Tuesday, August 25, 2020

The Transition from High School to College in Kuwait Research Paper

The Transition from High School to College in Kuwait - Research Paper Example  Past writing provides details regarding student’s progress into grounds have chiefly centered around the determinants of achievement of first-year understudies (Christensen and Evamy, 2011) Learning and desire for first-year understudies (Tabitha et al. 2012) and Engaging ethnically and strengthening of first-year understudies (Apelian, 2010). Little writing is accessible on the difficulties of understudies changing from secondary school to college in Kuwait. This examination paper plans to assess the difficulties looked by understudies joining the school for undergrad programs.  Most understudies are glad to join undergrad examines. (Nia, 2014) express this, in any case, brings outrageous trouble on the grounds that a large portion of them are isolating with acclimated settings and places just because. Briggs (2013) contend that the change procedure from secondary school to college is probably going to meddle with physical solace, government disability and the joy from extracurricular exercises in the main year.  Briggs (2013) includes that the progress procedure can be unpleasant. The isolation of understudies in the Middle East, for instance, carries injury to understudies the majority of who learn just because with the contrary sex. The understudies are additionally answerable for settling on significant choices with respect to their calendar; this can be testing given the greater part of their time in lower classes was overseen by instructors. Roe et al. (2010) affirm that understudies think that its difficult to conform to settling on choices on wh at to embrace at a specific time just as rest and wake up time.

Monday, July 27, 2020

How Does Chronic Stress Negatively Affect Your Health

How Does Chronic Stress Negatively Affect Your Health Stress Management Print How Does Chronic Stress Negatively Affect Your Health? By Elizabeth Scott, MS twitter Elizabeth Scott, MS, is a wellness coach specializing in stress management and quality of life, and the author of 8 Keys to Stress Management. Learn about our editorial policy Elizabeth Scott, MS Updated on October 10, 2019 How Stress Impacts Your Health Overview Signs of Burnout Stress and Weight Gain Benefits of Exercise Stress Reduction Tips Self-Care Practices Mindful Living Jetta Productions/Iconica/Getty Images Chronic stress is a prolonged and constant feeling of stress that can negatively affect your health if it goes untreated. It can be caused by the everyday pressures of balancing family and work or by traumatic situations. In order to begin managing chronic stress, we must understand what it is, what may be causing it and how it affects our entire body. What Is Chronic Stress? Chronic stress results from a state of ongoing physiological arousal. This occurs when the body experiences stressors with such frequency or intensity that the autonomic nervous system does not have an adequate chance to activate the relaxation response on a regular basis. This means that the body remains in a constant state of physiological arousal. It affects virtually every system in the body, either directly or indirectly. We were built to handle acute stress, which is short-lived, but not chronic stress, which is steady over a long period of time. Causes This type of chronic stress response occurs all too frequently from our modern lifestyle. Everything from high-pressured jobs to loneliness to busy traffic can keep the body in a state of the perceived threat and chronic stress. In this case, our fight-or-flight response, which was designed to help us fight a few life-threatening situations spaced out over a long period (like being attacked by a bear every so often), can wear down our bodies and cause us to become ill, either physically or emotionally. In fact, it’s estimated that up to 90% of doctor’s visits are for conditions in which stress plays a role! Thats why it is so important to learn stress management techniques and make healthy lifestyle changes to safeguard yourself from the negative impact of chronic stress. Examples of Acute vs. Chronic Stress There are many life events that cause both acute and chronic stress. To put the two into perspective, here are a few examples. Acute Stress Is Short-Term Acute stress can occur when you get into a car accident. You not only have to deal with police reports, insurance companies and assessing the damage to yourself and your car, but you need to find out how to get to work the next day. Most of these problems will be worked out within a week (maybe as long as a month) and shortly after the accident, your initial stress is relieved because the situation is under control. At least you are safe! Another example is when you are working on an important project for work. You put in long hours and have a tight and looming deadline. This can cause many stressful days as you fine-tune all of the details. However, once the project is submitted, you can relax. In this case, your stress may have actually helped you perform better because not all stress is bad. Chronic Stress Is Long-Term On the other hand, if your family is struggling financially or with a severe illness, the stress can become chronic. Someone in your home may not be able to work, bills are piling up and your home is nearing foreclosure and this can leave you stressed for months or even a year or more. Your constant worry wears down your body, making you feel tired and anxious. You may be working harder than ever to make ends meet and make unhealthy choices about food and exercise, which can make you feel even worse. This can lead to serious depression among other health concerns. We can also have chronic stress related to work. Many jobs require a lot out from us and it can often feel like you never get a break or are always under pressure to perform. Working overtime, constant travel and high-pressure business relations can keep your body in a constant state of excitement, even when you get home to your family. This can also add to the wear and tear on your body and continuous stress can contribute to serious health issues like heart disease or lead to a heart attack. If You Are Experiencing Chronic Stress It is important to begin using stress management techniques as early as possible when you recognize chronic stress in your life. This works for a few reasons. Fast-acting stress relievers can reverse the stress response so your body has a chance to recover and your mind has a chance to approach problems from a proactive stance rather than to react from a stressed or even panicked perspective. When youre making choices from a more relaxed and confident place, you tend to make choices that are more in-line with your best interests and avoid creating more stress for yourself. Longer-term healthy habits can also be important to implement because they can build resilience and give you chances to take a break from stress on a regular basis.  This can help you to keep from staying stressed so constantly that you dont realize how stressed you are, which can keep you from taking steps to reduce the stress in your life. It can also save you from the more negative effects of chronic stress. Some of the most effective habits include exercise, meditation, and journaling, as they have been shown to promote resilience to stress Changing how you respond to stress can help as well. By making changes to reduce the stressful situations you face (saying no more often, for example) and by changing the way you look at the situations you face (reminding yourself of the resources you can use and the strength you possess) can both help. Approaching stress from a proactive stance can help reduce chronic stress You may also need to speak to a doctor or therapist, which can be very effective. If you have tried other strategies and feel you need more, or if you feel these will not be enough to help, dont hesitate to talk to your doctor about your concerns. There is effective help available, and it can be used in addition to all of these suggestions. The 7 Best Online Anxiety Support Groups

Friday, May 22, 2020

Should The United States Increase Foreign Aid - 819 Words

Should the United States increase foreign aid? This is a topic that has come up many times in the past years. When it comes to politics and the people themselves, this is a very important debate. This goes much deeper than just losing money or helping a fellow country in need. People are in need to better their country and themselves. We are all here together and aiding in one s growth can change lives all around. There are many reasons why the United States should increase foreign aid and why it is important to help the global cause. Wealth Makes Health Sometimes there is a higher power than just how far our dollar bill actually goes. The health of our fellow people should be a priority for every human being on this planet. Many countries just do not have the funds to protect themselves from everyday problems. In many third world countries health concerns can include, starvation, dehydration, and disease. Contaminated water diseases alone account for more than three million deaths each year. We help Africa by helping prevent epidemics such as AIDs and malaria. It is immoral to think that we could even stand back from these situations and let them play out. Food and water aid is single handedly one of the most important aids given to other countries. These foreign aids will in turn help a people rise to establish a better understanding of what is needed to protect themselves. By creating a sense of establishment will help families buildShow MoreRelatedShould The United States Increase Foreign Aid?1959 Words   |  8 PagesShould the United States increase foreign aid? This is a topic that has come up many times in the past years. When it comes to politics and the people themselves, this is a very important debate. This goes much deeper than just losing money or helping a fellow country in need. People are in need to better their country and themselves. We are all here together and aiding in one s growth can change lives all around. There are many reasons why the United States should increase foreign aidRead MoreShould the Developed North Increase Aid to the Less Developed South?1510 Words   |  7 PagesShould the Developed North Increase Aid to the Less Developed South? The question at hand is not whether aid from the developed north should be given at all, but whether or not it should be increased to help ease the suffering of the developing countries in the south. Every country, whether rich or poor, should have compassion for the suffering. However, it is not the duty of the developed north to completely take care of every developing country. In the present, there are seriousRead MoreThe Cons of U.S. Foreign Aid Essay1251 Words   |  6 PagesThe Cons of U.S. Foreign Aid As time progresses humankind seeks to better itself. We strive to make life easier, faster, and more efficient. Currently we have telescopes that can see objects light years away, satellites that can track you around the planet, cars that adjust the seat and steering wheel to separate drivers, and computers that fit in your hand and perform a million calculations a second. But not everyone in this world has this technology. In parts of the world there are peopleRead MoreThe First President Of The United States Essay1454 Words   |  6 PagesRevolutionary War, the United States wanted to implant a strong relationship with Britain and also with France. Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States, helped settle hostility with Britain and with France. By doing so, he helped to negotiate the Louisiana Purchase, started trading more with other countries, and also made it easier for immigrants to become citizens. What Thomas Jefferson was trying to do was to improve foreign relationships and establish a foreign policy. It isRead MoreGlobal Poverty Essay example1162 Words   |  5 Pagesbecome a crucial fact worldwide and has a great influence on economic development. Foreign aid from wealthy regions has been dedicated to reducing poverty. Before delving into the argument, it is necessary to clarify the term â€Å"western countries† and â€Å"global poverty†. Western countries refer to the most developed countries which have in common a high standard of living for most of the residents, such as the United States, most European countries and Australia. Global poverty in this essay can be definedRead MoreEssay On The Federal Budget1072 Words   |  5 PagesThe United States is on a fiscally unsustainable path with the national debt at $19.8 trillion as of July 2017. 2016 federal spending exceeded revenue by $552 billion and is anticipated exceeding revenue for the foreseeable future creating a strategic challenge to our domestic economy (Deliver, 2017). The 2017 federal debt is at 77 % of gross domestic product (GDP) making it the highest public debt since World War II. The 2018 federal budget estimated impact is the deficit will increase to 79Read MoreDoes The U.s. Have An Obligation Help Poor Countries?1607 Words   |  7 Pagesto help poor countries? Carlos Andrade Ethics 326 – 4:30PM April 24, 2016 Mr. Estrada X___________________________________ The United States does not have an obligation to help poor countries. Many believe that the U.S. has a moral or ethical obligation to assist countries who need it. The United States is viewed as the police of the world, defender of democracy, and body of countries who it chooses to align with. When it is said that the U.S. has an â€Å"ethical obligation†Read MoreThe United States And Public Education1344 Words   |  6 PagesThe United States does not have an obligation to help poor countries. Although the U.S. has a high gross domestic product and strong military, it still hasn’t been able to succeed in other areas. In order to help others, you need to help yourself. Until every aspect of the United States is in order, we should not supply any other countries with help. The United States also has a failing public education system, citizens with food insecurities, and aging infrastructure. Giving aid can do more harmRead MoreAid is not the Way to Development1427 Words   |  6 Pages Trade, not aid, is the key to economic growth in developing countries. To what extent do you agree with this statement? Introduction Most of the developing countries are mired deeply in economical obstacles, which prevent them from development significantly. In order to overcome those embarrassments world’s society struggles to find the efficient solution for poor countries’ economies. Historically, developed countries undertook policy of giving aid to their colonies,Read MoreAdvantages and Disadvantages Giving Aid1521 Words   |  7 Pagesto (Andrew Page, 2005) Foreign Aid or Official Development Assistance (ODA) is a transfer of resources on concessional terms which are undertaken by official agencies. Mostly, the countries that receive foreign aid are usually developing countries. Poverty is the main focus of giving the foreign aid. This situation always happened to many countries due to the conditions where the people live and from that it will show the quality of living is poor among the people. Foreign aid is given to poor countries

Saturday, May 9, 2020

The Influence of Edgar Allan Poes Life on His Morbid...

Edgar Allan Poe is the most morbid of all American authors. Poe made his impact in Gothic fiction, especially for the tales of the macabre of which he is so renowned for. â€Å"How can so strange so fine a genius so sad a life, be exprest [sic] comprest in on line — would it not be best to say of Poe in a reverential spirit simply Requiescat in Pace [?]† — (Alfred Lord Tennyson’s reply to the Poe Memorial committee, February 18, 1876). Poe’s own life story sheds light on the darkness of his writings. Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 19, 1809 to David Poe and Elizabeth Arnold Hopkins - both of whom died before their son was three. Edgar went to live in Richmond, Virginia with John Allan, a wealthy tradesman, while his†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"Mr. Poe could not possibly send forth a book without some marks of his genius, and mixed up with the dross we find much sterling ore.† — (From a review of Poe’s Tales, September 6, 1845.) In 1845, Poe, 27, and Virginia, 13, married, and were happy for a time. In 1842, Virginia ruptured a blood vessel; the first sign of the ill health that plagued her short life. Poe turned to alcohol to cope with her illness and the stress of his dying wife. Two years later, Virginia died of tuberculosis, and Poe’s own death would follow shortly two years after that. The Raven, published in 1845, brought Poe temporary popular and critical acclaim. The Raven was a personal challenge Edgar imposed upon himself. Poe originally wanted to use a parrot instead of a raven, but he felt it didn’t evoke the right tone. He also wanted to write a 100 line poem, but ended up with 108 lines, which was good enough for Poe. The one and only novel Poe completed, Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket, was about these crew members drawing straws for who would be eaten after their boat capsized; they drew straws, and ate Richard Parker. The book flopped. Even though Poe said it was a true story, almost all the critics didn’t believe him. They were right to since at the time Poe’s book wasn’t true, but just five years later a similar wreck happened with the same lead character name Richard Parker, though there was no cannibalism. ButShow MoreRelatedEdgar Allan Poes Impact on American Literature1379 Words   |  6 PagesEdgar Allan Poe is one of the most influential writers of the horror genre in American history. His horror stories have impacted numerous authors and their stories over the years. Various people have tried to copy his way of writing style, but they have failed to achieve the success he did. Even though Poe is no longer living, his impact on American literature can still be felt today. Edgar Allan Poe was born in Boston, Massachusetts on January 19, 1809. Even though Edgar Allan Poe did not growRead MoreEdgar Allan Poe and Love 1059 Words   |  5 Pages Edger Allan Poe is one of the most influential authors of his time. Well known for his short storys The Raven and A Tell-Tale Heart, Poe also wrote poems that reflected his struggles through out his life. Poe was born in 1809, Thomas Jefferson was president. Lots of events occurred during Poe’s life with the beginning of the war of 1812, to the writing of â€Å"Frankenstein† by Mary Shelley, and â€Å"The Vampyre† written by John Polidori. Slavery was banned in England in 1833 and a year later, The SpanishRead MoreInfluences And Life Of A Tortured Soul1994 Words   |  8 PagesInfluences and Life of a Tortured Soul â€Å"Although dissolute in his personal life, when Poe touched pen to paper, he became a disciplined craftsman.† (Carnes 300). Edgar Allan Poe cemented his place in American literature by publishing countless poems and short stories, including â€Å"The Raven† and â€Å"Masque of the Red Death.† Poe effectively invented the detective fiction genre and perfected the horror story. His style, visionary as it was, was not with its influences. A life filled with tragedy, disappointmentRead MoreTerm Paper Edgar Allan Poes Infatuation with Death1498 Words   |  6 PagesEdgar Allan Poes Infatuation with Death Ralph Emerson once wrote, Talent alone cannot make the writer. There must be a man behind the book. Edgar Allan Poe acquired the ability to write Gothic horror through the tragedies that existed in his life. At three years old Poe lost his mother and father. Grief and sadness overwhelmed Poes childhood and eventually his literary style. By temperament and mournful personal experience, Poe was drawn into the contemporary cult of death (KennedyRead MoreA Brief Biography of Edgar Allan Poe Essay1001 Words   |  5 Pages Thesis Edgar Allan Poe was a fictional writer that astonished readers with his many mysterious poems and his tales of horror such as â€Å"The Raven†, â€Å"Annabelle Lee†, and â€Å"The Fall of the house of Usher†. Biography Edgar Allan Poe was born on January 19, 1809 in Boston Massachusetts. (A-1) His parents were English born actors Elizabeth Arnold Poe and David Poe Jr. (A-2) After his parents died he was raised by his godfather JohnRead MorePoetic Prose Of Edgar Allan Poe1409 Words   |  6 PagesJared Zimmerman 12/04/2014 ENG 112 Mr. Erik Curren Cathartic Prose: A psychoanalysis of Edgar Allan Poe It’s no mystery that the life of Edgar Allan Poe, one of the earliest practitioners of the short story and one of horror’s most revered authors, was full of distress and tragedy. Plagued by family deaths, financial troubles, and little success in writing, Poe’s life certainly had its fair share of ups and downs, but was he the crazy madman that people rumored him to be? It is a common belief thatRead MoreEdgar Allen Poe: His Life and His Work1764 Words   |  8 PagesIn human nature there exists a morbid desire to explore the darker realms of life. As sensitive beings we make every effort to deny our curiosity in the things that frighten us, and will calmly reassure our children that there arent any creatures under their beds each night, but deep down we secretly thrive on that cool rush of fear. Despite our efforts to maintain a balance of respectable emotions, we are a society of people who slow down to look at traffic accidents and find excitement in theRead More Edgar Allan Poes Writing Essay2378 Words   |  10 Pagesincorporate them into his or her works. In the gothic times, dark, threatening, horrific, morbid, depressing, bizarre, bewildering, death and insane are just some words that best describe the popular type of literature at that time. One man’s name can summarize the se words, Edgar Allan Poe. He is considered to be one of the greatest obscure American authors/poets whom many literary scholars still try to make heads or tails of. People throughout the history often wondered why Poe’s writings are so fantasticallyRead MoreThe Cask Of Amontillado By Edgar Allan Poe1555 Words   |  7 PagesIn his writing, Edgar Allan Poe has multiple uses of direct and indirect characterization. In The Cask of Amontillado, Montresor had rules such as â€Å"I must not only punish but punish with impunity. A wrong is unredressed when retribution overtakes its redresser. It is equally unredressed when the avenger fails to make himself felt as such to him who has done the wrong† (Poe, 2). Poe used indirect characterization to show the reader that Montresor is an unreliable narrator because he justified his actionsRead MoreInfluence Of Writers : Edgar Allen Poe Essay1814 Words   |  8 PagesThe Influence of Writers: Edgar Allen Poe on Charles Baudelair e Poets and writers who lived in America during the 1800’s lived in a time of new beginnings and a time in which they could create their own version of literature. Edgar Allen Poe did that and even more during his lifetime. He put a lot of effort into making his poems memorable to his audience and give them something to think about. During his lifetime not many people took notice of Poe’s genius, but Charles Baudelaire definitely did.

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Lebanese Delight Free Essays

A Lebanese Delight Silent Thesis: Today I am going to inform you about a Middle Eastern side dish called Tabouli or Tabouleh. I. Introduction A. We will write a custom essay sample on Lebanese Delight or any similar topic only for you Order Now Have you ever stumbled on the Lebanese cuisine more specifically on their various types of food? 1. I’m sure all of you have had a taste of a Middle Eastern dish one point in your life, whether you knew it or not. 2. Just look for a whole table, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, filled with a feast and that is a Middle Eastern tradition except followed everyday. . When I was younger and even until this day I am faced with Middle Eastern hospitality of getting food constantly shoved in my face, but this is how I was introduced to my favorite salad, Tabouleh. b. No matter how hard you try to resist these full course meals, Middle Eastern women are stubborn and would not allow you to leave their house without the proper intake of their food, and I’m talking non-stop service. B. Being Lebanese I am constantly surrounded by the food and culture but whose to argue. C.Today I am going to talk to you about a specific side dish called Taboulie or Tabouleh. 1. First, I will tell you the history of where Tabouleh originated from to get a feel of the eating style in the region of the Lebanese cuisine. 2. Then, I will tell you what Tabouleh is considered to be in the Lebanese Culture. 3. Lastly, I will tell you what Tabouleh consists of. D. I will begin by telling you about the Lebanese Cuisine. II. The Lebanese cuisine is extremely rich in flavors and colors and yet often offers recipes easy to prepare and suitable for a healthy diet. A.According to the book The Complete Middle Eastern Cookbook written in the year 2000 by Tess Mallos, an author and consultant to advertising companies, she states, foreign influences have been felt widely in the area, of Beirut. 1. Lebanon has been ruled by foreign powers and as a result they have influenced the types of food the Lebanese ate. 2. According to the book Mediterranean Cooking written by Andrea Chesman in 2005 she writes, â€Å"Middle Eastern cooking is based in the peasant traditions of the farmers and nomadic peoples who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. a. It’s ancient cuisine and many of the same dishes described in Egyptian texts and in the Bible are still eaten in the Middle East today. b. Its influence was spread all around the Mediterranean. B. The food of the entire Mediterranean region is considered to be a celebration of life. 1. It is fresh, flavorful, and diverse and the cuisine of Lebanon is, as a whole, the Mediterranean diet. a. It includes starches, fruits, vegetables, fresh fish and seafood. b. Red meat is eaten less often than poultry, and usually the only red meat is lamb. . Along with the Lebanese cuisines’ flavors, comes a large amount of garlic and olive oil. a. Joe George a chef and culinary educator writes in his article titled Ethnic Cuisine: Lebanon in 2001, that these two ingredients, olive oil and garlic, are an essential part in Lebanon and usually a typical meal consists of them. b. Sanaa Abourezk, an author and chef writes in her book titled Secrets of Healthy Middle Eastern Cuisine in 2005 that other than in a few deserts, butter or cream is rarely used and is replaced by olive oil. C.The cuisine of Lebanon focuses on herbs, spices and the freshness of ingredients, the combinations of the dishes are almost limitless. 1. In her book, Tess Mallos writes about the ingredients used for Arabic cooking. 2. It is almost essential that every Arabic or Middle Eastern household stock up on fine and coarse burghul, Tahini, dried beans, chick peas, dried mint and a spice mix called za’tar. 3. Anissa Helou in her book written in 1994 titled Lebanese Cuisine, she mentions that finding fresh vegetables and fruits would be common and is essential diet in the Lebanese Cuisine. D.Now that you have learned about the history of the Lebanese Cuisine, I am going to inform you of what Tabouleh is considered to be in the Lebanese Culture. III. To understand the various types of food you must also understand the Middle Eastern hospitality and when different dishes are served. A. Tess Mallos writes in her cookbook that Middle Eastern hospitality is frequently expressed with the offering of mezze. 1. Mezze is an array of small dishes which portray different colors, flavors, textures, and aromas, basically they are appetizers, and are only limited by the availability of ingredients and the ability of the cook to prepare them. . These various types of appetizers can be cooked on a minutes notice so it can be very quickly but efficiently. b. Mezze may be as simple as pickled vegetables, hummus, bread, Baba Ghannouj, lebneh, Tabouleh, or it can become an entire meal consisting of grilled marinated seafood, skewered meats and a variety of cooked and raw salads. 2. These appetizers can be refrigerated, frozen, and later when entertaining guests, defrosted. 3. Almost all types of mezze are served with the Arabic flat bread also known as pita bread, which is basically a replacement for a fork. B. Tabouleh is one of the most common types of zesty salad appetizers in the Lebanese culture. D. Now that you have learned about the history of the Lebanese Cuisine as well as what it’s considered to be in the Lebanese culture, I am going to inform you of a specific dish called Tabouleh. IV. According to Claudia Roden, a food writer, she writes in her book titled The New Book of Middle Eastern Food in 2000 that Tabbouleh has been around for about 4,000 years. A. Tabbouleh is a Middle Eastern salad thought to have originated in the Bekaa Valley of Lebanon in the mountain region of Zahle. 1. Tabouleh was one of the local mountain-village foods offered in the cafes and spread far and wide. a. According to Claudia Roden, it started as a â€Å"relatively substantial salad that was rich with Bulgur but was transformed later into an all-green herby affair. † b. Bulgur is basically cracked wheat, that has been boiled and dried, then ground, and it is the basis of many salads in the Middle East, Tabouleh has become one of the famous ones. . Tabouleh’s primary ingredients are burghul, finely chopped parsley, mint, tomato, scallion and other herbs with lemon juice, olive oil and various seasonings. 3. In the hometown Tabouleh is traditionally served with a lettuce leaf, but in the United States it’s eaten with pita bread as a dip. B. Tabouleh is considered to be one of the main salads one will find at every table of a Lebanese family. V. Conclusion. A. The Lebanese Cuisine can be more complicated than one can assume. 1. One simple dish can have a bigger background to it, a deeper origin. 2.I am sure all of you have tried a Middle Eastern dish one point in your life. B. If you have not, well today you have learned what to look for when you come across a Lebanese dish, and what the origin of Tabouleh is. C. We learned three things. 1. First, we learned about the history of where Tabouleh originated from and the Lebanese Cuisine. 2. Second, we learned what Tabouleh is considered to be in the Lebanese culture. 3. Lastly, we learned about what Tabouleh consists of. D. The next time you come across a Lebanese dish, more specifically a salad, you now know what to look for. How to cite Lebanese Delight, Papers

Tuesday, April 28, 2020

Notes on Cry free essay sample

The dancers intent is to portray the struggle strength of the African American women who were in the slave trade; how women so enslaved trapped can still manage to be so free. l heard about lynchings, Having that kind of experience as a child left a feeling of rage In me that I think pervades my work Alvin Alley. She rises again to wear the cloth as a shawl, then steps on Its ends as If bound by It to the ground The final posture mirrors the opening posture of the dance, suggesting a cyclical inevitable progression of frustration and despairAlley has abstracted this narrative to portray the womans despair. BEEN ON A TRAIN The use of the percussive piano accents In relation to movement. For example, the dynamic emphasis of the gestures Alley uses. The power of Cry emanates from Its defiantly slightly Images of Identity In Its first section, the bottomless abyss of sorrow approached In Its second section and the transcendent quality of ecstatic faith engaged in the third section. We will write a custom essay sample on Notes on Cry or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Cry became emblematic as an act of simultaneous defiance and release.As a eviction of contemporary African American identity, the dance liberated audience and dancer in its modernistic layering of movement genres, especially its conspicuous use of enforcing body part Isolations. In this work there are three distinct sections and for each new section, there Is a new song that is played. The songs used in this work are Something About John Coloration by Alice Coloration, Been On A Train by Laura Nor and Right On. Be Free. by The Voices Of East Harlem. In a couple of these songs the word ;north is used quite a bit. My personal interpretation is that these slaves perhaps saw freedom and/or refuge in North America, wished to be there but something stopped them. She clearly demonstrated Alleys mothers struggles as well as any other African American womans struggles at the time as a slave to their fight for freedom. Notes on Cry By doff manage to be so free. l heard about lynchings, Having that kind of experience as a child left a feeling of rage in me that I think pervades my work Alvin Alley. She rises again to wear the cloth as a shawl, then steps on its ends as if bound by itThe use of the percussive piano accents in relation to movement. For example, the dynamic emphasis of the gestures Alley uses. The power of Cry emanates from its defiantly shifting images of identity in its first section, the bottomless abyss of sorrow approached in its second section and the body part isolations. in this work there are three distinct sections and for each new section, there is a new song that is played. The songs used in this work are Something About John Coloration Voices Of East Harlem. In a couple of these songs the word north is used quite a bit.

Friday, March 20, 2020

Smart Textile Essays

Smart Textile Essays Smart Textile Essay Smart Textile Essay Smart textiles is the modification of fibers, fabrics and special articals which is produceing day by day in different way and different techniques. Many intelligent textiles already feature in advanced types of clothing, principally for protection and safety and for added fashion or convenience. Smart materials or textiles can be defined as the materials and structures which have sense or can sense the environmental conditions or stimuli, whereas intelligent textiles can be defined as textile structures which not only can sense but can also react and respond to environmental conditions or stimuli. These stimuli as well as response, could be thermal, chemical, mechanical, electric, magnetic or from other source. Classification of Smart Textiles: According to functional activity smart textiles can be classified in three categories: ? Passive Smart Textiles: The first generations of smart textiles, which can only sense the environmental conditions or stimulus, are called Passive Smart Textiles. ? Active Smart Textiles: The second generation has both actuators and sensors. The actuators act upon the detected signal either directly or from a central control unit. Active Smart textiles are shape memory, chameleonic, water-resistant and vapour permeable (hydrophilic/non porous), heat storage, thermo regulated, vapour absorbing, heat evolving fabric and electrically heated suits. ? Ultra Smart Textiles: Very smart textiles are the third generation of smart textiles, which can sense, react and adopt themselves to environmental conditions or stimuli. A very smart or intelligent textile essentially consists of a unit, which works like the brain, with cognition, reasoning and activating capacities. The production of very smart textiles is now a reality after a successful marriage of traditional textiles and clothing technology with other branches of science like material science, structural mechanics, sensor and actuator technology, advance processing technology, communication, artificial intelligence, biology etc. Smart textile in Medicine: Due to astounding technological developments, technical textiles are extensively used in the healthcare industry today. In the field of medical application, technical textiles are not just used in contact with the skin, but also fulfill important functions within the body (intra-corporal applications like implants). Technical textiles offer medical and hygiene industry with unparalleled protection, comfortable. These highly specialized and bio- compatible technical textiles, used for medical and hygiene applications are called â€Å"MEDTECH. † The characteristics required of MEDTECH vary depending on the task for which they are to be used. Some applications demand a protective function, others a high absorptive capacity and some other others impermeability. characteristic of these textiles Depending on the nature of application; most of the medical products are disposable in nature and are made of nonwoven fabrics. In global markets disposables are fast replacing non-disposable health care textiles. Some areas of usage are: * Healthcare/ hygiene products- Include bedding, clothing, surgical clothes, products for feminine hygiene like sanitary napkins, baby and adult diapers etc. Non-implantable materials- For wound care that includes absorbent pad (wound contact layer, base material viscose, plastic film) and bandages (simple inelastic/elastic, orthopedic, plasters, gauzes, lint, padding) * Textiles in Extracorporeal devices- Like artificial kidney, liver and lungs. * Implantable materials- Like sutures (biodegradable and non-biodegradable), soft tissue implants, artificial tendon (meshes), artificial ligament, artific ial cartilage, orthopedic implants artificial joint, cardiovascular implants vascular grafts, heart valves. Agro Textiles: Agriculture has been amongst the most primal occupations of the humankind and is still a major industry, globally. In this era of modernization and high technological advancements, it has spread its horizons and started using man-made, non-conventional textiles, called â€Å"technical textiles†. Tapping the potential of technical textiles and putting their vital properties to an advantage; agriculture, horticulture, forestry and fishing segments (all the four sectors combined together are popularly called as â€Å"Agrotech† sector) are increasingly using them for equipment development and other applications. This textile sector comprises of all textiles that are used in growing, harvesting, protection and storage of either crops or animals. It includes diverse items such as fishing nets and fish-lines, ropes, shade fabrics, mulch mats, woven and non-woven covers for crops, bird protection nests, etc. These textiles are driving the sector profitably by improving the productivity and reducing the need for chemicals. Some of the purposes for which these textiles are being increasingly used are as follows: * Preventing erosion and paving way for a forestation. In greenhouse cover and fishing nets. * For Layer separation in fields. * In Nets for plants, rootless plants amp; protecting grassy areas. * As sun screens (since they have adjustable screening) and wind shields. * As packing material and in bags for storing grass (that has been mowed). * Controlling stretch in knitted nets. | Home Textiles: Seen as a mightily expanding and changing sector in the global textile industry, the presence of technical textiles is not merely confined to industrial applications and is becoming a ubiquitous phenomenon in our day to day activities as well. The new promise of technical textiles is generation of products (by combining the latest developments in advanced flexible materials with advances in process technologies) that eventually have a direct impact upon all sorts of consumer textile markets, including both clothing and furnishings. These are called â€Å"HOMETECH†. One of the largest technical textile markets, this sector comprises household textiles, furnishings (used in contract applications) and upholstered furniture industry (including fiberfill and wadding applications in bedding, cushions, sleeping bags and furniture backings). Some of the highly useful applications of HOMETECH include: * Woven amp; knit wipes (cleaning wipes for domestic applications) * Nonwoven wipes (floor mops) * Ticking’s (for filled products like pillows, duvets, cushions) * Mattress components (Flanging and quilt backing, spring wrap) * Spring insulators Flat fabrics ( used to cover springs in beds or upholstery) * Platform cloth (fabrics used as a base for cushions on upholstered furniture) * Dust cloths Fabrics attached to base of furniture Skirt linings and other fabrics for use in upholstered furniture, bedding etc * Carpet backings (used as primary as well as secondary backing for tufted carpets) Construction Textiles: Civil engineering and building industry are an integral part of the development of human society as they involve the planning, design, building, operation and maintenance of infrastructure. The venturing of technical textiles or high-performance textiles in this sector has given a great impetus to the quali ty of construction. These textiles are used in the construction of buildings, dams, bridges, tunnels and roads and collectively comprise the â€Å"Buildtech† sector. They offer mechanical properties such as lightness, strength and resilience as well as resistance to many factors such as creep, degradation by chemicals and pollutants in the air or rain and other construction material as well as the effects of sunlight and acid. These textiles play an important role in the modernization of infrastructure. Some of the major products covered under this sector are used in; * Hoardings and Signage’s. * Scaffolding Nets. * Awnings and canopies. * Tarpaulins. Architectural membranes. Transport Textiles Among other sectors, the automotive industry is one of the largest single markets for technical textiles and one of the most diverse as well. This market comprises of automobiles, trains, marine vehicles and planes. Technical textiles that are used in this automotive or transport sector are called à ¢â‚¬Å"MOBILTECH. † The latest developments in aircraft, ship building as well as motor vehicle and train manufacture, all can be largely attributed to MOBILTECH, a non apparel textile. Mobiltech today covers not only isolation and safety aspect but also focuses on comfort and style. The customers look for aesthetically pleasing interiors, great comfort and fuel economy. Textile components in automobiles consist of either visible component like upholstery, carpets, seat belts, headliners etc. or concealed components like tire cords, hoses, belts, airbags etc. Military: One of the main reasons for the rapid development of Smart textiles is the important investment make by the military industry. This is because they are used in different projects such as extreme winter condition jackets or uniforms that change colour so as to improve camouflage effects. Nowadays, the military industry has become aware of the advantage of sharing knowledge with the various industrial sectors, because with joint collaboration far better results can be obtained through team-work. Georgia Tech was the pioneering institute for the development of SFIT that integrates electronics. During a project funded by the US Naval Department in 1996, they have developed a Wearable Motherboard (GTWM commercial name is Smart shirt) [38-39], which was manufactured for use in combat conditions. The garment uses optical fibres to detect bullet wounds and special sensors that interconnect in order to monitor vital signs during ombat conditions. Eco Textiles: Environmental threats loom large on almost every nation in the world today. With this threat gaining its stature day by day, Eco Textiles gain utmost importance as one of the most useful resources that help promote new innovations, in an eco-friendly manner. OEKTECH is the term used for technical textiles that are used for environmental protection. It stands for new ideas and interesting concepts in the area of environmental protection, waste disposal (including innovative filtration media) and new recycling technologies. It is opening up new avenues for environmental engineers, safety engineers and personnel in environmental protection agencies. These eco- friendly textiles provide a range of environmentally responsible alternatives to other resource hungry materials. They tap into both post-consumer and post-industrial waste streams amp; scrap and reuse them for manufacturing an extremely durable and eco-friendly textile. They not only lead to reduction of waste but also more importantly, save the rapidly depleting natural resources. Some of the features of these textiles are: * They utilize ecologically grown fibers. They are processed with less damaging inputs. * The processing units are equipped with good sewage treatment. * The fabrics are of good quality and long lasting. Geotextiles: Geotextiles are smart textiles that consist of a stable network that retains its relative structure during handling, placement and long-term service. A Geotextile can be defined as â€Å"permeable geosynthetic co mprised solely of textiles. † Geotextiles are special fabrics made for use in geological situations. They are rot-proof and permeable to water. They can be heavy duty or light duty, black, white or colored. Available in woven and non-woven forms, they apply to a broad range of civil engineering construction, paving, drainage and other applications. Geotextiles are extensively used with soil, rock, earth or any other geotechnical engineering-related material, as an integral part of human-made project, structure or system. These engineered Geotextiles perform three basic functions: separation, stabilization and filtration. Many application areas: * Roadways, parking lots, loading areas and construction sites * Prevent drainage systems from clogging with fine particles * Filtration, Protection and separation function * Fluid transmission For waterway erosion control * Reduce soil piping and embankment erosion * Prevention of weed growth (in horticulture applications) * Moisture conservation (in horticulture applications) Packaging Textiles: Packaging textiles include all textiles packing material for industrial, agricultural and other goods. The demand for packing material is directly prop ortional to economic growth, industrial production and trade as goods are produced and then distributed both locally and internationally. The growing (environmental) need for reusable packages and containers is opening new opportunities for textile products in this market. Sacks and bags made of traditional jute, cotton or natural fiber are gradually casting way for modern synthetic fibers. These technical textiles, used in packaging and subsequent transportation are called â€Å"PACKTECH. † It is well known that these fabrics are ideal for many kinds of packaging. At one end, PACKTECH includes heavyweight, dense woven fabrics (used for bags, sacks, flexible intermediate bulk carriers and wrappings for textile bales and carpets) and on the other end, it includes lightweight non woven’s used as durable papers, tea bags and other food and industrial product wrappings. The use of textile materials in consumer packaging is exhibited in the following products: * FIBC big bags (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers),for powdered and granular materials * Laundry bags and other bulk packaging products * Sacks for storage etc * Twine and string for tying packages, etc (excludes agricultural applications) * Non-paper tea bags and coffee filters * Food soaker pads * Net packaging for storing, packing, transporting, retailing foodstuffs, toys, * Woven fiber strapping, lightweight mailbags. * Soft luggage Sport tech: Today’s sports demand high performance equipment and apparel. The light weight and safety features of Sport tech have become important in their substitution for other materials. These high-functional and smart textiles are increasingly adding value to the sports and leisure industry by combining utilitarian functions with wearing comfort that leads to achieving high level of performance. A few areas where these textiles are being increasingly used are- Material technology and design, of equipment, Biomechanics and the engineering aspects of sports machinery, Surface treatment of equipment, Sportswear, Sports footwear, Artificial turfs, sleeping bags, ballooning and parachute fabrics. Solar sale Applicable textile: The main application of solar cells in textile is the electric alimentation of integrated electronic devices, e: recharging mobile phone, Mp3 player etc. . Uses of solar cells on textile substrate Modern Computing: In our society communication tools, interactivity and portable devices are one of the largest sources of innovation and represent a tremendous market. The integration of portable electronics devices in textiles appeared as a natural market. The first innovation was a keyboard made in a single layer of fabric using capacitive sensing, where an array of embroidered or silk-screened electrodes make up the points of contact. A fingers contact with an electrode can be sensed by measuring the increase in the electrodes total capacitance. It is worth noting that this can be done with a single bidirectional digital I/O pin per electrode, and a leakage resistor sewn in highly resistive yarn. Capacitive sensing arrays can also be used to tell how well a piece of clothing fits the wearer, because the signal varies with pressure. Several versions of capacitive or flexible keyboards in textile materials Conductive materials: There are two strategies to create electrical or thermal conductive fabrics and two types of materials, the metals and the polymers. The same materials could be used for the both conductivity (thermal and electric), because the two processes are similar and results of an electronic agitation/conduction. The first strategy uses high wicking finishes (ink) with a high metallic content that still retains the comfort required for clothing. With the addition of nickel, copper, silver or carbon coatings of varying thickness, these finishes provide a versatile combination of physical and electrical properties for a variety of demanding applications. Examples of conductive inks used in textiles The second strategy consists in the direct use of conductive yarns. The yarn could constitute metal such as silver, copper, etc. or conductive polymer such as polythiophene, polyaniline, and their derivatives although there are many different trademarks commercialising these materials, they all have the same main properties. Examples of conductive yarn used in textiles Conclusions A few years ago, smart textiles were presented as imaginary products and as a non competitive market. After scientific efforts and development phases, nowadays SFIT are an implanted customer interest and are presented as the future of the textile industry. A lot of commercial products are available and, as it was presented during this document; a lot of scientist is developing new solutions, ideas and concrete products. Some approximations announce a market of 1 billion dollars by 2010 which certainly explains the current passion for these news topics.

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Word Choice Fewer vs. Less - Proofread My Papers Academic Blog

Word Choice Fewer vs. Less - Proofread My Papers Academic Blog Word Choice: Fewer vs. Less Confusions between â€Å"fewer† and â€Å"less† can provoke fury among pedants: In the UK, one store even changed its signs after a campaign to enforce correct grammar! The difference between â€Å"fewer† and â€Å"less† is subtle, though, so it’s easy to mix them up in your written work (or on your shop signs) if youre not careful. Fewer (Countable Quantities) The word â€Å"fewer† means â€Å"a smaller number of people or things.† More specifically, â€Å"fewer† applies to things you can count or number, like stones or apples: There were seven apples in this bowl, now there are four; that’s three fewer than yesterday. We say â€Å"fewer† here because â€Å"apple† is a countable noun (i.e., apples can be counted out as individual apples). Less (Uncountable Quantities) The word â€Å"less† simply means â€Å"not so much† or â€Å"smaller in amount.† It differs from â€Å"fewer† by applying principally to uncountable nouns, usually substances or concepts that cannot be counted individually, such as water or pain: My shoulder still aches, but I’m in less pain than I was. The use of â€Å"less† indicates the pain has reduced. However, it doesn’t imply a severe pain is an accumulation of smaller pains in the same way that a bowl of apples contains several apples. Fewer or Less? A good tip for knowing when to use â€Å"fewer† or â€Å"less† is to consider whether the word modified is singular or plural, since singular terms take â€Å"less† and plural terms take â€Å"fewer.† This can be judged by whether the word would usually be followed by â€Å"is† or â€Å"are.† For instance, we say â€Å"water is wet† rather than â€Å"waters are wet† because water is a singular noun. Likewise, we say â€Å"apples are delicious† rather than â€Å"apples is delicious† because â€Å"apples† is plural. By working out whether were describing a singular or plural noun, we determine which of â€Å"fewer† or â€Å"less† to use: Singular/Countable Nouns = Fewer Plural/Uncountable Nouns = Less Time, Money and Distance One more thing to keep in mind is that quantities of time, money and distance usually take â€Å"less† rather than â€Å"fewer.† This is because we treat measurements as singular rather than plural. For example, although $100 could be counted out as one hundred individual dollars, we usually think of it as a single quantity of one hundred dollars. Hence we say â€Å"$100 is too much to pay,† not â€Å"$100 are too much to pay.† Likewise, when it comes to â€Å"fewer† and â€Å"less,† we usually say â€Å"I have less than $100,† not â€Å"I have fewer than $100.†

Sunday, February 16, 2020

Human Elephant Conflict. Human Invasion Into The Wilderness Essay

Human Elephant Conflict. Human Invasion Into The Wilderness - Essay Example The article by Perera (2009) reported in Gajaha points out that most Asian nations are facing a drastic decline in the number of elephants. Similar trend was visible in Africa where the number of elephants declined from over 5 million to anywhere between 470,000 and 630,000 in a matter of hundred years. Thus, while the African elephants are termed ‘near threatened’ by the IUCN Red List, their Asian counterparts are classified ‘endangered’ by the Red List of the World Conservation Union (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, 2011). However, before blaming humans for all these, it is necessary to look into the numbers of yearly manslaughter by elephants. According to Handwerk (2005), nearly 500 people are killed by elephants in a year, and the number is on rise year by year. Thus, it becomes evident that there is a conflict between men and elephants. This work looks into the various factors behind the conflict and the various ef fects of the conflict. Human invasion into the wilderness- the first reason It is pointed out by Nelson et al (2003) that one reason for increased elephant-human contact is the changes in land use. People started converting forest land for crop cultivation, settlement, and livestock grazing. The scholars make the observation that as human landscape reached such areas which were previously occupied by wildlife, there is higher chance for human-elephant conflict. Another point comes from Houghton (1994). ... Then, elephants move towards the farmlands and settlements in the near vicinity for water. There are many more reasons in the pipeline. According to Lahm (1996), one reason is logging. As already noted, elephants live on secondary vegetation and successional forest. When logging occurs, the cleared land gives birth to thick growth of secondary vegetation. Thus, elephants tend to move to these newly developed areas for food. Yet another vital point as put forward by Kangwana (1995) is that increased human interference leads to the development of canals and cattle fences. When such developments block the natural migration routes of elephants, and when humans settle along the boundaries of such protected areas, the possibility of human-elephant conflict increases. Also, there is the revelation from Naughton et al (1999) that as the economic situation of people has improved, there is a considerable decline in tolerance to elephant presence. There is a totally different aspect of the issu e explored by Anderson and Grove (1987). According to them, there are various factors that lead to the development of enmity in humans towards elephants (ibid). The most important factor is the development of national parks by governments. Such parks tend to exclude the local people making them feel alienated from the entire plan. As a result, the area becomes ‘frozen’ in a short while. So, the local people start resenting the wildlife, and dominant wild animals like elephants are the main victims of this hostile attitude. The scholars argue that this resentment is exacerbated by the feeling that the animals have access to such political, economic, and land advantages which are inaccessible for the native people (ibid). Yeager and Miller

Sunday, February 2, 2020

Overview of the Environmental Security Debate Essay

Overview of the Environmental Security Debate - Essay Example The essay "Overview of the Environmental Security Debate" talks about the improving the wellbeing of the environment by including the notion of environmental security to national security policies. The weakening significance of superpower conflict in the past decade has provided an impetus to the emergence of flexibility in the notions of national security. Previously constructed to a set of external military dangers, the concept nowadays frequently emphasizes the importance of concerns such as environmental protection, economic progress, and global sustainability. Environmental security is labeled as a relevant subject matter in international affairs and it is being exploited to define the motives of countries under an array of contexts. For instance, the Kyoto agreement which curtails global greenhouse gasses has been disputed and defended on the basis of its influence on America’s national security. Warren Christopher, the former Secretary of State, proclaimed in his 1996 speech at Stanford University the resolution of the Clinton administration â€Å"to put environmental issues where they belong: in the mainstream of American foreign policy†. Subsequently, President Clinton has branded environmental security as one of the many concerns that America will be confronting in the contemporary times. The fundamental concept of environmental security signifies an attempt to put more emphasis on the issues of environmental degradation through openly fastening them to previous military notions of security.

Saturday, January 25, 2020

Consumer Behaviour in the UK Automotive Industry

Consumer Behaviour in the UK Automotive Industry Consumer behaviour is dependent on few factors that need to be considered in any industry. In the Automotive industry, there are several intertwining factors known. The Internet as one knows well has its importance in nearly every form of trade. Trade is directly dependent on communication, and these days the Internet is considered to be the most important and reliable means of communications for trade. In view of the Internet being an important medium through which customers may be communicated with, customer behaviour becomes an important subject. Observing customer behaviour in the recent past, its observed that there is immense scope for expanding the automotive industry. This is because there appears to be a better response from customers through the Internet. Purchases of parts are easily made and are believed to be considerably reliable. For purchasing vehicles, advertising through the Internet is the first step towards pulling in customers. Indeed, this step is believed to be effective as there are a number of individuals who first see adds online, and then decide to physically check a promotion out. With the Internet growing more and more common in the UK, it is expected that there will be much more activity on the part of consumers, which means that the automotive industry is going to do even better than it has in the past. Introduction: The world has reached a stage at which everything is close-knit. There are several bodies and structures that interact with each other that appear to be systematic. Globalization for instance is something has many countries, organizations and institutions operating together. Each of the components in the globalization process exists for its self and is self-driven, yet the system functions. In this regard, one might assert that markets of different types and sizes function in a similar manner. The motive industry is an example with its visible effects. Consumers are actively participating in the industry activity, making it an increasingly viable one for people to invest in. The services and products are known to be quite reliable with an immense amount interesting them. In recent years this has been the case and in time to come it’s expected that there is going to be even more interest in the automotive industry. Methodology: This paper includes views of the automotive industry and the communication processes involved. It exposes each part in considerable detail in sections. In doing so, it has managed to cover several areas of interest that explain consumer behaviour. In order to also give on an idea of what strategies organizations employ to boost their profits, fictitious company has been included with figures that are relevant tithe automotive industry. In view of the strategies involved in this company (EXCEED) one can determine how important communication is in the automotive industry. It is clear enough that the Internet is of tremendous value here, and it is for this reason that it is important to analyse its use. The weak as well as the strong points are exposed here, and one can match these up against the ones employed in EXCEED’s strategies. According to this, one can also assess how effective EXCEED’s strategies are and whether or not they are successful in the automotive industry. In considering the success of the strategies, it must also be asserted that it is believed that the strategies are successful considerably because of the success that automotive industry has had in recent times. It is also hoped that strategies will also go on to be further improved so that the industry does even better . Description: The world learns through experience, but living in an image-conscious world may prevent one from learning through his experiences. This is apparently a dilemma considering the fact that one lives in an age of post modernism; a stage during which signs mask reality, and one is often deceived through image-promoting strategies. This is true to say because of the fact that signs, logos and big names are now common, and people are often lured into believing the authenticity of different products because of the promotions they have. Consumer behaviour is considerably dependent on promotion of products; the manner in which products are promoted directly influences customer behaviour. Each medium used for promotion has its own impact, and the one that is believed to have a tremendous impact is the Internet. It is believed to boost promotions and sales greatly, and it helps customers in their first step before actually checking a car out. It is through the advertisements on line that they may be attracted and then move towards checking a vehicle out physically at a show room. It is this behaviour that has helped boost the automotive industry significantly. In fact it must be asserted that prior to globalization, consumer behaviour was observed as having a major effect on the development of nations. This is because it helps boost the economy internally as well as having its impact externally . Prior to the 1940s and 1950s, there was no such aim because of the fact that there were many problems that the country was faced with internally. Socially there were different levels on which the UK had to bring the people together. And perhaps during that time no one had come up with such an idea to divert the attention of the people, which occurred during the 1950s . From this era began to the shift towards an improved way of life that would take the country into an entirely different era. This era today is called globalization, a phenomenon that brought many parts of the world together through faster communication systems. Globalization has in fact resulted due to the fact that communication systems have been boosted in recent years. This is also the reason why the present age that people live in is called ‘the age of communication’. Literature Review: The expansion that has been witnessed today in organizational structures an effect of globalization too because they are spreading almost all over the world. As Organizations expand it is understood that they tend to face problems in efficiency. These problems need to be handled carefully in a logical manner so that smooth running of the organization can be restored to the way it was when it was located in its originating country. For this to be handled effectively, communication also needs to be of the highest level. Problems in efficiency may emerge due to the lack of communication or the lack of skills with newer personnel employed in the firm. This is because they are not aware of exactly what the cultural atmosphere was at the original location of the firm. Since they have been newly employed they are bound to face problems such as these. Strengthening the leadership of an organization automatically means that operations will be handled well, which in turn means that there will be financial gain at the end. In addition to this there won’t be a shortage of executives if organizations indulge in setting up proper training plans for their apt employees. These plans should be implemented both, at home and abroad too so that uniformity is maintained throughout the organization. It is also essential that trainers do not get polarized in any one location geographically speaking. They should be allowed to exercise their skills and implement them wherever possible. This means that they will also gain maximum teaching experience which they can share with whoever the work with and teach. Three leadership techniques that have been found to increase the performance of an organization: An efficient and lean organization; A talent management plan that focuses on attracting and retaining high-performing individuals; and A performance management program that â€Å"rewards employees who meet set goals† (Dorgan, Dowdy, 2002) From the above points one can see that the major problem that lies in organizations spreading into other cultures is the internal conflict, but aside from the internal conflicts the trend of marketing American products abroad is one that is patronized by the people of those cultures. It is the people that make this possible, as human beings are almost always ready for a change especially if it isn’t going to harm them. Accepting new trends that are already in vogue in other neighboring countries is something that further motivates people into welcoming UK products. However, this is not only the case with receiving UK products in Asian countries . There is now more scope than there was ever before for products to be marketed. The marketing of goods across the globe is yet an extension of what took place in the 1950s. This may be said because of the fact that the effects of this process of globalization are almost the same as what was seen in the United States during the 1950s. The process of people welcoming products that are brought nearer totem heralds the current trend in globalization. This is the same process that was seen during the 1950s when consumer behaviour was on the rise. This trend is extended to other places in the world today through globalization, which means that there are a whole lot more people aware of what is available around the world. This also means that there is a lot more stuff for people to be engrossed in, which would further help people to be relieved of stress in their everyday lives. But it also must be realized that there are other things to consider besides stress relief and extension of cult ure (Annesley,1998). It must be realized here that there is an intense effort to control people economically through consumerism. During the 1950s this was seen as people bought what was advertised. Similarly, this is seen in many countries around the world that buy American products. An Example of an Organization in the Automotive Industry For this section, a fictitious organization has been named, but contains data that is relevant to the automotive industry and present-day values. In contemporary times this may seem to be a problem, as one may not really know which product to trust and which will be dependable. As opposed to having to depend on particular advertising to learn about products, people have often used other customer experiences as their guides. This means that people without experience of a particular product have in fact waited for others to purchase it; the observers its back and observes the performance and customer satisfaction. If a product happens to satisfy a customer, others will certainly be willing to use the same service providers. Hence, it can be seen here that reputation does matter to service providers and customers. In addition to this, it must be noted that experience of customers can be used as a vital tool in promoting services. This overshadows the uncertainty of that advertising may often portray. Though advertising is an essential strategy in promoting a product, it must be realized that there are several people that are not easily convinced simply through product display and the like. In view of this, customer testimonials are essential in proving authenticity of a product, as this proves how many customers have been satisfied and what customers have to say about. This is what many organizations are doing these days in order to boost their services. Indeed, EXCEED is one of them; EXCEED is a motoring supplier, and caters to a significant part of UKs market. In doing so, it needs to reassure its customers of its services and dedication them all. EXCEED is believed to be a credible motoring product and services supplier because of its reputation; its reputation is one that has been gained through reliability that customers have experienced through time. In view of this, more and more customers have turned to EXCEED services, as they have been convinced by other customers experiences through time. However, it must be asserted that an organization that operates as one of the biggest in the UK, cannot simply rely on word of mouth for gaining more business or maintaining its position in the market. Thesis because of the fact that competition can easily overturn one’s reputation. In view of this, EXCEED has to go on promoting itself and has to do so in a positive manner by focusing on its strengths and either ameliorating or doing away with products and services that are not gaining headway. Currently with the reputation EXCEED has, it is the leader in the Upmarket, attending to millions of customers. It has more than 12 million drivers depending on them, has around 3500 uniformed patrols on the job, and caters to 7.5 million calls every year. It is apparent that with this kind of healthy activity in their business that EXCEED is number one. However, like any other organization that provides services and products, EXCEED is not satisfied with what it is doing in the sense that it wants to enhance services that are viable and either do away with or improve the services and products that are less in demand. In doing this, they have an understanding of the market and what their potentials are, and this lays the platform for EXCEED to construct strategy in terms of marketing and advertising; a strategy that they and the customers too would gain from.*EXCEED also has been on the risen terms of the customers that turn to them. this is a positive sign because the number that turn to their services and products each year. With selling more than 650,000 breakdown policies a year, something that they currently specialize in, there is even more scope for improvement (Breakdown Cover, 2005). According to the figure below, one can easily observe that breakdown is apparently the primary source of income in EXCEED. There are other sources as well, but this is the most important one, and indeed one that they are promoting. The important point to realize here is that EXCEED knows its strengths well due to the fact that they have kept close watch on all the activity in the company. They know their past well, they know what is going on at the moment, and they also know what their chances are in the market. In view of their potential being strongest as far as promoting breakdown services, EXCEED believes that its marketing and advertising strategies are of immense importance, as it is through these tools that they can manage to attain a wider segment of the market. In view of the current state of affairs in the market, the following are worth noting. Product Holding: Volume Breakdown (motoring): 2,300,000 Motor and home Insurance: 500, 000 Other Financial Services: 45, 000 Breakdown and Insurance: 600, 500 Breakdown and Financial Services: 50, 000 Insurance and Financial Services: 5, 500 Breakdown, Insurance and Financial: 32, 000 In developing further strategies in order to improve EXCEEDs name and services, it is worth generally putting together some of the features around which the company could work. Below are few points that help paint a picture of EXCEEDs functions EXCEED is believed to offer more than just breakdown coverage; it offers: EXCEED UK Breakdown Cover EXCEED 5 Star European Breakdown Cover – Round the clock English telephone assistance. EXCEED Motor Insurance – 8% discount on line. EXCEED Home Insurance – They fish out a panel of insurers for their customers. EXCEED Car Data Check – Recovers hidden history of a used car in case you want to purchase it EXCEED Vehicle Inspection EXCEED Travel Bookshop – 18% off on line from the UKs largest provider of travel guides. EXCEED Driving School – Nation-wide EXCEED approved instructors Database Strategy through the Internet: Considering the fact that EXCEED has been allotted around 14 million Pounds to promote their services, it appears that an appropriate promotion can be created. Generally, for this first step, around 40percent of the fund may be used. This is because a database has to be established if any current one cannot be used for the proposed plan here. In addition to this and appropriate interface has to go along with it, combined with special features that only allow input on the part of customers. In view of the services that are already being provided, EXCEED needs to search into customer needs. This search would have tube conducted through getting their feedback. It is obvious that asking each and every customer about what they would like EXCEED to provide them would not be feasible; it would be better for the customers to have access to EXCEED. This could be done through allowing customers to have access to an interface through which they could feed in their comments and recommendations online (Fill, 1999, 53-59). They would not need to have passwords and things to that effect, as the feed in process could be made plain and simple for them. This could be carried out through creating some sort of forum where customers can view other customers’ views as well, and thereby give them even better ideas to suggest. In addition to this, the service could have a feature that provides one access to feed in their views, but after entering them, they cannot be deleted. In other words the program manager would only delete whatever is posted in the forum. In this way, comments posted would be safe (Yandi, 2001, 15-21). In addition to an online provision, at outlets where EXCEED services are provided, the company could maintain on hand comment leaflets or even registers for comments. The leaflets would provide customers with the opportunity of filling in their comments while they are free. The registers would have to be filled in on the spot. The data from these registers could enter into another portion of the online database for comments and views. The leaflets when filled when the customers have time could be dropped off at any EXCEED outlet of services. The data from these could also be accumulated and fed into the database as well (Tapp, 2000, 22-34). In addition to customers posting their comments, it is also advisable for EXCEED to develop a means through which employees such as the patrolman could give their views and comments as well. With this type of feedback EXCEED would be able to determine to what extent each side’s comments are practical. While the customers want services to improve according to their convenience, EXCEED also has to look at the possible changes from the employees angle. This would help the management come up with ideas that would satisfy the customers as well the employees in terms of easing their services to the customers (Tapp,2000, 22-34). In view of the management receiving all the comments through the database, the data needs to be sorted appropriately. Since it has all been collected under employee views and customer views, there is basically no real need to segregate the comments even further. However, there’s need for better arrangement in the presentation of the collected comments. This refers to the placement of services throughout the country and where the comments have been received. This also means that in each comment entry, a customer has to state which part of the country s/he is in. Depending on whether there is sufficient services in particular areas or not, EXCEED can enhance its services. In addition to this, they can set to work on the requested services. Since it is the Breakdown services that EXCEED wishes to focus on according to the potential in the business, they need to construct the feedback system according to what has been described above. In view of such a database interface being constructed and implemented, it also facilitates customer comments after improvements in services have been made (Smith, 1998, 25-41). In view of the use of database, it must be asserted that the major cost of it is only in the initial stage. This is because once the databases setup; it only has to be maintained and monitored. Direct Marketing Customers Program for existing customers: In the direct marketing step, it must be asserted that at least another 3.5 million – 5 million might have to be invested out of the budget. This is because of the fact that EXCEED needs a stronger approach to its current customers; EXCEED requires a more comprehensive set up with more communication employees in order to realize its goal. Assuming the amount is invested, the following course of action can be taken in order to develop direct marketing. Though EXCEED recognizes the fact that it has tremendous scope for improving the grip it has on the market and would certainly want more customers, they are wise in the sense that they acknowledge the value of their present customers; they know that if they satisfy their customers their reputation will remain as it was if not improve. In addition to this, it must be asserted that a company has better chances of maintaining stability in all forms when it focuses on the market it has already captured. Maintaining current customers is essential in terms of financial stability as well as customer loyalty. This is because the customers get to know that the company cares about them through the services that it provides them with. EXCEED knows its products and its customers too, but they need to remain in touch with them in order to make adjustments that the customers need. In view of this concern, the customers feel that the company cares about them; EXCEED needs to make the customers feel this way in order to make sure that the customers dont feel abandoned or stuck with a product. Hence, there is a need to make sure that each and every customer is aware of the fact that they can communicate with EXCEED directly (Evans et al,2004, 43-44). In view of the direct communication that is a major part of promotional strategy today, it must be asserted that EXCEED needs to communicate with its customers today as much as possible. In order to communicate with them they can have in place customer relation officers. These officers are in charge of remaining in touch with current customers. Indeed, there are many of these officers employed because of the fact that there are also many customers that have to be dealt with. It is not an easy process but certainly is one that is necessary (Pickton, 2001, 64-67). Considering the means of communications used, e-mail, telephone, fax,etc. are the commonly used ones. Postal mail is also used as a means of contact. However, emailing and telephone contact are most commonly used. Similar to the communication process that communication officers use to stay in touch with current customers, it also must be asserted that customers use the same means as well. In fact, they may even be familiar with the communication officers who deal with them. This gives one an idea of how the direct communication process works and how effective it is. Certainly, if a customer becomes familiar enough to know a communication officers name, it is obvious that the communication process used is effective enough to get desired messages through (Smith, 1998, 25-41). In view of the effectiveness of the communication proves, it is clear that product promotion can be enhanced. All the communication officers have to do is follow the instructions of the product and tell the customer about it. In addition to this, they can supply them with ways and means of getting hold of the products. Regarding the communication process being simple, it certainly is, but when one has to focus of the breakdown of it all, it gets a little tedious. This is because of the fact that one needs to know the market well, and see who is interested more in the products and services that EXCEED provides. In view of this, there are few factors that have to be taken into consideration. These include: age, gender, ones occupation, lifestyle,etc. Though most people who use EXCEEDs services would want to know more about the products and services the company has to offer it must be asserted that research into the current customer behaviour reveals that there are particular groups that are more volatile and more viable to work with. This is why communication officers may work more with some customers and less with others. This is not seen as being prejudiced in any way, but it is true to say that the process takes into consideration customer behaviour, and since EXCEED is dealing with millions of customers they need to focus on the ones that they need to build and maintain relationship with. This is precisely what boosts customer loyalty. As far as the customers that are not communicated regularly with, it must be asserted that they are also important customers but they are ones that are easily satisfied with the services they get. In view of the particular factors that are taken into consideration, it must be asserted that in the UK, both men and women are users of EXCEED services, especially breakdown services. While men are still more likely to be customers, younger age groups are almost even. Older men are more likely than older women to travel long distances, while older women are still likely to be drive and use EXCEED services. As far as one’s occupation is concerned, both men and women are likely to be service holders of EXCEED because of the fact that they are compelled to drive around. Lifestyle is another thing that is taken into consideration. Again men and women are both likely to use EXCEED services, but the younger they are the less likely they are to have EXCEED services. In view of some people not having EXCEED services, they can be targeted through the marketing strategy; current customers could be used to spread the word around. However, the more important point to focus on includes the need to market EXCEED more to people that have already used EXCEED services. If they have not been using the services recently, they can be contacted and reminded of their expired membership. In view of communication methods that need to be used, email and telephone is most commonly used. Almost all people have an answering machine on at home and a message would be easy to leave for the. Those that have cell phones could either be called or a message or mail could be sent to them. Emailing is common, and for those that use Internet facilities commonly can be easily contacted through it. In view of each customer’s profile, various ways of getting in touch with him or her need to be mentioned(Brierly, 2002, 27-29). Customers may be asked on order forms how they might be contacted; these details are noted down in order to make sure the more appropriate means of contacting a customer may be used. In addition to the communication means mentioned above, EXCEED could also promote its products and services through alternative means. This would include promoting products through magazines, television, periodicals, radio, and the Internet. This strictly refers to advertisements that are not personal, as they are opposed to emailing or telephoning a person. Though advertising in the ways mentioned here is quite effective, it must be asserted that it is not the kind that would stimulate the customer’s emotions. Customers need to be contacted directly when they are or have been regular customers of EXCEED or any other company; it makes them feel valued, and again here it must be emphasized that the value of these feelings are crucial to maintain EXCEED services as they currently are offering incentives is important whether communication officers use direct contact of advertising strategies (Percy et al, 2001, 18-28).The difference is that when customers are contacted directly and told about the promotion they feel more valued. What EXCEED could do is circulate information about a new product among their current customers; they could tell them all the important details about it. At a later date, the product information could be revealed to the general public through advertising in magazines, one the Internet, etc. Since the regular customers would have already gotten the information first, they would feel more appreciated and valued. These are the kinds of techniques that could be used current customers as opposed to potential customers because it is the current customer that comes first. This is because of the fact that EXCEED needs to make sure its reputation and business stand as it is and not be lowered. Acquisition Strategy for new Customers: For this part of the promotional plan, EXCEED is left with a minimum of 3million Pounds. This means that funds might still fall short because television and radio promotion in addition to other forms will have to be used here. However, since television and radio communications might be used in the previous step, promoting products for newer customers could also be included. This would help save great deal of the funding, thereby allowing the whole promotional plant be implemented. The following includes how EXCEED might implement their plan to include new customers with the funds in hand. Since EXCEED has already discovered the market and are aware of the immense potential that lies ahead, they can implement a strategy that would cater to potential customers regarding Motoring Services, Financial Services and Travel Services. Random marketing strategies could be easily employed. It must be asserted that advertising through the Internet, magazines, radio and television are all appropriate means. In view of the cost factor here, moderate advertising through television could be implemented in order to fit the budget given. Advertising through the print media is considered to be more feasible. This is because EXCEED could have their advertisements placed in periodicals or magazines that are associated with motor companies(Yandi, 2001, 15-21). So when customers purchase cars or go through magazines that have information on particular cars, it is most likely that they would come across the advertisement. As far as motoring services are concerned, this is an appropriate means to advertise. However, as far as financial services are concerned, it would not work. EXCEED needs to target its potential market, regarding financial services, through a means that would create more chances of potential customers viewing the advertisement. When it comes to financial services, it is better to place ads on television and radio along with other products of EXCEED. In addition to this, it also must be asserted that advertisements for financial services must be places in magazines where financial services are offered for related products. This is believed to boost the chances of a companys product getting a response (Brierly, 2002, 27-29). Concerning Travel services, it must be noted that EXCEED could advertise through television and radio along with its other products. This would save them spending excess funds on separate advertisements. However, the main advertising for travel services would have to be done through travel guides. Just like other agencies and organizations advertise EXCEED too can do the same. the advantage is that EXCEED would probably be recognized through its name from other services and products it provides. In view of this, it must be asserted that there is also the reputation of EXCEED that can be taken into consideration(Brierly, 2002, 27-29). It must be considered that EXCEED is a company that already has many customers that it looks after and remains in contact with. Through this contact as well, services and products can be enhanced. This is a process that could indeed save some of the funds put towards promotional strategies. However, it is also worth considering whether it would actually be suitable to advertise through customers that are regular. This is because of the fact that some customers might feel that they are really being used to promote a company free of cost. Ot Consumer Behaviour in the UK Automotive Industry Consumer Behaviour in the UK Automotive Industry Consumer behaviour is dependent on few factors that need to be considered in any industry. In the Automotive industry, there are several intertwining factors known. The Internet as one knows well has its importance in nearly every form of trade. Trade is directly dependent on communication, and these days the Internet is considered to be the most important and reliable means of communications for trade. In view of the Internet being an important medium through which customers may be communicated with, customer behaviour becomes an important subject. Observing customer behaviour in the recent past, its observed that there is immense scope for expanding the automotive industry. This is because there appears to be a better response from customers through the Internet. Purchases of parts are easily made and are believed to be considerably reliable. For purchasing vehicles, advertising through the Internet is the first step towards pulling in customers. Indeed, this step is believed to be effective as there are a number of individuals who first see adds online, and then decide to physically check a promotion out. With the Internet growing more and more common in the UK, it is expected that there will be much more activity on the part of consumers, which means that the automotive industry is going to do even better than it has in the past. Introduction: The world has reached a stage at which everything is close-knit. There are several bodies and structures that interact with each other that appear to be systematic. Globalization for instance is something has many countries, organizations and institutions operating together. Each of the components in the globalization process exists for its self and is self-driven, yet the system functions. In this regard, one might assert that markets of different types and sizes function in a similar manner. The motive industry is an example with its visible effects. Consumers are actively participating in the industry activity, making it an increasingly viable one for people to invest in. The services and products are known to be quite reliable with an immense amount interesting them. In recent years this has been the case and in time to come it’s expected that there is going to be even more interest in the automotive industry. Methodology: This paper includes views of the automotive industry and the communication processes involved. It exposes each part in considerable detail in sections. In doing so, it has managed to cover several areas of interest that explain consumer behaviour. In order to also give on an idea of what strategies organizations employ to boost their profits, fictitious company has been included with figures that are relevant tithe automotive industry. In view of the strategies involved in this company (EXCEED) one can determine how important communication is in the automotive industry. It is clear enough that the Internet is of tremendous value here, and it is for this reason that it is important to analyse its use. The weak as well as the strong points are exposed here, and one can match these up against the ones employed in EXCEED’s strategies. According to this, one can also assess how effective EXCEED’s strategies are and whether or not they are successful in the automotive industry. In considering the success of the strategies, it must also be asserted that it is believed that the strategies are successful considerably because of the success that automotive industry has had in recent times. It is also hoped that strategies will also go on to be further improved so that the industry does even better . Description: The world learns through experience, but living in an image-conscious world may prevent one from learning through his experiences. This is apparently a dilemma considering the fact that one lives in an age of post modernism; a stage during which signs mask reality, and one is often deceived through image-promoting strategies. This is true to say because of the fact that signs, logos and big names are now common, and people are often lured into believing the authenticity of different products because of the promotions they have. Consumer behaviour is considerably dependent on promotion of products; the manner in which products are promoted directly influences customer behaviour. Each medium used for promotion has its own impact, and the one that is believed to have a tremendous impact is the Internet. It is believed to boost promotions and sales greatly, and it helps customers in their first step before actually checking a car out. It is through the advertisements on line that they may be attracted and then move towards checking a vehicle out physically at a show room. It is this behaviour that has helped boost the automotive industry significantly. In fact it must be asserted that prior to globalization, consumer behaviour was observed as having a major effect on the development of nations. This is because it helps boost the economy internally as well as having its impact externally . Prior to the 1940s and 1950s, there was no such aim because of the fact that there were many problems that the country was faced with internally. Socially there were different levels on which the UK had to bring the people together. And perhaps during that time no one had come up with such an idea to divert the attention of the people, which occurred during the 1950s . From this era began to the shift towards an improved way of life that would take the country into an entirely different era. This era today is called globalization, a phenomenon that brought many parts of the world together through faster communication systems. Globalization has in fact resulted due to the fact that communication systems have been boosted in recent years. This is also the reason why the present age that people live in is called ‘the age of communication’. Literature Review: The expansion that has been witnessed today in organizational structures an effect of globalization too because they are spreading almost all over the world. As Organizations expand it is understood that they tend to face problems in efficiency. These problems need to be handled carefully in a logical manner so that smooth running of the organization can be restored to the way it was when it was located in its originating country. For this to be handled effectively, communication also needs to be of the highest level. Problems in efficiency may emerge due to the lack of communication or the lack of skills with newer personnel employed in the firm. This is because they are not aware of exactly what the cultural atmosphere was at the original location of the firm. Since they have been newly employed they are bound to face problems such as these. Strengthening the leadership of an organization automatically means that operations will be handled well, which in turn means that there will be financial gain at the end. In addition to this there won’t be a shortage of executives if organizations indulge in setting up proper training plans for their apt employees. These plans should be implemented both, at home and abroad too so that uniformity is maintained throughout the organization. It is also essential that trainers do not get polarized in any one location geographically speaking. They should be allowed to exercise their skills and implement them wherever possible. This means that they will also gain maximum teaching experience which they can share with whoever the work with and teach. Three leadership techniques that have been found to increase the performance of an organization: An efficient and lean organization; A talent management plan that focuses on attracting and retaining high-performing individuals; and A performance management program that â€Å"rewards employees who meet set goals† (Dorgan, Dowdy, 2002) From the above points one can see that the major problem that lies in organizations spreading into other cultures is the internal conflict, but aside from the internal conflicts the trend of marketing American products abroad is one that is patronized by the people of those cultures. It is the people that make this possible, as human beings are almost always ready for a change especially if it isn’t going to harm them. Accepting new trends that are already in vogue in other neighboring countries is something that further motivates people into welcoming UK products. However, this is not only the case with receiving UK products in Asian countries . There is now more scope than there was ever before for products to be marketed. The marketing of goods across the globe is yet an extension of what took place in the 1950s. This may be said because of the fact that the effects of this process of globalization are almost the same as what was seen in the United States during the 1950s. The process of people welcoming products that are brought nearer totem heralds the current trend in globalization. This is the same process that was seen during the 1950s when consumer behaviour was on the rise. This trend is extended to other places in the world today through globalization, which means that there are a whole lot more people aware of what is available around the world. This also means that there is a lot more stuff for people to be engrossed in, which would further help people to be relieved of stress in their everyday lives. But it also must be realized that there are other things to consider besides stress relief and extension of cult ure (Annesley,1998). It must be realized here that there is an intense effort to control people economically through consumerism. During the 1950s this was seen as people bought what was advertised. Similarly, this is seen in many countries around the world that buy American products. An Example of an Organization in the Automotive Industry For this section, a fictitious organization has been named, but contains data that is relevant to the automotive industry and present-day values. In contemporary times this may seem to be a problem, as one may not really know which product to trust and which will be dependable. As opposed to having to depend on particular advertising to learn about products, people have often used other customer experiences as their guides. This means that people without experience of a particular product have in fact waited for others to purchase it; the observers its back and observes the performance and customer satisfaction. If a product happens to satisfy a customer, others will certainly be willing to use the same service providers. Hence, it can be seen here that reputation does matter to service providers and customers. In addition to this, it must be noted that experience of customers can be used as a vital tool in promoting services. This overshadows the uncertainty of that advertising may often portray. Though advertising is an essential strategy in promoting a product, it must be realized that there are several people that are not easily convinced simply through product display and the like. In view of this, customer testimonials are essential in proving authenticity of a product, as this proves how many customers have been satisfied and what customers have to say about. This is what many organizations are doing these days in order to boost their services. Indeed, EXCEED is one of them; EXCEED is a motoring supplier, and caters to a significant part of UKs market. In doing so, it needs to reassure its customers of its services and dedication them all. EXCEED is believed to be a credible motoring product and services supplier because of its reputation; its reputation is one that has been gained through reliability that customers have experienced through time. In view of this, more and more customers have turned to EXCEED services, as they have been convinced by other customers experiences through time. However, it must be asserted that an organization that operates as one of the biggest in the UK, cannot simply rely on word of mouth for gaining more business or maintaining its position in the market. Thesis because of the fact that competition can easily overturn one’s reputation. In view of this, EXCEED has to go on promoting itself and has to do so in a positive manner by focusing on its strengths and either ameliorating or doing away with products and services that are not gaining headway. Currently with the reputation EXCEED has, it is the leader in the Upmarket, attending to millions of customers. It has more than 12 million drivers depending on them, has around 3500 uniformed patrols on the job, and caters to 7.5 million calls every year. It is apparent that with this kind of healthy activity in their business that EXCEED is number one. However, like any other organization that provides services and products, EXCEED is not satisfied with what it is doing in the sense that it wants to enhance services that are viable and either do away with or improve the services and products that are less in demand. In doing this, they have an understanding of the market and what their potentials are, and this lays the platform for EXCEED to construct strategy in terms of marketing and advertising; a strategy that they and the customers too would gain from.*EXCEED also has been on the risen terms of the customers that turn to them. this is a positive sign because the number that turn to their services and products each year. With selling more than 650,000 breakdown policies a year, something that they currently specialize in, there is even more scope for improvement (Breakdown Cover, 2005). According to the figure below, one can easily observe that breakdown is apparently the primary source of income in EXCEED. There are other sources as well, but this is the most important one, and indeed one that they are promoting. The important point to realize here is that EXCEED knows its strengths well due to the fact that they have kept close watch on all the activity in the company. They know their past well, they know what is going on at the moment, and they also know what their chances are in the market. In view of their potential being strongest as far as promoting breakdown services, EXCEED believes that its marketing and advertising strategies are of immense importance, as it is through these tools that they can manage to attain a wider segment of the market. In view of the current state of affairs in the market, the following are worth noting. Product Holding: Volume Breakdown (motoring): 2,300,000 Motor and home Insurance: 500, 000 Other Financial Services: 45, 000 Breakdown and Insurance: 600, 500 Breakdown and Financial Services: 50, 000 Insurance and Financial Services: 5, 500 Breakdown, Insurance and Financial: 32, 000 In developing further strategies in order to improve EXCEEDs name and services, it is worth generally putting together some of the features around which the company could work. Below are few points that help paint a picture of EXCEEDs functions EXCEED is believed to offer more than just breakdown coverage; it offers: EXCEED UK Breakdown Cover EXCEED 5 Star European Breakdown Cover – Round the clock English telephone assistance. EXCEED Motor Insurance – 8% discount on line. EXCEED Home Insurance – They fish out a panel of insurers for their customers. EXCEED Car Data Check – Recovers hidden history of a used car in case you want to purchase it EXCEED Vehicle Inspection EXCEED Travel Bookshop – 18% off on line from the UKs largest provider of travel guides. EXCEED Driving School – Nation-wide EXCEED approved instructors Database Strategy through the Internet: Considering the fact that EXCEED has been allotted around 14 million Pounds to promote their services, it appears that an appropriate promotion can be created. Generally, for this first step, around 40percent of the fund may be used. This is because a database has to be established if any current one cannot be used for the proposed plan here. In addition to this and appropriate interface has to go along with it, combined with special features that only allow input on the part of customers. In view of the services that are already being provided, EXCEED needs to search into customer needs. This search would have tube conducted through getting their feedback. It is obvious that asking each and every customer about what they would like EXCEED to provide them would not be feasible; it would be better for the customers to have access to EXCEED. This could be done through allowing customers to have access to an interface through which they could feed in their comments and recommendations online (Fill, 1999, 53-59). They would not need to have passwords and things to that effect, as the feed in process could be made plain and simple for them. This could be carried out through creating some sort of forum where customers can view other customers’ views as well, and thereby give them even better ideas to suggest. In addition to this, the service could have a feature that provides one access to feed in their views, but after entering them, they cannot be deleted. In other words the program manager would only delete whatever is posted in the forum. In this way, comments posted would be safe (Yandi, 2001, 15-21). In addition to an online provision, at outlets where EXCEED services are provided, the company could maintain on hand comment leaflets or even registers for comments. The leaflets would provide customers with the opportunity of filling in their comments while they are free. The registers would have to be filled in on the spot. The data from these registers could enter into another portion of the online database for comments and views. The leaflets when filled when the customers have time could be dropped off at any EXCEED outlet of services. The data from these could also be accumulated and fed into the database as well (Tapp, 2000, 22-34). In addition to customers posting their comments, it is also advisable for EXCEED to develop a means through which employees such as the patrolman could give their views and comments as well. With this type of feedback EXCEED would be able to determine to what extent each side’s comments are practical. While the customers want services to improve according to their convenience, EXCEED also has to look at the possible changes from the employees angle. This would help the management come up with ideas that would satisfy the customers as well the employees in terms of easing their services to the customers (Tapp,2000, 22-34). In view of the management receiving all the comments through the database, the data needs to be sorted appropriately. Since it has all been collected under employee views and customer views, there is basically no real need to segregate the comments even further. However, there’s need for better arrangement in the presentation of the collected comments. This refers to the placement of services throughout the country and where the comments have been received. This also means that in each comment entry, a customer has to state which part of the country s/he is in. Depending on whether there is sufficient services in particular areas or not, EXCEED can enhance its services. In addition to this, they can set to work on the requested services. Since it is the Breakdown services that EXCEED wishes to focus on according to the potential in the business, they need to construct the feedback system according to what has been described above. In view of such a database interface being constructed and implemented, it also facilitates customer comments after improvements in services have been made (Smith, 1998, 25-41). In view of the use of database, it must be asserted that the major cost of it is only in the initial stage. This is because once the databases setup; it only has to be maintained and monitored. Direct Marketing Customers Program for existing customers: In the direct marketing step, it must be asserted that at least another 3.5 million – 5 million might have to be invested out of the budget. This is because of the fact that EXCEED needs a stronger approach to its current customers; EXCEED requires a more comprehensive set up with more communication employees in order to realize its goal. Assuming the amount is invested, the following course of action can be taken in order to develop direct marketing. Though EXCEED recognizes the fact that it has tremendous scope for improving the grip it has on the market and would certainly want more customers, they are wise in the sense that they acknowledge the value of their present customers; they know that if they satisfy their customers their reputation will remain as it was if not improve. In addition to this, it must be asserted that a company has better chances of maintaining stability in all forms when it focuses on the market it has already captured. Maintaining current customers is essential in terms of financial stability as well as customer loyalty. This is because the customers get to know that the company cares about them through the services that it provides them with. EXCEED knows its products and its customers too, but they need to remain in touch with them in order to make adjustments that the customers need. In view of this concern, the customers feel that the company cares about them; EXCEED needs to make the customers feel this way in order to make sure that the customers dont feel abandoned or stuck with a product. Hence, there is a need to make sure that each and every customer is aware of the fact that they can communicate with EXCEED directly (Evans et al,2004, 43-44). In view of the direct communication that is a major part of promotional strategy today, it must be asserted that EXCEED needs to communicate with its customers today as much as possible. In order to communicate with them they can have in place customer relation officers. These officers are in charge of remaining in touch with current customers. Indeed, there are many of these officers employed because of the fact that there are also many customers that have to be dealt with. It is not an easy process but certainly is one that is necessary (Pickton, 2001, 64-67). Considering the means of communications used, e-mail, telephone, fax,etc. are the commonly used ones. Postal mail is also used as a means of contact. However, emailing and telephone contact are most commonly used. Similar to the communication process that communication officers use to stay in touch with current customers, it also must be asserted that customers use the same means as well. In fact, they may even be familiar with the communication officers who deal with them. This gives one an idea of how the direct communication process works and how effective it is. Certainly, if a customer becomes familiar enough to know a communication officers name, it is obvious that the communication process used is effective enough to get desired messages through (Smith, 1998, 25-41). In view of the effectiveness of the communication proves, it is clear that product promotion can be enhanced. All the communication officers have to do is follow the instructions of the product and tell the customer about it. In addition to this, they can supply them with ways and means of getting hold of the products. Regarding the communication process being simple, it certainly is, but when one has to focus of the breakdown of it all, it gets a little tedious. This is because of the fact that one needs to know the market well, and see who is interested more in the products and services that EXCEED provides. In view of this, there are few factors that have to be taken into consideration. These include: age, gender, ones occupation, lifestyle,etc. Though most people who use EXCEEDs services would want to know more about the products and services the company has to offer it must be asserted that research into the current customer behaviour reveals that there are particular groups that are more volatile and more viable to work with. This is why communication officers may work more with some customers and less with others. This is not seen as being prejudiced in any way, but it is true to say that the process takes into consideration customer behaviour, and since EXCEED is dealing with millions of customers they need to focus on the ones that they need to build and maintain relationship with. This is precisely what boosts customer loyalty. As far as the customers that are not communicated regularly with, it must be asserted that they are also important customers but they are ones that are easily satisfied with the services they get. In view of the particular factors that are taken into consideration, it must be asserted that in the UK, both men and women are users of EXCEED services, especially breakdown services. While men are still more likely to be customers, younger age groups are almost even. Older men are more likely than older women to travel long distances, while older women are still likely to be drive and use EXCEED services. As far as one’s occupation is concerned, both men and women are likely to be service holders of EXCEED because of the fact that they are compelled to drive around. Lifestyle is another thing that is taken into consideration. Again men and women are both likely to use EXCEED services, but the younger they are the less likely they are to have EXCEED services. In view of some people not having EXCEED services, they can be targeted through the marketing strategy; current customers could be used to spread the word around. However, the more important point to focus on includes the need to market EXCEED more to people that have already used EXCEED services. If they have not been using the services recently, they can be contacted and reminded of their expired membership. In view of communication methods that need to be used, email and telephone is most commonly used. Almost all people have an answering machine on at home and a message would be easy to leave for the. Those that have cell phones could either be called or a message or mail could be sent to them. Emailing is common, and for those that use Internet facilities commonly can be easily contacted through it. In view of each customer’s profile, various ways of getting in touch with him or her need to be mentioned(Brierly, 2002, 27-29). Customers may be asked on order forms how they might be contacted; these details are noted down in order to make sure the more appropriate means of contacting a customer may be used. In addition to the communication means mentioned above, EXCEED could also promote its products and services through alternative means. This would include promoting products through magazines, television, periodicals, radio, and the Internet. This strictly refers to advertisements that are not personal, as they are opposed to emailing or telephoning a person. Though advertising in the ways mentioned here is quite effective, it must be asserted that it is not the kind that would stimulate the customer’s emotions. Customers need to be contacted directly when they are or have been regular customers of EXCEED or any other company; it makes them feel valued, and again here it must be emphasized that the value of these feelings are crucial to maintain EXCEED services as they currently are offering incentives is important whether communication officers use direct contact of advertising strategies (Percy et al, 2001, 18-28).The difference is that when customers are contacted directly and told about the promotion they feel more valued. What EXCEED could do is circulate information about a new product among their current customers; they could tell them all the important details about it. At a later date, the product information could be revealed to the general public through advertising in magazines, one the Internet, etc. Since the regular customers would have already gotten the information first, they would feel more appreciated and valued. These are the kinds of techniques that could be used current customers as opposed to potential customers because it is the current customer that comes first. This is because of the fact that EXCEED needs to make sure its reputation and business stand as it is and not be lowered. Acquisition Strategy for new Customers: For this part of the promotional plan, EXCEED is left with a minimum of 3million Pounds. This means that funds might still fall short because television and radio promotion in addition to other forms will have to be used here. However, since television and radio communications might be used in the previous step, promoting products for newer customers could also be included. This would help save great deal of the funding, thereby allowing the whole promotional plant be implemented. The following includes how EXCEED might implement their plan to include new customers with the funds in hand. Since EXCEED has already discovered the market and are aware of the immense potential that lies ahead, they can implement a strategy that would cater to potential customers regarding Motoring Services, Financial Services and Travel Services. Random marketing strategies could be easily employed. It must be asserted that advertising through the Internet, magazines, radio and television are all appropriate means. In view of the cost factor here, moderate advertising through television could be implemented in order to fit the budget given. Advertising through the print media is considered to be more feasible. This is because EXCEED could have their advertisements placed in periodicals or magazines that are associated with motor companies(Yandi, 2001, 15-21). So when customers purchase cars or go through magazines that have information on particular cars, it is most likely that they would come across the advertisement. As far as motoring services are concerned, this is an appropriate means to advertise. However, as far as financial services are concerned, it would not work. EXCEED needs to target its potential market, regarding financial services, through a means that would create more chances of potential customers viewing the advertisement. When it comes to financial services, it is better to place ads on television and radio along with other products of EXCEED. In addition to this, it also must be asserted that advertisements for financial services must be places in magazines where financial services are offered for related products. This is believed to boost the chances of a companys product getting a response (Brierly, 2002, 27-29). Concerning Travel services, it must be noted that EXCEED could advertise through television and radio along with its other products. This would save them spending excess funds on separate advertisements. However, the main advertising for travel services would have to be done through travel guides. Just like other agencies and organizations advertise EXCEED too can do the same. the advantage is that EXCEED would probably be recognized through its name from other services and products it provides. In view of this, it must be asserted that there is also the reputation of EXCEED that can be taken into consideration(Brierly, 2002, 27-29). It must be considered that EXCEED is a company that already has many customers that it looks after and remains in contact with. Through this contact as well, services and products can be enhanced. This is a process that could indeed save some of the funds put towards promotional strategies. However, it is also worth considering whether it would actually be suitable to advertise through customers that are regular. This is because of the fact that some customers might feel that they are really being used to promote a company free of cost. Ot