Pakistan Essays (2254 words) - Iranian Plateau, Pakistan

Pakistan Pakistan separated from its British Rule in 1947, after separation the country was divided into two sections east and west. Pakistan borders on the Arabian Sea between India and Iran on the west. Pakistan's total land mass is an area of 796,095 sq km. Pakistan consists of fertile plains, hot deserts, valleys, snow clad mountains, almost sky touching peaks and over 1000 km of coastline. Such a diverse range of physical features has created a very broad base of differences between various regions in Pakistan. There are at present 32 distinct languages spoken in Pakistan. Pakistan is a low-income country, with great promise for growth. Unfortunately, it has been held back from reaching middle-income status by chronic problems like a rapidly growing population, sizable government deficits, and a heavy dependence on foreign aid, recurrent governmental instability and large military expenditures. At current estimates the population of Pakistan is approximately 144 million. It is presently ranked the fifth most populous nation in the world, according to United Nations estimates. This over-population is having some devastating effects on every aspect of its infrastructure. Massive unemployment, inadequate housing, religious conflict, to increased mortality rates are just some of the issues that are plaguing Pakistan. This paper will examine these issues at greater depth. Pakistan has a current infrastructure that is able to carry approximately 40 million people. This means that it is only able support twenty seven percent of its current population. Sixty nine percent of its citizens do not have access to running water, or sewage facilities, and current illiteracy rates are at sixty seven percent. A huge majority of the population does not have access to safe clean drinking water. Water pollution from untreated sewage, industrial wastes, and agricultural runoff from insecticides are issues that must be addressed as soon as possible, in order to prevent ecological disasters in the future. Pakistan is also heavily dependent on a single export crop, cotton. Hence the country's fortunes rise and fall with the cotton market. It is no wonder that there are so many poverty stricken people in Pakistan. When almost half the population is involved in a very volatile market, a lot of the time, a lot of people will be burnt by price fluctuations. The country is a lso subject to the mercy of the weather. Focusing on a major cash crop means very little diversification. This translates to mass hunger and hard times for the agricultural sector whenever the agrarian lands are ravaged by floods, or conversely, by droughts. Even more importantly, Pakistan's agricultural sector is marked by large landowners, controlling most of the production. Hence, only a minimal amount of the profit from exports goes to the poor people working for the large farmers. It is these people who constitute a large portion of Pakistan's population. It is also these people who are living in abject poverty in the rural regions of the country, devoid of the right to feed their families. Pakistan is expected to reach a population level of 252 million people within the next fifteen years. The main occupation of Pakistan's residents is agriculturally based. The chief exports of the country are cotton, wheat, rice, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables; milk, beef, mutton, eggs. Forty percent of Pakistan's population lives below the poverty line. Many feel that if Pakistan is to advance in today's global markets than it will have to take a good look at itself in order to make any advancement whatsoever. One of the most inhibiting factors to Pakistan advancement is its illiteracy rate. Like many other Asian countries education is simply inadequate. Using western standards of what it is to be literate; than it is estimated that less than ten percent of its 144 million individuals would make the grade. This plays an extreme role in how a developing country advances into today's growing global economy. The main reason for Pakistan education problem is due to insufficient dollars to invest into education. While government officials claim that education is Pakistan's new main concern this is simply inaccurate. Pakistan cannot afford to provide a 12-year education system similar to that of the western culture for every one of its children. Despite this governments however have pledged to try

Study of Consumer Behaviour on Soaps Essays

Study of Consumer Behaviour on Soaps Essays Study of Consumer Behaviour on Soaps Paper Study of Consumer Behaviour on Soaps Paper Our research project studied the influence of price as the major factor in the purchase behavior of Indian consumers by studying the purchase behavior of soap in a sample of students. As price is traditionally considered as one of the most important of 4 P’s of marketing, and a review of past literature showed an existing link between price and the purchase behavior, the topic was chosen to study. A convenient sample of 40 students was asked to respond to questionnaire containing multiple choice, scale and dichotomous questions with a focus on price of soaps. The results were analyzed with the emphasis on finding the important attributes of soap considered by consumers and how they ranked of price among the most important attributes in soaps. Gender analyses of the results were also done to find the change of the perception of price among men and woman. Respondents were also tested on their knowledge of the phenomenon of hidden pricing. The results were analyzed and were plotted in graphs to arrive at the proof for testing our hypothesis. A. Introduction 1. Problem Statement Consumer behavior is a complex, dynamic, multidimensional process, and all marketing decisions are based on assumptions about consumer behavior. The 4 P’s (Price, promotion, product and place) are considered to be the marketing-mix variables that influence the consumers of a product. From a seller’s view, these four are the marketing tools available to influence buyers. From a buyer’s point of view, each of these marketing tools is designed to provide a customer benefit. Out of the marketing-mix variables, traditionally, price has been the major determinant of a buyer’s choice. This is still in case with large segments of buyers across the globe. Although non-price factors have gained a lot of importance in the last few decades, price still remains an important factor in determining sales and profitability. Price exerts its influence in FMCG (Fast moving consumer goods) and marketers have tried to introduce new factors such as superior packaging, better advertisements, and increased number of choices to reduce the influence of price. The increased efforts are more visible in this product category as there is more competition for all segments in this market. Despite the extensive research, marketers still have poorly understood pricing and pricing strategies have become very important in determining the success of a product and a company. 2. Research Objectives/Hypotheses The objective of this research is to provide the insight into the degree of influence of price as the most important factor in the purchase decision of soap by a consumer, in order to provide a clear insight into the effect of price and the change of price in product sales which will help marketers to develop better pricing strategies and to plan for the optimum mix of the marketing-mix variables. Null hypothesis: Price is the most important attribute that influences the purchasing decision of soaps. Alternate hypothesis: Price does not play a significant role in the purchase decision of soaps. 3. Rationale for Approach The study started with collecting and reviewing existing literature in consumer behavior to ascertain the various factors of influence. Pricing related studies are also taken into account to find and conclude the presence of a research gap in studies relating FMCG sector (soaps in particular) and price to the behavior of consumers in southern India. 4. Value: in terms of Possible Outcomes The outcomes will provide the answer to the research questions of whether price plays a role in consumer’s minds while evaluating soap as a product and how much of an influence does price play in the buying decision. It will also give us an insight into whether price has the effect of overcoming customer loyalty and change habits and buying pattern. 5. Limitations of the study 1. The sample was fairly homogenous in terms of education level and income level. 2. The shopping behavior of the sample was not varied. 3. The study did not focus on the discount offers given on soaps. B. Methodology/Approach 1. General Research Design 2. Specific Research Questions 1. What are the factors that play a role in consumer’s decision of purchase of soaps? 2. Is price the most important attribute on which the consumer bases his purchase decision? 3. Will a change in price of the soap influence the buying decision? 4. Will a price change lead to shift in the customer loyalty to particular brand? 3. Data Collection Population – The shopping population of the campus and surrounding areas Sample Design 40 (Convenience sample). Measurement methods Survey using personal, structured questionnaire composed of be multiple-choice, dichotomous, scale questions. 4. Questionnaire Format: This Questionnaire was structured in such a way that it includes the profile of the consumer and the following factors related to the consumer behavior. 1. Product/brand attributes 2. Buying pattern/behavior 3. Purchase frequency/ quantity 4. Price of the product 5. Influence of price on the purchase 6. Shift in customer loyalty due to price change 5. Research Schedule: Task |Proposed date of completion | |Collecting responses to questionnaire |30/11/2009 1/12/2009 | |Interpreting the responses from the questionnaire |03/12/2009 | |Discussion regarding analysis of data using statistical tool |05/12/2009 | |Application of the statistical analysis to the data collected. |09/12/2009 | |Forming the results and conclusion |11/12/2009 | C. Literature review: An Exploratory Study of Sales Promotion Activities in Toilet Soap Category: An Insight into Consumer and Retailer Perceptions Kureshi Sonal and Vyas Preeta. In this research paper, an attempt has been made to examine the nature of sales promotion activities in toilet soap category in In dia, study retailer perceptions with respect to these activities and also get an insight into consumer perceptions of these activities. Findings indicate that with respect to the nature of the schemes, premiums (free gifts) were found to be the most frequently used in both premium and popular toilet soap category, followed by price offs. Retailers’ perceived price offs had relatively greater impact compared to any other forms of sales promotion. In line with the retailers’ perceptions, the findings of consumer perceptions indicated that price offs were the most preferred type of sales promotion. Supplier Attributes That Impact Institutional Buying Behavior A study on FMCG supplies to Hotel Industry Githa S Heggde and D. Sudharani Ravindran. The study on the functional gap implied how and why a particular buyer or a group reacted to the decisions of the producer in selecting a particular product and its utilization. The study of this functional gap proved that effective positioning of the product made the market place work better so that the buyers make better decisions to buy the product. The study involved the consumer involvement in the decision making process through the involvement theory. This theory is about consumer learning, which presumes that the degree of interest in purchase of an item depends upon the risks involved. The involvement is also dependent on nature of the product or service and the psychology of the customer. Consumer buying behavior in Asian markets Mark Speece. The findings of this study indicated that Asian middle-class was primarily value-orientated. The specific criteria for choice that Asian consumers used was different for various product characteristics. There was strong value orientation for product quality issues and price. Asian consumers looked more closely at product characteristics to ensure a purchase was worth the price they were being asked to pay. Consumers balance off quality and price, which means that they wanted good products, but not necessarily the best which they consider too expensive, or the cheapest which they do not trust in quality terms. Within that, how consumers across Asian markets reach their decisions is not so different from how western consumers reach theirs. Consumer Buying Behavior of, and Perceptions towards, Retail brand baby products Adelina Broadbridge and Henry Morgan. For some consumers, retail brand products were regarded as superior to well known manufacturers brands (Gallup, 1997). A successful brand was perceived as possessins sustainable unique added values (de Chernatony and McDonald, 1998) or representing a variety of ideas and additional attributes (Gardner, 1955)and this was extended to many retail brand products. A higher risk tolerance usually occurred when the consumer required greater assurance about quality rather than price although for high priced items, social and performance risk slowed the growth of retail brands. D. Analysis of results: [pic] Fig 1. Ranking of soap attributes in purchase of soap Finding 1: Contrary to the assumption, Quality was ranked first by the majority of the people. [pic] Fig 2 Ranking of price by customers while purchasing soap Finding 2: 41. 6% of the respondents ranked price as the second most important attribute they consider while purchasing soap. The price sensitivity of the sample was checked. There were asked to identify for which price range increase they would change their brand. As shown in the bar chart below, most people said that they would change the brand only for a price increase of greater than 15%. [pic] Fig 3 Price sensitivity of consumers buying soap Segmenting the sample on the basis of the gender, the price sensitivity was checked again. It was seen that females showed greater price sensitivity towards higher levels of price increase, while the males showed greater price sensitivity at lower levels of price increase. [pic] Fig 4. Soap price sensitivity difference in males and females. Another aspect that was evaluated was if the respondents were aware of the phenomenon of hidden pricing in soaps. While a majority, i. e. , 85% knew about hidden pricing, a surprising percentage of only 68% said that they would change their brand due to hidden pricing. [pic][pic] Fig 5. Knowledge of hidden pricing among consumers and change in purchase behavior E. Summary: 1. After the analysis of results, we come to conclusion to reject the null hypothesis and accept the alternate hypothesis. 2. Hence, â€Å"Price is not the most significant factor in the purchase decision of soaps. â€Å" We can also see a number of other interesting conclusions – We can see that in the purview of soaps based on the considered sample, they are Majority of the respondents felt that quality is a stronger deciding factor than price. Most of the respondents were price sensitive only to the higher levels of price increase. Females are more brand loyal than males in the lower price ranges. They change brands only for a higher price increase. Though a majority of the respondents knew about the phenomenon of hidden pricing, some of them still don’t view it as a reason strong enough to change brands. F. Conclusion: G. Scope for further studies:

InternationAL FINANCE Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

InternationAL FINANCE - Case Study Example It does not focus on profits at any costs but targets how profits are made (Choi, Lee & Park, 2013). Coca Cola Company is one of the multinational enterprises that has initiated various corporate social responsibilities and have benefited from it, in various ways. Corporate social responsibility is associated with treating the stakeholders of a firm or institution in a responsible or ethical manner. It entails treating the stakeholders in a way that is acceptable to the international standards. The aim of social responsibility is to create higher living standards while at the same time preserving the corporation’s profitability or integrity of the institution for people outside and within such entities. Coca Cola Company is one of the global multinational enterprises which seek to generate profit while at the same time contributing to the sustainable development by being environmental and social responsible (Mahajan, 2010). As a global multinational corporation it has to manage the various activities of the organization aimed at generating profits while at the same time impacting positively on the society. Multinational Corporation should be in a position to heighten corporate governance efforts while at the same time turn regulatory c ompliance into opportunities that are aimed at developing values for their businesses. Coca Cola Company has continued to invest heavily in money and time in order to comply with the increased level of expectations and regulations. Corporate social responsibilities endorse an idea of business accountability to employees, society, environment, and shareholders. Leading multinational enterprises are those that develop sustainable businesses by embedding corporate responsibilities and strong governance into their cultures and strategies. Through the practice, Coca Cola Company will be able to earn

National Identification System in the United States Essay

National Identification System in the United States - Essay Example National Identification System In The United States Firstly, it is national because it is used throughout the country having nationally uniform identifiers and formats. Secondly, the system is for practical and legal use only. Cards like credit cards can also be used to identify a person, but they are not national identity cards. People can have a number of such cards or no cards at all and still roam about in the country without any problems. However, if the law makes it mandatory for everyone to have such cards for identification purposes, it then comes in the category of national identity cards. Last but not the least; the system is used for the identification of an individual. It is different from a social security number. A social security number attaches a number to the name of a person and is just a national identifier. A national identity card actually proves the identity of a person. It shows that a person, previously known to the system, has once again presented himself or herself. It involves a biometric tie between the num ber and the person. The card would not only have the name and address of the person, but it also involves a compulsory facial image of a person on the card. The chip inside the card will help the law officials in identifying whether a person is on government’s watch list or not. Finger prints or retinal images on the card will also help in the identification of a person. This will help in retrieving information about the person from the government databases and immigration agencies as well. Many people are of the view that had such a system been implemented earlier, it would have probably helped in averting the 9/11 tragedy. The issue is still unclear whether everyone or a section of society should have such cards or where to use them such as at the airports or when accessing government buildings etc (Wang, pg, 1. 2002). Here it would be pertinent to discuss the National Identification Legislation in detail: NATIONAL IDENTIFICATION LEGISLATION: 9/11 COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: Evaluating the 9/11 terrorist

Riordan Company Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Riordan Company - Essay Example For example, faster transportation helps the supply chain to be more responsive while the same time reduces the efficiency within the supply chain. Therefore, transportation has a great impact as it controls the speed of response. The modes of transportation that are available within the organization include air transport which makes it easier for the organization in that being a global company the materials needs to get to their suppliers within the stipulated time. Secondly, transport, by sea is also another option for the organization in case the goods are not urgently needed (Shah, 2009). Transport by road can also be effective in case the goods are being transported within the country of manufacture or production. Transportation influences the supply chain in the sense that in case the goods are not transported within the right time then it means that some other orders will have to be delayed in order to get the others moving. For that reason, it is always important for the organizations to have the right mode of transportation to ensure that the supply chain is not affected

The Glaxosmithkline Merger: Analysis

The Glaxosmithkline Merger: Analysis Introduction Mergers are not new in pharmaceutical industry in the recent years and the same for both Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham throughout each others history. Considering the political, social and economic resistance, the general driving forces for these mergers in this industry are, more firms showed interest in using strategic partnerships and joint ventures to develop and market new products. Though pharmaceutical holds a global market, the US market decided the growth of the industry as it holds 45% of the global market. So not surprisingly the US political, social and economic resisted and delivered a strong impact on the growth of the whole pharmaceutical industry. However Pfizers merger pushed Glaxo SmithKline to 2nd rank in the industry, they were number one immediately after their merger. So the business changes of the organisation had a heavy impact on the whole pharmaceutical industry. So this paper had assessed the reason for the merger and extend the aims of the merger is achieved. Background of SmithKline Beecham: SmithKline Beecham resulted from the merger of SmithKline Beckman (SKB) and Beecham. Beecham was well known for its traditional research strength whereas SKB was known for its aggressive sales force in US. Though the process of merger was lengthy, the change from more laid British approach of Beecham to process oriented working was success. The new company tried to keep up with critical mass but they lacked in budgeting RD, which was the real constrain for companys growth. Background of Glaxo Wellcome: Glaxo Wellcomes birth was from Glaxos takeover of Wellcome in 1995. Glaxo was well known for its strong marketing approach, commercial success of its RD efforts and blockbuster product Zantac whereas Wellcome is non-profit medical institution well known for its academic approach to pharmaceuticals. Though there were several clashes between Wellcomes laid back management style and Glaxos hard-nosed, commercial and control driven culture, with the help of economic of scale in RD activities, Glaxo reduced the conflicts and resistance. However the companys growths in producing blockbuster products were lacking. 1. Reasons for the Glaxo SmithKline Merger: Merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham was a global one. The merger was a unique all over the world and various divisions of both the companies merged in around 170 countries in 2000, expect Pakistan. The merger came through after UK court order in January 2000; however it happened in Pakistan only on 23rd October 2002. So the merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham in Pakistan was the off shoot of the global merger of the companies. There were six reasons which compelled both the legendary companies to go for the merge and to build a leading company in the entire pharmaceutical industry. The reasons for merging up together were: To reduce the Research Development pipeline. To reduce the Research Development cost. Drug reimbursement issues. Political pressures and growing concerns over drug prices. Patent expirations / Generic competition. Recent developments in biotechnology and the mapping of the human genome. The right theme and idea backing the merger was, to improve quality of human life for enabling people to do more, feel better, live longer. As both the companies holds the strength in more similar kind of field that is, developing drugs for infectious respiratory neurological gastrointestinal and metabolic disease, they want to lead the way in providing treatment for the same. Apart from the above field, the join company appeared to be the worlds leading producers of prescription medicine, vaccine and consumer health care products. So they planned for delivering innovative medicines and products that help billions of people round the world live longer, healthier and happier life. The whole pharmaceutical industry was focusing and investing in RD as it delivers modern ways to handle prolonging problems and helps in the long term growth of the industry. The hunger to deliver medicines for new diseases made the join group (GlaxoSmithKline) to pay more attention in RD and wished to reduce the number of products in the pipeline of RD. Though both companies produced similar kind of drugs and so integrating their products line was very obvious, the process demanded more time and efforts. This was mainly because; both had more number of products in the pipeline and hardly had blockbuster products in market. Still the management believed that the time for working on new diseases will be reduces by working together on lesser products. And in general all research and development evolves a risk of failure. Not that each compounds and all research towards developing new drugs for a targeted diseases comes out as success but in turn consumes high time, efforts and money. B ut the RD is the only answer for the long term growth of both the joint company and the industry. So sticking to mission and vision of the new company, GSK has decided to focus of RD but in a different way of approach .i.e. cost saving, economics of scale and licensing from other firms. Apart from these, a PEST analysis on the pharmaceutical industry will give a clear picture and highlight the hidden reason for the recent merger activities in industry and in particular GSK. PEST Analysis on Pharmaceutical Industry: Political: Considering the Medicare in USA and UKs National Health Service, the level of political interest developed in this industry can be determined. In addition USA and European market hold the first and second place of industrys global market respectively. So its very clear that the industry has gained a massive political attention because of the increasing social and financial burden of healthcare and safety. In the increased political attention on the industry, has kept the industry low to live up the expectation and their interference on most moves of the industry was a really worrying the giants of the industry. Also the pressure of civil in rapid delivery of products has kept their quality and the industry finds hard in delivering effective products. Economic: The economic growth of the industry was rapid in recent years and next to IT industry with nine geographic markets account for over 80% of global pharmaceutical sales these are US, Japan, France, Germany, UK, Italy, Canada, Brazil and Spain. Of the above listed markets, US market holds a major one and fastest too however there is down fall in 2009. The US Pharmaceutical Industry is one of the mainstays of the Economy of America. It has been observed that the US Pharmaceutical Industry is growing at a rapid pace and is showing no signs of slowing down. The US Pharmaceutical Industry Growth is also considered as a very significant part in the world pharmaceutical industry as well. Source: http://www.economywatch.com/world-industries/pharmaceutical/us.html According to analysis, in 2009, global pharmaceutical sales increased by only 2.5% ~ 3.5%, reaching a total of about 750 billion-760 billion U.S. dollars, which is lower than in October last year the growth rate of 4.5% to 5.5%, a total of 8200 the forecast 100 million U.S. dollars. This growth rate is the lowest in the past 25 years. Source: http://www.sourcejuice.com/1169843/2009/05/08/Growth-rate-global-pharmaceutical-industry-lower/ Social: Every industry tries to have a good social relation. But this industry is many steps forward than the other industries because; good health is an important personal and social requirement. All the companies of this industry hold and play a vital and unique role fulfilling societys need for good health. And threat of some killing diseases like, AIDS, SWINE FLU, SARS etc. had not only attracted the attention of public and media but developed a more depending and demanding situation on the industry. This immense situation has made the industry to maintain direct relation with the society (consumers) with the help of media and government care. Technological: The advance scientific technologies have increased the need for high spending in research and development in regards to encourage the innovation. The growth of technology drives the industry to responds faster to the expectation of the environment. This technology advancement evolves both risks and rewards. Legal Environment: However in current situation, government involves the industry in the proposal for regulatory outflows to encourage the innovation, these legal and regulatory affairs of US in special was a speed beaker for the development of the industry. European pharmaceutical giants really struggled in this situation. Sykess statement summarized how Europes pharmaceutical companies have been locked in a high stakes multibillion dollar struggle with their US rivals to stay in business in the 21st century. This struggle is associated with increased takeover activity and pharmaceutical companies seeking economies of scale to finance escalating research and development budgets. Source: Case study GSK a merger too far? Exploring Corporate Strategy by Johnson, Scholes Whittington. 2. To what extent have the aims of Glaxo SmithKline merger been achieved? Some of the aims of the newly formed Glaxo SmithKline were, Not to protect future earnings growth but actually to increase critical mass to really outperform the industry. To become the indisputable leader in the industry in terms of conquering the challenges that the industry faces. To deliver innovative products that helps millions of people in the world to live longer, healthier and happier. To achieve the aims, the management formed a new structure for RD, highlighting the cost reductions and breaking of pipeline. However, the lack of focus on general organisational structure and internal management structure resulted in low returns compared to the estimate one. To handle the situation, the all the long terms aims has left unfocused and the management tried to recover the company from the sudden-death syndrome. This clearly gives an evidence for Glaxo SmithKlines downfall form the anticipated growth. The inability of GSK in producing blockbuster products, joint hand with the above described situation made things worse. Focusing on employees and other internal management issues in the later part helped the company to handle the global resisting issues and focus on their long term goals. Analysing GSKs stock market performance (1998 2003), tells that GSK failed to touch the anticipated heights and were only able to sail along with the industry growth. Based on the Lewins force field model, the driving forces of GSK were not too enough to overcome the resistance for change and thus failed to achieve the fixed target. Evidence for GSK loses record: In the first year of post-merger, GSK claimed 12% increase in pharama industry, with the help of cost savings and disposal of assets. The firm anticipated double the level of saving in the next year. The health care grew only 3%. They fail to record returns in RD in spite of combined RD budget and investment. It also failed to deliver blockbuster product to enhance the revenue. Instead to maintain the tempo, the management kept buying 40 licenses from other companies. GSK has shed more than 15,000 jobs; Managers were unable to retain the talent that resides on the firms. Instead of creating a powerhouse, research was split into smaller, autonomous units. (Abrahams, 1992 p.22) GSKs new radical structure was a response to a series of failures in research at the two merger partners. (Dyer, G., 2002 p.3). The new radical structure resulted James Palmer (Head Development) resignation in October 2002. At the AGM on 19 May 2003, GSK shareholders rejected a motion regarding a  £22 million pay and benefits package for CEO, JP Garnier. This was the first time such a rebellion by shareholders against a major British company has occurred, but was regarded as a possible turning point against other so-called fat cat deals within executive pay structure. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GlaxoSmithKline In November 2005, AIDS Healthcare Foundation accused the company of boosting its short-term monopoly profit by not increasing production of the anti-AIDS drug AZT despite a surge in demand, hence creating a shortage that affected many AIDS patients in Africa. GSK announced that it had halted clinical trials of the CCR5 entry inhibitor, aplaviroc (GW873140), in HIV-infected, treatment-naive patients because of concerns about severe hepatotoxicity.[27] In June 2006 GSK said it was further cutting, by about 30%, the not-for-profit prices it charges for some of these medicines in the worlds poorest countries. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GlaxoSmithKline To analyse, extend the aims of the merger have been achieved; SWOT analysis is done on the joint company, Glaxo SmithKline. Remuneration lenient explicitly SWOT Analysis Glaxo SmithKline: Strengths High potential staffs and experienced managers. Wide-ranging set of documents in health sector. Strong platform in health care division. Strong market position Focus to concentrate and develop leadership in Public relations i.e. to strengthen the social context of the environment. Modern hospital system, Clear public health and health care service purchasing Balanced finance in the health sector Strong IT development Product development track record. Weaknesses Lack of clear and wide perspective .goals to achieve the aims Weak bond among health care, public health and social care. Inability to cope with the cost increases. Low brand value for its products. Inefficiency in motivating the experienced leader and thus failing to make maximum use of the potential staffs. Lack of viable training and management skills. Not an efficient HR strategy in retaining key professionals. Lack of right proposition of various competences. Co-marketing agreements can limit GSKs global presence. With mass RD, inability to produce blockbuster products. Opportunities Technological development Social changes and challenges. Economic growth of the industry (immediately next to IT industry). Free movement of goods, services, labour. Developing vaccines for persistent diseases chance to have craic. Empowerment of citizens and their greater engagement Threats Patent expiry on drugs that generate strong income Ageing and demographic change. Safety issues surrounding the products. Ecological and public health threats. Expectations of the raising population As the RD of global rivals work on similar products in most of the cases, the competition is high and much demanding. Emerging of potential regional market like China and India. Political pressure in fixing the price for new drugs, which fails to fulfil even the research cost. Ever increasing cost of drug trials and ever higher standards imposed by national drug approvals bodies (Aspirin would not get approval if invented today!) Conclusion: Thought there are several giants in the industry, similar to the current situation, there was an uncertain situation during the period of early 90s. And to overcome that uncertain situation, most of the firms in the industry move themselves towards the strategy Mergers and acquisition. But, as there is always a saying that not all mergers works, most of the mergers in the industry fail to achieve the anticipated growth and I feel Glaxo SmithKline is the right example for the scenario. GSK believed that bigger the size, bigger the growth and bigger earning. But it failed to realise bigger the size, bigger the expectation, bigger pressure and failing to handle the pressure and keep the expectation will reflect badly. Various merger analyse debated, though GSK claim some success through cost saving and pipeline synergies, the aimed and announced growth was not received in terms of market. So I conclude that, the merger served the company only in short term success and failed to achieve the aims of the merger. Reference and Source: http://www.ucc.ie/quality/INTERNET/PESTAnalysis.pdf www.gsk.com Johnson G, Scholes K and Whittington R (2008) Exploring Corporate Strategy, (Prentice Hall) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GlaxoSmithKline#cite_note-43 http://www.wikiswot.com/SWOT/4_User_Generated/GlaxoSmithKline.html http://www.allfreeessays.com/essays/Gsk-Swot-Analysis/114901.html Mullins L.J. (2007), Management and Organisational Behaviour, Eighth Edition, Great Britain, Pearson education limited. http://www.pwc.com/us/en/issues/business-combinations/publications/snapshot-mergers-acquisitions-business-combinations.jhtml http://www.startupbizhub.com/company-mergers-and-acquisitions.htm

karma :: essays research papers

Christians and Americans different from Japanese. But here too the core experiences were the same. There are obviously two sides of the story. One must look at both sides with careful eye and determine for they what they believe is true. This is where the idea of reincarnation comes in. Because it is 7 incorporated in so many religions, you find an answer to a question, which you truly want to know the answer to, and do not abandon your faith in doing so. Reincarnation is detected in many religions. Reincarnation is normally thought of as a Hindu philosophy and it is traced back to Hinduism, yet it can be found in Judaism, Christianity, and Buddhism and in many more religions. In Judaism, reincarnation is known as Gilgul. Though it has a different name it has almost the exact same meaning. Gilgul was a dominant teaching in Judaism for over three hundred years. Cabala, a book of Judaism, which is often, studied by Rabbi’s, one of the holy books of the Jews which talks of reincarnation. Rabbi Steinsaltz (Cranston 181) is an authority on the Cabala. He states: According to Cabalistic doctrine, the Torah contains not only manifest but also hidden truths: the same transcendent God whom the Bible celebrates as supreme king and lawgiver is, from the mystical also an infinity of divine knight that exists as the foundation of every human beings soul. For me, every soul is an emanation or spark of the divine, and its ultimate purpose is to rejoin the God it came from.... I hope to demonstrate the secrets of the Cabbala-, which rationalistic Rabbi’s of the nineteenth century dismissed as dangerous magic-, are fully consonant with traditional Rabbinic Judaism. (181) 7 this view is also held by a large group of Orthodox Jews known as the Hasidim. Reincarnation is universally taught among them. On the other hand, the soul, its life and immortality are rarely mentioned in the Old Testament. There is also no direct denial of it either. In the Book of Job (14:14), Job plainly asks, â€Å" If a man dies will he live again?† but receives no answer. So in the Old Testament, reincarnation is not ruled out it is just not brought up as a major point in the book. On the other hand, if one were to look into the Bible, the question of like after death is brought up and answered.

Analysis of The Movie “Patch Adams” Essay

The film opens. Patch has checked into a mental institution. His condition was depression. The environment looks like a jail cell, dark and depressing. During his stay, he realizes that the doctors did not help him in his recovery. Patch Adams’ psychologist was indifferent to the patients in general. The psychologist did not show any interest in his patient. Pach Adams’ psychologist seems to not have any interest in listening to Patch Adams’ feelings. In many cases, he is more interested in his cup of coffee. Patch Adams realizes that he is not being heard and lose the trust of his psychologist. He makes great friends at the mental institution; regardless of his condition, Patch Adams was able to help some of the patients at the mental institution. He started by showing interest in their problems and helping them to overcome their fears. Without studies, Patch Adams showed more skillfulness in listening and having a humanistic tool than the medical staff. Later, Patch Adams decided to become a doctor, which gave him a purpose in life. Patch Adams was very wise and happy man. Helping others made him cure his depression. As a medical student, he uses humor and happiness as medicine with the patients. Most of the students and professors did not like him at all. It was like when Bernie Sanders tried to convince Republicans and Democrats that they supposed to be working for the working people not only for the one percent. In addition, Patch Adams observed a lot of problems in the hospital. Nurses were not treated the same as doctors. Children who suffered from cancer passed in their rooms without joy and hope. Relatives of patients who had to fill out tedious forms instead of being with relatives in life or death situations. He had a revolutionary idea after seeing these problems. He wanted to have a system where patients were not seen as a business because doctors should act more human when they treat their patients. He wanted to help them to b e healed not only of their illnesses but also of their social problems. After many difficulties, he graduated as a doctor. INTRODUCTION Communication in a Healthcare setting is one of the most important tools. Communication skills are something that many individuals have to work on. Not everyone knows how to communicate effectively, especially when dealing with a variety of cultures. Physicians must master their skill communication to improve the patient’s experience. Communication is both verbal and physical. Communication has been shown to favorably affect clinical outcomes, patient adherence, patient satisfaction, and reduced malpractice risk. The movie is based on Dr. Adams’ real life. Dr. Adams’ fundamental idea is to make us understand that medical attention is not only about focusing on the problem or disease. The medical attention is also listening to the patients. Providers should help their patients in an integrated manner. Patients should be approach physically and emotionally as well. The film has many aspects of health communication. Some of them are therapeutic communication (patien t-center), communication empathy. active listening (empathy), and trust. The communication between Patch Adams and his patients is very deep. Patch Adams does not focus only on their pains or symptoms. Rather, he asks them about their lives, family, work, friends interests, etc. Therapeutic communication (Patient Center communication) is very important. It is not just about touch-feeling and more humanistic. Interrupting a patient prematurely closed-ended questions. When doctors do that they fail to address the patient’s concern’s and fail to really understand the patient’s full agenda for why they are seeking healthcare. Additionally, when doctors ignore personal information, patients get the idea that they are not being heard and that the doctor did not care about them. As a result, patients will not take their medication or follow the procedure that the doctor recommended. For instance, Patch Adams’ relationship with his psychologist was untrusty, resulting in the abandonment of treatment and distrusting the system of the do ctor and provider as well. This causes a lot of problem in our healthcare. On the other hand, when doctors use open-ended questions, it can be utilized to allow patients to freely talk about their own problems or feelings associated with the complication.† Open-ended general inquiries claim a lack of knowledge of patient’s problems, encourage their de-novo presentation, and frame patients (at least initially) as being active authorities over their own health information.† (Robinson, Heritage, 2005). Active Listening is different from just hearing and repeating what was heard. This skill can help us reveal not only what the patient is saying but what the patient is thinking and feeling (Servellen, pg. 91). Patch psychologist showed lack of this skill. When Patch was telling his childhood story about his dad death †Dad told Patch Adams at the Korean world hid dad lost his sold, all the time Patch Adams thought he was the one who lost his sold† The disconnection between psychologist and patient showed lack of empathy, focus, and attention. Patch Adams at the Medical School was able to display active listening to friends, patients, and classmates. Active listening requires providers not only to hear, but to listen; not only to see but to perceive; and not only to touch but to feel (Servellen, pg.92). Trust, I personally think that trust is the most important quality to get from patients. It is probably one of the most difficult quality to achieve and keep in these days. †Patients’ trust in providers usually evolves over time. Patients most of the time will self-disclosure until they observe that providers are acting on their behalf.† (Servellen, pg. 109). Building trust is very crucial for a good relationship and for the outcomes of the patients. For example, a patient who does not trust or like the practitioner will not disclose complete information efficiently. Patients who are anxious will not understand the instructions clearly (Dorr & Lipkin, pg. 4). Conclusion: The main reason for communication in the healthcare setting is not just to ask and collect information. Should be beyond, not only focusing on the problem of the patient, communication help us as well to establish trust and good relationship with patients. If we are able to gain the trust of our patients we can guarantee a good relationship and better outcomes for patients. If we gain trust Healthcare professionals will not feel fear to be transparent as a result our communication with patients will be fructose. Making patient participate in their care, in quality of life and have higher satisfaction.

The Evolution of Chil Custody Arrangements Essays

The Evolution of Chil Custody Arrangements Essays The Evolution of Chil Custody Arrangements Essay The Evolution of Chil Custody Arrangements Essay The Evolution of Child Custody Arrangements Heather Gibson Southern New Hampshire University When a family splits, separates, divorces or a child is born out of wed lock for whatever reason one of the most difficult decisions to make are custody arrangements. Over the years the government has shifted its views from the child’s mother being the best fir for primary custody to â€Å"the best interest† of the child. What’s in the best interest of the child consists of both tangible and non-tangible things. The necessities include the ability to provide food, shelter and a a safe environment are important but also the stability of the parent psychologically and their mental health also begins to become part of the importance to the child. The person who has legal custody over a child is the person who makes import decisions in the child’s life. The determination of who should have custody in a child custody battle has become highly problematic over the years. Maternal preference was given as the best fit for the child. The mother was deemed more nurturing and caring as a parent. The United States held this idea for many years. In the world around them women were fighting for equal rights and in turn making men equal in the work force as well as a parent. The increase of divorces in the mid 1900’s and women going in the workforce led to the courts deciding what was in the best interest of the child rather than who was more motherly and nurturing. Another change that came about was the idea of joint custody, rather than sole custody. Today child custody can be as simple as two parents making the decision to share custody or on the opposite end the legal batter of who’s the better parent. Forensic psychologists help in informing the judge of who (unbiased) is the better parent or if joint custody would work out for the best interest of the child. They go through different competency evaluations, may visit the home or investigate further to determine custody. Although it seems women are still chosen as the better parent trend have shifted and men have a better chance at sole custody. Another evolution that has evolved is the familiarization of gay rights as parents. It is still unclear as it is emerging but it is food for thought.

Issues vs. Problems

Issues vs. Problems Issues vs. Problems Issues vs. Problems By Maeve Maddox The word issue has been used with various meanings since the Middle Ages. For most of that time, English speakers have talked about issues, but rarely have they had issues. Issue derives from classical Latin exitus: â€Å"to go out.† The noun issue can refer to the action of flowing out, as in the medical sense of â€Å"a discharge of blood or other matter from the body†: Three days afterward there was an  issue of pus  through this opening. An issue can be an exit, a place where something comes out: The identity of its waters is shown by the re-appearance of light bodies at  its issue  that have  been thrown into it above the place where it enters the mountains. As a verb, issue means, â€Å"to exit† or â€Å"come out of†: How to explain these expressions of frustration, contempt and downright hatred heard from audiences  issuing from the theatre? When Theseus was most enraged by his conviction that his wife had betrayed him, a deep, subliminal rumble would  issue from  beneath the auditorium, making the whole  theatre  shake. As a noun, issue can mean children: This amendment proved academic, as the abdicated  King  Edward VIII  died without issue  in 1972. Some matter or question that is under discussion or in question is an issue: The issue under discussion was not about victims or about pity, but rather about challenging oppression and discrimination. The public is concerned with issues of all kinds: The Five Main Issues Facing Modern Feminism Juvenile Delinquency: Current Issues, Best Practices, and Promising Approaches The issue of bullying in schools Why Campaign Finance Reform Is the First Issue That We Must Address Issues are topics that are viewed differently by different people. Problems are major and minor difficulties that must be overcome. Problems are not controversial in the way that issues are. For example, the adoption of the Common Core Standards is an issue. Poor television reception is a problem. Since the mid-1980s, the noun issue has been co-opted by many speakers as a word for what used to be referred to as a problem. problem: a matter or situation regarded as unwelcome, harmful, or wrong and needing to be overcome; a difficulty. Here are some examples that use issue where the word problem would be sufficient: What Should I Do If My Child Has Learning Issues? Treating Foster Children for Psychological Issues I can sympathize with people who have an  issue with dogs.   If you suspect that you need more help with your reception issues, just have a chat with your local antenna specialist. Hairballs are a common  issue with cats. Is your Apple computer having issues playing sound from the built-in speakers? Ive noticed that people with contacts dont have as much of an  issue with onions. Perhaps some speakers feel that issue sounds grander or more scientific than problem. To be sure, there is some overlap between issues and problems. Climate change, for example, is both an issue and a problem. But when it comes to controlling hairballs and peeling onions, problem will suffice. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Misused Words category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:20 Computer Terms You Should KnowTime Words: Era, Epoch, and Eon25 Idioms About Bread and Dessert

Religion - Lumen Gentium Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Religion - Lumen Gentium - Essay Example Only the religion or churches can help us with convincing answers when science fails. Science always makes judgements based on observable or measurable evidences. Unlike religion or churches, science will never accept any principles which are based on beliefs. Many of the traditional church beliefs were questioned by science. In order to counter the attacks from science, contemporary churches made certain changes in their beliefs. I would like to analyse the future of churches, strengths and weaknesses of churches now, the role of churches in developing peace, compassion, hospitality, justice, etc on the basis of first two chapters of lumen gentium solemnly promulgated by Pope PAUL VI on November 21, 1964 â€Å"The Church, in Christ, is in the nature of sacrament--a sign and instrument, that is, of communion with God and of unity among all people† (DOGMATIC CONSTITUTION ON THE CHURCH LUMEN GENTIUM - PROMULGATED BY HIS HOLINESS POPE PAUL VI ON NOVEMBER 21, 1964). We are living in an era of globalization at present. Globalization principles ask us to work for the progress of entire population in the world rather than the growth of a particular community or group of people. The first chapter of lumen gentium stressed the importance of unity of people much before the introduction of globalization. Church urged its believers to unite in the name of God. A common platform is required for people to work together for a common aim. All the people like to attain salvation and only the religion or churches talk about the ways of attaining salvation. Neither politics, nor philosophy succeeded in bringing people together under one umbrella. Under such circumstances, I strongly believe that churches may succeed in future in bringing people together in the Holy Communion with God. â€Å"All men are called to the union with Christ, who is the light of the world, from whom we go forth, through whom we live, and towards whom our whole life is directed† (DOGMATIC CO NSTITUTION ON THE CHURCH LUMEN GENTIUM - PROMULGATED BY HIS HOLINESS POPE PAUL VI ON NOVEMBER 21, 1964). Current churches have lot of strengths and weaknesses. In fact churches are the only entity which gives the believers some hope about another life after death. Science failed miserably in unveiling the mysteries surrounding our spirit or soul. Science educates us that souls or spirit is the driving force of our body. However, it failed to explain what will happen to the soul after death. Only the churches have the answer to that question which is the major strength of the current churches over science. On the other hand, there are different churches and different beliefs in this world even though all of them accept Jesus Christ as their savior. â€Å"The head of the body of church is Christ. He is the image of the invisible God and in him all things came into being. He is before all creatures and in him all things hold together† (DOGMATIC CONSTITUTION ON THE CHURCH LUMEN G ENTIUM - PROMULGATED BY HIS HOLINESS POPE PAUL VI ON NOVEMBER 21, 1964). When Jesus remains as the head of all the churches, it is illogical for churches to spread different beliefs in the name of Jesus. Jesus taught us the ways of attaining salvation; but the current churches are trying to misinterpret it in different ways. For example, Pentecost churches urge its believers to take one more baptism for attaining salvation whereas other catholic and protestant churches do not advice baptism other than child baptism for getting salvation. This discrepancy in teachings if often creates problems for the contemporary churches. In short, wrong interpretation of the Jesus’ teachings is the major drawbacks of current churches. Current churches

Love.Ethical Dilemma of repeat Valve replacement Essay

Love.Ethical Dilemma of repeat Valve replacement - Essay Example This dysfunction in turn causes a need for re-operation of the patients, due to complications arising such as the structural deterioration of bioprosthesis. Though the chances of patient mortality when undergoing a repeat operation are high, there has always been re-operations to such patients (Antunes, 1992). An ethical question arises to why a patient should be re-operated, yet in so doing, the chances of that patient’s death are increased. In the subsequent operations after the first one, the causes of patient’s death changes from the structural deterioration of the bioprosthesis to valvular leak. This is what further increases the chances of death. With such knowledge though, MVR has continued to be done over the years. Furthermore, subsequent re-operations have continued to be undertaken on patients, even though they increase their chances of death. However, the justification to this is that there are chances of saving the lives of the patients, even though such chances continues to diminish with each re-operation done (Antunes, 1992). Although performing re-operation to patients well knowing that it increases their chances of death seems unethical, there is a need to have it since the patient’s chances of surviving are increased by the re-operation, than when they are left to die of valvular