Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management free essay sample

Researching for and finalizing this report have been an extremely learning, interesting and rewarding experience for me. It was a lifetime opportunity to compare the bookish knowledge with the real-world applications. I have gone heights to ensure the highest possible quality of our research and report. You would be pleased to know that I have worked with the utmost possible integrity, honesty and care for preparing this paper. I also tried to follow your instructions properly now and when necessary. I would like to request you to allow me to submit the report on the Portfolio Management Sincerely Yours Md. Sabirul Islam ID- 081-12-0199 Introduction: Security Portfolio Management: Portfolio is a group of financial assets such as shares, stocks, bonds, debt instruments, mutual funds, cash equivalents, etc. A portfolio is planned to stabilize the risk of non-performance of various pools of investment. Management is the organization and coordination of the activities of an enterprise in accordance with well-defined policies and in achievement of its pre-defined objectives. We will write a custom essay sample on Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Portfolio Management (PM) guides the investor in a method of selecting the best available securities that will provide the expected rate of return for any given degree of risk and also to mitigate (reduce) the risks. It is a strategic decision which is addressed by the top-level managers. Portfolio management is also known as investment management which consists of managing the investment securities options. There are seven main activities in portfolio management. They are: †¢ Laying down the objectives of investment and the difficulties involved in it Choosing the asset mix †¢ Portfolio strategy formulation †¢ Securities selection †¢ Execution of portfolio †¢ Revision of portfolio and †¢ Evaluation of performance. Here, Security selection is the first question and Asset allocation is the second question. Security selection based on: †¢ Risk: The measures of risk that are most widely and commonly used are variability and beta measures. The preferred measure of variability is standard deviation and beta reflects the systematic risk of the portfolio. †¢ 2. Return: Return can be expressed as a percentage and is calculated by adding the income and the change in value and then dividing by the initial principal or investment amount. The change in the value of a portfolio over an evaluation period, including any distributions made from the portfolio during that period. Measuring the overall performance measuring the performance of the portfolio involves considering both risk and return. The most widely used measures of performance are Treynor’s measure, the Sharpe measure, the Jensen measure and the M2 measure. Apex Adelchi Footwear Limited [pic] | A leading manufacturer and exporter of leather footwear from Bangladesh to major shoe retailers in Western Europe, North America and Japan. The company has revenues of USD 42 million in 2006. AAFL pioneered the export of value added finished products export in the leather sector of Bangladesh and is also involved in the local footwear retail business with the second largest shoe retail net work in the country. AAFL has equity , technical and marketing participation from La Nuova Adelchi one of the largest footwear manufacturers of Italy. Beximco Pharma Beximco Pharma aspires to become a nationally admired and globally reputed generic pharmaceutical company, committed to enhancing human health and life. Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd (BPL) is a leading manufacturer of pharmaceutical formulations and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in Bangladesh. Beximco Pharma is the flagship company of Beximco Group, the largest private sector industrial conglomerate in Bangladesh, and remains the only Bangladeshi company with an AIM listing on the London Stock Exchange. The company is the largest exporter of pharmaceuticals in the country and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities are certified by global regulatory bodies of Australia, European Union, Gulf nations, Brazil, among others. The company is consistently building upon its portfolio and currently producing more than four hundred products in different dosage forms covering broader therapeutic categories which include antibiotics, antihypertensives, antidiabetics, antireretrovirals, anti asthma inhalers etc, among many others. With decades of contract manufacturing experience with global MNCs, skilled manpower and proven formulation capabilities, the company has been building a visible and growing presence across the continents offering high quality generics at the most affordable cost. Ensuring access to quality medicines is the powerful aspiration that motivates more than 2,500 employees of the organization, and each of them is guided by the same moral and social responsibilities the company values most. Today Beximco Pharma is building its presence across five continents and is the only Bangladeshi company to market pharmaceutical products in the USA. The company has a visible and growing presence in emerging market. We’ve built Beximco Pharma into one of the most trusted pharmaceutical companies in the country by delivering solid returns to our shareholders, and helping patients with life-altering conditions so that they may live their lives to the fullest. Products Services The name Beximco Pharma assures you of many things: outstanding product quality, leading-edge technology, advanced new products, and a commitment to serve the medical community. Our products come in a wide range of dosage forms including tablets, capsules, dry syrup, powder for suspension, cream, ointment, suppositories, metered dose nasal sprays, large volume intravenous fluids, metered dose inhalers etc. ensuring the global standard of quality. Healthcare professionals may contact us directly or alternatively the nearest Beximco Pharma Medical Representatives for further information. Our country regulations do not allow pharmaceutical companies to offer medical advice or guidance to patients. Prescription medicines should be taken only as directed by a registered medical practitioner. Click on the product name for Consumer Medicine Information (CMI). The CMIs on this website are for Bangladeshi residents only. The CMIs were updated on 1st March, 2010 and are static documents. Objectives of Portfolio Management The main objectives of portfolio management are as follows: †¢ Security of Principal Investment: Investment safety or minimization of risks is one of the most important objectives of portfolio management. Portfolio management not only involves keeping the investment intact but also contributes towards the growth of its purchasing power over the period. The motive of a financial portfolio management is to ensure that the investment is absolutely safe. †¢ Consistency of Returns: Portfolio management also ensures to provide the stability of returns by reinvesting the same earned returns in profitable and good portfolios. The portfolio helps to yield steady returns. The earned returns should compensate the opportunity cost of the funds invested. Capital Growth: Portfolio management guarantees the growth of capital by reinvesting in growth securities or by the purchase of the growth securities. A portfolio shall appreciate in value, in order to safeguard the investor from any erosion in purchasing power due to inflation and other economic factors. A portfolio must consist of those investments, which tend to appreciate in real value after adjusting for inflation. †¢ Marketability: Portfolio management ensures the flexibility to the investment portfolio. A portfolio consists of such investment, which can be marketed and traded. Suppose, if your portfolio contains too many unlisted or inactive shares, then there would be problems to do trading like switching from one investment to another. It is always recommended to invest only in those shares and securities which are listed on major stock exchanges, and also, which are actively traded. †¢ Liquidity: Portfolio management is planned in such a way that it facilitates to take maximum advantage of various good opportunities upcoming in the market. The portfolio should always ensure that there are enough funds available at short notice to take care of the investor’s liquidity requirements. Diversification of Portfolio: Portfolio management is purposely designed to reduce the risk of loss of capital and/or income by investing in different types of securities available in a wide range of industries. The investors shall be aware of the fact that there is no such thing as a zero risk investment. More over relatively low risk investment give corresponding ly a lower return to their financial portfolio. †¢ Favorable Tax Status: Portfolio management is planned in such a way to increase the effective yield an investor gets from his surplus invested funds.

Composite Columns From Roman Architecture

Composite Columns From Roman Architecture In architecture, the Composite column is a Roman-designed column style that combines characteristics of the ancient Greek-era Ionic and the Corinthian columns. Composite columns have highly decorated capitals (tops). Typical of the Corinthian capital, the floral ornamentation of the Composite capital is styled after the acanthus leaf. The leaf decoration elements of the Corinthian style combine with the scroll designs (volute) that characterize the Ionic style. The Composite is considered one of the five orders of classical architecture. Fast Facts: Composite Columns A composite is by definition a combination of elements.Composite columns can describe column design or materials.A Roman Composite column combines the designs of the Greek Ionic and Corinthian columns.The capital top of a Roman Composite column has scrolls (volutes) and leaf decorations.Since the Renaissance, Composite column designs have been used in decorative pilasters.Composite columns were originally made of stone, but today a composite can be a mixture of synthetic materials. Classical architecture, including columns, refers to what builders designed in ancient Greece and Roman. A column consists of a base, a shaft, and a capital at the top of a shaft. In ancient times, the capital and the entablature above it were paired with distinctive characteristics that make up what became known as the classical orders of architecture. Size and proportion of each column type was standardized, although today, most people identify column types solely by their capital design. Documenting the types of ancient columns was advanced by Renaissance-era architects like Palladio and Vignloa. In fact, the word composite meaning a combination or compound of different elements was not generally used until the Renaissance in the 15th century. In American English, pronounce composite with the accent on the second syllable - kum-POS-it. In British English, the first syllable is more often accented. The Arch of Titus (Arco di Tito), c. 81 B.C. Andrea Jemolo Mondadori Portfolio/Getty Images (cropped) The Arch of Titus from the 1st century may be the first instance of the Roman composite column. Triumphal arches such as this one celebrated military victories and heroic conquerors - Titus and his Roman army returned to Rome after sacking Jerusalem and destroying the Second Temple in the year 70. World history is filled with military triumphs in one community that are sorrowful defeats in another - while the arch Titus marched beneath still stands in Rome, a more somber remembrance is observed in the Jewish religion on Tisha BAv. The Roman-type of columns can be found in the architecture of any of the regions influenced by the Roman Empire. Egyptian and Perian columns are often composites of Western and Eastern traditions. Composite columns can be found throughout the Middle East, most notably in Petra in Jordan. Bab el Siq Treasury (Al Khazneh), 1st Century, Petra, Jordan. Luca Mozzati Mondadori/Getty Images (cropped) Roman architect Marcus Vitruvius died before he could document the style of what is known as the Composite column - perhaps he would have dismissed this Roman combo column. The European architects of the Renaissance, however, noticed the beauty and practicality of this Roman design and incorporated it in many of their buildings during the 16th century. The well-known architect Andrea Palladio used Composite columns in many of his designs, including in the facade of the island Church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice, Italy. Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, 1610, Venice, Italy, Architect Andrea Palladio. Nicola De Pasquale/Getty Images (cropped) The influential Italian Renaissance architect Giacomo da Vignola incorporated Composite designs in the pilasters that adorn his work, including the 16th century Palazzo dei Banchi in Bologna, Italy. Composite designs, being a later invention within the Classical Orders, were often more decorative than structural - pilasters and engaged columns (round columns protruding like a pilaster) provide the essence of Classical design without being full columns. French Renaissance architect Pierre Lescot chose Composite pilasters in his designs for the Louvre in Paris and the 1550 Fontaine des Innocents. Lescot and sculptor Jean Goujon brought Renaissance Classicism to France. Fontaine des Innocents, 1550, Paris, France, Architect Pierre Lescot. Frà ©dà ©ric Soltan/Corbis via Getty Images (cropped) Because the combination (or composite) of the two Greek designs makes the Composite column more ornate than other columns, Composite columns are sometimes found in lavish 17th-century Baroque architecture. Pilasters were often used to ornament interiors, a decoration that provided classic, regal decoration to a room - even aboard a ship. A 19th century carved wooden Composite capital was found in the cabin of a Spanish Navy vessel captured by the U.S. Navy during the Spanish-American War. In contemporary architecture, the term composite column can be used to describe any style column molded from a man-made composite material such as fiberglass or a polymer resin, sometimes reinforced with metal. Significance of the Composite Order Its not the first type of column in Greek and Roman architecture, so what is the significance of the Composite Order? The earlier Ionic Order has an inherent design problem - how do you round the design of the rectangular volute capitals to elegantly fit on the top of a round shaft? The flowery asymmetrical Corinthian Order does the job. By combining both orders, the Composite column is visually more appealing while keeping the strength found in the Ionic Order. The significance of the Composite Order is that in its creation ancient architect-designers were modernizing architecture. Even today, architecture is an iterative process, that good ideas are brought together to form better ideas - or at least something new and different. Design is not pure in architecture. Design builds on itself by combination and elimination. It could be said that architecture itself is a composite.

Impact of Demand and Supply on Price and Quantity Essay

Impact of Demand and Supply on Price and Quantity - Essay Example For ringing out the inverse relationship between price and quantity, we have to assume that other things are equal which means that all the factors, other than the price of the goods remain unchanged. This is called the ceteris paribus assumption. In the diagram, the line ABC is called a demand curve which shows the inverse relationship between the price and quantity demanded. The demand curve will always slope downwards to the right. The most important reason for the demand curve sloping downwards is the operation of the law of diminishing marginal utility. The law of diminishing marginal utility explains that the consumer will buy more and more of a commodity only at a lesser price. The term supply means the quantities of goods and services which a seller is willing and able to offer for sale at a price during a period of time. Thus, supply is always at a price, at a particular point of time and at a certain quantity. The law of supply states that other things being equal higher the price greater will be the quantity supplied by the producer and lower the price smaller will be the quantity supplied. There is a direct and positive relationship between price and quantity supplied.. ... LAW OF SUPPLY The term supply means the quantities of goods and services which a seller is willing and able to offer for sale at a price during a period of time. Thus, supply is always at a price, at a particular point of time and at a certain quantity. The law of supply states that other things being equal higher the price greater will be the quantity supplied by the producer and lower the price smaller will be the quantity supplied. There is a direct and positive relationship between price and quantity supplied. ABC is the supply curve. The relationship between the price and quantity supplied is depicted by the supply curve. When price remains constant producers or sellers may come forward to supply less or more at a particular price. This is referred to as a shift in supply. DEMAND INCREASES and SUPPLY INCREASES When both the demand and supply increases the quantity will not be much affected because an increase in demand will be met by an increase in supply. This situation mostly is found during the long period when the firm will have adequate time and resources to meet the increase in demand. In the long run, all the factors are variable. Under the long period, supply and demand fluctuate freely and they become equal. Therefore there will not be much increase or decrease in price and price will remain stable. During the long period, there is ample time for the firm to increase the capital for the expansion of plant and machinery to increase the quantity of output, according to the increase in demand. Therefore supply can be changed to meet the increased demand of any commodity.  

Rehabilitation of the Injured Athlete Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Rehabilitation of the Injured Athlete - Essay Example The program will encompass total recovery, involving pre-habilitation and the actual rehabilitation process – including targeted treatment and exercises, aimed at returning Simon to his rugby team and game as soon as possible. The shoulder consists of three bones the clavicle, scapula, and humerus, and two joints, the acromioclavicular and glenohumeral joints (Quinn, 2006). The bones are connected to each other by ligaments, while they are connected to muscles by tendons (Quinn, 2006). These structures, along with the rotator cuff muscles, cooperate to provide motion, mobility, and strength to the very movable shoulder joint which is quite unstable and prone to injury from impact (Quinn, 2006). Nevertheless, the 13 muscles in the shoulder joint, offer biomechanical protection which provides a measure of stability to this vulnerable and unstable joint (Funk, 2011). Simon’s collision caused his dislocated shoulder joint, where an extreme rotation occurred violently twisti ng his shoulder upward and backward, causing the humerus to jump out of the glenoid, and delivering intense pain and weakness in the arm, presumably because the rotator cuff was damaged during the impact (Cunha, 2011). The four tendons in the rotator cuff are connected to four muscles which turn the arm inward, upward, and outward (Cunha, 2011), and are responsible for stabilizing the humerus in the socket (Erstad, 2010). Simon’s collision caused the joint capsule, cartilage, and rotator cuff ligaments, which keep the shoulder intact, to tear (Wedro, 2011). The resultant pain signalled the need for medical attention. The injured shoulder would first have been tied in a makeshift sling, before Simon was rushed to a doctor (Cunha, 2011) (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2009). Most likely he was given pain killers and then quickly examined by the doctor, who probably touched the shoulder from the side to see whether the humeral head was in position (Cunha, 2011). Simon probably grimaced at t he pain in the front of the shoulder, caused when the doctor bent his elbow or turned his wrist, indicating a SLAP lesion (Pesic, 2011). The doctor would then x-ray the injury to confirm the diagnosis and ascertain whether there were broken bones (Cunha, 2011). Having found no broken bones, the doctor would first determine whether the SLAP lesion could be treated non-surgically through shoulder rest and medication to lessen inflammation (Pesic, 2011). Simon would naturally be removed from active play (Pesic, 2011). SLAP lesion physical therapy would be done by stretching and strengthening the muscles surrounding the rotator cuff and scapula, through special exercises (Pesic, 2011). Cold therapy, which can be a three-hour application of ice packs or a massage, could also be done to reduce swelling and pain (Pesic, 2011). The RICE technique of rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the shoulder would also be applied (â€Å"Cold Therapy,† 2011). If those measures are not succe ssful, surgery would be scheduled. Maunder (2011) feels that Simon should be prepared mentally and physically for surgery to increase his chances of success. Prehabilitation would give him an opportunity to ask questions and learn

Subculture III Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Subculture III - Essay Example Heroes Camp has been such a subculture that has considerable influence upon the lives of the deprived children of the South Bend region of Indiana. The management and the officials of the Heroes Camp have been crucial for the purpose of enlightenment of the mind, body, and soul of those children and transform their lives for the greater good of the God and society. Heroes Camp has been an influential subculture for the ‘at – risk’ youth of the region of South Bend of Indiana. The most important aspect of this subculture has been that it has been helping the members to get involved in the long-term relationship of love and mutual respect. The present facility of the Heroes Camp has an area of more than 20,000 square feet of area that includes the food bank, at least three basketball courts, kitchen, offices and the laundry area. The further description of the Heroes Camp suggests it to be a, â€Å"an organization that trains youth with activities that offer hope, life skills, and loving relationships. This outreach has an extraordinary component that specializes in servicing the overlooked and disadvantaged youth who are challenged by lives circumstances. Heroes Camp purposes to provide a solid foundation for the progressive development of spirit, soul, and body with an end goal of holistic growth so that youth have the oppo rtunity to build stable productive lives and become leaders†. The most important factor for the success and the prosperity of the sub – culture (Heroes Camp) has been the highly experienced and influential management. The ministry is headed by Pat Magley and B J Magley, the co-founders and the directors. The organization was founded by them in 1989 and Pat has been working full – time for the ministry since 1990 as he left his job with Berkheimer.

Reinforced Concrete Frame Structure Advantages

Reinforced Concrete Frame Structure Advantages Reinforced concrete is one of the most widely used modern building materials. Concrete is artificial stone obtained by mixing cement, sand, and aggregates with water. Fresh concrete can be molded into almost any shape, which is an inherent advantage over other materials. Concrete become very popular after the invention of Portland cement in 19th century. However, its limited tension resistance prevented its wide use in building construction. To overcome this weakness, steel bard are embedded in concrete to form a composite material called reinforced concrete. Developments in the modern reinforced concrete design and construction practice were pioneered by European engineers in the late 19th century. At the present time, reinforced concrete is extensively used in a wide variety of engineering applications. The worldwide use of reinforced concrete construction stems from the wide availability of reinforcing steel as well as the concrete ingredients. Unlike steel, concrete production does not require expensive manufacturing mills. Concrete construction, does, however, require a certain level of technology, expertise, and workmanship, particularly in the field during construction. In some cases, single-family houses or simple low-rise residential buildings are constructed without any engineering assistance. The extensive use of reinforced concrete construction, especially in developing countries, is due to its relatively low cost compared to other materials such as steel. The cost of construction changes with the region and strongly depends on the local practice. As an example, a unit area of a typical residential building made with reinforced concrete costs approximately $100/m ² in India, $250/m ² in Turkey, and $500/m ² in Italy. With the rapid growth of urban population in both the developing and the industrialized countries, reinforced concrete has become a material of choice for residential construction. Unfortunately, in many cases there is not the necessary level of expertise in design and construction. Design applications ranges from single-family buildings in countries like Colombia to high rises in China. Frequently, reinforced concrete construction is used in regions of high seismic risk. Introduction Steel reinforced concrete is a specific type that has had strong steel rebar or fibers added to it while wet, creating a very strong type of concrete that is able to withstand almost anything when it has dried. Because the result of using steel reinforced are so good for the strength of the building, most modern building today use steel reinforced concrete in the construction process. By adding thin steel bars to concrete can increase the strength of the concrete, making it better to use in variety of application. Today, many of the buildings located nations use reinforced concrete to make the buildings stronger and better able to in industrialized withstand the ravages of time and the weather. Reinforcing the concrete that will be used on the buildings add tensile strength to the concrete, making it much stronger and more flexible that regular concrete, which helps prevent cracking and breakage. Steel reinforced concrete can be used in a number of building applications, including fl oors, beams, supports, walls, and frames. Steel reinforced concrete is a concrete in which steel reinforcement bars, plates or fibers have been incorporated to build up a material that would otherwise be fragile. If a material with high strength in tension, such as steel, is placed in concrete, then the composite material, reinforced concrete, resists compression but also bending, and other direct tensile action. A reinforced concrete section where the concrete resists the compression and steel resists the tension can be made into almost any shape and size for the construction industry. Reinforcing Steel Before placing reinforcing steel in forms, all form oiling should be completed. As mentioned earlier, oil or other coating should not contact the reinforcing steel in the formwork. Oil on reinforcing bars reduces the bond between the bars and the concrete. Use a piece of burlap to clean the bars of rust, scales, grease, mud or other foreign matter. A light film of rust or mild film is not objectionable. Rebars must be tied together for the bars tore main in a desired arrangement during pouring. Tying is also a means of keeping laps or splices in place. Laps allow bond stress to transfer the load from one bar, first into the concrete and then into the second bar. Advantages Behaviour Materials Concrete is a mixture of cement, stone aggregate, and small amount of water. Cement hydrates from microscopic opaque crystal lattices encapsulating and locking the aggregate into a rigid structure. Typical concrete mixes have low tensile strength. Steel, is placed in concrete, then it will not only resists compression but also bending, and other direct tensile actions. Steel also made the bonding of the aggregate in a concrete better. Physical characteristics of steel reinforced concrete: The coefficient of thermal expansion of concrete is similar to that of steel, eliminating internal stresses due to differences in thermal expansion or contraction. When the cement paste within the concrete hardens this conforms to the surface details of the steel, permitting any stress to be transmitted efficiently between the different materials. The alkaline chemical environment provided by calcium carbonate causes a passivating film to form on the surface of the steel, making it much more resistant to corrosion than it would be in neutral or acidic conditions. Common Failure Modes of Steel Reinforced Concrete Conventional steel reinforced concrete can failed due to inadequate strength, leading to mechanical failure, or due to a reduction in its durability. Corrosion and freeze may damage poorly designed or constructed reinforced concrete. When rebar corrodes, the oxidation products expand and tends to flake, cracking the concrete and unbonding the rebar from the concrete. Typical mechanisms leading to durability problems are as below: Mechanical failure Steel reinforced concrete may be considered to have failed when significant cracks occur. Cracking of the concrete section cannot be prevented. However, the size and location of the cracks can be limited and controlled by reinforcement, placement of control joints, the curing methodology and the mix design of the concrete. Cracking defects can allow moisture to penetrate and corrode the reinforcement. This is a serviceability failure in limit state design. Cracking is normally the result of an inadequate quantity of rebar, or rebar spaced at too great a distance. The concrete then cracks either under excess loadings, or due to internal effects such as early thermal shrinkage when it cures. Ultimate failure leading to collapse can be caused by crushing of the concrete matrix, when stresses exceed its strength by yielding of the rebar or by bond failure between the concrete and the rebar. Carbonation Carbonation or neutralisation, is a chemical reaction between carbon dioxide in the air and calcium hydroxide and hydrated calcium silicate in the concrete. The water in the pores of Portland Cement Concrete is normally alkaline with a pH in the range of 12.5 to 13.5. This highly alkaline environment is one in which the embedded steel is passivated and is protected from corrosion. The carbon dioxide in the air reacts with the alkaline in the cement and makes the pore water more acidic, thus lowering the pH. Carbon dioxide will start to carbonate the cement in the concrete from the moment the object is made. This carbonation process will start at surface, then slowly move deeper and deeper into the concrete. If the object is cracked, the carbon dioxide in the air will be better able to penetrate into the concrete. Carbonated concrete only becomes a durability problem when there is also sufficient moisture and oxygen to cause electro-potential corrosion of the reinforcing steel. Chlorides Chlorides, including sodium chloride, can promote the corrosion of embedded steel rebar if present in sufficient concentration. So, only use fresh raw water or portable water for mixing concrete. It was once common for calcium chloride to be use as an admixture to promote rapid set-up of the concrete. It was also mistakenly believed that it would prevent freezing. Alkali Silica Reaction This is a reaction of amorphous silica sometimes present in the aggregates with alkali, for example from the cement pore solution. The silica reacts with the alkali to form a silicate in the Alkali silica reaction, this causes localize swelling which causes cracking. The conditions are: aggregate containing an alkaline reactive constituent, sufficiently availability of alkali ions and sufficient moisture. This phenomenon referred as concrete cancer. This reaction occurs independently of the presence of rebar. Conversion of High Alumina cement Resistant to weak acids and especially sulfates, this cement cures quickly and reaches very high durability and strength. However, it can lose strength with heat or time, especially when not properly cured. Sulfates Sulfates in the soil or in groundwater, in sufficient concentration, can react with the Portland cement in concrete causing the formation of expansive products which can lead to early failure of the structure. Corrosion and Passivation of steel reinforcement Exposed steel will corrode in moist atmospheres due to differences in the electrical potential on the steel surface forming anodic and cathodic sites. Concrete as an environment The environment provided by good quality concrete to steel reinforcement is one of high alkalinity due to the presence of the hydroxides of sodium, potassium and calcium produced during the hydration reactions. The bulk of surrounding concrete acts as a physical barrier to many of the steels aggressors. In such an environment steel is passive and any small breaks in its protective oxide film are soon repaired. However, the alkalinity of its surroundings are reduced, such as by neutralization are able to reach the steel then severe corrosion of the reinforcement can occur. This in turn can result in to staining of the concrete by rust and spalling of the cover due to the increase in volume associated with the conversion of iron to iron oxide. Factors affecting corrosion rates of steel in concrete The permeability of the concrete is important in determining the extent to which aggressive external substances can attack the steel. A thick concrete cover of low permeability is more likely to prevent chloride ions from an external source from reaching the steel and causing depassivation. Alternatives for the reinforcing phase Where an adequate depth of cover is difficult to achieve due to design considerations or where aggressive environments are expected such as in marine structures or bridge decks, additional protection may be required for the embedded steel. This may take many and varied forms and commercial interest in this field is strong. The steel reinforcement itself may be made more able to maintain its passivity by providing it with a protective coating. In extreme circumstances, solid stainless steel may be used, although the perceived additional cost restricts its use in all but the most specialized applications. The ideal situation There can be little doubt that the most effective way of protecting steel which is embedded in concrete is to provide it with an adequate depth of cover by high strength, low permeability concrete free from depassivating ions such as chlorides. However, in the real world, concrete is laid by the tone in all weathers and environments, exposed to industrial atmospheres, de-icing salts and seawater. The real situation Contaminated materials and poor workmanship are hard to avoid completely but by understanding the often complex chemical and electrochemical conditions that can exists it should be possible to develop ways of producing structures which will last long into the next century. Deterioration mechanisms The majority of reinforced concrete around the world performs adequately and gives few problems. A minority of structures have deteriorated due to either the action of aggressive components from the external environment or incompatibility of the mix constituents. Problems can arise as a result of incomplete or inaccurate site investigation, poor design, badly specified concrete, poor workmanship and a range of other factors. Stages of deterioration The mechanisms of deterioration are primarily chemico-physical in nature and occur in three discrete stages which are initiation, propagation, and deterioration. Modes of deterioration Deterioration may occur due to a number of mechanisms on which a large body of literature already exists. These include: Corrosion of reinforcement due to chloride ions, carbonation and change in the rebar reinforcement. Sulphate attack of concrete Salt recrystallisation Soft water or acid attack of concrete Alkali aggregate reaction Thermal incompatibility of concrete components Shrinkage Frost damage Depth of cover Inadequate cover is invariably associated with areas of high corrosion risk due to both carbonation and chloride ingress. By surveying the surface of a structure with an electromagnetic covermeter and producing a cover contour plot, the high-risk areas can be easily identified. A cover survey of newly completed structures would rapidly identify likely problem areas and permit additional protective measures to be taken. Cracked cover It should be remembered that reinforced concrete is intrinsically a cracked material because the steel stops the structure failing in tension but the brittle concrete cracks to the depth of the reinforcement. Only those cracks above a critical width which intersect the steel are liable to assist the corrosion processes. Cost Incurred After a period of unprecedented growth in prices during 2004, early date for 2005 indicates that the constructional steel market faces greater stability in the year ahead. Despite the price increases, demand for steel in the UK market remained at a very high level in 2004. One of the principal concerns for steel users was the availability of material, but the year ended with more steel in the supply chain than there had been at the beginning. Structural steel frame costs The leading benchmark cost unit for structural steelwork is its unit cost per tonne which includes the steel and the following elements: Connection design, detail drawing, fabrication, testing, treatment and delivery, offloading, erection These are calculated against the overall estimated tonnage for the building to generate an overall frame cost. Unit costs per tonne can vary enormously as there are a combination of factors that influence the overall cost. Care should be taken in considering each projects characteristics in arriving at a tonnage rate. This can be calculated either on the number of beams and column in a building or a weight per m ². The relative costs of each element will vary depending on the nature of the project. The tonnage rate could be divided as follows: Materials 30% Engineering 5% Fabrication 35% Priming 8% Delivery 2% Erection 20% The costs assume that the structural steelwork contractor will provide their own crane for all the projects with the exception of office buildings, for which the main contractor provides a tower crane. The early involvement of structural steelwork fabricators is the most effective way to value engineer cost savings into steelwork frame. For example, using more substantial and therefore more expensive steel columns in a design could remove the need for stiffeners. The steel may cost more but it is cheaper overall than paying for labour to fabricate and weld stiffeners to the column. If this value is adopted early enough in the project across the whole frame design, significant cost savings can be achieved. The cost of a frame system alone should not dictate the choice of frame for a project. Rather it should be just one of a number of issues that should be considered when making the choice of frame material. The recent rises in reinforcement and steel prices have increased frame costs but the difference between steel and concrete frame costs remains insignificant. A 50% increase in European steel prices during 2004 has left many in the construction industry reviewing design solutions that have a heavy reliance on steel. The impact of the steel price rises and found that the whole project costs for concrete framed buildings are marginally less than for steel framed buildings. Foundation costs The foundations typically represent approximately 3% of whole project initial cost. For the heaviest reinforced concrete solutions, the foundations will be more expensive, but this represents only a small cost and can be offset by using post-tensioned slabs, which are typically 15% lighter. Cladding costs The thinner the overall structural and services zone, the less the cladding costs. Given that cladding can represent up to 25% of the construction cost it is worth minimizing the cladding area. The minimum floor-to-floor height is almost always achieved with a concrete flat slab and separate services zone. Partitions Sealing and fire stopping at partitions heads is simplest with flat soffits. Significant savings of up to 10% of the partitions package can be made compared to the equivalent dry lining package abutting a profiled soffit with downstands. This can represent up to 4% of the frame cost. Services co-ordination/ Installation/ Adoptability The soffit of a concrete flat slab provides a zone for services distribution free of any downstand beams. This reduces coordination effort for the design team and therefore the risk of errors. It permits flexibility in design and allows coordination effort to be focused elsewhere. Services installation is simplest below a flat soffit. This permits maximum off site fabrication of services, higher quality of work and quicker installation. These advantages should be reflected in cost and value calculations. Indeed, ME contractors quote an additional cost of horizontal services distribution below a profited slab of up to 15%. Flat soffits also allowed greater future adaptability. Fire protection For concrete structures fire protection is generally not needed as the material has inherent fire resistance of up to four hours. This remove the time, cost and separate trade required to attend the site for fire protection. Vibration The inherent mass of concrete means that concrete floors generally meet vibration criteria at no extra cost and without any extra stiffening. For more stringent criteria, the additional cost to meet vibration criteria is small compared to other structural material. Exposed soffit A concrete structure has a high thermal mass. By exposing the soffits this can be utilized through fabric energy storage to reduce initial plant costs and ongoing operational costs. Furthermore, the cost of suspended ceilings can be reduced or eliminated. Conclusion As a conclusion, the majority of reinforced concrete structures show excellent durability and perform well over their design life. Adverse environments or poor construction practice can lead to corrosion of the reinforcing steel in concrete. The major mechanisms for corrosion are atmospheric carbon dioxide ingress and chloride attack from cast-in or diffused chlorides. The corrosion and deterioration mechanisms are essentially the same for both carbonation and chloride attack. Proper choice of materials, adequate cover to reinforcement, good quality concrete and attention to the environment during construction will enhance the durability of reinforced concrete structures. For cost incurred, concretes range of inherent benefits including fabric energy storage, fire resistance and sound installation means that concrete buildings tend to have lower operating costs and lower maintenance requirements. For structure subjected to aggressive environments, combinations of moisture, temperature and chlorides may result in the corrosion of reinforcing and prestressing steel, leading to the deterioration of concrete and loss of serviceability. One preferred solution which has assumed the status of cutting-edge research in many industrialized countries, is the use of fiber reinforced polymer rebars in concrete. Fiber concrete is also becoming an increasingly popular construction material due to its improved mechanical properties over non-reinforced concrete and its ability to enhance the mechanical performance of conventionally reinforced concrete. DEFINITION OF FIBRE REINFORCED POLYMER Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP), also known as fibre-reinforced plastic) are composite materials made of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres. FRPs are commonly used in the aerospace, automotive, marine, and construction industries. FRPs are typically organized in a laminate structure, such that each lamina (or flat layer) contains an arrangement of unidirectional fibres or woven fibre fabrics embedded within a thin layer of light polymer matrix material. The fibres, typically composed of carbon or glass, provide the strength and stiffness. The matrix, commonly made of polyester, Epoxy or Nylon, binds and protects the fibers from damage, and transfers the stresses between fibers. TYPES OF MATERIAL USED Polymer There are two main types of polymer used for resins: thermosets and thermoplastics. The thermosetting polymers used in the construction industry are the polyesters and the epoxides. There are many thermoplastic resins used in composite manufacture: polyolefins, polyamides, vinylic polymers, polyacetals, polysulphones, polycarbonates, polyphenylenes and polyimides. Fibre A wide range of amorphous and crystalline materials can be used as the fibre. In the construction industry the most common fibre used is glass fibre (there are 4 types of glass fibre: E-glass, AR-glass, A-glass and high strength glass). Carbon fibre, of which there are 3 types (Type I, II, III) can be used separately or in conjunction with the glass fibre as a hybrid to increase the stiffness of a structural member or the area within a structure, so that the stiffness exceeds the value possible using only glass fibre. Aramid fibres can be used instead of glass fibres to give increased stiffness to the composite. Today each of these fibers is used widely in industry for any applications that require plastics with specific strength or elastic qualities. Glass fibers are the most common across all industries, although carbon fiber and carbon fiber aramid composites are widely found in aerospace, automotive and sporting good applications. Additives For structural applications it is mandatory to achieve some degree of flame retardant. Fire retardants are usually incorporated in the resin itself or as an applied gel-coat. Fillers and pigments are also used in resins for a variety of purposes, the former principally to improve mechanical properties and the latter for appearance and protective action. APPLICATIONS OF FRP IN CONSTRUCTION There are three broad divisions into which applications of FRP in civil engineering can be classified: applications for new construction, repair and rehabilitation applications, and architectural applications. NEW CONSTRUCTION FRPs have been used widely by civil engineers in the design of new construction. Structures such as bridges and columns built completely out of FRP composites have demonstrated exceptional durability, and effective resistance to effects of environmental exposure. Pre-stressing tendons, reinforcing bars, grid reinforcement, and dowels are all examples of the many diverse applications of FRP in new structures. REPAIR AND REHABILITATION One of the most common uses for FRP involves the repair and rehabilitation of damaged or deteriorating structures. Several companies across the world are beginning to wrap damaged bridge piers to prevent collapse and steel-reinforced columns to improve the structural integrity and to prevent buckling of the reinforcement. ARCHITECTURAL Architects have also discovered the many applications for which FRP can be used. These include structures such as siding/cladding, roofing, flooring and partitions. DESIGN CONSIDERATION The strength properties of FRPs collectively make up one of the primary reasons for which civil engineers select them in the design of structures. A materials strength is governed by its ability to sustain a load without excessive deformation or failure. When an FRP specimen is tested in axial tension, the applied force per unit cross-sectional area (stress) is proportional to the ratio of change in a specimens length to its original length (strain). When the applied load is removed, FRP returns to its original shape or length. In other words, FRP responds linear-elastically to axial stress.   FRP allows the alignment the glass fibers of thermoplastics to suite specific design programs. Specifying the orientation of reinforcing fibers can increase the strength and resistance to deformation of the polymer. Glass reinforced polymers are strongest and most resistive to deforming forces when the polymers fibers are parallel to the force being exerted, and are weakest when the fibers are perpendicular. Thus this ability is can be an advantage or a limitation depending on the context of use. Weak spots of perpendicular fibers can be used for natural hinges and connections, but can also lead to material failure when production processes fail to properly orient the fibers parallel to expected forces. When forces are exerted perpendicular to the orientation of fibers, the strength and elasticity of the polymer is less than the matrix alone. In cast resin components made of glass reinforced polymers such as UP and EP, the orientation of fibers can be oriented in two-dimensional and three-dimensional weaves. This means that when forces are possibly perpendicular to one orientation, they are parallel to another orientation; this eliminates the potential for weak spots in the polymer. COST With the rising cost of nickel, FRP has become a very competitive material of construction. It is very competitive with acid brick or rubber-lined carbon steel and much less expensive than alloy-clad carbon steel. It is generally more expensive than resin-coated carbon steel but has a longer service life in most applications. Because FRP does not require insulation, FRP ductwork is actually less expensive than resin-coated carbon steel. ADVANTAGES OF FRP Composites offer the designer a combination of properties not available in traditional materials. It is possible to introduce the fibres in the polymer matrix at highly stressed regions in a certain position, direction and volume in order to obtain the maximum efficiency from the reinforcement, and then, within the same member to reduce the reinforcement to a minimal amount at regions of low stress value. FRP products are a cost effective alternative to steel in many of the harshest industrial environments. The advantages of FRP products over other materials include: Corrosion Resistant Fibre Reinforced Polymer materials are designed to operate in aggressive environments. Little or no coating or treating required. Low maintenance requirements Designed and engineered to last, composite structural materials are virtually maintenance free. Impact resistant Inherent flexibility allows products to resist impact and failure. Non-conductive and Non metallic FRP constructions provide additional safety by stopping sparks and potential electrical hazards. Fire Retardant FRP has a low flame spread index when tested under ASTM E-84 and meets self extinguishing requirements of ASTM D-635. High strength-to-weight ratio The strong, but light weight alternative where heavy lifting or access is an issue. Reduced installation time and cost FRP products are easier and lighter to install. Normal hand tools are used to make adjustments. Therefore FRP offers greater efficiency in construction compared with the more conventional materials. DISADVANTAGES OF FRP Structural failure can occur in FRP materials when tensile forces stretch the matrix more than the fibers, causing the material to shear at the interface between matrix and fibers, tensile forces near the end of the fibers exceed the tolerances of the matrix, separating the fibers from the matrix and tensile forces can also exceed the tolerances of the fibers causing the fibers themselves to fracture leading to material failure. A serious matter relating to the use of FRPs in civil applications is the lack of design codes and specifications. For nearly a decade now, researchers from Canada, Europe, and Japan have been collaborating their efforts in hope of developing such documents to provide guidance for engineers designing FRP structures. FRP plastics are liable to a number of the issues and concerns surrounding plastic waste disposal and recycling. Plastics pose a particular challenge in recycling processes because they are derived from polymers and monomers that often cannot be separated and returned to their virgin states, for this reason not all plastics can be recycled for re-use, in fact some estimates claim only 20% to 30% of plastics can be material recycled at all. In addition, fibers themselves are difficult to remove from the matrix and preserve for re-use means FRP amplify these challenges. FRP are inherently difficult to separate into base a material that is into fiber and matrix, and the matrix into separate usable plastic, polymers, and monomers. These are all concerns for environmentally informed design today, but it must be noted that plastics often offer savings in energy and economic savings in comparison to other materials, also with the advent of new more environmentally friendly matrices such as bioplastics and UV-degradable plastics, FRP will similarly gain environmental sensitivity. DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CONVENTIONAL STEEL REINFORCED CONCRETE AND FIBRE-REINFORCED POLYMER (FRP) CONCRETE No. Conventional Steel Reinforced Concrete Fibre-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) Concrete 1 Definition: Steel reinforced concrete is a specific type that has had strong steel rebar added to it while wet, creating a very strong type of concrete that is able to withstand almost anything when it has dried. Definition: FRP concrete is composite materials made of a polymer matrix reinforced with fibres and typically organized in a laminate structure, such that each lamina (or flat layer) contains an arrangement of unidirectional fibres or woven fibre fabrics embedded within a thin layer of light polymer matrix material. 2 Corrosion of steel reinforcement: Exposed steel will corrode in moist atmospheres due to differences in the electrical potential on the steel surface forming anodic and cathodic sites. Corrosion Resistant: Fibre Reinforced Polymer materials are designed to operate in aggressive environments. Little or no coating or treating

Deviance and Crime (Sociology)

One of the ways in which sociologists theorize deviance is through the control theory. This theory was first pioneered by Travis Hirschi in 1969. The control theory suggests that a person who does commit serious crimes is free of any emotional, social feelings and for those that do not commit crimes are able to control themselves to not commit crimes and behave in an acceptable manner in society without being a danger to others. Basically, this theory emphasizes that a person from birth is capable of acting in criminal behaviour, but the social factors affect a person from committing criminal acts or not.Within this theory there are four factors in which someone will not commit in any deviant behaviour. These factors are attachment, commitment, involvement and belief . Attachment applies to affection that a person has for their parents or friends, etc. and does not want to disappoint or hurt by involving themselves into delinquent behaviour. Commitment is used to describe what a pers on has to lose when they involve themselves in committing crimes, etc. such as having a high standing in society or whether they are in school or are employed.Involvement refers to the amount of time a person invests in something that keeps them busy such as any extracurricular activities, for example, which would prevent them from having the time to commit crimes. The final factor belief refers to a person’s own belief system and whether or not they choose to follow societal rules and that if they do believe in these rules, they would be less likely to act in a deviant manner. These bonds that are presented by Hirschi are meant to represent that they control our behaviour through social contraventions and are not necessarily laws that are within our society.Basically, this theory best describes the reasons in which deviance is theorized because it takes into effect all of the reasons in which a person would or would not act in a deviant manner. The four bonds that were menti oned above highlight the factors that are important in almost everyone’s lives and that if any of those are missing in our lives, it would lead us to act in devious ways. An example in which describes the way in which these social bonds can present hemselves when they are no longer there are described in the article â€Å"Key Idea: Hirschi’s Social Bond/Social Control Theory† when they describe how a person would still stop at a stop sign in the middle of nowhere with no other traffic and no police cars observing. This is a good example because it shows that a person is still worried about any possible implications that a bad decision would affect them. The control theory is a theory, which could best to explain deviance and why people act in a deviant manner. The reason why is that the manner in which people are raised and who they are surrounded by.For example, someone does not commit any crimes because of the fact that they have family and friends and conform to society’s rules so that they could continue to have the bonds that they have with their friends and family, but when that bond is broken, that leaves room for the person to partake in deviant acts. Some of the weaknesses that can be pointed out in this factor could be that some delinquents who are underage could possibly have less parental supervision and that they would be free to experiment with different things whether it is illegal or not.Another weakness in this theory is that a person is not essentially capable of committing criminal acts from birth, but there are events in a person’s life where they need or want to involve themselves in criminal acts. This theory is the better theory when describing deviance. This is the better theory because it takes into effect most of the reasons why a person would or would not take part in deviant behaviour. The four social bonds that are described within this theory are things that a person would hold dear and would not jeopardize these relationships or beliefs and feelings by partaking in criminal or deviant behaviour.

Course study

Expectations from Students: a. Students must report to the respective sessions well before the announced time. Latecomers will not be permitted to Join the class after the scheduled time. If late, the attendance for that session will be marked as absent. B. Read the Case Study / material well prior to the class discussion. He/she is also expected to read the chapter indicated in the course plan as the faculty directs. C. In the class discussion student is expected to participate actively and contribute to individual and group learning. Evaluation is based on active participation. D.The participation has to be relevant and meaningful. â€Å"Speaking for speaking sake† will be counter- productive. Participation by Just repeating a point made or picking on what someone has said will also be counter-productive. E. Evaluation is a continuous process at BIBS. Every student needs to be aware of the timeliness given in the section below. Absence from these evaluations will mean non aw arding of marks in that particular component f. Wherever applicable, group assignments require each student to contribute to the roof effort. This enhances group effectiveness and leads to greater appreciation of working in groups. G.Formal dressing is suggested for all students. Do not roam in the academic area/ attend classes in chapels / shorts / informal t shirts h. Students are expected to show high regard and appreciation for class discipline and desist from using mobile phones. This disturbs the class ambiance and unnecessarily diverts attention of other students as well as the faculty member. To avoid these, mobile phones should be switched off inside the classroom. I. I have given a scheduled consultation hour. Utilize this time to meet me and clarify doubts if any, seek explanations and get mentored if needed. J. Attendance is compulsory in all sessions.However refer to guidelines in your academic handbook for exceptions. Honor Code: Unfair practices in tests and plagiaris m in assignments / project work will straight away entail a ZERO to all involved parties. It is not relevant for me to know the source and destination of plagiarism. Class Organization Class Representative One of you will be elected / selected by consensus as Class Representative for the CM course. S/he will be responsible for class room arrangements, dealing with academic office, for communicating information from me to the class and also to collect all assignments / project works and deliver them to me.Class Discipline Students must occupy their seats on/before the scheduled time and must remain seated until I announce the closure of the session. Students must have their name plates on the desk. Use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited in the class. Students must bring calculator and the text book to every class. While we may work & EXAMINATIONS. Students are free to ask questions/doubts/clarifications in the class on topics under discussion. For other doubts, they should meet me in my office during consulting hours.Evaluation Timeliness Keeping in line with continuous evaluation at BIBS the following schedules have been drawn. Students are expected to go through the dates / sessions mentioned and prepare accordingly. Component Component Number Expected slot / due date Marks declaration by Weighted Class Participation After completion of Session 1 1 Session 12 10 2 After completion of Session 22 Session 23 3 After completion of Session 30 Session 31 -rest – 1 Session 9 Session 10 -rest – 2 Session 17 Session 18 -rest – 3 Session 30 End exam At the end of the semester Total Performance till Midterm will be announced by end of session No. 6 in each course which means each student will know his / her performance in one CPA and two Tests. The final result will be declared after the end examinations. Before the student takes the end examination he / she will be aware of the progress in each course up to an extent of 60 marks. Students not taking the evaluation according to the timeliness mentioned above will not be given another opportunity except in extremely rare circumstances.It is should be noted, though, that the make exam would be of a higher difficulty level than the regular exam (because the student get extra time) Notes: 1. Make up test for Test- 1 & Test – 2 are permitted only in EXCEPTIONAL cases. I must be convinced about the reason in advance. It is should be noted, though, that the make exam would be of a higher difficulty level than the regular exam (because the student gets extra time). 2. Students with less than 60% attendance on the date of any evaluation component ill be awarded F grade for that component.

Free Essays on Gap Swot Analysis

SWOT Analysis Brand name recognition and equity Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic are three of the most well known brands in retail. The number of stores by location at the end of fiscal 2001 and 200 was 3,079 and 2,848, respectively. Gap is credited with creating the â€Å"casual basics† category of apparel, which includes khakis, t-shirts, button-down shirts, knit tops and other comfortable separates. Gap revolutionized the specialty apparel category and quickly grew to become the industry leader and spawned several imitators. In general, the specialty retail apparel industry is characterized by stores that either sell only clothing or a combination of clothing and personal care items. It is this pinpoint focus on apparel and style products that differentiates the current retail store format from its predecessor, the department store. Prior to the opening of the first enclosed shopping mall in Edina, MD in 1956 most clothes shopping was done primarily in department stores. Despite offering the convenience of being able to shop for multiple purposes under the same roof, such stores by definition lacked any real focus on clothes and thus tended to stock traditional and conservative styles. However, during the 1960’ and beyond as clothing became more associated with self-expression the department store â€Å"look ´ became less appealing. It was during this period that Donald and Doris Fisher opened the first Gap in San Francisco. The subsequent rapid proliferation of Gap retail outlets was an indicator of public’s readiness for alternatives to traditional department store clothes. Several entrepreneurs, including The Limited’s Leslie Wexner, followed the Fishers’ lead. Then, during the explosive growth of mega-malls in the early to mid-1980’s, the concept of this specialty retailer really took off. Retailers realized that they did not have to offer ... Free Essays on Gap Swot Analysis Free Essays on Gap Swot Analysis SWOT Analysis Brand name recognition and equity Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic are three of the most well known brands in retail. The number of stores by location at the end of fiscal 2001 and 200 was 3,079 and 2,848, respectively. Gap is credited with creating the â€Å"casual basics† category of apparel, which includes khakis, t-shirts, button-down shirts, knit tops and other comfortable separates. Gap revolutionized the specialty apparel category and quickly grew to become the industry leader and spawned several imitators. In general, the specialty retail apparel industry is characterized by stores that either sell only clothing or a combination of clothing and personal care items. It is this pinpoint focus on apparel and style products that differentiates the current retail store format from its predecessor, the department store. Prior to the opening of the first enclosed shopping mall in Edina, MD in 1956 most clothes shopping was done primarily in department stores. Despite offering the convenience of being able to shop for multiple purposes under the same roof, such stores by definition lacked any real focus on clothes and thus tended to stock traditional and conservative styles. However, during the 1960’ and beyond as clothing became more associated with self-expression the department store â€Å"look ´ became less appealing. It was during this period that Donald and Doris Fisher opened the first Gap in San Francisco. The subsequent rapid proliferation of Gap retail outlets was an indicator of public’s readiness for alternatives to traditional department store clothes. Several entrepreneurs, including The Limited’s Leslie Wexner, followed the Fishers’ lead. Then, during the explosive growth of mega-malls in the early to mid-1980’s, the concept of this specialty retailer really took off. Retailers realized that they did not have to offer ...

Essay on HIV and AIDS

Essay on HIV and AIDS Writing an essay on AIDS and HIV is a common experience of graduates and university students in the faculties of science, medicine, sociology, humanities and other social sciences. When you need to write an essay on AIDS and HIV, you need to be quite proficient in related terminology and their global image. AIDS is the abbreviated word use for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and HIV is the name of virus causing AIDS. People who are HIV positive or who are career of HIV virus may not have AIDS, but they are more prone to get the disease in the years to come if HIV virus becomes active. When you teacher asks you to write an essay on AIDS and HIV, you should do the following step by step: Essay on AIDS and HIV needs a clear conceptual understanding of the subject. You need to do a little research on what is AIDS, what is HIV at first. Then you need to know the causes and methods of disease spread. People have a limited understanding about this disease globally, there is a need to add  explanatory concepts in your essay on AIDS and HIV. When you write an essay on HIV you   need to focus on virus only, dont talk much about AIDS. When you are writing an essay on AIDS, just focus on AIDS and its related issues after introducing the HIV. When you need to do an essay on AIDS and HIV topics, you can refer to medical journals too. Aids essay and HIV essay are two different things leading to the same discussion; you need to differentiate while writing. Essay on Aids and essay on HIV require a little understanding of medical principles as well. Essay on AIDS and HIV can be written with a little understanding and comprehension of the concept. You can get help on Essay on AIDS and HIV from different sources including online sources. You can also acquire good custom Essays on HIV and AIDS from different online sources. The best way to find a quality Essay on AIDS and HIV is to see for the reliable companies. Reliable companies have a proven success record of custom writing. One of the reliable companies in custom writing business is CustomWritings.com. Writers at our company have expertise in writing Essay on AIDS and HIV   in MLA, APA, Harvard, Turabian, or Oxford style . They know the complexity of referencing and in text citation. Company has fool proof plagiarism control and prevention system. When you need any HIV and AIDS essay help or you need to buy a good quality original Essay on AIDS and HIV, you must visit us and place your order for a trouble free quality service.

Marketing of General Electrics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Marketing of General Electrics - Essay Example The focus in this paper is on marketing as a wider sphere that encompasses all of the most crucial aspects like increasing the visibility of the products and therefore increasing the sales to a great extent. There is no hard and fast rule available when it comes to marketing and one needs to be aware that a thorough watch of the market and the events surrounding that is what is needed in order to gain maximum benefit out of it. In the business arena, a good marketing is definitely a must and without marketing even the finest of products and services will not be able to get the results and attention on the whole. A competitive advantage is something every business will look forward to and it is through marketing can a business attain the essential reach. Decisions making is an important aspect of marketing and is a determining factor of a business to a great extent. It is a process through which the consumer opts to go for a particular product or services which they have got used to w ith time. The concept of decision making is very crucial and is a winning point for any product in the competitive world. If a deeper look into decision making is taken it is a kind of psychological feeling or attachment that one gets towards a particular products or brand overall. It is a common thing in the marketing sphere for people to get attached to particular brands or products rather than other factors. If they are convinced of the fact that a particular brand will always provide quality product or service then consumers will go for it irrespective of all other available options. Brand perception is an aspect that rules the world of marketing (McLucas, A 2003). In this paper, let us see the strategies followed in decision making by reputed brands on their products. General Electrics is one of the most famous companies of all time that is famous all over the world. It is a corporate giant that has established it to be the best brand and it has capitalized well on the brand as pect. It is a company that is operating all over the world and has got a huge resource base as well. The company is known for its best services and initiatives which are set to turn around the entire line of sales in its favor. A more comprehensive study regarding the company, its initiatives and services that keeps things working the right way is discussed in the paper (Salaman, G 2001). If we take GE into consideration, it can be understood that the company gives more importance to that of human resources aspect. For the purpose of a stable business, it is important to have some good and reliable resource base with them. A good HR program is the backbone of the proper channel and organize of work, thus it is the absolute necessity to show importance in this are. GE seems to have understood about this fact and is known to provide with all the effort it can in order to keep the human resource aspect intact. There is several HR initiative programs carried out by the company in order to make it beneficial for the company as well as the employee. There are several ways through which the company aims at streamlining and molding its resource in order to get the best out of it on the whole (Gelder, S 2005). The best strategy that is used by GE is that it trains as well as cares on its HR sphere. It becomes very much important for one to keep the internal space in a steady way to get a positive wave from outside and GE exactly does that. The idea is to drive its brand as a group to get better result for the brand. GE aligns human resource with that of administrative function as it has its business spread across all over the world. The decision making prowess of the company is well known in the business field and it has always manage to take ultimate control of its resources. The human resource aspect is integrated into the management system of the company. The company’s top management makes it a yearly affair to formulate a set of HR rules for the year along w ith that of the goals and objectives. It shows a great deal of interest in decision making

The School as a Social System and the Application of Theories Essay

The School as a Social System and the Application of Theories - Essay Example There are 430 students currently enrolled in Pottsboro High. Aside from them, they also have a set of teachers, administrators, staff and maintenance personnel who interact with each other almost during the major part of the year. We can also consider the parents and guardians of the children as an integral part of the school thereby sufficing this condition. It is common to think that teachers influence their student's learning and behavior and the process is only one way. However, teachers are in fact influenced also by their students. One can say that the process is mutual wherein the teacher grasps more fully the meaning of life thru the acts and behavior committed by his students. Furthermore, if there were no maintenance personnel then the student and teacher would not find a suitable learning environment and the absence of a teacher and a student eliminates the need to have a maintenance personnel. In retrospect, each element contributes to the system: the teachers with their knowledge, the students with their acts and achievements, the administration with their management skills, the maintenance personnel with their service and the parents with their support in the development of the children and the school. They, however, also receive something which for the employees is salary and fulfillment. Pottsboro High aims to provid... The school is goal oriented. Pottsboro High aims to provide the students the opportunity to develop themselves to their full mental and physical capacity. They try to achieve this with activities such as sports and academic competitions. The teachers and administration also meets regularly to discuss performance and resolve issues all for the better functioning of the institution. The school has structure. Looking at the organizational chart of the school, one can see that the overall head is the principal. It then branches out to different heads of the department such as administration, teaching staff for a certain field such as Math and Science, Student Guidance and Relations and Security and Maintenance. The students are also divided into classes and levels that serve as an additional evidence that Pottsboro has a structure. The school is normative. When we say normative, we mean that there are certain norms that exist in the school. Rules and guidelines regarding behavior, use of school property and grading system are present and are made as reference by all the segments of the school. The school bears sanction. Erring, troublesome and cheating students are called to the disciplinary office or made to stay after class. The employment of underperforming teachers and staff can be terminated. These are just a few of the sanctions that the school can impose on its members when the rules and guidelines were not followed. The school also has a political facet and power relation inevitably enter into social relations. As earlier stated, Pottsboro has a structure and the higher the person is in the organizational chart, the more power he can exercise. Since this is the case, the Principal's decision is always final and executory.