Management Accounting Question 2 Essay Example

Management Accounting Question 2 Essay Name: Course: Lecturer: Date: We will write a custom essay sample on Management Accounting Question 2 specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Management Accounting Question 2 specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Management Accounting Question 2 specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Management Accounting Question 2 2.1 Fundamental principles of financial statements Prudence On going 2.2 Financial accounting is meant for making reports that are shared to all stakeholders about the position of the company financially while managerial accounting is for internal purposes of making decisions. 2.3 In deciding whether a certain cost is relevant, one has to consider whether it will be affected by a certain operation. Whether they make a difference in making certain decisions is another condition for deciding whether a cost is relevant. In deciding relevance of costs, there must be two alternatives to the case presented. 2.4 OECD methods 482 methods Unspecified methods 2.5 Transaction Speculative Precautionary 2.6.1 Bello Activity% ofAmount of costBello FOH cost Raw material orders25300,00020ordersSet-up of machines15180,00015set-upsProduct inspections20240,00040inspections According to machine set-ups, the overhead recovery rate would be 180,000 ? 15 = R 12, 000 per machine set up. Using inspections, the overhead rate of recovery is 240,000 ? 40 = R 6000 per inspection. 2.6.2 Unit cost in respect of orders Total activity units = 20 Allocated costs = 300,000 Cost of Mello = 720,000 Cost per unit = 300,000 / 20,000 = R15 Unit cost in respect of inspection Total activity units = 40 Allocated costs = 240,000 Cost of Mello = 720,000 Cost per unit = 240,000 / 20,000 = R12 Question 3 3.1 cost of sales raw materials 10,640,000.00 packaging cost 3,808,000.00 variable overheads 3,584,000.00 total variable costs of sales 18,032,000.00 variable cost of sale per unit 85.87 fixes labor for assemblers 80.00 fixed overhead per unit 13.50 total cost of sales per unit 179.37 total cost of sales 37,667,000.00 Variable cost of sales per unit = 18032,000 / 210000 units Fixed overhead cost of sale per unit = budgeted cost / budgeted units = 3,240,000 / 240,000 units 3.2 Absorption costing income statement Sales 61,950,000 Cost of goods sold 37,667,000 Gross margin 24,283,000 Selling and admin expenses Marketing expenses 1,700,000 Administrative depreciation 2,550,000 Selling and administrative labor 5,104,000 Sales expenses 236,000 Bank charges 333,000 Interest 214,000 10,137,000 Net income 14,146,000 3.3 Variable costing income statement has several benefits to the management that might not be presented in the absorption costing. In variable costing income statement, manufacturing overhead costs are addressed on periodic bases instead on a per unit basis. It considers the variable costs that are directly related to the production of each unit are allocated for each of the produce units. Other expenses such as fixed overheads, selling, and administrative as well as other variable costs are allocated on a period basis instead of stock or inventories. This enables the smoothing out if fixed overheads that are related to manufacturing within the period of reporting. With this kind of costing, the management is in a position to determine pricing with ease. Question 4 4.1 Sales budget revenue sales budget quarter 1 8,100 120 R972000 quarter 2 8,400 120 R1,008,000 quarter 3 9,000 120 R1,080,000 quarter 4 7,500 120 R900,000 4.2 Production budget for units required each quarter Quarter 1 = 8,100 ? 10% produced in previous quarter = 810 8,100 – 810 = 7,290 8,400 ? 10% produced for next quarter = 840 7,290 + 840 = 8,130 units Quarter 2 = 8,400 ? 10% produced in quarter 1 = 840 8,400 – 840 = 7,540 9,000 ? 10% produced for next quarter = 900 7,540 + 900 = 8,440 Quarter 3 = 9,000 ? 10% produced in quarter 2 = 900 9,000 – 900 = 8,100 7,500 ? 10% produced next quarter = 750 8,100+ 750 = 8,850 Quarter 4 =7,500 ? 10% produced in quarter 3 = 750 7,500 – 750 = 6,750 8,400 ? 10% produced for next year = 840 6,750 + 840 = 7,590 4.3 Fixed overhead cost cash Quarter 1 Depreciation cost = 500,000 / 20 quarters = 25,000 per quarter Fixed overhead cost of units produced = 13 ? 8,130 = 105,690 Fixed overhead cash = 105,690 + 25,000 = R 130,690 Quarter 4 Fixed overhead cost of units produced = 13 ? 7,590 = 98,670 Fixed overhead cash = 98, 670 + 25,000 = R 123,670 4.4 Considering the information provided in the scenario above, it is likely that Click Ltd might face some cash complications. One of the complications could be their credit offer, where they sell their product with a two-month credit. Considering they are supposed to pay their suppliers 50% of the cost when making an order, the company might find itself in constrains to pay the supplier. Additionally, they are supposed to pay for labor and fixed overheads as they are incurred, meaning that if they do not have immediate cash they might not be in a position to pay for their costs since their customers pay after two months. Question 5 5.1 Contribution per stress-relief ball Revenue = 30,000 ? 160 = R4, 800,000 Variable costs = 30,000 ? 82.60 = 2,478,000 Commission 4% ? 4, 800,000 = 192,000 Total contribution = 4,800,000 – 2,478,000- 192,000 = 2,130,000 Contribution per stress-relief ball = 2,130,000 / 30,000 = R71 5.2 Break-even point Fixed costs = 1,484,000 Contribution per unit = 71 Break-even point = 1,484,000 / 71 = 20,902 units 5.3 Margin of safety for stress-relief ball Sales revenue = (30,000 units @ R160) R 4, 800,000 Break even = (20,902 units @ R 160) –R 3, 344,320 Margin of safety R 1, 455,680 % margin of safety = 1,455,680 / 4,800,000 = 30.32% 5.4 Sales revenue (36,000 units @ R 150) R 5, 400,000 Variable cost (36,000 units @ R 82.60) (R 2, 973,600) Commission @ 4% of 5, 400,000 (R 216,000) Contribution R 2, 210,400 Fixed costs (R 1, 484,000) Profit made R 726,400 From the above calculation, it is obvious that an advertisement and promotion campaign for the product cannot be conducted considering a profit of R 800,000 has to be made. Therefore, at a sales price of R150 the increase in revenue due to change in price from R160 does not reflect a relatively equal contribution. At a sale price of R160, it is possible to conduct the advertisement and promotion since the profit is above target required at R 838, 000. Therefore, the management should not seek to decrease the sales price R150 to increase sales. Instead, it should keep the price unchanged in order to make enough profit for advertisement and promotion.

Coursework on Alternative Financial Investments The WritePass Journal

Coursework on Alternative Financial Investments Intoduction Coursework on Alternative Financial Investments IntoductionAlternative InvestmentsVenture Capital TrustsEnterprise Investment SchemeHedge FundsAgriculturalLivestock and MeatEnergyPrecious MetalsIndustrial MetalsPropertyREITSInvestor BenefitsRisks of REITSFine Art Fine WineShort Answer QuestionsQuestion 1.   The disadvantages of repaying debts by encashing investments are:Question 2Question 3BenefitsDrawbacksBibliographyRelated Intoduction Alternative Investments We are all familiar with the usual suspects when it comes to investments with ISA’s Unit Trusts, OEICS, Capital Investment Bonds, Investment Trusts, National Savings and General Banking Products being the general fare when it comes to advising our clients. However whilst these products often can and do achieve the desired results there are many   alternatives investments available that offer a wider choice and variety which can be used instead of or to complement mainstream products. Lets look at these alternatives and see what benefits they have and of course any drawbacks associated with them. The AIM Market (Alternative Investment Market) â€Å"AIM is the most successful growth market in the world. Since its launch in 1995, over 3,000 companies from across the globe have chosen to join AIM. Powering the companies of tomorrow, AIM continues to help smaller and growing companies raise the capital they need for expansion† (www.londonstockexchange.com/companies-and-advisors/aim.htm 18/02/2011). Aim is the international market for growing companies trading on the London Stock Exchange. Businesses you will find range from new venture capital-backed companies to well established, mature organisations looking to expand into a wider market. Created in 1995 by the London Stock Exchange principally to offer a diverse range of smaller companies the opportunity to sensibly raise capital in a regulated market, hence AIM has developed into a highly flexible public market easily accessible to both investor and company. Aim companies come from 37 sectors, 90 sub-sectors and 26 countries. It has over 250 companies from outside the United Kingdom, with many more joining every year, which is testament to the viability of the AIM market as a place fro the younger international companies wishing to fund expansion and raise their global profile. Aim is an exchange Regulated Market and enjoys a reputation for effective regulation: it offers a secure yet flexible trading environment for both companies and investors. Aim is wholly owned and run by the London Stock Exchange and has three investment indices – the FTSE AIM UK50, FTSE AIM 100 and the FTSE AIM ALL-SHARE Supersector Indices Investors wishing to buy or sell shares in AIM stocks will deal through a stockbroker in a traditional way. However, whilst dealing in the shares in an execution-only basis may be relatively straightforward; those investors who want advice may have to be more selective. There are some brokers with specialist knowledge of AIM stocks and which spend a considerable amount of time researching the AIM market. It clearly makes sense for investors to deal via such brokers so as to take advantage of there expertise. Due to the tax breaks which are currently available, many brokers run specialist portfolios which have been set up with the intention of mitigating Inheritance Tax. (IHT). The shares after being held for at least two years qualify for Business Property Relief and therefore as long as they are held until death after the two year period will be fully exempt from IHT. If the purchaser is married or in a civil partnership and they die prior to the two year period, the shares may be transferred to the spouse or civil partner so that they may retain the shares until their own death so that the two year requirement may be exceeded. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is payable in respect of sales of AIM stocks and any losses can be set off against losses in the usual way. â€Å"The AIM market should be regarded as higher risk as AIM market shares tend to be relatively illiquid and therefore may be difficult to sell or obtain reliable information as to the value and the risks to which the shares are exposed. A company on AIM can elect to revert to private status, in which case the shares may become impossible to trade or value and the protections offered by AIM will cease to apply† (www.rensburg4ifas.co,uk/   Iht for Ifas v 3.2-07/10 7323) â€Å"Every AIM company is supported, advised and monitored by its own Nominated Adviser (NOMAD). Firms that wish to act as Nomads must undergo stringent checks before they can be authorised to become a London Stock Exchange-approved Nomad for AIM. These Checks ensure the suitability both of Nomads and of the companies they assist to operate as part of AIM, bringing investors increased certainty and security† (http:///www.aimslisting.co.ukindex.php/page/The-Aim-Market 25/02/2011). Venture Capital Trusts â€Å"The Venture Capital Trust   scheme started on 6th April 1995. It is designed to encourage individuals to invest directly in a range of small higher-risk trading companies whose shares and securities are not listed on a recognised stock exchange, by investing through Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs). So, if you invest in a VCT, you spread the investment risk over a number of companies† (www.hmrc.gov.uk/guidance/vct.htm 18/02/2011). VCT’s have to be approved by HMRC and once given offers a   unique tax break, in that as long as you hold ordinary shares for at least 5 years from the date of purchase 30% income tax relief is payable, therefore a  £200,000 investment held for 5 years, if it had not grown or fallen in value would be valued at  £260,000. In addition there is no liability to Capital Gains Tax on disposal. The benefits to individuals investing in a Venture Capital Trust include not only the opportunity to participate in the growth the unquoted investment portfolio but also to enjoy the valuable tax benefits on an investment of up to  £200,000 in each tax year. This type of investment should be seen as medium to long term and the capital value is not guaranteed. Enterprise Investment Scheme The Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) is designed to help smaller higher-risk trading companies to raise finance by offering a range of tax reliefs to investors who purchase shares in those companies. The EIS is a concession by HMRC whereby an investor can invest between  £500 and  £500,000 in an EIS company in a single tax year and claim the income tax relief at 20%. Furthermore, providing the shares are held for 3 years, then there is no Capital Gains Tax on the eventual disposal. â€Å"All shares must be paid up in full, in cash, when they are issued. They must be â€Å"full risk† ordinary shares, with no preferential rights to dividends, or to the companies assets in the event of winding up. There must also be no arrangements to protect the investor from the normal risks associated with investing in shares and no arrangements for the shares to be purchased by anyone else after the end of the relevant period† (www.hmrc.gov.uk/guidance/eis.htm 02/02/2011) Investment can be directly into the company or through an EIS Fund. If you invest through an EIS fund, the fund manager will invest on your behalf in a number of qualifying companies. You are still the owner of the shares. Hedge Funds    Hedge funds are collective investments that aim to make money whether the market is moving up, down or sideways. Unlike Unit Trusts, Oeics or Investment Trusts, which tend to only grow when shares rise, hedge funds can make money when share prices are falling.They do this using a range of complicated specialist techniques. The most commonly used is going long or short on a share. Most private investors simply go long on a share, buying in the hope that the price will rise.Where an investor goes short, they believe that the equity will fall in value. There are two main ways a hedge fund can do this. The first is by â€Å"shorting† the stock, where the investor â€Å"borrows† a stock to sell it, with the hope that it will decrease in value so they can buy it back at a lower price and keep the difference. For example, if an investor borrows 500 shares of X   company   at  £10 each, they would then sell those shares for  £5,000. If the price falls to  £8 per share, the investor would buy the shares back for  £4,000, return them to the original owner and make a profit of  £1,000. These funds now reportedly manage over  £750bn of clients money and their highly-paid managers can achieve remarkable returns.Hedge funds are not restricted to equities, they will invest in anything that will make a profit, including Foreign currency, Bonds, or Commodities. The return achieved by the fund is likely to be dependent on the skill of the manager rather than the underlying economic conditions and that is why they are so highly paid.At the moment Hedge funds are only available to high wealth individuals who are prepared to invest around  £500,000, or to professional investors, such as Pension Funds or Insurance Companies.If individual investors want exposure to hedge funds, they can purchase shares in the companies that operate the funds.Hedge Funds are regarded as high risk investments as many funds are â€Å"leveraged† which means they borrow money to add to their fund rather than just using investor capital.Because the funds use Derivatives, where they bet ag ainst the future value of an asset, rather than purchasing the asset directly, the funds are effectively borrowing money.The result is that gains and losses are magnified, with some making huge profits, but if things go wrong the fund can go bust. The majority of Hedge Funds are domiciled offshore for tax reasons, but the UK based managers are fully regulated by the Financial Services Authority. (FSA).However the FSA does not regulate the funds themselves and if a fund goes bust, investors do not have any recourse to compensation. Commodities â€Å"A physical substance, such as food, grains, metals, which is interchangeable with another product of the same type and which investors will buy or sell usually through futures contracts† (londonstockexchange.com/focus-on/018-commodities. 07/03/2011) The Commodity Markets are markets were raw or primary products are exchanged. They are traded on regulated commodity exchanges, in which they are bought and sold in standardised contracts. Commodities investing is volatile, promising big gains and capable of big losses. But this volatility can work in your favour in a broad investment portfolio, where a small amount of commodities can offset risks associated with stocks, bonds and cash. Commodities can be an excellent way to diversify your portfolio, especially if you believe that stocks are heading downwards for the next few years. The Commodities traded include: Agricultural Corn, wheat, oats. Livestock and Meat Cattle, Pigs Energy Crude oil, natural gas, heating oil. Precious Metals Gold, platinum,palladium. Industrial Metals Copper, zinc aluminium. Trading is normally via Futures Contracts, which is basically an agreement to buy now, pay and deliver later. In essence, a futures contract is a standardised forward contract in which the buyer and the seller accept the terms in regards to the product, grade , quantity and location and are only free to negotiate the price. Commodities are regulated and authorised by the FSA in the UK and Investing in commodities is normally done through a stockbroker or a   commodities broker. Property Property can be a very attractive asset to include in any investment portfolio – especially as it often performs well when stock markets are going through an unstable period. Over the long term, property has been proven to outperform   most sectors, so it might be a good bet even when share or bond prices fall. Of course, property markets can still be volatile, as shown by recent events. However, the best property funds will spread their exposure across many property areas. For example a property fund could give you access to the commercial property sector as well. This may include retail premises, office space and warehousing. Property funds remain one of the most practical ways to gain exposure to the property sector, some invest in actual bricks and mortar, while other funds may include shares in property companies or property securities know as real estate investments trusts. (REITS). Investments in funds of this nature are subject to specific risks arising from investment in REITs and property related securities and investors should ensure that they full understand these.    REITS A REIT is a company that owns and manages property on behalf of shareholders. A Reit can contain commercial and/or residential property. REITs provide a way for investors to access property assets without having to buy property directly in the UK REITs can apply for â€Å"UK-REIT† status, which exempts the company from corporation tax. It is an investment through buying shares in a listed property company that has elected for REIT status and operates in accordance with REIT regulations. The REIT regulations are intended to ensure the company is primarily engaged in property investment, rather than in development or other non property related activities. Most UK REITs focus on the UK, though a few have European investments. Investor Benefits REITs can be very tax efficient, as the property company pays no corporation or capital gains tax on the profits made from the property investment. As a condition of these tax breaks REITs must pass 90% of their taxable income through to shareholders. As the real estate appreciates in value, the REIT becomes more valuable and the share price may rise. REITs can also offer predictable income streams because of long term lease agreements. Also as REITs trade like stocks, you can get into and out of them with ease.       Risks of REITS However as stated earlier there are risks associated with REITs and investors need to approach them with these in mind. Most REITs focus on particular types of commercial development, such as apartments or office buildings. This concentration leaves them vulnerable to a downturn in this particular sector. Investors should examine where the REITs projects are located. A high concentration of development in one community or geographic region may leave it vulnerable to a downturn in that area’s economy. Better to invest in more than one REIT and choose different property sectors, also make sure that they are in different geographic locations. As stated earlier REITS are traded like stock on the major markets and can be purchased via a stockbroker in the normal manner. Fine Art Fine art offers the opportunity for portfolio diversification into an area that has historically provided high returns. Quality works of art have proved to be a remarkable store of value. This is predominantly due to increasing rarity caused by an expanding demand from museums and collectors and dwindling supplies. Art has evolved considerably over the last decade or so. Now building up a portfolio of works of art is not the only way to invest. Dedicated funds have been launched and there are investment advisers specifically geared to help investors with little or no experience of the art market. Far from just being a hedge against inflation art investment is now just one of range of alternative investments that can be used to diversify portfolios. Investing in ART can be done in the traditional manner via Art Dealers or now through an increasing number of specialist fund managers were the funds are structured like private equity investments and investor commitments are drawn down over a period of time to facilitate purchases. Due to the nature of Art works and how they appreciate in value over time they should be seen as a buy and hold investment rather than a buy and sell one. Fine Wine â€Å" What makes fine wine such a good investment is that production of the world’s top vintages are strictly controlled. As supply of the very best wines dries up, the prices of the very best vintages invariably rocket† (http://capitalvintners-px.rtrk.co.uk 14/03/2011) Investing in fine wine is an attractive proposition for many investors, who wish to diversify their investment portfolio. As wine matures, more bottles are consumed and like all things rare and desirable, its valuation will rise. Demand has increase enormously over the past decades,resulting in some extremely good returns. Wine is also an easily transferable asset, as there is an established fine wine market and a thriving auction market. There are no limits to wine investing, however the current prices of top wines are such that one should start investing with at least %,000 to  £10,000. It should be remembered that investment in wine is a long term investment and experience suggests that a minimum five year term would be a reasonable benchmark. Although Fund Managers are beginning to take a keen interest in this market, with wine investment funds now readily available, care should be taken as their investment charges will inevitably eat into any gains made and also they may not have the in-depth knowledge of Fine Wines that a reputable broker has. Perhaps best to use a   reputable broker, who will ascertain the exact nature of the fine wine holding you require, taking into account your dealing range, liquidity needs and risk/return requirements. The broker will then obtain on your behalf, the fine wine most suitable for you, either from their suppliers or from their own extensive stock holding. The broker will also organise safe storage and insurance for your wine. It is critical wine is stored and cared for in the correct manner and in order to maintain the very high quality of the product and ensure its longevity, fine wine must be stored in a controlled environment and again reputable brokers will have this facility. Once this has been done you will receive written confirmation of your holding from your broker. Your broker will also attend to your needs for the duration of your holding and will keep you aware of developments in the markets on a monthly basis. When the time comes to sell your holding, your broker will organise this on your behalf. Again it should be remembered that as with all investments returns are not guaranteed and you could incur substantial losses, if the market for Fine Wine falls into decline. Short Answer Questions Question 1.   The disadvantages of repaying debts by encashing investments are: Lack of liquidity. No guarantee that you would subsequently save the new found disposable income. No longer have the expertise of the fund managers or the investment asset mix. Less time for subsequent investments to build up. Any new investments would have fresh set-up charges therefore reducing the potential returns May lose valuable tax relief on existing investments that cannot be re-used. Interest rates on debts may be lower than your investment returns. May need to borrow again in the future at higher interest rates and or a shorter repayment term, costing more. May be unable to borrow in future years due lower income or credit crunch. Question 2 Interest Yield: Divide Annual Income by Current Market Price. 7% divided by  £132 x 100 = 5.30. Gross Redemption Yield: Current Price  £132 Minus the Nominal Value  £100 and divide by remaining 3 years to run. Divide this figure by current price and then add to Interest Yield.  £132  £100 =  £32 divided by 3 = 10.66 divided by  £132 = 0.08 add to Interest Yield = 5.30 + 0.08 = 5.38. Question 3    Benefits Guaranteed 100% secure: total capital invested is returnable Any winnings are tax free Partial withdrawals from initial investment allowed No regular investment required No fixed investment term. Automatically eligible for monthly prize draw Can win valuable cash prizes Drawbacks Investment is subject to decrease in value due to inflation Savings in interest earning accounts may earn more Chances of winning a larger cash prize are slim No guarantee of a win Minimum and maximum investment required Chances of winning a larger cash prize are slim Money is not instantly accessible Bibliography Websites HMRC Venture Capital Trust. www.hmrc.gov.uk/guidance/vct.htm 18/02/2011 This website provides commanding and very valuable information for advisers and the general public. This proved to be an extremely relevant site for my research, as the site lists all articles produced on specific tax areas and also includes historical information for research thereby providing a one stop shop for all tax related enquiries. The reference to Venture Capital Trusts allowed me to give a factual overview of the investment and also to explain the tax relief available to this type of investment. http:///www.aimslisting.co.ukindex.php/page/The-Aim-Market 25/02/2011. www.hughespartnership.co.uk/enterprise investment scheme 01/03/2011. www.thisismoney.co.uk/investing/article.html 02/03/2011 This is an excellent financial website and helps advisers keep up to date with what’s going on in the world markets. It has a reputation for accuracy and has a specialist team of financial journalists, whose aims are   to ensure that readers are accurately informed in financial matters. This makes it a very relevant site for my research as there are regular articles on all aspects of investments including alternative investments and what they have to offer. Its journalists write in a straightforward and understandable manner, which makes it easy to digest what can sometimes be very complicated subject matters. myifslearning.com 06/03//2011   The ifs School of Finance is a registered charity incorporated by Royal Charter and provides the financial services industry with a skilled and competent workforce. They have been providing financial education for the past 130 years. The website is very informative and provides students with a wealth of information, tailored to helping them progress. An on-line knowledge bank library to assist with studies and understanding is available at the click of a button. In addition the in-house magazine, Financial World, has features, comments and reviews on financial matters relevant to the financial services sector, which enables advisers to constantly keep up to date on financial services matters. www.rensburgsheppards.co.uk/discretionary management solutions 04/03/2011 http://stocks.about.com/od/advancedtrading/a/REIT 07/03/2011 www.ftmandate.com/theartofalternativeinvestment.html 10/13/2011 www.moneyweek.com/investing-in-wine 14/03/2011 bbr.com/fine-wine/how-to-invest 14/03/2011 Textbooks IFS School of Finance. Financial Planning Principles (2009) Taxbriefs Life Assurance Pension Handbook. 2009/10 Taxbriefs Tax Guide 2009/10 Journals. Financial Adviser, published weekly. Money Week, published weekly.

Sex and Teenagers Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Sex and Teenagers - Research Paper Example Conversely, some of humanity’s earliest attempts at science and philosophy were naturally religious and social in origin. As a direct function of this, it becomes clearly obvious that the extent to which culture and religion impacts upon a society with regards to defining appropriate mores of psychological development are not by nature inherently good or bad; rather, they merely exhibited an outdated and oftentimes faulty form of defining and constraining human development and behavior. One of the most sensitive forms of human development and behavior that can be discussed is with regards to sexual development. Due to the litany of different approaches, both liberal and exceedingly conservative, that exist concerning sexual development, it comes as no surprise that the level of deviation that exists between cultures the scientific communities, and different religious perspectives is extraordinarily broad. Through such an analysis, and more appropriate definition of sexual deve lopment within the teenage years, it is the hope of this author that the reader will be able to come to a more profound understanding of why many of the cultural norms and mores are able to impact individuals with regards the way in which sexuality and development is viewed by these stakeholders. Without question the society that we live in is one that is highly affected by marketing, media, and the representation of culture that we the individual is bombarded within on a daily level. Countless scores of research projects have been performed on the way in which individual integrate with these marketing ploys, the degree to which they allow marketing to affect their lives, and the percentage of income that such efforts are able to siphon off the viewer. Although this is a fascinating topic and doubtless deserves an even greater degree of analysis due to the fact that it segments many interrelated sectors of

The Russian-speaking communities in Portland and NorthWest Pacific Research Paper

The Russian-speaking communities in Portland and NorthWest Pacific - Research Paper Example The Russian Americans are currently reported to be about three million currently. Most Russian Americans no longer speak Russian. This is because they are born and raised by English-speaking Russian American parents. Statistics however suggest that by the year 2007, Russian was the principal language used by about eight hundred thousand Americans based on U.S. census results in that year (Spickard 2007). Further statistics by the Russian and Eurasian Studies at Harvard submit that by 1990 there were over seven hundred thousand ethnic Russian Americans in the U.S.A. The Ukrainians and Carpatho-Rusyns who trace their ancestry to Carpathian Ruthenia in the 19th century and early 20th century also identify themselves as Russian Americans. The recent emigres often refer to these people as the starozhili which when translated means â€Å"old residents†. These â€Å"old residents† were most instrumental in establishing the Russian Orthodoxy religion in America (Marrows 1997). These ethnic Russian Americans have in the recent decades been assimilated into the American society and culture but their ethnic traditions are still very much alive and are observable primarily around the Russian Orthodox Church. 3. ... The first wave begun around the 18th century during which time the Russians who were expanding their territory begun venturing into northwest America areas in search of furs. Fort Ross was established in 1812 by members of the Russian American company (Marrows 1997). This was where they established a hunting and trading company. This company was wholly owned by Russia’s elite society referred to as the tsar. This company had been in business for about a century before the fort was built. The conditions that necessitated the immigrations of the Russian Jews in the 1800’s were quite squalid and could be compared to Ireland’s â€Å"throes of famine†. There abodes were sparsely furnished and overly crowded with sickly elderly relatives and malnourished children who had to share meager rations of food. Some of the areas were so devastatingly poor that residents had to make do with bread and water. In areas such as Galicia for instance, many Jews starved to deat h annually. Basic human rights such as the freedom of worship and legal autonomy of citizens were revoked prompting the emigration by the Russian Jews. For most of the peasant Jewish immigrants, the journey to America was extremely trying and quite a life threatening adventure. The steamships they used to cross were rather small and large numbers of these poor Russian Jews were crammed into the limited space. The conditions in the ships were despicable and these travelers had to contend with little rations of food and disease (Spickard 2007). The normal procedure was that the husband went to America and got a job after which he would save up and send for his wife and children back

Methods Used to Study the Brain Essay Example for Free

Methods Used to Study the Brain Essay A variety of procedures are used by psychologists to study the functions of different areas of the brain. Some of them are very old methods and outdated; some of them are most recent in origin and frequently used by modern investigators. The methods help us to study the localization of the functional areas of the brain. One of these methods is the stimulation method. A specific part of the brain may be stimulated either by electric current or by chemicals. Through electrical stimulation, we can only stimulate the desired part of the brain. But by chemical methods, we can stimulate or defunct a particular part of the brain for a fixed period of time and observe their effects on behavior. Another method is the Electrical Recording or Action Potential Method.The rhythmical electrical discharges of the brain are recorded by an instrument called electroencephalogram (EEG). The EEG can detect minute electrical activities of the brain cells during sleep, arousal and activity. The brain parts having greatest electrical activity can be linked with behaviors and sensations of the body. This will tell how the body surfaces are represented in the brain. The Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT) is a newer method in which thousands of separate X-rays are taken at slightly different angles, and the computer constructs an image of the structures of the brain by combining these X-rays. It is very useful for showing abnormalities in the structure of the brain such as swelling and enlargement of certain parts. But it does not provide information about brain activity. Another method is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). It produces a strong magnetic field in which the persons head is positioned. The radio waves directed at the brain cause the hydrogen atoms to emit signals, which are analyzed by a computer. The details of the MRI are superior to CAT scan, because it can distinguish between closely related brain structures. Due to its importance, you might think the brain would be a little more forthcoming about its design and function. Fortunately, the human brain also provides us with the remarkable ability and ingenuity to study the human brain, a skill in which brains of other life forms decidedly come up short. The study of the brain has yielded remarkable findings, and advances in brain research have created a better understanding of the way we function and life itself.

Does Competition Bring Out The Best In Us? :: essays research papers

COMPETITION BRINGS OUT THE BEST IN US The score was 14-15. My team was losing the sectional championship game by just one point. Now we had to give our all to win, or we would be regretting the loss for years to come. In order to win, we had to get along with everyone on, and off, the volleyball court. We had to believe in ourselves, but most of all, we had to use all of the competitive skills that we had learned throughout our lives from parents, coaches, and our own experiences. Each second, the game became more and more intense. After playing our hearts out for two rotations, the score was now in our favor. We were winning 16-15. As soon as we were in control of the game, we competed at a collegiate level that no one would have thought was possible. Our skills were equal to the skills of a college player. The hitters could jump so high that their entire arm was swinging above the net. The blockers all had at least half of their arm making a wall over the net. The defensive players all dug up balls that looked like comets beaming onto the court. We were just twelve girls on a high school team, but the skill and talent we were showing to win against our rival could have been even better than a professional team. We ended up being the team that was celebrating victory in the locker room. We all had our chance to yell, cheer, and jump up and down after we shook our opponents hands. We finally had the opportunity to celebrate an amazing victory. We were even int erviewed by reporters and photographed by staff of the Hearld Argus, our city’s paper. Competition brought out the best in each one of us that night and that season. The skills we learned and showed on the court will never be forgotten. We learned to get along as a team, believe in ourselves, and to never give up on a goal. In order to succeed, people must compete. Competition can bring out the best in everyone. During a single day, people in some way compete with themselves or with others. They compete to win a sporting event, to get a raise or promotion in their workplace, to receive the best grades on tests or homework assignments, and to be the best at everything they do.

Implementation of E-Business Systems: A Case Study of Baderman Island

The strategy of Baderman Island Enterprise requires constant updating. With the changing conditions of market and industry it is important for the organization to keep its strategy in tact with the changing environment. An out dated strategy cannot fulfil the needs of today’s global environment (O’Brien, 2005). In order to go through the updating process the Baderman Island Enterprise should carry on an audit to analyze which aspect requires improvement.It also specifies what strategy is necessary to support the business operations, the information people use currently and the gaps in these functions and the business goals. Most managers fail to analyze the current situation of their business and lack a sense of intuition and forecasting. Often it is also a draw back that the strategy of some organizations neglects the change in the functions of some important departments. It is important for a strategy to serve all the needs of departments, which require change.Through a strategy audit it becomes easier to find out which departments and operation require to be revolutionized or updating. By assessing the knowledge possessed by Baderman Island Enterprise about its competitors and market environment the mangers can effectively take decisions in order to find the most feasible way for their businesses to maximize profits and improve market share. It is also important to calculate the extent to which change needs to be introduced to the organization.Although the identification of the problem is a big issue but the finding a solution making sense with business world is the main purpose of change in the Baderman Island Enterprise. In case of Baderman Island Enterprise it is important to have the knowledge of how to present the product/service in effective manner in order to reach the customer in an effective manner. With the changing business needs the new marketing techniques such as product differentiation, branding and advertising are also gaining i mmense importance.The successful product positioning and promotion is only possible if all the required information in this lieu is gathered and used in the right direction. In order to fulfill modern information needs, new information technologies have also been evolved. The information regarding the buyer preferences and behavior plays an important part in helping the Baderman Island Enterprise management to take important decisions regarding the product such as pricing, promotion, competition etc. It is important for the company to establish a system in order to acquire a large amount of information for the marketing managers.â€Å"Competitive companies study their managers’ information needs and design marketing information systems (MIS) to meets these needs. A marketing information system (MIS) consists of people, equipment, and procedures to gather, sort, analyze, evaluate, and distribute needed, timely, and accurate information to marketing decision markers. To carry out their analysis, planning, implementation, and control responsibilities marketing managers need information about developments in the marketing environment.The role of the MIS is to assess the manager’s information needs, develop the needed information, and distribute that information in a timely fashion, the information is developed through internal company records, marketing intelligence activities, marketing research, and marketing decision support analysis. † (Kotler, 2000) In the case of Baderman Island Enterprise the MIS can play an important role in successfully marketing the new products and services which the company is planning to launch. An effective MIS will also help in enhancing the exposure level of the company from local market to national market.It is important for the company to design the MIS system in an effective manner. In most of the cases the companies lack information sophistication. Some of them collect a large amount of information but the data is not stored in a proper way to be handled easily. Without an effective marketing information system it will become impossible for the Baderman Island Enterprise to reach to the desired customer. The MIS will help the company in understanding the customer’s perception, taste, needs and desires regarding the new product.Without the proper MIS the investment in the production and innovation will not be of any use. â€Å"The MIS represent a cross between what managers think they need, what managers really need, and what is economically feasible. † (Kotler, 2000) The MIS will provide support to the management in the areas of reduction of price risks, planning for an effective and cheap marketing strategy with technology assessment and development, particularly in evolving and popularizing entertainment and recreational activities offered by the company.An effective Management information system can help in the company in motivating other intermediaries to pass along important intelligence. Through the components of MIS the Company will able to collect information regarding order-to-payment cycle and sales reporting system. The managers will be able to get the information about the developments in the marketing environment. The MIS will also assist the managers in collecting, analyzing and reporting data relevant to the market situation. The decision support system will help the managers to take important marketing decisions by interpreting the gathered information.(O’ Brien, 2006). Hence MIS is the most important instrument without which the Company cannot market its product successfully in market. As per the requirements of the Baderman Island Enterprise SAP Enterprise System: The SAP ERP 2005 application and Duet software drives future growth. The SAP ERP 2005 provides clear vision, superior product functionality and support for midsize companies. Adopting SAP solutions based on the SAP NetWeaver will automate all of its business proce sses, including financial and human capital administration, compliance reporting and real estate management (SAP, 2007)Northwind Enterprise Solution: Maestro suite includes PMS, Sales & Catering, Club/Spa Management, Corporate Reservations Office, GDS Connectivity, and ResEze (Internet Reservations). The Maestro PMS system from NORTHWIND has three main characteristics: â€Å"It is an enterprise system, not a legacy system, with an open database that allows us to data mine for marketing information; it refreshes the numbers real-time as new reservations are entered; and it is user-friendly. † (Northwind Enterprise Solution, 2003) PROS Hotel Revenue Optimization System: PROS next generation system provides revenue lift of 6-12%.It automatically separates yield-able from price sensitive demand and automatically controls each system at the property, campus, or market level. It is Centrally installed with remote access through web-enabled browser. Built with high performance, high ly scalable architecture on thin client platform. The system allows forecasting at any level of detail Dynamic bid prices offer real-time adjustment to environment. It upgrades logic and an overbooking routine maximizes revenue and provides independent forecasts of demand for each product, including length of stay (PROS Hotel Revenue Optimization System)SAP NetWeaver is the most recommended technology in the above mentioned technologies as it will automate all of Baderman Island Enterprise’s business processes, including financial and human capital administration, compliance reporting and real estate management and will match the strategy of the Company. With the choice of most suitable technology it is also important for the company to undertake some important measures in order to effectively implement the chosen technology. Chilcott (2001) presented a 7-Step Development Process in order to effectively under take an IS project: 1. Identify and List Stakeholders:The identific ation and listing of stakeholders is very important and the initial step in an Is project. The list of the stakeholders should include all the people who have the power to effect the system. The second category of stakeholders includes the people whose position and power will be affected by the project. The third and most important category is the users of the project. It is important to recognize the actual stakeholders of the project. The representatives of these stakeholders should be included in all the discussions related to the project in order to sketch the clear vision and necessities of project.After the identification process it is important to determine the problem statement. The entire stakeholder should reach an agreement on the definition of problem in order to design a project to fit the problem size for all the stakeholders. 2. Identify and List Actors The perceptions of the stakeholders regarding the project must be analyzed or in other words it should be found that what all the stakeholders want from the project. The stakeholders can be divided into different groups according to their expectations regarding the project. The use and expectation of the stakeholders will help in designing the project in right way.It is seen in case of different projects that the developers and the involved stakeholders do not know about what they exactly want from the project. The development of an internal model regarding the perceptions of developers and stakeholders regarding the project will help all the people involved to expect, create, build and effectively use and support the system. 3. Identify and List Use Cases Use cases are the core of the whole process. The use cases present the complete functionality of the system. A use case in defined as an interaction between the user and the system.The use cases of the different stakeholders differ according to their expectations. They are effective and meaningful tools to manage and organize the project. The u se case collection in undertaken according to three steps: 1. To discover the use case while discussing with the stakeholders this step involves a general overview of two to three sentences of the use case. 2. At the second stage an analysis of the user case is undertaken according to the business rules and the system relationship components. 3. The next step is the decision making about the implementation of the user case. All the scheduling and development steps are designed.