Stalins Leadership in World War II Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Stalins Leadership in World War II - Essay Example The second 50% of the 1930s saw the persistent battle propelled by Stalin to kill each one of those whom had - or if nothing else were suspected to have - doubts about the political system. The crusade that would get known as the Great Purge ignited quickly death of Sergey Kirov, an exceptionally famous individual from the Communist Party. Stalin reacted to the death with a progression of savage activities. Minor doubt of Stalin or his partners or unknown data was utilized to send the suspect to the constrained work camps or execute. The Soviet political volunteer army, otherwise called NKVD, was given basically unhindered forces, and during just two years from 1937 to 1938, the NKVD drove by Nikolay Yezhov executed roughly 1 million of Soviet residents with another 2 million were sent to the camps and in the end kicked the bucket (Ellman 2002). A few exaggerated preliminaries that occurred somewhere in the range of 1936 and 1938 prompted disposal of thousands of once conspicuous, compelling and profoundly experienced pioneers. The rundown of casualties included such exceptional figures as Zinovyev, Bukharin, and Rykov whom were executed on created accuses of plotting of Germany and Japan. Another procedure held in 1937 brought about practically whole disposal of the military's top-positioning authorities, for example, Marshal Tukhachevsky: as per the evaluations around 50 percent of the senior officials had been excused (somewhat executed, halfway sent to the camps) before the start of the Second World War (Conquest 1990). Obviously, such activities of Stalin who executed or sent to the camps the most experienced and skilled supervisors could scarcely be tended to as reasonable notwithstanding unavoidable war with Germany. In spite of the fact that Stalin's consciousness of the certainty of the war is subject for escalated discusses (Rapoport and Alexeev 1985), it is hard to envision that a government official of Stalin's position and experience could neglect to see the evident inclination. Indeed, even the likelihood that Stalin could commit the error evaluating the start of war barely legitimized such wrecking tidy up among the militaries, authorities, and political first class of the Soviet Union. Moreover, a progression of contentions started by Stalin in 1939 (Finland) and 1940 (Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia, and Romania) unmistakably exhibited that the Soviets were confidents of their military force. Incidentally, what may be and most likely must be seen as lack of caution by the supreme greater part of Stalin's counterparts just adds legitimacy to the cases of those whom offer assurance to his own administration during the World War adulating Stalin as the pioneer and strategist of the most elevated request. The truth of the matter is that without different pioneers of note whom had been excused, detained or executed during the Great Purge Stalin had to settle on choices exclusively all alone: even those innumerous masters whom effectively endured the dread of 1937-1938 had the illustrative case of what Stalin did to

Landscape Painting analysis

Scene Painting investigation The Harbor of La Rochelle Essay The creativity of the sythesis is that it utilized a ton of stunts in the format of the components, in the mean time being rendered just ND succinctly. The craftsman understood that the eye doesn't settle normally on the focal point of a work of art and that sytheses that put the principle subject in the inside were not satisfying to the eye. So he isolated the artwork into various parts both vertically, which may utilized the standard Of thirds that was pervasive among scene painters in that period. Vertically, the most reduced part primarily manages human exercises With extraordinary assortment and detail; the center part is the delineation of the stream and structures along the bank; and the most elevated part is exorbitant busy With the sky, utilizing less surface and detail so as not to upset the general parity accordingly making the impact of the scene subsiding into the separation. As a rule, the circulation of individuals, and the design of the trees, vessels and structures along each side of the waterway makes an even parity which conveys a soothing, quieting and outwardly stable inclination. Court joined a ton of components in this composition to unfurl the area of a customary day of a harbor city. In the lower left corner, there are 6 ponies which can be effectively tell that are utilized for conveying merchandise. There are a few boxes and stepping stools spreading around the ponies and individuals stealing box away the pony unhurriedly. Not tar from them, there is a man rolling a barrel loaded down with products and another man remaining by the waterway, embeddings a shaft into it. In the correct corner, there stands a man inclining toward the scaffold, investigating the separation. Directly adjacent to him, stand four individuals embracing with one another, as though they are taking their goodbye of one another. The shadow of the structure in the forefront shows the bearing of the light, just as make a chiaroscuro with the splendid foundation. Over the waterway, A bank retreating from option to left, driving our eye from the forefront right through the artistic creation, where we can see a group of structures, among which a gothic zenith towers up high, venturing into the cloud. The waterway is quiet and level, with vessels cheerfully soothed. The sky above them is clear and peaceful, With thick White mists coasting. The impression Of the houses and the sky can be plainly found in the outside of the gem, reflect like stream. Court spread out all the subjects With minute precision, clear diagrams, flimsy brush work. His controlled ND cautious feeds make a lovely marvel. The general tone of the work of art is light and lovely. His palette is overwhelmed by blue, white, and light dark, recommending a radiant and warm atmosphere and adding to the positive sentiment of the harmony and concordance of the life in a harbor city. Through the enchanting hues and splendid light, the craftsmen love toward the moderate paced relaxation straightforward life can be effortlessly detected. Differently formed and painted is the scene by Jan Van Gone, A Sandy Road With Thatched Cottages, it Offers the provincial scene Of a hot and challenging day. From the closer view, a wide sandy street wanders forward out of spotlight, With heaps Of straw and incapacitated bungalows specked along each side. In the lower left part, packs of straw are stacked randomly on the ground and the rooftop. Close to the heap Of straw Which has a wheel inclining toward it a rancher is going as far as gather timbers. Prior to a covered house in the work of art, a few ranchers conveying ranch devices and riding ponies outlined in the shadows. They structure in bunches as though they were talking about some purposeful issues. On the other heap which sits in the opposite side of the Andy street, a marginally bold rancher with a straw cap is perched on straws to have a rest. Adjacent to him, a more seasoned resident inclining toward his stick and a similarly shorter man who is conveying a bin are conversing with him as though they were arguing him for reasons unknown. .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 , .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 .postImageUrl , .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 .focused content region { min-tallness: 80px; position: relative; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 , .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97:hover , .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97:visited , .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97:active { border:0!important; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 .clearfix:after { content: ; show: table; clear: both; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 { show: square; progress: foundation shading 250ms; webkit-change: foundation shading 250ms; width: 100%; obscurity: 1; progress: murkiness 250ms; webkit-change: darkness 250ms; foundation shading: #95A5A6; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97:active , .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97:hover { haziness: 1; change: mistiness 250ms; webkit-progress: obscurity 250ms; foundation shading: #2C3E50; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 .focused content zone { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 .ctaText { outskirt base: 0 strong #fff; shading: #2980B9; text dimension: 16px; textual style weight: intense; edge: 0; cushioning: 0; content improvement: underline; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 .postTitle { shading: #FFFFFF; text dimension: 16px; text style weight: 600; edge: 0; cushioning: 0; width: 100%; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97 .ctaButton { foundation shading: #7F8C8D!important; shading: #2980B9; fringe: none; outskirt range: 3px; box-shadow: none; text dimension: 14px; textual style weight: striking; line-stature: 26px; moz-outskirt span: 3px; content adjust: focus; content adornment: none; content shadow: none; width: 80px; min-tallness: 80px; foundation: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/modules/intelly-related-posts/resources/pictures/basic arrow.png)no-rehash; position: outright; right: 0; top: 0; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97:hover .ctaButton { foundation shading: #34495E!important; } .uf8f9edcd2d530 5b53a7aa14773191b97 .focused content { show: table; stature: 80px; cushioning left: 18px; top: 0; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97-content { show: table-cell; edge: 0; cushioning: 0; cushioning right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-adjust: center; width: 100%; } .uf8f9edcd2d5305b53a7aa14773191b97:after { content: ; show: square; clear: both; } READ: The Literacy Narrative, A Discourse Community Analysis, And A Writing Research EssayThe trees reach out along the sandy street in an inclining line, making a spatial division. In the most distant stopping point, there is an obscure tall structure with apex rooftop. The sky above, which takes up almost stop tooth painting, is pale and dusty, proposing the day's end in a hot bone-dry atmosphere. The work of shading and light, and the treatment of the strokes in Oxygens tangling likewise vary a great deal from Carrots, On Oxygens palette is a shading assortment of unbiased grays, numbers, ochre and earthen greens that seemed as tho ugh they were pulled from the very soil he painted. In spite of the fact that the overcast sky with patches of blue sort of sets off the earth shades of the land underneath, the obscured frontal area is still Very Obvious as though the light striking these areas is lost and consumed into the ground, making a solid feeling of difference and the figment of spatial help out yonder. Gone didnt treat each stroke With minute precision as Court id, the covered cabins are even somewhat mutilated. Be that as it may, the methods he utilized made an extremely liquid surface, unbelievably Whipped and demonstrated With the brush. By delineating distinctive characteristic components, these two canvas really structure a correlation between city culture and rural culture. Id state Carrots painting is of extraordinary quality as a result of its straightforward piece and stunning portrayal of the considerable number of components. The work of art envelopes the onlooker feeling blissful in light of the fact that when taking a gander at a Court painting, one can nearly feel the warm breeze in the trees or taste the salted air close to the coastline.

See, I Am! (CI-M)

See, I Am! (CI-M) See, I am here! Sorry for the gap in my posting. My CI-M (TLA!! Sam?) paper was due on Friday. In addition to the two communication-intensive (CI) humanities classes you have to take as part of your 8 class Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS) requirement, you have to take two CI classes in your major: CI-Ms. I invite you to join me on this journey through 14.33: Economic Research and Communication, my CI-M for the semester. 14.33 requires a 10 page group paper (ours was an events study analysis of natural disasters on natural resource firms) and a 10 page individual paper (mine was household consumer expenditure and family utility maximization). As you may have guessed, 14.33 also requires a lot of work. Im being totally honest, though, when I say how rewarding this project was. I picked my own economic question, found all my data, designed and carried out my own analysis, and interpreted the results. I not only felt a strong sense of ownership over my paper since I decided everything that went in it, but additionally learned a lot about the process of economics research. (Since it sounds like Im writing an Academy Awards acceptance speech, Id also like to thank my econometrics professors, teaching assistants, and lab assistants. Without you, I undoubtedly wouldnt be standing where I am today.) In this mornings edition of The Tech, the student-run newspaper, the Piled Higher and Deeper comic was joking about how to grade papers: Well, I think we accomplished a few of these on our group paper. First, we had a pun in our title. (Also, note the colon. Do we get +20 for this?) I dont think anyone in the department considers this equation gibberish, but its still impressive-looking. Below is a non-trivial modification to the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM). Tell me this does not turn you on. (Actually, dont.) For both the group and individual papers, I ran all my regressions on Stata: Statistical Software for Professionals. This should not be confused with the Ray and Maria Stata Center for Computer, Information, and Intelligence Sciences, which, admittedly, is much more colorful. This Stata output is from my individual papers dprobit regression. Look at these results! Significance at the 95% confidence level! However, I included neither a witty pun nor a colon in my individual papers title. Even worse, I forgot to include R-squared values in my table!!!!!!!! I hope I still pass Check out my classmates project topics in this entry

The Global RISK Example For Free - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 7 Words: 2245 Downloads: 1 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category IT Essay Type Research paper Did you like this example? On a global scale, several important firms are determined to attain â€Å"Agile management† as this enhances a companys capability to swiftly manage† internal and external† transformation and gain competitive advantage (Khosrow-Pour, 2001, p 831). An â€Å"agile† company is adept in its ability to â€Å"detect changing markets, rapidly learn to take advantage of these market changes, detect new techniques, adapt these techniques to organisational culture† in order to incorporate them into the company â€Å"while maintaining their spirit†, efficiently exploiting them to meet changing â€Å"standards in diverse markets† and adapting â€Å"products to individual preferences† (Desouza, 2006, p123). To be able to react rapidly to transformation by making â€Å"quick decisions† on methods to counter the transformation and consequently execute the methods, it is crucial for organisations to effectivel y utilise Information Technology (Khosrow-Pour, 2001, p 831). Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "The Global RISK Example For Free" essay for you Create order A Management information System (MIS) is useful by way of its procedure and as such it must be effortlessly up to standard for a firm (Khosrow-Pour, 2001, p 831). The usefulness of MIS is measured by how much the system is utilised, whether end-users are content with the system, â€Å"favourable attitudes about MIS functions, achievement of objectives† and whether it increases business profitability (Khosrow-Pour, 2001, p 831). MIS Risk As an MIS system is made up of â€Å"hardware and software†, consequently transformations in the system make it susceptible to a â€Å"penalty of change† such as â€Å"system failure† or other costly time consuming risks (Khosrow-Pour, 2001, p 831). As such technology must be effectively applied to the MIS â€Å"infrastructure (hardware, software and data)† in order to eliminate or minimise system risk (Khosrow-Pour, 2001, p 831). MIS issue A â€Å"field research† at a UK bank to analyse a â€Å"multidisciplinary† move towards â€Å"empirical investigation† on handling Information Technology concluded that the dialogue between those â€Å"who request development of a management information system (MIS), the client or sponsor and the technologists† who build the systems usually creates a â€Å"confused picture† (Currie, 1995, p7). The clients are usually not clear about their systems requirements and consequently this leaves room for interpretation on the part of the â€Å"technologists† (Currie, 1995, p7). In addition, an â€Å"ad hoc approach† originates from problems experienced by â€Å"project managers† in detecting suitable â€Å"financial and non-financial performance† measures for continuous observing and managing of Information Technology projects (Currie, 1995, p7). How to address the MIS issue The issue is a result of miscommunication between the business and Information Technology. Management has to ensure that the dialogue between the two teams is effective and also that organisation goals such as high productivity and cost reduction are included in the planning of an MIS systems implementation or change. Design/UCD Failures Strategic Information Systems can sustain and â€Å"shape† business strategy to impact â€Å"organisational performance† in a relationship that forms a â€Å"trilogy† (Croteau et al, 2001, p78) however; the design and development† of Information Systems plays a major factor in the use of Information Technology (Das et al 1991, cited in Croteau et al 2001, page 80). User centred design places the end users requirements and ability at the â€Å"forefront†, conversely current technology focuses on the quest for technology answers with no consideration for the end users requirements in terms of â€Å"functionality† and ease of use (Kent et al, 2003, p87). UCD Failures An eminent online book retailers first online ordering system had a major costly flaw (Hambling et al, 2008, p10). System developers had included an electronic refund facility that allowed users to receive credit on their debit or credit cards if they purchased a negative number of books (Hambling et al, 2008, p10). During testing the systems developers did not anticipate that online shoppers would try to order a negative number (Hambling et al, 2008, p10). The program was amended to allow only the retailers administrative staff to carry out refunds (Hambling et al, 2008, p10). Another UCD failure resulting from inadequate software design and testing was when the â€Å"European Space Agency Ariane 5† was initially launched in June 1996 and failed after 37.5 seconds (Hambling et al, 2008, p10). A software glitch resulted in the rocket deviating from its â€Å"vertical ascent† and had to be put into â€Å"self-destruct† mode to prevent the disastrous cons equences of an active horizontal rocket (Hambling et al, 2008, p10). Furthermore, when the UK government launched â€Å"online filing tax returns†, a weak security design allowed access to other users confidential earnings data regardless of log in location (Hambling et al, 2008, p10). How to prevent UCD failures A manager must ensure that the end users of the system are the main focus of any system design with particular reference to a users computer skills, security and the main objective of building the system, to improve business process. Consequently if the design is user focused; it is bound to function as intended. In addition, User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is the process whereby end users test a system to ensure that it â€Å"meets their business needs† (Hambling et al, 2008, p45). Although this process is seen as the responsibility of the end users of a system, it should be managed by managers to prevent errors (Hambling et al, 2008, p45). Project Failures A failed project is one that exceeds its set budget, over runs, does not incorporate organisational goals or just one that is cancelled (Standish Group International 1994, cited in Linberg 1999, page178). The proportion of IT systems failure is still high when compared to other technologically advanced projects (Yeo, 2002) and although there have been some â€Å"success stories† in systems â€Å"development† projects these have been overshadowed by â€Å"broadly publicised failures† (Linberg, 1999, p177). When Information Systems projects fail, the trustworthiness of technical staff is negatively impacted (Remenyi, 1999, p5) and it is believed that the lack of risk management has greatly contributed to these project failures (Remenyi, 1999, p9). With particular reference to Information Systems projects, failure can range from little technical hardware problems to total â€Å"system failure† that harms a firms business activity by creating huge cost s (Remenyi, 1999, p19). Consequently, ineffective risk management is synonymous with leaving the results of a project to chance and â€Å"unfounded optimism† (Fairley 1990, cited in Remenyi 1999, page9). Project Failure Issues When there are unrealistic expectations and people â€Å"try to do the impossible†, projects are likely to fail (Linberg, 1999, p177). A good example is a company bending over backwards in an attempt not to lose a significant client (Linberg, 1999). An unrealistic software development project deadline was set and when programmers protested profusely that is was just impossible, more programmers were added on to the project that was already operating around the clock (Linberg, 1999). Needless to say the project failed and the client was not retained (Linberg, 1999). Another example of a failed project was a large one that over run by at least eighteen months, had eight absconding â€Å"team leaders† out of a total nine, lacked clarity in the project definition and involved excessive working hours of more than sixty a week. However because the project was eventually finished, the project programmers did not have see the project as a failure even though it was du e to the very late completion and inadequate project planning (Linberg, 1999). How to address the project failure issues The approach to the first project should have been honest and realistic in order to meet the clients needs and also increase the likelihood of repeat business with the client. This is due to the fact that â€Å"a consulting engagement is successful if the consultant has met client expectations† (McLachlin, 2000) and if this is the situation then† the consultant has enhanced his or her reputation, with expectations of future revenue streams – whether or not any immediate income has been received† (McLachlin, 2000). Consequently business managers should first ensure that they can deliver before taking on the task. With reference to the second project failure, a carefully structured project plan with a clear project definition needs to be in place before management embarks on a project. A well structure project plan with carefully allocated resources, effective risk management and well monitored project stages will introduce and enforce project and b udget controls. E-Commerce and its Issues E-commerce is a compressed name for a broad range of unified business ideas, â€Å"technologies and cultural phenomena† (May, p2). E-commerce is about online retail commerce for certain individuals and for others, it concerns the sale of advertising space amongst other things (May, p2). Nevertheless, irrespective of its definition, E-commerce has warranted a lot of interest and in fact it is a vital transformation in â€Å"the way business is conducted† (May, p2). E-commerce has resulted in creating new prospects for several businesses in various industries to contend in the â€Å"global marketplace† (Chaffey, 2006, p4). As a result of readily available information on businesses, goods and services, companies are rapidly expanding the customer base and retaining customers due to the resulting improved client-customer relationships (Chaffey, 2006, p5). However, E-commerce software programs need more technical support than a good number of conventional â €Å"business systems† (May, 2000, p222). Business to business and â€Å"business-consumer† online programs demand twenty four operations around the clock, seven days a week right through the year (May, 2000, p222). Even though mirror sites are run to ensure â€Å"scalability†, web systems failure still occurs with several pages experiencing downtime (May, 2000, p222). E-commerce Issue A website experienced an overload and needed to be taken offline in November 2005 due it being incapable of handling a lot of simultaneous logins resulting from publicity on some information on the website (Hambling et al, 2008, p10). Although this is a frequent occurrence in todays online activity, the main issue in E-commerce is security risk and as the confidence of shoppers determines the frequency and amount of purchases made online, this is indeed a very significant point. An online consumers perception of security is affected by absence or presence of â€Å"third party certification† software on their websites (Pingjun et al, 2008). A review of a representation of the link between â€Å"third-party identifying logos, trust transfer and trust build-up† based on information acquired from an â€Å"online survey† confirms that when online consumers see a â€Å"third-party seal† on a shopping website, they tend to transfer their trust in the s ecurity â€Å"logo† to â€Å"online e-marketers† (Pingjun et al, 2008). These issues should be handled by anticipate overload from a technical perspective and also by ensure the consumer confidence is gained and retained in E-commerce. New Technology Todays world is an age of unique transformations within technology in the midst of technology transforming communication, work, how business is conducted and how people socialise (Boreham, 2006, p1). When new technology is implemented, it is expected that management will impact how it is adapted by the workforce, despite this, an empirical study states otherwise (Leonard-Barton et al, 1988). When new technology is implemented, staff with existing technical abilities adapt automatically whereas staff low on computer literacy skills wait to be directed by management (Leonard-Barton et al, 1988). However, as an increasing amount of time and â€Å"investment capital† is absorbed by Information Technology and its consequences, business managers have a developing â€Å"awareness† that technology cannot be the â€Å"exclusive territory† of specialised IT companies or the Information Systems department (Porter 2008, p73). Businesses notice their competitors emp loy Information Technology to gain competitive advantage and acknowledge the necessity to become â€Å"directly involved in the management of new technology† although â€Å"in the face of rapid change, they dont know how† (Porter 2008, p73). New Technology Issues New Technology is usually opposed as it usually involves change and people assess the size of the change required. New technology also usually results in a â€Å"large-scale organisational change† and consequently extra caution is applied as individual feelings must be influenced to get people to participate in new technology (Kotter et al, 2002, p1). In theory the opposition to new technology also known as the â€Å"crisis of progress† is as unconnected as it is connected in that community response to new technology impacts new technology â€Å"in a circular process† (Bauer, 1997, p2). Management should address resistance to new technology by first ensuring a â€Å"readiness for change† through training and guidance. References Bauer M, 1997.Resistance to New Technology: Nuclear Power, Information Technology and Biotechnology; Cambridge University Press Boreham P., Parker R., Thompson P., Hall R., 2006. New Technology Work; Routledge Currie W. 1995.The IT strategy audit: formulation and performance measurement at a UK Bank. Managerial Auditing Journal.10 (1). pp 7-16.DOI:10.1108/02686909510077343. www.emeraldinsight.com. (Accessed: 15th February 2010) Chaffey D., 2006. E-Business and E-Commerce Management; Prentice Hall Desouza K. C., 2006.Agile Information Systems: Conceptualization, Construction, and Management; A Butterworth Heinemann Title Hambling B., Morgan P., Samaroo A., 2008. Software Testing: An ISEB Foundation; British Computer Society Kent S. T., Millet L. I., 2003. Who Goes There?: Authentication Through the Lens of Privacy; National Academics Press Khosrow-Pour M., 2001.Managing Information Technology in a Global Economy: 2001 IRMA Proceedings; IGI Publishing Kotter J P and Cohen D S(2002), The Heart of Change; Real-Life Stories of How People Change Their Organizations, Harvard Business School Press Leonard-Barton D., Deschamps I., 1988.Managerial Influence on the Implementation of New Technology. Management Science. 34(10). Pp 1252-1265.www.jstor.org. (Accessed: 16th February 2010) Linberg K. R., 1999, ‘Software developer perceptions about software project failure: a case study. The Journal of Systems and Software.49 (1). pp 177-192.www.elsevier.com. (Accessed: 16th February 2010) May P., 2000. The Business of Ecommerce: From Corporate Strategy to Technology; Cambridge University Press McLachlin R. D., 2000,Service quality in consulting: what is engagement success, Managing Service quality, 10(4).pp. 239-247. www.emeraldinsight.com. (Accessed: 16th February 2010) Pingjun J., Jones D. B., Javie S., 2008. How third-party certification programs relate to consumer trust in online transactions: An exploratory study .Psych ology and Marketing. 25(9). Pp 839 -858. www3.interscience.wiley.com. (Accessed: 16th February 2010) Porter M. E, 2008, On Competition; Harvard Business School Press 2nd Edition Yeo K. T., 2002.Critical Failure Factors in Information systems projects. International Journal of Project Management.20(3). www.elsevier.com. (Accessed: 16th February 2010)

The Advantages and Risks of Online Shopping Essay

The Information revolution is changing our daily lives. With the rapid development of computer and internet, online commerce become quite common and plays an important role in the modern world. The online business has booming development in these few years. US online retail sales raised an average of 11% in the first three months of 2009 (â€Å"US Online Sales Up,† 2009). The growth of online sales may due to the growing number of consumers who shop online. In the case of Asia, survey reported 77.6% of Internet users have online shopping experiences in 2003 (as cited in To, Liao Lin, 2007). Online shopping is very different from traditional shopping. Consumers cannot touch and check the product before purchasing it, which means they are at†¦show more content†¦While in the internet, consumers can use online tools to compare product price and features. It takes less effort for consumers to make better decisions. Another advantage of online shopping is it is enjoyable and fun. According to Wolfinbarger (n. d.), many consumers find enjoyment through shopping online. They even like to visit and browse the shopping websites although they do not have something want to buy in mind. Some advantages of online shopping are presented. Those advantages may relate to consumer’s motivation to shop online. The starting point of motivation is needs. Needs can be classified into the utilitarian needs and the hedonic needs. The utilitarian needs are in the practical side. For example, the needs of basic foods and cloths are utilitarian needs. They are the survival need. Hedonic needs can be regard as on the opposite side of utilitarian needs. They are in the pleasurable side. The needs of purchasing of fashion wear, cosmetics and expensive sport car can all be classified into hedonic needs. Shopping motivation in utilitarian dimension is mission critical, rational and goal oriented while in hedonic dimension is for enjoyment and happiness. In the case of online shopping, research suggested that consumers’ motivations to shop online include both utilitarian and hedonic dimensions (Childers, Carr, Peck Carson. 2001). Consumers may view utilitarian shopping is as a taskShow MoreRelatedAn Investigation Of Online Shopping1621 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction: An investigation of online shopping and how does it influence NTIC students’ daily life. Observations have shown that there has been a rapid development in an economic world. We have witnessed a tremendous change about shopping online. According to UCLA Center for Communication Policy (2001), online shopping has been regarded as the third most prevalent activity on the Internet, only followed by e-mail and website usage. It plays an important role, not only in retail stores, but alsoRead MoreOnline vs Brick and Mortar844 Words   |  4 PagesJacobie COM170 10/27/2014 Laura L. Dorsey Online vs. Brick-and-Mortar Shopping One of the opportunities we have in today’s world is whether to buy online or go to a brick and mortar store to do our purchasing. The two offer great sales and promotions along with selections from which we can choose. As online shopping and brick and mortar may seem similar; however, both differ in pricing, convenience and selection. Discounts are offered both online and in store which makes it easy for theRead MoreConsumer Attitude : An Organization Of Motivational, Emotional, Perceptual And Cognitive Processes1519 Words   |  7 Pagesdecision process. Consumer attitude with regards to online shopping depends on the direct effects of relevant online shopping features. Online shopping features can be classified into consumer’s perceptions of functional and utilitarian dimensions such as â€Å"ease of use† and â€Å"usefulness†, or into their perceptions of emotional and hedonic dimensions like â€Å"enjoyment†. Online Shopping With the development of Internet and web-based technologies, online customers are gradually obtaining unlimited accessesRead MoreOnline Shopping: Risks and Benefits1417 Words   |  6 PagesOnline Shopping: Risks and Benefits There has long been a need for the consumer to purchase goods without ever having to leave their home. The industry started with mail order catalogs such as Sears Roebuck that offered consumers the convenience to order goods without having to travel a long distance to see what was available. The catalog offered everything from clothing to toys, and even farming equipment that made it easier for early American families to purchase goods without having to travelRead MoreTraditional Shopping vs Online Shopping1557 Words   |  7 Pages1. Traditional and online shopping environment In the traditional shopping, one has to leave home, either walk or take a ride to a particular location in order to buy what one wants. There are many ways of traditional shopping such like shopping at shopping center, outlet village, markets or department stores. However, online shopping has been developing at a fast rate through recent years and more and more people are moving towards this mode of shopping. The online shopping is typically done atRead MoreAdvantages and Disadvantages of Shopping Online1600 Words   |  7 PagesAdvantages [edit] Convenience Online stores are usually available 24 hours a day, and many consumers have Internet access both at work and at home. Other establishments such as internet cafes and schools provide access as well. A visit to a conventional retail store requires travel and must take place during business hours. In the event of a problem with the item – it is not what the consumer ordered, or it is not what they expected – consumers are concerned with the ease with which they can returnRead MoreE Shopping- What We Get And What We Miss. 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They showed the products visually by using monitor in subways and allowed people purchased items and got delivered by simply using their phone to scan the QR code under the item. Ives gave a call to his friend who was enjoyed online grocery shopping for a fewRead MoreAdvantages And Disadvantages Of Online Shopping1018 Words   |  5 PagesThe online shopping trend is becoming increasingly popular. People nowadays can get everything they need online, such as clothes, books, groceries, etc. Online s hopping is a new type of technology trend that people are getting addicted to because it makes people’s life easier and saves them time. Shoppers can visit web stores from the comfort of their own home and shop while they are sitting in front of their computer. Many online shoppers do not have to waste time on shopping anymore. Online shoppingRead MoreOnline Shopping : Developing Countries1017 Words   |  5 Pagestransformed how retailers and buyers meet at the market place through physical and online purchases, distribution of products and services(Bashir, 2013). Although deemed to be a familiar channel for success and growth in developed countries, online shopping is still considered an innovation in developing countries like Tanzania (Mlelwa, 2015; Zaied, 2012) According to Katawetawaraks Wang(2011) online shopping has facilitated the presence of many foreign companies looking to boost their brand

Political Ideology Free Essays

Chapter#4-Poetical Culture and Ideology In the textbook, American Political Culture Is described as the extensive communal pollens, standards, and morals citizens have In correlation with the government, as well as in relation with each other. One of the contributing factors that make the culture that way is suffrage, which is the right to vote. For example, our thoughts in suffrage went from the belief that white men who own property are allowed to vote to all citizens who are adults, besides criminals in some cases, have that right. We will write a custom essay sample on Political Ideology or any similar topic only for you Order Now Another season for this would be deliberation, which is the procedure where administrators or people gather to converse and contemplate public Issues, along with social capital, which Is democratic and municipal series of debating, agreement, and regard for contrast, which derives from involvement in optional groups. An example that represents these overlapping ideas is political campaigning because of their extensive use in internet that allows people to interact with each other on their thoughts. Our shared values include natural rights (born with moral rights), liberty sovereignty), equality (providing fair opportunities to all, no discrimination), Individualism (freedom of action for individuals over group authority), respect for the common person (does not have to be superior with money In order to be respected; common people can be successful: makes economy thrive), democratic consensus (we all come to a common line), and majority rule/popular sovereignty (allowing people to decide who can go forward on). These can all relate to political culture, because these are what we believe in as a nation to be Just, and these beliefs that we hare with others and the government is political culture. The most Important aspects are equality, and respect for the common person, because without these two attributes, our nation would not provide equal opportunities to everyone who are not considered to be superior above all else because of the lacking amount of money they have. Equality and respect for the common person helps to make our democracy prosper. The American Dream is defined as â€Å"the widespread belief that the United States is a land of opportunity and that individual Initiate and hard work can bring economic success†(Government by the People 112). In terms of work, success, and capitalism, these can be shown through the ownership of one’s private property, availability/people who work hard that get economic rewards (free market system gives everyone equal opportunities and freedom depends on capitalism which helps grow our economy), wealthy people who fund campaigning projects, and wealthy people who fund money to try and influence elections or public policy (such as donating money to organizations to prove their support for that particular topic). Verbalism- Liberalism alludes to the belief that the government can affect fairness and equality of option. Examples of this would be shown through their support on equal access to health care, same-sex marriage, abortion, other forms of individual choices, more environmental protection, education for all citizens, protection for workers’ health and safety, affirmative action programs, and tax rates that rise with a person’s income. Menservants- Conservatism tou ches upon the belief that limited government guarantees order, competitive markets, and ones’ own personal equines opinions, the main task of the government should be to protect the country from foreign invaders, support economic growth by promoting competitive markets, and free fair trade, encouraging family values, rejecting Judicial laws that allow abortion, same-sex marriage and affirmative action programs. Socialism- Socialism is an economic and governmental practice that depends on public ownership involving production and exchange. Various examples of this would be represented in wanting a immensely expanded role in nationalizing industries, taxing the wealthy more than rower and middle class men, instituting a public Jobs program and cutting defense spending. Environmentalism- Environmentalism is a supposition that looks at environment instead of genes/heredity as the significant element in the growth and particularly the cultural and cognitive development of a group or individual. Examples of this would be viewed through dealing with issues regarding global warming, overpopulation, and genetic engineering. Libertarianism- Libertarianism is the ethics that fosters individual liberty and promotes minimal government, advocating a free market economy, a nonintervention’s foreign policy, and a lack of regulation in moral, economic, and social life. Examples of this include favoring major cuts in government spending and a termination to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Central Intelligence Agency, the Internal Revenue Service, and the most regulatory commissions, opposing all government regulation (mandatory seat- belt and helmet laws), because they believe the attitude â€Å"live and let live† and thinks that an undistorted free market will benefit individuals. I would describe the American people in terms of their political ideology as mostly well balanced, even though the majority of the groups are conservatives, according to figures 4-2, 4-3, and 4-4. My reason for this is because in all figures, they showed a significant amount of conservatives/conservative related opinions that outnumbered the moderate and liberal groups. In figure 4-2, 77% of people thinks that â€Å"there is too much power concentrated in the hands of a few big companies† (116). This issue is mostly interpreted by conservatives. Also, in figure 4-3, once I added up the totals of the sex, race, age, religion, education, and party columns for each of the 4 groups, conservatives won the majority out of the other 3 groups. In figure 4-4, it showed results that there was a slight increase of conservatives in 2008 (most recent year noted), and a steady decrease for other groups as well, including liberals, and moderates, whereas the don’t know/have not thought about it group has increased very slightly. Conclusions that I can reach about the ideology of people of the United States are the facts that ideology overtime shown in figure 4-2, is well balanced for all of the conservatives, liberals, don’t know/have not thought about it group, and moderates. Also, there has been more of an increase shown in moderate/don’t know/ haven’t thought about it group, as well as conservatives only. In 4-2, the graph shows how the don’t know/haven’t thought about it group has increased compared to all else, besides conservatives. In figure 4-3, it also shows similar results, representing that there has been an increase of moderates/don’t know/have not thought about it rope (47%), there are more conservatives (17%)/slightly conservative (12%) than liberals liberal (3%). I think that Americans are mostly a part of the moderate/don’t know/haven’t thought about it group, because there has been rising solution than the other groups’. This can lead to an indecisiveness for all people who have been passionate in the past with their former group, because they may have disappointed them with agreeing in something/many other things that the person would not agree with, and then not being able to agree with other ideologies as well. How to cite Political Ideology, Papers

Risk management at wellfleet bank free essay sample

This case illustrates risk management in the world of corporate lending which is quite di? erent from the retail, subprime, and mortgage lending at the root of the recent banking turmoil. It is also interesting because Well? eet (actually, Standard Chartered PLC; ticker symbol: STAN) is one of the few banks which successfully weathered the 2007-2009 credit crisis. Chief executive Alastair Dowes has to decide if the risk governance process is adequate to uncover mega-risks in light of the current risk-assessment process and the credit decision regarding a $1bn loan application. Working for the Chief Credit O? cer (CCO) as a senior loan supervisor, you have been asked to assess and review the risks in the proposal and to make a credit recommendation, i. e. , whether Well? eet should accept the loan application or not. At the same time, you are worried about gray-area risk decisions and, in particular, the fact that risk-adjusted performance measurement can rarely be automated. We will write a custom essay sample on Risk management at wellfleet bank or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Risk governance requires executives to strike a balance between risk modeling and qualitative business judgment—a holistic (rather than silo-based) view of risks. You are preparing either an executive memo to the CCO and CEO or a presentation to WellFleet’s credit committee. The following questions are meant to guide your analysis: 1. How much credit risk should banks take? What avenues do they have to manage credit risk ex ante and ex post? 2. Research the history of WellFleet = Standard Chartered. How well has Well? eet performed? Why and how has it avoided major problems in its orporate loan portfolio? Was the bank lucky or smart? 3. Analyze the risk management process at WellFleet Bank. What suggestions might you make to the CEO about improving the process? (a) What are the objectives of loan o? cers and supervisors, respectively? What about the risk management unit? (b) Are the incentives of line and risk management units aligned? Why or why not? (c) How would you organize origination and risk management activities? What risk factors drive the credit exposure to Gatwick? Analyze what a credit bet on Gatwick really amounts to. a) Download stock prices for pure gold-mining companies such as Barrick (ticker: ABX) and Newmont (ticker: NEM) as well as a gold prices and the SP 500. Calculate the instantaneous return Rit = ln PPit . it? 1 (b) Compute the correlation matrix for the 4 variables. How would you interpret the results? (c) Run a CAPM-type regression of the gold-miner’s return Rit on a constant, the SP 500 return Rmt the gold return Gt by OLS, i. e. , estimate the following model: Rit = ? + ? Rmt + ? Gt + ? t How would you interpret the results? What does it tell you about the credit exposure? 2 5. Calculate the Expected Loss, Economic Revenue and Economic Pro? t for both proposals. What would your decision regarding the two credit proposals be? Why? (a) What steps if any could Well? eet take to reduce its credit exposure to Gatwick? (b) What avenues are open to the bank to manage its credit exposure ex ante (before and in the lending process) and ex post (after the loan went onto its books)? 6. Given Well? eet’s new focus on large corporate deals and its need to recruit relationship managers from investment banks, what are the challenges for the risk culture of the organization, and its style of risk management in particular? Risk management at wellfleet bank free essay sample This case illustrates risk management in the world of corporate lending which is quite di? erent from the retail, subprime, and mortgage lending at the root of the recent banking turmoil. It is also interesting because Well? eet (actually, Standard Chartered PLC; ticker symbol: STAN) is one of the few banks which successfully weathered the 2007-2009 credit crisis. Chief executive Alastair Dowes has to decide if the risk governance process is adequate to uncover mega-risks in light of the current risk-assessment process and the credit decision regarding a $1bn loan application. Working for the Chief Credit O? cer (CCO) as a senior loan supervisor, you have been asked to assess and review the risks in the proposal and to make a credit recommendation, i. e. , whether Well? eet should accept the loan application or not. At the same time, you are worried about gray-area risk decisions and, in particular, the fact that risk-adjusted performance measurement can rarely be automated. We will write a custom essay sample on Risk management at wellfleet bank or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Risk governance requires executives to strike a balance between risk modeling and qualitative business judgment—a holistic (rather than silo-based) view of risks. You are preparing either an executive memo to the CCO and CEO or a presentation to WellFleet’s credit committee. The following questions are meant to guide your analysis: 1. How much credit risk should banks take? What avenues do they have to manage credit risk ex ante and ex post? 2. Research the history of WellFleet = Standard Chartered. How well has Well? eet performed? Why and how has it avoided major problems in its  corporate loan portfolio? Was the bank lucky or smart? Analyze the risk management process at WellFleet Bank. What suggestions might you make to the CEO about improving the process? (a) What are the objectives of loan o? cers and supervisors, respectively? What about the risk management unit? (b) Are the incentives of line and risk management units aligned? Why or why not? (c) How would you organize origination and risk management activities? 4. What risk factors drive the credit exposure to Gatwick? Analyze what a credit bet on Gatwick really amounts to. Calculate the Expected Loss, Economic Revenue and Economic Pro? t for both proposals. What would your decision regarding the two credit proposals be? Why? (a) What steps if any could Well? eet take to reduce its credit exposure to Gatwick? (b) What avenues are open to the bank to manage its credit exposure ex ante (before and in the lending process) and ex post (after the loan went onto its books)? 6. Given Well? eet’s new focus on large corporate deals and its need to recruit relationship managers from investment banks, what are the challenges for the risk culture of the organization, and its style of risk management in particular?

Big Band Era Essays - Instrumentals

Glenn Miller And The Swing/Big Band Era Essays - Instrumentals Glenn Miller and the Swing/Big Band Era Glenn Miller led the most popular big band in the world during 1939-42 and the most beloved of all the swing-era orchestras. His big band played a wide variety of melodic music and had tremendous success in every area of music. He was with the group for two years, and put together an enjoyable and well-rounded show. Glenn Miller was a man who influenced bands greatly for years. Alton Glenn Miller was born on March 1, 1904 in Clarinda Iowa. His family had a tendency to move frequently, to places such as North Platte, Nebraska, and Grant City, Oklahoma. It was in Grant City that Glenn bought his first trombone, at the age of 13. He earned the money by milking cows for $2 a week (Glenn Miller Biography). Glenn attended high school in Fort Morgan, Colorado. He studied at the University of Colorado for 2 years. It was in college that his interest in music flourished. He continued to play the trombone, his favorite instrument. Even at his young age, he was good enough to play in the Boyd Senter Band in Denver. At that point his love for music took over. Miller dropped out of school and went to the west coast to try his luck at being a musician. Miller played with many small bands until he had the opportunity to join Ben Pollack's orchestra in 1926. At that time the band included such well-known musicians as Loschiavo 4 Benny Goodman, Gill Robin, Fud Livingston, and Dick Morgan. In September of 1926, the Pollack Band went into the recording studios and worked on "When I First Met Mary" and "Deed I Do". These were probably the first record arrangements that Glenn Miller wrote. He stayed with the band until it went to New York in 1928 (Glenn Miller Story). It was then that he married his early love, Helen Berger, and moved with her to Manhattan. In the coming years, he developed his talent by working with Red Nichols in pit orchestras, as Smith Ballew's musical director, and with the Dorsey Brothers. In 1934, Miller helped form Ray Noble's American Orchestra, which soon became popular through radio broadcasts. Miller was the lead trombonist and arranger. In 1937, he left the band, and his own popularity among big band circles enabled him to form his own band, the Glenn Miller Orchestra. They brought out a few records, and went on tour, but the attempt was doomed from the start. He could not keep the orchestra together and had to let all but four musicians go. What Miller needed was his own trademark to distinguish him from the other bands. In 1938, with encouragement from friends, he gave it another try, and Miller built up his new orchestra on the basis of the four remaining musicians Hal McIntyre (alto), Rolly Bundock (bass), Chummy MacGregor (piano) and Bob Price (Glenn Miller Story). This time Miller was lucky enough to be supported by one of the most important agencies of the General Artists corporation and to obtain a record contract with RCA Victor's Budget Bluebird Label. Glenn Miller again went on tour. At this time, he had the distinguishing characteristic in Loschiavo 5 his music of having a clarinet double the sax melody an octave higher. Times nonetheless, were hard until the big breakthrough came in 1939. The General Artist Corporation managed to get Miller an engagement at the Glen Island Casino New Rochelle. Glenn Miller's time had come: on May 17 the band played its first night to a sold-out house and by the end of the engagements all box-office records had been broken. From there they traveled to Baltimore at the beginning of September. At Baltimore's Hippodrome Theater all records were again broken. The orchestra returned to New York and played in front at the largest audience in the city's history at the New York State Fare. On September 9, he broke Guy Lombardo's record attendance from the year 1931 and on October 6 helped Carnegie Hall to achieve new record receipts. The recording was also going full swing. Four records per week were being recorded by the orchestra. It was during this period, on April 4, that Miller's signature

Types of Medical School Admissions Interviews

Types of Medical School Admissions Interviews If you are the recipient of a coveted email inviting you to interview for medical school admission, start preparing now. There’s a great deal of general advice on the process of interviewing for med school, including tips on what to wear, what to ask, what you may be asked, and what to ask. Recognize, however, that there is no one standard interview format. Who Will Interview You? You can expect to be interviewed by any combination of faculty, admissions officers, and, sometimes, advanced medical students. The exact composition of the med school admissions committee will vary by program. Prepare to be interviewed by a range of faculty with differing interests and perspectives. Try to predict the interest of each potential committee member as well as something that you might ask of him or her. For example, you might ask the med student about opportunities for clinical experience. Recognize that there is no standard interview format. Some medical schools conduct one-on-one interviews, others rely on a committee. Sometimes you might be interviewed alone. Other programs interview a group of applicants at once. The interview format also varies. Below are the major interview types that you can expect. Panel Interview This is a meeting with several interviewers (referred to as a panel) at once. The panel usually includes a variety of faculty in different medical areas and in clinical medicine as well as basic research. A medical student is often a member of the interview committee. Try to anticipate the questions each member of the committee might have and be prepared to speak to the concerns of each. Blind Interview In a blind interview, the interviewer is â€Å"blinded† from your application, He or she knows nothing about you. Your job is to introduce yourself to the interviewer, from scratch. The question you are most likely to face in this interview is: â€Å"Tell me about yourself.† Be ready. Be selective, yet detailed in what you present. Remember that the interviewer has not seen your grades, MCAT scores, or admissions essays. You will likely discuss much of the material in your admissions essays as well as explain why you want to be a doctor. Partial Blind Interview Unlike the blind interview in which the interviewer knows nothing about you, in a partial blind interview, the interview has seen only part of your application. For example, the interviewer may read your essays but know nothing about your grades and MCAT score. Or the reverse may be true. Open Interview In an open interview the interviewer reviews applicant material at his or her discretion. The interviewer may choose to be blind to all or part of the application. Therefore an open interview may include the basic question such as â€Å"Describe yourself† or detailed questions designed to follow up on your admissions essays. Stress Interview A stress interview places the med school applicant under a magnifying glass. The intent is to see how you function under pressure. The interviewer or interviewers ask questions to make you uncomfortable to observe how you speak and behave when stressed. The stress interview is intended to find out what a candidate is really like, apart from the interview preparation and etiquette. A stress interview might include questions about sensitive topics or personal questions that are not permitted. Applicants might gently call the interviewer on the question, asking why it is relevant. He or she might diffuse it or choose to answer it. The interviewer is more interested in how the applicant responds than what he or she says. Other questions might be factual, with trivia-like details. The interviewer might respond negatively to everything that you say by making negative remarks or through body language such as crossing the arms or turning away. If you find yourself in a stress interview remem ber that the interviewer is interested in how you function under stress. Take your time in responding. Keep your cool. Remember the Purpose As you plan for your medical school interview, remember that the purpose is to let the interviewers get to know you. Until your interview, you are nothing but a transcript, MCAT score, and essay. Be yourself. Plan ahead by considering topics of discussion and the points you would make, but be natural. During your interview say what you think, ask questions about topics that are important to you, and be authentic.

Marketing Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 3

Marketing Research - Essay Example According to McNamara, C (2008), marketing analysis is carried out by an organization or business venture in order to gauge the market niche. To Hunt, N & Tyrrell S (2004), marketing is all about advertising the products one has, enhancing public relations and efficient customer service. Effective marketing of products generally depends on many aspects ranging from security, trust, usability of the product, its appearance and its ability to satisfy customer requirements. The kind of business one is doing does not matter, the first thing to consider is the nature of products and services which you plan to offer your targeted customers and the best way to market it to them (Field, A 2009). Each and every business needs a marketing plan which is reliable and attainable. Customer trust is built through; Products need to be test-retested to ensure security of the consumers. Side effects and other negative perceptions by customers drive them away (James, T.F Et al. 2001). Again, if a product is not easy to use, then continuity is impossible. According to Morris, C (2008), gender is an important aspect in marketing since some forms of marketing suits females while others are meant for males. In order to ascertain this, a random sample will be selected from the database given and a new one will be developed based on the selected sample. Random sampling, stratified sampling and cluster sampling are some of the methods used to sample data. Random sampling is used in case the database to be used is made up of homogenous data; data with same character traits and the elements are selected randomly from the entire database. On the other hand, stratified sampling is used when the database is heterogeneous. In this case, elements with the same character traits are put together and then a random sample is selected. The different data groups are then combined to for the stratified sample. This sampling technique will be used in this case. Lastly, cluster sampling is the

Macroeconomics in Unemployment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Macroeconomics in Unemployment - Essay Example For instance, in 2011, the United States plunged into its worst unemployment rate in decades, 7% (Domino, 2011). Unemployment is caused by a combination of numerous factors. Despite desperate attempts to curb it, it has persisted. According to Symes, poor government policy on unemployment is the principal cause of unemployment (1995). She also sites high unemployment compensation as a reason for unemployment (p. 173). When unemployed people receive compensation equivalent to what others on employment in other countries earn, they tend to be reluctant in job searching. After all, why search for a job when the government can foot your bills? Minimum wage legislation is also another cause of unemployment. By enacting the minimum wage legislation, the government made it alsmost impossible for small and medium size businesses to hire qualified persons. It is irrational to hire employees when your business cannot pay their salaries. High salaries is against business operation principle of maintaining the lowest possible level of expenditure to maximize profits. Surprisingly, discrimination is still among the factors causing unemployment. Some employers discriminate job seekers based on their race, religion, age, residence, physique, gender, or even political ideologies. Landy claims that, â€Å"Hundreds of thousands not yet old, not yet voluntarily retired find themselves jobless because of arbitrary age discrimination†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (2005). This is a solid evidence of age discrimination in employment. Whatever the reason, job discrimination is not justified at all. Besides the major causes of unemployment, many local factors cause unemployment. Such factors may include the location of the unemployed person, transport flexibility, cost, and availability, and commitment to job searching. Symes (1995) laid a scathing attack on government policies on unemployment terming the policies as the principal cause of unemployment (p. 9). This statement may be debated. However, government policies certainly play a role in influencing unemployment. Some of the government policies that influence unemployment are discussed below. Employment policy Even though commitments may vary, all governments attempt to stimulate employment. The US government for instance has tried to encourage business efficiency by bailing out firms adversely affected by the 2008/2009 economic depression to avoid massive layoffs. The UK government, on the other, hand introduced â€Å"The New Deal,† a programme that offers training and development to the unemployed to enhance their chances of securing jobs. Taxation policy The government may also use taxation, as a primary fiscal policy, to control unemployment. By cutting taxes, the government stimulates economic growth while at the same time reducing the rate of unemployment. This works in two ways. First, tax cuts increases consumers’ income, which means their purchasing power is increased. From the second perspective, b usinesses earn more money, as consumers buy more. The increased income leads to expansion, which consequently leads to hiring. Government Spending Government’s expenditure is not arbitrary, but well calculated. The government’s spending can influence unemployment significantly. For instance, by funding new programmes such as road construction, the government creates direct jobs to the workers involved in the construction. Additionally, there are indirect jobs in the private

Dreamworks Animation Skg Inc Overview Film Studies Essay

Dreamworks Animation Skg Inc Overview Film Studies Essay DreamWorks SKG was founded in 1994 by three entertainment enthusiasts, Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg, and David Geffen (The Cornell Daily Sun). The SKG appended to the title is representative of the first letter of each of their last names. DreamWorks SKG is involved in a variety of entertainment segments such as film, music, and television. At the time of its creation, all three individuals were involved in film production. Jeffrey Katzenberg had been recently fired as a studio chairman at The Walt Disney Company, Steven Spielberg had temporarily suspended his lucrative directing career, and David Geffen was involved in film production as well as the record industry. Each of the individuals had something to offer, Spielberg with his experience in making live-action movies, Katzenbergs animation movies, and Geffen with his music background (Reference for Business). Financially, the company began with two billion dollars, supplemented with various high-tech partnerships. A portion of the initial money, $500 million, was contributed by a very interested Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft. Spielberg, Katzenberg, and Geffen also contributed roughly $33 million to the initial funds (Reference for Business). During the first few years in business, DreamWorks success was like a roller coaster. Its first film, The Peacemaker, was released in 1997, and only reached $12 million on opening weekend. In the years to follow, DreamWorks released several more successful films such as Mouse Hunt, Deep Impact, and Antz. In an attempt to delve into other entertainment segments, DreamWorks released two television shows High Incident and Champs, which were failures. However, in 1996 DreamWorks released Spin City for ABC, which turned out to be quite successful (Reference for Business). By the late 90s and early 2000s, DreamWorks was pumping out very successful films, many earning multiple awards such as American Beauty, which received Best Picture at the Oscars in 1999. In 2000, DreamWorks created a new division called DreamWorks Animation, which produced animated feature films. With the release of Shrek in 2001, DreamWorks started competing head-to-head with Disneys animated movies. In 2004, DreamWorks Animation became its own publicly traded company (Reference for Business). COMPETITIVE STRATEGY The revenue generated by the film industry is massive, with very few players responsible for the total. In 2008, the U.S. box office generated nearly ten billion dollars (Ars Technica). The eight major film companies responsible for most of the gross revenue include DreamWorks SKG, Fox Entertainment Group, MGM Holdings Inc., NBC Universal, Paramount Motion Pictures Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Time Warner, and Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group (Motion Picture Access). Most of the previously mentioned film companies are involved in a variety of film production methods including live action, digital animation, animation/live action, hand animation, and stop-motion animation. Live action films account for the majority of the gross revenue generated domestically, at $8.6 billion with a little over 87% of the share. Digital animation accounted for $1 billion and held over 10% of the share. The other film production methods accounted for the remaining 2.4% (The Numbers). Many of the eight major film companies have a subsidiary that produces animated movies. The companies include Fox Entertainment Group with Blue Sky Studios, Sony Pictures Entertainment with Sony Pictures Animation, Time Warner with Warner Bros. Animation, MGM Holdings Inc. with MGM Animation, and Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group with Walt Disney Pictures (Motion Picture Access). DreamWorks Animation, on the other hand, is its own publicly traded company, strictly dedicated to animated film production (DreamWorks Animation SKG). With this advantage, DreamWorks Animation is attempting to outperform some of the broadly-oriented rivals in that segment. DreamWorks Animation has accomplished this by partnering with various high-tech companies such as Pacific Data Images (PDI) (Reference for Business). These partnerships allowed DreamWorks Animation access to advanced imaging technology without the costs of recreating the technology in-house. In addition, DreamWorks Animation uses a unique system to create its animations that allows for lower costs (Linux.com). Lastly, DreamWorks Animation can better serve the animation market because of its primary focus on animation. Therefore, DreamWorks Animation is using a Focus Differentiation strategy to penetrate the film production market. STRATEGY EXECUTION In order to be successful in the animated film segment, DreamWorks Animation has made several strategic actions. To begin with, in 1995, DreamWorks SKG purchased a portion of Pacific Data Images, and collectively the two companies created the movie Antz, which was released in 1998. With the success of the movie, in 2000, DreamWorks SKG acquired most of PDI. The partnership with PDI created competitive advantage for DreamWorks; because of the cutting-edge technology they had available for use. DreamWorks has continued to make use of this partnership, and the conglomerate is often referred to as PDI/DreamWorks (Reference for Business). Several years later DreamWorks Animation was spun-off from DreamWorks SKG to become a separate company with the sole purpose of creating animated movies (Reference for Business). This action was to focus on a segment in which the other, larger, film companies only had subsidiaries. By creating a entirely separate publicly traded company, DreamWorks Animation has a unique advantage in that it can focus on what it does best, animated movies. In the film industry, the target market for animated films varies greatly from that of live-action. This creates an environment where DreamWorks Animation can avoid being trampled by larger companies and focus on a smaller market. DreamWorks Animation has exploited this niche to become a leading player in film animation. DreamWorks Animation has cut costs by creating a unique system for generating its animations. After analyzing requirements, the company decided that it needed a system that was easily upgradeable, reliable, and had advanced capabilities. To accomplish this, it selected to use a Linux based platform, which is an alternative Microsoft Windows or Mac OSX operating systems. Because computer generated animation is such a demanding process, it can be quite time consuming to develop. This, in turn, creates huge costs for producers because of the time necessary to make minor changes. With DreamWorks advancements, it was able to reduce the time necessary to create one scene, from three hours to real-time. Therefore, when changes to the animation were required, they could be made nearly instantaneously (Linux.com). In recent years, an increasing number of film production companies are releasing 3D movies because of their popularity. In addition, many companies are beginning to realize that 3D movies are cash cows as a result of their high ticket prices. With this in mind, Katzenberg, CEO of DreamWorks Animation, stated that every film DreamWorks makes from now on will be made in 3D (CG Society). Katzenberg is betting that 3D films are here to stay this time around, unlike the 3D craze in the 1950s. One of the largest contributing factors to this renewed interest is the fact that 3D movies can now be produced in a more cost effective manner. This is largely due to the advancements in technology, which allows companies such as DreamWorks to use the latest stereoscopic 3D technology to build its movies from the ground up (CG Society). Katzenberg explains that 3D film production will be quite rewarding for DreamWorks Animation: I believe CG animation is in the best position to take advantage of the latest advancement in 3D technology, said Katzenberg. Since our films are made digitally, it presents numerous opportunities for our filmmakers. And by moving into this area now, DreamWorks Animation is developing expertise that will differentiate our films and provide a lasting competitive advantage (CG Society). FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE In spite of a tough economic climate the past few years, DreamWorks Animation has performed above and beyond expectations. In 2009, DreamWorks reported double-digit year-over-year growth in revenue and earnings per share (Market Watch). Revenue increased by 12% from 2008-2009, and earnings per share increased 10% (Market Watch). The following table demonstrates the performance of DreamWorks Animation for the past few years: Figure1. Adapted from DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. Morningstar Equity Research, p. 2. Copyright 2010 by Morningstar. In comparison to other film production companies, DreamWorks Animation is quite small in size. The following table compares DreamWorks Animation with the more broadly-oriented Walt Disney Company: Figure 2. Adapted from DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. Morningstar Equity Research, p. 2. Copyright 2010 by Morningstar. COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE / VRIO FRAMEWORK When DreamWorks SKG spun off DreamWorks Animation, this did not create a true first-mover advantage, because it was not the first occupant in the segment. However, it can be thought of as a first-mover strategy in the sense that DreamWorks Animations was an entirely separate company dedicated to animation, unlike the other broadly-oriented film companies. DreamWorks did this to become a significant occupant in the animation segment of the film industry, which created a competitive advantage. DreamWorks Animation partnered with high-tech companies such as PDI, which allowed access to important technology. As a result, this created a competitive advantage for the company. The capabilities that DreamWorks Animation has at its disposal are costly to implement in-house, and may be costly and/or difficult to acquire. In addition, because it has majority interest in PDI, DreamWorks Animation can readily employ the capabilities. With the necessary technology in its grasp, DreamWorks Animation is able to grow within its segment. Another capability advantageous to DreamWorks Animation is its custom system used to generate the animated films. Because the system environment has been modified to better suit the specific needs of the company, this capability is difficult to match. By using this capability DreamWorks Animation can reduce time-related costs that other industry companies are faced with. This allows the producer to focus on animations, without having to worry about the time needed to edit a scene. STRATEGIC FIT / FUTURE PERFORMANCE As a focus differentiator, DreamWorks Animation has penetrated the animation segment of the film industry and has become a pivotal player in that market. With the many supportive capabilities available to the company, it has successfully expanded within its niche, and continues to grow. Strategically, DreamWorks Animation fits seamlessly within the film industry, because of its focus on a single, smaller segment. The arrival of more advanced 3D technologies, and the associated cost savings definitely provides a promising outlook for the company. Because of its advanced capabilities, DreamWorks Animation will be able to fully take advantage of this opportunity. Therefore, in the next few years, the performance of the company should meet and possibly exceed expectations.

Electra Product Case Study Analysis

1. 0 Introduction This case study is based on the company Elektra Product Inc . It is enough mature publicly held company that had once been a leading manufacturer and retailer of electrical products and supplies. But, nowadays the company is facing a host of problems. Market share was declining in the face of increased foreign and domestic competition, new product ideas were few and far between and departments such as manufacturing and sales barely spoke to one another. The confidence was becoming low and many employees were switching other jobs.Few decisions are taking which are not productive for the company and the employees as well. Barbara Russell is the one of the top management tries to make a change for the company. But her assumptions are not good enough for betterment of the organization. 1. 1 LESSON LEARNED FROM THE CASE Barbara Russell, Elektra's Vice President of Manufacturing, has been tasked by Martin Griffin, Elektra's new President, to head one of the teams that wil l devise a plan to change Elektra's management style from a traditional top-down firm to a de-centralized organization that emphasizes employee empowerment in the management process.Ms. Russell forms an enthusiastic team that works extra hours to compile management changes that would allow employees at all levels to make decisions appropriate to their positions. However, When the recommendations are presented to department heads, they receive a cold reception when Mr. Griffin is called away from the meeting. Ms. Russell is now faced with the problem of implementing change against the resistance of the mid-level management. 2. 0 ANSWER TO THE CASE QUESTIONS 2. 1 QUESTION 1How might top management have done a better job changing Elektra Products into a new kind of organization? Elektra products are facing many problems that we have already mentioned earlier. At this time they need some solution in order to recover from this dangerous situation. Company management has launched some imp lementation programme in the business. Here Barbara Russel who is the one of the top management could restructure the function of management. The problem is they have not discussed the matter with all department heads.After that, few skills should need to apply in this company like human skill, technical skill. Barbara Russel must need to use management theories to change the company in a new organization. Managers must need to work perfectly in their positions by following the instructions of top management. In the company there is dispute between themselves and newly appointed CEO Martin Griffin. Barbara Russel must need to handle the situation tactfully because conflict could be larger in future. Without that, she needs to follow the managing roles and use it properly to solve the problems.He should follow the basic functions of management Planning, Organizing, Leading and Controlling. At last, top management should need to follow the theories of management perfectly, and then th ey can change Elektra Product Inc. into a new kind of organization. What might they do now to get the empowerment process back on track? Martin, who take the situation as a challenge was appreciateable, because the company had no hope of recovery. He needs a new idea and new force to make this company great. So he wishes some help from the top management and employees.The company needs to reform its Planning process since there is a problem of future forecast of product innovation and the competition is very high; managers shifts from control to facilitation and Coordinating of work process, Selection of right people for the right place at the right job is an important for a good flow of efficiency in work; currently employees from different departments facing the problem of communication barriers between department to department so it should be down by communicating each other. For the employee empowerment few things are needed.At first, training in the skills necessary to carry ou t the additional responsibilities. Lack of knowledge in work will reduce efficiency and effectiveness, so it should be developed by training in the skills an important task for employees to carry out the additional responsibilities. Then, initiative and confidence is needed to the employees to take greater responsibility. Empowerment management means granting authority to subordinates. Her team actually tried to â€Å"empower† lower level management without including them in the solution. Employee communication is one of the strongest signs of employee empowerment.Managers also must take on new roles, knowledge and responsibilities for employee’s empowerment. The Research & Development department must study about current development in the electrical product which improves the innovativeness of the company products. Actually, the main objective is to implement empowerment and innovation as a form of salvation to the company’s declining market share, lack of new product ideas, lack of communication, low morale and lack of employee’s trust to the corporation. 2. 2 QUESTION 2 Can you think of ways Barbara could have avoided the problems her team faced in the meeting with department heads?There are other ways that Barbara could have done to avoid the problems her team faced in the meeting with department heads. First and foremost, even though the top management has already assigned several problems-solving teams, Barbara and her team should not limit the idea to implement Employees Empowerment Process from their own team perspectives alone. Instead, they should seek inputs or opinions from other managers as well. Surely, other managers will feel pleased to be given the opportunity to express their views on the issue and will appreciate being consulted before decisions are made.Eventually, Barbara and her team will be deemed as more collaborative in the workplace, and the rejection is unlikely. Second, they should have more convincing su ggestions that mention personal benefit that everybody will get if the suggestions are implemented. The personal benefits mentioned could be in the form of increased job security or more profit to the company that will lead to salary increment not only for the employees, but also for everybody from top to the bottom of the organization.This kind of suggestion, according to Jack Welch in his book â€Å"Winning: the Answer† will answer the question of â€Å"What’s in this for me† on everyone’s mind. Lastly, they should always come out to the meeting with good preparation and planning by having contingency proposals. They have to come out with Plan A and Plan B. In fact, the more alternative is the better. By doing so, it will give the top management choices that will significantly help them in making an informed decision and deal with the crisis faster. 2. 3 QUESTION 3 If you were Barbara Russell, what would you do now?Why? Elektra Product is a mature compa ny, so there should be rapid growth of production and sales. But due to some mistakes in decision makings, conditions of the company have become critical. Barbara Russell, the vice president of manufacturing who has lots of responsibilities. Barbara Russell has several options to consider after what happened to the meeting. Her first option was to keep her mouth shut. In doing so, nothing can ever be proficient. Although it can eliminate argument from the other department heads, it will not solve the problem.Her ideas would only be put to waste if she decides to keep quiet about them. Another option is to deal with the CEO. This will open the line of communication for managers. If she confronts Martin Griffin about the ideas, he might even back her up if they see eye to eye. He is an important figure in the implementation of the empowerment campaign as he directs and decides for the organization. Approaching him would help Barbara gain more confidence in her ideas. Barbara Russell c an choose to push for reform slowly and work for gradual support from the other teams.Because change does not happen overnight, Barbara Russell can take small steps in trying to gain the support of her losses. She can try to communicate with them first and slowly they can begin to understand the advantages and benefits of her suggestions. And finally, she can choose to leave the company and work for another. In cases when all hopes are lost, this may be her only option as she hopes to be heard and acknowledged in another company. If I ware Barbara Russell I would have doing this types of activities to reform the organization. 4. 0 REVIEWS FROM THE ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVEOne of the best characteristic of Islam is its comprehensive approach of human life. There is no field in our life except Islam has given directions and rules to be applied there. This is why we can see the business field is also full with Islamic rules and laws in order to make success and satisfaction for both seller a nd buyer. The importance of business in Islam Islam encourages hardworking to earn money for life and to take care family, it is considered as the responsibility of a Muslim after his worships as it is explained in Qura’n: â€Å" † (Al Jumu’a: 10). The last prophet Muhammad(s) himself was also a businessman in the starting of his youngster and he was known as an expert in this field before his prophet hood. It is written in Islamic history that the prophet has been given the name of â€Å"Al Ameen† because of his honesty in the dealing with the people. If we send our eyes through the Islamic history we see that the companions of Prophet(s) like Abu baker, Abdurrahman bin awf (r) were businessmen, those who helped Islam with their health and wealth.Planning and good behavior The best way to get the elements of a successful business is to analyze the Islamic teachings which belong to the dealings. The plan and strategy are most important parts in a business project. Islam doesn’t allow a Muslim to work rapidly without any planning as it is discouraged by Prophet Muhammad (s): â€Å"the urgency is the act of Satan†. All ideas should be consulted and discussed to other workers and keep attractive behavior with both colleagues and customers. So we can see the Qur’an gives more importance for discussion and consultation as Allah says â€Å" † ( : 159) Holding best techniques It is worth to mention here that the Prophet advises that a Muslim should hold best techniques whatever he does â€Å" â€Å". A businessman should not try to finish his project the way he likes, but he has to finish it in its best quality. Satisfaction of both parties Another teaching of Islam for a successful business is considering the satisfaction of both seller and buyer.We should not focus on our profit unless we care that whether buyer is satisfied or not. The disappointment of the customer wil l lead to decrease the popularity of a product. So we see the Qur’an states very clearly that the satisfaction of both parties is necessary for dealing. â€Å" † Cheating In quality of product and its quantity There are many Islamic teachings which order to avoid bad behaviors in business like cheating, black market and hording. Islam has strongly handled the cheating in business where it is in the quality of a product and its quantity.The best evidence of this is that the one chapter in Qur’an is named as â€Å"one who reduce the quantity† â€Å" â€Å". Its first fourth verses talk about the cheating in quantity. â€Å" . . . . † ( 1-4) There are many understandings related to this matter as we mentioned before. So it is our responsibility to take these teachings and bring to the light in order to understand the miracles of the Holly Quran and to make a standard business project. 4. 1 Conclusion and recommendationIt is imperative for the entire company to become aware of their roles, responsibilities and worth in the company. Once they become aware that they mean something and that they can contribute to the betterment of the organization, this will surely uplift their morale and they can all start working and cooperating towards the common goal. More importantly, managers must be completely aware of their specific tasks and that they effectively and efficiently accomplish their tasks in the company because their subordinates rely on their capacity to direct the entire company towards their goal.It may take time to open this line but slow reform is better than none. And once communication is open it becomes easier to gain the support of the other teams. Another recommendation is team-building. If the company works as one and each member works towards one common goal, then empowerment and all other campaigns are attainable. If the employees learn how to cooperate and participate, then no problem can put down a united Elektra Products, Inc. References: http://www. eham. net/reviews/detail/4212 http://www. antiessays. com/ http://www. scribd. com/doc/ http://www. papercamp. com/group/

Which Countries Speak in German

Germany is not the only country where German is widely spoken. In fact, there are seven countries where German is the official language or a  dominant one.   German is one of the world’s most prominent languages and is the most widely spoken native tongue in the European Union. Officials estimate that about 95 million people speak German as a first language. That doesnt account for the many millions more who know it as a second language or are proficient but not fluent.   German is also one of the top three most popular foreign languages to learn in the United States.   Most native German speakers (about 78 percent) are found in Germany (Deutschland). Heres where to find the six others:   1. Austria Austria ( Ãâ€"sterreich) should quickly come to mind. Germanys neighbor to the south has a population of about 8.5  million. Most Austrians speak German, as that is the official language. Arnold Schwarzeneggers Ill-be-back accent is Austrian German.   Austrias beautiful, mostly mountainous landscape is contained in a space about the size of the U.S. state of Maine. Vienna ( Wien), the capital, is one of Europes loveliest and most-livable cities.   Note: The various variations  of German spoken in different regions have such strong dialects they could nearly be considered a different language.  So if you study German in a U.S. school, you may not be able to understand it when spoken in different regions, like Austria or even southern Germany. In school, as well as in the media and in official documents, German speakers typically use Hochdeutsch or Standarddeutsch. Luckily, many German speakers understand Hochdeutsch, so even if you cannot understand their heavy dialect, they will likely be able to understand and communicate with you. 2. Switzerland Most of the 8 million citizens of Switzerland (die Schweiz) speak German. The rest speak French, Italian or Romansh. Switzerlands largest city is Zurich, but the capital is Bern, with the federal courts headquartered in French-speaking Lausanne. Switzerland has displayed its penchant for independence and neutrality by remaining the only major German-speaking country outside of the European Union and the euro currency zone. 3.  Liechtenstein Then theres the postage stamp country of Liechtenstein, tucked in between Austria and Switzerland. Its nickname comes from both its diminutive size (62 square  miles) and its philatelic activities. Vaduz, the capital, and largest city counts fewer than 5,000 inhabitants and doesnt have its own airport (Flughafen). But it does have the German-language newspapers, the Liechtensteiner Vaterland, and the Liechtensteiner Volksblatt. Liechtensteins total population is only about 38,000. 4. Luxembourg Most people forget Luxembourg (Luxemburg, without the o, in German), situated on Germanys western border. Although French is used for street and place names and for official business, most of Luxembourgs citizens speak a dialect of German called Là «tztebuergesch in daily life, and Luxembourg is considered a German-speaking country. Many of Luxembourgs newspapers are published in German, including the Luxemburger Wort (Luxemburg Word). 5. Belgium Although the official language of Belgium  (Belgien) is Dutch, residents also speak French and German. Of the three, German is the least common. Its mostly used among the Belgians who live on or near the German and Luxembourg borders. Estimates put Belgiums German-speaking population around 1 percent. Belgium is sometimes called Europe in miniature because of its multilingual population: Flemish (Dutch) in the north (Flanders), French in the south (Wallonia) and German in the east (Ostbelgien). The main towns in the German-speaking region are  Eupen  and  Sankt Vith. The  Belgischer Rundfunk  (BRF) radio service broadcasts in German, and  The  Grenz-Echo, a German-language newspaper, was established in 1927. 6. South Tyrol, Italy It may come as a surprise that German is a common language in the South Tyrol (also known as Alto Adige) providence of Italy. The population of this area is about half a million, and census data shows about 62 percent of the residents speak German. Second, comes Italian. The remainder speaks Ladin or another language.   Other German-Speakers Most of the other German-speakers in Europe are scattered across eastern Europe in former Germanic areas of countries such as Poland, Romania, and Russia. (Johnny Weissmuller, of the 1930s-40s Tarzan movies and Olympic fame, was born to German-speaking parents in what is now Romania.) A few other German-speaking regions are in Germanys former colonies, including  Namibia  (former German Southwest Africa), Ruanda-Urundi, Burundi and several other former outposts in the Pacific. German minority populations (Amish, Hutterites, Mennonites) are also still found in regions of North and South America. German is also spoken in some villages in Slovakia and Brazil. A Closer Look at 3 German-Speaking Countries Now lets concentrate on Austria, Germany, and  Switzerland — and have a short German lesson in the process. Austria  is the Latin (and English) term for  Ãƒâ€"sterreich, literally the eastern realm. (Well talk about those two dots over the O, called umlauts, later.) Vienna is the capital city. In German:  Wien ist die Hauptstadt.  (See the pronunciation key below) Germany  is called  Deutschland  in German (Deutsch).  Die Hauptstadt ist Berlin. Switzerland:  Die Schweiz  is the German term for Switzerland, but to avoid the confusion that could result from using the countrys four official languages, the sensible Swiss opted for the Latin designation, Helvetia, on their coins and stamps. Helvetia is what the Romans called their Swiss province. Pronunciation  Key The German  Umlaut, the two dots sometimes placed over the German vowels a, o and u (as in  Ãƒâ€"sterreich), is a critical element in German spelling. The umlauted vowels à ¤, à ¶, and  Ãƒ ¼ (and their capitalized equivalents Ä, Ãâ€", ÃÅ") are actually a shortened form for ae,  oe  and  ue, respectively. At one time,  the e  was placed above the vowel, but as time went on,  the e  became just two dots (diaeresis in English). In telegrams and in plain computer text, the umlauted forms still appear as ae,  oe  and  ue. A German keyboard includes separate keys for the three umlauted characters (plus the ß, the so-called sharp s or double s character). The umlauted letters are separate letters in the German alphabet, and they are pronounced differently from their plain a, o or u cousins.