Marketing Strategy and Plan for Seafood Brands- myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theMarketing Strategy and Plan for Seafood Brands. Answer: Introduction The seafood brands in Australia are globally recognized and ensuring growth in a significant way. The country is continuing improvement practices in the fisheries and applying the most advanced scientific findings. The eco-system based approaches will be undertaken by the seafood industry to increase the sustainability scope in this competitive environment (Denham et al. 2015). The popularity of the recreational fishing is the major limitation in the seafood industry. It has been examined that the other nation producing seafood are utilizing the most innovative techniques to ensure growth in this sector. Accordingly, the competition is significantly increasing and it has become the biggest threat for the sustainable purpose of the seafood industry in Australia (Lim-Camacho et al. 2015). Therefore, the study would provide a considerable analysis of the seafood industry in Australia. The use of the PESTLE Tool and the Porters Five Forces analysis would suggest the insightful ideas abou t the seafood market to measure the capability of sustaining in this competitive scenario. PEST Analysis Establishment of the detailed business analysis by identifying the political, social, economical, and technological influence on the industry is much beneficial for developing the understanding (Dentoni and Klerkx 2015). The study focuses on the market acceptability of the seafood in Australia. The development of the PEST analysis would provide the enriched ideas about the subject matter. Political Influence The political scenario in Australia is quite favourable for the seafood sector development. It is notified that The Australian Seafood Industry Council (ASIC) is considered as the main parliamentary figure supporting the commercial fishing, and poor-harvest seafood industry in Australia. The seafood industry in Australia generates the majority portion of the export earnings, especially in the regional areas of Australia (Lamendin, Miller and Ward 2015). Moreover, it has captured the fourth largest position in the list of the Primary Industry in Australia. The efficiency maintained in the export market is highly supported by the political figures. In fact, the government is looking forward to bring more innovations to the fishery practices to ensure growth in the seafood sector in Australia (Agriculture.gov.au 2017). Social Influence The social factor has the greater influence on the growth of the seafood market. Majority of the society oppose the practices of fishing since it harms the sea animals. Some of the fishing areas are protected (Ibisworld.com.au 2017). However, in one type of social class, the demands of the seafood are still much higher. Therefore, it can be considered that the social influence is the considerable factor for the sustainability aspect of the seafood industry in Australia. Economic Influence It is reported that the country is generating more revenues from the export business of the seafood. It can be estimated that the millions of revenue can be generated in next few years from the export services of the sea food. The Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resource Economics and Science has presented the report that signifies the significant growth in the economic level of the country (Ccpit.org 2017). Hence, the economic opportunities are quite commendable for the industry sustainability. However, the legal protection on the fishery business may affect the economic level of the country. Technological Influence The seafood industry in Australia has been receiving the supports from the government for using the advanced technologies for improving the fishing practices (Lamendin, Miller and Ward 2015). Moreover, considering the environmental welfare purposes, the seafood industry is also concentrating on utilizing more technological tools to bring more innovations to the seafood cultures and industry. Porters Five Force Analysis The analytical tool of Michael Porters five force model is much helpful in analyzing the external market opportunities and threats. This analytical tool contains five major components that have the significant impact on the business industry. The five force analysis of the Australian Seafood industry is discussed further: Bargaining Power of the Customers (Moderate) The customers are quite fond of consuming the seafood in Australia that has the significant value in the export market. However, the environmental obligation and social prevention are also limiting the consumption of the seafood (Dentoni and Klerkx 2015). The considerable high prices of the seafood are also affecting the consumer behaviour. Hence, the bargaining power of the customers is moderate. Bargaining Power of the Suppliers (High) The availability of the limited options of the suppliers has made the bargaining power if the suppliers quite higher (Agriculture.gov.au 2017). The trends with the fishery market are quite profitable for the suppliers to generate more amount of money. Threats of New Entrants (low) The legal compilation rules on the fishery market and the environmental impact has made the threats of the new entrants considerably lower (Lamendin, Miller and Ward 2015). The dominant market of the local fisheries is developing the market status in the seafood industry. Threats of Substitutes (Moderate) The customers in Australia prefer the more variations and fascination in their food culture. On the other hand, the demands of the sea food are also quite higher. Hence, the threats of the substitutes are quite moderate (Dentoni and Klerkx 2015). Rivalry (High) The competition in the sea food market is quite high. The development of the technological practices and the fishery techniques is improving the position of the seafood makers. Hence, the competitive rivalry is quite higher in Australian market (Agriculture.gov.au 2017). Conclusion The study provides the insightful ideas about the external market influence on the Seafood Industry in Australia. The PEST analysis indicates that in spite of the enormous supports from the government, the Seafood industry has been facing the obligations from the environment. The society objects since the lives of the water animals are harmed. On the other hand, it is also implied that the seafood industry signifies considerable benefits in export industry. The remarkable revenues gained from the export business of seafood are contributing to the economic growth of the business in the country. The information derived from the porters five forces analysis indicates that the competition in the market is much higher whereas the customers are quite conscious about the lives of the sea animals. However, technological development and concerns about the environmental welfare would be helpful for the seafood industry to sustain the long term positioning. References Agriculture.gov.au, 2017. [online] Available at: https://www.agriculture.gov.au/SiteCollectionDocuments/fisheries/aus-seafood-trade.pdf [Accessed 21 Aug. 2017]. Ccpit.org, 2017. [online] Available at: https://aaa.ccpit.org/Category7/mAttachment/2006/Dec/13/asset000070002007202file1.pdf [Accessed 21 Aug. 2017]. Denham, F.C., Howieson, J.R., Solah, V.A. and Biswas, W.K., 2015. Environmental supply chain management in the seafood industry: past, present and future approaches.Journal of cleaner production,90, pp.82-90. Dentoni, D. and Klerkx, L., 2015. Co-managing public research in Australian fisheries through convergencedivergence processes.Marine Policy,60, pp.259-271. Ibisworld.com.au, 2017.Seafood Processing in Australia Market Research | IBISWorld. [online] Ibisworld.com.au. Available at: https://www.ibisworld.com.au/industry-trends/market-research-reports/manufacturing/food-product/seafood-processing.html [Accessed 21 Aug. 2017]. Lamendin, R., Miller, K. and Ward, R.D., 2015. Labelling accuracy in Tasmanian seafood: an investigation using DNA barcoding.Food Control,47, pp.436-443. Lim-Camacho, L., Hobday, A.J., Bustamante, R.H., Farmery, A., Fleming, A., Frusher, S., Green, B.S., Norman-Lpez, A., Pecl, G.T., Plagnyi, .E. and Schrobback, P., 2015. Facing the wave of change: stakeholder perspectives on climate adaptation for Australian seafood supply chains.Regional Environmental Change,15(4), pp.595-606. Sydneyfishmarket.com.au, 2017. [online] Available at: https://www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au/Portals/0/Deloitte%20Report%201_1.pdf [Accessed 21 Aug. 2017].

Consumer Service Retailer of Singapore Airlines-Free-Samples

Question: You are required to prepare a strategic analysis for a consumer service retailer of your choice in Singapore. Write your answer in the form of a report. Answer: Introduction The Singapore Airlines is one of the highly regarded airlines by most travellers and competitors in the global airlines industry as the best airlines to use when travelling due to its best services and customer relations. The airlines started operating in the year 1972 after the Malaysia-Singapore Airline (MSA) split into Malaysian Airline System (MAS) and Singapore Airlines (SIA) (Air Transport World 2014). The company is well known for its excellent customer service, commitment to the maximization of shareholders returns, uncompromising adherence to safety and security and young fleet that have given it competitive advantage in the industry offering three classes of travel; Economy, First and Business classes. While onboard they provide services such as relishing meals, entertainment on Kris World and it also provides online booking. The company has recorded a consistent rise in its performance indicated by its increasing market share and returns making it to win numerous accolades for its outstanding services (Heracleous and Wirtz 2012). External Analysis This is a form of analysis which focuses on a companys environment analyzing how the environment influences the operation of the business. The analysis helps in depicting both the opportunities and risks that a company is exposed. PESTLE Analysis PESTEL abbreviates the Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal and Environmental aspects of a business organization. The following PESTEL framework therefore illustrates the forces that affect Singapore Airlines. Political The political temperatures in a nation often have significant impacts on the operations of the airline industry owing to the fact that nearly all nations have a national carrier. Since the national carrier symbolizes the country, the airline receives significant support from the government which enables to smoothly carryout its operations even amidst challenges (Wirtz et al. 2008). Economic The airline industry operates across different national economic boundaries and due to their high level of resource intensity; they are prone to the prevailing vagaries of both national and international economy. Singapore Airlines is faced with the threat of the rising fuel costs resulting from the continuous political unrest in the Middle East which have made the fuel prices to rise to unprecedented levels (Chan 2000). Social For a long time, long distance travelling has been the preserve of the wealthy in society but with the recent increase in disposable income among most individuals, such faraway destinations travels have become affordable. Additionally, consumer preferences has been shifting from the original premium travels to the current low cost travel styles as noted by the increase in the number of low cost carriers (The Times of India 2014). Based on the changing market trends, Singapore Airlines which has been a premium carrier have started offering lows cost travels to attract the new market. This is evidenced by their decision to expand their shares holdings of Tigerair which is a Southeast Asian low cost carrier despite the absence of profitability (Chan 2000). Technological In a highly saturated passenger travel especially in the premium market position to which Singapore Airlines belongs, technological innovations play a vital role to counter the stiff competition. Due to technological advancements in the industry, Singapore Airlines has one of the youngest fleets and is the first airline to adopt the use of new innovations such as the use of seatback entertainment systems, headsets and reclining seats (Steven 2010). Legal Making changes to a countrys regulatory framework often have great impacts on national carriers and these often result in adopting new operation strategies. The act of terror in September, 2001 for instance contributed to the implementation of some regulatory changes in which passengers have to undergo screening before being allowed to travel (Chan 2000). Environmental There has been a rising concern among most passengers for green services integrated with their corporate social responsibility (CSR). However, Singapore Airlines have been quite slow in responding to the new customer demands. Porters Five Forces for Singapore Airline There are five forces which impact the performance of Singapore Airlines which determines the probability of its market success. These forces are; The Threat of New Entrants Singapores current business activity is dominated by long-haul passenger airline business which has resulted into weak threat of new entrants. Additionally, the investment in airline industry requires large capital base with corresponding long lead times to recover the investment thereby making it quite difficult for new firms to enter the business. However, there are few entrants in the market in which Singapore Airline operates and they include Air Asia and Jet Star (Cook, Tanner and Lawes 2012). Intensity of Rivalry The airline industry is often characterized with some level of internal intense rivalry which usually occurs on a route-by-route basis. Despite the fact that routes can be serviced by variety of airlines, the rivalry is usually quite intense forcing companies to either adopt price cutting strategies or provide high quality services to expand their market share. Based on its performance resulting from high quality services has enabled Singapore airlines to capture the Kangaroo Route (Wang 2014). The Threat of Substitute Services The threat of substitute services to the airlines short-haul element of the business s moderate resulting from its business structure. Globalization has led to the rise in investments in transportation links that exist between of the geographical hubs among whom are served by Singapore Airlines. The Bargaining Power of Customers Generally, the bargaining power of clients in the airline industry is quite low due to the low switching costs. The low switching costs have resulted from the decline in high street airline offices and the proliferation of the internet (Chan 2000). Most airlines are however debating on increasing the switching costs through such strategies as loyalty schemes. The Bargaining Power of Suppliers In most instances, the airline suppliers have a relatively strong bargaining power since most airline fleets are supplied through a duopoly market structure. On the other hand, the airline engines are supplied through oligopoly markets. With such a few number of suppliers in the industry, most producers can easily dictate the prices of their products. Internal Analysis Tangible and intangible Resources Tangible resources are those assets which can be accorded monetary value and can be physically measured. Some of the Singapore Airlines tangible resources include Changi Airport which contains facilities such as hanger, catering center and hangar (Cook, Tanner and Lawes 2012). Singapore Airlines currently have an estimated 22% 747-400 aircrafts out of the total global aircraft production. These planes have higher flying range, with efficient fuel consumption and quieter cabin than most that found in most airlines in the industry (Wang 2014). The company further has a comprehensive human resource management system in which the firm provides extensive training and motivation to its workers to enhance their skills and knowledge. Intangible resources are classified as the identifiable resources which cannot be accorded monetary value neither can they be seen, touched or be physically measured (Steven 2010). By estimation, Singapore Airlines as by the June 2017 amounted to about $ 309 million. These intangible resources include Goodwill. SWOT Analysis Table Strengths Weaknesses -Singapore Airlines has the youngest fleet which has the highest fuel efficiency -Have recorded consistent growth in sales and profits in the last two years. -The company is an innovator -Having share holdings in Tiger Airways -Having some restrictions to access certain routes Opportunities Threats -Expansion of its partnerships -Having a promising business growth in India -Experiencing low cost operations by Scoot -Having a constant steady growth -Consistent fluctuations in the aviation fuel -Competition from other carriers like British Airways outside Middle East Possible Strategic Options Option 1: Adoption of Dual Strategy on Global Market Over the years, Singapore Airlines has remained a legendary in the industry owing to its client appeal which led to her winning the prestigious Cond Nast Travelers Readers Choice Award for remarkable twenty-two times. Essentially, the firm emphasized the elements that differentiated it quality service at low costs and these have always given it a competitive advantage in the market. Markides and Sosa (2013) refer to this strategy as a repeatable model where the company ensures that the two elements go hand in hand. It maintains its service levels through proper recruitment, intense staff training, regular innovation and integration of well-developed organizational culture. It also supports low cost for its products and services through the use of rigorous standardization protocol, lower maintenance costs and outsourcing some critical facilities such as payroll and ticketing (Markides and Sosa 2013). To remain competitive in the global market which is characterized by cut throttle competition, SIA must adopt its successful dual strategy as a global player. According to Heracleous and Wirtz (2012) since becoming a global actor is no longer considered as a choice for the airline, it must use its adaptable strategy to cushion itself from potential risks and losses. Evidently, the adopted dual approach is consistent with the carriers strengths and therefore using it in a global strategy would enable the firm to reap most of the benefits from the volatile market. Option 2: Lowering Risks and Managing the Uncontrollable While it is true that the uncontrollable remains unprecedented and unplanned for, their effective management is essential to the success of the business. For instance, the impact of war, fluctuations in the oil prices, local epidemic and even government intervention is always essential for success in an airline industry (Olienyk and Carbaugh 2011). Thus, to properly manage the uncontrollable it is important that SIA engage in the formation of partnership and alliances to ensure the growth of its network. Wu (2016) observes that through these agreements the company will diversify its routes to different market regions and this allow proper understanding of the dynamics of the industry from various perspectives. Its worth mentioning that while the approach of alliances presents the best way for the company to stay ahead in the aviation sector, it must indulge into manageable investments with corresponding lower risks. Given that exploiting new market regions through a partnership with other large airlines, Singapore Airline is exposing herself to major international threats and risks. It must mean therefore to protect its safe economic zones; the company must strategically invest in lower risk ventures especially in a new market just as a way of protecting its interests when the market is not as welcomed as anticipated. Another way of lowering the potential risks is by evaluating and validating a potential company for a partnership before engaging in business with it (Pearson and Merkert 2014). This is vital to ensure that the firm only makes alliances with those companies that have success stories and good reputation in the international market. Recommendation Strategy The best strategy that Singapore Airlines should adopt to further expands its sales volume and profit margin in the global market is the first option which is the adoption of dual strategy on the global market. Based on the companys SWOT analysis, the firm should maximize on its strengths to enhance its global competitiveness to position itself strategically as one of the best and admired airlines in the global airline industry. As observed by Heracleous and Wirtz (2014), Singapore Airlines should put in place every viable strategy that propels it to keep its superiority and stay ahead of the stiff airline competition in the global market irrespective of the prevailing economic conditions. The company should also strive to maintain its competitive edge in the industry despite the strategies that are employed by its main competitors such as British Airways. The company needs to have an in-depth understanding of the business strategies used by some of its leading competitors which include Cathay Pacific, British Airways, and Virgin Atlantic to enhance the quality of services of its travelers while on board (Heracleous and Wirtz 2012). In understanding the business strategies of its competitors, the company should capitalize on the weaknesses of its competitors and through its domination of the global markets, Singapore Airlines will create a conducive avenue for foreign investments (Heracleous and Wirtz 2010) Overall Conclusion Singapore Airlines is viewed as one of the best airlines globally enjoying a significant percentage of the global market share. Based on the changing market trends, Singapore Airlines which has been a premium carrier have started offering lows cost travels to attract the new market. Based on the firms external and SWOT analyses, it is quite evident that the company enjoys considerable market share and competes favorably in the global industry. Despite the various challenges in the global economy, Singapore Airlines has maintained its level of service quality, ethical standards and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). In summary, therefore, improving and restructuring the firms business strategy will further propel the company to greater heights in the global airline industry. References Air Transport World. 2014. Singapore Airlines boosts Tigerair stake. Online at https://atwonline.com/finance-amp-data/singapore-airlines-boosts-tigerair-stake . Chan, D. 2000. The story of Singapore airlines and the Singapore girl. Journal of Management Development, 19(6), pp.456-472. Cook, A., Tanner, G., and Lawes, A., 2012. The hidden cost of airline unpunctuality. Journal of Transport Economics and Policy 462), pp.157-173. Heracleous, L. and Wirtz, J., 2010. Singapore Airlines balancing act.Harvard Business Review,88(7/8), pp.145-149. Heracleous, L. and Wirtz, J., 2012. Strategy and organisation at Singapore Airlines: achieving sustainable advantage through dual strategy. InEnergy, Transport, the Environment(pp. 479-493). Springer London. Heracleous, L. and Wirtz, J., 2014. Singapore Airlines: Achieving sustainable advantage through mastering paradox. The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science, 50(2), pp.150-170. Homsombat, W., Lei, Z. and Fu, X., 2014. Competitive effects of the airlines-within-airlines strategyPricing and route entry patterns. Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, 63, pp.1-16. Markides, C., and Sosa, L., 2013. Pioneering and first mover advantages: the importance of business models. Long Range Planning, 46 (4), pp.325-334. Olienyk, J., and Carbaugh, R. J., 2011. Boeing and Airbus: Duopoly in jeopardy?. Global Economy Journal, 11(1), pp.4. Pearson, J., and Merkert, R., 2014. Airlines-within-airlines: A business model moving east. Journal of Air Transport Management, 38, pp.21-26. Steven, Z., 2010. Singapore Airlines: Case analysis.Publications Oboulo. com. The Times of India. 2014. Tata Sons-Singapore Airlines 'Vistara' set for October launch online at https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/Tata-Sons-Singapore-Airlines-Vistara-set-for-October-launch/articleshow/40063616.cms Wang, S. W., 2014. Do global airline alliances influence the passenger's purchase decision? Journal of Air Transport Management, 37(1), pp.53-59. Wirtz, J., Heracleous, L. and Pangarkar, N., 2008. Managing human resources for service excellence and cost effectiveness at Singapore Airlines.Managing Service Quality: An International Journal,18(1), pp.4-19. Wu, C.L., 2016. Airline Operations and Delay Management: Insights from Airline Economics, Networks and Strategic Schedule Planning. Routledge.

Rio Grande Portland Cement Corp. Essays - Concrete,

Rio Grande Portland Cement Corp. Pueblo citizens are facing a battle. Its a battle between common citizens and those who are in favor of economic development to decide on whether a cement plant will call Pueblo its new home. Its a battle to join together in order to educate those individuals in charge about how building a cement plant would cause more harm than create jobs. Its a battle between the average citizen, concerned about their health and the environment, and the elected official, confident that their influence will bring in a new business for the better of the community. Rio Grande Portland Cement Corp. is planning to build a $160 million, highly automated cement plant 8 miles south of town. In September of 1999, the Pueblo County Planning Commission approved a special-use permit allowing the company to build its mining and manufacturing plant on 6,000 acres southeast of Pueblo. Thereafter, if all the necessary permits are acquired, Rio Grande would be expected to build a cement plant off Lime Road, east of the Stem Beach exit on Interstate 25. (citation here) The special-use permit, however, carried 21 restrictions. Some restrictions include: copies of all license applications and regulatory reports are to be given to the county; no blasting in the limestone quarry would be permitted between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. and none on Sundays; no retail sales are permitted without an amendment to the use permit; violation of any permit can cause the county to consider revoking the special-use permit; Rio Grande could not use more than 70 acres of land at a given time; Rio Grande could not burn tires or any hazardous material in its kiln without amending the permit, which would require a new application and public hearing. (citation here) This permit, however, was only the beginning of the battle that caused citizens to voice their concerns about Pueblos air quality as well as their own health risks. Resident, Cecil Ross, who owns about 200 acres approximately one mile from the proposed site, believes that the cement plant would be devastating to us and the wildlife that lives there. He voiced his concerns about the vegetation and wildlife at a local press conference held by Neil Carman. A former Texas air quality inspector, Carman was brought to Pueblo by opponents of the plant to help educate citizens about the dangers of having a cement plant close in proximity. (citation here). Citizens for Clean Air and Water in Pueblo/Southern Colorado have pointed out that the companys own permit states that it will release about 6 million pounds of pollutants into the air each year. In fact, Rio Grandes application draft for a Colorado air quality control permit states that the plant would emit 160 tons per year of particulate pollution (which averages to about 35 pounds escaping into the air each day), 150 tons of very small particulates, 1,000 tons of oxides of nitrogen, 944 tons of sulfur dioxide and about 1,000 tons of carbon monoxide. (citation here) At first, Rio Grande submitted a draft application asking that the plant be allowed to produce 1 million tons of cement a year in order to meet the demand for the product. Now, information taken from an article by The Pueblo Chieftain Online states the company has submitted an amendment to their permit asking that the plant be allowed to manufacture 100 million tons of cement per year, increasing its volume of emissions as well. Rio Grandes vice president of operations, Ron Hedrick, claims that the only cloud that anyone would see over our operation would be the water vapor on a cold day (citation here). In fact, the many pollutants that would be emitted by the cement plant would be highly invisible, toxins that will eventually end up causing many heath related problems for people who already suffer from asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis as well as pneumonia. Statistics taken from a South Carolina study reported 50 to 100% greater prevalence of coughing phlegm, wheezing, sore throat and eye irritation among the population. Another study found more cases of diagnosed emphysema, sinus trouble, and bronchitis cough in populations that are living downwind of a hazardous waste incinerator. (citation here). In extreme

10 California Geography Facts

10 California Geography Facts California  is a state located in the western United States. It is the largest state in the union based on its population of over 35 million and it is the third largest state (behind Alaska and Texas) by land area. California is bordered to the north by Oregon, to the east by Nevada, to the southeast by Arizona, to the south by Mexico and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Californias nickname is the Golden State. The state of California is most well known for its large cities, varied topography, favorable climate, and large economy. As such, Californias population has grown quickly over the past decades and it continues to grow today via both immigration from foreign countries and movement from other states. Basic Facts Capital: SacramentoPopulation: 38,292,687 (January 2009 estimate)Largest Cities: Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose, San Francisco, Long Beach, Fresno, Sacramento, and OaklandArea: 155,959 square miles (403,934 sq km)Highest Point: Mount Whitney at 14,494 feet (4,418 m)Lowest Point: Death Valley at -282 feet (-86 m) Geographic Facts About California The following is a list of ten geographic facts to know about the state of California: 1) California was one of the most diverse regions for Native American in the United States with around 70 independent tribes prior to the arrival of persons from other areas in the 1500s. The first explorer of the California coast was the Portuguese explorer Joo Rodrigues Cabrilho in 1542. 2) Throughout the rest of the 1500s, the Spanish explored Californias coast and eventually established 21 missions in what was known as Alta California. In 1821, The Mexican War of Independence allowed Mexico and California to become independent of Spain. Following this independence, Alta California remained as a northern province of Mexico. 3) In 1846, the Mexican-American War broke out and following the end of the war, Alta California became a U.S. territory. By the 1850s, California had a large population as a result of the Gold Rush and on September 9, 1850, California was admitted into the United States. 4) Today, California is the most populous state in the U.S. For reference, Californias population is over 39 million people, making it roughly the same as the entire country of Canada. Illegal immigration is also a problem in California and in 2010, around 7.3% of the population was made up of illegal immigrants. 5) Most of Californias population is clustered within one of three major metropolitan areas. These include the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Area, Southern California extending from Los Angeles to San Diego and Central Valley cities stretching from Sacramento to Stockton and Modesto. 6) California has varied topography that includes mountain ranges like the Sierra Nevada that run south to north along the eastern border of the state and the Tehachapi Mountains in Southern California. The state also has famous valleys like the agriculturally productive Central Valley and the wine-growing Napa Valley. 7) Central California is divided into two regions by its major river systems. The Sacramento River, which begins flowing near Mount Shasta in northern California, provides water to both the northern part of the state and the Sacramento Valley. The San Joaquin River forms the watershed for the San Joaquin Valley, another agriculturally productive region of the state. The two rivers then join to form the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta system which is a major water supplier for the state, a water transit hub, and an incredibly biodiverse region. 8) Most of Californias climate is considered Mediterranean with warm to hot dry summers and mild wet winters. Cities located closer to the Pacific coast feature a maritime climate with cool foggy summers, while the Central Valley and other inland locations can become very hot in the summer. For example, San Franciscos average July high temperature is 68 °F (20 °C) while Sacramentos is 94 °F (34 °C). California also has desert regions like Death Valley and very cold climates in the higher mountain areas. 9) California is highly active geologically as it is located within the Pacific Ring of Fire. Many large faults such as the San Andreas run throughout the state making a large portion of it, including the Los Angeles and San Francisco metropolitan areas, prone to earthquakes. A portion of the volcanic Cascade Mountain Range also extends into northern California and Mount Shasta and Mount Lassen are active volcanoes in the area. Drought, wildfire, landslides, and flooding are other natural disasters common in California. 10) Californias economy is responsible for about 13% of the gross domestic product for the entire United States. Computers and electronic products are Californias largest export, while tourism, agriculture and other manufacturing industries make up a large part of the states economy.

Free sample - Tristan and Isolde. translation missing

Tristan and Isolde. Tristan and IsoldeTristan and Isolde is an opera or music drama that was composed by Wagner between the year 1856 and 1859 (Borchmeyer 10). It was however premiered in Munich on the 10th of June 1865. To come up with this drama masterpiece, Wagner got inspiration from his affair with Mathilde Wesendonck as well as Arthur Schopenhauer’s philosophy. This piece of drama is largely seen as very significant in the development of Western music (Borchmeyer 15). Wagner’s work has however not been without critics. In 1882, when Wagner’s opera was staged in London’s Drury Lane Theatre, The Era protested against what it termed as the worship of animal passion in Wagner’s operas (Borchmeyer 22). The Era claimed that the passion in Tristan was unholy in itself and at the same time it was represented impurely. Wagner was also criticized for glorifying sensual pleasure in the Tristan. This criticism came from the Allgemeine musikalische Zeitung in the 5th July 1865 edition (Borchmeyer 24). The edition additionally claimed that this opera from Wagner was full of materialism and treated human beings as having no destiny higher than vanishing in sweet odours like a breath after a life resembling that of turtle doves. He was also criticized by the same edition for enslaving music to the word (Borchmeyer 25). Lastly, the edition criticized Wagner for failing to show the life of his heroes, a move that would edify as well as s trengthen the spirit of his audience. The edition claimed that he concentrated more on showing how the life of these heroes were destroyed through sensuality. History has also criticized Wagner’s personality. He is described as arrogant, self-centered, vulnerable to excess indiscretion, as well as intolerant. He is said to have tried to evade his creditors before Ludwing bailed him out (Borchmeyer 42). Operas/ music dramas written by Wagner include: Die feen (The Fairies), Das Liebesverbot( The Ban on Love), Rienzi, Der Fliegende Hollander (The Flying Dutchman), Tannhauser – including the â€Å"Pilgrim’s chorus†, Lohengrin, Tristan and Isolde, Die Meistersinger Von Nurnberg (The Master Singers of Nurnberg) and Parsifal which is a semi-religious work. This makes a total of about nine (Borchmeyer 50). Wagner’s operas were quite distinctive. This can be seen through his use of a remarkable range of orchestral color, as well as harmony and polyphony in the Tristan. This is done with a freedom not experienced in earlier operas (Wagner 33). In the Tristan, the first chord, popularly known as the Tristan chord, marks an exit from traditional tonal harmony by resolving to a different discordant chord. Tristan shows many other things distinctive with Wagner’s operas like frequent use of two consecutive triads whose roots lie a triton apart (Borchmeyer 30). Wagner was also the first to make use of harmonic suspension, which involves exposing the listener to prolonged but unfinished condenses. This is the surest way a composer can create musical tension because it inspires a desire as well as an expectation from the audience and this creates musical resolution. Wagner’s exposure to medieval literature formed the basis for his stories. He developed some of the ideas from this literature into operas as well as music dramas. Wagner’s contact with a middle high Germany epic called the Nibelungenlied for instance led to his composition of the Der Ring des Nibelungen. On average, Wagner’s performances would last for about three hours (Borchmeyer 14). Wagner’s tragic story of Tristan and Isolde took place during the medieval times during the regime of king Arthur. Isolde of Ireland was a daughter to Angwish, the king of Ireland. In this story, Isolde was betrothed to the king of Cornwall whose name was Mark (Scruton 20). This king send his nephew, Tristan to Ireland to help bring Isolde back to Cornwall. The author argues that Tristan is a name standing for sorrow and this character was given it because the mother died at his birth. He is described as a noble knight. Isolde’s handmaiden was called Brangraine. As Isolde was leaving for Cornwall from Ireland, her mother gave her handmaiden a love portion which was supposed to be kept safe until they reached their destination . (Scruton 30) This love portion was to be given to Isolde during her wedding night. The two didn’t observe these instructions as they drank the portion. This made them fall in love forever. Although later Isolde married mark as scheduled, the portion left her with no choice but to continue loving Tristan. King mark later realized the affair but had the heart to forgive Isolde the betrayal notwithstanding. He however decided to ban Tristan from Cornwall (Scruton 40). After the ban, Tristan moved to the court of king Arthur and later to Brittany. There he met Iseult of Brittany whose other name was Iseult of white hands. Owing to the similarity of her name to that of Isolde, Tristan got attracted to her (Scruton 75). They got married although they failed to consummate their marriage since he was unable to let go his true love Isolde. Tristan later fell ill and decided to send for his true love Isolde. He was so much in love with her that he believed she could even cure him (Scruton 80). They believed that if she decided to come for his rescue, the returning ship’s sails would be white and black if she didn’t. Iseult was not comfortable with the healing arrangement and therefore lied to Tristan that the sails of the returning ship were black though they were white. This caused Tristan to give up hope which caused him to succumb to grief shortly before Isolde could reach him. Isolde died later out of an heart break. Iseult later regret ted deeply the injustice she had done since she came to learn the deep love Tristan and Isolde had for each other (Scruton 100). Anti-Semitism refers to hostility towards Jews. Such people hate the ethnic background, culture as well as the religion of Jews. Anti-Semitism is evident in the work of Wagner. Firstly, despite being the most influential composer of his time, he never staged any performance in Israel. His anti-Semitism is also evident in his essay titled â€Å"Judaism in music†. In this essay, he savages Jewish composers by deeming them a threat to Germany music since he described their music as having an alien influence and negative (Scruton 90). Liebestod is a German word for love death. This is the title of the last dramatic aria in Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde. This world comes from the German words Liebe , meaning Love and Tod meaning Death. A literal use of this word refers to the erotic death theme. This theme can also be referred to as the â€Å"love death† theme. Its a theme that indicates that, two lovers consummate their love in death or after death (Scruton 112). The theme of death is evident in the Wagner’s final dramatic aria in Tristan and Isolde which he named the liebestod. Its witnessed when Tristan died just before the arrival of his true love Isolde and also when Isolde died as a result of a broken heart later. Desire is on the other hand seen in several episodes in this final aria. First, there is the desire to love that Tristan has towards Iseult. The desire for healing is seen when Tristan sent for his true love to come and cure him. The desire to live is also seen when Tristan sent for Isolde to cure him (Borchmeyer 50). The theme of night was evident when Tristan invited Isolde to follow him into the night realm which she agreed to before he kissed her on the forehead (Borchmeyer 70). The marriage of Isldole was also carried out at night. We can define renunciation as the act of avoiding negative emotions through practices such as widening of love. This was evident when Tristan was banned from Cornwall. To avoid the negati ve emotions brought about by loosing his true love, he went ahead to find another love (Borchmeyer 80). Works cited Borchmeyer, D. Drama and the World of Richard Wagner, London: Princeton University Press, 2003 Scruton, R. Death-Devoted Heart: Sex and the Sacred in Wagner's Tristan and Isolde. London: Oxford University Press, 2004 Wagner, R. Tristan and Isolde. London: J. Calder, 1981

3600 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

3600 - Essay Example Therefore, the evolution of the word clearly indicates that this branch of anthropological study actually deals with procedure pertaining to qualitative research methodology, precisely in anthropological studies or in social sciences and implies to the gathering of empirical data pertaining to human culture and science. The ethnography therefore focuses on the myriad aspects pertaining to socio-cultural milieu of a particular tribe or people residing in some of the particular geographical terrains. The ethnography by Daniel Neuman is about the music in the northern part of India known as â€Å"Hindustani Music† in the local language by the canon of musicians related with it. Music is a primitive language for communication in human civilisation. Various socio-cultural and historical perspectives of the people residing in a particular geographical area evolve through music or folklore and folk culture of that area. Likewise, â€Å"Hindustani Music† bears the typical cultural essence of North India and is an incarnation of the rich heritage and culture of the area with its myriad blend and influences. The ethnography, â€Å"The Life of Music in North India† is a journey through the history witnessing the origin and the development of ‘Hindustani Music’ and the way it nurtured in the hands of the magician musicians through ages. The ethnography is very strong as it bears the testimony and experience of these musicians who dedicated their life and passed on their legacy to the future generations even for the cause of the particular music and its development. The research content of the ethnography is based primarily on the field work which can be treated as the primary research too. The first-hand survey done by Neuman during the year 1969 to 1971 in Delhi forms the base of the ethnography. Neuman interviewed musicians during this time and he made a trip to the northern part of India, precisely the cities those are situated

Critically analyze the major HRM systems of HP Essay

Critically analyze the major HRM systems of HP - Essay Example HP, is used strategically to shape and reinforce a certain type of culture by reinforcing certain ideas, norms, and behavior and by discouraging others. Strong values are passed down by the management and then reinforced by procedures and rituals that emphasize and reward desired behaviors in tandem with a cultural network that is consisted of a system of communication that is used as a tool to disseminate values and create corporate heroes. (Barry 2000, p. 107) This paper will explore the processes involved behind the HP HRM strategy, particularly the organizations rigorous selection and recruitment methods and the emphasis on employee training, compensation and performance evaluation. It is important to underscore that HP, along with IBM, initiated the antecedents of HRM in its studies of non-unionized employee management. For HP, HRM has always been associated with the kind of people management that placed a great deal of emphasis on gaining the commitment of individual employees to organizational goals. Confidence in and respect for our people as opposed to depending upon extensive rules, procedures and so on; which depends upon people to do their job right (individual freedom) without constant directives. (Gratton 1999, p. 109) One needs to remember that HP is now known worldwide as a company that continually creates innovative products and processes. That is why HP wants to recruit not just the best people but those skilled and committed to work in an entrepreneurial team-based environment that breeds innovation. According to Dexter Dunphy (2002), the core approach that drives HP’s way in developing its human capital lie in the following strategies: The above-mentioned strategies supposedly make it possible for HP to be able to quickly respond to the requirements of the market and the customers’ expectations. Such strategies are anchored on the development of enabling departmental structures like the utilization of smaller departments and