Mini-Assignment #1 †Case: Mccain Foods Limited

1. If you were in charge of the Asian operations for McCain, how would you recommend the company overcome the challenges in the Chinese market? Being a foreigner in any market is a challenge, if I were in charge of the Asian operations for McCain I would first gain an understanding of what appeals to the Chinese market. This way I will be able to produce a product that will not only satisfy the Chinese consumers but also not offend them.For example, in regards to packaging, the Chinese market are very attracted to the colour red as it conveys good luck and good fortune while our company should avoid the colour white as it represents death and mourning. It is simple details like these that the Chinese market would become more comfortable and willing to accept western food. Additionally, prices of the McCain products may be seen as overpriced compared to local Chinese products.A different approach being in charge of the Asian operations would be to adjust the prices of our products, pe rhaps set them at a price lower than the standard in order to appeal to the Chinese consumers who are not familiar with McCain. Lowering the price will allow consumers to give McCain foods an opportunity to show western foods can be accepted. Once McCain foods have become more familiarized with the Chinese community our company would be able to raise prices as we have already established an appealing brand with consumers.Another effective decision to overcome the challenges in the Chinese market would be to improve advertising of McCain products. Advertising campaigns including celebrities endorsing products have proved numerous times they improve sales and overall awareness of the brand. The reason for this is because especially in the Chinese market, when consumers see celebrities they look up to become associated with a product, it gravitates their interest towards that certain brand or product. 2. Drawing from Hofstede’s work on global cultures, what challenges might Cana dian managers at McCain face when interacting with their Chinese business colleagues?Hofstede’s work on global cultures includes power distance, individualism-collectivism, uncertainty avoidance, and masculinity-femininity. The challenges in regards to power distance include that Canadians may treat subordinates more fairly and equally unlike Chinese managers who believe in formal authority and knowing your place of rank within the company/business. The challenges with power distance Canadian managers may face will initially be establishing a relationship with Chinese business colleagues.They may find that the Chinese are less willing to exchange information and communicate with one another as Canadians follow a more democratic view versus the Chinese following an autocratic view. Secondly Canadians may face challenges with individualism-collectivism as their scores differ vastly. The mindset of the two cultures clash as Canadians have an un-biased take when it comes to hirin g and promotions; solely looking at performance and the potential of that person while the Chinese take on a more biased view giving higher priority towards people managers have a connection with such as family members.The main challenges would be compromising on how to promote and hire employees with such different views. Essentially Chinese business colleagues have an approach of comparing results with other companies whereas Canadians look at a broader picture, viewing productivity/efficiency success. The challenge both cultures will have to face is compromising management styles to please employees as well as contribute towards the company’s success. Bibliography: China – Geert Hofstede. 2 Feb. 2013 Canada – Geert Hofstede. 2 Feb. 2013

China’s 1998 Summer Flood Disaster on the Tangtze

Jethro LeRoy Gibbs Ms. Shepherd Honors English 10 24 March 2013 Mighty Hell from the Yangtze China’s 1998 summer floods killed thousands of people, affected billions of people across the globe, left millions homeless, destroyed or damaged millions of homes, affected millions acres of land, and killed billions of dollars in their economic status.One unfortunate factor that played a huge role in the strengthening of the summer floods that China faced and suffered was human neglect (â€Å"Bad Planning†). However, one of the many significant factors that are highly crucial in flood control is the world’s largest power station (â€Å"Three Gorges†) also known as the Three Gorges Dam. Without the Three Gorges Dam capability of controlling the river floods, each summer poses a great threat to those who dwell near the Yangtze and its tributaries.But despite the complications concerning with the yearly river floods, the Yangtze played a significant role in establis hing many trade routes for many centuries (Wakeman 492). However, since the early dawn of civilization, the Yangtze River proved to contain some of the deadly summer floods that China will ever experience. The Yangtze is naturally located in the Eastern Lowlands, which also contains most of China’s best farmland.In 1998, a collection of floods of the Yangtze River caused by deforestation, overpopulation, location, and failure to learn past mistakes all resulted in a high number of deaths, millions of homeless people, life-threatening water borne diseases, and the suffrage in the industrial and agricultural status; however, the aid and support of China’s government, the United Nations, China’s army and military, and the unification within the people of China eventually brought a better realization on how the repetition of its summer floods could have been avoided in the first place.In other words, the chaos and suffrage that was endured by the many that were affe cted by China’s repetition of its collection of summer floods made the government, United Nations and supporting countries, army and the military, and the people much stronger than before, helping China to correct its past mistakes in order to prevent further trouble socially and economically. One crucial fact that one must observed was that the numerous human errors that occurred before the year 1998 and the failure to correct them took part in the summer flood disaster.Deforestation was the first recognizable human error, especially and specifically in the Eastern Lowlands where the valley of the Yangtze River was geologically located (Wakeman 492). Deforestation brought many environmental problems which aided the summer floods of the Yangtze to increase its size and the risk of damage (Lang). This happened due to soil erosion (Lang) and the removal of top soil (Gittings) which resulted from the lack of trees (Lang). Another environmental problem was the lack of firm top so il due to the lack of trees which can create water run-off, especially near a river (Gittings).The bottom line was that deforestation caused the rich top soil to disappear or disperse creating water run-off which in return encouraged floods to increase its damage capabilities (Lang). The growing population of China also contributes to the deforestation of China because people needed land to live on. The second major human error was overpopulation. Overpopulation in cities or areas prone to deadly natural disasters is more likely to result in higher number of deaths and causalities (Gittings). More people mean a higher demand in food, land, and crops (Gittings) which helped caused deforestation in many areas along the Yangtze.The third major human error was the location in which they built their vast cities and homes. Where there is a river, there is the potential risk or threat of a river flood. Throughout the summer flood disaster, tens of thousands of people were force to either f lee or evacuate their homes as entire villages were wiped out and crops sustained heavy damage (Ansfield). Flooding was always a negative factor to many cities, towns, and industries which were built relatively close to the Yangtze River in the Eastern Lowlands throughout the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries (Wakeman 492).Finally, the fourth major human error was failure to improve after many flood disasters before the year 1998. The government did not have enough resources to initiate a complete plan to avoid summer flooding’s and disasters that follows it (Gittings). The government lacked on the money, funds, labor, and support according to this quote during the 1998 summer floods, where many Chinese flood victims answered a question to who to blame saying, â€Å"There was nothing to be done. China was too poor. China has too many people† (Gittings).Thus, many victims advocated for improvement yet failed because political power and complete social unification with the rest of the country was out of their league (Gittings). The bottom line was that human errors not only set up the devastating Yangtze summer flood disaster, but also encouraged it to happen. There were severe flood consequences following China’s summer disaster. First, the disaster negatively impacted socially, where panic and chaos ensured in many of the flooded streets (Watson).But chaos wasn’t the only thing on flooded streets. Damages took place in many commercial businesses, which were either damaged or destroyed by the floods putting thousands out of work (â€Å"YouTube†). According to a video recording the disaster, the entire streets and major roadways were completely flooded, only leaving sewage and unsanitary debris behind (â€Å"YouTube†). The second consequence was unsanitary drinking water. Even flooding as a natural disaster can tamper with the public drinking water making it harder to have access to safe water (Watson).People who drink unsa fe water can risk getting diseases and illnesses, such as diarrheal (Watson). This only put more negative pressure on the victims who were striving to survive the disaster. The third consequence was structural damage complications. Collapsed or damaged structures can create havoc and add more problems to the picture as shown in a video where it showed flood waters surrounding underneath a damaged bridge, full of trapped survivors who were waiting to be rescued (â€Å"YouTube†).Another example of structural damage was the breakthrough of many dikes and levees along the Yangtze River holding back heavy flood waters to protect nearby cities and industrial centers (Hutzler). Many dikes were placed in areas prone to flooding especially near the industrial centers and oil fields in order to protect them and keep them from affecting their economic status (Kurtenbach). The condition and strength of the many dikes literally was a death and life situation for not only the government, b ut for the population as well.Lastly, the fourth consequence was the rise in health issues. An example was the extreme scarcity of safe drinking water. Drinking unsafe water can increase the risk of getting diarrheal disease which exactly happened in many cities affected by the Yangtze floods (Watson). Also, many hospitals and clinics were damaged, destroyed, or completely submerged under water which caused a shortage in medicine and medical equipment for the many flood victims (Hutzler).As the flood waters affected millions, negative health factors such as colds, stomach illnesses, dysentery, hepatitis, and diseases carried by waterborne parasites all threatened the flood victims and those nearby to which health Minister Zhang Wenkang himself tried to warn that these factors were on the rise (Hutzler). The many flood consequences radically brought devastating damages to China and immediately alerted the people and the government that changes and solutions in its society was needed to prevent further flood catastrophes.Agricultural, economic, and industrial damages were dealt with throughout the summer disaster. Fact: â€Å"Flooding across vast areas of China that began in June of 1998 had affected more than 140 million people, destroyed 2. 9 million houses and ruined nine million hectares of crops by July 15† (â€Å"China Moves†). In agriculture, about 21 million hectares of land were underwater which disrupted successful farming and the growth of crops (Harding). The grain production of 1998 was difficult to accomplish for the flooding’s cut back some 11 million tons of summer grain harvest (Harding).Also, cotton wheat and rice got hit the worst (Harding). Economically, losses were estimated around 85. 6 billion Yuan. Agriculture and the economy were extremely associated with each other. For example, the cotton industry was highly affected by the Yangtze summer floods (Harding). Even though it still had enough cotton to produce for the u se of China, flooding still damaged some cotton fields thus forcing a decrease in its cotton exports (Harding). In other words, the reduction of cotton exports and imports greatly damaged its economic shipping.Thus, agricultural had a strong mutual bond with the economy, a bond where one can become affected and overwhelmingly impact the other. But that wasn’t the only complication, for billions of money was spent by the government (â€Å"1998†) to provide food, water, and shelter to the flood victims as well as spending money to clean up and rebuild the affected cities and lands (Ansfield). One example that can be examined was a quote from the mayor of Qiqihar, â€Å"We need about three years to make up for the heavy losses caused by the floods† (Gittings).When a natural disaster hits so suddenly, the damages can be so severe and restoration of anything takes time and patience. Finally, the floods damaged the industry of China. A total of 335 oilfields were subm erged underwater or affected by the floods at Daqing (Kurtenbach). But according to Xinhua, China’s oil production still continued, even though 282 oil wells were shut down and 1443 oil wells were overwhelmed with flood waters (Hutzler).Despite the amount of damages sustained during the disaster, China eventually received much needed help and support by its government, the United Nations, army and military, and the people. The 1998 summer disaster created problems that changed China economically, socially, and politically. But most problems eventually were solved, mostly by the reactions and responses of China and other helpful nations. There were four recognizable reactionaries and responses. The first was government involvement.During the summer flood disasters, the government helped in supplying the thousands with medical supplies, food, water, and shelter (Kurtenbach). Even President Jiang Zemin urged relief workers to ensure social order and guard against the spread of d iseases (Kurtenbach). The government also built the world’s largest powerhouse dam, the Three Gorges Dam (â€Å"Three Gorges†), in order to control flooding and provide an eco-friendly power source for its cities and people (â€Å"China Moves†).Deforestation was a major cause and problem of the 1998 summer floods, thus the government devised a plan in which they will replant thousands of trees to regain rich top soil especially near the Yangtze and its rivers (Lang). In order to complete this major task, the government received help from the Sloping Land Conversion Program or SLCP which will devise a plan to turn some 37 million acres of land back into forests or grasslands (Hance). The government orders some of the dikes to be destroyed to flood plains and farms in order to save the many industrial cities and centers from being flooded (â€Å"Background†).Most importantly, the government banned all logging activities in the headwaters of the Yangtze and in the Sichuan province, stopping the lumber jacks from cutting down trees to planting new trees (Gittings). The second reaction and response was the help from the United Nations. The World Food Programme or W. F. P. officially got involved and helped China and its people by sending and distributing food and water to the flood victims (â€Å"Chinese Agency†). The W. E. P. Deputy Executive Director Namanga Nyongi stated, â€Å"The aim of W. F.P. ’s emergency operation is to provide food and to help these people rebuild their homes and the local infrastructure which were destroyed by the floods† (â€Å"Chinese Agency†). This quote simply explains on how Nyongi spoke a reassurance statement in which help was on the way and that the Chinese flood victims will not be abandoned. The United States also helped by sending in a shipment of humanitarian relief equipment (Harding) and dispatched some cargo planes carrying essential supplies vital to the flood victims (â€Å"Background†).The third reaction and responses was from China’s army and military. Countless Chinese troops are sent in to complete search and rescue missions, reinforce weak dikes, clean up the wreckage of the many cities, and secure public safety and provide protection (â€Å"YouTube†). More than two million people including most military personal all helped reinforce the weak and outdated dikes holding some or most of the flood waters back (Harding). Lastly, the unification of the people of China was a significant reaction and response to the summer floods.It took millions of helpful people of all social classes and society to work as a team to reinforce the poor dikes and drain flooded roads as well as replanting drowned crops (Ansfield). Teamwork in rescue missions was crucial especially when dealing with a crisis that involved victims in a dangerous situation (â€Å"YouTube†). Another example of unity and teamwork was the millions of hands wi llingly sacrificing their time and efforts in the moving of earth and sand to avoid greater disasters (Gittings).The fact that President Jiang Zemin encouraged the country and nation to team up with one another in the struggle of the 1998 summer floods also helped in unifying the people. The 1998 summer flood disaster in China devastated both the government and the people caused by major human errors such as deforestation, overpopulation, location, and past failures only to be later resolved by its reactions and responses to improve its status with the Yangtze and avoid future, major complications. Human errors were most to blame since the government and the people did not learn from their past disaster mistakes and continued to lose countless lives.Deforestation, overpopulation, location, and all of the failures could have been recognized and solved by the people of China thus preventing such high deaths and leaving millions homeless or affected. But despite the complications, ther e were some changes that were made to help them correct their past mistakes, and the government, people, and the United Nations all did their best to help China succeed. The restoration of thousands of trees and the facility of the Three Gorges Dam was to both play a crucial role in controlling the river floods or to prevent soil erosion, as well as protecting those living along the Yangtze.Despite the complications and solutions, natural disasters can change and shape countries, people, governments, and society. But it is the reactions and responses to the disasters that determines whether the outcome is a success or a failure based on learning from the mistakes and correcting them. Works Cited â€Å"1998 Yangtze River Floods. † Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 03 May 2013. Web. 18 Mar. 2013. Ansfield, Jonathan. â€Å"China Rebuilds in Wake of Flooding: 540 Reported Deaths. † National Post [Don Mills, Ont] 25 June 2002, Toronto ed. , Sports sec. : S10. ProQuest Newsst and. Web. 19 Mar. 2013. . â€Å"Background: The Yangtze's Wrath. † Interview by Elizabeth Farnsworth, Phil Ponce, and Woman. PBS. PBS, n. d. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. . â€Å"Bad Planning Made Flood Damage Worse. † The Daily Yomiuri [Tokyo] 14 Sept. 1998: 1. ProQuest Newsstand. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. . â€Å"China Moves 132,000 as Floods Approach Three Gorges Region: Flood Season Has Killed 1,000, and Officials Tell Residents to Brace for Massive Crest of Water Expected on the Yangtze. The Vancouver Sun [Vancouver] 20 July 1998, Final ed. , News sec. : A5. ProQuest Newsstand. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. ;http://search. proquest. com/docview/242848508? accountid=3785;. â€Å"Chinese Agency Reports UN Food-aid Programme Launched in Flood Aftermath. † BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific – Political [London] 19 Sept. 1998: 1. ProQuest Newsstand. Web. 28 Feb. 2013. ;http://search. proquest. com/docview/450127178? accountid=3785;. Gittings, John. â€Å"Environment: High and Dry The Floo ding of the Yangtze River Has Devastated the Lives of Millions. Now China Is Claiming It Can

Choice and Real Life Product Essay

Abstract: In the lab that was conducted, students were supposed to examine the tendencies of fruit flies, specifically Drosophila’s, to move toward or away from important stimuli that aide in their survival, also known as taxis. Another objective for this lab was to identify the patterns and relationships between environmental factors and a living organism. Students are supposed to use two bottles to allow the flies to choose which side they want to go to, depending on what substances they are attracted to more. Fruit flies are not attracted to fruits; rather they are attracted to the rotting fruit. Problem: In this lab, students are studying the behavior of animals, ethology, and the factors that contribute to the way they behave. Do certain environmental factors behave as a stimulus to animals? Hypothesis: If the fruit flies were given choices on which substance they are most attracted to, they there wouldn’t be any preference to any over the other. Materials & Procedures: Material: In this experiment, the we used: tape, 2 water bottles, scissors, 6 different cotton balls, 1 chamber, about 20 fruit flies, water, lime water, banana, vanilla extract, and ammonia. Procedure: Cut the bottom ends off of two water bottles, and tape them together. I labeled each cap with letter â€Å"A† and â€Å"B.† I then inserted the fruit flies in through one end. For each new substance, we dropped a few drops of it onto the cotton balls. We observed the fruit flies for about 5 minutes, undisturbed, and then counted the flies at each end. We repeated these stepped for each new substance being exposed to the flies. Data/Results Table 1. Fruit Fly Choices |Trail 1 |Trail 2 |Trail 3 |Trail 4 | Limewater |Water |Ammonia |Limewater |Vanilla |Banana |Limewater |Banana | |13 |1 |0 |3 |7 |13 |5 |20 | | Questions: 1. Did the flies demonstrate a chemotaxis in relation to any of the substances you chose? Be specific. Chemotaxis is a movement in response to the presence of a chemical stimulus. The flies demonstrated a chemotaxis to the vanilla, lime water, and banana. For each trail, the flies either went one way or the other in response to the substance they preferred. 2. Which substances had the greatest positive and negative chemotactic response? Through the trailing, it is evident that some of the substances had positive and negative responses. In this lab that was conducted, the vanilla extract and banana had the strongest positive responses, while ammonia and water had the most negative responses. Ammonia killed all of the fruit flies that were inside the choice chambers. 3. Describe some possible reason for their preferences? Some possible reasons for their preferences are that they mostly are, however, attracted to fruit. Most of them like the smell of the fruit, and in this case the banana because it rots quickly. 4. What other factors might affect whether or not the fruit flies moved from one part of your choice chamber to another? 5. How can you apply this lab to a real world setting? How might fruit fly preference translate to a real life product? This lab can be  applied to the real world setting not only shown through fruit flies, but also with humans. The fruit fly preference can translate to a real life product by, for say in a restaurant they wouldn’t stay where the ketchups or what have it, but it would be near the garbage area devouring over the rotting food. Conclusion: From this experiment, the behaviors of fruit flies were observed and investigated. Through the sampling of different substance in the choice chambers, it was found that the flies found the banana more desirable than the others and moved towards that side more quickly. This proved the hypothesis that was stated was incorrect. Although, we did make an error; in the trail with ammonia, we added a prodigious amount, which therefore led to the mass killing of the fruit flies causing us to use new ones for the other substances.

Financial accounting standards board Research Paper

Financial accounting standards board - Research Paper Example However, after the approval of the amendment, entities going through mergers and acquisitions are obliged by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to implement this change in their financial reporting. This is to ensure consistency in the application of these standards among the entities affected. Accounting for any combination taking place after the approval date must be in accordance with the provisions of this standards. In addition, full implementation must be observed, that is, once an entity decides to use these standards, it must be applied fully, ensuring compliance with every paragraph of the standard and not partial compliance (FASB, p14).The board may permit early application to implement the standard by entities undergoing combinations. They can simply apply to the board if they are certain about using the standard. The board may however choose to accept or reject such applications. When the board is sufficiently satisfied that the applicants can implement this standar d, it grants the permission for an early implementation. When such permission is granted, the applicant must comply with the requirements of each provision of the standard as partial compliance is prohibited. They must ensure recognition, measurement, and disclosure are as per the requirements of the standard (FASB, p18).The proposed amendment would result in more relevant information as compared to the current standard on disclosure of identifiable intangible assets. Firstly, this standard limits the separate recognition to non-cancelable contractual terms and other legal rights.

China and the World Trade Organization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

China and the World Trade Organization - Essay Example The main function of this body is to carry out and facilitate multilateral negotiations so as to improve the movement of goods and services in an open market and also to reduce trade barriers and such other bottlenecks, which actually bring unhealthy or poor competition in the market. It would be acting as a platform for its members to speak about their difficulties with their trading partners and in this way ultimately leading to the economic development of its members. Currently there are 145 members for WTO (The World Trade Organization and Agriculture, 2004). So the ultimate aim of WTO is to develop the economy of all its member countries whether it is developed, developing or least developed, to ensure employment for all through better production of goods and services and better standard of living for all (The basics of WTO. 2000). China joined WTO in the year 2001. A lot of commitments were made by China while joining WTO. According to that all the imports were to be exempted from trade tariffs. There is also domestic price liberalization and thus the price of the domestic as well as international price has almost become same. Apart from this tariff rate quotas replaced import quotas and licenses were abolished. In sectors such as telecommunications, insurance etc foreign participation was encouraged (WTO successfully concludes negotiations on China's entry, 2001). All these commitments increased transparency of China's trade regime and helped china to increase its trade volume. The volume of trade of China has increased from about $200 billion to more than $750 billion within four years after it's joining in WTO (The China Business review, 2006). There has been a change in the items of export as well. Before 2001 agricultural produce, leather, plastic items etc were the main exports, but after 2001, it is the electrical goods, machinery, power generation equipment etc. The imports also increased considerably in these 4 years and the main items include heavy equipments, machineries, vehicles and their parts etc. Export and import with United States increased to more than double during this period. China became the top supplier of consumer goods. The trade is increasing nearly 29% annually. Thus it could be seen that after joining WTO, China has made tremendous progress in its trade especially to United States and other developed countries. It has become the fourth largest economy in the world by the year 2006 (Yong, 2009). Thus the World Trade Organization which was formed as a result of increased globalization and liberalization, in order to facilitate trade across the countries has resulted in the development of economies not only of the developed countries such as US, UK, Germany etc, it has also helped the developed countries such as China to make tremendous progress in the trade and economy. Works Cited The basics of WTO [online] Available at: http://www.iisd.org/trade/handbook/3_2.htm 2000. (accessed on 12th June 2009) The China Business review [online] Available at: http://www.chinabusinessreview.com/public/0609/ChinaData.pdf 2006

Business and Marketing strategy (case Study) Essay

Business and Marketing strategy (case Study) - Essay Example Beverage industry is one of the most dynamic industries that are applying this concept to great effect (Boone et al. 2009, p. 194). Beverage industry is broadly classified as alcoholic and non alcoholic. In both categories there are exemplifications of global marketing. World’s non alcoholic industry is grappled with tough competition by the two large players Coca Cola and PepsiCo. Both the giants are expanding their value horizon across different countries. Though there are numerous companies engaged in providing global beverages, the two giants are at top with extensive portfolio of products tailor made for countries. Though both companies are equally successful, Coca Cola leads the global market, with PepsiCo being on its tail continuously (Cardello 2011). Provide a detailed assessment of the environmental issues affecting Coca Cola global business and marketing strategy. Given guidance in terms of opportunities or threats they may pose for the company in the future. Coca C ola Company is one of the leading companies in the world that is dealing in the manufacturing and distribution of non-carbonated beverages. The brand portfolio of the company entails more than 400 brands including beverages, juices, tea, sports and energy drinks, coffees etc. Strong brand name and brand portfolio has led the company ahead of its close competitors, Pepsi which has a brand value of $12,690 million as compared to $67000 million of Coca Cola (The Coca Cola Company 2011). Since its inception, it has continuously improved upon its marketing strategy that has facilitated the customer recall and recognition of brand overall the world making it easy for Coca Cola to explore new markets. The international marketing strategy of the company can also be quoted as the major reason behind its huge success. However, intense competition and threats are ever-present elements of the external environment that might have a large impact on the company’s profitability. SWOT ANALYSI S SWOT analysis can provide a snapshot of the current performance of the company and of the dark areas that are required to be eradicated so as to avail the new opportunities that can further enhance the company’s performance. SWOT analysis is the best way to study the impact of external environment on the organization’s marketing and global strategy (Mind Tools Ltd. 2011). STRENGTHS: Leading Brand: This is a recognizable fact that Coca Cola has a strong brand name and brand value that is incomparable. From the last few years, company has invested a lot on the promotions that has enhanced the brand’s customer recall and recognition as well. Large scale of operations: Coca Cola is known as the largest manufacturer, marketer and distributor of non alcoholic beverages in the world having a large scale of operations. Currently, Coca Cola is successfully operating in more than 200 countries due to having a support of the strong infrastructure across the world. WEAKNE SSES Negative perception of coke: It is a known fact that a recognizable product â€Å"coke† can be harmful for a body. Therefore, this shift of trend towards weight reduction and health can adversely affect the company’s profitability in the future. Lack of popularity of many Coca Cola’s brands: Furthermore, many of Coca Cola’

Compare and contrast the use of dramatic irony in Oedipus Rex and Essay

Compare and contrast the use of dramatic irony in Oedipus Rex and Doll's House - Essay Example th plays use dramatic irony to develop conflict in situations that would otherwise not appear to have any, but they differ greatly in how that irony is developed and who is aware of what; in â€Å"Oedipus Rex† the irony develops as a slow but inevitable march towards disaster, making the tone of the play about sweeping concepts like fate, whereas in â€Å"A Doll House† the irony develops through constant attempts by each character to hide their actions from each other, making the play a universal parable about the life of the typical 19th century family. Both â€Å"Oedipus Rex† and â€Å"A Doll House† are similar in using dramatic irony in a plot that would otherwise be bereft of conflict. For instance, in Oedipus, there is no particular antagonist as exists in a traditional narrative – Oedipus is essentially a hero and an anti-hero. The plot revolves around a â€Å"murder† that happened before the play even begins (Sophocles 18), and centers on a quest in which the hero eventually finds himself guilty of that same murder. Likewise, in â€Å"A Doll House,† one of the central themes is the inability of this family to openly communicate with each other, until the relationships in the family erode to the point that Nora, the protagonist â€Å"does not love† her husband Helmer anymore (Ibsen 1333), leaving her house â€Å"empty† when she goes (1333). Obviously this lack of communication would not function to advance the plot if the audience could not see it develop; thus â€Å"A Doll Hou se† uses dramatic irony to advance the plot While both â€Å"Oedipus† and â€Å"A Doll House† use irony to advance the plot, the effects of that irony on the viewer are very different, because the mechanism of developing the irony is very different between the two works. In â€Å"Oedipus,† the narrative relies almost entirely on outside knowledge of events to drive the irony. The audience never sees the events that set Oedipus up to kill his father or sleep with his mother, so when he

My views on leaders and leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

My views on leaders and leadership - Essay Example It is worth mentioning that effective leadership is vital for organizations in order to survive in today’s challenging business environment (Jackson, 2011). The paper will describe a reflective essay on the conception of leadership which I have observed during my career progress. The objective of the paper is also to describe the most competitive and effectual leadership approach which I have undergone during the journey of my professional life. My views on leaders and leadership According to my perception, leaders guide the followers. If no one follows a particular person willingly, then he/she cannot be termed as a leader. The word â€Å"leader† in my sense is that person who perceives an overall understanding of the operational and managerial duties to be accomplished within an organization (such as a school or a business establishment). Leaders always take the key position in fulfillment of responsibilities or series of tasks. However, the imparting of the title â⠂¬Å"leader† alone is not sufficient to define the philosophy of true leadership. It is my subjective opinion about the leader that a person’s distinct and specialized strengths can place the basis of his/her leadership achievements to be labeled as a leader. Contextually, the central leadership power and personalities are related with personal and special strengths. The leadership strength is again observed to be linked with a particular career, the assigned job roles and duties of a person (Jackson, 2011). In this regard, I have found that no precise and replicable association subsists between individuals in the leadership role and the certain personalities or strengths of those individuals associated with leader. In an organization today, the leadership and followership are positioned in the progressively complex, undefined and dynamic business context with numerous realities on the basis of several values, urgencies and requirements (Jackson, 2011). My views on follo wers and followership According to my viewpoint, the ideology of true leadership necessitates decent followers. Followers can be personified in numerous ways, who are employees, citizens, investors and individuals having faith in their leaders. My belief is that leadership cannot happen without an effective leader-follower association. Yet, at times, frequently followers are given less priority in the leader-follower relationship and are observed with a negative implication. Several professionals believe that becoming a follower is the second appropriate alternative for a person to become a leader. However, my viewpoint perceives that being an effectual follower is just as significant and necessary as being a successful leader. Often, it can be observed that before a person ends up as being an effectual leader in an organization, he/she initially had played the vital role of being a follower with efficiency. Essentially, followership is the capability or readiness of a person to fol low the leader. As leadership is incomplete without followership, no matter how the followers are labeled, they are just central to the ideology of leadership, being equivalent to the importance of organizational leaders (Ricketts, 2009). Leadership theories and experiences The leadership theories serve as a framework

Health Research Methods Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Health Research Methods - Essay Example In youth, physical inactivity has been identified as an important predictor of excess weight gain. Concurrent with increases in overweight and obesity, physical activity has decreased among children and adolescents. During middle and high school years, marked declines in physical activity have been observed, particularly among girls, regardless of race. One reason for the decline in physical activity in the childhood may be the reduction of physical education in schools. In the developed world, increasing use of computers and television also markedly decrease children's activity level. As a result of this, while many children get little to no physical activity, even those who meet current recommended activity guidelines may still not be exercising sufficiently (Ebbelling, Pawlak, and Ludwig, 2002, 473-482). The degree of obesity in children cannot be assessed by any classification as it is done in case of adults. In case of children, it is expressed traditionally by percentile measures. Children who have a body mass index (BMI) between 85th and 95th percentile are considered at risk for overweight, and those who are at greater than 95th percentile are considered overweight. ... as been elucidated that worldwide, there has been a trend towards increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in children, and this could lead to a increased predisposition to metabolic syndrome and related complications. Overweight children more often become overweight adults, and as increases, this poses serious risk for health (Freedman et al., 2004, 10-16). Obesity has been known to be associated with and sometimes causative of serious medical complications in the adult life, which can be sequelae of the childhood obesity. Moreover, serious medical complications of obesity may lead to enhanced mortality in children (Lobstein and Frelut, 2003, 195-200). Therefore monitoring the prevalence and preventing them childhood becomes an important question. Since prevention has been recognised to be the best form of intervention in obesity in childhood, it is important to find out the risk factors that may be associated with childhood obesity. Current evidence from existing research suggests that primary or idiopathic obesity in children has been linked with nutritional factors right from the formula feeding to caloric intake, nutritional balance, food groups, physical activity, and many other factors (Cuttler, Whittaker, and Kodish, 2003, 722-724). Therefore interventions in these areas to curb the risk factors would be able to improve the obesity status of the children in the community. Research Question: Based on this hypothesis, an appropriate study can be designed that can investigate the effects on risk factor interventions in obese children in order to answer the question can risk factor modification interventions be effective in reducing obesity in a study population comprising of children Aims: To investigate the short-term and long-term effects of risk factor

Survey on Teenagers Pocket Money Essay Example for Free

Survey on Teenagers Pocket Money Essay Pocket Money is not just representing how much money that teenagers’ get; it also represents teenagers’ buying tendency, marketing size of teenagers, their finance method and possible reasons of stress because of financial problem. It’s worth to make a statistic on the topic teenager’s pocket money, for the reference of further studies on social research. In this report, the following data would be collected and analyzed. Firstly, we want to compare the pocket money teenagers how to spend their pocket money in past and that in nowadays (e. 2006 vs. 1999), then we should reveal the differences by our statistic figures like mean , mode etc, so that we can know whether they get more money or not, and other statistical information. Secondly, we also are interested in the relation between the teenagers’ ages and the amount of money they get, and then how this found out changes from 1999 to 2006. Thirdly, we want find what kind of things teenagers prefer to buy and whether they can handle their financial overload effectively by themselves. After that, we will try to find the reasons for those phenomena and then generate the conclusion. Objective To build up an online survey, to collect sample data about teenager’s pocket money, how they use it, and any financial problem they faced. Questionnaires In this project, we use internet survey instead of questionnaire survey in collecting samples from teenagers. There are few reasons for us to choose such survey method: First, teenagers are very sensitive to the money they own and they feel too nervous when other people ask about the amount of their pocket money. For those results, they prefer to refuse to answer this questionnaire by face to face method. Secondly, teenagers have a low incentive to do the survey on the street; they think it is wasting their time. This increases the difficulties in sampling from them directly. Thirdly, as a result, we choose internet survey which should be a more effective sampling method since teenagers are easier to access to computers and more willing to answer questionnaire as they feel that they can help other people. The online survey http://freeonlinesurveys. com/rendersurvey. asp? id=o2ve66ut8bs9gh7252868 was posted to HK newsgroup and forums to invite teenagers to fill the online survey since 1st December, 2006. We end the online survey and collected the data at 20th December, 2006. The Hard Copy of the online survey as follows: Result At 20th December, 2006, we collected 111 valid online questionnaires. Result of each question is shown respectively: Over 80% interviewers are in-range below 24, which stated that most interviewers are student. It shows most teenage have around $1000-$2000 pocket money, where around 36% teenage have $1001-$1500 pocket money. Around 34% students have $1501-2000 pocket money per month, which is second highest. 68% teenagers gain their pocket money from parents, where 29% teenagers gain their money pocket by part time job. The others which stated they gained by investment or gambling. But it seems there’s not reliable. In this chat rank 5 represent the highest value option to interviewee while rank 1 is refer to the lowest value option, it show that about 50% of teenagers put ‘studying’ as the last priority(rank 1) in their consumption, after that it will come to ‘saving’ at 25 %. On the other side, ‘entertainment’ is the option which people most willing to spend their money on it and it take 30% in rank 5, beside that ‘dressing ‘also an option that’s less prefer 25% in rank 5. 32% students think that they spent more than they get, which need to pay attention. In the 36 student who said that they spent more than they get, 52% of them would borrow from the money, 42% would borrow from friend. It is need to be concern that 6% of teenagers would borrow from financial company. 37% teenagers think that they can’t handle their financial problem effectively. This data seems reliable as from this survey, 32% cannot control their expanses. Calculation As it is important of founding out statistic factors of nowadays teenagers’ pocket money, calculation of sample mean, mode and median , standard deviation and coefficient of skewness and coefficient of variation are calculate as follows Assumption: Since we don’t know the exact number of â€Å"below $500† and †above 2000†, also number of this two sample is little compare with sample size, so these figures are neglect when calculation. Group Mean: = ? fimi/? fi = (750. 5*29+1250. 5*40+1750. 5*38) / 107 =1292. 5 Median = (107/2) = 53. th, so we know that the median should be in the class 1001-1500 = Lm + [(n/2-Cum Freq. )/f]*w) =1000. 5 + [(107/2 – 29) /40]*500 =1306 Mode Modal Class: 1001-1500 =Lmo+ (d1/d1+d2)*w =1000. 5+ (11/11+2)*500 =1423. 58 We are considering 107 samples. So sample standard deviation = 395. 2638 Coefficient of skewness =3(mean-media n)/standard deviation =3*(1292. 5-1306)/395. 2638 =-0. 1025 The curve is slightly skew to the left Coefficient of variation = standard deviation/ mean *100% = 395. 2638/1292. 5*100% =30. 5813% Discussion From the data posted by education department, mean of teenagers’ pocket money are 151*4 = $604 per month. Compared with sample mean we found, difference between two samples is 1292. 5-604=$688. 5. The difference due to change of HK economic environment and more teenagers earn their pocket money from attending part time job. It is advised that performing a larger survey if analyzing the relationship of teenagers and their pocket money more deeply. According to the survey data, it points out that teenagers are more concerned in materialism spending. And also, over 32% teenagers spending their pocket money is always greater than income, and teenagers are lack of ability to have their personal planning. Lower than 10% teenagers think that saving is important when they received pocket money. They spend a lot either entertainment or dressing. The government should pay more attention to this problem, and educate teenagers how to spending their money effectively, and prevent they will have the thought of ‘Using the future money’. Hong Kong teenagers usually have some part-time jobs income, to satisfy their needs on materialism. The main reason influences teenagers’ shopping style is brand, which is a teenager like to pursuit for famous brand name. Conclusion Via this survey, basically we has the expected proposes. We understand how teenagers get their pocket money and how to spend it, and also understand consumer behavior, including their mental characteristics. As a studies’ data, it can be used in the further studies in the social science. However, since the quantity of questionnaire is relatively few, so the result cannot fully reflect the fact of pocket money spending of teenagers.

Systems Development Life Cycle

Systems Development Life Cycle Introduction SDLC, The systems development life cycle (SDLC) is a conceptual model used in project management that describes the stages involved in an information system development project, from an initial feasibility study through maintenance of the completed application. Hence an array of system development life cycle (SDLC) models has been created: Fountain, Spiral, rapid prototyping, synchronize and stabilize and Incremental. Although in the academic sense, SDLC can be used to refer to various processes followed during the development of software, SDLC is typically used to refer to the oldest of the traditional models a waterfall methodology. Software Engineering Process The SDLC supports a list of important phases that are essential for developers, such as planning, analysis, design, and implementation, and are explained more in detail later in this report. Traditionally the waterfall model was regarded as the original: which adhered to a sequence of stages in which the output of each stage became the input for the next. No definitive models exist, but the steps can be describe and divided as follows: Project planning, feasibility study, Initiation: A feasibility study is a quick examination of the problems, goals and expected cost of the system. Projects are usually evaluated in three areas of feasibility: economical, operational, and technical. In addition, it is also used as a guide to keep the project on track and to evaluate the progress of project (Post Anderson, 2006). Thus the goal of the feasibility studies is to evaluate alternative systems solutions and to propose the most feasible and desirable business application for development, (Obrien Marakas, 2006) states that the feasibility of a proposed business system can be evaluated in four major categories Organizational Feasibility: An illustration of how a business supports the strategic business priorities of the organization. Economic feasibility: Identifies whether expected cost savings, increase revenue, increase profits and reductions in required investments will exceed the cost of developing and operating a proposed system. Technical feasibility: can be demonstrated if reliable hardware and software capable of meeting the needs of a proposed systems can be acquired or developed by the business in the required time. Operational feasibility: can be measured by the ability and willingness of management, employees, customers, suppliers and others to operate, use, and support a proposed system. for example if Tescos was to change its software platform at the tills to something entirely different, employees may begin to make to many errors and find ways around using it or just all together quite, thus it will fail to show operational feasibility. Requirements gathering and Systems Analysis: (Hawrzyszkiewycz 2004) This step defines the proposed business solutions and any new or changed businesses processes. The goal at this stage is to find any problems and attempt to fix the system or improve its productivity and efficiency. The technique here is to break the system into smaller pieces as it is easier to be explained to others and can be split up amongst different development team. A draw back of this though is that it takes time and effort to reintegrate all of the pieces (Post Anderson, 2006). Systems design: Functions and operations are described in detail during the design stage, including screen layouts, business rules, process diagrams and other documentation. The output of this stage will be to describe the new system as a collection of modules or subsystems. (Hawrzyszkiewycx 2004) states that system designs is a two step process, Broad design: which indentifies the main architecture of the proposed system which may include the language use to develop the databases, network configurations, software requirements and whether programs are to be developed using internal programmers or external contractors. Detailed design: only after the design phase is completed the detailed design phase can be initiated, during this phase the database and program modules are design and detailed user and system interaction procedures and protocols are documented. Build: Software developers may install (or modify and then install) purchased software or they may write new or custom design programs (Senn 1989). Just like the design phase, this phase is broken up into two separate sub phases, development and implementation. During the implementation phase the components built during the development are put into operational use. Usually this means that the new and old systems run parallel until users are trained in system operations and existing processes converted to the new system. (Hawrzyszkiewycz 2004) Testing: During the integration and test stage, the software artefacts, online help, and test data are migrated from the development environment to a separate test environment. At this point, all test cases are run to verify the correctness and completeness of the software. Successful execution of the test suite confirms a robust and complete migration capability. In addition, reference data is finalized for production use and production users are identified and linked to their appropriate roles. The final reference data (or links to reference data source files) and production user list are compiled into the Production Initiation Plan and the system is used experimentally to ensure that the software does not fail, also the code is tested iteratively at each level (Senn 1989). Installation, Implementation and Deployment: Implementation is a vital step in the deployment of information technology to support employees, customers, and other business stakeholders, the system implementation stage involves hardware and software acquisition, software development, testing of programs and procedures, conversion of data resources and additionally involves the educating and training of end users and specialist who will operate the new system. All together this is the final stage where the project is finally used by the business (Obrien Marakas, 2006). Maintenance: Once a system is fully implemented and is being used in business operation, the maintenance function begins; this involves the life of the system which may include changes and enhancements before its decommissioning. (Obrien Marakas, 2006) states that the maintenance activity includes a post implementation review process to ensure that newly implemented systems meet the business objectives establish for them. (Hawrzyszkiewycx (2004) supports the argument that maintenance is required to eliminate errors in the system during its working life and to improve the system in the light of changes by monitoring, evaluating and modifying operational business systems to make desirable or necessary improvements. Evaluation and Reason for Adopting SDLC for a small Pc Application The adoption of the SDLC for the development of a small application on a pc will not be appropriate because the SDLC is just what is says it is the Life Cycle of the system software. The SDLC is a process use to manage time and resources on a project, from the identification of a need for the system Initiation) to rolling it out to the user (Implementation) to de-supporting or no longer needing it (Disposition), Each phase of the SDLC requires documentation, reporting, and approval. This assures that a project cannot get out of hand either by changing the direction or becoming a financial black hole and the project sponsors are aware at every step of exactly what is going on as it is documented. Therefore it is reasonable to assume that the development of a small application on a pc does not require the adoption of the SDLC model whereas a large systems which have teams of architects, analysts, programmers, testers and users must work together to create the millions of lines of cust om-written code that drive enterprises today, will without a doubt need to adopt an SDLC solution to manage the resources of such a project. Evaluation Of the Traditional SDLC Strengths Limitations The Waterfall Model The waterfall model is the most classical sequential life cycle; each phase must be completed in its entirety before the next phase can begin. (Post Anderson, 2006) states that one advantage of the SDLC is the formality aspect which makes it easier to train employees and to evaluate the progress of the development as well as ensuring that steps are not skip, such as user approval, documentation and testing. In addition with eighty percent of MIS resources spent of maintenance, adhering to standards whilst building the system makes it easier to modify and maintain in the future because of the documentation generated and the sustain consistency, however the formality of the SDLC approach can be problematic as it increases the cost of development and lengthens the development time (Post Anderson, 2006) The formality of the SDLC method also causes problems with projects that are hard to defined, unlike newer methods like Agile which helps software development teams to respond to the unpredictability of building software through incremental, iterative work cadences, known as sprints (Cohn, Mike 2006). Agile Methods aim at allowing organizations to deliver quickly, change quickly and change often. While, agile techniques vary in practice and emphasis, they share common characteristics, including iterative development and a focus on inter-action and communication. Maintaining regularity allows development teams to adapt rapidly to changing requirements, and working in close proximity, focusing on communication, means teams can make decisions and act on them immediately, rather than wait on correspondence. It is also important to reduce non-value adding intermediate artefacts to allow more resources to be devoted to product development for early completion. The SDLC however works best if the entire system can be accurately specified in the beginning. That is, users should know what the system should do long before the system is created. (Post Anderson, 2006) further explains that because of the rigidity of the SDLC, the development of more modern applications are difficult, hence the combination of existing SDLC models and the creation of other alternatives models and methodologies are adopted as outlined later in this paper. Advantages Easier to use. Easier to manage because of rigidity Phases are completed at specific phase intervals Requirements are very well understood. Disadvantages scope adjustment during the life cycle can kill a project Working software is not produced until the life cycle is complete. Not suited for long and ongoing projects. In appropriate where requirements are at a moderate to high risk of changing Alternative development mythologies One management advantage of the traditional SDLC method is the sequential series of tasks; on the other hand using the traditional SDLC has many drawbacks. For example, when adopting a traditional SDLC methodology, the rigid chain of phases may subsequently make it impossible for developers to improved ways to provide functional requirements as the project is being built, which results in the designers redoing their work. Instead programmers should be involved in the planning and design phases, so that they may be able to identify improvements much earlier in the process, thus enhancing the effectiveness of project activities, (FFIEC IT Handbook (2009). Development solutions such as iterative and Rapid prototyping address many of the shortcomings of a traditional SDLC. And a brief description of two the newer methodologies are outlined below along with some advantages and disadvantages for comparison purposes. Agile Development Model Agile software development is a conceptual framework for undertaking software engineering projects. Agile methods attempt to minimize risk and maximize productivity by developing software in short iterations and de-emphasizing work on secondary or interim work artefacts. The key differences between agile and traditional methodologies are as follows: Development is incremental rather than sequential. People and interactions are emphasized. Working software is the priority rather than detailed documentation. Customer collaboration is used, rather than contract negotiation. Responding to change is emphasized, rather than extensive planning. Rapid Prototyping model Rapid prototyping is a process for creating a realistic model of a products user interface (Najjar, L. J. (1990) ,Using rapid prototyping, you model the look and feel of the user interface without investing the time and labour required to write actual code (Najjar, L. J. (1990). Advantages Saves time and money Promotes consistency in user interface design Allows early customer involvement Reduces time required to create a product functional specification Disadvantages Usually does not produce reusable code Lacks an obvious stopping point Conclusion It can be seen from the above comparison that differing philosophies can produce radically different views of a system. Nevertheless, both the Traditional SDLC and the alternatives produce valid working systems as well as their share in drawbacks The one size fits all approach to applying SDLC methodologies is no longer appropriate. Each SDLC methodology is only effective under specific conditions. (Traditional SDLC methodologies are often regarded as the proper and disciplined approach to the analysis and design of software applications but the drawback is that it takes a considerable amount of time and all of the system details have to be specified upfront. Methodologies like Rapid Prototyping alternatively are a compromise of rigidity and no rigidity. These new hybrid methods were created to bridge the gap with the evolution of more modern application developments requirements. Newer the less methodologies like Agile are most appropriate when volatility and uncertainty exist in the development requirements, and the SDLC is good when the requirements are already defined. Bibliography Najjar, L. J. (1990). Rapid prototyping (TR 52.0020). Atlanta, GA: IBM Corporation. http://www.lawrence-najjar.com/papers/Rapid_prototyping.html FFIEC IT Handbook (2009). Alternative development methodologies http://www.ffiec.gov/ffiecinfobase/booklets/d_a/02.html Senn James A. (1989), Analysis Design of Information Systems, Introduction to Information Systems, pg27 32 Ch1 McGraw-Hill Co- Singapore Post. G Anderson. D (2006), Management Information Systems, Organizing Business Solutions, pg 448 459 Ch 4 McGraw-Hill Co- New York Igor Hawryszkiewycz. (1998), Introduction to System Analysis Design, The Development Process, pg120 136 Ch 7 Prentice Hall- Australia Obrien A. O Marakas .M. (1989), Management Information Systems, Introduction to Information Systems, pg27 32 Ch1 McGraw-Hill Co- Singapore Systems development life cycle Systems development life cycle 1. Introduction SDLC, The systems development life cycle (SDLC) is a conceptual model used in project management that describes the stages involved in an information system development project, from an initial feasibility study through maintenance of the completed application. Hence an array of system development life cycle (SDLC) models has been created: Fountain, Spiral, rapid prototyping, synchronize and stabilize and Incremental. Although in the academic sense, SDLC can be used to refer to various processes followed during the development of software, SDLC is typically used to refer to the oldest of the traditional models a waterfall methodology. 2. Software Engineering Process The SDLC supports a list of important phases that are essential for developers, such as planning, analysis, design, and implementation, and are explained more in detail later in this report. Traditionally the waterfall model was regarded as the original: which adhered to a sequence of stages in which the output of each stage became the input for the next. No definitive models exist, but the steps can be describe and divided as follows: †¢ Project planning, feasibility study, Initiation: A feasibility study is a quick examination of the problems, goals and expected cost of the system. Projects are usually evaluated in three areas of feasibility: economical, operational, and technical. In addition, it is also used as a guide to keep the project on track and to evaluate the progress of project (Post Anderson, 2006). Thus the goal of the feasibility studies is to evaluate alternative systems solutions and to propose the most feasible and desirable business application for development, (Obrien Marakas, 2006) states that the feasibility of a proposed business system can be evaluated in four major categories Organizational Feasibility: An illustration of how a business supports the strategic business priorities of the organization. Economic feasibility: Identifies whether expected cost savings, increase revenue, increase profits and reductions in required investments will exceed the cost of developing and operating a proposed system. Technical feasibility: can be demonstrated if reliable hardware and software capable of meeting the needs of a proposed systems can be acquired or developed by the business in the required time. Operational feasibility: can be measured by the ability and willingness of management, employees, customers, suppliers and others to operate, use, and support a proposed system. for example if Tescos was to change its software platform at the tills to something entirely different, employees may begin to make to many errors and find ways around using it or just all together quite, thus it will fail to show operational feasibility. †¢ Requirements gathering and Systems Analysis: (Hawrzyszkiewycz 2004) This step defines the proposed business solutions and any new or changed businesses processes. The goal at this stage is to find any problems and attempt to fix the system or improve its productivity and efficiency. The technique here is to break the system into smaller pieces as it is easier to be explained to others and can be split up amongst different development team. A draw back of this though is that it takes time and effort to reintegrate all of the pieces (Post Anderson, 2006). †¢ Systems design: Functions and operations are described in detail during the design stage, including screen layouts, business rules, process diagrams and other documentation. The output of this stage will be to describe the new system as a collection of modules or subsystems. (Hawrzyszkiewycx 2004) states that system designs is a two step process, Broad design: which indentifies the main architecture of the proposed system which may include the language use to develop the databases, network configurations, software requirements and whether programs are to be developed using internal programmers or external contractors. Detailed design: only after the design phase is completed the detailed design phase can be initiated, during this phase the database and program modules are design and detailed user and system interaction procedures and protocols are documented. †¢ Build: Software developers may install (or modify and then install) purchased software or they may write new or custom design programs (Senn 1989). Just like the design phase, this phase is broken up into two separate sub phases, development and implementation. During the implementation phase the components built during the development are put into operational use. Usually this means that the new and old systems run parallel until users are trained in system operations and existing processes converted to the new system. (Hawrzyszkiewycz 2004) †¢ Testing: During the integration and test stage, the software artefacts, online help, and test data are migrated from the development environment to a separate test environment. At this point, all test cases are run to verify the correctness and completeness of the software. Successful execution of the test suite confirms a robust and complete migration capability. In addition, reference data is finalized for production use and production users are identified and linked to their appropriate roles. The final reference data (or links to reference data source files) and production user list are compiled into the Production Initiation Plan and the system is used experimentally to ensure that the software does not fail, also the code is tested iteratively at each level (Senn 1989). †¢ Installation, Implementation and Deployment: Implementation is a vital step in the deployment of information technology to support employees, customers, and other business stakeholders, the system implementation stage involves hardware and software acquisition, software development, testing of programs and procedures, conversion of data resources and additionally involves the educating and training of end users and specialist who will operate the new system. All together this is the final stage where the project is finally used by the business (Obrien Marakas, 2006). †¢ Maintenance: Once a system is fully implemented and is being used in business operation, the maintenance function begins; this involves the life of the system which may include changes and enhancements before its decommissioning. (Obrien Marakas, 2006) states that the maintenance activity includes a post implementation review process to ensure that newly implemented systems meet the business objectives establish for them. (Hawrzyszkiewycx (2004) supports the argument that maintenance is required to eliminate errors in the system during its working life and to improve the system in the light of changes by monitoring, evaluating and modifying operational business systems to make desirable or necessary improvements. 3. Evaluation and Reason for Adopting SDLC for a small Pc Application The adoption of the SDLC for the development of a small application on a pc will not be appropriate because the SDLC is just what is says it is the Life Cycle of the system software. The SDLC is a process use to manage time and resources on a project, from the identification of a need for the system Initiation) to rolling it out to the user (Implementation) to de-supporting or no longer needing it (Disposition), Each phase of the SDLC requires documentation, reporting, and approval. This assures that a project cannot get out of hand either by changing the direction or becoming a financial black hole and the project sponsors are aware at every step of exactly what is going on as it is documented. Therefore it is reasonable to assume that the development of a small application on a pc does not require the adoption of the SDLC model whereas a large systems which have teams of architects, analysts, programmers, testers and users must work together to create the millions of lines of cust om-written code that drive enterprises today, will without a doubt need to adopt an SDLC solution to manage the resources of such a project. 4. Evaluation Of the Traditional SDLC Strengths Limitations The Waterfall Model The waterfall model is the most classical sequential life cycle; each phase must be completed in its entirety before the next phase can begin. (Post Anderson, 2006) states that one advantage of the SDLC is the formality aspect which makes it easier to train employees and to evaluate the progress of the development as well as ensuring that steps are not skip, such as user approval, documentation and testing. In addition with eighty percent of MIS resources spent of maintenance, adhering to standards whilst building the system makes it easier to modify and maintain in the future because of the documentation generated and the sustain consistency, however the formality of the SDLC approach can be problematic as it increases the cost of development and lengthens the development time (Post Anderson, 2006) The formality of the SDLC method also causes problems with projects that are hard to defined, unlike newer methods like Agile which helps software development teams to respond to the unpredictability of building software through incremental, iterative work cadences, known as sprints (Cohn, Mike 2006). Agile Methods aim at allowing organizations to deliver quickly, change quickly and change often. While, agile techniques vary in practice and emphasis, they share common characteristics, including iterative development and a focus on inter-action and communication. Maintaining regularity allows development teams to adapt rapidly to changing requirements, and working in close proximity, focusing on communication, means teams can make decisions and act on them immediately, rather than wait on correspondence. It is also important to reduce non-value adding intermediate artefacts to allow more resources to be devoted to product development for early completion. The SDLC however works best if the entire system can be accurately specified in the beginning. That is, users should know what the system should do long before the system is created. (Post Anderson, 2006) further explains that because of the rigidity of the SDLC, the development of more modern applications are difficult, hence the combination of existing SDLC models and the creation of other alternatives models and methodologies are adopted as outlined later in this paper. Advantages Easier to use. Easier to manage because of rigidity Phases are completed at specific phase intervals Requirements are very well understood. Disadvantages scope adjustment during the life cycle can kill a project Working software is not produced until the life cycle is complete. Not suited for long and ongoing projects. In appropriate where requirements are at a moderate to high risk of changing Alternative development mythologies One management advantage of the traditional SDLC method is the sequential series of tasks; on the other hand using the traditional SDLC has many drawbacks. For example, when adopting a traditional SDLC methodology, the rigid chain of phases may subsequently make it impossible for developers to improved ways to provide functional requirements as the project is being built, which results in the designers redoing their work. Instead programmers should be involved in the planning and design phases, so that they may be able to identify improvements much earlier in the process, thus enhancing the effectiveness of project activities, (FFIEC IT Handbook (2009). Development solutions such as iterative and Rapid prototyping address many of the shortcomings of a traditional SDLC. And a brief description of two the newer methodologies are outlined below along with some advantages and disadvantages for comparison purposes. Agile Development Model Agile software development is a conceptual framework for undertaking software engineering projects. Agile methods attempt to minimize risk and maximize productivity by developing software in short iterations and de-emphasizing work on secondary or interim work artefacts. The key differences between agile and traditional methodologies are as follows: Development is incremental rather than sequential. People and interactions are emphasized. Working software is the priority rather than detailed documentation. Customer collaboration is used, rather than contract negotiation. Responding to change is emphasized, rather than extensive planning. Rapid Prototyping model Rapid prototyping is a process for creating a realistic model of a products user interface (Najjar, L. J. (1990) ,Using rapid prototyping, you model the look and feel of the user interface without investing the time and labour required to write actual code (Najjar, L. J. (1990). Advantages Saves time and money Promotes consistency in user interface design Allows early customer involvement Reduces time required to create a product functional specification Disadvantages Usually does not produce reusable code Lacks an obvious stopping point 5. Conclusion It can be seen from the above comparison that differing philosophies can produce radically different views of a system. Nevertheless, both the Traditional SDLC and the alternatives produce valid working systems as well as their share in drawbacks The one size fits all approach to applying SDLC methodologies is no longer appropriate. Each SDLC methodology is only effective under specific conditions. (Traditional SDLC methodologies are often regarded as the proper and disciplined approach to the analysis and design of software applications but the drawback is that it takes a considerable amount of time and all of the system details have to be specified upfront. Methodologies like Rapid Prototyping alternatively are a compromise of rigidity and no rigidity. These new hybrid methods were created to bridge the gap with the evolution of more modern application developments requirements. Newer the less methodologies like Agile are most appropriate when volatility and uncertainty exist in the development requirements, and the SDLC is good when the requirements are already defined. 6. Bibliography Najjar, L. J. (1990). Rapid prototyping (TR 52.0020). Atlanta, GA: IBM Corporation. http://www.lawrence-najjar.com/papers/Rapid_prototyping.html FFIEC IT Handbook (2009). Alternative development methodologies http://www.ffiec.gov/ffiecinfobase/booklets/d_a/02.html Senn James A. (1989), Analysis Design of Information Systems, Introduction to Information Systems, pg27 32 Ch1 McGraw-Hill Co- Singapore Post. G Anderson. D (2006), Management Information Systems, Organizing Business Solutions, pg 448 459 Ch 4 McGraw-Hill Co- New York Igor Hawryszkiewycz. (1998), Introduction to System Analysis Design, The Development Process, pg120 136 Ch 7 Prentice Hall- Australia Obrien A. O Marakas .M. (1989), Management Information Systems, Introduction to Information Systems, pg27 32 Ch1 McGraw-Hill Co- Singapore

Accounting Concepts for Borrowing Costs

Accounting Concepts for Borrowing Costs Abstract To prescribe the accounting treatment for borrowing cost incurred irrespective of its nature either capital or revenue and to interpret the said accounting standard in a fairly manner with the help of accounting standard interpretation as issued by ICAI. Introduction With the advent of Industrialisation, Organisations need more resources so as to compete in the Industry which it pertains as well as to achieve its vision. Among those resources, Money is foremost and it is needed for various reasons which may include meeting its working capital requirement, construction of asset, etc. Most of the organisation opts for borrowings from banks, other financial institutions for the same. Borrowings may include some outflow of cash even before such borrowings are made, which we may call as borrowing cost such as interest, loan processing charges by banks, other charges other than the principal amount while repaying. Definitions Borrowing Cost Interest charges on bank borrowings including short term and long term borrowingsBorrowing cost can be illustrated with many interpretations. But AS 16 provides an inclusive definition comprising of, Amortisation of discounts, premiums Ancillary costs in connection with arrangement of borrowings Finance charges in respect of assets acquired on finance lease Exchange difference arising in foreign currency borrowings to the extent they are regarded as an adjustment to interest costs. Qualifying asset There are certain exceptions to qualifying asset. They are, Investments other than investment properties Inventories that are routinely manufactured over a short period of time How to interpret? In order to guide for a proper interpretation ICAI has issued ACCOUNTING STANDARD INTERPRETATION (ASI). With reference to ASI-1, Substantial period of time dependents on the facts and circumstances of each case. However, ordinarily, a period of 12 months is considered, unless a shorter or longer period can be justified on the basis of circumstances of the case. With reference to ASI-10, Adjustment to interest cost means the difference between the interest cost on foreign currency loan and interest that would have been paid on local currency loan had this loan been in local currency Recognition: Borrowing cost will be recognised only if such cost or expense is absolutely and directly attributable to acquisition, construction or production of qualifying asset and its is also important that the cost incurred only be capitalised when it is probable that they will result in future economic benefits to enterprise and can be measured reliably Borrowing cost that are not recognised and as a result it is not eligible for capitalisation can be charged to the profit and loss account in the period which it occurs. Interrelation of AS-16 with other accounting standards AS-11 Exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowing are considered as borrowing cost for which the increase in liability towards principal amount should be capitalised to the extent of increase in the interest would be paid if loan was taken in Indian currency and the balance has to be treated as exchange difference as per AS-11, The effects of changes in foreign exchange rates. Illustration: ABC ltd Company has taken a loan of USD 10,000 on April 1, 20X3, for a specific project at an interest rate of 5% p.a. On April 1, 20X3, the exchange between the currencies was Rs.45 per USD. The exchange rate as at March 31,20X4 was Rs.48 per USD. The corresponding amount could have been borrowed by ABC ltd in local currency at an interest rate of 11% p.a. Solution: (i) Interest = USD 10,000 X 5% X Rs.48 = Rs.24000 (ii) Increase in liability towards the principal amount = USD 10,000 X (48-45) = Rs.30,000. (iii) Interest that would have resulted if the loan was taken in Indian currency =USD 10,000 X 45 X 11% = 49,500 (iv) Difference between (iii) and (i) = 49500 – 24000 = 25,500. 30000 AS-16 AS-11 25,500 4,500 Therefore out of Rs.30,000 increase in liability towards principal amount, only Rs.25,500 will be considered as borrowing cost and the remaining Rs.4,500 will be considered as exchange difference and charged to Profit and Loss as per AS-11 Total Borrowing cost as per AS-16 = 24,000+25,500 = Rs.49,500 Additional Illustration How will you answer change in the above case it the local interest rate is 13% Solution: (i) Interest = USD 10,000 X 5% X Rs.48 = Rs.24,000 (ii) Increase in liability towards the principal amount = USD 10,000 X (48-45) = Rs.30,000. (iii) Interest that would have resulted if the loan was taken in Indian currency =USD 10,000 X 45 X 13% = Rs.58,500 (iv) Difference between (iii) and (i) = 58,500 – 24,000 = Rs.34,500. Therefore, whole 30,000 will be considered as borrowing cost. Total Borrowing cost as per AS-16 = 24,000+30,000 = Rs.54,000 What will be the situation under Income-tax act? Sec.43A Income-tax act explains how to deal with exchange rate differences arising from acquiring asset from a country outside India for the purposes of business or profession as a result increase or reduction in liability for making payment or for repayment of loan borrowed in foreign currency specially acquiring for asset. It clearly states that exchange difference has to be treated in Income tax only in relation to payment, and not on accrual basis as required under AS-16. Therefore, only the exchange differences arising from the assets acquired or loan borrowed from outside India is to be capitalised. It never speaks about the concept of adjustment of interest costs. So, even if one has followed AS-16 for treating exchange difference as an adjustment to interest cost, it has to be nullify that effect while arriving at the block of assets as per Income tax act and instead, adjustment of assets only to the extent of exchange differences has to be made. AS-12 Expenditure on a qualifying asset comprises of only those that has resulted in payments of cash, transfers of other assets or the assumption of interest bearing liabilities. Such expenditure has to be decreased for any progress payment received and grants received in connection with asset .This is also similar in the case of Accounting standard-12, Government grants, as it prescribes that asset has to be accounted after deducting the amount of monetary grant received from the gross value of the asset. AS-19 In the inclusive definition of borrowing cost, it says that finance charge arising on account of assets acquired on financial lease is to be capitalised to the extent of such finance charges. Such finance charges will be computed as per the Accounting standard-19, Leases. Measurement Measurement of borrowing costs includes such costs incurred in both specific and general borrowing. In case of specific borrowing, the money borrowed is used particularly for the purpose of acquiring a qualifying asset. Such cost has to be capitalised less any income on temporary investment made on such borrowings On the other hand, it is general borrowing for which the money is borrowed generally for the purpose of various qualifying assets, the amount of borrowing cost to be capitalised to be determined by applying an appropriate capitalisation rate on the expenditure of the capitalisation rate. Capitalisation rate is the weighted average of the borrowing cost applicable to the borrowings of the enterprise outstanding during the period other than the borrowings made specifically for the purpose of obtaining qualifying asset. Capitalisation Rate = Total Interest on borrowing Total Borrowings Therefore, the relationship is, Specific borrowings one loan with one asset or many assets General borrowings – Many loans with many assets Expenditure on qualifying asset Payment of cash XX Transfer of other assets XX Interest bearing liabilities XX Less: Receipt of progress payment (XX) Grant received in connection with asset (XX) ________ Expenditure XX Another important note is that the amount of borrowing costs capitalised during the period should not exceed the amount of borrowing cost incurred during the period. Commencement Capitalisation of borrowing coast will be commenced on the basis of three conditions. They include that the expenditure for acquisition, production of asset has been actually incurred and activities necessary to prepare the asset for which the asset has been originally assessed to be used and actual borrowing cost has been incurred for the same. Suspension Borrowing costs in relation to qualifying assets are normally continuous for capitalisation. But in certain case they are suspended as prescribed when there is interruption in the active development of the asset. But there is exception to such suspension is not necessary in these cases, When substantial technical and administrative work is being carried out. When temporary delay is a necessary part of process of getting an asset ready for its intended use or sale. (E.g. Interest on loan taken to finance working capital requirement for a vineyard) Cessation There is a point in which the capitalisation of borrowing cost should to be stopped. Such capitalisation should be ceased if construction of a certain portion of the asset is completed and such asset can be used independently for its intended use or sale. On the other hand, if the assets are completed in parts and cannot be used independently, then the capitalisation should continue till the asset is ready for its intended use. The other kind of situation is that the capitalisation should be stopped if the asset is physically completed and only the routine administrative work is going on. Even if decoration work is remaining then the asset is deemed to be completed and the capitalisation of borrowing cost should be stopped for such asset. Disclosure Borrowing costs are disclosed in financial statements in terms of the particular accounting policy adopted and the amount of borrowing costs capitalised during the financial year. What are the significant differences between AS-16, IAS, and US GAAP? There is a marked difference in the way US GAAP and IAS deal with capitalisation of borrowing costs. Under IAS-23, there are two treatments that are allowed, The benchmark treatment which requires borrowing cost to be expensed when incurred Alternative treatment which requires capitalisation of borrowing cost when certain rules and conditions are fulfilled. But AS-16 does not allow dual treatment, i.e. borrowing costs are compulsorily capitalised when certain conditions are fulfilled and compulsorily not capitalised when certain conditions are not fulfilled. The same situation exists in the case of US GAAP-FAS-34 interest cost is capitalisable for all assets that require a period of time for their intended use, unless they are not material. Conclusion In spite of various accounting policies and financial reporting framework, AS-16, Borrowing costs are important to prepare those financial statements and so that the accounting information presented to the management is accurate and discloses material facts.

The Fall of the House of Usher :: essays research papers

In "The Fall of the House of Usher", Poe uses the life-like characteristics of the decaying house of Usher as a device for giving the house a supernatural atmosphere. This not only makes the story act upon the reader in a grabbing way, but it also creates an impression of fear, mystery and horror, typical for Poe’s literary works. For example, from the very beginning of the story, the reader can tell that there is something unusual and bizarre about the old house. As the narrator approaches the home of his long-time friend, Roderick Usher, he refers to the house as the "melancholy House of Usher". This description in the beginning of the story prepares the reader for the mysterious events that will follow. Upon looking at the building, he even feels some sense of intolerable darkness which pervades his heart. The windows appear to be "vacant† and "eye-like† as if watching at the narrator and wandering through his mind. With an insecure feeling he goes to observe the "rank sedges," and the "black and lurid tarn," in which he sees the reflection of the house. He later says, "when I again uplifted my eyes to the house itself, from its image in the pool, there grew a strange fancy...". Although, the narrator tries to view everything he sees in a rationa l manner, upon seeing the house and its surroundings, he has an elevated sense of dread. He goes on to say that, "about the whole mansion and domain there hung an atmosphere peculiar to themselves and their immediate vicinity". This statement indicates that perhaps the house does indeed have some thrilling and spiritual nature. The narrator observes the details of the house once more and finds that the house has mold growing all over it and the masonry of the building is decaying. He says, that " there appeared to be a wild inconsistency between its still perfect adaptation of parts, and the utterly porous, and evidently decayed condition of the individual stones". This observation suggests that perhaps something eerie is holding the house whole, otherwise it would have fallen to the ground long ago. With this description, the house is also represented as a witness of many fates and a long period of history. It is as a mute observer of the time, knowing more, tha n anybody who lives in there. Later on, when the narrator enters the house, he sees its inside as well as the odd behavior and personality of its inhabitants and is increasingly convinced that the house has some strange impact on the people living in it.

IVF - In Vitro Fertilization :: essays research papers

10, 000 Australian couples are treated with IVF each year. The expensive and rather risky program (costing around $4000 excluding overheads) allows infertile couples to achieve pregnancy when conventional therapy has failed or is unacceptable. The procedure involves placing eggs that have been fertilised in a cultured dish directly into the uterus. A successful procedure will go as follows: - Couples are counselled about their situation and informed on the procedure, their obligations and rights. - Medical history, physical examination and other related tests are taken to determine candidacy. - The woman receives hormone injections (Human Menopausal Gonadotropin and recombinant Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) to stimulate development of the ovarian follicles which contain eggs. Frequent blood tests are taken to monitor hormone secretion from the ovary and pituitary gland. - When eggs are ripe, they are retrieved by transvaginal needle aspiration, guided by ultrasound. At the same time, semen samples from the husband (or donor) are obtained. The most active and healthy sperm are selected by forcing them to swim through a culture medium. - The egg and sperm are placed together in a suitable medium for fertilisation to occur in a culture dish. If fertilisation does not occur after 72 hours, the oocytes (incompletely developed eggs) and sperm are disposed of. The resulting embryos are observed for the next few days. - A small plastic tube is inserted through cervix to place embryos into the uterus. The patient is able to go home a few hours later with minimal discomfort. During the first two weeks after embryonic transfer, hormones (such as Progesterone or HCG) may be administered. The procedure above can bring either joy or disappointment. A successful patient from the Atlanta Reproductive Healthcare Center states: “For all of us, hearing that we are pregnant will be the most wonderful news. But remember, as easily as they told you that you are pregnant, it can be just as easy for them to tell you that you have lost your child.'; Of the 10,000 people treated each year in Australia, there is a 92% failure rate. More often than not, something goes wrong and couples are left with a hefty medical bill, no pregnancy and compounded emotional stress. Every stage of IVF contains and element of risk, from the administration of drugs to the actual birth of the child. Woman who undergo IVF are at risk of experiencing serious side effects. Many of these are caused by the

Uc Regents vs Bakke Case Brief Essay

Allan Bakke. a thirty-five-year-old white adult male. had twice applied for admittance to the University of California Medical School at Davis. He was rejected both times. The school reserved 16 topographic points in each come ining category of one 100 for â€Å"qualified† minorities. as portion of the university’s affirmatory action plan. in an attempt to right longstanding. unjust minority exclusions from the medical profession. Bakke’s makings ( college GPA and trial tonss ) exceeded those of any of the minority pupils admitted in the two old ages Bakke’s applications were rejected. Bakke contended. foremost in the California tribunals. so in the Supreme Court. that he was excluded from admittance entirely on the footing of race. Issue: Did the University of California violate the Fourteenth Amendment’s equal protection clause. and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. by practising an affirmatory action policy that resulted in the perennial rejection of Bakke’s application for admittance to its medical school? Opinion: The particular admittances plan is unconstitutional. but race may be considered as a factor in the admittances procedure. Justice Lewis Powell ( J. Powell ) . composing for the tribunal. says that the Supreme Court of the United States ( Supreme Court ) should non pay attending to past favoritism in reexamining the policies of the University. as this is tantamount to leting political tendencies to order constitutional rules. J. Powell determines that accepting a minimal figure of minorities merely to cut down the traditional shortage of such persons in the medical profession is unconstitutional. as it gives penchant to an person on the footing of race entirely. The major finding of the Supreme Court is whether or non racial penchant may be used to advance diverseness of the pupil organic structure. J. Powell argues that puting aside a specified figure of minority slots is non congruous to the purported end – minority pupils in themselves do non vouch a diverseness of point of views in the educational environment. Significance: Although race may be a factor in finding admittance to public educational establishments. it may non be a exclusive determining factor.

International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management Essay

Introduction Sales promotion is the offer of an incentive to induce a desired sales result (Gilbert, 1999). For our purposes promotional techniques, within UK supermarkets, have been taken to be â€Å"value increasing† promotions (i. e. coupons and price deals) and â€Å"value adding† (i. e. premiums, prizes/contests/sweepstakes, samples, point of purchase display, demonstration and loyalty cards). Sales promotion consists of a wide variety of short-term tactical promotional tools aimed at generating a desired response from customers. Although there is a shift in marketing communications, away from advertising towards sales promotions, there is no consensus among researchers that sales promotions lead to repeat purchase. It is agreed, however, that price promotions can result in a short-term increase in sales (Smith and Sinha, 2000; Banks and Moorthy, 1999; Kopalle and Mela, 1999; Diamond, 1992; Gupta and Cooper, 1992; Bawa and Shoemaker, 1987). It is also important to note that studies of price promotions also show that customers who take advantage of a price promotion often return to their favourite brands (Ehrenberg et al. 1994; Brandweek, 1994). There is a large body of literature, which has examined consumer response to sales promotions, especially coupons (Krishna and Zhang, 1999; Huff and Alden, 1998; Leone and Srinivasan, 1996; Bawa and Shoemaker, 1987, 1989; Gupta, 1988, 1993; Blattberg and Neslin, 1990). Coupons and discounts are the most widely used promotional tools. However, relatively little research has focussed on value adding promotions. In coupon promotions retailers maintain the original price of the product and it is only coupon holders who are entitled to a discount. As buyers are not subject to a reduction in sales price there is no need for them to adjust their internal reference prices downwards, as is the case with discount promotions. Therefore, coupon promotions should be more attractive than discount promotions in improving the transaction value of the product. However, consumers must keep track of the coupons and produce them at the place of purchase. If consumers are used to utilising coupons then they are likely to have a more positive attitude towards them (Huff and Alden, 1998). Also, if a The authors D. C. Gilbert is Professor of Marketing and N. Jackaria is a Researcher, both at Surrey European Management School, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK. Keywords Sales promotion, Retail trade, Food industry, Marketing Abstract UK supermarkets need to be able to assess the current efficacy of the budget they allocate to promotional activities aimed at boosting sales. Therefore, the main objective of this article is to investigate consumer response to the four different promotional deals most commonly used in UK supermarkets: coupons, price discounts, samples and â€Å"buy-one-get-one-free†. Multi discriminant analysis was used on a study of 160 respondents to analyse whether there was an association between the four consumer promotional approaches and respondents’ reported buying behaviour. The findings indicate that only price discount promotions proved to be statistically significant on consumer’s reported buying behaviour. Purchase acceleration and product trial are found to be the two most influential variables related to a discount. For â€Å"buy-one-get-one-free†, while the result is not significant, the two variables, brand switching and purchase acceleration are statistically significant.