Correlation between Multiple Pregnancies and Postpartum Depression/Psychosis

Table of Contents Introduction Postpartum Depression Risk factors for PPD Conclusion Works Cited Introduction Currently, there is an ever increasing incidence of multiple births especially in the developed nations and this is mainly attributed to increase in assisted reproductive technologies. Such multiple pregnancies have well known risks on the infants as well as risks on the mother, more so related to premature births. Although there is a broad understanding of the risks that present with multiple births, there is paucity of knowledge on how multiple births are related to the well-being of the mother, particularly her mental wellbeing.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Correlation between Multiple Pregnancies and Postpartum Depression/Psychosis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More There is need to examine the mental well-being of mothers with multiple birth since such parents are exposed to various ris ks which exacerbate the likelihood of developing postpartum depression (PPD). Such risks include the stress of bearing and looking after multiple infants, the possibility of having high-risk pregnancy, social isolation, factors such as premature birth, cesarean delivery as well as risks related to assisted reproduction techniques. It is for these reasons that this paper examines the available knowledge on possible association between multiple pregnancies and postpartum depression as well as postpartum psychosis. In recognition of the paucity of information on the relationship between multiple pregnancies and postpartum depression, the paper reviews the likely relationship by understanding the two variables, multiple pregnancies and postpartum depression, in terms of their characteristics. Possible correlations are then suggested relating the adverse effects of multiple pregnancies and the possible links with various causes of postpartum depression. This paper therefore starts with d efining postpartum depression, characteristic symptoms of the condition and the various possible causes which are then related with characteristics and circumstances surrounding multiple pregnancies. Postpartum Depression Postpartum depression is a depression condition that is experienced by women within a month to a period of three months postpartum. It is therefore evident that postpartum depression differs from other forms of depression generally due to the time when the depression occurs. Postpartum depression is usually misdiagnosed with other mental disorders such as peuperal psychosis as well as normal mental and behavioral changes that may occur after birth. Differential diagnosis for PPD should therefore include baby blues, bipolar disorder as well as postnatal psychosis. The main characteristics of PPD include lowered self confidence, increased fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbance, panic, alcohol abuse and anxiety among others (Blicksten and Keith, p. 740). The likelih ood of developing postpartum depression is higher in women who have had postpartum blues with the prevalence of postpartum depression standing at about 6 percent. The prevalence of PPD is reported to be between 10 and 15 percent in Western nations (Oppo et al, p. 239) with either major or minor depression within one year postpartum being between 6.5 and 12.9 percent.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is important to note that postpartum depression mainly occurs one to three months postpartum and an individual with a history of depression is at even a higher risk of developing postpartum depression. Some other risk factors that elevate the probability of getting PPD include deprived social support, failure to breastfeed, and previous pregnancy loss among others. Postpartum depression is mainly characterized by symptoms such as reduced sexual drive, lack of good sleep, feelin gs of guilt, and poor mother-child bond (Feldman Christensen, p. 115). Differentiating postpartum depression from postpartum psychosis is an important thing while discussing the relationship between multiple pregnancies and PPD. Postpartum psychosis presents in form of serious depressed moods, hallucinations, disorganized thought system as well as psychotic thoughts and it usually starts close to delivery (O’hara, p. 1259). Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric disorder which is associated with postpartum depression at its severe stages. It is common with women who have ever had other forms of mental illnesses and thus women who have had multiple births and had postpartum depression have a high likelihood of developing postpartum psychosis. Risk factors for PPD According to Oppo et al (p. 40), the most common risk factors for postpartum depression include presence of anxious thoughts during pregnancy, severe life stressors, and inadequate or absence of social support. The con tribution of obstetric factors is significant but the effect size is small. From the association of the above factors and PPD, it is possible to hypothesize that any eventuality that introduces or exacerbates any of the risk factors among mothers of multiple births would lead to PPD. The relationship between multiple pregnancies and postpartum depression can therefore be deduced from the risk factors since most women with multiple pregnancies become more vulnerable to the risk factors. Blicksten and Keith (p. 741) indicate that there is an increased incidence of psychiatric disorders among women who have had multiple births and that such disorders mainly occurr during postpartum period. Mothers of twins are particularly vulnerable to psychological disorders – postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis – during the first three months postpartum.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Correlation between Multiple Pregnancies and Postpartum De pression/Psychosis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More According to Cassels and Barclay (para 2), there is a noted increase in the risk of postpartum depression among mothers with multiple births. It is specifically identified that the risk of getting postpartum depression increased by 43 percent if a woman had more than one birth compared to women who had only one birth. Cassels and Barclay (para 1) further report that a study conducted using data from the ECLSBC (Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Birth Control Cohort) for children born in 2001 indicated an adjusted ratio of 1.43 in development of severe postpartum depression among mother with multiple birth relative to mothers of singletons. On trying to identify the reason behind women with multiple births having a higher record of postpartum depression, it is identified that having multiple births is mainly considered as a highly stressful life event in most cases. This is because p arenting multiple births presents with unique demands which leave the mother stressed, exhausted and in most cases socially isolated thus predisposing her to postpartum depression/psychosis. Blackstein and Keith (p. 725) indicate that mothers of multiples go through a hard time during breastfeeding and not many of them are able to handle exclusive breastfeeding which is usually emphasized during the first six months of the infant’s life. In specific, these authors report that the process of breastfeeding multiple infants calls for most women to stay awake as breastfeeding two infants during their first three months takes at least 45 minutes and this is done after every 3 to 4 hours. This leaves the mother stressed and predisposes her to mental illness and particularly postpartum depression. Blickstein and Keith (p. 729) emphasize that breastfeeding multiples calls for the mother to meet specific nutritional needs to ensure that there is enough volume and nutritional requireme nts in the milk and this, coupled with lack of sleep, presents as a stressful situation. Issues of time management and hardships in the mode (including positions) of breastfeeding multiples may be a tough experience, especially for inexperienced mothers, that may subject the woman into stress. It is this and other forms of stress that spill over to the development of postpartum depression. It should be noted that multiple pregnancies are characterized by delivery via caesarian section in most cases and this may have deleterious effects on the mother’s health, more so the pain and discomfort that may occur during breastfeeding. Premature births are also common in multiple births with Keirse, Hanssens and Devlieger (p. 523) indicating that rates of preterm births in multiple pregnancies range from 44.2 percent to 68.4 percent in Europe.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This high rate of preterm births in multiple pregnancies implies that the mother undergoes through a stressful moment which requires a lot of support for successful progression from this stage. Lack of social support and the whole experience of delivering preterm infants are enough stressors to subject the mother into the path of postpartum depression. As noted earlier, taking care of multiple births is a tasking and stressing situation that places a woman at the risk of developing postpartum depression. The mother is likely to start feeling guilty when she thinks her ability to take care of the multiples and any other child that they may be having. It often becomes hard for the mother to give attention to all the children and makes the woman worried and guilty thus paving way for PPD. Another challenge that may make the mother of multiple pregnancies become more anxious and depressed is the high likelihood of requiring intensive care for multiple infants who are born prematurely. A ccording to Spath (p 242), the likelihood of requiring intensive care among multiple premature twins is 16 times higher than in singletons. Moreover, the infants have an elevated risk of up to 10 times of developing celebral palsy. Chances of the multiples dying are also high (3 – 4 times higher than in singletons). Such circumstances predispose the mother to anxiety, which may further be increased by existence of financial constraints of dealing with the circumstances. Overall, the mother of multiple births becomes more prone to postpartum depression. The fact that premature babies have to be under neonatal care, thus away from the mother may create anxiety in the mother or even make her depressed and eventually welcome postpartum depression. The vulnerability of multiple pregnancy mothers to postpartum depression is elevated by the fact that most multiple pregnancies result from an already stressful procedure, in vitro fertilization. The stress associated with assisted repr oduction and even the circumstances that lead a woman to seek assisted reproduction are enough to cause stress which later presents as PPD. Postpartum depression is even likely to be more probable after a woman bears multiple infants compared to bearing single infants severally. This is because handling multiple infants is obviously more tasking than handling a single infant. The presence of postpartum depression has also been said to be about five times common among multiple infants mothers compared to mothers with singletons thus making one conclude that the likelihood of having PPD among mothers of multiples is higher than among mothers of singletons. The reporting that up to 76 percent of mothers of twins experience constant exhaustion relative to only 8 percent of mothers to singletons is a good indicator that multiple pregnancies are more prone to PPD (Haddon, para 2). Assisted reproductive technologies play a great role in the incidence of multiple births as reported by Barke hall-Thomas, Woodward and Wallace (p. 222). In a study conducted by the authors in Australia on the outcomes of triplet births, it was found that up to 59 percent of the triplets were due to assisted reproductive technologies. The incidence of preterm births was found to be high with the median gestation period being 32.5 weeks with a significant 43 percent of the infants being born prior to 32 weeks of gestation. Other than the high prevalence of preterm births in multiple pregnancies, several complications that have the capacity to cause depression in mothers were identified. For instance it was noted that cases of preterm labor as well as rapture of membrane before term were reported. Moreover, almost all the women (93%) gave birth through caesarean section with some suffering complications during the procedure. From this study, it is evident that multiple pregnancies are accompanied by a myriad of problems and circumstances that predispose the mother to the risk of developing po stpartum depression. There is also a high prevalence of prenatal complications that accompany multiple pregnancies and these can have an effect on the development of postpartum depression. Some of these complications include antepartum hemorrhage, cervical incompetence and pre-eclampsia (Barkehall-Thomas, Woodward Wallace, p. 224). Elsewhere, it is reported that mothers of multiple pregnancy often experience hypertension as a main complication. It is important to note that hypertension is also related to stress and therefore it is possible that multiple pregnancies are related to postpartum depression by way of increased incidences of hypertension. The combination of these complications cannot be underestimated in the development of postpartum depression since they are events that leave the mother anxious or stressed (Rosello-Soberon, Fuentes-Chaparro Casanueva, p. 297). Conclusion Postpartum depression is a well acknowledged mental condition among women and it occurs within one m onth to three months after delivery. On the other hand, multiple pregnancies have been on the rise more so with the advancement and penetration of assisted reproduction technologies. A well understood phenomenon associated with multiple pregnancies is the occurrence of several complications among them being preterm birth. Despite this knowledge, the above review of literature identifies that there is paucity of information and research focusing on the relationship between postpartum depression and multiple pregnancy. It is however notable that the available information indicates that postpartum depression cases are higher among mothers of multiple infants compared to mothers of singletons. In addition, it is also evident from this review that there are several factors related to the observation that postpartum depression is more common among mothers of multiple pregnancies. The circumstances surrounding multiple pregnancies and multiple births are found to be sufficient enough to ca use stress and anxiety among multiple pregnancy mothers. As such, these stressful and anxious events give way to the development of postpartum depression. Among the main stressful conditions that have been identified in this research include problems associated with assisted reproduction (such as preterm births, caesarean section and other health conditions), the stress of taking care of the multiple infants more so in breastfeeding the baby, the trauma of caesarian section and possible complications as well as lack of social support. Despite a relationship being identified that postpartum depression is related to multiple pregnancies, the direction of causality as well as the explanations on how the two happen has not been thoroughly explained in literature. It is therefore pertinent that more research is conducted on this topic to shed more light on this relationship and eliminate dependence on speculations. It is however notable that the identification that multiple pregnancies a re related to more instances of postpartum depression can be useful in heightening assessment for PPD among this group of women. This would help in early diagnosis and treatment of PPD before these women are overwhelmed by the condition. Works Cited Barkehall-Thomas Andrea, Woodward, Louise and Wallace Euan M. Maternal and neonatal outcomes in 54 triplet pregnancies managed in an Australian tertiary centre. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 44; (2004): 222–227. Blickstein, Isaac and Keith Louis G. Multiple pregnancy: epidemiology, gestation perinatal outcome. Second edition. Boca Raton, FL: Taylor Francis, 2006. Cassels Caroline and Barclay Laurie. Multiple birth increases postpartum depression risk. 2009. Mediscape Medical News. Retrieved from https://www.medscape.com/ Feldman, Mitchell D. and Christensen John F. Behavioral medicine: a guide for clinical practice. Third edition. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Professional, 2007. Haddon, Lynda P. Postpartum depression and mothers of multiples. N.d. Multiple Births: Prenatal Education. Web. O’hara, Michael W. Postpartum depression: What we know. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 65.12; (2009): 1258–1269. DOI: 10.1002/jclp.20644 Oppo, A., Mauri, M., Ramacciotti, D., Camilleri, V. and Banti, S. et al. Risk factors for postpartum depression: the role of the Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory-Revised (PDPI-R). Arch Womens Mental Health 12; (2009):239–249 DOI 10.1007/s00737-009-0071-8 Rosello-Soberon, Maria E., Fuentes-Chaparro Laiza and Casanueva Eshter. Twin pregnancies: Eating for three? Maternal nutrition update. Nutrition Reviews, 63. 9; (2005): 295–302. Spath, Dona Berarelli. The problem of multiple pregnancies. Reproductive Biomedicine Online, 41.2; 2007:242-245. This research paper on Correlation between Multiple Pregnancies and Postpartum Depression/Psychosis was written and submitted by user Shannon A. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. 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Why Many Americans Fail to Vote in Elections

Why Many Americans Fail to Vote in Elections Why dont more people  vote? Lets ask them. The California Voter Foundation (CVF) has released the results of a statewide survey on the attitudes of infrequent voters and citizens eligible to vote but not registered. The first-of-its-kind survey sheds new light on the incentives and barriers to voting, along with the sources of information that influence people when they do vote. Voter turnout is the percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot in an election. Since the 1980s voter turnout has been decreasing steadily in the United States, as well as most other democratic countries worldwide. Political scientists generally attribute falling voter turnout to a combination of disillusionment, indifference, or a sense of futility – the feeling that an individual’s vote will not make a difference.   â€Å"For election officials and others working to maximize voter participation, these survey results provide clear direction on the messages most likely to get infrequent voters to participate in the upcoming election, and on the messages that will motivate more nonvoters to register,† stated the CVF, noting that there are 6.4 million Californians who are eligible but unregistered to vote. It Just Takes Too Long â€Å"Too long† is in the eye of the  waiter. Some people will stand in line for two days to buy the latest, greatest cell phone or concert tickets. But many of the same people will not wait 10 minutes to exercise their right to choose their government leaders. Besides, a 2014 GAO report suggests it doesn’t really take â€Å"too long† to vote. Just Too Busy The survey found that 28% of infrequent voters and 23% of those unregistered said they do not vote or do not register to vote because they are too busy. â€Å"This tells us that many Californians may benefit from more information about the time-saving advantages of early voting and voting by absentee ballot,† the CVF  said. Voter registration forms are available in post offices, libraries and the  Department of Motor Vehicle  offices in most states. The CVF said the survey’s findings might also benefit those campaigns trying to reach infrequent and new voters in advance of the election. The perception that politicians are controlled by special interests is widely shared among two-thirds of the survey’s respondents and represents a significant barrier to voter participation. A feeling that candidates don’t really speak to them was cited as the second leading reason why infrequent voters and nonvoters do not vote. Even Non-Voters Say Voting is Important Still, 93% of infrequent voters agreed that voting is an important part of being a good citizen and 81% of nonvoters agreed it is an important way to voice their opinions on issues that affect their families and communities. â€Å"Civic duty and self-expression provide strong incentives to get potential voters to the polls, despite pervasive cynicism about the influence of special interests,† said the organization. Family and Friends Encourage Others to Vote The survey found that family and friends influence how infrequent voters decide to vote as much as daily newspapers and TV news. Among infrequent voters, 65 percent said conversations with their families and local newspapers were influential sources of information when it comes to making voting decisions. Network TV news rated as influential among 64%, followed by cable TV news at 60%, and conversations with friends at 59%. For more than half of the infrequent voters surveyed, phone calls and door-to-door contact by political campaigns are not influential sources of information when deciding how to vote. The survey also found that family upbringing plays a strong role in determining voting habits as adults. 51% of nonvoters surveyed said they grew up in families that did not often discuss political issues and candidates. Who are the Non-Voters? The survey found that nonvoters are disproportionately young, single, less educated and more likely to be of an ethnic minority than infrequent and frequent voters. 40% of nonvoters are under 30 years old, compared to 29% of infrequent voters and 14% of frequent voters. Infrequent voters are much more likely to be married than nonvoters, with 50% of infrequent voters married compared to only 34% of nonvoters. 76% of nonvoters have less than a college degree, compared to 61% of infrequent voters and 50% of frequent voters. Among nonvoters, 54% are white or Caucasian compared to 60% of infrequent voters and 70% of frequent voters. Voter Turnout in 2018 Soared   On a positive note, voter turnout in November 2018 reached the highest level of any midterm election in over a century. According to the non-partisan, non-profit United States Elections Project, 49.3% of all eligible voters cast more than 116 million ballots nationwide. It was the best turnout since 1914 when 50.4% voted and surpassed the previous high turnout of 48.7% in 1966.   Better yet, 2018 reversed a troubling downward turnout trend. Turnout in the 2010 midterms was 41.8% before dropping to a miserable 36.7% in 2014- the lowest since 1942.   Of course, voter turnout in midterm elections will always lag far behind that of presidential election years. For example, in 2012, when President Obama was elected to his second term, the turnout was 58.6%. Turnout then jumped to 60.1% in 2016, when Republican Donald Trump defied the polls to be elected president over Democrat Hillary Clinton after an especially contentious campaign.

Abercrombie and Fitch report Essay Example for Free

Abercrombie and Fitch report Essay ? Abercrombie & Fitch was established in 1892, and originally was a retailer of outdoor and sporting goods. In 1976, it went bankrupted and was acquired by Limited Brands in 1988. Michael Jeffries was nominated to become CEO in 1992, and he dramatically improved the status of A&F to be a global fashion retailer. Now the symbol of American style and beloved brand by many customers worldwide, Abercrombie and Fitch produces mainly apparel, fragrance and lifestyle goods targeting at consumers aged from 18 to 25. There are 4 sub-brands in A&F which are Abercrombie and Fitch, Abercrombie Kids, Hollister and Gilly Hicks. Each sub-brand has its own characteristics and its positioning in the fashion market is slightly different. Abercrombie & Fitch is rooted in East Coast traditions and Ivy League heritage, it is the essence of privilege and casual luxury (Abercrombie and Fitch Co. 2012, P. 3). Abercrombie Kids is for the kids who want to be like their older brothers or sisters and the core concept of it is casual and preppy looks. Hollister’s heritage stems from Southern California and was designed to represent cool beach style. Gilly Hicks is the newest and smallest brand in A&F made only for the girls’ clothes or underwear. With the opening of a flagship store in Canada in 2005, A&F started to enter the global market. Now it has 139 stores outside of the US, and it recently opened stores in Seoul, South Korea and in Shanghai, China to expand into the Asian market. We chose Abercrombie and Fitch since we would like to see how successful this multinational apparel company can be by insisting its All-American style in different cultures. We wanted to explore its unique retail strategy and brand positioning as this brand is sought after a lot of young adult. Several controversial issues of A&F were the deciding factor in our choice of company. Work Oriented Culture Of all the methods which exist for explaining cultural differences, â€Å"the dimensional approach is more influential† (Peng & Meyer, 2011). Geert  Hostede, a Dutch professor, established the overarching theory consisting of five cultural dimensions. The first is power distance which outlines the expectation and acceptance of the unequal distribution of power by the less powerful members of a country (Peng & Meyer, 2011). Individualism vs. collectivism is the cultural dimension characterized by whether the  citizens view themselves as distinctly different or dependent upon group involvement. The third cultural dimension is masculinity vs. femininity which refers to the values, traditional male or female, which are held in the highest regard. Determining the extent to which an individual will embrace uncertain circumstances is the uncertainty avoidance dimension. Finally, long-term orientation deals with the emphasis the citizens place upon â€Å"perseverance and savings for future betterment† (Peng & Meyer, 2011). The US is the home country of Abercrombie and Fitch. Scoring a 40 caused the US to be in the lower half of the countries for power distance. Hierarchy is â€Å"established for convenience† (Geert-hofstede.com, 2014) as superiors are easily accessible and communicate informally. Information is free flowing as managers take input form their subordinates. The US received the highest individuality score of 91. Citizens are considered â€Å"the best joiners in the world† (Geert-hofstede.com, 2014). It is not extreme for Americans to work with people with whom they are not familiar as deep friendships are not commonly formed. What an individual is capable of doing or has already done will determine their value of being  hired or promoted. Ranking 15th on the masculinity scale with a score of 62 indicates a masculine nation. US firms create a culture of â€Å"live to work† (Geert-hofstede.com, 2014) where higher status and financial rewards are key driving factors. Leaders which are forceful and decisive are highly valu ed. Employees who are less visible and indecisive are not able to attain success With a score of 46, the US is shown to have a below average uncertainty avoidance. Innovation is extremely valued as new ideas are quickly accepted. As compared to firms in higher uncertainty avoidance countries, US firms will quickly go after new, emerging, and risky opportunities. The US is seventh from the bottom of the list for long-term orientation with a score of 29. While future planning is involved in US firms’ decision making process, quarterly reports are incredibly significant and limit the time firms can look ahead. Employees’ savings rates in countries such as the US are much lower than those in long-term oriented nations. Home Region Oriented Firm Rugman and Verbeke in 2004 established a triad of economic power consisting of Asia, the EU, and North America. Analysis of 380 firms determined how many were home-region oriented, bi-regional, host-region oriented, or global (Rugman & Verbeke, 2004). A home-region oriented firm has â€Å"at least 50% of their sales in their home region of the triad† (Rugman & Verbeke, 2004). To be a bi-regional company, at least 20% of all sales must take place in two regions, but the company cannot have more than 50% in the region where the company is based. If a firm has more than 50% of its sales in a region different than its home region then the firm is considered host region oriented. In order to be global, a firm must have â€Å"at least 20% of their sales in all three regions of the triad, but less than 50% in any one region† (Rugman & Verbeke, 2004). A&F is considered a home region oriented company based upon the released date from 2013. Of the $4,116.9 million in sales, 64.59% or $2,659.09 million is generated in the home region, North America. $1,116.78 million or 27.13% of all their sales take place in the EU region. Asia is far behind as the remaining 8.28% of sales, 341.03 thousand dollars, is dispersed across the  rest of the world. No calculations were needed as the sales figures and percentages were given. (Csimarket.com, 2014). The industry for which A&F operates can explain their sales distribution. As the company is in the fashion and retail industry, its’ sales are incredibly dependent upon the affinity of the customers for specific brands and styles. Since the company is based in North America, the firm is much more familiar with the prevalent style which would need to be present to increase sales. A&F also established itself in their home country before expanding. These factors could explain the firmâ€℠¢s international orientation. Ownership Advantages First, one downstream ownership advantage of A&F is the possession of a specific brand image which is not easily imitable. The firm operates under different brands – Abercrombie & Fitch, Abercrombie Kids, Hollister, and Gill Hicks – for slightly different targets. Each sub-brand represents a different brand image but they eventually add up to one big image, â€Å"American Cool†. To the fashion retailers, the most important ownership advantage is their own irreplaceable brand image. In this context, A&F has its distinct position in the fashion market and is using their brand image successfully to attract the customers (Abercrombie & Fitch Co. 2012, P. 3). Second, the other ownership advantage of A&F is its’ in-store experience. A&F stimulates the customers’ senses of sight, sound, smell, and touch by utilizing handsome male models, music, fragrances, rich fabrics and interior design. Customers (mainly females) can get a chance to take a photo with the models, and this became a representative in-store experience of A&F. In addition to this, A&F uses certain perfume to attract customers and to make them remember A&F for a longer time than just seeing, which is called â€Å"scent marketing†. Also, the stores always play the video of the American beach to emphasize its â€Å"cool† brand image. A&F only sets up the flagship stores and controls them through the managers who are trained in the US and sent to the international flagship stores to monitor the whole operation. This system makes it possible to transfer this in-store experience to the newly established flagship stores very well. Therefore, all A&F stores, even those  overseas, are committing the standardized in-store experience by offering customers the same experience (Abercrombie and Fitch Co. 2012, p. 4). Uppsala Model & Network Internationalization Model – Differences â€Å"The Uppsala model views that market knowledge is gained only by operating directly in a market; thus the model focuses on experimental knowledge† (Childs & Jin 2013, p. 38). According to the Uppsala model, will increase their market commitment gradually based upon their experience in the market and based on the knowledge they gain in the market. On the other hand, according to the Network internationalization model, firms can start their internationalization before they enter the market by settling network relationship in advance. Therefore, firms do not have to follow the stages of the Uppsala model but â€Å"building a number of such relationships constitutes a large and important investment, and once established, a nd organizational or ownership advantage† (Vahlne & Johanson 2013, p. 195). Uppsala Model & Network Internationalization Model – Similarities Both models consider the network as important knowledge that firms should gain. The network facilitates information and experience by building up the trust in a relationship and also by learning from other market players. Within the Uppsala model, the core concept of the gradual extension of a company’s internationalization into a market, which gains the company valuable experience, should be based on the interplay with customers, suppliers, and other competitors. As the company’s network broadens, it can get more knowledge and at the same time its degree of internationalization will become higher. In this context, we can find similarity between the two models. International Trajectory In 2005, A&F first opened its’ flagship store in Canada. Starting from this, A&F entered the European market with opening flagship stores in major cities of the European countries, such as London, Milan, Paris, and Amsterdam. On December 15, 2009, A&F opened its first Asian flagship store in Tokyo as a starting point to enter the Asian market. Currently, A&F owns 19 flagship stores in Canada, 110 in Europe, and 11 in Asia. Among those stores, 39 are sales subsidiaries. In Canada, the Netherlands, and Hong Kong, A&F has wholly-owned subsidiaries because there are DCs in those countries, meaning that they are the most important countries in each continent (Abercrombie &  Fitch Co. 2012, PP. 19, 101102). Firms who have a strong brand image and possess asset specificity (a unique product or a unique way of doing business) are more likely to internationalize quickly (Childs & Jin, 2013). A&F is a good example of this case, so it could skip the lower stages of the Uppsala model, s uch as sporadic exports or exports through sales agents, and could set up the subsidiaries directly overseas, which only takes 7-9  years. Consequently, now we can assume that the company is already in a quite higher stage of the Uppsala-based stages model with its sales subsidiaries and wholly-owned subsidiaries. Degree and Nature of International Sourcing Abercrombie and Fitch does not own factories producing the products and it has not sourced more than 10% of its merchandise from any single member of its approximately 155 vendors in 20 countries, including the United States, China, Vietnam and Guatemala (Abercrombie & Fitch Co. 2012, p. 4). In particular, more than 90% of its suppliers are in Asia (Google.com, 2011). The company has established supplier product quality standards to ensure the high quality of fabrics and other materials used in the company’s products (Abercrombie & Fitch Co. 2012, p. 5). Abercrombie and Fitch has two distribution centers (â€Å"DCs†) in New Albany, Ohio. The two DCs were initially responsible for the distribution of merchandise to the stores and direct-toconsumer customers, both regionally and internationally. Since 2009, A&F has offshored its DCs by using a third-party DC (TNT Fashion) in Roosendaal, the Netherlands for the distribution of merchandise to stores and direct-to-consumer c ustomers located in Europe and a third-party DC in Hong Kong since 2011 for the distribution of merchandise to stores located in Asia. Its two DCs in New Albany, Ohio currently only support its North American stores, and direct-to-consumer customers outside of Europe (Abercrombie & Fitch Co. 2012, p. 5). The nature of offshoring the DCs is to broaden the direct-toconsumer business worldwide and facilitate the international expansion of Abercrombie and Fitch stores in Europe and Asia. Furthermore, Abercrombie and Fitch has a strong, cooperative and long-term relationship with its vendor factories. When the CEO Mike Jeffries was asked about the cost pressures from raw materials and labor costs, he emphasized  that a strong relationship with vendors has been key since they had assisted A&F and been fair in terms of cotton prices and other increases. He also added that A&F and vendors have been there for each other for the long term (Barrie, 2010). Strategic Advantages and Drawbacks of International Sourcing and Offshoring The first advantage of international sourcing is that A&F can hedge against the supplier risks. Since A&F has relationships with over 100 vendors in 20 countries, it can flexibly switch from one source to another when necessary. A&F has the ability to increase its total supply capacity. Even if there are a sudden wave of demand for certain products, having a strong relationship with over 100 vendors will ensure A&F a certain supply of products and therefore the supply chain will be more stable (Inboundlogistics.com, 2011). However, such global sourcing strategy also brings some disadvantages. The source of production activity is too dispersed; it is a challenge to find qualified executives who know the local business environment and understand the corporation’s inner workings especially in the Asia Pacific region (Inboundlogistics.com, 2011). We would advise Abercrombie and Fitch to send executives from the US to those countries and hire local managers simultaneously to ensure the production activity smooth. The primary advantage of offshoring is to reduce costs. Offshoring its distribution centers in Europe and Asia can save distribution and transportation costs of merchandise to stores in Europe and Asia. However, if the third-party distribution center in the Netherlands or Hong Kong shuts down suddenly, the distribution of merchandise in Europe and Asia will be totally disrupted. Therefore, A&F should leverage the risk by running an additional distribution center in some low-cost countries, such as Vietnam. This move will also support A&F’s future expansion. Opportunities and Threats in Vietnam Opportunities Labor cost in Vietnam are absolutely lower than that of China (JETRO, 2011) (NWPC, 2014). See Appendix 1 for figure 1. Government policy to attract FDI (Kim, Lee & Cheong, 2011). See AppendixThreats 2.  TPP (Trans-Pacific Partnership) – Cost reduction, lead time reduction, and tax benefit. See Appendix 3 for table 1. Currently only 16% of A&F clothes are produced in Vietnam (Google.com, 2011). See Appendix 4 for figure 2. Vietnam has a better status for lead times, infrastructure, and working circumstances than other developing countries (Kim, Lee & Cheong, 2011). As A&F doesn’t operate their own manufacturing facilities but uses vendors, it can be intense competition among the companies who want to attract vendors in Vietnam. Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka which have lower labor cost than Vietnam are trying to develop their infrastructure and manufacturing conditions to attract vendors. In the future, those undeveloped countries can be a threat to the Vietnam market. Minimum wage in Vietnam is increasing by 15% in 2013, and 17% in 2014 (Vettoretti & Huyen, 2013). Suggestions for the Emerging Market We suggest establishing a distribution center (DC) in Vietnam as a strategy to create synergy with the new manufacturing facilities in Vietnam. Currently, many global fashion retailers are trying to generate vertical integration in the emerging markets because they can control the demand fluctuation easily and simplify procurement and administrative procedures eliminating the need to deal with a wide variety of suppliers and distributors. If TPP is concluded, the degree of tariffs will decrease, so it would be better to concentrate on upstream investment in Vietnam. Because emerging markets are not wellorganized and there is more lack of conditions than the developed market, owning a DC will be more stable and protective. Eventually, a DC in Vietnam will create good access to the Asian market. In  overseas developed markets, A&F doesn’t own the distribution centers but uses third-party DCs in the Netherlands and Hong Kong. However in Vietnam, we assume that A&F would set up a distribution center as a wholly-owned subsidiary. The third-party logistics in outsourcing the whole distribution to a specialized company would reduce the cost. Now A&F has only third-party DCs in overseas and there is a threat to be shut down. In order to prevent this situation in advance, owning at least one wholly-owned DC is practical. Because a wholly-owned DC totally controlled by the company, the company can adjust to the demand fluctuation better than a third-party DC. Therefore wholly-owned DC will function as a safety net in a case there is an uncontrollable problem in a third-party DC. Strategic Objectives of Entering China With regard to market seeking, â€Å"China will represent the biggest market potential for our brands,† said Craig Brommers, senior vice president of marketing for A&F (Fashionunited.com, 2014). Undoubtedly, China is a huge and growing market with a population of approximately 1.4 billion. Therefore, A&F has been trying to locate its potential customers by opening the first flagship store in Shanghai and 8 Hollister stores in different cities since 2012. The company plans to open over 100 new stores under its Hollister and A&F’s label in China over the next ten years (Fashionunited.com, 2014). With regard to efficiency seeking, there are an abundant suppliers and a low-cost labor force. Specifically, over 60% of its vendors were located in China in 2011 (Google.com, 2011). Also, there has been a distribution center in Hong Kong since 2011. Therefore, A&F can achieve lower transportation costs since the delivery is closer to its target markets. Past Foreign Entry Modes Abercrombie and Fitch started its international expansion in London by opening the first overseas flagship store in 2007, and it almost adopted a single foreign entry mode in the last 7 years. A&F established a wholly-owned subsidiary when entering a new market, such as the Netherlands, UK, Hong  Kong, Singapore and Japan. However, A&F opened its first Hollister store in Dubai in 2013 through a joint venture with Majid Al Futtaim Ventures and an A&F flagship store is expected to open in Dubai in 2014 the same way (Majid Al Futtaim Ventures, 2014). For Abercrombie and Fitch, establishing wholly-owned subsidiaries is a better entry mode for international expansion. A&F can enjoy full control of the international stores since it pursues an intensely American retail and marketing strategy (Marx, 2010). Therefore, establishing a wholly-owned subsidiary enables A&F to integrate the operation of its subsidiaries tightly with itself and to control what the subsidiary should follow. In addition, it takes a lot of efforts to establish an effective relationship in a joint venture and the cultures of the companies may be incompatible. Financially, The parent company can consolidate the results of its wholly-owned subsidiaries into one financial statement (Basu, 2014).Considering that A&F is opening more international stores worldwide, the financial reporting would be too complicated if it engages in joint ventures in many different countries. Multinational Strategy – Home Replication Stage The multinational strategy of Abercrombie and Fitch closely resembles the home replication strategy. There are several evidences from practice. First of all, the local responsiveness of A&F’s international stores is very low. The staff greets shoppers in English, rather than the local language of the foreign countries. This results in foreign customer alienation since some customers will be forced to surface their rusty English during the transaction (Marx, 2010). A&F replicates its home country-based competencies such as brand positioning. Sex appeal is a big part of the brand’s charm in the United States; A&F also puts this masculine ideal into practice of its international stores. Particularly, many of the male staff members are half-naked in the stores (Marx, 2010). Finally, the implementation of its marketing strategy and operation is easier. The store design and the interior are the same worldwide along with extremely dim lightings, a strong smell of cologne and p erfume and the staff singing or dancing with the  pounding American songs. ‘Real-life’ Social and Environmental Dilemmas A ‘real life’ social dilemma has adversely impacted A&F in recent years surrounding its CEO. The official website of the company states the company strives to be â€Å"an inclusive environment that values the differences of its associates and customers† (Anfcareers.com, 2014). While this is the official statement, an interview with the CEO, Mike Jeffries, brought a contrasting view to light. Jeffries identified his target market by claiming, â€Å"a lot of people don’t belong [in our clothes]†¦Are we exclusionary? Absolutely† (Walker, 2014). A&F has since released an apology, but boycotts, negative celebrity statements, and petitions were enacted. This issue is an ethical dilemma to the firm because of their strategic place in the clothing market. In order to stay popular, an essence of exclusivity has been built around the brand, since the more exclusive the brand appears, the more interest the brand receives. This has been A&F’s approac h, but this strategy is not inclusive. The firm had to determine whether to increase their size options or continue with the current productive model. The most important stakeholders for this dilemma are the CEO and those who hold a large portion of A&F’s stock. If A&F is not able to effectively remedy the situation then the company’s profits will continue to suffer. A&F is a public company so their performance directly affects their stock. If the dilemma is not resolved quickly, it could trigger a chain reaction of a loss in profits which leads to lower stock causing several holders of the stock to drop it effectively dropping the value of the stock. The effects of this dilemma could have extremely long lasting repercussions. An environmental issue which has become a dilemma for A&F is the implementation of harmful chemicals in their signature fragrances. Within the fragrance Fierce, â€Å"11 secret chemicals that are not listed on the label† (Henricks, Malkan, & Shils, 2014) were found that heighten allergic reactions. This particular fragrance caused reactions from various activist groups such as Physicians for Social Responsibility, MomsRising, and others which total over 1.5 million people (Henricks, Malkan, & Shils, 2014). Utilizing harmful chemicals is an ethical environmental dilemma for A&F  because the current formula has generated incredible revenue. The official website of the company addresses large environmental impact areas such as limiting their carbon emissions, but nothing addresses something  which impacts the environmental on this particular scale. If A&F is able to hide these chemicals and still gain their desired sales results then it has little motivation to stop acting in this manner. The most important stakeholders surrounding this dilemma are not only the executives and upper management of the company, but also the lowest store employees. A loss in serious sales will affect most employees in a company, but this situation would directly affect individual store employees.Customers may stay away from the stores in order to avoid the negative side effects resulting in a loss of profit and jobs for store employees. Developing a Globally Standardized Strategy Currently, Abercrombie and Fitch already has an established a globally standardized strategy to cope with the selected dilemmas. The strategy is laid out on a website by the company which was created specifically for displaying the considerate side of A&F. Covering everything from the sustainability to collaborations to specific policies, A&F clearly display their globally standardized strategy to â€Å"ensure that the highest values of human rights are being upheld at our headquarters, in our stores and within our supply chain† (anfcares.org, 2014). A&F should have a globally standardized strategy. Even if ethical imperialism is not wise, the specific industry operations call for a globalized solution. Several ethical viewpoints are almost universal for garment manufacturing. Several unethical decisions such as environmental negligence and the use of harmful chemicals have resulted in scandals and dilemmas because of the accessibility of information. For example, the infamous interview with the CEO was conducted years before it gained notoriety. By having a globally standardized strategy, A&F could mitigate potential situations before they arise. The selected dilemmas have global relevance. Inclusion, the principle dealt with in the social dilemma, is incredibly important to a multitude of  cultures across the world. A store in the Netherlands which openly admitted to not wanting homosexual customers would experience a similar backlash. The environment issues also reaches across borders. Asthma, one of the problems which are heightened by the fragrances, is prevalent in â€Å"an estimated 300 million people† (Aaaai.org, 2014). Abercrombie and Fitchs’ Actions Compared to Unilever The actual solutions by A&F are not similar to the solutions practiced by Unilever. Both A&F and Unilever have explicit codes of conduct and plans to deal with ethical dilemmas which arise. Even though these plans exist, A&F has demonstrated that its actions do not always align with their official stance. Unilever’s approach to social impact such as gender equality has been greatly documented, and one of their main goals by 2020 is to â€Å"help more than 1 billion people improve their health & well-being† (Vis, 2014). The implementation of this policy is seen as Unilever has helped generate around â€Å"65,000 microentrepreneurs† (Vis, 2014). A stark contrast exists between Unilever’s actions and those of A&F. Unlike Unilever, the ultimate actions of A&F and their refusal to stock larger size clothing proves the company is dedicated to portraying a positive image without actually helping to make a positive change in society. A&F’s actions toward their environmental impact align almost with their actions for social justice. Although its’ official stance is to reduce its environmental footprint, the company has taken no action in light of the protests by environmental groups driven â€Å"to get rid toxic chemicals from the environment† (Lutz, 2013) which are the result of their colognes. Unilever’s approach towards economic longevity has been greatly noted as â€Å"75% sites [send] zero waste to landfill† (Vis, 2014). Unilever’s approach is much more preferable to A&F’s approach. From a social standpoint, Unilever’s actions have actively made a beneficial social change as Unilever continues to fulfill their promises. A&F continues to ignore their customer’s plight even though the company claims to truly care. From a corporate standpoint, Unilever’s approach is better because many news outlets have cited the company as making a positive c hange, while A&F continues to have controversies resulting in a sales drop of 10%. Overall, Unilever has a much better strategy than A&F. Figure 1: Average Monthly Wage of Asian Countries (Nwpc.dole.gov.ph, 2014) Appendix 2 Improvement of the Vietnam Government Policy on FDI (Kim, Lee and Cheong, 2011) The Vietnam government policy for FDI was dramatically improved by registering into WTO (World Trade Organization) and preparing for PNTR (Permanent Normal Trade Relations). Besides, the government adopted global standards, abolished discrimination of foreigners, and opened the service part such as finance or communication. As a result, FDI into Vietnam broadened to various areas, for example, fabrics, mining, energy, finance, logistic and so on. Especially concluding PNTR between the US made it possible to participating into WTO and encouraged foreing investors to enter into the Vietnam market. Another important change in the policy is related to the modification of legal restrictions or rules. On 1st of July, 2006, the government changed the original law for FDI which had been adapted only to the local people into the newly modified law for FDI which is commonly adapted to the both parts of foreigners a nd local people. This was the effort of the government to create more competitive investment conditions which are changing subject of application, and abolishing double price and repatriation tax. Also the government has been modifying the original business law, investment law, land law, and corporate taxation. References 1) Aaaai.org 2014, Asthma Statistics | AAAAI. [online] Available at:http://www.aaaai.org/about-the aaaai/newsroom/asthma-statistics.aspx [Accessed 14 May. 2014]. 2) Abercrombie and Fitch 2012, Annual report 2012, Abercrombie and Fitch Co., New Albany, Ohio. 3) Anfcareers.com 2014, Abercrombie & Fitch Careers. [online] Available at:http://www.anfcareers.com/page/Diversity [Accessed 15 May. 2014]. 4) Anfcares.org 2014, A&F Cares Our Strategy. [online] Available at:http://www.anfcares.org/sustainability/environment/strategy.jsp [Accessed 16 May. 2014]. 5) Barrie, L. 2010, Abercrombie & Fitch sees opportunities in higher costs. [online] Just-style.com. Available at: http://www.just-style.com/analysis/abercrombie-fitch-sees-opportunities-in-highercosts_id109585.aspx [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 6) Basu, C. 2014, The Advantages & Disadvantages of a Wholly Owned Subsidiary. [online] eHow. Available at: http://www.ehow.com/info_8627934_advantages-disadvantages-wholly-ownedsubsidiary.html [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 7) Childs, M. and Jin, B 2014, Is Uppsala model valid to fashion retailers? An analysis from internationalisation patterns of fast fashion retailers. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, 18(1), pp.36 – 51. 8) Csimarket.com 2014, Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (ANF) Jan. 31, 2014 Sales per Country and Region, Annual Report – CSIMarket. [online] Available at:http://csimarket.com/stocks/segments_geo.php?code=ANF [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 9) Fashionunited.com 2014, Abercrombie & Fitch aims to open 100 stores in China – Report Executive. [online] Available at: http://www.fashionunited.com/executive/report/abercrombiefitch-aims-to-open-100-stores-in-china-20142304495372 [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 10) Geert-hofstede.com 2014, United States – Geert Hofstede. [online] Available at: http://geerthofstede.com/united-states.html [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 11) Google.com 2011, Abercrombie & Fitch Production and Expansion – Google Maps. [online] Available at: https://www.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&t=m&vpsrc=6&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=2073664 88920603185286.0004b07bb7b95fb0f4d6c&dg=feature [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 12) Henricks, S., Malkan, S. and Shils, J 2014, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics : Abercrombie & Fitch: Stop Spraying Toxic Fragrance!. [online] Safecosmetics.org. Available at: http://safecosmetics.org/article.php?id=739 [Accessed 14 May. 2014]. 13) Inboundlogistics.com 2011, Supply Chain Gain: Global Growth – Inbound Logistics. [online] Available at: http://www.inboundlogistics.com/cms/article/supply-chain-gain-global-growth/ [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 14) Kim, T., Lee, J. and Cheong, J 2011, Firm Level Productivity and Survey Results for Korean Firms in Vietnam and Indonesia. KIEP Research Paper No. Policy Analysis-11-22, pp.16-180. 15) Lutz, A 2013, Reasons Why People Hate Abercrombie & Fitch. [online] Business Insider. Available at: http://www.businessinsider.com/abercrombie-and-fitch-worst-controversies-20138?op=1 [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 16) Majid Al Futtaim Fashion 2014, Hollister to make its Middle East debut in 2013. 17) Marx, W. 2010, In Tokyo, Abercrombie Misses Its Mark. [online] BoF – The Business of Fashion. Available at: http://www.businessoffashion.com/2010/02/in-tokyo-abercrombie-misses-itsmark.html [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 18) Nwpc.dole.gov.ph 2014, Official Website of National Wages and Productivity Commission. [online] Available at: http://www.nwpc.dole.gov.ph/pages/statistics/stat_comparative.html [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 19) Overseas Research Department Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) 2011, The 21th Comparative Survey of Investment-Related Costs in 31 Major Cities and Regions in Asia and Oceania. p.68. 20) Peng, M. and Meyer, K 2011, International Business. 1st ed. London: Cengage Learning, pp.7276, 363, 458-459. 21) Rugman, A. and Verbeke, A 2004, A perspective on regional and global strategies of multinational enterprises. Journal of International Business Studies, 35(1), pp.3–18. 22) The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business 2013, Abercrombie & Fitch Equity Research Report. pp.3 – 4. 23) Vahlne, J. and Johanson, J 2013, The Uppsala model on evolution of the multinational business enterprise – from internalization to coordination of networks. International Marketing Review, 30(3), pp.189 – 210. 24) Vettoretti, A. and Huyen, H 2013, Vietnam Set to Increase Minimum Wages from December 31, 2013. [online] Available at: http://www.vietnam-briefing.com/news/vietnam-set-to-increaseminimum-wages-from-december-31-2013.html/ [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. 25) Vis, J 2014, Making Progress, Driving Change. 26) Walker, J 2014, Abercrombie & Fitch: Sorry!. [online] The Huffington Post. Available at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/23/abercrombie-and-fitch-apology_n_3323668.html [Accessed 18 May. 2014]. Abercrombie and Fitch report. (2016, May 19).

Corporate Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words - 1

Corporate Strategy - Essay Example It is a company owned by Dipti Mahapatra in India and has been in the business for close to two decades. Having started in the year 1988, this company started out as a small unit with four tailors and has now gone ahead to become one of the most prestigious names in interior decoration in the state of Orissa. The demand for Dipti’s products grew and there was a market for interior decoration. By 1993, Dipti was busy undertaking several turnkey projects for complete furnishing of guest houses, hotels, as well as the Governor’s residences in the state of Orissa. Orissa is a small state in the Eastern part of India. It is cut off from any major development that takes place elsewhere in the country. For this reasons, Dipti wanted to shift. Following are the problems that she has encountered: Before laying down the formal plan of action, it is necessary to understand the elements that will be involved in the strategy that has been developed later in the paper, from the perspective of the company. This will help us understand the exact application of the theories through the length and breadth of the paper. A major part of Dipti’s plan of action must include following a strategy based on gaining competitive advantage as well as achieving sustainable entrepreneurial growth. Let us first examine competitive advantage to see how and where it will fit in with the overall growth and expansion of the Anukul group. Michael E Porter has paved the way for revolutionary strategising trends and a whole new perspective on competition through his competitive advantage theory. In the corporate world, Porters first book Competitive Strategy (1980), which he wrote in his thirties, became an international best seller, and is considered to be an authoritative piece of work on corporate strategy. The book, which has been published in nineteen languages and re-printed approaching sixty times, changed the way business leaders’ minds worked. Further,

Direct and Indirect Qualitative Research Procedures Essay

Direct and Indirect Qualitative Research Procedures - Essay Example Qualitative Research: This allows exploring even the traits like attitudes, perceptions or beliefs. Such research activity requires in-depth study of the subject. Albert Einstein once said, â€Å"Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts†. The qualitative research is meant to take care of such situations actually. Quantitative Research: This type of research calls for mathematical modeling and analysis of data collected during the process of research. It is more structured than qualitative and calls for quantification of data together with generalizing the results. Talking about the comprehensive approach adopted during a qualitative research activity, Myers (2002) stated, â€Å"In communicating or generating the data, the researcher must make the process of the study accessible and write descriptively so tacit knowledge may best be communicated through the use of rich, thick descriptions†. The qualitative research, in turn , is further divided into two types namely; Direct research and Indirect research. Though at times, both these types appear to lead in a similar direction, yet the procedures with which research is carried out often brings out many differences amongst these two types. While comparing these two approaches we find that; The direct approach to qualitative research is a non-disguised method while the indirect approach happens to be somewhat disguised. Qualitative research has the potential to go into different aspects of the subject in detail.  ... The difference is more apparent in the figure shown below; Qualitative research has the potential to go into different aspects of the subject in detail. Meredith et al (1989) feels that often research of this kind lends itself to the semi-structured, open ended type of interview to enable interviewees to expand on what they consider to be important and to frame those issues in their terms. In direct qualitative research in-depth interview is the norm. The focus group approach requires that we prepare a focus group well in advance to carry out the research. The group is prepared with the help of a selected few research participants. This is more like a brain storming session. The topic is discussed amongst the focus group with the help of a moderator from amongst the focus group participants only. Subsequently, the group interview is conducted and a final report is prepared by the researcher based on the outcomes of the discussion. On the other hand the depth interviews imply that one-to-one interviews are held amongst the researcher and the research participants. The researcher is supposed to solicit information from the research participant during the interview and accordingly prepare the databank. Burgess (1982) points out that such interview allows the researcher to probe deeply in order to find out 'expansive' responses, which often helps in uncovering previously unknown details so that a direction is also provided to future researchers. In the indirect method on the other hand the research participants are encouraged to come out with their own versions and understandings about the issue/s being taken up by the researcher. The respondents are supposed to 'project' their feelings or attitudes about the situation. In direct qualitative

Ethical problem in psychological research Essay Example for Free

Ethical problem in psychological research Essay One very common ethical problem in psychological research is participants falling to answer question which they consider to be very personal (Michell, 1999). When conducting psychological research, the researcher is required to interview the respondents on each and every issue he considers suitable. Some questions posed could be very personal. This makes the respondent feel ashamed of answering the questions or he may feel that his personal life is being interfered with. The researcher needs to be very careful when asking the questions. He should understand the temperament of the respondent before asking the questions. People are normally different. There are some peoples who are hot tempered and others who are not. When approaching some one for an interview, as a researcher I should put on a smiling face. Smile is believed to be the shortest distance between peoples even between enemies. I as a researcher I should understand the mood the respondent is in. By understanding the mood of the researcher I would avoid any unnecessary disagreements, which might make me not get the information I am looking for. If the respondent is in a bad mood, I will try to approach him in a decent manner such that I may make his bad mood capsize. In each and every research, choice of language is very vital. Polite language may make a respondent who is not even willing to give answers to change his attitude and provide answers. Immediately I encounter some potential respondents, I should introduce myself. It defeats equity and common sense reasoning, to go straight to interviewing respondents immediately. As a good researcher I should great them. By so doing I will win their confidence and every doubt they could be having about me is dismissed. Dressing is an important aspect as for as research is concerned. Dressing does not only make one decent but also makes one look genuine in what he is doing. The participants may cease to participate in the research. The participants have the following responsibilities: They should explain to you why they wish to leave, so that you can conduct a debriefing. The participants may wish you to complete the research because you would not again ask personal question. When I am faced with an ethical problem there are some steps I would follow so as to solve it. In the very first I would determine whether there is an ethical issue. I would determine if in one way or another I have infringed one’s rights or values. If so I would ask for forgiveness and a lasting solution is reached at. Secondly I would identify the key values and principles involved. I would typically assess the meanings and limitations apparent to these competing values. Thirdly I would rank the values or ethical principles, which in my professional judgment are relevant to the issues. For example if one is doing a research on the, workers who are getting a monthly salary of $200, a question about salary scales have to be asked. It would sound unethical to ask a person how much he gets. Fourthly I would develop an action plan that is consistent with ethical priorities that have been determined, as crucial to the research. In my mind I will have several alternatives to present to the participant incase they react negatively. In the fifth step, I would implement my plan utilizing the most appropriate practice, skills and competencies. I would employ some tactics like sensitive communication, skillful negotiation and cultural competence. Lastly I would reflect on the outcome of this ethical decision making process. An ethical review committee or ethics team is necessary. These committees will provide counseling to those aggrieved.

Comparison of the Book and Movie Version of A Clockwork Orange :: Movie Film comparison compare contrast

A Comparison of the Book and Firm Version of A Clockwork Orange    In the story of his teenage years, starting at fifteen.   He begins his tale as the leader of a small gang that spends its evenings pillaging and wreaking havoc on the town until the gang mutinies and "Your Humble Narrator," as Alex refers to himself, is caught by the police.   From there, Alex travels to State Jail 84F to serve 14 years, but receives an offer from "the Government" which entails undergoing experimental treatment in return for early release.   He seizes what seems to him an opportunity, but is horrified by the "cure" he endures.   The new "good" Alex that is released unto the world is depressed, frustrated, and lonely, although no longer violent.   A radical political group then exploits him as an example of the cruelty of "the Government."   This faction tries to force Alex to suicide in order to gain a martyr, but Alex's attempt fails and he is nursed back to health and his natural mental state by the Government, who in the end comes out on top.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Alex, whose last name is not mentioned in the book, is a violent, aggressive teenager of fifteen, who is the leader of a four-person gang.   He truly enjoys violence, reveling in the sight of blood or weapons.   Alex's love of hate is not simply a rebellious emotion, but as he explains, it is his very nature, and he could not change it if he wanted to.   Despite his passion for what most see as ugly and disgusting, Alex does have a great appreciation for classical music, especially Beethoven.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Alex's main conflicts are both external and internal.   His external conflicts are between him and the members of his gang.   Dim and Georgie, two of the members of Alex's gang, are unwilling to accept Alex's leadership.   They challenge his authority, and Alex reacts rashly by trying to re- establish his dominance through defeating both of his aggressors in fighting.   This confrontation only raises tensions within the gang, and leads to a betrayal which results in Alex's capture on the charge of murder.   Alex's main internal conflict is a physiological one.   The Government's experimental treatment which Alex undergoes involves conditioning to produce a feeling of nausea and

Economic Questions

Because of scarcity, every nation is faced with â€Å"The 3 K eye Economic Questions: Who – consumes the goods & services produced in society? â€Å"For whom? ‘ is a public choice question. All economic systems must determine e which goods and services will be available for public use and which for private use. What -?goods & services should be produced? â€Å"What to produce? ‘ is an allocation question. All economic systems must date ermine how to allocate productive resources in the form of land (natural resources/ raw materials), labor (work for which we earn pay) and capital (human education & job training) (physical buildings, equipment & tools).How – should goods & services be produced? â€Å"How to produce? † is an efficiency question. All economic systems must deter mine how goods and services will be produced. How do different economic systems respond to the 3 Key Economic questions ? First of all, we need to define exactly what an  "Economic System† is: The institutional framework of formal and informal rules that a society uses t o determine what to produce, how to produce and how to distribute goods and services. Another, more popular term for economic system is economy.An economy, o r economic system, is he structural framework in which households, businesses, and governments undertake the production and consumption decisions that allocate limited resources to satisfy unlimited wants and needs. An economic system is primarily characterized by its key institutions, especial y those relating to the ownership and control Of resources and the means Of production. Two realtor economic systems that differ based on key institutions are capitalism and communism.Capitalism is an economic system in which ownership and control is largely in private hands (b genuineness and households), as opposed to public hands (government). One of the key institute actions underlying capitalism is private property rights. Comm unism, in contrast, is an economic system in which ownership and control predominately rests with government. Socialism is a the rid noted economic system that borrows institutions from both capitalism and communism. Economic systems can be categorized according to who makes most Of the De concisions in an economy.Most economies can generally categorized as one of two kinds: ; Market Economy An economy that relies on a system of interdependent market prices to local tee goods, services, and productive resources and to coordinate the diverse plans of con mummers and producers, all of them pursuing their own selflessness. ; Command Economy An economy in which most economic Issues of production and distribution AR e resolved through central planning and control. So, how do different economic systems respond to the three basic economic questions?In a socialist or command system, the central authority determines what, how, an d for whom goods and services will be produced. A Mixed System incorporates elements of both corn and and market systems in determining answers to the three questions. Mixed economies wit h Strong market monuments also include a public goods and services sector, just as command economies like Cuba include a private goods and services sector. In a market economy, most of the decisions in the economy about what to pr educe, how to produce it and who receives it are made by individuals and firms.At the other end of the spectrum: In a command economy, government officials make most of the decisions in t he economy about what to produce, how to produce it and who receives it. Most economic systems also contain elements of tradition or repeating decide ions in ways made at an earlier time or by an earlier generation. Today, nearly all economies are actually mixed, in that some economic decisions are made by individuals and private firms, but some e are also made by government officials, either through rules and regulations or through govern mentored firms. The U. S. Economy leans toward the marionettes side of the spectrum.An economy like Cuba or North Korea is near the command economy side of the spectrum. Buy t the dividing line between market and command economies in most nations is blurry rather the an bright. Market Economies (â€Å"Capitalism Capitalism is undoubtedly at the top of any list of economic systems operating in the modern world. This system is based on: (1) private appropriative ownership of resource recess and the means of production, (2) individual illiberality freedom on the part of the resource o Wieners to use their resources as they see fit, and (3) competitive markets system of relatively co imitative markets. Ender capitalism, governments establish the basic rules of the game and are responsible for the production of public goods, but the vast majority of resource allocation De concisions are undertaken by individuals, as either consumers or producers. The United States is one of the more noted examp les of capitalism. However, most modern industrialized economies of Europe, Asia, North America, and South America operate under capitalism.Command Economies (â€Å"Socialism†) In theory, socialism is the transition between capitalism and communism and is based on: (1) government ownership of resources and the means of production, (2) worker control of government, and (3) income distributed according to needs. As practiced in the real world, socialism is an economic system based on (1) nationalized intergovernmental ownership and control 01 of key industries and (2) central polycrystalline detailed, but not comprehensive, resound:e local ion decision making by the central government. Ender real world socialism, governments exert extensive control over resource e allocation decisions, primarily involving key industries such as transportation, energy pr deduction, communication, and health care. While Sweden exemplifies modern socialism, several Europe an nations have practiced varying forms of socialism over the decades. Command Economies (â€Å"Communism†) In theory, communism is an economic system based on: (1) a classless society , (2) common ownership of resources, (3) no government, and (4) income distributed accord ins to needs. Economic Questions Because of scarcity, every nation is faced with â€Å"The 3 K eye Economic Questions: Who – consumes the goods & services produced in society? â€Å"For whom? ‘ is a public choice question. All economic systems must determine e which goods and services will be available for public use and which for private use. What -?goods & services should be produced? â€Å"What to produce? ‘ is an allocation question. All economic systems must date ermine how to allocate productive resources in the form of land (natural resources/ raw materials), labor (work for which we earn pay) and capital (human education & job training) (physical buildings, equipment & tools).How – should goods & services be produced? â€Å"How to produce? † is an efficiency question. All economic systems must deter mine how goods and services will be produced. How do different economic systems respond to the 3 Key Economic questions ? First of all, we need to define exactly what an  "Economic System† is: The institutional framework of formal and informal rules that a society uses t o determine what to produce, how to produce and how to distribute goods and services. Another, more popular term for economic system is economy.An economy, o r economic system, is he structural framework in which households, businesses, and governments undertake the production and consumption decisions that allocate limited resources to satisfy unlimited wants and needs. An economic system is primarily characterized by its key institutions, especial y those relating to the ownership and control Of resources and the means Of production. Two realtor economic systems that differ based on key institutions are capitalism and communism.Capitalism is an economic system in which ownership and control is largely in private hands (b genuineness and households), as opposed to public hands (government). One of the key institute actions underlying capitalism is private property rights. Comm unism, in contrast, is an economic system in which ownership and control predominately rests with government. Socialism is a the rid noted economic system that borrows institutions from both capitalism and communism. Economic systems can be categorized according to who makes most Of the De concisions in an economy.Most economies can generally categorized as one of two kinds: ; Market Economy An economy that relies on a system of interdependent market prices to local tee goods, services, and productive resources and to coordinate the diverse plans of con mummers and producers, all of them pursuing their own selflessness. ; Command Economy An economy in which most economic Issues of production and distribution AR e resolved through central planning and control. So, how do different economic systems respond to the three basic economic questions?In a socialist or command system, the central authority determines what, how, an d for whom goods and services will be produced. A Mixed System incorporates elements of both corn and and market systems in determining answers to the three questions. Mixed economies wit h Strong market monuments also include a public goods and services sector, just as command economies like Cuba include a private goods and services sector. In a market economy, most of the decisions in the economy about what to pr educe, how to produce it and who receives it are made by individuals and firms.At the other end of the spectrum: In a command economy, government officials make most of the decisions in t he economy about what to produce, how to produce it and who receives it. Most economic systems also contain elements of tradition or repeating decide ions in ways made at an earlier time or by an earlier generation. Today, nearly all economies are actually mixed, in that some economic decisions are made by individuals and private firms, but some e are also made by government officials, either through rules and regulations or through govern mentored firms. The U. S. Economy leans toward the marionettes side of the spectrum.An economy like Cuba or North Korea is near the command economy side of the spectrum. Buy t the dividing line between market and command economies in most nations is blurry rather the an bright. Market Economies (â€Å"Capitalism Capitalism is undoubtedly at the top of any list of economic systems operating in the modern world. This system is based on: (1) private appropriative ownership of resource recess and the means of production, (2) individual illiberality freedom on the part of the resource o Wieners to use their resources as they see fit, and (3) competitive markets system of relatively co imitative markets. Ender capitalism, governments establish the basic rules of the game and are responsible for the production of public goods, but the vast majority of resource allocation De concisions are undertaken by individuals, as either consumers or producers. The United States is one of the more noted examp les of capitalism. However, most modern industrialized economies of Europe, Asia, North America, and South America operate under capitalism.Command Economies (â€Å"Socialism†) In theory, socialism is the transition between capitalism and communism and is based on: (1) government ownership of resources and the means of production, (2) worker control of government, and (3) income distributed according to needs. As practiced in the real world, socialism is an economic system based on (1) nationalized intergovernmental ownership and control 01 of key industries and (2) central polycrystalline detailed, but not comprehensive, resound:e local ion decision making by the central government. Ender real world socialism, governments exert extensive control over resource e allocation decisions, primarily involving key industries such as transportation, energy pr deduction, communication, and health care. While Sweden exemplifies modern socialism, several Europe an nations have practiced varying forms of socialism over the decades. Command Economies (â€Å"Communism†) In theory, communism is an economic system based on: (1) a classless society , (2) common ownership of resources, (3) no government, and (4) income distributed accord ins to needs.

Wake Forest University President Nathan O’Hatch Essay

Wake Forest University President Nathan O’Hatch hinted that the success of the University has come straight from the pupils that inhabit the establishment. along with the campus atmosphere created by them. He confirms that the university strives to obtain a vibrant and tickle pinking community that moves toward success through instruction and character development. I believe that Wake Forest University is seeking for pupils who will go forth a positive impact on the constitution while holding a strong concentration on their ends. I believe that my rational growing and experiences. spiritual background. and morally driven values and features will lend greatly to the enlargement of the Wake Forest community. Lou Holtz one time quoted. â€Å"Ability is what you’re capable of making. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how good you do it. † This inspirational committedness to dispute your head to achieve success each and every twenty-four hours measures the accomplishments that a individual will accomplish throughout their life. Throughout my high school calling. I have experienced many educational chances and held many leading functions that were critical to determining my hereafter. A person’s ability. motive. and attitude are imperative features that define their motivations throughout all of their enterprises. I have found it really of import for one to environ oneself with positive influences. along with a diverse group of people in order to spread out and turn as an person. If one converses with the same community each twenty-four hours. they will ne'er dispute themselves in their cognition. and in bend become less intellectually rounded. I strive to be an active pupil in my school who engulfs many thoughts and is all-around in the facet of instruction and extra-curricular activities in order to go forth a positive impact on my equals for the improvement of my hereafter. and theirs. At the beginning of high school. I embarked in a plan that has impacted my life in many ways. I have been molded into a confident leader who strives to do a positive impact at my high school. and on my community. due to my adviser and my personal committedness. This organisation was Student Council. In the 9th and 10th class. I was elected Secretary and so Vice President of my category. I so was nominated and selected to function as the 2nd frailty president of the full pupil organic structure. which finally set me up to be the Student Body President my senior twelvemonth. I have grown into a individual through experiences that have come along as a consequence of my being an active portion of the Student Council. My organisational accomplishments have proved effectual as I have planned and implemented many thoughts throughout my high school calling in Student Council. I have actively planned three Homecoming skits and dances. four spring dances. three Powder-puff games. two contrivance ball tourneies. three Mr. Cardinal Cabarrus Pageants. two volleyball tourneies. and many more events as a head leader in leading category and Student Council at my school. During my last two old ages as the Student Body 2nd Vice President and Student Body President. I have actively led the council in a way that has non been travelled earlier as we have embarked on a community service undertaking and active engagement throughout the community. As the 2nd frailty president of my council. we successfully raised $ 19. 000 for Juvenile Diabetes through fundraisers including a contrivance ball tourney. a spring dance. and many other little undertakings. We have set ourselves a challenge of transcending this end as a school this twelvemonth. I have organized the council to take part in the Particular Olympic Games at the Cabarrus Arena for the past three old ages to back up and promote these astonishing jocks. I strive to take the council and my school with a positive force that places a strong accent on community service and school improvement undertakings. Student Council has allowed me to work with the disposal and high degree functionaries in the community. edifice assurance in myself along with fostering my societal accomplishments. On legion occasions. I have submitted proposals to the principal and school board to implement events. and I have had to professionally stand as the pupil body’s voice as I discuss these issues with functionaries of our community. Although defeated after the Renaissance breakfast was rejected. I responded with enthusiasm to get down the following undertaking of Darfur Awareness Week. a cause for which I am really passionate. I have actively taken a function in the Beta Club. Mu Alpha Theta Math Club. National Honors Society. and Junior Civitan Club. as I hope to make everything in my power to go forth a bequest at Central Cabarrus High School. I strive to go forth the school in a better topographic point than I found the booming constitution. On an educational footing. I have enlisted in legion advanced arrangement and awards classs to foster my rational ability throughout my in-between school and high school calling. Currently. I am disputing myself to finish two strict classs dwelling of AP English IV along with AP Government merely in this semester. These two categories are the most demanding at our school. and I am one of merely 10 persons of each category who dared to face these two challenging classs in the same semester. I admire each person in these categories and larn new thoughts and beliefs by environing myself with these astonishing and bright pupils. In my AP English category. I have been exposed to many doctrines. and many signifiers of literature. including Shakespearian sonnets and dramas. which I would hold antecedently ne'er studied. In AP Government. I have watched and analyzed the differing positions of Democrats. Libertarians. and Republicans as we analyze the modern fundamental law and judicial system. I have set a high end of myself to accomplish success in each category with a wide cognition of information from each lesson. If I keep a strong focal point on my ability. motive. and attitude. I will go on wining in each of these categories. I believe Wake Forest University President indicates the success of the University comes straight from the character development and diverseness which is learned from environing oneself with persons of rational and diverse backgrounds. and this is something that I have learned to encompass. Along with disputing me each twenty-four hours to intellectually turn from my experiences and instruction. the importance of Christianity has impacted and shaped my life in many countries. I was blessed to hold the chance to go to a Christian school until the age of 13. which assisted in modeling me into a compassionate. honest. and respectable person. I received a all-around instruction that allowed me to apportion a strong moral background and foundation for my life. I learned the importance of maintaining a respectable repute. giving back to the community. and go oning to pattern unimportance before God. I have been a Christian for every bit long as I can remember and hold grown as an person due to this committedness. I have challenged myself to distributing the many approvals of God and representing a positive Christian attitude in my every twenty-four hours encounters. I have portrayed an active function throughout the community and have an aspiration of doing a difference in every bit many lives as possible. As the Student Body President. a member of leading category. and the Varsity Cheerleading Captain. I have had the chance to accomplish my aspiration already in my adolescent old ages. I am really active in Race for the Cure. Walk for Juvenile Diabetes. Particular Olympics. Join the World of Winners. and Darfur Relief attempts. It is highly critical to take part in volunteer community service undertakings for the good of your community. I have served as a voluntary Particular Olympics Cheerleading manager for a gym in my country. As I have surrounded myself with these kids on a hebdomadal footing. I have learned the importance of dedication. open-mindedness. forbearance. optimism. and compassion. They have challenged me to populate up to their criterion. which in return has played a immense function in the footing of my character. The nazarene one time quoted. â€Å"It is more blest to given than to receive† ( Acts 20:35 ) . With this poetry in head. a individual can turn to see the importance of giving and. in return. having the satisfaction of impacting a person’s life. As an eight twelvemonth old. I was one of five misss to raise $ 10. 000 for the Masonic Home for Children in Henderson. North Carolina. This astonishing experience left me passionate about assisting others at an early age after seeing the impact that I had left on the lives of those kids after we delivered the cheque. As I have visited legion nursing places and kids infirmaries throughout my life-time and straight met victims of the current Darfur race murder. I have learned the impact that an person can go forth on another individual necessitating support. With Wake Forest constructing their foundation upon a Baptist. Christian doctrine. my desire to make out and assist those in demand along with representing Christian character shows my willingness to go on to construct upon the Wake Forest Community. Due greatly to my educational growing and spiritual background. I have developed many features that will greatly profit me throughout my life. After being selected as the Student Body President. I have had the privilege to take Student Council and the Student Body in all of our enterprises. I have learned so many of import qualities such as the importance of teamwork. dependability. dedication. and the ability to actuate a group of persons throughout the leading roles that I have held oover my high school calling. My leading adviser has inspired me to turn as a individual and spread out my leading qualities into going the most successful leader that I can go. Over the last three old ages. I have become closer and closer to one of my end: Endeavoring to obtain success through maintaining a positive attitude and taking a life of solid moral character. With each of the nines and activities that I have been active in. I have learned duty and committedness is the cardinal to triumph. After my 2nd twenty-four hours of AP English. I was asked to declaim a address refering the subject â€Å"Who I am. Who I am not† . I was really nervous and exhausted much clip fixing for what turned out to be an inspirational address of what I strive to achieve each and every twenty-four hours. After finishing the address. my English instructor asked me to give this address to her Varsity Volleyball squad. I was so esteemed and dying. and before their large game I recited the address to them. This meant an huge trade to me. and I was really thankful to make my best to animate this astonishing squad. Through my English teacher’s encouragement. and my Leadership advisor’s inspiration. I have become a more relaxed and comfy public talker along with constructing a strong leading character to follow with me throughout my life. I am a individual who strives to construct upon my leading qualities for the improvement of myself along with maintaining an unfastened head to all thoughts of persons as I build on my values and features. Wake Forest University seeks to â€Å"wed cognition with experience† merely as a leader must make each and every twenty-four hours. â€Å"Two roads diverged in the wood and I took the 1 less traveled by. and that has made all of the difference. † Throughout an individual’s life they encounter many waies and determinations that define them as a individual. They must sometimes take the best way for their life in fixing for their future aspirations. As a individual of high motive. I ever choose to dispute myself with high ends and new challenges. Sadly. in today’s modern universe it seems that the route less travelled is the right route ; the route where. alternatively of walking entirely through life ne'er taking notice of others. a individual stops along the manner to make out a manus to assist those who are left by the roadside. This is the way which I have chosen to take for myself. I use all of my life experiences to construct upon my life and accomplish all ends that I strive to carry through. I believe that with a diverse instruction. strong spiritual background. and character inspiration to going a great leader. I will greatly lend to the Wake Forest community. Nathan O’Hatch’s congratulations to the beautiful campus and community of Wake Forest illustrates the purpose of go oning to construct upon one of the greatest universities in the state. I strive to be a alone person with high ends to go forth an impact on the universe. I am ready to run into the challenge of go oning to spread out Wake Forest University through instruction and experience.

Save the Costa Rican Rainfores essays

Save the Costa Rican Rainfores essays The Costa Rican Rainforest is one of the worlds most precious and useful natural resources in the world. It contains plants that have been used throughout history to cure disease, ease pain, provide food, and maintain health. Many cultures depend on the rainforest for life. By destroying a significant area of the ever-shrinking rainforest to build the Goliath Coffee Company, both known and undiscovered plants that hold great potential will be destroyed forever. It is true to say that the Goliath Coffee Company has potential for providing benefits in this area. It can provide jobs for the local people and help bring more money into the country. However, the local people of Costa Rica have shown that they do not want this monstrosity of a company invading their precious lands. Jobs and money are not important to these villagers, and they are willing to fight for what is rightfully their land. These people have lived off the earth for far too long to not understand the significance of their land, and they know that their National Park needs to be saved from companies such as this one. The rainforest has always been exploited, but has been recently destroyed at a quite a rapid rate, due to the desire for industrialization and the prime growing conditions it possesses. In Western Ecuador the forest has been depleted more then 90 percent since 1938. Today, over half of the areas plants and animals are threatened or extinct. There are many similar situations around the globe, such as the Southwestern Ivory Coast, where rainforests went from 160,000 square kilometers, to 16,000 square kilometers in four decades due to slash and burn farming, and logging. Other places such as Madagascar, the Himalayas, and the Philippines have been cleared of precious forestlands for farming and industrialization. These forest are destroyed of its plants and animals, most of which are only found in those particular regions. Many of these speci...

Strategic Outsourcing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Strategic Outsourcing - Essay Example And this is still true today, the two main reasons for outsourcing attested to by a number of scholars   are 1. Improve Company focus, 2. Reduce and control operating costs (Mylot, 1995; Field, 1998; Greaver, 1999; Barthelemy, .2001). However, in recent times, organizations have become increasingly dissatisfied with their outsourcing contracts. An article from the MIT Sloan Management Review (1998) states that a survey by Cap Gemini Ernst & Young found that only 54% of companies are satisfied with their outsourcing, down from more than 80% a decade ago. The landscape of outsourcing has also changed dramatically in the last year with the increased popularity of SOA and raises questions such as 1. How will software vendors react to service-oriented architecture, real-time infrastructure and fusion? 2. How will enterprises achieve value on their investments in software? Similarly how the ESP are going to address to the questions such as 1. Transform their business models from highly c ustom one-to-one services to a one-to-many or many-to-many service model? 2. Effectively partner with ESP’s that are moving or have moved to a leveraged service model.Interestingly enough Gartner predicts that â€Å"by 2007, driven in part by SOA-based Web services, 18 percent of all IT professional services will be deployed in a multi enterprise, shared service environment. Enterprise application vendors are the likely beneficiaries of the SOA bounty when it comes to outsourcing. Vendors such as Oracle and PeopleSoft have grown.