Friday, November 29, 2019

this site has my paper Essays - Communication, Human Communication

Participant # 1 23/M Security Officer RB:?What effects do you think communication technologies may be having on society, communities, individuals, or on other aspects of our culture P1: Well the first thing that comes to mind has to be the innovations of modern technology, which has made communication quicker and instantaneous. I mean I can talk to anyone, anywhere on the planet basically. RB: Any specific technology you use? P1: Oh yes! I use Facebook, Myspace (sometimes), Skype, Google Wave and many more. All have made it possible for me to talk to my family and friends in California, Boston. I can see them while we chat over the computer with programs like Skype. It's all quite exciting. But a major pitfall is the effect the technology is having with others in face-to-face communication. It's not like back in the day where people could just walk outside and have a conversation with their neighbors, now you walk outside and the neighborhood is empty it seems, and if you do see your neighbor it for a brief moment because they and everyone are on the run. I guess all I can say is, that's the way it is. RB: Why do you say, ?that's the way it is? P1: because that's the product of conditioning. The world is going with the flow and progressing with the technology, incorporating it in most if not all aspects of their lives. You know it's funny to see all these online-dating websites these days. It's as if people are scared of each-other. Its all a bit awkward. RB: What other effects do you think there may be? P1: I think we will get to a point where zombies walk the Earth, and not the brain thirsty ones, those who are so disconnected with the world around them wearing ear-buds connected to iPods, surgically attached cellphones at birth, and who knows what else...Maybe we will become technology. Like the saying goes, ?you are what you eat?...You are what you consume, and that a hell of a lot of technology. On a serious note, I think people will become and more detached from reality as the years and technology progress. It's already happening now. Walk around downtown Chicago and watch the people as they pass you by, no eye contact, looking at the floor, texting and talking on cellphone while driving. We're all going to die one day because of technology. Weapons are even smart now. RB: What other communication technology effects come to mind? P1: My friend I don't think I have anymore. Unless you'd like me to speak more about some apocalyptic conspiracy theories? RB: Nope! That will do. Thank you so much for your time and entertaining, yet insightful input. Participant # 2 28/M Unemployed, Skater RB:?What effects do you think communication technologies may be having on society, communities, individuals, or on other aspects of our culture P2:Personally I feel like communication technology has gone past the point of practical and straight to invasive. I don't like it. But at the same time I don't think I could function without it. That's the sad part. RB: What aspect(s) of communication technology can't you live/function without? P2: I could live without all of it honestly. We all can. We never will though. The evolution of technology makes old ways of living impossible. Who do you know these days that doesn't have a cell phone or the internet? They have made them life necessities now rather than luxuries. And although they have a number of perks I find they mostly provide a means to steal some of my everyday freedoms. RB:What other effects might there be? P2:All I'm saying is that the world worked perfectly for centuries without these technologies and now that we have them the human race seems to be inefficient at almost everything but technology. Person to person social interaction has got to be at an all time low these days. RB:Is communication technology dulling peoples abilities to effectively communicate face-to-face? P2:Exactly. I grew up in a neighborhood that was very tight knit. We had to go out and interact with other kids cuz it was the only way. So much of this new generation rely on the internet and online gaming for socializing that the streets are empty. No kids playing. Nobody knows anyone in my neighborhood anymore. It's sad. I

Monday, November 25, 2019

The United Northern and Southern Knights of the Ku Klux Klan

The United Northern and Southern Knights of the Ku Klux Klan Free Online Research Papers Some of our nation’s most horrific and tragic acts of the past 150 years have occurred by the hands of members of the Ku Klux Klan. The organization’s views on racial supremacy, immigration, and social terrorism are well-documented in the annals of history. Observations into a gathering of this group shed light onto the most profoundly influencing characteristic of this culture: fear. This study will examine the art and language, governance, and organizational survival of the culture, and how these elements contribute to the organization’s mission. The meeting - attended by 72 individuals of all ages (including as young as 12), sexes, economic statuses, and professions - was conducted in a town-hall type format, with three male leaders (Phil L., Jesse M., and Bill D.) organizing the event. Participants were encouraged to vocalize their opinions and ideas, and a general sense of camaraderie was fostered among the group. Those not in the culture, however, were unwelcome and generally seen as detrimental to the culture and its members. The culture’s many facets - although not apparent to its members - is one where a fear of loss of identity is the basis of every cultural product. Symbology and Speech Phil L. is the United Northern and Southern Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, Volusia County Chapter, â€Å"Imperial Klaliff.† During his speech, Phil L. continually used terminology exclusive to the KKK culture, which was specifically designed in 1915 by Imperial Wizard William Simmons as a means of â€Å"reviving† the movement. (1) Words such as â€Å"Klonvocation† (gathering), â€Å"Kludd† (chaplain), and â€Å"Klaven† (group chapter) are designed to further incorporate the letter â€Å"K† into the organization’s lexicon while maintaining at least a modicum of mystery to outsiders. These language rules were followed strictly; so much so the vocabulary itself became an art form, with a sophisticated canon and style. Those in the audience who used the language incorrectly or verbiage from outside the culture were corrected and, sometimes, admonished. The stringent adherence to the cultural lexicon is deeply rooted in a fear of openness. Bill D., an elder in the group, stated the KKK has always used code words and symbols to identify themselves among their peers, but keep their identities secret to those â€Å"who are out to keep whites from taking their rightful place.† He cited police and government agencies who target Klansmen for arrest and incarceration as a main reason for using secretive language. According to Phil L., the sight of hooded KKK members burning crosses is largely a thing of the past, used mostly at public displays by a small, radical faction of the organization and as propaganda to recruit new members. (2) Instead, the vast majority of today’s KKK uses its cultural images (logo, clothing, and propaganda) less to incite fear among African-American, Jewish, and foreign-born people, and more to identify themselves to each other. At the meeting, nearly every attendee had some form of identifying symbol or marker on him or her - ranging from a tattoo of the KKK cross-and-flame logo to waving Dixie flags to red belt buckles. The markers went beyond mere apparel, however, as there were strict rules defining the usage and placement of these artworks. As with the language, an unspoken canon was developed; again, based on fear of persecution. Throughout the meeting hall, posters of famous Klansmen lined the walls. A special segment of the room was devoted to art created by group members; each of which designed to perpetuate the KKK message. What was perhaps most interesting was the boldness of each of the pieces, which included paintings, drawings, and sculptures. The artists used hard lines and striking colors in their creations. There was, of course, a theme of superiority throughout the works, with images of whites dominating other cultures or icons. In the works depicting individuals, the lack of a pleasant expression was exceptionally notable. The artists portrayed the individuals as angry and violent, which was in stark contrast to the tenor of the meeting itself. While Phil L. asserts violence and anger are no longer a part of the real KKK message, it’s difficult to accept this when the artwork, symbology, and language connote a culture of fear - both afflicted and inflicted. Hierarchical Structure Every culture’s method of governance contributes to the creations and values of the populace, and the KKK is no different. In addition to the specialized jargon the organization uses to identify ranking members, it also employs clothing, seating placement, and preferential treatment to further exalt these members. However, what was perhaps most fascinating was how this aspect of the culture had a loosely defined ceiling. Bill D., clearly the oldest and most anger-filled member at the meeting, was regarded more with tolerance than with respect. His hate-filled rants did not have the riotous impact he had hoped, I believe, and group leaders often interrupted his speeches. Phil L. said Bill D. â€Å"comes from a different generation; one where men were set into action by rage, rather than calculated strategy.† This is culturally significant in that middle-aged members - the new leaders of the organization nationwide - have evolved the ways of the group to conform to the new sensibilities of the larger American culture today. Phil L. and his contemporaries among the KKK know rage-filled acts of violence would no longer be tolerated or effective. Instead, the leaders of the Klan today have created a culture of subversion and subtlety. Their crimes against other races and ethnicities are no longer a physical one. Instead, the Klan goal is to place Klan supporters in various level of government so that a more global approach to suppression can be achieved. Phil L. claims there are â€Å"at least 40 members of the U.S. Congress actively involved in the KKK or Klan-supporting activities.† The structure of the new KKK - especially the individual groups - is very formal, with rituals and ceremonies peppering almost every facet of the group. (3) Persons ascending to ranks of authority are rewarded with new cultural icons (patches with symbols, titles, ribbons), and the desire to advance in the hierarchy is pervasive, especially among the youth. Foundational Fortitude Contrary to Internet reports and information from various media sources, Phil L. says the KKK is alive and more active than ever before. He attributes the survival of the organization to two initiatives: a. The re-focus of the organization’s mission; and b. The commitment to recruiting young members. By placing KKK supporters in positions of power, Phil L. claims the group will enjoy an extended period of new-found prosperity. From a cultural perspective, this strategy has been employed - from the earliest civilizations - to varying degrees of success. The goal is to build the sense of racial and ethnic superiority in places where policy is made to affect change beneficial to that culture. This, I believe, is far more frightening than a hooded figure spewing hate and violence - at least those individuals are open and easy to see. Central to the perpetuation of any culture is the intrinsic need for those to physically progress those values, traditions, creations, and language. Where once the KKK was a closed organization, with the only new members being legacy individuals, the new Klan devotes a great deal of time, effort, and money into the recruitment of young people. (4) The KKK utilizes every part of its culture as recruitment tools, including fear, history, art, action, and desire for change. At the meeting, there were at least 13 members present under the age of 18, the youngest being a 12-year-old girl wearing a Dixie-flag shirt. After speaking with one of the young people, â€Å"Jake T.,† it was clear his participation was due entirely to the tradition of the culture. Jake T.’s parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents were all in the Klan, he said. Jake T. is a talented painter, as one of his works was on display in the art section of the room. His oil painting on canvas, entitled â €Å"Better than You,† was a representative work depicting a sword-wielding white man standing over a slain black man. The detail was exquisite and he made great use of perspective and leading lines to draw the viewer in to the work. When asked why he felt superior to African-Americans, he replied, â€Å"Because we’re just better. We always have been.† His response evidenced a conditioned approach toward racial superiority, perpetuated over more than a century of grooming. His was a microcosm of a larger condition pervasive throughout the KKK group. The social interactions were limited among this observer, many faces were obscured, and conversations within earshot were non-existent. These are all indications of fear-based reactions to an outside invading their culture. Culture of Fear This organization was selected for study because it is part of a mysterious and divisive culture outside of a realm of comfort. Before attending the meeting, the preconception of hate-mongering, venom-filled, distasteful content was expected. What was most surprising was the incredible organization of the group, with clearly defined rules and leadership, and an atmosphere of openness among its members (not available â€Å"outsiders†). It was most disconcerting to learn not only how many people are still active, but also the direction and subversive activities of the group. When examined closely, however, the underlying current of the group - which drives every aspect of their culture - is a tremendous and subconscious fear of loss of identity. This fear is evident in the art, language, activities, promotional material, recruitment, and structure of the culture as a whole. Ironically, the means with which this group historically attempted to alleviate this fear is through fear-inducing activities. This method has largely changed in recent years, but until people - as individuals - can eliminate this terror from their lives, there will always be a KKK and a culture of fear. 1. The Ku Klux Klan Rebounds, Mark Pitcavage, Anti-Defamation League, 2007 2. The Ku Klux Klan A Secret History, The History Channel, DVD, 1998 3. Letter from Cole Thornton, Imperial Wizard, United Northern and Southern Knights of the Ku Klux Klan (http://unskkkk.com) 4. Klan Getting Younger and Stronger, John Meacham, Newsweek, Oct. 2006 Research Papers on The United Northern and Southern Knights of the Ku Klux KlanAssess the importance of Nationalism 1815-1850 Europe19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraQuebec and CanadaAnalysis Of A Cosmetics AdvertisementWhere Wild and West MeetBringing Democracy to AfricaHip-Hop is ArtThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug UseRelationship between Media Coverage and Social andPETSTEL analysis of India

Thursday, November 21, 2019

English Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 58

English - Essay Example It is proficient in making calls, playing games, social networking, text messaging, and watching videos just to name a few. Its stylish look is awesome and practical design elements such as gentle curves, smooth lines, and ergonomic grip makes natural fit for any lifestyle. It has amazing displays that enables the user to view documents and watch movies efficiently. According to Leishear (1), the Galaxy 3 has an outstanding multitasking performance that enables one to watch video while emailing or texting without closing or restarting the device. The user can watch videos while running other tasks, which makes it a great choice in today’s society that regards multitasking performance. With the 8MP camera and zero lag shutter speed, one can capture people and moving objects without delay. Significantly, it captures twenty continuous shots and selects the best photo. The device is made for intuitive and intelligent interaction. It is detects motions, voice, and face thus provides a convenient way to interact in a natural way. For instance, while browsing the web or reading an e-book, it identifies how the user is using the phone with bright displays for that reason. The user can command the device to take a photo, answer a call, play a favourite song, or send a text message. Additionally, one can easily switch to calling a friend with the instant call feature that enables the user to automatically dial the number. With this device, one cannot miss a message as it gives vibrating nudges to alert on the messages and missed calls (Leishear 1). The device has outstanding features designed for instant interaction and sharing regardless the location. With this device, one can transfer videos, documents, and photos instantly. In four minutes, one can successfully share a 1GB video file and send pictures in the flash. With no doubt, the device creates an opportunity to share important

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

The Implication of Theories of Activity for Management of Operation Essay

The Implication of Theories of Activity for Management of Operation - Essay Example Traditionally synthetic morphinomemetics have severe toxic side effects which rarely can become fatal. Hypotension is a characteristic of these drugs in addition to liver cirrhosis(because of high levels of toxicity) and urinary retention.Pain-free was regarded as promising because it had some advantages over other brands of morphinomimetics, namely;liver problem was considerably managed, no sign of tetramoraide syndrome was found and it’s effectiveness in obliterating pain was instant and exceptional, though hypotension could not be dealt with(and this was not conveyed to the consumers aka patients). In1993, 17% of the patients showed signs of orthostatic hypotension.1 Evidence suggested that Normoramide was the cause. A team led by Roland Peterson had worked tirelessly at eradicating the fatal liver problem but during the course of improving the drug, it was established that hypotension could not be dealt with. Pain-free indisputably was a significant breakthrough especially considering the miraculous pain relief it provided, and appeared to be potential ‘commercial blockbuster’. However, orthostatic hypertension could not be obliterated (as it was conveyed to the prospect consumers) and to this extent, it can be alleged that the company misled the consumers. In addition, the ‘innovation’ in the drug becomes questionable. The management omitted some very pertinent facts about the drug, which if they were known would have affected consumption decision of the patients. The instances of non-disclosure can be enumerated as follows. a) In 93, out of the patients tested with the drug 17% exhibited hypotension.2 The management sought an alteration of guidelines and after it was affected, these cases were written off as ‘occurrences prior to alteration† thus were disregarded.  

Monday, November 18, 2019

Narrative Autobiography. Life Experiences Essay

Narrative Autobiography. Life Experiences - Essay Example One of my friends, Jim said, â€Å"Why not prove our swimming skills today. It is really hot yet a sunny day for all of us to enjoy?† We all agreed to what Jim proposed. So finally we decided to go to a water park and have some fun together. When we got in there was a good crowd and people were having fun. It was a huge park for people to hang out and have a lot of fun. Since it was a warm sunny day and, also luckily it was a public holiday, therefore, one could easily find families and bunches of friends grouped up together for little fun and adventure. I was specifically attracted by an artificial water fall which ended up in a pool. So I said to my friends that I would be the one going first to jump into that water pool from a good height. I wanted to prove my swimming skills on my friends. So, with a deep breath I turned around, smiled and said, â€Å"Hey, since you guys are too young to jump down from such a good height therefore, I have decided that I will be the one ta king the lead and jumping off in the water, trust me, I am a born swimmer.† My friends were amazed and just so thrilled on the idea of jumping from such a great height and above that, what made them more excited was the idea that I proposed in front of them; me taking the lead! Somehow, deep down inside I was little nervous to jump down. But I convinced all my friends that it will be fun to jump from that height in the swimming pool. When we got up there I felt I would not be able to jump from that height and decided to back up. But the fact that I was the one who convinced them to come here on the first place everybody started making fun of me. One of my friends said, â€Å"You were dying to be the fish, desperately wanting to swim in the shallow water, go ahead.† I smiled back and said, â€Å"You will what a fine fish I can be, this is just a piece of cake for a good swimmer like me.† And that was not it other people standing there most of whom were kids and pe ople I had never even met in my whole life started making fun of me. So finally I had enough and thought that being such a good swimmer that I am what harm can it do if I jump. And if I don’t then of course my friends are going to mock me for the rest of my life. It was then when I decided to jump. So I jumped. When I fell in the pool I started swimming but after a while I realized that I was neither moving up or ahead instead I was drowning so I started screaming for help as loud as I can. Fortunately one of the swimmers heard my screams and pointed it out to the life guard who immediately came to my help and rescued me. And I thought that wasn’t embarrassing enough so I decided to ask yet another stupid question. I asked, â€Å"Is that pool deep† the life guard looked at me angrily and said â€Å"if you don’t know how to swim you shouldn’t be around that pool and it’s for your own safety that we make these rules.† Then all my friend s gathered around me and after making sure that I was not hurt they started laughing at me, â€Å" you are coward†, one of my friend laughed at me. But I realized that moment that sometimes it is better to be coward in order to learn the good things in life and to hold the true moments that you will remember all through your life. I smiled back at my friends and replied more humbly than ever before in my life, â€Å"Yes, I am coward enough to be a fish in my other life!†

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Competition and Performance in Supermarket Industry

Competition and Performance in Supermarket Industry Analyse the management aspects of competition and performance in the supermarket industry, based on the case study given in the attachment. What role have the competitive strategies of supermarkets had in their success? In evaluating the sources of sustainable competitive advantage, which seem most important: market positioning, high levels of market power, or high levels of internal efficiency? Taking into consideration the four current dominant supermarket chains in the UK; Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisions, whilst acknowledging the slightly smaller popular grocery retailers such as Waitrose and Marks and Spencer an analysis of their comparative individual strategic framework is not dissimilar in many ways. Certainly in terms of the top four providers they have increased their market share through relentless buy up of smaller local convenience stores and chains, in addition to undercutting local suppliers, making them more cost effective. This has resulted in the retail food industry becoming an Oligopoly market, where only a few firms dominate the market by way of high levels of branding, brand loyalty, stable prices and a strong interdependence between the leading stores in relation to their own strategic movements. The emphasis is on advertising campaigns and tough barriers for any new competitors to overcome. They are all benefitting considerably by their economies of sale.[1] Tesco controls over 30% of the overall British grocery market. A market position which provides it with the strength and confidence to succeed against its rival competitors. Not only is positioning integral to the strategic success of the supermarket giants. It was Wal-Marts massive buying power which ultimately enabled Asda to become the second highest retailer in the market, usurping Sainsbury’s in 2003 from its number two spot. Another key area of its successes however grew out of its ability to offer a range of non-food items, such as clothing and kitchen ware. By expanding and diversifying its products in this way it was able to increase its overall market power. In 2002 Asda’s Chief Executive Tony DeNuzio confirmed, â€Å"two thousand lines have been sourced jointly with Wal-Mart and these delivered prices unheard of in the UK market.[2] Similarly Sainsbury’s business success came under threat several years ago when its market position was threatened and eventually commandeered by Asda. It needed to increase its competitive advantage quickly and one of the main ways it achieved this was by expanding and improving its own internal communications systems. Following the decline in sales and competitive defeat to Asda it responded by initiating the Making Sainsbury’s Great Again strategy. A significant four year recovery plan which included terminating the outsourced contracting of its IT infrastructure to the company Accenture. It shifted instead to the development of its own in-house IT systems saving the company millions of pounds.[3] This internal efficiency was further enhanced in 2006 when Sainsbury’s introduced new schemes such as Try Something New Today’ which became their motto for both customers and employees with a new emphasis on training and development and colleague communication . The supermarket chain also introduced a comprehensive monthly employee survey, called Talkback providing them with an indication of the level of staff satisfaction and quality of overall service being provided to the customers. During the same year Sainsbury’s launched an apprenticeship scheme for qualifying its in-house bakers, together with a leadership scheme for its branch and regional managers, designed to improve the level of quality of its management team, in addition to empowering its own staff. A combination of new stores, new lines and internal enhancement enabled Sainsbury’s to increase their profits significantly over the last few years. In 2008 these have been confirmed as  £488 million, before tax. A rise of  £108 million compared to 2007. And an overwhelming profit increase of  £380 million for Sainsbury’s since 2006.[4] All of the factors relating to market position, market power and internal efficiency can determine the strategic effectiveness of a successful supermarket giant in terms of how they inter-relate and require shifting or reviewing depending on the situation and motivation for change. What have been the marketing strategies of supermarkets? Evaluate these strategies. Marketing Strategies appear to be progressing away from the traditional 4Ps of Product, Place, Price and Promotion as Marketing is beginning to become more about the relationship of the public to the organization itself. Markets are now so competitive that more innovative ways of attracting customers is becoming key to remaining successful. Perhaps one of the best examples of a successful marketing strategy in order to maintain its existing customer focus, in addition to gaining more direct information about them as individuals, is through Tesco’s Clubcard scheme. This scheme has enabled Tesco to create a retail strategy, to determine their customers and which market these customers fit into as well as what they are looking for from a supermarket.[5] Similarly its computers for school voucher scheme turned shopping into a means of providing equipment for schools, maintained loyalty amongst families with children, raising their profile as a community conscious organization. Asda’s marketing strategy has always focused heavily on value. In 2006 it developed a new  £45 million marketing strategy which killed off their â€Å"always low prices slogan. A whole new approach to marketing its products now fell under the umbrella of more for you for less, This was a result of Asda’s market share decreasing to 16.7% and a recognition of Sainsbury’s recovery success. Asda also wanted to accentuate the quality and freshness of its food and drink, as the low price concept had begun to have less and less impact on its customers. It invested an enormous  £45 million advertising campaign using celebrities and even abandoned the familiar reassuring ‘Asda Price’ jingle. [6] In 2007, still reeling from the repercussions of its multi-million takeover bid of Safeway Superstores Morrison’s decided to revamp its image and market itself in a completely new way. It changed its logo and introduced the new strapline â€Å"The food sp ecialist for everyone.† In a similar way to Asda, Morrison’s made the decision to move away from the budget concept and value of lower costing food towards an angle that emphasized the quality of its products; where they came from and how they were packaged and presented. [7] This immediately followed a particularly controversial period for Morrison’s who were the first stock exchange company to post their results after the charity Christian Aid announced it would actively expose and campaign against industries that were seen to be abusing the environment.[8] It therefore becomes fairly apparent from these few recent examples that many of the major supermarkets are focusing their marketing strategies around the current political climate of the country, alongside the ever fluctuating expectations of its consumers. Comparatively the supermarket chain Waitrose has consistently delivered a reputation for stocking quality products, that are fair trade and organic. With the contentious strapline ‘honestly priced’ Waitrose focuses specifically on food and drink and has not diversified its products in line with the other major supermarkets. It has a very different socio-economic demographic for its market and their approach differs from other supermarkets in that they are all about brand loyalty. It has an account card like many other stores but chooses not to promote it. Rewards include concert tickets or selected food items, again emphasizing its overall different audience. The same audience who utilisie the John Lewis brand, the controlling arm of the supermarket. And most importantly of all the Waitrose profits are ploughed directly back into the pockets of its employees, maintaining a holistic enterprise with a fair, honest and high profile image. To what extent should supermarkets take into account ethics and corporate social responsibility when designing their competitive strategies and their relationship with suppliers? Do these responsibilities extend to protecting local communities and convenience stores? How should environmental questions be accounted for? By way of suppliers it is fair to assume from the media attention received that UK farmers are often seen to be suffering the effects of the considerable pressures put upon them to deliver high quality for lower prices, in addition to smaller grocers who find it continuously difficult to compete against the costs implemented by the supermarkets. The long-term impacts of battles between grocers and now non-food retail companies in the wake of the growth in expansion of supermarkets in new product areas, indicates that local based shopping facilities could decline further in future years. In response to the seemingly unending expansion and development of supermarkets across the UK, with smaller convenience stores moving into small towns and villages the Office of Fair Trading, (OFT) published the findings of an investigation into Britain’s four largest supermarkets, Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons. Primarily based on how they treated suppliers. The report discovered no issues with the relationship overall and the conclusion was positive. However, since these outcomes were made public there remains an ongoing observation of practices by supermarkets nationally and an increasing profile with regard to the social and environmental responsibilities these hugely powerful, profit hungry enterprises have become in recent years. Corporate Social Responsibility or CSR has become of significant importance to supermarkets, with some responding at higher levels than others. Marks and Spencer have introduced a five year eco strategy aiming to proactively tackle issues including climate change, waste reduction and ethical trading. And Sainsbury’s Active Kids initiative, allowing the 80% of all UK registered schools to redeem vouchers for sports equipment. Donating a generous  £7 million of their own profits towards the campaign. [9] However this does not take into account the lack of co-operation by the larger supermarkets to help prevent cheap alcohol binge drinking. Frank Soodeen the Communications Director for Alcohol Concern stated earlier this year that ‘Supermarkets have a responsibility to price alcohol realistically†¦This is not an ordinary product and continuing to cynically market it below cost in order to increase footfall increases the risk to the public health†¦In the current climate of social and environmental awareness, a tough policy for corporate social responsibility (CSR) is worth its weight in gold.’ [10] Asda has since become the first supermarket to remove all of its super strength canned beers and lagers. In addition it has taken forward a new proof of age scheme titled Challenge 25. Customers who purchase alcohol must now produce some form of identification if they appear to look younger than twenty five. Furthermore the Federation of Small Businesses claims around 2,000 independent retailers go out of business each year. Supermarkets selling items with no mark-up are subsequently pushing all other smaller independent traders out of business as they simply cannot compete. Fair trade is an ongoing concern, with cheap labour in foreign countries enabling the retail trade to adopt low cost prices through exploitation. Earlier this year Martin Hearson from the campaigns organization Labour Behind The Label was quoted as reiterating ‘In theory, all the main supermarkets are committed to this but in practice, we have seen very little ethics to live up to the promise to pay workers a living wage’[11] It is abundantly apparent that supermarkets play a significant role in CSR issues and have a responsibility to maintain a level of standards across a number of areas that impact on both local communities and larger global matters. Tesco recently published their own Corporate Social Responsibility policy, which can be found on their website accompanied by the following statement ‘Our Corporate Social Responsibility policy objective is to earn the trust of our customers by acting responsibly in the communities we serve. We recognise our impact on society at all levels and work to maximise the benefits we bring. Customers are at the heart of everything we do. CSR is good for our business and good for the communities where we operate. By building goodwill and trust with our customers, we can earn their lifetime loyalty, which is our core purpose.’[12] To what extent is it inevitable that local convenience stores will decline? Are there feasible strategic or marketing responses available to them? The University of Southampton having been carrying out research around the reaction of consumers to the take over and demise of the local convenience store. The impact on communities who had recently been party to the addition of a Tesco Express in their local town or village within four different geographical areas of Hampshire were analysed over a period of one year providing the following conclusions Many citizens moved away from travelling to the distant out of town supermarkets, preferring to use not only the local Tesco Express, but other local shops as well. The return of out of town shoppers brought about by the inclusion of a smaller Tesco actually encouraged the concentration of increased local shopping trends, rather than having a detrimental effect on the community. In response to the findings the research team leader Professor Wrigley commented â€Å"It is clear that the introduction of the Tesco Express format to these communities helped bring about a major re-localisation of top-up shopping – away from distant superstores towards local shops. If consumers can access the same quality of fresh food and product ranges locally as they do in larger supermarkets, then increasingly it seems they will divert their top-up shopping back into their local neighborhood. This may have potential benefits for other traders, but more interestingly has considerable significance in changing the way we shop – with more people walking and cycling to stores.’[13] This conclusive positive influence of supermarket chain presence in local environments is reflected less positively in a topical piece of correspondence from The Executive Chairman for the Association of Convenience Stores to the Inquiry Secretary of the Groceries Market Investigation Competition Commission in 2007. The letter documents an investigative outcome of Costcutter stores nationwide. Whereas the commission had found there to be no decline in the general consumer use of Costcutters. The outcomes of the evidence provided by the Association of Convenience stores details a very different picture altogether, noting ‘The case: IGD I William Reed reports a decline of 5000 stores between the years of 2000 to 2006, and the decline of independents added to symbol group independents has declined by 4,611 stores in the same time period.’ The correspondence goes on to claim that a significant number of independent retailers are closing regularly across the country. And those that have remained successful have been subjected to takeover bids by Tesco or Sainsbury’s. An example of one Tesco store opening in a market town in Yorkshire, demonstrated that the existing Costcutter nearby received a turnover of a 50% decrease.[14] Although it is clear that supermarkets are not able to meet all grocery shopping needs as more local convenience stores fall into decline, less choice will be available to the consumer. In addition minority groups and those unable to access large super stores out of town, who would ordinarily have completed their shopping locally are now being forced into taking the cheaper option the presence of a smaller convenience Tesco Metro or Sainsbury’s central provides, making the audience for independent and convenience retailers even narrower. How might suppliers respond to the pressure they face? Suppliers are consistently left with fewer choices in terms of providing produce at an economic level consistent with continued growth resulting from the lack of profit made impossible from value Supermarket trading. Not only are they reduced to having to cut their costs, but they are under pressure in other areas like having to accept longer payment plans and cut prices sometimes even further by having to contribute to special supermarket promotional activity. [15] One of the options remaining is for suppliers to consider moving their industries abroad or carrying out more overseas trading. Alternatively by changing their products to meet the demanding needs of consumers to be greener, more organic and free range and finding new ways in which production costs can be consequently reduced in the process to impart better profits would be advantageous. Adapting to new methods of meeting the demands of the supermarkets are a continued necessity for suppliers to survive in the current market. Some suppliers may end up trading overseas, with the supermarkets forced to then buy the same product abroad at a higher cost, but with the profits going back into the pockets of the supplier. This will have a consequent knock-on effect to how all global supply and demand is met in the future. Alternatively the creation of Stockless centres through an enhanced supermarket internet home delivery service would enable goods to transfer directly from the supplier to the consumer door-to-door with no over-head costs. This would help reduce any transportation or logistic costs or financial implications incurred by the suppliers. Some supermarkets are now co-operating at a much more intensive level with their suppliers by recruiting specialists employed to work directly as a point of liaison to collaborate with the supplier in specific matters relating to the quality of the product they are providing, as well as financial advice and support with storage, refrigeration and logistical problems. [16]There is perhaps potential then to increase this level of support and develop a closer working relationship between retailer and supplier in order that both are satisfied. Bibliography Ebrahimi, H, 14 May 2006, Financial Daily Mail article ‘Britain’s top competition watchdog has said it is ready to see small suppliers squeezed out of business by powerful supermarkets so long as savings are passed on to consumers’ Gummesson, E (1999) Total Relationship Marketing: From the 4Ps Product, Price, Promotion, Place of Traditional Marketing Management to the 30Rs the Thirty Relationships of the New Marketing Paradigm: Butterworth-Heinemann Juniper.T, April 24, 2006 ‘A not so super market’, Guardian Newspaper Knights, D, and Wilmott, H (2000) The Reengineering Revolution? : Critical Studies of Corporate Change: Sage Knights, M (2005) ‘Sainsburys calls time on IT outsourcing contract’, Computing magazine University of Southamption press release, 03 November 2005, ‘Consumers Respond to transformation in UK Convenience Store Sector’, ref 05/191 Letter from Colin Graves to Tim Oyler, 23 November 2007 http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/inquiries/ref2006/grocery/pdf/responses_prov_findings_main_party_costcutter.pdf, Date accessed 12/09/08 (2002) ‘Asda fuelled by Wal-Mart power Food Retailing’, Eurofood article 7 March, 2006, ‘Asda plans marketing revamp’, Yorkshire Regional Development Agency article www.retail-vision.co.uk http://www.j-sainsbury.com/ar06/overview/groupperformance.shtml/ Chairman’s statement (2008) http://www.j-sainsbury.com/ar08/chairman/index.shtml, Date accessed 10/09/08 1 Footnotes [1] Juniper.T, April 24, 2006 ‘A not so super market’, Guardian Newspaper [2] (2002) ‘Asda fuelled by Wal-Mart power Food Retailing’, Eurofood article [3] Knights,M (2005) ‘Sainsburys calls time on IT outsourcing contract’, Computing magazine [4] http://www.j-sainsbury.com/ar06/overview/groupperformance.shtml/ Chairman’s statement (2008) http://www.j-sainsbury.com/ar08/chairman/index.shtml, Date accessed 10/09/08 [5] www.retail-vision.co.uk [6] 7 March, 2006, ‘Asda plans marketing revamp’, Yorkshire Regional Development Agency article [7] Johnson, B (2007) ‘Morrisons has sterling strategy’, Advertising Marketing article [8] Johnson, B (2007) ‘Morrisons has sterling strategy’, Advertising Marketing article [9] http://www.j-sainsbury.co.uk/files/reports/cr2005/index.asp?pageid=90 [10] Gough,V, 04 July 2008, Article from mycustomer.com, http://www.mycustomer.com/cgi-bin/item.cgi?id=133794u=pndm=phnd, Date accessed13/09/08 [11] Gough,V, 04 July 2008, Article from mycustomer.com, http://www.mycustomer.com/cgi-bin/item.cgi?id=133794u=pndm=phnd, Date accessed13/09/08 [12] http://www.tesco.ie/csr/index.html, Date accessed 13/09/08 [13] University of Southamption press release, 03 November 2005, ‘Consumers Respond to transformation in UK Convinience Store Sector’, ref 05/191 [14] Letter from Colin Graves to Tim Oyler, 23 November 2007 http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/inquiries/ref2006/grocery/pdf/responses_prov_findings_main_party_costcutter.pdf, Date accessed 12/09/08 [15] Ebrahimi,H, 14 May 2006, Financial Daily Mail article ‘Britain’s top competition watchdog has said it is ready to see small suppliers squeezed out of business by powerful supermarkets so long as savings are passed on to consumers’ [16] Knights, D, and Wilmott, H (2000) The Reengineering Revolution?: Critical Studies of Corporate Change : Sage

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

USA vs Jeffrey Lee Parson :: essays research papers

United States of America Vs. Jeffrey Lee Parson United States of America, Plaintiff vs Jeffrey Lee Parsons, Defendant. With the help of the Cyber Squad in the Seattle Division of the FBI, United States Secret Service and victim, Microsoft Corporation, a complaint was filed on August 28, 2003. According to the plaintiff, this individual intentionally caused and attempted to cause damage to a protected computer. Using the Homeland Security Act and the Cyber Security Enhancement Act, the complaint was filed under the U.S.C. Title 18, Sections 1030(a)(5)(A)(i), 1030(a)(5)(B)(i), 1030(b), and 1030(c)(4)(A), and Section 2. On August 12, 2003, a computer worm was released called MSBlaster.B, which was distributed through two files â€Å"teekids.exe† ( which included code that directs compromised computers to attack the Microsoft domain name www.windowsupdate.com and a backdoor file â€Å"Lithium† ( which allows a way into a password protected system without use of a password and remote control a system). The worm itself targeted mostly Windows 2000 & Windows XP systems. If Windows NT or Windows 2003 servers do not have the appropriate patches, they too may be vulnerable. The function of the worm is to exploit the DCOM RPC vulnerability. All information obtained about an IP address from where authorities suspected the worm had came from led them to obtain a search warrant on a individual on August 19, 2003. On that day, FBI and USSS Special Agents seized seven computers throughout the household. The individual in question, Jeffrey Lee Parson, admitted to agents that he modified the Blaster worm and creating a variety of them including one named, W32/Lovesan.worm.b. Within the worm he placed code that would direct computers to his personal website, www.t33kid.com, so he could maintain a list of compromised computers. According to authorities, with the use of the worm and it’s code named â€Å"teekids.exe†, he was able to infect at least seven thousand computers upon releasing it to the internet. Using the â€Å"Lithium† file within the worm, he accessed the infected computers. He used those computers to launch and even larger attack called a DDos Attack (a target computer is inundated with requests from a overwhelming number of sources causing a computer to be overwhelmed and shut down). After he gained control, those seven thousand computers were used to launch the attack that contacted approximately 41,000 computers. Those were instructed to do an attack on the Microsoft web site. Federal investigators have estimated the cost of destruction to be around $1.