Polyatomic Ion Definition and Examples

Polyatomic ion definition: A polyatomic ion is an ion composed of two or more atoms. Examples: The hydroxide cation (OH-) and the phosphate cation (PO43-) are both polyatomic ions.

Le Management Interculturel de Sylvie Chevrier - 1999 Words

Le management interculturel Sylvie Chevrier The book structure This book has been released for the first time in 2003. Le management interculturel features 127 pages containing an introduction (from page 3 to 7), four main chapters (from page 9 to 120), a conclusion (pages 121 and 122), a bibliography (from page 123 to 126) and finally a table of contents at the end of the book (page 127). The book is written in French and can be found in the collection  «Que sais-je? » at the Presses Universitaires de France editions (known also as Puf). Thesis The goal of the author is to delineate the field of intercultural management and to clarify its content for the reader. Strategies 1. Construction * Introduction The†¦show more content†¦The reader will also find thoughts, which tell that this kind of management is not an accurate science and researches are still in progress to improve the intercultural managerial strategies ( «However, knowledge gathered together so far are often rough and the experiences achieved still too rare to see the practices reach maturity. » p. 121). This could either disappoint the reader who expected a straight answer at the end of the book or invite the reader to follow this topic closely in case of any progress in the existing theories or the creation of a brand new one. * Bibliography The reader throughout the book, as we will see later in the page layout chapter, has referred to numerous footnotes essentially sending the reader to the pages containing the bibliography. This bibliography shows how well did Sylvie Chevrier document her thesis, as the number of books read or used for her researches is important. This allows also the reader to walk in the author’s footsteps if only he or she wants to dig this topic. Nearly seventy books are listed with all the information needed to find and buy the book, which offers a large range of choice to the most interested and curious readers about the intercultural management. In order to sum up this first chapter, we have seen that Sylvie Chevrier has smartly structured her book from the start to the end to let

Empathy in Nursing Free Essays

Good communication between the client and the health care worker is a vital theory within a health care setting. To have an effective communication with a patient, a nurse needs to be empathetic and a good listener. Empathy is the ability to understand and share patient’s emotion or state of mind. We will write a custom essay sample on Empathy in Nursing or any similar topic only for you Order Now Showing interest, attention and devotion towards patient will enhance a strong, healthy and supportive bond with the patient. According to the Webster’s dictionary, empathy is defined as â€Å"the projection of one’s own personality into the personality of another in order to understand the person better; ability to share in another’s emotions, thoughts, feelings† (Moore 2006, p 16). Empathy is usually considered as the capability to put oneself in a situation to understand the emotions, feelings of other people. Nowadays, empathy is considered as an effective skill for communication that is useful for both the health care worker and the client (Ioannidou Konstantikaki 2008, p 118). The health care worker can collect related information and data from a client without any difficulty by using empathy as a communication tool. A no of patients visit hospitals or health care settings with different needs and expectations having different problems. Some clients are extremely hard to control. You can read also Coronary Artery Disease Nursing Care Plan An empathetic understanding is necessary while dealing with such patients. Therefore, approaching empathetically can maintain the interpersonal relationship between the health care worker and client as well as improve the effectiveness of treatment (Davis 2009, p 76). It is important that the health care workers should feel what the patients or clients are going through providing comfort and reassuring of their lives. Empathy is a way of telling them they are not alone. It reduces their fear thus bringing hope and confidence. Keen (2006, p †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. ) states that memory, knowledge, knowledge and being able to feel other’s perception plays important part in empathy. The initial step in developing clinical empathy is to actively listen to the patient ( Davis 2009, p 77). In a therapeutic relationship, a health care worker can understand problems of a patient by listening carefully to their verbal and emotional behaviours (Kliszcz et al. 2006). The responsibility of health care provider is to avoid any physical and mental factors that istracts the interaction between the patient and them. They should pay attention while the client is giving his or her information. The following step for empathy is to understand, recognize and sensitive obligation of feelings of another person. The health care worker should show the patient what they understand and make realize the support is provided to them. Demonstrating empathy helps to decrease the feeling of insulated for their disease to the client which is intensely therapeutic. How to cite Empathy in Nursing, Papers

Compare the ways in which the poets have written about love and loss bringing different aspects of the theme Essay Example For Students

Compare the ways in which the poets have written about love and loss bringing different aspects of the theme Essay The poems I have chosen to analyse are written from a male and a female perspectives in the 18th and 19th centuries. All the poems describe the aspects of love and loss. Each poet is influenced by sad or happy events in their lives. Some poets share their joy and happiness, while others experience separation. The poems I have chosen are: A Birthday by Christina Rossetti. The poet celebrates love as a joyful event in her life. How Do I Love Thee by Elizabeth Barret Browning. The poem is devoted to her partner with whom she shares her love. Remember by Christina Rossetti. The poet disscuses the aspect of loss and separation by death. When We Two Parted by Lord Byron. The poet conveys his negative feelings about separating. A Woman To Her Lover by Christina Walsh. The poet requires co-equal relationship in the family and quality of marriage. The first poem I am going to analyse is entitled A Birthday by Christina Rossetti. The poet refers to celebration of love and raises the issue of marriage. The poets thoughts are consistent. In Victorian era people did not speak openly about the physical side of life thats why Christina Rossetti expresses her feelings and emotions through similies and metaphors. The title of the poem A Birthday is a metaphor for celebration of love and happiness. The singing bird is a simile which produces deep satisfaction. It also portrays Christina Rossetti as happy and joyful. The poem consists of two halves. There are four beats in one line and every second line rhymes. This type of structure helps to add rhythm to a poem. In the first verse the poet compares her heart to a number of bright and colorful things that are full of life. Whose nest is in watered shoot. As a woman Christina Rossetti extendes the meaning of fertility and family nest. This might also have the meaning of youth. My heart is like an apple tree, is a simile that produces strong visual imagery of children and spring time.In Victorian times it was important for a woman to have children in the family. Christina Rossetti uses literature symbols for fertility: peacocks for male fertility and pomegranates for female. Her reference to children is well expressed in metaphors grapes and thickest fruit. These visual images depict children as the fruits of her pure relationships. The poet likes to live in peaceful and comfortable atmosphere. That paddles in halcyon sea is onomatopoeia that creates aurul imagery where the poet expresses her feelings of a marriage life. The doves is also a symbol of a peace and love. In the second verse Christina Rossetti uses imparative verbs to ask for a special occasion: raise me, hang it and carve it. The words purple dyes is a metaphor for marriage. It tells a reader idea about the poets phase of life. Even the diction changes as the mood in the poem changes. An exaple of these are epithets:gold and silver that add to the richness of the describtion. The poet shares her joy and happiness. She wants to decorate opulent surroundings with sensual materials and fleur-de-lys to make the day even more brighter. Assonance is used in the words dyes-eyes, tree-sea to add to the rhythm of the poem. Because the Birthday of my life Is come, my love is come to me. In the end of the poem, enjambment helps reader to understand the meaning of the poem- the omnipresence of love. Christina Rossetti wantes the reader to feel the importance of love in the life, that is why she created the happy atmosphere of being in love. Love is celebrated like A Birthday that emphasizes its meaning twice. The second poem I have choosen to write about is a poem How do I love thee written by Elizabeth Barret Browning in Victorian era. Her work was appreciated in the past as now in present. As a poetess of Victorianism, Elizabeth Browning expresses sentiments of love in a sonnet, since at that time it showed woman in her best role: loving and expressing emotions in a poem. The poem How do I love thee is devoted to her husband, with whom she lived in and ideal grace and dignity. Elizabeth Barret Browning expresses her love towards her partner and her language is restrained. It gives positive images of her love. The poet uses abstract nouns: depth, breadth and height to expand the largeness of her feelings. Her attitude towards her lover can also be seen from the describtion of her soul its limitless. The poets tone is religious in the first half: ends of Being, ideal grace, souls and saints. For the ends of Being. And ideal grace. Browning uses metaphor the end of being for a bodily death and grace for heaven. The poet conveys that her love has no boundaries-its eternal. I shall but love thee after death. This implies that death will not put restraints to their love instead it will be better after death. The second part of the poem is more down-to-earth. Hamlet's Love for Ophelia EssayThe poem has regular rhyme scheme abab and each stanza rhymes. In the poem Lord Byron describes how bitter the saparation was-In silence and tears. Half broken hearted. This suggest that only Lord Byron suffered. In their relationships, he was the half broken-hearted. The poets perception to Lady Frances Webster changed as her attitude to him. Pale grew thy chick and cold. She fell out of love with the poet leaving after the cold and empty environment. The dew of the morning Sunk chill on my brow The poet describes how his bleak and cold environment affected him and foretold the coldness of his heart. The poet expresses his anger towards the woman who deceived him. Thy vows are all broken, And light is thy fame. He also feels ashamed and betrayed. The poet is also aware that she had a bad reputation. Thy name thee before me, A knell to mine ear: The poet tells how her name is the ring of a bell. It destructs him and is like a knell to him. Throughout the poem Lord Byron expresses feelings of shame and regret. A shudder come oer me. Lord Byron regrets the fragile relationships he was involved in. In the last stanza the poet describes how poignant he feels. He became affected by the situation and feels depressed: In silence I grieve . His ex-lover betrayal is unforgivable and if the poet will ever meet her again, he would greet her with silence and tears. The poem When we two parted portrays the poet as an anguished person. At the time it was written men were expected to be emotionally strong. However Lord Byron subverts the situation and uses direct language as an approval of his griefe and sorrow. The poems When we two parted and Remember evoke the feelings of sadness and restrainment. Separation is the main theme for both poems. In Chrsitina Rossettis poem lovers are compelled to part due to death Remember me when I am gona away. Whereas in Lord Byrons poem the love is half broken-hearted that make them to part. The fifth poem I have choosen to analyse is A woman to her lover was written by Christina Walsh in the late 18th century. At that time new ideas regarding women rights were spreading across Europe. The poets tone is confidient and self-assured. The poem is written in the form of stanzas in the free verse. In the first stanza the poet rejects to be a servant in the family. She produces negative visual imagery bondslave of marriage that isnt based on equal rights. Walsh expresses her strong voice and rejection in exclamatory sentences: O, lover I refuse you! This portays the poet as self-assured woman. Christina Walsh also declines to be a wingless angel who can do no wrong. Wingless angel imitates a strong visual image of woman in the 18th century. Womens power wasnt dominant in the family and they had no freedom or choice. Christina Walsh dissaproves this kind of marriage, which is more like worship. The poet also deprecats against being a delight of her partners clamorous desires. She stresses that she is a woman, who requires co-equal and respecful relationships in the family/marriage.In the last part Christina Walshs tone becomes more softer and caring. The poetess offers marriage based on respect and love to know the purity and height of passion, and of joy and sorrow. She also discribes the ideal marriage that will last until we reach the very heart of god. Christina Walshs poem can be seen as a modern type of poem. It is written as some kind of marriage contract and has modern approach to love.Christina Walsh declares what she wants and expects from her husband in co-equal marriage. The poem was written two hundred years later, when women had any sort of power over who they could marry. The poem A woman to her lover is different fro the rest of the poems. It can be linked to Christina Rossetis Remember. Both poets declare what they want.Christina Rossetti gives instructions to her partner. Christina Walsh declares her rights. The themes of love and loss are explored in these collection of poems. These poems made me concern about the way different poets express their opinions about love and loss. Every poet expresses their sentiments in very immpresive way. Some of them show real examples from life. Some enjoy the smooth course of love while others griefe from declined relaionships. The emotional language used by poets enabled me to experience the emotions and feelings expressed in them.

Warren G. Harding Essay Essays - Warren G. Harding, Ohio

Warren G. Harding Essay Warren Gamaliel Harding, twenty-ninth President of the United States, was born on November 2, 1865, on the family farm at Blooming Grove, Morrow County, Ohio. His parents were Dr. George Tryon Harding and Phoebe Dickerson Harding, descendants of pioneer Ohio families of English and Dutch ancestry. Warren was the first of their eight children-two boys and six girls. The Hardings were followers of the Baptist faith. By this time, the Harding family had moved to Marion, and it was there that Harding returned after his graduation, armed with a degree, a printer's rule, and determination to make his own living. He briefly tried teaching school, studying law, and selling insurance; all with limited success and gratification. As a student at Ohio Central College in the nearby town of Ibernia , Harding served as editor of the college paper and showed rich promise as a public speaker. In 1882, at the age of 16, he received the degree of Bachelor of Science and was "orator," political and literary representative of his class at the graduation ceremony. In 1891, Harding married Florence Kling DeWolfe , the daughter of one of Marion's leading citizens. That year they had planned and built the house that is now known as the Harding Home and Museum, at 380 Mt. Vernon Avenue. Harding began his political career with his election to the Ohio Senate, where he served two terms, from 1900-1904. In 1903, he was elected lieutenant governor, and his political skills matured as presiding officer of the upper house of the state legislature and brought even national recognition. A split in the Republican Party led to his defeat in his campaign for governor in 1910. He remained active in Republican politics and was selected to give the nominating speech for President William Howard Taft at the party's convention in 1912. He won the 1914 Republican primary election as a candidate for the United States Senate, and he was elected by a majority of 100,000 for the term 1915-1921. He had an honorable record in the Senate, broadening his knowledge of foreign affairs while serving as a member of the Foreign Relations Committee. In 1916 he presided as chairman of the Republican national convention in Chicago, and was selected to give the keynote address. Harding resigned from the United States Senate in December 1920, and was inaugurated twenty-ninth President of the United States on March 4, 1921. He was the seventh President born in Ohio. During the campaign he had promised to work for peace and prosperity, and he followed through on that promise. He believed in the ability of all Americans-regardless of race, color or creed-to take care of themselves if given the opportunity to do so. On August 2, 1923, Harding suffered a massive heart attack and died immediately. In some circles, rumors spread that his wife had poisoned him to prevent him from facing charges of corruption. Her refusal to allow an autopsy only fed the rumors. After a state funeral, Harding's body was entombed at the Marion Cemetery in Marion, Ohio.

Related Studies of Hospital System Essay Example

Related Studies of Hospital System Essay Example Related Studies of Hospital System Essay Related Studies of Hospital System Essay An article from the internet ( irpsys. com/articles/tw_rura. htm) on Rural Local Community Hospitals Utilizes an Affordable Method to Generate Accurate Medicare Reimbursements is also significant to the study because it gives an example on Local Community Hospitals system, whereby is East Adams Rural Local Community Hospitals is a 20 bed Local Community Hospitals in a town with a population of less than 2000. The elderly constitute a very high proportion of the population of our service area which means patients tend to be quite ill and stay for a long time. The current system of Medicare reimbursements, on the other hand, bases its payments strictly on the diagnosis related group (DRG) to which the patients stay is grouped or assigned. Most large third party payers have also adopted the DRG system in the state of Washington. As a result, reimbursements frequently do not cover the cost of patient care. Further difficulties are generated by the fact that the terminal patients are frequently transferred to larger Local Community Hospitals in Spokane. This normally means the Spokane Local Community Hospitals gets the major portion of the reimbursement because their DRG assignment is based on the procedures performed and the larger Local Community Hospitals naturally is able to perform more procedures. Before this Local Community Hospitals had difficulties in the turnover of records, as well as manual billing system whose efficiency left much to be desired. In many cases, some charges were lost in transit because of poor paper handling and hence the Local Community Hospitals was receiving much less than the meager reimbursement it is entitled and that there was not enough time in the day to make manual system work so the need for computerized alternatives Another article from the internet. ( besoftware. co.uk/products-services/Local Community Hospitals-informations. html) Local Community Hospitals Information Systems Customized to Meet all the Management Needs of a Local Community Hospitals Local Community Hospitals Information technology: A main component of HIS is Local Community Hospitals information technology and Local Community Hospitals management software programs. These two arms of HIS are also referred to as integrated Local Community Hospitals information processing systems (IHIPS). Local Community Hospitals information technology  and Local Community Hospitals management software programs are synonymous aiming to meet all demands and needs of medical staff, surgical teams and patients. The two systems ensure that all billing, tracking, patient care, bed management, pharmacy, counseling and recruitment as well as rotation of surgical teams is on schedule. The presence of automation and software as the mainframe of a Local Community Hospitals administration means that all information has to be processed onto two or three hard disks. In case of any malfunction or crash, the data is still available in another disk. Usually, Local Community Hospitals keep two to three mirror disks one in the archives and one under the scrutiny of management personnel. Remote data backup as well as control processing and tracking automated systems ensure the smooth non-stop functioning of these systems (Local Community Hospitals Information Systems Customized to Meet all the Management Needs of a Local Community Hospitals, 2003). Another article from the internet ( medical. siemens. com) Improved Care with an Integrated IT Solution Competition in todays healthcare markets is fierce. As consumers become more informed, healthcare organizations re-examine their processes in order to improve efficiencies and to position themselves as world-class organizations. MedCentral Health System, a health organization with two Local Community Hospitals, 351 beds, and 2,600 employees in Mansfield, OH, USA, is managing this with a system-wide, information technology-(IT-) based initiative, Project Expert Care, geared to provide clinicians with reliable data, to increase patient safety, and to decrease costs by optimizing operational efficiencies. (Improved Care with an Integrated IT Solution, 2008) Related literature Foreign From the book Management and the Computer in Information and Control Systems information is the essential factor within which organizations work effectively. At the planning level, information is required to convert strategy into tactics (detailed plans and schedules and their evaluation). At the operational levels of information is required to carry out production of refining or marketing plans. Finally even the simplest loop controller in a process unit requires information from process sensors to produce their limited control action (Hodge Hodgson, 1969). According to the book Management Uses of the Computer the adoption of computer processing simplifies managements tasks in direction current business activities, provided management play its role in the development of the processing system. In the application areas turned over to the computer, management policies are carried through automatically because they are embodied in the processing system. In addition, the management information system incorporated in the processing structure provides timely information in useful form (Management Uses of the Computer, 1990). According to Terry D. Lundgren and Carol A. Lundgren author of Records Management in the Computing Age records management, then, is planning, staffing, organizing, directing and controlling of records and those processes associated with records. Records management is organized around the life cycle of a record and ends with the permanent storage or destruction of record. Source: http://voices. yahoo. com/thesis-local-community-hospitals-system-4664081. html.

Medieval Story Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Medieval Story - Essay Example The way the story is told is the clue here: Boccaccio writes this as if Pamfilo, the first of his storytellers during those ten nights, is having a great time recounting his outrageous story. In those days, everything narrated in this tale is horrific, especially the corruption of a final confession to a priest. Pamfilo made this character sound entertainingly immoral, corrupt and evil. This is the first tale, which is meant to shock the listeners and prepare them for a series of scandalous stories. And it does: ‘Pamfilos story elicited the mirth of some of the ladies and the hearty commendation of all, who listened to it with close attention until the end.’ (Boccaccio 1348) [My italics.] They really enjoyed wicked tales. The listeners laughed because the way the tale was told suggested that Ciappelletto had a great time deceiving clients, traders and all those he came in contact with: he had a corrupt but wonderful life, full of the wealth he made from devious deeds. This vindicated him in the eyes and ears of the listeners, who were there only to enjoy themselves listening to shameful tales. In those days, it was even sinful to listen to a shameful story, and poking fun at the Church was considered risquà ¨ and entertaining. It was great fun, so the more wicked Ciappelletto sounded, the more he was redeemed, according to the

Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John - Essay Example Matthew, Mark and Luke are the Synoptic Gospels because they are written very much alike, while John seems to stand back and view the same events in a different perspective. The overall major theme found in these first Gospels is the teaching of the way in which humans are to live as instructed by God through Jesus Christ. He was not just here to give an example of how to act, but to teach those who would listen and believe the truth and the way to salvation. He taught that through faith one could have salvation and through deed one would be following God's instructions on life. Even in persecution and death Jesus remained faithful and forever the teacher, telling the disciples to go to the ends of the world and teach what He taught them. This discussion will enlighten the basic concepts, parables and points of view in relation to Jesus and His word. According to Matthew, Jesus visited Bethany prior to being arrested in Gethsemane. It was during this time in Bethany that the disciples were told by Jesus that He would soon be leaving their presence, and that they needed to prepare to take God's word and spread it across the land (Koester 1995). Jesus knew at this time as well that the chief priests were preparing and planning for the most opportune time to arrest Jesus without causing a riot among His believers. While the time is a little off between the Gospels the important difference of this part of the story is the kiss from Judas. In Matthew it mentions that Judas greets Jesus with a kiss that is also the mark of his betrayal. The other Gospels mention the kiss, but have no mention of the initial greeting between Jesus and Judas. Some scholars speculate that Matthew retained more of his Jew background than the other disciples which will explain his mentioning and using Jew traditions as ways to tell the story. However others believe that the greeting before the kiss is just a function of literature that makes the event more believable to the followers of Jesus. During the last supper Jesus tells the disciples one of them would deny him three times, and another would betray him. Even at this point Judas knew Jesus was talking about him. He had already received the 30 silver pieces and was just waiting for the right time to take the soldiers to Jesus. Jesus told Judas to "do what you have to do." The time came at within days at the garden of Gethsemane. This betrayal of disciple and Jesus reinforces the message that Judas was fulfilling the Scriptures by betraying Jesus. Matthew's insistence that Jesus continued to adhere to many traditional forms of Jewish piety, and that he advanced the true interpretation of the Law of Moses, suggest that the author himself and some, perhaps most, of his audience were Jewish. After being arrested, Jesus is taken to see Pontus Pilate. Each of the books talks about the questioning at this time. The main difference is that fact that Matthew conveys that Pontus Pilate puts Jesus under oath of the "living God" and then asks Him if He is the Messiah. This line of questioning follows suit because at the time some Jewish and Christian groups thought Jesus was a human rabbinic teacher whom God had made into a great prophet (McGuckin 2004). According to Ehrman, the community in which Mark lived would have been the first people to have heard the word of God through Mark. He or someone in the temple would have read it to

Blackberry Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Blackberry - Research Paper Example As of 2012, there are more than 8 million BlackBerry subscribers worldwide. The company has its offices in Europe, North America and Asia- Pacific. It is traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange and NASDAQ. Company’s vision and goals include providing solutions across global mobile market. BlackBerry’s current mission is to enhance its current product portfolio and develop new products. It also aims to provide uninterrupted and efficient services. The brand’s corporate culture is well developed and celebrates creativity, achievements as well as risk taking attitude (Ahmed 35). The workforce is motivated to accomplish beyond potential. BlackBerry also supports the environment through variety of campaigns, programs and participative opportunities. The company is known for its philanthropic activities. The company has donated huge amounts in various social charities as well as institutions for growth and development of the society. Industry Information The industry info rmation includes Pestle and Porter’s Five Forces analysis. Pestle analysis Political Canada is a land of rich natural resources. Political environment is progressive; quality of life is stable and comfortable. Since political risk is very low in Canada, organizations have the liberty to establish their corporation without any political hassle. Economical Economy of Canada is dominated by service sector. Major energy exporter and trading country across the globe. Conservative banking system Economic system is market oriented. Social Sense of belongingness in the community. Living standard is high and maintaining social status is important. Women are given less preference than men in society and occupation. Technological Internet usage is one of the highest across the globe Most of the internet users are teenagers and young adults Social media is gaining a cult status Legal Federal state with parliament system Supreme court has the authority to bind any court with single ruling Individual privacy is important for Canadians and they also have a privacy protection act Jurisdiction is divided between provincial and federal jurisdictions Environmental Criticized for lack of environmental improvement activities High emission of greenhouse gases and high waste production from industries as well as organizations (â€Å"Environment†). Need for greater sustainable consumption Porter’s Five Forces Figure: Porter's five forces model (Source: (Source: Author’s creation) Production More than 90 percent of BlackBerry’s production costs go for its four largest suppliers. These are Elcotec, Jabil Circuit, Qulacomm and Multi-Fineline (â€Å"Do you know who manufactured your BlackBerry†). Various third party application developers have been integrating with the device. The company is a bit secretive about its supply chain management process as there is no mention of its logistics strategy in the company’s website. Since majority of its suppliers are concentrated in China, the company sometimes faces issues in terms of timely delivery and logistics management in case of bull orders. Personnel The employee compensation is based on basic pay, merit pay as well as benefits and incentives. Benefits include free message parlor, free gym membership, free participation in various wellness programs and a free BlackBerry. The current human resource division of

Advantages And Limitations Of Mobile Applications Information Technology Essay

Advantages And Limitations Of Mobile Applications Information Technology Essay Mobile applications are a quickly emerging section of the overall mobile market. These applications are made up of software that runs on a mobile device and carry out specific tasks for mobile phones and Pocket PCs. The focus of this paper is to describe the business advantages and limitations of the Best Buy Geek Squads wireless Pocket PC mobile devices and how they overcame those limitations. Additionally, describe the software development challenges of wireless mobile devices and how Medstar Health and Unifi met those challenges. Lastly, identify the advantages and limitation of companies using software packages already unavailable for use with wireless devices. Best Buy Background For many of todays businessman, Pocket PCs have become like another appendage. While there are some definite advantages to carrying a Pocket PC, its easy to overlook some of the obstacles associated with conducting business on them. The Geek Squad is an ancillary of the Best Buy Company which is headquartered in Richfield, Minnesota. The company offers a variety of computer-related services for both residential and commercial customers. Geek Squad agents provide both in-store, on-site services, as well as, Internet, and additionally also provides 24-hour telephone and emergency support. Best Buys agents are equipped with Sprint PPC-6700 Smart Devices, a Pocket PCs/cell phone combination that run on Windows Mobile 5.0 (OBrien Marakas, 2008). Advantages and Limitations There are many advantages to the Geek Squad Agents using the Sprint PPC-6700 Smart Device. One advantage is that these devices have full access to Sprints EV-DO third-generation cellular network, and have complete Web browsing capabilities (Geek Squad, 2010). When an agent is on the road and needs directions to his next job, he can quickly access Google or Yahoo maps and easily navigate to his destination, rather than having to fumble around with a map or to call back to Best Buy dispatchers. Additionally, agents can use their wireless devices to log onto Best Buys order system where they can obtain price quotes, process payments, complete transactions, and generate receipts for the customers. As with most devices, the Sprint PPC-6700 does have a down side. The problem the Geek Squad agents are having with this device is the small slide-out keyboard. The small keyboard limits their ability to type quickly and accurately, therefore wasting precious time (OBrien Marakas, 2008). Overcoming Limitations Along with battery life, inputting text is one of the most difficult problems for users of mobile devices. First and foremost, the problem is lies in the physical size of the keyboard, followed by the conflicting needs of speed and familiarity. As wireless data services flood into the market, the need for efficient text entry is becoming ever more critical, yet essential tradeoffs limit the practical options. Best Buy solved its problem with the Sprint PPC 7600 with the use of handwriting recognition software. Handwriting recognition is a method by which a computer system can recognize letter, characters and other symbols written by hand in ordinary handwriting. This type technology is generally used on devices such as PDA and Pocket PCs where a stylus is used to write on a screen, after which the computer program converts the handwriting into digital text (Handwriting Recognition, 2009). Geek Squad agents can hand write notes that go directly into Best Buys order system to be used a reference for later transactions. The next time a customer calls in with a problem, the agent can quickly pull up his notes for quicker and more reliable customer service. Prior to this technology, agents would have to wait until they got back to the office to enter the customers information into the system. According to one agent, it saves them 10-15 minutes that could have otherwise been spent helping a customer or traveling to the next job (OBrien Marakas, 2008). Although this is a big improvement, Best Buy is not fully content with the limitations of the current handwriting recognition software. They are now testing voice recognition software will permit agents to open and close programs with voice prompts allowing for quicker and better customer service. Voice recognition is a computer technology that uses audio input for a means of entering data instead of the using a keyboard. Speaking into a microphone delivers the same result as typing words physically with a keyboard. Vo ice recognition software is constructed with a database of identifiable words or phrases. The computer program matches up the voice audio signature with the equivalent entry in the database (Voice Recognition, 2009). Although, changing speech into text might sound simple, it is enormously difficult. The problem starts with an almost infinite assortment of speech patterns and accents, compounded by the tendency for people to run words together or the use of slang words. Software Development Challenges Mobile systems and mobile applications have gained a lot of attention both in research and industry over the last years. The market share of mobile devices is constantly growing. More and more, users expect their mobile devices to provide functionality similar to the one they know from their desktop computers, but also to provide additional, mobile device specific functionality, like location based services. However, software development for mobile devices is still cumbersome and a methodology geared towards supporting the development of such mobile applications is still lacking. One key factor for the commercial success of mobile devices is the quick development of software applications (Software Challenges, 2010). On the other hand, developing mobile software can be especially difficult since applications need to be conscience of and adapt to changing resources such as battery life and bandwidth. At one point in time it appeared like some standardization might occur and a common platform emerge, but most attempts have stumbled, and ultimately come up short of the ideal they set out to accomplish. None of these approaches were specifically at fault. They each simply met a specific set of needs during which the evolution of mobile devices that made the best of existing hardware and bandwidth limitations. The problem that each of them faced was the speed of evolution of mobile technology (Grotnes, 2009). It is true that mobile devices are still restricted by screen size, lack of a full size keyboard, and limited bandwidth. But there are already plenty of mobile devices with readable screens, 3D graphics, touch screens, accelerometers, compasses, and GPS capability. The functionality is in place for some outstanding state of the art applications and for smart developers to exploit. On the other hand, there is little standardization as hardware manufacturers struggle to get the best out of their devices (Grotnes, 2009). Conquering Challenges MedStar Health is a non-profit healthcare organization that is facing similar software development challenges. MedStars IT department supports thousands of nurses and doctors, who use a multitude of mobile devises such as Pocket PCs, PDA, Blackberrys, and Palm Treos. Since there is no clear cut leader in mobile technology, it is hard for MedStars IT Department to push for a standard device. Because MedStars nurses and doctors are not forced to use a standard device, it is difficult for their IT Department to keep up with new mobile devices and ensure they are compatible with the companys applications. To overcome these challenges, MedStar thought outside the box and worked with vendor to tailor applications that would work on a wide range of devices. MedStar chose to work with Siemens Medical Solutions and came up with a software solution that allows medical practitioners to access their patients information through Siemens Invision mainframe using any of their mobile devices. This t ype of thinking by MedStars IT Department allowed the company to meet its goals without having to sacrifice any functionality. Many times off-the- shelf applications will not meet the needs of a customer and may require some tweaking by the manufacturer to accommodate its customers specific needs. Conclusion A management information system is a system or process that provides information needed to manage organizations effectively (Computer and Information Systems Managers, 2010). As with the case of Best Buy and MedStar, their overall strategies were affected by MIS. Best Buy chose to use standard mobile devices and off-the-shelf applications to meet both its customers and employees needs. Whereas MedStar, decided it was better for them to develop specific software to overcome their challenges. Neither way is right or wrong, it just depends on your specific situation and needs. In a slowing economy, MIS strategies would definitely have to be reevaluated to ensure the organization is being managed effectively. In the case of MedStar, I would opt for the strategy the Geek Squad took with standardizing mobile devices and using off-the-shelf applications. In a slowing economy, this would save a considerable amount of time and money not having to develop software that is compatible for a mult itude of different devices. Additionally, a smaller IT Department could be utilized, saving thousands of dollars in nonessential personnel.

The First Amendment Essay -- essays research papers

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people to assemble peacefully, and to petition the Government for e redress of grievances. The first and inargueably the most significant of the amendments to our Constitution is the First Amendment. The amendment that established our freedoms as citizens of our new confederation. The First Amendment insured, among other things, freedom of speech and of the press. Since the establishment of these rights, they have often been in question. People have debated over, "What is too much freedom?", and "When is this freedom not enough?" I believe that these rights were established to protect the people, and as a society, we must try to determine whether they are. One of the major organizations that exercises free speech is the press. The press has coined the phrase, "It is the people's First Amendment right to know." This first example best relates to a situation we have now; that of national crisis. The press has the right to release information to the public, but they must use judgment in what they release. Certain news that they might release could put people in danger, therefore taking away the right of all people to be safe. For many years, the idea of the press telling too much has been made fun of. In popu...

Education in America Essay

Education is a hot topic in the news and for most American citizens. They are preoccupied with the level of education their loved one are receiving. With the deficit being the cornerstone of much of government funding, agencies are feeling the cutbacks, and education is no exception. States have made steep cuts to education funding since the start of the recession. In many states, those cuts deepened over the last year. Elementary and high schools are receiving less state funding in the 2012-13 school year than they did last year in 26 states, and in 35 states school funding now stands below 2008 levels-often far below (Oliff, Mai, & Leachman, 2012). Lack of government funding for education can lead to other issues such as well qualified teachers leaving the profession due to lack of good pay, and benefits. Other issues includes lack of school material that is needed to teach successfully in the classrooms, and teacher’s assistants to help. In other classrooms teachers are feeling overwhelmed and leaving students to take responsibility for their learning experience. Still other issues derive from a lack of funding such as a lack of finances to assist special needs students. The lack of government funding could deter learning for students that are already struggling Analysis of Education in Georgia Georgia like many other states are negatively affected by the budget cuts for education. Georgia will lose approximately $28. 6 million in funding for primary and secondary education, putting around 390 teacher and aide jobs at risk. In addition about 54,000 fewer students would be served and approximately 80 fewer schools would receive funding. In addition, Georgia will lose approximately $17. 5 million in funds for about 210 teachers, aides, and staff who help children with disabilities (Burns, 2013). These persistent budget cuts are an injustice because all students deserve a well-rounded education. Educators are leaving In addition, teachers are leaving the classroom in massive groves to find employment in other careers because of the lack of government funding. Sadly, many teachers are leaving their beloved classrooms to pursue other ventures because of budget cuts, or because they are put in a situation of distress due to budget cuts, so either way our children are losing the battle of education, and good teachers are optioning for other career choices. Nationally, the average turnover for all teachers is 17 percent, and in urban school districts specifically, the number jumps to 20 percent, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The National Commission on Teaching and America’s Future proffers starker numbers, estimating that one-third of all new teachers leave after three years, and 46 percent are gone within five years (Kopkowski, 2013). Stakeholders The stakeholders in education includes the students, parents, teachers, principals, student advisors, the PTA, etc. , any person or organization that has a vested interest in the students and their education. When the education systems fails, we all fail as a country. The future of education is a looming reminder of the importance of financial funding from the federal government. When budget cuts interfere with the future of students, it is time to make some tough choices. Although there are other programs that need federal funding to keep their agencies successful, education should still be given top priority. The stakeholders invest in the future of the young by teaching, advising, mentoring, and in some cases funding. Their valuable input is mandatory in the fight for survival for educational funding. The stakeholders have much to lose when the educational system fails. When this happens, dropout rates and unemployment rises which adversely affects the economy. Summary Children are truly our future, and illiterate children have nothing positive to offer. The demise of education in the America is taking a heavy toll on each of us, the parents, the student, and the teachers, we all suffer. Frustration often leads to failure when it is not dealt with in a professional and timely manner. Not only are the students feeling the pressure of ill equipped schools, but the teachers are also feeling the pressure. Many teachers buy supplies for their classroom from their already shrinking checks because they do not have proper funding to supply their classroom needs. Tough decisions need to be made in allocating funds to agencies that are in dire need of funding. Education is vital for the future of America, and the government is wise to realize that this is one budget cut that is not beneficial to anyone involved.

The Life of Ben Jonson essays

The Life of Ben Jonson essays Ben Jonson was a playwright who lived in the English Renaissance, a man of great talent who was overlooked in his time because of William Shakespeare. Most of Jonsons works were written in the Jacobean period, and are comedies that deal with human behavior and temperaments. Jonson used these plays to try to teach people lessons by showing them the truth about how they acted. Because of this, his works were not highly accepted during his lifetime. Ben Jonson was born in Westminster, but claimed his family was of Border decent, this might be confirmed by looking at his coat of arms. On this we see three spindles or rhombi, which was a device shared by a Border family from Annandale, the Jonstones. Ben Jonsons farther died just one month before he was born. Leaving his mother to raise him alone, but after two years, his mother remarried to a master bricklayer. Jonson started attending school at St. Martins home and later transferred to Westminster school where, William Camden taught him. It is believed that Jonson went to the University of Cambridge, although he denied this fact with the excuse that he was put to work as a bricklayer immediately. After spending some time in this trade, Jonson became a soldier in the lower countries. He married around 1592, and from this marriage he had three children. Their first was a daughter named Mary, who died at only six months in 1593. The second who was a boy, Benjamin, died at the age of ten from the plague. The third child was another son, also named Benjamin, who died in 1635. Through this time it is believed that Jonson was separated from his wife for five years while he lived with Lord Aubigny. Around the summer of 1597, Ben Jonson became an actor in the Lord Admirals acting company, which was performing at the Rose, under the direction of Philip Henslowe. Around this time, Jonson started to write original plays, which were performed by this c ...

Thomas Macdonough in the War of 1812

Thomas Macdonough in the War of 1812 A native of Delaware, Thomas MacDonough became a noted officer in the US Navy during the early part of the 19th century. From a large family, he followed an older brother into the service and obtained a midshipmans warrant during the final months of the Quasi-War with France. MacDonough later saw service in the First Barbary War where he served under Commodore Edward Preble and took part in the daring raid which burned the captured frigate USS Philadelphia (36 guns). Shortly after the start of the  War of 1812, he received command of American forces on Lake Champlain. Building fleet, MacDonough won a decisive victory at the Battle of Plattsburgh in 1814 which saw him capture the entire British squadron. Early Life Born December 21, 1783 in northern Delaware, Thomas MacDonough was the son of Dr. Thomas and Mary McDonough. A veteran of the American Revolution, the senior McDonough served with the rank of major at the Battle of Long Island and was later wounded at White Plains. Raised in a strict Episcopal family, the younger Thomas was educated locally and by 1799 was working as a store clerk in Middletown, DE. At this time, his elder brother James, a midshipman in the US Navy, returned home having lost a leg during the Quasi-War with France. This inspired MacDonough to seek a career at sea and he applied for a midshipmans warrant with the aid of Senator Henry Latimer. This was granted on February 5, 1800. Around this time, for unknown reasons, he changed the spelling of his last name from McDonough to MacDonough. Going to Sea Reporting aboard USS Ganges (24), MacDonough sailed for the Caribbean in May. Through the summer, Ganges, with Captain John Mullowny in command, captured three French merchant vessels. With the end of the conflict in September, MacDonough remained in the US Navy and moved to the frigate USS Constellation (38) on October 20, 1801. Sailing for the Mediterranean, Constellation served in Commodore Richard Dales squadron during the First Barbary War. First Barbary War While aboard, MacDonough received a thorough nautical education from Captain Alexander Murray. As the composition of the squadron evolved, he received orders to join USS Philadelphia (36) in 1803. Commanded by Captain William Bainbridge, the frigate succeeded in capturing the Moroccan warship Mirboka (24) on August 26. Taking shore leave that fall, MacDonough was not aboard Philadelphia when it grounded on an uncharted reef in Tripoli harbor and was captured on October 31. Without a ship, MacDonough was soon reassigned to the sloop USS Enterprise (12). Serving under Lieutenant Stephen Decatur, he aided in the capture of the Tripolitan ketch Mastico in December. This prize was soon refitted as USS Intrepid (4) and joined the squadron. Concerned that Philadelphia would be salvaged by the Tripolitans, the squadron commander, Commodore Edward Preble, began formulating a plan to eliminate the stricken frigate. This called for Decatur to sneak into Tripoli harbor using Intrepid, storming the ship, and setting it ablaze if it could not saved. Familiar with Philadelphias layout, MacDonough volunteered for the raid and played a key role. Moving forward, Decatur and his men succeeded in burning Philadelphia on February 16, 1804. A stunning success, the raid was termed the the most bold and daring act of the Age by British Vice Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson. Peacetime Promoted to acting lieutenant for his part in the raid, MacDonough soon joined the brig USS Syren (18). Returning the United States in 1806, he aided Captain Isaac Hull in overseeing the construction of gunboats at Middletown, CT. Later that year, his promotion to lieutenant was made permanent. Completing his assignment with Hull, MacDonough received his first command in the sloop of war USS Wasp (18). Initially operating in the waters around Britain, Wasp spent much 1808 off the United States enforcing the Embargo Act. Departing Wasp, MacDonough spent part of 1809 aboard USS Essex (36) before leaving the frigate to direct gunboat construction at Middletown. With the repeal of the Embargo Act in 1809, the US Navy reduced its forces. The following year, MacDonough requested leave and spent two years as the captain of a British merchant vessel sailing to India. The War of 1812 Begins Returning to active duty shortly before the beginning of the War of 1812 in June 1812, MacDonough initially received a posting to Constellation. Fitting out at Washington, DC, the frigate required several months of work before being ready for sea. Eager take part in the fighting, MacDonough soon requested a transfer and briefly commanded gunboats at Portland, ME before being ordered to take command of US naval forces on Lake Champlain that October. Arriving at Burlington, VT, his forces were limited to the sloops USS Growler (10) and USS Eagle (10). Though small, his command was sufficient to control the lake. This situation changed radically on June 2, 1813, when Lieutenant Sidney Smith lost both vessels near Ile aux Noix. Building a Fleet Promoted to master commandant on July 24, MacDonough began large a shipbuilding effort at Otter Creek, VT in an effort to regain the lake. This yard produced the corvette USS Saratoga (26), the sloop of war USS Eagle (20), the schooner USS Ticonderoga (14), and several gunboats by late spring 1814. This effort was matched by his British counterpart, Commander Daniel Pring, who commenced his own building program at Ile aux Noix. Moving south in mid-May, Pring attempted to attack the American shipyard but was driven off by MacDonoughs batteries. Completing his vessels, MacDonough shifted his squadron of fourteen warships across the lake to Plattsburgh, NY to await Prings next sortie south. Out-gunned by the Americans, Pring withdrew to await the completion of the frigate HMS Confiance (36). Showdown at Plattsburgh As Confiance neared completion, British forces led by Lieutenant General Sir George Prà ©vost began gathering with the intention of invading the United States via Lake Champlain. As Prà ©vosts men marched south, they would be supplied and protected by British naval forces now led by Captain George Downie. To oppose this effort, badly outnumbered American forces, commanded by Brigadier General Alexander Macomb, assumed a defensive position near Plattsburgh. They were supported by MacDonough who arrayed his fleet in Plattsburgh Bay. Advancing on August 31, Prà ©vosts men, which included a large number of the Duke of Wellingtons veterans, were hampered by a variety of delaying tactics used by the Americans. Arriving near Plattsburgh on September 6, their initial efforts were turned back by Macomb. Consulting with Downie, Prà ©vost intended to attack the American lines in force on September 10 in concert with a naval effort against MacDonough in the bay. MacDonoughs Plan Blocked by unfavorable winds, Downies ships were unable to advance on the desired date and were forced to delay a day. Mounting fewer long guns than Downie, MacDonough took a position in Plattsburgh Bay where he believed his heavier, but shorter range carronades would be most effective. Supported by ten small gunboats, he placed Eagle, Saratoga, Ticonderoga, and the sloop Preble (7) in a north-south line. In each case, two anchors were used along with spring lines to permit the vessels to turn while at anchor. After scouting the American position on the morning of September 11, Downie chose to move forward. The Fleets Engage Passing around Cumberland Head at 9:00 AM, Downies squadron consisted of Confiance, the brig HMS Linnet (16), the sloops HMS Chubb (10) and HMS Finch (11), and twelve gunboats.  As the Battle of Plattsburgh began, Downie initially sought to place Confiance across the head of the American line, but shifting winds prevented this and he instead assumed a position opposite Saratoga. As the two flagships commenced battering each other, Pring was able to cross in front of Eagle with Linnet while Chubb was quickly disabled and captured. Finch moved to take a position across the tail of MacDonoughs line but drifted south and grounded on Crab Island. MacDonoughs Victory While Confiances first broadsides did significant damage to Saratoga, the two ships continued to trade blows with Downie being killed when a cannon was driven into him. To the north, Pring opened fire on Eagle with the American vessel unable to turn to effectively counter. At the opposite end of the line, Preble was compelled to withdraw from the fight by Downies gunboats. These were finally halted by determined fire from Ticonderoga. Under heavy fire, Eagle severed its anchor lines and began to drift down the American line permitting Linnet to rake Saratoga. With most of his starboard guns out of action, MacDonough employed his spring lines to turn his flagship. Bringing his undamaged portside guns to bear, MacDonough opened fire on Confiance. The survivors aboard the British flagship sought to conduct a similar turn but became stuck with the frigates vulnerable stern presented to Saratoga. Incapable of further resistance, Confiance struck its colors. Pivoting Saratoga a second time, MacDonough brought its broadside to bear on Linnet. With his ship out-gunned and seeing that further resistance was futile, Pring elected to surrendered. Having gained the upper hand, the Americans proceeded to capture the entire British squadron. Aftermath MacDonoughs triumph matched that of Master Commandant Oliver H. Perry who had won a similar victory on Lake Erie the previous September. Ashore, Prà ©vosts initial efforts were delayed or turned back. Learning of Downies defeat, he elected to break off the battle as he felt any victory would be meaningless as American control of the lake would prevent him from being able to resupply his army. Though his commanders protested the decision, Prà ©vosts army began retreating north to Canada that night. For his efforts at Plattsburgh, MacDonough was hailed as hero and received a promotion to captain as well as a Congressional Gold Medal. In addition, both New York and Vermont presented him with generous grants of land. Later Career After remaining on the lake into 1815, MacDonough took command of the Portsmouth Navy Yard on July 1 where he relieved Hull. Returning to sea three years later, he joined the Mediterranean Squadron as captain of HMS Guerriere (44). During his time abroad, MacDonough contracted tuberculosis in April 1818. Due to health issues, he returned to the United States later that year where he began overseeing the construction of the ship of the line USS Ohio (74) at the New York Navy Yard. In this position for five years, MacDonough requested sea duty and received command of USS Constitution in 1824. Sailing for the Mediterranean, MacDonoughs tenure aboard the frigate proved brief as he was forced to relieve himself of command due to health issues on October 14, 1825. Sailing for home, he died off Gibraltar on November 10. MacDonoughs body was returned to the United States where it was buried in Middletown, CT next to his wife, Lucy Ann Shale MacDonough (m.1812).

CHRONIC HEALTH PROBLEMS Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

CHRONIC HEALTH PROBLEMS - Assignment Example It affects the smooth lining in the joints leading to pain and notable stiffness. The cartilage of the joints thins and tissues become less active, leading to swelling (Crisp, Taylor & Douglas, 2013). The case also results in body spurs due to eroding of the bones at the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is common in women and is thrice more likely to affect women than men. The condition develops when the immune system of the body targets affected joints leading to pain and swelling. It affects the outer covering of the joints first and the spreads across the joint hence pain. People with the rheumatoid can also develop problems with other tissues and other body organs (Crisp, Taylor & Douglas, 2013). The common clinical manifestations of the arthritis condition include long-term inflammation of the joint areas, affecting the bones and muscles in that joint. The patient also depicts aspects of stiffness in movement, swelling of the tendons and eyes. It can also reflect in swelling of the neck and in cases where it affects other tissues or organs, it can reflect as pain in those organs. Mr. Elliot is 70 years of age and suffers from chronic arthritis. In the interview, he says he began developing symptoms of pain and swelling of the ankle joints at the age of 52 years. However, at this time, he sought treatment for pains thinking it was a normal joint defect resulting from his past career. Mr. Elliot was a professional footballer and at his formative years, he spend alit of time exercising, and in the process suffered multiple joint injuries. Therefore, when the condition started developing, he thought it was from the injuries he suffered at his young age playing football. However, he condition worsened, persisting for over 8 years, before he sought professional care. He learnt it was osteoarthritis at age of 60 years. Currently, he understands the cause of the condition and its impact to his health and lives positively, while undertaking

Funding proposal for center for bioethical mentorship for clinicians Essay

Funding proposal for center for bioethical mentorship for clinicians working with chronically disables patients &their families - Essay Example Therefore, several projects would be fundamental for a bioethical center that seeks to advance high moral character for the clinicians. The first project is the inquiry into societal change, which makes some values that were upheld in the past virtually inapplicable in the present society. Another key element that would serve as a vital project for the bioethical center is human abuse, which calls for a thorough inquiry into various forms of human abuse, both psychological and physical, which acts as a deterrent to the recovery of patients. The nature of interactions and how they impact on the patients and their relationship with clinicians is yet another relevant area of inquiry, with a view to developing basic essentials of interactions that impact positively on the patients. Any project undertaken in the above three areas will be essential part of informing the development of moral character for clinicians, owing to the fact that the areas address all the moral components that eme rges from any interaction between clinicians and

Project Management Scenario Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Project Management Scenario - Essay Example and Down’s staff for the new project, there might be conflict with respect to job responsibilities, particularly, the tasks which will be left unattended by staff movement from Pokorski and Down’s side of the operations to Janet’s new project. The responsibility matrix, together with a resources plan, can help address any potential communication conflicts among Steve Pokorski, Joe Downs and Janet. Meanwhile, an issue management plan will also be handy so that Janet’s team can be prepared to contend with environmental, cultural, technical and project-specific concerns which have already been identified or are being expected to occur in the course of time. This communication tool is very different from a risk management plan in the sense that risks may or may not occur (Pritchard, 2004). Finally, Janet should require each team or group in charge with one or more deliverables to submit status reports at the end of each week so that delays, time gained and other problems which surface in addition to those already identified and expected can be properly addressed, particularly those requiring mobilisation of resources, task redundancies or personnel conflicts. On the other hand, the major risks being considered which may affect the success of the project include: (1) unexpected increase in the price of construction materials during the construction of the manufacturing plant; (2) is fluctuation in the price of raw materials for plastic containers and (3) breakdown of equipment. All three aforementioned risks will definitely affect the scope, cost and schedule of the project. In the case of increase in the price of raw materials for construction, or fluctuation in price of raw materials for manufacturing, including a statistically calculated amount for contingency in the estimation of construction and manufacturing costs can cushion the effect of any price increase. With respect to breakdown of equipment especially in the first four months of operation, weekly

Fate in Oedipus the King Essay Example for Free

Fate in Oedipus the King Essay Tragedy of Oedipus is about pre-destination vs free-will. Fate does play a part in the tragic down fall of Oedipus but it does not mean that his character and disposition has no liability for that. Excessive arrogance and self-confidence of Oedipus is the main cause of his tragedy. He harbors unjustified suspicions against Tiresias and Creon; in one place he goes so far as to express some uncertainty about the prophetic natures of oracles and truth of their prophecies. It is hardly likely that even a combination of all these would be equal to what Aristotle considered to be a serious hamartia, and it would not be very relevant to the point at issue even if he did, for Oedipus has committed incest and parricide years before the action of the play began, and before he exhibited any of the failing mentioned above. It would hardly be logical to say that the gods punished Oedipus for a crime which he was to commit many days later. Another view is that the present failings of Oedipus may be taken to means that he was he was always like that, and his tragedy comes due some inherent or innate unsoundness in his character. So he is not a puppet in the hands of fate. But Sophocles also illustrates that it was fate that brought him to Thebes and it was gain fate that he came across someone at where three highways came together. It was his fate that he married his mother. Above all, fate has played a pivotal role in his life from the very start and has not dealt with him even-handedly. The divine will as predicted and proclaimed by the oracle was absolute and it has nothing good about Oedipus. Although certain measures were taken by the King and Queen) to escape from that proclaimed destiny but it became the cause for the tragic downfall of Oedipus. That is the reason that Oedipus says after blinding himself. God. God. / Is there a sorrow greater? /Where shall I find harbor in this world? / My voice is hurled far on a dark wind. / What has God done to me? (Sophocles 831) Dodds writes about the nature of fate as demonstrated by Oedipus that fate is inevitably and inexorably bound to happen no matter what Oedipus may have done to avoid it (Dodds 21).

Barriers to Breast Cancer Screening and Mammograms

Barriers to Breast Cancer Screening and Mammograms Abstract The mammography screening recommendations have been ambiguous and disagree with suggesting institute to institute.   Thus, it is up to women to make choices about mammogram inspection based on their personal health beliefs.   This paper explores 6 published articles that report results from various research conducted on women with an average risk of breast cancer. These studies examined the connection between observed benefits and alleged barriers to mammography and compliance with mammography screening in women age 40 and older and among minorities.   It also discusses the latest findings and guidelines according to the American Cancer Society.   Other articles discuss their reviews to support mammogram screening for women under 50, a systemic review of the benefits and harms of breast cancer screening and factors that influence breast cancer screening in Asian countries. Introduction Currently, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women and one of the chief causes of death worldwide. (Oeffinger,Fontham, Etzioni, et al.)   According to the American Cancer Society 2015, it is the leading contributor to cancer mortality in women aged 40 to 55.   Several risk factors increase the likelihood of the disease occurring.   These factors include: (1) aging, (2) personal history of breast cancer, (3) family history of breast cancer, (4) history of benign breast disease, (5) menarche younger than 12 years, (6) nulliparous, or a first child after age 30, (7) higher education or socioeconomic level, (8) obesity and/or high fats diets, (9) menopause after age 50, (10) lengthy exposure to cyclic estrogen and (11) environment exposure (American Cancer Society, 2015).   The cause of breast cancer is still unspecified, yet these risk factors are known to play a part in the risk of developing this disease.   Essentially all women can be considered at risk.   No successful cure or preventative methods exist, and early recognition offers the best opportunity for decreasing morbidity and mortality. Literature Review The first article that I reviewed is titled â€Å"Benefits and Harms of Breast Cancer Screening, A Systemic Review†.   According to Myers, et al., mortality from breast cancer has declined substantially since the 1970’s, a drop attributable to both the accessibility of screening methods, particularly mammography, and better-quality treatment of more advanced cancer.   This literature pointed out that, although there has been stable evidence that screening with mammography reduces breast cancer mortality, there are a number of possible harms, including false-positive results, which result in both needless biopsies and added distress and anxiety associated to the potential diagnosis of cancer.   In addition, screening may lead to over diagnosis of cancers that may not have become life-threatening.   With their investigation in the meta-analyses of RTCs (randomized clinical trials) that stratified by age, screening women younger than 50 years was constantly associated with a statistically significant reduction in breast cancer mortality of approximately 15% while screening women 50 years or older was linked with slightly greater mortality reduction (14-23%).   In general, based on their research, they have concluded that â€Å"regular screening with mammography in women 40 years or older at average risk of breast cancer reduces breast cancer mortality over at least 13 years of follow-up, but there is uncertainty about the magnitude of this association, particularly in the context of current practice in the United States.† In summary, this review concluded that among women of all ages at average risk of breast cancer, screening was related with a reduction in breast cancer mortality of approximately 20%, although there was ambiguity about quantitative estimates of the association of different breast cancer screening strategies in the United States.   These findings and the related uncertainty should be considered when making suggestions based on judgments about the balance of benefits and harms of breast cancer screening. (Myers et al. 2015). Mammography can pinpoint tumors too small to be detected by palpitation of the breast by the woman or her health care provider.   Early detection of breast cancer in women improves the possibility of successful treatment and thus cuts morbidity and mortality from the disease (American Cancer Society, 2015).   Yet, there still exists an observable lack of compliance with the recommended screening guidelines.   According to an article in the Journal of the American College of Radiology by Monticciolo, et al. (2015), they pointed out that previous to the presentation of widespread mammographic screening in the mid-1980s, the mortality rate from breast cancer in the US had stayed unaffected for more than 4 decades.   From 1990, the fatality rate has fallen by at least 38%.   Considerably, this change is recognized to prompt detection with mammography.   In this next article, Miranda-Diaz, et al. (2016) studied the Hispanics Puerto Rican subjects, inner-city women and determinants of breast cancer screening and suggested that women with low incomes and education were less likely to partake in mammography.   Lack of submission of breast cancer screening tests is more prevalent among minorities.   They added that Hispanic women are less likely to receive a Physician’s recommendation for breast cancer screening, therefore, it was the primary reason for not doing a mammogram.   Other barriers for lack of compliance among Hispanic women and Latinas living in California are lack of health insurance, age, usual source of care, having a busy schedule, fear, cost and feeling uncomfortable during the procedure. In conclusion, the authors of this article did a study that was limited by the small sample size and may not be generalizable to the entire population of the island. In order to improve compliance as well as educating health care providers about the importance of referral, a tailored health education interventions directed to describe the nature and benefit of cancer screening test needed to be put in place. Similarly, another article stated that early detection of breast cancer, while the tumor is still small and localized, provides the opportunity for the most effective treatment. (Mandelblatt, Armetta, Yabroff, et al.) According to the American Cancer Society 2015, detection guidelines recommended that women with an average risk of breast cancer should undergo regular screening mammography starting at age 45 years.   Women aged 45- 54 years should be inspected annually and women 55 years and older should changeover to biennial screening or have the opportunity to begin annual screening between the ages of 40 and 44 years.   The suggested outcome of the guideline would result in earlier detection because breast cancers found by mammography in women in their forties are smaller and more treatable than those found by self-breast exam or clinical breast exam.   Consequently, earlier detection by mammography could save lives. According to an article by Kathy Boltz, Ph.D. (2013), amid the 609 definite breast cancer deaths, 29% were including women who had been screened with mammography, while 71% were among unscreened women.   In tally, her investigation found that of all breast cancer deaths, only 13% happened in women aged 70 years or older, but 50% occurred in women under 50 years old. Her studies were done to support mammogram screening for women under age 50.   In the meantime, Dr. Cady, MD, Professor of Surgery of Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts, and his teammates set out to deliver complete information on the value of mammography screening through a technique called â€Å"failure analysis†.   Such evaluations look backward from the time of death to determine the connections at diagnosis, rather than looking forward from the start of a study.   Only one other failure analysis related to cancer has been published to date.   In this evaluation, invasive breast cancers analyzed at Partners HealthCare hospitals in Boston between 1990 and 1999 were followed through 2007.   Facts for the study comprised demographics, mammography use, surgical and pathology reports, and recurrence and death dates.   The article also stated that the study showed a dramatic shift in survival from breast cancer associated with the introduction of screening.   In 1969, half of the women diagnosed with breast cancer had died by 12.5 years after diagnosis.   Between the women with aggressive breast cancer in this review who were spotted between 1990 and 1999, only 9.3% had expired.   â€Å"This is a remarkable achievement, and the fact that 71% of the women who died were women who were not participating in screening clearly supports the importance of early detection,† said co-author Daniel Kopans, MD, also of Harvard Medical School. The study of the â€Å"perception of breast cancer risk and screening effectiveness† was studied by Black, Nease, & Tosteson (1995).   The purpose of the study was to determine how women 40-50 years of age perceive their risk of breast cancer and the effectiveness of screening and how these perceptions compare with estimates derived from epidemiologic studies of breast cancer incidence and randomized clinical trials of screening. A random sample of 200 women, age 40-50 years old who had no history of breast cancer was chosen through the computerized medical records of Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.   Thirty-nine percent had an annual family income of $50,000 to $100,000, and 62% had at least a college education.   The subjects received the questionnaire in the mail which asked questions pertaining to breast cancer risk and screening effectiveness.   Seventy-three percent responded with a complete questionnaire.   The results showed that the women overestimated their probability of dying of breast cancer within ten years by more than twenty times.   When asked about their relative risk reduction from breast cancer screening, they overestimated by six times.   These results are based on assuming a 10% relative risk reduction from cancer screening.   Eighty-eight percent of the subjects agreed that the benefits to screening mammography outweighed the barriers.   The generalizability of this study is very limited because of this population is better educated and of higher income than the general U.S. population of women of the same age range.   Also, the subjects’ breast cancer risk was not precisely known, and the effectiveness of modern screening mammography is unknown.   The limitations also include the questionnaire which has not been previously tested.    The last article is a literature review of â€Å"factors influencing breast cancer screening in Asian countries.†Ã‚   Studies done by Ahmadian and Samah (2012), found that breast cancer arises in the younger age group of Asian women, 40 to 49 years old compared to the other Western counterparts, where the peak prevalence is realized between 50 to 59 years.   According to multiple sources and authors, in Singapore, Malaysia, Iran, Thailand, Pakistan, and Arab women in Palestine, more than half of new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in women below the age of 50 years and in advanced stages III or IV.     Schwartz et al. (2008), discovered that breast cancer screening activities among Asian women living in their native country are low and mammography screening in Middle Eastern countries are also low.   Analyses of the information have shown that only 23% of Turkish people testified having at least one mammogram.   Fewer women about 10.3% in the United Arab Emirates had mammography, which was attributed to poor knowledge of breast cancer screening and infrequent offering of screening by healthcare workers (Schwartz et al., 2008)   In conclusion of this article, the authors stated that in order to improve women’s participation in breast cancer prevention programs/ screenings, especially among the at-risk subgroup, the intervention strategies should be tailored to their knowledge and socio-demographic factor.   The approaches accepted should also take into account the women’s emotional and ethnic matters in order to support lifelong mammography screening practice for Asian people which is based on hypothetical interventions. In addition, healthcare professionals working with Asian women should cautiously tackle the misapprehensions such as worry about mammogram devices and fatalism. (Ahmadian & Samah, 2012) Conclusion In summary, after reading and reviewing the 6 related articles pertaining to breast cancer and mammogram screening for women under 50, I have concluded that there are both pros and cons, benefits and harms, perceived benefits and alleged barriers, and compliance factors that affect women worldwide. Breast cancer has claimed millions of lives throughout the world and women should be encouraged to be mindful of and to consider their family history and medical history with a physician to determine if early detection is a warrant.   If the woman has an average risk of developing breast cancer, the American Cancer Society supports a discussion of screening around the age of 40 years.   According to the guideline, ACS recommends that women be provided with information about risk factors, risk reduction, and the benefits, limitations, and harms associated with mammography screening.   While it is recognized that there is a balance of risks and benefits to the mammogram, women should be provided with guidance so that they can make the best choice about when to start and stop screening and how frequently to be screened for breast cancer.   So, if you or your loved ones have an average risk of breast cancer and over 40 years old, would you prefer to have a checkup once a year or once every two years?   This is rather a personal choice but with early detection, the benefit of mammogram will prove to outweigh the risk and could possibly save your life. References Ahmadian, M and Samah, A.(2012) A Literature Review of Factors Influencing Breast Cancer Screening in Asian Countries.Life Sci J 2012;9(2):585-594.   (ISSN: 1097-8135).   http://www.lifesciencesite.com.   Accessed January 16, 2018 Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis (version 1.2015).   National Comprehensive Cancer Network. http://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/PDF/breast-screening.pdfAccessed January 16, 2018. Mandelblatt, JS, Cronin, KA, Bailey, S, et al. (2009) Breast Cancer Working Group of Cancer   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Intervention and Surveillance Modeling Network.   Effects of mammography screening under different screening schedules: model estimates of potential benefits and harms. Ann Intern. Med. 2009;15(10):738-747. Mandeltblatt, JS, Armatta, C, Yabroff, R, Liang, W, Lawrence, W. (2004) Descriptive Review of the Literature on Breast Cancer Outcomes: 1990 Through 2000. JNCI Monographs, Volume 2004, Issue 33, 1 October 2004, Pages 8-44. https://academic.oup.com/jncimono/article/2004/33/8/933605Accessed January 17, 2018. Oeffinger, KC, Fontham, ETH, Etzioni, R, et al. (2015). Breast Cancer Screening for Women at average risk: 2015 Guideline Update from the American Cancer Society. Jama.2015. doi:10.1001/jama.2015.12783. https://provimaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/JAMA-Network-_-JAMA-_-Breast-Cancer-Screening-for-Women-at-Average-Risk_-20.pdfAccessed January 17, 2018. Schwartz, LM, Woloshin, S, Sox, HC, Fischloff, B, Welch, HG.(2000) US Women’s Attitudes to False Positive Mammography Results and Detection of Ductal Carcinoma in Situ:   Cross Sectional Survey. BMJ. 2000;320 (7250): 1635-1640. http://www.bmj.com/content/320/7250/1635.Accessed January 20, 2018

Reproductive Controls and Sexual Destiny :: Homosexuality Essays

Reproductive Controls and Sexual Destiny Reproductive Controls and sexual destiny seeks to determine whether ways to manipulate and erase sexual identity of homosexual nature is moral, criminal, and should be government control. She argues, â€Å"Selecting against gay children implies the worthlessness of homosexuality and is therefore insulting to gay people as a degradation of their dignity.† She also believes that in order for the idea to be considered immoral it must bring harm to the child in consideration. It does not. It represents human choice, which is to be preserved and encouraged. She does believe that this decision could be viewed as immoral in that it is in a way selfish. She does believe that to further the argument for a government ban there must be an establishment of a cause of homosexuality that is more concrete than hormonally based. The success of the argument against homosexuality in general can survive if the underlying religious assumption is accepted. If the concept of human nature is accepte d it represents human choice rather than destiny of individual to be heterosexual as the Roman Catholic Church argues that god has purposed humans to be and will be held accountable for by god. In order for a reader to â€Å"buy† this article the world have to be a utopia in which people are accepted for who they are what they believe in; what their religion is and who their friends are. Which brings me to the topic the author is actually â€Å"selling†. The title he uses, Reproductive controls and sexual destiny creates pre reader imagery, if you will. He makes the reader think of his two worse nightmares someone controlling his future involving his/her abilities to bring life into this world. Now after he has gotten the reader in this mode of defense for anything that tries to control his/her reproduction he uses words in his first and second paragraphs such as eradicate and constraining respectively. He has now laid he groundwork for his underlying and implicit argu ment†¦the philosophy of heterosexualism is smothering the gay community from enjoying there own destinies to not only be gay but to condone it as a perfectly valid choice for their offspring or any body else’s. He thinks that anyone should have the opportunity to choose to become gay; people should not choose heterosexuality over homosexuality. In the purpose of his essay the author sates Reproductive Controls and Sexual Destiny :: Homosexuality Essays Reproductive Controls and Sexual Destiny Reproductive Controls and sexual destiny seeks to determine whether ways to manipulate and erase sexual identity of homosexual nature is moral, criminal, and should be government control. She argues, â€Å"Selecting against gay children implies the worthlessness of homosexuality and is therefore insulting to gay people as a degradation of their dignity.† She also believes that in order for the idea to be considered immoral it must bring harm to the child in consideration. It does not. It represents human choice, which is to be preserved and encouraged. She does believe that this decision could be viewed as immoral in that it is in a way selfish. She does believe that to further the argument for a government ban there must be an establishment of a cause of homosexuality that is more concrete than hormonally based. The success of the argument against homosexuality in general can survive if the underlying religious assumption is accepted. If the concept of human nature is accepte d it represents human choice rather than destiny of individual to be heterosexual as the Roman Catholic Church argues that god has purposed humans to be and will be held accountable for by god. In order for a reader to â€Å"buy† this article the world have to be a utopia in which people are accepted for who they are what they believe in; what their religion is and who their friends are. Which brings me to the topic the author is actually â€Å"selling†. The title he uses, Reproductive controls and sexual destiny creates pre reader imagery, if you will. He makes the reader think of his two worse nightmares someone controlling his future involving his/her abilities to bring life into this world. Now after he has gotten the reader in this mode of defense for anything that tries to control his/her reproduction he uses words in his first and second paragraphs such as eradicate and constraining respectively. He has now laid he groundwork for his underlying and implicit argu ment†¦the philosophy of heterosexualism is smothering the gay community from enjoying there own destinies to not only be gay but to condone it as a perfectly valid choice for their offspring or any body else’s. He thinks that anyone should have the opportunity to choose to become gay; people should not choose heterosexuality over homosexuality. In the purpose of his essay the author sates

Nordstrom: a Marketing Analysis Essay

Over the years Nordstrom has created individual departments that focus on the individual lifestyles of the customers. The company nor only provides its customers with a wardrobe, but also a countless line of accessories, cosmetics, and fragrance. Over the past few years, the company has added new brands to its product line to satisfy its customer needs. In order to give the best possible service to the customer, the company plans on continuing to update the product line as new customer desires evolve. The employees are extremely focused on creating an environment of customer service within the store as well. The employees are not only focused on meeting the company standards, they are also focused on reaching the standards they have set within their own department as well. Each employee is trusted by the store managers to make good decisions and represent the company well. This trust has built confidence in the employee and enables them to focus all of the energy toward the customer. The atmosphere of the store also shows evidence of the company mission. The store is easy to navigate through, specific soothing colors are well placed throughout the store, and there is always a piano that can be heard playing in the background. These three things create a soothing and comfortable atmosphere for the customer. Nordstrom’s mission of providing customer service, quality, selection and value to its customers is carried out in every aspect of the company. The company employees, store atmosphere, and product line all display extraordinary qualities of service. The Mission Statement of Nordstrom is definitely evident in its day to day operations. Situation Analysis (SWOT Analysis) Internal Strengths and Weaknesses History (Sales, Profits, Organizational Philosophies) Nordstrom was co founded 1901 by a 30 year old man named John W Nordstrom and his partner Carl Wallin. At age 16, John W of Sweden left his home and moved to Alaska where he struck gold. While in Alaska, he met a man named Carl Wallin, â€Å"who owned a shoe repair shop in downtown Seattle† (Nordstrom Employee, 2006). The two decided form a partnership and open a shoe store entitled Wallin & Nordstrom. Right form the start, the business philosophy was â€Å"based on exceptional customer service, selection, quality and value† (Nordstrom Employee, 2006). Focusing on this philosophy helped Nordstrom develop a competitive advantage in the shoe market. Due to their success, the company opened a new store in 1923. The company was soon taken over by John W’s sons. Under their management it â€Å"grew to become the largest independent shoe chain in the United States. By the 1960’s the current market had started to reach maturity and the company began to look â€Å"for new ways to spread its wings† (Nordstrom Employee, 2006). In an attempt to diversify itself, and gain greater market penetration, Nordstrom took on a new name, â€Å"Nordstrom Best†, and ventured into the clothing market. Now, upon entering a Nordstrom store, â€Å"customers were greeted with a selection of both shoes and fine apparel† (Nordstrom Employee, 2006). Now for the first time in history, Nordstrom offered a diverse product mix, something no other competitor offered. In 1971, under the third generation of management, the company decided to go public. Two years later Nordstrom reached a critical point in its business, surpassing $100 million in sales, making it the largest volume specialty store on the west coast. Profits were growing, market share was increasing, and Nordstrom’s marketing plan seemed to be working. Even though Nordstrom was experiencing tremendous success, the management was not satisfied. There was still room to grow. In order for Nordstrom to retain its competitive advantage, the company needed to revise its marketing strategy and further its market penetration. The company decided to take action. By 1975 the company penetrated into the markets of Alaska and California and by the late 80’s, the company opened up the first Nordstrom Rack in the mid 70’s. This store was a â€Å"clearance center for full-line store merchandise† (Nordstrom Employee, 2006). The higher prices in the regular store targeted the upper segment of society, while the Rack enabled Nordstrom to orient itself to a completely new crowd. Today, more than 100 years after its establishment, Nordstrom maintains the same focus of offering â€Å"the customer the best possible service, selection, quality, and value† (Nordstrom Employee, 2006). This is evident in the product line and store ambience. Nordstrom has created a unique store atmosphere designed to enhance the shopping experience of the customer. â€Å"Instead of categorizing departments by merchandise, Nordstrom† has â€Å"created fashion departments that fit individual’s lifestyles† (Nordstrom Employee, 2006). Focus on serving the market (or customer’s needs and wants) has helped Nordstrom grow from a small shoe store in Seattle â€Å"into a nationwide fashion specialty chain† (Nordstrom Employee, 2006). Nature of Firm/Current Situation Aside from Nordstrom’s customer service, one of its most influential qualities is the store atmosphere. Immediately after walking into a Nordstrom, one experiences a sense of calmness that is not experienced when walking into other department stores. At Nordstrom, â€Å"careful attention has been given to achieving an esthetically pleasing atmosphere†, a Nordstrom customer commented (Bee H, 2006). Nordstrom has put a lot of research into testing different layout scenarios within each store. Every time the layout of a department changes, a diagram is made and a record of sales is kept for that layout. From this information, Nordstrom has been able to develop the most economical and profitable layout for the customer and the organization. The Nordstrom colors are also carefully selected. Deep earthy colors present customers with a comfortable and desirable atmosphere. Deep red, brown (wooden floors), blue, purple and green are used to color the store. Every color is strategically placed throughout the store to enhance the shopping experience. Nordstrom has put a lot of research into effects that color has on the human psyche. For example red is chosen because it produces feelings of â€Å"energy, desire, and attention† (Bear , 2006). Purple is another color that is placed in distinct locations throughout the store. It brings about feelings of self assurance, dignity, high aspirations, royalty, sophistication, wealth, ambition, fame, luxury, and power. These two colors are used to promote confidence and feelings of satisfaction within the customers as they shop. During sales, employees are also given a tie to wear which almost always includes the color purple. Purple is also found near the more expensive items in the store. The color scheme is critical in creating a store atmosphere that is desirable to customers. Aside from the colors, the product layout also plays an essential role in providing a even-tempered atmosphere. Nordstrom has separated its products into different departments for men and women. This helps provide better service as each department can cater to the specific needs and wants of the customer. Within each department the clothes are either laid out on hanging racks or on tables. Organization is the primary focus when setting up the departments. Clothes are always neatly folded and clothing racks are well separated. A general rule of thumb is that if two people can not walk side by side between two fixtures, they are too close together. To produce an even cleaner look, jackets and heavier clothes are always hung on wooden hangers instead of plastic. The most famous contribution to the atmosphere of Nordstrom is the Piano. Nordstrom has created a â€Å"partnership with Levine School of Music† where it hand selects students to work for the company upon graduation. The partnership is working; â€Å"the dude playing the piano just adds to the calm shopping atmosphere† commented one man after a day a day of shopping (Bee H, 2006). To provide even more relaxation, comfortable couches are usually found somewhere around the piano for tired shoppers to sit down and for men to wait while their wives shop. Andrew Cooper, a computer design major at North Park University in Chicago said â€Å"these couches are a great place for me to relax while my wife spends all my money†. Resources of the Firm Finance: Nordstrom uses a verity of resources to help attract new customers and retain its current customer base. By far, one of its biggest resources is in the area of finance. Nordstrom recently â€Å"reported third-quarter earnings of $135. 7 million† (Portland Business Journal , 2006). These earnings jumped unexpectedly and are up from $107. 5 million earlier this year. The financial resources of Nordstrom are an essential part of the companies marketing plan. This money has given Nordstrom the ability to put on expensive training programs for employees, purchase personal book (a customer database program), send out bulk mailings to customers (such as catalogs, promotions, etc. , build new stores, and create a customer friendly in-store atmosphere. Human: Nordstrom’s employees and management are the company’s most valuable resource. An article written in the Seattle PI describes exactly why this is true. It states that, â€Å"Nordstrom salespeople make decisions as if managing their own business; they are trusted to do what is right. Everyone else in the company is ther e to help the sales staff make the sale and please the customer† (Mulady, 2001). The way the employees are treated and valued is a perfect portrayal of the company’s mission of providing the best possible customer service and value to the customer. Even though the sales person is the front man for the company (being put in positions of direct contact with the customer), the human resource and management team act as the glue that holds the company together. The president of the company, Blake Nordstrom, says that people in support positions â€Å"like myself or someone in human resources that isn’t on the floor manning a register,† needs to understand that their job is to use the â€Å"energy and the activities they’re doing (to) contribute to a better customer and employee experience† (HR Magazine, 2006). It is therefore extremely important that the workers in the HR department stay connected to the selling process in order to stay connected with the employees. It is this connection that helps the employees â€Å"take care of their customers†. It is not unusual for employees to go in on their days off to meet a customer that is in need of a new suit or pair of shoes. The manager of the men’s suit department at the Tacoma Nordstrom comes in regularly on his days off. In an interview he commented that if a customer is in need â€Å"I will find them the suit, get it altered for them so they can have it in time† (Mulady, 2001). The sales employees have a tremendous amount of trust in the tailoring shop. One employee comments: â€Å"We rely heavily on the tailoring shop; they are great† (Mulady, 2001). In one situation, a baseball player needed a special shirt for a conference that Nordstrom did not have. To solve this problem, the sales person took a few shirts up to the tailor shop and used the material to make a brand new shirt. The shirt was then delivered to the player’s hotel room that afternoon. The employees of Nordstrom are what keep the company going. The trust built between employees is critical in helping Nordstrom provide the excellent service it does. Without trust and support of all the company’s workers, Nordstrom would be just another company. Physical: Currently Nordstrom operates â€Å"156 US stores located in 26 states† (Nordstrom Staff, 2002). Of these stores, there are 99 full line retail, 49 Nordstrom Racks, 5 Faconnable boutiques, 1 free standing shoe store, and 2 clearance stores. Even with all of these stores, the company is not satisfied, and is seeking to expand its physical existence even further. Nordstrom is currently in the process of establishing a store in Kenwood, Cincinnati. When interviewed about this decision, president, Erik Nordstrom, exclaimed â€Å"there is still much more opportunity to increase our presence around the country where our customers live and shop† (Fasiq, 2006). Nordstrom has also planted stores internationally where it operates 35 Faconnable boutiques, primarily in Europe. Customers of Nordstrom can even enjoy a unique shopping experience without setting foot in the store. The company has developed a unique online and mail order catalog designed to reach those customers who are interested in its products, but may not have the time or desire to come into the physical store. These resources are extremely important to the company. The two contrasting stores (online and physical), reach two diverse crowds. The physical stores provide a tangible place that customers can relate to all across the country, while the online stores take advantage of the stores reputation. They reach customers who have heard good things about the store but do not like to shop. Policies and Objectives of firm Nordstrom has established many different policies designed to keep employees on track with its mission. The use of good judgment is the number one guiding principle for the employees of Nordstrom. The first page of the employee â€Å"Code of Business Conduct and Ethics† states â€Å"at Nordstrom, we expect you to use good judgment when it comes to taking care of our customers. But we don’t expect you to do it without help from us† (Nordstrom Management, 2006). This policy lets the sales people know that the management stands behind them at all times. Aside from the standard company policies reguarding sexual harassment, stealing, drugs or alcohol, and preventing theft; the company also has some policies that make it unique. Employees are not allowed to accept gifts from anyone with whom they do business. This policy was instilled to uphold Nordstrom’s reputation of acting fair, honest, and professional. Accepting a gift can create the inkling that the gift inappropriately influenced the business transaction. The code of Ethics also tells employees that the company expects its employees to use personal book (a database that includes customer’s information such as purchases, sizes, etc. ) on a daily basis. This policy was designed to help the company keep their â€Å"reputation for excellent follow-through and service† (Nordstrom Management, 2006). However, since this in personal information, the company states that, â€Å"Personal Book and its contents are confidential and†¦ should be used in accordance with the Confidentiality and Nondisclosure Expectation† (Nordstrom Management, 2006). When an employee ends his/her career with Nordstrom, their personal book is closed off to them and returned to Nordstrom. All of these policies help keep Nordstrom on track with its mission. Almost all of the sections in the handbook for employees end with a line about using good judgment. This shows that Nordstrom has confidence in their employees. Nordstrom truly believes that if the employees use good judgment, the customers will get the best possible service the company can offer. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Nordstrom provides many benefits to its employees. The company provides time off with pay for personal and family needs. It also provides paid time for observed holidays. Each employee is also provided with a twenty percent discount at all Nordstrom locations. Nordstrom employees also have many long term benefits available to them. These Benefits include a 401(k) and profit sharing plan, where an employee can divert 50 percent of his/her compensation on a pretax basis, and an Employee stock Purchase Plan where the employee can purchase stock at a 10 percent discount. Full medical/vision and dental coverage are also provided by the company. Basic short term and long term disability coverage, as well as basic life insurance and long term care are also included in the standard benefit package. These benefits help the employee find meaning in their work and promote a positive attitude throughout the organization. A complete list of all the benefits provided by Nordstrom can be found on page †¦ in the back of this report. External Opportunities and Threats Social Social factors play a big role in what the way the company operates. For example, in Belleview Nordstrom offers a more upscale product line such as Gucci and other upper echelon brand names. This difference in product lines is evident in the Nordstrom in Tacoma as well. The Tacoma store is located in an area surrounded by many different social classes. Because of this, the store carries a more neutral line of products such as Calvin Cline, Cole Hann, Polo, Northface, and Tommy Bahama. These brands are brands that all of the target market of Nordstrom considers being very nice. To reach the outer limits of the Tacoma population, the store also sells products ranging form Coach and Burberry (reaching the wealthier population), to the Nordstrom brand (reaching the less wealthy consumer). Nordstrom is also a company that strongly believes in diversity. On its webpage under the diversity section it says â€Å"One of the best ways we can provide excellent customer service is by working to reflect the communities we serve† (Diversity Affairs Team, 2006). The company believes that an atmosphere encouraging diversity helps the employees as well as the customer. It is â€Å"deeply committed to cultivating an environment where the contributions of every employee, customer and vendor are respected† (Diversity Affairs Team, 2006). Creating a diverse company is an important step that Nordstrom has taken to broaden its customer service. Demographics Demographic issues are a big an important issue at Nordstrom. This is shown not only in the mission of the company, but in the physical store itself. Now days a majority of women in the United States enter the workforce after college. Nordstrom has created distinct departments to reach these women. In these sections of the store, women can find suits, and other more expensive dress clothes that Nordstrom would have not carried 20 years ago. The American family has also changed dramatically in the past decade. Because of this Nordstrom has changed its focus toward the individual. Ten years ago, it would not be a common sight to see moms shopping with their children, or dad’s waiting on the couch by the escalator with their children. Now days, it is almost unheard of to see families walking around the store. Teenagers, women, and men all come alone or with their significant other. The every store use to give balloons to children, employees all over the store would stop and talk with them and a lot of the mannequins were placed together (a man with a woman, or a child). Now the mannequins are all placed individually around the store, and it is rare enough to see a kid, let alone a kid with a balloon. In order to retain market share Nordstrom has shifted its focus more toward the individual. It has downsized its youth departments and added more upscale departments. Competition Nordstrom is dealing with competition on many different levels. It is competing with higher end stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, and Barney’s. It is also competing with second tier stores such as Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. Because of the diverse competition, Nordstrom constantly stays one step ahead with its unprecedented customer service. Saks Fifth Avenue: Saks Fifth Avenue can be categorized as a mini version of Nordstrom. It has similar products, but targets a smaller market and carries less variety. To make it unique, Saks â€Å"focuses on other products such as bridal† (Nordstrom comparative analysis). In comparison to Nordstrom, Saks is slightly more expensive and is well known for its â€Å"much higher brand names† (Nordstrom Comparative analysis). There is also a difference in the store layout at Saks. Unlike Nordstrom, which it is categorized by department and where popular trendy goods are on the main floor, Saks â€Å"bottom floor consists of shoes, make up and teen clothing, and the upper floors are bridal and much higher priced brands and products† (Nordstrom comparative analysis). However, the major difference between the two companies is not in the layout of the store, the products offered, or the price of the goods. The major difference is the focus of the company. The mission statement of Saks is completely different from that of Nordstrom. Saks says the focus of their company is â€Å"to be a great place to shop, a great place to work and a great place to invest† (Nordstrom comparative Analysis). Money is what seems to be the number one marketing objective of Saks. On the other hand Nordstrom focuses on the treatment of the customer. It does not have a formal mission statement but the company’s core values can be summed up by the statement â€Å"through these doors pass the most courteous people in the world†. This statement is found at the employee entrance of almost all Nordstrom stores across the country. Bloomingdales: Bloomingdales might just be one of the most famous stores in the world. Bloomingdales is known for its â€Å"Big Brown Bag† which is something that all avid shoppers like to be seen carrying around. The mission of Bloomingdales is â€Å"to seek and create†, which is a statement that is well carried out by the company (Nordstrom comparative analysis). The company has a hand picked product development team that travels to Europe looking for new fashion ideas. If they do not find what they are looking for they create it. The extreme focus on product development and diversity has made the company famous for having a tremendous product mix. However, some stores rather cluttered. The Layout seems to have no structure and Bloomingdale’s pricing ranges form being competitive with Foley’s to stores far more expensive than Nordstrom. On the other hand, Nordstrom has a focused store with individual departments and consistent prices. Its does not have as much variety in its stores, but it can special order and create any product that a customer desires. This creates more satisfaction for the customer because they can easily find what they are looking for. Bloomingdales website also reflects its store atmosphere. It is a full line of goods which overwhelms the customer. The website lacks structure and is confusing to sift through. Nordstrom’s website also reflects it’s in store characteristics. The site is user friendly and easy to navigate through. Macy’s: Macy’s seems to have a similar strategy as Bloomie’s (Bloomingdales). The company is all about selling their name, not their service, unlike Nordstrom. Macy’s also focuses on having a tremendous product width as well as depth. This focus like Bloomie’s has also led the store to look cluttered. Some customers even suggest that â€Å"Macy’s looks more like discount store every year rather than a department store† (Nordstrom comparison analysis). This is again where Nordstrom gains a competitive advantage. It offers a smaller product mix in stores to help keep the customer from getting confused and overwhelmed. Macy’s offers a larger selection of home products than Nordstrom. It has a separate department for home furnishings. This department is so large that many times it is located in its own building next to Macy’s. However, Macy’s has a good selection of home products in its retail stores as well. Again, it is the focus of Macy’s that sets them apart from Nordstrom. The specialization of household products and cheaper prices keep Macy’s competitive in the market. However, Nordstrom’s focus on the customer and the employee gives them the competitive advantage in the industry. Technological In the 1900’s the information systems of Nordstrom â€Å"lagged behind many retailers†, such as JC Penny, Federated Department Stores, Dillard’s, and Belk. (Levinson, 2005) The CFO of Nordstrom commented on the lagging information systems, saying, â€Å"our people at one time were our information system† (Levinson, 2005). During this time the company was reluctant to consider IT â€Å"for fear that it would come between the store and its customers† (Levinson, 2005). A sales slump in the year 2000 was enough to convince Nordstrom that it was behind the times. The threat of other companies gaining a heavy advantage with new technology was too much to handle. Looking at the other models around them, Nordstrom became an early adopter and began buying IT technology. â€Å"Over the past four years†, Nordstrom has spent a total of $350 million on IT products and has found â€Å"that technology has improved, not degraded, the customer service in which it takes such pride† (Levinson, 2005). Nordstrom has integrated two major systems into the company within the last five years. The systems are personal book and a new inventory system at the cash registers. These two systems have helped bring Nordstrom’s customer service to a new level. Personal Book: Personal book is new computer software designed to help companies keep track of customer information. It can track what the customer bought, their size, how much he/she spent, who sold them what, their birthday and other valuable information that sales people need to enhance sales. This is a valuable tool because the sales people can create a more â€Å"personal† relationship with the customer. One former employee quotes â€Å"the personal book was a very useful tool and instilled in me the importance of building and maintaining customer relationships† (Palma, 2006). This quote describes exactly what puts Nordstrom in a class of its own. Adding a personal touch is the difference between good and great companies. The implementation of personal book has dramatically increased sales at Nordstrom. After its introduction in 2005, Nordstrom’s first quarter sales increased â€Å"7. 7 percent to $1. 7 billion, compared with $1. 5 billion† in the first quarter of the previous year. Levinson, 2005) Total sales for the second quarter also rose 7. 8 percent. CFO of Nordstrom Michael Koppel reported that â€Å"approximately a third of all sales are a result of interactions between sales associates and customers facilitated with personal book† (Levinson, 2005). Nordstrom analysts also have reported that 68 percent of the business from the top sales people is g enerated from personal book customers. More information about personal book can be found on page †¦. Inventory System: The new inventory system has proven to be â€Å"a tremendous home run† (Levinson, 2005). The new system is based around an electronic inventory management system and an automatic replenishment function. Before this new system was installed in 2003, inventory was counted by hand. This old system was definitely â€Å"not the most accurate way to [manage inventory], and certainly wasn’t very quick†, commented Peter Nordstrom during a conference call. This created a problem for the company. The distribution departments could not tell how much inventory was needed in each store, which resulted in a lot more discounts than the company should have had. This loss of money led Nordstrom to purchase an inventory management system. The new inventory system was an electronic system which took a lot of the work load off of the Nordstrom staff. It helped the company determine the demand for each product by using historical sales and fashion trends. Now it could allocate the proper amount and type of merchandise to each store. It also kept track of in store inventory. Every time a product was rung up at the register or returned to the store, the in store inventory went up or down accordingly. This helped the distribution department immensely. They could now replenish the inventory of each store when it was actually needed. This also helped the sales dramatically increase customer service. When a customer wanted to purchase a product, a sales person could look it up on the computer to see how many were in the store, and how many were available at other locations. The results of this new system worked wonders for Nordstrom. Koppel stated that the inventory in 2003 (they year the system was integrated), went down $15 million or 1. 6 percent† (Levinson, 2005). Likewise, inventory continued to go down in 2004, decreasing by 5. 3 percent. Inventory was also turned 10 percent more in 2004. This increase showed the company there was still a lot of room to grow in their current market and that other department stores had good reason to switch to this way of inventory. Marketing Strategy Target Market In each Nordstrom store there is the potential for one consumer to encounter upwards of 30 different departments. For women’s clothing alone, there are 14 clothing options ranging from teenage apparel, to elegant ballroom attire. The multiple departments within the Nordstrom store cause the target market for a single Nordstrom store to range across a broad spectrum of potential buyers. While each of the target markets differs substantially depending on the department, the members of each of these markets do have a main connecting quality. Each customer, no matter the department in which they are shopping, is looking for a quality product that they know will be guaranteed by Nordstrom for a lifetime. Each consumer knows that while the products offered may not be the cheapest, they are quality made products that come with an implied warranty by Nordstrom. Nordstrom does not have a return policy, which will be addressed later in the paper, to ensure that consumers can return any product at anytime, for any reason. Consumers are also looking for a product that is not only well made, but that is usually contemporary in relation to current fashion trends. This makes Nordstrom’s overall target market homogeneous in respect to the demographic and psychographic segments. A person’s income and lifestyle can be the deciding factor of whether they can afford to shop at Nordstrom or not, or whether the products that Nordstrom offers are even of interest. For the sake of space, this paper will look at the target markets of three specific departments within Nordstrom that embody a large number of Nordstrom’s clientele: Brass Plum for juniors, Point of View for women, and Men’s Sportswear. Brass Plum (B. P. ) is Nordstrom’s only junior’s department, targeting young women, ages 16-22 in the middle or upper class. B. P. offers the latest fashion trends for the younger women at a price that is more reasonable than high-end boutiques and department stores. While that price is more reasonable than some places, it still is not as cheap as some other department stores, which is why the target market is the middle and upper class. Those ‘other department stores’ however, do not insure their products as well as Nordstrom’s does, nor is the quality of product comparable either. Lastly, the reason for the target of the middle and upper class is because fashion trends do not usually last for more than a season. Most people of a lower class cannot afford to buy new, trendy clothes every season to match what is popular, which is the only type of clothing that B. P. offers. Point of View has a target market of women in their twenties to early fifties. The age is not clearly defined because more specifically, Point of View has a target market of the working professional woman. While some clothes within Point of View are casual, they still uphold a classy and refined look suitable for a ‘dress down’ day at the office. Most of the selection within Point of View however, is professional attire for the working, middle to upper class woman. The clothes are priced comparable to other high-end department stores, but are backed with the quality guarantee Nordstrom provides all of its products. The one major difference between the selection in Point of View, and other high-end department stores, is that Point of View tries to offer a selection of business wear for the younger working woman that has a trendier edge. This helps to capture the twenty-something market that is usually skipped over in other department stores. It allows young women to look professional, while still looking their age. While carrying this younger professional attire, Point of View still carries the classic suits and shirts that appeal to the more conservative thirty to fifty year old professional women. The last department is the Men’s Sportswear department, which like Point of View, targets men in their twenties to early fifties. The word sportswear might evoke thoughts of soccer or football to some, but in this department sportswear are the clothes worn by the middle to upper class while they sail, golf, or simply lounge around at their beach house. This department is intended for the professional male, who in his daily life must dress in professional attire and would like that to translate into his causal wear as well. This casual wear consists of clothes that portray an image of success and prosperity without a suit and tie. The target market is middle to upper class within this department because of the intended uses of the clothes that are sold. Many of the clothes are intended for sailing and golf, leisure activities that the middle and lower class might not be able to afford. The size of the men’s sportswear department is small in relation to some of the women’s departments, but this can be attributed to men’s desire for consistency and ease when shopping. The prices within the men’s sportswear department are comparable to other high-end department stores, but once again the clothes are backed by the Nordstrom guarantee of quality. While each of the departments have a target market that separates itself from the rest of the store, it can be seen that within all of the heterogeneous factors there are three homogeneous factors that can be found. First, in all departments, the consumer is looking for a quality product that will suit their clothing needs. Second, no matter what their clothing needs, the consumer is looking for clothes that portray a specific image of their choosing, such as an established professional or a young trendsetter. Lastly, throughout all of the clothes offered at Nordstrom each consumer is expecting the Nordstrom, guarantee of quality that ensures the consumers happiness with the product – no matter the circumstances. Marketing Mix Nordstrom seeks to achieve the retention of the previously stated target markets through the use of coordinated marketing activities. These include the use of product, place, price, and promotion inside and outside of the store. These four aspects embody the marketing mix, and their objectives and roles are clearly specified through different offerings and outlets. Product The products that are offered within a single Nordstrom store compliment each other very well. On one shopping trip a family is able to buy clothes and accessories for everyone. Women are able to complete an outfit from Point of View by getting the perfect pair of shoes from the Women’s Shoes department, accessorize the outfit in fine jewelry, accessorizes and handbags, and can shop her favorite makeup line in the makeup department, all in one trip. These products are enhanced by a multitude of factors including their warranty, return policy, customer service, and the internal workings of any Nordstrom. Each transaction within Nordstrom comes with an implied warranty of the goods purchased by the consumer. If the consumer is unhappy with the product at anytime, even after the tags are removed, the product has been worn, or the receipt has been lost, the consumer is more than welcome to return the product back to the store for a full refund or exchange – no questions asked. This return policy is exemplified through the mythical story that circulates throughout Nordstrom stores and their competitor’s outlets. It has been said that a woman tried to return a set of snow tires that she claimed she bought at her nearby Nordstrom store. When the employee was unsure of what procedure to follow since Nordstrom did not sell tires, the employee contacted the store manager. The manager told the employee to take back the tires and offer a full refund of the standard price for snow tires to the woman. So while it is obvious that Nordstrom might not appreciate consumers returning goods from other stores, they are dedicated to customer service and their guarantee of quality. Nordstrom wants to carry quality items that consumers will love, and if the consumers decide they do not, they are able to return them at anytime. This allows Nordstrom to have an absent return policy to ensure that a return is bound by no limits. Aside from offering their products for free, customer satisfaction within a Nordstrom cannot be better guaranteed in any other way. By knowing that every purchase is basically guaranteed for life, a consumer’s satisfaction is not bound by any measures on behalf of Nordstrom. Along with such a liberal return policy, Nordstrom offers a range of other amenities for consumers to enjoy and enhance the value of the product to the customer. For instance, with anything that you purchase from Nordstrom you can have it altered for free. Upon trying the clothes on, a person from the alteration department will come to your fitting room and measure your clothes according to your needs. The altered clothes are usually available within a week’s time. Also, in the lingerie department, women can receive a free and accurate bra fitting. Unlike other popular lingerie stores, employees within the lingerie department must attend class and earn the right to do bra fittings. This ensures each consumer an accurate fitting. In the shoe department, if a pair of leather shoes is too tight on a consumer’s foot, the Nordstrom employee will stretch the shoes out at no cost. Also, when trying on clothes there is no limit to how many pieces of clothing a consumer is allowed to take in, and a consumer is never expected to clean out their dressing room when they are finished. Any purchase that is made can also be complimentary gift wrapped. While these factors may seem miniscule, it does help consumers reduce shopping time and have a more enjoyable shopping experience. So while the consumer might only be in and out for a white t-shirt, they know that if needed all of these amenities are available for their use, enhancing the value of the product for the consumer. Along with these externally obvious factors of product value to the consumer, there are also internal functions within Nordstrom that ensure that customer service is ideal in any situation. Quality customer service is Nordstrom’s main competitive advantage against its competitors. Nordstrom has focused itself since 1901 on the basis that superior customer service is the first and foremost important aspect of the company. While other companies have a chain of command when dealing with customer service issues, Nordstrom is void of any such rules. When hired at Nordstrom, the new employee is greeted with an employee folder that includes a welcome packet, employee expectations, rewards, benefit information and information about the specific Nordstrom store the new employee will be working. On the very front of each folder is a 5Ãâ€"7 card that states: â€Å"We’re glad to have you with our Company. Our number one goal is to provide outstanding customer service. Set both your personal and professional goals high. We have great confidence in your ability to achieve them. Nordstrom Rules: Rule #1: Use your good judgment in all situations. There will be no additional rules. Please feel free to ask your department manager, store manager, or division general manager any question at any time†. Nordstrom’s idea is to put the employees in control of every situation so that the consumer feels a sense of security at all times within the store. While specific instances might dictate manager involvement, employees are granted the right to deal with consumer situations based on their judgment. These words ring loud within any Nordstrom store because they are printed in the employee entrance and in the backrooms of most departments. Through out the hiring process Nordstrom ensures that customer service is always handled in a way that upholds their reputation. Nordstrom is able to supply a quality product based on the judgment of the consumer, while also providing a trusted and quality environment by empowering the judgment of the employees. Place/Distribution The next factor of the marketing mix is to coordinate the marketing activities for the retention of the target markets through place and distribution. Nordstrom currently has 157 stores located in twenty seven states. These include 99 full-line stores, 50 Nordstrom Rack stores, five Faconnable boutiques, one free-standing shoe store and two clearance stores. Nordstrom also operates 35 international Faconnable boutiques in Europe. Faconnable is a men’s clothing line developed by Nordstrom for the more upscale shopper to accommodate their business and leisure clothing needs. Nordstrom’s popularity is based on the west-coast, primarily because of its headquarters and flagship store in Seattle, Washington. Mainly, the Nordstrom stores are located in shopping malls which usually provide a heavily populated central area which contains a portion of their target market. Since Nordstrom is located within a mall, access is relatively easy for consumers. Even if consumers do live some distance away from the faculties, coming to the mall is more acceptable because they will not only have the option to visit Nordstrom, but will have the ability to shop at other stores as well. This justifies their traveling time, which would not happen if Nordstrom had only free-standing stores. While access to Nordstrom facilities is relatively easy on the west coast, there is room for major improvement by Nordstrom on the east coast. In New Hampshire, Maine, South Carolina, Vermont, West Virginia and Massachusetts, there is not a single Nordstrom store to date. There are two stores in North Carolina and New York; and one store in Pennsylvania, Missouri, Michigan, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. This is compared to the thirty two California stores, nine Washington stores, five Oregon stores and two Hawaii stores. However, this lack of access to facilities by consumers on the east coast will soon be partially remedied. Nordstrom plans to open twenty five new stores in the next five years. Out of these twenty five stores, it plans on opening four in Massachusetts, two in Michigan and one in Missouri. Once Nordstrom has established a stronger base on the east coast, I believe they will gain an even better reputation and have the ability to fine tune their marketing and customer service strategies. Along in place and distribution is not just the physical outlet that Nordstrom has, but also the atmosphere in each of the outlets. Since we are at the peak of the holiday season, it is a good time to look at the atmosphere within a Nordstrom store. Garland and decorative curtains decorate each entrance into the store. Holiday music played live in each store on the well known Nordstrom piano echoes through the departments on speakers. A giving tree accompanies the bottom side of each escalator, and on weekends the tops of the escalators have live carolers. Each department has holiday specials, and pictures with Santa are held every year. This atmosphere helps to evoke the holiday spirit within the consumers, and also provides them with a place to shop that is enjoyable during the busy holiday time. When it is not a holiday season, front window displays are changed bi-weekly, and in store decorations and manikins are changed multiple times each week. Also, a night cleaning crew makes sure that all the carpets, mirrors and dressing rooms are kept in pristine condition. This type of atmosphere allows the consumer to shop at ease without heaps of clothes in a mess, or stained carpets. Instead, they can go to a place where the only thing they notice is the clothes and the quality of the presentation. Promotion The next factor of the marketing mix is to coordinate the marketing activities for the retention of the target markets through promotion tactics including advertising, public relations, personal selling, and sales promotion. Nordstrom does not engage in heavy advertising. TV commercial spots are few and far between, and only usually take place on major televised events. Instead, Nordstrom does most of its advertising through print. Local newspapers usually contain a full page spread during Nordstrom’s half yearly and anniversary sales. During the holidays, Nordstrom also has featured spreads as well. These spreads are hung in the employee entrance area so that employees are aware of what consumers are looking for, if they come in and refer specifically to that advertisement. Also, Nordstrom puts out two catalogues per month that premiere a few new items within each department. They also feature gift ideas during the holidays, and include an easy way to order straight from the catalogue. Anyone that has a Nordstrom account will receive this catalogue, along with anyone that registers online Advertising: Nordstrom has also engaged in some other intense advertising campaigns in the past few years. Most of these have been directly related to online advertising. In 1999, Nordstrom started to campaign heavily to gain consumer awareness of their new website, Nordstromshoes. com. Nordstrom claims the site is the world’s biggest shoe store. It is titled ‘Make Room for Shoes’. The name was selected to entice users not only to their main website which was linked on the new shoes site, but also to educate users on the broad selection of shoes that Nordstrom offers. In 2005, Nordstrom debuted NordstromSilverscreen. com. The website combined music and pop culture with shopping. Visitors of the site were able to be a DJ and mix up songs recorded by artists specifically for the site. The visitors mixed the song, by mixing up clothes on a corresponding manikin. This allowed visitors to see new fashion trends and learn how to mix and match clothes to find their very own style. Visitors of the site could also ‘shop’ the site, by clicking on any the clothes worn in the video made exclusively for Nordstrom. Anything that the artist was wearing in the video was available for sale at Nordstom. com. Nordstromsilverscreen. om was one of the first attempts by a retailer to mix shopping and interactive media making Nordstrom an innovator in this new market. While Nordstromscilverscreen. com is no longer available to visit, the launch of this new and innovative platform says a lot of Nordstrom. This company is willing to take risks to advertise and capture a new and different consumer, and to evolve and be ahead of other department stores in the advertising industry. Aside from these new websites, Nordstrom. com is still a large, comprehensive site that allows visitors to see everything that Nordstrom has to offer. Visitors are able to search by brand, in-store department, or by age and gender. Along side every choice that the visitor views, is a selection of other clothes that are closely related to the current viewing. Also, if a consumer has provided Nordstrom with their e-mail address, Nordstrom sends out weekly e-mails that highlight new items, and special discounts. Lastly, the newest advertising campaign that Nordstrom embarked on was for the Nordstrom MOD card. The MOD card is a debit card that is set up through a consumer’s personal bank and checking account. The MOD card is specific to Nordstrom, and allows Nordstrom to track what is bought and how much consumers spend. This way, consumers can gain points like what is offered with the traditional Nordstrom’s credit card. For every dollar that is spent, the consumer earns a point; and during promotional events, they can earn twice the points for every dollar spent. Once the consumer reaches a certain level of points, they get a gift certificate in the mail redeemable at any Nordstrom. Nordstrom realized that not everyone wants to hold a credit card at Nordstrom, which led them to the idea of the MOD card. This way, consumers can buy from Nordstrom using cash, and still receive the points they deserve. Nordstrom has heavily advertised the MOD card and the rewards that a customer gains from having a Nordstrom account. Through these advertising activities, Nordstrom is better able to promote their stores in a positive and controlled manner. Public Relations: The next segment of promotion is public relations. Nordstrom is equipped with a public relations representative, who is located at Nordstrom’s headquarters in downtown Seattle, Washington. Consumers are able to find out about public relation activities on their website under investor relations, or in their annual report. On the Nordstrom website consumers are able to find out about new store openings, upcoming events, stock information, news, and press releases. Nordstrom also relies on customer word of mouth. While other competitor department stores deal with union battles, and declining sales, the quality and outstanding customer service is rarely questioned by consumers. Consumers know by personal experience and word of mouth that Nordstrom is dedicated to its customers. Nordstrom also engages in public relations activities through the promotion of some of their clothes. Most recently, Nordstrom has taken an active role in the â€Å"ONE† campaign and formed a partnership with the company Edun. Edun is selling a t-shirt with the word ‘ONE’ across the front. This promotes the idea that if the United States government allocated just one percent of its budget to health, education, and medication for underprivileged countries, the United States could save millions of lives. For every shirt sold Edun contributes ten dollars to the Apparel Lesotho Alliance to Fight Aids (ALAFA). The ONE shirts are made in Lesotho, Africa. Upon selling the ONE shirt within their stores, Nordstrom donated $100,000 to ALAFA. Nordstrom is also a yearly sponsor in the Race for the Cure, hosted by the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation to raise money for breast cancer research and awareness. Nordstrom exclusively hosts the Beat the Bridge to Beat Diabetes marathon in Seattle, Washington. The proceeds benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. So far in 2006, the Beat the Bridge marathon donations have raised $855,078. 57. Through not only their exceptional reputation, but also through involvement in philanthropic activities Nordstrom is able to enhance their public relations. These positive public relation activities in turn influence consumer perception and decision making. Personal Selling: The next section of promotion is personal selling. Personal selling is defined as a purchase situation in which two people communicate in an attempt to influence each other (Lamb, et al, 2006). Personal selling is the basis of Nordstrom’s philosophy and mission statement. Personal selling emphasizes the relationship that is developed between a salesperson and a consumer. Within any department at a Nordstrom store, a consumer will be able to find numerous employees who are knowledgeable about the products they offer, and who are also eager to help them find whatever it is they are looking for. When a consumer is shopping within a department, a single salesperson will usually help them through the entire purchasing process. If what the consumer is looking for happens to be in a different department, that same salesperson will go to that other department and get whatever it s. The salesperson will find sizes, colors, and styles from other stores if what the consumer is looking for is not available at that specific store. Salespeople also can take payment on Nordstrom credit cards at their payment station, and can hold clothes for the consumer. Salespeople are endowed with the ability to manage customer service situations, so if one consumer feels comfort able with a specific salesperson, basically all of their needs can be taken care of through that salesperson. This created a very strong relationship between the salesperson and the consumer. If the consumer knows that when they go to Nordstrom they can count on someone being there that they know and trust, they will be more likely to ask more questions and try on more things. Nordstrom has made personal selling even easier through their new system of Personal Book. Personal Book allows a salesperson to enter in consumer information such as their address, phone number, birthday and recent purchases. During sale times, salespeople are asked to call at least fifty people from their personal book to the consumer know that they are excited to see them at the sale. Having this information also enables the salespeople to send out thank you cards which are supposed to be done a daily basis by a salesperson. The thank you cards are mailed out to the consumer, and add a personal finishing touch to the purchase, which also enhances the bond between the consumer and the salesperson. Personal Book also can keep track of what a consumer has bought, so when Nordstrom has a big sale, some of the consumers who have purchased the most throughout the year are invited to shop the sale prior to anyone else, and to preview what is going to be offered. Personal Book also allows for promotional materials to be sent out pertaining to certain events that occur within a department that a consumer frequently shops. All of these benefits from Personal Book enhance the personal selling aspect of promotion. Consumers are not seen as a target market within the store, but are rather seen as individuals with specific needs and wants that are catered to be the Nordstrom employees. Sales Promotion: The last component of promotion is sales promotion. Sales promotion is everything else that is not covered by personal selling, advertising, and public relations. Usually sales promotions are a quick tool that immediately increases consumer demand of a product. Nordstrom does not offer a lot of the one day sales, or door buster sales that other department stores offer. Instead, Nordstrom focuses all of their attention on their three major sales per year. These include the half yearly sales, in June and November, and their Anniversary sale in August. These attractions are not just a sale, they are an event. Special promotions, rewards and deals are offered. A kick-rally prior to the doors opening helps to hype up the employees for the coming busy weeks. Consumers line up outside of Nordstrom’s doors hours prior to opening. They enter a newly decorated store from the previous day, with new displays, merchandise and prices. Nordstrom focuses on these events for the purpose of showing the consumer that they do not just want to push inventory in and out of the store. They want to offer quality products that consumers enjoy, and reward consumers for their purchases through major discounts at these sales. Lastly, another important factor of these sales is that they have created a tradition. Women and their daughters take time off school and work to attend the first day of the sale. At the sale they go Christmas shopping, school shopping personal shopping. This is important for Nordstrom because their limited numbers of sales are not only seen as a time to get a good deal, but they have penetrated the culture and created more than just a sale. Price: The last factor of the marketing mix is to coordinate the marketing activities for the retention of the target markets through price. Nordstrom strives to provide the most quality product for the cheapest price allowable. However, Nordstrom does cater to an upper and middle class target market which does raise their prices from other lower department stores. Each department within Nordstrom, as stated earlier, has a different target market which does vary the range pf prices immensely within one store. In the St. John department catered to upper class wealthy women, a consumer can buy a suit jacket for $2,000. In Point of View, targeted toward the more middle class women who want to look professional without spending as much, a suit jacket is available for seventy dollars. Through this, it can be seen that the department a consumer goes to will determine the price they will pay. Whatever the dollar price of the purchase, Nordstrom tries to justify that price through their personal selling efforts and their product guarantee. A sale is not just a sale, as proven earlier in the personal selling section. Consumers and salespersons are able to establish a relationship which enhances the consumers purchase experience. Because the consumer knows that no matter what they buy, whether it is a pair of socks, or a mink coat, the quality of that purchase is indefinitely guaranteed by Nordstrom.