Database Security And Protection, Sql Injection...

Database security and protection is a significant concern for organizations across the world, evidenced by the number of reported incidents with regards to unauthorized exposure to sensitive information. As the amount of data that organizations collect, retain and share continues to escalate, so does the importance of having a strong database security. The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, a website that keeps track of data breaches that were reported by companies, according to its research more than 159 million records were breached in 2015 through the course of 226 separate breach events. With the loss of unprotected data, can result in steep expenses for a company such as legal fees, call centers, customer losses, and the ambiguous amount of bad publicity. A Forrester Research survey concluded that an average security breach can cost a company between $90 and $305 per lost record. Given the increase number of data breaches, there is a corresponding need to properly plan ways to better protect and monitor the database systems through access control, SQL injection prevention, and encryption of data. Access control allows specific users either privileges or restriction of access to objects in a database system. A Data Base Administrator (DBA) must take in specific consideration pertaining to which users can see what tables, and perform certain data actions among those specific tables. Access control can be defined in three ways: Mandatory Access Control (MAC), DiscretionaryShow MoreRelatedSql Analysis : Sql And Sql Essay1609 Words   |  7 PagesStructured Query Language (SQL) is used to query, operate, and administer database systems such as Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, or MySQL. The general use of SQL is consistent across all database systems that support it; however, there are intricacies that are particular to each system. Database systems are commonly used to provide backend functionality to many types of web applications. In support of web applications, user-supplied data is often used to dynamically build SQL statements that interactRead MoreAnnotated Bibliography On Database Security1383 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction: Database security is the system, processes and procedure that protect the database from unauthorized individual or malicious attacks. The researches on database security has been increased gradually over the years as the most of critical business functionalities and military secrets became digitized. Database is an integral part of the information system and often holds the sensitive data. The database have to be protected from external connections like firewalls or routers on the networkRead MoreSql Injection And Prevention Techniques3770 Words   |  16 Pages SQL INJECTION AND PREVENTION TECHNIQUES â€Æ' Abstract SQL Injection is one of the main database attack mechanisms used by hackers to loot organization s data from databases. Hacker target the application layer program and takes advantage of the improper coding methods to inject SQL command into a web form and then gain access to the database. SQL injection may adversely affect the integrity of the database and may reveal sensitive data of the organization. The intensity of the SQL injection attackRead MoreIn Today’S Technologically Advanced Society, Data Is An1682 Words   |  7 Pagessociety, data is an extremely valuable resource that is used daily by individuals and large corporations. Data is stored within databases to allow the process of retrieving and supervising data simplistic and efficient. Data plays a crucial role in today’s society and must be protected from all threats to maintain the data’s integrity. Security is one of the most important and challenging tasks that concerns the entire world but provi des safety and comfort for those it defends. Similarly, security in theRead MorePsych Network Research Paper1217 Words   |  5 Pagesthe information. What made this attack so much more important than just the amount was what was stolen during the attack. It did not just usernames and gamer tags, but the actual account owner’s name, address, email, birthday, password, login and security questions. With this information, the attacker was able to gain access to the user’s credit card information and including the card number and expiration date, which opened up a completely new level of personal information that was potentially compromisedRead MoreDatabase Security7079 Words   |  29 Pagesin Practice Volume 9, 2010 Database Security: What Students Need to Know Meg Coffin Murray Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA mcmurray@kennesaw.edu Executive Summary Database security is a growing concern evidenced by an increase in the number of reported incidents of loss of or unauthorized exposure to sensitive data. As the amount of data collected, retained and shared electronically expands, so does the need to understand database security. The Defense Information SystemsRead MoreEthical Hacker5200 Words   |  21 Pagescomponents of survival. If hacking involves creativity and thinking ‘out-of-the-box’, then vulnerability testing and security audits will not ensure the security proofing of an organization. To ensure that organizations have adequately protected their information assets, they must adopt the approach of ‘defense in depth’. In other words, they must penetrate their networks and assess the security posture for vulnerabilities and exposure. The definition of an Ethical Hacker is very similar to a PenetrationRead MoreInformation System Controls for Systems Reliability5565 Words   |  23 PagesCHAPTER 7 INFORMATION SYSTEM CONTROLS for SYSTEMS RELIABILITY SUGGESTED ANSWERS TO DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 7.1 1. Encryption is the final layer of preventative controls in that encrypting data provides a barrier against an intruder who has obtained access to company data. Encryption employing a digital signature and a public key infrastructure (PKI) can also strengthen authentication procedures and helps to ensure and verify the validity of e-business transactions. The digital signatureRead MoreSecurity Breaches : Security Breach And Vulnerability2832 Words   |  12 Pages Charlie O’Donnell Security Breach and Vulnerability Dr. Mohammed 11/20/2014 Abstract Security breaches are occurring at a much more rapid rate in the world today. Major companies and corporations are revealing their breaches and telling the public false information. Many security breaches occur because of exploitation of vulnerabilities, exploits and attacks both internal and external within the system. Vulnerabilities are weaknesses in the requirements, design, and implementationRead MoreEcommerce Website Of Target.com And Select Online Transaction Module For Assessment2250 Words   |  9 Pagesmerchandise for sale thru online catalogs and encouraging its customers to make purchase thru their website if they like an item. Hence the focus will be on the systems that support electronic commerce which is merchandise database, sales database, customer information database, etc. and other related functions the electronic commerce depends on. 1.3 Background a. Retail store name: Target.com b. Corporate headquarter location: Minneapolis, MN c. Industry: Retail store chain d. Company Profile:

Notes On The Messiah And The Psalms By Richard P. Belcher Jr.

Introduction This forum post presents the Christological Approach to the Psalms and then describes the five major categories of Psalms relating to Jesus the Messiah: the (1) Royal Psalms, (2) Typological – Prophetic Psalms, (3) Prophetic – Typological Psalms, (4) Prophetic – Messianic Psalms, and (5) Eschatological Psalms. Christological Approach to the Psalms The Christological Approach to the Psalms is presented and described by Richard P. Belcher Jr. in his book The Messiah and the Psalms: Preaching Christ from all the Psalms. The Christological Approach to the Psalms is based on the hermeneutical principle Jesus taught in Luke 24:26-27, 44-47. Jesus, following his resurrection, was walking with two disciples and explained to them â€Å"These are My words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things which are written about Me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled† (Luke 24:44). The principle is that all the Old Testament can be viewed as relating to Jesus not just those passages that directly address Jesus as Messiah. Given the Christological Approach to the Psalms, the five categories of the Psalms can be discerned. The information on the five categories of Psalms is summarized from materials presented by Dr. Gary Yates. Royal Psalms A Royal Psalm is about the historical king of that day but these Psalms also point to Jesus the Messiah. As a result, Royal Psalms are indirectly Messianic. According C. Hassell Bullock

International Business for Multinational National Corporation.

Question: Discuss about theInternational Businessfor Multinational National Corporation. Answer: Introduction With increased globalisation, there is an increase in the number of multinational companies expanding in the overseas regions. For developing the global economies, these MNCs play a vital role as they are the intermediaries are involved in international businesses. Multinational National Corporation or a MNC can be defined as a big corporation with considerable resources which undertake several business functions by the means of a network of associated subsidiaries which are established in various overseas regions. These MNCs analyse and evaluate the potential markets specifically in the overseas regions which can offer them high revenues, sales, brand recognition and sustainability. But expanding in other countries is not an easy job. Along with the opportunities and advantages, there are several challenges and risks which are associated with international businesses (Delios, 2012). The essay will focus upon one of the recognized MNC i.e. PETRONAS which is planning to expand its bus iness and roots in Iraq. Such global expansion comprises of numerous challenges which the company will have to face. The essay will also highlight the key arguments and discussion relating to the host country Iraq, the decisions related to foreign strategies and the impacts and contributions of the international businesses. Key Challenges for an MNC in the IB arena Petroliam Nasional Berhad, better known as PETRONAS is petroleum, gas and oil based MNC which is established in Malaysia. In the year 1974, the organization was grounded and owned by the Malaysian Government. It is recognized as the Malaysian national gas and Oil Company. With the efforts and efficient leaderships of its owners and the key persons, the organisation has successfully transformed in an international business entity via numerous joint ventures with partners in overseas countries and through exploration. With huge focus and efforts, presently the organisation stand among the worlds 25 top MNCs and has its business operation in around 35 nations with almost 103 wholly owned subsidiaries. For analyzing the status of the organization, there is a globalization theory called Theory of Liberalism (PETRONAS, 2017). It is the globalization process which is a result of modernization and it leads to market extension. At the basic level, as per this theory, the globalization in the organisation is for achieving political liberty and economic welfare. According to the liberalism theory of globalization, PETRONAS has practiced globalization in business for achieving technological advancements and business expansion in overseas regions. The primary work and operations of oil exploration of PETRONAS is performed in the nations like Iraq. Therefore it is one of the countries where PETRONAS as a MNC will expand and undertake its operational activities. But from the analysis point of view it can be understand that Iraq has several factors which restrict the successful business operations of PETRONAS (Elass and Jaffe, 2011). From the political point of view, it can be critically analyzed that there is political instability in the country as well as severe war probabilities which restricts the organisations performing businesses in these regions. In Iraq, there are extensive variations in the income levels of the individuals. But because of the high reserves of crude oil and the increased GDP, the nation is attracted by several oil and gas companies (Green, 2011). The key religion follows in Iraq is Islam, there are also present sizeable religious minorities in various regions of the country but Islam is the prominent one . There are several key challenges which are related to environmental analysis of Iraq. The first primary challenge is the political risk associated with Iraq (Subramaniam, et al., n.d.). There is a threat of nationalization in the country as at the time of economic crisis, governments used to opt out for exchange rate controls. The risk of war is very high in Iraq because of several fact ors and expanding operation in such arena of war can troublesome the sustainability and success of the organization. The acts related to sequestrations and assassinations may result in trade barriers for international business of PETRONAS. There are also other key challenges such as changes in the trade barriers. It is one of the reasons which make a company less competitive in nature. There is a possibility that the tariffs and other barriers can be increased because of the instable political condition. Thus, it can impact the smooth functioning of the business operations (Zawawi, Rahman and Atan, 2013). From the economic point of view, the key challenge of performing business in Iraq sounds to be much expensive in comparison with other Middle East countries. There are high transaction, trade and transportation costs in Iraq which doubles the costs of operations in the country. In the regions of Iraq, there are high expenses associated with Iraq because of the fact that there is a significant rise in the cost for obtaining a name reservation certificate (Hussain, 1999). As well as the costs of the lawyers area also very high but there is a demand of them for the drafting of the articles of association. The next key challenge in the rate of corruption, Iraq is highly recognized for its increasing corruption rate and corruptive practices. Because of increase corruption, the businesses i.e. the MNCs are required to have high capital for meeting u[p all the costs of expansion and trade (Delios, 2012). According to the Porters Diamond Model, there are five key factors which can be taken use of for analyzing the countrys external environment. There will be understanding of the various key challenges which appears in front of MNCs while planning to expand globally. The model helps in understanding the competitive advantages and risks possessed by the nation. There are basically four factors in the Porters Diamond Model i.e. factor conditions, demand conditions, related supporting industries and firm rivalry, structure and strategy. As per the first factor i.e. firm strategy, structure and rivalry, Iraq is well recognized in the petroleum, oil and gas industries. There are several technological innovations in the nation as these are the primary business sectors. But there is a key challenge for PETRONAS as there are increased and intense levels of firm rivalry because of extreme competition as there are several companies which perform oil exploration (Eicher, 2016). Thus, PETRONAS can achieve competitive advantages because of brand recognition but it will be difficult for the company to sustain the competition. The second factor is related supporting industries, as per this factor the suppliers and other related organisations are also vital for the organisation which is planning to expand its business. The primary business industry of Iraq is crude oil only; therefore, the oil and gas and petroleum industry has numerous firms and suppliers (Wei, 2015). There are several innovative ideas which these firms have invented for the development of the industry and the business. There is exchange of ideas between all the business, it is beneficial for PETRONAS but at the same time it is challenging also as because of the historical presence of the domestic companies, therefore there are more innovative and effective ways with the competitors. Thus, it will become difficult for PETRONAS to match the effectiveness of the domestic players. The third factor is demand condit ions, it refers to the size of the market, various costs such as transportation, etc. and economies of scale. The transportation costs are high in Iraq as well as the size of the home market is also not so wide (Al-Fattah, 2013). PETRONAS is a very large organisation which works on large economies of scale. All these factors are challenging for the company and it will be difficult for the organisation to manage its operations in Iraq with all such domestic factors. The fourth factor is the factor conditions, it comprises of elements such as capital investments, infrastructure, technological innovation and availability of skilled labor. From the capital point of view, there are required huge capital investments to have business expansion in Iraq. Presently the unemployment arte is at the weakest point, there is high rate of employment and there are also available competent labors. But the individuals prefer working in public sector only farther than MNCs and private sector. Thus, the availability of labor is an opportunity but squat interest in MNCs may result into lack of efficient labors. The company PETRONAS has taken use of licensing to enter in Iraq. Licensing can be understood as a legal agreement which authorize one organisation to take use of the private business practices of some other organisation. The production practices of the company offers brand recognition as well as revenues. The reason behind taking use of licensing is that there are several advantages and pros of licensing as a foreign market strategy. The advantages gained by PETRONAS includes that it is one of the easiest way to enter in any foreign market as there are no trade barriers because of tariffs and borders in licensing agreements (Cavusgil, et al., 2014). Licensing agreements also requires less capital investments in comparison with other entry strategies, therefore this was also one of the causes for PETRONAS behind selecting licensing. There are also low risks related to legal and financial perspectives and high return on investments in licensing contracts. There are also some of the co nstraints, limitations and drawbacks which are associated with this entry strategy. These constraints give rise to various challenges for the MNC to have operations in the overseas nation (HUSSAIN, n.d.). The constraints includes low level of control on the operations, the licensee in the future run can be a competitor for PETRONAS, there are chances of losing the intellectual property, the time period is also limited of licensing contracts and if the licensee take use of poor management then it may result in inefficiency of operations and deterioration of the brand image of PETRONAS (Ajami, et al., 2014). There are also several international business challenges for PETRONAS which will act as the key barricades in effective operations of the organisation. The first and the primary challenge were related to the foreign regulation and laws. There is a huge difference in Malaysian laws and Iraqi laws. Thus, it became highly challenging for PETRONAS to manage its operations. The second key risk is the political risk. Iraq is highly vulnerable to crisis and wars, it is threatening for the MNCs to initiate and expand their business in the states of Iraq. The third risk is of cultural differences and communication difficulties. In Iraq, the maximum of the population follows Islamic culture and communicate in Arabic language whereas which is much difficult for the employees of PETRONAS to have an effective communication with them because of cultural differences. There are other challenges also such as currency rates, international accounting, environmental issues, etc. (Nordin, Vassekaran and Grover, 2014). There are 10 principles of UN Global Compact which the organisations are required to follow for performing businesses in international regions. In a similar way, PETRONAS also has to follow the same. Therefore, the area on which the company is required to focus on the environmental issues. As oil exploration is highly related to environment. Thus, it must be atmen care that there is no damage on the environment. Secondly, there is also high corruption in Iraq, thus, PETRONAS must adopt anti-corruption practices and wok ethically without indulging in corruptive practices as well as unethical practices of business (Compact, 2011). Conclusion From the essay, kit can be concluded that in present scenario, there are several key challenges and risks which are present for the MNCs while performing international businesses. These challenges are in almost every sector whether political, environmental, economic, etc. therefore, it is essential that a proper analysis of the host country must be performed by the MNCs before expanding business in the foreign nations. PETRONAS is a well recognized organization but as a MNC it has also faced numerous challenges but now it is running smoothly in the overseas regions. And lastly, it is concluded that all the MNCs must follow the UN Global Compact principles while performing international businesses. References Hussain, A., 1999.A Case Study on Petronas Globalization a Strategic Management Decision(Doctoral dissertation, Universiti Putra Malaysia). Subramaniam, A., Zehnder, C.J., Anbumuthu, G., bin Abdullah, M.A., Subramaniam, N. and Chelladorai, M.P., Corporate Management and Sustainability (Shell versus PETRONAS). HUSSAIN, A., A CASE STUDY ON PETRONAS GLOBALIZATION A STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT DECISION. Elass, J. and Jaffe, A.M., 2011.Iraqi oil potential and implications for global oil markets and OPEC politics. James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy of Rice University. Talks, T.M.S.E.B. and FailOpEd, T., Iraq Energy Profile: OPECs Second-Largest Crude Oil ProducerAnalysis. Wei, W., 2015. Opportunities and Challenges of Chinese Oil Companies to Develop Iraqi Market.,22(3), pp.57-61. Al-Fattah, S.M., 2013. National Oil Companies: Business Models, Challenges, and Emerging Trends. Nordin, S.M., Vassekaran, S. and Grover, G.S., 2014. Intercultural Negotiations: Issues and Challenges in the Oil and Gas Industry from Malaysian Perspective.International Review of Management and Business Research,3(3), p.1385. Al-Fattah, S.M., 2013. The Role of National and International Oil Companies in the Petroleum Industry. Eicher, S. ed., 2016.Corruption in international business: The challenge of cultural and legal diversity. CRC Press. Delios, A., 2012.International business: an Asia Pacific perspective. FT Press. Zawawi, D., Rahman, Y.A. and Atan, R., 2013. The Petronas way.The Routledge Companion to International Management Education. Cavusgil, S.T., Knight, G., Riesenberger, J.R., Rammal, H.G. and Rose, E.L., 2014.International business. Pearson Australia. Ajami, R., Cool, K., Goddard, J.G. and Khambata, D.M., 2014.International business: Theory and practice. Routledge. Compact, U.G., 2011. The ten principles. ]: : URL: https://www. unglobal-compact. org/AboutTheGC/TheTen Principles/index. html. Green, J., 2011, June. The rise of the International National Oil Companies and their challenge to International Oil Companies. In3rd Pipeline Technology Conference 2008. EITEP Institute. PETRONAS, 2017. About us. Accessed on: 18th may, 2017. Accessed from: https://www.petronas.com.my/about-us/Pages/default.aspx

Creative Writing Past and Present Tense free essay sample

Seasons of flourish waves In the sizzling summer the long beach waves appear inviting. Smooth sand firstly greets us with their wild sense of heat. As near the view and sound of waves rumbling along the sea starts our excitement. The weather is perfect. Some people dive into the chill relaxing water like a family of dolphins, as others sunbath along us being like a group of lazy walruses resting. The atmosphere is comforting. Out beyond the heavy waves. I can see the three mystery islands that appear every time of visit, wondering any survival. However my long concentration suddenly breaks within a moment. Surprisingly humpback whales dance, darting up and slamming down on the far splashing waters. The scene was very pleasing. Finally my little brother and I paddle out on our surfboards until the incredible gigantic waves roll out. We meet in distance, pick up the speed and at last we travel on the nature. We will write a custom essay sample on Creative Writing: Past and Present Tense or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page When winter arrives, the beach wave is not so inviting for us. In short distance the green seaweed creates a formation along the stretch of beach waters, constructing an outlook of a rip. The water seems foggy. Most waves climb over the shore rocks and hit mighty like a meteorite. As gusting winds craft the scenery with a war like disaster, many areas cause a wondrous mess. Out in the remoteness, the islets confuse out of sight. Fracturing the once curious atmosphere into a dispute. Astonishment suddenly appears in mind. Back on the shore, the damp sand endure our only short walks as no one else seems to be close aside. However one takes the cold sea breeze and strives for excitement. The cut off is short but the thrill seems unbelievable. Our dad shivering in cold dies in such mad joy. Only our dad finds the waves inviting, no matter what the season.

Automobile in America Essay Example

Automobile in America Essay Example Automobile in America Essay Automobile in America Essay The automobile managed to change American culture dramatically in a short period of time. It allowed many people to move away from the overcrowded, stuffy, and dirty urban areas into less populated places with more space and air. The suburbs were born and single-family houses sprang up to replace the apartment tenements of the cities. People were now able to commute to work and also visit friends and family who lived further away. The automobile was also a hit with the younger crowd, who saw it as a new way to have fun and achieve freedom. The huge demand for cars also boosted the American economy, as the automobile industry was born. The economy in the United States was roaring in the 1920â„ ¢s. Workers became more efficient and very productive. Between 1922 and 1927, the economy grew by 7% a year (Nation of Nations, 6th Edition, Volume II, chapter 24, Pg. 694). Technology was growing and construction companies started building taller and taller towers. The success in all industries was affecting each other in positive ways in a chain. There was an increase in all industries and the industry that boomed the most was the automobile industry. Henry Ford organized mass production in his companies, which led to affordable cars. He also believed in making all the cars to look the same so cost would reduce the cost so buying cars would be affordable. Ford reduced the working hours and days of employees, employed African American people, and gave them respectful positions in his company. He had his employees educated on how to speak and dress properly. Many owned cars and this opened more business for real estate, re staurants, motels etc. (Nation of Nations, 6th Edition, Volume II, chapter 24, Pg. 694-695). From Fords ideas, the car was transformed from a luxury item into a necessity, and this is what made him more successful than any other competitor during that time.

Double-Acting and Single-Acting Baking Powder

Double-Acting and Single-Acting Baking Powder If youre like me, youre lucky to pay attention to a recipe enough to notice whether youre supposed to be using baking powder or baking soda. Both ingredients cause baked goods to rise, but they are not interchangeable. Also, there is more than one type of baking powder. You can find single-acting baking powder and double-acting baking powder. You may be wondering how they are different or whether you should use half as much double-acting baking powder as single-acting baking powder. What's the Difference? You use the exactly same amount of double-acting baking powder as you would single-acting baking powder. The difference between the two types of powder is their chemical composition and whether they produce the carbon dioxide gas bubbles that make your baked goods rise when the ingredients are mixed or when the product is heated in the oven. Both types of baking powder produce the same amount of gas, so they are equally effective as leavening agents. Single-acting baking powder reacts with a water-based ingredient to form bubbles as soon as the ingredients are mixed. If you wait too long to bake your food or mix it too long these bubbles will escape and your food will fall flat.Double-acting baking powder produces some bubbles when the ingredients are mixed, but most of the rising occurs once heat is applied. This product is more reliable for home baking because it is harder to overbeat the ingredients and the recipe is less susceptible to failure if you forgot to preheat your oven. Because it is practically failsafe, this is the type of baking powder most often found in stores. Youll encounter single-acting baking powder in commercial applications, plus this is the type of powder you would make if you prepare baking powder yourself.

The comprehensive management training program of NL&C Essay

The comprehensive management training program of NL&C - Essay Example TIMETABLE - a reasonable time period is important to be included in the management training program to check and evaluate status of the set programs and make the appropriate changes if necessary in order to meet the objectives. ORIENTATION - it is important to consider having a comprehensive orientation to all concerns to ensure its effectiveness. It is necessary to consider the availability of each person as well as the venue, date and time for the said meeting. DEVIATION FROM THE SET PROGRAM - It is important to consider that not all set programs work according to our expectations. It is best to anticipate for possible changes that can have significant effect in the training program and have a prepared countermeasure for these. SUGGESTIONS/COMMENTS FROM INVOLVED PERSONNEL - The said program will not be final unless there is confirmation from all the involved personnel. Consider the reactions, suggestions and comments of each personnel and be able to come up with a mutual decision for all. MANAGING MANAGEMENT TRAINING RESULTS - Various factors can affect in achieving the set training objective.

Literatue proposal Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Literatue - Research Proposal Example Dandyism became confined to a marginalized subset of men who were loathe to give up their subverting performance of gender and beauty; it re-emerged as a central part of society from 1830, with Balzac's Treatise of Elegant Living, and peaked towards the end of the century with such figures as Oscar Wilde. So what was British dandyism in this transitory phase from 1790 to 1830? This essay will look at Garelick's Rising Star, Cole's â€Å"The Aristocrat in the Mirror†, and the Whartons' The Wits and Beaux of Society to understand the dandy's place in early-nineteenth-century society. This proposal will briefly describe the uses of each of these texts before going on to suggest more potential sources. Rising Star: Dandyism, Gender and Performance in the Fin de Siecle was written by Rhonda K. Garelick in 1998, and focuses on the aspects of dandyism which have flourished into one of the themes of twenty-first century celebrity. In her introduction she recognizes dandies as â€Å"s exually ambiguous† (3) and â€Å"double-sex beings† (5), in a manner which implies that dandyism was threatened by the very existence of womanhood.

What are the products made from benzene Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

What are the products made from benzene - Essay Example The utilization of this product is not linked with human being directly; this chemical is used in preparation of different human related products as indirect link with human beings (Wilcox and Greenbaum, 1965). So, people should be careful about the usage of those products which are prepared with participation of benzene chemical. This concentration is supportive for the health protection of people in the social and commercial way of life. Benzene is commonly used in different industrial programs which are linked with all people without any doubt. For example, this chemical is used in preparation of drugs, lubricants, detergents, nylon, wheels and various other significant products which are linked with human life (National Research Council & United States, 1984). It is mostly used in United Stated and this is also confirmed that latest researches are also performed about advantages and disadvantages of benzene are also related with western countries (Cavani, 2009). According to the professional persons, benzene is a colorless chemical which is used in product due to attractive smell of this element. Accordingly, the harms of this chemical are stated as the link of benzene with petroleum is certain without any reservation. Some products which are prepared with benzene chemical are enlisted as under; So, it can be stated that benzene is an important chemical element for the success of various industries. So, proper care is needed for making protection of human health certain and obvious in the communal and commercial way of life. Benzene is an important element to make painting products elegant and gorgeous in the community. This chemical is used in various departments and this utilization is helpful to gain success obvious in paint manufacturing programs. There are three major parts of paint industry which are mentioned as coloring, binding and solvent agents in the industry. These all parts are related with utilization of benzene chemical which is

Employees training and development of hrm will influence the performance of an organization.

Employees training and development of hrm will influence the performance of an organization. 1. Introduction Noe(2005) states that â€Å"Training and development is including activities that help cultivate employees skills, knowledge, and abilities. Trained employees have competencies to meet the current and future needs of organization. Through the training and intervention measures, the human resources departments help organizations to establish a high-performing, active and engaged workforce†. In the business world, training and development refers to support internal human resource efficiency of extra studies education and improve the process in an organization. Due to the training and development inseparable, these two words are generally used to define employee with each other in continuously improve to achieve a series of organizational goals. If without training and development programs, organization may not be able to realize their full potential. In most organizations, training and development task is to deal with human resource management personnel. This relationship depends on everybodys communication, cooperation and clear set of job skills as defined by job descriptions among all levels of the organization. When an organizations values can make employees eager to achieve their goals, then employee development plan can be implemented to make this kind of circumstance happening (Neo, 2005). The purpose of this assignment is talking about how employees training and development of HRM will influence the performance of an organization. I am going to find out some evidences, provide literature reviews and through analysis to introduce how training and development influence organizational performance. 2. Research Question This assignment topic describes that how the employees training and development of HRM will influence the performance of an organization.Training and development are important components of human resource. This is a process in which the potential talents and skills of employees are honed and polished. The employees are trained on both the technical aspects of their jobs and on interpersonal skills. This topic let people know the employees training and development of importance in the human resource management and what relationship between training development and performance of organization is. 3. Importance of Study Training and development is structure to help employees to develop their personal and organizational skills, knowledge and the abilities. For all aspects of human resource development, especially, the most superior workforce is the development, so that their organizations and individual employees can do the work goals for customer service. All employees want to be valuable at any times in the competitive labor market. This is only way can be achieved through staff training and development. All employees want to be valuable at any times in the competitive labor market. This is only way can be achieved through staff training and development. Employees always want to for improving career-enhancing skills, which will always lead to the enthusiasm and retention of the employees. there is no   doubt that a good training and development employees will be a valuable asset to the organization and Thus increasing opportunities of efficiency in performing his duties (Tobby,2011). Training can be primarily of two types in an organization: Internal and external training course. When training is the internal training, it is including that organizations internal hr department or training department is using a senior staff or any outstanding staff in specific sectors as a resource person. On the other hand external training normally conducted outside the company, mainly is organized training institutions or consultant. No matter which training, it is crucial for all staff and helps in building career positioning and preparation of staff for greater challenges (Tobby,2011). The employer should enable staff to pursue work training and development in a direction that they choose and are interested in, not just in assigned specific direction. The organizations should support the learning, in general, and not just in support of the current knowledge workers needed for the job or next expected. It should be noted that the key factor is to ensure employees engaged in the interest of, attending, and motivated and retained (Adiele, 2009). For every employee to perform well especially managers or supervisors, there is need for continued training and development. The right staff training, development and education offer big profit for the employer to the increased productivity, knowledge, loyalty, and contribution to common growth of the organization. In most cases, external training for the participants of the example provides a new way to meet people in the same field and network. The meeting will give them a chance to compare problems, find out what is to obtain the other side environment. It definitely will introduce positive changes where necessary (Adiele, 2009). 4. Literature Review 4.1 background information Noe(2005) states that â€Å"Traditionally, training and development was not considered as an activity that could help organizations to create â€Å"value† and deal with competitive challenges successfully. Nowadays, that view changed. Organizations use innovative training and development programs is likely to report better financial performance than their rivals that not do. Training and development also helps a company to meet competitive challenges. For instance, as organizations tried to put new products to market and adjust services just-in-time, employees need training and knowledge required as soon as possible delivery.† At present, training and development plays an important role in helping organizations meet some challenges. Therefore, organizations need to train employees to work with persons from different cultures both in domestic and foreign people. If the training such as Web and multimedia, these new technologies will reduce the costs associated with bringing employees to a central location for training. In homology, these training methods include the necessary conditions (feedback, practice, etc) for learning to occur. Due to the development of the internet, e-commerce has exploded on the business scene. Organizations have already recognized that training and development activities can adapt to the Internet, reducing costs and increasing their effectiveness, resulting in the development of electronic learning (Neo, 2005). Training effect has expanded beyond training program design. Effective instructional training is still important, but more and more training managers, human resource experts and training staff have been asked to create systems to motivate employees to learn, share that knowledge with other employees in the organization. Training has moved from an emphasis on a one-time event to the creation of conditions for learning that can occur through collaboration, online learning, traditional classroom training, or a combination of methods. There is increased recognition that learning occurs without a formal training course (Neo, 2005). 4.2 Key point 1 Better performance of the employees Training is a process of learning as well as the application of acquired knowledge aiming at better performance of the employees,while development involves not only in relation to the process, but also related to help employees in establishing their personality, at the same time as, improve their progress to realize their full potentials. Training and development programs bring a huge change in terms of knowledge, attitudes and behavior of employees. Because of these programs, the employees are not only familiar with what is expected of them and how they need to enhance their skills and abilities, but also it is a way to complete the entire organization development, effectiveness and efficiency in a desired manner. The major advantages of Training and development programs are the employees who are not trained need more supervision than those who are trained.An employee will gains new knowledge, skills and attitudes and applies them in their work situations.Training is a kind of method to build up confidence among the employees, so that they dont have any obstruction to operate their tasks. The purpose of this program is to save money, because the organization is likely to bear heavy expenditure on hiring new employees.This is also one of the best ways to expand the span of management. 4.3 Key point 2 Benefits for both the organization and employees The benefits of Training are intangible and it is good for both sides that the organization and employees for long-term investment in training. Training enhances the employees level of skills. It provides sense of satisfaction; this is a kind of inner motivation. The training also provides a variety of sills employees. Training increases the employees commitment to their job and their organization. It is better understanding of jobs reduces accidents (Ansar, 2009). The one of the most important benefits of an organizational training is that it provides skills within the organization to reduce comprehensive cost of the organizational operations. Quality is one of the key factors needed for survival of an organization in long term interests. Total Quality Management (TQM) and other quality management techniques require employees training as an important requisite for its successful implementation (Ansar, 2009). 4.4 Key point 3 Competitive lead To achieve competitive advantage from the organizational training and development, training and development department help remove insufficient or performance deficiencies in employee. It   is particularly true when (1) the deficiency is caused by a lack of ability rather than a lack of motivation to perform, (2) the individual(s) involved have the aptitude and motivation need to learn how to do the job better, and (3) supervisors and peers are supportive of the desired behaviors (Kumar, 2011). An organizational training and development pays dividends to the employee and the organization. Although there are no single training program benefits, the organization committed to improve its training and development to enhance its human resource capabilities and strengthens its competitive advantages. Meanwhile, the employees personal and career goals are furthered, generally adding to his abilities and value to the employer. Ultimately, the objectives of the human resource department are also furthered (Kumar, 2011). 4.5 Summary of Literature Review Training and development is a very perfect way to improve the competitiveness of an organization. It also enhances the employees skills, abilities and many other aspects. Actually, both of employees and organization obtain the benefits. Training and development program is one of the best ways to expand the span of management. It is also to save money for organization. 5. Analysis 5.1 Analysis for point1 Well-trained, skilled employees are far better than those without training, and they have better careers prospects. They will become competent and perform their assigned task independently. For example, once an untrained employee asked his friend who was trained, â€Å"I dont think training program is of any value. After all what you learn by it? † He replied, â€Å"We are trained even how to ask questions and the art of effective communication which you seem to be lacking.†In fact, its interesting example, but it reveals the fact as training is covered all necessary skills of the employees required in the workplace while motivating them to work in a desired and capable way (zeromillion.com, 2011). Internal training provides the accurate positioning and demand with satisfaction of those needs then interwoven into current processes and workflow. When a new problem or aspect of work is identified, training and development provides prompt development of the employee skills needed to master this process. Besides that, the training and development gives instructional staff opportunity for immediate correction of employee with mistakes in the workplace, immediate review, and more trainings identification. When training and development results have better effect, employees tend to display a greater sense of ownership and pride in their work. This can help organization to increasing productivity and efficiency, at same time, job satisfaction also increases.   Employees who are satisfied in their work are more likely to redouble their efforts and be more valuable to the company, which will in turn, put the organization in a stronger position (zeromillion.com, 2011). 5.2 Analysis for point 2 Customer satisfaction increases repeat business,this is a key to success.Training will promote good customer relations and according to training, organization will increase customer satisfaction and quality of service.â€Å"Just In Time† emphasize on waste reduction and production process of waiting time.Better training will reduce waste and machine down time. A major part of quality costs by supervision; by providing appropriate training this is reduced. Training improves productivity of employees and processes (Ansar, 2009). High staff turnover may be a serious threat to existence of an organization,training can reduce staff turnover and help an organization to retain its staff. Better training can make an organization more competitive in business market (Ansar, 2009). In a service industry organization main source of income is its employees professional knowledge and the skills, grasping professional with high skills is relatively expensive than training current employees to acquire those skills. Training is also a key requirement for new entry requirements; appropriate training helps them to understand their position, its requirements and responsibilities. Training will also increase the understanding organizational culture (Ansar, 2009). Training programs increases communication between different levels of an organization.Any shortage in processes and working were canceled and those close to production processes become involve in the management.Employees empowerment is a recent trend in management (Ansar, 2009). 5.3 Analysis for point 3Competitive lead There is greater flexibility, capacity, stability and for growth in an organization.Training provides employees at least in the stability of two aspects.Trained employees become efficient.Efficient employees contribute to the organization, especially when growth.In addition, well-trained employees tend to stay in the organization. They rarely left the organization.All generalists can be transferred to any job.Therefore flexibility is ensured.Growth indicates prosperity, which is reflected in increased profits from year to year.Who else but well-trained employees can contribute to the prosperity of an organization?According to training and development, accidents, scrap and damage to machinery and equipment can be avoided or minimized.Even complaints, absenteeism, dissatisfaction and turnover can be reduced if employees are trained well. Because of training and development programs, the future needs of employees will get satisfaction.Training serves as an effective source of recruitmen t. Training is an investment in human resources with a promise of better returns in future. Thus, organizations can get more competitive though the training and development (Kumar, 2011). 5.4 Summary of analyses They will become competent and perform their assigned task independently. Training can reduce staff turnover and help an organization to retain its staff. Better training can make an organization more competitive in business market. Trained employees become efficient.Efficient employees contribute to the organization. Finally, training and development can bring a lot of benefits to both of organization and employees. 6. Conclusion Recommendation 6.1 Conclusion In conclusion, we all know that training and development programs are important for an organization to develop the employee. When a child was born he required constant touch of parents till he stood on his own feet.An organization though flowered by creams of the society, still training is required due to rapid technological up gradation and change in working methods every day. Training aims at continued self-development of the employees. Employees are expected to develop themselves continuously in an organization. When the employees in an organization are developed from time to time with all updated knowledge, then definitely that organization will grow to a greater height. 6.2 Recommendation Both employees and companies are concerned with developing future skills and managing careers. Companies want a work force that is motivated and productive, has up-to-date skills, and can quickly learn new skills to meet changing customer needs. Employees want to develop skills that not only are useful for their current jobs but also are congruent with their personal interests and values. Employees are interested in developing skills that can help them remain employable with either their current employer or a future one. Given the increasing time demands of work, employees are also interested in maintaining balance between work and nonworking interests.

Network at a Snap :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The purpose of this paper is to explain the difference between the Internets and the intranet and how XXXXX tools effectively increased their communication capabilities. The Internet and an intranet are similar in the fact that they can establish communication with a server anywhere instantly. The primary difference between the two are while the Internet can be accessed by the public the intranet is a form of communication that exists within the boundaries of a business and is accessed only by the company, its employees and any authorized users. This has been found to be a very effective form of communication when linking teams and employees that are located in different locales across the globe to share information.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The case study in our text refers to the intranet operations of XXXXX tools. By putting dealers directly in touch with one another, the company believed it could improve everyone’s business success. (Senn, 137) The first question deals with the types of information that can be delivered across the intranet as opposed to printed brochures and reports. Taking into account the security risk factor and the extreme cost of printing these documents, the intranet allows XXXXX to deliver with minimal cost and high security: information on XXXXX products and services that could be valuable to dealers and even more valuable to competitors, tips for franchise management including online training, updates on sales and marketing, forums and discussion groups where dealers all across the country can share ideas, news and special information to aid in advertising. All of these examples can be turned into brochures and reports but the cost of printing, the cost of design, and the man-hours to assemble and disseminate all of this information to the four corners of the world would be expensive. Not to mention the security aspects of having all their trade secrets easily accessible to any would be competitors.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The second question deals with feelings I would have regarding the use of an intranet to disseminate important sales- and product-related information. I feel that with the proper use of a good firewall and that if the network security was set in place I would be comfortable with distributing this information. A good solid company will invest strongly in obtaining a solid security system/firewall. In any case high security systems tend to keep honest people honest. If indeed security was a factor and a competitor/saboteur wanted to infiltrate or corrupt any information, there are many more ways than I know of to partake in that process.

Expanding Target to China Essay

China is, without a doubt, the fastest growing economy in the world today. Companies from around the world have wanted to tap into China’s market to cash in on the tremendous success that it continues to experience. There had been many restrictions for foreign companies who tried to do business in China, limiting the number of foreign companies, and allowing only the big players to come into China. Even then, these big players from around the globe faced more restrictions and rules once they entered China. But things have changed since China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001; a new milestone for this country, as well as for other economies. Since then, restrictions for foreign investors and businesses to enter China’s market had begun to ease up. By December 11th, 2004, China must remove remaining restrictions on the retail sector in order to comply with the WTO rules. This means it will be much easier for foreign retailers to enter the market, and for c urrent foreign retailers in China to expand (1). Many retailers from all over the world will seize this golden opportunity, and Target should do so too. Target, a Minnesota based national retail company, has come a long way from being Dayton’s department store back in 1961 to being one of the biggest players in United States’ retail market, as we know it today. Over the last ten years, Target has experienced a continuous incline in growth year after year. Sales reached over $48 billion this past year, a 10 percent increase from the year prior (2). Just like its revenue, the number of stores across the United States has been on the rise. Currently there are 1313 Target stores operating in 47 states, including 136 SuperTarget stores in 20 states (3). Not surprisingly, Target ranks number four in Triversity’s Top 100 Retailers in the United States behind Wal-Mart, Home Depot, and Kroger (4). Globally, Target is ranked number 7 in the top 100 retailers worldwide (5). With this kind of statistics, Target has the potential and the resources to begin expanding into the international market, such as China. Comparing to Metro AG, a German retailer, which ranks a couple spots ahead of Target on the worldwide list, is not that much ahead of Target in terms of sales. And yet, Metro AG is one of the largest foreign retailers in China, along with  Wal-Mart and Carrefour (6). Not only should Target continue to expand domestically, but it should also start looking to expand in other markets around the world as well, such as China. This will allow Target to become a multinational company and begin creating a global recognition for itself in the retail sector. Now of course Target cannot dive right into the China Market and expect everything to just work out. Like any other company entering a foreign market, there are challenges and factors that Target must consider and evaluate before doing business in China. In this report, different reasons why Target should enter China’s retail market and the benefits it offers to the company will be presented. China’s economic status, political status, and economic status, along with options of entry and other factors that will affect Target’s business, will be discussed. China’s Economic Status China is currently the world’s most potential market for consumer goods. Its average annual GDP growth rate of nearly 10 percent for the last 10 years is the strongest among other major economies around the world (7). This is mainly due to the increase in manufacturing investment from foreign companies over the years because China is full of resources and cheap labor. Many products we see today are labeled â€Å"Made in China† since China has essentially developed into â€Å"a manufacturing centre for the world’s consumer goods production† (8). With a population of 1.3 billion people and having more consumers than Europe and the United States put together, it is obvious that China is by far one of the most attractive markets to invest in for foreign companies that are in the retail and consumer sector (8). When combining the strong, continuous growth of the economy with a population of this magnitude, the results are more money in consumers’ pockets, meaning more money to spend on goods. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers, â€Å"the retail sales of consumer goods in China quadrupled with a span of 10 years† (7). With this kind of statistics, it will be Target’s best interest to pursuit an expansion into China’s retail market. China’s economy and consumer market will continue to grow. The more people there are in a  market, the more money will be spent. Everyone will always need food and daily accessories regardless of how much money they have, and those that have more money to spend will spend that extra money on other goods. So by setting up operations there, Target will have a chance to go along with the ride and reap the promising rewards that China’s consumer market offers, which is what other foreign retailers are looking for. China’s Political Status One of the major milestones for China, which made a global impact, is its accession to the World Trade Organization in 2001. This is the main reason why the forecast of China’s growing economy remains strong. Since then, China’s has begun to ease up restrictions on imports and exports, and also for foreign businesses entering China’s market, most significantly the retail sector. By December 11, 2004, all restrictions on foreign retailing in China will be lifted, including restrictions on foreign ownership, number of branches, and geographic locations for where to set up stores (9). Currently, there are limited foreign investments in China’s retail sector. In 2000, the Retail and Wholesale sector only accounts for 2 percent of the total foreign direct investment in China (7). Today, this percentage is not much higher than it was in 2000. This is because prior to China’s accession to the WTO, there were many restrictions and regulations for foreign companies entering China. Some of the main restrictions were the annual sales volume requirement, assets requirement, and the minimum registered capital requirement. Before, in order to enter China’s retail sector, a foreign company must have annual sales volume of at least US $2 billion, assets of at least US $200 million, and minimum registered capital of at least RMB 50 million, or about US $6.1 million. Also, they were only allowed to enter the market with approval, and in a form of a joint venture with local partners with no more than 49 percent ownership (10). This limited China’s retail market to only the big international players such as Wal-Mart, Carrefour, Metro AG, etc, who all have already established a presence in China. But after China starts to comply with WTO rules next month; dramatic changes will take place in China’s retail sector. Once all the restrictions for foreign retail companies are lifted by China, the number of foreign retailers entering China will increase sharply, both small and medium retailers. All a company will need is a good reputation and a minimum registered capital requirement of US $36,000. Other than a joint venture, a wholly foreign-owned enterprise will become an option (10). Also, the foreign players that are currently in the market will be able expand more rapidly under the new rules. This is another reason why Target should enter China’s retail market, and soon. The percentage that the retail sector represents in the total direct foreign investment is still low, meaning there is a lot of room to grow. The sooner Target steps in, the more market share will be available for Target to gain. If Target delays its entry, other foreign retailers from all over the world will start to swarm in and the big players that are currently in the market will expand quickly; therefore making it more difficult for Target to create a significant presence. If Target decides not to enter this goldmine, then an incredible opportunity will be missed. WFOE or Joint Venture There are two options for Target to start business in China, establishing a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE) or a joint venture with a local Chinese company. There are advantages and disadvantages for both options, and it will be important to understand each. Joint ventures were the only way to enter China for any foreign company due to the restrictions set by China prior to joining the WTO. With joint ventures, foreign companies were able enter China’s market easier. It really helps to have a local partner that is already familiar with the market and know the laws of doing business in China. Also, with a joint venture, it is much less capital intensive since the local partner will be contributing to the business. The downside of a joint venture is that it is difficult to find the right partner, and it requires a lot time because a good relationship must be formed before any negotiations take place. In China, a good relationship is the key to doing business. Some major causes of joint  venture failures have been overestimation of the partner’s capabilities, differing expectations, and different management styles (11). These are some of the reasons that limit a foreign company’s desire to expand. WFOE, an option that will be open to foreign retail companies doing or planning to do business in China after next month, would probably be the direction that most foreign retailers will choose. It should be Target’s choice as well when entering China. But before a WFOE can be set up, an application must be submitted to MOFCOM’s (Ministry of Commerce) provincial-level counterparts. The applications will then be forwarded to MOFOCOM for approval. The approval process takes about three to four months, but approval is only granted if the proposed business will help the development of China’s economy (12). Target will have no problem getting approved because it will help create more jobs in China, bring in more sophisticated technology to run its stores and operations, and increase manufacturing production in China since a good portion of the products that will be in Target stores will be made in China. The disadvantage of setting up a WFOE is that it is much more capital intensive. Foreign companies do not have anyone to share the investment costs with in the country. China only allows money coming from outside of the country when foreign companies want to set up a WFOE (12). However, the advantages that WFOE offers outweigh the disadvantages. A WFOE can enjoy the exclusive management control and operational controls with less interference from the Chinese government (13). A foreign company can bring in sophisticated technology without having to worry about losing its intellectual property or figure out how many shares the technology is worth in a joint venture (14). Because of all this, a WFOE can expand into other areas more freely. Although WFOE would be a capital intensive option for Target, it will pay off in the long run. Having complete control over its management and operations, less governmental interference, and less limitations to expand will be beneficial for Target. China’s Social Status There are some other things that it must take into account before Target jumps into China’s retail market, one of which is the social landscape of China. Just like in the United States, knowing where the customers are and where to set up stores are important strategies. The more wealthy cities are concentrated in China’s east and south-east coastal provinces. The top ten most prosperous provinces in China are: Shanghai, Guangdong, Beijing, Zhejiang, Tianjin, Liaoning, Fujian, Jiangsu, Shandong, and Chongqing. These areas are obviously where foreign investors want to go because of higher per capita income and consumer spending in those areas. Consumer activities in some major inland cities are slowly on the rise, but are still fairly undeveloped compared to the east (7). But it may be a good idea to start investing in those areas and capture those markets while competition level is still low. Target should obviously start with investing in a couple of the more prosperous areas, such as Shanghai, Beijing, Tianjin, or Zhejiang. These four provinces have the highest per capita income and household consumption, which means there are more money spent by consumers (8). Besides this, Target should start investing in the major inland cities that are beginning to develop, such as Wuhan, Chengdu, Changsha, and Sichuan. Almost half of China’s population lives in the central and northwest provinces (7). Take advantage of the new rules that will lift restrictions on locations and the number of stores, and enjoy the benefit of being able to expand easier by being a wholly foreign-owned enterprise. The developing areas should be Target’s concentration. It may be a little more risky, and sales may be lower at first, but it will be beneficial in the long run. The biggest competitors, both domestic and foreign, are mostly located in the prosperous areas (8). It will be more difficult to establish a solid foothold in China’s retail market if Target starts off trying to compete with big foreign players such as Wal-Mart and Carrefour, or big domestic players such as Lianhua and Hualian, all of which are much more familiar with the market. So it will be a good idea for Target to tap into the less developed major  inland cities and create a niche market while competition is still very low in those areas. This can help them develop a presence in China, and become one of the major foreign players in China’s retail market. U.S. Commercial Service After understand all the details described previously throughout the report, Target still needs some help entering China’s retail market. Target is very successful in the United States, but China is a totally different market. There are different consumers, different languages, and different laws. Target needs to find someone that is familiar with the languages (Chinese and English), the Chinese retail market, and all the rules that foreign business must comply with. It would be the best if Target has some managers that fit these criterions within the corporation because then those people can be assigned to assist in Target’s plan to enter China. They will be familiar with China’s market and rules, as well as Target’s objectives and operations. But if there are no qualified candidates within Target, then this is where the U.S. Commercial Service comes in play to help. The U.S. Commercial Service offers customized solutions to help US companies enter and expand in the China Market. They have six offices in China: Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong. There are several services that a US company can purchase, one of which is the Gold Key Service (GKS). This service identifies and arranges appointments with the people that the company will need to meet in order to break into the China market successfully. The U.S. Commercial Service will tailor the service to the company’s needs. They can assess the competition, and/or find lawyers, consultants, government officials, agents and distributors, etc (15). This is a great service that Target should use if they do not have people to use internally. Going into a foreign market, especially China, without being knowledgeable in the country’s laws and regulations, competition, consumers, and business environment is very risky. Any company that does this is essentially setting up for failure in the new market. This is why Target  needs to find experts that know how to do business in China. By being able to access competition, access the business environment, and working with a consultant or lawyer that knows the business laws in China will definitely help Target develop a safe and successful entry into China’s retail market. To order the Gold Key Service from the U.S. Commercial Service, all Target have to do is contact the nearest U.S. Commercial Service assistance center, call 1-800-USA-Trade, or email their FCS Beijing Office at Export.China@mail.doc.gov (15). Other Factors In the Chinese culture, the colors red and gold are favorable colors. They represent happiness, good luck, and good fortune. During festive holidays, such as Chinese New Year, red is seen every where. All businesses, as well as households, would put up red lanterns and decorations. This may be beneficial to Target since red is Target’s color. By having red in the stores in China, it may attract more consumers because people may associate the Target stores with the same meanings that they associate with the colors, especially during festive holidays. Aside from culture, Target should look into other things, such as education in China. Education is very important to China’s future development if it is to be sustainable, but it is not an easy task. The government has been focusing on the country’s economic development, and has neglected to improve the education system and health. However, the government’s new goal is to raise education spending to about 4 percent of GPD, with help from the private sector (8). In the United States, Target currently have a Community Giving Program where Target gives back over $2 million a week to neighborhoods, programs, and schools across the country (16). If Target sets up a similar program in China, it may help build its reputation in the China market. By helping the community receive better education, improving living conditions, and improving living standards will help Target gain favoritism from both consumers and the government, which can only help Target’s goal for success in the market. Conclusion China offers a golden opportunity for foreign retailers, such as Target. Target should take advantage of China’s accession to the WTO and seize the opportunity by entering China’s retail market. There are many factors that Target must review and consider before entering China. Main factors like China’s economic status, political status, and social status. As well as evaluating options of entry (WFOE vs. JV), understanding the culture, assessing both foreign and domestic competitions, and become knowledgeable in business rules and regulations in the country. Target will be very successful in establishing a foothold in China’s retail market and become a major foreign retailer in the country as long as all aspects are carefully reviewed, planned, and understood. Target’s presence and success has been well established in the United States, and now it is time to expand to the next big thing – China. End Notes (1) http://www.chinabusinessreview.com/public/0401/01.html (2) http://quicktake.morningstar.com/Stock/Income10.asp?Country=USA&Symbol= TGT&stocktab=finance (3) http://www.targetcorp.com/targetcorp_group/investor-relations/investor- relations.jhtml (4) http://www.stores.org/pdf/04TOP100chart2.pdf (5) http://retailindustry.about.com/library/bl/03q2/bl_rf100603.htm (6) http://www.bjreview.com.cn/200414/Business-200414(C).htm (7) http://www.pwchk.com/home/webmedia/1024303622085/RetailMarket_ China.pdf (8) http://www.pwcglobal.com/gx/eng/about/ind/retail/wef%20jan04_external.pdf3 (9) http://en-1.ce.cn/subject/RetailinginChina/Regulation&Policy/200409/29/ t20040929_1882374.shtml (10) http://www.osec.ch/~0xc1878d1b_0x0001b994/Investments/foreign_investment_ restrictions_in_trade_and_retail_lifted/en/china_fipdf (11) http://www.sinomedia.net/eurobiz/v200404/story0404.html (12) http://www.isinolaw.com/jsp/fie/fie/FIE_wfoe1.jsp?LangID=0 (13) http://english.sohu.com/2004/07/04/81/article220848132.shtml (14) http://www.businessweek.com/adsections/country/asia/ (15) http://www.buyusa.gov/china/en/gks.html (16) http://target.com/target_group/community_giving/index.jhtml

Leaf-Footed Bugs of Family Coreidae

Leaf-Footed Bugs of Family Coreidae Leaf-footed bugs (Family Coreidae) will grab your attention when several of these large insects gather on a tree or garden plant. Many members of this family have noticeable leaf-like extensions on their hind tibia, and this is the reason for their common name. Members of the family Coreidae tend to be fairly large in size, with the largest reaching almost 4 cm in length. North American species usually range from 2-3 cm. The leaf-footed bug has a tiny head relative to its body, with a four-segmented beak and four-segmented antennae. The pronotum is both wider and longer than the head. A leaf-footed bugs body is typically elongate and often dark in color, although tropical species can be quite colorful. The coreids forewings have many parallel veins, which you should be able to see if you look closely. The most commonly encountered North American leaf-footed bugs are probably those of the genus Leptoglossus. Eleven Leptoglossus species inhabit the U.S. and Canada, including the western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis) and the eastern leaf-footed bug (Leptoglossus phyllopus). Our largest coreid is the giant mesquite bug, Thasus acutangulus, and at up to 4 cm long, it lives up to its name. Classification Kingdom – AnimaliaPhylum – ArthropodaClass – InsectaOrder – HemipteraFamily - Coreidae Leaf-Footed Bugs Diet As a group, the leaf-footed bugs mostly feed on plants, often eating the seeds or fruit of the host. Some, like the squash bug, can do considerable damage to crops.   A few leaf-footed bugs may be predaceous. Leaf-Footed Bugs Life Cycle Like all true bugs, leaf-footed bugs undergo simple metamorphosis with three life stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The female usually deposits her eggs on the underside of foliage of the host plant. Flightless nymphs hatch and molt through several instars until reaching adulthood. Some leaf-footed bugs overwinter as adults. Certain coreids, most notably the golden egg bug (Phyllomorpha laciniata), demonstrate a form of parental care for their young. Instead of depositing eggs on a host plant, where the young could easily fall victim to predators or parasites, the female deposits her eggs on other adult leaf-footed bugs of her species. This may lessen mortality rates for her offspring. Special Behaviors and Defenses In some species, the male leaf-footed bugs establish and defend their territories from intrusion by other males. These coreids often have enlarged femora on the hind legs, sometimes with sharp spines, which they use as weapons in battles with other males. Leaf-footed bugs have scent glands on the thorax and will emit a strong odor when threatened or handled. Range and Distribution Over 1,800 species of leaf-footed bugs live throughout the world. Only about 80 species inhabit North America, mainly in the south. Sources Borror DeLongs Introduction to the Study of Insects, 7th edition, by Charles A. Triplehorn and Norman F. Johnson.Encyclopedia of Entomology, 2nd edition, edited by John L. Capinera.Kaufman Field Guide to Insects of North America, by Eric R. Eaton and Kenn  KaufmanFamily Coreidae – Leaf-Footed Bugs, Bugguide.net. Accessed online January 13, 2012.

Chemical Properties of Matter

Chemical Properties of Matter Chemical properties are any of the properties of matter that may only be observed and measured by performing a chemical change or chemical reaction. Chemical properties cannot be determined by touching or viewing a sample; the structure of the sample must be altered for the chemical properties to become apparent. Examples of Chemical Properties Here are some examples of chemical properties. Reactivity with other chemicalsToxicityCoordination numberFlammabilityEnthalpy of formationHeat of combustionOxidation statesChemical stabilityTypes of chemical bonds that will formMore examples Uses of Chemical Properties Scientists use chemical properties to predict whether a sample will participate in a chemical reaction. Chemical properties may be used to classify compounds and find applications for them. Understanding a materials chemical properties helps in its purification, separation from other chemicals or in identification in an unknown sample. Chemical Properties Versus Physical Properties While a chemical property is only revealed by the behavior of a substance in a chemical reaction, a physical property may be observed and measured without changing the composition of a sample. Physical properties include color, pressure, length, and concentration.

Gilgamesh Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

Gilgamesh - Essay Example The gods recommended that Gilgamesh required a powerful, restless and adventurous hero to be his friend and worthy opponent. Aruru, the womb goddess, decided to pick on Enkidu who lived in the wilderness amongst the animals, disturbing hunters and farmers. Therefore, one of the gods convinced Shamhat, a temple harlot, to make a civilized and humble man out of him by sleeping with him for a period of one week. However, just after having the first taste of sex, Shamhat successfully manages to convince him to come and live in the temple. She promises to introduce her to some good friends and even teach him to live as a civilized human something that he accepts. Gilgamesh and Enkidu became great friends, and since that time, Gilgamesh became so committed to his duties as a king to extent that he turned down goddess Ishtar’s offer to sleep with her. The power of women and sex, in this play, is also demonstrated when Gilgamesh turns down goddess Ishtar’s offer to sleep with her. In response, he asked Ishtar, â€Å"but how could I repay you as a wife and still avoid the bitterness and strife that follow you?† (Jackson 36). This indicates how the gods and goddess were highly powerful and any attempt to reject their demands would result into a serious punishment. In this case, sex is used as a supreme demand that Gilgamesh has to accept. This is the reason why Ishtar released the bull to destroy the people of Uruk and it is what led to Enkidu’s death. This context is further used to change Gilgamesh’s attitudes and behaviors. In the attempt to end shame and acquire immortality, Gilgamesh again is helped by a woman, Utanapishtim’s wife. Gilgamesh is ashamed with his attitudes and behaviors, and he says, â€Å"I now race from place to place, dissatisfied with wherever I am and turn my step to Utnapishtim† (Jackson 59). He asked Utanapishtim, â€Å"Help me

Cell Sat Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Cell Sat - Essay Example Calls whose orbits are a lot of times higher than normal satellites, are also known as geosynchronous satellites, offer no time delay in the voice and almost no echo effect. So to achieve this satellite phone will be using Low Earth orbiting satellites. CellSat will be designed on path diversity architecture which offers overlapping satellite coverage, so that any call can be made available to be handle from many satellites in any location. This will result in fewer dropped calls. Motivation is any need that an individual seeks to satisfy. Before becoming a motive, it has to have intense stimulation or arousal. The motives are classifies as biogenic and psychogenic needs. Biogenic needs are need for drinks, sex and bodily comfort. Psychogenic needs are psychological needs which are also known as secondary needs, such as the need for nurturing, independence and achievement. Motivation can also be described as wanting like someone, which is why companies hire celebrities so that the consumers can be attracted towards them, and be motivated to buy that product. For instance David Beckham appeals to the youngsters and he is a brand ambassador of a lot of products. It is because of him that people buy the products, may be because they want to be like him. It is one of the psychogenic needs (Stein)Companies around the world spend billions of dollars for making a tagline and the right message for their products since motivation and perceptions influence consumer beh avior in many ways. For a consumer market, anything can be a motivational factor. Like promoting a product through celebrities, is one of the most important motivational factor these days.. For any market, especially the UK market, Celebrities likely David Beckham can be a lot appealing to the youth market while those like Stephen Fry appeal to the more scholarly and discerning people. It is a

Unit 6 Scenario Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Unit 6 Scenario - Essay Example The producers would like to hike the price to P2,where the whole tax burden is borne by the visitors. But will the visitors be willing to pay for the increase in price because of tax. So the demand and supply do not match, at point P2, there is an excess supply. Hence, the price has to come down to P1, where Q1 will be both demanded and supplied. It is evident that, the price of the product for the consumer increases from Pe to P1, which is their share of tax and is about half of the tax of XY. Producers now get C per unit, after paying tax PeC per unit. The revenue for the producers falls from OPeWQe to OCYQ1. The government will receive a tax revenue equal to CP1XY and the market size falls from Qe to Q1. This may have an implication on the employment in the society as firms may employ less number of people and the visitors will also think about alternate places of entertainment due to the increase in prices. However, the tax burden on the consumers and producers will vary depending upon the price elasticity of the entertainment service. On the other hand, if the option of charging a special tax on the shop owners based on the shop size, then, the smaller shops will be at the advantageous side. Smaller shop owners will pay less taxes and so their ratio of profit to investment will be high. If the owners with bigger shops want to share the tax burden with the consumers, then the price of products from the big shops will be higher than that from smaller shops. It will create opportunities for unfair trade practices. This might discourage entrepreneurial activity and even encourage shop owners to search for better places with favorable tax climates. Hence, the option 1 of imposing indirect tax will be a better

MGM International Resorts Case Analysis Memo Essay Example for Free

MGM International Resorts Case Analysis Memo Essay To: James J. Murren From: Date: November 18, 2013 Subject: Issues of MGM International Resorts I am writing this letter in order to address the slow recovery of your company. It has come to my attention that your company, MGM International Resorts, is facing some major issues as the gaming and hospitality industry struggles to recover. In this letter I plan to address the industries problems, and the specific issues that your company is facing. One of the major issues facing MGM International Resorts is that it is that the industry has a lot of overcapacity as demand has dropped from pre-recessionary evels when many big projects have been planned. This is evidenced by your companys ambitious pre-recession project CityCenter, the largest private development project in United States history. CityCenter ended up opening to little fanfare. The biggest sources of revenue in the industry were conventions. Due to the economic downturn in 2008, revenues from Conventions have decreased dramatically and have not fully recovered. Trade shows, associations and corporations traditionally paid a premium to meet in Las Vegas. Now with fewer organizations meet in Las Vegas, they can now negotiate lower prices. There are now increased leisure travelers going to Las Vegas to fill discounted rooms but does not help you increase revenue much as they do not like to spend money on your high end shopping and dining venues. Americans are also deciding more carefully spend their money preferring staycations in order to save money on increasing airfares and travel costs. This is mainly due to the decrease in discretionary spending of 43 percent from December 2007 to January 2011. The road to recovery from the start of the economic recession for the industry is slower than predicted. Your company also aces strong competition from competitors such as Wynn Resorts and Las Vegas Sands who have managed to fare in the recession substantially better. MGM Resorts Internationals financial statements are not very good relative to your competitors. Your company had a degradation of financials compared to your competitors whom of which fared the recession much better. Your company is highly leveraged with net debt to EBITDA of 1 1. 5 times. Boyd, Las Vegas Sands have lower debt leveraging at 8. x, 3. 3x, 3. 4x, and 1 . 9x respectively. You are also not as widely diversified in regional American markets such as in the Northeast. Your company has recently lost money posting a net loss of 1,437. 4 million in 2010. I will first analyze the health of the gaming and hospitality industry in Las Vegas in which you compete using Porters Five Forces of Competition Model. The indus try faces a lot of substitutes which your customers flock to. There is online gambling. This may keep people from flocking to casinos to gamble as they can conveniently do it at home. There are also closer example of this would be Empire City Casino in Yonkers, NY. It is only half an hour way from New York City and very convenient for those in the area who would Just like to gamble for a night and return home. You do not face a very large threat from new entrants as the capital requirements to enter the gaming and hospitality industry are very high. Customers are able to easily switch from staying on your properties to another companys property. Your company also possesses a wide variety of products that are differentiated. That being said, Industry Rivalry between you and your competitors are very high. All companies in the industry are on fairly qual ground ever since the recession. The costs to exit this industry are also very high. Customers again have very low switching costs and may switch between different properties as they see fit and the large excess in capacity in the industry means that you and all your competitors are cutting prices on rooms and services in order to attract business. The industrys suppliers of hospitality related supplies, such as food bed sheet and soap, and casino/gaming specific supplies, such as slot machines and thousands of decks of cards, have very weak bargaining power. The ew large companies within the gaming and hospitality industry have the bargaining power with when it comes to its two supplier lines as there are many of these suppliers to buy from while only a few large companies that are willing to buy. The ability to use a companys size to negotiate price and length of contracts for expensive high luxury furnishings and exclusive rights to a show or celebrity chef also gives the gaming and hospitality industry strength. While bargaining power of the suppliers is weak, the bargaining power of buyers is very strong. Customers have ery low switching costs and again the large excess in capacity in the industry means that you and all your competitors are cutting prices on rooms and services in order to attract business. Conventions, which are a large part of revenue have been on the downturn compared to capacity, again forcing prices downward. Buyers in the industry are also very price sensitive with many opting to take staycations where vacationers enjoy their time off closer to home. All of these forces add up to an industry that is relatively weak and recovering very slowly. Using the growth-share nalysis, your company is positioned as a cash cow which is very good. Your company has high market share in a slow growing industry. The company should worry though as it is close to being a dog of the industry as it has a lot of debt from ill-timed large projects such as CityCenter and must worry about other companies stealing market share as they are recovering faster. The industry is very capital intensive which means a lot of revenue is being reinvested back into the business. I will now analyze your company through SWOT Analysis. Your company has quite a few strengths that ill help your company into the future. Your companys large size gives it the upper hand in negotiating the best prices from its suppliers. It is very advantageous that your company caters to a wide range of customers from the high-end consumers with resorts such as the Bellagio offering exclusive products to the value-minded consumers with Circus Circus. Your ability to provide superior customer service by recruiting, training and retaining the best most motivated individuals is very valuable in your company. Your marketing and sales activities are another strong suit which compliments your services.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream Essay: The Identity of Characters

Identity of Characters in A Midsummer Night’s Dream Where Shakespeare's tragedies will tell the story, chiefly, of a single principal character, this is rarely the case with his comedies. The comedies are more social and deal with groups of characters. In the case of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the principal groups are, at first, introduced severally. Though, one group may interact with another (as when Puck anoints Lysander's eyes, or Titania is in love with Bottom) they retain separate identities. While each of the groups is separate, there are symmetries which appear among them: Theseus and Oberon (and, in a way, Bottom) are rulers and figures of authority in their proper spheres. Hippolyta and Titania are consorts who defy their lords, but ultimately submit to their lordship. Often one pair is to be contrasted with another: the well-matched lovers Lysander and Hermia contrast with the ill-matched Demetrius and Helena (they resemble Pyramus and Thisbe). Even Puck has his human counterpart in Philostrate. The serious strife of the young nobles contrasts with the good fellowship of the mechanicals while it resembles the contention of the fairy rulers. Complete depiction of a complex character (as in Hamlet) is not attempted here, and would be wholly out of place. This is not a fault but reflects the different concern here of the playwright. But we do find very economical portrayal of strong and vivid characters, in Puck, Bottom, Oberon, Titania, Theseus, Helena and Hermia. Of t hese, the first two stand out as among the greatest of Shakespeare's creations. Puck first appears at the start of Act 2, and is rarely off the stage from this point. He is essential to the narrative: he carries out his master's orders obe... ...ically as anything in the tragedies, his anti-greeting ("Ill met by moonlight...") almost a snarl. But his concern for the lovers, and his pity for the ridiculous dotage of Titania show how he is capable of gentler feeling. Theseus' obvious sympathy for Hermia in 1.1, has a parallel in his concern not to belittle the efforts of the mechanicals to celebrate his wedding: "The best in this kind are but shadows, and the worst are no worse, if imagination amend them". His prose speaking here might indicate a concern that the workmen should understand him, to lessen their sense of awe. In Theseus, Shakespeare brings dignity and humanity to the familiar mythical hero; in Oberon, he embodies the most benign qualities of Elizabethan woodland sprites in a fairy king more vivid, concrete and passionate than any original of Oberon on whom he may have based his depiction. A Midsummer Night’s Dream Essay: The Identity of Characters Identity of Characters in A Midsummer Night’s Dream Where Shakespeare's tragedies will tell the story, chiefly, of a single principal character, this is rarely the case with his comedies. The comedies are more social and deal with groups of characters. In the case of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the principal groups are, at first, introduced severally. Though, one group may interact with another (as when Puck anoints Lysander's eyes, or Titania is in love with Bottom) they retain separate identities. While each of the groups is separate, there are symmetries which appear among them: Theseus and Oberon (and, in a way, Bottom) are rulers and figures of authority in their proper spheres. Hippolyta and Titania are consorts who defy their lords, but ultimately submit to their lordship. Often one pair is to be contrasted with another: the well-matched lovers Lysander and Hermia contrast with the ill-matched Demetrius and Helena (they resemble Pyramus and Thisbe). Even Puck has his human counterpart in Philostrate. The serious strife of the young nobles contrasts with the good fellowship of the mechanicals while it resembles the contention of the fairy rulers. Complete depiction of a complex character (as in Hamlet) is not attempted here, and would be wholly out of place. This is not a fault but reflects the different concern here of the playwright. But we do find very economical portrayal of strong and vivid characters, in Puck, Bottom, Oberon, Titania, Theseus, Helena and Hermia. Of t hese, the first two stand out as among the greatest of Shakespeare's creations. Puck first appears at the start of Act 2, and is rarely off the stage from this point. He is essential to the narrative: he carries out his master's orders obe... ...ically as anything in the tragedies, his anti-greeting ("Ill met by moonlight...") almost a snarl. But his concern for the lovers, and his pity for the ridiculous dotage of Titania show how he is capable of gentler feeling. Theseus' obvious sympathy for Hermia in 1.1, has a parallel in his concern not to belittle the efforts of the mechanicals to celebrate his wedding: "The best in this kind are but shadows, and the worst are no worse, if imagination amend them". His prose speaking here might indicate a concern that the workmen should understand him, to lessen their sense of awe. In Theseus, Shakespeare brings dignity and humanity to the familiar mythical hero; in Oberon, he embodies the most benign qualities of Elizabethan woodland sprites in a fairy king more vivid, concrete and passionate than any original of Oberon on whom he may have based his depiction.

Ashurnasirpal Ii

Unit One Assignment: Ashurnasirpal II I have entered into the palace of the great Ashurnasirpal II, and am approaching the throne room to await my meeting with the king. In front of me are two Lamassu figures that guard the entrance, Colossal statue of a winged lion from the North-West Palace of Ashurnasirpal II (Fig. 1). I am immediately in awe of the sheer size of this pair of sculptures, they each stand over ten feet tall, towering over individuals who would like to enter the throne room. The pair is enormous and intimidating as they are approached. When I first advance I see this combination of man, lion, and bird frontally.I notice the proud lion’s chest and huge paws. These elements show the strength of the beast and are representative of the power of Ashurnasirpal II and his empire. The body of the lion is adorned with the face of a man, which signifies the intelligence that the kingdom possesses. The face wears the traditional beard of the king, and the traditional hor ned crown indicating the divinity of the king. Associating the king and his domain with the all-powerful gods, shows the connection with absolute power of the divine with the total power of the empire (Reade).Making my way around to the profile view of the statue I continue to see the massive body of the lion, and now see the beautiful feathered wing. The intricate details and pattern of the wing are impressive. The wings represent the swiftness of the ruler (Reade). From the side I see all four legs of the lion, the artist uses the idea of most informative viewpoint, to give an accurate view of the most important aspects of the creature from every angle. From the side the lion appears to be striding forward, perhaps symbolizing aggressiveness (Hedin).The proportions of the elements from each animal are not true to scale. The overall size of the piece is much larger than the animals and human depicted. The wings are much larger than that of any bird, the body larger than any lion, a nd the human head far bigger than any human. What is interesting is the proportion of these elements as they relate to each other. They are of equal importance, the wing is just as large as the body of the lion, and the human head is just as tall as the height of the torso.This shows the equal importance of strength, intellect, and swiftness to the power of the king. This piece focuses on the importance of human and animal anatomy, and shows how advanced artistically this society has become (Atac). There is elaborate attention to detail in the hairs of the beard. This same detailed carving is replicated in the intricate feathers of the wing. The repetition emphasizes the importance of the bearded king figure. Visually I am drawn to the elaborate design in these elements on such a massive statue.The cuneiform shows that this culture is educated and values literacy enough to include it within its art. The engraved writings record ideas about Ashurnasirpal II and are possibly meant to immortalize him within this permanent art piece. As I enter the throne room, I notice an interesting relief located directly behind the throne of Ashurnasirpal II, Stone relief from the throne room of Ashurnasirpal (Fig. 2). This piece is clearly important in depicting elements about the king, because it is so prominently displayed.The throne room is the area of the palace where the king addresses the public and this room would often hold audiences of people who have come to see the king (Cohen). I find it very interesting that Ashurnasirpal II is as tall as the entire relief itself, but the god figure that is shown is much smaller in comparison to each of the king. The Assyrian empire does not require the people that they conquer to convert to their religion, but most certainly require their new subjects to pledge allegiance to Ashurnasirpal II (Mackenzie).Perhaps the larger scale of the king represent which loyalty is more important. The symmetry in this piece is very important. D irectly in the middle is situated a date palm tree which is the lifeblood of this culture (Hedin). On either side of the plant Ashurnasirpal II is shown, in fact, each figure appears twice in this relief. This repetition further emphasizes his importance, but also shows a sort of dichotomy and balance in his power. Each figure is shown from most informative view point.Both images of the king, I see his legs in profile, but his upper body is turned to show both shoulders completely and the actions of each arm. On the right side the king is holding a mace, which I recognize as a weapon with a heavy top that could be used to beat enemies. The gestures of each version of Ashurnasirpal II seem extremely important. The figure on the left side is motioning towards the tree, and associating the king with the abundance of the land. As if it is the king who has brought great prosperity to this civilization (Reade).This theme seems to be repeated with the winged protector figures standing behi nd each representation of Ashurnasirpal II. These figures are ritualistically blessing the king, and reiterating his intense connection with the gods. This relief seems to be stressing that all that is good in the Assyrian empire is because of Ashurnasirpal II himself and that the gods have provided this righteous ruler for the people (Reade). I make my way out the throne room, towards the temple of Ishtar Sharrat-niphi. Here I can see a life sized statue of Ashurnasirpal II, Statue of Ashurnasirpal II (Fig. ). The statue is in the goddess Ishtar’s temple to remind her of the piety of the king. I notice that there are no protruding appendages or any outreaching elements of this statue, but that it is one solid mass of magnesite (Reade). The solid appearance of this portrait symbolizes the secure and stable king and empire. The complex pattern on the beard of the king points out the importance of the beard. The beard clearly symbolizes masculinity, but perhaps it also implies wisdom and power. The size of the beard on this statue is very large in comparison to the rest of the face.It is geometric and structured, but with beautiful ornate detailing. Ashurnasirpal II is shown with the sickle in his right hand, and with the mace in his left hand. The arms are not symmetrical in form, but the rest of the statue’s shape is. The sickle is the weapon that in mythology, the gods used to fight monsters. The mace is shown again, similarly to the depiction of him in the relief, as a weapon that represents authority. Both objects have divine association, which echoes the god like authority that Ashurnasirpal II has over the empire.I find it interesting that he is lifting his arm that holds the mace, perhaps as though he is about to actively us this weapon. Again I see cuneiform used in the art of this culture. Across the chest of the statue of the king, there are etchings that announce the accomplishments of the king as well as his genealogy (Reade). Included in these writings are the recent invasions of surrounding villages. This is clearly just another way to intimidate and boast about not only the power of the Assyrian empire, but the power of Ashurnasirpal II himself.All of the statues and reliefs that I have observed throughout the royal palace seem to reaffirm the importance and power of Ashurnasirpal II. Many of these works were created â€Å"by the initiate for the initiate† (Atac). The content was intended for the audience who would see it in its original form, all of the pieced mentioned have a similar purple. It would be very difficult to not understand the message that the king is sending with all of the decoration. That the king is of divine power and possess the greatest influence over all of the land of Assyria.