Monday, September 30, 2019

Engl 135 Advanced Composition

Running Head: RAPE VICTIMS IN KOSOVO DURING WAR Rape Victims in Kosovo during War Manjola Cuka ENGL 135 Advanced Composition Catherine Davis April 20, 2009 DeVry University, We all are aware of the suffering that war brings in people’s lives. War means losing everything you hold dear. War means losing your childhood home, war means losing your husband, wife, child, brother, and sister. During the war in Kosovo there were a number of brutal actions performed towards the Kosovo population physically and emotionally.The Serbs knew exactly what these people valued the most in their lives. That is honor. Among other inhuman and degrading acts executed towards the Kosovo people during the war, the Serbs used rape as a tool to destroy not only the women as individuals but also their families to the core. According to McKinsey (1993), there were an estimated twenty thousand females raped during the war in Kosovo. That is a large number considering that population of Kosovo is a little over two million people. The Kosovo population had been trying to gain their independence for almost a decade.They were only asking for their rights: the freedom of speech, the right to send the children to schools where they can learn their own language, the freedom of media, and the freedom of living in their own country without fear. This is their country and they were only asking for what was theirs. According to the U. S State Department report (1999), the Serbs started an â€Å"ethnic cleansing† campaign that was meant to remove all the non Serb population out of the country. The most gruesome acts towards these people started to get worse after NATO troops bombed the Serb military points on March 24, 1999.Serbs decided to punish the people by forcing them out of their homes, burning their houses, torturing them, raping them, and killing them. Rape was the main weapon used against the Kosovo women to terrorize and weaken the entire population. Shenon (1999), reports on these gruesome activities that were taking place in Kosovo: â€Å"The department's report said that refugee accounts suggested that Serbian forces had executed more than 4,000 Kosovars, and that surveillance photographs taken either by satellites or airplanes had identified seven possible sites of mass graves.The report said that rapes of Albanian women were being reported in increasing numbers, with systematic mass rapes apparently carried out in the cities of Djakovica and Pec. † To understand the consequences that rape has in the lives of the Kosovo people, we have to understand how they are raised and the beliefs that are engraved in them throughout the years. The people of Kosovo value family and country more than their own lives. The young girls are raised to believe that their role in the world is to get married, have children, and take care of the chores around the house.There is a distinguished difference the way these people lived their lives. Men were the bread wi nners and women were there to raise the children and take care of the house. If there was male company in the house, the females would only serve them and go to their rooms until the company left. One of Dr. Alakija (2000) reports explains how a team of males was greeted only by Kosovo males, and when a team of females went to investigate they were greeted by females. It is not appropriate for strange males to discuss with the Kosovo females even to get their testimony.Another important part of these people’s lives is marriage. Dating outside marriage is prohibited in their culture and the girl should not lose their virginity until she gets married. The girls that had pre marital relationships are called unfit for any man to marry. So after knowing these facts we can only imagine, what rape means to these people. The women lose their purity after being touched by another man even though it is not their fault. No man would come close to them for the rest of their lives. They w ould live the rest of their days hating themselves and wishing they were dead.The Kosovo women were raped and tortured systematically in front of their loved ones ruining them physically and emotionally for the rest of their lives. There are statements of pregnant women who were raped and beaten by either gunpoint or by being tortured. The physical pain these women endured can never be compared with the emotional and mental damage they went through. There is not a bigger humiliation than being raped in front of your father, your mother, your brother, your uncle, and your children. How can someone be the same after going through something like that?These women were raped in front of their children, no matter what age. It is heartbreaking and infuriating at the same time how these individuals would put children and mothers in these inhuman situations. One of the many rape victims explained how helpless she was when being held down by multiple individuals while another was raping her. This is how she describes her torment: â€Å"I could not resist, I could not fight against them,† the witness, a woman identified as N. S. , testified. †I could not resist because the others were holding me while my children were watching† (Sullivan, 2000).Another horrific fact during the war was that the Serbs raped these women with the intention to make them pregnant. There are two reasons the Serbs impregnated the Kosovo women: one was to dishonor them and their families for life and second one to increase the Serb population with their children. According to BBC News (2000), only the month of January of 2000, there were one hundred rape babies born. That is a large number for this small community. How were these women able to live every day knowing that inside them was the child of the enemy.The enemy that killed their man, the enemy that kicked them out of their own homes, the enemy that raped them in front of their loved ones. As Both (2001), noted â€Å"Th e term ‘genocidal rape’ is both emotionally and politically loaded, but is does seem to accurately reflect the realities felt by some if not all raped women in the conflict. As we saw above, some raped Muslim women reported that their attackers claimed that they were intending to impregnate them to create Serbian babies, and that some women were held captive for a period of weeks to ensure that they did not abort the child they had conceived in rape† (p. 4). Honor is the most valuable virtue in the Kosovo society. Serbs knew they would humiliate and degrade not only the Kosovo women but their families and their loved ones. After being raped these women would never speak of the ordeal they went through and would hide it from everyone if they could. These women would rather be dead then share their torment with someone else especially if it was someone they did not know. They would rather keep the pain to themselves if that was an option. It was not enough they suff ered rom the torture that was used against them, but they had to live in fear of losing everything they held dear even though this was not their fault. The raped Kosovo women would not share these ordeals with their own families for the fear of bringing shame to their entire family. The husband would leave the wife if they found out she was raped. Here is one example of a husband that suspects his young wife was raped: â€Å"Mr. Thaqi says his wife, who did not want her name published, denies the rape because †she doesn't dare tell that kind of story. ‘ If she admitted it to him, he said, †I would ask for a divorce — even if I had 20 children. † As his wife listened, silent and shamefaced, in a corner of their empty home, looted of all furniture and possessions by the Serbs, Mr. Thaqi added: †I don't hate her, but the story is before my eyes. I feel very cold toward her. † Kissing her, he said, †is like kissing a dead body† (Bu miller, 1999). It is not hard enough that they were raped and humiliated but they have to live with the shame for the rest of their lives. Most of these women lock themselves in their parents’ homes until they die either by choice or they are forced.It is heartbreaking how the community and their families expect them to commit suicide for something that was not their fault. Serbs knew that by raping the women they would destroy their families. What other method could be better then destroy a country to its core? These women live the rest of their lives excluded from the outside world wishing they were dead. The husbands live the rest of their lives wishing their wives were dead. Their parents live their lives wishing their daughter was dead. In the Kosovo culture rape carries a very strong social taboo and shame keeps victims silent.The women and men of Kosovo are not as afraid of death as they are of rape. â€Å"Rape is a deeply sensitive subject in ethnic Albanian Kosovo, a Muslim and largely traditional society, where a sexual assault can permanently stigmatize a woman, shaming her family and ruining her marriage or prospects of marriage. Gathering first-hand accounts of rape has proved very difficult for war crimes investigators, and the scale of sexual assaults here may never be fully known† (Finn, 1999). They cannot tolerate the thought of their women being touched by another man.This degrading act not only humiliates the women but it demoralizes the men that are fighting in the mountains. That was one of the biggest war strategies the Serbs used to defeat the Kosovo people. And this was one more reason the women keep the rape secret. They want their husbands, their fathers, and their brothers to fight for their country instead of carrying the family shame in their shoulders. The world came together to help the rape victims with everything they needed. The biggest issue the humanitarian organizations  were facing  was the non cooperatio n from the victims and their families.Under no circumstances they would admit they were raped unless there were witnesses to testify to that. Even then it would be very difficult to treat these patients. Knowing the consequences of admitting they were raped, what mother would risk losing her children to get medical treatment? How can they put their own well being before their children? They considered themselves dead anyway. They would rather live in pain for the rest of their lives with their children around them, then medically treated and have lost their families.They would shut down and most of the time they would deny they were raped. There are a large number of cases that are not officially reported as we have seen in different reports: â€Å"Rape: There are numerous accounts indicating that the organized and individual rape of Kosovar Albanian women by Serbian forces was widespread. For example, Serbian forces systematically raped women in Djakovica and Pec, and in some case s rounded up women and took them to hotels where they were raped by troops under encouragement of their commanders.Rape is most likely an underreported atrocity because of the stigma attached to the victims in traditional Kosovar Albanian society† (U. S State Department Report, 1999) It is unthinkable in some cultures to comprehend how these families treat the rape victims, particularly these women that were forced into these acts and had no other choice. Instead of embracing them and try to help them get through these tough times, they throw them in the streets and also blame them for the shame they bring to the family. There is no mercy for the raped victims.What can be worse than having your own parents, the ones that gave you life, the ones that raised and nurtured you, wish you were dead? These rape victims find their way out by shutting down or by going in the mountains and join the man in the fight for their freedom. They have no life next to their own family. They choo se to leave and fight to get away from the staring eyes of their neighbors and everyone else that gets in contact with them. The biggest reason is to take their humiliation with them and spare their family the shame and embarrassment.Here are the words of a father of a rape victim: â€Å"I have given her to the KLA so she can do to the Serbs what they have done to us,† Haxhi Lokaj said of his daughter, who has been sent to fight with the rebels of the Kosovo Liberation Army. â€Å"She will probably be killed, but that would be for the best,† the 40-year-old father said with more resignation than sorrow. â€Å"She would have no future anyway after what they did to her† he continued (Williams, 1999). There are different approaches the enemy uses to destroy a population to the core in the time of war.Serbs used the most degrading act to ruin the Kosovo families for life. That was rape. Death does not come close to the pain and the outcome that rape brings in these peoples’ lives. If the women and men died protecting their country, fighting for their rights, or protecting themselves from being abused, they would be praised. In contrary if the women were raped but survived, for no fault of their own, they were the humiliation of their family and the whole community. Compassion for the rape victims does not exist.It will take a long time and a few generations for these people to start living a full life. It will not be easy for these memories to be erased from their minds. References Alakija, P (2000). The ravages of war. Retrieved April 21, 2009 from http://www. cmaj. ca/cgi/content/full/163/9/1148 BBC News. (2000). Women scarred by Kosovo atrocities. Retrieved April 17, 2009 from http://news. bbc. co. uk/2/hi/europe/716701. stmBooth, K (2001). The Kosovo tragedy: the human rights dimensions. (1st Ed. ) Oxford: Routledge, member of the Taylor & Francis Group.Retrieved April 15, 2009 from http://books. google. com/books? id=777jPodhCY YC&dq=The+Kosovo+tragedy:+the+human+rights+dimensions. &printsec=frontcover&source=bn&hl=en&ei=8HLuSaSYMYuqtgeEgMHMDw&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4Bumiller, E. (1999). Crisis in the Balkans: Crimes; Deny Rape or Be Hated: Kosovo Victims' Choice. Retrieved April 15, 2009 from http://www. nytimes. com/1999/06/22/world/crisis-in-the-balkans-crimes-deny-rape-or-be-hated-kosovo-victims-choice. html? n=Top/Reference/Times%20Topics/Subjec

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Business Environment Essay

The successful accomplishment of this case study is the outcome of the contribution of number of people, especially those who have given the time and effort to share their thoughts and suggestions to improve the report. At the beginning, I would like to pay my humble gratitude to the Almighty God for giving me the ability to work hard under pressure. This report on â€Å"Case study on Business Environment† is prepared through continuous research for a period of about one month. This long span of work would not have been possible without the help of various generous hands. My sincere gratitude to my course instructor, for his supervision on this report. He has given a lot of assistance in coordinating the whole report. Without his perseverance and guidance this report would have been a pile of worthless paper. Page 2 of 17 Table of Content Topic Executive Summary Understanding the organisational purposes of businesses 1.1 Identify the purposes of different types of organization considering their legal structure and types (private company, public company, and voluntary organisation, co-operative, charitable) 1.2 Describe the extent to which an organisation meets the objectives of different stakeholders 1.3 Explain the responsibilities of an organisation and strategies employed to meet stakeholder interests; conflict of expectations; satisfying stakeholder objectives Understanding the nature of the national environment in which businesses operate 2.1 Explain how economic systems attempt to allocate resources effectively 2.2 Assess the impact of fiscal and monetary policy on business organisations and their activities 2.3 Evaluate the impact of competition policy and other regulatory mechanisms on the activities of a selected organization. Understanding the behaviour of organisations in their market environment 3.1 Explain how market structures determine the pricing and output decisions of businesses. 3.2 Illustrate the way in which market forces shape organisational responses using a range of examples. 3.3 Judge how the business and cultural environments shape the behaviour of a selected organization. Assessing the significance of the global factors that shape national business activities 4.1 Discuss the significance of international trade to UK business organizations 4.2 Analyse the impact of global factors on UK business organizations 4.3 Evaluate the impact of policies of the European Union on UK business organizations Recommendations References    Executive Summary First of all I have introduced the company named ‘Sainsbury’s and after that I will describe organisational purposes, nature of the national environment, the behaviour of organisations in their market environment and implication of the global factors that shape national business activities. Sainsbury’s is one of the UK’s leader retailers, currently its position is just after Tesco, who is occupying the market leading position. Anyway Sainsbury’s t offer high quality with great value products and services ranging from food, cloths, daily household needs etc. they employed over than 152,000 (2012) people in the UK, and have more than 1,016stores in UK .Their markets is growing rapidly, recently they have planned to expand more in overseas markets. In brief, I am going to identify the purpose of different types of organisation, their responsibilities, strategies based on the present market situation, trade policies, and behaviours as well as economic, government and the world trade organization impacts on the organization. Then the explanation of market structures, market forces that shape the organisation’s response and impact of business and cultural environment on the organisation. Finally I will discuss the impact of the global factors and how policies of the European Union affect UK business organisations. Page 4 of 17 Understand the organisational purposes of businesses 1.1 Identify the purposes of different types of organization considering their legal structure and types. A business can be organized as follows: Proprietorship: has a singly owner, known as proprietor, who manages the business; proprietorships tend to be small business or professional services, such as accountants, lawyer Partnership: joins two or more persons as co-owners, each owner is a partner and the partnership deal can be done, it is called a mutual, mutual Agency: Organization: this organization, owned by shareholders, these people who own shares in the organization, is a certificate representing ownership in a organization, the business is a organization, when the State approved the articles of incorporation, and the first stock share published article to the lines that have been approved by the administration of the State Corporation, unlike sole proprietorship and partnerships. Public joint stock organization, limited liability organization offers limited liability to its owners and management. If want to be, that the organization can make the organization sells shares to investors, it is useful in attracting capital. Only limited liability organization can be listed on the Stock Exchange, and the character of their stocks has a suffix. So, British Petroleum PLC and BP ticker. A private organization may issue shares and shareholders. But their shares are not on public exchanges and were not granted for the initial public offering. Voluntary organizations: It’s an organization with random or regular volunteer for exploitation and may or may not have paid employees. Voluntary organization is characterized by independence of the State; organize themselves through the unpaid Board membership; Membership that is not received or ordered; support for the charity; are not for profit Cooperative Organization: Page 5 of 17 The organization owned, managed and operated by a group of users in their favor. Each Member must contribute capital and share in the control of the organization on the basis of the principle of one Member one vote. Charity: Embedded or included tax exempt; developed and used for charitable purposes ;uses its own funds for these charitable activities under its direct control; does not to distribute any part of the turnover is generated for each curator, trustier, Member, or any other individuals and does not associated with political organizations. 1.2 Describe the extent to which an organisation meets the objectives of different stakeholders The upper diagram shows Different stakeholders are engaged in an organization that have different objectives and needs which are served by the organization. Here as follows, a) Investors. Investors are concern regarding the risk of investments, interest and overall return. They need information to determine if he/she should buy, keep or sell. The shareholders are interested about the stability and profitability of organization. Organizations provide information that makes them assess the dividends. b) Staff. Organization meets the employers’ expectations through salary, bonuses and ensures safe environment for the employers. c) Lenders. They are interested in the information for their Loans and trade credits. An organization paid them back as sale proceeds come from customers end. Page 6 of 17 d) Suppliers and other vendors, who are likewise interested in information to determine whether their supplies and trade credits safe or not. An organization paid off to them for their supplies. e) Clients keep their eye on organization’s commitment, or market position. Organization ensures their interest through growth of business. f) Governments institutions, Organization help the government in the allocating the resources under country’s business regulation practices also by paying tax which are part of fundamental national income of the country. g) Public, An organization help people to find employment thus help to develop local economy as well as the country. They also help to encourage local suppliers and information about the trend and overall productivity of the country. 1.3 Explain the responsibilities of an organisation and strategies employed to meet stakeholder interests; conflict of expectations; satisfying stakeholder objectives Responsibilities of an Organisation An Organization and various forms of responsibilities to the stakeholders and at the same time they take best effective strategies to meet stakeholder’s interest, conflict of expectation and towards satisfying their objectives. Different stakeholders have different priorities in case of organizational responsibilities which are as follows: Employees: Organization needs to ensure good working environment and proper payment. Shareholders: Organization responsibilities towards their shareholder are to make sure about their profit and dividend. Government and their Institution: Proper allocation of resources, employment solution, follow business regulation of the country, pay corporate tax on time etc are organization’s responsibility towards government and supporting institutions. Customer: Ensuring best quality of goods and services at lowest possible price is an important responsibility of organization. Besides above responsibilities, every organization has been introduced with some new concept of responsibilities which is known as Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR). Can be subdivided into four criteria (John M. Bryson, 2009) Understand the nature of the national environment in which businesses operate 2.1 Explain how economic systems attempt to allocate resources effectively The economic system is composed of various processes in the Organization and motivation of work production, distribution and circulating, including products and services. Consumer goods, machinery, tools and other technologies. There are three types of economic systems: Market Economy: this market to a minimum level of government intervention is kept or forgotten and economic resources among the private sector as well as the mechanism of price will determine how many products or services will be delivered in accordance with the requirements of the market. Centrally planned Economy System: The Government makes all the plans for economic resources and economic activities which can be seen on in Asia, Centre of Europe, Cuba, Iran and Iraq have these economic systems. In this process unemployment will not be a problem as the Government plan for all economic activities and resources. Mixed economy system: this is so far the best economic system for modern world. A mix of other systems, that is public and private both price mechanism work jointly in this process. And also distributes the resources available in the region. The country, like the United States of America, Canada, and France has this mix economic system, in this process, if one system does not work properly then other works in its process and make balance in the whole economic system. 2.2 Assess the impact of fiscal and monetary policy on business organisations and their activities Government use fiscal policy fiscal revenue and expenditure of the Government. When the Government loans from abroad, it creates lower demand of goods and services. As domestic production decreases this lending policy from abroad can affect the related organization. On the other hand organization can achieve better profits for the added capital when government cut of taxes In case of monetary policy process, thorough which government controls the supply of money within the country, most of the benefits come out when government can stabilize prices and keep Page 9 of 17   As government keeps the interest rate low, people can lend more money. Thus the extra money they can put into production or in the business cycle which in return increases the profit of the organization. On the other hand higher interest rate does the vice versa. In this way controlling monetary policy government can affect the organization of the whole country. 2.3 Influence of the policy of closure and other regulatory mechanisms on the activities of the Organization: The competition targets a market run on the boardwalk and promote better compete it the quality and price. Thus competition contributes to a broader selection of clients in the market and offers the actual and effective price competition between suppliers. With the negotiation of World Trade Organisation (WTO), world leading trading nations signed and ratified in their parliaments. Main goal is to help producers of goods and services, as well as exporters and importers conduct their smooth business. Almost all people want to have their better interests in international trade. As a result international trade and marketing can be broken sooner or later.WTO helps to prevent or mitigate the problems related to the pricing. Profit etc through their details investigation.WTO also covers intellectual property, goods and services, principles of liberalization and including exceptions. The strengthened dispute settlement mechanism of the WTO helps to strengthen to reduce the potential for unilateral and bilateral action outside the multilateral system, proponents of the WTO has long argued that the reduction of trade barriers will increase world trade, but there is hardly a rigorous Empirical research on the impact of WTO or trade or trade policy, although a recent study shows that very little, if any, effects, in another study of the IMF does not agree with this conclusion. Page 10 of 17 Understanding of environmental NGOs in the behaviour of the market 3.1 explain how market structures, determination of the price and output decisions of enterprises. UKs explain the current situation and determine what correct structure would be helpful There are five types of market structure in the UK, and they are following. Perfect competition and perfect competition market Perfect competition market is one where a very large number of buyers and sellers, all distended in the purchase and sale of product, without any unnatural and has a perfect knowledge of the market at the time. With the Koulsayaiannis words are â€Å"the structure of perfect competition market, total absence of rivalry between Individual price takers and where there is freedom of entry into and exit from the industry.† The monopoly market Monopoly is Salvatore as a monopoly is a form of organization of the common market, where there is one organization to sell the item for which there is no change. † There are a number of characteristics of monopoly which †¢ There is only one seller †¢ All control on delivery of product is in the hands of a monopoly †¢ Under the monopoly, the organization itself is an industry; it can be a solo entrepreneur, partnership, JSCs, and etc. †¢ There is no close substitute product monopoly. In the case of cross-border demand elasticity is, in any case, it is possible. †¢ There are restrictions on the entry of other companies in a product monopoly. Page 11 of 17 Duopoly Duopoly is a special case, the theory of oligopoly, where there are only two sellers and they are fully independent and conflict between them. Variations in price and will affect the performance of the other and the other bears the loss must meet the cost of the competitor. Oligopoly Oligopoly is a market where there are several companies that sell or standardized various goods. It is difficult to say, the number of companies in the competition between the pair. A few problems on the market shares of the organization, as a rule, on the other. Oligopoly industry produces a standardized product or different products. This concept is called clean and spotless oligopoly and the last incomplete or oligopoly discrimination, called. Monopolistic competition Monopolistic competition refers to market conditions, when there are many companies that sell a variety of products. â€Å"There is a competition, with enthusiasm, but not perfect, many companies produce very similar products. No organization may not have to reveal the impact on policy, the export of other sellers or price can be very affected by their actions. Define monopolistic competition competition among a large number of Sell of close, but not perfect substitutes for each other. 3.2 Illustrate the way in which market forces shape organisational responses using a range of examples. There are different forces which shape organizational responses to the market. Among them main five markets forces which can shape the responses are given below: Threat of a new entry: Any organization with innovative ideas, technologies and process can affect the existing organization. Threat of a new entry of Sainsbury’s is medium as the business process and environment relatively high barriers for any new entry. Threat of substitute products: Represents a product obtained from industry replacements, perhaps in another area, in this case is the high compensation of marketing competitiveness as Morrison and Asabi are facing big challenge from Tesco in that case. Page 12 of 17 Bargaining power of customers: There are a lot of supermarkets and brands, the customer has the right to choose a product or service that they want and need. In this case competitive price and better quality only can assure business success. Sainsbury’s are in better position with their price and quality though they have to face price war with Tesco and also they face strong challenge from John Lewis and M&S regarding the quality. Bargaining power for suppliers: As there are large numbers of suppliers. Collective bargaining in this situation is weak for the suppliers Rivalry: There is high competition due to large number of suppliers with different price and quality. Sainsbury has to compete both with the price and quality with the other competitor. Through their competency, Sainsbury’s have maintained their reputation and strong position in the market. 3.3 Judge how the business and cultural environments shape the behaviour of a selected organization. As a major retailer Sainsbury’s is well known throughout UK. They are now is one of the best British dealers among the competitors. They also spread their operation USA.they is also planning to spread their market in Asia. Though Sainsbury’s facing tough competition with other retailers, such as Tesco and Asda, but as customers are getting smarter and aware about the quality with price, they are still in a strong position in the market. As we know UK multicultural country with variety of nations, further market researched need to be done with the multicultural food habit, religion and cultures in order to hold the best position in the market. Page 13 of 17 Assessment of the meaning of global factors shaping national activities 4.1 Discuss the importance of international trade for UK business organizations International trade covers trade between United Kingdom and the rest of the world. Any country will have e limited resources of goods, services without international trade. Trade relation between countries and cheap labour and sourcing from developing countries plays an important role in shaping national activities. Moreover of invention and uses of new technologies, access into the cheap sources and labour market also playing a crucial role in shaping the national activities. 4.2 analyze impact of global factors on UK business organizations Globalization has a different impact on UK business: Technology: Organization in have gone through the Internet to promote their products and offer discounts with free delivery on their products to attract clients and makes it easy for them to their products. Sainsbury’s is not behind the progress. Social: Customer tastes change from time to time and from period to period or standard or quality of life. Globalization has put its impact to customers providing variety of taste, attitude and trend and fashions in an advanced way. Political: Political systems that are presently elevated and forced around the world in part to growth of consumption also leading to vast impoverishment and development. We can see the reflection in the UK market as well. Private sectors especially small business and young entrepreneurs are encouraged for business. Trade barriers UK businesses are facing less trade barriers than they used to face before. Page 14 of 17 Environment: Now a day’s people are getting concern day by day regarding green environment. Plastic bags are banned in so many places. People are encouraged to use reusable bags and other eco friendly products, protecting forests. In addition electronics communication are also used instead of printing papers 4.3 assessment of the impact of the European Union’s policy on UK business organizations The European Union has gained more power than before over the policy guidance for the UK business organizations.EU has taken policy to strengthen the industry and move in the direction of eco friendly environment and create jobs. It also helps to promote small companies to grow their business through associating policies, such as competition policy, which helps the fair treatment for all, and reduce costs, improve quality and choice of the customer. EU consumer policy should ensure that the client is protected in their health and safety, as well as help them improve their life. Establishment of Impact Assessment Unit and reduction of regulation cost by EU is also welcome step for UK. Page 15 of 17 Recommendations Sainsbury’s is one of the leading retailer in UK, They meet the stakeholders interest through their superior management quality and also ensuring customers by providing high quality of products. Moreover their dynamic strategies help them to grow rapidly within the limited resources and present government moderate policies. On the contrary, Sainbury’s need be more active to increase number of store in the overseas market and also market research activity especially for the multicultural community. Sainsbury’s have lots of strong competitors like Asda,M&S, Jhon Lewis etc who are also have a good positioning in the market. Actually, the competition lies in the quality and price of the product and services, purchasing behaviour of the customer and of course customer services. In that case they need to find alternative cheap sources from developing countries. Finally, not only the organization, the positive role of the Government, WTO and EU would plays an important role to ensure the overall growth of organizations in UK. Page 16 of 17 References: 1. www.sainsburys.co.uk 2. www.gov.uk/†¦/10-1257-guidelines-for-managing-projects 3. www.investopedia.com/ 4. www.investorguide.com/article/11595/introduction-to-the-economy-fiscal-and-monetary-policy-igu 5. www.wto.org 6. ec.europa.eu/trade/policy 7. www.economicsonline.co.uk/Competitive_markets/Economic_systems.html 8. John M. Bryson, John M. Bryson;Hubert H. Humphrey (2009),’What to do when stakeholders matters? Stakeholder Identification and Analysis Techniques, Institute of Public Affairs’; 9. Thomas, J. C. (1993) ‘Public Involvement and Governmental Effectiveness: A Decision-Making Model for Public Managers. Administration and Society, 24:4 pp444-69. Page 17 of 17

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Abusive Relationships Essay

Abusive Relationships can cause physical and emotional violence, fear, and even guilt. Many abusive relationships often go unheard because of the threat from the abuser. Abusive relationships impact millions of relationships each day and teenage girls are at the highest risk. The impact on these relationships can cause life changing consequences. Abusive relationships can cause many physical altercations that can be life threatening. In the journal, â€Å"Reporting Domestic Violence,† a journalist states the warning signs of physically abusive relationships: â€Å"According to the national Domestic Violence Hotline, you may be in a physically abusive relationship if your partner has ever: damaged property when angry (e.g. thrown objects, punched walls, kicked doors, etc.), pushed, slapped, bitten, kicked or choked you, abandoned you in a dangerous or unfamiliar place, scared you by driving recklessly, used a weapon to threaten or hurt you, forced you to leave your home, trapped you in your home or kept you from leaving, prevented you from calling police or seeking medical attention, hurt your children, or used physical force in sexual situations.† (â€Å"Reporting Domestic Violence†) This quote illustrates the warnings of a potential abusive relationship. This quote is connected to the hypothesis because some of the signs can be physically life threatening. In the movie â€Å"Enough,† â€Å"there is a part when Jennifer Lopez (Slim) and her daughter try to escape from the abusive marriage and he finds the husbands catches up to them and hits, slaps, kicks, and punches Slim almost to death.† (Apted) This quote illustrates the hardship and struggle of abusive relationships. This quote is connected to the hypothesis the wife in the movie almost got killed by her abusive husband. Abusive Relationships did not only cause by physical abuse but also mental abuse. Emotional pain was another heavy toll caused by abusive relationships. In the article, â€Å"The Dark Side of Dating,† the author states how the abuser feels about being in an abusive relationship: â€Å"When there are good times, you might think that once the bad stuff is â€Å"fixed† the relationship will go back to how it was before it went bad,† says Corcoran. But being with someone who swings between being cruel and being kind can  have consequences, including making you feel depressed or really bad about yourself. â€Å"Max had put me down so much that I had no self esteem,† says Brittny.† (Larsen) This quote illustrates how an abuser can make you feel bad about yourself. This quote is connected to the hypothesis because the victim in the article faced self esteem issues because of the emotional pain in a relationship. In the journal, â€Å"Reporting Domestic Violence,† a journalist states the emotional warning signs of an abusive rela tionship: â€Å"Calls you names, insults you or continually criticizes you; does not trust you and acts jealous or possessive; tries to isolate you from friends and family; monitors where you go, who you call and who you spend time with, does not want you to work, controls finances or refuses to share money; punishes you by withholding affection; experts you to ask permission, threatens to hurt you, the children, your family, or your pets; humiliates you in any way.† (â€Å"Reporting Domestic Violence†) This quote illustrates the emotional/mental signs of a bad relationship. This quote is connected to the hypothesis because it shows an emotional burden on a relationship. Sometimes relationships can even cause a heavy fear from the victim. Abusive relationships for the victim can cause them to be terrified of the abuser. In the article, â€Å"A woman tells of escape from abusive spouse,† the author states the fright of one victim’s abusive relationship: â€Å"I turned into a quivering, shivering little mouse that was afraid of being in his presence,† said Elaine, whose last name is withholding for her protection. â€Å"I second guessed every move, second guessed every action.† For Elaine, the abuse was more emotional than physical, nut she felt unable to leave her husband, even when an escape route was offered.† (Rodriguez) This quote illustrates the fear of how a woman was afraid of her husband and how she could not leave him even though she was terrified of him. This quote is connected to the hypothesis because the mother was afraid of what might happen if she stayed. In the article, â€Å"A woman tells of escape from abusive spouse,† the author states the fear of a wife who w as afraid to even go out in the waiting room after a doctor visit: â€Å"I was shaking,† Elaine said. â€Å"They (attendants) noticed something was wrong. I said, â€Å"Please, don’t make me go back out in that waiting room. Can you just keep me here and let me see the doctor now? And they did.† Medical personnel gave her a card with  contact information for Mainstay, the Hendersonville nonprofit that supports victims of domestic abuse. They told her Mainstay would find her a place to stay that night.† (Rodriguez) This quote illustrates the extreme fear of a wife seeing her husband. This quote is connected to the hypothesis because it states the mother fear of the abuser. Abusive Relationships not only caused fear but even guilt from the victim. Abusive Relationships can cause victims of the abusers to feel guilt. In the journal, â€Å"I didn’t want to put them through that: the influence of children on victim decision-making in intimate partner violence cases,† the author states how a victim feels about putting her kids through this situation, â€Å"The guilt I feel everyday and try to figure out, â€Å"What was wrong with me, why did I put my children through that, why did I make them hear things they heard?† I can relate to having that degrading feeling, â€Å"How could you allow yourself to get in that situation and how could you, how could you†¦ put your kids through this?† (Rhodes 5) This quote illustrates how a mother felt guilty about putting her kids through the abusive relationship. This quote is connected to the hypothesis because the victim of the relationship felt guilty. In the article, â€Å"A woman tells of escape from abusive spouse,† the author states how guilt is fe lt by the victim: â€Å"I put my son on the line for that man, and I’ll never forget it,† Elaine said. â€Å"I will feel guilty until the day I die for that. But I can’t change it and the guilt is so extreme—-there is no other guilt greater than that. I have to deliberately put it outside my head because it will kill me. I couldn’t handle that.† (Rodriguez) This quote illustrates the remorse of one mother’s decision in staying in the abusive relationship with her child even when she had an outlet to get help. This quote is connected to the hypothesis because it shows how the abuser feels shameful for staying in an abusive relationship with a child. The guilt from abusive relationships was one of many aspects of bad relationships. Abusive relationships is a horrible thing going on today in our world. Abusive relationships have caused emotional problems such as depression and physical problems including death. Over 1.5 million teens were abused last year. The main aspects of abusive relationships are physical and emotional  violence, fear, and guilt. Works Cited Page Enough.Apted,Michael.Dir. Perf. Jennifer Lopez,Billy Campbell.Columbia Pictures, 2002. DVD. Larsen, Foy, Elizabeth. â€Å"The Dark Side of Dating.† Scholastic Choices. 01 Feb 2014: 14 eLibrary. Web. 11 Mar. 2014. â€Å"Reporting Domestic Violence.† Journal of the American Chiropractic Association (2012). Academic Onefile. Web. 13 Mar. 2014 Rhodes, Karin V., et al. â€Å"I didn’t want to put them through that: the influence of children on victim decision-making in intimate partner violence cases.† Journal of Family Violence 25.5 (2010) 485+. Academic Onefile. Web. Mar. 2014 Rodriguez, Sandra V. â€Å"A woman tells of escape from abusive spouse.†Asheville Citizen-Times; Ashville;N.C. 23. May 2011. A1 eLibrary. Web. Mar. 2014 Abusive Relationships Essay Introduction Abusive Relationships are created mentally and physically. In my opinion, the definition for abuse describes a person with harmful intents; lacking concern, compassion, or affection for another human being. The following annotated bibliographies will express different stages of abuse in set climates. The purpose is to evaluate opinions of the authors selected with the most relevant connections to the behavior patterns of abusive relationships. The Effects of Abusive Relationships Rafenstein, M. (2001). Recognizing an abusive Relationship. Current Health, 2,(5): 27. This article exploits the signs of abusive relationships. Recognizing abuse and the signs most commonly overlooked by those being abused. The article takes a closer look through the eyes of the abuser in order to reveal the dangers of the relationship. Understanding why and how abusers think is important to a survivor. Distinguishing an attitude from a behavior could be the difference between life and death. The article has helpful insight that act as warning signals, easily overlooked by those who would become victims. Normally, the focus is centered on the victim, this article takes the power away from the abuser by disclosing the tactics used before the behavior. This article is very useful to my methods of research because it explains the warning signs and cautious behavior. Seeing the patterns of abuse from a different angle will assist prevention and awareness programs in all communities; especially those living with repeat offenders. Steiner, Leslie Morgan.(2009). Crazy Love: A Memoir. New York, NY: St. Martin. The author, Leslie Morgan Stenier, wrote this book as a Memoir about being married to an abusive husband. His actions and behavior motivates her to tell all and to be an example for other wives who feel trapped. The mental and physical abuse became a documented source of support that led to writing this book as a survivor. This book presents real life events of being married to a dangerous predator. It is a good source for my research, showing the mindset of a wife, victim, and survivor. The author made a life changing decision to tell and the lifesaving decision to leave. The weaknesses of her past become a stepping stone for other women in the same predicament. The book closes the gaps between coping and surviving abuse. Newton, C.J. â€Å"Effects of Domestic Violence.† Domestic Violence: An Overview. 2009. 18 April 2010. < http://www.findcounseling.com/journal/domestic-violence/domestic-violence-effects.html> This article examines the long-term effects and the mental health of abuse. This website journals abusive effects that lead to crisis and the process of healing. The article refers to case studies monitored by John Hopkins that concern children born to an abused mother. The article provides professional resources such as: crisis prevention and advocacy programs. This site also offers self-assessments and a glossary of mental health. This article is a valuable source for abusive relationship research that offers a website for battered women and children. This article is a very good source for addressing abusive relationships and the threats victims ignore before the worst actions occur. It is very helpful in filtering out threats that may cause dangerous actions. This article brings the law into fruition and encourages victims to break the silence and stopping the violence. Adam, Shapiro, Anderson, K., Glick, J. Umberson, D. â€Å"Domestic Violence, Personal Control, and Gender: National Council on Family Relations. â€Å"Journal of Marriage and Family. Vol. 60, No. 2: May 1998. 442-452. The authors of this article examine domestic violence, personal control and gender within relationships. They use the research literature to explain the consequences of being in unhealthy family settings. This article brings clarity to domestic violence and abuse labeled with the family values that are disguised. Gender plays a vital role in personal control and abuse within relationships. According to this article, the person with the most influence usually has more personal control and often makes the other person feel inferior. This article provides a clear understanding of the roles within an abusive relationship. It was very helpful with the research for abusive relationship. The article has calculated statistics gathered from selected sources that shows patterns and behavior trends of abuse. The authors explain the phase violence that promoted the unhealthy lifestyle that is usually hidden from others. The article reveals how gender is relevant to the process of violence. Flynn, Clifton P. â€Å"Relationship Violence by Women: Issues and Implications†: National Council on Family Relations. Family Relations. Vol. 39, No. 2: Apr. 1990.194-198. Clifton P. Flynn analyzes women who are abusive in relationships. Flynn focuses on violent and dysfunctional acts done by women, rather than men. Society presume women to be nurturing with maternal instincts, this article unmasks the evil inside of heartless, abusive women. The statistics from the empirical research shows wives, mothers, and female caretakers as batterers. According to the article, abuse inflicted by women is not reported as much as abuse by men. This article helps to define the fine lines between genders and abuse. It is relevant to research about abusive relationships showing that women can be abusers too. The author gives biased opinions with facts of documentation from family members and those with personal contact with abusive women. This article describes the images of abuse that are hidden from society. Connolly, Jennifer, and Wendy Josephson. â€Å"Aggression in Adolescent Dating Relationships†. 2007(14): 3-5. This article explains the dangers in dating from the point of view of both females and males. According to the article, boys are reported to have more aggressive behavior while dating and girls are likely to respond with self-defense. Both genders have symptoms of anxiety, fear, and emotional distractions. Statically, these behavior patterns often lead to becoming a run away and school drop outs. The article also list different influences that act as stress factors for aggressive  behavior, such as: violence within the home, drug and alcohol abuse, and peer pressure. The article has a positive motive for exposing aggressive behavior patterns amongst teen dating. The authors have strong viewpoints that are helpful for making rational decisions about the pros and cons. It provides signs of abuse and presents the top rated signs of awareness. The research addressed in the article is most helpful in deciding how to relate aggression and abuse with anxiety and behavior patterns. Most important the article addresses the reasons teens develop such outrageous habits of abuse.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Project Management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Project Management - Assignment Example In essence, the user(s) gains control over their project tasks and they are helped by the Project guide to create projects, trail tasks, and report outcomes. Finally, Microsoft Project software package is installed with a customizable mechanism that takes the user(s) through the process of a project creation- starting from assigning their tasks and resources to reporting and evaluating the ending outcomes (Kennemer , 2002). Redmine This is an Open Source project management tool with a big base of user friendly scheming features. This is the chief and dominant characteristic of this open source tool. In addition, Redmine does not put the user to the need to move from page-to-page or back-and-forth surfing for simple operations, rather it displays all the information and the Gantt chart very conveniently (Redmine, 2013). Microsoft Project has over the years evolved and current version allows for the projects to be viewed through tabulated graphs and elaborative Gantt chart display. In addition, the information is presented in a format that the user is able to analyze and understand. However, unlike other open source management tools, Microsoft Project uses the .mpp format. ... Accordingly, Redmine has the ability of approximating the most probable completion time for a project. For instance, on the Microsoft Project, it is easy to locate the task say Task 21 on the graphical representation, and equally follow the arrows on the Gantt chart to link the association with other tasks in the project. On the contrary, if the same task (21) is analyzed through Redmine all on has to do is click on the task and all relationships and information about the task is revealed. Thus, on this note, Redmine is easier to read information and schedule from than is the case with Microsoft project. From projects in the Microsoft Project tool, the manager has not been allowed the chance to analyze the probability of completing the project on time, rather, this software has mainly emphasized on the dates of start and completion. However, based on the fact that the tool allows for dependency, it has the option of allowing the incorporation of an overlapping tasks by defining a â⠂¬Å"Lead time† for the successor task. Equally, in case a task is delayed and the predecessor task ought to start this software allowed for enter by defining a â€Å"Lag time†. These features were very significant because the tool was able to allow for an overlap of numerous tasks. On the other hand, Redmine was equally equipped with this option but the option is covered through its ability to handle multiple tasks and through its time tracking ability. The Microsoft Project’s default view in is the Gantt chart view option. This is so since, through it, users are able to see task information as both text and bar graphics. Accordingly, the Gantt chart is displayed on a window that is split into two sections.

Thursday, September 26, 2019

The Effect of Education on Economics Growth Literature review - 1

The Effect of Education on Economics Growth - Literature review Example Education is seen to play a key role in the economic growth of a country. It is also of benefit to both the individual and the society. Education benefits the individual in that it presents him with more opportunities when it comes to employment. The individual is therefore able to enjoy a higher income than he would have if he did not have an education. Barro (2003 p1) most of the studies that have been done on the impact of education on the economy agree that the investment in education has a great impact on the economic development of a country. The studies also agree that the investment at all levels of education leads to greater economic growth and has benefits for both the individual and the society or the country. The studies have also been focused on the effect that the investment on education and the government policies have had on the economy. Woessman (2002 and 2003) proposes that most of the questions on the impact of education are based from the dimension of human capital needs. For the different countries in the world, both the developing and the developed countries, to achieve economic competitiveness they must invest in their education. Education should therefore be viewed as an investment to the economy. According to Conrad (2011, p278) education plays the essential part in a country’s economy. This is because it (education) supplies the human capital in the country. The investment that the government makes at the different levels of education is therefore dependent on the amount of investment that a government makes at the different levels of education(primary, secondary and tertiary). The human capital that is available at different countries has an impact on the economy of the country.

Philosophical view about notions about humans and the vast universe Essay

Philosophical view about notions about humans and the vast universe that we live in - Essay Example Conceding to the fact that religion is only created by a human being, say Paul the Apostle for Roman Catholicism, I joined with Sigmund Freud in believing that yes, religion drives people into wishful thinking. Freud, as a staunch critic of religion and in fact an atheist himself, had somehow influenced the way I view the world and religion. I believed in self-determination that our selves are only to be blamed for our fate, and our success is credited for our wholehearted efforts. However, Freud is situated on the radical side while I start to realize that Blaise Pascal must be right. His point made sense in my own discernment when he said that there is truth in believing that something or someone exists without actually proving scientifically that it or he exists.   Pascal’s Pensees is one of the readings that challenged, changed, and expanded my worldview. My previous worldview and religious philosophy are characterized by selfish reasons and responsibility on my part alo ne that myself is the only one I can turn to and rely on whatever pursuits. Pascal has quite disproved my beliefs. â€Å"The things that are seen are temporal, but the things that are not seen are eternal,† the apostle Paul was quoted uttering these words (Dawson 10). Pensees reminds me of an example about numbers like how can anyone postulate that 1 plus 1 is really equal to two while other great thinkers have already disproved the end. We believe because there is an unexplainable faith beyond seen objects.... Pensees reminds me of an example about numbers like how can anyone postulate that 1 plus 1 is really equal to two while other great thinkers have already disproved the end. We believe because there is an unexplainable faith beyond seen objects. As Beck calls it, we have this so-called â€Å"worldview defense† when questions from an existential point of view threat us (143). Beck characterized this kind of defense as destructive, such as when we are confronted with death and end up becoming selfish in order to escape from it (143). I believe that my worldview centers on the fact that our spirituality is able to discern right and wrong things from each other. Our religious beliefs fuel goodness, selflessness, and other altruistic acts. In fact, our spiritual being is the one responsible for seeking morally upright actions and work to do. Furthermore, Clive Staples Lewis’ transition from being an atheist to a Christian has also influenced my worldview. Nicholi narrates Lew is’ thoughts regarding the Christian faith, which state that â€Å"There is one God... Jesus Christ is His only Son† (39). Lewis is a contemporary philosopher in the truest sense, but relied on Immanuel Kant’s idea that we can view the world in â€Å"the starry heavens above and the moral law within† (Nicholi 37). This, too, has expanded my view regarding religion, life, and intelligence. There is a supreme force that governs the world and everything in it, and that the existence of God is not a mere figment of imagination as what Freud believes. Metaphysics The field of metaphysics, pioneered by Aristotle, serves as a guide in developing my worldview. Basically, it

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

International Business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 14

International Business - Essay Example In the year 2008, more than 1 million people acquired certification in IELTS (IELTS Press Release, 2008). Every year, more than 2 million people hailing from nearly 135 countries appear for IELTS (IELTS Press Release, 2008). Amongst them, a vast number of candidates happen to be from India. With the opening up of economy and the onset of globalization, every year a vast number of Indian citizens, aspiring to study or immigrate abroad, appear for IELTS (McDaniel, 2004). Considering the fact that a majority of these candidates give great importance to this test, owing to its pivotal role in the achievement of their career goals, setting up a chain of IELTS coaching centers in India stands to be a very positive business proposition. A majority of the employees recruited for this venture will be Indians. This is because they are apt to possess the local cultural competencies, which will go well with the Indian customers. Hence, awareness of cultural dimensions and characteristics will play a pivotal role in the chalking out of an effective business strategy in India. However, as IELTS is a test with an international appeal, care will be taken to introduce at least one native English speaking teacher at each center. The planning and administration will be such as to show sensitivity for the cultural norms and values of the Indian employees and customers. Specific effort will be made to make decisions guided by the insights gained into the values and attitudes of Indian employees. Locations: Due to strategic reasons, the first five coaching centers will be started at New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai and Chandigarh. The reason is that these cities stand to be urban and economic hubs in India. The employees here will be more likely to be open to cultural convergence. The value system of administrators and employees recruited from these places are more probable to be in consonance with global values and norms. They will be more willing to customize their

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Drunk Drivers Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Drunk Drivers - Research Paper Example The most alarming statistics is the number of people being killed in drunk driver cases. According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) a total of 1 individual experiences demise after every 51 minutes as a result of being involved in a drunk driver case and a total of 30 individuals experience death due to the same reason each day (Cdc.gov, 2015). Several arrests take place in which individuals are arrested for driving under influence of alcohol and these individuals mostly have a blood alcohol level of 0.08% at the time they are behind the driving seat of a vehicle (Cdc.gov, 2015). CDC even has reported that during the period of 2010 a total of drunk drivers arrested with 1.4 million individuals (Cdc.gov, 2015). Another alarming statistic is the amount of money that driving under influence of alcohol cases cost the government each year. CDC reports that every year America has to experience a cost of higher than $59 million due to vehicle accidents in which the individ ual driving the vehicle was under the influence of alcohol. Individuals belonging to different ages, genders as well as race have been found to be indulged in drinking and driving cases. But people with certain characteristics are quite involved in such cases. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is an institute that has collected piles of information in relation to profiles of drinking and driving. They state that majority of the drunk drivers are those who have already had their driving license suspected as a result of driving under influence and this accounts for 75% of the individuals who have been arrested for this crime (Madd, 2015). Furthermore, the majority of the drunk drivers are quite young and they age around 21 to 25 years (Madd, 2015). Individuals, who drink and drive mostly do so during night hours of the day and these incidences are at peak during the weekends (Madd, 2015). Majority of the individuals indulged in

Monday, September 23, 2019

With reference to theory and research, examine the view that women Essay

With reference to theory and research, examine the view that women need to demonstrate masculine qualities to succeed in organizations - Essay Example Women are always absent from top management levels simply because masculine transactional cultures act as obstacles to professional progress of the feminine gender. Apparently, masculine attitudes, cultural inclinations and organizational biases exclude women from occupying top professional levels (Francine 2010, p. 67). Basically, top professional within an organization like managing directors are traditionally expected to demonstrate traits such as decisiveness, aggressiveness, toughness, and intelligence. These traits are primarily associated with masculinity and not femininity; hence women are stereotypically viewed as being unable to act in ideal leadership manners (Gibling 2006, p. 03). In this regard, there is a popular view that women ought to demonstrate masculine attributes in order to proceed to top professional levels in organizations. Admittedly, traditional approaches like legislations and labor policies used to achieve gender equality in organizations have been instrumental in advancing the position of women within the corporate world. Unfortunately, these traditional approaches have fallen short of uplifting women past middle level management levels. Futility of legislations and labor policies in advancing women in the corporate world can be attributed to the organizational concept of glass ceiling (Gibling 2006, p. 04). In practical contexts, lack of female representation in boardrooms is an example of a glass ceiling that makes it hard for members of an organization to entertain the thoughts of working under female bosses. Also, family commitments and related reproductive issues act as barriers to advancement of women in workplaces. For example, women with the right academic and professional qualifications are eligible as candidates for top positions, but their ambitions and visions are cut short whenever th ey are forced to take maternity leaves and other family related commitments (Acker

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Removing barriers Essay Example for Free

Removing barriers Essay In a setting where the client is not there by choice, one of the major problems associated with substance abuse treatment is the client’s resistance. Generally, the techniques aimed at overcoming denial and resistance in such a setting can be grouped into two broad categories, namely confrontational and non-confrontational techniques. Confrontational techniques usually encompass intense treatment in order to break the client’s defenses and full abstinence from illegal substances (Sciacca, 1997). Non-confrontational techniques stimulate the client to accept his or her problems and cooperate with the counselor. Motivational interviewing is one of the most vivid examples of this approach. Instead on focusing on punitive measures and inadmissibility of relapse, motivational interviewing calls upon the client to engage into introspective activities and generate awareness of his or her addiction and attendant problems. This approach might be preferable to the first one since addicts tend to posses very strong ego-defense mechanisms (Sciacca, 1997). Motivational interviewing implies the development of trust between the client and counselor as well as empathy towards and acceptance of the client’s value system. Instead of being punitive and judgmental, the counselor should be tolerant and understanding. The counselor should be also able to send a message of hope and belief to the client (Sciacca, 1997). Another effective non-confrontational approach is client-centered therapy. The engine of change, as this philosophy argues, is the client’s self-realization and self-motivation. This is a non-directive approach to therapy that limits the role of the counselor to a listener and adviser rather than guide and enforcer. Thus, it is possible to conclude that non-confrontational techniques are more effective in involuntary treatment of substance addiction. References Sciacca, K. (1997). Removing barriers: dual diagnosis interviewing. Professional Counselor 12(1): 41-6.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Burger King Market Analysis

Burger King Market Analysis Burger King known as Insta-Burg King was established in 1953 but then company ran into financial difficulties and was taken over by David Edgerton James Mclamore. Today it is headquartered in Florida (Miami).Burger King serves Global with 12,200 outlets in 73 countries. Part 1: The product and market According to Merriam-Webster online dictionary fast food is designed for ready availability, use, or consumption and with little consideration given to quality or significance. Basically fast-food is gaining momentum due to the busy lifestyle prerelavant nowadays. This type of food is served to customers in short span of time on order made. The product: Food like Burgers, French fries,Veggi etc. Product type: Fast food Type of Involvement: According to worldwatch.org, Indias fast-food industry is growing by 40 percent. Post liberalization 1991 Fast food industry has developed in India as many multinational providers have set up their business. McDonalds, Dominos, Pizza Hut and Nirulas are well-liked fast food joints in India. According to the findings of the recent online survey from AC Nielson [7, 8] India being At the seventh place, is among the top ten markets for weekly fast food consumption  among the countries of Asia-Pacific region.Over 70% of Urban Households consume outside food fast food from take-away restaurant at least once in a month or more. As per the survey conducted Pizza Hut is the most preferred fast food brand in India. India is one of the top ten countries among the 28 surveyed consuming fast food. Segmentation Types of Segmentation. Geographic segmentation-Urban Locations in India. Two main cities of India Delhi Bangalore. The reason to choose to Delhi is because it is a cosmopolitan city people are open to embrace new ideas lifestyle. It is also becoming a major Information Technology destination of India. Here many major multi nationals like IBM, Microsoft, Google, Sony etc. Many Business process outsourcing industries are there. Delhi is the symbol of old and new growing India. Bangalore city is the nerve of industrial city. It has the IT Park which has gained the popularity of being the Silicon valley. It is ranked among the ten fastest growing city. Today Bangalore is the fifth largest fastest growing city in Asia. Demographic segmentation- Urban Middle class Urban Upper Middle class The Urban % of Middle class income group is 21.7% from 2009-10 The Urban %Upper Middle class income group is 16.3% from 2009-10(Based on data from the Market Information Survey of Households survey of the National Council of Applied Economic Research Targeting Targeting-First Concentrate on Initial focus on Delhi Bangalore customers. Higher income groups. Exposure to western culture and open minded to variety Middle class Upper middle class customers. Positioning On introduction of Burger King it would be initially introduced in the capital city of India, Delhi Banglore.It would be a place for upscale strata consumers mainly to visit relax. It would be positioned differently unlike from its competitor Mc Donalds for family to come along with their children and have fun. An individual earning Rs.30K to 40K a month is expected to indulge in having food from Burger king. The age group mainly targeted on 25-35 year old individuals. Competitor Analysis- Direct competitor- Mc Donalds would be the competitor for Burger King. Indirect competitor-Fresh homemade cooked food localized restaurants Mc Donalds business is profit making in the fast food industry compared to its competitor Burger King by gross margin 38% of its rival by 33%. Mc Donalds is having a strong presence in United States and it is gaining international presence in the fast food industry. Mc Donalds has been a strong performer in 2009 in terms of market share. In comparison to other food chains like KFC and Pizza Hut the overall performance and a liking towards Mc Donalds has been very positive and commendable. Mc Donald marketing mix: think global, act local. However, Taylor (1991) supports the view that companies should use both internationalization and globalization elements to create a competitive advantage: it is important to heed the maxim: think global, act local. The firm must ensure that its structure fits in with its international environment while at the same time have the internal flexibility required to implement its strategic goal (Taylor 1991).McDonalds efficient supply chain in India ensure s delivery on time with reduction on cost maximizing profitability maintaining highest quality standards of products. McDonalds has separate production lines and processes for its vegetarian and non-vegetarian offerings. Marketing mix adopted by Mc Donalds- McCarthy (1975) formulated the concept of 4Ps- Product, Price, Promotion and Place. Moreover in case of service marketing in recent years theorists have identified 3Ps given by Fifield and Gilligan (1996) variables as an integral part of the marketing mix process, physical and people. Product- Concept of think global, act local has been clearly adopted by Mc Donalds. To support this concept there are many examples like in India as Hindus do not consume beef, Muslims do not eat pork and Jains (among others) do not eat meat of any type. To suit the majority food interest of the Indians Mc Donalds been innovative to serve customers with Vegetable McNuggets a mutton base Maharaja Mac (Big Mac). Pricing-Pricing decision is a vital factor taken care by McDonalds. The formulation of different pricing decisions has been made differently based on different geographic locations. The right price selection needed to be made for the right market. Various factors needed to be considered researched for the same. Some elements considered by McDonalds to determine the price for a particular market. The process, as described by Vignali et al/(1999)is listed below: Selecting the price objective; Determining demand; Estimating costs; Analyzing competitors costs, prices and offers; Selecting a pricing method; Selecting a final price. The process listed above is the basic framework that allows Mc Donalds localized pricing. McDonalds has highlighted pricing policy in the mission statement where it states that the most fundamental element of determining price was: McDonalds to remain in touch with pricing of our competitors allows them to price our products correctly, balancing quality and value. When Mc Donalds was looking to penetrate into New Delhi India, it determined the price and set it looking at Nirulas, a local food chain as a guideline. McDonalds was formed in India to have toll free number for customers to place the order. Part 2: The consumer Influence on the behavior of consumers for purchase of Burger King. Food consumed by a countrys citizen is a vital part of their culture. In India post liberalization in the economy there are many changes in the country. India being a democratic country all religions beliefs are considered equal with no discrimination. India known for its rich cultural heritage strong belief has witnessed some new developments. As compared to past more percentage of Indian women are employed today. A rise in the womens economic status in India has taken place making them independent and ensuring more of disposable income to spent on leisure and recreation, eating out and health and fitness. Recent expansion of service industry call centers, travel agencies airlines and hotels have led to more of employment opportunities. Therefore rise in employment is offering individuals to indulge in more than the basic need, allowing them to spend and save both. With hectic lifestyles, timesaving products are increasingly in demand. The basic Indian culture is of consuming homemade food. Its not very easy to bring changes to their eating habits as there are many different religions cultures. Reference group are also influence to a persons behavior of eating food outside. Like a family indulging in Non-veg food outside the hom e often, then it is passed to children also. Social class would also be a determining factor depending on Income education occupation. Balancing all these three elements influence the purchase behavior of an individual. Culture is an important element from the view point of the marketer. This influence the consumption behavior of individuals. In India beef is not consumed by Hindus due to religious reasons. Hindus constitute the major population in India. Muslims do not consume pork meat. For Jains they do not consume meat.It is completely prohibited. Therefore chicken is preferred. As the barriers to eat out entrenched in certain sectors of Indian society. The influence to purchase fast food are due to factors such as environment at home, availability and accessibility to fast food providers, social environment and surroundings. Some other additional some of individuals who are living alone have independence in their eating habits, sometimes opting for a new variety of food than t he traditional home cooked food. To spent time socializing in an ambience making them comfortable also affects the visit liking of fast food outlet. Indian consumers are of the view that hygiene conditions are to be provided in an around the kitchen. This model is an essence helping consumers to respond in decision making process. Its known as black box as we still know how human mind works. Some other influences also will be discussed like motivations, perception, perceived risks etc. 1) Problem Solving- a) When an individual is hungry and search of instant fulfillment. b) Target to consumers who are having open mindset to try a new variety of food. c) Target to Middle Upper middle class consumers who wish to visit out and socialize. d) Convenient to carry looking out for a change from the traditional Indian homemade food. 2) Information Search-The factors determined by consumers to recall the Fast food Brand Burger King. Internal Factors for Consumers to search. Recall of advertisements broadcasted on National Television. Hoardings Worldwide Brand value of Burger King for good quality and food. Some External factors which would influence-Colleagues, public sources, friends family. Some articles from product rating organizations as Consumer Report. 3) Alternative Evaluation- Mc Donalds, KFC, Nirulas, homemade food and other local restaurants. 4) Purchase Decision-The purchase decision when made in Burger King would be backed by many factors like a) Social Surroundings-The kind of people around as in India it would be targeted on Middle class and Upper middle class segment. The people present and included while making the purchase. b) Physical Appearance-Such as dà ©cor, ambience of the place, hygiene factors, speedy service offered some music. c) Antecedent States-The target being on individuals who earn Rs30,000 to 40Kper month. Including consumers mood and cash in hand. 5) Post-Purchase Behavior-In case of fast food joint it becomes bit difficult to known the customers opinion towards the food consumed by them as consumers are generally not very keen to provide. But sometimes it can be actively put into action to gather the feedback through some questionnaire which is not lengthy. Some point of contact for customers where an individual is appointed in the store to learn what consumers feel about the Fast-food served. Even through word of mouth if consumers are satisfied they would convey it to their near and dear ones too. Some internal Influence on Consumer Behavior. Motivation-Some people are food lovers who enjoy having food indulge in variety of cuisines. These individuals are internally motivated. Perception-The perception of the brand worldwide. The taste quality of food served is determined based on international standards and reports. Perceived risks-These risks in case of fast food would be related to health hazards which it can bring in the long run. The hygiene factor can be a cause of concern. Personal factors-These factors also influence the consumer behavior like economic situation, age, occupation, personality lifestyle. a) Economic situation-The economic situation in India is on a growth stage. With more people joining the labour force day by day and middle class and upper middle class population able to spend for their leisure, food and entertainment nowdays.People are having more of means to save for their future too additional to the disposable income to spend. As individuals with a monthly income of minimum Rs.30,000 it would targeted for. b) Lifestyle-The change in the lifestyle of people have also under gone a change. Most of the individuals are working and busy with their hectic schedule so hardly find time to cook and have homemade food. So fast food offers them convenience, taste and easily available at good price suiting the pockets of the individuals. People are nowadays governed by education, income, intelligence energy level. Mindset of people are undergoing a fast change ready to try different kind of food and a manner in which one can go and enjoy good tasty food outside. Part 3: Plan to Launch the Product Brand Name-Burger King Product Type-Fast food Burgers Campaign-Urban Regions Campaign-One King, Burger King Global companies like Burger king face the problem of initiating a global product launch, as the characteristics of varied culture, beliefs and multicultural situation of nations today. Cost increases and public relations support across multiple markets makes it more complicated. Food is an essential element of societys culture and ethnicity. Even during globalization and having a cosmopolitan outlook some basic ethnic taste, local preferences and market specifications in food industry of a particular country cannot afford to be forgotten. A proper market research need to be undertaken or it would negatively harm the product launch of the brand hurting the beliefs of the target market. Understanding the nerve and pros and cons of the local food market of a country would avoid making expensive mistakes. Burger King is known worldwide for its burgers which mainly serves beef pork as the ingredient in Burgers. But in a country like India which has people of different religious beliefs and cultures were Hindus and Muslims are prohibited from consumption of beef and pork. Burger King needs to introduce products customized for the Indian Market keeping in mind the Indian taste preference. Around 40% populations of Indians are vegetarians. This constitutes a fairly good number of populations. Moreover during some religious occasions, as India is land of festivals people do not consume non-veg products during that period too. And even during some fast period when observed by the people in India non-vegetarian food product consumption is low. Therefore Burger King needs to come out offering a proper blend of western basic food taste with some Indian spices some healthy options in Burger itself. As now many Indians are open to try the new variants of food but are also health conscious too. Brand Name-Burger King Product Type-Fast food Burgers Campaign-Urban Regions Campaign-One King, Burger King Pre-Launch Scenario Renowned worldwide for its Have it your way The challenge Competition with Mc Donald, KFC, Pizza Hut To establish a monopoly of Burgers is difficult Mc Donalds is wide spread in majority of locations To penetrate into the market with more tasty options to the target market Low level of customer commitment because of large number of options available in fast food outlets Continuous improvement to be made in value added technology services Health related issues to be sorted Target Audience Middle class and Upper Middleclass Individuals Target Locations Capital city of India, Delhi and Silicon valley of India, Bang lore. Four Ps of Marketing Place- The place to target would be urban areas like the Airports, Offices some shopping, malls. Price-The price would be affordable to Upper middle class and middle class customers individuals earning an annual income of Rs.3, 60,000 per annum. Promotion-Like in Delhi collecting points for seasonal travelers of metros would enable them with a coupon to treat them with Burger King. Product-Burger King to introduce the product suiting to the Indian taste offering variant options to the vegetarians, healthy options in form of drinks along with tasty non-vegetarian food. During some major festive seasons burger king can launch some new products to attract the target customers. People-The Burger king staff needs to be well trained and their uniform while catering to the customers can be a combination of indo-western attire which would be attractive. The staff needs to be efficient in undertaking tasks and right people to be recruited for the different nature of jobs. The staff should greet customers not by saying hello or Hi instead with NAMASTE as this would showcase the traditional culture of greeting the guest. Process-The process of delivering the food and service should be communicated well to the customers. As a large population is vegetarian lovers so food should be cooked keeping in mind the religious beliefs and norms of Indians. The food served should be quick and tasty suiting to the Indian consumers taste. Customers need to be informed in case of some wait period of the product been delivered. Proper communication need to be made. Facilities such as cleanliness and proper ambience need to be created for customers to enjoy. Burger king should try to engage with customers to receive the feedback on the service delivered by them. This can be filling some short questionnaire or by introducing something similar like A huge bell placed in Indian Pizza Hut to ring so that customers can exhibit their satisfaction towards the product. Physical Service-Service cant be experienced before its delivered. So choice made to use the service is risky as its intangible in nature. The uncertainty can be reduced in the mind of customers prior of consumption of the product if the features are well communicated to the target consumers. Promotion of Burger King done by marketing communication mix Advertising Sales promotion Direct marketing Public Relations Phase-1 Launch the Product The product launch of Burger King needs to be associated in a manner the perception which is associated of having burgers from other competitors of its. The product being aimed at Middle class and Upper middle class should be positioned in an upscale manner where Burgers are being offered of Kings taste and treated like King making them feel relaxed and enjoy the experience of eating the burger in an excellent ambience. Also the communication of Quality, speedy service and cleanliness needs to be communicated well. Burger King should introduce options for vegetarian lovers as this would help them to penetrate, into the market more easily. The religious sentiments of Indians need to be taken care in case of non-vegetarian burgers. The company needs to establish a trust on consumers about the method in which product is been prepared without harming any religious sentiments. Phase-2 Brand advertising The advertising of Burger king can be effectively done through Print Media, Television advertisements and hoardings. This should include making customers aware about the product, helping them for easy recall and relating it to them personally. The television advertisements to be broadcasted on news and business channels like CNN IBN, TIMES NOW and some other channels like MTV. The advertisement needs to effectively convey to the customers the place is for relaxing and to enjoy the Burger in Kings style. During this phase it needs to concentrate on building the brand and product relevance. It would be launched not for mass audience but segmented as niche market with high on quality, service and price. The brand should leverage the central theme of Have it your way. The DAGMAR philosophy model 1961(Defining advertising goals for measured advertising results). 1. From unawareness to awareness-To make the target potential customers aware about the product. 2. Comprehension-Customer able to recognize the product and having knowledge about the product. 3. Conviction-Customers holding a firm attitude of the product brand compared to others and can be based on emotional or rational basis. 4. Action-Move made to purchase reflects the advertisement has been effective to communicate with the target audience. The Unique selling proposition of Burger King needs to be highlighted. HAVE IT YOUR WAY Other Communication Channels- On introduction of Burger King in Metro like Delhi some coupons can be offered to the commuters travelling on monthly passes. In the silicon valley bang lore food coupons to the MNC offices like Google, Sony can be provided to promote Burger king. To advertise through social media campaign. To promote through electronic media. To promote in some Business seminars like Retail Association of India through offering vouchers and hoardings exhibiting Burger King finally in India. To advertise in events like, Common wealth games. Internet connectivity can be used as an effective medium of channel.

Friday, September 20, 2019

The Digital Dice Game Project: An Overview

The Digital Dice Game Project: An Overview A traditional dice is a small polyhedral object, usually cubic in shape. It generates a random number in the range of one to six. There are also non cubical dice with different number of faces such as tetrahedrons (four faces), octahedrons (eight faces) or dodecahedrons (twelve faces). A digital dice is an alternative device that can be used to replace the traditional device with the help of a numeric display. It is controlled with the help of a switch. The count will display numbers randomly from one to six on the 7 segment display in a push of the button. 1.1 Rules of the Game: The Digital Dice game consists of two players, Player A and Player B. Both the players, Player A and Player B, are given a switch each to control the dice. In this game, only one player is allowed to play at a time and the input of only one player is counted at a time. A LED indicates the players turn. The output of each players throw is added to the output of their previous throws number. This gives their final score. The maximum count is taken as 30. When any one of the players reaches the maximum count of 30, the Game ends. The player (Player A or Player B) has won the game. The beeper along with a light indicates the players victory. Chapter 2:  Circuit Description This chapter gives a detailed description of the block diagram for the Digital Dice game project. It discusses the main parts and also gives a detailed explanation on the same. 2.1 Block Diagram The main parts of the block diagram as shown in figure 1 are: 2 Clock pulses Random Number Generator Digital Dice Display 2 Adder Circuits (including the seven segment FND display) Game Over disabling circuit Reset switch 2.2 Clock Pulse Clock pulse is a signal used to synchronize the operations of an electronic system. They are continuous and precisely spaced changes in voltage. The main aim of this part in the circuit is to give the appropriate clock pulses to the next circuits to make a progress in the game. For this purpose, 2 clocks have been employed for each player. Here a special circuit has to be employed so as not to allow the player that has already played to play until his opponent has had his chance. This is done by using the Toggling feature of J-K flip-flop (IC 7476). Each of the 2 clock pulses is then ANDED with the 2 outputs of J-K flip-flop which is Q and Q. At any point of time, only one of Q and Q will be HIGH and so only one player will be able to play at a time as per the rules of the game. The clock of the other player being ANDED with zero will be ineffective. The appropriate clock then will pass through the OR gate and into the input clock of the J-K flip-flop, thus toggling it and providing a chance for the other player to play. The output of the OR gate is given to the rest of the entire circuit as a common clock. 2.3 Random Number Generator The main aim of this part is to generate any number between 1 and 6 (inclusive) i.e. 3-bit binary number, similar to a cubic dice where each face represents a number. However, the number generated in this circuit is not in any kind of a predictable sequence and is in a perfectly random similar to an actual dice in such a game. This is facilitated by the use of IC NE-555, which generates series of output clock pulses. The resistors and capacitors surrounding it formulate a particular RC time constant and the IC then continues to generate output clock pulses till the end of this time period. So, when the appropriate clock pulse is obtained from the above discussed clock pulse circuit, the pulses generated by IC NE-555 are fed to the next Integrated Circuit, Binary Ripple Counter (IC 7493). Another Integrated Circuit, Decade Counter (IC 7490) can also be used. The Binary Ripple Counter counts from 0 to 5 i.e. 3-bit numbers provided the MSB (Most significant Bit) of the counter is not considered. After the count reaches five, the Counter resets to zero. When many clock pulses are received by it in a single time-constant period, it counts from 0-5 many times and outputs any of these numbers. This is known as Random Number Generation. However, the numbers obtained from the above procedure are between 0 and 5 (inclusive) and the desired numbers are from 1 6. This is taken into account by including another Integrated circuit, Binary Parallel Adder (IC 7483) which increments the above generated number by 1 as it is between 0 and 5. The output of the Binary Parallel Adder is the final desired random number which is then fed into the Digital Dice-Display circuit as shown in the figure 1. 2.4 Digital Dice Display Circuit The only purpose of this part is to show the face of the Dice corresponding to the number generated by the randomizer circuit. This is done with the help of a BCD 7 Segment decoder which is used to drive a common anode 7 segment display. The output of the above discussed circuit forms the input for the BCD which then enters the input of seven segment decoder. The random number generated by the random number generator circuit will be displayed on the 7 segment display when the button is pushed by a player. The number displayed is any number between 1to 6 in a complete random sequence. 2.5 Adder Circuits This is the core part of this game. All the numbers generated so far should be accounted for each player independently in the form of their score. As discussed earlier, this score gets incremented by each alternate fall of numbers on the dice. The Adder circuit performs this function. The Adder circuit is made up of a group of 3 AND gates. One of the inputs of the AND gates is a bit of the random number generation and the other input is one of Q and Q (outputs of the J K flip-flop as discussed above in the Clock Pulses section). Hence, at a time, the score of only the appropriate player gets incremented by the number on the dice. Whereas the score of the other player remains the same (i.e. gets added by 0). The outputs of the 3 AND gates enter the Integrated Circuit, Binary Parallel Adder (IC 7483) as inputs for A. The Most significant bit (MSB) A is kept grounded. The inputs for B come from the output of the Integrated circuit, 4-bit Register (IC 74194) and these stores the Least significant bit (LSB) of the final score. There are two Binary Parallel Adders and the output of this 1st Adder (IC 7483) is connected to the 2nd Adder (IC 7483), which converts the added binary number into its decimal equivalent and stores the output in the above mentioned 4 Bit register (IC 74194). This conversion is produced with the help of different logic gates (AND and OR gates). When the binary number is greater than 9, 6 (0110) is added to it, else 0 (0000) is added to the number thus generating the equivalent LSB decimal number. Therefore, the LSB remains less than or equal to 9, thus representing the score in decimal form. The same technique is applied to the Most Significant Bit of the score. Here, 1 is added to the MSB of the Binary Parallel Adder (IC 7483), if the above generated binary number is greater than 9. The other input for this 3rd IC-7483 comes from another 4-bit register (IC 74194). Therefore, the MSB can also show decimal numbers from 0 9. The same Most Significant Bit and Least Significant Bit numbers from the Adders are given as input to Integrated circuit, BCD (IC 7447), which is the driver IC to the Seven-Segment LED display. The outputs of this Integrated circuit are fed into the LT-543, to show the corresponding numbers. An important point to be noted here is that the same common clock is given to the above mentioned IC-74194 registers so that they can output the stored numbers each time. 2.6 Game Over Disabling Circuit This part of the block diagram indicates the END of the game, i.e. Game Over. The game is considered to be over once the score of any one of the two players (Player A or Player B) reaches/crosses the score of 30. The second input of the Most Significant Bits of the Most Significant Bit of the decimal score of both the players form the input to the NOR gate. Thus, when any score reaches/crosses 30, the 2nd Most Significant Bit becomes HIGH. Thus NOR output becomes LOW (i.e. In a NOR gate, when any one of the inputs is HIGH, the output is LOW). This is then ANDED with the clock-pulse to be given to the J-K flip-flop. As a result, the J-K flip-flop does not receive any clock. Thus, the toggling feature of the flip flop stops. Thus, the random number generation stops and the Dice-display remain unchanged. And, finally the scores remain fixed. Therefore, the game has come to an end The winning player (Player A or Player B) is identified by the tone of the buzzer/alarm along with a LED to provide an indicating light. This is having one end on the above 2nd Most Significant Bit and the other end grounded. 2.7 Reset Switch This is also a very important part of the game. The function of this switch is to bring the game back to start from any point of time. This is performed with the help of a Combinational Circuit and a Push-to-OFF switch. This is a kind of switch which has its 2 ends always connected, except when pressed/pushed. Thus, one end of the switch is grounded. Therefore, by default this makes the clear inputs of all registers HIGH. Here, the registers employ Active Low Clear inputs. When the switch is not pushed, HIGH clear is fed to the registers via a NOT gate. Therefore, normal functioning of all the registers is obtained. Also, the output drawn from the OR gate then depends on the output from the AND gate (the 2 inputs of the AND gate come from the 2nd Most Significant Bit and 3rd Most Significant Bit of the output of the Binary Ripple Counter, IC 7493). When the switch is pressed, the connection of its 2 ends gets broken and thus making the Clear input to all registers LOW via the NOT gate (i.e. all registers are cleared). Therefore, one of the inputs to the IC 7483 Adders become 0000. And, also the input of the OR gate becomes HIGH, thereby ignoring the 2nd input and thus providing HIGH output to the RO(1) Clear input of the Binary ripple counter, IC 7493. Now, the counter is reset by 2nd Clear input RO(2) as it becomes HIGH, providing 0000 output. This forms the other input of Binary parallel adder, IC 7483. Thus, the Adder circuits display 00 in the 7 segment display. This 0000 output is then carried via the Binary parallel adder, IC 7483 (here the input carry is also 0) to the Dice-display circuit which displays 00. Chapter 3:  Random Number Generation Circuit This chapter explains the circuit diagram required for the random number generation and the digital dice display. It also talks about the working for the same. 3.1 Circuit Diagram The below figure (figure 2) shows the circuit diagram used for the random number generation of a digital dice. 3.2 Operation Figure 2 shows the circuit diagram to generate any random number between 1 and 6 and display it on the 7 segment display. In operation, a clock frequency of 50 Hz is generated by the pulse generator. It is ANDED with the push button. When the push button is pressed, the clock pulse generates a series of clock pulses. The combination of the clock pulse and the push button forms the counter clock for the Binary Ripple Counter (IC 7493). This counter behaves as a Mod 6 Counter and it counts from 0 5. Once the count reaches 5, it resets to zero. Thus, the connection of QB (with value 2) to R0 (1) and QC (with value 4) to R0(2) respectively. The output of this counter is connected to the input A of the Binary Parallel Adder (IC 7483), i.e. QA, QB, QC, QD to A1, A2, A3, A4 respectively. The function of the adder is to add the number 1 (Binary 0001) to the output from the Binary ripple counter. This is done by grounding the pins B1, B2, B3 and the pin B4 is connected to the supply to get a value of 1. The output of the Adder is connected to the BCD 7 segment display, i.e. the pins 9, 6, 12, 15 are connected to pins 7, 1, 2, 6 respectively. Therefore, any number between 1 and 6 is displayed in a totally random manner in the form of its decimal equivalent on the 7 segment display. This completes the random number generation and the Digital dice display parts of the block diagram. 3.3 Components Assembled The following components have been assembled on a Bread Board in order to create a random number display between 1 and 6. 3.3.1 Counter A counter is a device which stores the number of times a particular event or process has occurred, usually in connection with a clock signal. Every counter requires a square wave clock signal to make them count. A square wave clock signal (as shown in figure 3) is a digital waveform with sharp transitions between low (0V) and high (+Vs) voltage, such as the output from a 555  astable timer. Here it comes from the pulse generator. Examples of counting are digital clocks, watches, timers found in a range of appliances from microwave ovens to VCRs and counters are also found in everything from automobiles to test equipments. There are mainly two types of counters: Ripple Counters In a ripple counter, there are a chain of flip-flops with the output of each flip flop forming the input for the next. Every time the input of the flip flop changes from high to low (on the falling edge), the state of the flip flop output changes. Ripple counters mostly count on the falling-edge which is the high to low transition of the clock signal. They use this edge as linking counters becomes easier as the most significant bit (MSB) of one counter can drive the clock input of the next. This whole process occurs because the next bit must change state when the previous bit changes from high to low the point at which a carry must occur to the next bit. The disadvantages of this counter are: There is a slight delay (known as a Ripple Delay) as the effect of the clock ripples through the chain of flip-flops. But in many circuits, this is not a problem as it is far too short to be seen on a display. In a logic system, the connection to the ripple counter outputs will cause false counts which may produce glitches in the logic system and thereby disrupt its operation. For example, a ripple counter changing from 0111 (7) to 1000 (8) will briefly show 0110 (6), 0100 (4) and 0000 (0) before 1000. Synchronous Counter A synchronous counter has a more complex internal structure as compared to a ripple counter. The advantage of this counter over the ripple counter is that it ensures that all its outputs change precisely together on each clock pulse, thereby avoiding the brief false counts which occur with ripple counters. Most synchronous counters count on the rising-edge (refer figure 5) which is the low to high transition of the clock signal. They usually have carry  out and carry  in pins for linking counters without introducing any ripple delays. These counters have a synchronous reset which occurs on the next clock pulse rather than immediately as in a ripple counter. Since reset must be performed on the maximum count required, it is a very important function. 3.3.1.1 Binary Ripple Counter (IC 7493) This is the counter used in the circuit. Figure 3 shows a clock signal driving a 4-bit (0-15) counter. It is connected with LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) to show the state of the clock and counter outputs QA QD. And Q indicates the output. A counter can be used to reduce the frequency of an input signal and thus behaves as a frequency division counter (as shown in figure 7), i.e. they can be used to reduce the frequency of an input (clock) signal. Each stage of a counter halves the frequency, so here the LED on the first output QA flashes at half the frequency of the clock LED, i.e. QA is 1/2, QB flashes at 1/4, QC at 1/8 and QD at 1/16 of the clock frequency. It is usually labeled as Q1, Q2 and so on. Qn is the nth stage of the counter, representing 2n. Division by numbers that are not powers of 2 is possible by resetting counters. Counters can be reset to zero before their maximum count by connecting one (or more) of their outputs to their reset input. The counter is in two sections: Clock A for QA and Clock B for QB, QC and QD. If the reset input is active-low a NOT or NAND gate will be required to produce a low output at the desired count. Active low is indicated by a line drawn above reset. For example:     (say reset-bar). The reset function requires an immediate reset on the next count. 3.3.1.2 Decade Counter (IC 7490): A decade counter (refer figure 8) is a binary counter that is designed to count to 10 or 1010 in binary, i.e. it counts the number of pulses arriving at its input. The number of pulses is counted up till 9 and it appears in binary form on four pins of the IC. When the tenth pulse arrives at the input, the binary output is reset to zero (0000) and a single pulse appears at another output pin. This function is performed due to the fact that the NAND output goes low, and resets the counter to zero. D going low can be a CARRY OUT signal, indicating that there has been a count of ten. So for ten pulses in the input, there is one pulse output. Therefore, the 7490 Decade Counter divides the frequency of the input by ten. And, if this pulse is applied to the input of a second 7490 decade counter, then the second IC will count the pulses from the first IC i.e. for 100 pulses input, there will be one pulse output. 3.3.2 Binary Parallel Adder (IC 7483) The parallel adder precedes the binary counter, i.e. once the counter begins its count from 0 5, it then enters the adder where the binary 0001 is added to it. The central computational element in any circuit is the adder. The function of the parallel adder is to add two n bit numbers together. For this purpose, n full adders should be cascaded with each full adder representing a column in the long addition. The carry signals ripple through the adder from right to left. Figure 9 indicates the working of a logic full adder/ subtractor. The adder circuit has a mode control signal M which determines whether the circuit has to operate as an adder or a subtractor. Each XOR gate receives one input from M and the other input from B, i.e. Bi. The function of the XOR gate is that if both the inputs of the XOR gate is the same, then the output of the XOR gate will be zero and if both the inputs to the XOR gate are different, then the output of the XOR gate will be 1. When M = 0, the output of XOR gate will be Bi ⊕ 0 = Bi. Thus, the addition function takes place, i.e. the circuit performs A plus B (A + B). When M = 1, the output of XOR gate will be Bi ⊕ 1 = Bi. Since it is the complement of B, subtraction function takes place, i.e. A plus 1s complement of B which is the same as A minus B (A B). Every digit position consists of two operands and a carry. The operation of an adder is to add the two operands and the carry-in together. If the result is less than the base, this sum is outputted with a carry-out of 0. 0therwise the base is subtracted from the total of the two operands and the carry-in and this sum is outputted with a carry-out. 3.3.3 BCD 7 segment display decoder Here, the output of the Binary parallel adder forms the input for this BCD 7 segment decoder to display the random number from 1 6. The inputs A D for the BCD (Binary Coded Decimal) display driver are connected from the outputs of the parallel adder. The display driver consists of a network of logic gates to make its outputs a g become high or low. This lights the required segments a g of a 7-segment display as shown in the figure. Usually, a resistor is required in series with each segment to protect the LEDs, 330 or 270 is a suitable value for many displays with a 4.5V to 6V supply. But for this project, only one 270 resistor is used which is connected between 3 (display test) and 8 (ground) pins of the integrated circuit. There are two types of 7-segment displays: Common Cathode (CC or SC): This display consists of all the cathodes connected together. These need a display driver with outputs which become high to light each segment, i.e. they are illuminated with high voltages. For example the IC 4511. Here, there is a connection between the common cathode to 0V. IC 4511 is designed to drive a common cathode display and thus would not work with the common anode display. Common Anode (CA or SA): This display consists of all the LED anodes connected together. These need a display driver with outputs which become low to light each segment, i.e. they are illuminated by connecting with low voltages. For example, IC 7447 (BCD 7 segment decoder) which is the IC used for this project. Here, there is a connection of a resistor in series between the common anode to +Vs. The 7447 chip is used to drive 7 segment display. The input to the 7447 is a binary number DCBA where D is 8s (1000), C is 4s (0100), B is 2s (0010) and A is 1s (0001). The IC 7447 display is intended for BCD (binary coded decimal) which has input values from DCBA = 0000 (0) to DCBA = 1001 (9) (i.e. 0000, 0001, 0010, 0011, 0100, 0101, 0110, 0111, 1000, 1001 in binary). Inputs from 10 to 15 (1010, 1011, 1100, 1101, 1110, 1111 in binary) will light odd display segments. The following functions can be performed on the IC 7447: This IC has an open collector outputs a g, which can sink up to 40mA. A lamp test can be performed on the IC to check if all the segments are in working condition. This is done by keeping the part of the IC low. At this point of time, all the display segments should light (showing number 8). There is another function which is the Blanking Input (). If the blank input is low, then the display will be blank when the count input is zero (0000). This can be used to blank leading zeros when there are several display digits driven by a chain of counters. The blank  output can be achieved by connecting the blank  input of the next display down the chain (i.e. the next most significant digit). Also, a function stands for Ripple Blanking Input. When is low and DCBA = 0000, the display is blank otherwise the number is displayed on the display. This is used to remove leading zeroes from a number. For example, displays 89 instead of 089. If more than one display has to be used, a connection of (Ripple Blanking Output) from most significant 7447 to the of the next 7447 has to be done. If a connection between of the least significant 7447 to 5V is done, the display will turn off when the number is 0. This circuit can also be controlled by a PLC (Programmable Logic Circuit), if the inputs to the BCD (Binary Coded Decimal) come from the 4 output bits of the PLC output card. Chapter 4:  Summary This chapter lists the achievements and developments of the project The following has been achieved in this project: Successful design and simulation of random number generation circuit along with the dice display Block Diagram of the Digital Dice game, circuit diagram for the display of random numbers from 1 6 on the 7 segment display. Successful assembly of wires, binary ripple counter (IC 7493), binary parallel adder (IC 7483), BCD 7 Segment display decoder (IC 7447). The development of this project is as follows. The digital dice game is currently being assembled, and post assembly, it will be used as a game to be played between two players.. Remaining circuit diagrams with more detail about the remaining parts of the block diagram will be designed.