The Female Prototype: Formal Analysis of Wangechi Mutu’s

The Female Prototype: Formal Analysis of Wangechi Mutu’s Tiny Split Character As you walk up the cold, concrete steps, it looms above you, intimidating and inviting all at the same time. A wall of windows gives you an intimate peek before entering, without showing too much, heightening the anticipation. A pair of small, rotating doors, portal you into another world. The Museum of Contemporary Art’s interior is vast and simplistic, leaving a sense that the building itself is detached from the wonder it holds within its walls.Winding up the stairs and through the showrooms, the pieces almost come to life against the stark white walls. Moving through Seeing Is a Kind of Thinking: A Jim Nutt Companion, each section displays a theme more controversial, and complex then the next. Wangechi Mutu’s Tiny Split Character, is modest, even beautiful, among the many grotesque images surrounding it. Dark, deformed bodies, riddled with sexual innuendo, sometimes subtle, more oft en blunt, line the walls. Although Tiny Split Character, portrays the same thing, it does so gracefully, as opposed to its counterparts.Tiny Split Character depicts the figure of a woman, distorted, in an awkward, yet seductive pose. Off to her left, a tiny figure of a woman, who is distorted as well, is suspended in mid air, head bent back, leg extended. The face of the smaller woman has a masculine feel, with an eerily large smile slapped across it. Her pose and facial expression gives the sense of freedom, an almost carefree demeanor. Armless, breasts exposed, and stiletto heels complete this misshapen representation of female sexuality. The larger woman looks at the smaller one with big, beautiful, eyes almost longingly.Perhaps the tiny woman is a representation of what, and who, the larger woman wants to be. Maybe even who she use to be, before she became a victim to the exploitation and misrepresentation of woman in society. Luscious lips are the only other human characteristi c enhancing her face. The larger woman is contrived with more oddities then her ideological interpretation. Gears and mechanical parts comprise her shoulders and part of her chest, showing the machine she has become, but also showing strength, and her indestructible nature.Flowers adorn her, softening her machinery and warped body while showing a soft, feminine side, without subjugating it. A tattered, purple garment is the only thing covering her lower half, purple being the color of royalty. Her body is nearly completely covered in holes. Maybe her facade is fading, or maybe she is literally falling apart, finally dissolving under the constant pressure and scrutiny. Her trunk is composed of a sickening green color, possibly representing the sickness at her core. A disease that is consuming her and other women alike.Wangechi Mutu has said that, â€Å"Females carry the marks, language and nuances of their culture more than the male. Anything that is desired or despised is always pl aced on the female body,† (Kerr par. 4). A red streak washes over her side, cascading from her waist, down her hip, and on to her thigh, accentuating her curves, and again playing up her sexuality. The finishing touch, manicured hands and stiletto heels. All this against a simple white background, darkness encroaching the top center and corners. Wangechi Mutu uses, â€Å"magazine images of women and makes them almost monstrous.Her figures boast transplanted eyes that seem too large, too small, too far apart or too close together to be human,† (Croal par. 1). Tiny Split Character is an abstract piece of art, representing the female form. She selected certain aspects she saw and either exaggerated or highlighted them to get her message across. Politi examines how her creative process begins â€Å"with accidental splattering† that eventually â€Å"build up layers of materials† (par. 3). The artist chooses to use sheets of cut Mylar, â€Å"a non-absorptive sy nthetic material† (Roach par. ) on which she is able to manipulate ink and acrylic paint into splotches and colliding pools. Mutu sorts through mass-produced images of women and cuts â€Å"them into fragments; eyes, lips, manicured nails, and stiletto-clad feet† (Roach par. 3) before she begins assembling her creations. Her cyborgs are finally able to come to life when she arranges them on the walls and floors of her studio. These painted forms usually depict the bodies, or body parts, of her abstract figures. After the bodies have been assembled Mutu accentuates this image with various elements such as â€Å"jewels and lush paint colors† (Macsweeney par. ). Mutu’s use of unlikely elements gives the women in the image the effect of a glamorous, yet barbaric centerfold. In fact, Mutu’s â€Å"gruesome gods and goddesses are born out of [her] chaotic process† (Politi par. 2). The black shading along the top of the picture almost gives the illusi on of the women as a light source, as her grisly forms seem to be almost glowing against the darkness. This highlighting the stereotypes and criticism a woman must endure on a day to day basis. The artist’s inconsistent layering patterns further stress the conflicting factors of the so-called perfect body.The use of a collage allows Mutu to intrigue the audience physically and conceptually by using layered depth within her artwork. She attempts â€Å"to trap her viewers with layers of visual metaphors that forc[e] them to question assumptions about race, gender, geography, history and beauty† (Croal par. 1). As an artist, she strives to break down the barriers that are meant to stifle the progress of women in society. Mutu’s obscure characters are composed of numerous elements that represent, overrule, and reconfigure â€Å"each potential weakness† that relate to the expected â€Å"role of women† (Murnik par. ). The artist decides to depict women i n this manner in hopes of integrating strength and revision into her pieces of art so that the previous perception of women is no longer quintessential. Tiny Split Characters’ accent colors tie into the overall color scheme. Mutu’s visual elements which are mainly that of earth tones and complementary colors, as she uses yellow, purple, red, and green at different intensities. At the same time it can be considered somewhat analagous as the colors range from red-orange, to orange, to yellow-orange.The same goes for her use ranging from green to purple. Her use of color gives the overall tone of a simple yet enchanting creature. Something that is both natural and manmade. This idea is supported by her insertion of gears and other machinery in the picture. It represents the contradiction and dualistic nature of women. On one hand there is our natural self. On the other there is what society says we should be and what society says we should look like. Women are torn, betwe en who they really are, and who they are pressured to become.Perhaps there is a way that the woman portrayed in Tiny Split Character can balance the two. What Mutu is trying to show is that there is a way, by expanding societies’ definition of beauty, so women can stay as pure and organic as they chose to be. In addition to color, Mutu uses texture through layering and collage in Tiny Split Character to create visual interest and depth. Pattern can be seen as well with the repetitive holes engrossing the larger woman’s body. Mutu uses the principle of asymmetrical balance to dramatize the opposition between who the woman has become and who the woman use to be.However, despite the symmetry imbalance, they both seem to come together to make another separate whole. Insinuating a oneness between the two, that possibly the woman she was has never left, she has simply taken a back seat to the woman she is now. The blank background creates a lack of depth so that our sole foc us is on the interpretation of the women in front of us. The hierarchal scale between the larger and smaller woman leads us to believe the smaller woman is a separate entity. One will naturally originally wonder who the smaller woman is in relation to the larger woman.Her size suggests that she is of less importance then the larger woman. Perhaps she is her conscience, maybe even the representation of her basic, animalistic, desires that are taunting her to do the wrong thing. Upon further analysis of the picture, and taking account the title, Tiny Split Character, it is then that we realize that she is, in fact, a part of the larger woman. She is smaller because society has constantly belittled who she originally was, who she actually yearns to be. Media tells her that her former self is not as important as the public image she is trying to maintain.Despite her downplay, without the smaller woman, the larger woman would not be whole. In conclusion, Wangechi Mutu’s Tiny Split Character, is an homage to women everywhere. It’s strikingly bizarre, and disgusting design, destroys ideals and makes a mockery of female stereotypes. The Museum of Contemporary Art has created a wonderful showcase with Seeing Is a Kind of Thinking, for it truly is. Mutu uses color, collage, balance, scale, texture, pattern, and depth that invokes wonder, amazement, and horror. Molds are broken, history and traditions evolve with Tiny Split Character.Mutu’s aligned image capitalizes on the contradictions of role expectations: western media ideal, sex goddess, and natural woman. The images also allude to the repercussions of female exploitation. The longing to be who you truly are, along with the fact that women cannot mask their true selves forever are all elements of this beautiful masterpiece that so eloquently portrays a woman’s dilemma and strife. Bibliography â€Å"Biography. † Saatachi Gallery: London Contemporary Art Gallery. 2 Mar. 2011. Croal, Ada. â€Å"The Africana QA: Artist Wangechi Mutu† Africana . 12 Feb. 2004. 8 March 2011. Fong, P. â€Å"Wangechi Mutu†. Modern Painters Vol. 20 No. 4. May 2008. 12 March 2011 Gladstone, Barbara. â€Å"Biography†. Gladstone Gallery. Unknown Date. 16 March 2011. Kerr, Merrily. â€Å"Wangechi Mutu’s Extreme Makeovers. † Art on Paper, Vol. 8, No. 6.July/ August 2004. 21 March 2011. < http://www. akrylic. com/contemporary_art_article73. htm> Macsweeney, Eve. â€Å"A Fertile Mind† Vogue. Apr. 2009: 190. Health Reference Center Academic. Web. 22 Mar. 2011. Politi, G. Wangechi Mutu [Exhibit]. Flash Art (International Edition) Vol. 41 March/April 2008. 22 March 2011. Roach, Jill. â€Å"Indepth Arts News†. Absolute Arts. 16 Dec. 2005. 14 April 2011.

P G in China

In 2008, P&G has become a company with the 6th biggest market value, and has a sale of approximately $45 billion. In 1988, P&G entered the market in the Great China Area due to the potential customers and profits hidden behind it. Up to this date, P&G has established 0 joint ventures and proprietorship in major cities like Guanos, Beijing, Tannin, Shanghai, etc. In this dissertation, we will carefully analyze its international operations in the Great China Area and examine the factors that made its success. We will first analyze the reasons why it entered China in the first place by looking into different aspects of China's overall image.Then, we are going to look further into the operational strategy it uses to keep itself functioning. We will also examine the procedure of how it manages its staffing across the sea and hires local employees. Besides, we will talk about TTS marketing strategies in the Great China Area market by looking into the ops (Products, Price, Promotion and Pla ce) of P China and P Hong Kong. Reasons to enter the Great China Area It is reasonable and necessary for international corporations such as P to enter the Great China Area market. Reasons as following: Increase the sale; Decrease the cost; Increase the popularity; Meanwhile, it is also really important to analyze the risks for entering the market.Here is the risk assessment for entering the great China market. The risk assessment based on following six elements: political stability–the stability of politics and overspent, the more stable the better; market chances–the number of customers and the purchase power of customers, the higher the better; economic development and achievement–the growth of economic and the expectation for the future, the higher the better; legal impediment-?the restriction from the law, the less the better; physical impediment–the restriction from resources, the less the better; differences in terms of culture- -to what extent is t he domestic culture different from foreign cultures.The political stability in China: China is a socialist country and always controlled by en regime–the communist party of China. The government has high control in the country and do not need to worry about other regime within the country. Therefore, the political stability in China is good for investing. The market chances in China: China owns the biggest population in the world. The potential market in China is huge, especially when the need for imported goods grows so fast in recent years in China. The economic development and achievement in China: China keep growing fast in recent year and the growth rate keeps rising. In 2007, the GAP growth rate was 1 1. 4, and the GAP as 24. 6619 trillion dollars.In 2008, the GAP rise to 30 trillion dollars. According to the data in terms of GAP and the growth rate, the economic environment in China is appropriate. The legal impediment in China: China's legal system is new in the world after the reform. There are some bugs on laws exist in China and some people or company utilize it, and there are some unreasonable laws exist. However, the Chinese legality system keeps improving and the relative laws to foreign company are always good for investors. In terms of legality system of China, it is good for entering and investing. The physical impediment in China: the land area in China is 960 million square kilometers which ranks 4th in the world.China is also a main energy import and export country in the world, with the north temperate zone having the most. Overall, China owned lots of resources and has potential. The difference in terms of cultures: There are many differences between the eastern culture and the western culture. China is a socialist country and most western countries are capitalist country. The language is also a problem, Chinese is one of the most difficult languages in the world ND the Chinese culture is the oldest culture olives in the world. Now adays Chinese are willing to touch new culture and lean new technologies. The culture difference could be a problem meeting in China.Overall, China as a stable-politics country with high growth rate is a talented market and the risk for entering is acceptable. Operational strategies of P&G China Procter & Gamble (P&G) entered Chinese market in 1988, P&G and Hutchison Hampton LTD. Had a joint venture together and invested Procter & Gamble China LTD. Company with 70% and 30% company share respectively. P&G takes advantages from the joint venture P&G china Ltd. The company has more stable financial resources and larger economies of scale. More importantly, could share risk with its partner initially in an unfamiliar international market. P&G China set its headquarter in Guanos. It cooperated with its first partner for operation—–the Guanos soap factory Ltd.P&G China kept the factory core product, Joshua brand shampoo, and bought out its rest products and stop the producti on. This local partner is very helpful to P&G. Guanos soap factory has its own production factory, mature supply networks, good local brand reputation, some profitable reduces and local distribution and sale networks. Moreover, Guanos soap factory has connection with Guanos government which helps receive supports and benefits from government. From the current point, this is one successful case for international cooperation. P&G China did adequate marketing research for Chinese market. The company firstly chooses some product categories which has lower entry restrictions such as hair care products, skin care products.Meanwhile these product categories are very profitable and have huge growth space with perspective of market development and product development. This is one of the important reasons why China could continue growing in a fast speed after it entered China. In order to save cost, increase profit and better control operation, P&G was looking for more local partners to produ ce its products. So far, P&G owns or controls more than 1 0 subsidiary corporations around China area especially in big cities such as Beijing, shanghai, Changed etc. P&G learnt a lot from its first partner—- Guanos soap factory, the company selects its partners with requirements.That is the partner company should be in small size but could fill gaps in P&G's value chain. In this way, first of all, P could use its size and brand reputation easily control or take the major part in the corporation to keep its operating stability. Then, P could use partners resources for local production, distribution or even social networks and more. Two companies could arrange a co-specialization situation. However, P also had problems from its partners especially in the area of washing powder. For example, the cooperation with Beijing second daily chemical factory. The factory used to have its panda brand washing powder products.After the factory joined P and became P panda washing powder fac tory, the reduce and brand were kept. During the operation, the factory campaniles that P smaller its brand logo image on the product which may affect its brand reputation and consumer reputation. On the other hand, some employees left the factory and set up their own Company to produce similar products as panda brand washing powder product which involves within copyright issues. Similar problems happened when P China cooperate with Changed oil chemical factory. P china should do more research about the culture of Chinese companies. They are very protective about their own brand and reputation.They are afraid of losing control, and lots of facts show that they may use illegal methods to â€Å"protect† their profits. The lessons P learnt from failure cooperation will help them gain experience and better collaborate with Chinese companies. China could not be successful without its efficient and effective distribution and sale strategies. We mentioned, P has many local partners around China and the company used its size and big brands take over the control in the corporation. In this way, P can fully use local partners distribution network resources without influence. P has different progress and use different methods for underside market and urban market.The marketing teams are better specialized and tasks are more specific. The operation will be more efficient and effective for different markets. Work with distribution partners. The company has both whole sale partners and retailer partners. P formulates concrete policy to benefit both types of partners. And the company is currently seeking corporation with big franchisee retailers such as Walter. P has a complete and mature system to manage its distribution network. Logistics Management P has a chosen a reliable third party logistics service provider to be in hare of almost all of its products' distribution-?Bagging Logistics Group.With the special â€Å"door-to -door† service and the principle O f â€Å"Customer comes first†, Bagging has built a big logistics operating network throughout China for P&G, and by having thousands of well-trained workers performing the â€Å"door-to-door† service to consumers, it saves P&G 6 million every year of cost on logistics. Inventory Management Fist of all, having a good sale on its products implies that it has to control every kind of its goods at an acceptable quantity, for example, P&G cannot increase the production of Durable intensively just because it is earning none, because it has a high externally cost to the environment, which government will raise the price of it. If P&G is having too much inventory of Durable batteries while the price of it is increasing at the same time, the sale will see an instant drop, and this gap between production and consumers' will to purchase it would even lead to diminishing of the brand.Therefore, P has to conduct very serious speculation and forecast before it decides how much inven tory it is going to have. Vendor-Managed Inventory is the strategy P prefers to use when it comes to dealing with inventories in Great China Area, a market with tens of thousands of suppliers. The vendors has an agreed inventory of P's products kept in their through the communication with the provider through a information system, EDI (Electronic Data Interchange). In this information system, effective and useful information is exchanged between the producers(I. E. , P&G) and the vendors, so P&G will know when a vendor needs more inventory in his store and can make quick adjustment to it.In this process, a third party logistics providers can also be involved and adjust and demand and supply to ensure the vendors has the squired level of inventory, which greatly reduce the cost of the transferring of the inventory. Human resource management of China Richard Duper, the former CEO of P&G, once said: † If you leave our warehouses, money and our brand here, but take away our men, w e will be nothing; however, if you take away all our warehouses, money and our brand but leave our men, we will rise again. † P&G has entered Chinese market since 1988, more than 25 years. It currently has more than 7000 employees around great China area.Effective human resource management is one of the keys that made P&G China's success. But how exactly does P manage its staffs exactly? Systematic Advantage Localize its team: back in 1 988, P China has more foreign employees than Chinese, but now 98% of P China' employees are local people. Local teams could help better fit into local market and save labor costs. However, P&G still keeps its core positions for foreign employees. For example, the research and develop department, most positions in top management. In this way, P&G ensure it fully control the company and make strategy decisions. Efficient training system: P&G has standard and complete training system for its employees globally.The training helps every local employ ee understand the job itself and the company. Therefore, employee could better understand how could they contribute the company and have better career opportunities. Nice working environment and transparent rewards and punishment system: P&G try to build nice working environment for its employees. The company set standard for employee treatment and try to build friendly and fair company culture to raise its employ satisfaction. Therefore, employees are more motivated and they have higher loyalty for the company. Meanwhile, has a transparent rewards and punishment system in order to keep employees' motivation.Selection system: P has very complete employee selecting system and the company is willing to train inexperienced youths. It has connections with various education institutions around great China area. International Staffing Local hiring P owns more than 50 branches in China, and every branch is open for the first round of employment. P does not need the person to have the match ing experience for the job position that he is applying for, however, basic concept and professional skills is required. After filtering the original applicants, the remaining applicants will be sent to P's headquarter in Guanos for the second round, and also the last round of the interview.In order to make sure that the interview is unbiased and legitimate, at least 3 managers from headquarter in China are required for every interview. Also, given the fact that all the applicants need to spend a considerable amount of money, not matter living near or far from Guanos, all the expenses for every applicant are covered by China. The interview can be broken into four parts: Icebreakers, Questioning, Information Exchange and Final Appraisal. The Questioning stage is when the famous P&G's Eight Questions re asked. The questions are made by Human Resource Department in P's headquarter in US, however, the way they are tested is different in the Great Chain Area.According to our interview in P&G Hong Kong, the facial expression and the logics behind an applicant's answer are what matter the most while in the IIS the completion and structure of the answer are major considerations, as P is trying to make its employees match to standard for even surpass the standard P set for its employees around the world.. In the Great China Area, the hiring of staff also follows the same principle that he company is always trying to emphasize: The quality and moral of the person comes first. Fresh graduates from a first-class university in China, due to their flexibility and competitiveness, are the type of applicants that P China adores the most. The data has shown that 90% of the new employees are university graduates from all over China.Expatriate Once an applicant is officially an employee of P China, a series of complicated and motivating training await for them. Due to the flexibility of college students, it is usually very easy for them to absorb the management mode and thinking model quickly. As a result, spends an average Of $30 million on over 1 00 expatriated staffs every year from US in order to better instill the values of the company into employees' mind. For the expatriated employees, most of them are native American workers at managerial level, they are transferred to China mainly to train the â€Å"new born† employees, give managers at positions suggestions and be in charge of the interviews of applicants. Due to the great staff welfare policy P&G has, managers from U.S are given a big increase on their salary for â€Å"compensation†, as they have to be exposed to a completely different culture ND pay more tax give that they are working in two places. However, because of the increasing caliber and standard of Chinese managers, a lot of them are actually being sent to headquarter in Ohio, U. S for further development. Data has shown that an average of 100 Chinese managers and 10 managers from Hong Kong are sent to U. S every year. Ma rketing strategies of P&G China Products The products of household care category that P&G offered in the Great China Area vary according to different regions. For example, in the mainland market and Hong Kong market, the following items are available as shown: China Hong KongDetergent Ariel, Tide FAA Battery Durable Diaper pampers Pampers Indoor Fragrance Iambi Purr As can be seen from the data given, the types of household care products are quite different be;en China and Hong Kong. After our analysis, the following factors can give rise to this situation. Demographical Difference As a country With a huge population, China generates a great demand for basic household care product, I. E. , detergent. As a result, more kinds of detergent are expected in the Chinese market. Also, with more people from rural areas entering the city nowadays, detergents with a lower price (Tide, Ariel) compared to FAA are more accepted. Beside this, the increasing variety of people in China mainland ind icates a more diverse demand when it comes to daily-use products.Hong Kong, on the other hand, tends to have a much smaller and less diverse population, therefore the need generated for many kinds of detergent is not very intensive. Also, Hong Kong has launched some of its own local brands ( e. G. , FUD(Axe), Lagoon) for batteries and detergent that already established great trust among consumers, making it harder for P&G to have many brands to compete with them. Psychological Difference As said before, with the increasing variety of Chinese population, people are starting to have different demands and options on the kind of detergent they purchase as a result of the different kinds of fabrics and clothing materials they have. The increase of the demand implies that there need to be a more complex system of commodities, especially in detergent.However, when it comes to Hong Kong, as said before, the small population has somehow unified people's need for multiple brands; besides, it is worth-mentioning that as a city that represents the modern culture and financial business activities, Hong Kong folks tend to care more about their personal image appearing to others, and this is mainly why there exists the demand for an indoor fragrance product (Iambi Purr) in Hong Kong. Price Price is an extremely important and most uncertain factor in the market. A setting of a price is to increase a product's sale and generate profits for it. A good pricing strategy combines both the consideration of its own cost and consumers' affordability, and is a reflection of the variable market as well. Being a company known for its reasonable prices, P has unique pricing strategies for its household care products.First of all, having segmented the market, P launched different sizes of detergent and charge them with different price to cater needs for detergent and batteries from different levels. For Tide 360, three kinds of package are being introduced to the market: 2. 9 for egg(an a verage of Y 0. 97 /keg) ; YE. 9 for egg (Y 10. 5 /keg) and 15. 9 for 1. Keg (Y 9. 6 /keg). To capture the market in less developed areas, P has produced an â€Å"economical package† of 34. 8 for 5 keg ( 6. 96 / keg). What is more, due to the wider spread of thriftiness, P uses odd-even pricing more intensively in the Great China Area than it does the North America. In a supermarket, prices like Y 2. 9 , *11. 9 can often be seen when we look at some of the batteries and detergents sells, in order to make consumers consciously think that the price is collaboratively set after a series of considerations, and thus view the items as cheaper and a lot more worth- buying. Also, for products like Pampers, aims to use skimming pricing strategy to maintain its market place. Targeting at groups with higher income, this strategy makes Pampers more expensive than the rest, thus creating the feeling among consumers that Pampers are better than other reduces in terms of quality standards, e ffects and values. It is also worth- mentioning that with this strategy applied to shampoos such as Heads , Swanson, P has made an instant success, gathered larger group of consumers and increased the customers' loyalty by a great deal.Last but not least, P&G sets its price by paying a great deal of attention to the moving direction of its competitors, mostly from Milliner, to say in other words: is constantly adjusting its price according to the movement from Milliner in order to remain competitive in the field. In 2013, due to the economic downturn in the Great China Area, Milliner has been forced to lower its price in order to keep the original consumers they have. The price of a egg package Mom, a leading brand in detergent owned by Milliner, has decreased from YE to Y 33. 4 , half as expensive as it used to be. As a result of this practice, P&G decreases the price of Tide of the same package from 38 to Y 32 , a little bit less than Milliner, just to keep getting hold of the mar ket.As we can see from above, low price strategy is also an important strategy that helps P&G to stay firmly in the business. Note: American Dollar 1 = Y 6. 206; Canadian Dollar $ 1= *5. 780 Promotion As one of the strongest and most competitive commodity company in the world, what sort of promotion techniques should P&G have in order to generate new demand and face the challenges from the variable Chinese market? Increasing the number of its brands. Up to this date, P&G has over 300 brands covering fashion industry, health, household care products, cosmetics, perfume and food, etc. With a large coverage in the market, P&G does a great job in bringing in everyone's attention.Also, Sometimes, the brands in competition with each other are tooth from P, making profit for What is more, due to the trust built in customers in Chinese market, it is very easy for P to sweep out other local brands and develop at a steady pace. Advertisement For large companies aiming for the whole market, ad vertising is without a doubt a very useful â€Å"weapon† for the company's growth In long stand. A good advertisement cannot only bring the company massive profits, but can also build a good brand image for the company as a whole. Large amount Of investment In 2011, P&G spent Y 33. 26 billion in the Great China Area, over six times than what it had spent ten years ago.Besides, it is worth-mentioning that the total expenditure on advertisement in 2011 was *55. 89 billion , indicating that views the Great China Area as a very important market. It is shown that among ten brands with the most advertising expenditure in 2005, half of them are P&G's brands. Appropriate and effective content The common technique it uses is by comparison: the person in the clip will usually show the difference between P and other brands. Tide and Durable are typical examples for this; Also, P will have a professional presenting the daily problems, and then provide the solution by introducing a ewe pr oduct. Oral-B in the health category is an example of this technique.Both techniques successfully capture consumers' needs and make them want P&G's products even more. Good choice of people Having a person everyone loves in the advertisement certainly means more people will start thinking about the products, and P is always wisely choosing the person in the advertisement to make sure it generates a great effect in its potential market. Philanthropy as another advocating method In 2007, donated *7. 5 million to China Education Development Foundation, initiating the â€Å"Quantifications]ahoy† (National Healthy Education Plan); In 2010, spent another million on aiding China Social Welfare Foundation, mainly for letting children from less developed area have a better Children's Day (Novo. 10th); From 2007 to 2009, P&G has donated 4 million three times consecutively to Project Hope in order to help kids who cannot finish school in China; In total, P&G has donated to build 131 ele mentary schools in China from 1 991 to 2008, and it has been planning to build 200 by the end of 2010. Etc. Place On Gag 18th1988, entered China as a join venture with two soap companies and a foreign trade corporation in Guanos. After two months, Head& Shoulders, the first brand P&G has in the Great China Area, was launched, and in only two months, more than 95% Of the population in Guanos has known the brand. After twenty years of development, P&G has now become the biggest commodities company with a sale of almost 18 billion every year in the Great China Area, making China the second largest market throughout P&G's global operation.When P first entered China, China was still going through the stage of reformation and opening up. Gudgeon Province, where Guanos is at, was one of the few regions that darted trading with other countries, which provided a great deal of opportunity for foreign companies like and Milliner. Studies have shown that an estimated value of 26. 2 billion doll ar per year is created solely from foreign direct investment during the period between 1979 and 2007, while in 2007 the FED was even increased to 74. 8 billion dollar. Also, it cannot be denied that the caring policies towards the infrastructures and resource allocation are another major reason why P chose Guanos.With the construction of industrial areas and the introduction of less tax to companies, P saved a great amount of money on the start up cost, and thus was able to develop at a faster and steadier pace. Besides these, Guanos, as a terminal in the Peking- Guanos Railway, Guanos can provide P with a convenient distribution system and provide guarantee to the allocation of P's products throughout coastal areas in China. Summary P&G chooses enter China, an emerging market and place of resources. P&G keeps the growth of its economies of scale, increases revenue and decreases cost.

NIKE Corporate social responsibility Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

NIKE Corporate social responsibility - Essay Example Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is widely discussed in boardrooms across the world. Of late there have been considerable changes in the corporate value system. This is largely due to both external and internal pressures from various actors and factors in the stakeholders such as government and regulators, consumers and customers, non-governmental organizations (NGO) and in some instances from within the organizations itself (Bhandarkar & Alvarez-Rivero, From supply chains to value chains: A spotlight on CSR, 2007). Today in the era of globalization, increasing number of companies are operating are going global. These Multinational corporations (MNCs) operate in multicultural, multi-ethnic and geographically distributed systems across the globe running supply chains that span from suppliers’ suppliers to distributors’ distributors. Quite a few of these actors and factors are already located in the developing world and more are being relocated. Many of these MNCsâ⠂¬â„¢ foreign affiliates and arm’s length suppliers thus are governed by different level of CSR procedures.Today, consumers and employees along with pressure from a varied group of stakeholders are holding businesses to perform more on higher and broader social environmental standards than in the past. Besides, in today’s information spread and media stage, companies are not just adjudged by the behaviors of those associated, including sourcing facilities, licenses, agents, partners, and host governments†... Quite a few of these actors and factors are already located in the developing world and more are being relocated. Many of these MNCs’ foreign affiliates and arm’s length suppliers thus are governed by different level of CSR procedures (Bhandarkar & Alvarez-Rivero, From supply chains to value chains: A spotlight on CSR, 2007). Context Today, consumers and employees along with pressure from a varied group of stakeholders are holding businesses to perform more on higher and broader social environmental standards than in the past. Besides, in today’s information spread and media stage, companies are not just adjudged by the behaviors of those associated, including sourcing facilities, licenses, agents, partners, and host governments† (Smith, Gare; Feldman, Dan; The World Bank Group, 2003, p. 1). In addition, business entities, in particular MNCs are not only â€Å"accountable under local law, but also to various norms and standards, promulgated by global agenc ies such as International Labor Organization (ILO), the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and corporate best practices† (Smith, Gare; Feldman, Dan; The World Bank Group, 2003, p. 1). Failure to comply these norms and standards not only can damage reputation of firms’ corporate practices, â€Å"but also may face protests, boycotts, attacks on corporate property, divestment campaigns, hostile shareholders resolutions and the enactment of sanction laws† (Smith, Gare; Feldman, Dan; The World Bank Group, 2003, p. 1). The apparel industry has already faced some of this music in the 1990’s with â€Å"many apparel and footwear firms discovered when they first confronted serious legal and reputational challenges in the 1990s related to allegations of labor abuses in foreign sourcing

Psychoanalytical perspective Trifles by Susan Glaspell Essay

Psychoanalytical perspective Trifles by Susan Glaspell - Essay Example This is because a deeper understanding of human nature can reveal the motivation behind their actions. In this play, the playwright has employed trifles or everyday conversation or incidents to uncover the murder mystery of John Wright. Ironically, what seem trifles to the men folk, such as the quilt and how it was being quilted, was actually the key to solve the mystery. It was of significant importance how it was being quilted because the women could see nervousness and anxiety in the last few stitches by Minnie Wright, which was altogether ignored by men as they were looking for physical evidences only. The dreary and queer ambience of the house arouses sympathy of the two women for Minnie Wright. The incomplete state of the household chores conveys an altogether different meaning than what the men believe that she did not have home-keeping skills. This is because the women associate with each other through their common interests in their womanly and homemaking activities, referred to as ‘trifles’ in the play. Through their simple conservation, the playwright makes sure that the audience gets a hint that the three women are bonded together and understand each other’s psychologies through common experiences and feelings. There is an also an element of isolation and alienation from the mainstream life in the play. The Wrights used to live an isolated life- they were childless and did not have frequent visitors. According to Mrs. Hale, who didn’t think that â€Å"... a place’d be any cheerfuller for John Wright’s being in it.†(Glaspell, 1916) The two women instinctually trace the underlying causes of alienation and its adverse affects on the life and psyche of Minnie Wright. Glaspell symbolically represents Minnie Wright as the ‘caged singing bird’. Mrs. Hale says, â€Å"I wonder how it would seem never to have had any children around. No, Wright wouldn’t like

Team Communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Team Communication - Essay Example Sometimes happens that the leader is not aware of members` interaction and decision making, which also results in loss of status of the leader. It is extremely important for a team to hold regular meetings on which every member would have a chance to speak out. A leader`s assertiveness, clarity, and the ability to hear each team member will prevent tension and frustration. It is crucial for the team members to have the same understanding of the direction and the processes in the team. A leader must be able to set clear goals and analyze the stage of their achievement. One of the most difficult moments of the team work is dealing with problems. Sometimes certain conflicts or problems appear due to bad performance of one of the members. A good leader will be able to address the problem without pointing to the person. Drawing too much attention to the failure of a team member as well as concealing it is not the best practice as it can result in depression.In my schools, most leaders sup port participative leadership style, which means that they consult with a team before taking important decisions. I find this style to be the most relevant and effective. If there is much evidence that the team leader is not capable to control, direct, and manage the team the members have to voice their complaints and in some cases choose another leader.Therefore, keeping constant contact with team members, setting direct achievable goals, and solving the conflicts efficiently will make team work successfully.

International trade Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

International trade - Essay Example Tariffs and quotas allow domestic industry to reap more profits than it would do under free trade. Pertinently tariffs and quotas are fairly transparent, when compared to other forms of trade interventions (Kenen, 2000: 177). However, loss to the economy and society from the protection of tariffs and quotas is higher as the loss to the consumers exceeds the gain of the producer. According to the US Department of Labor, protectionism destroys eight jobs in general economy for every one saved in the protected economy (Miller and Elwood, 1998). Free trade, on the other hand, encourages nations to manufacture only those commodities in which they have specialization thus creating more and better job opportunities. Cross-national trade, thus, makes the rates of goods more competitive and allows goods to be shipped and traded internationally. Tariffs and quotas decrease the choice of goods for the consumers and raise the cost of doing business. Trade protectionism impedes economic growth, a nd its costs are far higher than its benefits. Apparent similarities apart, there are major conceptual and practical differences between quotas and tariffs. There is a general non-equivalence between tariffs and quotas. Quotas restrict the import of commodities, into the home country, in a given period of time. Through a quota, a country directly decreases the import of goods. It is a protectionist regime employed to benefit a few importers, and producers, of a particular commodity. Quota can also be referred to as the quantitative restriction on the import of goods. Kenen (2000:176) argues that quotas also provide an absolute limitation on the volume of imports. There can be a total ban of import of quantities exceeding the quota or they can be subject to a high duty rate. Transparency in the quota system is far less than that in tariff system. Normally, quotas are allocated without any

How effective were attempts to protect soldiers in the war Essay

How effective were attempts to protect soldiers in the war - Essay Example This protection strategy was dependent on sniper protection who remained vigil above ground at a strategic vantage point where they would fire an enemy who approached the trenches. The safety of the soldiers in the trenches is thus dependent on the sniper. As a protective strategy this was quite ineffective as at sometimes the enemies got unnoticed hence attacking and killing the officers in trenches. The soldiers taking cover in trenches as a protective strategy for the soldiers was not successful as it resulted in loss of lives of the soldiers ( Grayzel 76). For the prisoner at war, they were kept in deplorable conditions that made them quite uncomfortable. The vivid explanation of the conditions in which they were kept with lack of enough food and general supplies highlight the lack of effectiveness in the protection strategies of soldiers during the World War I period. The letters reveal how they were kept in the barracks where they were quite crowded and no space for sleeping comfortable. Because of such like deplorable conditions, it resulted in deaths of prisoners of war in the process. Despite the fact that they were prisoners of war, as human right they ought to have been protected and treated in a human way. This however was not the case as they were left for dead and survival like pigs. Many human rights activists were of the opinion that such like treatment of prisoners of war was not an effective war strategy to protect the soldiers. The food was also rationed in one of the letters the soldier describes the condition as â€Å"the prisoners will have only 12 ounces of bread a day† ( Grayzel 77). This shows the great extent to which they were denied the basic human right of survival. Despite the harsh weather conditions the soldiers were not well taken care off as regards warm clothing in the winter. The sanitary conditions in barracks were also wanting. To a great extent the treatment and protection

Research project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Research project - Essay Example does not cure AIDS or eliminate the virus from the body. Higher rates of success have been achieved with a cocktail of a variety of medications, including both protease inhibitors and reverse transcriptase inhibitors. "Efavirenz (Sustiva), another type of reverse transcriptase inhibitor, must be taken with protease inhibitors or older AIDS medicines. Opportunistic infections are treated with various antibiotics and antivirals, and patients with malignancies may undergo chemotherapy. These measures may prolong life or improve the quality of life, but drugs for AIDS treatment may also produce painful or debilitating side effects." (Muir, 1991) Protease inhibitors, first approved in 1995, were designed for use in combination with reverse transcriptase inhibitors. The AIDS cocktail or triple-combination therapy, consists of a protease inhibitor and two reverse transcriptase inhibitors such as AZT and 3TC. Protease inhibitors work by disrupting the HIV replication cycle. "Protease is another enzyme that is essential in the replication of HIV, but rather than acting on the process of genetic transcription, protease is necessary for breaking down viral proteins into the proper components for the maturation of new virus particles." In the absence of protease, the formation of viral proteins is incomplete, slowing the process of the virus. When taken together, the actions of reverse transcriptase inhibitors work in the early stages of the syndrome, while protease inhibitors interrupt processes in the final stages of maturation of new virus particles. (Henkel, 1999) Clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of this combination therapy and resulted in an advancement in the... Elwood, William N., ed. Power in the Blood: A Handbook on AIDS, Politics, and Communication. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 1999. Questia. 9 Mar. 2007 . Mitchell, Christopher G., and Nathan L. Linsk. "A Multidimensional Conceptual Framework for Understanding HIV/AIDS as a Chronic Long-Term Illness." Social Work 49.3 (2004): 469+. Questia. 8 Mar. 2007 .

Honda in Europe Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Honda in Europe - Case Study Example The paper tells that the issue of cultural diversity, in regards to international marketing, is of utmost importance. It is, therefore, critical for Honda to treat the culture of each country in its own context. Furthermore, different countries from the European region have different cultural values, which significantly affect their thinking behaviors and actions. Honda appears to have made a grave cultural mistake while designing its global marketing strategy and, therefore, it will be very wise to understand the cultural practices and values of each country and design strategies that resonate the individual’s country’s culture. The poor performance of Honda in Europe has been thought to have resulted from the failure of the company to understand the culture of European countries and instead treating the market as a homogenous block. The differences amongst different European countries have been split between high-context versus low-context cultures – Honda ough t to design its marketing strategies to be in line with these cultural divisions, to enhance acceptability of its products in the respective countries. Ideally, Honda ought to have understood that the kind of advertisement that is suitable for low context cultures is different from that which is suitable for high context cultures. In essence, the advertisement for high-context culture should encompass an embedded approach where the weight is put on the general view and feel instead of providing the literal information.... In conclusion, it is not wise for Honda to market its products the same way in all countries because it is improbable that an advertisement intended for a low-context culture will work in a high-context culture and vice versa. Given that Europe is a multicultural block, Honda should take into account the two cultural segments when designing a market strategy. Is it wise for Honda to market its products the same way in every country? It is not wise for Honda to enter the global market with a similar strategy in every country because, actually, this is the mistake the company committed, in the past, leading to poorly performance in different regions especially in Europe. It is important to pay attention to various political, social and economic forces that influence business in different countries and design strategies that resonates to those factors. These factors are very essential because they are used to define the decisions to take when producing, selling and delivering products a nd services to consumers from different parts of the world. Honda should carefully assess the style, taste, culture and values and believes of its customers from different countries because these factors are essential when designing an international marketing plan. For instance, Honda should apply marketing mix that is unique to individual countries, based on factors such as language barrier, economic circumstances among many others. Socio- economic considerations, technically, are important factors that influence the company’s taxation, transport cost, people’s taste and needs as well as the competition from other companies. From the statistics, Honda is facing stiff competition from different regions, especially the

Environmental Science Essay Example for Free

Environmental Science Essay Although attempting to subdivide existing farm plots and redistribute them may be considered suitable for the purposes of remediating food insecurity and rural poverty, there exists a significant amount of controversy over such a practice due to the issues such redistribution entail. For example, the redistribution of land would require that the distributing entity pick and choose claims and rights to land at their discretion, and such claims can range from historic, ancestral or even from â€Å"ownership of the till. † Land reform has met much resistance from even the most impoverished numbers of developing countries, and it would be difficult to attempt redistribution without shaking up the foundations of property rights. Farming co-ops provide a distinct advantage for farmers. First of all, they provide them the opportunity to act as a group, giving them a collective bargaining power that they do not possess as individuals and allows them to act in unison in seizing market opportunities while being able to manage risks together. In effect, they can leverage their interests better when united as a co-op and it is this asset that has brought success to the likes of the Ocean Spray Cranberry growers and the farmers of Sunkist. (Gable, 2006; Hieu, 2008) Opening up new land is perhaps the most rapidly actionable means of increasing the food supply for a growing population, but this also poses a liability with regards to environmental impact. The problem with agriculture, especially the large-scale grain-based industrial monoculture which has been developed to feed most of the world, is that it is largely unsustainable and has a detrimental effect on soil fertility. In the first half of the 20th century, a large portion of the American Midwest was reduced to desert due to aggressive expansion of the wheat growing agriculture. (Manning, 2004) As such, what is needed is not the expansion of the present industrial agriculture, but the development of techniques and technologies to improve farming so that yields are better, but without compromising sustainability. Pursuing job opportunities in the city is not entirely perfect, but it is a desirable direction towards the development of compact communities and urban density. When combined with practices such as permaculture, which is the development of perennial agricultural systems that resemble the systems found in natural ecology (Holmgren, 2003), compact communities effectively curtail many of the environmentally adverse effects of sprawl and the wastefulness of imposing distance between food production, residential zoning and urban sectors. (Sightline Institute, n. d. ) Ultimately, what is needed to address the needs of a growing population in the developing world is not the application of population control measures, or a voluntary call to asceticism, but the institution of developmental policies that recognize the needs and wants of human society on terms that are just to developing nations and corrective to developed ones. Alex Steffen (2006) notes that it is wrong to think we can talk developing nations out of pursuing their dreams, and deny them of the material luxury that citizens of developed nations take for granted. Therefore, what is necessary is bright green developmental policy, founded upon the idea that economic luxury continue without rendering the planet an uninhabitable wasteland. This would require cradle-to-cradle designs, closed-loop industrial systems and self-sustaining infrastructure, much of which is already possible today. The future is already here, it’s just not well distributed. REFERENCES Gable, C. (2006, October). â€Å"Fields of Power; Farming Co-Ops the Future of Biodiesel,† Organic Producer. Retrieved October 9, 2008 from: http://www. organicproducermag. com/index. cfm? fuseaction=feature. displayfeature_id=43 Hieu, T. (2008, July 27) â€Å"Farming co-ops may be answer to rural poverty. † Vietnam Business News. Retrieved October 9, 2008 from: http://www. vnbusinessnews. com/2008/07/farming-co-ops-may-be-answer-to-rural. html Manning, R. (2004) Against the Grain: How Agriculture Hijacked Civilization. New York, New York: North Point Press. Holmgren, D. (2003) Permaculture: Principles Pathways Beyond Sustainability. Hepburn Springs, Victoria, Australia: Holmgren Design Services. Sightline Institute. (n. d. ) â€Å"Build Complete, Compact Communities. † Sightline Institute. Retrieved October 8, 2008 from: http://www. sightline. org/research/sust_toolkit/fundamentals/great_places Steffen, A. (Ed. ) (2006) Worldchanging: A User’s Guide for the 21st Century. New York: Abrams, Inc.

Examining Cross Cultural Motivation in Employees

Examining Cross Cultural Motivation in Employees Motivation of employees is the essence for high performance in companies, which in turn ensures the competitively of a company, in todays world where global competition is fierce especially with Chinas growth. The poor performance of the European American countries on the other hand, makes it more difficult for them to compete with China. These are probably the consequences of extremely powerful labor unions that ensure employment protection of employees. Employment protection legislation, which is the set of rules on how to fire or hire an employee (Zientara, 2006), has often been the focus of studies explaining that its effect is high unemployment. However, no studies have been done on the effects of employment protection legislation on the attitudes and behavior of employees. On the other hand, Lebanon representing the Middle East is rarely concerned with employment protection and labor unions have very minimal influence in companies. So the purpose of my paper is to determine whether employees in a country where employment protection legislation are more motivated than a country with lenient regulations on employment protection. In order to achieve this study, I have conducted some in-depth interviews and prepared a questionnaire for companies of Lebanon Italy. In the end, the results of my study show that in fact employees that are highly protected by employment protection legislation are less motivated than employees where employment protection legislation is more lenient. Employees are the most important asset a company has, therefore motivating them is the best way to ensure high performance of a company and in turn increase the companies competitivity. Yet, Western Europe is facing a period of crisis where productivity is low and competitivity is decreasing. This is why, it is essential to ensure that all employees are motivated, which will ensure an increase in productivity. Indeed, between 1980 and 1995, Europe had an average labor productivity growth of 2.33% and in 1995 to 2001, it fell 1.37% (Evans, 2004). This causes delocalization of many companies to cheaper and more flexible countries or major labor cuts increasing the already heavy unemployment rate which is at 7.8% in Europe, against 4.6% in the US and 4.2 in Japan, according to the European statistical agency. This crisis also affects on employee motivation at work, where work loads increase to avoid employing new workers and therefore, avoiding all the complications of regulations. The actual situation in Europe is the consequence of powerful unions and very strict employment protection legislation. On the other hand, in the Middle East, the labors have very low employment protection legislation and labor unions have very miniature influence. While the Middle East differs from Western Europe regarding labors conditions; it also faces problems regarding employees behavior. Performance isnt at its highest rate either and often companies face the problem of employees working a minimum throughout the day. Both regions need to find a way to motivate employees in order to increase productivity. Yet, since companies in Europe accept and adapt to the employment legislation protection, the best way of ensuring productivity and therefore competitivity is by motivating employees to perform at the optimum level. A Cross-cultural study is necessary in order to understand better the causes and effects of low motivation. Therefore, I chose a region that could be considered quite different from the Western Europe (Italy): The Middle East. Indeed, as depicted by Hofstedes 5 cultural dimensions, the 2 regions have different values. However, few studies have been done on the rate of motivation and workers condition in the Middle East. One study entitled Job Satisfaction and Employee Performance in a Lebanese Banking Staff (Abou Zaki Crosssman, 2003), analyzed job satisfaction of employees in a Lebanese bank, but it didnt include an analysis of employee motivation. However, studying whether or not employees in the Middle East are motivated and how to increase their motivation is crucial in order to understand how to increase performance. According to Nicoleth (2000), Italy, which is the Western European country I will be studying, has been rated as the third strictest country in terms of employment protection legislation. Like other countries in Western Europe, Italys problem today is that it is losing its competitivity because laws of employment are too strict and wages are high. Since companies in Europe cannot change laws and cannot decrease wages, their only way of ensuring competitivity is by increasing productivity to a maximum. However, because employees in Western Europe are extensively protected, they perform just enough to guarantee that employer has no legal reason to lay them off. Therefore, productivity isnt at a level high enough to ensure competitivity. The only solution to encourage employees to be more productive would be to motivate them at work. On the other hand, Lebanon is the center for the Middle East with an opening to the Mediterranean. Being a modern country with both local and international companies, it is interesting to study this country. Furthermore, even though there are a few employment protection regulations, protection is applied and respected to a minimum level in Lebanon. Within this context, it is normal that employees, especially part timers, arent motivated to perform at their best, knowing that they could be fired at any moment. The actual motivation level of employees in both countries will be studied by using the Herzbergs Hygiene Theory. This theory will help me first of all to determine if employees at work are satisfied or dissatisfied, from these results I will determine if employees need intrinsic or rather extrinsic motivation. I am expecting to find that Italians arent dissatisfied but are not satisfied either. Therefore, they have a neutral attitude toward their jobs, whereas Lebanese employees experience dissatisfaction. According to these expectations, it is probable that Italian, lack intrinsic motivation whereas Lebanese lack both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. The logic behind these conclusions will be discussed furthermore in my paper. H1: Italians need to be intrinsically motivated. H2: Lebanese need to be extrinsically motivated. The Job Design Theory will help me determine how jobs in each of the 2 countries should be designed in order to motivate employees. In order to do so, I will rank some characteristics that should be present in a job, according to the most motivating to the least motivating. The ranking will be based on the different intensity of motivation felt towards the different job characteristics. The final part of my paper will include recommendations on the best way a job should be designed in Lebanon and Italy, in order to ensure motivation. It is important to add that I am considering only these 2 theories because they respond best to the needs of my paper. Indeed, Maslows theory is not valid in theory and the ERG theory, is more valid than Maslows hierarchy, yet it also focuses on the needs of the employees only. The Goal Setting theory includes the motivational aspect of needs, yet is doesnt focus on the characteristics of the job. Herzbergs theory and the Job Design Theory best respond to the needs of this paper because both of these theories focus on characteristics within the job itself that can lead to motivation of employees. Jumping to the definition of employment protection legislation, according to Zientara (2006), it is the set of rules on how to hire and/or fire rising from both the labor legislation and the collective bargaining agreements. Its aim is to ensure a secure job for employees. Zientara explains that as employment protection legislation is stricter, firing an employee becomes more costly and therefore it damages the labor market performance. Therefore, the Italian legislation is very detailed in the 3 components of the employment protection legislation as the employer has limited power in withdrawing from the contract. Contrary to the Italian legislation, the Lebanese legislation is very vague and minimal as there are written laws concerning the protection of regular employees against dismissal and against collective dismissal. Yet there are no regulations concerning temporary employment, which already reduces the strictness of employment protection legislation. The only condition for an employer to dismiss an employee in Lebanon, is to give a compensation which is determined according to the nature of the work, the employees age, tenure, family and health conditions. When comparing the conditions imposed to employers for individual and collective dismissal and for conditions of temporary workers, it is clear that Italy is much stricter than Lebanon. It is important to add that: in Italy, appeal to the court is likely to see the judiciary take such a favorable view of the employees social or family problems that dismissal is commonly judge to be practically impossible. (Emerson, 1988, p.787). Whereas, in Lebanon, court costs a lot and labor unions power and effectiveness are so low that chances for an employee to win a case are little. The fact that strict employment protection legislation is still extensively applied in Italy, means that it does present several benefits. Society benefits because it avoids the payment of unemployment benefits (Zientara, 2006). In addition, it encourages employees loyalty and dedication toward the organization (Akerloff, 1984). Not to forget, it encourages companies to invest on training and upgrading the productivity of labors and furthermore, accepts technological changes and internal job mobility (Piore, 1989). On the other hand, strict employment protection legislation also presents some downfalls, which could explain the ongoing debate about it. First of all, strict employment protection legislation causes high unemployment rate since it discourages employers to easily dismiss employees and leaving the door open to prospective employees (Zientara, 2006). Furthermore, Italy cannot adapt to the changes of economic conditions (Emerson, 1988) which today present flexibility of employees and competitivity in the spotlight. Additionally, the low probability of being dismissed may have an adverse effect on employees whose effort and cooperation with others in the company will reduce (Emerson, 1988). No matter what the reasons of absenteeism are, the problems are that it causes reduction of productivity and that firing is too difficult because of strict employment protection legislation. This is why; the only solution to reduce effects of employment protection legislation on organizations product ivity is by increasing motivation. The economic climates of the past decades have cause d an increase in de-motivation at work. Indeed, downsizing and the rationalization of policies causes de-motivation (Gee Burke, 2001). All in all, change, uncertainty, lack of control and high work load are all causes for the increase in stress and therefore, the decrease in motivation. Yet motivation is the key for employees to exert 100% effort, which means performing as well as possible all the time (Gee Burke, 2001), this explains how motivation is related to performance. According to Robbins (2004), motivation is defined as a psychological process which consists of the persons intensity in terms of how hard he/she tries, the quality and intensity of the effort which is directed to the benefit of the organization and the persistence of the person in question. Motivation can be of two kinds: it can be extrinsic or intrinsic. Extrinsic motivation is a tangible reward for a given performance (Adonis, 2007). Although it is very p owerful at first, extrinsic motivation quickly becomes an expectation and loses its effects. Indeed it motivates in the short run but doesnt consider the internal needs of the employee (Adonis, 2007). On the other hand, intrinsic motivation is triggered from inside the person by considering the needs of recognition and self-fulfillment of each individual through a sense of achievement, responsibilities, job satisfaction, involvement and empowerment (Adonis, 2007). In fact, intrinsic motivation is long term and aims at improving the morale of employees which in turn will increase the productivity by lowering absenteeism and increasing retention (Adonis, 2007). The Hygiene-Motivator Theory shows the factors that lead to dissatisfaction in a job and satisfaction. Factors that cause dissatisfaction which are called hygiene factors are extrinsic; these include working conditions, pay, policiesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦(Robbins, 2004) On the other hand, factors that are leading to job satisfaction are recognition, responsibilities, task achievement and other factors that are intrinsic. These factors are long term motivators (Gee Burke, 2001)à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Removing dissatisfying factors will not create a satisfactory job, but rather a neutral feeling towards the job. Indeed, factors that create satisfaction at work are different and separate from those causing dissatisfaction (Robbins, 2004). This is why, to cancel dissatisfaction at work, organizations must ensure hygiene factors that follow employees needs. To develop satisfaction at work, organizations must design jobs that include intrinsic motivators. The JDT, which I will now explain, provide compa nies towards the design of jobs, including the motivator factors stated in the motivation- hygiene theory. The Job Design Theory, developed by Oldham Hackman, shows 5 core dimensions that either increase or decrease motivation (Robbins, 2004) and they are the following: Skill Variety, Task Variety, Task Significance, Autonomy, and Feedback. According to JDT, motivation of employees through the 5 dimensions can be summarized as follows: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ internal rewards are obtained by individuals when they learn (knowledge of results) that they personally (experience responsibilities) have performed well on a task that they care about (experience meaningfulness). (Robbins, 2004, p.184) As the presence of these 3 psychological states increase so does motivation, performance and satisfaction. First, to motivate employee through autonomy, the organization must ensure a flexible job in terms of schedule, work sharing, and telecommunicating and it can be promoted through ideas and challenges (Garg Rastogi, 2005). In addition, to motivate employees, the HR department has the role of making the employees feel as the most valued asset of the organization (Garg Rabstogi, 2005, p.579). Further adding, to ensure motivation, employees must be recruited according to their knowledge, skills and abilities (Garg Rastogi, 2005). After conducting in-depth interviews, and surveys in both the Lebanese Italian market, it is time to show the results of my research. According to the results from the survey, Italian employees have a different feeling concerning intrinsic and extrinsic factors of motivation. The Italian rated intrinsic factors of motivation at an average of 4.97 over 7, this means that Italians dont feel dissatisfied. On the other hand, intrinsic motivation was graded as 3.94 over 7, which means that Italians are not satisfied at work. These numbers support hypothesis which states that Italian employees arent dissatisfied at work but are not satisfied either. The results extracted from the Lebanese sample shows a slight difference between extrinsic and intrinsic satisfaction. Extrinsic satisfaction for the Lebanese Is rated as 5.39 which show that Lebanese are not dissatisfied. Furthermore, intrinsic factors were graded at 5.21, which also show that Lebanese are satisfied at work. In other words, e mployees are not dissatisfied and even satisfied at work. These results contradict hypothesis 2, which expected Lebanese employees to be not satisfied and even dissatisfied at work. In fact, it can be seen clearly, that Lebanese feel much less dissatisfaction than Italians. Yet the major difference stands in the intrinsic level of motivation as there is gap between Lebanese who seem satisfied and Italians who are not. In terms of Turn-Over, Italians do not consider leaving their jobs, since the average turnover was 3.34 over 7 while Lebanese were graded as 3.52à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ so the intention of leaving their place at work is at the same level for both Italians and Lebanese, there are no flagrant differences. The feelings towards the different motivational characteristics of a job were all considered as interesting and motivating. Yet, small differences in averages enable us to determine preferences. As the table shows, the overall results are similar in Lebanon and Italy, yet two main ranking of characteristics vary. The first differences are in the first most motivating factors. Italians consider Task Significance as being the most motivating and then followed by the Task Identity. On the other hand, the Lebanese have a reversed feeling where Task Identity comes first before Task Significance. The second difference is in Task and Skill Variety. The results of the first part of the questionnaire enable me to lead to several conclusions which help me understand how employees in Lebanon and in Italy feel about their jobs. Furthermore, the results from the second part of the questionnaire can be a guide for designing jobs that will increase motivation. Yet, the results were affected by limitation during the research. The results extracted from the questionnaire seem to lead to the conclusion that in general, Lebanese workers are more satisfied than Italian workers with their jobs. Indeed, whether when analyzing the extrinsic or the intrinsic factors, Lebanese gave a higher average of motivation. Although Italians are not dissatisfied at work, they still remain at the verge of the neutrality since they rated extrinsic factors of motivation at 4.97 against Lebanese who gave a 5.39 average, which leads to a confident extrinsic satisfaction. Under the same tone, results show that Italians arent dissatisfied at work in terms of extrinsic motivation but yet again, it is a very minimal average of 3.97 which is very close to neutrality. Therefore, overall it can be concluded that Italians lack intrinsic motivation, which support H1. This further illustrates the fact that regardless of how strict employment protection legislation in a country, it doesnt ensure motivation of employees. On the other hand, L ebanese do not support H2 because the results show that they are satisfied both intrinsically and extrinsically. This could mean that on the contrary maybe employees are more motivated when employment protection legislation is more lenient. Results show that Italians and Lebanese dont consider quitting their jobs. In fact, the results are very close for both countries. Besides, they are both very close to the neutral point which demonstrates that the intention of remaining in the same company isnt a 100% there. Besides a very important contradiction is that Italians arent satisfied with their jobs but still they dont consider quitting their job more than Lebanese who are satisfied do. The results obtained from the second part of the questionnaire, although in general very similar between both countries, show a nuance of cultural differences in needs between Italians and Lebanese. Actually, it seems that Lebanese hold more importance to task identity which comes first before task significance. This means, that Lebanese would feel more motivated if they could put a name to their work. On the other hand, Task significance comes before task identity for the Italians, therefore, Italians are more motivated by the impact their job has on others whether inside or outside the companies. This is why, it can conclude that Lebanese are more self-centered regarding their jobs, whereas Italians are more centered towards others. Another difference can be observed concerning task and skill variety. In fact, results show that Italians would be more motivated by developing different skills than undertaking different tasks within their jobs. This means that Italians are more attracted to learning new techniques and methods of work and using them. On the other hand, Lebanese seem to care, more about using different tasks at work than about using different skills. This illustrates that Lebanese are more motivated by doing a number of different activities in order to complete their job. The rest of the characteristics are all ranked at the same level of importance for both countries. It is interesting to see that Italians and Lebanese consider knowledge characteristics as the least motivating. Therefore, they arent very concerned about learning and development. A very interesting point in relation to the Motivation Potential Score is that to motivate employees in Italy, the equation must be high in Task Significanc e more importantly in order to complete meaningfulness of the job. Task identity can also be added in order to enhance this psychological state. Autonomy and feedback must also be considered since they come in 3rd and 4th and they must complete the equation to ensure the motivation of employees. The Motivation Potential score equation for the Lebanese employees should be high in Task identity for meaningfulness of the job. Still under meaningfulness, task significance can be added but not as a priority. Of course, autonomy and feedback must be high in order to ensure motivation. The conclusions obtained enable us to understand the different needs of each country in order to motivate employees. According to the results, Italians seem to lack satisfaction at work. Therefore, managers in Italy should concentrate on intrinsic factors of motivation. In other words, employees must feel a sense of achievement, responsibility and furthermore, employees must feel recognition when they achieve something. Responsibilities can be developed through delegation and even more empowerment of employees who are given the possibility of participating in decision making concerning the company. Empowerment is more than delegation, it is the opportunity to take responsibility for a particular task and see it through its completion. (Hopkins, 1995, p.2) Achievements can be developed within the enterprise by listening to innovative ideas of employees and providing the means to put the idea to life when they have a potential of benefiting the enterprise. Another way of encouraging achievement is by supporting employees in completing their work. In order to complete the motivating aspect of achievem ents and responsibilities, recognition must be addressed. Indeed, recognition is a motivating factor that can be presented in the form of a simple thank you or more formally an award in front of the entire company with reasons for such a gesture (Hopkins, 1995). Managers in Italy can also use the results of this paper in order to design jobs that will increase motivation and performance of employees. Focusing on the conclusion obtained from the Motivation Potential Score equation of Italians, it can be understood that jobs in Italy should be high in Task Significance as a priority, high in autonomy and feedback. Therefore, a motivating job in Italy should include characteristics that show the significance of the job for others. Adding to this, employees should participate in important actions or events of the organization in order to feel that they count. This can be done through the participation in decision making, proposition of new ideas and state problems in the company. Anything, which shows how important the employees input, is for the company is a good way of grading high in Task Significance. Yet, Task Significance also includes impact employees have on the world outside the company. This can be done through the image of the organiz ation within the society such as social responsibilities and good reputation. In other words, employees must realize that their quality of work and performance helps in enhancing the reputation of the company. A program in the name of the company could also be developed where employees can participate in helping the society such as a cleaning the beach day. Another important motivational characteristic that could be present within a job is autonomy which can be developed by increasing freedom of employees in three aspects of the job: Work Scheduling through flexible schedules and flexible times of break, choice of part time jobs or shared jobs and even telecommunicating jobs when possible. Work Methodology, through the choice on how best to complete the job. Indeed, employees are those who perform that same job everyday, so they become specialized and very knowledgeable about it and this is why they are well placed to know the best way of conducting the task. Decision Making, concerning their part of the job. This can be through suggestion boxes or regular meetings where employees can share their concern or problems regarding their jobs and propose a plausible solution. The 3rd characteristic that should be included in the design of a job that will increase motivation is Feedback. Feedback can very simply be assured within a job. Programs such as annual or monthly evaluation of employee performance are a good way of developing feedback in a company. Yet, just listing a number or a grade to an employee isnt enough. In addition, managers should explain why weak evaluations results were obtained and give advices on how to perform better. Since the results show that Lebanese are satisfied at work, the only recommendation that can be given is in the Job Design. As mentioned before, autonomy and feedback are important characteristics that should be present in jobs in Lebanon and to respect the Motivation Potential Score equation which therefore increases motivation. Here, Task Identity plays a very important role for motivating the Lebanese. To include Task Identity in their jobs, The Lebanese managers must ensure that employees can complete an entire piece of work with which they can identify with. An example of task identity is a factory of radios where each employee can put his name on the back of the piece they produced. Task Identity is enhanced when employees feel responsible and are given responsibility for their work. It also increases the pride employees have for the work they perform. Of course, motivation can further be enhanced by including task significance characteristics which is graded as second in motiv ating Lebanese employees. Due to the limitations that this research can provide (lack of large number of responses in Lebanon, cultural tendency, anonymity, lack of commitment of companies), it would be interesting to re-proceed with this research with a larger sample in Lebanon, which is crucial for the specificity of the results. This same research, comparing to other countries would also be very interesting. Finally, this research focusing on the service sector is another interesting scope.

Blanche is Responsible for her own Fate in a Street Car Named Desire Es

This essay will describe whether or not Blanches’ unfortunate eventual mental collapse was due to her being a victim of the society she went to seek comfort in, or if she was solely or at least partly responsible. The factors and issues that will be discussed include, Blanches’ deceitful behaviour and romantic delusions which may have lead to her eventual downfall, the role Stanley ended up playing with his relentless investigations of her past and the continuous revelations of it, the part society and ‘new America’ played in stifling her desires and throwing her into a world she could not relate to or abide by. Firstly, the reader may initially feel Blanche is completely responsible or at least somewhat to blame, for what becomes of her. She is very deceitful and behaves in this way throughout the play, particularly to Mitch, saying, ‘Stella is my precious little sister’ and continuously attempting to deceive Stanley, saying she ‘received a telegram from an old admirer of mine’. These are just two examples of Blanches’ trickery and lying ways. In some ways though, the reader will sense that Blanche rather than knowingly being deceitful, actually begins to believe what she says is true, and that she lives in her own dream reality, telling people ‘what ought to be the truth’ probably due to the unforgiving nature of her true life. This will make the reader begin to pity Blanche and consider whether these lies and deceits are just what she uses to comfort and protect herself. Blanche has many romantic delusions which have been plaguing her min d since the death of her husband. Though his death was not entirely her fault, her flirtatious manner is a major contributor to her downfall. She came to New Orleans as she was fired from... ...hey affect the lives of the women around them, yet somehow do not change to a great extent throughout the plays. On the other hand, both characters are comparable in that their eventual fate could be argued as being in many ways as a result of their own deeds and possibly the strains of society. In conclusion Blanche is to a degree responsible for her own downfall and mental collapse. She opts to turn to promiscuity and inebriety even going as far as to admitting to flirting with Stanley, and by the end disclosing all her tricks and deceits to him and Mitch. However, she cannot be held as responsible for the acts of her husband, Stanley and even Stella and the social circumstances involving the destruction of her old America by new America, which have caused her already deteriorating mental state to detract beyond possible repair by the end of the play.

Internet Piracy and Movies :: Internet Piracy Movies

Introduction The growth of the Internet has led to many new innovations in the way it is used. At first, it was just a form of text-based communication, similar to mail except faster. Then, as connections became quicker, people started to browse web pages, and soon even children could have their own space on the Internet. Today, many people around the world have broadband, which transfers text and pictures much faster than users can read. So developers created programs to use this extra bandwidth, programs that utilized the widespread nature of the Internet. The first peer-to-peer software can arguably be Napster, which let users download songs from other users. Napster restricted its files to songs since most people still had 56k connections at that time, so larger files would take an unreasonably long time. Presently, broadband connections are relatively inexpensive, so full movies can be downloaded in almost the time it takes to watch them. This widespread availability of high bandwidth has led to new applications, such as Limewire, Kazaa, and Morpheus, which let the user download any type of file, the most controversial of which is movies. Compared to Napster, these new applications have more decentralized architectures, making the legal battle against them harder to prove. Companies are no longer directing where the users download from – the individual applications are. Users are finding movies from their own computer, and since companies have no personal hand in this search, the film industry now has to target individual users in order to stop them from downloading. Views On Internet Piracy Movie Industry’s View Movie piracy quickly became a problem for the film industry, because the average major studio film costs $55 million to produce and $27 million more to advertise, much higher than other forms of media2. This investment is usually not returned in its initial showing in the movie theatres, so the film is then released to home video. After a year or two have passed, a television channel pays the copyright fee to broadcast it. Also, markets internationally are supposed to go through the same steps. Since the filmmakers get these various forms of copyright fees, many people think that most movies make their money back, but in actuality the Motion Picture Association of America states â€Å"four out of ten movies never recoup the original investment2â€Å".

Statement of Educational Goals And Philosophy Essay -- My Philosophy o

Statement of Educational Goals And Philosophy The nature of students is that of an instinctive ability to learn. Students of ages and all grade levels reflect their surroundings and respond according to their interpretation. Naturally it is not only the influence of a classroom that shapes a student but many outside factors that determine students’ goals and abilities; for example, healthy encouragement from parents. Students may find a natural ability to perform in one area of education and with help may fine tune their ability to better their understanding of other areas. Students have a better understanding of education when it is relevant to their needs and everyday life. The nature of knowledge deals with two aspects: that of relative and absolute. From a relative perspective a student’s knowledge is determined by their perception of what surrounds them. Knowledge of any kind has the ability to inspire but if a student does not perceive that knowledge as worthy it may not become part of their educational formation. For instance, a student in art class may perceive different works of a good or bad based on their emotion reaction. On the other hand, the absolute knowledge of how a work of art is created may incorporate specific mathematics and color formulations that are not interpreted by emotion. The combining of relative and absolute knowledge is the result of having a dream and the knowledge to make it come true. Overall, the purpose of public education is to provide knowledge in a manner that all of society may communicate and function on a common level with the intent of raising the standards of future societies. With this purpose in mind, it is the goal to mold... ...nd emotional needs of students, incorporating as much as possible the various other academic subjects. My Education 305 class along with the observation that I completed has helped to bring the reality of students and the relationship of teacher-to-student into focus. Various strategies to maintain discipline within the classroom have been very helpful and given me a better knowledge of age appropriate rewards and punishments. It has also presented to me the most difficult task: motivation. It is not only the way that I see art but to see art through my students eyes and to develop their skill or lack of into something that they at least can appreciate. A teacher is not a magician but a teacher can use many tricks to keep students focused and motivated. Beginning with the first day until the last day it is my goal that every student learns something each day.

Non Conventional energy resources in India Essay

Non-Conventional Energy Resources in India Contents 1. Introduction†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ 02 2. Wind Energy†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 03 3. Biomass Energy†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 05 4. Solar Energy†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 06 5. References†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 11 Page | 1 Introduction Major of India’s energy needs are met out by thermal and other conventional forms. But these are non-renewable in nature. What will happen after say 50 years when the coal gets exhausted? So we need to find an alternative way of extracting energy. In India around 80% of the electricity is got from steam turbines run by coal. With serious concern globally and in India on the use of fossil fuels, it is important for India to start using renewable energy sources. India is the 7th largest country in the world spanning 328 million hectares and amply bestowed with renewable sources of energy. In this paper let us see ï‚ · The various kinds of renewable energy methods present in India. ï‚ · Limitations with the current system. ï‚ · Possible expansion. Our main focus in this paper will be solar energy. We would also see other major players in this field, but we will see the detailed analysis of solar energy extraction and expansion. Page | 2 Wind Energy The development of wind power in India began in the 1990s, and has significantly increased in the last few years. Wind power can be utilized for drawing water, which is an essential requirement in watering agricultural lands in the rural areas. In addition, it can be utilized for electricity generation. Although a relative newcomer to the wind industry compared with Denmark or the US, domestic policy support for wind power has led India to become the country with the fifth largest installed wind power capacity in the world. As of December 2010 the installed capacity of wind power in India was 13,065.37 MW, mainly spread across: 1. Tamil Nadu (4132.72 MW) 2. Maharashtra (1837.85 MW) 3. Karnataka (1184.45 MW) 4. Rajasthan (670.97 MW) 5. Gujarat (1432.71 MW) 6. Andhra Pradesh (122.45 MW) 7. Madhya Pradesh (187.69 MW) 8. Kerala (23.00 MW) 9. West Bengal (1.10 MW) 10. Other states (3.20 MW) It is estimated that 6,000 MW of additional wind power capacity will be installed in India by 2012. Wind power accounts for 6% of India’s total installed power capacity, and it generates 1.6% of the country’s power. Page | 3 The major drawbacks of this power system are as follows: ï‚ · Electricity production depends on- wind speed, location, season and air temperature. Hence various monitoring systems are needed and may cost expensive. ï‚ · High percentage of the hardware cost (for large WT) is mostly spent on the tower designed to support the turbine ï‚ · The total cost can be cheaper than solar system but more expensive than hydro. The state and central governments are providing various subsidies and have come up with new policies to enhance the wind power generation in India. Wind turbines are becoming larger, efficiencies and availabilities are improving and wind farm concept is becoming popular. It could be combined with solar, especially for a total self-sustainability project. The economics of wind energy is already strong, despite the relative immaturity of the industry. The downward trend in wind energy costs is predicted to continue. As the world market in wind turbines continues to boom, wind turbine prices will continue to fall. Page | 4 Biomass Energy Among the renewable energy sources, biomass plays a vital role especially in rural areas, as it constitutes the major energy source to majority of households in India. Biomass energy is the utilization of organic matter present and can be utilized for various applications. ï‚ · Biomass can be used to produce heat and electricity, or used in combined heat and power (CHP) plants. ï‚ · Biomass can also be used in combination with fossil fuels (co-firing) to improve efficiency and reduce the buildup of combustion residues. ï‚ · Biomass can also replace petroleum as a source for transportation fuels. Recent developments in India: ï‚ · India produces about 450-500 million tons of biomass per year, which is 32% of all the primary energy use in the country at present. ï‚ · The current share of biofuels in total fuel consumption is extremely low and is confined mainly to 5% blending of ethanol in gasoline, which the government has made mandatory in 10 states. Biomass energy can play a major role in reducing India’s reliance on fossil  fuels by making use of thermo-chemical conversion technologies. In addition, the increased utilization of biomass-based fuels will be instrumental in safeguarding the environment, creating new job opportunities, sustainable development and health improvements in rural areas. The integration of biomass-fuelled gasifies and coal-fired energy generation would be advantageous in terms of improved flexibility in response to fluctuations in biomass availability with lower investment costs. Page | 5 Solar Energy Solar energy is genesis for all forms of energy. This energy can be made use of in two ways the Thermal route i.e. using heat for drying, heating, cooking or generation of electricity or through the Photovoltaic route which converts solar energy in to electricity that can be used for a myriad purposes such as lighting, pumping and generation of electricity. With its pollution free nature, virtually inexhaustible supply and global distribution- solar energy is very attractive energy resource. There are two different perspectives in utilizing solar energy: 1. Solar for grid connected electricity: Grid interactive solar energy is derived from solar photovoltaic cells and CSP Plants on a large scale. The grid connection is chosen due to following reasons: ï‚ · Solar Energy is available throughout the day which is the peak load demand time ï‚ · Solar energy conversion equipment have longer life and need lesser maintenance and hence provide higher energy infrastructure security ï‚ · Low running costs & grid tie-up capital returns (Net Metering) ï‚ · Unlike conventional thermal power generation from coal, they do not cause pollution and generate clean power. ï‚ · Abundance of free solar energy throughout all parts of world (although gradually decreasing from equatorial, tropical, sub-tropical and polar regions). Can be utilized almost everywhere. 2. Solar for off-grid solutions: While, the areas with easier grid access are utilizing grid connectivity, the places where utility power is scant or too expensive to bring, have no choice but to opt for Page | 6 their own generation. They generate power from a diverse range of small local generators using both fossil fuels (diesel, gas) and locally available renewable energy technologies (solar PV, wind, small hydro, biomass, etc.) with or without its own storage (batteries). This is known as off-grid electricity. Remote power systems are installed for the following reasons: ï‚ · Desire to use renewable – environmentally safe, pollution free. ï‚ · Combining various generating options available- hybrid power generation. ï‚ · Desire for independence from the unreliable, fault prone and interrupted grid connection. ï‚ · Available storage and back-up options. ï‚ · No overhead wires- no transmission loss. ï‚ · Varied applications and products: Lighting, Communication Systems, Cooking, Heating, Pumping, Small scale industry utilization etc. The technologies present in harvesting solar power are: 1. Solar photovoltaic: Solar photovoltaic (SPV) cells convert solar radiation  (sunlight) into electricity. A solar cell is a semi-conducting device made of silicon and/or other materials, which, when exposed to sunlight, generates electricity. Solar cells are connected in series and parallel combinations to form modules that provide the required power. These are the different solar cells used: ï‚ · Crystalline Silicon solar cells (C-Si): Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. ï‚ · Thin-film solar cells: Amorphous Silicon Solar cells (A-Si), CIGS, CdTe. PV modules are manufactured by assembling the solar cells after stringing, tabbing and providing other interconnections. Page | 7 2. Solar thermal: Solar Thermal Power systems, also known as Concentrating Solar Power systems, use concentrated solar radiation as a high temperature energy source to produce electricity using thermal route. High temperature solar energy collectors are basically of three types: ï‚ · Parabolic trough system: at the receiver can reach 400 ° C and produce steam for generating electricity. ï‚ · Power tower system: The reflected rays of the sun are always aimed at the receiver, where temperatures well above 1000 ° C can be reached. ï‚ · Parabolic dish systems: Parabolic dish systems can reach 1000 ° C at the receiver, and achieve the highest efficiencies for converting solar energy to electricity. This is the next big leap in the energy sector, but this too has its own limitations such as: ï‚ · Initial cost involved in setting up the plant is high. Also a huge amount of space is required. ï‚ · Proper sunlight is required for these systems to work effectively and efficiently. ï‚ · On a cloudy day or during nights and rainfall, this system fails to produce power, thus requiring a backup power plan, so this cannot be completely relied upon. ï‚ · Many solar grids are setup in desert areas where no grids are present, making it costly to transmit. ï‚ · Maintenance cost is quite high and a specialized technician is required for it. Page | 8 There may be some difficulties and limitations in this field, many of which can be rectified by proper government involvement during large scale implementations. India needs a brisk involvement in this field considering the facts that: ï‚ · We get plenty of sunlight due to its proximity to the equator and we receive an annual average of 4-7KWh per day for every square meter, meaning we receive a lot more sunlight than what we can use in a year, making it an abundant source of power. ï‚ · We are a poor source for conventional fuel sources. We are dependent on the Gulf countries for its oil supplies. With the oil prices skyrocketing and the reluctance of the Indian government to hike the prices of LPG and kerosene, Indian oil companies are suffering major losses. Even electric  supply in the country is unable to meet the burgeoning demands of the growing population and businesses. ï‚ · India does not have resources to pay the huge bills of the oil producers. Now there are many researches going on in this field to increase the output as well as store the produced energy in SPV cells. Also many conventional coal thermal power plants are looking forward to installing the solar thermal plant to pre heat the water to reduce the use of coal, which is an effective way to cut down the use of coal. New grids and easier and cheaper ways of power transmission are being considered owing to the fact that a huge loss in power as well as money is involved in long range transmission of this produced power. The state governments are coming up with new policies to increase their capacity and mend out their acute power crisis. For e.g., the Government of Tamil Nadu has recently unveiled its new Solar Energy Policy which aims at increasing the installed solar capacity from the current approximate of 20 MW to over 3000 MW Page | 9 by 2015. The policy aims at fixing a 6% solar energy requirement on industries and residential buildings for which incentives in the form of tax rebates and current tariff rebates of up to Rs.1 / unit will be applicable to those who comply with the Solar Energy Policy. The policy also gives an option to those industries/buildings who do not want to install rooftop solar photo-voltaic systems to invest in the government’s policy and be given the same incentives as explained above. Even many private players are slowly but steadily coming up in this sector, knowing its future value. Government is providing subsidies and aid to these private companies to increase their involvement in this sector. Solar Power India, Tata and Reliance Industries are some of the big money players who have major plans for this industry. This will give a big boost to this field as these companies can invest a lot of money in research to make the technology cheaper. This, in turn, will make solar energy accessible to the common man. As more and more people take to solar power, the costs are expected to reduce. Page | 10 References 1. â€Å"Future Perspectives for Renewable Energy in India†, November 21st 2008, Ravi Soparkar, 2. India Wind Energy, (EAI), < http://www.eai.in/ref/ae/win/win.html> 3. India Biomass Energy, (EAI),< http://www.eai.in/ref/ae/bio/bio.html> 4. India Solar energy, (EAI),< http://www.eai.in/ref/ae/sol/sol.html> 5. â€Å"Solar energy: Watts Up†, January 06th 2013, K.R.Balasubramanyam, < http://businesstoday.intoday.in/story/the-future-of-solar-power-inindia/1/190741.html> Page | 11