The Components of the System Unit free essay sample

Box-like case that contains computer’s electronic components †¢ Sometimes called the chassis What are common components inside the system unit? †¢ Processor †¢ Memory module †¢ Expansion cards o Sound card o Modem card o Video card o Network interface card †¢ Ports and Connectors What is the motherboard? †¢ Main circuit board in system unit †¢ Contains chips, integrated circuits, and transistors †¢ Also called system board What chip packages are available? †¢ single edge contact (SEC) cartridge †¢ dual inline package (DIP) †¢ flip chip-PGA (FC-PGA) package pin grid array (PGA Central Processing Unit What is the central processing unit (CPU) ? †¢ Interprets and carries out basic instructions that operate a computer †¢ Also called the processor What are the components of the CPU? †¢ Control Unit †¢ Arithmetic/Logic Unit (ALU) What is the control unit? †¢ Directs and coordinates operations in computer †¢ Control unit repeats four basic operations: †¢ Fetch obtain program instruction or data item from memory †¢ Decode translate instruction into commands †¢ Execute carry out command †¢ Store write result to memory What is a machine cycle? Four operations of the CPU comprise a machine cycle †¢ Also called instruction cycle †¢ Instruction time (i-time) time taken to fetch and decode †¢ Execution time (e-time) time taken to execute and store An example of a machine cycle †¢ Student enters math problem (100 x 52) into computer’s memory †¢ Result in memory displays on monitor’s screen How is the CPU’s speed measured? †¢ According to how many millions of instructions per second (MIPS) it can process What are two designs used for the CPU? †¢ CISC (complex instruction set computing) o Supports large number of instructions CPU executes complex instructions more quickly †¢ RISC (reduced instruction set computing) o Supports smaller number of instructions o CPU executes simple instructions more quickly What is the arithmetic/logic unit (ALU) ? †¢ CPU component that performs execution part of the machine cycl e o Arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) o Comparison (greater than, equal to, or less than) o Logical (AND, OR, NOT) What is pipelining? †¢ CPU begins executing second instruction before completing first instruction †¢ Results in faster processing What is a register? †¢ Temporary storage area that holds data and instructions o Stores location from where instruction was fetched o Stores instruction while it is being decoded o Stores data while ALU processes it o Stores results of calculation What is the system clock? †¢ Synchronizes all computer operations †¢ Each tick is clock cycle †¢ MHz megahertz (millions) †¢ GHz gigahertz (billions) What is a microprocessor? †¢ Single processor chip found in personal computers How do personal computer processors compare? †¢ Intel PC †¢ AMD PC †¢ Motorola Mac What is a coprocessor? Chip that assists processor in performing specific tasks †¢ One type is a floating-point coprocessor, also known as a math or numeric coprocessor What is parallel processing? †¢ Using multiple processors simultaneously to execute program faster †¢ Requires special software to divide problem and bring results together Data Representation How do comput ers represent data? †¢ Most computers are digital †¢ Recognize only two discrete states: on or off What is the binary system? †¢ Number system with two unique digits: 0 and 1 What is a byte? †¢ Eight bits grouped together 256 characters What are three popular coding systems to represent data? †¢ ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange †¢ EBCDIC Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code †¢ Unicode coding scheme capable of representing all world’s languages How is a character sent from keyboard to computer? †¢ Step 1: Press letter T †¢ Step 2: Electronic signal for letter T sent to system unit †¢ Step 3: Signal changed to its ASCII code (01010100) and stored in memory †¢ Step 4: After processing, binary code for letter T is converted to image on output device Memory What is memory? †¢ Temporary storage area for operating system, application programs, and data †¢ Consists of one or more chips on motherboard †¢ Each byte stored in unique address How is memory measured? †¢ By number of bytes available o KB o MB o GB o TB What are two types of system unit memory? †¢ volatile memory o Loses its contents when computers power is turned off †¢ nonvolatile memory o Does NOT lose its contents when computer’s power is turned off What is random access memory (RAM)? †¢ Memory chips that can be read from and written to by processor †¢ Most RAM is volatile The more RAM a computer has, the faster it operates What are two basic types of RAM chips? †¢ Dynamic RAM (DRAM) o Most common type o Also called main memory †¢ Static RAM (SRAM) o Used for special applications such as cache o Faster and more reliable than DRAM chips How much RAM is needed? †¢ Software package usually indicates RAM requirements How much RAM is needed? †¢ Depends on type of applications you intend to run on your computer What is cache †¢ Helps speed computer processes by storing frequently used instructions and data †¢ Also called memory cache, cache store, or RAM cache L1 cache built in processor †¢ L2 and L3 cache not built in processor †¢ L2 advanced transfer cache most common What is read-only memory (ROM)? †¢ Memory chips that contain data, instructions, or information that is recorded permanently †¢ Data can only be read; cannot be modified in ROM †¢ ROM is nonvolatile — Contents not lost when computer is turned off o BIOS (basic input/output system) o Stored on ROM †¢ Sequence of instructions computer follows to load operating system and other files when you turn on the computer Types of ROM †¢ Firmware ROM chips manufactured with permanently written data, instructions, or information †¢ PROM (programmable read-only memory) o Blank ROM on which you can place items permanently †¢ EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory) o Type of PROM containing microcode programmer can erase What is flash memory? †¢ Nonvolatile memory that can be erased electronically and reprogrammed †¢ Used with handheld computers and digital cameras, cellular phones, and automobile What is CMOS? †¢ Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor memory Stores information about the computer o type of disk drives o keyboard o monitor o current time and date †¢ Uses battery to retain information when computer is turned off What is memory access time? †¢ Speed at which processor can access data from memory directly †¢ Measured in nanoseconds (ns), which is one billionth of a second †¢ It takes 1/10 of a second to blink your eye; a computer can perform up to 10 million operations in same amount of time Expansion Slots and Expansion Cards What is an expansion slot? An opening, or socket, where circuit board is inserted into motherboard †¢ Expansion card inserted in expansion slot How are expansion cards used? What is Plug and Play? †¢ Computer automatically can configure cards and other devices as you install them What is a PC card? †¢ Credit card-sized device used to add capabilities to notebook computers †¢ PCMCIA Personal Computer Memory Card Inter national Association †¢ Uses include modem, additional memory, and storage o Memory – Type I o Modem – Type II o Hard Drive – Type III What is a flash memory card? Adds memory to handheld computers, digital music players, cellular telephones, and similar devices Ports What is a port? †¢ Connects external devices to system unit o keyboard port o USB port o serial port o monitor port o game port o network port o mouse port o parallel port o speaker port o microphone port What are different types of connectors? What is a serial port? †¢ Transmits one bit of data at a time †¢ Used to connect slow-speed devices, such as mouse, keyboard, mode What is a parallel port? †¢ Connects devices that can transfer more than one bit at a time, such as a printer What is a universal serial bus port (USB) ? †¢ Connector that supports newer peripherals and plug and play †¢ Can connect 127 devices †¢ Other popular ports include 1394, MIDI, SCSI, and IrDA Buses What is a bus? †¢ Channel that allows devices inside computer to communicate with each other †¢ On the motherboard †¢ System bus connects processor and RAM †¢ Bus width determines number of bits transmitted at one time †¢ Word size determines number of bits processor can interpret and execute at a given time o Usually same as bus width What is an expansion bus? Allows processor to communicate with peripherals o ISA – most common, slowest o Local Bus – high-speed, connects higher speed devices o AGP – designed by Intel to improve 3-D graphics Bays What is a bay? †¢ Open area inside system unit used to install additional equipment Power Supply What is a power supply? †¢ Converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) †¢ Some peripheral devices have AC adapter Mobile Computers What is a mobile computer? †¢ Notebook, which weighs between 2. 5 and 8 pounds, or handheld What ports are on a notebook computer? Keyboard/mouse port †¢ IrDA port †¢ Serial port †¢ Parallel Port †¢ Video port †¢ USB port How is data transferred from a handheld computer? †¢ An IrDA port allows the handheld computer to communicate wirelessly with other computers or devices †¢ Handheld computers also can rest in a cradle, so you can transfer data to your desktop computer Putting It All Together What are suggested processor, clock speed, and RAM requirements based on the needs of various types of users? †¢ Pentium ® 4 or Itaniumâ„ ¢ or Athlonâ„ ¢ 1 GHz or higher †¢ 256 MB RAM

The History and Importance of the Vacuum Tube

The History and Importance of the Vacuum Tube A vacuum tube, also called an electron tube, is a sealed-glass or metal-ceramic enclosure used in electronic circuitry to control the flow of electrons between the metal electrodes sealed inside the tubes. The air inside the tubes is removed by a vacuum. Vacuum tubes are used for amplification of a weak current, rectification of an alternating current to direct current (AC to DC), generation of oscillating radio-frequency (RF) power for radio and radar, and more. According to PV Scientific Instruments, The earliest forms of such tubes appeared in the late 17th century. However, it was not until the 1850s that sufficient technology existed to produce sophisticated versions of such tubes. This technology included efficient vacuum pumps, advanced glassblowing techniques, and the Ruhmkorff induction coil. Vacuum tubes were used widely in electronics in the early twentieth century, and the cathode-ray tube remained in use for televisions and video monitors before being supplanted by plasma, LCD, and other technologies. Timeline In 1875, American, G.R. Carey invented the phototube.In 1878, Englishman Sir William Crookes invented the Crookes tube, an early prototype of the cathode-ray tube.In 1895, German, Wilhelm Roentgen invented an early prototype Xray tube.In 1897, German, Karl Ferdinand Braun invents the cathode ray tube oscilloscope.In 1904, John Ambrose Fleming invented the first practical electron tube called the Fleming Valve. Leming invents the vacuum tube diode.In 1906, Lee de Forest invented the Audion later called the triode, an improvement on the Fleming Valve tube.In 1913, William D. Coolidge invented the Coolidge Tube, the first practical Xray tube.In 1920, RCA began the first commercial electron tube manufacturing.In 1921, American Albert Hull invented the magnetron electronic vacuum tube.In 1922, Philo T. Farnsworth develops the first tube scanning system for television.In 1923, Vladimir K Zworykin invented the iconoscope or the cathode-ray tube and the kinescope.In 1926, Hull and Williams c o-invented the tetrode electronic vacuum tube. In 1938, Americans Russell and Sigurd Varian co-invented the klystron tube.

Communications - Case study1 Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Communications - study1 - Case Study Example ii-c) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) – There is an old adage stating â€Å"What gets measured gets done.† It helps in the effective management of big and small organisations and provides employees with targets for performance. Review of policies can be done semi-annually, and involvement of every employee/volunteer is encouraged. Since employees/volunteers are the front-liners of the agency and are in constant contact with clients, they can provide vital ideas toward better service. Employees and volunteers should respect the clients right to privacy and protect the confidentiality of obtained information during the performance of professional duty. Clients should be informed of this policy, its extent and limitations, and possible consequences of disclosure. Disclosure of confidential information should be done in and by secured, private places and methods, and for legal proceedings, disclosure can only be done according to what is legal. Disclosure of confidential information with consultants is only permitted under compelling need. In the event of the termination, incapacitation, or death of the employee, protecting clients confidential information should still be done (Government of Western Australia, 2008 & Western Australian Council of Social Service Inc [WACOSS], 2011) The Government of Western Australia website (www.wa.gov.au) is a good place to start research on employer and employee rights. The WACOSS website (www.wacoss.org.au) also has crucial links to legal information regarding not for profit organisations. The right to work in an environment free from harassment and discrimination, and the responsibility to respect social and cultural diversity among clients and colleagues (Government of Western Australia, 2008). iv-b) If the matter is not resolved

Journals review in Venture Capital topics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Journals review in Venture Capital topics - Essay Example While many financial venture capital funds are structured as SBICs, their main goals, however, are to ensure the profitability of the corporate parent and make the most investment returns out of the financial expertise and contacts of the corporate staff. Third, corporate venture capital funds are either subsidiaries or stand-alone firms organized by non-financial institutions like industrial firms, for instance. They function as in the case of industrial firms to make early investments and take advantage of new technologies. Finally, venture capital limited partnerships are funds organized by professional venture capital firms who have the capability to organize, invest, manage, and liquidate the capital raised from the partnership. The most predominant type in the market for venture capital finance is the venture capital limited partnership which manages more than half of the total industry resources. Unlike SBICs or financial and non-financial corporate funds which have problems in internal affairs, funding sources, or compensation packages, limited partnerships are the safest choice in venture capital funds. They function solely to maximize earnings from venture investments. Most European venture capital funds are sourced from financial institutions like banks, unlike the US venture capital which sources more on institutional investments like pension funds. In Europe, banks are more dominant and powerful that a significant number of venture capital firms are owned and managed by them. Their investments are diverse and are scattered along many different funds. Aside from having strict financial goals, European banks are also found to have strategic objectives in managing their investments. In fact, almost half of European venture funds in 2000 were sourced from banks, insurance companies, and other corporate investors. In the US, however, institutional investors are the most popular sources of funding. Pension funds, for instance, allot only a

Business Driven Technology Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Business Driven Technology - Research Paper Example In the modern era, two popular business driven technologies are social networks and e-commerce. These technologies are considerably transforming the retail industry (Mercier et al., 2012). Based on this aspect, the paper describes the way in which these technologies have transformed the retail industry and also provides example of two companies that have applied them in the businesses. How Social Networks is Transforming Retail Industry The proliferation of social media is transforming the way people connect with each other and how they make purchasing decisions. As the channels for sales have increased and boundaries between them are disappearing, consumers are in higher requirement of combining brand experience. Due to social networking, consumers are more empowered and influential than before. Through social networking, they can easily compare prices, review products’ quality and evaluate the opinions of other customers which facilitate to shape the products and services of retail companies. The retail industry is already exploiting the social media for the purpose of marketing and commerce. The social media trends are forcing the industry in the direction of individual oriented marketing approach from retailers comprising components such as social commerce, real time marketing and supply chain collaborations. Essentially, this approach is subjected to transaction history of customers in combination with pertinent social networking behaviors. Social networking is starting to play an essential role in the associated retail experience. The retail shopping experience is facilitating to target individual customers (Symphony Teleca Corp., 2013). Social Media Strategies of Walmart Walmart is an international retail company which provides general merchandise products and groceries. The following figure demonstrates the SWOT analysis of one of the largest retail chains, Walmart. Walmart has learnt regarding the management of social networking in its business. The company faced several challenges due to controversial commercial activities and hence, it has utilized the social media for promoting the brand. For example, in the year 2008, the company introduced ‘checkoutblog.com’ which features the employees of the company. They provided their valuable opinions regarding the product varieties of Walmart and also gave supportive recommendations. It helped to develop a positive image of the company for large audience. Apart from this, Walmart also sponsored a blog named ‘Eleven Moms’. This blog has rapidly become a large community where women consumers’ converse subjects about motherhood, health products and budgeting (Barker, 2013). Walmart has attempted to leverage the technological tendencies of social networking by investing in mobile marketing services. For instance, in 2011, Walmart had acquired a social networking technology company namely Kosmix. This acquisition is essentially intended to utilize the monitoring application and to enlarge the online business. The Walmart program for iPhone delivers guidance to the customers while shopping electronic products, reviewing products and placing orders. These social media services are quite convenient and enjoyable for the present generation of customers (Barker, 2013). How Electronic Commerce is Transforming Retail Industry The other important business driven technology

Impact of Government Expenditures on Private Consumption

Impact of Government Expenditures on Private Consumption Discuss the implications of a rise in government expenditures on private consumption behaviour. Introduction The following paper will analyse the impact that government expenditure has on the household’s consumption behaviour. Prior to starting the discussion it is imperative to highlight that government expenditure is either in the form of building roads, railways etc. or by changing the level of taxes charged to the individuals in an economy. It is an undisputed fact that the primary economic objective at the micro level is to ensure that resources are efficiently allocated and on the macro level the objectives are mainly to ensure high and sustained levels of economic growth; maintaining low levels of inflation and unemployment and, finally, maintaining a stable level of exchange rate regimes. Government expenditure is one of the tools of the fiscal policy which is used to bring the economy to its full employment level or the equilibrium level. The key indicator for growth in the economy is the Gross Domestic Product or more commonly known as GDP. GDP measures the domestic output in the economy, in other words the production of goods and services in the economy. There are have been various debates centred around the fact whether GDP should be considered a good indicator of growth or not; besides the area of measurement, many development economists also argue that the concept of growth does not take into account the human development side of the economy. In fact all GDP/ GNP (Gross National Product) are concerned about is the level of output. Fiscal policy measures were proposed and Keynes’ to bring the economy out of the recessionary phase and help the economy achieve its macroeconomic objectives and stabilise the economy. However, in the 70s with the presence of stagflation, characterised by periods of stagnation and high levels of inflation, was not cured by fiscal policies as a result of which monetarism emerged and gained popularity. The idea behind increasing government expenditure is to stimulate growth in the economy. Growth will only happen when there is sufficient demand for goods and services. Demand would only exist when people have the income to spend on the goods and services. Hence many a times in order to stimulate demand, government tends to increase create demand by engaging in activities which employs the under utilised resources. Recession is the result of negative or low economic growth. When there is a negative or low level of growth then the firms are forced to cut down on production, reducing levels of production then results in redundancies which lead to an increase in unemployment, therefore taking the economy away from its equilibrium level. Therefore, government expenditure increases the spending power of the households, when the income of the household increases they demand more goods and services. Greater demand creates a ripple effect of firms employing labour to meet the increasing level of demand, this leads to an increase in the production of goods and services, which fur ther results in the rise in the economic growth levels. Governments could increase the income by cutting the taxes charged. Prior to developing this point it is important to highlight that the consumption function which is generally the 45Â ° line was suggested by Keynes. The following diagram depicts the consumption function. Thus Keynes identified various factors on which a household’s consumption would depend, namely: Income, whether current level or anticipated level of income Amount of assets held Taxation – if the people anticipated that the taxes would decrease then the current spending would increase. This would also vary with the fact whether the anticipated decrease in taxes is going to be a long-term change or only for a short period. Consumer tastes and preferences – if the goods in the market do not appeal to the household’s preferences then their consumption levels will decline however and the opposite would be true if goods in the market would be as per the requirements of the consumers. In the event that domestic production of goods and services does not meet the requirements of the consumers or the level of income increases up to a certain extent then the households would be more inclined to import goods. In this scenario the balance of payments situation could be in danger. Increase in import levels would mean that the budget deficit would increase therefore driving the domestic production of goods and services down. This would then result in the opposite which is economic growth would fall as import levels increase. Conclusion From the preceding paragraphs it can be concluded that a rise in government expenditure increases the spending power of the households and it therefore results in a rise in the growth levels. It has also been highlighted that the government has to ensure that in the light of increasing the growth levels it does it at the cost of achieving the opposite which is reduced levels of growth. For instance whilst higher levels of income increases consumer spending it also can have the negative effect of an increase in budget deficit thus the domestic economy would suffer. Moreover, the governments in the light of measuring economic growth should not simply stick to GDP as an indicator, primarily because it tends to ignore many other factors like the social costs, externalities like pollution and environmental affects and besides it may even widen the gap between the rich and the poor. The government thus has a major role to play in maintaining the balance between economic growth by increasin g its expenditure levels. Thus in conclusion it can be said an increase in government expenditure stimulates economic growth in the economy by providing a higher level of income to the private households. BIBLIOGRAPHY Gwartney, James D., Stroup, Richard L., and Sobel, Russell S., Economics Private and Public Choice, (2000), Ninth Edition, The Dryden Press. Lumsden, K, Economics, (2003) Pearson Education Taylor, John B., Principles of Economics, (1998), Second Edition, Houghton Mifflin Company Todaro, M.P. and Smith, S.C., Economic Development, Eight Edition, Pearson Addison-Wiley (2003),

Business At Work Essay -- Business and Management Studies

Business At Work 1. Introduction 1.1 Aim The aim of this report is to understand the Business Environment and within organisation of Ford Motor Company (FMC), which includes the culture and management of the company. This report will also analyse and evaluate communication channels and quality control that FMC possess. Finally, conclusions will be drawn through the assessment of the process that is carried out by the company to meet their objectives, with recommendation of alternative approaches, which may enable FMC with further success in the future takings. 1.2 Report Structure The investigation will follow a structured analysis approach, illustrated in Appendix I. 2. Review of Ford Motor Company 2.1 Company Overview Ford Motor Company is a public limited company, listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Ford Motor Company is one of the world’s largest multinational automotive companies that manufactures and distribute automobiles in 200 markets across six continents employing more than 327,000 people worldwide. The company consists of eight core and affiliated brands (Aston Martin, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercury and Volvo) and automotive related services (Ford Credit and Hertz). In 1903, Ford Motor Company was established in Detroit by Henry Ford, when it sold its first vehicle, the Model A. The introduction of the Model T in 1908, along side the development of the assembly line, the birth of producing vehicles to the masses to sell in a low, affordable price. Since then, the company has continually expanded, being publicly listed in 1956 and acquiring a number of automobile and services companies in the process, illustrated below in chronological order: 1922 Lincoln & Mercury 1979 Mazda (33.4% stake hold) 1987 Aston Martin and Hertz 1990 Jaguar 1999 Volvo 2000 Land Rover When the company first started, it was a private limited company ran by a partnership of 12 people, a coal dealer, Alexander Malcolmson; the coal dealer’s business manager, James Couzens; a banker who trusted the coal dealer; two brothers who owned the machine ship that made engines; a carpenter; two lawyers; a clerk; the owner of a haberdashery store; a man who made windmills and air rifles. They started with only $28,000 in cash, some tolls and some blue prints.[1] As a private limited company T... ... the needs of customers and the need for improved air quality. Ford’s Action - Ford has voluntarily certified all of our gasoline pickups, SUVs and the Windstar minivan as low-emission vehicles (LEVs), years ahead of regulation. - Our LEV trucks are cleaner than many cars on the road today. - Ford offers more alternative-fuel vehicles than any other major automobile manufacturer. They include models that operate on compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), ethanol, and electricity. We are also focusing on a variety of advanced technologies, including hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and fuel cell vehicles, to significantly reduce emissions while not compromising utility.[6] --------------------------------------------------------------------- [1] Source: Ford 100 Years Anniversary Year Book [2] Source: www.ford.com [3] Source: Company Internal Website – www.marketstrategies.ford.com [4] Source: Jim Padilla’s â€Å"Building on Basics† Triangle (refer to Appendix II) [5] Source: Bill Ford Internal e-mail to FMC Employees (refer to Appendix III) [6] www.ford.com/en/company/about/publicPolicy/airQualityVehicleEmissions.htm

Research approach

Evidence and structure are the keys to constructing a convincing and logical argument in support of the idea, insight, contention or recommendation you want to make. In today's business environment it is unlikely that you will be able to find the answer to your question in a single source. You may not find any articles that directly address your question. Therefore, you need to research†¦. And I do not mean being able to use Google Like a good lawyer, you have to bring together a number of different pieces of information.On their own each piece does not mean much but hen you add them all together and YOU explain to the reader how the pieces of Information Interconnect and what the combining of all this Information demonstrates – you are creating a convincing, logical argument. Students often only use the prescribed textbook as the evidence base for their argument. The information within these is generally sound. However, business people do not make decisions based on one source of Information and neither should you.There are a number of search techniques and sources of information that will make the process of generating information easier. If it a completely new topic for you start broad and move to the specific; start with easy to read, general business writing and move to more credible but technical academic writing. If you are a visual learner In the global digital age competition between the worlds best educational institutions is increasing.

Apple and Best Buy Essays

Apple and Best Buy Essays Apple and Best Buy Paper Apple and Best Buy Paper These factors are important because before an organization can egging strategy formulation, it must scan the internal environment for strengths and weaknesses and their external environment to identify possible opportunities and threats (Wheeled Hunger). In this paper I will describe the internal and external environments of Apple and Best Buy using an environmental scan. I will also determine what their competitive advantages and strategies are. Apples Internal and External Environments Strengths Apple is a very successful company and has many strengths. It is a geographically diverse business with a strong research and development team. Apple has an innovative culture and strong workforce. Apple has bargaining power with retailers and outstanding customer loyalty. Apple has a strong brand and reputation. Apple also makes a lot of money and dont have any debt. Weaknesses Even though Apple is a very successful company they still have some weakness. Apple products are expensive and some products lack customization. Because Apple products are so great, which makes them premium products they can be expensive for many consumers. Some Apple products are considers a distraction electronic device. Accidents such as auto-mobile crashes have been caused by people using electronic devices. Opportunities Apple has some great opportunities such as off-the-shelf military procurement. To reduce cost and increase speed to development the Military is buying off the shelf Apple software and hardware. Phone APS is another big opportunity for Apple. Apple APS produces thousands of small programs that utilize the phones unique capabilities which creates barriers to entry for the phone. This helps increase revenue for Apple. Threats A big threat for Apple Face Time capability is Keep. Because Keep is coming available on more devices it has a negative impact On Apple Face Time capability. Googles Android smart phone is another threat for Apple because its the number one competitor in the smart phone sector. Cost of production is also a threat for Apple because it takes from Apples profit. Best Buy Internal and External Environments Best buy is another great company with many strengths. They are a global market leader with outstanding service. Best Buy Mobile and Busty. Com are also strengths. Best buy has international expansion and a unique in store marketing plan. They also have in-house brands like insignia and they have powerful customer loyalty. Best buy is engrossed on customer service and variety, also they have pricing power over their customers and suppliers. From the geek squad to sales people, there is an innovative culture at Best buy. They have exclusive brands and their brand name allows premium pricing. Weaknesses Best buy also has some weakness such as bad customer service and they need more knowledgeable employees in specific areas. They have undifferentiated products and the none commissioned based sales causes errors not to be motivated. One of Best buys main attractions are DVDs and blue ray disc, and they are becoming less popular. The large store format at Best buy dont fit all customers and their warranty programs could use improving. Opportunities Best buy have some great opportunities such as online growth potential and the State taxes on online sales may possibly spin growth. There store branded products could increase margins and new products and services could increase revenue. More innovation could help best buy because it would add alee. Threats A big threat for Best buy is strong competitors and the digital media rely on physical products and is hurting best buys profits. Some of the smaller products that Best buy sell are becoming more desirable. But, they are brought over the internet easily. Electronics are cheaper online and they have intense competition for stores like Best buy. Lastly the substitute for lower margin products could hurt best buy. Apples Competitive Advantages and Strategies One of Apples competitive advantages is that multiple products that integrate as one and the constant, never-ending change in Apples business climate. Its hard for Apple customers to tell the difference between their product apart from for the size and shape. There is no other company that has efficiently corralled customers to other seemingly different products by getting them to purchase just one. Another one of Apples competitive advantages that really stands out is in marketing. Apple recognizes what will get customers enthusiastic about its products, and then they fulfils that vision. Apple shows how the computer will make your life better, rather than liking the about features and technology. Apple has manufactured a truly sustainable competitive advantage and created value by locking in deals with big record labels such as Universal, Warner Sony, and MME. Clouds generates 30% of revenue alone.. Best Buys Competitive Advantages and Strategies Historicity Best Buy competitive advantage has been pricing. They also have competitive advantage by being the largest source for electronics in most cities. Locality is also a big plus for Best buy, they currently operates 1,347 stores across the united States. If Best Buy is the closest place to pick up a new television, computer, or Pad, its likely they will get your business because, Best Buy is convenient for the majority of American populations to shop at. Now that other specialty electronics retailers have dropped out of the market, Best Buy has that sector of the market to themselves. Another one of Best Buy competitive advantage is service installation and advice. Conclusion In conclusion SOOT analysis is the simplest way to conduct environmental scanning. SOOT important because before an organization can begin strategy ruination, it must scan the internal environment for strengths and weaknesses and their external environment to identify possible opportunities and threats (Wheeled Hunger). Apple and Best buy are two very successful companies and has many strengths, but you must consider the weaknesses, opportunities, and threats before you begin strategy formulation.

Porsche Company

Porsche Company Porsche AG Background Ferdinand Porsche who was a renowned professor is the one who started the car manufacturing company as early as 1931. The company initially did not produce any vehicle with its brand, but specialized in offering motor vehicle development work and consultancy services to other automobile manufacturing companies.Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on Porsche Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The company produced its first vehicle in 1934 when the company was contracted by the Germany government to design a car for Germany people. The assignment resulted to the production of the Volkswagen Beetle which became a very successful model up to date. The designing and production of the Volkswagen Beetle, resulted to designing and production of another successful model in 1939 referred as Porsche 64. The new car had many components that were similar to those of the Beetle. During world War II, the p roduction of Volkswagen were tailored to reflect the military version of Volkswagen Beetle that were referred as Kubelwagen and Schwimmwagen.approximately 52,000 and 14,000 of the two models were produced respectively. During the same period, Porsche also produced various designs of heavy tankers. At the end of World War II, the position of Volkswagen Company changed hands and it started to be managed by the British. Subsequently, a British major Army who was referred as Ivan Hirst replaced Ferdinand as the new chairman of the company board of management. Ferdinand was arrested in 15th December 1945 for war crimes, but was not tried. He was released from prison after 20-months imprisonment. When his father was in prison, his son Ferry Porsche designed another model of vehicle to steer up the company during that challenging moment and also to own a vehicle he desired since he could not get any vehicle in the market which interested him. The car he designed was regarded as 356 model a nd he designed its prototype from sawmill. The 356 model is often regarded as the first Porsche model because it was the first model to be marketed by the fledgling company. Porsche then built an assembly plant across the street from Reutter Karosserie which is currently referred as Porschestrasse. After the World War II, the components of 356 models were in short supply and therefore the automobile used the Volkswagen Beetle components that included the internal combustion engines, the suspension and transmission. The 356 model underwent various modifications namely A, B and C that resulted to replacement of parts of Volkswagen that were being used in early models of 356 by Porsche made parts.Advertising Looking for assessment on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The last models of Porsche 356 were fully powered by Porsche designed engines. In 1964, the Porsche 550 Spider model performed considera bly well in motor-racing that lead to the launching of another model that was referred as Porsche 911. This model possessed a rear engine. In 1972 the Porsche company legal form changed from limited partnership to public limited company. The change occurred because Ferry Porshe and his sisters, Louise felt that they did not team up very well as family which was greatly negatively affecting the smooth running of the company. The change of the legal form of the company allowed other people who were not members of the Porsche family to become members of the Executive Board of the company. Majority of the Board members consisted of people that were not members of Porsche family. There was another parallel supervisory board that consisted mainly of the members of the Porsche family. There were no family members that were involved in the operational managements of the Porsche Company. The absence of any member of the Porsche family taking part in the management of the Porsche company lead to F.A. Porsche founding his own design company that focused on designing sunglasses, furniture, watches among many more luxuries products. On the other hand, Ferdinand Piech who was responsible for designing the racing cars also founded his own engineering company. He designed five-cylinder-inline diesel engine for Mercedes Benz. The first CEO of Porsche was Dr. Ernst Fuhrman (Phaeton 32). Current Strategies Employed by Porsche Company Porsche Company has been successful in establishing a strong brand within German and globally due to its quality and stylish automobiles. It is well known for designing and production of great sports cars for over a period of 50 years. The company has employed a number of strategies so that to enable it succeed in the automobile industry and establish a strong local and international brand. Product Strategy The Porsche Company has realized the importance of product differentiations as a competitive strategy in the auto mobile industry. Porsche Compa ny has therefore been able to design, produce and launch a new car model every year. Its new models are always characterized by enhanced performance and more desirable special features.Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on Porsche Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This enables the company to meet the demand for all its customers. This includes both its purist Customers as well as those customers that are comfort oriented. The company has also realized that the young generation commands a great population in the current generation and especially in Asia, Africa and north and South America. The young generation also makes the greatest population of those people that are actively involved in the economy in majority of these regions. Therefore, young people are economically empowered and thus are good target in the automobile industry. The company has therefore designed and produced special models referred as Box sters which are positioned below 911 to lure the younger customers. This strategy has greatly boosted the perfomance of the Porsche Company. Many younger people have opted to purchase Porsche sport cars due to these special designs that are very attractive to the young generation. The Porsche Company has intensively engaged in research work. The researches they conduct help them to identify new models that assist the company to argument its product line so that to avoid it exclusively depending on the cyclic sport cars. The Porsche Company has realized that the tastes and preferences of customers are subject to change due to the ever changing economies, technology and other dynamics. Subsequently, the company has thus instituted appropriate mechanism in place to cater for the changes in tastes and preferences of its customers. The Porsche Company has adapted a concept of terminating the unprofitable low-volume models and introducing new models that have been designed in accordance t o the results of the market research that enables the firm to identify the needs and likes of its customers. Production and Cost Reduction Strategies The Porsche Company management has realized the importance of cutting down its production costs in order to be able to sell its products at a price that is affordable to most of its clients. The pricing strategy is important especially at the current economy that is characterized by increased inflation and economic recessions. The Porsche Company had opted to increase the outsourcing of most of its parts like motor management development by Bosch as well as assembly in Finland. The company has also adapted the concept of production of common parts that are compatible with most of its models. This is a strategy it uses to cut down on its costs of productions.Advertising Looking for assessment on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More For instance, the Boxster resembles the 911 model. The company has in addition adapted the module assembly from Toyota which has also helped it greatly to increase efficiency in the production process that had tentatively reduced the costs of production greatly. The company has also reduced the costs of production by working with only very few suppliers who are highly efficient. The Porsche Company had been in the past being characterized by a very bureaucratic management hierarchy that had greatly hindered effective communication. Consequently, the management had resulted to poor performance of the company due to poor sharing of ideas within the company. As a result the company took appropriate measures to curtail its ineffective communications. It instituted a system that greatly decreased hierarchy in the Porsche Company which has necessitated communication within the company significantly. Effective communications have resulted to increased performance of the firm because all de partments are able to share their ideas with each other on the best strategies to enhance performance. The sales and marketing department have been able to communicate with the production department effectively and advise the production sector about tastes and preferences of the market in order for the designing and production department to tailor its productions in a manner to address the tastes and preferences of its customers. The Porsche Company had established close ties with other automobile companies that they do not compete directly. These relationships have helped the firm to learn from each other certain skills that they have employed to establish a competitive edge over their rivals. Some of the companies the Porsche firm has related closely include the Audi, the SUV and VW. Design Strategies The Porsche Company has been successful in establishing effective designs such as the Boxster. This design has been able to compete effectively with other similar designs from other brands such as BMW Z4, Mazda RX8 and Mercedes SLK among others. The Porsche Company has priced its product to give lowest profit margins to enhance its sales in order to help the design model compete healthy with other similar design from other brands. The company has been able to get an overall profit of 10% in a 40% sale. The 911 model is the other Porsche design that competes from those sport cars that are in the 70-150k price range category. They include models such as Corvette, BMW Z8, Ferrari 360 Spider as well as Mercedes SL. This is the Porsche design model that is priced to offer the highest profit margin of 51% of profits in the overall sale. Cayenne is the third design model that was designed, produced and launched to compete with similar designs from other brands such as Mercedes ML, Lexus and BMW X5. The design model is positioned in the high-power segment where it faces stiff competition. The fourth design model of the Porsche Company is the Super Sport Car that is oft en referred as Carrera GT. The car model competes with similar designs from other brands such as Ferrari Enzo, Mercedes SLR among others. The major external dynamic forces that are affecting the company There are various major external dynamic forces that are affecting the Porsche performance. There are some challenges that accompany the integration of the European Union countries. The integration makes Germany products to compete with other products on both prices and quality. Germany was in the past renowned for its high quality products. Germany used its quality as its competitive advantage. The exposure of the Germany’s industries especially the automobile industries to compete in terms of both price and quality is likely to affect the performance of the Germany automobile companies greatly if they will not be shielded from such a competition. Similarly, the existence of European single market that is based on a single currency causes an increased competition within vario us European Union governments. Stiff competitions can negatively affect the prices of the automobiles. This is the reason why the union should institute appropriate bodies to regulate the pricing of products to facilitate healthy competitions (Weihrich 6). Some of the external factors are tailored in helping the company to strengthen its brands both locally and internationally. One of the external factors that have benefited the company greatly is its ability to establish close ties with other automobile manufacturing firms such as the VW and the Audi. Close cooperation between the VW and Porsche Company was a strategic move for the company to that helped it to improve its performance greatly. The VW and Porsche Company had a long term relationship that had existed for many years. The Porsche Company is the firm that was designing the automobile for the VW Company. It is the Porsche Company that designed the initial Volkswagen model that latter became the VW Beetle. The Porsche Comp any and the VW had produced many car models that shared car components and platforms. The two companies also were closely involved in sharing research work and development which enabled them to enhance their performances to a great extent and establish strong global brands. The two firms had close ties because of the family bonds that existed among the shareholders of the two firms. This helped the two firms to develop new technologies jointly without any alarm for confidentiality. The Porsche Company was interested in acquisition of the VW Company due to the many synergies that resulted across a number of areas. By acquiring the VC Company, the Porsche Company was to enjoy in sharing the huge costs of electronics that accounted for 30-35% of its development costs. The Porsche management considered it more economical to spread this cost over more than 2 million cars that the joint venture was deemed to produce over its 100,000 cars it produced. The Porsche Company also realized the benefit of efficient fuel technology it would receive from the VW Company especially when there was roaming fears for emission regulations that were to be enacted. The ability of the Porsche Company to leverage brand in an effort to expand its product line is very important. This enables the company to sustain high sales of its automobile in the established markets and at the same time help it to penetrate new markets (Evtimov and Keseel 345). On the other hand, the Porsche Company witnesses various challenges as it extends its operations within and across borders. One of the company’s major challenges it faces is stiff competitions from companies that offers similar brands. Porsche Company faces a lot of completion from high-powered brands such as Ferrari as well as Mercedes and BMW. The company has recently witnessed a great decline in of its sales among its core markets. Great declines have been recorded in European regions which have been triggered by slow population grow th especially for the young generation. The Porsche Company has also been highly affected by economic recessions and the prevalent inflations and currency fluctuations. Porsche structure, culture, and management The Porsche Company has a strategic corporate culture. The company believes that people are the real engine in the company. The Porsche Company has emphasized its good performance as a result of the competent and highly dedicated workforce it possesses. It highly recognizes its manual work and greatly motivates its workforce to increase its morale to work hard. The Porsche Company encourages its employees to be creative and courageous. They promote these elements by greatly rewarding those employees who come up with new designs and technologies. It encourages every employee to make the best use of every opportunity that presents itself for his/her own growth and the growth of the organization. The Porsche Company has invested a lot of money in educating and training its empl oyees in order to enhance productivity. The company is ever devoted in trainings its future specialist through its well established program that guarantee long-term quality assurance as well as addressing the socio-political responsibility especially towards the young generation. The company is known to possess the biggest number of trainees compared to other Germany motor companies. The philosophy in Porsche Company is that of give and take. The company emphasizes most on trust in staff, Originality, independency, highest level of competence as well as teamwork. The Porsche Company’s structure encourages short communications route in order to promote sharing of ideas and greater integrations of staffs into the organization processes. The company’s structure allows un-bureaucratic cooperation between or among various departments. This ensures that everyone is able to develop individually and also being satisfied with his/her own undertaking in the overall realization o f the company’s goal (Henderson and Reavis 78). How well the current Porsche’s strategy, structure, culture and leadership is responding to the dynamic external environment In the process of coping with the external dynamics that were affecting the Porsche Company, the CEO Wendelin Wiedeking introduced a different core competence referred as the lean manufacturing. In addition, he synchronized the engineering work in order to enhance efficiency in the company. Initially, Porsche Company had adapted celebration of craft works that had promoted the concept of individual processes rather than collaboration in the overall product line. The former strategy became a handicap for the company since engineers ignored the need for cross-departmental cooperation on Porsche’s car designs, while at the same time making huge profits for Porsche on outside sales of engineering services. Wendelin introductions of the new strategy that is also commonly use by giant automobile in dustries such as BMW and Toyota greatly helped to boost the performance of the company significantly (Weihrich 5). Porter’s factor determinant of regional advantages is closely intertwined to a regional strength to industrial production. The reason why German automobiles are very competitive is because of the concentration of various successful automobile manufacturing industries in one area especially in the cities of Munich, Regensburg as well as Stuttgart. Most of the Europeans largest automobile companies such as Mercedes, BMW and Porsche are situated in these regions. Locating the Porsche Company in these region is a very effective strategy that the Porsche Company has ensured as a competitive strategy to increase the performance of the company in order to address the firm’s external dynamics. Another very strategic opportunity for the Porsche Automobile Company is the establishment of European Commission. The establishment of this integration has necessitated the growth of German automobile industries especially the Porsche automobile. The Commission has enabled the adaption of a common currency which has greatly addressed the issue of currency depressions especially within the Europeans region. The depression of the currencies in the Europeans nations was initially affecting the sales of the Porsche automobiles greatly. The establishment of the European Union has in addition enabled the integration in Telecommunication among the union’s members. This integration in telecommunication has boosted the Porsche automobile by enhancing communications in Porsche Company. Improved communications translates to improved performance because the flow of ideas from one department to the other is improved. The existence of good communication also means that the company is now at a better position to communicate with its supplies and other organizations they relate with in their daily operations. Those companies that supply them with the needed co mponents are able to relate more efficiently thus cutting down the costs of productions greatly that translates to increased performances. On the other hand, the establishment of the European Commission means that the movements of goods across the nations are also increased. This increases mobility of automobile across borders exposing the Porsche automobile to more competitions. The Porsche automobile faces stiff competition from other automobiles manufacturing companies. The acquisition strategy adapted by the Porsche Company has enabled the company to establish a competitive edge over its rival companies. The acquisition of the VW and Audi companies helped the Porsche Company to increase its market share in the automobile market. Increased production helped the company to enjoy the economies of scale which help it in reducing the costs of production. In addition, Porsche Company enjoys the synergy that accompanies such acquisition ventures. Some of the advantages that the company has been able to receive as a result of the acquisition are the ability to produce automobiles that are more efficient in consumption of energies. The Porsche Company has been able to acquire this technology from the VW employees that are well knowledgeable in production of vehicles that are efficient in the consumption of energy. Efficiency in the consumption of energies has enabled the Porsche automobile compete healthy in the automobile industry since the cars it produces consumes lesser fuel and thus are more economical to use. This has enabled the company to argument is sales greatly because more people are willing to buy Porsche vehicles since they consume lesser fuels. The VW ability to produce vehicles that are fuel efficient meant that the cars they produce do not pollute the environmental adversely. This meant that Porsche is able to operate within the emission limits set by the environmental bodies (Benson 234). Conclusion The Porsche Company is an example of a successfu l firm that has succeeded in establishing a local brand in Germany and globally. The company uses the strength of its quality as its competitive advantage. The company has used various strategies such as acquisition to remain competitive. The company strategic culture and management that recognizes and rewards its workforce has also greatly boosted the performance of Porsche Company. Recommendations Porsche Company should establish learning institutions to educate and train its employees. The company should identify strategic companies it can acquire or merge with in U.S., Asia or Africa to increase its sales in these regions. The company should adapt more economical costs of productions in order to allow the company’s models to compete well with rival brands both in pricing and quality. Benson, Charles. Porsche Automobile Holding SE. New York: Prentice Hall. 2007. Evtimov, Andrey and Keseel, Hans. Should Porsche Build a Sedan as a Forth  Product Line? London: Cambridge University Press.2001. Henderson, Rebecca and Reavis, Cate. What’s Driving Porsche? New York: Prentice Hall.2004 Phaeton, James. Volkswagen’s High-Luxury Sedan Sails into the U.S. Premium America, Inc. London: Cambridge University Press. 2008. Weihrich, Heinz. Analyzing the Competitive Advantages and Disadvantages of  Germany Industries. New York: Prentice Hall. 1999

September 11th, 2001 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

September 11th, 2001 - Essay Example The events of September11th were a series of suicide arracks committed by Muslim fundamentalists. The attackers hijacked four airplanes and directed two of them into the Twins Tours in New York. The third plan was directed into the Pentagon and the forth one was crashed in Pennsylvania. In spite of different conspiracy theories, the undeniable fact is that Al-Qaida and bin Laden officially confirmed their involvement in these attacks (Chomsky 54). Bin Laden states: "we calculated in advance the number of casualties who would be killed" (The Top September 11 Conspiracy Theories 2006). On September 11, TV viewers watched the United Airlines Boeing 767 approach the South Tower of the World Trade Center and ram into it at 9:03 am. Cameras had been set up around the site following the crash of an American Airlines plane into the North Tower some 15 minutes earlier. The main claims promulgated by al-Qaeda against the USA also included: unauthorized use of the Arabian national resources; un lawful intrusion into political affairs of those countries, support of the abusive regimes; military bases in Arabian countries, etc. Before the attacks, the USA stood in opposition to Arabic countries providing aggressive international politics, and these attacks became a response to its international politics and aggressive actions towards global terrorism. In these attacked, 2,974 people were killed. "The completely unexpected action of an airliner being deliberately flown into one of the world's tallest and most symbolic buildings, followed by the massive loss of life, shook journalists' and viewers' cognitive foundations of reality" ("One Nation: America Remembers September 11" 2001). September 11 has decisively transformed the everyday contexts within which many journalists routinely operate. From the perspective of today, of course, it is easier to discern the emergence and embodiment of the responses they crafted and the interests they sought to advance. Far less clear, howe ver, is what their lasting impact will be for journalism in a post-September 11 world. "On September 11 2001, at around eight o'clock in the morning eastern daylight time, four passenger planes took off from various East Coast cities in the United States bound for destinations on the West Coast" (Crockatt.1). The Northern mass media have the tendency to declare manifestations of Muslim belief such as wearing the hijab and performing the communal Muslim prayer as certain signs of "Islamic fundamentalism, " whereas the wearing of Christian religious apparel or attending church in their own countries are not usually considered signs of fanaticism. The generalization and polarization of all Muslims as "fundamentalists" and "moderates, " "traditionalists" and "modernists, " "fanatics" and "secularists" serve to distort communication. They tend to make the Muslims who are interested in constructive dialogue with non-Muslims apologetic about their beliefs or, contrarily, disdainful about any interaction (Chomsky 76). Investigations of trauma typically connect its emergence to large-scale cataclysmic events that shatter a prior sense of what it means, in moral terms, to remain part of a collective All routines-the stability of life-stopped. Sirens were there instead. The sheer genius of the terrorist strike as strike, its

Why should we stop worrying and learn to love WK3 assignment Essay - 1

Why should we stop worrying and learn to love WK3 assignment - Essay Example How could our police force be so lax as to not have been able to identify such problem people in the crowd of faces in the mall or in schools? The answer is simple. Nobody was watching. Our perimeters were not secure because constant monitoring and surveillance of people still cannot be accomplished without a court order. Although surveillance cameras are already planted in strategic areas of cities, its scope and use is still limited by law and therefore, hinders its ability to protect the population the way that it potentially could. Keeping these events of innocent bloodshed in mind, I cannot help but agree with James Stacey Taylor and his explanation of the need to embrace Big Brother in our daily lives as he describes it in his essay â€Å"In Praise of Big Brother: Why We Should Learn to Stop Worrying and Love (Some) Government Surveillance†. With the proper safeguards in place, the Orwellian nightmare that most people predict shall not happen because just like everything else pertaining to a persons right to privacy, the government may have access to certain information about you, but they do not have the legal grounds to blackmail or use the information they gathered against a person if it does not relate to a judicial proceeding. Our Fourth Amendment Rights and Wrongful Seizure Rights as protected by the Supreme Court rulings have made sure of that. As our population continues to become more and more comfortable with the way social media such as Twitter and Facebook has made our every move available to people in a wide-scale basis. I believe that the fear pertaining to the misuse of surveillance information will also fade into the background over time. That is because the events that happen in our daily lives, that show the efficiency and need for the constant surveillance is of the utmost importance in protecting the population will eventually push the people to clamor for more government