Pornography In Media Essays - Pornography, Sex-positive Feminism

Sex entertainment In Media Essays - Pornography, Sex-positive Feminism Sex entertainment In Media Sex entertainment in the Media It began by method of emissaries and copyists, advanced through the introduction of papers and radio, united us with TV, and now serves us overall by means of the ever-well known Internet. It is the broad communications, and even from the most punctual days of its reality, it has contributed significantly in manners that both illuminate and advance society, and ways that break down and confuse it. It's anything but an astonishment to learn, at that point, that the broad communications is the most remarkable wellspring of data we have, and nothing else in todays world impacts open recognition very as intensely. Lamentably, be that as it may, a large portion of what is communicated or transmitted in the news today is regarding the clamorous state of our planet, or something different that society all in all observes as hindering or harming. In any case, the news on TV isn't the main sort of media taking the analysis of society. Different types of broad communications, explicitly films and TV programs containing sex entertainment and viciousness have been vigorously reprimanded. The underlining idea to be bantered here is that society is adversely impacted, explicitly, by these pictures of sex entertainment and the outcome is expanded savagery against ladies. This suspicion, and it is for sure just a supposition, is totally deceptive, be that as it may, as no solid and totally definitive proof has ever been figured on the side of the hypothesis. The key reason here is that the broad communications doesn't cause bothersome social conduct and in reality, the media individuals ought not be named as the trouble makers. They essentially utilize their capacity in the most useful manners conceivable so as to advance their appraisals and ubiquity. One approach to do that is to focus on what sells: sex, brutality and fiasco. Having said this, for what reason is it at that point, that numerous in the public eye despite everything accept something else; for what reason do they keep on accepting that sex entertainment is malicious and is a significant reason for viciousness against ladies, explicitly assault? There are numerous purposes behind this confusion and through the accompanying barely any focuses, an endeavor will be made to show that erotic entertainment has next to no to practically no connection with savagery against ladies (obviously nothing is total in the public arena). So as to show this, it must be made apparent that erotic entertainment isn't insidious and doesn't cause unfortunate social conduct by showing bare ladies in explicitly express conditions. Subsequently, demonstrate that ladies are not regarded uniquely as sexual items through the media. This is done trying to crush any hints of insidiousness in erotic entertainment. In this way, a subsequent point, that some may consider to be totally unusual, can be tended to; that sex entertainment really lessens the measure of savagery against ladies. For a great many years, sex itself has been viewed as malicious and revolting. This is actually why the camouflage of the sex organs and training sentiments of disgrace toward human sexuality is so regular around the world. These equivalent sentiments of disgrace are the central reasons that sex is viewed as an individual and private issue. As opposed to the convictions of many, the broad communications didn't make these settings; society makes this image.(Howitt). In certain social orders, ladies have no reservations with respect to living their whole lives totally stripped, while in different social orders, females spread themselves from head to toe, just uncovering their eyes. The media has been assaulted with analysis, overwhelmingly from the female network, comparative with the measure of explicitly express material that is distributed in magazines and that shows up on TV and in the films. A typical contention against erotic entertainment is that the media depicts ladies as bein g simply sexual toys and articles to fulfill male sexual wants. As in the past, the media by and by, isn't to be considered liable for making this picture; these perspectives are results of society. It would be out and out silly to accept that ladies in this general public are treated as sexual items simply because the media discharges or communicates obscene material. A magazine related with make-up and healthy skin, for instance, will clearly not be focusing on much else. Such a magazine would not show pictures of ladies who mountain-climb or ladies who water-ski; just pictures of make-up and text alluding to skin

Health and Wellness in the Workplace Essay Example for Free

Wellbeing and Wellness in the Workplace Essay Proposal Statement: Health and Wellness programs in a work environment can profit representatives by helping them deal with their physical and enthusiastic wellbeing, decrease pressure and give a prize framework program in the working environment. I. Presentation. II. Give Nutrition Programs A. Oversee representatives physical passionate wellbeing 1. Give various classes to oversee distinctive medical problems. 2. Make a program that accommodates your representatives worries in the workplace. III. Advances employee’s immaculate participation A. Forestall employee’s non-attendance 1. By giving arbitrary wellbeing check 2. Prize workers for ideal participation in the wellbeing programs IV. Decrease Stress in Workplace A. Give breaks to assist workers with diminishing pressure 1. Start a gathering during 15 minutes break to walk 2. Give a back rub advisor once at regular intervals to give 15 minutes back rubs to alleviation stress. 3. Give a pressure the executives workshop for nourishment and excerising. V. Prize System in the work environment to achieve Goals A. Give a prize program to shed pounds and remain steadily 1. An emotionally supportive network for workers by offering additional days off for doing the projects. 2. Make a reward program for representatives for arriving at wellbeing objectives. VI. End. Assets By: Alden, Sharyn, Regroup, Recharge, Credit Union Magazine, Jul 2007, Vol. 73 Issue 7, p 30-35, 6p; Abstract By: Bulk Tran Sporter, Tax credits proposed for worker health, Nov. 2007, Vol. 70, Issue 5, p12-12, 1/2p; Abstract By: Shepherd, Leah Carlson, More time to smell the

Hello, Ma Sheng Li Gong

Hello, Ma Sheng Li Gong Three summers ago, I visited MIT with one of my fellow schoolmates. We were en route to Mathcamp 2004 (which was held in Colby College, ME), and we decided to stay in Boston for a couple of nights before heading up north. Interestingly enough, the family friend that we were staying with knew a grad student from MIT and asked us whether we would like to stay over for a night at the Institute. Having heard so many amazing tales about what MIT contained, we cheerfully agreed. I still remember tossing around a Frisbee in front of Killian Court at dusk. I still remember the maze of corridors and first hearing about the Infinite. And, of course, I still remember the chirping crosswalk in front of 77 Mass Ave. Fast forward to 2007. I am standing underneath the shadow of the colossal marble columns, no longer holding a tourists guide to Boston, but rather, a thick stack of 18.02 course notes. I have learned that the big domey place with the Established for the Advancement ofetc. etc. is called Lobby 7. And, of course, I have learned why the Infinite Corridor is called the Infinite (just run from New House to 26-152, the Physics Room, when you are already late for class. Youll figure out what I mean somewhere along the middle of your journey). So this will be my home for the next four years. (Along with my Mathcamp schoolmate from 3 years ago, Jeremy L. 10). Anyways, that was a big introduction to nothing in particular, but sometimes I still pause and think, Wow, Im at MIT. The MIT. Sounds silly, but if you know where Im coming from, you might understand. I guess I am categorized as an ABC, but Im not your typical ABC. For one thing, I have never gone to school in the US, even though I was born here. My parents moved back to Taiwan when I was still a toddler, and so I spent my entire childhood (and all of my teenage years so yes, my entire life) in that lovely island in Asia. Having no idea of my citizenship, I grew up speaking Mandarin and Taiwanese and attending Taiwanese schools. When my parents decided to transfer me to an international school in third grade, I was depressed for weeks. However, I started learning English, and now ten years later I cant imagine how I would have turned out, if I stayed in the Taiwanese system. Despite going to an international school (e.g. taking AP courses, having classes in English, freaking out about SAT 2s), I guess I never felt like I was actually going to America. College was always in that place across the ocean and who cares about the future, as long as I get yummy sticky rice and REAL bubble tea everyday? So it really hit me when I logged on to the MIT notification system (prefrosh: prepare for the most melodramatic moment of your life) and read the admission letter. I finally felt like, Wow, so I am leaving this place, I am going to America. So thats me, in a nutshell, before coming to the US. I post a lot of comments (which are somewhat helpful, I hope) on College Confidential. Im known as Oasis there, so you might have noticed that Ive been commenting on the MIT blogs as Oasis. Dont ask me why I picked that screen name I dont really know myself (no, it doesnt have to do with the band though I did start listening to them after people commented on my username!). However, I do have a lot of posts on CC (read: too much free time in high school). All of this goes to say that 1) Im unfortunately addicted to that website (but I managed to stay off it for a month!) and 2) I like giving advice in general especially if Ive been through something and theres no need for you to repeat the same mistakes that Ive made. I probably would not know too much about the strategies of Halo 3 or whether USC will win this year in football, but feel free to ask me questions. Ill do my best to respond. :) I still do not know exactly what course Im going to be at MIT but I know Im going to go in the Chemistry, Biology, or Biological Engineering direction (in other words, Courses 5, 7, or 20). I love to travel so I also hope to tie in that interest through the things that were going to be doing in iHouse (more on this soon!) and D-lab (first semester next year). It should be an amazing journey. Mm-hmm. That was a lot of text, and I definitely hope I did not succeed in boring you to death with my ruminations therefore, Ill let some pictures tell you the story of my first couple of weeks at MIT: Fraternity Rush Fraternity Rush is basically the last weekend before the start of school (yes, these pictures are oldI know) and a couple of days into the new school year. Froshies get taken around to all of MITs fraternities (theres 27 of them! and 5 sororities) and they basically enjoy a ton of free food (mmm includes the traditional free lobster and steak dinners) and if you get to know some fraternities to a greater detail off campus trips (I went on a kayaking trip, a beach trip, and a Boston food tour this year!).   Twas fun. :) Career Fair One of the amazing things about MIT is the scope of its connections with the major companies and corporations from all the world yes, we are talking about companies like Microsoft, Google, Morgan Stanley, IBM, Sun Microsystems, Limewire, Hewlett Packard, Intel, Xeroxyou name it, MIT has it its really not an understatement to say that these companies recruit straight out of MIT (in fact, thats what a lot of them do through Career Fair). In short, Career Fair is an annual massive conglomeration of company representatives who are interested in recruiting MIT students to work for them. A lot of students (juniors and seniors) submit their resumes and get all dressed up for the affairwhile others, like HaoQi 11 in the picture, go and collect check out all the cool gadgets. I actually missed out on this years career fair (because I was being a good student, and went to classahem) but its alright, theres always next year. =p iHouse retreat! Like I mentioned before, iHouse is my dorm. I dont want to go into too much detail here because you will surely hear a lot from me about iHouse in the entries to come, but iHouse is the newest (were the inaugural year!) living and learning community within MIT. So what exactly is a living and learning community? Is it after-hours school within the dorm (eww)? Basically, we all would have opportunities over the four years to conduct international development projects (very similar to the ones under operation in D-lab), under the guidance of Amy Smith (D-lab instructor, also the lady above talking about Honduran chlorination systems) and the Public Service Center (which also maintains blogs on MIT Admissions!). But most of all, we get to work with one another, toss around ideas, and just share our visions while still living under the same rooftop! And, finally Food, glorious food! Be warned in the time to come, I will probably be blogging a fair amount about food, since I love to eat (dont worry, it will not dominate my blog, I promise :)). I can save money on everything else, but I will not save money on food. I actually bought the Zagat Survey Guidebook for Boston and fully intend to work my way through the majority of it over the four years that I have here (it would be my personal 101 Things to Eat Before I Graduate!) Hey, we all live 60-70-80 years on this earth, so why not make the most of what you eat before you get old and cannot eat as heartily as you can now? Carpe diem, bon appetit! Post Tagged #iHouse #New House

What Is Baleen

Baleen is a strong, yet flexible material made out of keratin, a protein that is the same material that makes up our hair and fingernails. It is used by whales to filter their prey from the sea water. Whales in the Suborder Mysticeti have several hundred plates of baleen hanging from their upper jaw. Like our fingernails, the baleen grows continuously. The baleen plates are about a quarter-inch apart and are smooth on the outer edge but have a hairy fringe on the inner edge. The fringe on the plates overlaps and creates a mesh-like strainer inside the whales mouth. The whale uses this strainer to trap its prey (usually small schooling fish, crustaceans or plankton) while it filters out the sea water, which it cannot drink in large quantities. Some baleen whales, like the humpback whale, feed by gulping large amounts of prey and water and then using their tongue to force the water out in between the baleen plates. Other whales, like right whales, are skim feeders and move slowly through the water with their mouths open as the water flows in the front of the mouth and out in between the baleen. Along the way, tiny plankton is trapped by the right whales fine baleen hairs. Baleen is historically important as it was sought by whalers, who called it whalebone, even though it is not made of bone at all. The baleen was used in many things such as in corsets, buggy whips, and umbrella ribs. Also Known As: Whalebone Examples: The fin whale has between 800-900 baleen plates hanging from its upper jaw.

The Language Bathtub Effect

Queen Elizabeth I Of England - 967 Words

In the late 16th century, Queen Elizabeth I of England endeavored to establish a permanent settlement in the New World. Elizabeth granted English aristocrat Sir Walter Ralegh the rights to introduce a settlement to spread the influence of the Queen and the Christian faith. In 1585, the first English settlers populated the new colony of Roanoke. By establishing Roanoke, the English hoped to launch trade with the Native Americans and mount piracy attacks on the ships of the enemy Spanish fleet. Queen Elizabeth sponsored â€Å"privateering† by motivating English sailors to raid and pillage Spanish ships, and having an English colony near the Spanish colonies would increase the effectiveness of privateering. Elizabeth hoped that once the English controlled the entire Eastern Seaboard of the new continent, the Spanish would hardly be a threat. However, the English were hasty in establishing their first settlement and this ultimately lead to the downfall of the colony. Roanoke faile d to last for more than a few years and by 1590, the entire colony had disappeared. If the English focused on establishing a safe and durable settlement instead of developing a base for trade, privateering, and further expansion, the first colony of Roanoke could have been successful. Roanoke was established with the intent of being a trading colony before the colonists firmly established friendly relations with the Native Americans. In 1584, English writer Richard Hakluyt documented a list of advantageousShow MoreRelatedQueen Elizabeth I Of England1040 Words   |  5 PagesElizabeth sat in her bedroom in the Buckingham palace brushing her long, curly, red hair which was stained with strands of gray. She focused on the mirror and softly stared at the freckles on her pale skin, which looked as if it needed to be ironed, and her dark brown eyes that looked like a black hole against her pale complexion. The year was 1587, Elizabeth had gone through so much to be here. 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However, it was not just her knowledge that made her into a popular monarch. Her personality helped her to become a successful politician as well. In a documentary about Queen Elizabeth I, it was stated, â€Å"She was vain, spiteful, arrogant. She was frequently unjust, and she was often maddeninglyRead MoreQueen Elizabeth: The Virgin Queen922 Words   |  4 PagesLizzie Scott â€Å"I am already bound unto a husband which is the Kingdom of England.† -Elizabeth I (Add Intro) Queen Elizabeth was famously known as â€Å"The Virgin Queen† for never marrying. She refused to share her power. Queen Elizabeth was born in 1533 and she and her sister were claimed to be illegitimate by her father, Henry VIII since he was looking for a male heir to his throne. 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Entrepreneurship in a Globalised Environment

Question: Write an essay about the Entrepreneurship in a Globalised Environment. Answer: Introduction: Kosovo is one of the Western Balkan countries that have achieved a notable progress in establishing a market-led economy. Kosovo is a potential candidate of the European Union membership. It is one of the countries that showed great positive growth post the crisis period. Total asset of the banking sector has increased from 3.19 billion in the year 2014 to 3.39 billion in the year 2015. This growth has been a result of growth and increase in loans and advances from customers. Kosovo has 10 commercial banks with a total asset of 72.3%. Other financial institutions include insurance companies and micro finance institutions as well (Siqani and Sekiraca 2016). There have been issues related to the technological advancement in the working of the banks and other financial institution. This calls for making better approaches towards making deposit and withdrawal of money easier for the customers. This paper is based on analyzing the opportunity for ATMs and POSs in the region of Kosovo an d its nearby regions such as Macedonia Problems: The banking sector of Kosovo has been facing great challenges. The country has seen a massive rush in foreign exchange and cash holding techniques. The small size of Kosovos economy and poor experience of the people with the banking sector have raised the necessity for strong participation towards the development of banking sectors. In respect to the developed countries, one branch of bank is available for 1500 customers; Kosovo has one branch for 9000 inhabitants (Bankofalbania.org 2016). The commercial banks maintain their own ATM Few plans on exchange of households amounts between 1,000 and 10,000 were allowed to be the maximum amount of cash exchange. The banking sector of Kosovo is already struggling in the IT developmental process. This is mainly due to financial limitation. It is due to these struggling efforts of the banks, that there arises the situation of thinking of ways to improve the technological capabilities of the bank. Availability of ATMs and POSs in almost every developed and developing nations, has increased the urgency of such technological improvements in the banking sector. Numerous debates have been made in the process of outsourcing in Kosovo without making a clear comprehension of outsourcing. Opportunity: In recent negotiation of Stabilization and Association Agreement, the country is expected to progress its relationship with other countries. There has been considerable increase in the number of commercial banks in Kosovo in the year 2002 and 2003. Major seven banks of the country have shown great expansion. It has been found that the commercial banks charge differently with other banks. Thus, if a single system is made that would help the customers to deal with monetary transaction from a single point of access, then there would be a better opportunity for the consumers to access the innovative techniques of the banking methods. On the other perspective, it might be said that there is lies great opportunity for any kind of innovative product in the market. Creativity along with technological approach towards a venture would call for greater acceptance among the consumers. In this respect, it can be said that considering the problems and issues faced by the people at Kosovo in carrying out transaction activities, an innovative approach such as the said business plan would be fruitful. Importance of technology is gaining importance day by day (Mullins 2012). In the recent perspective, it cannot be denied that every activity is related to some kind of technological involvement. For monetary deals, it is convenient to use technology for easy transfer. In the developed countries, the approach towards making every transaction using technology has long been proposed. If the same approach is made in a small region like Kosovo, it will also be a great venture from the perspective of an entrepreneur. Context: There is a great market potential for Automated Teller Machine (ATMs) and Point of Sale (POS) equipment in the e-utilization of banks in Kosovo. More and more banks are investing in the process of making e-banking available to the consumers. The business idea is to establish an e-banking system for the existing banks. The idea behind the proposal of a new venture is to establish a path for the existing as well as the new banks to think of innovative ways to open up ATMs or POSs at various places of the target areas (Navarro 2015). For the same, a detail research will be conducted on the various aspects of banking sectors and the opportunity of innovative techniques in making the process of transaction easier for the consumers. The business project presents a good opportunity for both banking sector and their clients. Greater approaches will be made in making the transaction and other financial activities to carry on with better operations. Apart from drawing a plan for the business project, other things like risks and scalability of the proposed project will also be analyze. Along with that, a financial report will also be presented to get knowledge of the estimated budget of the project. Literature review: Literature review section helps to analyze different concepts related to the area of research. When the concepts are clear, it provides an opportunity for the researcher to think of the available options in the new approach or the research study. In this case, it can be said that the business plan is an innovative approach towards the creation of an All in one ATM machine. Thus, an analysis of the theories related to innovation, technology, and new venture and most importantly, entrepreneurship will be carried on. Innovation: Process of innovation is very challenging. Much effort is given on understanding the industrial process and then innovative approaches are made towards the business. Empirical evidences show that innovation process follows a different pattern in major developing countries. As stated by Toi et al. (2013), innovation comes with uncertainty. However, this uncertainty depends on two key concepts, the technical performance of the innovation and the market response on the introduction of the innovative product or idea. Skenderi et al. (2016) has identified five major paths of the innovation process. The major innovative idea starts with the invention or production of a design or a product. This depends on the market signal, and then the product is developed, produced and marketed. The next major step is getting a feedback of the innovative approach after taking steps and controlling in respect to the perceived market. Linking the innovative approach with the science of innovation is what comes next. Linking the innovative idea with the available various resources for accompanying the complete process. Then the rare factor, where new and innovative approaches make it possible due to radical innovative ideas. The last stage also calls for feedback of the innovative ideas. The result of any kind of innovation is not only a new product or service, but it also calls for new information which has public good characteristics as well. In this case, it can be said that RD department is responsible for understanding and creating opportunities that might be socially profitable but privately unprofitable (Siqani and Sekiraca 2016). These approaches sometimes cause for market failure and the innovative approach is failed. New venture, new products and entrepreneurship: Creativity and innovation has the ability of creating a noble solution that can solve relevant problems. A new venture can also be proved to be a competitive advantage in the market. For an entrepreneur, creativity is considered to be the first stage of innovative ideas. A successful entrepreneur can be called as the one who comes up with a successful innovative idea that would attract consumers towards the product or the service. It is also important to convey the message of the innovative ideas in the market. The entrepreneur often justifies the approach made by him and shows the validation of the new approach made by the person. These creative approaches bring economic prosperity to the organization as well. As pointed out by Shim (2013), in order to make the creative idea work in the market, it must be useful enough for the market and has the potential to capture the market with the new venture. As suggested by Shaqir (2014), an entrepreneur must have the insight and the judgmental decision of the usefulness and the effectiveness of the new venture or the product. Again, it has been argued by Sadgrove (2015), that there always lies the opportunity of new approaches in the market; it depends on the ability of the entrepreneur to think of all the possible ways towards the approach of a new venture. It has been suggested by Putnik et al. (2013), that for the success of a new venture; promotional activities play the most crucial role. Thus, it is also expected that a great focus have to be made on the marketing and promotional techniques of a new venture. New product is the one that offers newness in the existing market. This calls for initial acts of creativity that also calls for the opportunity of a new product that would bring economic value and commercial survival of the new venture. An entrepreneur is the one who is responsible for carrying out a new venture and introducing a new product or service. As pointed out by Pula et al. (2015), for a better output from the entrepreneurial perspective, it can be said that three basic motivations are needed. These can be denoted as, intrinsic motivation, domain-relevant skills, and a cognitive process towards creativity. For a new venture towards the establishment of a new and innovative approach in making the all in one ATM machine, all the mentioned characteristics are indeed important. New ventures in the banking industry: Various new ventures have been introduced in the banking industry, in both developed and developing nations. As pointed out by Pavlou and Stewart (2015), the established and privately owned banks have the capacity to introduce any kind of ventures by investing money. The existing bank players are playing critical roles in the process of openness, collaboration, and investment. The banking sector has understood the importance of going digital and dealing with the various issues that might require to get benefitted from the driven forces of new services and productivity. In argument, it has been pointed by Osmanaj (2014) that in the situation of meeting challenges, the banks might have to face with certain risks as well. The Fintech sector has showed the opportunity of new ventures in the diversified environment, two of the biggest success of the sector can be mentioned. First, is the payment processing services were one has the opportunity of lending or borrowing money to peers. Legacy technology and issues faced with the difficulties of approaching the new technological perspectives sometimes become an important factor in coming up with new venture or innovative product idea. Banking and Payment Authority of Kosovo established by UNMIK is responsible for the implementation of the monetary and other financial framework in order to foster an efficient and a safe payment system (Navarro 2015). Despite these approaches, there are notable future assumptions that would keep the traditional mode operated banks future ready to fight with the technological approaches made by the banks. Some banks keep on operating with the product-based assumptions rather than thinking of digital ways to improve their business. Business and market attractiveness: The idea behind the proposed venture is to enable the service of ATMs and POS in the market of Kosovo. This will creates opportunities for new banks and existing banks by the means of increasing ATM access. There have been issues regarding the availability of ATM machines in the existing banks of Kosovo. Each bank has limited very few number of ATM machines exclusively for themselves. If consumers from other banks use the ATM of other banks, the person has to pay certain amount as access fees (Mullins 2012). This automatically calls for an opportunity of a new venture that would reduce the extra amount to be paid by the users of the ATMs. Thus, the higher charges paid by the customers can also be reduced to some extent because everything will be digitalized and based on virtual operations. Inclination towards creating a customer satisfaction has been a long-term effort made by the banks and other financial institutions. Digital revolution has caught the headlight of easier task and cost reduction as well. New players in the banking sector have effectively taken part in the process of making the operations digital. The product-based approaches of the banks have been continuing successfully and the banks failing to keep pace with the same approaches have seen to reduce share in the market. However, certain banks are stubborn towards their approach and believe in the impregnable nature of the business. As pointed out by Mulaj (2014), these banks are facing continuous diminishing share as their brand reorganization is reducing due to inability to compete with the existing fast flowing strategies of the banks. The sources of revenue of the banks are reducing with the changes in the insight of the customers. As the insight of the customers, are growing and they are reacting to the change in the business scenario. Banks might take advantage of this short-term idea and focus any kind of changes or innovations in the strategies of their business. In the viewpoint of Melecky and Podpiera (2012), when a bank or any other organization comes up with something innovative, then it is bound to attract the attention of the customers. Thus, solving the interim digital frustration of the customers would help the banks to solve the issues that are making the banks remaining behind in satisfying the customers. Utilizing ones own intellectual properties and the expertise of the bank, or in case if required, taking help from outsourcing, the banks can make approaches towards making the operation more customer friendly. This would be the most appropriate way of creating customer satisfaction. In the age of great competition, satisfying customers is indeed required to create a brand loyalty. As pointed out by McKeever (2014), it is only by the means of creating a brand loyalty among the target customers that will engage the existing customers to stay loyal towards the brand. Overview of the industry: Kosovos banking and financial sector is composed of 10 major banks, operating in 247 offices. There are 14 micro finance institutions and 3 other non-bank institutions. There are 7 insurance companies and a single Pension saving trust as well. Banking system of Kosovo covers a wide area. Approximately, there is one bank branch for every 9000 inhabitants. Total asset of banking institutions in Kosovo is 700 million Euros. This is equivalent to 40% of the GDP of the country. At the time when Kosovo planned for Euroisation, the inflation rate increased at over 40%. This inflation rate was not removed consequently and in subsequent years, Kosovo recorded double digit inflation (Mazelliu and Zogjani 2015). However, Euroisation has removed economic fall down of the region to some extent. The process has reduced transaction cost that is an important factor of trade within the Kosovo economy. The central banks are facing more constraints to tackle the lenders functions. Digitalization has been a process undertaken the banking sector in its business since a long time. Innovative approaches have been seen to undertake by the banks and other operating industries as well for making the working procedure digital and less time consuming. For example, Germanys Fidor Bank has established FidorOS, an open application program that facilitate the consumers to carry on with core banking. This method has provided a great offer to the existing customers (Mathaisel and Comm 2015). The users of the service can carry out with various transactional activities, such as lending or transferring money to others accounts. In fact, the most innovative approach made by the bank is by the offering a modern range of service of transferring money via Twitter. This way, 24 hours transaction has been made possible by the bank with their innovative approach. Thus, it can be easily said that the banking sectors are striving for innovative approaches and the banks are focusing grea tly towards making innovative changes in the operational activities of the bank. The solution: Companies that operate in a single field such as a bank, have greater opportunities to conduct outsourcing. When a special product or service is introduced by the same sector, it is usually welcomed by the consumers. In this respect, it can be mentioned that outsourcing has also touched the business scenario of Kosovo (Manu 2015). These opportunities have opened wider perspectives for the entrepreneurs of the young talent of Kosovo. There is provision of earning immediate profit as well as long run profit from the outsourcing techniques. One of the solutions gained for operating in the digital environment is by the means of collaboration. Several private as well as corporate banks have taken the initiative towards collaborating with the each other. These companies have made an approach towards opening of an ATM or POS counter to make it easier for the consumers access the monetary transaction. In fact, collaboration approach has made it a factor that the organizations can utilize it for their future projects as well (Malush 2014). When a cross-cultural or cross-company collaborative approach is made towards a business, then a better result is expected. Many examples of this collaboration can be stated here. In the year 1966, having realized the potential of the power of plastic money, the MasterCard was founded to support the interbank payment option. This way, these banks shared the utility of the proposed idea and made the transaction facility easier and convenient for the users. Similar approach can be made in the banking sector of Kosovo. For the introduction of All in one ATM, not only a number of banks can make collaborative approach but a cross-industry approach can also be made. Since, the machine that has been proposed will be applicable for several other purposes and not only transaction of money, a cross industrial approach would be beneficial to develop the product (Leonidou et al. 2013). A cross industrial approach will open doors for future vale generation as well. Digital approach has been made in almost every sector and every company is thinking of ways to go cashless and transfer of money easier. It might be a challenging situation for a new venture to go for a collaborative approach towards the start of the business but the solution that has been proposed for the new business plan venture could be collaboration with the existing banks and other cross culture industries. It might also be added in this respect that when a collaborative approach is made, then a good support from the established industries helped to gain loyalty of the customers in the market (Lages et al. 2013). Investing for a new venture and starting a business completely in a new way without the help or collaboration of companies might prove to be really challenging. Getting loans from the bank would not be easy. However, even for a collaborative approach as well, some funding is indeed required that would be gathered from the banks in term of loans. Designing the business model will also require the investment of some amount as an initial funding. Positioning on the Innovation map: It is indeed required to position the service in the market. As commented by Lages et al. (2013), unless good marketing is not done on a new venture or product, the company cannot hope for better returns from the market. For gaining a gripped position in the market, conducting a marketing mix is very necessary. Marketing mix model: The 4Ps of marketing, namely, Product, Place, People and Promotion can be discussed here. Product: The product as already stated is a multi use machine. Several functions will be available in the machine such as depositing cash, withdrawal of cash, money transfer, exchange of money and other such facilities. The service will be available to the customers at a much cheaper rate. This would make the system easier for the user to carry on with the transaction and other related things (Kupina and Salko 2015). Moreover, the machine would be equipped with such devices that would reduce the time of checking balance because the model will be equipped with such devices that it would directly take the input from the customer without creating confusing navigation options. These things create confusion as well as are time consuming. Place: The place selected for the business is Kosovo because the number of banks and other financial institution in this region is very less. It would be a better business opportunity in terms of opening ATM or POS in collaboration with the banks. The same approach might be expandable to nearby markets of Albania, Macedonia and Serbia as well. People: The target group of people is the users of bank account. People all around the world are using the ATM facility to withdraw money. Other facilities like depositing and checking balance of the account has increased the number of users by many folds (Krasniqi 2014). When the facility of transferring money from other banks will be available along with exchange of currency, then more numbers of customers are expected to use the facility of the ATM machines in the Kosovo region. Thus, people from all sectors carrying out with monetary transaction at a regular basis can be the targeted customers for the new venture. In this respect, it has to be mentioned that for the new venture, the regional banks of Kosovo are also needed to convince to join the new venture. With more numbers of banks involving in the process, more numbers of users can be targeted. The purpose of the venture is not only to promote the function of ATM, for withdrawal of money but to serve other purposes as well. Thus, the targeted consumers are not only bank users but the banks as well. Promotion: The promotional activities can be carried on by various means. In this case, reaching out to the banks and other financial institutions personally with the proposal can be considered to be the best promotional technique (Kimiagari et al. 2015). Other than that informing clients by sending personal messages via as e-mails or i-message can also be very fruitful. At the place promotional activities would be very fruitful for this purpose. Kiosks and other hoardings might be placed in various branches of bank to promote the new service. If the above proposed marketing mix is applied for the sake of marketing the product, there is a chance of attaining greater success in the market. Business model: As stated by Kim and Mauborgne (2014), Business model is an art that is required to plan before the commencement of a new business venture. Unless a business model is set up, there remains no path of taking the business to higher level. Certain things are required for the establishment of a new venture. For the sake of establishing the innovative service in the form of All in one ATM a business model can be framed. Every machine would be enabled with the ATM facility by which customers would be able to withdraw money as per their convenience. Other facilities that would be available are depositing cash from the same counter. One would be able to pay the installments of bank loans or any other types of loans. Other things required for setting the ATM counters would be flat fee for banks or the clients. The idea is much reliable and is sustainable for at least 10 years. Assurance can be made for this proposal because there is much less scope of technological advancement in Kosovo and the nearby regions as well (Jimnez et al. 2013). However, todays world is turning digital with technological advancements and every action is being carried on virtually. The idea is much innovative and would be highly acceptable among the people of this region. In the age of globalization, the world is getting connected by the means of internet using the digital platform. Every sector is making approaches to adapt to this change just to meet the global demand of consumers. Monetary transaction is indeed needed for every sector of business and carrying out any kind of regular activity. Thus, the business model would be very fruitful if proper approaches are made towards the establishment of the All-in-One ATM machine. Critical resources needed: As pointed out by Ismajli et al. (2014), basically five types of resources are required to start up a business. Many projects or ventures fail in succeeding in business due to deficiency in certain critical resources. For the new venture of opening all-in one ATM, the critical resources needed might be mentioned here: Financial resources: the most important element to start up a business is the requirement of financial help or funding. Every small and big businesses requires the financial funding. For the sake of this new venture, a proposed budget has been made. The amount required for this budget might be available from the banks in terms of loan (Huang and Sarigll 2012). Since, it is a big venture, supporting the project with the capital available to a single or a group of persons might not be possible and it certainly requires taking financial help from the banks in terms of loans. Human resource: Skilled and knowledgeable human resource is required to carry on with the business perspective. Since, it requires a great knowledge of technology; people from IT sector are required to take charge of the complete business project (Hoti et al. 2014). Apart from them, creating a business plan would require the involvement of entrepreneurs and thus, human resource from Business knowledge background is also required. For the promotional activities, a group of experts are also needed. Educational resource: Without understanding the basic educational background of the various approaches needed for the sake of carrying out the business venture. Getting educated about the internal and external policies of the things related to the new venture will facilitate to understand the business and take better steps towards the new venture (Hanssens et al. 2014). Physical resource: Physical resources such as space for establishing the ATM or the POS machine. The new proposed venture might be used by shopkeepers as well for monetary transactions. Thus, such shops or outlets are also required for the machines to work in the market. Emotional resource: Emotional resource calls for moral support and assistance. It might not be possible for a single entrepreneur to handle the various situations of success and failure. However, a moral support from few people gives the possibility to fight with the situation (Han et al. 2015). An emotional resource calls for team building and metal or emotional support for the business venture. All the mentioned factors are very important for any business venture to begin in a new market. Scalability: Understanding the scalability of a product or a service is important because it describes the capability of the same to cope or perform in the given environmental situation. The service that would be able to scale well in the market, have greater opportunity to grab the market. Some of the scalability factors of the service for All-in-one ATM machine might be discussed here: Geographical location: The region selected for the business plan is Kosovo. As already mentioned, the need of technological development in the region, it purpose of the launch of the service might prove to be really fruitful (Govori 2013). Product differentiation: This call for differentiation in the product which means that the new service or the product will serve something different that might not be available previously. We know that ATM machines are very common in recent market scenario and people are taking advantage of the service to a large extent. In the developed and developing countries, there is no bank that does not provide ATM facility (Gashi 2013). However, if the proposed idea provide something extra other than the normal facility of cash withdrawal or cash deposit, then its scalability might increase. Some of the extra facilities that might be available from the All-in-one ATM is: Cash back on POS: Many times, people are stuck with the problems that while doing any kind of transaction, mainly at the time of making payment, the transaction is failed. However, the person paid for the same transaction receives a message that the amount has been debited from his account (Faroughian et al. 2012). The person gets panicked stricken. In order to overcome from these types of situations, the machine would be equipped with the facility of getting the cash back from the machine if the transaction fails. This would create greater trust among the users and they would use the service without much hindrance. National/international transfer transaction: The service will be available for conducting any kind of transaction both national and international. People will be able to send and receive money from any part of the globe. Phone credit top up: Apart from all the above mentioned facilities, it is also expected that the machine will be also be enabled with the facility of carrying out any kind of recharges for paying bills of telephones, electricity or any other such requirements (Evans 2015). The above mentioned extra feature would definitely grab the attention of the users and consumers in the market. People would use the service happily Go-to-market strategy: Go to market strategy is the plan that an organization undertakes utilizing the available inside and outside resources that allows them to deliver their unique value proportion to the target consumers in order to achieve competitive advantage in the existing market. It depends on the overall experience of the product or service such as the quality of the product to enhance their market proposition (Dibb and Simkin 2016). The business plan that has been proposed shows the go-to market strategy in the following way: Favorable agreements with banks and other financial institutions: Capturing the market by favorable agreement with banks, enables automatic access to the clients. It is expected that the management team of the new business would come up with certain strategic plans to keep a trace of the banking business in the market and formulate better schemes and agreements with the banks that they easily cope up with the business plan. Better service fees: A negotiable service fee has to be assumed for the sake of carrying out the transaction activities with the consumers and the banks. It must be kept in mind that pricing strategy has been used by major companies to fight with the competitive nature of the market (DeYoung et al. 2015). Thus, it is recommended to think of better plans at the time of deciding the service fees to offer to the consumers. Wider physical presence: Binding the service within a limited range of geographical location will not help to attract as many customers or clients towards the innovative business plan. The only way to grab more customers is to spread the business far and wide (Born and Pfeifer 2014). Thus, approach has to be made for wider physical presence. The regions of Macedonia, Kosovo and other nearby regions can be easily targeted. With the above recommendation made here, it can be said that the proposed business plan must take great initiatives to follow up their business plan with the contemporary market scenario. It can also be stated here that before introducing any kind of business project, it is the foremost duty of the entrepreneur to dig out all the possible features of the market related to the proposed business plan. It is when the market condition is favorable for the proposed plan; initiative should be made for carrying out the business plan. In case of banking sector of Kosovo, the plan is indeed a good initiative. Financial planning: For the proposed venture, a total investment of 3,000,000 Euros would be made that is procured through investors investment and bank loans. This capital would be employed systematically and would cover start-up cost as well as operating costs before the venture starts yielding enough revenues to cover its own expenses (Brealey et al. 2012). The following table represents the elements of capital funding, sales forecast, cost of goods sold, various expenses incurred by the business and fixed asset owned by the company. As the projected venture is an innovative business idea and does not have any significant competitors, the venture is expected to grow rapidly (Brooks and Mukherjee 2013). Conclusion: By the end of the discussion it can be said that there is a great opportunity of such a business venture in recent scenario where there is a great opportunity of making every possible thing digital. People and businesses are getting connected very easily by using internet as the medium of connectivity. The age of globalization calls for effort to be given by every business activists. People are becoming more technology oriented and want to carry on with basic things by the means of technology. Easy payment options like Paypal and iPay have been operating in the commercial market with great success. Thus, any venture made in accordance to such related business perspective would prove to be a massive hit in the business market. The business plan has described the situation of the banking sectors in Kosovo. It is clear that there lies a great opportunity for a business ventures like All-in one ATM. It is expected that the banks and other financial institutes would easily accept the proposed idea. The venture is also supportive for the people because this way they are able to make payment in a better and easier way. In fact, more and more people are opting for e-payment mode rather than doing cash transactions. Apart from the opportunities, the scalability of the product along with possible risks that can take place with the advent of the new venture has been discussed here. It can be stated that the venture could be easily expanded to other regions as well and there is a high possibility of the acceptance of the service far and wide. If the scenario of Kosovo is undertaken, then there lies a great opportunity in the banking sector of the region and the nearby regions as well. If proper implementations are made and the banks and other financial institutions are convinced for the proposal, then the business plan would be of great success. The foreseen risks have to be kept in check regularly and necessary steps are to be taken to overcome the issues related to the business plan. Certain other methods might be kept in mind that might be applicable in case if the proposed business idea does not work out well. Reference list: Ahmeti, S., Hoti, A. and Bekteshi, S.A., 2014. Analysis of Financial Performance in the Banking System in Kosovo-the Period 2006-2012.Journal of Knowledge Management, Economics and Information Technology,4(2). Arifi, E., Durguti, E., Tmava, Q. and Kryeziu, N., 2014. Empirical analysis of basel iii effects in interest rate on the kosovo banking system.European Scientific Journal,10(28). Bankofalbania.org, 2016, Kosovo Experience with Euronization of its Economy. Available at: bankofalbania.org/web/pub/M_SVETCHINE_1329_1.pdf [Accessed on: 10-6-2016 ] Beqiri, E., Beqiri, N. and Beqiri, V., 2015. Harmonization of Information Systems in the Case of Electronic Banking Payments in South East European Countries.Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies,4(2 S1), p.112. Bertay, A.C., Demirg-Kunt, A. and Huizinga, H., 2013. Do we need big banks? Evidence on performance, strategy and market discipline.Journal of Financial Intermediation,22(4), pp.532-558. Bierman Jr, H. and Smidt, S., 2012.The capital budgeting decision: economic analysis of investment projects. Routledge. Blank, S., 2013. Why the lean start-up changes everything.Harvard Business Review,91(5), pp.63-72. Born, B. and Pfeifer, J., 2014. Policy risk and the business cycle.Journal of Monetary Economics,68, pp.68-85. Brealey, R.A., Myers, S.C., Allen, F. and Mohanty, P., 2012.Principles of corporate finance. Tata McGraw-Hill Education. Brooks, R. and Mukherjee, A.K., 2013.Financial management: core concepts. Pearson. DeYoung, R., Gron, A., Torna, G. and Winton, A., 2015. Risk overhang and loan portfolio decisions: small business loan supply before and during the financial crisis.The Journal of Finance,70(6), pp.2451-2488. Dibb, S. and Simkin, L., 2016. Market Segmentation and Segment Strategy.Marketing Theory: A Student Text, p.251. Evans, V., 2015.The FT Essential Guide to Writing a Business Plan: How to win backing to start up or grow your business. Pearson Higher Ed. Faroughian, F.F., Kalafatis, S.P., Ledden, L., Samouel, P. and Tsogas, M.H., 2012. Value and risk in business-to-business e-banking.Industrial Marketing Management,41(1), pp.68-81. Fintechinnovationlablondon.co.uk, 2016. The Future of Fintech and Banking. Available at: fintechinnovationlablondon.co.uk/media/730274/Accenture-The-Future-of-Fintech-and-Banking-digitallydisrupted-or-reima-.pdf [Accessed on: 10-6-2016 ] Gashi, A., 2013. The Impact of the Crisis on Social Inclusion and Social Protection in Kosovo.The social consequences of the global economic. Glackin, C., 2013. Entrepreneurship: Starting and Operating a Small Business, 3e. Govori, A., 2013. Factors Affecting the Growth and Development of SMEs: Experiences from Kosovo.Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences,4(9), p.701. Han, H.S., Yang, H.D. and Kim, K., 2015. Open Market Strategy of the Business Innovation Platform for SME Informatization based on Cloud Computing.Journal of the Korea society of IT services,14(4), pp.15-30. Hanssens, D.M., Pauwels, K.H., Srinivasan, S., Vanhuele, M. and Yildirim, G., 2014. Consumer attitude metrics for guiding marketing mix decisions.Marketing Science,33(4), pp.534-550. Hoti, A., Alshiqi-Bekteshi, S. and Livoreka, B., 2014. Performance of Foreign Banks Operating in KosovoProCredit Bank Kosovo-Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo NLB Prishtina.Academic Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies,3(2), p.57. Huang, R. and Sarigll, E., 2012. How brand awareness relates to market outcome, brand equity, and the marketing mix.Journal of Business Research,65(1), pp.92-99. Ismajli, A., Hysi-Panajoti, V., Fejza, L.E., Ismajli, D.A. and Fejza, E., 2014. Consumer satisfaction and customer loyalty in the services sector: a case study of bkt bank-prishtina, kosovo.European Scientific Journal,10(1). Jimnez, G., Lopez, J.A. and Saurina, J., 2013. How does competition affect bank risk-taking?.Journal of Financial Stability,9(2), pp.185-195. Kerzner, H.R., 2013.Project management: a systems approach to planning, scheduling, and controlling. John Wiley Sons. Kim, W.C. and Mauborgne, R., 2014.Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant. Harvard Business Review Press. Kimiagari, S., Gabrielsson, P., Gabrielsson, M. and Montreuil, B., 2015. 5. Market strategy of international new ventures originating from a small and open economy.Handbook of Research on International Entrepreneurship Strategy: Improving SME Performance Globally, p.85. Krasniqi, M., 2014. Management and Design of Fiscal Policy Towards Economic Development.Journal of Educational and Social Research,4(6), p.175. Kupina, Q. and Salko, D., 2015. Banking System Performance on Actual Stage of Economic Development (A comparison Analysis of Banking Systems of Albania and Kosovo).Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences,6(2), p.345. Lages, L.F., Mata, J. and Griffith, D.A., 2013. Change in international market strategy as a reaction to performance decline.Journal of Business Research,66(12), pp.2600-2611. Leonidou, C.N., Katsikeas, C.S. and Morgan, N.A., 2013. Greening the marketing mix: do firms do it and does it pay off?.Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science,41(2), pp.151-170. Malush, K., 2014. Management and Design of Fiscal Policy Towards Economic Development.Mediterranean Journal of Social Sciences,5(20), p.990.

Ethics and Compliance of Starbucks free essay sample

Starbucks has grown to now 18,000 stores in 62 countries and has become the premier roaster and retailer of coffee in the world. The company has strived to purchase and roast high quality whole bean coffees and has become the beacon for all of coffee lovers everywhere. Starbucks company website states that it is their goal to â€Å"make a positive impact one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time. † Starbucks has committed to a good corporate citizen; using their scale for good to catalyze change â€Å"across entire industries so that Starbucks and everyone we touch can endure and thrive. Starbucks 2012 Annual Global Responsibility report shows more than 9,400 company operated stores were open as of September 30, 2012. In the United Kingdom, 595 stores were open as of September 30, 2012. As a global corporate citizen, Starbucks is doing well in achieving their goals of ethically sourcing their coffee, getting the customers more involved in their communities and recycl ing; just a few of their global goals. We will write a custom essay sample on Ethics and Compliance of Starbucks or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page However, as a billion dollar global corporation, Starbucks has found legal ways to avoid paying their fair share of taxes. In October 2012, an article published by Daniel Johnson of the Daily Mail, stating that Starbucks had managed to avoid paying taxes on $1. 2 billion pounds in sales over the past three years. The company employs at least three legal ways of avoiding tax payments on profits. First, the company charges their own overseas subsidiaries royalties for the right to use its brand and products. Each time a citizen of the United Kingdom purchases a cup of coffee, six percent of the price is a royalty paid back the United States parent company branches. Some of the royalties are placed in tax havens. The royalties would have been counted as profits in the United Kingdom and taxed at 24 % but because the royalties are sent back to the United States the money cannot be taxed. Second way of avoiding tax payments is accomplished by requiring the UK subsidiaries to pay the Holland subsidiary to roast the beans and to buy beans from its Switzerland subsidiaries Holland and Switzerland end up reporting profits because of this. Starbucks used its supply chain to move its profits out of the UK. The profits earned in Holland are taxed at 25%. Swiss law does not require Starbucks to report its profits, which are taxed at only 5 percent. By moving its supply chain operations out of the UK, the company has managed to move its profits out of the UK also. Finally, the company avoids paying taxes by funding the United Kingdom operations through the use of borrowing high interest rate loans from another part of the firm. This action lowers the profits made in the United Kingdom. Starbucks actions are not illegal, but they are not the most ethical practices either. By not paying their corporate taxes, the company is contradicting itself when it states that it desires to make everyone â€Å"endure and thrive. † Instead of being a corporation that inspires change it follows the pattern of the rest of the large corporations who seek to earn a profit by legally avoiding tax payments. â€Å"The U. S. financial markets consist of many separate markets for diverse products offered on a range of trading platforms and exchanges. Among the many products traded are fixed-income securities, equities, foreign exchange and derivatives. (U. S. Department Of The Treasury, 2010). In the United States people rely on other companies to buy their stocks and bonds so the company selling these stocks and bond can to receive money to increase their business. One example of the most popular financial market is the stock markets. This here all types of companies can sell stocks and bonds. There are three types of stock markets in the United States, New York Sto ck Exchange, over-the-counter market, and American Stock Exchange. The New York Stock exchange usually consists of the larger business whereas the Over-the-counter market is mostly made of smaller businesses. The way businesses can earn extra money they loan to the borrower is by charging them interest on the funds they had borrowed. A SEC filing helps the government keep track of a company and make sure they are not breaking any laws but this SEC filing helps the investor as well. The SEC filing helps the investor by showing them how well or how bad the company has been doing in their financial statements. Starbucks relies on their employees as well to follow the SEC regulations, which means for the employees that the board can to come in at any time to a store to regulate the jobs and duties of the employees. The committee is also able to check the stores books to make sure they are putting in all financial information and keeping correct taps on items sold as well as materials used. â€Å"The primary purpose of the Audit and Compliance Committee (the â€Å"Committee†) is to oversee the accounting and financial reporting processes of Starbucks Corporation (the â€Å"Company†) and the internal and external audit processes. The Committee also assists the Board of Directors of the company in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities by reviewing the financial information that is provided to shareholders and others, the systems of internal control which management and the Board of Directors have established, the Company’s risk management practices, and compliance with the Companys Standards of Business Conduct, Code of Ethics for the CEO and Finance Leaders and the Policy for the Review and Approval of Related Person Transactions Required to be Disclosed in Proxy Statements. (Starbucks Corporation Audit and Compliance Committee Charter, 2012) According to the formula current ratio = current assets/current liabilities, the current ratio for Starbucks in 2011 was 1. 83. The formula debt ratio= total liabilities/total assets, the debt ratio was . 40. The formula return on equity ratio = net income/shareholders equity, the return on equity ratio was . 28. According to the formula days receivable ratio = accounts receivable/ (credit sales/365), the days receivable ratio was 164. 47 (Google, 2013). According to the same formulas, in 2012 the current ratio was 1. 90. The debt ratio was . 38. The return on equity ratio was . 27. Finally, the day’s receivable ratio was 197. 52. The financial health of Starbucks is trending upward. The higher current ratio in 2012 implies that it was easier in 2012 for the company to pay back short-term obligations. The lower debt ratio in 2012 implies that the company can manage assets and debt. The return on equity remained close both years, implying that the company generated almost equal profit both ears with the money that the shareholders have invested. The day’s receivable ratio did climb, which means that it is taking the company longer to collect. This could be an issue if the company was smaller, but the size of the company, it should not be a problem at this point. Starbucks has been a wealthy business for some time now. It is the place to get the best coffee around. They seek to find the best coffee beans to roast and brew up into a specialty coffee. As we have read in this paper Starbucks has found legal ways to get around avoiding paying taxes. By selling the coffee in Holland and Switzerland, Starbucks is allowed to not pay taxes on everything sold overseas then send to the United States. This is an unethical way of managing taxes, but it is legal in those areas. The businesses ratios are well in the successful range and are doing very well for themselves. They are certainly holding up to their motto of inspire and nurture the human spirit one person, one cup, and one neighborhood at a time(Starbucks Corporation, 2012). Works Cited: Google. (2013). Retrieved from http://www. oogle. com/finance? fstype=iiamp;q=NASDAQ:SBUX Johnson, D. (2012, Oct 17). Starbucks and the stench of hypocrisy. Daily Mail. Retrieved from http://search. proquest. com/docview/1112339262? accountid=35812 http://www. starbucks. com/responsibility/global-report STARBUCKS CORPORATION AUDIT AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE CHARTER. (2012). Retrieved from http://team. starbucks. net/sites/CORP U. S. Department of the Treasury. (2010). Retrieved from http://www. t reasury. gov/resource-center/faqs/Markets/Pages/finmarketsfaq. aspx

Argument essay on graduates

Argument essay on graduates Strike organized by the institutions of higher learning in San Francisco lacked foundation, both in size and organizational style. According to Barlow and Sharpio, what began as a simple anxiety by a few students interfered with the whole education section. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Argument essay on graduates specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It is vital to emphasize that five student organizations from developing countries also joined the strike (Barlow Sharpio 278). This occurrence has resulted in several views across the society. One of the most important views is the provision of equal ranks to all students regardless to ethnicity, as well as cultural values. It should be noted that â€Å"five other third world student organizations on campus† joined hands in harmony with their black counterparts (Barlow Sharpio 278). In as much as the strike was a negative event, it culminated to significant cha nges in the relations of persons in educational institutions. It is noted that the speedy spread of the strike means that it was not set to take place within a given place. This is true when considering several issues across educational system. Increase in the number of students was as a result of high admission rates for students from various cultural backgrounds. Consequently, it was caused by the affordability of the tuition fees. This was bound to raise several issues following the history of racial isolation in the country. Most of these learning institutions failed to change their curriculum and extra-curricula programs to suit the increased variety in terms of the student population. It is again essential to note that unfairness in fees structure was a major contributor to the problem (Bill Sharpio 281). The large number of student led to an increase in the budgetary allocation for education. This move did not favor most students, since the majority was from poor backgroun ds and could neither withstand increased taxes nor manage the responsibility of paying school fees. Existence of many cultures is very important for the smooth running of academic institutions in the modern times. This is true considering the occurrences at institutions of higher education in San Francisco during previous years. The most outstanding student based protest arose from an insignificant matter, which was simple to evade. Advertising Looking for essay on ethnicity studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Black students and other minority groups had fears about the policies that governed admission of students, allocation of financial scholarships and other misunderstandings involving members of staff. The protest would have been prevented if the administration at the time was more responsive to their needs, and opted for alternative revenge with regards to the suspension of the black professor. The strike a ttracted several people, since the administration department watched silently as students from developing nations were being harassed repeatedly. In addition, the fact that students from other institutions also protested in solidarity shows the importance of multiculturalism (Barlow Sharpio 278). This is because most of them confessed to having experienced a similar scenario in their respective institutions. Barlow and Sharpio emphasize that cultural studies formed an important area of study, since it equips students with the conceptual and practical skills. This would enable them to take part in all parts of life with ability and the necessary responsibility, in order to promote fairness, which entails democratic system and universal citizenship. This became evident since majority of the experts state challenges that professors bearing a similar heritage to theirs experienced like students. This implies that every racial heritage plays a significant role in establishing the stru cture of the society and hence should not be ignored. Most importantly, the adoption of multiculturalism led to the induction of ethnic studies in academic institutions. This meant that students were appropriately prepared to handle different challenges that came about because of racism and other forms of bias. It is notable that all segments proposed for inclusion into the curriculum are still covered to date, though with slight variations on the content and scale of study. Ethnic studies have been beneficial to the entire society in many ways, since students appreciate their cultures with relation to others, thus maintaining patience and the importance of peaceful coexistence.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Argument essay on graduates specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In addition, persons with interest in undertaking Asian studies, African studies or the lifestyle of any other minority group living in America are better placed to achieve this dream. This is due to the existence of these units as faculties in the different institutions of higher learning. Additionally, the changes made on the school administration in the state resulted in the creation of new vacancies. Natural causes like old age and retirements have maintained the process, since elderly tutors have to be replaced. Lastly, an increase in population led to the demand for more schools, hence more vacancies for teaching. Since this course has been integrated into the American curriculum, teachers for elementary, secondary and college level institutions also profit from this undertaking. Conclusion It is very important to emphasize that normal settlement patterns in America are determined by ethnicity, as well as economic status of individuals. This means that professionals planning to work closely with ethnic communities are in a formidable position to carry out their studies effectively. Such professionals include medical pra ctitioners, legal officers, social workers, psychologists, counselors, and sociologists, among many more (Barlow Sharpio 148). This knowledge will ensure the experts are knowledgeable about the community’s background, customs and beliefs; consequently, they will be able to know their values and habits. Knowledge about this will enable these professionals to organize their work, to avoid upsetting the community they serve. Furthermore, good relationships are also maintained since common respect is developed by all people. Barlow, Bill. Peter, Sharpio. Black power and student rebellion. California: Wadsworth Pub.Co.1969. Print. Barlow, Bill. Peter, Sharpio. The struggle for SF state. The reader. N.d. 278-281. Print.

The approach of English law towards duty of care has been Case Study

The approach of English law towards duty of care has been inconsistent, illogical and unfair on the claimant - Case Study Example The author is of the belief that it is when one looks at the cases involving gender orientation discrimination that one sees best how English law is inconsistent, illogical and unfair on the claimant. The cases examined will demonstrate not only legal contortionism at play, but language contortionism as well. After all, as stated by Andrew Altman in the article Legal Realism, Critical Studies and Dworkin, (1986) the law is infused with irresolvably opposed principles and ideals, and this legal indeterminacy, as it is called, compels the judge to make a choice that is not dictated by law. Once-sacrosanct legal precepts are being dismantled, stare decisis as a doctrine is being reexamined, and the infallibility of the courts as repository of truth and justice is being questioned. The law is no longer a fabric of clearly-defined spectrums, but is rather a patchwork quilt of various shades of gray. Taking this view is important in that it stimulates self-interrogation. It does away with the all-too-convenient givens of a legal system - that there is but one set of "correct" rules and that legal decisions are but logical outcomes of tested principles that are empirically-replicable. It aspires to expose the ideological content of the law obscured by layers upon layers of social conditioning by demonstrating how the large areas of legal indeterminacy provide fertile ground for the cooptation of the legal system to reinforce existing power arrangements. This brings us to our discussion on tort cases involving gender discrimination. Conaghan (1996) states: From a social perspective, feminists have argued that women suffer particular harms and injuries as women: their experience of pain and injury is indistinguishable, to a large extent, from the experience of men. This claim has at least two dimensions. On the one hand, pregnancy and childbirth, menstrual and/or ovulation pains are obvious examples of gender specific "harms". Men do not/cannot experience these traumas directly. On the other hand, the concept of gendered harm can also embrace those harms, which, although not exclusive to women in any biological sense, are risks which women are more likely to incur than men - the risk or rape, incest, sexual harassment, spousal abuse, or, more contentiously, the risk of harmful medical intervention. By and large, there is no dearth of legislation prohibiting discriminatory practices against women. However, in practice, jurisprudence has made it difficult for women to raise tort-related claims. Certainly, there are cases that are cut-and-dried; for instance, when it is patently obvious that there is discrimination on the basis of gender. However, in this day and age, it is less likely to find a case wherein the discrimination is so obvious that it unquestionably amounts to an illegal act. One would be hard put to find an employer who would dare violate the stringent regulations against workplace-related discrimination, instance. There is a greater likelihood that the discrimination would be insidious, perhaps having to do with a careless statement loosely made that betrays the

MGT 302 MOD 1 CA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

MGT 302 MOD 1 CA - Essay Example The intensity of the behavior and the persistency of the individuals also play a major role in the overall study. There are number of factors that influence the needs of a person and that impact the satisfaction levels thereby impacting the behavior of the individual (Brooks). The drive to satisfy one's needs is what arouses or energizes behavior. Habits, in turn, provide a direction for behavior. Habits are stimulus response bonds that are built up over time as a result of prior learning. There are two main components that explain behavior, one, is the motivation component and second is the learning component. Motivation component deals with the drive those energies the behavior while learning component is the habit that provides direction or indicates what particular behavior will be initiated (Mullins). The drive theory is one of the many theories that impact the level of motivation of the employees in the training sessions and this helps realize the factors that act as satisfiers and dissatisfies for the employees. The impact of drives as an organizing construct therefore waned. Furthermore, it became accepted that organisms are always active and the field of motivation shifted from the study of what turns organisms "on" and "off" to an interest in the direction of behavior, including choice and persistence.   The cognition and interest in this led to the development of the expectancy – value theory which involves some of the most common sense aspects that lead to motivated behavior. It is also important to note that the behavioral choices also determine to a great extent provides a clear image of what the goal is of the person and the focus and dedication that the person has to achieve the same (Tracey). Hence all these factors impact the level of motivation of employees in an organizational training. Recommendations The main need for motivated and well focused employees is for the survival of the company. A workplace tends to be very effective if the employees are motivated as these employees tend to be more productive and effective. It is crucial that the manager is able to identify what motivates the employees and what does not in order to keep a clear context of the performance. Of all the functions a manager performs, motivating employees is arguably the most complex. This is due, in part, to the fact that what motivates employee's changes constantly (JD and Mazin). For example, research suggests that as employees' income increases, money becomes less of a motivator. Also, as employees get older, interesting work becomes more of a motivator.   The main aim of the training program is to ensure that the employees have a better idea of working within diverse workforces and how to deal with the various cultures within the workforce (Tracey). Here it is clear that the company has taken all attempts to ensure that the environment and style of imparting the training is different and is also interesting. However, if the level s of motivation are still low this is a major issue. The mission of is to facilitate individual and organization awareness and provide assistance in preparing and accessing the diversity program. Cognitive theorists do not assume that beliefs are based entirely on previous experiences with contingencies (e.g., reward and punishment) to one's own behavior (JD and Mazin). A few of the possible solutions

Air France Flight 447 Crash 2009 Engineering Essay

Air France Flight 447 Crash 2009 Engineering Essay On May 31, 2009, Air Frances flight AF447 left Rio de Janeiro to take its 228 passengers to Paris. After sending the last message to Brazil ATC three hours after the flight took off, the aircraft suddenly disappeared while passing through the equatorial ITCZ. The aircraft computer system managed to transmit 24 fault messages indicating speed sensor problems to the Air Frances Paris Centre before it went missing. In the early morning hours of June 1, 2009, the aircraft dived into the Atlantic Ocean killing all passengers onboard. The investigation positively identified the main cause of the disaster as the pitot tube or the speed and temperature sensor malfunction located underneath the aircrafts cockpit. The cause of the pitot tube malfunctioning was determined to be due to the accumulation of ice crystals around it. Consequently, the aircrafts computerized navigational system was affected resulting in failure of different flight control systems. However, the physical evidences recov ered from the crash site suggest that the main pilot was not in the cockpit during the critical moments of the flight. Moreover, bodies of passengers and crew were found scattered in the crash indicating the possibility that they were not prepared for a crash landing. The analysis of the incident points to the possibility that the control of the aircraft during its final hour was left in the hands of a less experienced third officer. In general, the weather condition in the area where flight AF447 flew is the main causal factor that caused the pitot tube to malfunction. Another is Air France continuous use of a particular pitot tube that was implicated in a number of aircraft incidents in the past. Human error is also a contributing factor when the pilot made a very bad decision of flying through a known danger zone while others were diverting their route to avoid it. Another is the possibility that the captain was never in the cockpit during the critical hour as evidenced by the un prepared crew and passengers. Human error was involved in the safety design of the aircrafts computerized navigational system as evidenced by the sudden shut-down of the flight computers during the most critical moments of the incident. Finally, the worlds aviation industry and associated organizations are considered causal factors for their failure to set proper guidelines and standards for pitot tubes and travel across ITC zones. TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction 4 The Crash of Air France Flight 447 5 2.1 Background 5 2.2 Weather Condition 7 2.3 The Air Traffic Controllers 10 2.4 The Passengers of Flight AF447 11 2.5 The Aircraft and its Navigational Computer Systems 12 2.6 The Flight Crew and Human Errors 18 2.7 The World Aviation and other Organizations 23 Discussion and Conclusion 25 References 29 Appendices 32 Introduction On May 31, 2009 at 19:03 Brazilian local time, Air Frances flight AF447 was on its way to Paris from Rio de Janeiro carrying 228 passengers and crew when it encountered some technical problem. The A330 Airbus flew over the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) where it encountered numerous thunderstorms and on the morning of June 1, 2009, the plane crashed into the Atlantic Ocean killing all passengers and crew. The rescuers found small pieces of the aircraft indicating that it had landed like a flat hand into the waters with the nose slightly pointing upwards. The results of the investigation suggest that the cause of the incident was a malfunctioning pitot tube that was gradually covered by ice crystals during the flight. The pitot tube failed to send speed data to the aircrafts computerized navigation system resulting in a chain of problems and eventual loss of control. Four minutes before the aircraft finally hit the Atlantic Ocean, the computer system sent 24 messages informing the Air France Paris centre of the occurring failures. The last message sent by the pilot to Brazil and Senegal ATC was the one informing them that the aircraft reached high level 350 three hours after takeoff. The ATC never heard from the aircraft again and there was no way to monitor since the aircraft was out of the radar range. The investigation of the incident reveals some surprising details such as the absence of the pilot from the cockpit during the final hour of flight AF447 and dead bodies of passengers and cabin crew that seemed unprepared for an emergency landing. Moreover, the aircrafts position when it hit the water appears it had lost track of its altitude while the pilot was struggling to bring the nose up. The weather condition in the ITCZ area is undoubtedly the causal factor in flight AF447 crash since the extreme weather condition rendered the pitot tube useless. However, it could have been a successful flight if the pitot tube was designed to withstand such weather conditions or if the pilot took a diversion avoiding passing through a dangerous area. To summarize in a nutshell, three major causal factors are involved in flight AF447 disaster namely weather, pitot tube, and human error. The following sections discuss the details of the incident including background information before the disaster, the causal factors that may have contributed to the disaster, graphs and other details, discussion, and conclusion. The Crash of Air France Flight 447 Background The A330-200 Airbus, Air Frances flight AF447, was on its way to Paris from Rio de Jenario when in the early hours of that ill-fated day of June 1, 2009 something terrible and unexpected happened. Brazilian ATC got the last message from the AF447 and then all contact was lost. The plane was carrying 228 passengers and crew when it suddenly disappeared over the Atlantic Ocean. This set the background for one of the worst catastrophe in the aviation history, which killed 228 people. After hours of search and inquiry about the lost aircraft, the Air France officials did a detailed investigation of the messages transmitted from the plane before the accident. Except for some printout data indicating problems measuring air speed and difficulty in the in-flight computer control systems, the Brazilian and Senegalese air traffic controller reported that the plane never sent any distress signals. After about five days of the incident, the wreckage of the aircraft was found floating on the Atla ntic. About a month later, several pieces of the aircraft and some bodies were recovered but the flight data recorder or the black box was never recovered due to the extreme depth of the ocean (Kilner 2010, p.121). Sudden disappearance of flight AF447 causing a terrible air disaster and its discovery couple of days later, completely wrecked in pieces in the Atlantic Ocean, raises a lot of questions as to what went wrong. Various theories are given as well as various opinions. To unravel the mystery of AF447 air crash, a number of elements need to be evaluated. Since the black box was never found, people have no way of telling the actual cause of the crash. It may be because of the problem reported in the last message or some other problems after that. However, since there was no distress signal sent to the ATC except for some flight data printout of problems in air speed and computer control systems resulting in technical failures, the aircrafts flight control system would top the list. Second most prominent element that was evaluated in the investigation was the human error; the crew and particularly the pilots who were supposed to contact the ATC in case of any emergency. There were also some speculations about an explosion before the aircraft hit the water due to the presence of a long oil slick near the crash site (CNN World 2009, p.1). However, the constituting elements in this type of an accident is not limited to the people directly involved in the flight or terrorism, but extends to the prevailing weather, the control agencies, and other people who are responsible for commercial aviation (Kilner 2010, p.121). Weather Condition Meteorological analysis on the weather condition on AF447 crash doom day revealed its role in the cascade of events that occurred. There is substantial evidence that the thunderstorm and lightening resulted in raging turbulence, which affected the plane. The first thunderstorm encountered by AF447 was near Sao Luis in Brazil, followed by a dense cluster of thunderstorm and lightening in the Fernando de Noronha area, which comes in the ITCZ, the low pressure belt area at the equator. Such thunderstorms can create updrafts, which can reach up to 100 mph pooled up with downdrafts caused by cool air and vertical dry air mixing, which can lead to severe turbulence to aircraft. Other flights that were scheduled to fly the same night on the same route took a diversion of about 90 miles to avoid the storm zone, which encompassed about 50,000 feet of altitude. Then what prompted the experienced pilot and crew members of AF447, even after knowing the trouble, to enter the trouble zone? Would any pilot opt to fly in such a bad storm? This needed a serious thought and on investigating this matter it was observed that due to the small thunderstorm that the aircraft faced in the Sao Louis area before entering the huge thunderstorm front, the flights weather radar system may have got confused and thus the pilot and the crew were not aware of the big storm that was coming towards them. This reasoning is possible as aircraft radar system works on radio echoing principle. The tilt of the radar antenna beam helps the aircraft to detect the weather forecast. If by any means the tilt of the radar is set to a different angle then it is possible that the weather that might affect the aircraft ahead be missed (Ian Gilbert, 2005). This revelation about the weather condition and the radar operation raises another question as to when the weather condition was dangerous why AF447 did not try to avoid the storm and go around it. The satellite images obtained during the investigation showed that flying through the storm was inevitable for the Air France flight, as the storm covered approximately 400 miles and was in the route of the destination, making it impossible for the aircraft to go over or around the storm; unless they flew back. In such a situation, the only source to rely on for the pilot and the cabin crew would have been the onboard weather radar to navigate through, but the radar can only detect rain and not the turbulent wind shear. It is quite possible that these tempestuous weather conditions may have led to structural or electrical failure that was reported by the automated computer communications between the AF447 and Air France Paris headquarters. It is generally accepted that the weather in the route where flight AF447 was flying is very bad as evidenced by a number of accidents occurring particularly in that part of the equator. The weather forecast on that day was bad and it was up to the pilot to avoid the heavy thunderstorms they would encounter en-route to their destination. According to the analysis conducted on the incident, two engine planes like the A330 Airbus can withstand such conditions and flexible enough to go around any heavy thunderstorm. However, the weather condition on this situation may be too severe and created some unexpected problems for the aircraft (Kilner 2010, p.122). According to the analysis of the Baringer et al. (2010, p.182), there are evidences to suggest that the weather was an influencing factor in the crash of flight AF447. The report points to the large warm pool directly underneath the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone or ITCZ which was very active during that year. The Air Frances commercial flight that started its trip on the night of May 31 flew over the ITCZ passing an area of strong cumulus towers overnight. Equatorial weather data for the whole year of 2009 suggest that rainfall over the equator and tropical Pacific is 150% above normal (See satellite images in Figure A-1, p.32 and Figure A-2, p 33 in Appendix A). Aside from the ITCZ, there were also speculations about the occurrence of a microburst, a weather phenomenon that was implicated to a number of aircraft crashes like the Continental flight 3407 in New York and Delta Flight 191 in 1985 which killed 135 people (see Figure A-3, p.33 in Appendix A). According to McCormick et al. (2003, p.165), weather can play a role in accidents particularly in air transports. For instance, some of the most common affect of weather is reduced visibility, turbulence and gusting conditions, wind shear, ice and rain water on runways, and microburst conditions. In the annual review of aircraft accidents in 1995 conducted by the U.S. National Safety Board, weather contributes to 39 percent of fatal accidents while the majority at 87 percent is pilot error. The chart provided by U.S. National Safety Board shows the most usual initiating events of aircraft accidents and the most likely contributing factors. (See figure B-1 and B-2, p.34 in Appendix B) The Air Traffic Controllers In context to AF447 crash, ATC data becomes the prominent evidence in understanding the most probable reason behind the crash. The ATC details showed that the last contact made by the crew was with Brazilian ATC at 01:33 UTC, as the aircraft approached the Brazil Atlantic radar surveillance edge. After this routine message, the only information received was the 24 automated error messages received detailing flight problems and warnings, which was about 40 minutes after the last contact made at the Brazilian ATC. The last automated error message transmitted was at 2:14 UTC which mentioned about the cabin depressurization after which nothing was heard about the Air France 447. On deeper analysis of the ATC communication data that transpired during the flight, it shows that between 21:40 hr and 23:18 hr, there was successful communication between the crew and ATC. At 1 h 35 min 46 sec, the controller reported the aircraft to maintain an altitude of FL350 and to give TASIL estimate. Between 1 h 35 min 53 sec and 1 h 36 min 14 sec, the ATLANTICO checked with the crew on the estimate time of their reaching the TASIL point, which went unanswered. (BEA 2009, p.33). All these details point towards a strong possibility that the crew of flight AF447 was trying to contact the ATC before the incident but due to distance and bad weather conditions, the crew failed to get through. The ATC on the other hand had no radar coverage of that area and no weather data to warn the crew before it took off (Kilner 2010, p.122). The transcript of the investigation clearly stated that the pilot of flight AF447 reported flight level 350 which means the plane had reached its proper altitude after 3 hours. This is the last communication sent by AF447 with the ATC. In case there was a single message asking ATC for help then there might be some reason to implicate ATC on the incident, but there was none (Traufetter 2010, p.6). At this point, even the investigation conducted after the crash did not mention anything linking the Brazilian and Senegalian ATC to the incident except that they have a limited capability. The Passengers of Flight AF447 Aside from the angle of terrorism, the passengers seem an irrelevant factor contributing to the incident particularly when there was no indication of explosion in the recovered aircraft parts. However, one cannot eliminate the possibility that someone disabled the pilots and ditched the plane into the ocean. The possibility of terrorism is narrow and it cannot be eliminated completely but since there were actual distress messages from the aircraft before the crash, the possibility is irrelevant to consider. For instance, there were indeed data to prove that the aircrafts navigational system was failing minutes before the crash. Moreover, the rescue team sent to the crash site found considerable evidence that show that the crash occurred so suddenly that the bodies of passengers were not prepared for an emergency landing. The stewardess was also not sitting in the emergency seat and the life jackets were not used. From an ordinary passenger who may have been travelling through a commercial airline number of times, it is easy to visualize how crew members assigned in the cabin would prepare passengers in an emergency situation. If the imminent crash is known beforehand, passengers will be prepared for emergency landing and will be found almost in the same position and location during the rescue. Apparently, the report says that they were scattered everywhere indicating that cabin crew and passengers were not informed and wearing no seatbelts (Faith 2010, p.6). This surprising fact is linked to the man in control of the aircraft minutes before the crash. If the captain is the one maneuvering the plane, was he as an experienced and responsible person would not order or inform his cabin crew to prepare for an emergency? The passengers and even the cabin crew were mere victims and not in any way connected or contributed to the crash. The Aircraft and its Navigational Computer Systems The Airbus A330 is a modern aircraft and most commercial aircrafts are generally well-maintained. However, this aircraft model had been previously reported in one or two cases involving air speed measurement problems like the incident involving A340 flight from Tokyo to Paris, several months before the AF447 incident. Going by the investigation details, a day before the accident, the captain of AF447 had complained about some problem with the VHF1 selection key on RMP1, which was looked into. The routine Type A checks that were done on this aircraft type also did not identify any anomalies. These facts clearly indicate the otherwise good condition of the aircraft before the tragic flight. Measuring and maintaining the required air speed of the aircraft especially at high altitudes is very relevant. When air speed is not measured correctly, the pilot has a hard time controlling the plane particularly while flying in a very bad weather condition. In air transport, the most dreaded challenge faced by the pilots when things go out of control at high altitudes is the coffin corner, the area where the margin of error becomes very narrow. AF447 may also have faced the same fate with no chance of escape. On close speculation of the events that happened on 1st June, 2009 at 3 AM BST time, two main events surface. The A330 airbus reported that it has encountered bad weather and severe turbulence and ten minutes later the autopilot got disengaged as per the Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS). The succession of these two events indicate that flying the 233 ton heavy aircraft and managing the internal condition was becoming tough for the crew at the advent of storm battering the aircraft from all sides. Reviewing the error messages that were received at the Air France Paris headquarters, it was evident that the three Air Data Inertial Reference Unit (ADIRU) computers were showing different information. This information is the compilation of the data received from the pitot tubes that is then transferred to aircraft computers. Speed is a crucial factor in aerodynamics. At high altitudes, speed alteration can be treacherous. As the air becomes thinner at higher altitudes, the more speed is required to push the plane forward and to maintain its lift. If the speed is less, the plane will start stalling. At the same time, if speed becomes too much then because of passage of more air above the wings the center tends to move backwards pushing the nose of the plane down resulting in nosedive. As reported from the ACARS, it got 24 error messages from the autopilot before losing the connection. It becomes very clear from this fact that the crew members of AF447 were unaware of the actual speed and various equipments were showing inconsistent speeds. A big issue that comes up here is whether it was a complete system failure that occurred? The fact that during the vigorous attempts to save the aircraft and the passengers the plane was sending data to the maintenance facility gives a clear evidence that there was some electricity in the plane, which is impossible in case of 100% system failure. So that aspect can be completely eliminated. Investigating the automated error messages, it included 19 warnings and 5 failure messages. The equipment failure messages included the failure of cabin pressure control, autopilot, and flight controls. The warning messages were about the disengaged autopilot and disagreement between the air data systems, also warning about the cabin vertical speed. These messages and data strongly point towards speed discrepancies that happened in the aircraft due to equipment failure. From this standpoint, pitot tube is also being implicated as the most likely cause of the disaster as Pitot tube is a component of the aircraft maintenance computer or the Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System (ACARS). The system transmit messages via satellite to ground stations which were the same messages received by the ATC before the AF447 incident. Going by reports, based on Air France Airbus earlier incidents, it was identified that the existing Pitot tubes had a high probability of malfunctioning in cold and icy conditions. The problems that were highlighted at that time due to Pitot tube malfunctioning were fluctuating and wrong speed indications, automatic switch off of the autopilot, and even a false warning under extreme conditions. On 1st June, 2009 before AF447 vanished into the Atlantic, the first automatic error message that ATC reported was that the aircraft was fluctuating badly, which followed by automatics switch off of fly-by-wire system. On comparing both the reports and facts of the incident, the vulnerability of the pitot tubes that were attached to the aircrafts cockpit comes out more distinctly, which in turn decided the fate of the aircraft and its passengers on the doom day. A330-200 Airbus had three pitot probes fitted to its aircraft, so it seems like all the three pitot tubes got iced up simultaneously. Most probably, all three of them were unable to tolerate the extreme conditions faced by AF447. According to BEA investigation report, it was identified that the present pitot tubes are certified only to handle temperatures of -40C. From the meteorological details and satellite images obtained on crash day in and around the ITCZ area, it is very obvious that the aircraft was in the bulk of the cloud fields for a significant amount of time due to the heavy thunderstorms and the super-cooled water in the clouds may have blocked and disabled all the three pitot tubes. Pitot tubes malfunction had caused several incidents in 2008 and generated similar messages or print out data that preceded the flight AF447 crash in June 1, 2009. According to Hichri (2009, p.5), unlike other commercial airlines which upgraded their pitot tubes, Air France did nothing about the problem. Examining the initial physical evidence found on the scene and the information sent by flight AF447 before it crashed, investigators said that the aircraft went through a heavy turbulence without a fully functioning flight control system. The flattened and crushed nose cone of the aircraft tells the story of its high speed impaction with the water. Consequently, the pilot may have struggled to revive their flight management computers while the aircraft was breaking up due to excessive speed (Aviation Human Factors 2009, p.2). Failure of in-flight computer systems is not a novel issue. In fact, it was the mostly considered causal factor in previous aviation incidents. For instance, the causal factor in the shutdown of the busy Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in April 19, 2006 was caused by software malfunction. The communication failure between FAA Air Traffic Control Center and the aircraft in September 14, 2004 at the Los Angeles International Airport was due to the sudden and unexpected computer shut-down. The crash of Korean Air Flight 801 was also partly caused by malfunctioning Minimum Safe Altitude Warning system or MSAW and the failure of FAA to adequately manage the system. Another is the crash of American Airlines Flight 965, where errors in navigational computer programming are the leading cause of the incident. Similarly, the onboard automating reporting system in Air Frances Flight AF447 sent a total of 24 error messages while the computerized navigational systems failed throu ghout the aircraft (Wong et al., 2009, p.1-8).. After several months of investigation, the scenario depicting the final hour of Flight AF447 was constructed. (See figure C-1, p 35 in Appendix C). This scenario suggests that the horrific disaster was caused by a very small technical failure a false reading from the temperature sensor covered by ice crystals (Traufetter 2010, p.1). Since there was no more airspeed to gather and display, the autopilot and the automatic throttle system also malfunctioned and the computer automatically entered the emergency control mode. At this point, the pilot could no longer control the aircraft as it sped towards the ocean at 2, 500 feet per minute. As a natural reaction, it can be expected that the pilot tried every second to regain control of the aircraft by restarting the flight computer, but evidence suggests that he failed. The disaster in this scenario took place in a matter of four minutes after the pilot lost control of the navigational system due to failure of the temperature probe. Another causal factor suggested by Anleitner (2010, p.123) is the material used in the wiring of this type of aircraft. Kapton an insulating material used in the wiring of most modern aircraft has been shown to decay over time. The same material was one of the suspected causal factors in Swiss Air Flight 111 incident in 1998, TWA 800 disaster, and being considered as a potential contributing factor in the crash of Air France Flight 447 in the Atlantic. When completely decayed, this type of material contributes to short circuit or strong electrical arcing which can ignite fuel vapor. Computers have been blamed for several disasters including the death of 22 American servicemen due to faults in the Blackhawk helicopters computer-based fly-by-wire system. Similarly, an Iraqi Scud missile penetrated the U.S. military barracks due to the failure of the computerized Patriot missile defense system. The failure of the Hubble space telescope was also associated with programming error that shut down the onboard computer unexpectedly. Much worse is the downing of the Korean Air Lines flight 007, sinking of the HMS Sheffield in the Falklands, and the Nepalese A320 disaster caused by faulty software running a computerized fly-by-wire system (Forester Morrison 1994, p.3). The Flight Crew and Human Errors The flight crew of flight AF447 was very experienced but according to Kilner (2010, p.122), too much experience can make some people overconfident. There is, therefore, a possibility that the pilot of flight AF447 overestimated his capability and underestimated the danger ahead. The fact that the pilot decided to fly despite bad weather forecast is an indication of extreme confidence, which novice pilots would never do in such a situation. A less experienced person would probably delay the flight, re-route, or make an emergency stopover in an airport somewhere before the ocean. There is indeed a possibility of a pilot error or errors contributed by one of the crew. For instance, the first officer and the navigator are all working inside the cockpit and their functions if not performed correctly can lead to unimaginable disaster. The first officer is in charge of communication between the plane and the ATC and any mistake can put the plane in a critical situation. The first officer is also in charge of assisting the captain and can put the aircraft in or out of the automated mode, which if done out of procedure or if the captain is not aware can result in sudden or severe dive. Similarly, any wrong input of the navigator in the flight computer can result in wrong flight directions which are very dangerous (McCormick et al. 2003, p.120). In Air Frances flight AF447, the computer system had warned the pilot and the crew of faults very early in the flight. In fact, 24 error messages reached the Air France centre in Paris before the crash. The pilot could have heeded the warnings and turned back, but he never did and in fact took the chances maneuvering over numerous thunderstorms in the ITCZ area. Human error not only exists in inputs or confusions over a navigational chart and communication but does exist in ignorance of warnings also. According to Faith (1997, p.164), pilots are trained individuals that would likely follow set procedures precisely. However, these trainings and familiarity with procedures can sometimes create problems particularly when independent thinking is required. For instance, a certain pilot for Ariana Afghan Airlines Flight 701 flying from Frankfurt to London suffered the most fatal pilot problems a pilot could have indecisiveness. Having years of experience and training, the pilot was considered perfectly competent, but with a tendency to go by with routine procedures regardless of circumstances. Heathrow Airport was clear and most pilots decided to land on it rather than in the foggy area of Gatwick; however, the Ariana Afghan flight 701 pilot decided to land on Gatwick and while nearing the airport, thinking of something else, the pilot was surprised by a thick fog and tried to pull the aircraft nose up but it was too late. Consequently, a second pause killed 43 passengers and all the o ccupants of the house swept by the aircraft. Apparently, the pilot had a second thought on landing the aircraft at the Gatwick airport He was actually hesitating and this may be the reason why he was not concentrating and paused a moment during the approach. The possibility of human error in flight AF447 is great. Although, the weather is the major contributing factor that caused the instability of the aircraft, the warnings from the weather forecast and those released by the computer system could have saved all 228 passengers and crew, if the pilot listened to them and made emergency landing to the nearest available airport. Clearly, the pilot decided to depart from Brazil despite the bad weather on his route and while experiencing tremendous pressure from the ITCZ area, he never decided to return. Confusion inside the cockpit happens, and in an aircraft accident in Dulles International Airport in 1975, confusion over the approach chart and the air traffic controller instructions brought a descending aircraft to a ridge (Johnson Palanque (2004, p.20). According to Forester Morrison (1994, p.2), regardless if the problem is directly associated with computers, the cause of failure is eventually human error. This is because they were designed by humans and the software running them are also produced by humans. Another problem is human input which in many occasions is the cause of computer glitches. For instance, when an American Airlines jet crashed in Colombia, the investigators found out that the pilot missed one letter of the computer command. This very small error sent the plane crashing into the mountain and killed 163 innocent people. The pilot, the investigator reported, entered the coordinated for Cali, their actual destination was coordinates, but made a mistake in one letter of the code which sent the aircraft to the opposite direction towards Bogota (Pfleeger Atlee 2009, p.43). Incidents like these are good example how humans, regardless of advanced computer systems can take erroneous actions res