscribes unlimited GPRS . †¢ For IDD and E-IDD-15 sec pulse from 1st Minute. †¢   Conditions apply. Postpaid tariff:   Out going Voice Calls |  Any Operator |  BDT 1/min | | |  Aktel To BTCL |  BDT 1/min | | |  Aktel To International (IDD/E-IDD charges) |  Only IDD/E-IDD Charges | | |  FnF: Any Operator |  BDT 0. 68/min | | |  FnF: BTCL |  BDT 0. 68/min | | |  Partner Number |  BDT 0. 5/min | |  SMS   |  Any Operator |  BDT 1/SMS | | |  International |BDT  2/SMS | |  Connection Fee Others |  Connection Price |  BDT 499 | | |  Credit Limit |  BDT 300 | | |  Line Rent |  BDT 100 | | |  Pulse |  30 sec | | | | | |1. 4 Time wise achievement | [pic] 2. 1Grameenphone in Brief [pic] Grameenphone is now the leading telecommunications service provider in the country with more than 20 million subscribers as of June 2008. Presently, there are about 30 million telephone users in the country, of which, a little over one million are fixed-phone users and the rest mobile phone subscribers. Starting its operations on March 26, 1997, the Independence Day of Bangladesh, Grameenphone has come a long way. It is a joint venture enterprise between Telenor (62%), the largest telecommunications service provider in Norway with mobile phone operations in 12 other countries, and Grameen Telecom Corporation (38%), a non-profit sister concern of the internationally acclaimed micro-credit pioneer Grameen Bank. Over the years, Grameenphone has always been a pioneer in introducing new products and services in the local market. GP was the first company to introduce GSM technology in Bangladesh when it launched its services in March 1997. The technological know-how and managerial expertise of Telenor has been instrumental in setting up such an international standard mobile phone operation in Bangladesh. Being one of the pioneers in developing the GSM service in Europe, Telenor has also helped to transfer this knowledge to the local employees over the years. November 28, 1996 Grameenphone was offered a cellular license in Bangladesh by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications. March 26, 1997 Grameenphone launched its service on the Independence Day of Bangladesh. November 5, 2006 After almost 10 years of operation, Grameenphone has over 10 million subscribers. September 20, 2007 Grameenphone announces 15 million subscribers. The company has so far invested more than BDT 10,700 core (USD 1. 6 billion) to build the network infrastructure since its inception in 1997. It has invested over BDT 3,100 crore (USD 450 million) during the first three quarters of 2007 while BDT 2,100 crore (USD 310 million) was invested in 2006 alone. Grameenphone is also one the largest taxpayers in the country, having contributed nearly BDT 7000 core in direct and indirect taxes to the Government Exchequer over the years. Of this amount, over BDT 2000 core was paid in 2006 alone. Since its inception in March 1997, Grameenphone has built the largest cellular network in the country with over 10,000 base tations in more than 5700 locations. Presently, nearly 98 percent of the countrys population is within the coverage area of the Grameenphone network. Grameenphone was also the first operator to introduce the pre-paid service in September 1999. It established the first 24-hour Call Center, introduced value-added services such as VMS, SMS, fax and data transmission services, international roaming service, WAP, SMS-based push-pull services, EDGE, personal ring back tone and many other products and services. The entire Grameenphone network is also EDGE/GPRS enabled, allowing access to high-speed Internet and data services from anywhere within the coverage area. There are currently nearly 3 million EDGE/GPRS users in the Grameenphone network. In addition, the Village Phone Program, also started in 1997, provides a good income-earning opportunity to more than 210,000 mostly women Village Phone operators living in rural areas. The Village Phone Program is a unique initiative to provide universal access to telecommunications service in remote, rural areas. Administered by Grameen Telecom Corporation, it enables rural people who normally cannot afford to own a telephone to avail the service while providing the VP operators an opportunity to earn a living. Grameenphone nearly doubled its subscriber base during the initial years while the growth was much faster during the later years. It ended the inaugural year with 18,000 customers, 30,000 by the end of 1998, 60,000 in 1999, 193,000 in 2000, 471,000 in 2001, 775,000 in 2002, 1. 16 million in 2003, 2. 4 million in 2004, 5. 5 million in 2005, 11. 3 million in 2006, and it ended 2007 with 16. 5 million customers. |2. 2 Services of Grameenphone | Prepaid service of Grameenphone (Smile): †¢ SMILE subscribers will enjoy reduced tariff of only Tk 1. 50/min (8am-12pm and 4pm-12am) for all GP to GP calls and Tk 2/min to any other operator (8 am-12 am). A call to a BTCL number will cost Tk. 2. During 12 pm to 4 pm tariff for any GP-GP call is 0. 49/min. †¢ Under a promotional offer smile subscribers now can talk to any GP number only at Tk. 0. 49/min  from 12 am to  8 am in the morning. At the same time calls to any other operators will cost Tk. 1. 00/min. †¢ SMS to any GP number and to other local operators  number  is Tk. 1 and international operators are Tk. 2. †¢ 15% VAT will be applicable on all tariffs. Post paid Service (Xplore): Xplore  Postpaid has come up with a very attractive and competitive tariff. |GP-GP | Bangladesh has 52. 3 million subscribers in total, (December 2009) |Rank |Operator |Technology |Subscribers |Ownership | | | | |(in millions) | | |1 |GP |GSM, GPRS, EDGE |23. 26 |Telenor (62%) and Grameen Telecom (38%) | |2 |Banglalink |GSM, GPRS, EDGE |13. 87 |Orascom Telecom (100%) | |3 |Aktel |GSM, GPRS, EDGE |9. 29 |Axiata Group Berhad (70%) and NTT DoCoMo(30%) | |4 |Warid |GSM, GPRS, EDGE |2. 9 |Warid Telecom (30%), | | | | | |AIRTEL (70%) | |5 |City cell |CDMA2000 1x, CDMA2000 1xEvDO |1. 95 |Pacific Group, Far East Telecom Limited, SingTel | | | |Rev. A | |(45%) | |6 |Teletalk |GSM, GPRS, EDGE |1. 07 |State-owned | [pic] 3. 1 Comparison between Aktel and Grameen phone profit Grameenphone: Grameenphone is the leader in the market in achieving profit at a high rate. Grameenphone have secured 1st position in earning profit. Aktel: Aktel is at second position in earning profit as if Aktel is more earlier and experienced company but still it is struggling in mobile industry. Entering the share market Grameenphone: Grameenphone has already entered into share market. So people of our country have got a change to invest on share market that is necessary for our economic growth. Aktel: In this case, Aktel is yet to move for share market. We have come to know that there is a possibility to enter into share market in next year but the initiative should have taken early. Advertisement and promotional activities Grameenphone: promotional activities of Grameenphone are far reaching. Grameenphone put emphasis largely on promotional activities that have enhanced its popularity among the people irrespective of age, class personality. Aktel: promotional activities of Aktel are not something special to mention about. Their contribution in this sector is insufficient comparing to other operators. There promotional activities necessaries more attention in this sector to compete in this competitive mobile industry. Network coverage Grameenphone: Grameenphone have strong network coverage that is out of reach than any other operator in Bangladesh. They are covering 98% area of country. Actually general people chose Grameenphone more because of their strong network coverage. Aktel: Aktel network coverage is not so much weak but still insufficient to challenge Grameenphone in this competitive market. Aktel is just covering 65% area of Bangladesh. [pic] Employee Grameenphone: Grameenphone have significant amount of employees. GP has generated direct and indirect employment for a large number of people over the years. The company presently has more than 5,000 full and  temporary employees. Another 100,000 people are directly dependent on Grameenphone for their livelihood, working for the Grameenphone dealers, retailers, scratch card outlets, suppliers, vendors, contractors and others. Aktel: Aktel has also significant number of employees but not sufficient in comparison with the grameenphone. The company presently has approximately 3500 full and temporary employees. Another 7000 people are directly dependent on Grameenphone for their livelihood, working for the Grameenphone dealers, retailers, scratch card outlets, suppliers, vendors, contractors and others. [pic] corporate social responsibility [pic] Corporate social responsibility, as we see it, is a ‘complementary combination of ethical and responsible corporate behavior, as well as a commitment towards generating greater good for the society by addressing the development needs of the country. Our core strategy in this area is to be Bangladeshs partner in developing the country, particularly in its promise, as a United Nations Millennium Declaration signatory, to meet the eight targets known as the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. We have consolidated our social investment initiatives in four core areas related to the Millennium Development Goals namely, †¢ Poverty alleviation, †¢ Healthcare, †¢ Empowerment †¢ Education Grameenphone with Bangladesh cricket: Grameenphone is one of the fanatic patronizes of the Bangladesh cricket team. They have extended their helping hand towards they Bangladesh cricket any time when needed. They have sponsored of many cricket series not only in Bangladesh but also in abroad. As cricket is a popular game in Bangladesh, so Grameenphone is achieving much popularity through sponsoring the cricket team. [pic] Aktel is always committed to the society. In fact, 2005 2006 were a year of exploration into Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for Aktel. To actively identify and start establishing Aktel as a concerned entity devoted to the development of many social interests throughout greater Bangladesh based on four core values. These are enlightened through education, Assure better health, Protect environment and Fight with poverty. In recognition of its CSR effort, Aktel is the first among all mobile phone operators to win prestigious â€Å"Standard Chartered-Financial Express Corporate Social Responsibility Award-2006†. Aktel believes education platform remains the main focus to develop a nation. To ensure an early jump into technology and intellectual transfer, Aktel has established a tradition of providing scholarships every year to three promising individuals to complete their higher studies in Multimedia University in Cyberjaya, Malaysia. To provide a world-class teaching and learning resources for Bangladeshi professionals Aktel joined hand with Chittagong Skills Development Centre (CSDC), Underprivileged Childrens Educational Programs (UCEP-Bangladesh), etc. Aktel also aims to identify and supports indeed those in need of basic infrastructure to practice the fundamentals of Islam. This contribution goes in building orphanages and renovations of mosques all across the Bangladesh. To improve living condition of distressed people; Aktel has always been providing support to them. As a shared concern with the society at large, Aktel also focused towards the roaming street children found throughout Bangladesh. Not only will Aktel continue its thrust towards identifying involving itself with more avenues for CSR activities, we encourage the fellow enterprise of Bangladesh to participate in such activities on a regular basis. By becoming more aware of living social community, Aktel can certainly see so many areas to be involved in. Only through concerted efforts of the private sector, there will be emerged a socially responsible collective consciousness CSR Highlights Aktel –Daily Star EIS (English in School) launched |  [pic] | Aktel The Daily Star have jointly initiated   English in Schools ( EIS), a language learning program   to promote English language learning at secondary schools across the country. Under the three-year programmed, three complimentary copies of The Daily Star will be distributed to around 1,000 schools each in 64 districts five days a week. Every week, there will be a special page containing materials on English language useful for teachers and students in and outside the school. Aktel stands besides cold affected underprivileged people of the city: Aktel, one of the largest cellular phone operators in Bangladesh has joined hands with Anjuman-Mufidul-Islam, a hundred years old civic organization in distributing blankets to the underprivileged people of the city. Aktel joined hands with SEID trust: To rehabilitate children with disabilities especially intellectual and multiple disabilities into mainstream society and to facilitate activities directed towards ensuring the rights of such children, Aktel, country’s largest telecom service provider joined its hands with SEID (Special Education for Intellectually Disabled) Trust, a non- governmental voluntary organization. Aktel stands besides SOMA: Aktel commenced for SMS campaign in raising funds for the treatment of Ms. Soma Akter (17), who was suffering from terminal illness of thalasimia (blood cancer). [pic] Aktel in Bishwa Estema 2008 Aktel had taken initiative of executing various activities in Bishwa Estema, the 2nd largest Muslim gathering in the world after Holy Hajj in which millions of people came from different parts of the world to participate in this pilgrimage. Among the initiatives, are to provide instant primary aids to the pilgrims through free medical check-up by a team of certified doctors at the Aktel  voluntary medical service point from morning to night. Aktel also served free pure drinking water for the pilgrims of Bishwa Estema. [pic] Aktel-Debate Championship ’08: The Aktel Debate Championship ‘08 was organized by Drishty Chittagong. In the week long program, 7th inter school English debate competition and 1st Inter university English debate competition were held. [pic] Aktel’s contribution for BRAC’s education programme: Aktel, country’s one of the largest cell phone operators assisted in publishing the book titled ‘Nana Desher Nana Manush’ under the nonformal and continuing education program conducted by Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC). The cheque was handed over to The Book Group, the authorized publisher, Mr. Syed Nazmul Abdal, Executive Director of The Book Group. With this financial aid, about 10000 copies of informative children books will be published for non-formal schools run by BRAC. Employee satisfaction Grameenphone: Grameenphone considers its employees to be one of its most important assets. GP has an extensive employee benefit scheme in place including Gratuity, Provident Fund, Group Insurance, Family Health Insurance, Transportation Facility, Day Care Centre, Childrens Education Support, and Higher Education Support for employees, in-house medical support and other initiatives. Aktel: Aktel has also some employee development plan for its employees. Aktel has transportation facilities, festival bonus, insurance facilities, and medical facilities for its employees but in some case grameenphone is more ahead than Aktel. So grameenphone is achieving more employee satisfaction as well as quality service. Taking quick and revolutionary decision Grameenphone: Grameenphone phone was the first mobile company operating in our country, that’s why they have to face several challenging decisions which they have overcame very successfully by their innovative and snatch decisions. Grameenphone internet facilities, entering share market, vital role in CSR programe that efficiently performed by the grameenphone than any other existing mobile operator in Bangladesh. Aktel: Aktel have also introduced some revolationalry and innovative decision in this sector like 10 sec/pulse, e-fill facility, extended validity of balance, balance transfer, 5 FnF offer, and surprising call rate through introducing Aktel joy. Quality customer service Grameenphone: From the very beginning, Grameenphone placed emphasis on providing good after-sales services. In recent years, the focus has been to provide after-sales within a short distance from where the customers live. There are now more than 600 GP Service Desks across the country covering nearly all upazilas of 61 districts. In addition, there are  72 Grameenphone Centers in all the divisional cities and they remain open from 8am-7pm every day including all holidays. Aktel: Customer Care Centers have been established to meet the customer’s needs and demands, under one roof. Staffed with professionals, these Centers cater to any queries that may have regarding AKTEL and its products / services. Any support regarding AKTEL connection, be it as simple as paying your bills or activating any of AKTEL’s innovative value-added services, is available at these Centers. AKTEL has 19 Customer Care Centers and 200 Customer Service Points in 61 allowable districts all over the country. Aktel has another 670 Aktel Touch Points (ATP) scattered along the most densely populated areas. [pic] Providing internet facility Grameenphone: Grameenphone is one of the mobile phone operators who got the internet facility. Recently the popularity of grameenphone internet is sky reaching. Grameenphone has introduced special modem facility @ 3200 only for availing their internet facility and that’s why, now a day’s grameenphone becoming an untouchable leader in the mobile industry. [pic] [pic] [pic] Aktel: On the other hand, Aktel is yet to introduce any such facility for their valuable customers that may drive their subscriber to depend on any other operators. So it is urgent need to provide this facility to retain their valued customers. Introducing hand set Grameenphone: Recently grameenphone has introduced a hand set of their own including camera, internet facility, MMS, FM radio facilities with a minimum cost. Through introducing hand set, grameenphone have touched a new milestone in this sector. Aktel: Aktel have not launched any such mobile phone yet now. They need to give emphasis on this sector to capture new customers. Brand image Grameenphone: Brand image of grameenphone is far better than other mobile phone operator in Bangladesh. So the company is getting more attention by the general people. Aktel: Aktel brand image is also lucrative to the people but in this term grameenphone has achieved more success whereas Aktel clearly lagging behind. |Recommendation | †¢ Network capacity of Aktel should be enhanced to capture more customers. Customer care center facilities should be developed and available to the existing customers. †¢ Advertisement promotional activities of Aktel should be up to the mark. †¢ Employee satisfaction should be ensured to get quality work. †¢ Corporate social responsibility should be performed more to create a lucrative impression. †¢ Internet facilities should be provided to cope up with this competitive market. †¢ Aktel sh ould take some steps to enter into share market. †¢ Value added services should be increased. †¢ Quality customers’ services must be ensured. |Conclusion | Mobile phone industry has brought about a silent revolution and a radical change in our standard of living. This sector is very attractive to the companies eventually, it is being more competitive day by day. So to survive in this competitive market, the company should be more careful about the satisfying customer needs. This study has showed why a company like Aktel is lagging behind then the leader. So there have a little bit concern for the Aktel to improve their service quality as well as their market position. So it is high time to come forward with the comprehensive movement to achieve the expected position in the current market. [pic][pic]

buy custom Cognizant IT Company essay

buy custom Cognizant IT Company essay The scope of this paper will be confined towards the analysis of recruitment practices prevalent in Cognizant Technologies Solutions Corp. There are various techniques used in the recruitment and staffing processes for the purpose of human resource planning. These practices will be analyzed in this research. In this regard, the paper will specifically consider the recruitment practices in the Cognizant Technologies company in the IT sector. The aim of this research will be focused on the analysis of different practices prevalent in this company; one best practice among them will also be selected. For this purpose, a specific research methodology will be selected and implemented in the light of this research aim. After that the researcher will make use of data collected for the purpose of interpreting findings to decide about any solution for the intended research question. The data collection methodologies will focus on both data collection methods, in order to assure for the accuracy related with the findings, which will be derived out of the processing and interpretation of the data. All the principles and the guidelines which are being followed in the recruitment practices of information and technology personnel will be discussed and associated with the research.. All the discussion carried out will be in form of conclusion at the end of the research work. Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp. is an information and technology company in America which also offers consulting and outsourcing services in business processes. Cognizant Technologies operates in IT services and IT consulting industry. The company has been one of the best ranked U.S. companies in the year 2011. The nature of the business environment in which the company operates includes its competitors, suppliers, distributors, employees, stakeholders, and customers. Such business environment influences company's marginal sales and profitability. The success in any company like Cognizant Solutions Company, which usually operates mainly for marketing and the acquisition of high profits, is dependent on the management and the establishment of all the products and services that are being offered by the company. For a company to be able to compete and survive in the competitive market, it has to be very successful. The success of a company or organization can be defined by the cons tant innovation and development of the companys product lines and the increasing clientele numbers. Several methodologies are used for the purpose of recruitment and selection of candidates who are suitable for the discharge of organisational commitments. Discharge of organisational duties and commitments may refer to the effective role play related to the job profile handed over to the incumbent. The selection process aims to analyse skills and capabilities of the candidates in relation to the requirements that are to be fulfilled when they are assigned a task. There are many positive and negative aspects that are associated with all the different techniques that are employed for the purpose of recruitment and selection. Accordingly, the human resource planning is a key area that needs to be focused on for the development of the entire organization and for the accomplishment of organizational goals. Primarily, this research paper seeks to analyse the advantages and disadvantages of the techniques employed for the purpose of recruitment. Thus, there is a potential need for it to be carried out in order to gain an insight into the different recruitment and selection practices used in Cognizant Technologies. This will ultimately help members in the organisation to decide upon the most appropriate method of recruitment. The recruitment and selection in Cognizant Technologies has been considered as a very important task at the workplace and the entire process is regarded as crucial for the success of the company. The research background explains that there are several techniques employed for the purpose of staff recruitment. These techniques are extremely crucial and do have an impact on the organisational dimensions. In this regard the research question and the other areas to be focused on are also defined in this part of the research work. The key question revolves around the analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of various recruitment techniques; while the ancillary questions that are designed to support the main question are related to consideration of specific conditions and situations in the recruitment process. During the recruitment and selection process, there is a multi-fold interference of technology which is adopted in the company. As a result, when it comes to the selection of professionals for the company itself, there is a pressing need to be more focused and meticulous in the selection criteria and recruitment techniques. This indicates the significance of this research project and explains the aspects that are required in terms of prioritising during the course of the research work. The research motive is related to the evaluation of the relative advantages and disadvantages that underpin the recruitment and selection techniques that are adopted within Cognizant Technologies Company. A sample size of 50 respondents in the companys information technology sector was selected on a random basis. The sample size of 50 IT executives, who are handling senior positions and are directly related with the recruitment tasks carried out in this sector, has been selected. It is evident that with the small sample size, it is not possible to gain considerable results, and, as such, the results obtained cannot be generalized for the entire population. Typeofstudy The study is both quantitative and qualitative. It involves multivariate regression statistic to study the target group. The statistical instrument used is quantitative as it showed the number of participants studied, while the correlation between the different variables is qualitative. Hypothesis It was assumed that there is a direct relationship between the recruitment practices and the general success of the company. Procedure A survey would be carried out using questionnaire; the target audiences for this purpose are the management members functional in Cognizant Technologies. Alongside them, managers responsible for the recruitment and selection procedures are also being targeted. Also, in this particular research, the questionnaire has been designed in a way that it is inclusive of several questions related to the recruitment practices being followed in the information and technology sector in Cognizant Technologies. All these questions are meant to gain an insight in the practices prevalent in this industry and in keeping with this, the skills required to be present in the IT professionals are also realized. In this questionnaire, some alternatives have been stated from which respondents have to select. This would assist respondents in their attempt to complete the questionnaire easily. The use of a structured questionnaire makes the research process smooth, as these questionnaires are easy to administer, and they are also relatively inexpensive. The option of alternate replies at various times helps respondents to understand the meaning of the questionnaire. The results of the impact study are described in three sections. Based on the results, in response to the section I, it was found out that the majority of the people who are involved with Cognizant IT Company are mostly young people who are between the ages of 20-35, which represented about 70% of the total respondents; with the least respondents belonging to the people who are above 40 years. A total of 56 professionals out of 100 were IT graduates. Only 24 respondents were qualified up to IT Post-graduation and 20 respondents had professional qualification other than graduation and post-graduation in IT. This reflects that mostly young graduates dominate in the IT sector and are recruited by companies. It was revealed in the graph that 50 out of 100 respondents had been working for a time period of 2-5 years, while 36 respondents had been working for less than 2 years. It should be noted that only 10 out of 100 respondents had been working for a period of 6-9 years, while very few, i.e. only 4 respondents, had an experience of more than ten years in the IT sector. In the responses to section II, a total of 78 respondents out of 100 said that the organisations had effective recruitment practices when they were questioned about whether the organisation had effective recruitment practices or not. One should point out that only 18 respondents answered that the organisations did not have effective recruitment practices, and only 4 out of 100 replied 'can't say', as their response, which reflects that the respondents were indeed neutral to the question. A total of 30 out of 78 respondents replied that utilising the best recruiting tools is the most important factor, which makes recruitment process effective. 26 respondents replied that the cost involved is the most important parameter. On the other hand, 16 expressed their concern with the time consumed parameter and 6 participants replied that resource required is the most important parameter. It can be said that the time consumed and effectiveness are the most crucial parameters. In response to the section III, the participants filled out a Likert Scale, where the respondents expressed their responses in terms of strongly agree (1), agree (2), neutral (3), disagree (4) and strongly disagree (5). 36 and 30 respondents expressed their response in terms of strongly agree and agree correspondingly. On the other hand, two groups of 16 and 16 respondents expressed their responses in terms of disagree and strongly disagree, while only 2 participants replied were neutral. It can be said that the recruitment practices being used in Cognizant Technology Solutions are the most appropriate. 56 disagree with the incorporation of a new technology, and 8 of the participants have remained neutral. It can be said that there is no need for the incorporation of new technologies, as the current recruitment practices are effective. A total of 50 disagreed with the need for the alignment and 6 of the participants remained neutral to the question. It can be concluded that the alignment of the different recruitment practices with each other is needed to increase the impact of the recruitment process. 22 and 22 expressed their response in terms of strongly agree and agree to the question concerning the requirement of special skills for the discharge of activities to be carried out in the IT sector. On the other hand, 28 and 22 respondents expressed their responses in terms of disagree and strongly disagree, while only 6 participants replied neutral as their response out of 100 respondents. It can be said that there is a requirement of special skills for the discharge of activities to be carried out in the IT sector of the company. There were 26 and 28 respondents who expressed their opinion in terms of strongly agree and agree to the question concerning the use of employee referrals for recruitment in IT companies. On the other hand, 20 and 18 respondents expressed their views in terms of disagree and strongly disagree, while 8 participants preferred to be neutral. It was pointed out that a change could be seen in the recruitment practices in the last few years with respect to the IT industry. This is due to the fact that the majority of participants, i.e. 42 and 26 respondents out of 100 provided their responses in terms of strongly agree and agree to the question concerning change in the recruitment practices in the past few years within Cognizant Company. On the other hand, 18 and 13 respondents expressed their responses in terms of disagree and strongly disagree, while only 1 participant kept neutral in response to the question. Discussion There are several types of recruitment practices, which are followed and carried out in Cognizant Technologies. It is a very basic and core business activity that is carrieed out in each and every organisation. Similarly, there are beliefs according to which it is stated that recruitment practices are very crucial for such organisations. On the basis of the recruitment practices carried out in the business, a talent pool of favourable candidates is created. This explains that recruitment practices play a crucial role in the human resource planning of any establishment. The type of skills being utilised in the organisation paves the way for the corporate future. This can be further supported in the light of the fact that employees are regarded as the pillars of the organisation. With the use of employees' skills and intellect, organisation can realize the available opportunities in the most appropriate and fruitful manner. There are several techniques which are utilised for the purpose of recruitment and selection of employees, and a number of these techniques are most favourable and are preferred over other means. There are two broad headings in which these recruitment techniques are classified; namely internal and external recruitment techniques. In terms of the internal techniques, they are confined to the limits of the organisation and mainly focus on the employees working in the organisation. One of the practices followed and realised in regard to internal recruitment practices can be defined as succession planning. There are serious efforts which are carried out on the part of organisations in this regard, and account for managing the needs of senior level employees in a proactive manner. With regards to the term proactive, it is worth mentioning that succession planning is carried out before time, when there is no actual position for the profile. On the other hand, there are some other techniques, which are used for recruitment purposes and are defined as internal to the organisation. Also, there are certain positions for which recruiting procedures are carried out on the basis of employee referrals. Various benefits are associated with the use of internal recruitment techniques and one of the key benefits to be mentioned in this regard is related to the attitude of the hired employees. The employees who are hired on behalf of the referrals of the existing employees are well aware of the norms and practices of the organisation of which they are going to be a part. It helps in the development of a favourable and positive attitude. As for the other category of recruitment practices, it is defined as external recruitment practices, and entails all the sources which are external to the company. Some of the examples to be mentioned in this category are campus placement, use of consultants, newspaper advertisements etc. Specific features are in fact associated with these techniques, which helps in the selection of the most appropriate process of recruitment for the company. RecommendationsandConclusions Recruitment and selection practices are the most important aspects to be associated with any organisation like Cognizant Solutions. With the use of these techniques, the corporate plans can be long term in terms of contemporary trends in the industry. It illustrates the importance and impact of recruitment practices in the growth rate and success of the company. This can be elaborated further in that there is a need for the right kind of personnel for a particular job profile. On the basis of this job alignment with the skills of the employees, organisational success can be ensured. As for findings, which have been determined in light of this research work, there are certain recommendations which are required to be followed by companies functional or running the information and technology sector. The first recommendation, which can be deduced in this regard, is related to the use of recruitment practices. There are questions in the survey which are related to this aspect and tend to determine the orientation of the IT executives of this industry, who are engaged in the process of recruitment and selection of the employees. The responses analysed in the results section suggest that there is a need for an IT professional to deal with the governance of the recruitment process to be carried out in an effective manner. It is recommended for current companies in the information and technology industry that they should make use of a person having work experience in the IT industry, so that he/she could associate with the specific organisational needs for various profiles. This will enhance the impact and effectiveness of the recruitment activities. There are some more recommendations, which are to be incorporated for the enhancement of the effectiveness of the recruitment practices in this organisational sector. There are findings suggesting that most of the IT related recruitment practitioners believe that newspaper advertisements are the most effective method to create a talent pool. In this regard, it is recommended for Cognizant Solutions to make use of this technique to deal with the need and requirement of hiring IT professionals for the company. This will help the company to take full advantage of the benefits associated with this recruitment technique. It is clearly stated and shown in the findings section that most of the people engaged in the recruitment practices in the IT sector are related to the use of these techniques and tend to focus on them only. Hence, the company is advised to keep away from trying new recruitment techniques for crucial positions. On the basis of the responses gained, it can be recommended for IT professionals to use these recruitment techniques in an integrated manner, which will help in the accomplishment of a proper alignment between these techniques. This recommendation is based on the nature and skills required for various job profiles. There is a need for a particular type of recruitment activity for different positions. In this context, it can be stated that senior level jobs require credible and more qualified personnel, and for this, employee referrals are more suitable. While on the other hand, for lower level jobs, which are more oriented towards regular work and demand less autonomy, newspaper advertisements are the best suited recruitment practice. Buy custom Cognizant IT Company essay

How to Use Flash Cards to Study Chemistry

How to Use Flash Cards to Study Chemistry Flash cards can be a great study aid. You can use them to help memorize facts, lists, and structures as well as to reinforce important concepts. Heres how to prepare and use flash cards to study. Learning Facts with Flash Cards Start with a stack of blank index cards.On one side of a card, write a question or name of a structure you need to memorize. On the back of the card, write the answer. Limit yourself to one fact per card.Prepare as many cards as you need.To use the cards effectively, view the question and quiz yourself. Do you know the answer? Check the back of the card. If you answered correctly, set the card aside. If you were wrong, place the card on the back of your stack so that you will see it again.Proceed through your stack of cards. Set aside cards you get right and continue through cards you get wrong until you have gotten all questions/answers correct.Now shuffle the cards and repeat the process.Practice makes perfect, so if you get frustrated, set the cards aside and come back to them. Go through your cards every day (or more often, if you are cramming). Memorizing a List with Flash Cards If you are memorizing an ordered list, try to guess the next card before you look at it. Continue through your list until you get a wrong answer.With the cards in the same order, start from the beginning and go through the cards to see if you can get further.For long lists, it may help to break the list up into manageable pieces, such as three smaller stacks of cards. Once you get the smaller stacks correct, put them together and see if you can recite the entire list.

Intellectual property Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 1

Intellectual property - Assignment Example Past rulings by the CJEU and The High Court of England and Wales, will be useful in analyzing the soundness of this injunction. According to the EU’s E-commerce Directive, there is need for a balance to be struck in order to create a system that exempts intermediaries such as the information society service provider who function as conduits of information and do not engage in monitoring or editing of content1. In the case project, balance is not struck. The Directive clearly states that an intermediary that expeditiously removes access to illegal content once they have received notice of the infringement will not be held liable. Additionally, Article 12.1 of the Directive states that a service provider cannot be held liable for content transmitted through its network if the provider does not start the transmission, does not choose the receiver of the content, and does not alter the content. The above injunction against the Information Society Services Provider is blanket in na ture, which deviates from the E-commerce detective. The E- Commerce Directive rules out the creation of monitoring obligations for intermediaries. According to article 15, limitation of liability should not be interpreted as giving any obligation. In the above case, the injunction is giving an obligation to the provider. This implies that providers of online material will not be liable for illegal material that has been availed in their networks by its clients if the provider is a mere channel and has processes in place to take out the material quickly; and they will not be required to supervise activity in advance2. This principle of limitation of liability for internet service providers is applicable in many jurisdictions. Despite the present legislation, the debate concerning intermediary liability continues with industry and regulators raising the issue of liability. In analyzing this

Marketing Plan Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Marketing Plan - Research Paper Example Sylva make-up kit will contain the best ingredients that will ensure the make-up does not fade for 15 hours. The product will also contain ingredients that will ensure the face is moist and aerated throughout the day. Sylva make-up kit will also be creatively packaged with a velvet cover that will contain the company logo. The mission of Sylva Company is to develop continually and bring to the market quality cosmetic products at an acceptable price. The company aims at introducing Sylva make-up kit to the market and record high sales and 70% profit margin. Sylva will employ a brand building approach as the rationale for the marketing plan. The company will attain this through a marketing mix that incorporates unique product attributes, suitable distribution and effective promotional mix. The primary marketing objectives are to generate netted revenue from retail sales and obtain new funding sources. The promotional mix will include intense advertising in print, audio-visual and the internet. Sylva will position itself through renowned print media such as the Vogue, Vanity Fair, In Style and Cosmopolitan. Increasing the presence of the product on the internet is anticipated to yield better results. The product will also be marketed through personal relation campaigns and point of sale that will reinforce the product’s message of quality. The United States cosmetics market is saturated with cosmetic companies. The industry has continuously grown. This industry is set to increase in the next five years. As a result, Sylva Company is set to benefit from it. The product has four primary competitors. These include Aveda, Clinique, Essential Elements and Kiehl’s Company. The product hopes to increase its customer base by

Basant as a Cultural Heritage of Lahore Essay Example for Free

Basant as a Cultural Heritage of Lahore Essay Basant as a cultural heritage of Lahore by Yasir Raza Naqvi Lahore is an exceptionally festive city. The people of Lahore commemorate many festivals and events throughout the year, amalgamating Mughal, Western and current trends. This blending is extended to include the grand and historically significant festival of Basant. Though religiously not a Muslim cultural event, it is widely celebrated by the Muslim majority population Lahore. It is precisely due to the same reason coupled with other ‘non-Islamic’ practices that it has come under severe criticism by the mullahs. The celebration of Basant grew at an increasing rate in the late 90’s till 2005 where it suddenly came under ban due to an increasing number of deaths caused by highly tensile glass coated threads. Due to the official recognition during Musharraf’s early regime, kite making had become an industry, employing hundreds of thousands of people. The implementation of ban of kite flying followed by the ban on kite making left almost 500,000 families employed. Political turmoil followed by the ban on Basant added misery to the already crawling economy of Pakistan as the number of tourists who came to Lahore just to see the magnificent event of Basant fell tremendously. Therefore, In this essay, I tend to analyze the tri fold significance that Basant holds for Lahore. I would briefly shed light on the history of Basant and its transformation over the years till today coupled with the criticism it faced by religious elements of Pakistan. I would later explain how Basant becomes the center of tourist attraction, and generates a lot of revenue for the local industry thus securing an important position in translating the cultural heritage of Lahore. I would also seek to mention the reasons for the implementation of ban on Basant and propose solutions to uplift it. In the pre-partitioned Punjab, Hindus, especially of Lahore- celebrated Basant by flying kites. It was precisely during that time that the Muslims of Lahore, almost equal in number-comprising of the 48% of the population of Lahore, were instructed by the mullahs of that time to refrain from celebrating the event as it was typically a Hindu festival. However, the youth of that time did take part in the event by flying kites. After partition, almost all the Hindus had left Lahore for India but their tradition of Basant remained; and even today Lahoris take pride in Basant and fly kites from their rooftops with the same enthusiasm. Being the historic capital of Punjab there is no other place where Basant is elebrated with as much vigour and enthusiasm as the ancient city of Lahore. Traditionally, a festival confined to the old-walled city, it has now spread throughout the city. The celebration of Basant is incomplete without the kites and it is for the same reason that Michael Palin in his book Himalaya says: â€Å"Everyone in Lahore flies their kites for a day. † (Palin) Marshall Cavendish in his book People of Western Asia briefly states about the history of Basant and its celebration in the following words: â€Å"Lahores spring festival, Basant (buh-SAHNT): also known as Jashen-e- Baharan), is celebrated in February or March each year. It is an ancient festival that has become increasingly popular in recent years, attracting visitors from other parts of the country. Basant is celebrated with feasting, music, dance and crafts, and the wearing of yellow costumes or scarves, a symbol of the new spring. The most striking feature of the festival is the kite flying. Thousands of kites of all shapes, sizes and colors fill the skies and soar from parks and city roofs. At night, music rings and while white kites are flown, which reflect lights and fireworks. Throughout Pakistan there are local spring fairs with folk dancing; feasting; fairground attractions, such as swings and ferries wheels (sometimes made of wood in rural areas); music; and sporting contests. † (Cavendish) The celebration of this event which includes the spending on the purchase of kites has constantly being termed by the mullahs as un Islamic. In an interesting piece written by Roy McCarthy in The Guardian (17th May 2003), a young woman supporter of the Jamiyat (religious party) is reported as vehemently arguing against Basant. It is not Pakistani culture. Pakistanis don’t need new festivals. The most obnoxious part of the Basant is that it encourages young men and women to dance together and drink alcohol. This is not Islam. This is not Pakistan. This is not part of our civilization. † (The Guardian) The cry by the Jamiyat and other religious parties to impose ban on purely religious grounds, that is, Basant being a Hindu festival and thus unIslamic; therefore it should not be celebrated for the same reason might not be a reasonable argument. Firstly because, Basant is more of an ethnic event and it was celebrated by the Hindus and Muslims (the younger lot) alike by flying kites on Basant day and kite flying is more of a sport in the contemporary world, so the question of kite flying being Islamic or unIslamic does not arise . Secondly, ‘there is no denial to the fact that religion is very important and integral part of the culture of Pakistan but we should remember that cultural traditions are also a cause to celebrate and if nothing else the celebration of Basant can be viewed by the specific gathering of the ethnic group. This is further strengthened by the statement made by Sheikh Saleem, lahori and a local kite maker, eid musalmanon ki hoti hai or Basant lahoriyon ki. Thus it is purely a cultural event and Basant and kite-flying contrary to fundamentalist perceptions had nothing to do with religion. Thirdly, Basant has always been supported by the sufis of the past who were the early preachers of Islam in the subcontinent and were all very close to religion of Islam. However, during times when the state comes under religious influences (MMA had an impressive victory in October 2002), there are efforts to discourage what is, after all, not a religious festival. Pakistan† (Rengel) Sufis of Sub-Continent have a convention of adjusting to the local culture and language of the places they visited to spread Islam. The Chishti sufis, have not only tried to relate to the South Asian culture and music, they even tested and developed different cultural forms. Basant is a living example of religious open-mindedness and respectfulness of other creations of God. Previously, it was these Dargahs and Khaneqahs, which served as basis where people could share equal liberty, message of transparency and oneness. Basant is a tradition initiated eight hundred years ago by the famous poet Amir Khusro. Thus, the sufis of the past, namely Nizamuddin Auliya, Baba Zaheen Shah, Amir Khusro also took part in celebrating the event of Basant through songs. The song sung on Basant commemorates a special event in a saint’s life. Blum and Neuman) Kite-making and kite-flying interdependent on one another spread from the confines of undroon sheher across Lahore, and as the city of Lahore expanded, so did the trade. It grew to such a degree that it attracted people from around the world and made Lahore a place of great tourism for Pakistan and a dynamic source of income for its residents. The festival of Basant transformed over the years due to the introduction of kites of different shapes, sizes and colors and as Saeed writes â€Å"Kite Fighting is an integral part of the Basant Kite festival. Saeed) It is precisely this magnificent display of kite flying on Basant day that made Lahore famous and thus it became the center of tourist attraction. People belonging to upper as well as lower economic classes from around the country and beyond packed city hotels for a few days of late-night festivities. Thus, as the celebrations of Basant got bigger and bigger, more and more support started coming in the form of endorsements by the government, and sponsorship and advertisement by multi-nationals in the private sector such as Coca Cola, Pepsi and Nestle. Official statement of District Chief Nazim of Lahore, 2003, Basant had created a business of Rs. 2 to 3 billion in the province and provided lot of opportunities to common people and owners of cottage industries in the country. To some independent estimates overall euphoria of Basant would generate economic activities of Rs. 4 to 4. 5 billion in the province in 2004†. (Khan) Gradually, the event which was once a general celebration of spring became overly competitive and transformed from being a fun sport to a killer sport claiming hundreds of innocent lives. As the nature of Basant changed so did the demand for the kinds of kites needed and thus new models, enormous kites and dors toughened with steel wire, chemical and glass to have room for the kite-fighting of Basant replaced the traditional kite design, size and thin dors that never utilized anything more than starch. These changes are in-fact the root of the present dilemma. â€Å"Kite flying on Basant has taken 505 lives in the last two years. The supreme court of Pakistan has mentioned 45 kite-flying related deaths in city over the last six months and 460 last year†. Zia) The factor that makes this activity even deadlier is that the dangers to human life from this commotion are multi pronged. In simpler words, the group of people affected by this cannot be specified. Actually, it is so large and all-around a group that the risks seem horrendous. Unlike other hazardous sports, the activity of celebrating Basant and more specifically more often than not, affects people who ar e not even slightly related to kite flying. The deaths quoted above are a testament to this argument. A majority of these deaths were of the unfortunate motorcycle riders who couldn’t endure the wounds after the stray strings, used for kite flying, cut open their throats. Then there were deaths due to the distraction caused by these stray strings. Young boys running after and chasing kites also add up to to this very ill-fated club. The number of wounded people and the number of accidents that kite flying on Basant has been causing is alarming to say the least. But the horror doesn’t end here. Many kite flyers were victims themselves; deaths caused by falling off rooftops, electric shocks due to the use of metal strings and obviously they too have the hazard of the stray thread slitting their throats. The killing of innocent people was not the only reason that the government imposed at a ban on basant. The monetary losses caused by kite-flying are astonishing. Fluctuations in the power supply and frequent electricity trippings have become identical with Basant. Pakistan Times show a grim picture: â€Å"As many as 48,173 power trippings were caused by kite flying were recorded in different parts of the provincial metropolis during the first quarter of current fiscal year. † (Pakistan National News Desk). Every year, the Basant days in Lahore are like a mini-blackout. And the people who have to take the toll are the people who have to work through days and nights to ensure that the people get uninterrupted power supply. The sharp strings and metal twangs can cut through the insulation of wires and every day, hundreds of transformers are left burnt and rendered useless. LESCO: â€Å"The losses suffered by LESCO 350 million rupees during the last 4 years ending 2003 out of which a loss of Rs. 20 million was caused in 2002 by metal wires. Moreover, one grid station had been damaged by metal wire every year during this period resulting in a loss of Rs. 8 to Rs. 9 million and the destruction of 210 feeders. † (LESCO) It is estimated that if there are 50 one-hour breakdowns, it costs Rs. 2. 5 million to WAPDA Steel and glass-edged wires are banned but manufacturers still report roaring trade. (Pakistan times†¦) Kite making is traditionally a family enterprise. Behind every kite is the effort of a minimum of six people. The skill is one that they acquire in their virasat as Baqir Ali Butt stated. In some ways kite-making has been altered by the changing circumstances of Lahore but in other ways it has stayed the same. It continues to provide employment for men, women and children, including handicapped persons and the incomes of 500, 000 people are dependent upon the trade â€Å"Around 500,000 families, directly related to the kite flying business, have lost their sources of livelihood because of the ban on Basant†¦[†¦] The ban is costing them Rs 200 million annually, and at the same time damaging other businesses that are indirectly related to the festival. They said that the people related to the industry, including kite makers, twine (dor) makers, wholesalers and retailers, had lost their means of earning a living. The cost of the paper used in kite making is estimated at around Rs 90 million and the cost of the twine used for flying kites is estimated at around Rs 40 million. The process of making kites involves around Rs 40 million, said Lahore Kite Flying Association General Secretary Sheikh Muhammad Saleem. â€Å"These were taken two years back. Now the number must have jumped,† he said, adding that 500,000 families had suffered because of the ban. † (Dawn International) (Tasleem) â€Å"The Supreme Court on Friday directed the Punjab police to register and take affidavits from the manufacturers of strings for kite flying in the province that they would not produce metallic and other dangerous strings which play havoc with human lives and power lines during Basant festivities. The National Assembly was recently informed that Wapda lost Rs30. 2 million in revenues due to Basant-related mishaps in the Punjab from 1999 to February 2004.

Oedipus the King by Sopohocles Essay -- Oedipus King Sophocles Essays

Oedipus the King by Sopohocles Works Cited Not Included Throughout the play, Oedipus the King, Sophocles refers to site and blindness to relate attitudes and knowledge of the past. The irony of sight in this play can be marked by Oedipus’ inability to realize that which is evident to the reader. His extreme pride is his tragic flaw. It blinds him from the truth. Oedipus blinding himself symbolizes his increase of knowledge, his sensitivity, and gives him the ability to finally "see". He is now able to see the flaws of his hubris attitude, and the consequences of which his pride brought to him. From the very beginning, Oedipus was blinded by pride. With the city of Thebes dying, Creon comes from the god Apollo to tell how to stop the plaque. An example of Oedipus’ hubris is shown when he will not go into the palace to converse with Creon. He insists on talking in front of the crowd of citizens. Creon tells that the only way to stop the plaque is to find the killer of Lauis, the previous king. King Oedipus takes this task lightly, for he is the one who solved the riddle of the Sphinx, he surely could find the killer of royalty. This is another example of his tragic flaws, pride. When Oedipus vows to do everything in his power to find Laius’ killer, the leader of the chorus advises Oedipus that no one knows the identity of the murderer, and that the god Apollo should name him to the people. Oedipus replies "to force the gods to act against their will- no man has the power."(320) He has called on the blind seer who knows what the god Apollo sees. It is ironic that Tiresias can "see" what Oedipus can not though he suffers of old age and physical blindness. Tiresias, who is able to see the truth of the downfall of Oedipus thorough the oracle’s prophecy even in his own blindness, becomes the comparative image from which Oedipus is judged, both by himself and by others. Throughout the conversation between Oedipus and Tiresias, he will not divulge the information King Oedipus is longing to hear. "I’d rather not cause pain to you or me. So why this†¦useless interrogation? You’ll get nothing from me" (321) Tiresias says. This enrages Oedipus and he blames him for the murder, and then for conspiring with Creon to take his throne. These accusations Oedipus makes are caused by his fear of the truth he is too blind to see. This blame causes an argument... ...dentity from this man, that he even speaks of torture to get him to talk. From the way the man speaks to the other shepherd, "Damn you, shut your mouth—quite!" (346) You can tell that Oedipus is not going to like what this messenger has to say. He to owns the knowledge that is blinding Oedipus. But he will soon know and the knowledge of himself will set him free, and he will be able to understand his faults. When Oedipus finally realizes that the prophecy that he would kill his father and marry his mother had came true, he was over come with shame. He goes to Jocasta’s quarters, where she had taken her own life, and gouged out his eyes with the broach that she wore. In the end, Oedipus gains insight into his life, his failings, and the nature of the gods and fate only through his own blindness, only through accepting the truth of his lack of vision, and his inability to impact fate. Oedipus gains a compassionate, though tragic outlook because of his capacity to envision that which he could never see while he had his physical sight. Through hi s blindness, Oedipus is finally allowed the ability to see himself, and this is the irony of sight in Sophocles’ play Oedipus the King.

To Kill a Mocking Bird Character Analysis

â€Å"To Kill a Mockingbird,† Arthur Raddled is thought to be a cruel and evil person; in reality, he is actually a very kind and generous person. His kindness is evident during the fire at Miss Muddies home. â€Å"Boo Raddled. You were so busy looking at the fire you didn't know it when he put the blanket around you. † (Attic's 96). This dialogue shows that Arthur Raddled is actually a very kind, caring person; he realized hat Scout was cold and he put his own blanket around her to keep her warm.He generously gave Scout the blanket, knowing she was cold and showing sympathy for Scout, who has even mocked Boo with Gem. This generous nature Arthur Ready Dollops Raymond is also another person who appears to be drunk and is disliked by the community, although in reality all he is drinking from his sack is coca-cola; he is actually a very gentle person, which is evident when he tells Scout, â€Å"l try to give ‘me a reason, you see?Dollops Raymond realizes that the c ommunity dislikes and shuns mixed race families, so he fakes being drunk to give Macomb a reason for him marrying a black woman. He realizes that people would be more uncomfortable around him if they thought he was a N-lover, and instead makes them believe he Is married too black woman because he Is drunk. His reason for ‘drinking' shows that he is gentle with the public, so they aren't as uncomfortable with his family as they would be if he wasn't ‘drinking.

4P Marketing Essay

hese are the basic elements of the MARKETING PLAN for any business. PRODUCTThe business has to produce a product that people want to buy. They have to decide which market segment they are aiming at age, income, geographical location etc. They then have to differentiate their product so that it is slightly different from what is on offer at present so that people can be persuaded to give them a try. PROMOTIONCustomers have to be made aware of the product. The two main considerations are target market and cost. A new business will not be able to afford to advertise on national television, for instance and would not wish to because its market will be local to start with. Leaflets, billboards, advertisements in local newspapers, Yellow Pages and word of mouth would be more appropriate. PRICEThe price must be high enough to cover costs and make a profit but low enough to attract customers. There are a number of possible pricing strategies. The most commonly used are PENETRATION PRICING ch arging a low price, possibly not quite covering costs, to gain a position in the market. This is quite popular with new businesses trying to get a toehold. CREAMING the opposite to penetration pricing, this involves charging a deliberately high price to persuade people that the product is of high quality. Luxury car makers often use this strategy COST PLUS PRICING this is the most common form of pricing. Costs are totalled and a margin is added on for profit to make the total price. PLACEThe business must have a location that it can afford, and that is convenient and suitable for customers and any supplier. The Marketing mix is a set of four decisions which need to be taken before launching any new product. These variables are also known as the 4 Ps of marketing. These four variables help the firm in making strategic decisions necessary for the smooth running of any product / organization.These variables are Product

Chemical Energy - Glossary Definition

Chemical Energy - Glossary Definition Chemical energy is the energy contained in the internal structure of an atom or molecule. It is a measure of a substances capacity to transform into another substance via a chemical reaction. This energy could be in the electronic structure of a single atom or in the bonds between atoms in a molecule. Chemical energy is converted into other forms of energy by chemical reactions. Examples of substances that contain chemical energy include: WoodFoodGasolineBatteries Chemical energy is released or absorbed as chemical bonds are broken and reform. It is a misconception that a substance always releases more energy than it absorbs! Chemical energy is calculated as the difference between the energy of the products and reactants. This may be measured using a calorimeter or calculated based on the bond energies of the chemical bonds. Reference Schmidt-Rohr, K (2015). Why Combustions Are Always Exothermic, Yielding About 418 kJ per Mole of O2.  J. Chem. Educ.  92: 2094–2099.

Quick and effective ways to de-stress without spending a dime

Quick and effective ways to de-stress without spending a dime Life can get stressful between work and our personal lives. We sometimes forget to take a break and step back from our everyday responsibilities. De-stressing is  crucial for our health; especially when we are always on the run. But taking a moment and relaxing for yourself doesn’t have to cost money. Simple things such as getting some sun and fresh air, calling someone after work, or meditating at least 5 minutes a day can help. With these simple  activities  for before and after work can help make the necessary changes to our lifestyle that help de-stress without having to spend money.  Source [ Quid Corner ]

Knowledge of Legal rules and Regulations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Knowledge of Legal rules and Regulations - Essay Example From criteria set by employers alone, it is clear that those in the geomatics profession are expected to be knowledgeable of legal rules and regulations relative to their work, and institutes of higher learning are taking notice. The curriculum design for the Geomatic Engineering Education at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Ghana includes among others Land Law, Law of Contract and Tort.2 On the other hand, survey law, legal surveys procedures, and property rights systems are marked as field skills for geomatics by the Canadian Geomatics Industry, one considered as historically very strong technologically.3. The land surveyors and land survey technicians may have the local land laws as their guide in their work, and student surveyors, their special knowledge of relevant subjects including law.4 Unquestionably, education in geomatics is evolving and developing.5 Geomatics empl II. Geomatics as service Geomatics employs techniques used in land surveying, remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), global positioning system (GPS), and related forms of earth mapping.6 Said to be coined by B. Dubuisson in 1969, the term "geomatics" has its exact definition still shifting. Among so many names, the University of Calgary's web page refers to it as "geomatics engineering." 7 The term, "geomatics," however, has been adopted by the International Organization for Standardization, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, and other authorities, while some countries like the United States prefer the term, "geospatial technology.." Geomatics is actually a union of geography and information technology, with the purpose of improving business and policy decision-making, 8 A report of the Federation Internationale des Geometres (FIG) Commission 7 of 1998 reflects the overriding weaknesses of the then-existing cadastral systems as having limited computerization, with inefficient linkage between land registration and cadastral mapping, with incomplete legal framework, sporting little map accuracy, with slow updating, slow customer service, and unsuitable financing model, among other things.9 Advances in computer technology, however, has enabled the rapid progress of geomatics since the 1990s.10 Due to the ease in procuring and working on spatial referenced data, changes have been rapid in geomatics with forceful impact.11 The geomatician's role of surveying in the 1980's has shifted dramatically from acquiring data to today's total information management.12 With various surveying or mapping disciplines involved in different levels of geo-information, geomatics has become a must in almost all courses all over the globe.13. Geomatics

Case Study of the Credit Card Processing Industry Term Paper

Case Study of the Credit Card Processing Industry - Term Paper Example The credit card processing industry has been in the forefront in adopting new technology. Credit card processing is mainly done through electronic processing. The credit card associations and companies have laid down policies and procedures for credit card processing. The system of processing credit cards is very complex as it involves processing transactions hypothetically throughout the payment process system. Usual credit card transaction in involve the following participants: the customer, merchants, payment gateway, acquiring banks processor, credit card interchange, customer’s credit card issuer, and merchant acquiring bank. The settlement for the credit card interchange institutions is done electronically. The computerized transaction settlement systems are used to make payments to the credit card interchange institutions. Today, the main credit card interchanges include MasterCard and Visa .MasterCard and Visa have agents all over the world that persuade merchants to a ccept transactions using their cards. When a customer makes a purchase at the point of sale, the merchant forwards the transaction at the end of the day to the merchant’s bank. The merchant’s bank pays the merchant for the purchase after deducting a fixed fee before forwarding the purchase to MasterCard or Visa. After receiving the transaction money, MasterCard or Visa forwards the transaction charge to the credit card issuer. The credit card issuer then makes payment of a fixed fee to MasterCard or Visa. MasterCard or Visa then makes payment to the merchant bank. MasterCard or Visa collects fees for both the card issuer and the merchant bank. Then the issuer of the card charges the customer for the amount of purchases made. The card holder finally pays the bank a minimum amount at an interest or pays the whole amount. The credit card processing system uses point of sale electronic authorization, which has replaced the traditional paper work and telephone costs. The el ectronic data capture used in credit card transaction today has helped the banks to process and accept transactions much faster. The retail systems in the supermarkets and major hotels have been changed in order to fit the changing needs of using credit cards. The main advantage of using a credit card for the customer is that it is convenient. One disadvantage is that the customer is most likely to fall into a debt that will not be easy to get out of. The whole of the credit card processing system is based on trust. Today, the credit card processing industry has been marred with fraud. The credit card processors have come up with tools to help merchants to identify fraud. These tools are web based and used by merchants to avoid scam. Model relationships capture system for the transactions will affect the customer’s loyalty of using credit cards. The model relationship capture is used to determine risk of issuing a credit card in the future. The credit card scoring points will assess the future business opportunity. The economic crisis has hit the credit card industry so hard that many customers are opting not to use credit cards. Many credit card holders have submerged in the credit card debts and are opting to use debit cards instead of credit cards. Following these dwindling fortunes, the credit card processing industry has to improve their operations in order to maintain customers in the future .The

The Evaluating a Website for Credibility Assignment

The Evaluating a Website for Credibility - Assignment Example Similarly, students can use the web address http:/ http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2015/03/16/393336901/vaccination-gaps-helped-fuel-disneyland-measles-spread to quickly find this website. This website’s domain npr.org is essential and one of the best way to determine its credibility of the site. In addition, it helps researchers learn the source of this web site quickly. The article from the npr gives a detailed discussion of the outbreak and spread of measles. The prime objective of this website is to enlighten the general public of the importance of vaccination, which makes it informative. Through the statement, â€Å"...there is a protective effect called herd immunity that interrupts the spread of the virus to vulnerable people† the website is optimistic that citizens will heed to the advice and embrace vaccination. Additionally, the site successfully passes the information since it is easy to navigate. Simplicity and visibility of the words used give visitors easy time while reading the information. Further, the website has an attractive picture that is accompanied by a written description of the images. The website also loads instantaneously hence saves time for the visitors. Besides, the website owner collects visitor’s geolocation data through their services for offering relevant services. The organization reserves the right to use the visitor’s comments for the purpose of improving service though it does not share personally-identifying information with the third parties. Since it does not share personal information, the website has a great sense of security and privacy. Moreover, this website is credible, and Americans and worldwide visitors should trust its information. Carder (2013) says that a credible should have an author from a recognized institution. George Freylandov has written this web page, and he is associated with the National Public Radio organization. In addition,

Importance Of Strategic Planning For Food Service Business Marketing Essay

Importance Of Strategic Planning For Food Service Business Marketing Essay Strategic planning is important for the food service business, because it matches market opportunities with business strengths and provides direction to achieve set goals. A strategic plan is a roadmap for food service business; it defines the objectives for each critical area of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹business development, including organization, management, marketing, sales, target customers, products, services and finances. This enables an organization to successfully draw a path and progress towards the set objectives. Function Each level of the food service business can benefit from a well-written strategic plan. A strategic plan should be established before the start of the company, used to as a flexible document during the first year in business and eventually be updated annually during the life of the operation. Although nearing the end of company, strategic plan helps the business, which includes information about the ownership transition benefit. Features The most important elements of the food service strategic plan includes a summary, mission statement, company vision, industries customer profiles, descriptions of all products and services, competitors information, organization and management structure, marketing strategy and key financial statements that include balance sheets, profit loss statement and cash flow statement. The strategic plan is easy to read and understand the companys operations. Most important is to be effective to be used as a measuring tool strategic plan throughout the year. Considerations In the creation of strategic plan, owners should collect information such as company mission statement last years vision, target customer base data, departmental budgets and financial documents that include a balance sheet, profit loss account and the cash flow statement. Key findings from the past year are very important to the partners, directors, officers or key employees who will be working on the companys strategic plan. Advantages Strategic plan gives owners peace of mind, knowing that the company is on the right path towards success. In difficult times, the realization that requires certain aspects of attention is priceless. Owners may be surprised that the communication be improved to find within the company. Company employees can benefit from a better understanding of their roles and the direction of the company. Invest the time in a strategic plan, and the company will be on the road to success. Importance of Mission Statement for Food Service Business (Restaurant) A mission statement is written in the best cooperation. The decision makers in society should sit down and talk about their thoughts and how they want to represent the company to the public. Ideas should be bandied about, considered and voted then. Once they thoroughly discuss, write and re-write the statement, they should make sure that it is something that people know to appreciate and buy customers. It should provide a statement that remains relevant no matter the difficulty of the enterprise, and can serve as an instrument to overcome the adversity rallying the troops. Mission Statement Our mission is to use superior product, service and management innovations to build a global foodservice company that serves value and quality-driven meals, demonstrates transparent integrity in the marketplace and has one of the best rates of return on invested capital in the foodservice arena Mission Statements role in Companys Success The above mission statement is firm articulation of the companys customers, employees and the world about the purpose of its existence. Obviously, our food service business exists to make money, to maximize profits and equity value, but our mission statement is more on the front than the bottom line. Our mission resonates with the public and tells them why it would be advantageous to do the business with our company. This mission statement represents the companys vision, as the company wants to be seen by our clients. Mission statements include a statement of purpose, a business statement, and an indication of the companys values. The indication of the purpose expressly the purpose of the company, in our case, a food service companys purpose is to provide the target market with quality food. Mission statement should inspire the staff. Thus, our mission brings a certain focus on the employee as the purpose of their work, crystallized, and they are able to see the value of their contribution. Customers are reassured when they are exposed to the mission, as they will be able to see that the company is on its purpose (value driven quality food). There are several things that our Mission Statement addresses, 1), who are our customers, 2) what are their needs and desires, 3) how I can meet those needs and wants, 4) What are the values à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹that have built our company at present, 5) What values à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹are our company want to have that there, 6), we are all constantly veering together with a single purpose or individual course. Importance of Vision Statement for Food Service Business (Restaurant) Vision Statement Companys well-trained staff, careful planning, targeted market segments, excellent menu, unique value proposition, product quality, hours of operation and accessibility will ensure that Company has a promising future. The management style is flexible, progressive and energetic. Enthusiasm of the management and associates will greatly stimulate the envisioned growth. Vision Statements role in Supporting Companys Mission An organization develops a vision statement and a comprehensive and inspiring mission statement, does not lose the opportunity to present themselves positively to existing and potential stakeholders. All organizations have customers, employees and managers, and most companies need creditors, suppliers and distributors. The vision and mission statements are effective vehicles for communicating with key internal and external stakeholders. The capital value of these statements as tools of strategic management is derived from its specification of the ultimate goals of a company. Entrepreneurial vision provides a context in which people can make decisions at all levels. A shared vision is like a compass and distant destination in the mountains. If you give a group of people a target point and then turn them loose in the mountains in order to reach this goal, they will probably find a way to get there. You may encounter obstacles and bad curves on the road, but with the general direction of the compass, a clear end goal and the belief that they work to a worthy goal, they will probably reach the target. Key objectives and Companys Success Key objectives Establish a financial culture of positive net profit from day one in operation. Successful development of the first two stores in thirty-six months. Achieving accumulated revenue for the first thirty-six months of Companys operations, through two operating stores of $5 million. Creating a Dining Icon in the marketplace through flawless execution of standards and companys core concepts at every level of each stores operations. Become a market leader in the fast casual segment nationwide USA. Key objectives and Companys Success Meeting breakeven point and achieving net profit from day one in operations will make sure that the company is on right track. This will also enable the company to meet its long-term growth funding requirements from within the company, thus eliminating the need for external funding. Operating the second store within first three years will ensure the companys growth. It will also increase the brand visibility which will help increase daily customer visits. Achieving five million dollars in revenue will make sure that the company has enough cash to fund its future growth plan and enable the company to use its internal resources for future funding requirements. Our companys initial two restaurants will provide live operational insight into key areas that affect customer service, product quality and profit performance, including: size of future restaurants; future equipment mix; optimum floor plan for the concept; optimum restaurant staff strength; optimum scheduling-to-peak-demand strategy; and menu-mix based on customer preferences reflected in sales reports. Information from the pilot will contribute to a successful roll-out of the restaurant throughout the country.