Main factors of seismic vulnerability of buildings and how the Essay

Main factors of seismic vulnerability of buildings and how the assessment of the vulnerability of buildings could be used for as - Essay Example 1.3. Large Settlements in Seismic Areas There is a large population that lives in seismic vulnerable areas and the buildings there are more prone to earthquakes because of aging and lack of maintenance. 1.4. Non-Engineered Constructions Non-engineered construction is very much prone to seismic vulnerability as the buildings will not have good engineering techniques that would save them from seismic waves. 2. Seismic Vulnerability Assessment can be used for assessing the seismic impacts in an urban area. Urban area consists mainly of those buildings that are vulnerable to earthquakes and hence are damaged or poorly maintained. For example, a lot of urban area damaged â€Å"occurred in vulnerable houses in every earthquake experienced by Italy in the post-war period, and particularly during the Friuli and the Irpinia earthquakes† (Cozzi, Menoni, Pergalani & Petrini 2003:4). The vulnerability assessment of seismic activity in urban areas and the application of proper solutions to counter these damaging activities can be helpful in reducing the causalities and destruction (Agrawal & Chourasia 2008) and economic loss caused by future earthquakes, according to Vicente et al. (2010).

Crescent Case Essay Example for Free

Crescent Case Essay A. Segmentation and Targeting When Looking at what market should be targeted the thing that stuck out most was there is not a healthy alternative for energy drinks. Most of these drinks are full of high fructose corn syrup and loaded with extreme amounts of caffeine. Crescent give the consumers a healthy alternative to this option. The trend these days is towards more organic and healthier choices. Crescent is just that. It gives the option for a healthy version of an energy drink which is much needed. The Energy Drink market is growing at a much faster rate than the sport drink market as well as the fitting into a much better price point for marketing. With the market for these energy drink being on average $2.99 the price of $2.75 for crescent is below the market average as well as being a slight bit different by marketing a healthy alternative option to most other sport drinks on the market now. B. Positioning When Looking over the two perceptual Maps the thing noticed is that most of these products hit extremes of each category. For example a sport drink is high on the hydration level but low on the energy. As for the energy drink the case is the exact opposite. When looking at nutrition and taste the nutrition and taste are higher on sports drinks and energy drinks are low on nutrition but the 50/50 on the taste. When looking at crescents studies it would seem that they would be the best case for the average consumer as they would be better than average in all of these categories. The nutrition would be higher than the sports drinks and close to what swish and drip are pertaining to nutritional value and the taste would also fall higher similar to Drip or Razor. When looking at the Hydration and Energy Crescent would also be above average for both. With the equivalent of a cup of coffee’s worth of caffeine Crescent would fall similar to where torque and Drip are for energy levels. As for looking at hydration; Crescent would be up closer to the sports drinks with is electrolytes and natural ingredients closer to where Glean and Watr+ are. Each marketing promotion has positive’s and negative’s. When marketed as an energy drink there is the Pros of being a drastically growing market which has grown by 40% already and is projected to hit 13.5 billion by 2018 as well as no single product being marketed as a healthy alternative energy drink. Another pro is that the cost of the  product is less than the market average. The con of an energy drink market would be that current news stories are highlighting the health risks of Energy drinks and the diminishing number of consumers who are now drinking them. The sports drink market have a much larger population of consumers ranging from younger ages of 12-24. Also with the average sports drink being much cheaper people may not be willing to pay the $2.75 for a sports drink. With Crescent being an all organic product being an alternative to high fructose corn drinks would increase their market audience. The threats would be the increase in childhood obesity who make up a large portion of the sport drink market the option of just proving water to children is easier and more economically sound for parents rather than continually paying for sports drinks. Lastly as an Organic Drink they are able to market it as a healthy sports/energy drink for the body continuous adult who wants to stay away from non-organic products. This also works as a con where if they market solely to this small group of people they may be losing a lot of consumers who may be avoiding the new fad of vegan, healthy organic products. C. Contribution Margin The contribution margin per case of Crescent would be $5.28 or 18%. This is figured by taking the selling price per can and minusing the cost per can. Which would bring the profit of 22 cents per can and a case of 24 would bring the profit to $5.28 per case. You would then take that number and divide it by the Price per case of $29.76 which would give you 18% profit. D. Breakeven To match the national level of marketing it would require putting in 6.66 times the budget that it took to market 15% which would be a total marketing budget of 5 million dollars. With a Total budget of 5 Million dollars it would take selling 946970 Cases of Crescent to break even on the National Level. To address the break-even market share for energy would be .07% of the Market Share. This is figured by taking the Market of 9.58 Billion dollars and dividing that by the Marketing budget of 5 Million Dollars. E. Recommendation The factors that should be used to determine positioning are, Similarities in  competitors, Forecast of market increase, pricing of products and marketability of product. I would Recommend Marketing Crescent as an organic energy drink. This would apply to a large number of people and would give a different option to the Energy Drinks that are currently on the market. This product could increase the consumers ideas of what energy drinks are; especially focusing on bringing up the areas of healthiness, hydration and natural. With these area’s only having the highest percentage at 11% Crescent would be a great product to diversify the market. Having a below average market price for product pricing makes Crescent an even better market to explore. Crescent provides a great break from the normal high fructose high caffeine energy drinks while still hydrating and tasting great.

Mirror for Man: Actions and Thoughts Follow Culture :: Mirror for Man Essays

In a world where everyone has experienced "the same poignant life experiences, such as birth, helplessness, illness, old age, and death," it is incredible to think of the number of ways that peoples can go through these events in life. It is most common that their attitudes and responses are influenced by their environment and society. As Clyde Kluckhohn had explained in "Mirror for Man", the best explanation for any human action is the "concept of culture." One cannot clearly define this idea, but through the comparison of two different groups of people hopefully one can better understand the meaning of culture. By comparing Vietnam and the United States, two very contrasting nations, one can see the force behind the concept of culture in shaping people's lives. In terms of education, the similarities between the two countries are few. Both aim at improving their people's lives, and yet the method in which this is achieved differs greatly. Vietnam, a small country with a large population, has to make do with the lack of technology. It stresses hard work rather than the use of machines. Children are encouraged to do math mentally rather than depend on calculators. As a result, the Vietnamese people do not consider it a sacrifice that they should lead a hard life. Also, their education emphasizes morality rather than independent thinking. Therefore, most Vietnamese children would never think of leaving their families before marriage, unlike the Americans, who would leave for college right after high school or move out of their parents' house to live with friends. The Americans would also prefer to make their lives as easy as possible, which means that rather than adding mentally, they would turn to an adding machine or a computer. Their two wa ys of thinking differ as a result of different education methods. One can also see how culture causes people to be different in their dress styles. In Vietnam, it is acceptable to wear clothes similar to pyjamas out in the street. Yet in America, one cannot do this. One has to dress properly, which means that pyjamas is worn at night and to bed only. However, it is incomprehensible to the Vietnamese why the Americans have to dress so well to go to sleep, why they have to wear nightgowns or pyjamas with fancy designs. They do not understand why it is important to put on a robe when one eats breakfast.

Greek Sports :: Ancient Greece Greek History

Greek Sports Ancient boxing had fewer rules than the modern sport. Boxers fought without rounds until one man was knocked out, or admitted he had been beaten. Unlike the modern sport, there was no rule against hitting an opponent when he was down. There were no weight classes within the mens' and boys' divisions opponents for a match were chosen randomly. There were both 2-horse chariot and 4-horse chariot races, with separate races for chariots drawn by foals. Another race was between carts drawn by a team of 2 mules. The course was 12 laps around the stadium track (9 miles). The course was 6 laps around the track (4.5 miles), and there were separate races for full-grown horses and foals. Jockeys rode without stirrups. The ancient Greeks considered the rhythm and precision of an athlete throwing the discus as important as his strength.Only wealthy people could afford to pay for the training, equipment, and feed of both the driver (or jockey) and the horses. As a result, the owner received the olive wreath of victory instead of the driver or jockey. This event was a grueling combination of boxing and wrestling. Punches were allowed, although the fighters did not wrap their hands with the boxing himantes. Rules outlawed only biting and gouging an opponent's eyes, nose, or mouth with fingernails. Attacks such as kicking an opponent in the belly, which are against the rules in modern sports, were perfectly legal. The ancient Greeks considered the rhythm and precision of an athlete throwing the discus as important as his strength. The discus was made of stone, iron, bronze, or lead, and was shaped like a flying saucer. Sizes varied, since the boys' division was not expected to throw the same weight as the mens'. The javelin was a man-high length of wood, with either a sharpened end or an attached metal point. It had a thong for a hurler's fingers attached to its center of gravity, which increased the precision and distance of a javelin's flight. Athletes used lead or stone jump weights (halteres) shaped like telephone receivers to increase the length of their jump. The halteres were held in front of the athlete during his ascent, and forcibly thrust behind his back and dropped during his descent to help propel his body further. There were 4 types of races at Olympia. The stadion was the oldest event of the Games.

Compairison of amy tans mother tongue snd orwells shooting an elephant Essay

Even though Tan and Orwell have two different approaches to showing a struggle to fit into society, they are actually in agreement that people who come from different places struggle to fit. This common ground becomes apparent through the emotion behind each authors’ writing. In both Tan and Orwell’s writing they show a variety of feelings. These feelings consist of sadness, anger and bitterness. The first illustration of both authors’ accord is the way each of them express sadness from the way they are treated by those around them. It is especially evident that Tan is saddened by the fact that her mother is poorly treated due to her broken English. Tan states â€Å"But they seem just as bad, as if everything is limited, including people’s perceptions of the limited English speaker† (179). This demonstrates the sadness Tan feels for her mother and the difficulty her mother faces to fit into society, bearing in mind it is nearly impossible to fit in with others if their perceptions are skewed. Orwell faces a similar issue throughout his essay as well. The natives of Burma were extraordinarily boorish towards Orwell simply because he was from England. Orwell shows an example of this by opening his writing with â€Å"In Moulmein, in Lower Burma, I was hated by large numbers of people the only time in my life that I have been important enough for this to happen to me† (229). Hatred from all of Burma for no good reason causes sadness upon Orwell, especially when all he wants is to fit in and not be ridiculed. Evidently when the society one lives in is not accepting of them it becomes a struggle to fit it. Tan and Orwell also display strong feelings of anger in their writings. As Tan continues to write, a change in tone is evident. She starts off placid and calm then progresses to a more aggressive angry tone. An example of this is when Tan complains â€Å"And when the doctor finally called her daughter, me, who spoke in perfect English –lo and behold – we had assurances the CAT scan would be found, promises that a conference call on Monday would be held, and apologies for any suffering my mother had gone through for a most regrettable mistake† (180). The above quote demonstrates a sarcastic tone which signifies the author is fed up, annoyed, and even angry. Orwell communicates angers from the very start of his writing when he  tells of a time he was tripped on the football field. A Burman man purposely tripped Orwell in front of the crowed and they all laughed at him, which irritated him and made him mad. Anger is a very strong emotion in which both authors’ express due to frustration from not fitting into society. An even worse emotion compared to anger is bitterness. Bitterness is a vile, putrid feeling. It shows that you have let something get the best of you. Each author displays bitterness in some form or another. Orwell shot an elephant for the sheer fact that he did not want to seem like a fool. If he was not bitter toward the Burmans he would not have allowed them to get the best of him. As far a Tan goes, she says â€Å"people in department stores, at banks, and at restaurants did not take her seriously, did not give her good service, pretended not to understand her, or even acted as if they did not hear her† (180). Tan’s bitterness for the disrespect her mother receives from multiple different people helps her to express her mother’s struggle to fit into society. With everything these two different authors’ have in common its clear they both agree that people from different places struggle to fit in. People from all different cultures and societies struggle to fit in when they go somewhere new. Both authors do a wonderful job at expressing these challenges. They each show as an individual their own personal experiences with struggling to fit into society. Their imagery and emotions make it easy to visualize being in their shoes struggling to overcome the challenges of fitting into society. It is perfectly clear that both author agree upon outsiders struggling to fit into a new society. Works Cited Orwell, George. â€Å"Shooting an Elephant.† Fields of Reading: Motives for Writing. Ed. Nancy R. Comley, et.al. 10th edition. New York: Bedford/St. Martin, 2013. 129-134. Print. Tan, Amy. â€Å"Mother Tongue.† Fields of Reading: Motives for Writing. Ed. Nancy R. Comley, et.al. 10th edition. New York: Bedford/St. Martin, 2013. 178-182. Print.

The Economic Costs of Inflation

The Economic Costs of Inflation In general, people seem to know that inflation is often not a good thing in an economy. This makes sense, to some degree- inflation refers to rising prices, and rising prices are typically viewed as a bad thing. Technically speaking, however, increases in the aggregate price level need not be particularly problematic if prices of different goods and services rise uniformly, if wages rise in tandem with the price increases, and if nominal interest rates adjust in response to changes in inflation. In other words, inflation need not reduce the real purchasing power of consumers. There are, however, costs of inflation that are relevant from an economic perspective and cannot be easily avoided. Menu Costs When prices are constant over long periods of time, firms benefit in that they dont need to worry about changing the prices for their output. When prices change over time, on the other hand, firms would ideally like to change their prices in order to keep pace with the general trends in prices, since this would be the profit-maximizing strategy. Unfortunately, changing prices is generally not costless, since changing prices requires printing new menus, relabeling items, and so on. Firms have to decide whether to operate at a price that is not profit-maximizing or incur the menu costs involved in changing prices. Either way, firms bear a very real cost of inflation. Shoeleather Costs Whereas firms are the ones who directly incur menu costs, shoe leather costs directly impact all holders of currency. When inflation is present, there is a real cost to holding cash (or holding assets in non-interest bearing deposit accounts), since the cash wont buy as much tomorrow as it could today. Therefore, citizens have an incentive to keep as little cash on hand as possible, which means that they have to go to the ATM or otherwise transfer money on a very frequent basis. The term shoe leather costs refer to the figurative cost of replacing shoes more often due to the increase in the number of trips to the bank, but shoe leather costs are a very real phenomenon. Shoeleather costs are not a serious issue in economies with relatively low inflation, but they become very relevant in economies that experience hyperinflation. In these situations, citizens generally prefer to keep their assets as foreign rather than local currency, which also consumes unnecessary time and effort. Misallocation of Resources When inflation occurs and prices of different goods and services rise at different rates, some goods and services become cheaper or more expensive in a relative sense. These relative price distortions, in turn, affect the allocation of resources toward different goods and services in a way that would not happen if relative prices remained stable. Wealth Redistribution Unexpected inflation can serve to redistribute wealth in an economy because not all investments and debt are indexed to inflation. Higher than expected inflation makes the value of debt lower in real terms, but it also makes the real returns on assets lower. Therefore, unexpected inflation serves to hurt investors and benefit those who have a lot of debt. This is likely not an incentive that policymakers want to create in an economy, so it can be viewed as another cot of inflation. Tax Distortions In the United States, there are many taxes that do not automatically adjust for inflation. For example, capital gains taxes are calculated based on the absolute increase in the value of an asset, not on the inflation-adjusted value increase. Therefore, the effective tax rate on capital gains when inflation is present may be much higher than the stated nominal rate. Similarly, inflation increases the effective tax rate paid on interest income. General Inconvenience Even if prices and wages are flexible enough to adjust well for inflation, inflation still makes comparisons of monetary quantities across years more difficult than they could be. Given that people and companies would like to fully understand how their wages, assets, and debt evolve over time, the fact that inflation makes it more difficult to do so can be viewed as yet another cost of inflation.

Health, Safety And Enviroment Managment Example

Health, Safety And Enviroment Managment Example Health, Safety And Enviroment Managment – Admission/Application Essay Example Part One: Introduction The necessity for expertise informs my choice to study the at undergraduate level at the British Currently, I have served as a senior safety personnel in oil and gas refinery for more than 10 years. My future career goals are to contribute to the efforts aimed at promoting health, safety, and environmental quality at local, national, and international levels through knowledge acquired during the study. I intend to apply knowledge gained from the course to help address environmental concerns in the organization and country. As an expert in health, safety, and environment management, I intend to engage in sensitization of world population on the necessity to promote environmental conservation of vital natural resources. I intend to use my expertise to promote occupational safety in industrial and business premises through advocacy for appropriate legislations and in the future positions in which I will serve. Furthermore, I intend to engage in activities that ens ure public health is promoted especially in impoverished and low-income members of the society.Part Two: ExpectationsMy experience at the university was great and conformed to the expectations of gaining knowledge in my area of specialization. The institution has well-equipped resources including classrooms and a modern library. Furthermore, social interaction with the staff and students was commendable because I attained their assistance. There are sociable lectures and cooperative students. I was worried about my advance age but it turned out my colleagues have no problem interacting with me. Besides, our relationship is friendly. Although it has been a long since I was in class for long hours studying, I adapted and currently feeling comfortable learning and attending several lectures. I can spend long attending classes.During my first week in the degree subject module, I was not very comfortable in class because of the long time spent while attending class. That was because I ha ve been in employment for nearly ten years without attending classes. I also experienced challenges following the timetable. I sometimes confused the classes and even lecture halls during my first weeks at the university. The module handbooks help me plan for my classes. It has since helped me avoid the confusion I had last time in classes. I have been able to access MyBeckett, online through the University website. My experience at British University is exceptionally great and I expect to achieve my visions in the University.

Free Essays on Constitution

The Constitutional Convention began on May 25, 1787, when 55 delegates arrived at Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, then known as the Pennsylvania State House. There the delegates amended the Articles of Confederation. Four questions proved far more difficult to resolve: conflicts over how the people were to be represented in Congress; what to do about slavery; the powers of the president and the procedures for election to the office; and the powers and functions of the federal courts. The delegates settled most of the scores of issues quickly. They then created a new Constitution, a plan of government designed to solve the governmental problems caused under the Articles of Confederation. Since they made such a flexible document it still continues to guide this nation today. The Constitution spells out in six sections the powers of the federal government and the states. Later amendments expanded some of these powers and limited others. For example in document #2 many years later the voting laws were able to be changed so that no matter your race, sex, color, or age as long as your 18 years of age or older, you cant be denied the right to vote. The Constitution prevents cruel or unjust use of power through the separation of powers. In document #4 it talks about the system of checks and balances and how each branch of government has its own responsibilities and cannot take action in areas assigned to the other branches. Otherwise one person or group being in control with all that power would not be good for the nation as a whole. Congress enacts laws, leaving enforcement of the laws to the executive branch and interpretation of them to the judicial branch. As stated in document #5 in the Marbury v. Madison case the judicial branch with the power and authority to interpret the constitution, was provided with a veto over federal laws. The Constitution divides governmental powers in other ways, both w... Free Essays on Constitution Free Essays on Constitution The Constitutional Convention began on May 25, 1787, when 55 delegates arrived at Philadelphia’s Independence Hall, then known as the Pennsylvania State House. There the delegates amended the Articles of Confederation. Four questions proved far more difficult to resolve: conflicts over how the people were to be represented in Congress; what to do about slavery; the powers of the president and the procedures for election to the office; and the powers and functions of the federal courts. The delegates settled most of the scores of issues quickly. They then created a new Constitution, a plan of government designed to solve the governmental problems caused under the Articles of Confederation. Since they made such a flexible document it still continues to guide this nation today. The Constitution spells out in six sections the powers of the federal government and the states. Later amendments expanded some of these powers and limited others. For example in document #2 many years later the voting laws were able to be changed so that no matter your race, sex, color, or age as long as your 18 years of age or older, you cant be denied the right to vote. The Constitution prevents cruel or unjust use of power through the separation of powers. In document #4 it talks about the system of checks and balances and how each branch of government has its own responsibilities and cannot take action in areas assigned to the other branches. Otherwise one person or group being in control with all that power would not be good for the nation as a whole. Congress enacts laws, leaving enforcement of the laws to the executive branch and interpretation of them to the judicial branch. As stated in document #5 in the Marbury v. Madison case the judicial branch with the power and authority to interpret the constitution, was provided with a veto over federal laws. The Constitution divides governmental powers in other ways, both w...

Managing cultural diversity in the workplace environment of singapore Essay

Managing cultural diversity in the workplace environment of singapore - Essay Example During the process, a critical view of the policies and practices and their impact on other aspects of organisational performance would be placed to assess the effectiveness of the policies and practices. Moreover, possible recommendations to tackle these challenges would be suggested based on organisational practices. While the effects of globalization have been so profound that all organisations have to adapt to the changes, diversity is one of the strategies adopted for sustainability and performance. This reflects in their policies and practices with respect to human resources management. Though the western countries adopted this route much earlier, it is relatively newer concept in most of the Eastern nations (Mor-Barack, 2005). This does not mean that the Eastern nations did not employ people from different cultures and ethnic groups; but just that the organisations have started adopting policies and practices to encourage and, to an extent, suit multicultural and diverse populations during last few decades. The most important requirement for managing diversity comes from equal rights act and policies congruent with this act, which create favourable social, legal and organisational environment to all groups of people. Secondly, organisational policies and practices that encourage and support diversified workforce. Globalization has provided extraordinary benefits to organisations, which has enticed many organisations to enter the global market. This has further increased the numbers of people from different backgrounds, cultures, races and ethnic groups to work together at different locations. On the other hand, organisations in some sectors are known to have moved to other places in order to flourish because the legislation there was more conducive to their strategies; for example, Singapore has relaxed legislation

Issues that affect human rights of a group of Indigenous people Essay

Issues that affect human rights of a group of Indigenous people - Essay Example The position, land and demographics of any particular state decide the spectrum of rights for the people of that particular region (Council of Europe, 2011). From past studies, it can be said that human rights are those associated with people living in a cross-cultural or multi-cultural spectrum. A cross cultural spectrum is the one which could comprise people of different identities like indigenous people. Category of indigenous people is one major category within a multi-cultural system, in which human rights fall at the highest human distinction (An-Na'im, 1995). Talking about Australia, a country of 22 million human population holds a diversified multi cultural system. People who belong to different cultures, casts or identities reside in such cross-cultural country. There are partially several indigenous groups that dwell in different districts of the country. Human rights of indigenous people in Australia are always under the question. This is because of avoidance and negligenc e given by the government officials in the indigenous section. Concerning Australia, there are mainly two indigenous communities (aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) which are always on the discussion (Kinley, 1998). This is because of their consistent proclaims that government ignores their fundamental native rights in the region (Eniar, 1999). From historical evidences, it can be said that indigenous Australians are truly identical to the continent, as they fall in the geography since 40,000 years ago. Due to a couple of reasons the native Australians often fall behind the human rights appearance, as majority claims them to be a minority within the region. There are couples of issues that relate to native Australians, which would be part of the discussion of this study. Here is a brief introduction of two major communities who became the victims of human right violence in the country: Aboriginals Aboriginal is a name used for native Australians. The word became popular for indi genous Australians who migrated from Southern routes of India to nearby islands of the country. Aboriginals migrated to Australia 50,000 years ago, a time when their forefathers adjusted them to different regions of the continent. For such reason, aboriginals are truly to be called Australians holding original identification and by birth distinction of the place. Their presence can also be found on parallel geographies of the country like in Tasmania or in other adjacent islands (Aboriginal affairs, 2003). Aboriginals face a lot of problems in the continent in which the major problems are about the deprivation of land, social injustice, minority treatment or cultural discrimination. Since the last couple of decades their problems have been increased instead of decreasing which is because of big racist presence within the country region (Aboriginal affairs, 2003). Torres Strait Islanders Torres Strait Islander is another big indigenous community which resides in the northern side of the state of Queensland. Natively they belong to Torres Strait Islands which are places of their ancestors’ origination. It was 40,000 years ago when Torres Strait Indigenous arrived at the continent. It was their expected best place of reside, holding a natural identify of their forefathers’ attribution (Heritage Division, 2010). Torres Strait Islanders are natively true Australians, which according to racist’s communities is not a sufficient factor that can give them their

Daimler Chrysler Merger Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4250 words

Daimler Chrysler Merger - Case Study Example From its inception until 1978, the U.S. automotive industry showed a steady expansion, with the exception of the years during World War II when its plants were converted to the production of war materials. In 1978, motor vehicle production reached an all-time high of 12.9 million units, including about 9.2 million cars; since then production has fluctuated. In the early 1980s the industry was in a recession, producing fewer cars in 1982 than in any year since 1958. From 1990 to 1992 the industry experienced another recession. In 1996, U.S. motor vehicle production totaled 11.8 million, including 6.1 million cars and 5.7 million trucks; North American motor vehicle production, including all vehicles made by domestic and foreign companies in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, reached more than 15.4 million-8.2 million cars and 7.3 million trucks. In the mid-1990s, the U.S. auto industry showed signs of recovery (History.com). To try to improve their global positions in terms of output and market share almost all of the major firms in the industry embarked on a period of consolidation in the 1980s and continued this in the 1990s. Ford acquired Aston Martin, Mazda, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo. Volkswagen gained Skoda and Seat. General Motors took major interests Saab, Suzuki, Isuzu and Daewoo. Finally, Renault merged with Nissan, Dacia and Samsung. The most salient point arising for the purposes of this paper is the firms which bought firms in economies where they had little previous presence as part of their strategy of going global. Essentially then DaimlerChrysler was caught up in a general trend and found itself following others in the search for what seemed global security through scale and scope. Worker involvement in the full process began in the 1980s. Worker "circles," as developed by the Japanese, gained adherents in the U.S. auto industry as a means of taking some of the drudgery from repetitive, assembly-line tasks and simultaneously giving workers a larger interest in decision making. Profit sharing among auto workers began at the American Motors Corp. in the early 1960s. Chrysler Corp. approved the concept in bargaining with the United Auto Workers (UAW) union in 1981, as did Ford in 1982. By the mid-1980s profit sharing had become standard in the industry. In 1990 the U.S. auto industry and related industries employed about one of every 13 workers in the nation. It is the largest single consumer of steel, plastics, glass, and rubber, to name four key supporting industries. The auto companies could not exist without outside suppliers, who typically supply 30 to 70 percent of the industry's requirements (History.com). To provide U.S. automakers time to catch up with the Japanese, during the 1980s the U.S. government pressed Japan to restrain motor vehicle exports to the U.S. to 2.1 million per year. This quota was lowered to 1.6 million as the Japanese began producing large volumes of vehicles in American plants. Under the National Competitiveness Act of 1984, the three U.S.-based automakers began forming consortia in 1989 under which they share in research and development to reduce costs and speed new

Business Project Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Business Project Management - Essay Example Project management process involves four major functions. These are planning, organizing, leading and controlling. Planning is the first stage of project management process and evaluation of a project is done in wide areas of the project i.e. cost required, future cash flow, possible risks etc. Project life cycle estimation is also important activity in this stage. Second stage of project management process is organizing. In this stage, the required resources are organized like capital, labour, material, equipment and facilities etc. Capital refers to both the initial investment and fund required for management working capital. Leading is the third stage project management process and it is very much crucial for completion of a project with quality work and ensuring deadline. The main objective of leading is to ensure right job to right people and motivating them to get best output. Controlling is the final stage of project management process where the project is continuously monitor ed. Progress of the project is evaluated and compared with the proposed project progress plan. Developing effective strategies and change of ineffective strategies of project development is main part of controlling a project (Smith, L. 2003, p.4). Therefore, overall objective of project management should be performing these four project management functions very efficiently and effectively in an organized framework. This is the job of a project manager. To complete or continue a successful project, the project manager needs to be planned and executed for each small stage of the overall project. This will help to develop and implement contingence in critical situation during project development process. Discussion Answer 1 Resources Resource is one of the most important primary objectives of a project. It includes mainly people, material and equipment i.e. the major non financial resources. Availability of skilled employees is one of the main focused areas of businesses because skill , knowledge and experience of employees have substantial impact on quality output and progress of a project. Again, sufficient supply of people leads to low wage rate and total wage of a project and vice-versa. Therefore, this important resource needs to evaluate at the planning stage of project management process so that project deadline, cost and quality work can be ensured. Next important resource is equipment which is very necessary to do the project task or activities. Technology plays a great role in this resource as use of hi-technology equipment reduces completion time or faster production and more output. Again, the employees also need to very much familiar with the advanced technology equipments as they need to operate the equipments efficiently to ensure better output. Material is another important resource of project as it is needed to produce the products. Therefore, sufficient and continuous supply of raw material is necessary for project. Material is necessary for bot h construction and production unit projects. Time Time is one important factor of project management. Project deadline and progress of a project can be ensured by efficient time management. It includes working hour of the employees and daily, weekly or monthly work progress. Again, time management can be aided by using tools, techniques and skills to accomplishing specific work activity or goal within due date. Therefore, to develop specific goal or work target, minimum time need to be considered to reduce total

Books Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Books - Essay Example Books define the character of the child. Research indicates that children who were introduced to reading at tender age are well mannered because books use different characters to define the implications of being ill mannered (Whitehead 38). During adolescent age, books are very important in informing the child about all changes that may occur during this period. Many children tend to be influenced by the peer pressure but books have been cited as one source of information on how such children can control their changes and feelings. This helps them to define their character and enable them to control the changes (Whitehead 18). In addition books helps the group spend their time wisely an aspect that prevents the group avoid vices such as drug abuse and early pregnancies. This ensures that they are able to achieve their dream careers. Morrow, Lesley M, Elizabeth Freitag, Linda B. Gambrell, and Lesley M. Morrow. Using Childrens Literature in Preschool to Develop Comprehension: Understanding and Enjoying Books. Newark, Del: International Reading Association,  2009.

Business Project Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Business Project Management - Essay Example Project management process involves four major functions. These are planning, organizing, leading and controlling. Planning is the first stage of project management process and evaluation of a project is done in wide areas of the project i.e. cost required, future cash flow, possible risks etc. Project life cycle estimation is also important activity in this stage. Second stage of project management process is organizing. In this stage, the required resources are organized like capital, labour, material, equipment and facilities etc. Capital refers to both the initial investment and fund required for management working capital. Leading is the third stage project management process and it is very much crucial for completion of a project with quality work and ensuring deadline. The main objective of leading is to ensure right job to right people and motivating them to get best output. Controlling is the final stage of project management process where the project is continuously monitor ed. Progress of the project is evaluated and compared with the proposed project progress plan. Developing effective strategies and change of ineffective strategies of project development is main part of controlling a project (Smith, L. 2003, p.4). Therefore, overall objective of project management should be performing these four project management functions very efficiently and effectively in an organized framework. This is the job of a project manager. To complete or continue a successful project, the project manager needs to be planned and executed for each small stage of the overall project. This will help to develop and implement contingence in critical situation during project development process. Discussion Answer 1 Resources Resource is one of the most important primary objectives of a project. It includes mainly people, material and equipment i.e. the major non financial resources. Availability of skilled employees is one of the main focused areas of businesses because skill , knowledge and experience of employees have substantial impact on quality output and progress of a project. Again, sufficient supply of people leads to low wage rate and total wage of a project and vice-versa. Therefore, this important resource needs to evaluate at the planning stage of project management process so that project deadline, cost and quality work can be ensured. Next important resource is equipment which is very necessary to do the project task or activities. Technology plays a great role in this resource as use of hi-technology equipment reduces completion time or faster production and more output. Again, the employees also need to very much familiar with the advanced technology equipments as they need to operate the equipments efficiently to ensure better output. Material is another important resource of project as it is needed to produce the products. Therefore, sufficient and continuous supply of raw material is necessary for project. Material is necessary for bot h construction and production unit projects. Time Time is one important factor of project management. Project deadline and progress of a project can be ensured by efficient time management. It includes working hour of the employees and daily, weekly or monthly work progress. Again, time management can be aided by using tools, techniques and skills to accomplishing specific work activity or goal within due date. Therefore, to develop specific goal or work target, minimum time need to be considered to reduce total

Preamble of the US Constitution. Has the government accomplished the Essay

Preamble of the US Constitution. Has the government accomplished the goals established in the constitutions preamble - Essay Example Establish justice This goal can be illustrated by many examples, still the common feature they all have is a cruel fight against oppression of civilians and a great enthusiasm to protect human rights of the American nation (the African American civil rights movement of the 60s). Justice and the fight against discrimination have always existed nearby in America. When in the end of 60s the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy were assassinated, the concept of â€Å"justice† was undermined. Nevertheless, by putting great efforts in the fight against racial or gender oppression, American nation gained the right to live in the just country with no oppression or persecution. Ensure domestic tranquility An example illustrating the American’s government to ensure domestic tranquility can be shown by the 1968 Richard Nixon's political campaign when he underlined the importance of fight against crime and for law and order and the establishment of the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration (LEAA). Another example was chosen from the Cold War period, when the nation was intimidated by the presence of the â€Å"bomb†. During that period the Government could not manage a shift of families’ transformation to â€Å"nuclear families† and thus the goal of tranquility was not fulfilled to the fullest extent, while it was easier to set new social standards for civilians’ development (e.g. expressive sexuality among women). Secure blessings of liberty Liberty infringement by Communism was confronted in America in terms of McCarthyism. Nevertheless, it was not real protection of human rights and liberties, but a false and artificial creation of democratic soci alism. These attempts to infringe American nation were hampered by Murrow’s criticism broadcasted in 1954 in â€Å"A Report on Sen. Joseph R. McCarthy†. Therefore, the journalist debated over inconsistencies of MacCarthy’s speech and his actions that endanger real democracy in America. Another example of the State’s reached goal of â€Å"Secure Blessing of Liberty† can be illustrated by events taking place in America in 1964 when the Freedom Vote, SNCC sent volunteers into Mississippi to promote more freedoms during voting. In the result, three black workers were lynched. Nevertheless, attempts of fighters for the real democracy resulted in the blacks’ participation in the political Democratic Party and ensured other ethnic minorities of America in their rights for freedom and liberties. To form a more perfect union The implementation of this goal can be illustrated by the increase of the civic responsibility. A unity of American nation was growing in the process of public demonstrations while opposing to the war in Vietnam, during protests against environmental pollution. Public participation in the social life of America flourished under the guidance of Martin Luther King. The highest expressivity that public participation reached was during the Million Man March in 1963 March in Washington. Nevertheless, these initiatives were not realized to the fullest extent. Though theoretical underpinnings of racial equality in America were well-developed, they were not completely realized in practice. Therefore, the governmental attempt to realize the goal of a more perfect union creation has not been completely embodied. Till nowadays the American government works at perfection of conditions for people in the name of the common perfect state. Conclusion The goals set in the Preamble of the US Constitution have been partially brought to life. The nation’s participation in the historical events of America has been always marked by a common goal to reach freedom, independence and a real protection o

Mrs Alving in Ghosts by Ibsen Essay Example for Free

Mrs Alving in Ghosts by Ibsen Essay Through excessive parallelism and constant reference to â€Å"ghosts,† Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen portrays a view on the rewards of duty that clashes sharply with the accepted views of the time. In his native country of Norway, and indeed all around the world in the year 1881, ‘duty’ was seen as a powerful motivator in both religion and society. The abstract concept of duty was what constrained society into ‘acceptable’ boundaries, and people without a sense of duty were often shunned and rejected by their fellow citizens. Henrik Ibsen was well-known for his somewhat controversial plays. Just before writing Ghosts, â€Å"Ghosts† he wrote A Doll’s House about a young woman seeking to escape the bonds of duty. While the classic feminist story in A Doll’s House has a hint of hope for Nora Helmer, who decides to speak up for her own rights as a woman and as a human being, Ghosts seems to me to be the gloomy alternative, as Mrs Alving overcomes years of subordination to her immoral (and now deceased) husband. The woman, Nora, desires to free herself intellectually by breaking out of a marriage. Ghosts, in many ways, is an extension of â€Å"A Doll’s House†, with the main character Mrs. Alving acting as a future Nora. They are similar in some ways, but obviously they are both uniquely diverse. They play many of the same roles in their plays, and are probably the most similar two characters between Ghosts and A Dolls House. As literary critic Edward Boyer puts it, â€Å"In many ways Mrs. Alving is an older and more mature Nora, freer yet at the same time more bound. She too wanted to break out of a marriage once, but was sent back to her ‘duties’ by Pastor Manders, who thereby awakened the first doubts in her mind about transmitted doctrine. Ibsen focused his pieces on commenting on the often hypocritical sense of duty that people of his time supported. In his own words, â€Å"Ghosts had to be written; I could not let â€Å"the doll’s house† be my last word; after Nora, Mrs. Alving had to come. † Duty prompted her to create a life of lies, as she hid her husband’s alcoholism and other immoral acts. Duty prompted her to hide her husband’s pregnant mistress, and again to raise his daughter as her own. Even the names Ibsen gives the two women show the difference of hope in the two plays. In A Doll’s House, Nora is given a first name, and in fact she is listed by her first name in the written script whenever she speaks. In Ghosts, Mrs. Alving is seldom called by her first name (it is Helen), and rather is referred to as Mrs. Alving in the script when she has a line to say. She is regarded only as a wife, even ten years after her husband’s death. Ibsen utilizes many parallels between situations and characters in order to portray the desired results of duty and the actual results. Mrs. Alving can be compared to Mr. Engstrand, a hobbling old carpenter, and supposed father of Regina. Mrs. Alving is, obliged by her sense of duty, trying to gain control of her son Oswald upon his return home, while Engstrand attempts to evoke his daughter’s sense of duty so that she will come to work for him. According to George Meyer, â€Å"This parallel is†¦important because in the one case a father is trying to gain control of his daughter; in the other a mother, of her son. † Both characters also experienced a ‘commercial marriage’ in that Mrs. Alving married Captain Alving â€Å"for the sum of his fortune,† and Engstrand married his wife Johanna for a hefty bribe. Nora is a unique character, a kind not usually seen in most plays. She swings her mood often; she is either very happy or very depressed, comfortable or desperate, wise or naive. At the beginning of the play, Nora still plays a child in many ways, listening at doors and eating forbidden sweets behind her husbands back. She has gone straight from her fathers house to her husbands, bringing along her nursemaid which tells us that she hasnt really grown up. She also doesnt have much of an own opinion. She has always accepted her fathers and her husbands opinions. Shes aware that Torvald would have no use for a wife who was equal to him. But like many children, Nora knows how to manipulate Torvald by pouting or by performing for him. In the end, it is the truth about her marriage that awakens Nora. Although she may suspect that Torvald is a weak, petty man, she believes that he is strong, that hell protect her from the consequences of her actions. Then, at the moment of truth, he abandons her completely. She is shocked into reality and sees how fake their relationship has been. She realizes that her father and her husband have seen her as a doll, a toy to be played with, a figure without opinion or will of her own. She also realizes that she is treating her children the same way. Her whole life has been based on illusion rather than reality. Although she tried to escape from her marriage, the young Mrs. Alving apparently did not have a sudden moment of realization of her duties to herself, her own honor, or her own pride. If she did, we are not told hem; she continued to live as her husband and as society expected her to. By the end of Ghosts, however, when the effects of her husband’s life of duplicity are clear, the older and wiser Mrs. Alving has obviously come to regret her silence. Boyer states, â€Å"She sees now that it was the limiting conditions, the lack of true joy, a goal in life, and meaningful work which destroyed the best in her husband. She sees too that she h erself was the immediate cause of his ruin, because she had made life intolerable for him with her conventional morality of duty. Mrs. Alving can’t be blamed for staying in her marriage though. In A Doll’s House, Nora Helmer had a place to escape to. Her friend Mrs Linde would eagerly provide a place to stay and her best friend Doctor Rank had invited her company, and expressed his love for her. The conclusion drawn up by the end is this: the embracing and enforcing of a corrupt sense of duty and false pride by the collection of characters has led to the successful projects-chaos and dismay. This symbolizes Ibsen’s conception of duty and double standard for men and women in the society. He believes that mankind has ‘taken it too far,’ and duty has degenerated love into a purchasable commodity as illustrated by not only the brothel but by Mrs. Alving’s and Engstrand’s commercial marriages. The free-thinking duty-free artists of Paris live happy lives in wholesome homes, while the duty-supporting end up in broken homes where hypocrisy and immorality run rampant.

The Oil And Gas Industry

The Oil And Gas Industry Des Plc, one of the largest and world leading drilling companies in the oil and gas sector of Germany. The company was established by Engr. Joe and Mr. Onos in the year 2004 when the German government initiated the Integrated Energy and Climate Programme (IEKP) policy aimed at providing state-of-the-art, secure and climate compatible supply of energy in Germany in order to restrict dependency on imported oil and gas products. Driven by the need to expand, Des Plc has decided to embark on business operations in Nigeria. The aim of this report is to, as a researcher, advise the CEO of Des Plc as to whether DES Plc should export or go into foreign direct investment (FDI), as its approach in Nigeria. This feasibility study tends to explore and look into the analysis of the national business system and cultural conditions prevalent in Nigeria and Germany while assessing the pattern and trends of trade and investment in both countries within the Oil and gas sector with key emphasis on protection measures against imports and foreign investment in Nigerian oil and gas sector; advise on whether Des Plc should export or go into foreign direct investment, or combine the methods, considering the effect of the exchange rate regime for Germany and Nigeria. And, on the whole, it assesses the level of risk exposure and corporate social responsibility (CSR) issues Des Plc of Germany may encounter in Nigeria as a foreign counterpart in the Nigerian Oil and gas industry. By the end of this research, the best strategy will have been established for adoption taking into cognizance the recommended approach considered optimal 1.1 THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY The oil and gas industry is one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the world today. Oil and natural gas products touch our lives in countless ways every day. Together, they account for more than 60 percent of our nations energy. They fuel our cars, heat our homes and cook our food (EAPI, 2011). It may also be worthwhile to add that Nigeria is the 10th largest oil producer in the world, the third largest in Africa and the most prolific oil producer in Sub-Saharan Africa. And while the Nigerian economy is largely dependent on its oil sector which supplies 95% of its foreign exchange earnings, the German government is trying to lower the level of dependency on the importation of the product (MIS, 2011). 2.0 AN ANALYSIS OF THE NATIONAL BUSINESS SYSTEM AND CULTURAL CONDITIONS 2.1 NATIONAL BUSINESS SYSTEM The national business system approach explains international differences in firm organisation and firm behaviour. The focus is on the coordination of economic activities and on governance issues. National differences in the organisation of firms and markets are explained by differences in culture and in formal institutions. The business systems approach, while originally rooted in sociology, increasingly has become based on economic theory with slight emphasis on legal, political and educational frameworks (Lundvall 1999). Owing to the implication of the preceding analysis, an emphasis is placed on the following institutional arrangements in the Nigerian political, economic and legal system with the analysis of the national business system in Nigeria in connection with Des Plc of Germany as a prospective entrant to the Nigerian business space- as shown in the table below: DIMENSIONS BRIEF OVERVIEW POLITICAL SYSTEM IMPACT ON BUSINESS The Federal Republic of Nigeria is governed in accordance with the provisions of a Constitution. The most recent came into being in May 1999.The new Constitution is based essentially on the report of a Committee which had collated the views expressed by Nigerians in the 1995 constitution. Significantly, the Constitution affirms that Nigeria is one indivisible and indissoluble sovereign state, whose constituent units are bound together by a Federal arrangement. It provides for a presidential system of government in which there is an Executive, a Legislature and a Judiciary, with each acting as a check and balance on the powers of the other two arms. The Constitution further provides for the operation of three tiers of government, at the Federal, State and Local levels. These provisions are binding on all authorities and persons throughout the Federation. This akin to the German political structure in terms of power distribution (TBTIG 2011). However, this democratic system of government has made the business space so unstable for some years owing to election irregularities and political manoeuvres. TERRORISM AND NIGERIAS DEVELOPMENT THE GOVERNMENT AND BUSINESS ACTORS IN THE OIL AND GAS SECTOR Terrorism has been on the increase since 2002 when a sect called Boko Haram started signalling disintegration of the Nigerian economy. Under past leadership, the group demanded that Nigeria become an Islamic state but it is now believed to be made up of several factions, with various demands which distort the political future of the nation (BBC Africa) The Nigerian government has embarked on robust policies to privatise its sectors in the recent years and as such, has boost efforts to attract foreign investment (TBTIG 2011). SHELL, TOTAL, CHEVRON are some of the key players in the oil and gas industry of Nigeria. They all have to thrive in the face of ethnic disparities because their major operations are in the remote areas of the notable Niger Delta region where militancy- oppositions are prominent. In 2004, Niger Delta activists demanding a greater share of oil income for locals began a campaign of violence against the oil infrastructure, threatening Nigerias most important economic lifeline (BBC Africa). DIMENSIONS BRIEF OVERVIEW ECONOMIC SYSTEM IMPACT ON BUSINESS Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with an ethnically and religiously diverse population of 140 million. Nigeria has the second-highest GDP in Africa (US$166.78 billion in 2007), reflecting the countrys substantial oil reserves. However, oil has proved a mixed blessing for the country (CIA 2011). Nigerias economy has much in common with those of China, Brazil, Germany, Malaysia and India; free enterprise is the norm. However, electricity and water continue to be partially government owned and controlled. Outside of transportation and, perhaps, a small section of the industrial sector, the petroleum economy has very little linkage with Nigerian production (Daudu) The Nigerian government has a policy which is to promote the commercialization, restructuring and privatization of certain government-owned enterprises. Privatization has also been accompanied by deregulation of various economic sectors to encourage private sector participation, notably in telecommunications, power, and downstream petroleum sectors. Most of Nigerias economic activity occurs in key metropolitan areas-Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, Onitsha and Port Harcourt (online). Although petroleum continues to dominate the public finances and foreign exchange resources of Nigeria, the sector is, in reality, an enclave economy employing less than 100,000 Nigerians directly in production. The Nigerian government is restructuring and diversifying the economic base of the economy and reducing the dependence on oil, and as such will have bearing on the industry prominence and strategic posture. ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE OVER 12 MONTHS FOREIGN RESERVE SIGNIFICANT RATES The strongest performance of Nigerias non-oil economy allowed the economy to avoid a substantial slowdown in 2009 and it expanded by 4.9%, compared to the growth rate seen in 2008. In April 2010, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasted growth rate of 7% and 7.3% for Nigeria in 2010 and 2011 respectively and said that the economy was recovering faster than it had earlier anticipated. These forecasts are predicted on the belief that oil prices will remain relatively stable as the global economy recovers, and on the assumption that the truce with militants in the Niger Delta holds. Attacks by militants on oil infrastructure and kidnappings of oil workers cut exports sharply in previous years (CIA 2011). Nigerias foreign exchange reserves had fallen to US$40.67 billion at the end of March 2010, down from US$42.4 billion at the end of 2009, and from US$52.7 billion at the of 2008. Nigeria disbursed about US$3 billion from its oil windfall savings to the three tiers of government in February and March 2010, which contributed to the depletion of its foreign exchange reserves. Interest rate: 6% (Central bank, April 2010) GDP growth: 4.9% (official, 2009) Unemployment: 4.9% (2007 est.) FDI: US$71.59 billion (December 31, 2009, est) Nigerias economic decline, especially during the last 20 years is illustrated by the fact that per capita income, which was the US $1000 in 1965 had declined to the US $300 by 1998. Within some 18 years, Nigeria had declined from being a low middle-income country and amongst the fifty richest countries in the world to one of the 30 poorest (Daniel 2011). LEGAL SYSTEM Nigerias legal system is based on English common law, Islamic Shariah law (in 12 northern states), and traditional law 2.2CULTURAL CONDITIONS Business is an integral part of society and both influence each other. Social-cultural environment refers to the influence exercised by certain social and cultural factors which are beyond the control of the business unit. Such factors include: attitude to work, family system, religion, languages, habits, preferences, tradition, value system, business ethics etc. Any change in cultural factors like education affects the lifestyle and thinking of the people living in society and thereby bearing on business activities in such society (Jain et al 2009). Managing the problems created by cross -cultural differences increases the transaction costs of conducting international business activities. Consequently, if cultural differences between potential trading partners are large, the economic and/ or strategic benefits of engaging in business activities must be large enough to offset the extra costs of doing business with difference cultures (McDonald and Burton 2002). However, putting the importance of cultural implications in the business space into consideration, planning to do business in the Nigerian oil and gas industry will require a look into some cultural factors as follows: Traditions and family system: Oil and gas operations are prominent in the Niger-Delta region of the country as the major oil wells are found in such rural areas of the region. Chevron is the third-largest oil producer in Nigeria and one of its largest investors, spending more than $3 billion annually. Chevron as a core player in the industry enters into serious business negotiations with traditional institutions in host communities before the commencement of oil explorations (Chevron 2011) Religion: Nigeria has Christianity and Islam as major religions major religions. However, these religions have little or no effect on the consumption of oil and gas products in the country. Ethnic Groups: Nigeria as Africas most populous country, is composed of more than 250 ethnic groups; the following are the most populous and politically influential: Hausa and Fulani 29%, Yoruba 21%, Igbo (Ibo) 18%, Ijaw 10%, Kanuri 4%, Ibibio 3.5%, Tiv 2.5% (CIA 2011). Language: English is the official language in Nigeria. The country is composed of diverse ethnic groups with several languages but three major languages (Hausa, Ibo and Yoruba) are spoken in a general sense. Although, the Pidgin English is prominently used across the nation because it remains the best way in which the uneducated ones communicate. This may constitute a major implication for Des Plc because German is the official language in Germany. So many stakeholders in the Nigerian oil and gas host communities do understand just the Pidgin English. 3.0 TRADE PATTERN BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES 3.1 TRADE PATTER IN GERMANY Germany is one of the constituents of the European Union (EU) and also a member of the WTO. The WTO has a single trade policy and tends to demonstrate the possibility of exploiting the Collective nature of the communitys membership in order to maximize the political pressures brought about by WTO approached sanctions exists and has been noticed the communities trading patterns. However, the ultimate Machiavellian approach might be to target precisely those members states that do not benefit from WTO-incompatible measure of the community and are in favour of removing or amending it (Borght 2007). Developments in Germanys trade patterns in recent years have generally been conducive to the international use of the Deutsche mark on several accounts. First, Germany has become the worlds largest supplier of exports to the world, surpassing the USA since 1986 and enhancing the potential role of the mark as an invoicing vehicle. The bulk of German imports were raw materials particularly oil and gas from Russia and the bulk of German export were manufactured goods. Second, between 1986 and 1989 the share of specialized manufactured goods (primarily machinery and transport goods) in relation to total exports rose from 38 to 47 percent (ECB 2011). 3.2 TRADE PATTERN IN NIGERIA Nigeria has always reinforced commitment to improving her business environment so as to integrate into the global economy. However, oil and gas have been Nigerias bulk of export (Iwela 2007). The United States is Nigerias largest trading partner after the United Kingdom. Nigeria supplies around 11% of US oil imports and 4.5% of German Imports. Crude Oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) account for 98% of exports and around 80% of government revenue (Qfinance 2011). 3.3 THE PATTERN OF TRADE BETWEEN GERMANY AND NIGERIA Nigeria and Germany have maintained a consistent trade relationship over the years. Meanwhile, recent trade statistics (2007) showed that Nigerias export to Germany amounted to 911,5 million Euro, a decrease of 35% compared to 2006. Imports to Germany have increased by 10% to 1083,3 million Euro. In 2006, the trade figure was in favour of Nigeria, with exports to Germany amounting to 1402,6 million Euro and imports from Germany worth 973,9 million Euro. The different trade figure is mainly due to lower oil exports to Germany and higher imports of semi-finished goods (Abah 2011). 3.4 TRADE IN THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY BETWEEN NIGERIA AND GERMANY Britain was the chief beneficiary of Nigerian oil in the early years of the colonys oil industry. After gaining independence, Nigeria expanded its export to destinations to include Western European nations, especially Germany and the United States (Levi 2004) However, the Germanys presence in the Nigerian oil and gas sector has declined over the years. Just as earlier stated that in 2006, the trade figure was in favour of Nigeria, with exports to Germany amounting to 1402.6 million Euro and imports from Germany worth 973.9 million Euro. The different trade figure for 2007 is mainly due to lower oil exports to Germany. 3.5 RESTRICTIONS AND PROTECTIONS ON TRADE IN NIGERIAN For two decades prior to economic reforms, Nigerias trade regime was viewed as complex, restrictive, and opaque (WTO, 2005). Following the structural adjustment programme (SAP) in 1988, a seven-year tariff schedule was adopted which significantly reduced tariff averages. However, further tariff revisions were made, often in response to pressures from domestic lobbies. Since 1978, the government had also introduced policies on import prohibitions which banned selected products that were viewed as strategic for the economy or which needed infant industry protection. However, prior to the recent economic reform, Nigeria maintained a complex tariff structure consist of about 19 bands and 5,146 lines (at the HS-8 digital level), with tariff ranging between 2.5 and 150 percent. Nigeria liberalized its import tariff regime by adopting the Common External Tariff (CET) of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) (Iwela 2007). 3.6 RESTRICTIONS IN THE NIGERIAN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY Oil and gas operations commenced in Nigeria effectively in 1956, with the first commercial find in that year by the then Shell DArcy. Before this time, that is, from November 1938, almost the entire country was covered by a concession granted to the company to explore for petroleum resources. This dominant role of Shell in the Nigerian oil industry continued for many years, until Nigerias membership of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in 1971, after which the country began to take a firmer control of its oil and gas resources, in line with the practice of the other members of OPEC. This period witnessed the emergence of National Oil Companies (NOCs) across OPEC member countries, with the sole objective of monitoring the stake of the oil-producing countries in the exploitation of the resource. Whereas in some OPEC member countries the NOCs took direct control of production operations, in Nigeria, the Multinational Oil Companies (MNOCs) were allowed to continue with such operations under Joint Operating Agreements (JOA) which clearly specified the respective stakes of the companies and the Government of Nigeria in the ventures (Iwela 2007). 4.0 EXCHANGE RATE REGIME IN GERMANY AND NIGERIA Numerous exchange rate regimes are practised globally, ranging from the extreme case of fixed exchange rate system, such as the currency boards and unions to a freely floating regime. In practice, countries tend to adopt an amalgam of regimes such as an adjustable peg, crawling peg, target zone/crawling bands, and managed float, whichever suit their peculiar economic conditions. (McDonald and Burton 2011). The exchange rate regime of Germany and Nigeria are considered as both countries use different currencies (naira and euro) respectively. 4.1 EXCHANGE RATE REGIME IN NIGERIA Nigeria has switched between exchange rate systems over the years. During the first phase (1970-1985), Nigeria operated a controlled exchange rate regime where exchange rate of the naira was pegged to the dollar. The second phase of exchange rate history in Nigeria began in 1986. Following the oil glut of the early 80s, it became clear that Nigerian economy which depends on oil was not able to sustain the fixed exchange regime because its foreign reserves not only depleted but foreign debt also mounted. As an integral part of the Structural Adjustment Programme introduced in 1986, the country adopted a flexible exchange rate through the Second tier Foreign Exchange Market (Iwela 2007). The Nigerian exchange rate. The most critical are the creation of a high propensity to import because an over-valued currency makes import cheaper and promotes a balance of payments deficits. In the quest for a realistic naira 9 exchange rate, the CBN employs the Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) model as a guide to gauge movements in the nominal exchange rate and to determine deviations from the equilibrium exchange rate. Although the PPP as a relative price does not provide clear criteria for choosing a base period and is generally criticized for its insensitivity to short-term policy actions, it nonetheless, provides a reasonable framework for a comparative analysis of trading partners performances (Iwela 2007). 4.1 EXCHANGE RATE REGIME IN GERMANY Germany operates a floating exchange regime system. Germany is much more competitive than its southern counterparts and this biggest economy in the Eurozone relies heavily on net exports and fixed investments while private consumption takes only a second place (ECB 2011). Growth in the Eurozone will remain sluggish and is expected to underperform the US in 2011. The economy in the 16-nation region is expected to grow +1.7% in 2011, followed by +1.8% in 2012, almost half of the growth in the US (ECB 2011). 4.2 THE EXCHANGE RATE IMPLICATION ON NIGERIAN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY The peculiarity of the Nigerian foreign exchange market needs to be highlighted. The countrys foreign exchange earnings are more than 90 per cent dependent on crude oil export receipts. The result is that the volatility of the world oil market prices has a direct impact on the supply of foreign exchange. Moreover, the oil sector contributes more than 80 percent of government revenue (CIA 2011). 4.2 IMPLICATION FOR DES Plc Thus, when the world oil price is high, the revenue shared by the three tiers of government rise correspondingly and, as has been observed since the early 1970s, elicited comparable expenditure increases, which had been difficult to bring down when oil prices collapse and revenues fall concomitantly. Indeed, such unsustainable expenditure level had been at the root of high government deficit spending. DES performance could, to a large extent, be tied to this economic phenomenon. In addition, the removal of fuel subsidy signaled danger by the Nigerian masses as their standard of living is largely dependent on the oil and gas production and performance. 5.0 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ISSUES IN THE NIGERIAN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY With regard to driving forces for CSR implementation, philanthropy gets a high priority in Africa. This is due to the huge socio-economic needs which have resulted in philanthropy becoming an expected norm in society. According to the theoretical findings, the philanthropic motive has also the highest priority in Nigeria (Helg, 2007). DES Plc cannot over emphasize the issue of CSR in order to consider doing business in the oil sector of Nigeria as many players in the industry have had to put with this situation as much they can (Skjeraseth et al 2004). However, it can be said that CSR is viewed by host communities as ethical and moral obligation of investing companies and as such should not be undermined. CSR ISSUES IN THE INDUSTRY OVERVIEW RESPONSE MEASURE PLAYERS EXPERIENCES While ExxonMobil and TotalFinaElf see their responsibility primarily in terms of providing affordable and environmentally clean fuel and investments in the countries and regions in which they operate, BP aims to be a force for good (BP, 2001), and Shell will strive to build a better world (Shell, 1999) .Shell, Chevron and other players in the industry have suffered kidnap of expert rates over the years. Militancy has been on the increase in the Niger Delta region where exploration is prominent in Nigeria. The youth regard this approach as the only means to benefit from their natural endowment since there are no other ways. Provision of employment, construction of roads and employment may be some available measures to keep the potential situation in check for DES Plc. HUMAN RIGHTS In Nigeria, CSR is viewed as giving back to society and as such their ultimate right. In Nigeria, philanthropy is more than charitable giving. HIV/Aids is an example where the response by business is essentially philanthropic but clearly, in companies own economic interests. DES Plc can make provision to partner with human right organizations in order to effectively address potential issues EMPLOYEES RIGHT The Nigerian government has also through its NEEDS strategy (Nigerian National Planning Commission 2004) set the context by defining the private sector role as by stating that the private sector will be expected to become more proactive in creating productive jobs, enhancing productivity, and improving the quality of life. Nigerians maintain that companies have a responsibility to do more than maximize profits and returns to shareholders? If they do, how far does it extend? Does it include the provision of good wages and working conditions for employees; DES Plc already has a good reputation for job enhancement and upholding that corporate culture will position it against undue pressure in this regard. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Nigerian communities tend to maintain a level of ownership over natural resources and as such never want to part ways with what they consider as stake. There are Landlord groups formed to foster strong opposition against whatever they perceive as injustice in oil exploration Working on the CSR agenda in Nigeria in partnership with different stakeholders in the society. Involve community leaders in the determination of locations. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Maintenance of the highest environmental standards. Oil spillage and gas flaring have been major issues hosts communities emphasize while maintaining a strong opposition against the investors. The introduction of local agricultural schemes to appeal to the affected public. SUPPLIER RELATIONS Company relations with suppliers and contractors are always questionable and not viewed as a priority (TBTIG 2011). Multinational companies initiate co-operation with the SMEs in both the formal and informal sector for local supplies. To develop a joint corporate social responsibility (CSR) agenda for Nigerian and non-Nigerian firms. This could be explored by DES Plc while sourcing materials for local use in the region 6.1 INVESTMENT METHOD However, Nigerias libralised business regime and proactive reform measures are making it easier to do business in the country (TBTIG: 2011). Owing to the preceding issues considered in this report, Foreign Direct investment will be recommended to DES Plc as a measure for expansion and penetrating into the Nigerian oil and gas sector. The Nigerian government has put incentives in place to attract foreign investors. Nigerias investment regime has been geared towards encouraging private sector involvement in the countrys economy. The corporate tax rate is 30% in all sectors except petroleum, which is taxed separately under the Petroleum Industry Bill. According to the World Investment Report 2011, prepared by the UN Conference on Trade and Development, FDI inflows into Nigeria fell from $8.65bn in 2009 to $6.09bn in 2011, with the blame placed on delays to the Petroleum Industry Bill (TBTIG: 2011). 6.2 MODE OF ENTRY However, The Nigerian government operates a deregulated society which could favour the brownfield approach. DES Plc can adopt this suitable means by merging and acquiring an asset of a firm in the industry owing to the market share core players like Shell, Total, Chevron etc already have in the industry. 7.0 CONCLUSION In spite of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) issues identified in the Niger Delta region in recent years, Nigerias huge wealth of oil makes it singularly attractive to the multinational majors, most of which are represented in Nigeria. More recently, multinational oil companies have been focusing their attention on exploration projects. They and their likes promise much for the future of oil industry investment since they allow the oil majors to diversify their investment in the country and bypass the troubles of the Niger Delta region (TBTIG: 2011). Nigerias liberalised business regime and proactive reform measures are making it easier to do business in the country. Germanys presence is scanty in the oil exploration space of Nigeria and as such that remains a quick and ample opportunity to be explored by DES Plc taking the aforementioned policies into consideration. However, owing to the issues discussed in this report it is obvious that the most suitable form of investment is Foreign Direct Investment FDI by merging or acquiring existing firm in the Nigerian oil and gas sector. REFERENCES Abah M. (2011). 50 German Firms Storm Nigeria for Investment. http://www.jangola.com/index.php?option=com_contentview=articleid=141:50-german-firms-storm-nigeria-for-investmentcatid=45:businessItemid=87 [Accessed 04/01/2012] BBC News, Africa, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-13949550 [Accessed 26/12/2011]. Chevron (2011). Nigeria Highlights of Operations. http://www.chevron.com/countries/nigeria/ [Accessed 03/12/2012] Danial, B. J. ( 2011). The Nigerian Economy in the 21st Century. http://www.onlinenigeria.com/economics/?blurb=498 [Accessed 26/12/2012] Daudu http://www.dawodu.com/okigbopanel1b.pdf EAPI: Energy API (2011). About Oil and Natural Gas. http://www.api.org/aboutoilgas/ [Assessed 17/12/2011]. ECB: European Central Bank (2011). Key Interest Rates for the Euro Zone. http://www.ecb.int/stats/monetary/rates/html/index.en.html [Accessed 15/01/2012]. Helg, A. (2007), Corporate Social Responsibility from a Nigerian Perspective. http://gupea.ub.gu.se/bitstream/2077/4713/1/07-23.pdf [Accessed 10/01/2012] Iwela, O.U. (2007). Nigerias Economic Reform: Progress and Challenges. The Global and Development Programme. Brookings Institution, Washington DC http://www.brookings.edu/~/media/Files/rc/papers/2007/0323globaleconomics_okonjo%20iweala/20070323okonjo_iweala.pdf [Accessed 30/12/2011]. Jain T. R., Trehan M., Trehan R. (2009). Business Environment. FK Publications. http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=Y77EEOe6cTECpg=PA15dq=cultural+conditions+in+business+environmenthl=ensa=Xei=aG4DT4KEKciEOr-ovLMBsqi=2ved=0CF8Q6AEwBg#v=onepageq=cultural%20conditions%20in%20business%20environmentf=false [Accessed 27/12/2011]. Kim van der Borght (2007) WTO Obligations and Opportunities: Challenges of Implementation. Cameron May LTD. http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=rMRbKGyEp_gCpg=PA263dq=germany+and+wtohl=ensa=Xei=ZoMDT5rqBYfI8gPUsZ3HAQved=0CEIQ6AEwAg#v=onepageq=germany%20and%20wtof=false [Accessed 04/01.2012]. Lundvall, B. (1999). National Business System and National Systems of Innovation.[Online] International Studies of Management Organization, Vol. 29, no. 4, pp. 20-21. Available at http://www.questia.com/googleScholar.qst?docId=5001824019 [Accessed 20/12/2011]. MIS: Mbendi Information Services (2011). Oil and Gas in Nigeria- Overview http://www.mbendi.com/indy/oilg/af/ng/p0005.htm [Accessed 20/12/2012]. Mcdonald F., Burton F. (2002). International Business, G. Canale C. Italy. Patricia Levi (2004). Cultures of the World: Nigeria. 2004http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=Q_lCFcabj0MCpg=PA40dq=nigeria+oil+export+to+germanyhl=ensa=Xei=b7UDT5nlE82r8AOx3tHSBwsqi=2ved=0CFUQ6AEwAw#v=onepageq=nigeria%20oil%20export%20to%20germanyf=false [Assessed 28/12/2011]. Qfinance (2011). The Nigerian Economy. http://www.qfinance.com/country-profiles/nigeria [Accessed 01/01/2012] Skjà ¦rseth, J. B. Skodvin, T. (2003). Climate Change and the Oil Industry: Common problem, varying strategies. Manchester: Manchester University Press. http://www.fni.no/docpdf/FNI-R0704.pdf [Accessed 15/01/2011]. Shell (1999). People, Planet and Profits. An Act of Commitment. Report. London. TBTIG: The Business, Trade and Investment Guide (2011). Corporate Nigeria: Incentives for Investors http://www.corporate-nigeria.com/index/fdi/incentives_for_investors.html [Accessed 3/01/2012]. WTO: World Trade Organization (2005), Trade Policy Review of Nigeria, Geneva: World Trade Organization. The oil and gas industry The oil and gas industry INTRODUCTION The oil and gas industry is essential to survival of the economy for different purposes. The industry provides energy and chemicals to the economy vital for transport, companies and household in U.K. Through the industry the government earn valuable and substantial tax and export revenue to support the economy. The figure below tells it own tale: v Three quarters of the UKs primary energy. v Employment for more than 380,000 people. v Has invested  £ 150 billion over the last 25 years. v Has paid  £ 150 billion in taxes since the 1970s. v Adds  £4 billion a year to balance of payments. v Accounts for one-fifth of UK annual investment. (oilcareers.com) This primary aim of this report is to consider key environmental factors that are currently affecting the industry. This will be done through PEST (Political, Environmental, Social and Technological) analysis. This report will also take into consideration rationale of industry and companies chosen for this project, in addition a number of financial ratios will be considered to determine the performance of the companies in the industry. This will help in establishing where each company stands in relation to their competitors; as well allowing the strongest and weakest companies to be determined. RATIONALE FOR INDUSTRY This Oil and Gas industry contribute significantly to the economy. The rationale based on this industry choice is to gain an insight to how prepared companies are regarding the risk posed by climate change. According to a report by Palma (200*) she explored increasing pressure in the Oil and Gas industry face from climate change. She indentified such risk as: Damage to corporate reputation: As the understanding and awareness of the damages posed by climate changes increases and develops, failure to observe and account for the impact of climate change on social and environmental resources is progressively likely to damage companys status and reputation. Increasing pressure on water resources: There are growing concerns regarding changes in rainfall patterns. This has led to water shortages, poor water quality and drought and flooding has significantly increased the demand for water. For companies that rely heavily on water, increase competition for available resources could create operational problems for companies. Drop in value of financial assets: In order to meet the economy increasing demand for energy, oil and gas companies need to secure further investment for exploration, production, and manufacturing. Shareholders are placing more and more importance on the business impacts of the change, as risk impact cost and revenue drivers. It is probable that insurance cost could rise due to greater chance of physical plant damage because of weather events. Dealing with such risk is not as easy as it may sound, some companies profit may decline due to the necessary changes in order to combat climate change. It will take a collective effort as well as individual effort for the industry to maintain its status as one of Britains strongest industry. RATIONALE FOR COMPANY CHOICES The diagram below shows that the companies are similar in size, employees employed and turnover. This makes is easier for comparability purposes in finding out how each company are performing. In addition all companies chosen are in the FTSE 350. JKX Oil and Gas JKX Oil and Gas plc principle activity is developing and producing oil and gas reserve, which is conducted through there subsidiary undertakings. JKX main principle interests are located in Ukraine and in Russia, with further interest in Georgia, Bulgaria and United States. As of December 31, 2008, the Company drilled two exploration wells. As of December 31, 2008, the Company acquired 25% interest in the Svidnik, Medzilaborce and Snina from Aurelian Oil Gas plc. Cairn Energy Cairn energy Company is an independent public oil and gas exploration and production company. Together with its subsidiaries, the company engages development and the production of oil and gas largely in countries such Bangladesh, India, and Nepal. The company also operates in Tunisia, Australia, Spain and Papua New Guinea. The companys headquarter is based in the United Kingdom at Edinburgh Tullow Oil Plc Tullow Oil plc operates as an independent oil and gas exploration company. The company has over 100 licences in more than 20 countries. The group accomplished a 77% exploration success rate with 17 out of 22 successful wells in 2008. Currently in 2009, Tullow has drilled 12 successful wells out of a total of 14. FINANCIAL RATIOS Financial ratios are calculated to provide a quick and relatively easy means of measuring the financial wellbeing of a business. Ratios assist to highlight the financial strength and weakness of a business. PEST ANALYSIS In order to understand factors that affect the industry, the PEST analysis could offer some help. PEST analysis helps is the analysis of external factors which are beyond the control of the companies and these factors sometimes could be a potential treat. Moreover these factors can lead to new opportunities being created for companies to explore. Political Factor Political decisions made by the government will definitely affect the oil and gas industry in one shape or another (more (directly or indirectly)). One of the main political talking points is the effect the industry has on climate change. According to Chapman (2009), companies do not really recognize the effect the industry and company has on climate change. Steps have and are been taking to ensure that companies recognize changes in climate. The U.K government not long ago, update the Petroleum Act, tightening the law on decommissioning, making it adamant and compulsory that companies take into account the impact of climate change. The government realizes that actions and policies are needed in order for the industry to continuing providing energy for the economy while the industry reduces the amount of emission they produce and also providing new powerful energy option. In 2000, the royal commission proposed that U.K would need to reduce it emission of CO2 by 2050 and if possible t o reduce it by 80% by 2100. This was an international agreement proposed in other to prevent concentration of carbon dioxide from rising above 550 parts per million in volume. At 2000 it stood at 380 and rising, moreover in it would be safe to assume that it has risen significantly. The political factor takes into consideration political stability, pricing regulations, industrial safety regulations, tax rates and incentives and many more. An effective way in which government believe would encourage the industry to limit the amount of pollution they create is the carbon tax charge. The purpose of this is to lower greenhouse gas emission produced by the industry. Similar to this charge is the climate change levy (referred to as tax on energy). This was put in place on the 1st of April 2001. The importance of the tax is to encourage change in the industry. This has persuaded the industry to start looking new renewable energy source or risk having to pay additional cost of the levy on their energy bill. The levy applies to electricity, oil and gas industry, if a company produces the energy the use from renewable energy source they will be exempt from this levy. Furthermore companies that agree to the governments emission target will be given an 80% discount. Economical Factors The economical factor takes in consideration of such issues as exchange rates, economic growth rate, unemployment rate, inflation rate and price in oil and gas. The Oil and Gas industry is one that holds a stronghold in the world and the U.K economy and it provided 450,000 jobs in UK in 2009. It diagram below an increase in employment from 2007 and to 2008. Unfortunately the increase from 2008 to 2009 could not be shown has it had not been inputted. But from the diagram, it shows signs of improvement since 2004 to 2008. The economy in U.K receives a massive boost when there are increase of activity drill in respect to Oil and Gas. As by (========) Oil and gas production contributes massively to the government through tax revenues with a report  £271 billion being paid over the last 40 years (2008 money). Unfortunately high price for oil in the modern day is major problem for economies around the world (both rich and poor). The reality is that in many countries including UK, oil is becoming unaffordable for more and more people. In the fiscal last year (2008-2009)  £12.9 billion was contributed by the industry in terms of tax revenue, this was likely due to high oil and gas prices. If oil and gas price continue to increase this could change the balance of trade between countries and exchange rate. This increase would cause a decline in the balance payment of net oil-importing countries thereby putting downward pressure on exchange rate therefore import become more expensive and export less valuab le which leads to a drop in national income. Social Factors There different social factor affect the industry such as customer buying patterns, ethical issues and the environment. Due to very nature of the industry, the environment in real danger from drilling and transportation process. The chemical used in drilling can be harmful to the environment. The burning of oil as fuel creates destruction, whereby it contributes to such problems as global warming and acid rain. In addition, forest are now at major risk as there are increase pressure applied by the oil and gas industry leaders pushing for new drilling in sensitive and regions which were once protected Two main factors affect the industry are major event and consumer attitudes and opinion. Consumer attitude and opinion are changing in the modern day environment. More and more people are moving to solar energies instead of using fuel or gas, this is called the GREEN CULTURE. There are more concern for the environment now than ever, prompting the search for alternatives. The government intend to have in place coal and gas fired and nuclear power in place by mid 2020 as alternatives. Furthermore, employees health and safety is another political talking point. Due to the volatile conditions in which employees have to work in and also sub standard physical asset could potential have a negative impact on the health and safety of the employees which would therefore compromise the employer and public liability insurance cover. Technological Factor Technologies are essential to oil and gas industry, due to the harsh and demanding environment we currently live in; the industry leads in technological innovation in order to overcome challenges of recovering oil and gas from difficult reservoirs and deeper waters. For the industry, the need of need technology is need in order to discover new ways of reducing production cost, improving performance and making marginal fields economic to develop. The effort put in by the industry to develop new technologies for locating and producing oil and gas has led to various inventions and technical advances that have been used elsewhere. An area in which the government and the industry highlight as potential growth area is in the field of Carbon Capture and Storage. European Union alongside with other countries has recognised this potential and legislation have been put in place and funding made available in order to finance demonstration plant in Britain and other countries. The industrys knowledge of undersea geology, reservoir management and pipeline transport will undoubtedly play an important role in making this fledgling technology work effectively Advantages of PEST Easy to do The analysis provides a deeper understanding of the wider business environment in which they operate. Provides an understanding of the wider business environment. Raises potential threats to a project Through this analysis organisation can foresee future difficulties and take a course of action in order to minimise their effect It could help a company realise opportunities and utilise them Disadvantages of PEST Could take considerable time to do Variable pace of change could make it difficult to predict development which may affect a company in the future The analysis might be based on unfounded hypothesis

Soliloquies Essay - A Powerful Soliloquy in Macbeth -- Macbeth essays

A Powerful Soliloquy in Macbeth The play ‘Macbeth’ uses soliloquies with great effect to express the thoughts of individual characters, particularly in the case of the protagonist, Macbeth. In Act V Scene V, strong words from Macbeth convey to the reader two themes of the play.   This soliloquy demonstrates the play's use of irony and the use of the disparity between the great opposition of light and darkness as symbols for both life and death.   This soliloquy is quite significant to the play as a whole since it demonstrates two very important themes as well as leading to a better understanding of Macbeth. Macbeth is talking to an officer, when hearing of his wife's demise his mood suddenly deepens into that of emptiness.   He begins a soliloquy and states a number of ironic things.   He states that life drags on, that it "creeps in this petty pace" when in reality the speed of his actions and the development of the play's plot are taking place at a great speed.   Furthermore he goes on to describe life as a "brief candle," thus communicating that life’s opposite; death must therefore be an eternal darkness.   Throughout the play, the character Macbeth has longed for death, perhaps so that he can be unleashed from his worldly pain and guilt. He goes... ...arkness, pain, and insignificant. Works Cited and Consulted: Biggins, Dennis. "Light and Darkness in Macbeth." Shakespeare Studies VII (1975) Gilligan, Carol. Irony in Macbeth. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1982 Kinney, Arthur F. ed. William Shakpespeare: the Tragedies. Boston: Hall and Company, 1985. Noble, Adrian. "At age 436, His Future is Unlimited." New York Times 23 Apr. 2000, late ed., sec. 2:5. Shakespeare, William. The Tragedy of Macbeth. Elements of Literature. Sixth ed. Austin: Holt, Rinehart and Winston, 1997. "William Shakespeare." BBC Homepage. Online. Available . 26 Mar. 2004.