Reading Comprehension Worksheet free essay sample

Identify the skills you’ve learned this week. How could each of these apply to your academic work? How could each of these apply to your professional work? I learned to preview my reading, I learned to map the chapter as I previewed it, I learned to mark my textbook so that I would be able to read more quickly and with greater comprehension, and I also learned to read with concentration so that I can better focus on my reading Describe the reading and comprehension strategies you will employ. How will these help make you a more effective reader? I will learn to preview what I read so that I can get a better view or understanding of what I’m about to read and also start reading with concentration so that I can focus more on what it is that I’m reading so that it sinks end and I’ll be able to recall and memorize what it was that I was reading What is â€Å"primary source material†? Explain why knowing how to identify and use primary source materials is important for academic reading and writing. We will write a custom essay sample on Reading Comprehension Worksheet or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page From what I understand a primary source material is â€Å"A document or physical object which was written or created during the time under study† the reason for knowing how to identify and use primary source material for academic reading and writing is the fact that it came from a teacher or a scholar

Comparison of Monkeys Paw and Three Wishes free essay sample

The Monkeys Paw by W.W Jacobs and The Third Wish by Joan Aikmen are both similar and different in many ways, but there is one thing about these two short stories that makes them comparable and that is the motif of three wishes. Each of these stories has differences either through the characters or through the message each story brings. But, these stories also share some of the same elements such as the motif of three wishes. This quality is particularly important each of the stories and would change the stories quite a lot if this were taken away. Each of these stories has qualities that make them the same and qualities that are unique to the story alone. The Monkeys Paw and The Third Wish both have characters that are unique to their story and define the course the story takes, though for each of these stories the characters take on different traits however some they share. We will write a custom essay sample on Comparison of Monkeys Paw and Three Wishes or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page In The Third Wish the main character, Mr. Peters, is a wiser man than The Whites who are the main characters of The Monkeys Paw. This is showed when Mr. Peters remembers that people who wish generally don’t become happy ,but in The Whites case the family was warned yet they wished anyway causing their son to die. The characters however are both greedy, for Mr. Peters demanded three wishes from the swan after he saved it. Mr. White took the paw out of the fire after he was warned solely for the three wishes the paw granted. These characters both determine the stories direction for example; The Whites wished for 200 pounds though their son dies because of it. If they had never wished for the money the story may have been very much different. Mr. Peters determines the path the story takes when he rescues the swan. If Mr. Peters had never done that or wished for a wife then the story may have never taken place. The characters in these stories take on different character traits wh ether they are the same or different, but they also play major roles in the story. Both of these stories tell entirely different messages to the reader, and the messages are presented in partially key moments in the story. In The Monkeys Paw the story’s lesson about life is that you cannot change what has already happened. This is shown when The Whites wish for 200 pounds though it was at the cost of their son’s death. Later in the story the couple wish for their son to live once more though Mr. White believes that their son will be a horrific memory and realizing what a terrible idea it was wished their son dead again. The lesson that the author is trying to send in The Third Wish is that a person should be mindful of another’s feelings and needs. This is shown when Mr. Peters wishes his wife back into a swan to be with her sister when Leita, his wife, felt alone without her. In the end Mr. Peters dies happy because of caring about someone else’s feelings rather than his own. These stories send different messages to the reader and are shown during the climax of the story. The most significant quality both of these stories have is the idea or motif of three wishes. This similarity is one of the most important shared between the stories because without it neither story could ever occur or even be contrasted. This motif brings the stories together because the stories revolve around this idea of three wishes making the two stories similar. For example, in The Third Wish if there were no wishes then the wish for a wife or anything for that matter would never have occurred. The same type of idea occurs in The Monkeys Paw. If the monkeys paw was a normal paw then the story would be entirely different to the dark mood of the story. This quality in these stories in important to both the story and the connection that brings these two stories together. These stories have qualities about them that define the way the story moves and are different and similar in many ways. But, through these differences these stories share the most important similarity which is the motif of three wishes. Without any of these differences or similarities the stories would take a much different turn and would be much less alike. These differences and similarities shape much of the elements that make these stories their own.

Management Change and Innovation

Key issues in the case study There are a number of key issues that arise from the case of Nestle. One of the major issues that come up is the impact of mergers and acquisitions for large multinationals.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Management Change and Innovation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As a result of its growth Nestle chose to acquire more companies in order to make an impact in its global expansion especially in foreign markets. It struck big financial deals with companies like L’Oreal and Alcon Laboratories Inc and saw acquisition of the two companies. However, not all these big deals go well and in the case of Nestlà ©, L’Oreal was largely in debt and to some extent could have contributed to its financial woes. Another issue is the diversification of the market both in terms of products and market presence. These are seen as key factors in enhancing global expansion as well as profits. Nestle aimed at improving its finances through diversification as well as strategic acquisitions. It therefore made its presence in the U.S market through Alcon Laboratories Inc. It also diversified its products to include cosmetics through L’Oreal and pharmaceutical and ophthalmic products I addition to the original dairy products. This diversification could work for or against the company as it requires more resources on the part of the management. Organizational change is yet another key issue observed in this case. Nestle went through radical changes between the second world war to 1990’s all through to date.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More These changes have come in many faces, for example in the outlook of the companies before 1980 and change in the management of the organization as well as the continuous restructuring. More issues on organ izational change will be brought up in the topics discussed below. Importance of innovation in regard to organizational change is also a key issue. Innovation in terms of technology as well as new markets cannot be overlooked. For long-term continuance of the organization innovation should be consistent with the firm’s objective. New technology and new markets should not be exclusively left be the centre stage of organizational change and growth. Changes in Nestle Nestle went through both the first-order and the second-order changes. First order change is the continuous and incremental change which may call for modifications in processes, structures or even systems; however, does not go into changing the basic strategy, core values of the organization and corporate identity. It is basically meant to sustain organizational order and continuity. Second-order change on the other hand is drastic, transformational and with far reaching implications on the core of the organization. It is aimed at changing the nature of the organization and not developing it. Nestle went through the second-order change in that it carried out activities that had an effect on the nature and strategy of the organization. Although the changes may not have been aimed at changing the nature of the organization entirely, it had far reaching implications. For example; a change in the strategy of global expansion and increase in financial gains saw nestle sail through several acquisitions.Advertising We will write a custom case study sample on Management Change and Innovation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More These acquisitions also meant that nestle was no longer an organization that was based on dairy products. Acquisition of Alcon Laboratories Inc and the cosmetic producers L’Oreal made a move to include cosmetics, pharmaceutical and ophthalmic products as part of nestle. Acquisition as a strategy of growth can also be cons idered as another example of second-order change. These changes effected before 1980 had far-reaching effects on Nestle and that is why they are considered as second-order change. Diversification or investment of Nestle into developing markets is another example of second-order change. Nestle diversified into developing markets not only to continue the organization but majorly increase the profits as well a change to include the organization into a cosmetic producer and supplier. This could also be traced back to when Nestle changed its strategy and started acquiring subsidiaries in foreign markets. Traditionally, Nestle used sales agents in countries that were outside its home market, but it later changed into having their presence in those foreign markets by acquiring some existing factories. Another example of second-order change evidenced in nestle is the transfer of several executive offices offshore to the U.S. this was instigated by the feeling of isolation in home offices, S witzerland and thus calling for the transfer. This move was aimed at increasing the efficiency of Nestle both in productivity and financial efficiency. The purchase of carnation in 1984 is also an example of second-order change after a number of failed acquisitions that left Nestle with many non-profitable and nonstrategic businesses. First-order change for Nestle is evidenced basically in the today’s Nestle in the period after 1990s. However, even before then Nestle sold most of its nonperforming and nonstrategic businesses.Advertising Looking for case study on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This was basically meant to keep the organization going forth despite the losses. Under the management of Brabeck-Letmathe is seen to be leaning more on the first-order change rather than second-order. This could be due to the past failures as a result of aggressive acquisition and needed for expansion. When the CEO insists on ensuring the longevity of the organization without necessarily dwelling on short-term profits then this is first order. The change according to him is also meant to be gradual and slow is evidence that nestle is going into first-order change. As a result, it has developed approaches like corporate growth and a â€Å"corporate culture† that will ensure that longevity and continuity. Incremental approach to change Incremental approach to change is arguably the most effective method of change. Brabeck-Letmathe has to some extend used incremental approach in implementing change. One of the ingredients used is identifying the strengths of the organization an d trying to come up with ways to improve. This does not only dwell in strengths but also in weaknesses, opportunities and threats and trying to work on them. Incremental approach to change is also focused and conscious. It ensures a slow injection of change and at the same time trying to maintain internal balancing. A focus on the long term goals of the organization without laying much effort on the short-term profit motives is one of the factors key to incremental approach to change. This ensures the continuity of the business without involving radical measures that could be more destructiveness to the organization. Brabeck-Letmathe has used two vital tools that steer this type of change. These are entrenching a corporate culture and mechanisms for corporate growth. This approach ensures that Nestle establishes strengths that are not easily swayed. This is made much better by the fact that the managers have been incorporated into that corporate culture. However, there are some aspe cts of Brabeck-Letmathe approach that do not concur with incremental approach to change. For instance the complete wipe out of the executives was too radical a move. However important it may be to have managers who are well entrenched in corporate culture, we cannot ignore the fact that there is a need to listen to people or employees before creating an organizational change. In addition, we cannot ignore the role of technology in incremental corporate approach. Brabeck-Letmathe appears reluctant in embracing technology which is instrumental to growth. Though he is right on not making it the central strategic pivot point of growth his reservations are uncalled for. Brabeck-Lameck does not value social preferencing as a key aspect of incremental approach. This could be a better approach in dealing with the change managers. He seems put and as already having structures that is necessary for change. Additionally, his measures are too qualitative to fit in incremental approach to change because; this approach majorly builds on measurable quantitative aspects that become its key limitation. Implications for change managers Change managers in Nestle should have acumen in coming with the approaches that can well meet the needs of nestle. One of the key issues in consideration is the need to ensure longevity and continued existence of Nestle regardless of short operating profits. Another challenge lies with the fact that Nestle is a multinational company that has over 80 factories in different countries. This calls for efficiency and increased productivity. This increased efficiency and productivity should ensure that it doesn’t use measures that are too radical that could plunge Nestle into another financial difficulty. Restructuring process is another possible source of implication for change managers. It is costly ($300 million yearly) and a slow process that requires a lot of patience. Nestle management may have reacted to the need to sustain the longevity of Nestle by identifying factors that threatened its efficiency. For instance dropping out all non-profitable acquisitions as well as concentrating efforts on one line of products, probably dairy products. Change managers should also focus on ensuring that all the 80 factories are productive to avoid a scenario where they are servicing unproductive outlets. Therefore monitoring and evaluation should be done using the yardsticks of long-term goals of the company. In the quest of bringing change and restructuring, they should be careful to avoid strategies that may eat into company’s growth in the long run, as in the case of prior acquisitions. A similar challenge could be easily brought up by overemphasis on technology at the expense of sustainable growth. It is also beneficial for the change managers to come up with restructuring strategies that are less costly Three examples of lessons from the front line of Nestle case and possible solutions Three issues come up from the fr ontline of this study case. One of the major issues is the numerous sub branches of Nestlà © and the impact of aggressive acquisitions and mergers to penetrate foreign markets. Another subject of discussion is the diversification of products as varied as chocolate, milk products, cosmetics and pharmaceutical products. The third aspect is long-term performance or longevity of an organization Vis a Vis the short-term profit performance. Nestle just like many other big organizations used acquisition approach as a vehicle to global expansion and productivity. However, they did not consider the factors behind the deal or the financial position of the subsidiary company. This led to financial problems that saw its bad days kick in just like many other huge deals. Secondly, the need to diversify into many other foreign markets and with new products is likely to cause diseconomies in terms of management and finances. It is important for managers to weigh these implications and put structur es to deal with them before hand. Finally, many organizations and managers tend to overlook the long-term being and prefer high short term profits using very aggressive second-order approaches with great economic implications. This case study on Management Change and Innovation was written and submitted by user Cailyn Lee to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here. Management change and innovation Every organization needs positive change at one time or the other since it is inevitable. However it is natural for people within an organization to resist change. They will not readily accept new procedures that may be introduced and are ready to frustrate the management efforts in an attempt to maintain their status quo.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Management change and innovation specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Every organization has to be creative in order to remain relevant and competitive in the market as observed by Karp. This was evidence in the coca cola case as they were forced to change by the trends that affected their business in a negative way. Karp provides some statements which he argues that they constitute â€Å"creative counters† to resist change. In the case of Coca Cola Company, they had to apply innovation as well as change in their product development so as to cater for the requ ired health standards in the market in regards to their products. Coca Cola management had to provide sufficient leadership in their organization so as to recognize their business as one dedicated to health of their customers. This was one way of influencing people’s perceptions in regards to Coca Cola products bearing in mind that it would be the key determinant on how they would respond to the proposed change. The management at Coca Cola had to undertake some mental imagery in developing its new products that is, by partnering with Nestle (a Swiss company) in order to produce a drink that is tea based. In order to achieve this, they had to visualize the task they were undertaking in terms of success and not failure. The main challenge in this case was how Coca Cola would develop an acceptable process by all their employees. In addition, the company would be obliged to assess the impact of change on its employees. This would be one of the most gainful ways of introducing cha nge into the company with minimal side effects. How to deal with resistance and management responses A great deal of attention should be given to the way recipients view change. Hence, much of the focus should be geared towards the techniques used so that company employees may reframe their minds and accept change in a positive way. Partnership is a form of strength in achieving change in an organization.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Despite the numerous ways employees in an organization may come up with excuses such as ‘we have always done it this way’, it is up to management to remain firm and steadfast for any positive development to take place. To achieve success in the implementation of a certain task, there is a need for clearly spelt-out rules. For instance, Coca Cola was relying on the expertise of Nestle Company so as to produce a product that was he althy to the market. This was achieved by well defined rules and also by forging a sustainable partnership. Managers should not assume that resistance of change is purely an artifact of misconception by recipients of change. It is imperative to note that the effective self- regulation of cognitions can be learned or developed in an organizational setting. For example, an individual’s pattern of negative thinking can be altered. This can only be possible by provision of clear instructions. However, Abraham in his prescription of managing resistance emphasized on the detrimental effects of fatigue. He argued that techniques to be used should help people reframe a situation more positively. In the case of Coca Cola, they still use the image of youth, passion and action in their company. To recap it all, it is vital to mention that resistance should be appreciated and dealt with in a sober way. The Maurer’s fundamentals of success to change should be used. This essay on Management change and innovation was written and submitted by user EdwardF0rrester to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The Basics Of Sample English Essays

The Basics Of Sample English EssaysSample English essays will help you improve your writing skills and gain knowledge on how to write good essay. You have to be careful while writing an essay, especially when it is about your speech or presentation that has been written. You need to write an essay with the right steps, the right sentence structure and a proper writing style.First of all, you need to plan what kind of a simple sentence you want to use and what would be best for the purpose. For example, if you want to write an essay about the history of your country then you can start by naming your country and begin with a paragraph on the history of your country. In this kind of essay, you can start from the beginning to the end of the history of your country, if you would like to do that.When writing a sample essay, you can also write as if you are interviewing someone. This means that you will start from the present and end at the past. Before going into the past, you have to do a short research about your subject so that you can write in an interesting way and that is also written in a language that is understandable. For example, if you would like to write an essay about the advertising industry, you can start by asking people who are already working in the industry.For your short research, you can ask some other people as well such as your family members and friends. When you get a lot of good information and you still have questions on your mind, you can also ask the employers in the industry and they would surely be glad to help you. They can give you answers and information on everything that you would ever need to know on this subject.Next, you have to practice writing the sentences properly so that you can come up with good words. In order to make your sentences clearer, you can try to write down all the good things first and then go into details. As soon as you get stuck on any point, you can try to change it and move on.After practicing your sample English essay, you can now go back to the material that you have and rewrite it. For example, if you write a very short introduction then you can rewrite it in order to come up with a full-length introduction. After that, you have to read over the introduction again and you can also correct it and make it clearer.After finishing the essay, you should be able to move on to the next part which is the conclusion. It is very important to finish your essay the way you have planned it out before you submit it. If you find that your essay is not very good, you can then go back and rewrite it with different methods or strategies.In conclusion, when writing an essay, always keep in mind that your writing skills are improving and you are learning how to write a sample English essay. You can be rest assured that when it comes to writing an essay, you will never be the same. You might just take on the writing world by storm.

Data analysis on Apple Inc

Data analysis on Apple Inc Abstract Apple Inc. is a company that deals with mobile electronic devices. It was founded by Steve Jobs. The company uses the Apple brand to market its products and compete in the highly competitive global business environment. Some of the areas that this company deals with include: the manufacture of personal computers, notably the Macintosh line of computers and other consumer electronics such as the iPod and iPhone.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Data analysis on Apple Inc specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The company has a heavy presence in the consumer electronics products industry and has done its best to remain the top brand in this industry. Over the years, one of the branding strategies that this company has used has been the creation of innovative products. This has kept the company ahead of its competitors and has helped it cut a niche for itself in the competitive global business environment. Wh en a company wants to do a brand promotion, a multi-product strategy is usually adopted. This means that the name of the company is used as the common name under which all the products of that particular company are being marketed. Apple Inc. is one of the companies that have chosen to direct its energies towards branding its corporate name instead of focusing on individual products that it manufactures. Introduction Apple Inc. is a renowned electronics company based in the US. The company is involved in the designing and selling of electronics, computers and computer software. Finding a niche in the competitive business environment globally is not a cheap and easy venture (Alan, 2000). Companies globally are increasingly becoming aware of the importance of corporate branding to any business enterprise. Branding basically involves distinguishing a company’s goods and services from the rest in the market through the creation of exceptional identity and position of these produc ts in the competitive business environment. Apple Inc. is one of the corporations that have identified the value of branding of its products and uses it to create a distinction between its products and those of its competitors in the market. This paper shall look into the branding strategies of Apple Inc. as well as the advantages and disadvantages of these strategies. An analysis of this company using secondary data shall then be provided and recommendations given. Methodology The information in this paper has been gathered from secondary sources. These include books and articles by other writers based on prior research. Only information about branding strategies of Apple Inc. and the advantages and disadvantages of these strategies has been used. A SWOT analysis of this company has been done using these secondary sources.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Branding strategies of Apple Inc A Store Just for Apple As a strategy for branding, Apple Inc. opened stores that only deal with its products only (Apple’s Competitive Strategy, 2011). This has helped this company to set its unique products apart from the rest that are in the same business environment. The stores are customer friendly and customers have the opportunity to explore some of the technology that Apple Inc. offers. This move has helped the company create loyal customers. Offering complete solutions Apple Inc. products come in packages that complement one another. Moreover, the products complete one another (Kahney, 2002). This means that most of the programs that Apple Inc. products need are also produced by the same company. The customer does not have to struggle looking for these programs elsewhere. Solutions for most of their needs when dealing with Apple Inc. products are also provided by the same company. Advertising strategies While promoting its products, Ap ple Inc. tries as much as possible to identify with everything that is young, smart and trendy (Dairymple, 2008). For example, the company ran a campaign dabbed ‘I’m a mac’, which depicted ‘a mac guy’ as one who is young and bold. This attracts many people because everyone would like to identify with whatever is young, smart and trendy. Manufacture of varied products Due to the high cost of buying some Apple Inc. products, such as Apple computers, the company has diversified its products to come up with products that are not as costly as the computers. Customers who are not able to buy high cost products such as the computers are able to buy products such as iPod, which they can afford (Seeking Alpha, 2011). This provides the customers with an opportunity to sample some of the Apple Inc. products. This also makes it easier for the customers to consider buying the high cost products such as the computers when they are in need because they have confide nce in the Apple brands. Selling of products used in the education sector Apple Inc. sells most of its products to education institutions. Young people in schools and universities are introduced to Apple Inc. products at a tender age. When these students desire to buy their own electronics in future, chances of buying apple products are very high. This is because the students feel more comfortable using the products that they have used all along while in school than buying new brands that they are not familiar with (Inside CRM Editors, 2008.). Apple Inc. is therefore able to capture customers, who are very young. The company retains most of its customers after their first purchase.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Data analysis on Apple Inc specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Manufacture of products that always deliver Before Apple Inc. manufactures any of its products, an extensive research is done to identify the needs of the customers (Rosenthal, 2011). This helps in ensuring that the company manufactures products that meet the needs of the customers, resulting to high customer satisfaction. This also makes the customers happy and willing to buy products from this company in future, because they are assured that their needs are going to be met. Consistency in manufacture of the products Apple Inc. is very consistent in the way it manufactures its products. This means that all the new products that are developed follow the same basic architectural structure. person who is conversant with any of the Apple Inc. products has some basic knowledge of what to expect whenever they are buying a product from this company. A person who has prior knowledge of Apple products adapts to new hardware from this company more easily than one who has never interacted with the company’s products. Consequently, such people are likely to make repeat purchase. New innovations Apple Inc. products are in novative and diverse (Jeffrey William, 2005). This gives the customers an opportunity enjoy the services of Apple Inc. products in various locations and at their convenience. It is possible for consumers to have variety of products, ranging from those that can be used in the office, at home of even while one is away from these places. Manufacture of attractive products Apple Inc. manufactures products that are colorful and generally attractive to the users. The use of smiling icons, as well as bright colors, makes the products look attractive and appealing to the customers. Advantages of branding of Apple There are immense benefits experienced by Apple Inc. as a result of their branding strategy. One of the advantages that Apple Inc. has as a result of branding is having a platform where new products can be launched in future. Due to superior branding that this company has created, consumers are likely to buy products because they are viewed by many as an epitome of technological s uperiority and modernity (OGrady, 2009). Through branding, Apple Inc. has been able to differentiate its products from the rest in the market, in terms of the quality and value of the products. These products are usually identified with positive factors, such as being of high quality, trendy and reliable, among other qualities.Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This positive brand image has helped the company to sell the existing products to the customers easily and introduce and sell new products without struggle. Apple Inc. relies mostly on the corporate name that it has created and the unique products brands it offers to market its products. Disadvantages High costs One of the major disadvantages of branding is the high costs involved in advertising. In order for a company to set up a local or an international brand, a lot of time and resources are needed. There are high costs incurred in issues related to public relations, advertising and in offering exceptional customer care service. This is because; it takes a lot of time to create a brand name both locally and internationally. During this time, a lot of advertisement is required, since a brand name cannot be created within a short period or by running a few advertisements (Miller, Vandome McBrewster, 2009). The adverts should continue being aired, even during economic turndowns, in order to avoid giving competitors a loophole that they can use to outdo Apple Inc. Brand image The brand image can also be a disadvantage to a company. If a brand becomes associated with a particular person, their departure, either due to natural causes such as death, or if they willingly walk out of the company, can affect the brand image. For example, when there were rumors that Steve Jobs, the founder and chairman of Apple Inc, was on the verge of death due to cancer, most of the people sought to withdraw their shares from the company. This was a big blow to the brand image of Apple Inc. Poor customer service The issue of poor customer service by retailers is also a disadvantage to branding of Apple Inc. This arises when the retailers fail to treat customers well. Even though the company has done its best to create a good brand image both locally and internationally, such ill treatment can cause customer dissatisfaction, which may be detrimental to the brand image (Morgan, 2011) . Recall of products Issues with the manufactured products that may lead to the recall of the products may also be dangerous to the brand image. This may cause customers to lose their trust in Apple products, regardless of the long time that the company has taken to create a positive brand image. Moreover, recall of the already manufactured products would mean that the company has to incur more costs, which may lead to the company registering losses for that period. SWOT analysis of Apple Inc Strengths This is a very successful company that has high sales of electronics such as iPod, iPhone and the Macintosh computers. It is also one of the established brands in the manufacture of electronics (A2Z Everything, 2010). Most of its customers are loyal. Apple Inc. is also able to attract new customers and retain them. This means that the company is able to sell the existing products to these customers easily, as well as introduced new products to them without much struggle. Weaknesses So me of the products were reported to be faulty (Linzmayer, 1999). For example, the Apple iPod Nano was reported to have faulty screen, something which couldcause customer dissatisfaction. In addition, some of the iPod produced previously had faulty batteries and the company had to give its customers other batteries. Opportunities There is an opportunity for Apple Inc. to develop the iTunes that they currently offer into another more convenient format such as the mobile phone. This would increase its sales, as well as meeting the needs of many users of the Apple products. Threats The greatest threat to leading IT producers such as Apple Inc is the stiff competition that exists in this industry. Being a leader in this industry, Apple Inc has attracted a lot of competitors. This means that the company has to remain vigilant always and be innovative in order to stay ahead of its competitors. The high product substitution that is on the rise with new inventions is also a threat to this co mpany. In the recent past, the CDs and Vinyl were some of the leaders in the music industry. However, the MP3 and iPods are the ones reigning currently. With these changing trends, one is never sure what to expect in the IT industry. Recommendations Apple Inc. should consider co-branding, as a way of reducing on the costs incurred in branding. Co-branding involves a joint venture of branding that is done by several companies. In addition to reducing the costs for branding, co-branding allows easier market penetration. However, if Apple Inc. is to adopt this method, it should be ready to share the credit with the rest of the companies because co-branding usually has a dilutive effect. Moreover, a negative brand image of one of the companies involved in co-branding is likely to affect the brand image of the other companies involved in the joint venture. Apple Inc. should try as much as possible not to have a single person who is associated with the brand. This would help minimize any negative brand image that may arise if any person leaves that company. This is also important in protecting the brand image, in case one of the people in the company is surrounded by negative events, which may ruin the reputation of the brand when the brand is associated with such a person (King, 2011). Extensive monitoring should also be done to ensure that the brand image is not tarnished by outsiders, who may try to use the brand name for their own selfish gains. Conclusion Apple Inc. is one of the leading producers of IT products. It has managed to create a niche for itself in the global business environment through branding. However, this has come with advantages and disadvantages that the company has to cope with. A SWOT analysis of the company reveals some of the major strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that the company faces. Reference List Alan, D., 2000. The Second Coming of Steve Jobs. Chicago: Broadway. Apple’s Competitive Strategy., 2011. Apple†™s Competitive Strategy. [Online] Available at: mannmuseum.com/apple-s-competitive-strategy/ A2Z Everything. 2010. SWOT Analysis- Apple. [Online] Available at: http://mgmt280.blogspot.com/2010/01/swot-analysis-apple.html Dairymple, J., 2008. Analysts: Apple brand benefits from Idol deal. [Online] Available at: macworld.com/article/132225/2008/02/idol_analysis.html Inside CRM Editors. 2008. 11 Effective Strategies Apple Uses to Create Loyal  Customers. [Online] Available at: insidecrm.com/features/strategies-apple-loyal-customers/ Jeffrey, S. Y., William, L. S., 2005. iCon Steve Jobs: The Greatest Second Act in the  History of Business. New Jersey: John Wiley Sons. Kahney, L., 2002. Apple: Its All About the Brand. [Online] Available at: wired.com/gadgets/mac/commentary/cultofmac/2002/12/56677 King, R., 2011. Jobs departure wont diminish Apples brand. [Online] Available at: zdnet.com/blog/btl/jobs-departure-wont-diminish-apples-brand/56082 Linzmayer, O., 1999. Apple confid ential: the real story of Apple Computer, Inc. California: No Starch Press. Miller, F., Vandome, A., McBrewster, J., 2009. Apple Inc.: Apple Inc.. History of  Apple, Apple Inc. Saarbrà ¼cken: Alphascript Publishing. Morgan, R., 2011. Disadvantages in Branding  [Online] Available at: ehow.com/info_8278424_disadvantages-branding.html OGrady, J., 2009. How Apple Inc. Changed the World. India: Jaico Publishing House. Rosenthal, M., 2011. Advantages Disadvantages of Apple Computers. [Online] Available at: ehow.com/about_5439348_advantages-disadvantages-apple-computers.html Seeking Alpha., 2011. Apples Branding Strategy Delivers Superior Results. [Online] Available at: http://seekingalpha.com/article/74064-apple-s-branding-strategy-delivers-superior-results

Disagreements on the Interpretations of the Zhuangzi Essay

Disagreements on the Interpretations of the Zhuangzi - Essay Example These differences can be summed up in presenting two modern analyses and interpretations of some parts of the Zhuangzi, with emphasis on the governing forces that shape and control the universe. For writer Erica Brindley, she interprets the Zhuangzi as the driving force and endless source of power that moves the universe and is above even Heaven itself is the Dao ?, which is â€Å"an upright way†, â€Å"a method†, â€Å"a path†, or â€Å"a truth†.1 The Dao allows the proliferation of diversity, thus any kind of method is considered acceptable as long as it is in line with the truth, making it a cyclical or a circular concept. Meanwhile writer Michael J. Puett interprets Heaven or Tian ? as the apex in the universal hierarchy and governs laws initiating changes and transformations, similar to patriarchy as a social order.2 Because the two authors read and interpreted the Zhuangzi using two different terms with differing ideologies, there are disagreements b etween the two, wherein Brindley’s interpretation of the Zhuangzi shows that the universe has a cyclic nature accessible through transcendence, while Puett’s interpretation states that the universal hierarchy is linear with Heaven at the apex, and man must live in balance with it without having to enter transcendence. Comparisons of the Two Interpretations of the Zhuangzi Brindley’s interpretation of the Zhuangzi gives a greater emphasis on the Dao as the all-encompassing, dynamic, unbounded and limitless driving force that shapes the cosmos and initiates its constant transformations.3 This is due to how she explains some ideas in the Zhuangzi using the Dao as the major influence. For example, she interprets the Dao to be impersonal, thus when a person unites with it, the perception of the self ceases to exist and becomes indistinguishable through emptiness, Wu ?. Thus this person does not act of his own accord anymore, because the self is no more. A passage fro m Zhuangzi mentions the impersonality of the Dao: â€Å"The Way has its reality and its signs but is without action or form. You can hand it down but you cannot receive it; you can get it but you cannot see it (Zhuangzi 6.9).†4 The idea is similar to Descartes’ â€Å"I think, therefore I am†, but instead it becomes I no longer am, and thus my thoughts are not mine.5 This turns thoughts from something personal to something that is not from the person, thus being impersonal. On the other hand, Puett’s interpretations of the Zhuangzi gives more emphasis on Heaven to be the one governing all changes that happen in the universe, and that humans must strive not to work against it, but rather follow its patterns.6 This is because resisting or controlling these changes makes people resentful, and will turn into an endless cycle of dissatisfaction, whereas allowing changes to happen as fate brings one pleasure and peace. This can be further explained using a passa ge from Zhuangzi: â€Å"Such things from time to time may happen to come your way. When they come, you cannot keep them from arriving, but when they depart you cannot stop them from going (Zhuangzi 16.5).†7 By allowing things to happen according to the patterns of Heaven and forgoing all, man can easily live in peace. Another disagreement between Brindley’s and Puett’s interpretations of the Zhuangzi is on how normalcy or humanity is defined. For Brindley, what the universe creates that man does not see normal are the products of how the Dao allows diversity to exist in the cosmos, while for Puett anything that exists in nature, regardless of whether humans consider it normal or not are still the products of the will of Heaven and are thus â€Å"heavenly†. The two texts both mentioned the following passage from Zhua

Week 6 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Week 6 - Assignment Example icle analyzes the health, governmental, institutional, and general information on the need, implementation, and capability of nursing-sensitive value-based purchasing (Kavanagh, Cimiotti, Abusalem, & Coty, 2012). The main message presented by the peer-reviewed journal article is that the adoption of value-based purchasing initiative is still low and that its successful implementation requires incorporation of nursing measures to guarantee its effectiveness. Moreover, the article shows how the NSVBP initiative can improve the quality of nursing care by financially encouraging hospitals to adopt an optimal nurse practice environment (Kavanagh, Cimiotti, Abusalem, & Coty, 2012). As a GI nurse, I use evidence-based practice to improve the financial health and patient health in my organization. Indeed, I use palliative care as evidence based intervention to identify and consult patients with gastrointestinal and liver diseases. Apparently, the palliative care controls pain control, enhances communication, prolongs quality life, and informs on more efficient resource use thus decreasing medical costs that improve financial health and patient health (Bernacki et al., 2012). I also use evidence-based practice to encourage the screening of medical records and increase awareness. This facilitates access to complete and accurate information that enhances my potential to diagnose diseases and curb medical errors thus promoting patient health in my organization (Health IT, 2014). Through evidence-based practice, I identify patients with digestive system problems and advise them on how to manage their symptoms in their daily life thus improving their financial health. Bernacki, R. E., Ko, D. N., Higgins, P., Whitlock, S., Cullinan, A., Wilson, R.,†¦Billings, A. (2012). Improving Access to Palliative Care through an Innovative Quality Improvement Initiative: An Opportunity for Pay-for-Performance. Journal of palliative medicine, 15 (2),